Ralph Hall

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding east Texan, Ralph Spence of Tyler, TX, who died recently at the age of 76. Ralph Spence was one of those extraordinary individuals who was successful in so many areas of his life. He devoted his energies to a variety of worthy causes in east Texas and beyond, and his presence will be sorely missed by all those who knew him. Born January 4, 1919, in Yorktown, Ralph lived in Tyler most of his life. He served in the United States Navy during World War II and participated in the invasions of Normandy, southern France, Okinawa, and the Philippines. He was an independent oil operator in Tyler who contributed to the discovery of several oil fields. He served as vice president of the Independent Petroleum Association of America, served on the IPAA executive committee and founded the Tyler Petroleum Club. Ralph Spence was actively involved in his community. He was director of the former Citizens First National Bank, a life member and past chairman of the Salvation Army Board, past president of the Texas Rose Festival and Order of the Rose, president of the East Texas Symphony Association, past president of Robert E. Lee High School Parent Teachers Association, director of the East Texas Hospital Foundation, and past member and vice chairman of the Federal Bi-Racial Committee. He originated the Eisenhower International Golf Classic in Tyler and assisted in fundraising for the Tyler-Smith County Public Library. Ralph also devoted countless hours on behalf of higher education. He was chairman of the development board of the University of Texas at Tyler and was the only man to serve on five University of Texas development boards--University of Texas at Austin, University of Texas at Tyler, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, College of Business Administration at the University of Texas at Austin, and the University of Texas Health Center at Tyler. As chairman of the University of Texas Chancellor's Council, he completed the acquisition of the Gutenberg Bible for the university. He received many awards and honors, including life membership in the Texas Congress of PTA, a public service award from Texas College in Tyler, the Pioneer Award from the East Texas Association of Petroleum Landmen, and community service award as chairman of Earl Campbell Day. He received the distinguished alumnus award from the University of Texas Ex-Students' Association Administration and from the University of Texas College of Business Administration, was named ``The Centennial Dad'' by the University of Texas Dad's Association and was appointed to the Texas College Coordinating Board. He also was listed in Men of Achievement in Texas. An active member of Christ Episcopal Church, Ralph Spence held numerous lay positions in the church and was named lifetime vestry member. He was elected by the Diocese of Texas to serve as deputy or alternate to the general convention for 30 years and was elected by the general convention to the executive council of the National Church. He was a member of the executive board of the Episcopal Diocese of Texas and a representative to the Diocesan Council for 40 years. Ralph is survived by his wife, Mary John Spence of Tyler; one son and daughter-in-law, Ralph Spence, Jr., and Tancy of Billings, MT; two daughters and sons-in-law, Louise and Guy Griffeth of Dallas and Judy and Charles Tate of Houston; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Charles and Carolyn Spence of Raymondville and Pat and Judy Spence of Tyler; nine grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Mr. Speaker, our lives are enriched by citizens like Ralph Spence, who devote their time and energies to our communities, churches and schools. One of the benefits of being a Member of Congress is that you meet and get to know the Ralph Spences of the world--people who really care and really help others--who really love and are loved. There is no way to measure the good Ralph Spence did during his lifetime--and he will be missed. As we adjourn today, I join his family and many friends in paying our last respect to this exemplary citizen. His legacy will be felt for generations to come.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a living legend from Emory, TX--Kathleen Hill Becknell, who at the age of 88 remains the active editor and publisher of The Rains County Leader. Kathleen--``Kat'' as she is know to her friends--has managed the weekly newspaper since 1963 and recently was honored during the Founders Day ceremony in Emory, which I had the privilege of attending. The Texas State Senate also recognized Kathleen's contributions to the county through a resolution introduced by State Senator David Cain, who also attended the ceremony. The Rains County Leader is the oldest business in Rains County. It began publication as the Argus/Record in 1896, and in 1909 Kathleen's father, Tom Hill, became the editor and owner, a position he held until his death in 1937. His son, Earl Clyde Hill, took over operations until his death in 1960, at which time Earl Clyde Hill Jr. assumed the job. In 1963 Kathleen became the editor and publisher. The Leader, like other weekly county newspapers throughout America, continues to thrive because of its emphasis on local news and local people. Kathleen's weekly column, ``You Might Doubt It!,'' is a popular feature with subscribers and reflects the author's wit and personality. Kathleen's contributions to Rains County extend over her lifetime and beyond her leadership at the newspaper. Born in Emory and educated in the public schools there, Kathleen was chairperson for the Red Cross in the 1930's. During World War II, she was Emory's chairperson for the war bond drive. She is a charter member of the Fidelis Sunday School Class of Emory Baptist Church and is the church's longest member, having joined in 1919. She is a charter member of the Point Ladies Civic Club, Emory's Women's Service Club and the Rains Garden Club. She was president of the Texas Women's Press District 12 in the 1960s. Kathleen was married to Bo Gunter, who died in 1956, and then was married to George Becknell in 1960, who died in 1980. When Kathleen became editor of the Leader, George began street sales of the newspaper in surrounding towns, resulting in over 1,000 papers now being sold on the streets of Point, East Tawakoni, Emory, Lone Oak and Alba. Mr. Speaker, people like Kathleen Becknell represent the heart and soul of small-town America. She has devoted a lifetime to her town and county. Born and raised there, she chose to reside there all her life, and her loyalty and devotion to the people of Rains County are evidenced each week in the pages of The Rains County Leader. As we adjourn today, Mr. Speaker, let us pay tribute to Kathleen Hill Becknell of Emory, TX, for a job well done and a life well lived. May she enjoy many more years as a community leader, newspaper editor, and legendary citizen of Rains County.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a good friend and outstanding East Texan, Frank Bruce Smith of Tool, TX, who died recently at the age of 80. Bruce was a lifelong resident of Henderson County and a man of stature there. I always felt a kinship to Bruce and his wife, Willie Mae; actually, Willie Mae is related to my wife. Bruce spent a lifetime devoting his energies to help make Henderson County a better place in which to live, and his presence will be truly missed. Born January 15, 1915, in Henderson County to Dan and Eula Smith, Bruce graduated from Mabank High School in 1934 and from Draughn's Business College in Dallas in 1937. He served 28 years with the Trinity River Authority, including serving as vice president, president, and chairman of the board. He was the only person to be appointed by five Governors. Bruce also was involved in the oil and cattle industries. He was an active member of the [[Page E 1366]] Hard Hat Club, American and East Texas Petroleum Landman Association and Texas Independent Royalty Owner's Association. His cattle brand, ``Big 4 Cattle Company,'' was recognized by Texas A&M University on its new agricultural building, the Calhoun Building, in College Station. Bruce gave his strong support to the Henderson County Fair Board, Henderson County Agricultural Board and Southwestern Cattle Raiser's Conventions. In addition to his many business responsibilities, Bruce devoted countless hours to community service, particularly in the area of education. He was a past board member of Malakoff Independent School District and at the time of his death was a member of the board of trustees of Trinity Valley Community College. He was a contributor to the Henderson County Historical Association and Henderson County Library. Bruce also was a member of the Lions Club and was a 32nd degree Mason. He supported the Boy Scouts of America, East Texas Medical Center, Henderson County Fairgrounds, and Optimist Club, which honored him with its Friends of Youth award. His service included the boards of many banks and savings and loan associations, and he was a board member of First National Bank of Athens at the time of his death. He was a long-time member of Providence Baptist Church in Tool. Bruce is survived by his wife, Willie Mae Landrum Smith of Tool; two daughters and sons-in-law, Carolyn Sue and Kenneth Davis, and Janice Ann and Ronnie Brown; two granddaughters, Annsley Carol Brown and Keeley Lauren Brown; three sisters, Betty Rogers of Irving, Lometa Johnson of Tool, and Frances Monroe of Malakoff; and four brothers, Orvil Smith and Ray Smith, both of Tool, Jackie Smith of Tyler, and Pat Smith of Dallas. Mr. Speaker, as we adjourn today, I would like to join his family and many friends in paying our last respects to Bruce Smith and in thanking him for his many contributions. His legacy will be felt for generations to come.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the conference report on House Concurrent Resolution 67, the 1996 budget resolution. It is imperative that we take steps to correct our current budget dilemma. I believe today is as good as any day to set in motion a plan which will bring our government back to an environment of fiscal responsibility. Many folks are concerned this legislation will take away benefits which they now receive. In reality, if we do not make a concerted effort to balance our budget by encouraging efficiency of Government services, we will be unable to offer any assistance in the near future as a result of irresponsible budget decisions. It is my belief this budget resolution will allow those decisions to be made at the appropriate committee level. The projected savings in Medicare and Medicaid are most troubling to me, as their numbers are so high. However, there is nothing in the budget resolution that requires the committee of jurisdiction on which I serve to adopt the assumptions used in reaching the $270 and $180 billion savings. We must look at all options while keeping in mind our commitment to the American people who contributed to the Medicare insurance program throughout their working lives, and those low-income individuals who need the helping hand of the Government. I believe all of us recognize the merits of these programs as well as the need to insure their solvency by slowing the rate of growth in these programs, by asking health care providers and beneficiaries to help us find fair ways to make the program solvent for future generations; and by increasing choice and individual responsibility without deceasing benefits and access to the best health care system in the world. I urge my colleagues to act in a bipartisan manner and vote in favor of this resolution, which will allow the important process of balancing our budget to move forward as well as allow future generations to have the opportunity to enjoy the American Dream.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to rise today to pay tribute to Gilbert A. Herrera, a recipient of the 1995 Outstanding Young Texas Ex Award. Gilbert was a page in the Texas Senate during the time that I was a Texas State Senator, and we have been great friends ever since. Gilbert's intelligence, enthusiasm, and commitment to excelled have served him well, culminating with this prestigious honor. The Outstanding Young Texas Exes Award has been presented annually since 1980 by The Ex-Students' Association to four alumni under the age of 41 who have excelled in their chosen fields of endeavor and have shown loyalty to the University of Texas. The 1995 award was presented during University of Texas' spring commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 20, 1995. Gilbert graduated from University of Texas in 1978 with a BBA degree in finance. He is a principal of G. A. Herrera & Co., a private investment banking firm with offices in Houston and Austin, and he is also a consultant on corporate governance. Gilbert previously served in a variety of corporate finance and banking positions. In 1993 he was appointed by the Supreme Court of Texas to the Commission for Lawyer Discipline, where he serves as chair of its budget committee. Gilbert also has been active in community service. He is a member of the board of advisors for the Texas Product Development Commission. In Houston he served on the Houston Parks Board and as trustee of the Harris County Mental Health and Mental Retardation Authority, where he chaired the Legislative and Employee Benefits Committees. Gilbert is a life member of the Ex-Students' Association, a lifetime member of the Century Club, a member of the Littlefield Society, the University of Texas Chancellor's Council, the MBA Investment Fund, L.L.C., and the Longhorn Associates for Women's Athletics. Gilbert and his wife, Kari, have been personal friends of mine for many years. Today, I join their family and many friends in offering my sincere congratulations to this outstanding young Texas Ex on his selection for this recognition. His achievements are a source of pride for his family, his friends, and The University of Texas, and I know that he will continue to distinguish himself in his profession as well as in his service to his community, his State, and his country.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to rise today to pay tribute to Gilbert A. Herrera, a recipient of the 1995 Outstanding Young Texas-Ex Award. Gilbert was a page in the Texas Senate during the time that I was a Texas State Senator, and we have been great friends ever since. Gilbert's intelligence, enthusiasm, and commitment to excellence have served him well, culminating with this prestigious honor. The Outstanding Young Texas-Ex Award has been presented annually since 1980 by the Ex-Students' Association to four alumni under the age of 41 who have excelled in their chosen fields of endeavor and have shown loyalty to the University of Texas. The 1995 award will be presented during UT's spring commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 20. Gilbert graduated from UT in 1978 with a B.B.A. degree in finance. He is a principal of G.A. Herrera & Co., a private investment banking firm with offices in Houston and Austin, and he is also a consultant on corporate governance. Gilbert previously served in a variety of corporate finance and banking positions. In 1993 he was appointed by the Supreme Court of Texas to the Commission for Lawyer Discipline, where he serves as chair of its budget committee. Gilbert also has been active in community service. He is a member of the Board of Advisors for the Texas Product Development Commission. In Houston he served on the Houston Parks Board and as trustee of the Harris County Mental Health and Mental Retardation Authority, where he chaired the Legislative and Employee Benefits Committees. Gilbert is a life member of the Ex-Students' Association, a lifetime member of the Century Club, a member of the Littlefield Society, the UT Chancellor's Council, the MBA Investment Fund, L.L.C., and the Longhorn Associates for Women's Athletics. Gilbert and his wife, Kari, have been personal friends of mine for many years. Today I join their family and many friends in offering my sincere congratulations to this outstanding young Texas Ex on his selection for this prestigious award. His achievements are a source of pride for his family, his friends, and the University of Texas, and I know that he will continue to distinguish himself in his profession as well as in his service to his community, his State, and his country.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege for me to pay tribute to two outstanding citizens who visited the Capitol this week from the Fourth District of Texas. They are Joe and Pattie Laroche of Denison, who were recently named by the Child Welfare League as Foster Parents of the Year for the Southern States. The Laroches have been licensed foster parents for more than 5 years. During that time they have cared for more than 30 children, ranging from newborns to those up to 12 years of age. They have three children of their own--Sarah, Bethany, and Christina, two of which--Christina and Bethany--they adopted. Children who have been under the care of the Laroches have stayed with them anywhere from 1 night to 5 months. The longest stay for a child has been 2 years. The Laroches were previously honored as Grayson County Foster Parents of the Year, by the Texas Department of Human Services and as the State Foster Parents of the Year by the Texas Council of Child Welfare Boards. They were recommended for the awards by Gwen Henderson, Foster Home Developer for the Texas Department of Human Services for Grayson County. The Laroches described the recognition as humbling and said that being foster parents is a learning experience that has great rewards. They recognize the need for more foster parents but realize that many people are fearful of trying. Being a foster parent to a child is a special calling that deserves our respect and our gratitude. It requires a generous and selfless spirit, and often much patience and understanding. Good foster parents like the Laroches have a lasting impact on the lives of foster children, who like all children, need affection and attention and need to feel a sense of well-being. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to pay tribute today to Joe and Patti Laroche and to all those who serve as foster parents across America. These foster parents devote their lives to help make life better for our children in need. I am particularly proud to have the Laroches as my constituents and wish them much success as they continue to serve foster children in Grayson County. I admire their dedication and commitment to this cause and salute their good work.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding American, Austin N. Stanton, who died November 27, 1994, at the age of 91 following a brief illness. Austin Stanton was the inventor of microcircuitry--the precursor to the computer age. He was a long-time resident of Garland, TX, and lived in Bonham, TX, in my Fourth Congressional District, during the past 8 years. Austin Stanton dared to dream, and through hard work and determination made those dreams come true. Born on May 31, 1903, in Cromwell, IA, to Harriet L. Stanton, teacher, and the Rev. Jay B. Stanton, pastor and teacher, he left home at the age of 12 and worked at various odd jobs until he decided as a teenager that he should develop his own potential. He hopped a freight train to State University of Iowa and paid his way through school by working as a night serviceman for a power company. He received a B.E. degree in Electrical Engineering from the university in 1925, followed by an M.S. degree in physics in 1927. His thesis, ``Phenomena in Resonance Radiation of Cesium,'' was the foundation for later scientific and technological achievements. He was married in 1926 to Margaret L. Saveraid, and following college, they drove to Texas, where Mr. Stanton began working with a seismograph crew in oil exploration. From 1927 to 1945 he gained experience in geophysics and electronics, serving as president of Geophysical Exploration Co. and Texas Geophysical Co., both of Dallas, and as associate professor and acting head of the electrical engineering department and head of the preradar school, U.S. Army, at Southern Methodist University in Dallas. In 1945, he founded Varo Corp. in an old building on his farm in Garland, TX, with about $800 in capital. The building was converted into a laboratory, and his young, small staff began work on the design for a revolutionary power conversion unit for military aircraft. They also developed tiny power supplies, microcircuitry, and precision timing devices for space vehicles. Varo conceived and developed the first light-amplifying, night-vision telescope, first electronic inverters, and the first microcircuits. Microcircuitry led to the development of integrated circuits, which brought about the computer age. Varo was the only producer and supplier of microcircuitry for more than 5 years. Their microcircuit transmitter was donated to the Smithsonian Institution, where it was placed on display. When Mr. Stanton retired as chairman of the board of Varo in 1967, he had parlayed his $800 investment into a successful $60 million per year international business. He also provided advice and assistance to Texas Instruments Co. in the microelectronics field. Since 1967 Mr. Stanton has been actively involved in developing advanced technology. He was chairman of the board of the Keller Corp. and Methacoal Corp., both research and development companies and leaders in various phases of the alternative fuels, power and energy, electric generation, and waste utilization fields. With Leonard J. Keller, an expert in engineering, he developed Ambient Energy Corp, and built the first Ambient Energy Home, a model of affordable, all- electric energy homes. In 1990 he coinvented the cleanest, most efficient, and least costly coal-based electric generating plant in the world. He earned approximately 40 patents during his lifetime and was actively involved in technology development until his recent illness. Mr. Stanton was for many years a personal friend and associate of Wernher von Braun, the principal scientist of space-age technology. He provided valuable assistance to Von Braun and was the first to propose the commercialization of space. He made presentations on the subject at the first international conference on space utilization. Austin Stanton also was a philanthropist. Before he moved to Bonham from Garland, he donated 25 acres of land near downtown Garland and pledged $350,000 in Varo stock--which later sold for $1 million--for construction of a hospital, which became the nucleus of Baylor Medical Center in Garland. He also contributed more than 100 acres of ranch land to the city's parks and recreation system. Austin Stanton received many awards during his lifetime, including ``Pioneer of the Space Age'' award from the U.S. Army and the ``Lloyd Berkner Space Utilization'' award and the ``Pioneer and Leader in Space and Microelectronics'' award from the American Astronautical Society. He was a fellow of the American Astronautical Society and the British Interplanetary Society and a member of Tau Beta Pi and Sigma Xi. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Margaret L. Stanton, 2 daughters, a sister, 17 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. He was a good friend of mine, and he will be missed and remembered by all those who knew him. It is a rare privilege, Mr. Speaker, to have the opportunity to pay tribute to this singular individual, who shared his talents and the fruits of his labors with his country, his community, his peers, and his family. Austin Stanton's life touched our lives in many ways-- through scientific and technological advances, in our defense and space programs, and in our environmental efforts. As we adjourn today, Mr. Speaker, I ask my Colleagues to join me in paying our last respects to a truly great American--Austin Stanton.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to two groups of outstanding young athletes in the Fourth District of Texas-- the high school girls basketball teams from Whitesboro and Gunter--who recently won their regional championships and will play in the State basketball tournament in Austin later this week. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate these players on their outstanding achievement and to wish them well in the State competition. The Whitesboro Lady Bearcats will represent their 3A region in the State tournament for the first time since 1953, and the Gunter Lady Tigers will play in the 2A State tournament for the first time in the school's history. The citizens of Whitesboro and Gunter are understandably proud of their outstanding teams, and I share their enthusiasm. Reaching this level of competition requires much hard work and dedication on the part of all members of the teams. Basketball is both a physical and mental sport and also requires much team work. It helps build character, and these girls have demonstrated that they have the talent and character--and the heart--to succeed. They are winners on the playing court, and the skills that they have learned also will serve them well in life. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to recognize the Whitesboro Lady Bearcats and Gunter Lady Tigers and to join their many fans in giving them our heart-felt best wishes as they represent their schools and communities in the Texas State tournament. I know that they are prepared to give their best efforts--for their schools and for themselves--as they play in this final round of competition. It would be an honor to have both the 3A and 2A girls basketball State champions from my district, but whatever the outcome, they are already winners.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jack Callan, a legendary newspaperman and civic leader in Kaufman, TX, who died January 17, 1995, following a long illness. Jack Callan's career spanned a lifetime in the newspaper profession, from the days when newspapers were printed on hot type presses to today's offset operation. He was publisher of the Kaufman Herald from 1931 to 1971 and was one of Kaufman's leading citizens. Born July 16, 1920 in Brady, TX, to Louis G. and Clara McAdams Callan, Jack Callan began his newspaper career as a young reporter for the Winters Enterprise in Winters, TX. His brother, L.E., was publishing the Antlers American in Antlers, OK, at the same time. In 1931 to two brothers purchased the Kaufman Herald. Callan worked as a reporter and then became editor of the paper, while his brother, noted as an excellent printer, took care of most of the newspaper's production work. As editor, Callan helped earn the Herald a place of prominence among Texas community newspapers. In 1944 the paper was named Texas' ``Best All-Round Weekly Newspaper'' and through the years also captured State and regional awards for news writing, column writing, typography, and advertising. In 1952 Callan purchased his brother's interest in the newspaper and continued to run its operations for the next two decades with the help of his family and pressman J.W. Melton. In 1962, in tribute to his outstanding contributions to journalism in North and East Texas, Callan was awarded the Sam C. Holloway Memorial Award by the Northeast Texas Press Association. He was a member of the Dallas Press Club, a member of Sigma Delta Chi journalism fraternity, the Texas Press Association, and was a member and president of the Northeast Texas Press Association. In 1972 Callan sold his newspaper but began a ``second'' career in community service. He was a substitute teacher in the Kaufman school system for several years and managed the Kaufman Chamber of Commerce for 6 years. A long-time member and past president of the Lions Club, he often served as an installation officer of out-of-town clubs. In 1980 he was named ``Senior Citizen of the Year'' and also received the President's Award from the Chamber of Commerce. In 1984 he was named ``Outstanding Citizen of the Year'' by the Chamber. Callan is survived by his wife of 53 years, Wynelle Callan, two daughters and sons-in-laws, five grandchildren, one great granddaughter, and numerous nieces and nephews. Services were held in the First Christian Church of Kaufman on January 19. community through his commitment to excellence as publisher of the Kaufman Herald and through his selfless efforts as a civic leader. He will be remembered and missed by all those who knew him. Mr. Speaker, as we adjourn today, I would like to pay tribute to this outstanding citizen of Kaufman County, TX--Jack Callan.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am honored today to pay tribute to a great civic leader and newspaper publisher, Charles K. Devall, of Kilgore, TX, who passed away January 28, at the age of 86. For decades, Charles Devall was a guiding light and driving force in Kilgore. Like other newspaper publishers in small towns across America, Charles Devall was a man of stature in his community, and his influence was felt far beyond his professional position. Born on July 11, 1908, in Mount Vernon, TX, to Charles Robert and Leila Milam Devall, Charles Devall grew up to work for his father's Mount Vernon newspaper. He received a journalism degree from the University of Texas and assumed responsibility for the newspaper in 1931 following his father's death. Within 4 years he was elected mayor of the city and a member of the State Democratic Executive Committee. During that period he acquired newspapers at Daingerfield and Hughes Springs and established the weekly Kilgore Herald, in competition with the 4-year-old Kilgore Daily News. In 1939 he married Lyde Williford of Dallas, and in 1940 he and Lyde purchased the Kilgore Daily News, consolidating their two papers as the Kilgore News Herald. He then served for 39 months in the U.S. Navy during World War II and attained the rank of lieutenant commander, while his wife directed operations of their newspapers. As publisher of the Kilgore News Herald from 1935 to 1979, Devall was committed to making Kilgore ``America's No. 1 Small City.'' He served as president and highway chairman of the Kilgore Chamber of Commerce, president of the Lions Club, organized the Kilgore Improvement and Beautification Association, and originated and secured historical designation as ``world's richest acre'' in downtown Kilgore. He was instrumental in improving the city's highways, including establishing the 4-lane U.S. 259 through Gregg and Rusk Counties. He was active in efforts to establish the Kilgore Ceramics Corp. and Kilgore Community Hotel-Motel Co., the Industrial Foundation, and East Texas Treatment Center. He and his wife also were credited for helping in locating the prestigious East Texas Oil Museum on the Kilgore College campus. Devall also was active at the State level. He was the youngest to serve as president of the Texas Press Association and was a director of the Texas Daily Newspaper Association. He served two terms as president of the Texas Good Roads Association and served two terms as a director of the Texas Election Bureau. He also was appointed director of Texas Southern University. His wife, who preceded him in death in 1987, served as a member of the board of regents of the University of Texas system and served on the first Texas Commission on Higher Education. Devall also was an advocate for independent oil producers in his community. He represented the Independent Petroleum Association of America before a Senate committee in Washington as a witness seeking the reduction of excessive oil imports. He waged a long and successful editorial campaign in the News Herald in support of independent operators and royalty owners who opposed efforts to legalize mandatory unitization of Texas oil and gas fields. The fight in the Texas Legislature continued for 30 years until every major Texas field was unitized--except the east Texas field. Devall received numerous recognitions during his lifetime. He was named Kilgore's Man of the Year, received the Taggart Award from the Texas Daily Newspaper Association for being ``Texas Newspaper Leader of the Year'' in 1979, received the Sam C. Holloway Meritorious Service Award from the north and east Texas Press Association, and was named an honor member of Kappa Tau Alpha--honorary Phi Beta Kappa of journalism--by its University of Texas chapter. On nine occasions his Kilgore News Herald won the Texas Press Association sweepstakes for best all-around daily in cities under 15,000 and won the top award seven times from the north and east Texas Press. The Texas Chamber of Commerce awarded the paper its Community Service Award six times, and it received the Texas School Bell Award twice from the Texas State Teachers Association. Upon the sale of the News Herald in 1979, Devall was named publisher emeritus. Presbyterian Church, a commissioner to the U.S. Presbyterian Church General Assembly in 1973, and in 1984 was named trustee emeritus. He was a member of Sigma Delta Chi, national professional journalism society, American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He is survived by one sister, Mrs. Ruth Heywood of Fort Worth, a nephew, two nieces, and a cousin. Mr. Speaker, America is enriched by the lives of those citizens like Charles Devall, who have devoted their energy and their talent to the betterment of their communities. As a newspaperman and civic leader who strived for excellence in his community, he will be forever remembered in Kilgore, TX, for his efforts to make it ``America's No. 1 Small City.'' Many would attest that he accomplished that goal. Mr. Speaker, I join his family and many friends in paying our last respects to Charles Devall and thanking him for a job well done. His legacy will be felt for many generations to come.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege for me today to honor Warren Flowers of Gainesville, Cooke County, TX, who recently announced his retirement as publisher of the Gainesville Daily Register following 58 years of service to the newspaper. I join his many friends in Gainesville in paying tribute to his distinguished career and to the many contributions that he has made to his community. Warren Flowers was born in Shattuck, OK, on August 3, 1922, the oldest of six children born to Charlie and Hallie Flowers. His family moved to Texas when he was 4, and 9 years later, at the age of 13, he began his career at the Register as a paperboy. He later worked in the pressroom for 10 cents a day and, by his senior year in high school, he was the city circulation manager. A graduate of Gainesville public schools and Cooke County College, Warren met his wife, Quade Little, while in college, and they were married September 1, 1942. He joined the Army Air Corps in October of 1942 and served with Archie Bunker and others in World War II until 1946. Warren then returned to the newspaper as circulation manager, a position he held until 1976, when he took the publisher's job. Donrey Media Group purchased the Register in 1973, which resulted in the newspaper beginning to update its printing process. Warren watched the paper progress from an 8-page flatbed printing press that printed off hotlead type to its current 24-page electronic and from manual typewriters and linotype machines to video display terminals and computerized typesetters. Warren helped celebrate the newspaper's 50th anniversary edition in 1940 and also its 100th anniversary edition in 1990. Throughout this time he has played a role in chronicling the news events in his town and county and in promoting projects that would benefit his community. Over the years Warren has been active in many civic organizations--as a charter member of the Gainesville Optimist Club, a charter member of Scottish Rite Valley of Fort Worth, 32nd degree, and a life member of the Texas Circulation Managers Association. He also has been active in the PTA, Commander, American Legion, Chamber of Commerce, Little League baseball, Girl Scouts and Camp Fire Girls, Cooke County College Ex- Students Association, and Gainesville Shrine Club. Warren credits his wife, Quade, for supporting him through good times and bad for 52 years--almost as long as he worked for the Register. He also gives much credit for his successful tenure to his associates on the newspaper. In 1993 he received the Sam C. Holloway Memorial Award from the North and East Texas Press Association and also received the Golden 50 Award from the Texas Press Association in commemoration of 50 years of service to journalism. He and Quade have three children--Janice of Wharton, Donna of Sherman, and Max of Oklahoma City, and seven grandchildren--six boys and a girl, who will occupy some of his retirement time. He also plans to do some traveling and a little fishing and hunting along the way. More importantly, Mr. Speaker, as he begins this new phase of his life, he can look back with satisfaction on a lifetime of accomplishments in his hometown of Gainesville. His efforts on behalf of his hometown newspaper and on behalf of his community will always be appreciated. As his friend and admirer for many years, I commend his many successes, his distinguished career, and his civic contributions. I join many other friends in Gainesville and in Cooke County who wish him well.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of legislation that will save taxpayers billions of dollars by eliminating wasteful and unnecessary spending, namely, H.R. 2, the Line Item Veto Act of 1995. For too many years Congress has been spending the taxpayers' money as if there were no tomorrow. Mr. Chairman, yesterday's tomorrow has become today's reality. We can no longer pretend that the problem will go away. The House measured up to the first challenge last week when we passed a balanced budget amendment to the Constitution. That was the first step toward restoring fiscal accountability and responsibility in the Federal budget. The next step is before us, Mr. Chairman, in the form of the Line-Item Veto Act, which would give the President the authority to strike all or part of any appropriation item or any special tax benefit. Congress would still have the option of disapproving this action and then overturning a Presidential veto, if necessary. There has been much publicity in recent years about waste in government, and there has been a lot of finger-pointing. Actually, most Americans probably have benefited in whether in the form of a tax benefit, a special service, or simply a new bridge in their district. The time has come, though, to review our budget item by item and make the difficult choices that every family in America must make when they attempt to balance their budgets and live within their means each year. We are talking about tough choices for tough times, Mr. Chairman. The line-item veto will give the President a check and balance on the budget process and ultimately will encourage Congress to submit fiscally responsible budgets. It also will help restore the American people's confidence and trust in government and help ensure that they are getting the most value for their tax dollars. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to overwhelmingly approve this legislation and send a message to the Nation that ``the buck stops here.''

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to explain a bill I am introducing for the fourth time. During the 103d session it was H.R. 3033. This session it is H.R. 693, and it deals with a very important issue, an issue that is so worthy of our attention that some Members of this body may find it odd that in 6 years no hearings have been held and no debate conducted on it. Some Members may even think it is futile to again bring this bill before the House. But that is not the case. This matter is too important; the case behind this bill is too just; the damage done to ordinary citizens is too egregious to leave this matter alone. To assist the Members of this body in understanding the background of this bill, I would like to offer a brief explanation of the events which led up to its introduction. In 1931, an Italian immigrant, Joe Zeppa, founded Delta Drilling Co. In doing so he was simply following the American dream. Joe was able to take part in the oil boom of the 1930's that helped bring east Texas out of the Great Depression and make the American dream a reality for many people like him. Organized as a closed corporation, Delta Drilling was modestly profitable until the early 1970's, when the energy crisis dramatically increased the company earnings. Increased profitability made the prospect of going public a very attractive option--and inspired Joe with a method of rewarding his many longtime, loyal employees. Considering the possibilities of the company going public, Delta founder Joe Zeppa worried about the fate of employees should a takeover occur. In order to protect these ordinary, hard-working men and women and to reward them for their loyalty over the years, he initiated employee participation plans under which each employee--executives, managers, secretaries, and laborers alike--with at least 15 years of service with Delta was allocated participation units based on his or her annual compensation and years of service in excess of 15. Each participation unit was to be valued at the price of one share of Delta stock when the company went public. The plans were implemented in 1974 with 88 employees participating. In 1975, Joe Zeppa passed away and was succeeded by his son, Keating Zeppa. With revenues jumping from $38 million in 1974 to $161 million by 1980, Delta decided to go public. On March 17, 1981, Delta Drilling Co. publicly offered 2,000,000 shares of common stock at $17.50 per share. The public offering triggered the participation plans and the exchange of participation units. Under the agreement with the underwriters for the public offering, however, the employees at Delta could not sell or transfer shares issued to them under these terms for a 120-day period after the commencement of the offering. Immediately prior to the public offering of stock the employees agreed to exchange their participation units for a combination of stock and cash. As a result, they received Delta stock equal to 70 percent of the value of their units and cash representing the remaining 30 percent. All told, 2,128,665 shares and $5,321,667 were distributed to the 87 remaining participating employees. An additional $10,643,333 representing 20 percent of the total value of their participation units was withheld for taxes. Although Delta stock sold in the initial public offering at $17.50 per share, at the end of the 120-day transfer restriction period, the over-the-counter market price had plummeted to only $13.50. In January of 1982, the price fell below $9.00 and dropped to $6.625 per share by April 6, 1982. Due to circumstances completely out of the hands of Delta Drilling employees, the stock eventually became entirely worthless. This wouldn't seem that bad, Mr. Speaker, because it was just a gift that they had not had before. Right? Wrong! Enter the IRS. On April 15, 1982, the employees who received this gift of stock found themselves subject to an enormous tax burden. Under the IRS Code, the shares received under the plan were taxed as ordinary income at the rate of 50 percent and were valued at the initial public offering price of $17.50--regardless of when the employees disposed of their stock. Consequently the average tax burden for each employee was a staggering $300,000. In order to help the former plan participants, Delta provided them with an option to exchange each share of stock they received under the plan for one 5-year convertible bond valued at the then per-share market price of Delta stock, $6.625, which could then be used as collateral for loans to pay their taxes. Only 30 of the 87 employees who had received stock under the plans accepted the offer. Delta, as a group, also sought relief directly from the Internal Revenue Service, and--after extended negotiations--several individuals were offered the opportunity to report receipt of each stock at $15.50 per share. Clearly, however, in no event could any employee have received more than $13.50 per share for their stock received under the plan--even if they had sold it on the very first day after the expiration of the 120-day transfer restriction period. Indeed, if all the employees had managed to sell their stock, the resulting flood of shares would have had a precipitous impact on the market. Further, as I said earlier these are ordinary people--the majority of the employees had little formal education, no training in finance, and few had been to college. Most had never previously owned stock and many did not even know how to go about selling it. So you see, hard-working employees--many of whom had spent years with this company--were given a gift by their employer. He certainly had no malicious intent in setting up this program. In fact, it is one of the most generous gifts I have ever heard of an employer giving his employees. And the employees certainly stood to gain from his generosity. But instead, they were forced to pay income taxes on an income that they never received--and that is wrong. The end result of this is that you have ordinary people--as I said earlier this includes janitors, secretaries, roughnecks, everyone--who have to pay more in taxes than they make working. It would have been a typical scenario for an employee of this company who made $25,000 a year to be told by the IRS that he or she owed $300,000 or more. In fact, many employees had to sell their homes and other possessions to pay taxes on a benefit they never had a legal right to enjoy. This body is often referred to as the people's House. There has been a great deal of talk in this chamber about the forgotten middle class. With this legislation, we have the opportunity to assist ordinary people and correct an extraordinary wrong. The employees of Delta Drilling who were affected by this financial burden are not just the top managers and executives. Do not think this bill is some sort of loophole or tax break for a bunch of rich oilmen down in Texas. That is simply not the case. This bill changes a policy that has hit a small group of ordinary people in a bad way. That's what we are supposed to do here in the people's House--establish good laws that help good people and change bad laws that hurt good people. We must pass this good bill to help these good people and other people all across our Nation who have faced or may face this devastating situation. I look forward to working with the new chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, my friend from Texas, Mr. Archer, and my other through the legislative process. I think it is important that we hold a hearing on this matter. When the Members of this body are able to hear firsthand the stories of these ordinary, hard-working people from east Texas, I know they will understand the injustice of what has happened to them. I urge my colleagues to take a look at this matter, read the bill, talk to me, talk to the people involved, and you will see that we must pass this bill.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen from the Fourth Congressional District of Texas, Don Blacketer of the Harmon-Dial community. Mr. Blacketer died December 14, 1994, at the age of 75 at the Sam Rayburn Memorial VA Center in Bonham. Funeral services were held at McKenzie United Methodist Church in Honey Grove, where he was a member, and burial was at the Presbyterian Cemetery in Ladonia. Born on September 27, 1919, in Leonard, TX, Don Blacketer was the son of Marcus Anderson Blacketer and Julia Mae Mullins Blacketer. He was a World War II veteran, serving his country in the United States Army under General George S. Patton's command in Europe. Following the war he married Perry Lillianell McCowan in the Dial community and distinguished himself in farming and ranching. Mr. Blacketer was a member of the producers board of the American Soybean Association and was past president of the Texas Soybeans Association. He appeared before our congressional committees to share his knowledge and to give his testimony. I was always proud to introduce him to the Congress--and to claim him as a constituent and as a friend. Mr. Blacketer also devoted himself to helping improve the quality of life in the Dial community. He was instrumental in efforts to find funding to upgrade the community's water supply system and took the time to contact my office and other government officials concerning possible grant and loan programs for this project. He was a concerned citizen and a man who cared enough about his community to act on his concerns. Mr. Blacketer is survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Mark and Pam Blacketer of Rockwall; a sister, Madyelene Pritchett of Sherman; and two granddaughters, Rachel and Sarah Blacketer of Rockwall. He will be missed by his family and by his many friends, and his contributions to the Harmon-Dial community will not be forgotten. Mr. Speaker, I am honored today to pay a final tribute to this exemplary citizen, Don Blacketer, who distinguished himself in his service to his country, his community, and his family.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I am honored today to pay tribute to a good friend and outstanding citizen, W.M. ``Pete'' Rodes, who and community leader in the Rains County town of Emory, TX. He was devoted to his family, his community, his church, and to politics. Pete was born in Emory and spent a lifetime helping to make this small town of about 1,000 people a better place in which to live. After beginning his banking career in 1927 with North Texas National Bank in Dallas and the Republic National Bank, he assumed the management of the First National Bank in Emory in 1939 at his father's request. He served as President until his retirement in 1980. Pete was instrumental in purchasing the city's first firetruck and establishing the city's cemetery and homeless shelter. His son, David Stuart Rodes of Los Angeles, said that his father considered his public works to be his biggest accomplishments. Pete was active in the Emory United Methodist Church, and David acknowledged what many of us knew-- that Pete had a lot of moral influence in the community, and he used it--including being active in racial integration of the school system and the county. Pete also was active in the Democratic Party. He served as a delegate to several national Democratic conventions and was member of the presidential Electoral College in 1964. Though he was never interested in running for office, he believed in the power of politics to improve the quality of life. Pete was Mr. Rains County--and his support of Congressman and Speaker Sam Rayburn, as well as his support of Mr. Rayburn's successor, Congressman Ray Roberts, and the wonderful support that he gave to me following Speaker Rayburn and Congressman Roberts-- always was reflected at the polls. Those who knew Pete best always listened to him--and honored his choice and savored his friendship. Pete's presence was felt in every facet of community life in Emory-- in the city's economy, in public service, in politics, in education, and in the church. His presence will be greatly missed by those who knew him and by those who benefited from his devotion to his community and his country. When I think of Pete, Mr. Speaker, I think of that tradition of Americans whose indefatigable and selfless spirit helped make this country great--people like Pete who have worked tirelessly for the common good in small towns and cities all across America. Their individual efforts not only have benefited those in their immediate community but also are part of the collective American spirit that unites and inspires all of us. The memory of Pete's spirit will inspire others to look beyond themselves and help their fellow man in whatever capacity they can. It is perhaps this legacy that ultimately will be greater than the individual contributions that Pete made. Pete will be missed by his wife, Lillian Whittington Rodes, his son, David, and his daughter, Judith Rodes Johnson. He will be missed by all those who knew him and respected him. Though other Members of this body did not personally know him, Mr. Speaker, I'm sure that they know those like him in their own communities. So as we adjourn today, let us join together in paying our last respects to this exemplary man--W.M. ``Pete'' Rodes of Emory, TX.

Mr. HALL of Texas

Mr. HALL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the rule for consideration of H.R. 5, the Unfunded Mandate Reform Act of 1995. This will be one of the most important issues to be deliberated in this historic, reform-minded Congress, and it is imperative that we entertain all views and hear all arguments before we cast our votes. I am satisfied that this rule will permit adequate debate and discussion of this legislation. For too many years the Federal Government has been mandating policies to State and local governments and to the private sector without regard for the cost or the burdens of compliance. H.R. 5 will change that policy. No longer will we be able to pass laws without adequately funding their implementation. In addition, when Members of Congress know the financial and bureaucratic impact of a particular piece of legislation, hopefully we will be able to craft a more responsible and cost-effective approach to a particular problem. This legislation will help make the Federal Government more accountable to those we serve. Issues that affect the health and safety of all Americans will continue to receive top priority by the Federal Government. Other programs that might affect one area or group more than another should be voluntary, with Federal assistance awarded proportionately, if available and if needed. The time has come to get government off the backs of State and local governments and off the backs of the private sector. It is time for Congress to stop passing laws without knowing the consequences of our actions. H.R. 5 will help achieve these goals, and I welcome an open discussion of these issues.