Paul Kanjorski

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. I appreciate the majority leader's courtesy. Mr. Speaker, I wish to take this opportunity to apologize to my friend from Pennsylvania, if I have in any way caused you discomfort to attacking your integrity. I never intended to do that. I merely wanted to express that there was another forum that could have been used for this, and there would be other jeopardies involved if it had been used. Having served in the House for 12 years now and having been here some 42 years ago with a good friend of mine, Bill Emerson, who we just saw die last week, it has always been my intention that we have comity in the House and civility, and I have to say that I see myself having gotten into this engagement with great disappointment because it does destroy the civility and the comity of the House, and I want my friends on the other side to know that I hope not to be a part of that, and any remarks that are taken that way, not only the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Clinger] but all my friends on the Republican side, I would hope that you would do me the kind courtesy of taking it as I truly intended it, not to attack the integrity of the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Clinger].

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I am making a request to withdraw my original words.

Mr. KANJORSKI. Yes, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, I understand that the taking down of my words was with the intention that it was a personal attack, referring to the gentleman from Pennsylvania [Mr. Clinger] . . . Certainly I am not attacking nor do I intend to attack him personally in that regard. The expressions were perhaps not precise in the use of the language and I would like to correct and get understood on the record what my intentions were. That is, as an old lawyer myself and as a reader of the Constitution, I wanted to call the attention of the House and those people watching this proceeding that if the remarks made by my colleague from Pennsylvania were made outside of the House Chamber, he could be subject to tortious action.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Chairman, today is an important day for veterans living in northeastern Pennsylvania. In this appropriations bill, Congress will finally commit the resources needed to modernize the Wilkes-Barre, PA VA Medical Center. Included is a $42.7 million plan to renovate and substantially upgrade the facility. I greatly appreciate the strong leadership of both VA Secretary Jesse Brown in securing funds for the project in President Clinton's budget request and VA-HUD Subcommittee Chairman Jerry Lewis for including the request in this bill. I also must thank ranking member Louis Stokes for his tireless efforts on behalf of veterans and his gracious help on this and other projects important to the citizens of my region. Of course, Congressman Joe McDade deserves much praise for his hard work in support of this project, as does Congressman Tim Holden and Congressman Paul McHale. Mr. Chairman, in my May testimony before the subcommittee in support of this project, and many times since coming to Congress more than 11 years ago, I have tried to explain to the membership of this body how desperate the situation is at this 50-year old medical center. Space shortages are severe, equipment and facilities are outdated, and employee morale is sinking rapidly. Simple put, we must upgrade this facility immediately. The medical center is wholly insufficient to meet the current and future needs of my region's veteran population. Over 99 percent of all patient rooms are not equipped with either private or semiprivate bathrooms, including rooms for female veterans. Ambulatory care has only 44 percent of needed space. Medical and surgical intensive care units have only 54 percent of needed space, and patient privacy is nonexistent in the hospital's 16-bed wards. Serious environmental deficiencies, such as very poor ventilation, have increased the risk of spreading infection among patients and workers. I could go on and on about the past and current problems arising from the bad condition of the medical center, but what we must decide today is how we intend to address the future of veterans' medical care in the region. Should we permit the continued, rapid deterioration of the medical center and, in effect, give up hope on providing quality medical services to these veterans or fulfilling our obligation to the taxpayers to provide such services in an effective, cost-efficient manner? I believe we must fulfill our obligations to the brave men and women who risked their lives and health so that we could remain free. Fortunately, the President and the members of the appropriations committee made the right choice in support of full funding for the project. This long overdue project will enable the Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center to provide the quality medical services veterans deserve and taxpayers expect. I would strongly urge the full House, as well as the other body, to concur. Without a doubt, this funding will help transform the medical center into a first-class medical care facility. Under the plan, two new bed towers will create much-needed space to correct patient privacy problems, as well as serious ventilation, heating, and air conditioning deficiencies. An ambulatory care addition will enable the expansion of numerous medical units, and help prepare the medical center for the greater focus of the VA on outpatient medical care overall. Some Members of this Congress believe that we should no longer make substantial investments in VA medical facilities. I disagree. We made a commitment long ago to care for needy veterans and meet their special medical needs through a separate health system. I believe we must continue to do so in the future, as well. To meet this commitment, VA facilities must be appropriately maintained. While new hospitals have been built and old facilities renovated over the years, the Wilkes- Barre VA Medical Center has been virtually forgotten. As the third largest VA facility in the fifth largest State in the Nation, and after nearly five decades of service, this medical center is long overdue for major repairs and modernization. Mr. Chairman, the 250,000 veterans spread across 19 counties in northeastern and central Pennsylvania, as well as the medical center's dedicated employees, need and deserve this important project. I therefore urge swift approval of this appropriation by the House.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to pay tribute to my oldest and dearest friend, Bill Emerson. Bill and I knew each other for 43 years. We met in this Chamber as 15- year-olds when both of us were young. Bill was an exceptional young man, very bright, very focused and very dedicated. As a matter of fact, I used to think of him as an American Churchill or a Midwestern Lincoln: a person of great potential ready to be molded, with a big heart and an understanding love for America and what this great democracy is all about. You know, a lot of my friends on both sides of the aisle will miss Bill because he was truly bipartisan in most everything he ever did. A lot of us know him and know him in different ways, but one does not know Bill Emerson unless one knows he was not really Bill Emerson. When I first met him, he struck out his hand and he introduced himself as Norville William Emerson of Missouri. Being a young man from Pennsylvania, I had never heard of a Norville William Emerson from Missouri before, particularly one who talked with a Midwestern twang and almost had hayseed in his hair. But clearly the light and brightness of his mind reflected through his eyes, and he and I became the dearest of friends, roommates for 2 years and fellow pages. And it did not stop there. We spent time together. He visited my home and I visited his, and our families became the closest of friends from my childhood days. We went on to colleges; we shared the hopes of young men and the witnesses of the great sacraments in marriage. And as we went on through life, we gave advice and thoughts to one another and always remained friends. We even shared the history of the 90th anniversary of Gettysburg together. I drove through the battlefield yesterday. That is 43 years ago that we stood up there, and I remember Bill well, telling me about his understanding of this great Civil War, this great battle that preserved democracy for America and individual rights for every American then and unborn into the future. He had such a fundamental understanding of it that truly I thought that he could be the next Lincoln coming along. Well, Bill and I went through life together and shared all those years between then and 1980. He and I ran in 1980 for the House. He was a better politician than I. He got elected, I did not. But we remained close friends and in 1984 I had the good fortune of winning my seat, and we joined each other again after a period of 40 years of having known each other as very close friends. In this House we tried with other Members, Mickey Leland being one, to form an organization uniting Members across the aisle. We tried to put Republicans and Democrats together as human beings, as friends, and as Americans, rather than as politicians interested in short-term advantage. Bill was a great bridge builder. Bill had that magnificence to reach out and be understood and trusted. It was not until recently, when I saw him afflicted with his last challenge that I understood the reason why: he had a profound understanding of the basic good nature of man, and that was reflected in his every action. And, Mr. Speaker, people trusted him rightly so., He had a wonderful grandfather. We shared a love for him together. He has a beautiful mother, a wonderful wife and four beautiful daughters. They will all miss him. We will miss him. America will miss him. But I think, Mr. Speaker, I will miss him most of all.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an economic and community development organization in my Congressional District in Pennsylvania, the Community Area New Development Corporation of Hazelton. CAN DO, as it is generally known, will celebrate its 40th anniversary next week, and I am pleased to be able to participate in this event. In 1956, Dr. Edgar L. Dessen led a group of civic leaders who were determined to reverse the economic decline brought about by the demise of Northeastern Pennsylvania's coal mining industry. These officials believed that the economy of the area could only survive if new jobs were created through planned industrial development. Under Dr. Dessen's leadership, the original group oversaw a massive fund-raising effort to help finance Greater Hazelton's renaissance. The organization set a goal of raising one half a million dollars, but succeeding in raising $750,000 for generating economic development. The group used the funds to purchase land to create an industrial park on the outskirts of Hazelton. A year later, Valmont Industrial Park was opened, and the General Foam Company became the park's first tenant. The company brought over one hundred new jobs to Hazelton launching the area's economic revitalization. Valmont Industrial Park was quickly filled and CAN DO began to expand its mission. Having experienced tremendous success in bringing new industries to the Valmont Industrial Park, CAN DO began drafting plans for a second industrial park. In 1972, CAN DO opened the Humboldt Industrial Park and quickly attracted new industries. A state-of-the-art operation was established in the park by Cadbury-Schweppes, Ltd. which was the largest candy manufacturer in the world at that time. The facility is now home to Hershey Chocolate. During the 1980's CAN DO officials turned their attention toward the age of high technology which they anticipated would drive the future economy. CAN DO's drawing board was filled with plans to keep the company of the Hazelton area strong well into the 21st Century through the attraction of high tech businesses. Numerous economic development projects were realized from this innovative planning. Paramount among these projects is the CAN DO Corporate Center. This ultra-modern business park features a unique environmentally sensitive design known as the Terrarium Concept which preserves the ecological beauty of the park. This strategy was so well received, CAN DO was awarded the 1993 Environmental Excellence in Economic Development Award from the Arthur D. Little organization. Only minutes from the interstate highway system, the CAN DO Corporate Center is equipped with the latest business and industrial technologies and a well structured and reliable infrastructure. Currently, CAN DO is involved in the expansion of the Humboldt Industrial Park Southwest which will result in 300 additional acres being made available for industrial development in the Hazelton area. CAN DO is also working with the Pennsylvania Power and Light Company to develop the Green Mountain Major Manufacturing Site adjacent to the Humbolt Southwest facility. Mr. Speaker, during its forty year existence, CAN DO has been responsible for 14,000 new jobs, 200 development projects, over $1 billion in private investment in the Greater Hazelton Area, and more than $4 million in tax revenue. The long-term vision for economic development that CAN DO drafted has contributed significantly to the economic revitalization of the Greater Hazelton Area. CAN DO has truly earned its many national awards and recognition. Mr. Speaker, during my tenure in the Congress, I have had the distinct pleasure of working closely with the innovative and visionary men and women of CAN DO. It is with pleasure that I am able to highlight the outstanding achievements of this distinguished economic development organization before my colleagues. I am proud to congratulate CAN DO on its 40th Anniversary and I wish the organization continued prosperity in all its community and economic development efforts.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to my close friend, Msgr. Andrew J. McGowan. Monsignor McGowan will be honored for his outstanding community leadership by Leadership Wilkes-Barre, an organization dedicated to fostering leadership in the Greater Wilkes- Barre area. I am pleased to be able to join Leadership Wilkes-Barre area in paying tribute to Monsignor McGowan on June 13. Mr. Speaker, it is most fitting that Leadership Wilkes-Barre honor Monsignor McGowan, who is one of the most beloved and well-respected individuals in northeastern Pennsylvania. The monsignor has committed himself to the betterment of the lives of everyone in the Greater Wilkes-Barre area. He has freely shared his wit and wisdom which has helped everyone he has touched. Most importantly, Monsignor McGowan's spirituality has been always been a source of strength and faith. Fifteen years ago, Monsignor McGowan joined several of his colleagues in establishing an organization that could effectively work for the betterment of the Wilkes-Barre community. Today that organization successfully operates as Leadership Wilkes-Barre. Committed to ensuring success for the organization, Monsignor McGowan served as its first board chairman. Upon being selected to lead Leadership Wilkes-Barres, Monsignor McGowan sought effective ways to improve community management. To accomplish this goal, the monsignor helped the organization to structure a year-long class for emerging and existing community leaders, who then educate officials about the needs of the communities in which they live and work. Its curriculum was heavily influenced by Monsignor McGowan's commitment to community growth, understanding of economic development, and an overwhelming compassion for the citizens of the region. Mr. Speaker, Monsignor McGowan personifies leadership in Wilkes-Barre and throughout the Wyoming Valley. In addition to his support of Leadership Wilkes-Barre, the Monsignor is the director of Community Affairs and the bishop's representatives for hospitals and colleges in the diocese of Scranton, PA. He has received the Hospital Association of Pennsylvania Distinguished Service Award, and the B'nai Brith Americanism Award. Monsignor McGowan has been selected as an honorary fellow in the American College of Health Care Executives, and was chosen to receive the 1994 Award of Excellence of the Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania. Currently, Monsignor McGowan serves the region as the vice chair of Allied Services Hospital Foundation and chairs the Commission on Economic Opportunity of Luzerne County and the Heinz Institute of Rehab Medicine. The monsignor is also a First Valley Bank board member and generously volunteers his time to serve on the executive committee of the Boy Scout of America, the Luzerne Foundation, and the Scranton Public Library. In addition to these and other organizations, Monsignor McGowan sits on the boards of King's and Marywood Colleges and the Catholic University of America. Monsignor McGowan served as chairman of the board of the Kirby Center for Performing Arts, the Hospital Trustee Association of Pennsylvania and was a board member of the University of Scranton, College Misericordia, and Mount St. Mary's in Maryland. The monsignor is probably best known for his masterful use of the English language. He is the most sought after speaker in northeastern Pennsylvania and serves as master of ceremonies for almost every prestigious event in the area. For more than 10 years he has been MC for the Pennsylvania State Chamber of Commerce annual meeting, and has been at the dais of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick's Day Banquets in both Wilkes-Barre and Scranton for more years than I can remember. Mr. Speaker, I have always admired Monsignor McGowan for the charming wit and wisdom that he has shared with everyone. Even before being elected to Congress, I had the privilege of working with him for the betterment of northeastern Pennsylvania. Each time we work together, Monsignor McGowan demonstrates skillful and diplomatic problem-solving abilities. His leadership has taught me to be a more effective Member of Congress and a more compassionate and understanding individual. I am very grateful to have Monsignor McGowan among my closest personal friends. Mr. President, I am extremely pleased to have been asked by Leadership Wilkes-Barre to participate in their tribute to Msgr. Andrew J. McGowan. I am very proud to bring the monsignor's distinguished community service record to the attention of my colleagues, and thank him for his dedication to the people of northeastern Pennsylvania.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to my close personal friend and neighbor, Mr. Leonard Locke. On May 30, 1996, Leonard will celebrate his 80th birthday. It is my pleasure to join with his family, many friends, and neighbors in wishing Leonard a very happy birthday. Mr. Speaker, Leonard Locke was born not too far from where we both live today in the Alden section of Nanticoke. After graduating from Newport Township High School, Leonard proudly served his country in the 76th Division of the 385th Infantry during World War II. He earned five battle stars during his active duty in France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany. After the war, Leonard opened a neighborhood grocery store in the Alden section of Nanticoke. During the 40 years that Leonard ran the store, he was always a friend to all his customers and his neighborhood. Ten years ago, Leonard retired to enjoy the pleasures of life. Leonard Locke was an active member of the business community participating as a director of Wyoming Valley Distributing Co. for 20 years, as well as its secretary for 15 of those years. Also in this connection, he lent his business expertise with the United Retail Grocers Association of Northeastern Pennsylvania serving at times as the organization's president and secretary. Leonard has been a registered Democrat since 1937, and has been proud to serve as a Democratic committeeman in my own ward, the 10th ward of Nanticoke. Upon his retirement, Leonard took an active role in local government serving as a Nanticoke City Councilman in charge of accounts and finance. Leonard is an active member of the American Legion Post 350 of Nanticoke and a member and past president of Tatra of Luzerne County. Mr. Speaker, my wife Nancy and I have been neighbors of Leonard Locke since 1979, During the many years that I have known Leonard, I have always enjoyed walking in my backyard and sharing his wonderful friendship and cheerful salute, ``Hi neighbor!'' My wife and I are extremely pleased to the have the opportunity to wish Leonard Locke a happy and healthy 80th birthday.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to King's College, a distinguished institution of higher learning in my district in Pennsylvania. This week, King's will celebrate its Jubilee Anniversary, and I am pleased to be able to participate in this event. King's College is fortunate to have as its president, Father James Lackenmier, C.S.C., who has demonstrated tremendous leadership during his tenure as president of King's. He has motivated both students and facility members to participate in the activities of King's College and the surrounding community. He has driven his colleagues and students to always strive for the highest level of success, with special attention to an agenda he initiated for the college, ``Emphasis on Excellence.'' As early as 1938, Bishop William J. Hafey had a vision of a Catholic college in Wilkes-Barre, PA. The college would afford Catholics in the Wyoming Valley a chance for higher education. The Bishop postponed his dream while the depression lingered and the United States prepared for the Second World War. In 1944, when the war began to wind down, the Bishop took the steps to make his dream for a Catholic college a reality and contacted the Holy Cross Fathers at the University of Notre Dame. The Fathers were invited to open a sister school in Wilkes-Barre. Soon after his proposal was made, Bishop Hafey received word that the Holy Cross Fathers were interested in the idea. Father John Cavanaugh, C.S.C. was sent from Notre Dame to discuss the details with Bishop Hafey. Shortly thereafter, Bishop Hafey traveled to New York to meet with Father Albert Cousineau, C.S.C., the Superior General of the Congregation of the Holy Cross to seek his sanctions of the plans. In March of 1945, Bishop Hafey got word that the Holy Cross Fathers accepted his invitation to establish King's College, the name chosen to honor Christ the King. On April 20, 1945, The Catholic Light newsletter headline read ``College for Men to be Opened in Wilkes-Barre.'' The opening date of the college depended on the ``conclusion of the war'' and ``the ability to obtain priorities for the necessary renovations which must be made in the temporary home for King's College.'' Bishop Hafey had expectations that the many returning servicemen would use the G.I. Bill of Rights to enroll in college upon returning from the war. Father James W. Connerton, C.S.C. arrived in Wilkes-Barre from the University of Notre Dame with $200 in expense money and instructions to buy a typewriter and start the college. Until the faculty residence became available the following August, Father Connerton resided in St. Mary's Rectory as the guest of Bishop O'Connor. Mr. Speaker, the early days of King's College were spent untying the administrative red tape, and obtaining the incorporation papers through the courts. Between May and September of 1946, 306 applicants were accepted for admission out of more than 500 young men. Most were newly discharged veterans just as Bishop Hafey had hoped. The faculty began to arrive in Wilkes-Barre. King's College became a reality. A beaming Bishop Hafey celebrated the solemn opening mass. At the end of the liturgy the bishop spoke the words which have become the cornerstone of the beginnings of King's College. The day when a seed planted is a day rooted in hope . . . this day the seed of a new college is planted in the soil of Luzerne County in the State of Pennsylvania. One hundred years from this day the unborn hundreds, perhaps thousands, will gather to recall historically its beginnings, to recount its growth, and especially to estimate its fruit, its worth to the community of human beings living here their temporal lives in preparation for life eternal; its service to God, to country and immortal souls. Mr. Speaker, it is impossible to estimate the value of King's College to the Wyoming Valley, King's has overcome 50 years of social and economic change. In 1972, when the Susquehanna River spilled its banks and inundated the Wyoming Valley, King's was among the hardest hit. The college survived the social changes of the turbulent 1960's and women became a familiar sight on campus. From its humble beginnings to a 15- acre campus which includes the College of Arts and Sciences and the McGowan School of Business, King's has been recognized by Barron's Best Buys in Higher Education and U.S. News and World Report. Mr. Speaker, the Wyoming Valley and Wilkes-Barre are indeed fortunate that Bishop Hafey realized his dream some 50 years ago. I salute King's College and praise my friend Father Lackenmier for all his leadership. I wish all the best and much continued prosperity for the King's College, its students, and its graduates.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 125th anniversary of the city of Wilkes-Barre, PA. Tomorrow, May 23, 1996, marks the passing of 125 years since the founding of the city of Wilkes-Barre. I am pleased to have been asked to join Mayor Tom McGroarty in commemorating this event, and I take pride in recognizing Wilkes-Barre's anniversary on the House floor today. As the city of Wilkes-Barre celebrates its 125th anniversary, its citizens will remember the city's long and historically significant past. City residents will also look to the future when officials seal a time capsule that will remain closed until the 175th anniversary of the city. The history of Wilkes-Barre begins in 1769 when it was settled by colonists from New England under the leadership of Maj. John Durkee. Recognizing the beauty of the region, and the abundance of its many natural resources, the first settlers named the region after Col. John Wilkes and Col. Isaac Barre who defended the American colonies before their colleagues in the British Parliament. Located in the heart of the beautiful Wyoming Valley of northeastern Pennsylvania, the Wilkes-Barre area grew rapidly. On March 17, 1806, the area was incorporated as a borough; on May 4, 1871 it became a city; and on September 22, 1898, a third-class city charter was issued. The first residents of the city of Wilkes-Barre were a very diverse collection of early European immigrants drawn to the area by its fertile soil along the Susquehanna River. The earliest Wilkes-Barre residents brought with them an outstanding sense of family values, community pride, and commitment to remembering their heritage. Today, those same traditions still run strong through the residents of Wilkes- Barre. From its earliest days, the development of Wilkes-Barre was driven by the strong will of the area residents. The earliest residents worked the soil to establish successful farms. When coal was discovered in abundance throughout the region, the residents of the Wilkes-Barre area moved quickly to mine the lands. By taking full advantage of this newly discovered resource, the productivity of the residents of the city made Wilkes-Barre the Anthracite Capital of the World. The region became one of the most prosperous areas anywhere in the country as anthracite fueled the industrial revolution. As the use of anthracite declined and after the Knox Mine Disaster virtually wiped out deep anthracite mining, the Wilkes-Barre area suffered a tremendous economic decline. In the 1950's and 1960's thousands of families left the area to find job opportunities elsewhere. Then in 1972 the Hurricane Agnes caused unprecedented flooding, causing nearly $1 billion in damages to 25,000 homes and 2,700 businesses. More than 60,000 people were unemployed, some temporarily, and some permanently. Many thought that the city of Wilkes-Barre would become a ghost town. But the ``Valley with a Heart'' rallied together, cleaned up the muck and mud, rebuilt the community's infrastructure, and Wilkes-Barre once again became the hub of activity for northeastern Pennsylvania. This February, President Bill Clinton came to the Wyoming Valley to announce the completion of the general design memorandum that will allow the raising of the levees that protect Wilkes-Barre and much of the Wyoming Valley from the ravages of a flood the scale of that caused by Hurricane Agnes. After working on this project since my election in 1984, I am pleased that finally we will have protection from the devastation that the Susquehanna River can bring. The Susquehanna River is now poised to be appreciated as the asset that originally drew Wilkes-Barre's first settlers to the area. The inflatable dam included in the levee raising project will serve as an incentive to beautify Wilkes-Barre's waterfront and lead to increased economic and recreational activity. I have no doubt that upon the opening of the time capsule in which this statement will be buried, an unpolluted Susquehanna River will once again be the center piece for the Wyoming Valley, with a thriving waterfront in Wilkes-Barre. The entire city of Wilkes-Barre is ready to undergo a tremendous revitalization. With the nearly $40 million renovation of the former Stegmaier Brewery complex and the newly renamed Max Rosenn Federal Courthouse, the city will experience an infusion of hope and new development. Mayor Tom McGroarty has shown tremendous energy and enthusiasm for solving the city's problems and preparing for the 21st century, and I appreciate the enormous amount of assistance he has provided for these and other projects. Northeastern Pennsylvania is destined for economic growth unlike any we have experienced since the beginning of the anthracite industry. Much of that growth will result from the development of new technologies by our talented and hardworking workforce, such as those individuals employed by Harris Semiconductor in Mountaintop. In the spirit of the time capsule, let me predict that over the next 50 years the city of Wilkes-Barre will serve as the core for an economically vibrant region; let me speculate further that the second electronic revolution brought about by the Harris Corporation's power electronics building blocks program will drive that economic development. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent the city of Wilkes-Barre in the U.S. House of Representatives. I am also pleased to join all the citizens of Wilkes-Barre as we commemorate the city's 125th anniversary, and I look forward to great things for the city and our region.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my close personal friend Robert A. Fortinsky, who, on May 20, 1996, will receive the Distinguished Community Service Award from the Greater Wilkes-Barre Society of Fellows Anti-Defamation League of B'nai B'rith. I am pleased to have been asked to participate in this event, and I take pride in honoring Bob on the House floor today. In 1913, the Anti-Defamation League of the B'nai B'rith was established to fight defamation based on religious, racial, and ethnic prejudices and to promote education, and a more mature understanding of all humankind. Bob Fortinsky has embraced the principles of the Anti- Defamation League, and through his actions has become most deserving of the organization's Distinguished Community Service Award. Born in Wilkes-Barre in 1929, Bob experienced a traditional Northeastern Pennsylvanian upbringing with a strong commitment to academics. After graduating from Meyer's High School, he enrolled in Penn State university, but his education was interrupted in 1944 when he left college to serve his country in the U.S. Army. While in the Army, Bob's leadership qualities became evident to his superiors who promoted him to Second Lieutenant. Upon attaining this rank, Bob became the youngest second lieutenant in the Army Chemical Corps. Following his service to his country, Bob returned to Penn State where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry. Using the resources of leadership and a strong education, Bob established Fortune Fabrics, Inc. in 1949. Since that time he has established several other companies including Wyoming Weavers, Inc. in 1975 and Jilj Enterprises, Inc. in 1983. Throughout all of his business dealings, he has always operated his businesses with adherence to the highest ethical standards and a commitment to producing the best quality products. Bob's leadership is not only evident in his business successes, but in the community organizations and clubs to which he lends his skills and time. In 1972 and 1984, Bob was Chairman of the United Jewish Appeal Campaign, and from 1973 to 1976 he served as the President of the Jewish Community Center of Wilkes-Barre. Bob was Co-Chairman of the Jewish Community Center's Endowment Fund, and in 1985 he became was Chairman of Israel Bonds. He also served as President of Temple Israel and later served as Chairman of the Board of Temple Israel. In 1988 he was honored by Wilkes University with the dedication of Fortinsky Hall. Today, Bob Fortinsky continues to be active in many community organizations and private clubs. He is a Director of the Luzerne National Bank, and a member of the International Textile Society. In addition to being a Trustee of Wilkes University, he is a member of the university's John Wilkes Society. He became a board member of the Fox Hill Country Club in 1996 after serving as President of the club during the previous year. Bob is also a member of the Wyoming Business Club and the King's College Century Club. Mr. Speaker, Bob Fortinsky is a truly exceptional businessman and an outstanding community leader. He and his wife, Shirley, are responsible for making so many significant contributions to the betterment mankind. I wish Bob and his family everlasting success and happiness.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Chairman, I oppose the budget resolution offered by the Republican majority. The Republican majority has once again done a bad job of putting together this most basic budget blueprint. Like last year, this resolution is a product of closed-door meetings with party leaders, pollsters, and lobbyists for multinational corporations, instead of a meaningful accounting of the needs of average working Americans and senior citizens. This resolution is particularly deceptive and disingenuous because if the Congress follows this budget resolution, the American people will feel its harsh effects only after the November elections. The proposal will needlessly put us on another collision course with the President that could lead to new Government shutdowns and numerous stopgap spending measures. I have no doubt that the resolution's proposals will hurt seniors living on fixed incomes, middle-class and low-income families, and make it more difficult to ever balance the Federal budget. Indeed, while the bill is supposed to help the Republican party appear kinder and gentler to the American people as November draws near, there is little that is kind or gentle about this bill. We must do better. Congress needs to put forth in this budget resolution a clear and honest vision of the future--one that says the Federal Government can work more efficiently and effectively, while also helping to empower individuals and working families to succeed. The Republican resolution offers no such hope. I am fully prepared to support a budget plan which is balanced in 7 years using Congressional Budget Office numbers, as required by the bipartisan balanced budget agreement. Unfortunately, this legislation is neither bipartisan nor balanced. A better balanced budget plan would integrate the following principles into a new budget blueprint for the future.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Nathan N. Schiowitz, who has been selected by the Northeastern Pennsylvania Unit of The Arthritis Foundation as its 1996 Community Leader of the Year. I am pleased to recognize Mr. Schiowitz as he receives this honor on May 15, 1996. The Arthritis Foundation gives the Community Leader Award to those community leaders who demonstrate outstanding leadership qualities in their communities and who have selflessly given of themselves for the betterment of others. Nathan Schiowitz fulfills, and surpasses, these requirements. He is truly deserving of this award. Nathan Schiowitz began his professional career in 1924 when he joined his father's company, the General Supply and Paper Co., located in Wilkes-Barre, PA. He quickly became a leader in the business, and rose to the position of president before his retirement in 1975. As Nathan's leadership qualities grew with his experiences at the General Supply and Paper Co., he shared those qualities with his community. From 1925 until 1940, Nathan served on the Jewish Welfare Agency's Board of Directors. In 1972, he served on the Flood Recovery Committee and worked to provide assistance to victims of the Hurricane Agnes flood which devastated much of the Wyoming Valley. Currently, Mr. Schiowitz is president of the Congregation of Ohav Zedek, and serves on the board of the Jewish Community Center. He is vice president and treasurer of the Jewish Federation of Greater Wilkes-Barre, and is also treasurer of the Jewish Community Center's Trustee Board. He has been named honorary chairman of the United Hebrew Institute and serves on Jewish Family Service Board. Nathan Schiowitz's leadership does not stop with these positions. He also serves as the treasurer of the Ecumenical Enterprise Corporation and is operations chairman of the Meadows Nursing Home Board. He is also a member of several Masonic organizations including the Irem Temple Mystic Shrine. For his leadership roles, Nathan has been honored extensively. He has received the Ohav Zedek Endowment Award and was recognized in 1982 by the Jewish Federation of Greater Wilkes-Barre USA Campaign and the United Hebrew Institution 25th Anniversary Endowment Campaign. Nathan was honored with the National Council of Jewish Federations Endowment Acknowledgement in 1986 and received a Community Service Award from the B'nai B'rith in 1988. In 1991, he was honored by Wilkes University at the dedication of the Schiowitz Hall. With his active participation in so many organizations, Nathan Schiowitz has become an outstanding leader throughout the Wyoming Valley. His capabilities and character have resulted in the innumerable accomplishments and successes. His interaction with others has been responsible for improving the lives of so many people. Mr. Speaker, Nathan N. Schiowitz is truly deserving of The Arthritis Foundation's 1996 Community Leader of the Year Award. On behalf of his community, I would like to thank him for all that he has done to better the lives of others, and wish him continued success in all that he does on behalf of others.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 25th anniversary of the Rural Health Corp. of northeastern Pennsylvania [RHC]. Tomorrow, the RHC board of directors, employees, and friends of the agency wil celebrate 25 years of success, and I am pleased to have been asked to participate in this event. The Rural Health Corp. has been instrumental providing public health services to the residents of northeastern and central Pennsylvania. The RHC is a private, nonprofit corporation that was founded for the purpose of providing primary and preventive health care to the medically underserved. It concentrates its efforts on helping those people who are isolated geographically or economically from major health service centers, and who have limited alternative health resources. The RHC is governed by a volunteer, unpaid board of directors selected from the areas served by the corporation; over 50 percent of the board members have utilized the facility's services. The corporation currently serves almost 18,000 individuals throughout the area, providing comprehensive pediatric, adolescent, and adult health care at six medical and three dental centers. Other services include community health education, nutrition education, and transportation. The first patients were seen by the RHC staff in January 1971, in the first RHC building. By 1973, three additional buildings had been constructed to serve the rapidly growing number of patients that were seeking services from the RHC. The next 4 years focused on expanding services, and strengthening the quality of care. Since 1977, two additional medical centers and one dental center were opened, and a new building replaced the RHC's original facility. In addition, the RHC opened a pharmacy, and a centralized management information system complete with computerized financial, billing, and patient data a systems. RHC has participated in a number of innovative health care programs. Between 1984 and 1988, the corporation established the PennCare Health Plan, a prepaid health care program for medical assistance recipients. In the fall of 1987, the RHC launched the Luzerne County Integration Project to replace the Pennsylvania Department of Health's Immunization Program, which was then terminated in Luzerne County. The corporation administered the area's State subsidized program of vaccination for perdiatric patients. In 1987, the RHC responded to a Federal initiative to extend health services to the homeless under the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act. Services provided by the medical care facility include patient outreach and case management, mental health and substance abuse counseling, emergency and impatient hospitalization. The services that the RHC has provided during its years of operation have saved and improved the live of thousands of people. During its 25- year history, the RHC has evolved from a small county practice into one of the largest providers of primary care in the region, and one of the largest nonprofit community health center programs in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The RHC can be proud of all that it has accomplished. I salute the Rural Health Corp. of northeastern Pennsylvania and wish it continued success as it strives to improve the quality of lives of the people it serves.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Dr. Mahmoud H. Fahmy, a distinguished educator and community leader in my Congressional District. Tonight, Dr. Fahmy will be honored for his achievements at a testimonial banquet, and I am pleased to have been asked to participate in this event. Mahmoud Fahmy was born in Alexandria, Egypt and earned a bachelors degree with honors from Alexandria University. He came to United States to complete his graduate work, earning a masters degree at Columbia University and a doctorate from Syracuse University. Devoting his life to education, Dr. Fahmy instructed and administered programs in various colleges and universities nationwide, including the New School of Social Research of New York City, Syracuse University, Bucknell University, Bloomsburg University and the University of Pittsburgh. He also served as president of the Pennsylvania Association of Graduate Schools. Dr. Fahmy served as Special Assistant to the President for External Affairs at Wilkes University and held the academic rank of full Professor of Education as well as Dean of Graduate Affairs and Continuing Education. He currently serves as President of the Education and Training Center of Northeastern Pennsylvania. In addition to his role as an educator, Dr. Fahmy has been a leader and an innovator in other areas of the community. He is currently a member of the advisory board of the Luzerne/Wyoming Counties Mental Health/Mental Retardation Association and chairs its legislative task force and public awareness committee. Dr. Fahmy is also a member of the Ethics Institute of Northeastern Pennsylvania and heads its education subcommittee. In addition, he is a member of the Board of the Economic Development Council of Northeastern Pennsylvania, and is in charge of its International Trade Development Council. Dr. Fahmy helped to establish the Luzerne County Youth and Violence Committee. Recently, Dr. Fahmy was selected by the County Commissioners to serve on the Board of Trustees of Luzerne County Community College where he was later elected chairman. Internationally, Dr. Fahmy has directed several international educational projects for the U.S. Department of Education and other professional organizations. He is an international education consultant who has performed in various capacities in several foreign countries. He was selected as Citizen Ambassador for the ``People to People'' program, and served as a delegate to Russia and Czechoslovakia in the area of education organization and teacher education. Recently, he headed a Delegation from Northeastern Pennsylvania to Brazil. Mr. Speaker, I feel very fortunate to have worked with Dr. Mahmoud Fahmy many times during my tenure in Congress and over the years we have become friends. I am extremely proud to join with his colleagues, family and friends in commending Dr. Fahmy on a lifetime of commitment to his profession and to the betterment of his community.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America upon the celebration of the organization's 100th anniversary. On Saturday, March 23, the Wyoming Valley Chapter will commemorate this important anniversary at its annual banquet in Wilkes-Barre, PA. I am pleased to have been asked to participate in this event. Since its founding in 1896, the Jewish War Veterans organization has been a patriotic voice of American Jews who proudly served in the U.S. military. Founded by men who wore the blue uniform of the victorious Union Army and Navy during the Civil War, its membership has subsequently included Jewish military personnel who have answered the call to colors since 1861, and continue the tradition of service in the peace-keeping force in Bosnia. At its first roll call, held at the Lexington Opera House in New York City in 1896, 63 Jewish Civil War veterans were recorded present at what was then called a gathering of the Hebrew Union Veterans. From that time until World War I, the JWV merged with other organizations and promoted the recognition of Jewish veterans. One of its members, Ben Altheimer, was widely recognized for greatly influencing President Woodrow Wilson in designating June 14 as Flag Day. During the years following World War I, the JWV became active in protesting the Jewish discrimination in Poland, Romania and Galicia. In 1924, the organization changed its name to Jewish War Veterans of the Wars of the Republic. The next year, the JWV published the first issue of its national magazine entitled ``Jewish Veteran.'' For 75 years the publication has continued to be mailed to all JWV members. The JWV became increasingly more active in politics over the next several years, lobbying Congress for veterans' legislation on a regular basis. By 1939, 277 posts had formed and an organization for teenagers, the sons of JWV had been formed. Meeting 10 days after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the JWV's National Executive Committee promulgated its ``Emergency Program for Victory'' which called for a comprehensive civilian program to support the war effort. The program was successful in selling $250 million in war bonds to make a significant contribution to the war effort. The JWV continued to fight for veterans causes and provide support for veterans families through World War II. Mr. Speaker, in the 50 years following World War II the membership of the JWV grew as did its political strength and social influence. Always an advocate for its members and never declining a challenge, the Jewish War Veterans has taken its place among the most respected veterans organizations in the world. In my congressional district, the Wyoming Valley Chapter of the Jewish War Veterans is extremely active. Its membership is comprised of some of the most decorated and distinguished veterans in the Commonwealth, including Samuel Greenberg of Kingston, who served as National Commander of the Jewish War Veterans in 1984 and 1985. Another Kingston resident, Attorney Joseph J. Savitz, served the Jewish War Veterans as the organization's National Judge Advocate in 1961 and 1962. Mr. Speaker, during my tenure in the U.S. Congress, working closely with the veterans in my district has been one of my greatest pleasures. I am extremely proud of my friendship with these dedicated men and women. The members of the Wyoming Valley Chapter of the Jewish War Veterans are to be commended for their continued advocacy, leadership, and heartfelt concern for the well being of our Nation's veterans. I am proud to have their friendship and congratulate this organization on its 100th anniversary.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mr. John F. Grimes, a good friend of mine from Pittston, PA. This Sunday, Jack will be honored as the 1996 Man of the Year at the annual St. Patrick's Day Banquet of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. I am pleased to have been asked to recognize Jack as he is awarded this honor. Mr. Speaker, Jack Grimes is a man of great wisdom and is certainly worthy of being named the Friendly Sons' Man of the Year. He was born in Pittston and has lived there all of his life. In 1942, after graduating from St. John the Evangelist High School, Jack began a 21- year career with the Lehigh Valley Railroad. Within just a few years of beginning his career with the railroad, Jack was appointed assistant division engineer and became the youngest person ever to be assigned to that position of responsibility. During his career, Jack earned two professional licenses: surveyor and civil engineer. Although Jack remained very committed to his job, he made community service a major part of his life. He served as the president of the Lions Club of Pittston, and has been a lector and usher at St. Mary's Church. He has also contributed to the city of Pittston by serving as both secretary and president of the planning commission. He has served the commission for over 30 years. Knowing of Jack's commitment to his community, his colleagues called on him to be the executive director of the Pittston Chamber of Commerce. During his tenure, Jack reactivated the Pittston Area Industrial Development Authority as a subsidiary function of the chamber. He has aggressively campaigned to bring new industry to the region, and has helped publicize Pittston's strongest assets to companies seeking to relocate in the city. Jack Grimes has become a valuable partner with local, county, and State officials who diligently work to revitalize the Greater Pittston area. Since he became involved with the chamber of commerce, Jack has helped to bring nearly three thousand jobs to the Greater Pittston area. Although many people would be satisfied with this accomplishment, Jack believes in going the extra mile. He wants to continue the campaign to revitalize the city, and plans to market the Pittston area on the World Wide Web. I am sure that Jack's involvement with this project will result in the continuation of Pittston's development. Another distinguished leader will present the award to Jack. This individual is my good friend, His Excellency John McCarthy, Ambassador of Australia. When I learned Jack was being honored, I contacted Ambassador McCarthy to ask him if he would present the award. Always gracious, the Ambassador accepted my invitation and agreed to visit Pittston for this special event. The Ambassador's strong ties to the large Irish population that exists in Australia make him one of the most appropriate leaders to present this award to Jack. Mr. Speaker, Jack Grimes embodies the leadership qualities that the Friendly Sons honor each year, I applaud their decision to choose Jack as the 1996 Man of the Year. On behalf of the people of Pittston, I extend my deepest appreciation to Jack Grimes for a lifetime of commitment to promoting industrial and business development throughout his community.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring to the attention of my colleagues the accomplishments of Ms. Pauline Friedman who will receive the Seligman J. Strauss Lodge's highest honor, the Community Service Award. Ms. Friedman will be honored at the Lodge's 52d Annual Lincoln Day Dinner. The Community Service Award is presented each year to one outstanding citizen who, by his or her leadership and dedication on behalf of humanity, has made a valuable contribution to the betterment of community living. Pauly Friedman, with her many accomplishments, certainly meets the criteria for this award. She serves on the boards of the Family Service Association of Wyoming Valley, the Ethics Institute of Northeastern Pennsylvania, Interfaith Council of Penn State University Wilkes-Barre Campus, and St. Vincent DePaul Soup Kitchen. In addition, Pauly serves the Jewish Community Center of the Wyoming Valley, the Joint Committee of the Scranton Catholic Diocese, and the Jewish Community to Advance Jewish-Catholic Dialogue as a board member. She is also a member of the Wilkes University Council and the King's College Council. Ms. Friedman founded the League of Home Health Services and the Friends of Family Services. She also served as the president of many leading community service organizations including the Visiting Nurses Association of Greater Pittston, Home Health Services of Luzerne County, Family Services Association of the Wyoming Valley, Pennsylvania Council of Family Service Agencies, Home Care Management of Luzerne County, and the Art Gallery of College Misericordia. Pauly has served on the board of trustees of Temple Israel and on the boards of the Junior Leadership of Wilkes-Barre, Jewish Home of Eastern Pennsylvania, Salvation Army of Greater Pittston, and the Broadway Theater of Northeastern Pennsylvania. She was a member of the Penn State University Alumni Council and served as the vice president of the United Way of Wyoming Valley and the Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic. She also chaired the women's division of the United Jewish Appeal Campaign and was secretary of the Luzerne/Wyoming Counties Mental Health Care organization. Mr. Speaker, I have had the distinct pleasure of working with Pauly on her most recent project--her effort to bring better health care to the children of Eastern Europe. Ms. Friedman organized physicians who took their knowledge and medical supplies to Eastern Europe to help the young people of the region. Pauly then founded a nonprofit foundation to continue this noble work. Mr. Speaker, we do not often get the chance to honor someone with such strong experience in volunteerism. Her spirit of commitment to her community is legendary in the Wyoming Valley. Pauly Friedman has a deep understanding of the values that have made our country the greatest nation in the world. It is obvious to all who know her that she believes giving of oneself is the greatest gift of all. We in northeastern Pennsylvania extend our deepest appreciation to Pauline Friedman for a lifetime of commitment to improving the quality of life of the citizens of her community.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today to pay tribute to my good friend and a distinguished community leader, Mrs. Rose Tucker. Mrs. Tucker has just completed a term as a member of the Luzerne County Board of Commissioners and will be honored for her service at a testimonial on March 1, 1996. It is my deep honor to join the many friends and colleagues of this extraordinary woman, who has earned a very special place in the history of Luzerne County. Rose Tucker hails from my hometown, Nanticoke, PA. With a strong northeastern PA. With a strong northeastern Pennsylvanian upbringing and education, Rose committed much of her life to serving her community. At the beginning of her long career, Rose was at the forefront of providing much needed services to migrant workers in northeastern Pennsylvania. In 1973, she became a human services planner for the United Services Agency. Her interests then led her to become the executive director of the Luzerne-Wyoming Counties Drug and Alcohol Abuse Program. In 1979, Rose initiated and implemented the Community Cancer Corp. of Luzerne County under the auspices of the Luzerne County Medical Society. In 1982, Rose proved her business acumen by owning and operating a successful travel agency in Pittston, PA. During this time, Rose furthered her commitment to ensuring health care for northeastern and central Pennsylvanians. In 1989, Rose became the director of public affairs for the Maternal and Health Services Corp. which cares for individuals and families in 15 counties throughout the region. Mr. Speaker, in 1992 Rose Tucker took on her greatest challenge. She sought and was elected to the board of commissioners of Luzerne County. A year later, she was elected to chair the board. As one of the three chief executives of Luzerne County, Rose faced the challenge of governing a county confronting many difficult decisions. As an advocate of economic development in the region, Rose was responsible for bringing new jobs and opportunities to the county. She understood the importance of changing the coal town image of our area and preparing the county for the 21st century. Rose managed to exert strong leadership while maintaining her close connection to the people of Luzerne County, and her dedication to the people she served is greatly appreciated. She is truly a beloved public figure. Mr. Speaker, I have known Rose Tucker for many years and consider myself fortunate to be included among her many friends. While facing the daily challenges of elected office, Rose endured the agony of watching her husband, Leonard, battle cancer. My wife Nancy and I joined Rose, her friends, and family in mourning his passing. I am extremely proud to have the opportunity to pay tribute to the career of this distinguished public servant. It has been my pleasure to bring Rose's many accomplishments to the attention of my colleagues. The entire community thanks Rose Tucker for a job well done, and wishes her the very best.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I know that this is an issue that other parliamentarians have ruled on in the history of this great House, but as we reflect, my friends on both sides, and to remove this from a partisan issue, the issue of the Constitution and the issue of the House of Representatives predates the existence of either parties that exercise influence in this House today. We are in the 208th year of the American Constitution, the 104th Congress of the United States. We are here by virtue of the fact that our constituents elected us to come here and present ourselves under article I of the Constitution of the United States and take an oath of office that Constitution. Article I provides for the powers of the House of Representatives, one of which is to provide for the debt of the United States. Those of us in this House today, more than a majority, I daresay, because I have a letter addressed to the Speaker signed by more than 191 members of the minority side of the House, and I am aware of the fact that several dozen of my good friends on the majority side join me in this cause. So clearly if a resolution for the raising of the debt limit presented to the House clean, it could and would receive a majority vote of the House of Representatives honoring the commitment we made in our oath of office under article I of the Constitution of the United States. For the leadership of the House, for the Rules Committee or for the rules of the House to frustrate article I and the individual oath and the collective oath of this entire House and to argue that this does not fall within the purview of the privilege of the House going to the integrity and the dignity of individual Members or collectively of this House is the most fallacious and ridiculous argument I have ever heard in my years in public life. I argue that we put aside today as we are about to leave on a 3-week vacation and send a message to America that the House of Representatives is going to pursue and follow its oath of office, the article I of the American Constitution, and allow for an open vote a resolution allowing for the provision to pay the debts of the U.S. Government under the existing Constitution of the United States.

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise on the question of privilege.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring to the attention of my colleagues an honor that is being bestowed upon my close personal friend Mr. Carl T. Shaffer. Carl is a farmer who resides in my congressional district who has been selected as ``Master Farmer of the Year'' by Penn State University and Pennsylvania Farmer Magazine. Carl Shaffer is the owner and operator of a 1,000 acre vegetable farm in Columbia County, PA. The farm's average annual crop production totals include 600 acres of corn, 20 acres of oats, 60 acres of wheat, 30 acres of carrots, and 300 acres of snap beans. I have visited his farm on numerous occasions and have been greatly impressed by its yields, which have been produced under approved conservation plans. I am proud to tell my colleagues that Carl's leadership is not confined to the boundaries of his farm, but extends to many agricultural advisory boards and organizations. Carl currently serves as the state committee chair for the consolidated farm services agency, and as a board member of the agricultural advisory board for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. In addition, Carl is president of the board of directors of the Agricultural Awareness Foundation of Pennsylvania, and a member of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau's Board of Directors. He has also served on the boards of the Pennsylvania Vegetable Marketing and Research Program, the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, and the Pennsylvania Master Corn Growers Association. Locally, Carl was the president of the Columbia County Farmer's Bureau and the Columbia County Crop Improvement Association. Mr. Speaker, Carl Shaffer is not only an extremely involved activist on agricultural issues, he is an outstanding member of his community. He is an active member of the Mifflinville Methodist Church and the 4H Horse and Pony Club. An ardent Democrat, Carl served on the Columbia County Democratic Committee Executive Board and as a member of the Penn-Ag Democrats. Every year, Penn State University and Pennsylvania Farmer Magazine join together to honor outstanding farmers and confer upon them the degree of ``Master Farmer.'' The outstanding men and women who have been honored with this recognition have not only made significant contribution to the agricultural industry, but have also worked for the betterment of the society in which they live. Knowing of the special qualities that one must possess to be honored with this award, I believe that Carl Shaffer is a perfect candidate for Master Farmer of the Year. I have known Carl for many years and I have had the pleasure to work with him on many occasions. His good stewardship extends far beyond his farm. He has given of himself to his community and continues to work for the welfare of his neighbors. Not only is Carl a competent and aggressive problem-solver, he is a warm and caring individual. When I need well-thought-out advice on agricultural issues, I call upon Carl for his astute understanding of complex policy matters. Mr. Speaker, it is truly an honor for me to pay tribute to a man who has worked to provide so much to so many people. Carl Shaffer truly deserves this honor. I am confident that Carl will continue working on behalf of his fellow farmers and I warmly congratulate him on being named ``Master Farmer of the Year.''

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today to honor a distinguished public servant and good friend, Lee Namey, mayor of the city of Wilkes-Barre, PA. This month Mayor Namey stepped down from his post after 8 years of outstanding leadership. I am proud to pay tribute to Lee and to cite his many accomplishments before my colleagues in Congress. Lee Namey began his political career in 1975 when he won a seat on the Wilkes-Barre City Council. He was reelected three times and twice served as the council chairman. In 1987, Lee Namey was swept into the office of mayor by a three-to-one majority. A native of Wilkes-Barre, Lee had a traditional middle-class upbringing. His father, Elias Leo Namey was a well-known labor leader and president of the Teamsters Local 401. His mother Claire, was a nurse. Lee earned his bachelor's degree in 1968 from Wilkes College and his master of fine arts degree from Marywood College. Prior to serving as mayor, Lee taught at the West Side Vocational-Technical School. Lee has served and continues to serve the people of Wilkes-Barre by being active in many public service organizations. He serves on the board of directors of the Pennsylvania League of Cities, the policy committee of the National League of Cities, and as a member of the U.S. Conference of Mayors where he served on the Community Development, Housing, and Arts, and the Culture and Recreation Committees. He is active with the F.M. Kirby Center, Osterhout Free Library, Northeastern Pennsylvania Council of Boy Scouts, and the United Way. Lee is also a member of the Wilkes University Council, Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Commerce, Wilkes-Barre Democratic Executive Committee, Luzerne County Democratic Committee, and the Elks Lodge. While Lee's involvement in these organizations reflects his personal commitment to improve the city of Wilkes-Barre and northeastern Pennsylvania in general, his many accomplishments as mayor must be cited to truly define his successes as mayor. Mayor Namey brought about great changes in Wilkes-Barre during a time when economic growth did not come easily to northeastern Pennsylvania. I have been deeply honored to have worked closely with Lee on numerous projects over the years, and I would like to mention specifically just a few. In an effort to promote development during slow growth years, Mayor Namey worked closely with me to lead the Wilkes-Barre/Kingston Corridor Project, bringing together leaders of these two communities and officials of other neighboring communities to develop a comprehensive strategy for business growth and community enhancement. Under Mayor Namey's leadership, the corridor project has yielded tangible benefits for Wilkes-Barre, Kingston, and all the small towns which together comprise the Wyoming Valley. Mayor Namey worked to promote economic and community development in many other ways. Through the riverfront parks project, he united the small riverfront towns of the Wyoming Valley with the city of Wilkes- Barre to create a strong leadership force capable of promoting economic growth through the development of the Susquehanna River waterfront, and the creation of parks, recreation areas, and properties ideal for business development. In the 8 years that Lee Namey served as the mayor of Wilkes-Barre he has been a reliable partner in projects requiring the coordination of Federal and local governmental efforts. I have been working with Mayor Namey on the Wyoming Valley levee raising project and the Wyoming Valley inflatable dam project. To each of these projects he has provided valuable and strong leadership. Mayor Namey has helped to identify the potential the inflatable dam has for providing for the economic and community development of Wilkes-Barre and the surrounding region. Most recently, I have been working with Mayor Namey to renovate the dilapidated Stegmaier Brewery which has been an eye-sore in the center of Wilkes-Barre for many years now. Mayor Namey has been an invaluable partner on this project, as he has been on some many others. I sought Lee's support for the project because I knew he was capable of steering the project over the rough roads it would have to travel before its completion. Mr. Speaker, my close personal friend, Lee Namey has been an outstanding mayor for the city of Wilkes-Barre and I am sure that he will continue to be a valuable community leader. I am pleased to pay tribute to Mayor Namey and send him best wishes.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I could not help but hear some of my colleagues on the other side engage in some rhetoric which I think is unfortunate at this time, I might say, on our side also. It sort of indicates where this impasse is starting to take this Congress, and I hope the American people will give us a little sufferance here because if they do not, they may start to believe that we have defeated the success of representative democracy in America under the Constitution as we know it. The fact of the matter is we have a fundamental philosophical disagreement here, and we may have to recognize we are not going to come to a conclusion on it. We may not get an agreement on reconciliation and balancing the budget. But this country must go on. What I would suggest is there is a tool, although I disagree with the tool, that was passed by this House and by this Senate but not sent to the President, that would resolve this problem, and that is the line-item veto. If the conference committee will meet today, agree on a conference report between the House and the Senate, bring it back to this House and send it to the President so he can sign it, he will have the authority to take the objectionable parts out of the appropriations bills which are keeping this Government shut down.

Mr. KANJORSKI

Mr. KANJORSKI. Mr. Speaker, if the gentleman would yield, I would say but, you realize that 5 years, 7 years, all depends what you want to do. Look, I can give you a budget today, and you can too, that balance the budget in year.