Dale Kildee

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the continued collaboration of some remarkable students with dedicated members of the private sector. This collaboration has resulted in national recognition and a renewed commitment to high academic success. One year ago, I had the privilege of standing before you on behalf of a group of students from Central High School, located in Pontiac, MI, and the staff of Delphi Interior and Lighting of Troy, MI. These people created a team to compete in the Fifth Annual FIRST [For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology] national competition. Their efforts resulted in the award for best new team. This year, they returned to competition and were honored with the competition's highest award, the Chairman's Award for overall excellence. Rewarding their efforts, President Clinton has invited them to the White House to demonstrate their winning entry. Under the supervision of Central faculty members Birta Allen, Michael Martus, Michael McIntyre, Robert Rich, and Arthur Williams, the student team includes: Glynn Gooch, Travis Hilliard, Myder Ly, Tanea Andrews, Kristy Bell, Brandon Breault, Steven Carpenter, Alfredo Cobos, Armand Collins, Katie Curran-Morris, Modesto De La O, Tabitha Durham, Balam Embarcadero, David Goldsmith, Jessica Golem, Benjamin Graham, Regina Griffin, Janine Harper, Alicia Harris, Danielle Harvey, Hmong Her, Betty Kelley, Chong Lee, Moua Lee, Misty Lewis, Ronnitrea Pilgrim, Bianca Potter, David Potter, Angela Soldan, Paul Taylor, Natalie Walker, Houa Yang, Lisa Yang, Mary Yang, and Pa Yang. Members of the Delphi engineering team include: Dr. Joseph Johnson, Hassan Anahid, Mike Aubry, Craig Blanchard, Robert Brooks, Michael Ciavaglia, Norm Cooper, Fred Conlon, Joe Cranston, Ken Katterheinrich, Saundra Marion, Mark Nicholas, Randy Poole, William Priest, Lloyd Rogers, Charles Salmonowicz, David Sedlak, Ken Siegfried, Ronald White, Ronald Wilde, Kimberley Will, and Joe Ottenbaker. Mr. Speaker, at a time when the future of our young adults is a constant concern, I am happy to honor these exemplary individuals. This team is a perfect example of what can be accomplished through a strong partnership between our students and the community, and only by encouragement and reinforcement will they truly success.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a longtime friend, and lifelong community leader, Judge Kenneth Siegel. On Saturday, April 26, 1997 the Greater Flint Branch of the American Civil Liberties Union will honor Judge Siegel as the ``Baltus Civil Libertarian of the Year.'' Kenneth Siegel has spent his entire life working on behalf of people who are the most vulnerable in our society. He has spoken out for children and young people, he has helped protect senior citizens, and he made sure that low-income people had equal access and representation in the judicial system. Kenny Siegel has also consistently defended students rights to protest. When schools try to enforce policies despite student opposition, Kenny Siegel has upheld the student's first amendment rights. It is Ken's deep love and understanding of our country's Constitution that led him to defend the rights of those who are easily forgotten. Mr. Speaker, Judge Siegel has always tried to ensure that justice was fair for all Americans. That is why every person who appeared before him was treated with dignity and respect. But I believe what always made Kenny such a special judge and person was the time he spent in the community, visiting the churches, meeting with people of all economic, ethnic, and racial backgrounds. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in honoring my dear friend Judge Kenneth M. Siegel. He has made my hometown of Flint, MI, a better place to live, and he has made me, a better person.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a dear friend of our environment, Ms. Bertha Daubendiek. On Saturday, April 19, as part of Michigan's Earth Day activities, Ms. Daubendiek will be recognized and honored for her longtime accomplishments in working to preserve our precious natural resources. After graduating with honors from Grinnell College in 1938, Bertha Daubendiek made Michigan her home, and made activism and voluntarism her new calling. In 1970, her activities prompted both chambers of the Michigan legislature to acknowledge her as one of the States's premier volunteers. As her interest turned to the environment, her commitment to community increased as well. In 1979, Ms. Daubendiek received the Detroit News' Michiganian of the Year Award for her work in the completion of 50 nature preservation projects. In 1994, Ms. Daubendiek was inducted into the Michigan women's Hall of Fame. Some of Ms. Daubendiek's most significant work has been as founder and executive director of the Michigan Nature Association. This unique group of individuals have banded together and created preserves in 51 of Michigan's 83 counties, enhancing the State's natural beauty. They have performed this task without using a penny of taxpayer funds. In addition to this, Ms. Daubendiek is the author of Michigan's natural beauty road law. Passed in 1970, the law is responsible for the preservation of more than 800 miles or roadside habitat. If you drive around the great State of Michigan, you may notice new license plates on some of our automobiles that display the saying, ``Great Lakes Splendor.'' I believe this statement is true because of the efforts of people like Bertha Daubendiek. Mr. Speaker, it is indeed an honor and pleasure for me to rise today to pay tribute to a true environmental hero, Bertha Daubendiek. She is an inspiration to me and countless others who work to protect our precious environment.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today to pay tribute to an outstanding leader, whose efforts have helped improve the lives of all Hispanics. Cesar Chavez has been immortalized in my home town of Flint, MI. On April 19, 1997, the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement Flint/Genesee Chapter will hold the Third Annual Cesar Chavez Awards Ceremony. The day will begin with a ``March for Justice'' which will take place on Cesar Chavez Drive in Flint, MI. The march will pay tribute to 20,000 strawberry workers and also honor the memory of Cesar Chavez and the 10th anniversary of the naming of Cesar Chavez Drive in Flint, MI. It is with great pride and admiration that I will honor Cesar Chavez and the legacy he has left behind for all Americans to follow. Cesar Chavez fought for many of the same ideals and human rights that I have fought for during my tenure in the U.S. House of Representatives. Cesar Chavez worked selflessly to create a foundation for future generations of Hispanics to build upon. Therefore, it is reassuring to see the Hispanic community in Flint carrying on the work that Cesar dedicated his life to. It will be an honor for me to welcome Richard Chavez to Flint, MI on April 19, 1997. Richard Chavez is the brother of Cesar and is currently an executive board member of the United Farm Workers. Mr. Speaker, it is indeed an honor and a pleasure for me to rise today before my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to pay tribute to Cesar Chavez and all American workers who continue to fight for equal rights for all people.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, it gives my colleague, Mr. Torres, and me great pleasure to pay tribute to Mr. Mark Richard Nichols of the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians, who will be recognized on April 12, 1997, as man of the year by the East Valley Jewish Community Center of Palm Desert, CA. Mr. Speaker, it is truly fitting that Mark Nichols is being honored for all of his work as a tireless advocate in his community. For almost two decades, Mark Nichols has worked for the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians, helping the tribe become self-sufficient and maintain a strong cultural heritage. Since 1989, Mark has served as the chief executive officer of the tribe, where he had earned a national reputation as an outspoken advocate on behalf of Native American sovereign rights. It is the work of people like Mark Nichols that reminds us of the importance of being involved in one's community. Mark understands that an investment in education of a person, is an investment in the future of our country. In his service on the University of California chancellor's executive roundtable, Mark has worked to make sure education is accessible and affordable for every person that desires to learn. Mark has also dedicated himself to helping those who are the most vulnerable in our society. He is the president of the Desert Chapter of the American Diabetes Association, he volunteers at Martha's Kitchen/Food and Shelter for the homeless, and he serves as the telethon sponsor for the Arthritis Foundation. What Mark Nichols has accomplished, and what this award represents, is the recognition of the difference one individual can make if they put their mind to it. It is the devotion, dedication, and spirit of Mark Nichols that makes him such a unique person. We are proud to call him our friend. Mr. Speaker, we respectfully request that the Members of the U.S. House of Representatives join us in honoring the work and life of Mr. Mark Nichols. The community of Palm Desert, CA, is truly fortunate to have a person like Mark Nichols as a community leader. His commitment and dedication has improved the quality of life for so many people in our country.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to rise before my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to pay tribute to an outstanding woman from my hometown of Flint, MI, Ms. Pauline Pryor who is retiring from the Flint Branch of Michigan National Bank after 33 years of service. Ms. Pryor has served as the assistant vice president of the Community Development Office for the past 10 years. As the assistant vice president of the Community Development Office, Ms. Pryor's professionalism and integrity were instrumental in securing many of the much needed investments in the Flint community. Ms. Pryor believed in the need to rebuild our city through new opportunities in jobs and housing. It is a privilege to know such a dedicated, active, and concerned human being as Ms. Pryor. Ms. Pryor is also an active member of the Foss Avenue Baptist Church in Flint. Through her volunteer work with her church, she continues to promote the prosperity of the surrounding communities even after her formal workday. Ms. Pryor has contributed in every aspect of her church: from being a Sunday school teacher to serving as the church treasurer. As a result of both her professional and personal devotion, Ms. Pryor has received numerous distinguished service awards in our community over the years. Mr. Speaker, it is indeed an honor and a pleasure for me to rise today before my colleagues in the House of Representatives to pay tribute to Pauline Pryor. She is a woman of high moral character committed to improving the welfare and dignity of those in need. I wish her many years of joy in her retirement.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise to urge adoption of this amendment, of which I am a cosponsor. It is purely a technical amendment. It would change the August 30 date in the Federal right-to-know law in two places in order to reflect the fact that the month of August actually has 31 days. The overall importance of the amendment, however, cannot be minimized. The provision to be amended relieves institutions of higher education from collecting separate sets of graduation rates in order to comply with the Federal law. Institutions would be allowed to use data that they are already collecting in order to meet the requirements of the Federal law. The simple date change from August 30 to August 31 will accomplish that objective once and hopefully forever. I urge the amendment's approval. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today and ask my colleagues to join me in honoring a man whom I am proud to say I have known and respected for over a quarter of a century. Mr. Donald J. Mosher has announced his retirement from the United Auto Workers after 20 years of service. In appreciation for his long dedication, on Tuesday, February 25, 1997, Mr. Mosher will be the guest of honor at a retirement celebration organized by both family and friends. Donald J. Mosher, a resident of Lapeer County, MI, since the age of 6, graduated from Lapeer High School, and received a degree from GMI Management and Engineering Institute, and completed a diemaker apprenticeship through the UAW. From there he found employment with General Motors Corp., beginning as a diemaker, and moving from there to coordinator of preventive maintenance and layout inspection supervisor. It was during Mr. Mosher's time at General Motors that he became involved with the UAW. As a member, he eventually became Thumb Area UAW-CAP Council Chairman, holding the position to this day. He has also served as a member of the general boards for the Michigan branches of UAW-CAP and the AFL-CIO, and has been a Joint Council Delegate for 26 years. Mr. Mosher's tenure with the UAW helped spark a fire within him of strong civic responsibility and social activism. He has been active in such groups as Boy Scouts of America, Lapeer County Parks and Recreation Commission, Lapeer County Economic Club Committee, and Lapeer and Genesse County FEMA Committee. On the political front, Mr. Mosher has been constantly active in campaigns on the local, State, and Federal levels, serving on various committees and participating in the process as a delegate and a Presidential Elector. He is proud to say that he has attended three Presidential inaugurations. Mr. Speaker, it is my belief that the citizens of Lapeer County, many of whom I represent proudly, possess a great asset in Donald Mosher. Thomas Paine once said: ``Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom, must, like men, undergo the fatigues of supporting it.'' Don Mosher has dedicated a great portion of his life's efforts in the support of freedom. It is indeed a pleasure to stand in front of this Nation's House and speak of my dear friend, who through his thoughts, deeds, and actions has provided the community with an invaluable resource and an indomitable spirit.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, it is truly an honor to rise before you today to pay tribute to an individual who exemplifies the very best in civic pride and responsibility, and who has shown how gifted a woman she is by her actions and spirit. On Saturday, February 15, 1997, a luncheon will be held to honor Willa Junior Hawkins for her distinguished service to the citizens of Flint, MI, in her roles as educator, administrator, activist, and community leader. Willa Hawkins, a resident of Flint, MI since the age of 6, graduated from Northern High School, and received degrees from Michigan State University and Eastern Michigan University in the field of education. She took those degrees and put them to use as a teacher in the Flint Public School system for 15 years, and as a principal for 17 years. In addition to helping cultivate our most precious natural resource, our Nation's children, Mrs. Hawkins developed an interest in politics, beginning in the 1960's with her participation in the civil rights march in Washington, DC. She continued her involvement by working on various campaigns, including serving as campaign manager for 12 years for County Commissioner Sylvester Broome. Upon Commissioner Broome's death in 1991, Ms. Hawkins made the transition from campaigner to candidate as she was appointed commissioner and was later elected to the position, holding it until December 21, 1996. Because of Ms. Hawkins' stellar reputation as a writer, planner, and organizer, she has served on numerous Genesee County boards including Community Mental Health, Community Action Agency, and Parks and Recreation Commission. She has also served with the Valley Area Agency on Aging, New Paths, Food Bank of Eastern Michigan, and Transition House board of directors. Mr. Speaker, it is with a tremendous amount of pride that I appear before you today to recognize my colleague, my constituent, and my friend, Willa J. Hawkins. In the time I have known her, she has been a person who cannot help but make a lasting impact on everyone she comes in contact with. I ask you, Mr. Speaker, and my fellow members of the 105th Congress to join me in recognizing Mrs. Willa J. Hawkins.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an individual who is strong and positive force within the community, and who by her actions has shown that the rewards from such dedication are immeasurable. On Thursday, February 6, 1997, the Flint, MI Pan-Hellenic Council will honor Ms. Pamela Y. Loving as a part of their Seventh Annual Salute to African-American Elected Officials. The awards dinner is chaired by Mr. James B. Franklin III, and the honorary chair is Dr. Alan Arnold. Pamela Loving, a resident of Flint MI, has blessed the city with a professional career that spans 35 years, beginning at Lippincott Market as a sweeper, a butcher and a cashier. Ms. Loving has also held positions at Hurley Medical Center and served as the public health nurse for the city of Flint. She has also served as president of Whole Village, Inc. and then began a 23 year tenure at GMI Engineering and Management Institute. These accomplishments have ultimately led to her current position as acting president of Jobs Central, Inc., proving that hard work and perseverance are prime factors for success. Armed with an associates degree from C.S. Mott Community College, a bachelor's degree from the University of Detroit and a graduate-level curriculum from such schools as Central Michigan, Purdue, Wisconsin, Michigan State, and Harvard, Ms. Loving decided to pursue a more active role in the community of winning a seat on the Flint Board of Education in 1989, where she still serves as treasurer. In addition to the board, Ms. Loving possesses a host of affiliations including the Flint Cultural Center, Hurley Medical Center Board of Directors, Alzheimer's Association and Forum Magazine Advisory Board, to name a few. This year's dinner will also honor the Honorable Valdemar Washington with the distinguished Floyd J. McCree Memorial Leadership Award. Additionally, the Community Service Award will be given to Ailene Butler, Joann Owens-Reed, and Ali Saaba. All of these individuals represent the very best in civic and social responsibility, and are more than deserving of the highest respect and admiration. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and honor that I appear before you today to recognize Ms. Pamela Loving. As evidenced by her personal motto that ``Learning is a lifelong process,'' she has been and shall continue to be a solid inspiration to not only me, but to all those she comes in contact with. I ask you, Mr. Speaker, and my fellow members of the 105th Congress to join me in recognizing this outstanding individual, Ms. Pamela Y. Loving.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, in honor of National Black History Month, I rise today to pay special tribute to the African-American people, both past and present, who have made American a better place to live. it is because of their tremendous sacrifice and faith, as well as their educational, economical, and social contributions, that helped make the United States of America the leader of the world. Our Nation owes its African-American citizen a debt it can never repay. During the Revolutionary War, African-American patriots fought and died defending the civil rights described in the U.S. Constitution before they were allowed to enjoy these rights themselves. In every war since then, African-American people have fought and died with the utmost valor and courage, yet without equal protection under the law. The segregation of U.S. military troops is just one example in a long line of injustices perpetrated against African-Americans in our Nation's history. Our country learned invaluable lessons from the African-American people who led the civil rights movement in the 1950's and 1960's to eliminate racial barriers. As a schoolteacher, I will never forget hearing Thurgood Marshall speak after the winning the Brown versus Board of Education Supreme Court decision which declared separate but equal was unconstitutional. His work helped open up our schools so children of all races can learn and grow up together. And I was never so proud than seeing Ms. Rosa Parks refusing to give up her seat on that bus in Montgomery, AL. Or watching James Meredith's courageous efforts in desegregating the University of Mississippi. Every day I try to live by the principles set forth by one of the greatest leaders in history, Martin Luther King, Jr. His teachings of tolerance and nonviolence profoundly changed America. It was the contributions of these great African-Americans, and millions of others, that made out country realize that we can be a better nation and that we must work to end racial bigotry. As a member of the Michigan State Legislature, I introduced the very first Open Housing Act which outlawed housing discrimination in Michigan. In my 32 years in public office, I have consistently voted in favor of civil rights legislation because I believe out country must grant every person an equal chance to succeed in America. And while we have made significant progress in eliminating racial discrimination in our country, there is no question we still have a ways to go. During this month of observance of Black History Month, let us rededicate ourselves to eliminating discrimination against all people so our country can reach its full potential, and America can truly be the beacon of light for the world. Mr. WYNN Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate the history and culture of African-American people this month, let us pauses to pay tribute to someone to whom we owe a debt of gratitude for the ``first'' he provided us. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Jackie Robinson's integration of major league baseball. He was the first African-American allowed to play on a major league team--the Brooklyn Dodgers--with white athletes. A Pasadena, CA, native, he effectively paved the way for African-Americans to be active participants in professional sports. More importantly, his actions on and off the baseball diamond have served as an example for confronting racial hypocrisy in this country and beyond. The dignity with which he handled racism among his teammates, fans, hotels, and restaurants stirred the conscience of America and held people accountable for their actions. Beyond establishing the black man's right to play baseball, he transcended racial barriers and proved that mutual respect is an essential element of sportsmanship. He was not only an athlete, but a person that truly earned the title of role model. His name continues to live on through the Jackie Robinson Foundation, established by Rachael Robinson in 1973 for the purpose of developing the leadership potential of minority and urban youth.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a very dear friend of mine, Dolores Ann Nouhan who passed away on August 31, 1996. For 22 years, Dolores served as a loyal, competent and devoted member of my staff. It was over two decades ago that I first met Dolores Nouhan when I was serving in the Michigan State Legislature. She had walked into my office looking for a job, and because of her great reputation and warm personality, I hired her the day I met her. From day one, Dolores acted with the highest degree of honesty, integrity and loyalty. She immediately became close friends with all of my family, including my wife and three children who saw Dolores as an extension of our family. When I was elected to the Congress in 1976, I asked Dolores to leave her lifelong home and join me in Washington, DC. Dolores, being the dedicated and unselfish person she was, said yes immediately. For the last several years, Dolores served as my office and business manager. She was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the office, as well as dealing with groups and individuals who were coming to Washington for visits. I have not met a person in this city who could find a White House tour ticket as effectively as Dolores did. Dolores' personally-guided tours were legendary. She would drive you from monument to monument and you would have a set amount of time to see each site before Dolores moved you onto the next one. She also arranged hundreds of tours for groups, ranging from young school kids to senior citizens. One of her happiest jobs through the years was sending thousands of American flags to individuals and veterans groups in my district. She also played a crucial role in enabling my office to return over $1 million to the U.S. Treasury. Mr. Speaker, since Dolores passed away, I have heard from many people, ranging from school kids, lawyers, doctors, farmers, teachers and school principals, public officials, and FBI agents telling of the wonderful and sensitive assistance Dolores had given to make their stay in Washington, DC, so special. And many of my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives have told me what a joy it was to work with Dolores. There is no question that Dolores touched thousands of people's lives and made their stay in our Nation's capital a special event. But more than anything, Dolores loved her family and friends. While she took her work seriously, she always looked forward to visits from her family, and going to see her specially chosen nephew, Father Greg Mansour, or going to Michigan to see her brothers and sisters and numerous nieces and nephews. Dolores was an active and devoted member of St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Falls Church, VA, where she volunteered her secretarial and organizational skills in the office. She also served as a Eucharistic Minister in the church. Although Dolores told me she felt unworthy in serving in that capacity, I told her that there was no one on all of Capitol Hill who was more worthy than was she. Mr. Speaker, I will never forget my friend Dolores Nounhan. I know that she is now with God, and her spirit will always be with those who had the pleasure of knowing Dolores. She was better than we deserved.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from Hawaii [Mr. Abercrombie].

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the gentleman's remarks. I have always enjoyed working with him, and we are able to achieve a great deal of bipartisan work because of our respect for one another. I think more of that would be helpful to the whole House.

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

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of S. 919, which will reauthorize the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act into the first year of the new century. I am very gratified that we are here today with a proposal that has bipartisan backing and is supported by the professionals across this country who provide assistance to some of the most vulnerable among us--abused, neglected and abandoned children, and their families. Mr. Speaker, we are all too familiar with the horrific high profile cases which sear our consciences and force us again and again to ask why we could not prevent the loss or scarring of such innocent lives. Unfortunately, these high-profile cases represent only the tip of a very tragic iceberg. As we all know, last week Health and Human Services Secretary Donna Shalala released the Third National Incidence Survey of Child Abuse and Neglect which revealed that the number of child abuse cases has doubled in just 7 years. That report also points out that States had investigated only 28 percent of children identified as harmed or abused--a 16 percent drop in a 7-year period. Shrinking State budgets have meant increasing caseloads. In most States, Child Protective Services [CPS] caseworkers have on average double the standard recommended caseload. This translates into reports that go unanswered and children that remain in perilous conditions. I sincerely hope that the Citizen Review Panels established under title I will help increase public awareness that even the most heroic caseworkers cannot possibly serve the needs of the children and families in their communities under these circumstances. When the changes and requirements of the new welfare reform law are fully implemented caseworkers are likely to face even greater burdens. Those of us who are familiar with the child care delivery system in this country fully expect that the new work requirements of the welfare reform law will result in serious child care shortages across the country. Where child care is unavailable and children are left at home alone when parents work, child protective services will be further challenged to find remedies for such cases of child neglect. I sincerely hope that the Citizen Review Panels, which States will be required to establish, will help build a case for additional resources to child protection agencies which provide critical family support and prevention services to communities. Mr. Speaker, the CAPTA reauthorization proposal before us today will help communities improve services to families through increased flexibility for child protection programs and reduced administrative burdens on States. The bill does not promote the status quo. It consolidates several Federal funding streams by folding four categorical programs into one community-based prevention grant to support prevention services to families. It will also help refine the role played by the Federal Government in helping States and communities to prevent and treat child abuse and neglect, including support for research and demonstration efforts to develop new approaches to prevention. I want to thank my Committee Chair Bill Goodling and Darcy Phelps of his staff for their consideration of issues I raised in the last several weeks. I thank Sara Davis of my staff. I also want to thank my colleagues in the other body, Senators Kennedy, Dodd, and Coates, whose staffs made very valuable contributions to this measure. Mr. Speaker, I am very gratified that this crucial program was not ``block granted'' back to the States in the welfare reform bill. I think that would have been a serious mistake. Instead, this proposal reaffirms the strong Federal leadership role in combating child abuse and neglect. What does that mean? It means targeting funds at prevention efforts, guaranteeing essential protection for children who are the most vulnerable, providing funds for research, as well as valuable technical assistance, training, and data collection. Finally, I would like to say this to my colleagues. This reauthorization proposal ensures that each of us will continue to have a voice for children like Lisa Steinberg and Nadine Lockwood whose voices were silenced before anyone could help. I urge my colleagues to vote for this proposal. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the recipient of the 1996 Golden Door Award, Marcantonio ``Tony'' Morolla. Mr. Morolla will receive the award at the annual dinner meeting of the International Institute of Flint on Tuesday, October 8. The International Institute of Flint presents this award annually to a foreign-born citizen who has substantially improved life in the Flint community. Tony was born in Triggiano, Bari in southern Italy. He immigrated to the United States with his parents, Girolamo and Antonia Morolla, and his two sisters in 1955. The family struggled during their early years in the United States. The automotive industry was in a downturn and layoffs at the automobile plants were frequent. During these years Girolamo often thought about leaving his job at the V-8 engine plant and moving his family back to Italy. The couple resolved to stay in the United States. They instilled their determination to thrive into their children. Tony Morolla has lived his life as a testament to his parents' spirit. He completed 2 years of service in the U.S. Army. After obtaining his associate of arts degree he worked as a caseworker in the 7th District Congressional Office of then Congressman Donald Riegle. He continued his studies at the University of Michigan-Flint and received a bachelor of arts degree in Urban Studies/Political Science in 1973. Tony worked during this time as the consortium manager for the Flint Area Chamber of Commerce. He continued his public service career as the associate director of the YMCA outreach project. In 1974 the city of Flint employed him as a personnel technician. Two years later he was promoted to his present position as civil service director for the city of Flint. Tony was awarded a master's degree in public administration in 1990. His commitment to the city of Flint extends beyond his professional career. The list of organizations he has volunteered for is long. It includes the Urban League of Flint, Holy Redeemer Church, Donovan- Mayotte School, Powers High School, St. Pius Church, American Society for Public Administration, YMCA, and the Optimists Club. Two organizations in particular have benefitted from Tony's expertise. He has served in the capacity of president for both the Sons of Italy and the International Institute of Flint. He was instrumental in reactivating the State Lodge for the Sons of Italy and has devoted numerous hours in promoting the International Institute of Flint's mission for greater global understanding. Recognizing that education is a stepping stone to a better life Tony shares his knowledge with the next generation by teaching courses at the University of Michigan-Flint and the Detroit College of Business. With his wife Hilary, he has three children, Marc, Heather, and Ashley. Mr. Speaker, I ask the Congress to rise with me to honor this great American. My hometown of Flint has benefitted from the contributions of Tony Morolla. We are a better community because of his indomitable spirit.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Hispanic Independence Awards Ceremony that will be held on Saturday, September 14, 1996, at the General Motors Institute in my hometown of Flint, MI. September is National Hispanic Heritage Month and the Hispanic Independence Awards Ceremony kicks off a month-long celebration of Hispanic culture, ideas, and achievements in Genesee County. The Hispanic community will once again honor individuals who have selflessly committed themselves to making Flint and Genesee County a better place in which to live. Each award is named for a prominent deceased member of the Hispanic community who exemplified the ideals espoused by the award. The Pedro Mata Leadership Award is given to a person who has provided leadership, encouragement, and influence in the Hispanic community. This year's recipient is Mr. Pete Mata. The Tano Resendez Award for community service is given to a person who has dedicated personal efforts to promoting civic and cultural activities. The award this year is being given to Dr. Eduardo Lorenzo. The Joe Benavidez Award for education is presented to a person who has supported educational issues relating to Hispanics of all ages. Ms. Janie Rubio is this year's recipient. The Labor Involvement Award is being given to Ms. Estela Mata for her efforts to increase community awareness, improve the quality of life, and open doors for Hispanics. The Bruno Valdez Arts and Entertainment Award is presented to a Hispanic artist who has promoted Hispanic culture through professional and personal activity. The award this year is being given to Mr. Roel Martinez. The Veterans Award is given to a member of the Hispanic Community who has honorably served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Mr. Aleucion Duran is being honored with the award this year. Ms. Lorena Gonzalez will be given the Maria DeLeary Award. This year the Hispanic community will honor Mr. Domingo Berlanga for his selfless work that he devotes to the Hispanic Community. To honor those of the Hispanic community just starting to pursue their life goals, the Pedro Mata, Jr., Scholarship Award will be given to Ms. Holly Saultman. The purpose of this award is to foster a commitment to community service and encourage continued education. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today and ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating the winners of these awards. The recipients are to be commended for their dedication, commitment, and leadership to the Hispanic community of Flint and Genesee County.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Goodling and I work closely together and we have had a nice bipartisan spirit out here on two bills. It is regrettable that the gentleman from California [Mr. Riggs] had to inject a bit of partisanship in this, attacking, among other things, the AFL-CIO. This bill is too important to inject those matters into this. I regret that Mr. Riggs, the gentleman from California, did this. I want to remind him that he himself voted last year on the reconciliation bill that left the House for a $10 billion cut in student loans, including the in-school interest subsidy. So let us try to get this bill passed. Mr. Goodling and I worked very closely together. I regret this injection of partisanship. I urge passage of this bill. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3863, the Student Debt Reduction Act, even though I continue to have reservations about the timing of the legislation in light of the upcoming reauthorization of the Higher Education Act next year. My colleagues on the other side of the aisle claim this bill corrects a simple technical problem, but I believe it does much more than that. This legislation has the admirable intent of reducing college costs for students, which I am always in favor of, but it also has significant policy implications for student loan programs which have not been examined at either subcommittee or full committee levels. Throughout the country, students and their families are facing increasing college costs and declining Federal aid. Democrats, Madam Speaker, have always been supportive of expanding opportunities for all students in Federal financial aid programs. I, for one, would like to see the elimination of this loan origination fee altogether and will make this a priority issue during next year's reauthorization. Madam Speaker, I am concerned that this bill as written would permit lenders to pay origination fees for some students but would not provide this same opportunity for students who receive loans under the direct loan program. We should have a level playing field in the student loan arena, and this bill upsets that equal ground, I believe. Despite its flaws, however, this legislation has the potential, Madam Speaker, of lowering college costs for students, and I urge my colleagues to support it. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KILDEE

Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express both my support and my deep concern over the passage of this legislation. I want to be perfectly clear that I strongly and unequivocally support full compensation to the Torres-Martinez Tribe for the injustices they have suffered in the last century. Today almost 123,000 acres of Torres-Martinez tribal reservation land lies submerged beneath the Salton Sea. This land was flooded early in this century. The tribe has never been fully compensated by the U.S. Government for that. Our Government, Mr. Speaker, has a moral and legal obligation to settle this long overdue claim of the Torres-Martinez Tribe. It is my understanding that this is a tribe with very few resources, and this settlement agreement will better enable them to establish and maintain a sovereign-to-sovereign relationship with the U.S. Government. But, Mr. Speaker, I must admit I am deeply troubled by the process which the Department of the Interior used to facilitate the settlement with the Torres-Martinez Tribe. It is my understanding that the Department of the Interior failed to meet with or even discuss the proposed settlement agreement with all the tribes who live in the area and who will be most affected by this legislation. These consultations are especially important when we are dealing with issues that affect the economic viability of the different tribes. Unfortunately, in its eagerness to reach a settlement, the Department of the Interior failed to take these interests into account. Mr. Speaker, when the Committee on Resources first considered this bill, I strongly encouraged the Department of the Interior to meet with the local tribes to try to resolve the differences that still exist on this bill. I am troubled that these meetings have never taken place. Mr. Speaker, it is also unfortunate that this bill is being considered under the suspension calendar, so that there will be no chance to offer amendments to fine-tune this legislation. I hope the Senate will take the time to closely examine this bill and make sure it is equitable and fair for all groups impacted by this settlement agreement.

Mr. KILDEE

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

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from Oregon [Ms. Furse].

Mr. KILDEE. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of House Resolution 470, expressing the sense of Congress that the Department of Education should play a more active role in monitoring and enforcing compliance of the Student Right to Know and Campus Security Act of 1990, signed into law by President George Bush. I have always been a strong supporter of the Student Right to Know and Campus Security Act since it was enacted 6 years ago, and believe that it is important for the Department of Education to make the enforcement of this act a priority. This law was enacted in order to highlight the issue of crime on campus and to make information about campus crime and campus security policies available to the public. This law also provides incentives for institutions to develop safer campus environments. I am certain that this issue will be revisited again during the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act next Congress, when we evaluate this program and its effectiveness. We must continue to do all we can to protect students from crime on our Nation's college campuses, and I urge my colleagues to support this resolution. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.