Jerry Kleczka

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Harold A. Breier, our former chief of police in Milwaukee who died Wednesday at the age of 87. Mr. Breier's name was synonymous with law and order in Milwaukee. Many compare his stature to a rock of granite, immovable to the waves of controversy that sometimes washed over him. He ruled with an iron fist but a soft heart for those he called the good people of Milwaukee. Mr. Breier devoted more than 44 years to law enforcement with the Milwaukee Police Department. He was chief of police during some of the most tumultuous times in Milwaukee and was a man of action who disdained sitting behind a desk. He remained a tough street cop throughout his career and was considered a crack marksman, who shot three criminal suspects in the line of duty during his career. None of them died from their wounds. He climbed quickly through the ranks and was first promoted to detective in 1946, serving on the vice squad. After that followed promotions in swift succession; lieutenant in 1954, captain in 1958, deputy inspector in 1960, inspector of detectives in 1962 and chief of police on February 15, 1964, a position he would hold for more than 20 years. Mr. Breier has been praised as a valued and trusted leader, a man who played no favorites in the enforcement of the law, and a tough guy who, at the same time, was very sensitive to his family and especially his wife. Mr. Breier was married to his wife Eleanore for 57 years. He courted her for seven years before they married. Through the years, before her death in May at the age of 82, Mr. Breier did much of the cooking, grocery shopping and house cleaning. He also cultivated flowers and vegetables in his backyard. He was a true product of the South side, a working man before his career in law enforcement, who held jobs as a timekeeper, an electrician's helper, a factory inspector and tempoary sheriff's deputy. He also played left tackle on the Braumeister Beers and other teams in an amateur football league called the West Allis Majors. Mr. Speaker, Harold Breier's memory is cherished by many in Milwaukee. We offer condolences to his daughter Suzanne and his son Thomas. We will miss his no-nonsense, straight shooting approach to life. His devotion to duty stands as an example to us all.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor James O. Wright, chairman of Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin, Incorporated, who is marking 50 years of service with the organization. Words are a poor measure of Mr. Wright's devotion and commitment to the Goodwill movement and his generous contributions to the community at large. His record is replete with accomplishments that underscore his belief in the power of work and the American Dream. In 1948, Mr. Wright joined the board of directors of Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin at the age 27. As a result of his unfailing dedication to helping others, he was named chairman of the organization in 1959. Under Mr. Wright's stewardship, Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin has expanded its mission by administering Employment Solutions of Milwaukee, Inc, a Wisconsin Works (W-2) welfare program that places welfare recipients into jobs. As a component part of W-2 Goodwill also administers the Team Parenting pilot program that supports and strengthens the emotional and financial ties of families. In 1994, goodwill Industries of Southeastern Wisconsin placed 2,222 individuals in the workforce. This achievement earned the organization the 1994 Goodwill Industries International Outstanding Job Placement Services Award. A Milwaukee native and WWII veteran who served on three navy vessels, Mr. Wright holds that individuals achieve the American Dream by empowering themselves through work, which reveals the individual's potential. In keeping with this creed, Goodwill of Southeastern Wisconsin established the James O. Wright Award to recognize employers, volunteers, and organizations who assist the disabled in seeking their right to work. Mr. Wright's benevolence also extends beyond his good works for Goodwill and his position as chairman of Badger Meter Inc., one of Milwaukee's top industries. He has championed Urban Day School, a small independent school in Milwaukee's central city. Struck by the school's innovations in educating disadvantaged youth, Mr. Wright led a fund drive to raise $1.5 million for school scholarships, repairs and teacher salaries. When the fund drive faced a $5,400 shortfall, Mr. Wright tapped the foundation at Badger Meter to make up the difference. The school has now established the (W)right Stuff program which brings Mr. Wright together with 9- to 12-year-old African Americans for tours of his company and discussions centering on jobs and the professional world. Notwithstanding these notable accomplishments, Mr. Wright also has generously contributed his time to the community by serving on the Mequon-Thiensville School Board for 18 years. Mr. Speaker, it is with a great sense of honor that I bring before you a commendation for Mr. James O. Wright, who marks with Goodwill a half century of leadership, commitment and service.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a skilled pilot and dedicated public servant, Col. Larry Stys, Wisconsin Wing Commander of the Civil Air Patrol. After 33 years with the CAP, Col. Stys will step down as the Wisconsin Wing Commander October 17. His lasting legacy is a record unparalleled in the history of the Civil Air Patrol in Wisconsin. He achieved this by hiring the best individuals for duty assignments and inspiring them to the highest principles. Mr. Speaker, perhaps the philosophy of Col. Stys can best be expressed in his own words written to all Wisconsin Unit Commanders: ``I realized that the most important thing in one's life was principles. If one's life was ordered to and grounded in a set of principles, the arrangement of things will fall into line automatically. Principles are more than character traits. Traits can sometimes be worn without truly believing in them. This fundamental basis of character is called integrity. People can look at you and believe you. You can persuade without recourse to cajole.'' This philosophy enjoyed obvious success, Mr. Speaker. In 1995, Wisconsin Wing was named best in the region in Search and Rescue proficiency. And in 1997 during the Air Force Quality Inspection, Wisconsin Wing earned the distinction as best in the nation, excelling in all categories, including an unprecedented 13 benchmarks, which other wings will be rated against. Despite these laudable achievements, Col. Stys repeatedly deflected praise from himself to his staff. Mr. Speaker, volunteer service is held in such high regard because of the dedication and professionalism of men like Col. Stys. As he leaves his command, we commend his invaluable service, we celebrate his contributions to air safety, and we salute his high regard for standards and principles.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute to the Superior Die Set Corporation, one of the nation's oldest family-owned corporations, which is celebrating it 75th anniversary this year. This American success story traces its roots to a 23-year-old Polish blacksmith, Kasimir J. ``Casey'' Janiszewski, who bid farewell to his mother and father in 1910 and left Poland for the United States. Ten years later he arrived in Milwaukee, home of his new bride, and soon established Superior Tool & Die Company. As the family tree grew, so did the fortunes of the company. Casey Janiszewski's sons, Alphonse, Casimir H. and Edward, became key executives in the company. Casimir Janiszewski, also nicknamed ``Casey,'' became president in 1968 and served the company for 55 years--longer than any family member--until his retirement in 1991. His sons, Casimir J. and Frank J., took executive positions in the mid-1980s and in 1991 were named CEO and President, and Executive Vice- President, respectively, their current positions in the firm. The company thrived under the stewardship of three generations of Janiszewskis. Headquartered in the Milwaukee suburb of Oak Creek since 1965, Superior Die Set Corporation employs 500 workers in the U.S. and overseas, is a regional source for a multiplicity of products and owns an array of patents on products developed by the founder and his son. In 1992, the Janiszewski success story came full circle with the establishment of a subsidiary in Poland that gives the company a global reach. The three-day celebration of the company's 75th anniversary also includes the birthday celebration of Casimir H. Janiszewski, who also turns 75. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Superior Die Set Corporation for being an outstanding corporate citizen, a community asset, employer of hundreds, and living proof that the American dream lives on.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory and dedication of two of our finest public servants, officers Jacob Chestnut and John Gibson of the Capitol Police. These two men paid the ultimate sacrifice to see that the Capitol and its occupants could conduct the business of democracy in the light of day, in plain view of the people. Mr. Speaker, I think it's important to remember these men as more than names on a plaque. John Gibson was an 18-year veteran who lived in Woodbridge, Virginia. He is married to the niece of one of our colleagues, Rep. Joseph Moakley. Compounding the tragedy of the death of John Gibson is the loved ones he leaves behind, his three children-- a 17-year-old daughter and two boys aged 15 and 14. A story from the newspaper tells us more about John Gibson, the man. He was regarded as a handyman around the neighborhood. John once ordered gravel to build a patio behind his house--only he ordered too much. There stood a big load of gravel dumped at his house. So, John ended up supplying the neighborhood with gravel. He did what any of us would do. He was just a regular guy. Jacob Chestnut--or ``JJ'' as his colleagues called him--was a 20-year Air Force veteran. He served in Vietnam. His neighbors knew him as a gardener who generously shared his latest crop of cucumbers or Chinese cabbage. Jacob Chestnut, who is survived by five children from his current and previous marriages, planned to retire soon and play golf and travel with his wife. As presidents and national heroes are honored, so are Officers Chestnut and Gibson. They acted with the highest courage. They performed their duty selflessly and prevented possible serious injury to scores of others. Officers Chestnut and Gibson are a testament to our national values and have earned the distinction of being national heroes. They, like other everyday heroes--the men and women of the Capitol Police force--conduct themselves with distinction so that we might do the business of the American people in the open and share with the public the workings of this wonderful institution and symbol of democracy. Mr. Speaker, these two men have been taken from our congressional family. We have suffered a grievous loss. May the Lord bless officers Chestnut and Gibson and their families and protect those who put their lives on the line every day so that we may live free.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to H.R. 2450, what the Republicans have called the Patient Protection Act, but is better termed the Republican Patient Election Year Posturing Act. H.R. 4250 is full of hollow promises and empty protections. Republicans call this a managed care reform bill, but in reality it is far from it. For starters, the Election Year Posturing Act does little to address the serious problems of our current health delivery system and does a lot to maintain the status quo. Let me detail what the Republican bill does not provide. It does not put medical decisions back in the hands of doctors and, instead, keeps it in the hands of insurance company accountants and their executives, people who we call the bean counters. It does not give patients access to specialty care where they need it. We heard from our Republican colleague the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Weldon), a doctor, previously indicating he was on a talk show, and a woman indicated she was in the same Federal health plan as all of us. He asked, ``why did you not choose a different one to get the doctor of your choice?'' She said to him, and hopefully I am quoting this right, she could not afford it. So the bottom line is we cannot afford it. We get substandard care. I think that is wrong on the part of the Republicans. It does not give patients access to specialty care. It does not provide women undergoing a mastectomy from being pushed out of the hospitals just hours after surgery and does not require insurers to cover reconstruction surgery after mastectomy. It does not allow a woman to choose a gynecologist or other specialist as a primary care doctor. Let me also indicate that we heard from a trial attorney Republican supporting the Republican bill. He indicated that if one is misdiagnosed and does not get subsequent needed treatment, we are going to give them $500 a day. Oh, well, we will give you $1,000 a day. But if that is one's mother, and that misdiagnosis or lack of coverage and treatment, like a bone marrow transplant, or needed chemotherapy, is denied, it might be to the insurance company's advantage to give them the $1,000 a day versus having the right to sue the provider and the health care bean counter. Mr. Speaker, I ask the Members to support the Dingell-Ganske bill.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Chairman, I was unavoidably detained on rollcall vote 301, the Wicker amendment. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye''.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Richard F. Teerlink, Chairman of Milwaukee-based motorcycle manufacturer Harley- Davidson, Incorporated, who will be honored Wednesday, July 8, 1998, by the State of Israel Bonds organization at a National Corporate Tribute Dinner in Milwaukee. Rich will be presented with the prestigious Israel 50th Anniversary Award by the government of the State of Israel in recognition of his past and ongoing support of Israel's economic development, involvement in humanitarian causes and distinguished service to business and industry. Rich Teerlink has served in a variety of positions since joining Harley-Davidson in 1981 as the firm's Chief Financial Officer. He skillfully guided the company's return to public ownership and its revitalization while in various leadership positions, as President, then Chief Executive Officer and later in his current role as Chairman of the Board. He also serves on the Board of Directors of several other successful Milwaukee-area businesses and organizations. Mr. Teerlink's efforts in our community are quite diverse, as reflected by the committee which organized the July 8th tribute dinner. it consists of elected officials--from both political parties--on the local, state and national level; corporate, business and financial types; leaders in the Jewish community, and education. I came to know Rich Teerlink several years ago when I discovered that the police officers assigned to protect Capitol Hill were riding non- American made motorcycles. Knowing that Milwaukee-based Harley-Davidson is the largest provider of police motorcycles in the world, I found it disturbing that their cycles were not part of the standard uniform for the Capitol Hill police force. With help from other pro-American business Members of this body, I am proud to say that the Capitol police force today includes Harley-Davidson. Again, I'm pleased to join in this well-deserved tribute to Richard Teerlink. Milwaukee thanks you for all your efforts.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, one of the greatest pleasures of serving in Congress is the opportunity to recognize the exceptional individuals of our Nation. Today, I rise to pay tribute to one such person, my constituent Steve Ohly, for his many contributions to the City of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Recently, Steve was recognized by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Community Health Leadership Program as one of ten outstanding American leaders who have found innovative ways to bring health care to communities whose needs have been ignored and unmet. I would like to offer my congratulations to Steve on his receipt of this distinguished award and to take this time to touch on his accomplishments. Steve, a nurse practitioner by trade, was instrumental in founding the Madison Street Outreach Clinic on Milwaukee's south side in 1994. From the outset, the Madison Street Outreach Clinic has been a welcome and open door for the city's uninsured and homeless. The clinic provides health care to families and individuals, who because of poverty, hopelessness, location, immigration status, mental or physical illness, face unique and difficult obstacles to receiving needed services through more traditional channels. The Madison Street Clinic serves the most ethnically diverse community in the State and every month more than 600 patients walk through the clinic doors for care. In addition, in 1997, Steve helped open the Clarke Square Family Health Center, the Midwest's first medical clinic to operate in a grocery store. The clinic, located in the neighborhood Pick 'N Save, is open seven days a week and provides both primary and urgent care to patients who live in the area. Truly ``one-stop shopping,'' Clarke Square provides a safe environment in the central city for individuals to receive primary and urgent care services right in the grocery store. Through the efforts of Steve Ohly, countless homeless and unemployed Milwaukeeans are given needed medical care and a chance to lead more healthy and productive lives. I congratulate Steve and thank him for his tireless dedication and service to our great city. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you, and the other Members, join with me in honoring Steve for his commitment to his community and acknowledge his admirable service as a role model to our entire Nation.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to the proposal today; however, I do support simplifying the Tax Code. Mr. Speaker, what we are involved in this afternoon is a new form of roulette. This afternoon we are playing Gingrich roulette. I say to all Members, it is a most dangerous game. Mr. Speaker, I happen to serve on the Committee on Ways and Means. This bill comes before us with no hearings, no committee deliberations, no contingency plans should we not have a new Tax Code ready by July 4, 2002. So what we are doing is we are just shooting in the wind, hoping that Congress can develop a whole new Tax Code that is better than the current system. Let us talk about the current system for a moment. The gentleman from Oklahoma brings forth the 6,000 pages that he claims to be the Tax Code. Where does he think that came from? How many pages of that Tax Code give tax relief to my constituents? Oh, some do. There are some child credit tax provisions in there, there are some earned income tax credit provisions in there, but know full well the bulk of that document you have before the House today is there for the benefit of the moneyed special interests in this country. How many pages did Ronald Reagan and his 8 years add to the Code? Of the 6,000, I will bet 2,000. How many did President Bush and his administration add to the Code? Probably more than one thousand. But no Republicans are coming up and decrying those enormous and complex additions to the Tax Code. Why? Because all that is good Tax Code. It is good Tax Code because many of those provisions apply to your constituents. While I am talking about your constituents, let me congratulate you on a very successful fund-raiser last night. Mr. Speaker, I am told that you folks raised in excess of $10 million last evening alone. All the wealthy people that showered you with that money were there because they were crying out for tax fairness? Who do you think you are kidding? Those folks who pumped $10 million into the coffers of the Republican Party are part and parcel of that Tax Code. And their presence last night to eat your chicken was a hearty thank-you. But now you stand before us cleansed and pure decrying, ``We don't like the Tax Code because it is too complex and too unfair.'' But what are you going to tell the folks when you go to your parades on July 4 and you see their little Johnny or Jane and you hug them and say, ``Your family will get an extra $400 for each of them because we passed a child tax credit for you.'' They say, ``Yeah, but you also passed this bill that will take the credit away from us. What's going to happen to the child credit in 2002?'' ``I don't know.'' How about the home mortgage deduction? Every constituent of yours that owns a home wants that deduction retained. They may ask the gentleman from Oklahoma, ``What is going to happen in 2002 with that?'' ``I don't know.'' Mr. Speaker, I do not know what you guys are doing here today. But, again, congratulations on the $10 million fundraiser last night. You did a good job.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and pay tribute to Frank Yankovic on his 50th anniversary as America's Polka King. On June 8th, 1948, in the Milwaukee Auditorium in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Frank Yankovic was crowned ``America's Polka King'' before 7000 screaming fans. Fifty years later, he is still ``The King'' to polka fans around the country, spurring a movement by Congress to award him a National Medal of Arts. Yankovic's contributions to the popularity of polka music are legendary. But Frank's beginnings were rather modest, playing Slovenian songs on a button box for neighbors and boarders at his parents' home. At age 19, Yankovic's interest turned to the piano accordion, which upset his father because he felt Frankie could never make a living playing it. Secretly, Frankie's mother bought him a piano accordion, which he practiced at his sister's house until he played it well enough to play in front of his dad. After hearing Frankie play, his father put his arms around him and said, ``If you're going to play it, play it well.'' And play it well he did, as he and his friends became one of the most popular bands in town, getting exposure on Doctor James Malle's Sunday Solvenian radio program, and cutting several records under the name of the Solvene Folk Orchestra. In 1941, the day before Pearl Harbor, Frankie opened his own bar, which quickly became a popular hangout for musicians. But World War II took him overseas, where he nearly lost his life in the Battle of the Bulge, suffering from frost bite so severe in his hands and feet that gangrene had set it and doctors planned to amputate. But Frankie wouldn't let them, and after a long course of penicillin and drugs, he began to regain the use of his hands and feet. For therapy, the doctors gave him an old accordion to play. Soon he was entertaining the whole hospital. Yankovic came home from the army and went back to his bar, which was more popular than ever. In 1946, Columbia offered Frankie a recording contract with a two year option. That contract lasted for 26 years. In December of 1947, Yankovic heard a song called ``Just Because'' which he felt could be a hit, but Columbia would not record it, until Frankie offered to buy the first 10,000 records himself. That song bridged the barrier between popular music and polka and launched Yankovic into the national spotlight. And there he stayed, with hits like ``Blue Skirt Waltz'' and ``Just Because'', which both became gold records. Frank won the first Grammy ever given for polka music, and was one of the first men inducted into the ``International Polka Hall of Fame'' in Chicago. But through it all, Frankie Yankovic has remained dedicated to his fans, and his enthusiasm for entertaining has never waned. Frankie Yankovic is and always will be, ``America's Polka King.''

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to House Joint Resolution 78 which would amend the constitution to allow prayer in public buildings, including prayer in public schools. Of the thousands of issues I have debated and cast votes on as a Congressman, none has been more volatile and contentious, nor has any decision been more agonizing than this, because it touches on religious beliefs and practices which are at the very core of our lives. And it is precisely because of the great importance of this issues, to me and to my constituents, that I must oppose this constitutional amendment. There are three reasons for my opposition. First, the language of H.J. Res. 78 is seriously flawed, will not accomplish what its authors intend, and may in fact invite the very result--government intrusion into private religious beliefs and practices--which its supporters hope to outlaw. Two distinguished constitutional scholars, whose legal and conservative credential are unquestioned, submitted testimony at House Judiciary Committee hearings held on this resolution last summer, and each drew the same conclusion: H.J. Res. 78 is fundamentally and, in their view, fatally flawed. Consider the observations of Professor Michael W. McConnell of the University of Utah College of Law, ho said: ``. . . the supporters of this amendment are to be commended for continuing to focus public attention on the importance of religious freedom . . . [but] the multiple ambiguities in the current proposal make it an unacceptable vehicle for accomplishing its intended purpose.'' And the statement of Michael P. Farris, a constitutional lawyer and President of the Home School Legal Defense Association, who said: ``I am in full accord with the principle goals of [the resolution's] supporters. I want to fully invigorate the right of the free exercise of religion. I simply point out that I do not believe this language achieves the goals of its well- intentioned supporters in either the free exercise or establishment arena.'' Second, three recent Supreme Court decisions have substantially strengthened the freedoms at issue in this debate: The Court held that private religious speech is a right entitled to as much constitutional protection as private secular speech (Capitol Square Review & Advisory Board v. Pinette (1995)); that it is unconstitutional for a public institution to deny benefits to an otherwise eligible student organization on account of the religious viewpoint of that organization's publications (Rosenberger v. Rector & Visitors of the University of Virginia (1997)); and that its earlier decision forbidding certain types of educational assistance to children attending religiously affiliated schools should be reversed (Agostini v. Felton (1997)). According to Prof. McConnell, the reach of these decisions, along with similar rulings in the U.S. Court of Appeals, ``represent a major step forward, and in fact solve a majority of the problems with [this] constitutional doctrine . . . '' In short, the resolution's broad and ambiguous language would, if adopted, threaten the reasonable gains which these recent Court decisions embody. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, though, I believe that any constitutional amendment--but especially one such as this which is so central to who we are as a nation and as individuals--should endure debate, examination and scrutiny of the most rigorous standard before it is ratified by lawmakers and the people we represent. It is no accident that, despite hundreds of attempts, the Constitution of this beloved nation has been amended a mere 27 times since its ratification in 1789, and 10 of those were ratified at once as the Bill of Rights. The original authors understood the importance of this document, and possessed the wisdom to write it as a timeless testament to freedom from oppression and tyranny, political and religious. As I reflect on this blessed history, I harbor no doubt whatsoever that each and every one of those men beseeched his God--the same God to whom we turn every day for guidance--to bestow on him the wisdom to understand the profound historic moment they were creating with His helping hand. That guidance served them well then, serves us well now, and requires no constitutional amendment upon which to draw its strength and purpose.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a truly outstanding resident of my congressional district, Mr. Michael Richmond, whose years of dedicated service to his community and his country have been recognized as he has been named 1998 Oak Creek Citizen of the Year. Mr. Richmond has made a positive impact on the lives of hundreds of Oak Creek, Wisconsin youth, first as a classroom teacher from 1974 to 1985, then as Athletic Director for the Oak Creek-Franklin School District from 1985 to the present. He has worked countless hours coaching boys and girls in track and cross country, as well as acting as the boys swimming and basketball coach. In 1984, he was named District 7 Cross Country Coach of the Year. Mike has also served as a volunteer coach for a number of basketball camps and tournament teams for the school district. In addition to the many significant contributions Mike Richmond has made during his tenure as Oak Creek Athletic Director, he also served his country for 21 years as a member of the 84th Division of the U.S. Army Reserves, and was named Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year from 1983-1986. Mike's dedication also extends into the community of Oak Creek, where he has been involved in a number of activities, including community run/walks to raise funds for the community center, and city cleanup activities. Mr. Richmond is an active member of the Oak Creek Education Association, having served for 24 years as chairperson of Public Relations, and is also a member of the Wisconsin Basketball Association, the Wisconsin Cross Country Coaches Association, the WADA National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association, and St. James Catholic Church. Mike is a caring and devoted educator and an excellent role model for Oak Creek youth. He is also a devoted family man who has been married nearly 28 years to his wife, Judy, and has been blessed with three children, Chad, Mark and Beth. Please join me in honoring Mike for all he has done to help make the City of Oak Creek such a special place to live and work. A heartfelt congratulations to Michael Richmond, 1998 Oak Creek Citizen of the Year!

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to speak out in favor of an extremely worthwhile and important piece of legislation--H.R. 2850, the Jennifer's Law Act.***STRPGFIT*** This bill would require states to report missing children information to the National Crime Information Center so that it can be entered into a missing person database. Missing person files are already sent to the FBI and, as we all know, two heads, or two agencies in this case, are better than one when it comes to finding missing and abducted kids. In my congressional district alone, 68 missing children have been reported since 1994. Typically, these children are illegally abducted by a family member or a stranger, run away from home, or became lost. Thankfully, the vast majority of the children in my area were found, according to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. However, 5 children are still missing, and that is 5 kids too many. Congress needs to do everything possible to find these five youngsters, as well as thousands of others from around the country. I urge my colleagues to support Jennifer's Law Act to enhance federal and state authorities access to data that may reunite families with their missing children.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Madam Chairman, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I demand a separate recorded vote on amendment No. 11, the so-called Metcalf amendment.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in West Allis, Wisconsin on the celebration of its 60th Anniversary as a congregation. The dream of having a church where the needs of the area Italian speaking community could be met began in the 1930's for a group of about 250 Italian-Americans. But several attempts to rent space for worship did not prove successful, and in 1938, members of the Italian community began to work to raise funds to build a church of their own. On September 21, 1939, the dream was realized, as Father Raymond Leng was named as the church's first administrator, and the parish began its official existence. The Sisters of Charity of St. Joan Antida also took up residence near the church and have since provided religious training to many generations of children from Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Father Leng served the congregation until 1946, and was succeeded by Father Salvatore Tagliavia, who served until 1956. Father Albert Valentino then became administrator, and remained with the congregation for nearly 35 years until his death in 1991. The present administrator, Father James Posanski, was appointed in 1991. Since then, the church has undergone several renovation projects, the parish council was reorganized, and a number of spiritual and social activities were reintroduced to the congregation. In 1992, the local Korean community began having bi-weekly masses at Our Lady of Mount Carmel. And, as interest in these masses grew, Father John Mace, S.J. soon introduced weekly worship for the Korean-American community. Sadly, however, in December of 1996, due to a shortage of priests and declining numbers of parishioners, the Catholic Archdiocese announced the closing of Lady of Mount Carmel and several other area churches. The parish's final date for services will be July 12, 1998, the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. The church's diamond anniversary celebration was moved to May of 1998, to give the congregation time to properly celebrate the history and life of their beloved parish community. Although the coming months may present a great many challenges as decisions are made concerning the future of this congregation, please join me in celebrating the 60 wonderful years of this devoted and faithful parish. May the Lord bless them on whatever paths their futures hold.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support H.R. 2829, the Bulletproof Vest Partnership Grant Act. I am proud to be a cosponsor of this bill that will help save the lives of men and women who serve and protect our communities--our law enforcement officers. Under this legislation, the Justice Department will administer grants to assist state and local authorities in purchasing bulletproof vests for their officers. The grant would provide up to 50% of the cost of the vest with local and state governments matching the remaining costs. Right now, in my home state of Wisconsin, many officers are either wearing secondhand vests not fitted properly to protect them, paying for their own vests, or wearing vests that have passed the 5-year expiration date. In Milwaukee, even though each officer receives a vest at no cost to them, many of them are past the 5-year expiration date, putting the officers' lives in danger. In addition, the vests' integrity is often compromised when they get wet, rendering them useless. We should not be sending our police out on the streets with bulletproof vests that only work some of the time. The average cost of a bulletproof vest is about $500. Aren't our law enforcement officers' lives worth that? This bill has been endorsed by numerous groups, including the Fraternal Order of Police and the Wisconsin Professional Police Association. I urge my colleagues to join me in voting for this lifesaving bill.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, Milwaukee is known across the country for its great ball teams, great beer, and great bratwurst. Now, my hometown will attract worldwide notoriety when it will be descended upon by thousands and thousands of hogs--not swine, but Harley-Davidson Motorcycles. This summer Harley-Davidson will celebrate its 95th birthday with an anniversary reunion and rally throughout the streets of downtown Milwaukee. In the finest Milwaukee tradition, Davidson brothers William, Walter, and Arthur, and William Harley crafted their first litter of ``hogs'' in a 10-foot by 15-foot wooden shed in 1903 using the best available tools, ingenuity, and a lot of hard work. Responding to the needs of our national defense, Harley-Davidson became an important government contractor by supporting the military in border skirmishes with Pancho Villa in the early 1900s, providing 20,000 motorcycles in World War I, and supplying American and Allied forces with more than 90,000 motor bikes during World War II. During the 1950s and 1960s, the only American-made motorcycles transformed from merely a mode of transportation to an American icon. Motorcycle-riding movie stars Marlon Brando in the ``Wild Ones,'' and Peter Fonda in ``Easy Rider'' epitomized the free-spirited individualism associated with Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Harley's popularity continues to spread to modern day Hollywood celebrities like Tonight Show host Jay Leno. However, an influx of low-priced imports dramatically reduced Harley-Davidson's market share during the late 1960s and 1970s. Not to be deterred, innovative company officials and dedicated employees worked hard to return the slumping motorcycle producer back to its ``king of the road'' status. Through improving and streamlining its operations with the help of its dedicated employees, Harley- Davidson returned to public ownership in 1986 with a successful stock offering. Capital raised through public ownership allowed the motorcycle company to diversify into other recreational vehicles. Thanks to public support, the company's commitment to quality, and employee involvement, Harley-Davidson now owns a huge share of the heavyweight and superheavyweight motor bike market. The City of Milwaukee is proud to call itself the birthplace of the original hog. On behalf of the people of the 4th Congressional District in Wisconsin, I wish Harley-Davidson Motorcycles a happy 95th birthday with many more to come!

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Armed Forces Week to recognize a truly outstanding member of my district, Mr. Robert W. Braeger, whose dedication in both his military and civilian careers has led to his being named this year's recipient of the Lance Sijan Award from the Fraternal Order of Eagles. Enlisting in the US Army Air Corps in 1942, Mr. Braeger flew 29 missions over France and Germany including 2 anti-personnel missions over Normandy on D-Day. The remarkable contributions of his military career were noted by several prestigious awards. These include the Air Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, European theater ribbon with 2 major battle stars, a Presidential Citation awarded to the 34th Bomb Group for an outstanding raid over Hanover, Germany, and the Normandy Freedom medal. Mr. Braeger's distinction in service continues to be recognized after the war by such awards as the Department of the Army, Commander's Award for Public Service as well as a Citation for Public Service from the Veterans of Foreign Wars 1994. Currently Civilian Chairman of the Milwaukee Armed Services, Bob's leadership transcends his military career and carries into his community involvement. In addition to his integral involvement in Milwaukee Boys & Girls Club and the Boys & Girls Club of America, Mr. Braeger has been a trustee for both the Milwaukee Lutheran Hospital and the War Memorial Corporation Board. Bob's professional career exhibits remarkable examples of dedication and leadership. As chairman of the Braeger Company of Wisconsin, he has received such prestigious awards as the Time Magazine Quality Dealer Award as well as the Wisconsin Dealer of the Year in 1993. A heartfelt congratulations to Robert Braeger as the 1998 recipient of the Lance Sijan Award, presented to him on May 14, 1998.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. I thank the gentlewoman from Connecticut for yielding time. Mr. Speaker, I stand in support of the legislation before us, H.R. 3546. It is a commission. It is made up of a council. Hopefully we are going to get the brightest and the best minds to come up with some resolve to a problem which is not pending today, it is off 30-something years from now, but I think it is wise that Congress develop a fix to the problem now when we have the luxury of time, when we have the luxury of an elongated debate. I am not from the school that thinks this is just another commission. I say to you if in fact we have another idea for another commission in the summer composed of 24 different members of a council, let us also pass that, because the problem before us is probably the weightiest that this Congress is going to address in a very, very long time. We have been told repeatedly during the debate that we have to take the politics out of this issue. It seems to me that that admonition is being directed to the Democrats. Let me just indicate to my colleagues that there is legislation pending in the House which would give those seniors born between the year 1917 and 1926 a $5,000 lump payment. That would cost the Social Security Trust Fund, which is already in fiscal peril, some $40 billion to $50 billion. That also is playing politics. To make the situation even worse, seniors in my district and around the country are getting a mailing today by a group called a special project of TREA, Senior Citizen League, asking the seniors to send in this registration form to get on the Wisconsin Register of Notch Victims. It also asks them to send in $15, $20 as a special gift. That is cruel. That is cruel, because we know in this body that bill will never pass. We do not have the $50 billion. So I say let us take politics out of the debate, but that goes to both sides of the aisle, not only in this reform legislation that we are talking about but also other bills that are introduced. I am disturbed that there is talk in this body about a person who is 45 today would have to live to 85 to collect all their money. My friends, this is a pension plan and not a deferred savings plan. Our family had the unfortunate event of losing not only my sister but my brother-in-law some 13 months ago. They had worked all their lives and paid into Social Security. Never once did their four children come to me, my nieces and nephews, saying, ``That's unfair. Give us the money back.'' Why? Because my father had the good fortune of living to 82. He clearly collected more than he put in. A few weeks ago we went to Chicago to celebrate Auntie Marie Ducha's 90th birthday. She is getting more than her and Uncle John paid in. That is the system. If we devise a reform plan and bring it to this floor that gives everyone their money back in total, we are going to put at peril the 40 to 50 million people currently receiving benefits because we are going to cut off that revenue stream. We all have preconditions as we enter this debate. Mine is very simple: Do not tamper with the revenue stream now that pays those benefits for those who are currently on the system. If you want to take politics out of this debate, vote for the motion later today that would reserve this surplus, because this reform bill will have some enormous costs connected with it. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support H.R. 3546, the National Dialogue on Social Security Act. Social Security reform is one of the most talked-about issues around Capitol Hill tables and kitchen tables across the Nation. As with any issue of this magnitude, everyone has a different solution and method of reforming the Social Security system. Some people want the program to remain exactly as it is, while others call for total or partial privatizing, or an increase in the retirement age, or tax incentives like Individual Retirement Accounts. One condition for reform, however, is that we guarantee a sufficient revenue stream to make good on our promise of benefits to those who are retired or planning their retirement around the current system. In order to achieve this, we need to have a constructive and comprehensive national discussion about the future of Social Security, which annually pays benefits to nearly 50 million retired and disabled workers and their dependents and survivors. The bill on the floor today will foster such a dialogue. It creates an 8-member commission to develop reform recommendations and solicit feedback from the American people, partly through the Internet. The President and both Democratic and Republic Members of Congress will then use these recommendations to design a single package of long- range reforms to strengthen the Social Security trust fund. The deadline for presenting suggestions to Congress is February 1, 1999. This gives us sufficient time to draft a comprehensive and fair plan. The proposed commission complements bipartisan forums being held around the nation, such as the one held by the President, the American Association of Retired Persons, and the Concord Coalition in early April. That meeting also sought to solicit ideas from the American public and inform them of many reform options. Other private sector groups, such as Americans Discuss Social Security, are also hosting town hall meetings across the country and on the Internet. Again, these meetings are facilitating a nationwide debate about the future of Social Security and providing a framework for restructuring the Social Security system. I am pleased these forums are including the opinions and ideas of people across the country. A healthy dialogue will now ensure that Congress passes a meaningful and equitable product to ensure the solvency of this program. I look forward to hearing from my constituents as they take part in this national debate about the best ways to preserve Social Security for our children, grandchildren, and beyond. I urge support of the bill before us so we will be armed with all suggestions and solutions as Congress goes about the task of major reform of this most important national program.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute to Casimir S. Janiszewski, who will be honored May 2nd by the Pulaski Council of Milwaukee as the Polish Heritage Award Recipient at the group's annual Polish Constitution Day festivities. Each year, the Pulaski Council of Milwaukee, which was organized to promote the civic, social and cultural interests of Americans of Polish extraction, recognizes the accomplishments of an outstanding member of the Milwaukee-area Polish community. This year's honoree, ``Casey`` Janiszewski, is very deserving of this prestigious award. Casey grew up in his family's business, Superior Die Set Corporation, which was founded by his grandfather Kasimir, who immigrated from Poland in 1910. Today, Casey is the firm's President and Chief Executive Officer. His father, Casimir, is Chairman, while Casey's brother, Frank, is Executive Vice President. The company will proudly celebrate 75 years of family ownership and operation with festivities this fall. Casey Janiszewski is truly a family man. In addition to working side- by-side for years with his father and brother, he is a loving husband to Diane and father to Nick and Steven. He's active in his community, serving on the Board of Directors of several corporations, and the St. Josaphat Foundation. He is the Co-Chair of the Polish Fest Community Center committee, and is active in his parish, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, and the Polonia Sports Club. I applaud the Pulaski council's choice in naming Casey Janiszewski the Polish Heritage Award Recipient this year. Sto Lot!

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, again this year, as they have for countless years in the past, letter carriers from around the country will collect nonperishable food items placed near their customer's mail boxes on Saturday, May 9. The food will then be given to local food pantries for distribution to those in need. Letter carriers in my hometown, Milwaukee, collected the largest amount of food nationwide in their efforts of May, 1997. The National Association of Letter Carriers, in conjunction with the United States Postal Service and the United Way, will kick off this year's food drive in Milwaukee with a press conference on Thursday, May 7th, to raise community awareness of this very worthwhile project. I rise today, Mr. Speaker, to ask my colleagues to enthusiastically support the letter carriers' food drives in their hometowns and districts, and to remind my fellow residents of Milwaukee and Waukesha Counties to consider buying a few extra canned goods and nonperishables while doing the weekly grocery shopping the week before the 7th. Together, we can ensure that this year's food drive is as successful as those which came before. With a little help from all of us, our local food pantries will be stocked full and maybe even over-flowing, for this summer, a time when pantries are often put to the test.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute to the past and present members of the Cudahy, Wisconsin High School Band who will mark the band's 75th anniversary with a series of events and concerts the weekend of May 16 and 17, 1998. One of the four oldest bands in the greater Milwaukee area, the Cudahy High School's 75th Anniversary Gala will truly be a special event. Former conductors, alumni, distinguished guests and dignitaries will be on hand for the festivities and, in some cases, will even join the current musicians! All of the members of the Cudahy High School Bands, which now include the Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Marching Band, Jazz Ensemble, and Pep Band, are to be commended for their many accomplishments over the years. The Marching Band has been named the State Champion in its class in 1989, 1990, 1996 and 1997. The band has qualified many members for the State Honors Band, State Honors Orchestra and State Honors Jazz Ensemble since beginning Honors participation in 1977. Members of the band have an outstanding solo and ensemble record at both State and District level competitions. With all of this in mind, Mr. Speaker, I truly look forward to joining the Cudahy High School Bands at their 75th Anniversary Gala in May. I know that all Cudahy's residents will mark that weekend to say a heartfelt ``thank you'' to the band members and directors for all of their entertainment in parades, concerts and athletic events over the years.

Mr. KLECZKA

Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, on Wednesday, March 25, 1998, I was granted an Official Leave of Absence to attend a family funeral. As an elected Representative of Wisconsin's Fourth Congressional District, I have responsibility to my constituents to inform them of the votes from yesterday and to apprise them of how I would have voted. The following indicates how I would have voted on Rollcall Votes Nos. 68, 70 and 71. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Rollcall No. Bill No. Position ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 68.............................. H.R. 2589 No (McCollum Amdt.). 70.............................. H.R. 2578 (Pombo Yes Amdt.). 71.............................. H.R. 2578......... Yes ------------------------------------------------------------------------ The outcome would have been no different on any of these votes if I had been present.