Dennis Kucinich

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Chair, to my friends on the other side of the aisle, I am offering an amendment to the Defense Authorization Bill which would defund the war in Libya. The war is unconstitutional. The President did not come to this Congress, he went to the U.N. Security Council, he went to a number of international bodies, but he didn't come to the United States Congress. Last week, the President did not observe the tolling of the War Powers Act, so he's in violation of the statute. The action over in Libya has already exceeded the U.N. mandate; it's in violation of the U.N. mandate and there have been violations of international law. What are we doing there? Why does anyone think we can afford it? Why aren't we trying to find a path to peace so we aren't called upon to spend more money there? These are questions we have to be asking; that's why Congress needs to say we're not going to spend more money there. People are saying it's not the United States, it's NATO. The Guardian in the U.K. did a study which showed that 90 percent of the cruise missiles are paid for by the U.S. Sixty-six percent of the personnel working against Libya are from the U.S., 50 percent of aircraft, 50 percent of all ships--and our government is saying this is a NATO operation? We have to recognize what's going on here, which is an expansion of the war power by the Executive and it's time we challenge that. One thing we certainly shouldn't do is to support the amendment offered by my friend, Mr. McKeon, which will hand over to the President Congress' constitutional authority to declare and authorize war, substantially altering the delicate balance of power the Founding Fathers envisioned. The annual re-authorization contains unprecedented and dangerous language which gives the President virtually unchecked power to take this country to war and to keep us there. The bill substantially undermines the Constitution, the institution that the Constitution set up that is Congress and sets the United States on a path to permanent war. Congress has to protect the American people from the overreach of any Chief Executive--Democrat, Republican--any Chief Executive who's enamored with unilateralism, preemption, first strike and the power to prosecute war without constitutional authority or statutory prescriptions. Permanent global war isn't the answer. It's not going to increase our national security. Far from ridding the world of terrorism, it will become a terrorist recruitment program. The war in Iraq is based on lies; the war in Afghanistan is based on a misreading of history. Yet in Iraq we'll spend over $3 trillion. In Afghanistan we've spent over half a trillion dollars. We have people out of work here. We have people losing their homes, losing their health care, losing their retirement security. All we hear from the White House is ``we want more war or more authorization for more war.'' We have to stop that and while stopping that we have to stop this national security state and stop the extension of the Patriot Act which is also in this bill.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of Mr. William G. Batchelder Jr., a prominent lawyer and civic leader from Medina, Ohio, who passed away at the age of 96 on May 7, 2011. Mr. Batchelder was born on July 30, 1914 in Cleveland's Collinwood neighborhood. His family moved to Medina in 1929, and in 1932 he graduated from Medina High School. Upon graduating, William went on to study economics and history at Ohio Wesleyan University. During his senior year, he was awarded a scholarship to attend the University of Cincinnati Law School; he passed the Ohio bar exam in 1939. William returned to Medina in the summer of 1939 with his wife Eleanor and immediately opened his own private practice. Just five months later, he decided to run for Medina County Prosecutor, and would serve in this position from 1941 until 1953. While serving as Prosecutor, in 1942, William enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served his country bravely in the South Pacific during World War II for three years, and rose to the rank of sergeant. Meanwhile, back in Medina, he became the father of his first child and was re-elected as County Prosecutor. In the 1950s Mr. Batchelder completed his duties as County Prosecutor and began working as a trial lawyer with the Cleveland law firm of Thompson, Hine & Flory. However, in 1957, he left the prominent firm and formed a partnership with Harold Williams in Medina; the firm was named Williams and Batchelder. He would continue to try cases until the age of 93. In addition to William's impressive career, he was also a dedicated community leader. In 1946, he was elected as the director of the Medina Chamber of Commerce and as chairman of the Medina County Rent Control Committee. Several years later, in 1952, William was elected as president of the Medina County Bar Association. Throughout the years he was involved with the Medina County Boy Scouts, Medina Community Chest, United Way of Medina County and served as president of the Medina City School Board of Education. Mr. Batchelder also sat as chairman of the Medina County Republican Party Executive Committee during the 1950s and 1980s. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in remembrance of Mr. William G. Batchelder. I extend my deepest condolences to his five children, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the grand opening of the Cleveland Syrian Cultural Gardens, taking place on May 29, 2011. The 254-acre piece of land that constitutes Rockefeller Park was donated to the City of Cleveland by John D. Rockefeller in 1896. The Cleveland Syrian Cultural Gardens is a fifty-acre piece of land within Rockefeller Park. These gardens were founded in 1926 to create a memorial area for the diverse ethnic groups that shape the region, and to serve as a space of reflection on peace, cooperation and understanding. The Cultural Gardens is currently a collection of 26 gardens which include African-American, American Indian, British, Chinese, Czech, Estonian, German, Hebrew, Hungarian, Irish, Italian, Polish, and Slovenian gardens, among others. In 1929, the land for a Syrian Cultural Garden was allotted to the Greater Syrian American Community. The Syrian American and Arab American community have, for over 100 years, played a vital role in the spiritual, social and cultural life of the greater Cleveland community. For unknown reasons, the garden was never planned or built. Decades later, while researching Arab immigration, the Arab American Community Center for Economic and Social Services (AACCESS) in Ohio came across the garden plot. After informing Cleveland's Syrian community, the project was restarted in 2004. The Syrian American Cultural Garden Association, Syrian Medical Society, Syrian American Cultural Council and the National Arab American Medical Association, Ohio Chapter worked to design the project. The design of the Syrian Cultural Garden was created by an architectural graduate student from Damascus University. The garden will be composed of many elements that represent Syrian culture such as the Arches of Palmyra, Amphitheater of Basra, Syrian Arch, and the Arabic Fountain and will include Damascene roses. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me recognition of the grand opening of the Cleveland Syrian Cultural Garden, the newest edition to Cleveland's historic Cultural Gardens.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise to remember Vincent John Skindell. Vincent passed away unexpectedly on Friday, May 13, 2011 in a car accident. Vincent Skindell was born on August 19, 1960 to Vincent M. and Carol (nee Kaska) Skindell. Vincent was a 1978 graduate of Brunswick High School and an evening manager at Goodyear Tire in Brunswick for 12 years. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially gardening, fishing, and hunting and enjoyed shooting pool also. Vincent was preceded in death by his father Vincent and his son Joshua Skindell. Vincent is survived by his wife Shawn (nee McGee); his daughter Tara Painting; his grandchildren Faith and Noah Painting; his mother Carol; his step-children Christie Stiffler and Jennifer Pasquale and step-grandchildren Matthew, Nicholas, and Michael Stiffler and Allison and Olivia Pasquale. Vincent is also survived by his brother Michael, who is a State Senator in Ohio, representing Cleveland, Lakewood, Parma, and other Cleveland suburbs in the 10th Congressional District. Vincent was always supportive and active in Michael's campaigns as a Lakewood City Councilman, a State Representative, and State Senator. I would frequently see Vincent and his family at campaign events for Michael and at my own events. Mr. Speaker and respected colleagues, please join me in remembering Vincent John Skindell, citizen and friend, and in offering condolences to his family who are now grieving his loss.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of Mr. Thomas Stanton Kilbane, one of Cleveland's top litigators, who passed away on April 28, 2011. Born in 1941, Mr. Kilbane was raised in Cleveland, Ohio. He attended St. Ignatius High School and later John Carroll University. During his time at John Carroll, Mr. Kilbane participated in its Reserve Officer Training Corps. Upon graduating as valedictorian of his class, Tom moved to Chicago and attended law school at Northwestern University where he was chosen for its law review. In 1966, Mr. Kilbane joined the international law firm of Squire Sanders. However, during 1968 and 1969, Tom served his country in the Vietnam War. As a captain, he served in a transportation group and was awarded a Bronze Star for combat. After arriving home from Vietnam, Mr. Kilbane returned to Squire Sanders and was made a partner at the firm in 1976. Tom specialized in areas such as antitrust law, product liability and contracts. He served as a member of Squire Sanders' management committee and he chaired the litigation practice between 1996 and 2006. Mr. Kilbane was one of the most successful and reputable lawyers to work at Squire Sanders and in the Cleveland area. Throughout his career he was welcomed into groups such as the International Academy of Trial Lawyers and the American College of Trial Lawyers. He was also recognized with numerous awards such as Best Lawyers' ``bet-the- company'' litigator in 2009 and the Cardinal Bellarmine award from his alma mater, St. Ignatius High School, in 2011. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in remembrance of Mr. Thomas Kilbane. I extend my condolences to his wife, Sally; five children; four grandchildren; and four siblings.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise to today in remembrance of Mr. Paul Grau, who served as Brecksville's and Oakwood Village's law director for the past thirty years. Paul was born and raised in Buffalo, New York. He attended the State University of New York at Oswego. Upon graduation, Mr. Grau married his high school sweetheart, Linda Mruk, and moved to Cleveland. Paul then enrolled in the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law and earned his juris doctor degree. Mr. Grau was a dedicated to public servant. He began working with the City of Garfield Heights' law department in 1976 and was later appointed as the city's law director. During his tenure, in 1978, Paul began working as a managing partner with the law firm of Reddy, Grau and Meek. As he continued to build a successful and meaningful career in both the public and private sector, in 1981 Paul took on the role of law director for the City of Brecksville. Along the way, he left the City of Garfield Heights and in 1992 became the law director for Oakwood Village. Mr. Grau served as the law director for Brecksville and Oakwood Village for thirty and nineteen years respectively. In addition to his contributions as a law director to three Northeastern Ohio communities, Mr. Grau was dedicated to other community needs. He served on the board, and at one time was the chairman of the Jennings Center for Older Adults for ten years. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in remembrance of Mr. Paul Grau. I offer my condolences to his wife of 37 years, Linda; son, Andy; and sister, Mary.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of Judge Francis E. Sweeney, a former Justice on the Supreme Court of Ohio, who passed away on April 10, 2011. Born on January 24, 1934, Judge Sweeney was raised in Northeast Ohio. He graduated from St. Ignatius High School before attending Xavier University. He received the Legion of Honor Award from his alma mater upon graduating in 1956. After completing his undergraduate education, Judge Sweeney spent several years playing professional football in Canada with the Ottawa Rough Riders. In 1957, Judge Sweeney joined the U.S. Army and served his country bravely during the Korean War. Judge Sweeney returned to Cleveland in 1958 and began working in Allstate Insurance Company's legal department. While working at Allstate, he attended Cleveland-Marshall Law School and earned his juris doctor degree in 1963. He left Allstate and started working as an assistant prosecuting attorney for Cuyahoga County. In 1970, Judge Sweeney began his career as a judge for the Cuyahoga County Court of Common Pleas. In 1988, he began sitting as a judge for Ohio's Court of Appeals of the Eighth Appellate District, the busiest and largest appellate court in the state of Ohio. In 1992, Judge Sweeney became a Justice on the Supreme Court of Ohio and would serve two terms until his retirement in 2004. After retiring, Judge Sweeney continued serving as a retired assigned judge in Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court. Judge Sweeney was a highly accomplished lawyer and judge. He was the recipient of the Outstanding Judicial Service Award by the Ohio Supreme Court for fourteen consecutive years. He was named Xavier University's Alumnus of the Year in 1977, received the Cardinal Bellarmine Award for Legal Excellence 1994 from St. Ignatius High School, and was presented with the Outstanding Alumnus Award in 2000 by Cleveland-Marshall College of Law. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and remembrance of Judge Francis E. Sweeney, Sr. I offer my sincere condolences to his wife, children and grandchildren.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of Dr. Janos Horvath and the William Penn Association for the tireless work they do on behalf of Hungarians and the Hungarian-American community in Cleveland, Ohio and across the nation. Dr. Janos Horvath was born on November 7, 1921 in Hungary. He studied economics at the Palatine Jozsef University of Technology and Economic Sciences. In November of 1956, he left Hungary. While in exile in Strasbourg, he became a leader of the Hungarian Revolutionary Council in 1957. Later, while in New York, he became a founding member of Kossuth Foundation. He received his PhD from Columbia University in 1966. He taught at various American universities until he moved back to Hungary in 1997, after 41 years. In 1998, Dr. Horvath became the Chairman of the Economic Policy Committee of Fidesz--Hungary's Civic party. He has been a Member of Hungary's parliament since 1998 and is currently the Doyen of the Hungarian Parliament. The William Penn Association was founded on February 21, 1886 in Hazleton, Pennsylvania by thirteen Hungarian coal miners under the name ``Verhovay Aid Association.'' The goal of the founders was to extend a helping hand to each other and to the many Hungarian immigrants who worked and suffered in the mines and industrial centers of America. The Verhovay Aid Association has grown into the largest of all the Hungarian American fraternal organizations. In 1972 the organization's name was changed to ``William Penn Association.'' The Hungarian American Coalition is a Washington based non-profit organization founded 20 years ago to coordinate the talents and resources of its members in promoting the interests of the Hungarian American community. Its goals include: to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the history, culture and scientific achievements of both the United States and Hungary through cultural and educational exchanges; to protect and preserve the human and minority rights and cultural heritage of Hungarians throughout the world; and to support democratic institutions and economic development in Hungary. Every year the Coalition honors outstanding members of the Hungarian-American community in recognition of their extraordinary contributions to both Hungary and the United States. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring Dr. Janos Horvath and the William Penn Association and the work they do on behalf of the Hungarian and Hungarian-American community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of Mayor Ralph J. Perk, the 52nd mayor of the City of Cleveland, as he is posthumously inducted into ClevelandPeople.com's International Hall of Fame. Mayor Perk was born on January 19, 1914 in Cleveland, Ohio to Mary and Joseph Perk. He attended elementary school at Our Lady of Lourdes School. After earning his high school diploma, Mayor Perk studied history, political science and mathematics at Case Western Reserve University and St. John College. Throughout his adolescence Ralph worked as a pattern maker and later an ice peddler with his brother, George, at Perk Coal & Ice Co. In 1940, Perk married Lucille Gagliardi; they had seven children and were together for 59 years. At the age of 20, Perk joined the 13th Ward Republican Club and in 1953 was elected as the ward's council member. During his five terms as the Broadway-E.55th Street councilman, Perk organized the American Nationalities Movement, an agency that represents 35 ethnic and nationality groups. Mayor Perk was an outspoken proponent of human rights and is well known for his celebration of cultural diversity. In 1962, Perk was elected as Cuyahoga County Auditor, and became the first Republican elected to county office since the 1930s. He was reelected twice and served as a county official until 1970. Mayor Perk became the 52nd mayor of the City of Cleveland in 1971 and was reelected in 1973 and 1975. While in office Mayor Perk was instrumental in the creation and establishment of the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority, the Office of International Trade at Cleveland's City Hall and the U.S. Conference of Mayors' Republican Mayors caucus. After serving as the Mayor of Cleveland, in 1978, Mr. Perk began a consulting business, Ralph Perk & Associates Inc. Mayor Perk was a political figure and prominent businessman in the City of Cleveland until his death on April 21, 1999. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and remembrance of Mayor Ralph J. Perk as he is celebrated at ClevelandPeople.com's International Hall of Fame ceremony.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Mr. Frank L. Kowalski, Jr., a gentleman whose dedication to the Polish-American community of Cleveland has led the Cleveland Society of Poles Foundation to name him the 2011 recipient of the ``Good Joe'' Award. Mr. Kowalski was born and raised in the Tremont area of Cleveland. After graduating from Lincoln High School, he joined the Navy Reserve. He was soon called into active duty and served on the USS Navarro as a machinist's mate during the Korean War. Upon his discharge in 1954, Mr. Kowalski joined the Polish Legion of American Veterans and he remains an active member of the organization to this day. Mr. Kowalski attended Fenn College (now Cleveland State University) under the GI Bill and graduated in 1965. He worked at the Thompson Products Plant until 1972, when he pursued a second career in property management and maintenance. Many organizations within the Polish-American community in Cleveland have benefitted from Mr. Kowalski's leadership. He has served as Post Commander, Financial Director, and National Financial Director for the Polish Legion of American Veterans; Director, Treasurer, and Vice President of the Polonia Foundation of Ohio; Financial Secretary of the Cleveland Society; Financial Director of the Polish National Alliance Group #171; and Treasurer of the Tremont Residence Service Corporation. He has been named a Knight of Pulaski by the Polonia Foundation of Ohio and was awarded the Miecze Hallerowskie Medal by the Polish Army Veterans Kosciuszko Post 152. He is also an active parishioner at St. John Cantius Catholic Church. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of Mr. Frank L. Kowalski, Jr., whose tireless devotion to the Polish- American community has been an inspiration to many. I offer Mr. Kowalski my sincerest congratulations.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of Sri Karunamayi Amma, a Hindu spiritual leader who has devoted her life to peace, unity, compassion, and respect for all life forms. Sri Karunamayi will be visiting Cleveland during her 17th World Tour at the end of May. Sri Karunamayi, known as ``Amma,'' the Telugu word for ``mother'' by her followers, was born in South India in 1958. From an early age, her compassion for the less fortunate and her insights into ancient Sanskrit spiritual teachings and prayers were noted by her family and learned spiritual scholars alike. At the age of 21, Sri Karunamayi travelled to the sacred Penusila Forest, where she lived a life of strict asceticism, meditation, and study of ancient Vedic texts for ten years. At this time, she decided it was time to share her knowledge with the rest of the world. Since emerging from the Penusila Forest, Sri Karunamayi Amma has devoted her life to charity works and teaching. She has founded two free elementary schools, a free college, a free hospital, mobile medical clinics, emergency relief programs, food and clothing donation programs, and free housing programs, all to allow the impoverished people of her native India to live better lives. She has also travelled the world, sharing her blessings, teachings, and quest for peace, hope, and emotional healing with thousands of people. Sri Karunamayi Amma teaches that ``we should realize the great opportunity we have as human beings to cultivate inner beauty, offer ourselves in service to the entire universe, and ultimately attain spiritual liberation.'' Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of Sri Karunamayi Amma, whose charitable works and spiritual guidance have inspired countless people around the world. I extend my personal thanks to Sri Karunamayi for sharing her message with the people of northeast Ohio.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Mr. Frank H. Gauthan of Cleveland, Ohio, who will be celebrating his 90th birthday on May 14. Mr. Gauthan bravely served his country and the citizens of Cleveland with honor and distinction. Mr. Gauthan began his life of public service as a member of the 5th Division of the Marine Corps during World War II. Stationed in the South Pacific, he fought in the battles of Iwo Jima and Guam. Following the war, Mr. Gauthan served with the Cleveland Police Department for 31 years. He was promoted to the rank of detective, and served in the narcotics division of the Cleveland Police Department. As an experienced narcotics officer, he was crucial in the establishment of the narcotics department of the Cuyahoga County Sherriff's Department. Mr. Gauthan played a crucial role in the development of a new county-wide office to aid in the fight against narcotics. Mr. Gauthan is an active member of the Retired Irish Police Society (RIPS), Westside Irish American Club, and Veterans of Foreign Wars Chapter 1079. He also volunteers with Meals on Wheels and has been an active volunteer with the Democratic Party. In addition, Mr. Gauthan is an avid golfer and bowler, and has garnered many awards and trophies throughout the years. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in wishing Mr. Frank H. Gauthan a very happy 90th birthday.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Bishop Emeritus Anthony M. Pilla, the 2011 recipient of the Shrine Church of St. Stanislaus' Four Eagles Award. Bishop Pilla is being honored for his many years of service and commitment to the Saint Stanislaus community. Bishop Anthony Pilla was born in Cleveland on November 12, 1932. He attended John Carroll University and went on to be ordained a Catholic Priest within the Cleveland Diocese in 1959. On June 30, 1979, Pope John Paul II named him Auxiliary Bishop of Cleveland. In 1980, he was named Apostolic Administrator of the Cleveland Diocese, and became the ninth Bishop of Cleveland on January 6, 1981. He was elected president of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops in 1995 and served in that position for three years. He served as Bishop until his retirement in 2006. Bishop Anthony Pilla is being honored for his outstanding record of dedication to the Shrine Church of St. Stanislaus in Cleveland, Ohio. As Bishop of Cleveland, he advised Fr. William Gulas regarding the Church's renovations. He was responsible for achieving the Church's status as a shrine, thus opening the doors to thousands of visitors. He was instrumental in expanding Cleveland Central Catholic High School, which is located on St. Stanislaus Church's campus, and worked with community members on countless development and revitalization efforts. Even since his retirement, he has remained an active member of the St. Stanislaus community. For these reasons, the St. Stanislaus community is awarding Bishop Emeritus Anthony Pilla the Four Eagle Award, named for the legendary four eagles that protected the body of the martyred St. Stanislaus. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of Bishop Emeritus Anthony M. Pilla as he receives the Four Eagles Award for his devotion and dedication to the parish and community of the Shrine Church of St. Stanislaus in Cleveland, Ohio.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of Mr. Robert M. Foulkrod, a writer, life coach, and spiritual awakening researcher who passed away on May 2, 2011. Mr. Foulkrod was born on May 8, 1924 in State College, Pennsylvania. He eventually moved to Dover, New Hampshire where he attended high school. After high school, Robert served with the U.S. Army, climbing the ranks from private to sergeant. He later earned his bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering at University of New Hampshire in 1961. Upon completing his education, Robert again joined the armed forces and served with the U.S. Air Force as a lieutenant performing research on aircraft armament systems. Robert had very successful careers in electronic engineering and career counseling. As a mechanical engineering section manager with Sanders Associates, Inc., Mr. Foulkrod researched, designed and produced several new technologies and systems. During his tenure as an electronic engineer Robert was a member of the Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. After years as an electronic engineer, Robert changed careers and began working for Honeywell Computer Company as their hospital systems marketing manager. As marketing manager, he developed and performed inspirational training to hospital computer systems salespeople. Later, Mr. Foulkrod would work as a career change counselor with Bernard Haldane Associates. He served as a personal coach to people aspiring to change career paths. In addition to his influence as a counselor, Mr. Foulkrod was a revered researcher in spiritual awakening. He dedicated years of his life to research and published several articles with the United States Psychotronics Association. He also authored a number of books on the subject including Visit Boosting Friends and The Game of Awakening. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in remembrance of Mr. Robert M. Foulkrod, who served the country bravely and inspired many throughout his life. I offer my condolences to his life partner, Barbara Hero, three children, family, and friends.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Poles, Polish- Americans and the Honorable Ambassador from Poland, Robert Kupiecki, and his wife, Malgorzata Kupiecki, on the occasion of Polish Constitution Day, celebrated on May 3, 2011. Polish Constitution Day is a day when people of all cultures join with the people of Poland to celebrate the rich culture, traditions and history of Poland. After almost five centuries of struggle and perseverance, the Governmental Statute of Poland became the first written constitution in Europe on May 3, 1791. The Polish Constitution established the separation of government powers, freedom of religion, and abolished elements of serfdom, all of these are key elements of freedom and democracy. The Polish American Congress strives to make Americans of Polish heritage more successful and involved U.S. citizens by encouraging them to assume the responsibilities of leadership. Since its foundation over sixty years ago, the group has created programs to successfully integrate people of Polish decent in the U.S. and enrich Cleveland's social fabric. These programs include the Displaced Persons Program, which allowed almost 150,000 Polish immigrants to enter the U.S. after World War Two. The group also won American veterans benefits for Polish Veterans of both World War One and World War Two. The Polish American Congress has played a crucial role in the Polish Community, and in its many years of support and service has been an invaluable contribution to the City of Cleveland and this nation. This year, the Greater Cleveland Community can celebrate Poland's rich history and culture by joining Cleveland's Polish community in attending events such as the Polonia Ball, the Grand Parade and the Photographic Exhibition. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me today, Polish Constitution Day, in honoring the struggles, courage and triumphs of the people of Poland and honoring all people of Polish descent. Through their successive struggles for freedom, the people of Poland have given the world hope.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Mr. Brent Larkin, a lifelong resident of Cleveland who is being recognized as Voices of Ohio's Children's 2011 Champion for Children. Mr. Larkin was born and raised in the greater Cleveland area. He graduated from Brush High School and went on to Ohio University, where he received a degree in journalism in 1969. Soon after graduating, he became a reporter for the Cleveland Press, thus beginning an illustrious career. In 1981, Larkin began working for the Cleveland Plain Dealer, and in 1991, he was named head of the Plain Dealer's opinion page. As head of the opinion page, he wrote many thoughtful editorials addressing the concerns of children within the social welfare and juvenile justice system. He was inducted into the Cleveland Press Club Hall of Fame in 2002. In addition to his newspaper career, Brent Larkin has long been an advocate for young people. He has worked to raise awareness of the importance of early childhood programs and services. He has also served as a volunteer with Invest in Children, Cuyahoga County's initiative to promote investment in and support of children through programs such as Home Visiting, Early Literacy, Healthy Start Outreach, Universal Pre- Kindergarten, and Special Needs Child Care. It is this dedication to the young people of his community that has prompted Voices for Ohio's Children to name him 2011 Champion for Children. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of Mr. Brent Larkin, a distinguished journalist dedicated to improving the lives of children within his community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of the life of David Broder, who was a great servant and patriot to this country. Mr. Broder was born in Chicago Heights, Illinois in 1929. He received his bachelor's degree in liberal arts and soon began writing for two prominent newspapers, The Chicago Maroon and the Hyde Park Herald. By 1960, he was writing for the New York Times covering the presidential race between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon. He soon took a job writing for the Washington Post, where he remained for more than 40 years. Throughout his career, Mr. Broder achieved many milestones and was recognized for his superb skills in the art of journalism. He won a Pulitzer Prize in 1973 for his political commentary and was the recipient of the 4th Estate Award from the National Press Club in 1988. He was honored by Washingtonian Magazine as one of the best 50 journalists in both 2005 and 2009. Mr. Broder boasted the most appearances for a journalist on Meet the Press with over 400 since 1963. Though David, unfortunately, left us one month ago, he will always remain in our memories because of his work and service covering the issues that matter most to this country. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in remembering the life of David Broder and his devotion to uncovering the truth. David was truly a remarkable individual and a phenomenal asset to all of us here in Washington and around the world.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Lieutenant Nick DiMarco of the Garfield Heights Police Department and his well-deserved retirement. As a long-serving officer of the law, and the founder of the acclaimed Shop with a Cop Program, Lt. DiMarco has served the people of the greater Cleveland area with honor and professionalism. Lt. Nick DiMarco was appointed to the Garfield Heights Police Department in 1966. On February 1st, 1986, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant, and on January 11th, 1990, he rose to the rank of Lieutenant. After 45 years of service, Lt. DiMarco retired from a long career of serving the public on February 16th, 2011. Besides serving valiantly as an officer of the law for so many years, Lt. DiMarco also established the Shop with a Cop Program in 1995. The program, which occurs annually during the holiday season, raises money to purchase gifts for underprivileged children. On the day of the event, children are escorted to a major retail store via a police- accompanied motorcade and allocated $120 to shop. Each child is accompanied by a police officer from the various participating departments. The program, now in its 15th year, has helped over 1,000 children in the greater Cleveland area, and involves officers from 17 police departments who volunteer their time to share the holiday spirit with those less fortunate. This past year, the program raised $38,900; 391 children participated. In addition to his dedicated career with the Garfield Heights Police Department, Lt. Nick DiMarco served as the President of the Fraternal Order of the Police of Ohio from 1990 to 2011, where he fought to protect the rights and privileges of law enforcement officers in Ohio. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring Lt. Nick DiMarco's long career of public service and civic virtue.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Leslie L. Megyeri, who is being honored by the American Hungarian Foundation. Leslie will be the recipient of the Abraham Lincoln award for his courageous actions during the 1956 Hungarian Revolution. During Mr. Megyeri's adolescence he read the great Hungarian poet Petofi, whose words he took to heart. These words were: ``Stand up Hungarians--Your Country is calling, the question is do you want to be a slave or free?'' Although he was only a teenager at the time, on October 23rd, 1956, he followed his father and took up arms against the Communists in power. However, the Soviets arrived to support the now collapsed Hungarian Communist government against the revolutionaries. He was one of 10,000 Hungarian freedom fighters who fought to defend his homeland; they were overwhelmed and Mr. Megyeri was driven into Austria. Following the 1956 Hungarian Revolution Mr. Megyeri emigrated to the United States and embraced freedom with open arms. He attained his extension education at several American universities and worked numerous jobs. Throughout his long career he has worked as an attorney for the Federal Aviation Administration, an audit manager for the Government Accountability Office, and on several congressional committee staffs. After spending several years practicing private law, in 2003, Mr. Megyeri began his tenure as President of the Hungarian Reformed Federation of America. Among other noteworthy achievements, Leslie has received the Gold Cross of Merit from the President of Hungary for his involvement in assisting Hungary in their efforts to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring an outstanding individual who has committed himself toward the cause of freedom and liberty.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Cedric Thorbes, a young man who has displayed outstanding leadership. Mr. Thorbes has been named 2011's Youth Champion by Voices for Ohio's Children. Cedric Thorbes was born in Liberal, Kansas and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. He is currently a senior at Glenville High School, where he is a merit-roll student and President of his senior class. Outside of school, Mr. Thorbes can often be found giving back to his community. He currently serves as the President of the Cleveland NAACP Youth Council, Chapter President of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and the Youth President of the Brotherhood, Respect, Intelligence, Conduct, and Knowledge (BRICK) program. Cedric has also served as a leadership ambassador for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. Cedric has been recognized by the Cleveland community for his service and was the recipient of this year's Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Service Award. Cedric was also recently awarded a $25,000 scholarship after participating in the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage's ``Stop the Hate! Youth Speak Out'' essay contest. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honoring Mr. Cedric Thorbes for his unwavering dedication to leadership in his community and being named 2011's Youth Champion. I wish him the best in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance and recognition of the 36th Anniversary of the Fall of Saigon. This historical date commemorates the end of the Vietnam War, and represents the beginning of a new life for tens of thousands of Vietnamese people, as they began their hopeful journey to America. On April 30, 1975, the ancient city of Saigon fell to the conquest of communist troops. This action solidified the communist takeover of South Vietnam. Thirty-six years later, I rise to honor the memory and sacrifice of the hundreds of thousands of South Vietnamese soldiers, American soldiers and civilians who made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of liberty. Despite the violent takeover and the rule of repression that followed, the culture, spirit and hope reflected by the Vietnamese people remained steadfast. After the fall of Saigon, thousands of Vietnamese, determined to rebuild their lives, began a treacherous exodus out of Vietnam. Their daring escape was on foot, through thick jungles and over jagged mountains. They escaped by boat, through snake- infested rivers and across turbulent seas. They became refugees in many nations, including America, with nothing more than the clothes on their backs and the hope for freedom in their hearts. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honoring and remembering the hundreds of thousands of men and women who struggle for peace and freedom, then and now. We also honor agencies and churches such as The Vietnamese Community of Greater Cleveland and St. Helena Catholic Church, which offer havens of support, services and hope to immigrants from all over the world. The Vietnamese culture, through the care and commitment of its people, has flourished in Cleveland and across America, yet remains forever connected to its ancient cultural and historical traditions that spiral back throughout the centuries, connecting the old world to the new, spanning oceans and borders in the ageless quest for peace--from Vietnam to America.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of the Earth Day Coalition of Cleveland, as they celebrate EarthFest 2011 on April 17, 2011--a date that also commemorates the 22nd annual celebration of EarthFest in Cleveland, Ohio. Cleveland's Earth Day Coalition was formed in 1990 to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of Earth Day in Ohio. EarthFest is now Ohio's largest environmental educational event and the longest running Earth Day celebration in the nation. I stand in recognition of the staff and volunteers of the Earth Day Coalition for all their effort and dedication in creating such an innovative, exciting and educational event for the Greater Cleveland community to enjoy. This year, EarthFest's theme is ``Climate Change Solutions.'' Over 175 environmental exhibits are expected from environmental and community organizations, government entities and businesses. EarthFest is just one of Earth Day Coalition's many nationally-recognized programs and promises once again to be a significant aspect of the world celebration of Earth Day. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of the staff, volunteers, and members of the Earth Day Coalition as we celebrate EarthFest 2011 on April 17, 2011. EarthFest 2011 promises to educate, inspire and motivate all of us to join together as a community and work toward a more healthy Earth for future generations.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio. The Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio (AIPNO) is a non-profit organization that was founded in 1983, with the mission of using its united resources and knowledge for the welfare and healthier living of the community that they serve. The organization hosts bi- annual Health-Fairs where member physicians volunteer their time and skills to those of the community free of charge. Their continued service to both the nation and the state of Ohio exemplify responsibility and civic virtue. In addition to their health fairs, the Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio is a supporter of medical camps in India, such as the Medical and Surgical Camp of Bidada Sarvodaya Trust in Kachchh. These camps provide medical and surgical treatment to over 1200 villages and impoverished areas. The Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio runs various continuing education and learning programs for its members and students. The organization also has its own medical journal, AIPNO Pulse, and provides medical advice to residents of Northern Ohio through their contributions to Lotus, a community publication. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor of the Association of Indian Physicians of Northern Ohio, which works to unite Indian physicians in order to achieve their mission of providing their combined skills and knowledge for the betterment of Ohio and service to the community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of James Simone, a police officer with the City of Cleveland, who has announced his retirement from the Cleveland Police Department after 38 years of service. Mr. James ``Supercop'' Simone has served with the Cleveland Police Department for 38 years. He is well known for some of the more dramatic duties he has performed as an officer of the law, such as chasing down and stopping a bank robber, or jumping into the frozen Cuyahoga River to save a woman's life. His commander, Keith Sulzer, stated that ``In his 38 years of police service he has been a shining example of a crime fighter, a man unwavered by public opinion and politics, a man whose honor and integrity has always been above reproach. Officer Jim Simone's name will forever be spoken with reverence and the utmost respect by his fellow police officers and good citizens of the City of Cleveland.'' Mr. Simone graduated from Lakewood High School in 1966 and went on to join the United States Army's 101st Airborne Division. He served as a sergeant and received the Bronze Star for Valor, the Bronze Star for Meritorious Services, two Purple Hearts for wounds received in combat, and various other medals and ribbons commemorating his service in the military. In 1973, Mr. Simone joined the Cleveland Police Department where he has served in various districts under various roles, including basic patrol, detective, SWAT, and Senior Traffic Enforcement Officer. He has been awarded countless accommodations and honors which include 2010's Police Officer of the Year, and a Medal of Valor for his service. In addition, he was honored by Mothers Against Drunk Driving for issuing dozens of citations and working to keep the streets clear of reckless and intoxicated drivers. Mr. Simone has also been an avid lecturer and instructor at various Cleveland schools and universities, including John Marshall Law School, Cuyahoga Community College, Case Western Reserve University, Lorain Community College Police Academy and SEALE Police Shooting Warrior Mind Set. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring Mr. James ``Supercop'' Simone, as he retires after 38 years from a long and distinguished career as a protector and hero of Cleveland.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of Jerzy J. Maciuszko, a loving father, husband, friend and scholar. His passion for literature and Polish history will benefit the world and those that knew him. A librarian and historian, Mr. Maciuszko served as the head librarian of the Baldwin-Wallace College's Ritter Library and the Cleveland Public Library's special collections department. He was a devoted educator and chaired the Slavic and Modern Languages department at the Alliance College in Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania. In 1913, Mr. Maciuszko was born in Warsaw, Poland, where he graduated from the University of Warsaw with a bachelor's degree in English. He taught English at a high school in Warsaw until 1939. Upon Germany's occupation of Poland, Jerzy was captured and spent six years in a prisoner's camp. He made the best of his situation by playing violin in the camp orchestra and writing a short story, which took top honors in a contest held by the International YMCA. Mr. Maciuszko escaped the camp and became a liaison officer for the U.S. Army, where he helped Poles find homes outside their occupied country. When the war ended, he moved to England, where he inspected Polish schools for the British government. In 1951, he moved to Pennsylvania and began teaching at Alliance College. Although he moved to Cleveland soon after, he returned to Pennsylvania in 1969 and became the chair of the Slavic and Modern Languages department and created an exchange program between Alliance College and Jagiellonian University in Krakow. When he moved to Cleveland, he joined the Public Library's Foreign Language department, rising in the ranks to direct all of the library's special collections. While he was in Cleveland, he also earned a doctoral degree in library sciences at Case Western Reserve University and taught there as a professor. With his collaborative efforts, Case Western Reserve started their ethnic collection. In 1974, he moved to Berea, where he led Baldwin Wallace College's Ritter Library. In addition to all of his achievements throughout his long career, Mr. Maciuszko was awarded many honors, including an Officers' Cross of the Order of Merit from the Polish President Lech Walesa; a Polish Heritage Award from the Cleveland Society of Poles; an Eagle Trophy from the American Nationalities Movement; and a ``Man of the Year'' award from the American Biographical Institute. Mr. Maciuszko was also a prolific writer, and wrote many pieces on Polish history, including ``The Polish Short Story in English: A Guide and Critical Bibliography,'' a monograph on the Polish Institute of America as well as chapters for various encyclopedias. He recently finished a manuscript entitled ``Poles Apart: The Tragic Fate of Poles During World War II.'' Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in remembering Mr. Jerzy J. Maciuszko, whose passion for history and sharing knowledge will live on for generations to come.