Dennis Kucinich

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, an op-ed in the April 19, 2012 Wall Street Journal by Mark Spitznagel explains how the Federal Reserve's monetary easing program, in place since the financial crisis of 2008, has continued the massive transfer of wealth from the Middle Class directly to the richest. [From the Wall Street Journal, Apr. 19, 2012] How the Fed Favors The 1% (By Mark Spitznagel) A major issue in this year's presidential campaign is the growing disparity between rich and poor, the 1% versus the 99%. While the president's solutions differ from those of his likely Republican opponent, they both ignore a principal source of this growing disparity. The source is not runaway entrepreneurial capitalism, which rewards those who best serve the consumer in product and price. (Would we really want it any other way?) There is another force that has turned a natural divide into a chasm: the Federal Reserve. The relentless expansion of credit by the Fed creates artificial disparities based on political privilege and economic power. David Hume, the 18th-century Scottish philosopher, pointed out that when money is inserted into the economy (from a government printing press or, as in Hume's time, the importation of gold and silver), it is not distributed evenly but ``confined to the coffers of a few persons, who immediately seek to employ it to advantage.'' In the 20th century, the economists of the Austrian school built upon this fact as their central monetary tenet. Ludwig von Mises and his students demonstrated how an increase in money supply is beneficial to those who get it first and is detrimental to those who get it last. Monetary inflation is a process, not a static effect. To think of it only in terms of aggregate price levels (which is all Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke seems capable of) is to ignore this pernicious process and the imbalance and economic dislocation that it creates. As Mises protege Murray Rothbard explained, monetary inflation is akin to counterfeiting, which necessitates that some benefit and others don't. After all, if everyone counterfeited in proportion to their wealth, there would be no real economic benefit to anyone. Similarly, the expansion of credit is uneven in the economy, which results in wealth redistribution. To borrow a visual from another Mises student, Friedrich von Hayek, the Fed's money creation does not flow evenly like water into a tank, but rather oozes like honey into a saucer, dolloping one area first and only then very slowly dribbling to the rest. The Fed doesn't expand the money supply by uniformly dropping cash from helicopters over the hapless masses. Rather, it directs capital transfers to the largest banks (whether by overpaying them for their financial assets or by lending to them on the cheap), minimizes their borrowing costs, and lowers their reserve requirements. All of these actions result in immediate handouts to the financial elite first, with the hope that they will subsequently unleash this fresh capital onto the unsuspecting markets, raising demand and prices wherever they do. The Fed, having gone on an unprecedented credit expansion spree, has benefited the recipients who were first in line at the trough: banks (imagine borrowing for free and then buying up assets that you know the Fed is aggressively buying with you) and those favored entities and individuals deemed most creditworthy. Flush with capital, these recipients have proceeded to bid up the prices of assets and resources, while everyone else has watched their purchasing power decline. At some point, of course, the honey flow stops--but not before much malinvestment. Such malinvestment is precisely what we saw in the historic 1990s equity and subsequent real- estate bubbles (and what we're likely seeing again today in overheated credit and equity markets), culminating in painful liquidation. The Fed is transferring immense wealth from the middle class to the most affluent, from the least privileged to the most privileged. This coercive redistribution has been a far more egregious source of disparity than the president's presumption of tax unfairness (if there is anything unfair about approximately half of a population paying zero income taxes) or deregulation. Pitting economic classes against each other is a divisive tactic that benefits no one. Yet if there is any upside, it is perhaps a closer examination of the true causes of the problem. Before we start down the path of arguing about the merits of redistributing wealth to benefit the many, why not first stop redistributing it to the most privileged?

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to H.R. 4628: the Interest Rate Reduction Act. Congress has a unique opportunity to prevent the scheduled doubling of student loan interest rates before July. Our failure to act will have debilitating effects on millions of Americans. Rather than serve as an obstacle to students wishing to further their education, Congress should work to make college accessible to all. Yet Congress is standing in the way by considering legislation that would pay for the extension of the interest rate reduction by repealing the Prevention and Public Health Fund, which funds essential health services for millions of Americans, including women and children. There is another sensible and responsible way to pay for keeping student loan rates low: end tax subsidies for big oil companies. Young, educated Americans begin their adult lives financially strapped. Not only do these recent graduates have debt, they also have some of the greatest difficulty finding gainful employment. Recent college graduates have a higher unemployment rate than any other demographic group in the country. Sixty-six percent of students graduating from college today are leaving with student loan debt. On average, those students graduate with $25,000 in debt. The total amount of student loan debt in this country is more than $1 trillion dollars. If we do not pass a measure that extends the reduced interest rate on student loans, more than 7 million students' rates will double to 6.8 percent. Students who borrow the maximum in subsidized student loans will pay up to an additional $1,000 in interest costs. It is our responsibility to give these students a chance to earn a quality education without the strings of unmanageable debt. There is little profit to be had from trying to prevent diseases from occurring in the first place, which means pharmaceutical companies and others who profit from efforts to treat and cure diseases will not pay for such efforts. If we want to prevent cancer, the spread of HIV, outbreaks of West Nile Virus, and protect mothers and babies from tobacco; if we want to promote better nutrition, birth defect reduction, preparedness for bioterrorism, and breast and cervical cancer screenings; if we want to protect our children from lead in our homes and yards, the childhood obesity epidemic, and otherwise invisible clusters of chronic diseases like Multiple Sclerosis, we have to fund these programs ourselves. The Prevention and Public Health Fund must be protected as a measure of self-protection. This bill repeals the Prevention and Public Health Fund. I cannot support this bill.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Mr. Jim Schlecht, who is being recognized for his work serving the homeless. Born and raised in Euclid, Ohio, Jim has been a lifelong Cleveland area resident. While attending Cleveland State University, he and a group of progressive Catholics joined together at Merton Community's Houses of Hospitality in Cleveland's Near West Side neighborhood to begin serving the community's less fortunate. Throughout the years, Jim has become one of Ohio City's most well- known residents. He has worked to establish health centers, schools, book stores, social service agencies and community organizations, such as Near West Neighbors in Action, which cater to the homeless. He has also worked at the Rose Mary Center, West Side Community House, West Side Catholic Center and currently, Care Alliance. Because of his relentless work to support those in need, today, at the Bishop Cosgrove Center, the Cleveland Tenants Organization and the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless are coming together to honor his lifetime of service. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in congratulating Mr. Jim Schlecht. His faith has guided him into a life of service which is unparalleled.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Nancy Doutt and to acknowledge her receipt of the 2012 Grindstone Award by the Berea Chamber of Commerce. Nancy has dedicated her life to her community through volunteerism. A lifelong resident of Berea, Nancy was an active member of 4 H and graduated from Berea High School in 1976. Today, Nancy is married to Steve. She works at Medical Mutual and is a member of the New Century Beatniks. As a young child, her parents ingrained a sense of selflessness in Nancy that has translated into a lifelong commitment to her community. She is an active member of the American Legion Post 91 Auxiliary and Auxiliary Color Guard. She is involved with St. Mary's Church, where she is a member of the choir and a Eucharistic Minister. Additionally, Nancy spends countless hours as a volunteer with Berea Arts Fest, Southwest General Health Center's Community Outreach Program and the Berea Children's Home. She is fundamental in the work done by Coats for Kids, Dress for Success, Pajama Walk and the Hand-to-Hand leaf raking projects. Nancy also personally participates in Relay for Life, Pedal to the Point, numerous walk-a-thons and has donated more than 18 gallons of blood to the Red Cross. Because of her relentless work on behalf of her community, the City of Berea honored Nancy with the 2012 Spirit of Community Award. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in congratulating Nancy Doutt as she is honored by the Berea Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Tamburitzans, a group which has been promoting Eastern European arts and culture for 75 years. Established by Dr. A. Lester Pierce in 1937, the Tamburitzans are a multicultural song and dance group. The group consists of students of Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Duquesne University Tamburitzans are dedicated to preserving and perpetuating the cultural heritage of Eastern Europe and its neighbors through performance, while awarding scholarships to talented and deserving student performers. The Duquesne University Tamburitzans have grown from an original group of 12 men to today's company of more than three dozen performers. Since 1988, the Tamburitzans have been under the direction of Mr. Paul Stafura, a former member of the Tamburitzans during the late 1960s. Each year, the Tamburitzans travel throughout the United States to put on an average of 80 concerts. They have also held concerts in numerous Latin American countries, Canada, Bulgaria, France, Italy, Poland, Romania, the former Czechoslovakia, Soviet Union and Yugoslavia. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in recognition of the Duquesne University Tamburitzans, the longest-running live stage show of its kind in the United States.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of Mrs. Ida Cook-Crowder, a long-time member of the Greater Cleveland community. Born on April 8, 1930, in Marshville, North Carolina, Ida was the daughter of Raymond and Annie Belle Hailey. She moved to Cleveland, Ohio, after graduating from high school. Upon moving to Cleveland, Ida met and married Army Master Sergeant James Cook. Together, the couple has two daughters, Patricia and Paula. Because of James' career, the family often traveled to places such as Germany, France, Japan and Korea. Twelve years after the tragic passing of Mr. Cook, Ida remarried the Reverend Dr. Roland Crowder of Cleveland's Second Calvary Missionary Baptist Church. Ida was a skilled seamstress who attended the Clark School of Dressmaking and Cuyahoga Community College, from which she earned an associate degree in decorating. She was well known throughout the Greater Cleveland area for her ability to design draperies. She ran her business under the name of ``Ida's Draperies.'' I offer my condolences to her family and friends at the Second Calvary Missionary Baptist Church. Ida's spirit and kindness will be missed by all those who had the pleasure of meeting her. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring Mrs. Ida Cook- Crowder.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of the Earth Day Coalition of Cleveland, as they celebrate EarthFest 2012 on April 22, 2012--a date that also commemorates the 23rd 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 ``Year of Local and Sustainable Food.'' 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 2012 on April 22, 2012 at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and The RainForest. EarthFest 2012 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 to honor Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court Judge Peter M. Sikora. Born on December 11, 1951, Judge Sikora was a lifelong Clevelander. He attended St. Ignatius High School where he ran track, cross country and played on the hockey team. Tragically, at the age of 17, Judge Sikora suffered a life altering trampoline accident that left him in a wheelchair. However, he was able to overcome his injury and have a successful career as a judge. After earning an associate's degree from Cuyahoga Community College and graduating as valedictorian from Baldwin-Wallace College, Judge Sikora earned his law degree from Case Western Reserve University. He went on to serve as deputy legal counsel for Governor Celeste in the mid-1980s before becoming deputy director and general counsel to the Ohio Department of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities. In 1989, former Governor Celeste appointed Judge Sikora to the Cuyahoga Juvenile Court where he continued to be re-elected for consecutive terms until his passing. He was the most veteran judge at the Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court. In addition to his service, Judge Sikora was a dedicated and active member of the Greater Cleveland community. He was a board member for the Cleveland Ballet, International Services Center, Health Hill Hospital for Children and MetroHealth Rehabilitation Institute of Ohio. I offer my condolences to his sister, Linda Baxendale; nieces and nephews, Nathan (Sara), Jared (Ashley), Aaron (Suzanne), Leah, Molly, Claire, Ava, Hatcher, Briley, Mary Grace and Jack; his caregiver, Jean Foutz and his court staff. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring Judge Peter Sikora, who dedicated his life to serving the Greater Cleveland community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Chair, the transportation infrastructure needs of our nation are urgent and unprecedentedly large. Addressing those needs must be at the center of our economic recovery. This transportation bill does not address those needs. Instead, it forces approval of the Keystone XL Pipeline, which will undermine the recovery by driving up gas prices across the U.S., with the largest increases in Midwestern states like Ohio. This is not just my conclusion. That is what TransCanada, the company that wants to build the Keystone XL Pipeline, told the Canadian government in its permit application. Canadian oil companies will be able to use the Keystone XL pipeline to increase America's fuel bill by up to 4 billion dollars per year, by reducing the supply of Canadian crude to Midwest refineries and by re-routing that crude around its current delivery point in Cushing, Oklahoma and on to Gulf Coast refineries. Through manipulation of U.S. oil markets, the Keystone XL Pipeline will increase U.S. gas prices by 10 to 20 cents per gallon across the U.S., according to energy economist Philip Verleger. The greatest price increase will occur in 15 Midwest states (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Wisconsin). Adding insult to financial injury, oil from the pipeline will be sold overseas instead of being used to reduce our dependence on foreign oil. The bill's $4 billion gift to the oil industry, which already gets tens of billions of dollars every year in subsidies, comes only one day after the President announced efforts to try to rein in gas prices and the excesses of the oil industry. We should be considering either an unencumbered motion to go to conference or the Senate's transportation package, which passed with an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 74 22.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and honor Rabbi Alan B. Lettofsky who is retiring from Beth Israel--The West Temple in Cleveland in Ohio's 10th Congressional District. Affiliated with Judaism's Reform Movement, Beth Israel serves the Jewish Community of Cleveland's west side and western suburbs and is the only synagogue geographically located in the City of Cleveland. Beth Israel's roots go back to 1910 when the West Side Jewish Center was founded on Cleveland's Near West Side. It merged with Beth Israel in 1957 to form Beth Israel--The West Temple. Born and bred in Cleveland, Alan Lettofsky was educated at Brandeis University, the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, the Jewish Theological Seminary of America, and Yale University. He serves Beth Israel--The West Temple as their part-time rabbi while also teaching Modern Hebrew and Jewish History at Kent State University. He was Associate Professor at the Siegal College of Judaic Studies and at Case Western Reserve University for several years. He has taught in the Religion Department at John Carroll University. Rabbi Lettofsky started his career as Visiting Professor at the Seminario Rabinico Latinoamericano in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and then taught for three years in the Department of Religious Studies at the University of Virginia. Throughout most of his professional career, Rabbi Lettofsky worked for Hillel, the Jewish campus ministry--for ten years as the director of Hillel at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and for 13 years as the Regional Director of Hillel in Northeastern Ohio. Dedicated to egalitarianism and self-empowerment in Jewish communal prayer and fellowship, Rabbi Lettofsky co-founded and actively participated in the Library Minyan which met in the library of Congregation Beth Am in Cleveland Heights in the 1980s and 90s. In recent years, Rabbi Lettofsky has been a member of a small committee of the Rabbinical Assembly that is preparing a new High Holy Day prayerbook for Judaism's Conservative Movement. In the early 1990s, Rabbi Lettofsky was one of 12 rabbis who served on the Commission on Human Sexuality of the Rabbinical Assembly. That Commission issued a Rabbinic Letter on Intimate Relations, entitled ``This Is My Beloved, This Is My Friend.'' I was pleased to know Rabbi Lettofsky in 2000 when other civic leaders and I worked to stop the shutdown of several hospitals in the greater Cleveland area. Rabbi Lettofsky spoke out with religious leaders of a wide diversity of faiths to stress the spiritual importance of healing the sick and making health care available to all. Rabbi Lettofsky continues to serve as part-time chaplain at Hillcrest Hospital in Mayfield Heights on behalf of the Jewish Federation of Cleveland. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, I am pleased to honor Rabbi Lettofsky and thank him for his many years of dedication and service to the community. I wish him, his wife of more than 40 years, Jean Loeb Lettofsky, and their three children and five grandchildren, many happy and healthy years to enjoy his retirement and for continued service to the people.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Mr. George B. Sobieraj, a gentleman whose dedication to the Polish-American community of Cleveland has led the Cleveland Society of Poles Foundation to name him the 2012 recipient of the ``Good Joe'' Award. Mr. Sobieraj was born and raised in the St. Hyacinth area of Cleveland. He graduated from the University of Dayton with a degree in Business Management. He has since been a successful entrepreneur and venture capitalist. In 1980, George founded Rubber City Machinery Corporation in Akron, Ohio and is the only certified appraiser of rubber machinery in the U.S. Many organizations within the Polish-American community in the Greater Cleveland area have benefitted from Mr. Sobieraj's leadership. He serves as Vice President of the Polish American Cultural Center and Union of Poles in America Group 33. He is a member of the Kosciuszko Foundation, a finance committee member for St. John Cantius Church and a member of the boards of trustees of the Polonia Foundation and the Cleveland Society of Poles, of which he is also a past president. Mr. Sobieraj is responsible for Polish Night at the annual ``Polish Open'' golf tournament at Progressive Field. Mr. Sobieraj has also been honored many times throughout his life for his service to the Polish community. Among his many awards, George is the recipient of the Polish Heritage Award and was the Honoree of the Ohio Chapter of the Kosciuszko Foundation in 2011. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of Mr. George B. Sobieraj, whose tireless devotion to the Polish- American community has been an inspiration to many.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Greek Independence Day as people of Greek heritage around the world gather to remember and celebrate those who partook in the heroic struggle for freedom. On March 25th people around the world will celebrate Greek Independence Day which commemorates the beginning of the Greek War of Independence. For four hundred years the Ottoman Empire had controlled Greece and attempted to suppress Greek language, culture, and religion. In 1821, behind the leadership of Bishop Germanos of Patras, the citizens of Greece began their long and difficult fight for liberty. After nine long years, the Greeks eventually won the freedom they had previously been denied. The Bishop also chose March 25th as the annual celebration of The Annunciation of the Mother Christ. This year marks the 12th Annual Greek Independence Day Parade for the Northeast Ohio Greek American Celebration. The parade will be led by Father Dean Dimon of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church and other area clergy members. The celebration will include local Greek dance groups and a church service. Mr. Speaker and colleagues please join me in recognizing the anniversary of Greek Independence, and wish the Greek Americans in Northeast Ohio a joyous celebration.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of Mr. Earl Nolan, an active member of and asset to the Northeast Ohio community. Born on December 15, 1931, Earl served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict and had been a member of the Disabled American Veterans. He was employed by the U.S. Postal Service for over 30 years as a General Mechanic performing repair work on the post office buildings and mailboxes in the Cleveland District. The U.S. Postal Service provided him training at the University of Oklahoma where he earned a technician certificate in heating, ventilating and air conditioning. Earl was a longtime member of the Cleveland Ward 19 Democratic Club. He also volunteered for over 20 years with the Cleveland Police Auxiliary to help keep his West Park neighborhood safe for all fellow residents. I offer my condolences to his beloved wife, the late Joanne (Pease); loving children Janet (Ray) Sirbaugh, Kathy A., and the late Carolyn J. Nolan; grandchildren Courtney and Tim; siblings Clarence, the late Agnes Matei, Robert and Raymond; as well as his many nieces and nephews. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring the life of Mr. Earl Nolan.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of Kevin O'Donnell. Kevin O'Donnell was born in Cleveland, Ohio in 1925 and attended West High School and Kenyon College before joining the U.S. Navy Supply Corps during World War II. After returning home from the war, he attended Harvard University and established himself as a businessman, working for SIFCO and Booz, Allen, Hamilton. In 1966, he made a life-changing decision after spotting a story in a local paper about a man serving in the Peace Corps. He applied and accepted an assignment to head the Peace Corps' office in South Korea. As the Country Director in South Korea, he was charged with establishing educational programs. After four years in that post, he moved to the Peace Corps headquarters in Washington, D.C. and quickly rose up the ranks, finally becoming Director of the Peace Corps in 1971. O'Donnell was instrumental in successfully opposing Congressional efforts to slash funding for the Peace Corps. His daughter Megan and granddaughter Allison would continue his legacy, volunteering with the Peace Corps in Nepal and Honduras, respectively. After 6 years with the Peace Corps he returned to Lakewood, Ohio and to SIFC, serving as the company's CEO. O'Donnell was recognized several times for his dedication to public service, receiving honorary doctorates from Kenyon College, Ohio Wesleyan, and Pusan National University in Korea. Kevin O'Donnell is survived by his children Kevin, Susan, Michael, John, Maura, Megan and Hugh; as well as by 17 great grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring the memory of Mr. Kevin O'Donnell. His work and legacy will live on with all those who were blessed with knowing him.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the Honorable Mary Harney, a former dignitary in Ireland, who will be visiting Cleveland, Ohio on St. Patrick's Day. Ms. Harney was born in Ballinasloe, County Galway in 1953. She attended Trinity College, Dublin where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Modern Studies. During her college career, Ms. Harney became the first female auditor of the College Historical Society. After graduating, she worked as a mathematics and economics teacher at Castleknock College in Dublin for a year. In 1977, at the age of 24, Ms. Harney was appointed to Seanad Eireann (Irish Senate) by the Taoiseach (Prime Minister). At the time of her appointment, she was the youngest person to ever be a member of the Seanad. Following several years of dedicated service, Ms. Harney was elected to the Teachta Dala (Irish Parliament) in the 1981. She served continuously until her retirement in 2011. During her service in the Teachta Dala, Ms. Harney served as Tanaiste (Deputy Prime Minister) from 1997 through 2006. She also served as Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment for seven years and as Minister for Health and Children from 2004 until 2011. Ms. Harney was also the Leader of the Progressive Democrats between 1993 and 2006 and again in 2007 and 2008. Throughout her career, Ms. Harney has been recognized for her dedicated service to the Republic of Ireland. She was named the Irish Independent Woman of the Year in 1996 and Irish Tatler Woman of the Year in 2005. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in welcoming the Honorable Mary Harney to the City of Cleveland on St. Patrick's Day.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Ms. Malak Jadallah and to acknowledge her receipt of the Community Service Award from the Cleveland American Middle East Organization (CAMEO). Ms. Jadallah is being recognized for her service, dedication, leadership, volunteerism and advocacy on behalf of the Arab American Community of Greater Cleveland. Malak was born and raised in Jerusalem, Palestine. She is a former art and German language teacher. Ms. Jadallah later moved with her beloved husband, Muhammad Amer, to Kuwait in 1972. Later, the Palestinians that had settled in Kuwait were forced to leave their homes and lives. Malak immigrated to the United States in 1990 and settled with her mother and sisters in Brooklyn, Ohio. Soon after becoming a Member of Congress, I asked Malak to join my Congressional staff in Lakewood, Ohio. She has been faithfully serving the residents of the 10th District for 15 years as a constituent service representative specializing in immigration and visa issues. Prior to working in my office, Malak was a program director for the Arab American Community Center for Economic and Social Services (AACCESS). She has continued her work in the Arab community and has been a member of CAMEO for 18 years. She also worked with the Council of American-Islamic Relations, American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, American Arab Institute, Beit Hanina Federation and the Ramallah Federation. As a result of her steadfast dedication, Malak has been honored numerous times throughout the years. She has been recognized by the Arab American Community Center, Albanian American Association of Cleveland and Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission to the U.S. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in congratulating Ms. Malak Jadallah as she is honored by the Cleveland American Middle East Organization.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Cleveland Peace Action as they gather for the Second Annual Save Our Communities--Books Not Bombs, Jobs Not Jails, Families Not Foreclosures Forum and Dinner and Rally on April 14 and 17, 2012. Cleveland Peace Action, a chapter of Peace Action, was established in 1981 as the Greater Cleveland Nuclear Weapons Freeze Campaign. Their mission is ``To reduce the threat of violence, war and terrorism by working through peaceful, just and democratic means.'' Cleveland Peace Action works for global nuclear disarmament, a comprehensive nuclear test ban treaty, a reduced military budget, alternatives to war and violence, cooperation with other nations and protection of human rights. On April 14 and 17, 2012, Cleveland Peace Action will host the Save Our Communities--Books Not Bombs, Jobs Not Jails, Families Not Foreclosures Forum and Dinner and Save Our Communities--Make Taxation Fair! Bring the War $$$ Home! Invest In Real Security! Rally. The community forum will be held on Saturday, April 14 at the Pilgrim United Church of Christ and will feature National Priorities Project's Senior Research Analyst, Chris Hellman, as the keynote speaker. The rally will be held on April 17 in Cleveland Public Square. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in recognizing Cleveland Peace Action as members of the Northeast Ohio community gather for the Second Annual Save Our Communities--Books Not Bombs, Jobs Not Jails, Families Not Foreclosures Forum and Dinner and Rally.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 26th anniversary of the Cleveland Federal Executive Board, and to thank all the federal employees in our community for their individual and collective dedication to the public good. The community of federal employees in Cleveland, Ohio is comprised of more than 25,000 individuals who contribute their talent and expertise daily in an array of roles, including park rangers, administrators, accountants, clerical employees, attorneys engineers, military personnel, mail carriers, scientists, nurses and physicians. The professional contributions extended daily by federal employees serve as a foundation of support, safety and security throughout the community. Every day, the environment is protected; the mail is delivered; veterans receive medical care; our national park is preserved; immigrants are guided to citizenship; citizens are provided with benefits and programs; and the universe is studied and explored thanks to federal employees in Northeast Ohio. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring the members of the Cleveland Federal Executive Board and the thousands of federal employees who live and work within the Cleveland community. Their dedication to their work continues to preserve, protect and strengthen our entire community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the members of Toastmasters International, District 10 as they gather in Cleveland, Ohio for their Spring District Conference on April 27 and 28, 2012. Toastmasters International was established in 1924 as an organization dedicated to making people more confident in front of audiences. The organization empowers people to achieve their full potential. Through its member clubs, people throughout the world can improve their communication and leadership skills, and find the courage they need for successful public speaking. Toastmasters International has more than 270,000 members that belong to 13,000 clubs in 116 countries. District 10 of Toastmasters International serves approximately 1,700 members and consists of more than 100 active clubs in Northeast Ohio. The theme of the Spring Conference is ``Strive for Excellence'' and will consist of educational workshops, contests and a dinner. It will also feature the 2011--2012 Toastmaster International President, Mr. Michael Notaro and the Communication and Leadership Award recipient, Reverend Larry L. Harris, Sr., the Senior Pastor of Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in recognizing the members of Toastmasters International, District 10 as they gather for their Spring Conference.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Chair, I rise in support of the Budget offered by the Congressional Progressive Caucus. This budget and the others we are considering tonight and tomorrow morning speak volumes about the country we would like to see. The Budget for All is the only budget under consideration that cuts war funding, funding from the bloated Defense budget, and a slew of subsidies for corporations and for the rich. This bill includes language that mirrors my own efforts in Congress. The first is an example of a corporate subsidy that is rescinded by this budget. It removes the tax deduction for advertising and marketing junk food and fast food to children. We should not be using taxpayer money--about $2 billion every year--to make the childhood obesity crisis even worse for the sake of boosting the profits of the junk food and fast food industry. If this tax break were to be revoked, it has been estimated that the number of overweight children in the U.S. would be reduced by more than 5 7 percent. This bill also provides relief for states struggling with financial crises by allowing them to move to a single-payer model of health care. If the residents of a state demand it because they want their businesses to be more competitive, they want higher quality health care, and they want coverage for everyone in the state, the federal government should not stand in their way. This is an issue I have worked on for years now. I was able to win, by a bipartisan vote, an amendment to the health care reform bill in 2009 that would have helped states go to a single payer health care system. Though it was stripped out by the Administration, it was one of the first single-payer Congressional victories in U.S. history and it showed there is an appetite in Congress for moving forward. Finally, and most importantly, this budget provides for full public financing of elections, mirroring a constitutional amendment I have introduced. Public financing of elections benefits the public. Private financing of elections benefits private interests. I urge my colleagues to support the FY 2013 Budget for All.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of John Sullivan upon the completion of his exemplarily service as Parliamentarian of the House of Representatives. For 25 years Parliamentarian Sullivan's unsurpassed knowledge and dedication to the integrity of his office has proven to be an indispensible asset to the work of this institution. It is clear that Parliamentarian Sullivan cares deeply for this country. Before becoming Parliamentarian, Mr. Sullivan had served in the Office of the Parliamentarian for seventeen years. He also acted as counsel to the Armed Services Committee, as well as Judge Advocate in the U.S. Air Force for seven years. Parliamentarian Sullivan has earned the admiration of many through his demonstrated ability to provide essential and unbiased advice which few others could provide. In a town often divided along partisan lines, Parliamentarian Sullivan has faithfully served as the rare voice of independence which has garnered respect from both sides of the aisle. His commitment to his post and colleagues has ensured that the office which he is leaving is sufficiently capable of maintaining his high standard of performance. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues please join me in recognizing the career of House Parliamentarian John Sullivan and wishing him and his family all the best in the future.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the late Honorable Donald M. Payne, so that we may commemorate his extraordinary life of dedication and commitment to service. Born in 1952 in Newark, New Jersey, he graduated from Seton Hall University and pursued post graduate studies at Springfield College. A former English and social studies teacher, he also coached football at Malcolm X Shabazz High School, which was then called South Side High School. He was Vice-President of Urban Data Systems Inc. as well as an executive at Prudential Financial. In 1970, he became the first African-American president of the National Council of YMCAs. Representative Payne entered public life in 1972 when he was elected to the Essex County Board of Chosen Freeholders. Ten years later he was elected to the Newark Municipal Council where he served three terms. In 1988, Donald became the Representative of New Jersey's 10th Congressional District, and the first African-American to represent New Jersey in Congress. As Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, he was a relentless defender and supporter of education related issues. He was an inspiration and a friend. He was preceded in death by his wife, Hazel Johnson, and is succeeded by son Donald Jr., daughters Wanda and Nicole, four grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues please join me in sending our condolences to the family and friends of Donald M. Payne who so faithfully cared for and served his community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 100th anniversary of Raoul Wallenberg's birth. Raoul Wallenberg continues to be one of the most respected and courageous humanitarians to have sacrificed his life to save thousands of Hungarian Jews during the Holocaust. Born on August 4, 1912 in Stockholm, Sweden, Wallenberg was a Swedish diplomat and a true humanitarian who creatively and courageously came up with measures to protect Hungarian Jews from persecution and death during the German invasion of Hungary during World War II. He hung Swedish flags in front of nearly 30 houses, declaring them Swedish territory--turning these ``Swedish houses'' into protected territory in which Hungarian Jews could seek shelter. He also distributed thousands of Swedish ``protective passes,'' even as some were in the midst of being deported, prompting their release from German authorities and saving their lives. Posthumously, Mr. Wallenberg has been honored by countries throughout the world in numerous capacities. There are awards, streets, parks and schools named after him, countless memorials erected in his honor, and in 1981, Congress passed legislation to make him an Honorary Citizen of the United States. His life is celebrated annually on October 5th in more than a dozen states. His bravery continues to be an inspiration. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in recognizing the 100th anniversary of the birth of Raoul Wallenberg; may his courage serve as a guide to all of us who are committed to the protection of human rights.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) Ohio Chapter. CAIR is a nationwide, nonprofit organization whose mission is to ``enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.'' For the past ten years, CAIR Ohio has played an instrumental role in helping to bridge the divides between Greater Cleveland's diverse communities. CAIR Ohio's Tenth Annual Banquet will provide a platform for vibrant discourse led by this year's distinguished speakers: Mr. Faisal Kutty, of Valparaiso University School of Law, Osgoode Hall Law School of York University and KSM Law and Imam Abu Farah of the American Muslim Youth Leadership Council and CAIR-Tampa. I commend these speakers for their efforts to promote civil liberties and social justice. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in recognizing the Council on American-Islamic Relations Ohio Chapter for their tenth years of outstanding achievement. May their efforts to promote dialogue and create a more inclusive world continue to endure.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of the Honorable Lillian W. Burke, the first African American female judge in the State of Ohio. Judge Burke was born in 1917 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In 1946, she graduated from The Ohio State University with a degree in education and subsequently began working as a teacher in Cleveland Public Schools. While teaching, Judge Burke also attended Cleveland Marshall College of Law. She graduated with her law degree and passed the Ohio Bar in 1951. Soon thereafter, Judge Burke served as the assistant attorney general for three years before being appointed to the Ohio Industrial Commission. Judge Burke was appointed to the Cleveland Municipal Court in 1969. She served on the bench until her retirement in 1987. In addition to her trailblazing career as a judge, Judge Burke was deeply involved in the Greater Cleveland community. She worked with the Cleveland Restoration Society, City Planning Commission, Cleveland Foundation African-American Outreach Advisory Committee, National Council of Negro Women, City Club and National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. Judge Burke also set up the Lillian Walker Burke Scholarship for students of John Marshall College of Law. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring the memory of the Honorable Lillian W. Burke. Her career will continue to serve as an inspiration for years to come.