Dennis Kucinich

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of Jimmy Deane, Business Manager of the Laborers' Union, Local 310 of Cleveland, Ohio, as we celebrate his retirement following more than forty years of advocacy, commitment and leadership within this significant union of workers. Mr. Deane journeyed to America from Ireland in 1962, with the promise of honest work and hope for a new beginning. He began work as a laborer in the construction trades and became a member of the union in 1962. In 1991 he was appointed to the position of Field Representative, and in 1995 he accepted the appointment of Business Manager. Throughout his union tenure, Mr. Deane remained focused on workers' rights, benefits, and safety. As a result of his concern, expertise and leadership, Laborers' Union, Local 310 reflected fiscal responsibility, integrity and effectiveness in representing and protecting its members. Mr. Deane's activism extends throughout our local labor and political landscapes. He is a member of the Laborers District Council of Ohio, an Executive Board Trustee of the Ohio Laborers Training Fund, and has also served as delegate to the AFL-CIO. Though his Irish homeland lives forever in his heart, Mr. Deane wholly embraced all that is America. His activism within our democratic processes and support of local candidates serves to strengthen our community and, corresponding with the union, illuminates the foundation of America--a foundation of equal representation and justice for all. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor, gratitude and recognition of my good friend, Mr. Jimmy Deane--Business Manager of the Laborers' Union, Local 310, as we reflect on his significant service and dedication to working individuals and their families. Mr. Deane's integrity, conviction, and exceptional ability to bring people and ideas together for the common good, has served to raise the bar on all levels within the union, the workplace, and within our community. His steadfast commitment to the laborers of our community is a guiding force for all union members and leaders to emulate--today, and for generations of workers to come. We wish Mr. Jimmy Deane and his entire family many blessings of happiness, health and peace--today, tomorrow and in the years to come.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the requisite number of words. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the Rahall amendment. In the last few years, Mr. Chairman, I have had the opportunity to tour this country and visit many Indian reservations and to discuss with Native Americans their concerns about the protections of sacred sites. I have talked to Native Americans who have been very taken with the gentleman from West Virginia's (Mr. Rahall) support for their interest and particularly the work that he did to protect the Valley of Chiefs in Montana. I want to say that what we often have here in this Congress is a collision of cultures until we understand that the broad interests of the American people are always connected with things spiritual. Our Native Americans gave to this country an understanding of the connection between the spiritual and the material world, and this discussion here today needs to reflect once again the Native American spiritual values. There is a lot of discussions in this House about spiritual values. Let us talk about the spiritual values which connect people to the privacy of the air and the water and the protection of the land, about the sacredness of it, the essential sacredness. These discussions here which the gentleman from West Virginia (Mr. Rahall) has continued to bring to this House is absolutely at the root of some of the most important questions facing this Nation. Do we respect the spiritual dimensions which our Native American brothers and sisters depend upon for continuing a celebration of their cultures or are we going to auction it off to oil and gas companies and let their leases in effect desecrate sacred sites. Now, people on both sides of the aisle have celebrated spiritual values in this House. This is not a material question here as much as it is a spiritual one. And we have to be sensitive to the spiritual values of America's natives, of those who were here before any of us; and when we forget that we pay a spiritual price, I would submit. Literature is replete with what happens when anyone violates the spiritual space of Native Americans. We should not ignore that there are deeper themes at work here. That is why what the gentleman from West Virginia (Mr. Rahall) has done in asking for Executive Order 13007 to be brought into more powerful effect is absolutely essential. It is not only essential with respect to protecting Native American interests, it is essential with respect to helping to heal this Nation because we have hundreds of years of neglect that have resulted in not only the expropriation of the lands of Native Americans, but also what it has done is it has demeaned this country's spiritual basis. So I salute the gentleman from West Virginia (Mr. Rahall) for his efforts here. This is a broader discussion that needs to be brought into this House. Essentially this becomes about the healing of America, and one step we take towards that is reconciling with our native brothers and sisters on this question of respecting their sacred sites.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of Mr. John Rees--Award-winning journalist, devoted family man, and friend and mentor to many, whose life touched the lives of countless people, including my own. Mr. Rees' 45-year career in journalism reflected honesty, ethics, and a real connection to the people he wrote about. His ability to pierce through the murky waters of a complex story and uncover the truth of the matter set him apart from most reporters. He was honored numerous times with prestigious awards for excellence in journalism, including a Cleveland Press Club Award, and a resolution of honor passed by Cleveland City Council in tribute to his significant career. Additionally, Mr. Rees was inducted into the Cleveland Journalism Hall of Fame in 1989. Though his work was held in high esteem within the Cleveland newspaper circuit, accolades and awards did not impress Mr. Rees; honesty, ethics and writing the straight story did. He understood the power of the printed word and upheld his unbreakable personal and professional ethics with every word he wrote. The exceptional person reflected the exceptional writer. Mr. Rees gained the confidence and trust of people from all walks of life. His respect and concern for others was demonstrated consistently throughout his life and he extended himself beyond the bounds of where most people dare to go--reaching out to others in need, literally saving the lives of two individuals while on the beat. Directly following graduation from St. Francis Commercial High School in Cleveland, Mr. Rees began working as an office boy at the old Cleveland News. Bolstered by natural born talent, true grit and keen observation skills, Mr. Rees worked his way up from office boy, to reporter, to eventually becoming the paper's city editor despite being told by a superior that he would not amount to anything. Whether covering crime stories, the political scene or labor issues, Mr. Rees forged strong connections of trust and respect with people throughout all facets of our Cleveland community. He offered everyone the same respect and interest, regardless of their social status, and people loved him for it. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and remembrance of my friend, John Rees. Today we mourn his passing and celebrate his life. I offer my condolences to his daughter; Rosemary; sons, Jack and Richard; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and also to his extended family and many friends. I also acknowledge the memory of his beloved wife, Freda. John Rees' journalistic talent, unwavering ethics and genuine kindness consistently framed his exemplary career and defined his life. His legacy will live on within the hearts of those who knew and loved him well, today, and for generations to come.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of Dr. Joseph and Betts Skrha, as they celebrate fifty years of devotion to each other, to their family, and to their extended family--the people of their beloved North Broadway community. The union of Dr. and Mrs. Skrha represents a shared love and commitment not only for each other, but for their family, and their community. Their unbreakable bond continues to embrace and elevate the lives of their children--Joseph Ray, Betsey and John. The memory of their beloved son, Paul, remains eternal within their hearts, and within the hearts of countless residents along Broadway Avenue and beyond. A united team, Dr. and Mrs. Skhra continue to serve as each other's confidant and advocate. A couple of doors down from the family home, where they continue to live today, Mrs. Betts Skrha supported and worked with Dr. Joseph Skrha throughout his medical practice. Their steadfast convictions and willingness to help others is reflected in the lives of hundreds of families and individuals, some of whom, like the Skhra's, still live in the old neighborhood. Moreover, they have inspired their children and many others--including myself--to reach out in service to others. Dr. Joseph Skhra, an ordained Roman Catholic Deacon, was the Director of the Family Medicine Department and Director of Pastoral Care for many years at the now-closed St. Michael's Hospital. Betts Skrha, a scholar and leader in her own right, holds two degrees in nursing, worked within the field for many years, and was the long-time chairperson of the St. Michael's Community Board. Moreover, Betts Skhra is a founding member of Broadway School of Music and the Arts. Their collective faith and deep sense of spirituality has healed, and continues to heal, the bodies, and more importantly, the heart and soul of the working class people of this neighborhood. They both continue to provide spiritual guidance to the elderly at Lourexis, Alexia Manor and Mead House. Additionally, the Skrha's continue their advocacy on behalf of University Settlement, The Broadway School of Music and the Arts, Our Lady of Lourdes Church and School, and the Cleveland Sight Center. The Skrha's community service and heart are an inextricable facet of the light that brings comfort, hope and possibility along the streets and within the homes of our North Broadway community. Their leadership and dedication has made a permanent, positive difference within the lives of countless individuals and families--including mine. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition to Dr. Joseph and Mrs. Betts Skhra, for creating a symphony of love and strength that continues to resound within the hearts and minds of their children, grandchildren and the countless individuals whose lives they've touched along their journey. I offer to both of them my gratitude and admiration for being invaluable role models for many of us whose paths have crossed with theirs as they continue to inspire us all to reach for our dreams, to live in service to others, and to never forget where we came from.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of Grace Szubski--admired attorney, devoted worker's advocate, friend and mentor, as she was recently honored with the Distinguished Service Award for Worker's Compensation from the Ohio Academy of Trial Lawyers. Today we celebrate Ms. Szubski's professional contribution as a dedicated advocate of employment justice and legal rights for countless workers within our Cleveland community. Ms. Szubski's significant work lends a strong voice to countless workers whose pleas would otherwise not be heard. Her exemplary work consistently reflects integrity, expertise and heart, and is also a testament to the success and fairness of America's judicial system. Ms. Szubski has worked as an attorney with Garsen & Associates for the past twenty years. She continues to focus her law practice in the areas of workers' compensation, probate and social security disability. Beyond her significant legal contributions, Ms. Szubski volunteers her time and talents on behalf of several civic and humanitarian causes. She serves as a trustee for the Dioceses of Cleveland Catholic Charities Corporation and also serves on its Executive Committee. Since 1986, Ms. Szubski has journeyed to Kentucky and Tennessee's Appalachian mountain region, as youth leader and participant, to focus on the housing and ministry needs of some of our nation's most vulnerable citizens. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor, recognition and gratitude of the professional and personal work of Ms. Grace Szubski-- the 2004 recipient of the Distinguished Service Award for Worker's Compensation from the Ohio Academy of Trial Lawyers. Her outstanding work and accomplishments as a dedicated attorney and, most significantly, her integrity, support and concern for others has served as an inspiration to her clients, colleagues, and countless residents of Appalachia and our own community. We wish Ms. Szubski continued health, happiness and peace throughout her professional and personal journey. Her outstanding service on behalf of the rights of others truly makes a difference, and serves as outstanding example to us all.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Kildee) very much for the time, and it is a pleasure to work with him on the committee to protect the rights of workers and also to speak to the concern of unemployed Americans. I rise to strongly oppose H.R. 444, the Worker Reemployment Accounts Act of 2004. I would like to begin with a reflection here. Alan Greenspan, the Chairman of the Federal Reserve, recently appeared in Washington to talk about unemployment and about unemployment insurance, and he said ``that when unemployment is created, through no fault of the workers' actions, then I think it is clearly to our advantage to find ways of creating support in our system, and as a consequence, in times like this, I have supported the issue of extension of unemployment insurance.'' That is Alan Greenspan, the chairman of the Federal Reserve. Now, there is an urgency about this issue about unemployment, and I would submit that the solution that is being offered today by our friends in the majority is a false solution. We have the chairman of the Federal Reserve ready to recognize the urgency of unemployment insurance. It is obvious that we ought to be providing for an extension of unemployment insurance to meet the needs of those millions of Americans who are desperate today for Congress to take action. Why are they desperate? Well, let us look at what happened. The economic record of this administration will show that over a period from January of 2001 to April 2004, there has, in fact, been a substantial increase in the unemployment rate from 4.2 percent in January 2001 to 5.6 percent in April of 2004. Let us look more closely at this. What we have here is of great consequence to millions of Americans because in this period, from January 2001 to April 2004, we have seen long-term unemployment nearly triple. In other words, there are not only more people unemployed, but more people are unemployed for longer periods of time, which means a tremendous adverse economic impact on their families. In January 2001, there were approximately 680,000 people in this country who were unemployed more than 26 weeks; but now, in April of 2004, under the economic policies of this administration, the unemployment rate for those who have been unemployed for more than 26 weeks has gone to 1.8 million, nearly three times. This, of course, means that there is real desperation on the part of many American families to get some help. Now, let us put this in a historical context. How do we take the economic policies of this administration with respect to job creation and with respect to the lack thereof and put it against all administrations over the last 70 years? This comparison is noteworthy because what we see here is that going all the way back to the time of Herbert Hoover, there has not been a worse condition where we have seen an actual decline in private sector jobs. In this whole arc of a 70- year period, we see in one administration after another, Democrat and Republican alike, this administration has failed to meet the tests that all other administrations, Democratic and Republican alike, have met; and, in fact, we have here an actual decline in private sector jobs, only in this administration. So what should be the solution right now with so many people suffering? We have been told this by the Chairman of the Federal Reserve. Our unemployment system is very well structured, and it has worked the way I think we wanted it to work. Alan Greenspan again said that on March 11 of this year. So we should be here talking today about an extension of unemployment benefits. Not only is it important in terms of recognizing the abysmal failure of an administration in dealing with the creation of jobs, but with knowing the suffering of working families who are not getting any relief whatsoever at a time when the fund, as the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Cardin) pointed out, keep building up and up. What are we going to do with all this money? Instead, we have a bill which apparently those who crafted it believe that left to their own devices the 8.2 million unemployed workers in America would prefer to simply remain jobless. With that analysis and thus the theory that underlies, this bill is absolutely wrong. Unemployed Americans are unemployed not because they want to be, but because they cannot find jobs. Since the recession began 37 months ago, 2.2 million private sector jobs have disappeared, a 2 percent contraction in the job market. In every previous episode of recession and job decline since 1939, the number of jobs fully recovered to above the pre-recessionary peak within 31 months at the start of the recession. This time, however, it has not happened. In fact, if employment had grown by the 2.2 percent rate that occurred in the past three recessionary cycles, today's labor market would have 5.2 million more jobs. Instead, we can all point to lost jobs, and that is all we can point to and more lost jobs. Well, the administration has responded to the situation by refusing to extend Federal unemployment benefits, an action that is already paid for by the unemployment trust fund; 1.5 million workers remain without a paycheck and without an unemployment check. The number of individuals who have exhausted their State unemployment benefits without finding work is at the highest level ever recorded. This bill ought to be defeated. It is a nonsolution. It is time for Congress to act in bringing unemployment insurance extension to the floor of this House.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the increasing pressure rising gas prices are placing on the constituents of Ohio's tenth district, and consumers around the country. Today, I received a petition, presented to me by WEWS Television Station in Cleveland, Ohio, from those in the Cleveland area who are being harmed by the recent spikes in gas prices. This petition, with over 14,000 signatures, is evidence of the strains placed on consumers in an already bleak economic market. To address these concerns, I, along with 67 other members of the House of Representatives, am sending a letter to President Bush expressing my concerns. Effectively addressing high gasoline prices will take six steps--none of which are included in the energy legislation. First, require oil companies to expand gasoline storage capacities, require them to hold significant amounts in that storage, and reserve the right to order these companies to release this stored gas to address supply and demand fluctuations. Second, block mergers that make it easier for oil companies to manipulate gasoline supplies, and take steps, such as forcing companies to sell assets, to remedy the current highly concentrated market. Third, re-regulate energy trading exchanges that were exploited by Enron and continue to be abused by other energy traders. Fourth, discontinue filling the Strategic Petroleum Reserve while prices are high and conduct a study of building crude and product reserves that can be used as economic stockpiles to dampen price increases. Fifth, reduce oil consumption by implementing strong fuel economy standards. Substantially improving CAFE standards over a ten-year period would reduce the oil used by one-third in 2020 and save consumers $16 billion at the gas pump. Sixth, request the Federal Trade Commission conduct a study of the reasons why the market forced the closure of over 50 predominantly small and independent refiners in the past 10 years and assess how to bring fair competition back to the refinery market and thus expand capacity. By employing all six of these strategies, substantial reductions in the price of gasoline are attainable. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in supporting these strategies to lower gasoline prices for consumers. I want to thank WEWS for their public service of bringing these signatures to Washington. The people of Ohio have spoken. It is time for Congress and the Administration to respond to meet the people's needs.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today, we honor the men and women in uniform who have lost their lives in military service to our nation. Memorial Day is for that reason a very solemn occasion. It is not a day to celebrate our military glories. Rather, we remember our losses: lost lives and the lost futures of our fallen soldiers. When the nation's political leaders commit our country's citizens to war, it is a concomitant that the lives of our soldiers are put at risk. Some will not come home alive and undamaged. Our leaders have an obligation to the citizens of the nation to know that and to take heed. My thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of our fallen soldiers.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Kathleen Kellums, as she is named President of the Business and Professional Women of Ohio. Since 1919, Business and Professional Women-USA, has served to support, promote and advance opportunity and equity for all women, in and out of the workplace. Light years ahead of their time, the Ohio Federation of Business and Professional Women was instated in 1920, the same year that women finally won the right to vote. Today, as in 1920, this agency continues to build on a strong and brilliant foundation of support, education and guidance, focusing on women who were previously denied any opportunity to advance themselves personally or professionally. And even today, as women continue to rise above the stormy waters of gender inequality in the workplace, the Business and Professional Women exists to provide safe passages for women--pathways and bridges of support that help connect professional dreams to professional accomplishments. A consummate professional in her own right, Kathleen Kellums continues to reflect accomplishment, leadership and tenacity throughout her professional endeavors. Her professional background includes executive positions in both the public and private sectors, and also includes significant community outreach contributions as a committed activist with many organizations, including the Parent Teacher Association and local Jaycee's. Ms. Kellums became a member of the Berea Business and Professional Women (BPW) in 1992, and currently holds the position of President. Her activism and leadership within the BPW has made a significant impact on the lives of many women by opening doors of opportunity and offering guidance, assistance and tangible support. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of Kathleen Kellums, as she evolves from President of the Berea Business and Professional Women to President of the Business and Professional Women of Ohio. Her work as a state leader will serve to uplift the lives of countless Ohio women of all ages, as they journey toward advancing their professional and educational dreams--thereby advancing the progression of our entire community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of John Drotleff--admired conductor, musician and friend, as he celebrates his Twentieth Anniversary of performing, leading and conducting the West Shore Chorale and Orchestra. Beyond his exemplary work with the West Shore Chorale, Mr. Drotleff has taught music at several local colleges, middle schools and high schools throughout Ohio--consistently inspiring our youth to attain their personal best and allow their natural musical talents to shine through. Mr. Drotleff was Chairman of Fine Arts at Lakewood High School, and has been a faculty member with Hiram College for the past 6 years, where he conducts the Hiram College Choir and Hiram College Madrigal Singers. At Hiram, Mr. Drotleff teaches choral conducting, music theory and secondary choral methods. Mr. Drotleff's college ensembles have performed in New York, Boston, Chicago, and Detroit, and most notably, they, have performed at the Kennedy Center and the National Cathedral in Washington, DC. Mr. Drotleff has also conducted the Youngstown Symphony Chorus and has served as a guest conductor for many musical groups throughout the northeastern United States. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor, recognition and gratitude to Mr. John Drotleff as he celebrates 20 years of leadership, inspiration and guidance as conductor of the West Shore Chorale and Orchestra. His remarkable ability to connect, inspire and uplift every member of his orchestra has significantly raised the level of musical offerings and has significantly increased public interest in every performance of the Chorale. An outstanding conductor, teacher and musical scholar, Mr. John Drotleff's love of music and strong confidence in his charges serves to draw the highest level of excellence from within the heart and soul of each performer. The lyrical and joyous concerto that personifies Mr. John Drotleff's life is a brilliant and treasured gift within our community that connects us through the universal language of music--uplifting our entire community on the wings of a song.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong opposition to the FY 2005 Defense Authorization bill. The bill continues to fund an ineffective and wasteful defense strategy based on the Cold War. The bill authorizes $422.2 billion for the Department of Defense and the nuclear weapons activities of the Department of Energy. However, the 2001 Defense Authorization bill was $310 billion, revealing that we have increased nominal defense spending 36 percent in just four short years. The FY 2005 bill also authorizes $25 billion for combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. This increases the total funding to $447.2 billion. The running total for emergency supplementals has now reached $191 billion for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Unfortunately the Republican led Congress continues to refuse its Constitutional role of oversight. The bill funds several weapons systems as well as a war in Iraq that will provide little additional security for Americans. For example, the Ballistic Missile Defense is slated to receive $9 billion for a system that does not work, but will be implemented this year as an election year boost for the President. The F/A-22 ``Raptor'' Fighter is a cold war fighter plane without an enemy to fight. Yet, the bill will spend $4.5 billion to purchase 24 aircraft. The bill authorizes the purchase of 11 V-22 ``Osprey'' Tilt rotor for $1.6 billion, yet the plane is terribly unsafe. The bill also authorizes more research dollars for the DD(X) Destroyer, wasting $1.2 billion on a boat the Navy does not need. I also object to the Boeing airborne tankers lease/purchase program. This is a classic example of corporate welfare. I am greatly disappointed that the Republicans have sought to block consideration of two amendments I would have offered. These amendments would have provided the House of Representatives the opportunity to help bring resolution to the ongoing crisis in Iraq. My first amendment would require that the President develop criteria for troop withdrawal from Iraq. The war that we are fighting in Iraq at this time is an unconventional war. We have already deposed the leader of the country, and now we now fight both an unknown enemy and a new enemy that was not there before we invaded. There is no exit strategy and every six months or so the American people are faced with a new bill. The leaders of our country have given them no indication that they even know how to get out of Iraq, much less an idea of when their sons and daughters will come home. The amendment that I would have offered today would require the Administration to provide Congress with a list of criteria for the withdrawal of combat troops in Iraq. This amendment is useful because it provides America and the world with the answers to the question: What are we still doing in Iraq and what must happen so that we can leave? These questions are simple and they are necessary. After all, what are the goals that this Administration hopes to achieve before the withdrawal of troops can commence? At the very beginning of the war, the ultimate goal was to disarm Iraq from weapons of mass destruction. But there weren't any weapons of mass destruction in Iraq, and our troops are still there. At another point, the goal was to remove Saddam Hussein from power. Well, that's been done too, and our troops are still there. So now what? What are the next criteria? Will troops come home after we've established the largest embassy in the world inside Iraq? Or will they come home after the oil starts flowing in to the right pockets? Or will it be when the defense contractors get billion more of American taxpayer dollars? Or when there are permanent military bases in Iraq so that we can extend an American empire to the Middle East? Or is it when we've brought ``democracy'' to the people of Iraq? But what constitutes a democracy? An interim government was set up and a constitution was drafted, but we're still there. Will we pull out after an election, or two elections, or three? What happens if the Iraqis elect a leader that we don't like? Will we stay inside until the person of our choosing is running the country? Is the criterion for leaving Iraq complete ``pacification'', in that we won't leave Iraq until all the fighting has stopped and the country is secure? What will that mean? Will it mean a slow down to one attack per day or week or month? My amendment is a modest amendment because it requires the Administration to think about all these questions and then tell the American people what exactly it will take to bring the troops home. And we should all want the answers to these questions. I know that my constituents elected me to ask these questions. After all, it's their money that we're committing. My feelings about the war are known here. I have been against the war and the occupation. But since it appears as if the Administration does not care to volunteer the details of their objectives in Iraq, we should then ask them. My second amendment would offer a sense of Congress that would disavow any intention for permanent United States military presence in Iraq. As we all know, many people across the globe have accused the United States of imperial thoughts and actions. To ensure the global community we have no such notions; we must publicly declare our intentions not to establish permanent military bases. A month after the United States began military operations in Iraq, the New York Times (April, 21, 2003) printed a story indicating that the United States was considering the establishment of four permanent military installations in Iraq. The bases identified are the Baghdad international airport; the Talil airbase near Nasariyah; a base known as H-1 in the western desert near Syria; and Bashur airfield in the Kurdish region near the convergence of the borders of Turkey, Iran and Iraq. On the very next day the Secretary of Defense denied that the United States was seeking permanent military installations in Iraq. But, neoconservatives are openly talking about the benefits of such permanent bases. Given that the Turks had been truculent about access by ground before Operation Iraqi Freedom, that the use of Saudi Arabia has been a delicate matter for the past decade, and that Iraq is ideally situated for operations throughout the region, there is a compelling case for siting U.S. bases in Iraq. (There's No Place Like Iraq . . . For U.S. military bases. Tom Donnelly Weekly Standard 05/05/2003) More recently in the Inter Press Service News Agency: But Qatar and even Kuwait, which has acted as a de facto military base for Washington since 1990, could not substitute for the kind of strategic depth and flexibility offered by the four bases identified by the Times as those to which the administration wants permanent access. (Jim Lobe, Nov. 28, 2003) I believe the Arab world would take great comfort in hearing a declaration by the United States to disavow permanent military bases in Iraq. The United States must state without exception that it does not seek to maintain a long-term military presence in Iraq. Such a declaration will reduce anti-American sentiment in the region and, I believe reduce the attacks upon our troops. So it is greatly unfortunate that the leadership of the House has not seen fit to debate these amendments.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to H.R. 2731, the misnamed and ill-considered Occupational Safety and Health Small Business Access to Justice Act. In 2002, 5,524 workers were killed on the job because of dramatic injuries. In 2002, almost 60,000 workers died from occupational diseases. And in 2002, over 5 million workers were injured or fell ill on the job. For some perspective, approximately 56,000 Americans died between 1958 and 1975 in the Vietnam War. The American workplace leads to the same number of deaths in a single year. With this in the background, it is mystifying to me that today we are considering a bill to significantly weaken OSHA and to make the workplace less safe, as H.R. 2731 would do by requiring OSHA to pay attorney's fees in any case in which it does not prevail. The effect of this bill would be to discourage OSHA from bringing enforcement actions against dangerous workplaces. OSHA would have to calculate the odds of winning against the cost to its budget if it loses. That would render the Federal cop on the workplace safety beat timid. Let us be clear, no one would suggest the government should pay the attorney's fees of criminal defendants merely because they have been acquitted. So just as the concept underlying this bill would make our streets more dangerous if applied to the criminal code, something no one in this House would support, it would make our workplaces more dangerous if applied to the OSHA law. I ask my colleagues, should the level of protection the law provides Americans vanish the moment the workers walk from the street to the shop room floor? That is the concept promoted by this bill. And make no mistake, although current law may not consider deaths resulting from willful disregard of basic safety procedures a criminal matter, such shameful instances are absolutely criminal. I think it is clear this bill is designed to weaken enforcement of workplace safety laws, to further distance exploited workers from the justice they and their families deserve under the law, and it will severely handicap OSHA by discouraging it to cite employers unless the agency is utterly certain it will win. Given the importance of OSHA's core mission of protecting workers and workers' lives, and that workers have no private right of action under OSHA, a fact that again mirrors the criminal code that rejects the rationale underlying this bad bill, there is every reason to be more, not less, cautious with fundamentally altering the nature of OSHA enforcement. But H.R. 2731 does not make a cautious change. It will severely endanger the safety of American workers; and as such, it should be defeated.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, when a doctor prescribes a path of care that does not work out, patients are always advised to get a second opinion, so I want to offer a second opinion in answer to the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Boehner). This bill would increase the number of uninsured. It would increase costs. It would increase discrimination against older workers, and it would remove patient protections. Despite the widespread agreement on the need to provide more health care coverage, decrease cost and improve care, this bill moves in the opposite direction. Instead of improving access to health care, this legislation would worsen access. Approximately 1 million people would lose their insurance coverage if this bill is enacted. Instead of reducing premium costs, this bill would increase premiums for 20 million small business workers. Instead of making coverage more equitable, AHPs would lead to discrimination against older workers who would have a much more difficult time getting coverage. Instead of increasing patient protections, this bill would remove them. State patient protection laws would be effectively waived for AHPs, leaving patients without the ability to enforce protections for basic benefits, like emergency medical services and access to specialists. The Hippocratic Oath says ``Above all, do no harm.'' This bill takes a bad health care situation in this country and makes it worse, which is not what the people ought to expect from this Congress. I urge the Congress to reject the underlying bill and at some point in the future we are going to have to answer the issue of universal, single-payer, not-for- profit health care so we do not look at these kinds of phony, stopgap measures.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of Cuyahoga Special Education Service Center (CSESC), as they enter into their thirtieth year of services and support focused on thousands of children with special needs and their families residing throughout Cuyahoga County. The staff of CSESC has provided priceless educational tools to enhance learning and discovery for countless children-- enhancing their hopes and creating new dreams. CSESC offers a variety of programs and services to more than 23,000 children and youth with disabilities throughout Cuyahoga County. The mission of CSESC is to provide outstanding educational opportunities for all children with disabilities aged 3-21, to elevate the academic achievement of these children, and to ultimately dissolve the divide that separates these special children from the mainstream. Moreover, this vital support serves to enrich every facet within the life of a child who faces these challenges on a daily basis. From birth through adulthood CSESC offers comprehensive programs focused on the individual needs of every child and her family. Some of the main services provided by the compassionate professionals at CSESC include instruction in Assistive Technology, Early Childhood Services, Vocational Services, Professional Development, Family Services and Consultation/Assessment Services. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of the Thirtieth Anniversary of the Cuyahoga Special Education Service Center. This exemplary organization has uplifted the lives of thousands of children--from toddlers to young adults, who reflect courage, grace, brilliance and tenacity despite their personal challenges. The level of commitment from the staff at CSESC is equaled only to that of these children and their families--a commitment to hope, to dream, to believe, to achieve--to make a positive difference within our corner of the world and beyond.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of Daniel Thompson, Poet Laureate of Cuyahoga County, OH. Daniel Thompson passed away last week after a 2-year battle with cancer. Through his words as a poet and his deeds as a tireless advocate for the homeless, the hungry, and people on the streets, Daniel Thompson set an example for his community. Daniel's public readings were held as often in jazz clubs, junkyards, and jailhouses as they were in bookstores, cafes, and other ordinary venues. His poetry, often humorous and playful, conveyed messages about our times and inspired our thoughts and actions. He was a frequent contributor to the ``Homeless Grapevine, ``Cleveland's monthly street newspaper sold by homeless vendors. His poem, ``A New Beautitude,'' was published in the March-April 2004 issue of the Grapevine: Walking to starlight In a dark season: I hear a new beatitude, America Listen Blessed are the homeless For they shall inherit the street The sidewalks, the bushes The cold, cold ground Whatever falls from heaven Pennies of rain, of snow Any spare change of weather Day-old manna The donut and the hole The donut, the hole in the sock In the sole of the shoe And in the cold, cold ground And O I almost forgot, America This, too, from you The cold eye of the stranger . . . But it was not just Daniel's words, but also his deeds that will be missed. He frequently brought food and water to Cleveland's homeless and he petitioned city and county officials to install public drinking fountains for people living on the streets. He marched with Martin Luther King in Chicago and as a freedom rider in the deep south in the early 1960s where he was targeted by an angry mob in North Carolina in 1961. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honor and remembrance of Daniel Thompson. Like other poets hailing from Cleveland such as Langston Hughes, Hart Crane, and d.a. levy, Daniel has a place in our community's literary history. And as a citizen, Daniel Thompson will long be remembered for his advocacy, sympathy, and soul. But his presence on Cleveland's streets will be sorely missed.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I join with my fellow Members of Congress in deploring the abuse of prisoners in Iraq by U.S. personnel. But this resolution does not go far enough. It does not go far enough to ensure that a full and complete investigation and prosecution is undertaken. We should be opening Congressional investigations, not simply relying upon the Army to investigate itself. It does not go far enough to demand accountability of the top military and civilian leadership of this fiasco in Iraq. We should demand the resignation of the Secretary of Defense, since we know that ``rotten apples'' are the fruit of a poison tree. And it's the top leadership who have grown that tree--the culture of permissiveness, disregard for the truth, and lack of accountability. It does not go far enough to express America's regret and sorrow for the crimes committed at Abu Ghraib prison, and possibly elsewhere. We should apologize on behalf of the American people to the Iraqi people. We have not begun to go far enough to examine the true intent and conduct of the leadership of this country. We have not gone far enough to assign responsibility and demand accountability for the misinformation and untruths that were marshaled to lead us to war. We have not gone far enough to bring an end to this unjustified war. As a result, we are seemingly surprised to discover, and then we deplore, corruption that is all too predictable from this imperial misadventure.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of Professor Arthur Naparstek--devoted family man, caring professor, friend and mentor, and internationally known visionary in the area of urban development. The son of Polish immigrants, Professor Naparstek was born and raised in New York City. He graduated with a master's degree in social work from New York University, and a doctorate from Brandeis University's Florence Heiler School of Advanced Studies in Social Welfare Administration. Professor Naparstek's professional commitment to economic and social justice began in the early sixties, when he worked as the assistant to Richard G. Hatcher, the first African American mayor of Gary, Indiana. Later, Professor Naparstek joined the National Center for Urban Ethnic Affairs in Washington, DC, and worked closely with Congress to create legislation focused on empowering our most vulnerable citizens--our poor. As professor and Dean of the Case Western Reserve University School of Applied Social Sciences, Mr. Naparstek taught by example and served as an inspiration and mentor to countless students and instructors throughout his tenure. His acclaimed urban redevelopment projects and individual empowerment programs were sought by the administrations of President Carter and President Clinton. As director of the Cleveland Foundation's Commission on Poverty during the early 1990's, Professor Naparstek was instrumental in creating the redevelopment plan for several of Cleveland's most fragile neighborhoods. Because of his vision and heart, the shroud of decline has been lifted from our neighborhoods, illuminating the promise of restoration and possibility along many of our city streets. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor, gratitude and remembrance of Professor Arthur C. Naparstek--an exceptional man, visionary, and leader whose life reflected accomplishment, caring and concern for others. I offer my deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Belleruth; his beloved children, Keila, Aaron, and Abe; and to his extended family and friends. His brilliant and flawless legacy--both personally and professionally will be remembered forever by family, friends and colleagues. Professor Naparstek's vision, heart and leadership will forever serve as a beacon of promise and hope throughout our community, and far beyond.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the Polish American Congress, Ohio Division, as they celebrate their 55th anniversary--sharing their cultural gifts along a parade route lined with food, song and joyous celebration. On May 18, 1949, in Cleveland, Ohio, the Ohio Division of The Polish American Congress was founded. The Polish American Congress is composed of individuals of Polish ancestry as well as Polish organizations. The group serves as a unifying force for both Polish Americans and Polish citizens living in America. Taking a positive stand on issues concerning the people of Poland, the group strives to attain a free market economy within the framework of a democratic society. The goal of The Polish American Congress is to make Americans of Polish heritage more successful U.S. citizens by encouraging them to assume the responsibilities of citizenship. In addition, the group supports fraternal, professional, religious, and civic associations dedicated to the improvement of the status of all Americans of Polish heritage. It is evident that the Polish American Congress has played a crucial role in the Polish Community, and in its many years of service has been an invaluable contribution to the City of Cleveland and beyond. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and celebration of the leaders and members of the Polish American Congress, as they celebrate fifty-five years of promotion and guardianship of the heritage, history and culture of their beloved Polish homeland-- providing awareness and connection to every new generation born in America, and enriching the diverse fabric of our entire Cleveland community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, will the gentleman yield?

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I want to say that I think that the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Burton) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) serve this country well and that there are probably no people stronger in defense of America than both of them. I have total confidence in that, and I just want to express my appreciation for being able to express my misgivings about the language of this bill, but I want to thank the gentlemen for the service that they are giving in expressing the importance of this.

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I wanted to thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Sherman). And to the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Burton), I salute your concern about Iraq's nuclear activities. I join you in stating that I do not want Iran to acquire nuclear weapons. However, I cannot support this resolution. I believe that if Members read the text carefully, they may agree. This resolution includes an endorsement I believe of the doctrine of preventive war. Preventive war is attacking another country that does not pose an imminent threat but which some might argue could pose a threat. This is not a legitimate or legal reason for going to war. It ends up being an illegal war or war not in self-defense. To be specific, the doctrine is, I believe, contained in part 2 of the resolution which reads, ``Calls upon all state parties to the Treaty on Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, including the United States, to use all appropriate means to deter, dissuade, and prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.'' This clause contains two elements of preventive war. The first is a tacit endorsement of regime change, ``all appropriate means to prevent Iran.'' All appropriate means is nearly the same language used in Senate Joint Resolution 54, which the Congress passed in 1998. That resolution called upon the President to ``take appropriate action to bring Iraq into compliance.'' We did not know then that such language would be construed only 5 years later to mean that the Congress endorsed regime change in Iraq, but that is what the administration construed it to mean. Second, I believe this clause envisions unilateral action by the United States. It ``calls upon the United States to use all appropriate means.'' That means it is a policy of Congress that the United States, without necessarily receiving any support from the world community, and without the concurrence of the United Nations, could act unilaterally. This combination calling on all state parties to use all appropriate means to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and calling upon the United States to use all appropriate means, this combination endorses the doctrine of preventive war. This country was dragged into war with Iraq based on false statements to Congress. Iraq has proved to have been of little threat to the United States, but that did not stop the war's authors from going forward with the arguments that Iraq could one day be a threat. In this historical context, I believe it is vitally important to call this to the attention of Congress so that Congress can avoid giving its endorsement of what could prove to be an unprovoked attack, unilateral regime change again. So I oppose this resolution and I ask my colleagues to vote no.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of Mrs. Wilma Christian and every volunteer who participated this past year in Cleveland Reads, bringing hope and possibility through the gift of literacy to countless children and adults--thereby changing their lives forever. I also rise in recognition of Cleveland Reads Volunteer of the Year Nominees: Andy Everidge; Anne Gannon; Edna Goodwin; Stephanie Hiedman; Reid Isaac; Kristen Monchak; and Elaine Thiery. Established in 1987, Cleveland Reads, a non-profit organization, has consistently worked to draw individuals, businesses and agencies into their, volunteer literacy projects and campaign. Mrs. Christian, seventy-seven years young, consistently reflects a joyous, caring and enthusiastic attitude throughout her busy days in service to others. Every Monday through Friday for the past three years, Mrs. Christian volunteers mornings as an Experience Corps Tutor at Marion-Sterling Elementary School, then volunteers her lunch hour to prepare and serve meals to disabled residents of the Golden Age Center. Then remarkably, she heads back to Marion-Sterling School for three more hours of tutoring. All the while, her levels of enthusiasm and energy remain as expansive as her love and concern for others. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring every Volunteer of the Year Award nominee, especially, Mrs. Wilma Christian, as she is named the Volunteer of the Year by Cleveland Reads. Mrs. Christian's patience, kindness and concern for our children and our elderly offers them strength, hope and a promise of a better tomorrow, where none existed before. By giving of her time and talent to the children at Marian- Sterling Elementary School, Mrs. Christian empowers them daily with the priceless tool of literacy, which leads to understanding and offers these children the self-confidence to dream and to achieve. By raising up the life of a child, Mrs. Christian raises up our entire community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to the conference report on H.R. 3108, the ``Pension Funding Equity Act'' and in strong support of the motion to recommit. While the conference agreement contains needed assistance for single- employer pension plans, it is crafted to provide no assistance to multiemployer pension plans, which cover over 9\1/2\ million workers and retirees and some 600,000 small businesses. Rather than enacting a reasonable and equitable package to offset the severe investment losses experienced by nearly all pension plans in the last few years, the effect of this conference report is to cynically distinguish between classes of business. It grants an estimated $80 billion in relief to large corporate sponsors of single employer plans, while rejecting real relief for multiemployer plans, which are jointly administered by small employers and unions. Even though multiemployer plans have a long history of sound funding and stability since their fortunes are not tied to the fate of a single corporation, only 4 percent of these plans are eligible for help under this bill. This is unacceptable. Perhaps even worse, however, this conference report sets a dangerous precedent that could severely injure the integrity of the collective bargaining process for years to come. Employers that seek either Deficit Reduction Contribution or multiemployer relief would be precluded from increasing worker benefits during the relief period. Thus, under this agreement, employers could seek minimal relief not to further secure workers' retirement security, but as a way to prevent unionized employees from bargaining over benefit increases. I urge my colleagues to vote for the Andrews motion to recommit, which would provide fair relief to multiemployer plans, and against final passage of this stilted and discriminatory conference report.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Chairman, today, I rise to oppose the budget under consideration today. Some believe they must accept the President's request for higher defense spending. Too many Members of Congress believe that a vote against higher defense budgets is tantamount to being ``weak on defense.'' But what they ignore is the fact that the President's defense number is weak on defense contractors. It gives nearly everything the contractors could want, and as I will show in a minute, it fails to make Americans safer. How does the V-22 tilt rotor--which has killed 30 Marines in a crash rate of 18 percent--make Americans any safer? Of course it doesn't. But spending $1.75 billion to procure it makes the contractor richer. How does the so-called National Missile Defense--which has not been shown to work, according to the DOD's own director of testing--make America any safer? It doesn't. But it does make the contractor richer. How does the F-22 airplane, which suffers from exorbitant cost overruns and offers little improvement over today's more than capable F-15, make America any safer? Again, it doesn't. But at a cost of $4.7 billion in this year's budget, the contractors will see great profits. Rather than buying a false idea of security by handing billions to defense contractors for hardware that doesn't work, can't work, or won't work to defend against the threats of today, let's buy the defense we do need and invest the rest in economy security. America needs jobs. The Nation has lost 2.2 million total jobs since President Bush took office. Experts had expected an increase of 125,000 new jobs in February, but in reality companies added just 21,000 new jobs last month. Manufacturing lost 3,000 jobs in February, a 43-month continuous slide. Since July 2000, the manufacturing sector has shed 2.8 million of its jobs. And the construction industry is suffering under a 9.3-percent unemployment rate. There were 8.2 million unemployed workers in February. Yet this number is low; 1.7 million additional workers were not counted in the unemployment figures, as they hadn't looked for a job in the prior 4 weeks. Mr. Chairman, my colleagues face a quandary today. Many of them are going to vote for large deficits and reduced domestic spending in order to fund a $26.5 billion increase in defense spending. To do that means Congress will not spend enough money to create jobs. And jobs are the bottom line for Americans. There is a better approach for a safer and stronger America. First we will reduce defense spending to last year's request, although much more could be cut. That still leaves a defense budget increase of 26 percent since 2001, not accounting for the extra funds for Afghanistan or Iraq, some $186 billion. The $26.5 billion can then be shifted to the Transportation Equity Act--a Legacy for Users (TEA-LU) to create jobs. Over 6 years, this increases the TEA-LU authorization, set by the committee at $275 billion, to $434 billion, a full $59 billion above the initial goal of the chairman and ranking member of the Transportation Committee. More importantly, the large infusion of cash into our nation's transportation infrastructure means hundreds of thousands of jobs and a dependable infrastructure system allowing the economy to continue to grow. Sensible cuts in defense spending can fund more jobs for Americans who desperately need them. Our country's economic strength, our ability to create jobs and improve business productivity, and our desire to create a safe, efficient transportation system are all-dependent upon increasing investment in our Nation's infrastructure. The Department of Transportation's own studies show that every $1 billion of Federal funds invested in highway infrastructure creates 47,500 jobs and $6.2 billion in economic activity. Authorizing $434 billion over 6 years for our transportation infrastructure will yield tremendous job growth and other economic benefits. In short, defense cuts can create more jobs for Americans.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker I rise today in honor and recognition of Timothy F. Horgan, Health Commissioner of Cuyahoga County, upon the occasion of his retirement following nearly 35 years of service and dedication to Ohio residents in the areas of public health, recreation and safety. Throughout his tenure, Mr. Horgan focused on protecting and enhancing the health of Ohio residents of all ages. With the support of Ohio's recreation industry, he wrote the legislation for Ohio's first recreational licensing program that monitored swimming pools, campgrounds and marinas. While serving as the Director of Environmental Health at the Cuyahoga County Board of Health, Mr. Horgan was instrumental in the development and passage of legislation that significantly updated food protection laws. He also took the lead in investigating an outbreak of infant pulmonary hemorrhaging cases, and facilitated the investigation of an outbreak of Legionnaires' disease. Moreover, it was Mr. Horgan's diligence, vision and persistence that initiated the construction of a new health center for the Cuyahoga County Board of Health. The new center opened its doors in December, 2003. Additionally, Mr. Horgan energized the entire Board by enhancing the scope of services and increasing staff members from 40 in 1987, to 215 employees today. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of Timothy E. Horgan, whose exemplary professional life has been dedicated to the health and well-being of Ohio residents. I wish Mr. Horgan many blessings of health and happiness in all of his future endeavors.