Dennis Kucinich

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I honor Reverend Anthony Michael Pilla. He will be celebrating the twentieth anniversary of his position as Bishop of Cleveland on January 7, 2001. Born in Cleveland, Reverend Pilla was educated in a combination of both public and private schools. He was ordained into the priesthood on May 23, 1959. Throughout his life he has shown commendable dedication to the promotion of religion and harmony within the Cleveland community. Bishop Pilla began his life in the priesthood as Associate Pastor of St. Bartholomew Parish, Middleburg Heights. Pope John Paul II announced his choice of Father Pilla as Auxiliary Bishop of Cleveland on June 30, 1979. The following year he was named the Ninth Bishop of Cleveland. The Reverend Pilla was well schooled in Philosophy and History. He has also taken a wide variety of positions of responsibility. He was appointed a member of the United States Catholic Conference 1985-1987. His appointment as Vice President of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops in 1992 is a testament to the respect he has earned as a religious leader. Bishop Pilla has always demonstrated the importance of using faith to transcend religious division, and to address the needs of the whole community. As a result, his work has a universal appeal. His pastorals, such as ``World Peace'' and ``A Call for One Another'' demonstrate this. Bishop Pilla has been outstanding as a unifying force in the Cleveland community. I feel blessed to consider Bishop Pilla as one of my personal friends. I have had the opportunity to work with him on a variety of issues for the benefit of the people of Cleveland. Both as a community leader and as a friend, Bishop Pilla has always shown the utmost integrity and honesty. In his work and his life he has shown the highest order of caring for others. My fellow colleagues, today I speak in recognition of the twentieth anniversary of The Most Reverend Anthony M. Pilla as Bishop of Cleveland.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate author Ray Bradbury, as he receives a lifetime achievement award to be presented by the National Book Foundation. A novelist, lecturer, social critic, screenwriter, playwright, poet and visionary, Ray Bradbury is a national treasure. Born in 1920, the young Bradbury was an imaginative child prone to nightmares and frightening fantasies. He began writing at the age of twelve, and has not looked back. Operas, poetry, essays, plays, more than 500 short stories and 30 books later, Ray Bradbury has left a vast collection of thoughts and ideas which will assuredly withstand the test of time. A man well grounded in reality, he has an amazingly distinct hold on the creative process that alludes most. He has said, ``We are cups, constantly and quietly being filled. The trick is knowing how to tip ourselves over and let the beautiful stuff out.'' Indeed, Ray Bradbury has found the path to letting the ``beautiful stuff out,'' for nearly 65 years. His works are well known by most, including his more popular The Martian Chronicles, Something Wicked This Way Comes, and Fahrenheit 451. Ray Bradbury's ideas are intertwined with our shared American culture, as nearly every high school student has at some point read one of his novels for a high school literature class. Fahrenheit 451, in which an autocratic society's government denies its people access to books, and thus creative thought and actions, is a classic example of Ray Bradbury's unique incorporation of fantasy, reality, and forewarning vision. It serves not only as a warning against censorship, but was firmly rooted in the American culture of the time, as it was written and published during the reign of Senator Joseph McCarthy. Truly a modern creative genius, Ray Bradbury has won numerous awards for his writing, and was inducted into the Science Fiction Hall of Fame in 1970. After what has indeed been a lifetime of achievement, Mr. Bradbury is showing no signs of slowing down, as even now, at 80, he continues to write and lecture. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Ray Bradbury, a man who's vision and artistic creativity has challenged our collective memories, ideals and beliefs; and who has served as an inspiration to each of us and our future.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor of Dr. Claire A. Van Ummerson's outstanding dedication to serving the higher educational needs of the Cleveland area. Claire A. Van Ummerson, Cleveland State University president since 1993, will leave the school by the end of June to take up a new position on the American Council on Education in Washington, DC. She has a long and prestigious career in the field of higher education. From 1986 through to 1992, Dr. Van Ummerson served as chancellor of the University System of New Hampshire. She has also been associated with the University of Massachusetts in Boston for many years in a variety of roles, including associate vice chancellor for Academic Affairs. Dr. Van Ummerson's philosophy which is based on partnerships has been instrumental in ensuring progress at Cleveland State University. She advocates working with school systems, other universities, research institutes and businesses to strengthen academic programs and enhance the school's capacity to respond to the needs of the region. Such a philosophy demonstrates a true understanding of the education system and its interaction with the community as a whole. Dr. Van Ummerson's contribution to education can be seen in the stature of Cleveland State University in our community. The University, which serves the educational needs of northeast Ohio, offers 65 undergraduate programs and has approximately 15,500 students. Its mission to promote an open and inclusive educational environment for members of the community has been served well under Dr. Van Ummerson's leadership. My fellow distinguished colleagues, please join me in honoring Dr. Claire Van Ummerson's outstanding work as President of Cleveland State University, and in wishing her all the best for her future career in Washington, DC.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I wish today to congratulate Jane L. Campbell, the outstanding Commissioner from Cuyahoga County, Ohio who was recently named one of nine Public Officials of the Year by Governing Magazine. As one of three Cuyahoga Commissioners for the most populous county in Ohio, Campbell manages human services, economics, infrastructure development and re-development and also oversees a budget larger than that of ten states. However, Campbell takes her job as County Commissioner far beyond these traditional duties. Currently, she is President of the Board of County Commissioners, Chairman of the Violence Against Women Act Committee and Children Who Witness Violence Committee, and a Board Member of the District One Public Works Integrating Committee (DOPWIC). Also, Campbell represents the County at the National Association of Counties and the County Commissioners Association of Ohio, and she was recently elected the Vice Chair of the National Democratic County Officials. Jane Campbell is a natural leader. At just 47 years old, Campbell is already a seasoned politician, winning her first state legislative seat when she was still in her 20's. She successfully served six terms in the Ohio House of Representatives, where she was elected Majority Whip and Assistant Minority Leader by her colleagues. Over the course of her 12 years in office, Campbell had a strong record for children and families, law enforcement, development and welfare. In addition to being a talented legislator, Campbell was the founding Executive Director of WomenSpace, Executive Director of the Friends of Shaker Square and National Field Director of ERAmerica. Campbell's hard work has earned her a number of awards and honors including, Crain's Cleveland Business Woman of Influence, One of the 100 Most Influential Women in Cleveland by Cleveland Magazine, A Woman to Watch in the 90's by Ms Magazine, One of 100 Young Women of Promise by Good Housekeeping, and Rookie of the Term by Columbus Monthly. Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me today in recognizing Commissioner Jane Campbell. She is a truly remarkable woman who should be commended for her immeasurable contributions to our community and her endless dedication to public service.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I pay respect to Joan Olsen, who passed away recently at the age of 59 after battling with cancer. Mrs. Olsen was an outstanding citizen of the community of St. Colman's Church since 1987. She whole-heartedly involved herself in the education and computer assistance of the St. Colman's Church and community. Joan grew up in Lakewood, but settled in Fairview Park after her marriage to Neal Olsen in 1967. Joan was drawn to St. Colman's Church in 1987 while researching her Irish genealogy. From the moment she joined St. Colman's Church, she was an active member and participant in the Parish and community. From her work experience between 1992 and 1994 in helping to computerize the Cuyahoga County Archive Records, Joan decided to computerize the Parish files. In 1995, she realized the importance of computer education and resolved to help the community obtain computers and to teach computer classes. Knowing that the community could not afford computers or computer classes, she contacted many businesses and was able to acquire newer model computers for the neighborhood. The computer lab was eventually placed in the parish school building, where Joan gave free computer classes to anyone interested. In addition to her computer classes, Joan taught Bible classes at St. Colman's Parish. She immersed herself further into the community when she offered to install computers in the homes of families. Outside of the St. Colman's Parish community, Joan helped organize the West Side Community Computer Center. She did all of the networking and attended out-of-town conferences in preparation for the opening of the Center. Once again, she provided free computer classes. Joan had many talents and interests, which she generously shared with her family, friends, and community. She taught knitting and weaving to the neighborhood children in addition to her already existing computer classes. I am heartened to hear that the computer lab at St. Colman's Parish will be formally dedicated to Joan very soon. A woman of her caliber will be remembered not only in the minds and hearts of the St. Colman community citizens, but also by the new dedication of the computer lab. Joan Olsen has been a keystone to the community. Her absence will be greatly missed. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in expressing my deepest condolences to Joan's family and many friends, and honoring the memory of Joan Olsen.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the Fiftieth Anniversary of the Russian American Cultural Society of Cleveland. This wonderful organization has been unifying the Russian population of Cleveland and celebrating the spirit of community since 1950. The history of Cleveland's extraordinary Russian population begins in the post World War II era. The first wave of immigrants left Russia after the civil war in the early 1920's and settled in France and Yugoslavia. Following World War II, many of these Russian immigrants left war-torn Europe and headed for the United States. A second wave of immigration came when a number of displaced Russian citizens chose to make a new start in the U.S. rather than return to the Soviet Union for repatriation. Of the thousands of Russian citizens who came to America in the 1940's, many chose Cleveland, Ohio as the city where they would begin their new lives. Once settled in Cleveland, these Russian immigrants joined together in an admirable effort to preserve their valued Russian tradition, language, culture, and Orthodoxy. They took their first bold steps toward carrying on their Russian heritage in 1950 with the founding of the Russian American Cultural Society of Cleveland and the St. Sergius of Radonesh Russian Orthodox Church. Due to the strong ethnic bond which the Cultural Society provided, its activity and membership grew exponentially. The society's most active years came under the region of Mr. G. Mesernicky, who was president during the 1960's and 70's. Under his leadership, the society operated a Russian language school, a radio program, a newsletter, and a youth group. It is clear that the society has succeeded in achieving its commendable goal of preserving Russian tradition in the city of Cleveland. To this day, they continue to bring Russian-Americans together for various cultural and social events, including picnics, concerts, lectures, plays, and most notably, the annual Tatiana Ball. Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me today in congratulating the Russian American Cultural Society on its Golden Anniversary. They have made a lasting contribution to the city of Cleveland, and I wish them many more years of continued success.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, Federal regulatory review of biotechnology products is patchy and inadequate. Spread out over three regulatory agencies--the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-- the system is characterized by huge regulatory holes that fail to safeguard human health and environmental protection. Furthermore, independent scientific advice available to the agencies is severely limited. Despite the fact that GE food may contain new toxins or allergens, the FDA determined in 1992 that GE plants should be treated no differently from traditionally bred plants. Consequently, the FDA condones an inadequate premarket safety testing review and does not require any labeling of GE food products. The FDA has essentially abdicated these responsibilities to the very companies seeking to market and profit from the new GE products. FDA's recent proposed rule for regulating biotechnology will hardly change the present system. Although the proposal requires that companies notify the Agency before marketing new GE products, it still fails to require a comprehensive pre-market safety testing review or mandatory labeling. The FDA's 1992 decision to treat GE food as ``substantially equivalent'' to conventional food (thereby exempting most GE food on the market from independent premarket safety testing or labeling) is a violation of the public's trust and an evasion of the Agency's duties to ensure a safe food supply. The concept of ``substantial equivalence'' has been challenged in numerous scientific journals. FDA's failure to label GE foods led a 1996 editorial in the New England Journal of Medicine to conclude that ``FDA policy would appear to favor industry over consumer protection.'' EPA's regulation of environmental hazards is equally inadequate. Under the nation's pesticide laws, EPA regulates biological pesticides produced by plants. It does not, however, regulate the plants themselves, leaving that duty to the USDA. Consequently, EPA regulates the B.t. toxin, but not the corn, cotton or potato plants exuding the toxin. EPA has allowed B.t. crops to come to the market without conducting a comprehensive environmental review. Much further research is needed on the impacts of ``pest protected'' crops as outlined by a National Academy of Sciences report. For plants engineered for other traits, such as herbicide tolerance or disease tolerance, EPA does no environmental review at all. The USDA's Animal Plant and Health Protection Service (APHIS) is charged with evaluating potential environmental impacts of field tests of GE crops. However, having virtually abandoned its original permit system which registered an environmental impact assessment before a field test, the Agency can no longer claim to be doing its job. APHIS has adopted a much less rigorous ``notification'' system which permits researchers to conduct field trials without conducting an The National Academy of Sciences (NAS), the premier scientific body in our nation, has recently published a scientific assessment of GE foods. Unfortunately, many of the scientists on the NAS review committee had financial links to the biotech industry. The failure of the NAS to find an unbiased panel is problematic because their mission to supply decision makers and the public with unbiased scientific assessments cannot be achieved. This reduces the lack of independent science for our regulatory agencies to rely upon. Popular Demand for an Evolution in Policy Regarding GE Food A strong testament to consumers' desire for labeling and greater safety testing of GE food is the flurry of legislative activity and ballot initiatives that have taken place at the state and local levels. Over the past year, the city councils of Boston, Cleveland and Minneapolis have passed resolutions calling for a moratorium on GE food, and Austin has called for the labeling of all GE food. Boulder, CO has banned GE organisms from 15,000 acres of city-owned farmland. Bills requiring labeling of GE food were introduced in the state legislatures of New York, Minnesota, California and Michigan. The state legislature in Vermont considered legislation that would require farmers to notify the town hall if they were planting genetically engineered seeds. In California, a task force is exploring whether schools should be serving GE food, and in 1999 a petition signed by over 500,000 people demanding labeling was submitted to Congress, President Clinton and several federal agencies including the FDA. In survey after survey, American consumers have indicated that they believe all GE food should be labeled as such. Consumers have a right to know what is in the food they eat and to make decisions based on that knowledge. While some observe strict dietary restrictions for religious, ethical or health reasons, others simply choose not to be the first time users of these largely untested foods. The failure to label GE crops and food is short-sighted and could close off key markets for U.S. farm exports. Labeling protections have been established in Europe, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. The Cartagena Biosafety Protocol drafted early this year allows nations to refuse imports of GE organisms. Other Impacts of GE Foods Deserving Attention The gene revolution is being led by the agri-business industry. These are a handful of multinational companies which own much of the world's supplies of seeds, pesticides, fertilizers, food and animal veterinary products. The result of numerous acquisitions and mergers, the agri- business conglomeration has spent millions of dollars on research and development of GE products. Given such heavy investment, it should come as no surprise that its primary goal is to recover its expenses and turn a profit. It is to profit-seeking companies, therefore, that we are ceding the right to re-engineer the earth--our plants, our food, our fish, our animals, our trees, even our lawns. Genetic engineering in Marketed by agrichemical companies, genetic engineering in agriculture promises to perpetuate the present industrialized system of agriculture--a system characterized by large farms, single cropping, heavy machinery and dependence on chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Such a system has consolidated acres into fewer and larger farms, marginalizing small farmers and reducing the number of people living on farms and in rural communities. With a goal of marketing GE seeds worldwide, genetic engineering will continue the trend of industrialized farming to reduce crop diversity, making our food supply increasingly vulnerable to pests and disease. The Southern Corn Leaf Blight which in 1970 destroyed 60 percent of the U.S. corn crop in one summer, clearly demonstrates that a genetically uniform crop base is a disaster waiting to happen. The linkages of genetically engineered seeds and pesticides, such as Monsanto's GE Roundup Ready Seeds will ensure continued use of agricultural chemicals. Genetic engineering is likely to further diminish the role of the farmer. GE seeds are designed to be grown in a large scale agricultural system in which farmers become laborers or ``renters'' of seed technology. Desperate to increase their yields to make up for low prices, many U.S. farmers have adopted the ``high-yielding'' GE seeds. In doing so, they have been forced to sign contracts legally binding them to use proprietary chemicals on their transgenic crops and in some cases to permit random inspections of their fields by biotechnology company representatives who check that farmers are not saving and reusing the licensed seed. Despite the premium farmers pay for high tech seeds, they receive no warranty for the performance of these seeds as the contracts protect biotechnology seed companies in the event of seed failures. a protective regulatory structure Despite the uncertainties associated with genetic engineering, nevertheless, GE crops covered 71 million acres of U.S. farmland last year, and GE ingredients are present throughout the food supply. Ranging from ice-cream and infant formula to tortilla chips and veggie burgers, foods produced using genetic engineering line our supermarket shelves. These foods are unlabeled and have not been appropriately assessed for safety. Consumers, therefore, are unwitting subjects in a massive experiment with their food. Our regulatory system has clearly failed to ensure the protection of human health, the environment and farmers. In response I have authored legislation in the 106th Congress that would fill the regulatory vacuum. To ensure food safety, I have introduced a bill that requires that GE food go through the FDA's current food additive process, acknowledging that a food is fundamentally altered when a new gene is inserted into it. The review process would look at concerns unique to GE products including allergenicity, unintended effects, toxicity, functional characteristics and nutrient levels. To date, the public has been largely left out of the biotechnology regulatory process, and that needs to change. Consequently, I propose that the FDA conduct a public comment period of at least 30 days once a completed safety application is available to the public. All studies performed by the applicant must be made available including all data unfavorable to the petition. The FDA should also maintain a publicly available registry of the GE foods for which food additives are pending or have been approved. When the FDA was called upon to confirm the Taco Bell taco shell contamination for a possible regulatory enforcement action, it was unable to do so because it lacked the necessary testing protocols. The FDA should correct this failure by immediately creating testing protocols for all GE foods and test for potential contamination in these foods. Until then, the FDA cannot determine the ingredients in our food supply, it is unlikely that the FDA can ensure the American public that other foods are not contaminated. I have also introduced a bill requiring mandatory labeling of GE foods or foods containing GE ingredients so that American consumers can make informed choices about what they are eating. Packaged foods carry nutritional labels, drugs and medications come with descriptions of their contents. There is no reason that GE food should not also be labeled granting consumers their fundamental right to know what is in their food. Clearly, environmental regulations for the release of the GE organisms need to be strengthened. Similarly, the USDA allows field trials of all GE plants that prevent adequate assessments of the environment risks posed by these plants. Though genetically engineered fish are predicted to be commercialized by 2001, it is still unclear which agency will regulate them. The US Fish and Wild Life Service as well as the National Marine and Fish Service must pay a role in developing regulations for GE fish. Finally, Congress should hold hearings on the failure of the regulatory agencies in protecting the American public. Conclusion The controversy surrounding genetically engineered food should not be a surprise to anyone. The mechanical manipulation of genes in the food one eats instinctively raises questions of health and safety. We instinctively trust farmers to grow and raise our food, but we must question the motivation of large corporations who want to create impure food for pure profit. When we feed our family, we don't take chances. If we are not sure how old the leftovers in the back of the fridge are, we throw them out. And as long as we are not convinced that this new technology is flawless, people should be hesitant to serve genetically engineered food to their children. New technologies always have unforseen effects. The American consumer does not want to be a part of an experiment at their dinner table.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, genetically engineered (GE) food is and should be controversial. However, one voice has tended to dominate official discourse on the subject--that of the agri-business industry. These corporations and their paid public relations spokespersons have claimed: that GE food is identical to foods bred by selective (traditional) breeding; GE food is safe; GE food is associated with good environmental practices; and GE food will cure world hunger. Federal regulators have largely left these claims unchallenged, permitting the industry to introduce GE food rapidly and widely without producing scientific evidence to back their claims. The public is skeptical. There is a growing popular movement that is critical of GE food promises and suspicious of its industry proponents. In other countries, consumers have flatly rejected GE food, and opposition to GE food is growing in this country. I believe that GE food is an example of a radically new technology, the massive commercialization of which has out-paced science and public policy. In this article, I wish to examine the industry's claims and scrutinize federal actions. I will then present alternatives. Is GE Food Just Like Traditional Food? There are significant and obvious differences between the genesis of traditional food and the manufacturing of GE food. Scientists note that conventional breeders rely on processes that occur in nature (such as sexual and asexual reproduction) to develop new plants. By contrast, genetic engineers use ``gene guns'' and bacteria among other methods to forcibly insert or ``smuggle'' foreign genetic material into a plant or animal. Genetic engineers also use genetic elements such as viruses which ``turn on'' the foreign genes in the new host organism as well as genes for antibiotic resistance that mark which cells have accepted the foreign genetic material. Conventional breeders are bound by species boundaries that allow them to transfer genetic material only between related or closely related species. By contrast, the very purpose of genetic engineering is to allow scientists to transfer genes from completely unrelated life forms, creating such concoctions as corn that exudes toxins found in soil bacteria or tobacco that glows due to the insertion into its genome or a firefly gene. Scientists warn that genetic engineers cannot always accurately predict the outcome of their experiments. Many scientists argue that the genetic engineering process is inherently unpredictable and that genetic engineers are operating with incomplete knowledge about how genes interact with each other and with their external environment. While genetic engineers can with some precision locate and isolate a trait or gene to be inserted, they cannot control with any precision where that gene will be inserted into the host plant or how it will interact with other genes in the host plant. The new gene may disrupt the function or regulation of a plant's existing genes. Field trials and lab research have documented the unpredictable nature of GE plants. In a 1990 study, scientists attempted to suppress the multiple colors of petunia flowers by turning off pigment genes in the plant. Researchers predicted that all the engineered flowers would be the same color. The flowers, however varied in terms of the amount of color in their flowers and in the pattern of color in individual flowers. Some flowers also changed color as the season changed. The unpredictability of GE crops was further highlighted in 1997, when farmers growing GE cotton reported that the plants had stunted growth, deformed root systems and produced malformed cotton bolls. Is GE Food Safe? Despite endless reassurances by biotechnology companies and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that GE food is safe to eat, several concerns have arisen. Genetic engineering has the potential to introduce new alergens and toxins into food, increase levels of natural toxins, reduce the nutritional quality of food and increase the rate of antibiotic resistance in bacteria. Yet, our experience with GE crops is limited. They have only been growing on a wide scale for five years and, consequently, have only been part of the American diet for the same amount of time. The long-term consequences of a diet of GE food are therefore unknown. To date, not a single peer-reviewed study has been conducted on the long-term consequences for humans of eating a diet of GE food. Moreover, without segregation and labeling protections in place to inform consumers about what they are eating, it will be difficult to pinpoint and monitor whether the presence of GE material in food products is impacting human health. The lack of long-term safety studies has correctly led the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to not approve Starlink corn for human consumption because of concerns with potential allergens. Unfortunately, this corn was found in Taco Bell taco shells found on our grocery stores. Kraft, the maker of these taco shells, recalled 2.5 million boxes of these contaminated shells. Environmental Impacts Associated with GE Food Despite claims that GE crops will help the environment, to date, the main focus of biotechnology has been to generate herbicide resistant crops and pest and disease resistant crops--crops that encourage more intensive use of pesticides. The failure of GE to move agriculture in a more sustainable direction is a serious threat to the environment. Equally serious is the threat of genetic pollution which is potentially irreversible. Studies are revealing that predictions of gene flow, harm to beneficial insects, insect resistance, and the Numerous studies have shown the potential fallout of transgenic ``insect-resistant'' crops on the environment. Both lab and field studies have confirmed that pollen from B.t. corn is lethal to monarch butterfly larvae. Swiss entomologists have found that lacewings and lady bugs are negatively impacted when they feed on organisms that have ingested the GE corn. Research undertaken at the New York University shows that contrary to expectation, B.t. toxins bind to soil particles and can persist in the soil for up to 250 days. These toxins have been shown to harm soil microorganisms that break down organic matter. Given that half of our cotton crop and nearly one-third of our corn crop are GE ``insect resistant'' varieties, it is alarming that such studies were not conducted earlier, underscoring the fact that the experiment with GE crops is taking place in farmers' fields and on consumer plates rather than in controlled, laboratory settings. Insect resistance to the B.t. toxin poses a serious threat for organic farmers who use the toxin in a natural spray as part of an integrated pest management scheme. A study published in Science found that a common pest of cotton was able to build up resistance to insect resistant varieties very quickly. If the toxin is rendered useless, organic farmers will be deprived of an essential tool. Not content with simply engineering food crops, biotechnology companies are introducing new test tube ``products.'' GE engineered salmon that are close to commercialization may be able to ``outcompete'' wild salmon in reproduction and further deplete this endangered species. Genetically engineered trees are also in the product line and may introduce ecological threats to our national forests. Can Biotech Feed the World? There is no question that the nations of the world must take action to stop global hunger. It is a travesty that 800 million people go hungry each day. Biotech proponents argue that genetic engineering is the solution to the problem because it will increase crop yields to feed a growing population. A techno-fix, however, ignores the root causes of hunger. Hunger persists today despite the fact that increases in food production during the past 35 years have outstripped the world's population growth by 16 percent. Indeed, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization recently stated that growth in agriculture will continue to outstrip world population growth. The Institute for Food Policy notes that there is no relationship between the prevalence of hunger in a given country and its population. The real causes of hunger are poverty, inequality and lack of access. Too many people are too poor to buy the food that is available (but poorly distributed) or lack the land and resources to grow it themselves. The much heralded ``Green Revolution'' was an example of the failure of new technology applied to farming to reduce hunger. Using the technology, developing countries significantly increased crop yields, but they nevertheless failed to eliminate hunger, because they failed to address the root social and economic causes of hunger. Furthermore, the Green Revolution exacerbated poverty and social inequality. It favored larger, wealthier farmers who could afford the new high yielding crop varieties and the chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and irrigation systems that accompanied them. Left behind were poorer farmers unable to afford such inputs. In the meantime, the heavy use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides generated resistant pests and degraded the fertility of the soil, undermining the very basis for future production. The growing use of patents to ``protect'' biotechnology innovations also threatens subsistence farmers in the developing world and could exacerbate hunger. Patents have been taken out on plants, animals, bacteria as well as genes, cells and body parts. Sanctioned and imposed by the global trading system, this ``commodification of life'' has allowed multinational companies to patent staple crops in developing countries such as yellow beans in Mexico, South Asian basmati rice as well as medicinal herbs, livestock and marine species. Such a predatory system threatens to enable companies to maximize their control over farming processes and the world's food resources. Landmark studies are showing that traditional farming methods, including multi-cropping and small scale techniques are proving to be just as effective in producing high yields as conventional farming. Most recently, in one of the largest agricultural experiments ever, thousands of rice farmers in China were able to double the yields of their crops simply by planting a mixture of two different rices--a practice that did not require using chemical treatments or investing any new capital. Clearly, these types of farming methods are suited to local needs and ecosystems. They will protect the environment and increase an affordable food supply. Biotechnology, however, will likely repeat the failure of the Green Revolution's fertilizers and pesticides. Biotech will not solve the problem of world hunger but may exacerbate it.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a truly remarkable man, one who genuinely exemplifies what it means to be a loving, peaceful person, even under the most adverse circumstances. On Thursday, September 14, around 11:00 pm, Peter Akinyele's 16-year- old neighbor asked to use his phone. He did, only to return with a friend--and a gun. The young boys demanded money while holding the weapon to Peter's head, and yet the 67-year-old maintained a calm, collected composure, asking them simply to ``put the gun down.'' Peter Akinyele also maintained his composure as the boys proceeded to slash his throat open, beat him and bound his hands and feet with an electrical cord. Near unconscious, the boys threw him in the basement, ignoring his last request: ``Please don't set the house on fire,'' as he collapsed from pain and fatigue. Peter awoke to the smell of gasoline and smoke, and the sound of firefighters extinguishing the blaze. Peter broke through a basement window with his bare hand, and, shouting for help, was eventually heard amidst the chaos. Finally, his ordeal was over and he was brought to safety. To this day, Peter Akinyele has no trace of anger toward his young and ruthless attackers. Throughout the entire fiasco, he says, his main concern was not only that he would live to see the next day, but that the boys would have a future themselves. Realizing the potential danger if he struggled for control of the gun, he simply talked to the young boys, saying ``Please don't shoot me. Don't do this. This is not the right thing to do.'' Even when someone was attempting to brutally end his life, Peter Akinyele remained strong-willed, and yet empathetic. He would not give up this own life, but he would not even attempt to harm theirs for the sake of his own survival. Certainly, this is a man who does not believe in fighting violence with more violence. My fellow colleagues, Peter Akinyele is a man who deserves the highest respects for his noble suffering. Many people can look to him as an example of the peaceful nature and genuinely loving heart that all should aim to cultivate in their lives. I commend him for his courage, bravery, and loving heart.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Ohio PTA on its 100th Anniversary, on May 21, 2001. For the past century, the Ohio PTA has been actively fighting for our children. When the Ohio PTA first convened on May 21, 1901, during the National Congress of Mothers, it recognized the importance of our children, and their need to be educated and raised in a healthy manner. The PTA made it their mission to act and speak on behalf of our young people throughout the community as well as before government agencies. In the 1920's, the PTA worked to ratify the National Child Labor Amendment as well as advocated the need of special classes for developmentally handicapped children. During the 1940's, the PTA assisted the war effort by working with the Red Cross and other agencies to help abroad. Meanwhile, the PTA also established the Memorial Scholarship Program to train teachers to better educate our children at home. During the 1980's, the PTA launched its ``Come Back to School'' project to improve parent involvement as well as increase participation in the larger cities. Most recently, the PTA has been instrumental in increasing parent involvement, advocating legislation on behalf of the youth, as well as leading the Citizens Against Vouchers coalition. The Ohio PTA recognizes the role of parents as primary educators in partnership with the schools with whom we entrust our children. The Ohio PTA acknowledges that we are all parents as long as we carry significant responsibilities for a child's development. Presently, there are 150,000 PTA members in 800 local units throughout the state. The Ohio PTA plays an important role in striving to maintain the safety, welfare, and education of all of our children in the state of Ohio. Please join me in honoring the Ohio PTA on the occasion of its 100th Anniversary.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I honor the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Northeast, Central and Southern Ohio, an organization which succeeds in bringing hope to children who face the adversity of fatal illnesses. The Foundation is a charity which grants the very special wishes of children, between the ages of 2\1/2\ and 18, who have been diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses. Any child that has been diagnosed appropriately by their doctor qualifies for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Following this, a team of Make-A-Wish volunteers visits the child and family to determine his or her wish. The organizations then works in conjunction with local contacts and businesses to transform the child's wish from fantasy into reality. The Make-A-Wish Foundation offers children an opportunity to see their dreams come true. It recognizes the vital importance of hope to all human life. It seeks to extend a helping hand to all children in need. The Foundation granted the individual wishes of nearly 200 children in the fiscal year 1998. Each wish is limited only by the child's imagination. The organization helps all children irrespective of their families' financial need or status. It covers all expenses associated with a wish, including airfare and accommodation. It provides a ray of light for children in dark times. I would also like to commend the tireless dedication of Rose Serraglio to the work of the Make-A-Wish Foundation. In her capacity as chairwoman and organizer of the Foundation's Halloween Benefit, she has demonstrated the highest order of caring for children whose world has been shattered by the traumatic effect of fatal illnesses. My fellow colleagues, please rise with me in honoring the valuable contribution of the Make-A-Wish Foundation to the lives of children afflicted by the serious illnesses. It is an example to us all of the importance of helping the less fortunate members of our community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the comedic legend, Carl Reiner, and in recognition of his remarkable achievement of being awarded the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor. A writer, performer, humorist, producer and director, his range of talent and contributions to American television are without bounds. Reiner, now 78, has had a lengthy and multi-faceted career. In 1950 Reiner joined Sid Caesar's ``Your Show of Shows,'' the precursor to sketch-comedies such as the ``Carol Burnette Show'' and ``Saturday Night Live.'' There he honed his comedic talents with other giants of laughter, like the legendary Mel Brooks, and began the writing for which he gained his unique reputation. After the show left the air in 1954, Reiner went to work writing TV pilots. Seven years later, CBS bought the ``Dick Van Dyke Show,'' one of televisions first and best sitcoms. Reiner went on to win 11 Emmy awards for the show. Throughout the sixties, Reiner wrote semi-autobiographical comic novels, as well as short stories; his current collection is titled, ``How Paul Robeson Saved My Life.'' He has produced comic television shows and movies, and most recently, he created the hysterical comedy album, ``The Two-Thousand-Year-Old Man,'' with Mel Brooks. Despite Carl Reiner's unmistakable gift for comedy, he remains a man of family, and a ``normal'' one, at that. He is married to Estelle Reiner, and is a loving father of three. Carl Reiner's universal appeal can, at least in part, be attributed to his straight sense of humor, unmarred by the vulgar and raunchy comedy too often presented just to make a buck. Of course, Reiner has said, ``If it's funnier than it is dirty, then let's have it.'' Let us recognize and honor the man who has shaped so much of our shared American culture since the early fifties. A television and comic pioneer, Carl Reiner has become a legend in his own time. I congratulate his distinct genius and commend him on receiving the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 4281, the ICCVAM (Interagency Coordinating Committee for the Validation of Alternative Methods) Authorization Act. This commonsense piece of legislation has received overwhelming support from all interested parties, including endorsements from 72 bipartisan cosponsors, the animal rights community, a coalition of chemical and product manufacturers, and the administration. ICCVAM was established by the director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences in 1994 and is still in operation today. Thus, the bill does not create a new Federal bureaucracy. Rather, it improves upon an existing interagency committee and streamlines the regulatory process without eliminating discretion by any Federal agency. H.R. 4281 simply gives ICCVAM statutory authority to continue establishing guidelines and recommendations that promote the regulatory acceptance of scientifically valid, new, revised or alternative test methods, thereby eliminating duplicative, time-consuming and costly test method validation at several other government agencies. In addition, because ICCVAM already exists, passage of H.R. 4281 will not require any additional budget expenditures. In conclusion, I would like to say that H.R. 4281 provides a win-win situation for all groups and individuals involved with toxicology testing. For chemical and product manufacturers, who are required to test their products for safety before bringing them to the market, the bill offers them a centralized body to ensure that new test methods are scientifically valid and acceptable for regulatory use before they spend large sums of money on conducting the tests for government approval. For animal protection organizations, this legislation promotes an improved forum in which alternatives to animal testing can be scientifically validated for regulatory use. From a broader standpoint, the tests approved by ICCVAM will provide Federal agencies with adequate data to protect human and environmental health and safety, a development which benefits all Americans. Mr. Speaker, I ask all my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in supporting H.R. 4281. Let us ensure that ICCVAM continues its important work on behalf of the Federal Government, animal rights activists, and regulated industries across the United States.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Munawar Hussain, a neighbor, an entrepreneur and a friend, who serves as a fine example of what a little ambition and hardwork can bring. This remarkable man gives us all hope that the American dream is still alive and well. Mr. Hussain's story begins in 1955 in Lalamusa, Pakistan where he was born and raised. After spending most of his young life in Pakistan, Hussain realized that he wanted more for himself. At the age of 26, Hussain made the decision to come to America. Bravely, with only one dollar in his pocket, he made the long trip to the U.S. alone, without the comfort of family and friends. All he carried with him were the hopes and dreams of capturing some of the opportunity and prosperity that he knew existed in the United States. Hussain originally settled down in New York City, where he remained for 15 years. However, the expense of living in New York proved to be a heavy burden on Hussain. He worked as a mechanic, a taxi driver, and a limousine driver just to make ends meet. In 1996, Hussain and his brother, who had joined him in America in 1991, decided to move to Cleveland, Ohio. Together they agreed that a life in Cleveland held more promise for them than struggling to survive in the Big Apple. Shortly after arriving in Cleveland, Hussain made a choice that would permanently change his life for the better. With little money saved, Hussain used credit cards to purchase a 7-Eleven franchise. For four years, he worked diligently to save enough capital to buy the 7-Eleven store and bring it under his private ownership. Just last week, his goal became a reality, when the sale of the 7-Eleven became final. Hussain and his brother now independently own and operate the store, which Hussain has renamed ``Zishan Food Store'' after his son. Today, Hussain still lives in Cleveland along with his wife of 15 years and their four children. Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me today in honoring Mr. Munawar Hussain. This kind, hard-working man should be commended for his dedication and drive to succeed. He truly serves as an inspiration to us all.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4868, the Miscellaneous Trade and Technical Corrections Act. This legislation is of great importance and its passage must be concluded rapidly in order to be voted on by the 106th Congress. This legislation contains vital provisions from H.R. 1622, the Dog and Cat Protection Act, a bill which bans the import, export, and sale of products containing dog and cat fur. This issue is of the highest moral imperative. An estimated 2 million dogs and cats are killed each year for their fur as part of the international fur trade. These animals are kept in deplorable conditions, subjected to unbearable treatment and face brutal deaths including clubbing and skinning alive. This abuse of animal rights must be stopped. There is strong support for this legislation in Congress. The Dog and Cat Protection Act has broad bipartisan backing and 93 cosponsors. The Miscellaneous Trade and Technical Corrections Act was approved unanimously by both the House and the Senate. The concern for animal welfare is also shared by the American people. Over 65 million households have a dog or cat. In my own district of Cleveland, Ohio a local Television report by Dick Goddard succeeded in raising public awareness on this issue. His commendable work encouraged thousands of Cleveland residents to express their opposition to this abusive treatment of animals. Madam Speaker, I rise today to urge Congress to finish the Conference Report on H.R. 4868, and allow a vote on this vital piece of legislation. I believe that every effort should be made to ensure that the 106th Congress is allowed to vote on this issue. Americans deserve to be protected from unknowingly participating in this brutal trade.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, my colleague, Mr. LaTourette, and I are saddened to learn of the passing of Christine Vest, a tireless advocate for railroad safety. Mrs. Vest passed away last Thursday, October 19, 2000, at the age of 42. Mrs. Vest turned a personal tragedy into a public crusade. About 3 years ago, her 16-year-old son Jeffrey Vest was tragically killed by a train. Christine Vest became relentless in her effort to bring railroad safety to the forefront of public consciousness. She played an important role in ensuring that the acquisition of Conrail by CSX and Norfolk Southern railroads incorporated safety features that were essential to the people of the Greater Cleveland area, the State of Ohio, and the nation. Along with her daughter Stephanie, Christine Vest could be found wherever there was an opportunity to spread the word about train safety. She and Stephanie volunteered with a national rail safety program called Operation Lifesaver, an organization that provides public education about railroad safety. Mrs. Vest spoke in schools and rode specially chartered trains to inform students, public officials, and community workers about steps they can take to make railroad tracks safer to the general public. She spoke before the Ohio House of Representatives, successfully urging approval of funding for railroad crossing gates. Mrs. Vest was born in Eastlake, Ohio, and graduated from Eastlake North High School in 1975. She was active in the Harvey High School Booster Club. In addition to her daughter Stephanie, she is survived by her husband Charles, a son Matthew, her mother, Gerrie Smith, two grandchildren, three brothers, and a sister. Mr. Speaker, I ask our colleagues to join me in remembering Christine Vest. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Vest family at this time.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize the Polish National Alliance of Council 6, in Garfield Heights, Ohio. The Grand Opening of the Alliance's magnificent new building is on Saturday, October 21, 2000. The Polish National Alliance is the largest ethnic fraternity in the world. Established in 1880, the PNA was formed to unite the members of the Polish immigrant community in America behind the dual causes of Poland's independence and their own advancement into mainstream American society. In 1885, the Alliance established an insurance program for the benefit of its members. Throughout its nearly 120-year- long heritage, the Alliance has grown to include education benefits for its members, newspapers promoting harmony and the Polish National cause, and has worked to promote Poland's independence. Since World War I, the PNA and its members have given generously to help meet the material and medical needs of Poland's people, as well. Today, the Alliance has grown enormously in both numbers and influence, with a proud record of serving the insurance needs of more than two million men, women and children since 1880. As one of over nine-hundred local lodge groups, the Polish National Alliance Council 6 has carried on the great tradition and character of the PNA. I ask that my colleagues join with me to commend the Polish National Alliance for years of service to both the local and national Polish communities, and also the diverse world community at-large. I rise to wish them many more years of accomplishments and achievements in their new building.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I honor the memory of Mr. Marcus Steele, a sophomore at Cleveland Central Catholic High School who died tragically on October 13, 2000 during a football game against Trinity. It is always devastating to hear stories about the untimely deaths of young people, but it is even more difficult when the tragedy strikes close to home. There is a void in the hearts of many in the city of Cleveland today, as we say good-bye to this loved and respected young man. Marcus didn't knowingly put himself into harms way; he was simply playing the game that he loved. We cannot explain why he was taken from us at such a young age, but we must do our best to reflect upon the positive ways in which Marcus touched our lives. Marcus was a warm, caring individual who was genuinely admired by all those around him. His classmates and teammates describe him as open, motivated, jovial and popular. Marcus will be remembered most for his catching smile and his dedication to and appreciation for his family and friends. Also, as a linebacker and running back on the football team and as a key member of the basketball team, Marcus's wealth of athletic talent will certainly be missed on the playing fields at Cleveland Central Catholic. In characterizing him as an athlete, football coach Paul Cunningham said, ``Marcus never held anything back in practice, and he played the game that way too. He was a hard-nosed kid with a real future in this sport. You don't replace him. Marcus was one of a kind.'' Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I ask my fellow colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me today in remembering Marcus Steele. He was a fine young man who will surely be missed by all who knew him. I also wish to take this opportunity to extend my sincere condolences and sympathy to his family and friends and the staff, classmates, coaches and teammates of Marcus Steele at Cleveland Central Catholic High School. May you find the faith and strength to carry you through this difficult time.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I honor of the pastor of Ebenezer Assembly of Christ, Dr. Claude Cummings. A man who has devoted his adult life as an ordained minister of God, Dr. Cummings is an example of selfless leadership and service to those who share his spiritual faith. Dr. Claude Cummings, son of the late Bishop Claude and Mattie Cummings, knew he was called into ministerial service when he began preaching at the age of 18. He was ordained at the age of 26, and has since worked tirelessly as a servant of God. Dr. Cummings made his first move to Cleveland, Ohio in 1956, only to leave two years later due to the call of the Army. He went on to serve in Texas, both in San Antonio and then as a pastor of a small church in Sequin, until allowed to return home to Cleveland in 1961. There, he was sent to minister to a small group of Saints in Miles Heights, Ohio, who were attempting to build a church. As an example of the dedication and devotion Dr. Claude Cummings has shown throughout his years of service, he and first wife, Faith Cummings, shared their resources to complete the church-building project which had since haulted progress. They worked untiringly to get the edifice completed, only to see it destroyed in a tornado shortly after its dedication. Despite the disaster, Dr. Cummings assumed the role of general contractor, and worked even harder to build the edifice which now stands. Dr. Cummings has always endeavored to further his education, particularly within his own faith. Because of this love of the Word, he attended many colleges, including Aenon Bible College, Fenn (Cleveland State), and Grace Bible College. An obvious advocate of life-long learning, he currently continues his studies at Ashland Bible College and the Moody Bible Institute. Dr. Cummings is known not only for his breadth and depth of knowledge of the scriptures, but also for his gift of sharing the Bible through his commanding preaching and his extraordinary way of bringing the Bible to life during Bible Classes. Dr. Claude Cummings is affiliated with the Pentecostal Assemblies of the World, an organization in which he holds several offices; and the Apostolic Fellowship Conference. He was also one of the originators of the Cleveland Apostolic Ministerial Fellowship known as CAMF. A man of faith, Dr. Cummings is also a man of family. A loving father of five and grandfather to eight, he takes pride in both his personal and spiritual families. Let us honor Dr. Claude Cummings for his tremendous dedication to the many people he has led, and let us recognize his tireless service to faith.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of Cleveland's finest citizens. Mrs. Sally Morillas. At 86 years old, Mrs. Morillas continues to be an example of selflessness, volunteerism, and the spirit of community. Sally Morillas was born in Missouri, but she spent most of her childhood in Youngstown, Ohio. Mrs. Morillas became an active force in her community at an early age. Following her graduation from Oberlin College in 1934, Mrs. Morillas was instrumental in organizing the Youngstown Steelworkers Union. She continued her admirable fight on behalf of the Union until moving to Cleveland in 1942. Since then, Sally Morillas has made immeasurable contributions to the city of Cleveland, particularly for women and the Hispanic community. Her interminable commitment to peace has earned her prominent positions in the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom and Women Speak Out for Peace and Justice. Her unfailing dedication to peace first became evident during the Vietnam War when she participated in anti-war demonstrations in Cleveland and in Washington, DC. However, Mrs. Morillas does not only exercise her political activism during times of war and struggle. She worked diligently on the campaign to lift the embargo on Cuba and on the effort to return Elian Gonzales to his family in Cuba. Beyond her extraordinary involvement with international issues and world peace, Mrs. Morillas also supports causes that hit closer to home. As a full-time teacher at Glenville High School for 7 years and a substitute teacher for 10 years, Mrs. Morillas aimed to advance the interests of teachers through her membership in the Cleveland Teacher's Union. In addition to the Teacher's Union, Mrs. Morillas honorably served on the first advisory committee of the Hispanic Senior Center, where she is still a member. Finally, she donated considerable time and effort as a senior companion for the Benjamin Rose Institute, a non- profit, health and social services organization that seeks to help Cleveland's elderly population. Despite her numerous other commitments, Sally Morillas always found time for her family. She has one daughter, Lucha, with her husband Diego Morillas who passed away in 1966. Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me today in honoring this remarkable woman, Sally Morillas. The tremendous impact that she has made on her community and the city of Cleveland will last for generations to come.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I honor Mrs. Farah M. Walters who has been awarded the title of ``Woman of Achievement'' for her outstanding work in the field of health services. Farah M. Walters has led a remarkable 32 year career in the health care industry. Her commitment to the well-being of the community is an example to us all. She has received due recognition for her remarkable public service. In June 2000, Mrs. Walters was awarded the March of Dimes Golden Mile Award for her leadership and dedication to saving babies. In addition to local community service, she was appointed to Mrs. Hillary Rodham Clinton's National Health Care Reform Task Force. Later that year, ``Modern Healthcare'' selected her as one of 50 individuals to shape future development of American health care. She has demonstrated commendable dedication to all aspects of the heath care field. In her career, Mrs. Walters has undertaken positions of great responsibility. As president and chief executive officer of University Hospitals Health System and University Hospitals of Cleveland, she presides over a system that includes more than 15, 000 employees, working in over 100 health service locations in 55 Northeast Ohio communities. While under Farah Walters' leadership, University Hospitals of Cleveland received the Exemplary Voluntary Effort (EVE) Award from the U.S. Department of Labor. This continuing commitment to one of the most important areas of public service deserves to be rewarded with due recognition and respect. I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me today in honoring Mrs. Farah M. Walters whose outstanding community-based work has earned her the distinguished accolade, ``Woman of Achievement.''

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor my colleague, Congressman Bruce F. Vento, who passed away on Tuesday, October 10, 2000, at the age of 60, after 23 years of dedicated service as the Representative from Minnesota's Fourth Congressional District. Congressman Vento was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1977. Over the course of his 12 remarkable terms in office, Congressman Vento has taken a leadership role on environmental, housing and banking reform issues. As chairman of the Natural Resources Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands for over 10 years the Congressman was enormously successful in protecting hundreds of thousands of acreage from Minnesota to Alaska and American Samoa. Through his role as ranking member on the Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Credit, he has worked tirelessly to modernize our financial services industry while continuing to safeguard consumer privacy. Finally, as an active, vocal member of the Housing and Community Opportunity Subcommittee, Congressman Vento will always be remembered for his admirable fight to end homelessness in America. The most fitting tribute that we, his colleagues, can pay Congressman Vento is to follow in his footsteps and continue his commendable work on behalf of the environment, the homeless, and banking reform. Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in remembering one of our own, the Honorable Bruce F. Vento. He will be sorely missed by myself and all members of this House. I also wish to take this opportunity to extend my deepest sympathy to his family and friends during this difficult time.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of His Divine Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of the worldwide BAPS (Bochasanwasi Shree Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan Santhsa). He visits the Greater Cleveland area on Tuesday October 17. HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj is the fifth spiritual successor of Lord Swaminarayan, the spiritual figurehead of the BAPS. At the age of 79, he continues to demonstrate the highest order of caring for others. In his role as religious leader, he has visited over 15,000 villages, 250,000 homes and personally counseled over 610,000 people. He also had the distinguished honor of delivering an inaugural address at the recent Millennium World Peace Summit at the United Nations. His compassion for humanity and his altruistic tendencies have formed the basis for a wide range of noble projects. All his work is united by the common goal of improving the condition of humanity as a whole. As such he is an example to us all. BAPS is a remarkable organisation which has reached out and touched over one million followers across the world. It has over 6,800 international centers for youth, women and children. Under the leadership of HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj, BAPS has built the largest traditional Hindu Mandir outside India. In a nation of religious freedom and diversity, we should pay our respect to such outstanding work for the betterment of humanity. I ask the House of Representatives to join me today to honor the arrival of HDH Pramukh Swami Maharaj to the Greater Cleveland area.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor of the 85th anniversary of the publication of the Lithuanian newspaper DIRVA. First published November 22, 1915, under the title SANTAIKA, the DIRVA has been a source of pride and strength for the Lithuanian- American community. The DIRVA compels its readers with the events of Lithuania and those that affect Lithuanian-Americans here in the United States. It serves simultaneously as a link to their history and as a vehicle for their advancement. Through the tireless efforts of its editors and contributors the DIRVA, once one of many Lithuanian newspapers, has survived and flourished. It is now one of only two national Lithuanian language newspapers. This also offers me a chance to formally recognize and commend the Lithuanian-American Community, Inc. Cleveland Chapter and Viltis Inc., the publisher of DIRVA, for aiding the community for years and planning a celebration of this monumental event. My fellow colleagues, let us recognize and congratulate DIRVA for its years of dedication to the Lithuanian-American community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the twenty-fifth anniversary of Cleveland's Lesbian/Gay Community Service Center. For the past twenty-five years, the Center has served the community's gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender people and their supporters in the Greater Cleveland area. Driven by the belief that all people have a right to pursue life, liberty, and happiness in America, and because gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender (GLBT) people have been denied these basic rights, the Center has distinguished itself as a respected educator, advocate, social services provider and community builder. In 1975, the Center's founders, Ethan Ericsen, Michael Madigan, and Arthur MacDonald, opened the Gay Education and Awareness Resource Foundation, or GEAR. In 1988, GEAR's name was changed to the Lesbian/ Gay Community Service Center and the ``Living Room,'' a drop-in center for men with AIDS, was opened. The Living Room was the only center of its kind in the Midwest United States--establishing the Center's position as not only a preeminent advocate for the gay and lesbian community, but as a pioneer in GLBT services. The Center has served Cleveland in many capacities, including the encouragement of GLBT people to vote with ``Promote the Vote'' programs, the creation of a Speaker's Bureau to inform and educate the general public about the Center and its gay/lesbian issues, and the training of law enforcement agencies regarding GLBT issues. Recently, the Center was awarded the Human Rights Campaign's Equality award for outstanding service to the GLBT community in Greater Cleveland. Now, arriving at its twenty-fifth year celebration, the Center is still thriving with various activities and plans to serve Greater Cleveland Community. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my fellow members join me in honoring the outstanding community service of the Lesbian and Gay Community Service Center of Greater Cleveland.