Dennis Kucinich

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I stand in support of H.R. 2392 which would reauthorize the Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR). The current SBIR authorization is due to sunset on October 1, 2000. H.R. 2392 would extend the SBIR authorization into the next decade and provide a mechanism for federal agencies to contract with small business for research and development projects. This important program is critical for the support of small high-tech companies and fosters technical innovation which results in the nation's economic growth. The commercialization of research and development results in major economic benefits to the nation; the creation of long-term jobs with subsequent generation of increased income, spending and economic growth. I know that technological advancement is a key driving force of our national economic growth. The revolution in telecommunications is one example of the effects of technical progress in the growth of the national economy, and also an increase in our standards of living. Technical advances drive the economic growth in several ways; it contributes to the creation of new jobs, new services, new industries and new capital formation. In the past major technological innovation was provided by major corporate research centers. Today small, entrepreneurial companies are playing increasingly important roles in our technological advancement and economic growth. These small high- tech companies create new products and services, develop new industries, and are major factors in driving both technological change and growth in our national economy. The SBIR program is critical to the continuation of the critical involvement of small businesses in our technological advancement. I support H.R. 2392 because it will contribute to the growth of jobs and promote technological innovation.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to Rita Cestaric who has been an outstanding citizen of my district and our state. Rita Cestaric's entire life has been one of devotion to her family, her friends and her community. Her passion for service to community helped to encourage the involvement of many people in public life, including myself. She was ever the activist, prodding and pushing, moving mountains on behalf of her city and her nation. She was a civic and political force for decades in North Olmstead, Ohio. The home of Rita and her devoted husband, John Cestaric, was always a hub of activity in the community. With John's patient support, the Cestaric household was an important stop in any political campaign. Her children, Rita, Carole and John were always in amazement at the endless stream of activity which characterized the Cestaric home. They saw firsthand the impact of their mother's dedication and understood how significant her help was to so many people. Public officials came to the Cestaric home not only to meet the people of the neighborhood, but they were drawn to Rita. She gave wise counsel to generations of public servants who sought her assistance. She always had a sense of what was in the public interest. Her wisdom was the wisdom of the people and when she spoke you always knew that hers was unmistakably the voice of many. She was an exemplar of the power of women in politics. She was a singular force for encouraging many women to become involved in the civic life of their communities. Rita Cestaric was an optimist. She faced all challenges in life with equanimity. She suffered the loss of her dear husband John, and still she moved ahead to continue her contributions of her time and her efforts. And when she at last faced her most serious personal challenge to her health, she did so without complaint, but with great inner strength and beauty. Mr. Speaker, I ask that Members of the House of Representatives of the United States of America join with me in paying tribute to the life of Rita Cestaric, and expressing gratitude for her love of country and her service to community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize Wendy Lazor, Councilman Ed Fitzgerald, the Lakewood City Council, and the Lakewood Board of Education for their work in establishing the ``International Walk your Child to School Day,'' in honor and memory of John Lazor. The tragic loss of three-year-old John Lazor occurred on April 26, 2000, while on an innocent walk to the corner store with his day care provider. A pickup truck backed from across the street into the driveway which young John was standing in, killing him instantly. This tragedy emphasizes the importance of taking precautions and the need for children's safety education. John's courageous mother, Wendy Lazor, has decided to dedicate herself to the advocacy of pedestrian safety, especially children. Amazingly, she found strength in the midst of her loss to work as an advocate for the public good. She is the driving force behind Lakewood, Ohio's recent resolution to establish Wednesday, October 4, 2000, as National Walk Our Children to School Day. Along with the help of the Lakewood Board of Education, City Council and Councilman Ed Fitzgerald, The Lakewood Early Childhood Professionals has decided to dedicate a special event, the National Walk Our Children to School Day, in John Lazor's honor. All of Lakewood can participate in this event, in which the purpose is to provide an opportunity for adults to teach children about pedestrian safety and choosing safe routes to school, and to help make our communities more safe for walking. Because Lakewood is a densely populated city, and one in whose children typically walk to and from school on a daily basis, the City Board of Education has decided to support and encourage participation in National Walk Our Children to School Day. The city's main event, honoring the memory of Wendy Lazor's son, John, will be held at his old school, Franklin Elementary. Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to rise with me in recognition of the hard work and dedication of Wendy Lazor, Councilman Ed Fitzgerald, and the rest of the City of Lakewood's Public and Educational Leadership for their support of the National Walk Our Children to School Day. And let us honor the memory of the young John Lazor, and the courage of his mother, Wendy, for striving to better the community even in the face of personal strife and distress. Her selfless compassion and triumph in the face of tragedy is inspirational to all.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the Ukrainian- American Youth Association's 50 years of distinguished service to Greater Cleveland's Ukrainian youth population. The Ukrainian-American Youth Association, a group which educates the young about traditional Christian and patriotic values, embodies the very values it pledges to teach. Guided by the principles of organizing, nurturing, and educating youth under the ideals of ``God and Ukraine,'' the Youth Association promotes Christian ethics and pride in their Ukrainian national heritage. Our community has been gracefully elevated due to the work of this dedicated organization which encourages tomorrow's leaders to step forward into positions of leadership in the Ukrainian-American community, as well as the larger local, national, and global communities. A debt of gratitude is owed to the Ukrainian-American Youth Association. The young, who have been touched by the caring, ``spirit invoked'' ideals taught there, have grown to become the model citizens and leaders in our community who we are always eager to welcome. Mindful of the role of the citizen in his or her respective locality, the Ukrainian-American Youth Association instructs its youth about the duties and responsibilities of good citizenship, always encouraging and challenging them to become leaders within their Ukrainian culture and their communities-at-large. The firm foundation of educating the Ukrainian youth about the value of freedom should not be underestimated. Rather, it is the very basis for the continuing engagement of our all-too-often apathetic youth, and therefore, the basis of the improvement of our society in both the near and distant future. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues rise with me today in celebration of the Ukrainian-American Youth Association's 50 years of service to the Ukrainian-American youth population. Many young persons have surely benefitted from the work of this tireless group, and our nation has surely benefitted from the Youth Association's instruction on the virtues and responsibilities of good citizenship and the value of freedom. Let us honor this distinguished group and let us wish them 50 more years of fantastic service to our population.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Abbot Roger W. Gries who has been named ``Catholic Man of the Year'' by the Greater Cleveland Knights of Columbus Luncheon Club. This is certainly a well-deserved title for Abbot Gries, a native Clevelander who has devoted most of his life to education, his faith and the Catholic Church. He professed his vows as a Benedictine monk more than 40 years ago and was ordained to the priesthood in 1963. Throughout his many years of dedicated service to Benedictine High School, Abbot Gries has held a number of different posts. He started out teaching mathematics, but his extraordinary skill as an educator was soon recognized as he was named Assistant Principal in 1965 and Principal in 1968. Abbot Gries continued his successful reign as Principal at Benedictine until 1977, when he was appointed Prior of St. Andrew Abbey, the second superior of the monastery. Because of his outstanding work as Prior, his fellow monks elected him the fourth abbot of St. Andrew Abbey on June 9, 1981, a position that he holds to this day. In addition to his commitment to St. Andrew Abbey, Abbot Gries is also President of Benedictine High School. At this time, he is overseeing the implementation of the Master Plan currently underway at the Abbey and high school in the Buckeye-Woodland community. Aside from his prominent role as an educator and abbot of St. Andrew Abbey, Abbot Gries also served at the Holy Family Parish in Parma, OH on weekends for 18 years and previously acted as the chaplain of the Maple Heights Knights of Columbus. He continues his active association with the Alhambra. Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in honoring Abbot Roger W. Gries. This remarkable man reminds us all of the importance of faith, community, and volunteerism. We are truly lucky to have him in Cleveland.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I want to echo the gentlewoman's remarks with respect to the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Burton) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Waxman). Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Ryan) for taking the time to review the legislative history and also thank the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. Kelly) for the work that she has done on this issue over the years, and to thank the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. McIntosh) for his efforts. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to speak in support of S.1198. S.1198 was passed by unanimous consent in the Senate on May 9, 2000 without opposition from the Government Accounting Office, public interest groups or industry representatives. The gentleman from California (Mr. Condit) introduced the text of S.1198 in the House as H.R. 4763. However, the House Committee on Government Reform did not consider H.R. 4763. Instead, it considered its own version of the bill, H.R. 4744. Unfortunately, H.R. 4744 did not enjoy the same support that S.1198 did. The GAO expressed serious concerns about the scope of the analyses, the timing provided for conducting the reviews and the certainty of funding; also public interest groups expressed concerns and opposed passage. Therefore, the gentleman from California (Mr. Waxman) and I offered the text of the Senate bill, S. 1198, which addressed these concerns, as an amendment to H.R. 4744. Our amendment, unfortunately, was rejected by the committee on a party-line vote. I am pleased to see that we worked all of these things out, and the House now has the opportunity to vote on this proposal. It is nice to be able to come here before the Congress and show how at long last we have an opportunity to work together on something. Furthermore, on July 25, 2000, the House passed H.R. 4924 under suspension of the rules, that bill was substantially similar to S.1198. Now, S.1198 creates a 3-year pilot project in which, at the request of a committee of jurisdiction, GAO, the General Accounting Office, would analyze economically significant proposed and final rules. GAO would evaluate the agency's analyses of costs, benefits, alternatives, regulatory impact, federalism impact, and any other analysis prepared by the agency or required to be prepared by the agency. All of this analysis would be completed within 180 days of the committee's request. Under this bill, GAO would retain its traditional role as auditor and evaluate only the agencies' work. It would not be required to conduct its own independent analyses. Furthermore, it would not require the agency to conduct any new analysis. It only requires GAO review of agency analyses that are required by separate statute or executive order. In conclusion, Mr. Speaker, I support S. 1198 because it sheds light on the adequacy and usefulness of the agencies' analyses. Yet, it ensures that the GAO has adequate time and resources to fulfill its new responsibilities, and it preserves GAO's traditional role as auditor. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I strongly support H.R. 284, which will allow Reservists to serve at military funerals by granting them the necessary release of time from their civilian jobs. Active military personnel are shrinking in numbers and the number of funerals performed are rising each year. Add to this the new policy adopted by the Department of Defense ensuring that all veterans receive a proper military honor funeral, and we must call upon the Reservists to perform occasionally in this capacity. These people should be supported for their willingness to serve this function and this bill will protect them in regard to their civilian employers. For these reasons I urge passage of this important bill.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support for H.R. 5178, the Needlestick Safety and Prevention Act. There are an estimated 600,000 to 800,000 needlestick injuries each year. Over 80 percent of these injuries could have easily been prevented with the use of safer needle devices. Hospital nurses are the most frequently injured, followed by physicians, nursing assistants and housekeepers. A resident of Cleveland, Ohio, Mr. Stanley McKee, testified before the Ohio Senate regarding his needlestick injury. Mr. McKee works at a hospital in the environmental services department. He was disposing of the trash from the intensive care unit when he felt an object stick him in the leg. When he checked the bag he saw the used needle protruding out. For months, Mr. McKee was forced to undergo a series of shots until it could be determined whether he had indeed contracted an illness. The costly medical care he required and the severe mental anguish he experienced while awaiting news of his test results could have easily been prevented with safety devices as required in The Health Care Worker Needlestick Prevention Act, H.R. 5178. The average cost to test and treat a worker following an accidental stick where an infection does not occur is about $500. The costs to treat an employee who is infected from an accidental stick can total up to one million dollars over a person's life. However, these injuries can be prevented with safer needles that cost less than a postage stamp. This bill will save lives by drastically reducing the threat of contracting infectious diseases including hepatitis and the HIV virus through accidental needlesticks. Healthcare professionals dedicate their lives to caring for others. Let us show our appreciation and respect by working to pass this important legislation to ensure the safety of members of the healthcare community. I would like to thank Chairman Ballenger for leading the Subcommittee on Workplace Protections of the Committee on Education and the Workforce to report H.R. 5178 to the whole House of Representatives. I would also like to praise Rep. Fortney Pete Stark, whose many yeas of advocacy for needlestick safety laid the groundwork for today's bill. I urge a YES vote.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I wish to recognize the remarkable Cleveland Orchestra that was recently featured in the Wall Street Journal article titled ``In Cleveland, Music for Connoisseurs.'' The Cleveland Orchestra was founded in 1918 under the outstanding direction of Russian-American conductor Nikolai Sokoloff. The renowned Sokoloff initiated an extensive domestic touring schedule, educational concerts, commercial recordings and radio broadcasts. This rich tradition continued under the distinguished Artur Rodzinski, who served as music director from 1933-43. His claim to fame was the presentation of 15 fully-staged operas at Severance Hall. After a short reign by Erich Leinsdorf, the orchestra went through a period of revolutionary change and growth under the incredible leadership of George Szell beginning in 1946. Both the number of Orchestra members and the length of the season increased, and the Orchestra started touring outside the United States. The famous Cleveland Orchestra Chorus was also established during this time. When Szell passed away in 1970, he was temporarily replaced by Pierre Boulez and later by Lorin Maazel during the 1972-73 season. Maazel not only lived up to the standards set by his predecessors, but he also left his own mark on the Orchestra by expanding their repertoire to include more 20th century compositions. Christoph von Dohnanyi succeeded Maazel as music director in 1982, and he continues to hold the position today. During von Dohnanyi's tenure, the Cleveland Orchestra has soared to rank among the best of the world's symphonic ensembles. However, it is not simply the wonderful direction that makes the Cleveland Orchestra so amazing. The true power and inspiration of the Orchestra stems from its outstanding and marvelously talented collection of musicians. From the violins to the flutes to the horns to the trombones, each section has its own magical sound but still blends modestly with the whole of the Orchestra. A discussion of the grandeur of the Cleveland Orchestra is hardly complete without mention of its magnificent home, Severance Hall. The beautiful, ornate concert hall has just undergone a two-year, $36 million renovation and expansion. The goal of the project was to preserve Severance Hall's grace and architectural integrity. Thus, the original detailing of the Hall has been restored, and its legendary acoustics have been retained and enhanced. Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in recognizing the extraordinary achievements of the Cleveland Orchestra. I hope that the Orchestra continues bringing joy to the city of Cleveland and the rest of the world for many years to come, and I submit the aforementioned article into the Record. In Cleveland, Music for Connoisseurs While Its Artistic Preeminence Is Unquestioned, This Orchestra May Fall Shy of Fame's Peak By Greg Sandow When Ellen dePasquale joined the Cleveland Orchestra two years ago, she'd had just two years of professional violin experience. And yet here she was, a member of the most disciplined orchestra in America, and possibly the world. Scarier still, she was leading it. She'd been hired as associate concertmaster, which made her second in command of the musicians. But the week she began, the main concertmaster, William Preucil, was playing in front of the orchestra as a soloist, leaving Ms. dePasquale in charge. I was overwhelmed,'' she told me. ``We tortured her!'' Mr. Preucil laughed, chatting with her and me and two other Cleveland Orchestra musicians. ``We broke her fingers,'' deadpanned Robert Vernon, the principal violist. But these were jokes. The surprising reality, as Ralph Curry, a member of the cello section, explained it, was utterly simple: ``She sat down and people followed her.'' Leading an orchestra, Ms. dePasquale said, suddenly was ``easier than it ever had been.'' This is one way to start a special story, about the culture of the Cleveland Orchestra, whose musical preeminence is taken for granted by professionals. That's been true ever since the '50s, when George Szell was music director and conducted--as we can hear on his recordings, still available from Sony Classical--with clarity, forceful intellect and decisive grace. He set a standard that's still in force. I've heard three Cleveland recordings of Beethoven's Ninth, one with Szell conducting, another with Loren Maazel, music director from 1972 to 1982, and the third with Cleveland's current music director, Christoph von Dohnanyi. Szell's performance is both the strongest and the subtlest, Mr. Maazel's the most blatant and Mr. von Dohnanyi's the simplest, despite its force, and the most understated. But in all three, no matter what approach the conductor takes (and Mr. Maazel's case, maybe in spite of it), the musicians play every note with radiant care. Robert Vernon and Ralph Curry both played under Szell; both say they were taught the tradition when they arrived and that they passed it on to those who came in after them. They haven't changed what they look for, they said, when new players audition. ``A beautiful sound,'' Robert Vernon summarizes, ``not the flashiest playing.'' ``Someone who listens,'' William Preucil offered. ``Our character,'' Mr. Vernon said, ``is to sacrifice our own position to be with the other person''--something I noticed These musicians, orchestra staff members said, play their best on matter where they are. And I heard that myself when some of them gave a concert in the gym of a local elementary school. This was part of a new program called Learning Through Music, which (though Cleveland is hardly the first orchestra to do this) not only puts musicians in the schools, but makes them part of the schools' curriculum. The gym was packed with kids and their working-class parents. The program ranged from standard classical repertoire--a movement, for instance, from the Berlioz ``Symphonie Fantastique,'' cannily arranged for 10 or so players--to rock and jazz and the sharp contemporary rhythm of Steve Reich's ``Clapping Music'' (played after a minute of silence, during which the kids were encouraged to hear the sounds that rustled and stirred around them). And while it's hardly a secret that orchestras don't always care about performance for children, in this one the musicians spoke to the kids with all the flair of accomplished entertainers and played with the same arresting certainty you'd hear on their records with Mr. von Dohnanyi. The audience was on its feet screaming; I've never seen an orchestra make so many friends so quickly. But, then, the culture of the Cleveland Orchestra goes deeper than music. ``There's a sense of community you don't find many other places, and a can-do spirit,'' said Richard Kessler, director of the American Music Center, who got to know many orchestras from the inside when he worked as a consultant on orchestral education programs (including Cleveland's). ``I've never been in an institution that had less internal tension,'' said Patricia Wahlen, the orchestra's veteran director of development, after I'd watched her conduct a meeting. ``Talent I know I can find,'' said Thomas W. Morris, the executive director, talking about how he hires new staff. ``So I look for imagination.'' ``The personality is the main thing, finally,'' Mr. Dohnanyi told me, describing what he looks for in new musicians. I spoke to four people on the board of directors, and none of them mentioned what his day job was until I asked. All four were powers in the Cleveland business world; they'd have to be, since the board raised $25 million toward the recent $116 million ``We have a passion for the music, for the musicians,'' said the board president, Richard J. Bogomolny (himself an accomplished violinist who plays chamber music with members of the orchestra, though, characteristically, it wasn't he who let me know that), John D. Ong, one of two co-chairmen of the board, describing the orchestra's position in the city, told me, ``George Szell lived in Cleveland and was seen doing the normal things that people do.'' One of Mr. Von Dohnanyi's sons just graduated from Case Western Reserve University here, and many people mentioned the city itself as one reason for the orchestra's success. Philanthropically, Mr. Ong told me, Cleveland is ``extraordinarily generous.'' To learn more, I called Ohio Sen. George Voinovich, who'd earlier been Cleveland's mayor, and John Grabowski, assistant professor of history at Case Western Reserve and director of research at the Western Reserve Historical Society. Mr. Grabowski talked about Cleveland's ``climate of service'' and how loyal Cleveland workers are to their jobs. But what struck me most was that both men had their own connection with the orchestra. For many years, nearly every school-child in Cleveland was bused to Severance Hall; Mr. Grabowski heard concerts that way, while Senator Voinovich's mother took him to performances. ``I really miss that part of my life,'' the senator said, almost wistfully. ``As the mayor of the city, one of the nice things was to go to Severance Hall and be known by some of the musicians.'' The renovated hall is breathtaking--an art deco palace, red and gold with silver and faux-Egyptian highlights, more playful than you might expect, but also simpler and more serious. Inside it, the orchestra plays wonderfully serious concerts, with soloists chosen for their connoisseur's appeal (``We don't hire big names just because they're names,'' Edward Yim, the orchestra's artistic administrator, very quietly declared), and programs carefully constructed, with a constant presence of contemporary scores. Are there problems? The only one I might have found was an apparent disagreement over incoming music director Franz Walser-Most, who'll succeed Mr. von Dohnanyi two years from now; the board, I think, adores him, but the musicians only said (as musicians often will). ``Let's wait and see.'' I started asking everybody what difficulties there might be; Thomas Morris answered ``complacency''--not now, but maybe in the future. I'll raise his bet and offer ``smugness.'' Mr. Morris isn't smug (I was amazed to find that his institution seemed even stronger than he says it is), but it's tricky being sure that you're the best. The musicians made comparisons with other orchestras that can't easily be quoted; they're surely true, but baldly written down they might not seem plausible. And there's a curious artistic challenge, which springs from a problem of perception. The Cleveland Orchestra, as I've said, is musically preeminent, but ever since George Szell, this largely has been preeminence for connoisseurs. What's missing, at least from the orchestra's image, is the expectation of simpler musical virtues, especially direct emotional expression. Mr. von Dohnanyi (``not an obvious choice,'' said Mr. Ong, ``but perfect for us'' understands musical integrity; he allows great sonic explosions, for example, only at climactic moments. At Carnegie Hall, at the start of Charles Ives's ``The Unanswered Question,'' he evoked the softest orchestral sound I've ever heard, a kind of wordless aural poetry just a breath away from silence. but even though he might surprise you in romantic music--try his wrenching, limpid Tchaikovsky ``Pathetique'' on Telarc--he's most strikingly emotional in unpopular atonal works by Berg and Schoenberg. Mr. Walser- Most, of course, will have his own story to tell. But Mr. von Dohnanyi's version of Cleveland's impeccable tradition almost guarantees that the orchestra can't be wildly popular. It may not want to be; it's surely aiming higher. But still it's true that other orchestras remain more famous--the Vienna Philharmonic, for example, whose very name seems synonymous with classical music. Cleveland might be a better orchestra, but because it's not flashy, the final peaks of fame may so far have eluded it.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the Neighborhood Social Club and Archives' posthumous recognition of former City of Cleveland Councilman Michael Zone and his surviving wife, former City Councilwoman Mary Zone for their contributions to the Italian American neighborhood that is part of the Mount Carmel West neighborhood. The organization will present the Giuseppe T. Focca Award to the Zone family on October 1. Michael Zone, whose family immigrated from the region of Campania near the City of Caserta, was among the early Italian families to settle in this westside neighborhood. Michael was instrumental in the early development of the current Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church and School and the development of Villa Mercedes, a senior citizen assisted high-rise. As a councilman, Michael Zone worked hard for the Italian American residents he represented. He helped many gain meaningful employment and assisted them with immigration and government services. He put his constituents first, and demonstrated that public service is a higher calling. The Neighborhood Social Club and Archives was founded by Rose A. Zitiello in 1993 to preserve the Italian American history of the neighborhood. Association President Sherri Scarcipina DeLeva has presided over the last three annual award presentations to Joseph T. Fiocca, Yolanda Craciun, and Father Vincent Caruso, who served as the parish's first pastor in 1926. Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in honoring Michael Zone, Mary Zone, and the Zone family who have contributed so much to Cleveland's Mount Carmel West neighborhood and the city as a whole. Please also join me in acknowledging the contribution that the Neighborhood Social Club and Archives is making toward preserving the great heritage that the Zones and the Italian American community of Cleveland has made and continues to make.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mathew Lobas, of Parma, Ohio, who was recently elected National Commander of the Polish Legion of American Veterans, U.S.A. (PLAV). He took the Oath of Office on August 22, 2000 at the National Convention in Tunica County, Mississippi. Mathew Lobas demonstrated his dedication to his country more than 50 years ago when he served in the United States Naval Construction Battalion in Southeast Asia during World War II. He joined the Polish Legion of American Veterans (PLAV) following his honorable discharge from the Navy in August 1946. Throughout his 54 years of membership within the PLAV, Lobas has held a number of important positions, ranging from Post Commander to State Commander to National First Vice Commander. He has continuously advanced PLAV's issues at the local, state and national levels. In 1994, he was awarded a Certificate of Recognition for his outstanding service in helping to start new posts in Florida and Nevada. In addition to his noteworthy work on behalf of PLAV, Lobas is remarkably active in numerous other organizations in the Cleveland area, such as the American Legion, the VFW, the Joint Veterans Commission of Cuyahoga County, and the Memorial Day Association of Greater Cleveland, where he is responsible for the placement of American flags at the grave sites of deceased veterans. He also dedicates many hours to the Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in Parma, Ohio, where he served as President of the Parish for over six years. Mathew Lobas currently resides in Parma, Ohio with his lovely wife of 50 years, Olga; they have two children and four grandsons. Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating Mathew Lobas on his election as National Commander of the Polish Legion of American Veterans, U.S.A. I thank him on behalf of the Cleveland community for his lifetime of commitment to service and volunteerism.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, we are told over and over again that the Food and Drug Administration is protecting the food supply by carefully scrutinizing this new genetically engineered food technology with full consideration for our safety. We are told over and over again that the biotech food industry will protect us. We are told over and over again that genetically engineered food is safe. Mr. Speaker, my colleagues may have heard the startling new reports that unapproved genetically engineered corn has contaminated the Taco Bell taco shells found on our grocery store shelves. This corn has not been approved by the EPA for human consumption because of their concern for allergens. The GE food industry, the genetically engineered food industry fails the American public and they are losing the public's trust in this matter. Yesterday, the FDA announced that they will recall the product if their own testing confirms the contamination. I am asking Members to please sign my letter to the FDA asking for the recall and the FDA testing of more products that might contain this illegal corn variety.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize Cleveland's new memorial, ``The Great Hunger,'' and honor the entire Northeast Ohio Irish community. Mr. Speaker, as you are aware, the Irish Famine of 1845-50, known as ``An Gorta Mor,'' or the ``Great Hunger,'' was devastating to the people of Ireland. One-hundred fifty years ago, during the Irish Potato Famine, Ireland was exporting tons of grain and cattle to great Britain during the industrial revolution. This left most Irish peasants feeding on one crop--the potato. When the potato famine broke out, the majority of Irish went hungry or starved to death; those lucky enough to make the voyage across the Atlantic often died in the coffin ships common of the time. Of those who survived, many fled to the United States for freedom from the poverty, disease and hunger which claimed as many as one million lives. Large quantities of settlers, moved to the Cleveland area, where they were relegated to the swampy banks of the Cuyahoga River, an area which came to be known as ``The Irishtown Bend.'' Many died here, succumbing to cholera, tuberculosis and infections while living a harsh existence in terribly inadequate, tarpaper shacks. In memory of those who died and in recognition of the many who survived the horrors of poverty and disease, the memorial of ``The Great Hunger'' will be dedicated on September the sixteenth. After years of work, the Monument will finally be erected on the banks of the Cuyahoga River. Thanks to the effort of many Northeast Ohioans who worked earnestly on `Cleveland's Memorial to the Great Hunger Committee,' led by co-chairs Bishop James Quinn and former Congressman and Commissioner Robert E. Sweeney, this 11-ton monument will be a source of pride for all Clevelanders. Because of the work of countless county and city officials, especially Cuyahoga County Commissioners Jane Campbell, Jimmy Dimora and Tim McCormack, we can appropriately honor the Irish who enrich our Cleveland shores. Today, many of the two million Ohioans who claim Irish Ancestry are descendants of those brave souls who struggled through a famine and made the long journey to the United States. For the courage displayed by the Irish, and for the rich tradition they have provided the Cleveland area, I ask that my colleagues to honor with me and recognize these great peoples and the great monument, ``An Gorta Mor.''

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Father William F. Tezie, a caring and devoted man who has served as a pastor for more than 44 years. This is a particularly special time for Father Tezie as he celebrates his retirement, his 25th anniversary as pastor of St. John Nepomucene's Church, and his 70th birthday. Father Tezie was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but shortly thereafter his family moved to Lakewood, Ohio and eventually to Rocky River. He attended St. Christopher Grade School and graduated from Rocky River High School. In 1948, Father Tezie entered Gregory Minor Seminary in Cincinnati and later graduated from St. Mary Major Seminary in Cleveland. Since his ordination on May 19, 1956, Father Tezie has shared his commitment and faith with six different parishes throughout Ohio. Before he began his remarkable 25-year reign as pastor at St. John Nepomucene's Church in 1975, he provided nearly 20 wonderful years of dedicated service to the parishes at St. Richard's Church in North Olmsted, St. John's Church in Akron, St. Cyril and Methodius's Church in Lakewood, St. Mary's of the Falls Church in Olmsted Falls, and St. Francis Xavier's Church in Medina. In 1991, the Diocese of Cleveland presented the Award of Excellence as outstanding pastor to Father Tezie for his exemplary service to Catholic education. Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in congratulating Father William J. Tezie on his retirement, his anniversary and his birthday. I, along with the St. John Nepomucene Parish, wish to thank this incredible man for the lifetime of faithful and loving service he has given.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of Parmadale's 75th anniversary. Over the years, this organization has continued to provide a vital caring service for deprived and needy children in the city of Parma. It has been an outstanding force in support of the family unit and provides an essential vision of social cohesion within our community for which we should all pay our respect. Founded in September 1925, Parmadale was created with the objective of strengthening families by teaching parents how to more effectively care for their children. Throughout its years of community service, Parmadale's ethos has always been founded upon the strengths of family, neighborhood and community. As a care treatment provider it has maintained this fundamental value through services such as ``Whole Family Treatment.'' It has also succeeded in adapting to the changing needs of children in our society. Today it provides essential services for children suffering from drug dependence, mental difficulties, and serious emotional problems. The center prides itself on its flexible clinical response to the needs of children. The faculty provides specialized residential services, a range of foster care, as well as in-home services and day care. In 1989, the St. Augustine Center for Special Needs Children was established. This was the first Intensive Treatment Center for adolescents in the State of Ohio. In 1994, its success was conformed by the addition of a second Intensive Treatment Center. My fellow colleagues please join me in paying respect to the outstanding work of the Parmadale Center. Its years of experience and flexibile approach to care services ensure that it will continue to provide an invaluable service for the youth and general community of Parma, Ohio.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of Sts. Philip & James Church. A true leader in Cleveland's church community, Sts. Philip & James has progressed with the times and continues still to redefine itself in keeping with its mission of community outreach. The decree for a new parish, to be located in Cleveland's West Boulevard neighborhood, was made effective on May 1, 1950; the cornerstone was laid on September 24 of the same year. Sts. Philip & James school opened in February of 1951, with 270 students transferring from eight area public and parochial schools. As both the school and parish continued to grow, disaster struck in 1953 when a tornado ravaged the neighborhood. For three days, Sts. Philip & James became a Red Cross Shelter for victims, and the 107th Armory Calvary Regiment established its field headquarters there. After helping the area to recover, the parish became even more active, with such groups as the women's guild, the Alter and Rosary Society, a Parent Teacher Union, a Holy Name Society, as well as numerous choirs. Upon entrance to its second decade, Sts. Philip & James continued to grow in both numbers and facilities for the surrounding Catholic community. Though a fire in the rectory in 1963 tested the congregation's strength, it bounced back with fundraising drives establishing permanent housing for both the priests as well as the Franciscan Sisters who have been an integral part of the parish community since the school opened. Serving as both staff and teachers, the Franciscan Sisters have tirelessly dedicated their time to the betterment of the community. Like many Cleveland diocese churches, though, numbers inevitably decreased in the 70s and 80s, culminating in the eventual closing of the school in 1998. This left a smaller church community, though one which has never lost the spirit which kept Sts. Philip & James thriving through both the best and most trying of times. Today, Sts. Philip & James is undergoing a self proclaimed ``adjustment period,'' though one that they are handling with deft and grace. The convent, abandoned when the school closed, has been converted into a maternity home for young girls who need a safe haven, and in 1999, renovations were underway on the school to create the new Horizon Science Academy for seventh, eighth and ninth grade students. Truly, Sts. Philip & James church deserves our acknowledgment and congratulations for fifty impressive years of service to the Cleveland community, and what appears to be many more years to come. I ask my colleagues to join me in rising to honor this truly remarkable institution as it celebrates fifty years of outstanding service to the Cleveland area.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the valuable services to the community which the St. Procop Ladies' Guild has provided throughout its 25 year history. The organization, founded in September of 1975, prides itself on serving the needs of the local community. It has maintained an outstanding commitment to the achievement of this task. St. Procop Ladies' Guild organizes a wide range of fundraising events with the aim of invoking an atmosphere of community spirit and inclusivity. These events include monthly card parties, bake sales, craft shows, and pancake breakfasts. Such events are designed with the aim of providing aid for the less fortunate members of our community. The parish organizes a weekly meal program for the needy. Their commitment to such noble causes should receive due recognition and respect. In addition, the parish organizes a variety of social and spiritual events which add immeasurably to the vibrancy and vitality of community life. A community benefits when its residents reach out to one another, to lend a hand during a time of need. The enduring commitment of the St. Procop Ladies' Guild reflect the finest level of love and caring for their community. On behalf of the Greater Cleveland Community, I extend my sincere gratitude for their good works. My fellow colleagues, I rise today in honor and recognition of the St. Procop Ladies' Guild and their valuable contribution to community life.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, American taxpayers will choke on the discovery that HR 4986 contains a big tobacco subsidy. In effect, this bill holds American taxpayers responsible for coughing up $100 million per year, in lieu of taxing the tobacco industry on income from cigarette sales in Africa, Asia and Latin America. According to the World Health Organization, 10 million people will die annually by 2030 from smoking, 70 percent in developing countries. Why should American taxpayers subsidize the spread of tobacco-related diseases and cancer in the world's poorest countries? That's what HR 4986 does. Supporters of the bill may argue that a wider spectrum of business benefits from HR 4986 than merely the tobacco industry, so why ``throw the baby out with the bath water.'' This is, however, a false choice. We could have considered this bill under regular order, where members could have offered amendments. It is only because the House leadership brought this bill up under suspension of the rules, and as a consequence, no member can offer an amendment, that we are faced with rejecting the whole bill because of the tobacco subsidy. But I urge my colleagues to confront the situation we have been given, and still insist on what is right. Take a deep breath and reiect this bill.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the 140th Anniversary of Holy Name Parish and its continued commitment to the well-being of the community. Its establishment, on September 23, 1859, marked the beginning of a community in which tens of thousands were baptized and guided by the teachings of the Catholic Church. Throughout years of service it has truly represented a beacon of hope for the Harvard Broadway area. It has earned commendation of the highest order through its success in weaving the values of religion into the fabric of community life. Holy Name's history has been one of remarkable service. From its humble beginnings serving the Irish immigrants who met at Patrick Potts' farmhouse for Sunday services, it has maintained a long and noble tradition of active participation in community life. Holy Name Parish has made a vital contribution to local education. It has provided tens of thousands of children with an exceptional education grounded in the values of faith, tradition and spirit. Holy Name established the first coeducational parochial school in Cleveland. The institution was early to recognize the true value of education for all, irrespective gender. Its role in providing for the needy represents a true and honorable expression of human values. For the people of the Harvard and Broadway area, it has become a place in which their hopes and dreams may thrive and prosper. Clearly the great significance of such services must be duly honored. With such a formidable history Holy Name's significant role in community life will continue to be as healthy and vibrant as ever in the new Millennium. My fellow colleagues, please stand with me in honoring the outstanding work of Holy Name Parish.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Father Joseph A. Romansky who is celebrating his 25th anniversary as a priest of the Cleveland Catholic Diocese. Father Romansky is a native of the Cleveland area. His first of many admirable assignments was at St. Catherine's Parish on East 93rd Street. Following his dedicated service to St. Catherine's, Father Romansky worked at the diocesan offices in downtown Cleveland while also assisting at St. Francis in the East 71st Street and Superior area. From there, Father Romansky became pastor of Holy Family Catholic Church on East 131st Street, and later he was chaplain at the Light of Hearts Villa. Father Romansky has spent the last several years spreading hope and peace as chaplain at St. Augustine Manor. Over the course of the last 25 years, Father Romansky has fully devoted his life to serving his parish and the people of Cleveland. More importantly, he is committed to the well-being and happiness of all people regardless of race, creed, gender, or class. Father Romansky is a kind and generous man who makes all those he comes in contact with feel special and loved. Mr. Speaker, I ask all members of the House of Representatives to recognize the achievements of Father Joseph A. Romansky as he celebrates his 25 years of service to the Cleveland Catholic Diocese. I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking him for his charity and dedication to his faith, his parish, and the entire city of Cleveland.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Jim Petro, Ohio Auditor of State, chief inspector and supervisor of public offices in the State of Ohio. Mr. Petro has served Ohio in both the public and the private sector. His legal experience spans more than 25 years as a practicing attorney, law partner, city law director and criminal prosecutor. He served eight years in the Ohio House of Representatives and was a ranking member of the House Ethics Committee. He also served as a Cuyahoga County Commissioner for four years, including one as President of the Commission. Mr. Petro is currently serving his second term as Ohio Auditor of State, responsible for overseeing the financial condition and legal compliance of all 4,500 units of government in Ohio. He has served that challenging role with professionalism and integrity. He has advocated accountability with tax dollars and worked to uncover instances of fraud, waste and abuse in government. He has saved taxpayers millions of dollars. Under his leadership the Audit office has contributed to the improvement of public services. Mr. Petro has been awarded the Mercedes Cotner Scholarship in recognition of his public service. I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me today in honoring Ohio's Auditor, Jim Petro.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the citizens of Puerto Rico on Constitution Day, July 25, 1999. The people of Puerto Rico established Constitution of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico for the very same reasons our forefathers wrote the Constitution of the United States of America, to establish themselves as a democracy. The Puerto Rican Constitution ensures basic welfare and human rights for the people, ensconces the idea of a government which reflects the will of the people, and pays tribute and loyalty to the Constitution of the United States of America. The Puerto Rican culture is a distinctly unique culture. By pledging allegiance to the Constitution of the United States of America, the people of Puerto Rico celebrate shared beliefs and the coexistence of both cultures. By ratifying their own Constitution, the people of Puerto Rico retain and honor their original heritage while expressing the desire to pursue democracy and happiness for themselves. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the following individuals for their contributions to the Greater Cleveland: Rev. Tomas Acevedo, Dr. Barbara Bird-Bennet, Lcdo. Jose Feliciano, Ray Galindo, Barbara Gill, Magda Gomez, Chris Hernandez, Vivian Riccio, Aurea Rivera, Diana Del Rosario, Ramon Torres. I hope that my fellow colleagues will join me in honoring these individuals and praising the Puerto Rican people as they celebrate Constitution Day.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jane Campbell, a Cuyahoga County Commissioner who is being honored at the Jewish National Fund's Tree of Life Dinner of September 13, 2000. Jane Campbell is one of three Cuyahoga County Commissioners, representing 1.5 million constituents in the Greater Cleveland area. She manages human services, economics, and infrastructure development and redevelopment for the most populous county in Ohio. Jane Campbell serves as the President of the Board of Commissioners and also chairs the Violence Against Women Act Committee and the Children Who Witness Violence Committee. She is also a Board Member of the District One Public Works Integrating Committee. Prior to her role as Cuyahoga County Commission, Jane Campbell served six terms in the Ohio House of Representatives. During her time there, she was elected Majority Whip and Minority Assistant Leader by her colleagues. Jane Campbell is an outstanding leader and public servant. She has dedicated herself to serving the people of Ohio and should be commended for her exemplary record of service. Jane Campbell is truly a committed and admirable woman. My fellow colleagues, please join with me in paying tribute to Jane Campbell as she is honored for her devotion and service by the Jewish National Fund at the 2000 Tree of Life dinner in September.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to remember Joseph Bartoszek, a man who dedicated over forty years of his life serving as a mentor and inspiring youth. Mr. Bartoszek, a native of Cleveland, was a toolmaker for Cleveland Pneumatic Tool Co. until his retirement eighteen years ago. A veteran who proudly served our nation during World War II, with a tour in France and Germany, he was an active member of Catholic War Veterans Post 1812 and VFW Post 108. Mr. Bartoszek found his true passion when he was thirteen, when he joined the Boy Scouts of America. Mr. Bartoszek spent forty years as a Scoutmaster and Explorer adviser. During his long and distinguished career with the Scouts he received many awards, including the Silver Beaver, Scouting's highest honor for volunteers. Mr. Bartoszek spent over ten summers working with youth at Tinnerman Canoe Base as a counselor of the Ad Altare Dei program, Pope Pius XII retreats, and Scout development sessions. Mr. Bartoszek touched countless lives with his endless devotion to helping young men, and his steadfast commitment to creating a better society. Mr. Bartoszek is a friend to all, a man who tirelessly dedicated his life to the betterment of others, and a man who has served the larger community a greater deed than we will ever be able to thank him enough for. I ask that my fellow colleagues join me in celebrating the life and tremendous accomplishments of this truly remarkable man.