Dennis Kucinich

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I remember Joseph Takacs, a man who devoted his life to the betterment of mankind, and the struggles of those who needed help the most. Mr. Takacs led the autoworkers at General Motor's Fisher Body plant in Cleveland for more than 10 nonconsecutive years in the 1960's and 1970's. A courageous fighter for the working man, Mr. Takacs was one of 250 workers who staged a sit-in at General Motor's Cleveland planet that lasted from December 1936 into February 1937. Through the dedication and determination of Mr. Takacs and his striking colleagues a nationwide strike began. The strike forced the company to recognize the union as a bargaining agent for its hourly employees, even today, considered one of the greatest union victories. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Takacs was a dedicated man who committed his life to union reform, helping the poor, and fighting for the working men and women of this nation. Mr. Takacs was an inspirational leader and a mentor for generations to come. A champion of the causes of working people, Mr. Takacs never turned his back on anyone. A leader dedicated to his fellow colleagues, during strikes, Mr. Takacs would beg for food to make sure that there was always food at the union hall. Mr. Takacs, a past president of United Auto Workers Local 45, has served on the front lines of the battle for working families since the 1930's. I ask my distinguished colleagues to join me in celebrating the life of this truly remarkable man, who has dedicated his life to serving others.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Ing. Karol Mitrik, Mayor of Spisska Nova Ves, for his outstanding leadership and dedication to his fellow countrymen. One of six children Ing. Karol Mitrik was born in Spisska Nova Ves where he was taught an early lesson in the value of work, working sunrise to sunset on a farm. His childhood experience led him to pursue an education in the area of agriculture. He graduated in 1981 with a Master's degree in Agronomy from the Agricultural University in Nitra. In 1994 he finished studies in the City University with Certificate in Effective Management. In 1994 Mitrik became Mayor of Spisska Nova Ves. A dynamic leader with vast knowledge of regional policies and economic development he has worked tirelessly on the behalf of the people of Spisska Nova Ves. Due to Mitrik's extraordinary leadership Spisska Nova Vas became a sister city of Youngstown. Mitrik also established the first Rotary Club in eastern Slovakia. Mitrik's expertise extends beyond local activities, he is involved in a student exchange program, is a Member of Council of the Association of Towns and Communities of Slovakia, Chairman of the Association of Towns and Communities of Slovakia, Vice- president of Mayor's club of Slovakia, and Chairman of Interest Association for Development of the Spis region. Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in rising and honoring this remarkable man and his tremendous accomplishments on behalf of the people of Spisska Nova Vas.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Mary Ptaszek, a woman who committed her life to serving her community and improving the lives of those who lived in it. A dedicated servant to her community Mrs. Ptaszek served as precinct committeewoman for three different wards, and on the Democratic Executive Committee. A native of Cleveland, Mrs. Ptaszek committed her life to helping others. A devoted wife and sibling, Mrs. Ptaszek was a lifelong member of St. Barbara Catholic Church where she sang in the choir. When her mother passed away Mrs. Ptaszek became her family's matriarch, hosting large family gatherings at her home. Mrs. Ptaszek's caring touch was extended not only to her family but to the greater community as well. Her devotion to her community was evident as, even her final years, she would drive fellow seniors to their medical appointments or to the shopping centers. Through politics Mrs. Ptaszek looked to better the lives of those around her. A kind-hearted, community minded women Mrs. Ptaszek sought to use politics as a tool of good to create better communities. Mrs. Ptaszek was a kind, dedicated, passionate woman who selflessly gave of herself to help others. Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in celebrating the life and tremendous accomplishments of this truly remarkable woman who worked tirelessly on behalf of others.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to remember Joseph Takacs, a man who devoted his life to the betterment of mankind, and the struggles of those who needed help the most. Mr. Takacs led the autoworkers at General Motor's Fisher Body plant in Cleveland for more than 10 nonconsecutive years in the 1960's and 1970's. A courageous fighter for the working man, Mr. Takacs was one of 250 workers who staged a sit-in at General Motor's Cleveland plant that lasted from December 1936 into February 1937. Through the dedication and determination of Mr. Takacs and his striking colleagues a nationwide strike began. The strike forced the company to recognize the union as a bargaining agent for its hourly employees, even today, considered one of the greatest union victories. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Takacs was a dedicated man who committed his life to union reform, helping the poor, and fighting for the working men and women of this nation. Mr. Takacs was an inspirational leader and a mentor for generations to come. A champion of the causes of working people Mr. Takacs never turned his back on anyone. A leader dedicated to his fellow colleagues, during strikes, Mr. Takacs would beg for food to make sure that there was always food at the union hall. Mr. Takacs, a past president of United Auto Workers Local 45, has served on the front lines of the battle for working families since the 1930's. I ask my distinguished colleagues to join me in celebrating the life of this truly remarkable man, who has dedicated his life to serving others.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to remember Rose Marie Lovano, a woman who dedicated her life to improving her community and the lives of those who lived in it. While Rose was active in her community it was through politics that she felt that she could best help those around her. Rose believed in politics as a tool to help improve people's lives. Rose's long and distinguished career in public service started in 1960, as precinct committeewoman. Rose went on to serve as president of the Garfield Heights Democratic Club and has been a ward leader since 1981. Rose has also been awarded the distinct honor of representing her community at every Democratic National Convention since 1980. Born in Cleveland, Rose, before her career in politics, served as a dedicated union member throughout her working life. She joined Bakery Workers Local 19, during her six years working for J. Spang Baking Co., then joined the Upholsterers Union during her seven years working for Krohler Furniture. Rose went on to work for Greyhound Bus Lines, and was a steward in Local 1517 of the Amalgamated Transit Union, serving also as president of the Greyhound credit union. Politics was Rose's true passion. Rose is a true example of how politics can serve the needs of the people, and benefit people's lives. Rose never turned her back on any of her constituents. Residents would constantly call her at the home she shared with her family, and Rose would never turn her back on them. If she couldn't help she would find others who could. Rose's life serves as model, to all, of how politics can be used as a tool of good, to help the people who often need it the most. Mr. Speaker, on a personal note, I knew Rose, and the dedication, passion, and persistence that she brought to politics, and her life long commitment to helping others has had a profound effect on my life. It is for this reason, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in celebrating the life of this truly remarkable human being who dedicated her life to helping others.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the fortieth anniversary of the Southland YWCA. This non-profit organization has been serving women and their families in the Southwest area of Cleveland since 1919, and it deserve our recognition and congratulations. The Southland YWCA in Middleburg Heights, Ohio is commemorating its 40th Anniversary on September 8 and 9, 2000. These two days of celebration should prove to be embraced throughout the community, as women and their families show their appreciation for an organization that has continually served the people of its area with a large variety of beneficial programs. In 1960, the Southland YWCA moved to its current location in Middleburg Heights, Ohio, and it has continued to serve families in the area ever since. The Southland YWCA serves the Southwest area of Cleveland in the areas of fitness, child care, and diversity programming, among many others. It has implemented many programs and activities for the community, including swimming lessons, summer day camp for children, exercise classes, karate lessons, homemaking lessons, craft classes, divorce support programs, help for battered women, and even an investment club. Through these many services, the YWCA has encouraged women to become activists in their own communities. I take their opportunity to applaud the fine service the Southland YWCA has provided to Cleveland for forty years because I believe that organizations such as this one are essential to the development of our communities throughout the country. I would like to wish the YWCA the best of luck in the future, and hope to see the organization commended again forty years from now.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the extraordinary life of Elli Stassinopoulos, mother and grandmother, whose singular, unselfish devotion to her family and friends places her in that pantheon which awaits all those who have made the every need of their loved ones a higher cause than themselves. ``Angles fly because they take themselves lightly,'' she would tell her children. Elli's voyage through life was that of a lighted persona which the darkness of history could not comprehend, nor could personal tragedy embitter. Elli Stassinopoulos knew peril and hardship early in life. Her family fled Russia during the 1917 Revolution. She was captured by the Germans when she joined the anti-Nazi Greek resistance. She surmounted a disappointing marriage. Despite here early travails, she lived each day in simplicity and humility, triumphant, with a grateful heart and a sense of wonder. She slipped past the would-be conquerors of spirit to establish her domain in the sanctity of the home. In it she created magic with food and philosophy. Her household sustained and uplifted body, mind and spirit for her beloved daughters, Arianna, and Agapi and granddaughters Christina and Isabella. ``From the heirloom carpet spirited out of the Caucasus to her last pair of gold earrings, she sold everything along the way to pay for our schooling, sending me to Cambridge, and my sister Agapi to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts. But far beyond an education, she gave us what I know is the greatest gift a mother can give her child: her attention, her energy, her unconditional loving,'' wrote Arianna in a recent Mother's Day tribute to ``Yaya'' (Greek for grandmother). Yaya's knowledge of the Greek classics, her stunning eloquence and her joy of living defined enchantment for all visitors to her home. Her life was an unceasing hymn of praise to her loved ones. And long after her beautiful voice has become a blessed memory, the music of that praise will be felt in the hearts of those who loved her so much, and all re-echo in the voices of her daughters and granddaughters through the years. Great love reverberates greatly. Mr. Speaker, I ask all Members of the House of Representatives to join with me in recognizing the life of Elli Stassinopoulos, a woman who exemplified the kind of caring and devoted love of a mother and grandmother which is cherished and which makes each home a holy place.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the seventy- fifth anniversary of St. Augustine Academy, an institute devoted to excellence in education. The Academy is a private, non-profit all-girls high school that presents its students with a challenging array of options. The students of St. Augustine are on a business, college preparatory or general academic track. Throughout the past seventy-five years, this curriculum, by educating thousands of young women, has provided an educational program that is personal, academically stimulating and responsible to society's needs. The school was founded in 1925 by the Sisters of Charity of Saint Augustine. While the Academy is a Christ-centered and family oriented community that reflects a Catholic tradition, students of all races and creeds are accepted and welcomed by the Academy. In this atmosphere, a strong emphasis is placed on responsibility, expectations, and initiative. St. Augustine has stressed the importance of individual attention in education, for the personal concern shown these young ladies is exceptional. The advanced faculty fosters graduating classes of ``lifelong learners'' who will be fully prepared for their next path in life. In addition to St. Augustine's reputation for academics, the institution is also known for its service. Educating women in an atmosphere of ``In Omnibus Caritas'' (In All Things Charity) each student is challenged to grow both mentally and spiritually through the virtue of service. Students of all faiths are encouraged to find their unique gifts and use them to help the community they live in. In doing so, St. Augustine's has been aiding the communities of Greater Cleveland for seventy-five years, and the students, staff, and administrators deserve to be thanked. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and our colleagues to join me in thanking the Saint Augustine Academy. The school has produced girls who are ready to fulfill their responsibilities to their family, community, and the global society. Celebrate with me these contributions the Academy has been providing as the Academy itself celebrates its seventy-fifth anniversary.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Basil M. Russo, recently named the `Italian Man of the Year' by The Italian Sons and Daughters of America. Mr. Russo has been closely involved with the social, cultural and political life of Ohio throughout his distinguished career. After graduating from Cleveland Marshall College of Law in 1972, Basil Russo was a prominent member of Cleveland's City Council, serving as a Councilman for eight years between 1972 and 1980. Indeed, in 1978 Basil became the Majority Leader of the council, before leaving to take up responsibilities as a judge in the Court of Appeals, and then a Common Pleas Court judge. Basil's professional life has also included the foundation of his own law firm, Basil Russo & Co., L.P.A., which he still runs to this day, and the production of a feature film entitled Places in 1997. As this award acknowledges, Basil Russo has also been a vibrant member of the Italian American community at a local and national level. He currently serves as the National Vice-President of the Italian Sons and Daughters of America, the third largest Italian American fraternal organization in the United States. This organization is involved in numerous social and political events that range from sponsoring the Debutante Ball, to owning and operating a senior citizen housing complex. His status in the legal community also means that since 1992 Basil has served as President of the Justinian Forum; the Italian American Bar Association for Cuyahoga County comprising 22 Judges and 250 attorneys of Italian American descent. It is fitting therefore that Basil was also the founding member of the Italian Americans of Northeast Ohio, established in 1994. He has also made a significant contribution to the religious life of Ohio through his co-chairmanship, alongside his wife Patricia, of the Advisory Board of the Department for Marriage and Family Ministry of the Diocese of Cleveland between 1992 and 1995. In fact, Basil still serves as a Lector and Eucharistic Minister at Holy Rosemary Parish. Basil's talents for film-making and the legal profession have clearly been inherited by his four grown-up children. Anthony, Joseph and Angela are all studying film-making at university, while Gabrielle is studying for a J.D. in law at Basil's alma mater in Cleveland. My best wishes go to Mr. Russo and his family, and I would invite my fellow Congressmen to join me in commending his outstanding achievements in Ohio and beyond.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I honor the 10th Congressional District Youth Congress, whose work on school violence is an inspiring vision of the potential for peace in the human spirit. The tireless work of these students stands as a testament to the ability of youth to lay the foundation for long lasting peace in our schools and communities. The 10th Congressional District Youth Congress convened in 1998 to work on advancing democratic principles by involving youth in activities to improve their schools and communities. Providing an open forum for discussion, the Youth Congress brings students together to establish themselves as a strong voice in community issues and initiatives. A student run organization, the Youth Congress is an advocate for parent and community participation in shaping students to reach their maximum potential. The Youth Congress endeavors to embrace and promote all forms of diversity in race, religion, gender, and sexual orientation, and works to bring understanding and acceptance to every aspect of local schools and communities. The students work to achieve these goals through promoting nonviolent organizing principles, and encouraging their schools to actively embrace peace. Concerned about the overwhelming presence of violence in their schools and a growing intolerance for diversity, the Youth Congress conducted a year long study of all aspects of violence, including peaceful resolutions. The students assembled a district-wide coalition of public officials, police forces, school administrators, teachers and parents, to form a network of experience, expertise, and idea exchange. Drawing on this wealth of knowledge, the Youth Congress drafted a resolution to encourage and inspire action by their school administrators and the government officials. The action points of the resolution are as follows: We, the Students of the 10th Congressional District Youth Congress, for our safety and continued growth as problem solvers, critical thinkers, and involved citizens, urge you to adopt the following policies and programs: Establish a core curriculum throughout all high schools on conflict resolution and diversity education. This program should devote time evenly to nonviolent conflict resolution training and in-depth studies of diversity training and acceptance. The diversity training should include, but not be limited to, studies of the civil rights movement, gay and lesbian issues, native American history, a study of the Holocaust, and a wide range of cultural and ethnic education studies. Implement peer mediation and other proven student-to-student problem- solving initiatives. Form a parent/student advisory board and task force charged with development and promotion of honor codes and disciplinary policies. The advisory board and task force will work to increase parent education and establish workshops to help parents teach and support nonviolent and cooperative problem-solving for families and communities. Establish student review boards with oversight of honor codes and disciplinary policies. The review board will also promote on-going conflict resolution awareness and training for all students and staff. Establish a policy that no student be removed from the student population without due process, and a plan for the student's eventual reentry or a clear and specific action plan for the student and family. Review the role of uniformed and non-uniformed police officers as well as security staff. Promote the role of police and security as facilitators or models of effective conflict resolution. Police officials should be resources to encourage students and staff to respect differences, as well as being informed liaisons with youth- and family-serving organizations in the community. Work to reduce class size to create an atmosphere conducive to appropriate learning and one that is less prone to create conflict. Provide access to mental health services, through creative partnerships with community-based health and mental health providers. Establish the presence in all schools of a full range of mental health services for students and staff. Special emphasis should be placed on continuing staff training, assessment and mental health counseling for all students and families, and establishing strong links with community social service agencies. Pass reasonable and uniform gun control laws within our cities, including registration and safety lock laws. Study the impact of a culture that among other things, has sold violence as entertainment and promotes insensitivity to human suffering. Encourage print and electronic news media to balance their coverage of tragedy, terror, death and disaster with attention to the aspects of human existence that ennoble, enrich and empower students, families and communities and in doing so begin to tell new stories about all of us. The students and youth of the Cleveland area will play a significant role in replacing our culture of violence with a culture of peace. The model they set forth this day can be used as a model in cities all across our nation. My fellow colleagues, please join me in honoring the work of the 10th Congressional District Youth Congress, as these students continue to lead the way in establishing long lasting peace in our schools and communities.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a great day in our nation's history. On August 14, 1935, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt signed into law the historical Social Security Act. This law has been improving Americans' lives for sixty-five years, and I recognize the anniversary of its signing. Social Security represents a sacred compact between the generations that benefits both seniors and younger members of our nation. Senior citizens have earned the right to these benefits from a lifetime of work. Social Security has granted our elders the peace to live independently and with dignity. In addition, the great pressures placed on our younger generations to support their elderly parents are lessened because of America's Social Security program. Complementing retirement benefits, the Social Security Administration also provides citizens with disability, survivor, Medicare, and family benefits. In fact, one in three social security beneficiaries is, in fact, not a retiree. As a result, Social Security has grown into a family protection plan which forms a base of economic security in today's society. In my view, Social Security is the most successful federal program in history. As President Roosevelt explained upon signing the Social Security Act, ``this law . . . represents a cornerstone in a structure which is being built but is by no means complete.'' As he predicted, the program has been amended many times throughout the past sixty-five years. With each change, the Social Security Administration has extended its aid to another group of needy Americans. Once again, as Roosevelt foreshadowed, the law has served to ``take care of human needs and at the same time provide the United States an economic structure of vastly greater soundness.'' These social insurance programs have blessed America with a reputation of protecting her citizens. As the Declaration of Independence famously states, our government has the responsibility to secure the rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. In the past sixty-five years, the Social Security Administration has been safeguarding these rights for citizens who otherwise may easily be overlooked. Our great nation has earned its reputation for greatness in partial measure because of the accomplishments the Social Security Administration has achieved in the past sixty-five years. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Social Security Administration, Congress, and the American people for their commitment to the social security system. I look to the past and recognize the magnitude of the Act's effect; I look to the future and envision the achievements that are yet to come. I ask my colleagues to join me in this celebration and recognize the sixty-five years that Social Security has been improving America.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, today I honor Emilio ``Milito'' Navarro, Eugene ``Gene'' Smith, and Wilmer ``Red'' Fields; three players who have made a celebrated contribution to the baseball history of America. Emilio Navarro played for the Cuban Stars and is the last known living player from the Eastern Colored League. Considered an excellent hitter, in 1928 Emilio was the regular shortstop and lead off batter for the Cuban Stars and posted a .337 batting average in the following season. Frequently listed as ``Milito'' in the box scores, he was a star in his homeland of Puerto Rico, and was elected to the Puerto Rican Hall of Fame in 1992. Eugene Smith played in the Negro Leagues from 1939 to 1950 and pitched for the Cleveland Buckeyes in 1947. He was regarded as a power pitcher with a good fastball and slider, and was one of the ``Big Four'' on the St. Louis Stars'' pitching staff. Wilmer ``Red'' Fields was an ace pitcher for the Homestead Grays team that won the National Negro League Championship in 1948. He registered a 7-1 record in league games that year, appeared in the All-Star game, and pitched in two World Series games. After the Grays disbanded, Fields was offered positions with five major league teams, but turned all the offers down. He did, however, play for Toronto in the International League, as well as playing in several Latin American Leagues during winters. My fellow colleagues, please join with me in honoring these three admirable athletes, whose talents are being recognized at the Third Annual Negro/Hispanic Baseball Legends Celebration this year.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay respect to Lisa M. Anderson, a lawyer and political activist who died at the age of 34 last week. Ms. Anderson was born in Orlando, Florida and graduated from the University of South Florida in Tampa. After college, she moved to Cleveland to attend Case Western University School of Law, where she graduated in 1996. Lisa quickly established herself as part of the community in Cleveland, as a member of the Sierra Club, Amnesty International, the Society of International Law Students, and as a mentor to international law students and first year law students. While a student, Lisa headed a program to place foreign law students in local jobs. Upon her graduation from Case, she received the Frederick K. Cox International Law Center Award for outstanding service. As an attorney, she was admitted to the bar in both Ohio and Florida. Lisa Anderson worked on numerous political campaigns, including my own congressional race in 1996 after her graduation from Case. In 1998, she volunteered as a driver for the U.S. Senate campaign of former Cuyahoga County Commissioner Mary O. Boyle, but was soon hired to research issues and draft position papers. In July of that year, Lisa was diagnosed with a brain tumor. She underwent surgery, and soon continued her work on the campaign from her computer at home. A favorite memento from that campaign was a picture with First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton. After her diagnosis, Lisa focused her attention and energy on cancer research. She participated in the Brain Tumor Lobby Day on Capitol Hill in 1999 where she visited with me and other Members of Ohio's delegation to Congress to help us focus our attention on cancer research and the needs of individuals with brain tumors. Ms. Anderson also participated in, and served on the founding board of The Gathering Place, a cancer wellness facility in Beachwood, Ohio. I ask you to join me in expressing my deepest condolences to Lisa's family and many friends, and honoring the memory of Lisa Anderson.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Mississippi (Mr. Taylor) for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition. The Congressional Budget Office has estimated that this national missile defense system, which is part of this report, will cost $60 billion to build and deploy. Congress intends to spend $12 billion in the next 6 years. The SDI Star Wars system has cost the taxpayer more than $60 billion, and it is estimated that this system though less far-reaching than Star Wars will cost more. We have spent more than $122 billion on various missile defense systems. We need to reorganize our priorities and look at how we could better use these funds for programs that benefit the poor, seniors, and our Nation's children. Before the decision is made, three exo-atmospheric intercept tests have been scheduled to determine the system's success rate and reliability to deploy the system, but one of two tests failed. The third test failed miserably as well. Three tests cannot define the technical readiness of the system and serve the basis for deploying a national missile defense. According to the Union for Concerned Scientists, countermeasures could be deployed more rapidly and would be available to potential attackers before the United States could deploy even the much less capable first phase of the system. A report by the Union of Concerned Scientists details how easily countermeasures could be used against this system and would not have to use new technology or new materials. We are the only superpower in the world. The deterrent that we currently have is sufficient. We have thousands of missiles on hand that act as a deterrent. Any attack by another state would not be massive and would not be able to completely destroy our country or our nuclear arsenals. So any attack would leave the United States and its Armed Forces intact. Our deterrent is impaired only if another state had enough missiles to knock off ours before they launched. The national missile defense system will simply line the pockets of weapons contractors, spending billions of dollars for a system that does not work and does not protect against real threats. We will undermine our legitimate military expenditures and erode the readiness of our forces. So who is benefiting from having a national missile defense system? According to The Washington Post, Boeing in 1998 already obtained a 3- year contract for $1.6 billion to assemble a basic system before the President even decided to deploy the system. The Post states that TRW has contracts for virtually every type of missile defense program. The military industry has the most to gain from a national defense system. According to The Washington Post, Lockheed Martin is the major contractor on theater missile defense with its upgraded version of the Patriot missile and the Army's $14 billion Theater High Altitude Area Defense system. Deploying a national missile defense system could politically succeed in setting the stage for a worldwide arms race and dismantle past arms treaties. The NMD violates the central principle of the ABM treaty, which is a ban on deployment of strategic missile defenses. It will undermine the nuclear nonproliferation treaty. It will frustrate SALT II and SALT III. It will lead directly to proliferation by the nuclear nations. It will lead to transitions toward nuclear arms by the non-nuclear nations. It will make the world less safe. It will lead to the impoverishment of the people of many nations as budgets are refashioned for nuclear arms expenditures.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from California (Mr. Condit).

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Turner).

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from California (Mr. Waxman).

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to speak in support of H.R. 4924, the Truth in Regulating Act of 2000. I want to thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Condit) for introducing H.R. 4763 on which this bill is based. I also want to thank the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Burton) of the Committee on Government Reform; the ranking member of our committee, the gentleman from California (Mr. Waxman); the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. McIntosh) of the Subcommittee on National Economic Growth, Natural Resources and Regulatory Affairs; the gentleman from California (Mr. Condit); and the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. Kelly), who have taken a leading role on this issue, and also my good friend, the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Ryan), for working together so that we can craft a bipartisan compromise that we can all support. I think also it should be mentioned that staff has played a very important role in helping to put this together, and we want to express our appreciation to the staff as well. Mr. Speaker, I strongly support the stated purposes of this bill: first, to increase transparency of important regulatory decisions; second, to promote congressional oversight to ensure that agencies fulfill their statutory requirements in an efficient, effective and fair manner; and, third, to increase the accountability of Congress. Therefore, I am especially pleased that we were able to craft a compromise that will likely become law because it addresses the serious concerns raised during consideration of earlier versions of the bill. H.R. 4924, is substantially the same as the substitute amendment I offered, along with the gentleman from California (Mr. Waxman) when the Committee on Government Reform considered H.R. 4744. That substitute was H.R. 4763, a bill introduced by the gentleman from California (Mr. Condit). It was the same language that 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. H.R. 4924 creates a 3-year pilot project in which, at the request of a committee of jurisdiction, the GAO would analyze economically significant proposed and final rules. GAO would evaluate the agency's analyses of cost 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. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4929 is the same as the Senate version of this bill, except: First, it clarifies that the bill only requires the GAO to analyze agency analyses that were required by separate statute or executive order. It does not require any new agency or GAO analysis. Second, it exempts independent boards and commissions which are exempt under similar requirements in the Unfunded Mandated Reform Act and Executive Order 12866. Third, it applies to committee requests for the review of a minor rule if that rule has significant impact on a substantial number of small entities. And fourth, it requires GAO to complete its analyses of proposed and interim rules within the comment period, if practicable. In all other respects, it is the same as S. 1198, which passed the Senate with unanimous consent. When we considered an earlier version of the bill, GAO expressed serious concerns about the scope of the analyses, the timing provided for the conducting of the reviews, and the certainty of funding. Also, public interest groups expressed concerns and opposed passage. The bill we are considering today addresses those concerns. Mr. Speaker, the most important change that has been made is that under this bill, GAO would retain its traditional role as auditor and evaluate only the agency's work. It would not be required to conduct its own independent analyses. In addition, the bill clarifies that it would not require the agency to conduct any analyses. It only reviews analyses that are required by separate statute or executive order. Another personality change is that H.R. 4924 requires GAO to complete analyses within the comment period only when the shortened review period is practicable. Although it is useful to have the GAO report before the comment period is closed, we did not want to force the GAO into doing shoddy work. We wanted to make sure the GAO had time to do a complete review before implementing GAO safeguards for accuracy. Mr. Speaker, I support H.R. 4924 because it sheds light on the adequacy and usefulness of agencies' analyses, yet it ensures the GAO has adequate time and resources to fulfill its new responsibilities. It requires GAO to focus on the factors that Congress found to be the most relevant, and preserves GAO's traditional role as auditor. Mr. Speaker, I want to again express my appreciation to the Members on the other side of the aisle. This shows what happens when we have a concern on both sides, when we are able to negotiate and compromise, we produce a bill I think that is good for the Congress and it is good for the American people. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, Dr. Vojin Joksimovich, a well respected scholar of the Balkans, has given a thorough analysis of the environmental impact that the NATO airstrikes have had on the ecosystem of the Former Republic of Yugoslavia. His research and analysis are profound and compelling, that I am inserting them into the Congressional Record so it may become public knowledge. Environmental Aspects of Yugoslav Reconstruction: NATO Ecocide in Serbia (By Vojin Joksimovich, Kennedy School of Government-Harvard University, April 25, 2000) Introduction In considering America's role in the world, it is worth starting from the premise that this has in general been extremely beneficial and positive. America's contributions to the defeat of the twin menaces of fascism and communism in this century are events of epic proportions. I myself am a refugee from Tito's brand of communism and my daughter fled from Milosevic's version. So I am personally grateful for America's role in combating this twin menace. With this positive image of America's role in the front of my mind, I take no pleasure in saying that NATO's Kosovo war does not fit this positive pattern. In fact it was a source of evil. Many of the charges against the war are familiar to you: that it was illegal, unnecessary, counter-productive, damaging to global US interests and so on. I discuss all of these in my book ``Kosovo Crisis: A Study in Foreign Policy Mismanagement.'' Today, however, I want to draw on my professional background as a nuclear and industrial safety specialist to discuss an aspect with which you may be less familiar, namely the huge environmental catastrophe that was wrought by NATO. As a part of my professional career, I have studied the anatomy of catastrophic nuclear and non-nuclear accidents such as Chernobyl, Three Mile Island, Bhopal, Challenger, Piper Alpha, and others. As a member of the National Academy of Sciences Committee, I have studied oil spills such as the Exxon Valdez, Amoco Cadiz and many others. These were however, caused by man (operators) or management negligence. Indeed, I want to introduce you to a new term added by NATO to the vocabulary of war. This is ecocide. For those with environmental background this is a familiar concept. But it may be new for students of war. I mean by ecocide in this context the deliberate and conscious causation of environmental damage to achieve war aims. In history, we have seen many instances of incidental damage to the environment caused by war. For example, dropping of atomic bombs on Japan to terminate WWII. As a matter of fact, wartime environmental damage is as old as the bible. The old testament states that ``the trees in the battlefield are not men that you should besiege them'' and it advised ``not to cut down trees and not to kill animals in the enemy territory.'' But my assertion is that, through NATO's use of contemporary precision weapons to demolish the infrastructure and poison the human habitat not as a byproduct of war but as pro-active instrument of war policy, the Kosovo war broke new ground. It is a new phenomenon. This justifies the use of the new word in military vocabulary-ecocide. It is a chilling concept. I hope NATO Ecocide in Serbia Almost daily attacks on the chemical, petrochemical, pharmaceutical plants, plastic factories, refineries, fuel storage tanks, and the electric power grid have caused numerous industrial accidents throughout Serbia. Chemical substances released plus depleted uranium (DU) are carcinogenic, mutagenic, toxic, and as such cause perilous consequences to human, plant, and animal life. Most of these substances are unlikely to kill people instantly. Soaked into the soil they percolate into the aquifer and hence the people of Serbia and the entire region will be repeatedly exposed to them. Large quantities of ammonium and ammonium elements, oil and oil derivatives, acids, and alkali leaked into rivers-- including the Danube River destroying aquatic flora and fauna. The Danube, Europe's most important waterway that runs almost 2,000 miles through 11 countries, is partially dead, although it provides drinking water for some 10 million people. Furthermore, one must take into account effect on the habitat and the ozone layer of kerosene, which fueled over 1200 NATO planes participating in destruction of Yugoslavia. Herewith, we are dealing with deliberate and calculated poisoning of the human habitat. According to a NATO spokesman, targeting encompasses an environmental assessment. Hence, the consequences should have been known. Chris Hedges, reporting in the New York Times, called NATO officials in Belgium who told him that the environmental damage caused by the attack was taken into consideration. ``When targeting is done we take into account all possible `collateral damage', be it environmental, human, or to civilian infrastructure.'' It is apparent that NATO showed disregard for human life and the environment. We are talking about low intensity chemical and radiological warfare banned under the Geneva Convention and by the International Court. It is also a violation of the 1992 Rio Declaration on the Environment and Development, which explicitly protects the environment during war conflicts. This is a hideous stain on the moral fabric of the U.S. and its NATO allies. In this country we celebrate the Earth Day. The Clinton- Gore administration takes a great pride in its environmental record. The environmental goals have been incorporated into the mainstream of U.S. foreign policy. In her April 10 speech to the World Resources Institute Secretary Albright stated: ``Our citizens cannot be secure if the air we breathe, the food we grow and the water we drink are at risk because the global environment is in danger.'' This is well said. My point is that we embrace environmentalism as a domestic priority. We should not subvert this internationally as we did by deliberate poisoning of Serbia, Balkans and Eastern Europe. Pancevo Hot Spot NATO repeatedly pounded Pancevo, a town of 80,000 inhabitants, located on the Danube river only 12 miles from Belgrade with its 2 million population. Pancevo is a major industrial complex including a petrochemical plant, a fertilizer plant, and a major oil refinery. An artificial canal carries wastewater and stormwater runoff directly into the Danube. NATO destroyed all 3 major industrial plants with bombs and missiles: City Refinery (seven attacks), Petrohemija petrochemical plant (two airstrikes), and Azotara fertilizer nitrogen processing plant. Petrohemija and the oil refinery were leveled. Various noxious substances were released into the environment either directly or as a result of fires. Fires raged for 10 days. The cloud of smoke was more than 10 miles long. The sun was blotted out for a day. Black rain fell on the city and surroundings. Much of the town's population was evacuated following the strikes on April 17/18. The following substances were intensely released from the refinery as a result of burning of 80,000 tons of oil and oil products: CO2, NOX, soot and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Strikes at the petrochemical polyvinyl (PVC) plant and the ammonia and nitrogen fertilizer plant destroyed a reservoir with 1200 tons of vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) and 6 train cisterns of 30 tons of VCM each. 8 tons of metallic mercury leaked in the electrolysis system. Only 200 kg reached the wastecanal and 50-100 kg were found on the concrete floor. The rest likely evaporated. As a preventive measure 250 tons of liquid ammonia were released into the canal. Fears of birth defects have tormented pregnant women. Mark Fineman reported in the Los Angeles Times, physicians recommend that all women who were in town on April 18, 1999 avoid pregnancy for at least the next 2 years. Women who were less than 9 weeks pregnant were advised to obtain abortions. Novi Sad With 180,000 population, Novi Sad, located on the Danube river, is second largest city in FRY. NATO heavily targeted it with rail and road bridges across the river destroyed together with water pipelines carried by the bridges. Another principal target was the city oil refinery located only about a mile upstream from the filtration wells used for the city's water supply. The groundwater table beneath the refinery is located only 1-2 m below the surface. The water supply of Novi Sad was contaminated after 100 fuel tanks and the refinery was hit 12 times spewing oil. About 73,000 tons of crude oil and oil products burnt or leaked. Novi Sad streets were drenched with slimy, sooty rainwater. Danube was heavily contaminated. Even vast quantities of fire-extinguishing foam needed to control the 11-day blaze pose their own ecological threat. Other Towns Other places have been affected, such as Kragujevac, Kostolac, Lazarevac, Nis, Belgrade, Boor, Pharos and Smederevo. Bombings of the Zastava car factory in Kragujevac resulted in high levels of PCB's and dioxins; high levels of PCBs around high voltage transformers, contaminated water tanks. Some of the transformers used the highly toxic and cancerous coolant piralen. Severe air pollution from sulfur dioxide emissions, PCB contamination at transformer stations in the town of Bor in Eastern Serbia near the Bulgarian border. April 17/18 Simultaneous Releases Essentially simultaneous releases of smoke plumes occurred from April 17/18 bombings of Pancevo and Novi Sad with the burning rate of 2000 tons per hour during the first 12 hours. With the methodology applied in the case of the Kuwait oil smoke plume, Prof. of Environmental Studies at Belgrade's Alternative Educational Network, Zorro Vukmirovic, and the Belgrade Institute of Meteorology estimated the trajectories of air pollution using the ETA model. The analyses show that the pollutants moved eastward over Romania, Bulgaria, Moldavia, Ukraine and the Black Sea. The lower level trajectories from Pancevo indicate pollutant tansport towards the Belgrade area in the first day. The regional transport of PAHs, dioxins and furans originating from Pancevo were registered at Xanthi in Greece. Other Beyond FRY Effects Rumania reported acid rain. The pH level of the rain stood at 5 indicating acidity instead of the normal level of 7. In many towns in the southwestern region, crops and forests were damaged and leaves fell from trees. Vineyards and crops in the southern region were also damaged. Bulgarian farmers near the towns of Kula and Belogradcik reported that flowers fell from fruit trees and vegetables began to rot on their land. Measurements of pollutants in northern Greece showed rising levels of toxin on the days the wind blew south. In Macedonia, radiation levels had risen 8 times over. Moldavia and Ukraine were affected as well. UN Environment Project Report In late October, 1999 the UN Environmental Program and the UN Center for Human Settlements (UNCHS) issued a Balkan Task Force (BTF) report titled: ``The Kosovo Conflict: Consequences for the Environment.'' The BTF, led by former Finnish Environment Minister Pekka Haavisto, has delivered the report in timely and professional manner. The report's highlights are as follows: The BTF established an international scientific team from 19 countries, and organized five technical missions to FRY. Governments of the following countries provided the funding: Austria, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, The Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and United Kingdom. The U.S., while the principal aggressor, did not participate. The BTF concentrated on the following five areas: (a) Environmental consequences of air strikes on industrial sites; (b) Environmental consequences of the conflict on the Danube River; (c) Consequences of the conflict on biodiversity in protected area; (d) Consequences of the conflict for human settlements and the environment in Kosovo; (e) Possible use of DU weapons in Kosovo. The BTF concluded that, while the conflict caused widespread physical destruction, it did not cause an environmental catastrophe affecting the Balkans region as a whole. Nevertheless, pollution detected at some sites poses a threat to human life. The BTF identified environmental hot spots in the four areas: Pancevo, Kragujevac, Novi Sad and Bor. Immediate remedial action from a humanitarian viewpoint and further monitoring and analyses were called for in order to avoid further damage to human health and ecology. Specific recommendations for the four hot spots have been developed. Laboratory analyses of samples taken from the Danube sediment and biota revealed significant chronic pollution, both upstream and downstream of the sites directly affected by the conflict. The report strongly recommended carrying out follow-up monitoring with extension of the sampling to the confluence of major tributaries and to develop and implement an appropriate monitoring program compatible with the international standards. There is urgent need for the FRY to be integrated within international framework, which has been affected by the sanctions. More than hundred craters were found in the Fruska Gora National Park. Craters were found in the Kopaonik and Zlatibor National Parks. A general conclusion is that conservation of biological diversity has suffered from the conflict and the sanctions. While the BTF report represented a significant step in assessment of environmental consequences of the NATO aggression its scope was limited. As an example, the BTF

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time, and I want to begin by thanking the chairman, the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Crane), and the ranking member, the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Levin), for their leadership on this in the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade. I would like to bring to the attention of my colleagues an important provision in the Miscellaneous Trade and Technical Corrections Act, which prohibits the importation of products made with dog and cat fur into the United States. This provision is from H.R. 1622, the Dog and Cat Protection Act, a bill which has broad bipartisan support and 93 cosponsors. A local television station, Channel 8 in my district, in Cleveland, Ohio, recently aired an investigation on the dog and cat fur industry. After that program aired, people called me in tears, in tears, to think that dogs and cats, God's creatures, defenseless animals that we love, could be treated with such cruelty, killed for their fur. My constituents were outraged that this practice was allowed to occur and deluged the station with over 3,000 phone calls expressing their shock, and asking what could be done to end this horrible trade. Since the airing of the program, my office has received over 700 calls, letters, and e-mail messages from constituents who are very concerned about the mistreatment of dogs and cats and who support a prohibition on the importation of products made from dog and cat fur. Mr. Speaker, I would like to commend Dick Goddard, Channel 8's respected weatherman, and the entire Channel 8 news team for their work in bringing awareness of this cruelty to the people of northeast Ohio. I want to thank also the Humane Society of the United States, which conducted an 18-month investigation which uncovered the international trade and products made from dog and cat fur. They discovered that dog and cat fur products are in widespread use overseas in a variety of garments, including coats, hats, and gloves and animal figurines. It was even discovered that one of the largest clothing retailers in the United States was unknowingly selling products made with dog fur. When dog and cat fur is dyed, it is nearly impossible to distinguish it from other fur species. Fur companies purposely mislead consumers by not labeling or mislabeling their products. The only accurate way to determine fur species is through DNA testing. An estimated 2 million dogs and cats are killed each year for their fur as part of an international fur trade. The animals are kept in deplorable conditions and are brutally killed by a number of inhumane methods, including clubbing and skinning alive. Now, Americans love their pets. I remember our own family dogs, Spotty and Daisy, who gave us so much joy. And I know why Americans feel so strongly about animals. I also know that over 65 million households have a dog or a cat and many people consider their pets to be members of the family. Americans deserve to be protected from unknowingly participating in this gruesome practice. I fully support this ban. I believe we must work to provide humane treatment for all animals. I urge my colleagues to support strong legislation to protect American consumers from unknowingly supporting an industry that involves the brutal slaughter of dogs and cats. When I first heard about this, Mr. Speaker, I told the people of Cleveland that Congress would respond. Congress has responded. I want to say that again. When I first heard about this and the TV station received thousands of calls and my office received hundreds of calls, I told the people to have confidence that Congress would respond. The gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Crane) and the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Levin) have answered that with a ringing support for the concerns of the people. I thank them on behalf of all the people in my district and also on behalf of all pet lovers in this country.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Oberstar), ranking member, and the gentleman from Maryland (Chairman Gilchrest) for their work on this issue. The Coast Guard's ninth district has a substantial presence in Cleveland, Ohio; and they serve, of course, the Great Lakes. I want to tell my colleagues what a great job they do in our area providing for safety as well as for the movement of commerce, particularly during bad weather. When it is snowing, the icebreaker has become legendary for helping to keep the commerce of the lake moving. We rely on our Coast Guard in the greater Cleveland area, and all of Lake Erie is so grateful, all the cities along that lake were so grateful to have a Coast Guard which pays such careful attention to safety on the lake which has, in so many cases, saved people's lives and which enforces the laws which need to be enforced on our waterways. I want to join in the effort here to salute the Coast Guard and to let the Coast Guard know in that area how proud we are of the work that they do. They are such an important part of this country.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the opening of the new Cardiac & Critical Care Pavilion and the Rainbow RapidCare Program at St. John West Shore Hospital in Westlake, Ohio. The Cardiac & Critical Care Pavilion is a $9 million, two-story addition to the hospital's south side that will house all of the hospital's cardiac and critical care services. The Pavilion comprises not only 40,000 square feet of new space, but also 15,000 square feet of renovated existing space and 37 new beds. Providing a facility that will enhance convenience and accessibility for both patients and family members, the cardiac services will continue to meet the growing needs of Western Cuyahoga and Eastern Lorain Counties' residents. Under the medical direction of Drs. Dale Levy, MD; Muhammed Zarha, MD; Naim Farhat, MD and Timothy Taylor, DO, the Cardiac & Critical Care Pavilion will offer high quality service to patients in need of care. The Rainbow RapidCare Program is also a facility that is growing to meet the needs of local families, and is committed to providing the best care possible for children and parents. Rainbow RapidCare is an urgent care center for children and adolescents with minor injuries and ailments, staffed by a team of physicians and nurses trained in Pediatrics and Emergency Medicine. Combining the resources of St. John West Shore Hospital and Rainbow Babies' and Children's Hospital, the program has been organized under the medical direction of Drs. John Bennet, MD and Emory Patrick, MD and under the nursing leadership of Katie Dixon, RN. I commend all those involved in the establishment of these valuable medical facilities, and wish them every success for the future. Fellow Congressmen, please join with me in honoring the opening of these new and welcome additions to the St. John West Shore Hospital.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Kym Sellers, a woman whose story is about everything that is good about America. Growing up as an athlete, Kym learned the value of hard work. Kym would participate in her high school's woman's basketball team, shower, and then cheerlead for the men's team. Outside of sporting events, she would run with her father, practicing for the quarter-mile she would run for the track team. It is this incredible effort and persistence that has made Mrs. Sellers an example for all. Unfortunately, the athlete in Kym can no longer play basketball, cheer, or run. At age 25, she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, and the impairing nervous system disease sidelined her from the athletic arena. However, with her determination of steel, and spirit of confidence, Kym has most certainly not been sidelined from experiencing her life. Now 32, Mrs. Sellers is the mother of two young daughters, wife of a professional European basketball player, and works six days a week. She continues to exercise daily, but now she must also take care of her children, and run a radio show from Cleveland's urban contemporary radio station. As if these efforts wouldn't be exhausting enough, Kym continues to make a difference in her community by establishing the Kym Sellers Foundation, a non-profit organization to help African-Americans with multiple sclerosis. With an overwhelming amount of responsibility and activity in her life, Kym continues to strive for excellence in everything she does. She has not allowed her condition to distract her from living life to the fullest. I greatly respect the hardworking and devoted spirit of Kym Sellers. Her attitude is one to be admired by all. My fellow colleagues, please join me in honoring this dynamic woman.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in trobute to Stanley Eugene Tolliver, Sr., the recipeint of the N.A.A.C.P. Freedom Award, this organization's highest honor. Mr. Tolliver, a Cleveland attorney, was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. As the only child of Eugene and Edna Tolliver, he excelled both academically and athletically. For example, he graduated from the East Technical High School in 1944, where he was the State champion in the 440 yard dash, and having been blessed with a velvet voice, he was the first place winner in the Ohio State Vocal Contest. Mr. Tolliver continued his education at Baldwin Wallace College, by majoring in pre-law and minoring in music and speech. It is clear that from the start that Mr. Tolliver has been dedicated to tackling interracial issues. At Baldwin Wallace College, he founded the first interracial Greek-letter fraternity, Epsilon, which is now a national organization known as Pi Lambda Pi. Having this passion and love for law and civil justice, Mr. Tolliver knew that in order to make a contribution to society he would need to prepare and armor himself with a deeper understanding of the law. Thus, he continued his law studies and earned his Juris Doctorate from Cleveland Marshall School of Law in October 1969. In the midst of his studies, Mr. Tolliver was drafted into the armed services, where he served in the United States Army's Counter Intelligence Corps for two years. While still serving in active duty Tolliver passed his bar examination in March 1953 and has been engaged in the general practice of Law ever since. Mr. Tolliver's accolades and honors are never ending. His most notable honors include Life Member of N.A.A.C.P., member of the East Tech Athletic Hall of Fame, Outstanding Alumnus Award from Baldwin Wallace College, past president of the Cleveland Chapter National Conference of Black Lawyers, Regional Director of the Conference of Black lawyers, and former legal counsel for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. Mr. Tolliver has also been elected to Who's Who in Ohio'' in 1961, the Cleveland Board of Education in 1981, 1985, 1987, 1989, and 1990. Mr. Tolliver's efforts to advocate the causes of those who may be undrerepresented reflects not only his fearless dedication to his life works, but also his unhesitating willingness to take the unpopular stand for justice. His commitment and devotion to upholding freedom, justice and equity is truly commendable. My fellow distinguished colleagues, please join me in honoring Stanley Eugene Tolliver, Sr. for his N.A.A.C.P. Freedom Award and in recognizing his many accomplishments and contributions to the community.