Dennis Kucinich

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I would like to bring to your attention the 40th anniversary of Tommy's Restaurant, and its owner, Tommy Fello. What later became ``Tommy's'' on Coventry Road in Cleveland Heights started out as a part-time job at a 7-stool lunch counter at the corner drug store for Tommy when he was in the 9th grade in 1967. By 1972, just a year and a half after graduating from Cleveland Heights High School, Tommy bought the lunch counter and renamed it Tommy's. Having learned to make Lebanese specialties, such as falafel, hummus and baba ghanouj, from the lunch counter, he incorporated these and other items to cater to a growing demand for good food and healthy lifestyles. His menu includes vegetarian, vegan, macrobiotic, and gluten-free foods. But one can also get hamburgers, hot dogs and meat pies. After 45 years cooking and 40 years as the owner, Tommy still works long hours behind the grill making sandwiches and other treats for his many customers. With success, Tommy always found ways to give back to his community. Every year on Earth Day, Tommy Fello can be found at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo in Ohio's 10th Congressional District, feeding all the volunteers the wonderful food he cooks at his restaurant. On New Years Day every year, Tommy opens his restaurant for a 4 hour pancake breakfast with all proceeds donated to the local arts community. Tommy's Restaurant has provided a first job to thousands of youths in the Cleveland area since opening. Tommy has worked as a mentor for many local schools and is often asked to give entrepreneurial and motivational speeches to students of all ages. Tommy's Restaurant is a Cleveland-area landmark. His website lists many customers of national and local renown, including TV personality Al Roker, actress Alicia Silverstone, the late Cuyahoga County poet laureate Daniel Thompson, blues musician Mr. Stress (who also has a sandwich named in his honor), comedian Molly Shannon (who once worked at Tommy's), actor Danny DeVito, the late graphic novelist Harvey Pekar, singer Patty Smith, and movie director Jim Jarmusch. I am proud to also be on this list. I am also proud to know this fine individual who has worked hard, found much success, and has given so much back. Other business-owners on his street have nicknamed him the King of Coventry or the Mayor of Coventry because of their appreciation for all his hard work and dedication to the community. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring Tommy Fello on his celebration of 40 years owning Tommy's Restaurant.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the St. Ignatius Football Team, which won the 2011 Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) Division I State Championship. St. Ignatius High School was founded in September of 1886 on Cleveland's West 30th Street. At the time, it was the twentieth secondary school sponsored by the Jesuits in the U.S. An all male college preparatory high school, the Wildcats continue to live by the school motto, ``Men for Others.'' Academically, St. Ignatius is one of Ohio's most prestigious high schools. It is St. Ignatius great emphasis on academic achievement which produces scholars and which translates to success both on and off the field. Each year 99% of its students go on to four-year college programs. Led by Coach Chuck Kyle, the St. Ignatius Wildcats took to the field at 7:07 p.m. on December 3, 2011 against the Pickerington Tigers. The Wildcats gained an early lead in the first quarter, highlighted by a 45 yard touchdown pass by Eric Williams to Tim McCoy. The first half ended with the Wildcats ahead, thanks to two Tim Shenk field goals and a Tim McVey rushing touchdown, by a score of 20-13. The second half was dominated by the Wildcats defense, which did not allow the Tigers to score again. The Wildcats offense continued to produce; Tim McVey ran for another touchdown and Eric Williams threw a 40 yard touchdown to Jake Mooney. At 10:03 p.m., the St. Ignatius Wildcats left the field as OHSAA Division I State Champions for the 11th time in 12 state championship appearances with a score of 34-13. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in congratulating the 2011 OHSAA Division I State Champions, the St. Ignatius Football Team.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Micheline ``Mickey'' Benedict as she retires after 50 years of service at St. Ignatius High School as Director of Technology. From an early age Mickey has been part of the St. Ignatius High School community. Her uncles, Fr. George Kmieck, the former Dean of Philosophy at John Carroll University, and Dr. Peter Kmieck, the St. Ignatius High School team physician, began bringing Mickey to the school at the age of two. Mickey began her career with St. Ignatius High School in May 1961. She was hired by Fr. Pingstock and made $1.25 per hour for clerical and typing work. In November of 1997, she was promoted to head the school's Computer Services Department by Fr. Robert Welsh. She led a team of 20 who worked to move the school into the age of modern technology. Mickey was promoted to the position of Director of Technology in May of 2000 and held the position until her retirement in December of 2011. The St. Ignatius High School community will celebrate the career of Mickey Benedict on January 20, 2012 with a mass and school wide reception. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring Mickey Benedict and congratulating her on her retirement from St. Ignatius High School following 50 years of dedicated service.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. One of the biggest stumbling blocks to America's economic recovery is that corporations can legally buy elections and then influence policies which move millions of jobs out of America which escape taxation by offshoring profits, which cash in on wars, which press military industrial spending through the roof. While we pledge allegiance to the red, white and blue, corporations, whose only allegiance is to green, are selling out America; and they're becoming ever more powerful because of a Supreme Court decision in Citizens United, which effectively turns this government into an auction where policies may go to the highest bidder. We must stand up for America. We must reclaim our Nation. House Joint Resolution 100 is a constitutional amendment which aims at taking all private money out of elections and returning government to the people. I urge my colleagues to support H.J. Res. 100 so that we can break the golden shackles which are imprisoning this government right now and so that we can get rid of corporate influence once and for all. No private money in elections. Support H.J. Res. 100.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. I want to thank my friend, Mr. Sablan, and the Members for pursuing this important legislation. I rise on behalf of not just myself but of a now departed World War II combat veteran by the name of Frank J. Kucinich, Sr. He was proud to serve this country. He served in the Pacific theater. But all veterans come together to pay respect not only to those who served but to a President who on June 6, 1944, as the Nation was preparing for that D-day invasion, said the following, ``With Thy blessing, we shall prevail over the unholy forces of our enemy. Help us to conquer the apostles of greed and racial arrogances. Lead us to the saving of our country, and with our sister nations, into a world unity that will spell a sure peace--a peace invulnerable to the schemings of unworthy men. And a peace that will let all of men live in freedom, reaping the just rewards of their honest toil. Thy will be done, Almighty God. Amen.'' Those words by President Franklin Roosevelt, upon the occasion of D- day, June 6, 1944, should not only be inscribed--as my friend in his work will make sure of it, with the consent of this Congress--on a plaque for a suitable presence in the memorial, but should also be reflected upon on a daily basis to remind us of the sacrifices that people have made for this country and to remind us that the ultimate objective of those sacrifices is peace, peace within our Nation and peace among people around the world. And so it is in that spirit of human unity and in recognition of the importance of this legislation that I ask all of our colleagues to join with us in approving it.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. I agree with Representative Capps in that we shouldn't wait. We have to move quickly to eliminate any uncertainty that American families have in planning their budget or any uncertainty that they may have as to whether or not they're going to get unemployment benefits. We in this Congress have certainty in much of our lives, especially with the fact that we get paid every month. But if you are out there and you have a really tight budget or you are unemployed or you are a senior trying to make sure you can go to your doctor of choice, this motion that the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Capps) has is very important because we need to recognize that the middle class has been under enormous financial stress. With the wealth of the country accelerating upward, middle class people have been looking for a break. If I'm right, this legislation will provide up to $1,000 for the year for a middle class family, which would be a great break for many families. This middle class tax break is imperative. Unemployment benefits for those who have not been able, despite their best efforts, to find a place in the job market are absolutely essential. There are 13 million people who are unemployed. There are a tremendous number of unemployed people in my own State of Ohio. They are looking to see, are we going to help them eliminate the uncertainty? That is why the Capps amendment is important, because we move forward quickly to show them, we are there for you. And the senior citizens, they want to make sure they can get their doctors of choice, and doctors want to make sure they are going to paid what is appropriate. So I rise to support this amendment. Let's remember the middle class taxpayers. Let's remember those who are unemployed. Let's remember seniors who want to see the doctor of their choice. Let's remember doctors who want to get paid a fair amount. And let's pass this Capps amendment.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. I thank the gentleman from Oregon for yielding. On its surface, the resolution seems to make sense about making sure we pass a budget, and that's of national importance. I think that all of us who are here understand the underlying politics that have made it very difficult to bring a budget forward. Of course, budgets are all about priorities, what are our Nation's priorities. When we get to the point of passing a budget, here's what we ought to be telling the American people: that the middle class will be protected; that the social safety net will be protected; that Social Security will be protected; that benefits will not be cut; that the cap will be lifted; that there will be no privatization; that Medicare will be protected; that there will be a fix so that doctors can get a fair shake; that we'll do something about Medicare Part D, which blew a hole in the Medicare budget; that we'll begin to cut back our military presence around the world, and that we start to take down this military industrial complex that General Eisenhower warned about so many years ago; that we'll begin investing in new technologies so that we can grow the economy of the future. Budgets are about priorities. And while we still debate whether or not we're going to pass a budget, we need to set those priorities that will enable America, when it finally has a budget, to move forward into the future with a country that's going to be serving everyone, not just a few at the expense of the many.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Mr. Joe DeCaro, an iconic produce vendor at Cleveland's West Side Market for almost 80 years. Joe's parents, Italian immigrants, opened the DeCaro vegetable stand at Cleveland's West Side Market in 1934. Joe began working at the produce stand at the age of seven with his siblings. Throughout college at The Ohio State University, he would come home to work the stand on weekends. The only period of time in which Joe did not work at the DeCaro stand was during his service in World War II. For seventy-seven years Joe has been a fixture at the West Side Market, taking the stand over when his parents passed away. He has run the stand by his motto, which is mounted above his produce: ``Good food is not cheap and cheap food is not good.'' Today, Joe is the patriarch of a large and close-knit DeCaro family. He is married to his wife Rhea, and together they raised nine children. Joe is also the proud grandfather of 23 and great-grandfather to 14 children. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring Mr. Joe DeCaro, one of the West Side Market's most iconic produce vendors.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following. My name is Dennis Kucinich, K-u-c-i-n-i-c-h. Oh, and also, one other, n-o. I'm here as the Congressional Representative of the people of this area. I'm also here as the ranking Democrat in the United States Congress and the subcommittee that has jurisdiction over the EPA. I want to state for the record that regarding some of the questions that have been asked here, (I'm) totally dissatisfied with the way that this process has been conducted. The community has not been involved but it will be involved, I can promise you. I want to announce here tonight, that I am going to work to bring representatives of our Domestic Policy Subcommittee in the Congress here for a full Congressional hearing where preliminary to that we will gain access to the EPA's documents on this. I can promise you that, that we'll gain access to information that has not been brought forward in a full way with respect to the toxic emissions, with respect to public health impacts, with respect to the way that this thing has been set up, that the public has a right to have their health protected. And that as the person who has responsibility and jurisdiction over the EPA, I've already sent a letter to EPA Administrator Jackson to let her know that there are environmental health issues here, public policy issues, and also environmental justice issues. We look very closely at the census track that this particular facility would be recycling. And there are compelling reasons under environmental justice principles why this should not be built. We need to involve the larger community here. It's good that you're all here tonight. We need to make sure that all of these questions that you have are on the record, are brought forward in the record and we'll put them in the Congressional Record. And I can make one other prediction. There was a few years ago when people were rushing to try and get rid of what was then called Muni Light, now it's Cleveland Public Power, and there was someone who stood in front of the community and said, you know what? You may say that you're going to sell that system, but it's never going to happen. The people in this community made sure of that. The people in this community were the ones that helped protect what is now Cleveland Public Power. I'm going to give the EPA a little bit of advice. If I know the people in this community, you're not going to shove this down their throats. Your bureaucratic process might be okay to satisfy some legal minutia, but it's not going to the satisfy a community that is intent on protecting the quality of the air, the quality of the water, their children, their schools, their neighborhoods, the quality of health. Welcome to Cleveland.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 102nd birthday of Captain Harry Anderson who celebrated his birthday on October 5, 2011. Captain Anderson was born in Sweden on October 5, 1909. He emigrated to the United States at the age of ten in 1919. He had a passion for the sea at an early age and served as a Second Mate with the United States Merchant Marines during World War II. He eventually became a Captain with the Cleveland Cliffs in 1963 where he was Master of the Cliffs Victory, the Cadillac, the Frontenac, the LaSalle, the Pontiac, and Walter A. Sterling, the Edward B. Greene and the William G. Mather. He retired as a Captain from the Cleveland Cliffs in 1974. Following his retirement, Captain Anderson spent his time volunteering on the William G. Mather, which was docked as a museum on the shores of Lake Erie in downtown Cleveland. He is the oldest member of the International Shipmasters Association's Cleveland Lodge Number 4. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in recognizing Captain Harry Anderson and wishing him a happy 102nd birthday.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Mr. Tony J. Sustarsic, the former Mayor of Euclid, Ohio. Born in 1925, Tony was a lifelong resident of Euclid, Ohio and graduated from Euclid Central High School. Before he began his career in politics, Tony bravely served his country as a member of the U.S. Army's 3d Armored Division during World War II. He fought in the Battle of the Bulge and the Normandy Invasion. During his service, he suffered almost a dozen injuries and was later honored with a Purple Heart and four battle stars. Following his military career, Tony helped establish the Euclid Veteran's Club. He was also a member of the American Legion Euclid Post 343, the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1056 and was an inductee to the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame Class of 2008. Mr. Sustarsic was appointed to the Euclid City Council in 1954 and served until 1968 when he was appointed Administrative Director. He was elected as the ninth Mayor of Euclid in 1975. During his term as mayor, Mr. Sustarsic expanded senior programs and facilities, and oversaw infrastructure improvements and the opening of Euclid Square Mall. I offer my condolences to his wife, the former Helen Palsa; children, Jerry and Judy Malachowski; two grandchildren, Tony (Pam) and Paula (George); and great-grandchildren, Eddie, Alex, Tony III, Jordon and Joey. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring the memory of Mr. Tony J. Sustarsic, who bravely fought for his country and valiantly served the residents of Euclid.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and memory of Mr. Robert M. Seelie, a former councilmember and council president for the City of Lakewood. Mr. Seelie was born and raised in Lakewood, Ohio by his father, a police officer for the City of Lakewood, and mother, a nurse at Lakewood Hospital. He attended St. Edward High School, where he played on the hockey team. He later earned bachelors' degrees in political science and communications from Cleveland State University. He also earned a master's in public administration degree from CSU in 1991. Mr. Seelie dedicated his life to serving the residents of Lakewood and Cuyahoga County. He was a youth services coordinator for the county in 1979 and in 1980 began working as a county employment service specialist. In 1985 he began a seventeen year stint as an assistant in the county administrator's office. Mr. Seelie served the City of Lakewood, Ohio as a councilman and council president from 1992 until 2007. He was elected as a councilman to Lakewood's Ward 3 in 1991, which he represented for 16 years. He was eventually chosen by the council as the council president for 10 years. I offer my most heartfelt condolences to his children, Kelly and Patrick; two grandchildren, three brothers and his sister. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring the memory of Mr. Robert M. Seelie, his service to the City of Lakewood will not be forgotten.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and memory of Sergeant Aaron Bennett, a highly decorated U.S. Army sergeant. Sgt. Bennett was born in Mississippi and raised in Hawaii and Ohio. He attended Valley Forge High School in Parma Heights, where he was a member of the swim team. He graduated in 2003. Sgt. Bennett joined the U.S. Army in 2007 and served as an infantryman with the 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division. He completed a yearlong tour in Iraq in June of 2011. Additionally, Sgt. Bennett was a member of the Presidential Honor Guard and was recently selected to participate in Scouts and Ranger Sniper School. Because of his bravery and service to the country, Sgt. Bennett was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge, an Army Commendation Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal and the Iraqi Campaign Medal. Sgt. Bennett was also the recipient of the Army Achievement Medal which he earned by saving the lives of two soldiers injured in a mortar attack. I offer my condolences to his wife, Michelle; parents, David and Sally; and sister, Rachel. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring the memory of one of our country's heroes, Sergeant Aaron Bennett.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Mr. Thomas F. O'Malley, Sr., a man who bravely served his country and selflessly worked on behalf of his fellow residents in Northeast Ohio. Mr. O'Malley was born on May 13, 1928 to Thomas E. and Marie E. O'Malley. He was raised in Parma and graduated from St. Ignatius High School in 1946. He went on to Case Western Reserve University and the Cleveland State University's Cleveland Marshall Law School. Mr. O'Malley served bravely with the U.S. Army before returning to Cleveland and beginning his career in law. He was the former law director for the cities of Fairview Park and Brooklyn. Overall, Mr. O'Malley practiced law for more than 52 years. I offer my condolences to his wife, Colleen; children, Jackie Needham (John), Judge Kathleen O'Malley (Ray Gallucci), Brigid O'Malley, Judge Thomas F. O'Malley, Jr. (Kelly), Dr. Martin J. O'Malley (Marina), Joseph P. O'Malley (Cathy), and Jamie Farina (Gerald); grandchildren Kathleen Dunham (Josh), John and Tom Needham; Brian and Michael Cuiffo; Thomas III, Joseph, Farrell and Jack O'Malley; Quinn, Olivia, Micaela, Emmett and Cecelia O'Malley; Lauren and Colin O'Malley and Gennaro Farina; great-grandchildren James Dunham; siblings Carol Henry (Thomas), and the late Jeanne Schneider and Jack O'Malley. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring the memory of Mr. Thomas F. O'Malley. His contributions to Northeast Ohio and the country will be missed.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and in memory of Mr. Walter T. May, a former Captain with the Cleveland Police Department and president of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 8. Walter was born on December 11, 1958 in Cleveland, Ohio to his parents, Walter ``Matt'' E. and Sally May. He graduated from St. Joseph High School and later attended Cleveland State University. Walter was appointed to the Cleveland Division of Police on February 9, 1987 and served for more than 25 years. He worked as a Patrol Officer, Detective, Sergeant, Lieutenant and was promoted to the rank of Captain in 2000. In March 2006, Walter was appointed Commander of Community Policing. In addition to his career, he was the president of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 8 which serves its members as the labor representative for the supervisors of the Cleveland Division of Police. Walter was also an active member of the Retired Irish Police Society and Anchor Club Branch 17. I offer my most sincere condolences to his wife, Terry; son, Jake; sister, Patty; nephew, Chris, many nieces and nephews; and his canine companion, Maggie May. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring the memory of Mr. Walter T. May, who served his community with honor and dedication.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor of the memory of Mr. Donald Louis Ferfolia, a man who was dedicated to his family and the Catholic Church. Mr. Ferfolia was born on February 11, 1929 to his parents, Louis and Theresa Ferfolia. He was a licensed embalmer for 61 years and eventually became the president and chief executive officer of Ferfolia Funeral Homes. Mr. Ferfolia was a dedicated member of the Catholic Church. He was a member of St. Wenceslas Church until its closing when he became a parishioner at St. Basil the Great Catholic Church in Brecksville. He was a member, and at one time the president, of the Maple Heights Catholic Club. Donald was also a founding member of the Callistian Guild, ``an organization dedicated to the fundamental principle that the poorest of God's children are entitled to be buried with dignity.'' I offer my condolences to his wife of 61 years, Alice; children, Donald B. Sr. (Margaret), Donna (the late C. Richard III) Mark L. Sr. (Christine) and Mary (Jeffrey A. Sr.); grandchildren, Donald B. Jr. (Dawn), Maureen, Joseph (Leanne), Allyson, Michelle (Michael), Megan, Colleen, Jeffrey (Erin), Kristin, Brian (fiancee, Anne), Meredith, Mark Jr., Rachael, Alex, Amy, Jeffrey Jr., Christina, Susan, Richard and Paige; great-grandchildren Ryan, Lauren, Donna, Caroline, Isadora and Julia; brother-in-law of Robert (Donna), Elaine and the late Carol Bandsuh (the late Richard). Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring the memory of Mr. Donald L. Ferfolia. His contributions to Northeast Ohio and the Catholic community will be missed.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Kathleen ``Katie'' Devring who dedicated her life to those in need. Katie was the second child of John and Margaret Devring and grew up on Cleveland's West side. She attended St. Rose Elementary School and began high school at St. Peter's. She graduated from West Tech High School in 1966. Throughout her life Katie was known as a compassionate soul that dedicated her life to those less fortunate. She worked tirelessly as a case worker for the Cuyahoga County Welfare Department for 25 years. In addition to her work, Katie was a longtime volunteer and advocate for the LGBT community. She worked with the Northern Ohio CoDA Intergroup (NOCI) for decades arranging events and fundraisers to benefit the marginalized and disenfranchised of Northeast Ohio. I offer my condolences to her brothers, John, Bill (Margie), Eddie and Marty (Mary); as well as her nieces, nephews and many friends. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring the memory of Kathleen ``Katie'' Devring.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commemorate the life of James E. Burch, military veteran, advertising executive and lifelong anti-war and environmental activist. A renaissance man with a passion for leaving the world better than he found it, Jim spent his life acting on the life philosophy passed along to him by his mother, ``I am my brother's keeper.'' Born in Evanston, Illinois on February 27, 1926, Jim served in the United States Infantry in the South Pacific. At age 19, he became the program director of the Armed Forces Radio Service station WVTQ in Osaka, Japan. He was honorably discharged in May 1946. After working in the radio business in Hollywood, he moved to Arizona where he met and married his wife of 61 years, Wileta. In 1951, Jim, Wileta and their two children, Bill and Barbara moved to northern California where Jim began a 23-year career working with the San Francisco-based advertising agency Batten, Barton, Durstine & Osborn where he created numerous award winning advertisements. Jim left his professional position and began his second career as a volunteer activist. Instrumental in the beginnings and ongoing work of Sequoia Seminar, Creative Initiative, Project Survival, Beyond War and the Foundation for Global Community, Jim contributed his many talents to groundbreaking projects. Among them were, the beginning of a recycling program in Palo Alto, California that became a model for the Nation, the first space bridge to connect the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War (1984), the first satellite space bridge connecting seven countries on five continents (1985) and the creation of a series of nature documentaries that were featured on PBS. Jim served as a Member of the Board of Trustees for the Foundation for Global Community until December of 2010. Launching yet a third career, Jim was elected to the Palo Alto City Council in 1999. In 2005, at the age of 78, he was elected mayor, the oldest mayor in the city's history. While knowing that the job required a local focus, Jim continued to bring his understanding of global interconnectedness to city government. He observed on more than one occasion that, ``It's one world, it's one Earth, it's one planet; it's one ecosystem. We're either all going to make it or nobody's going to make it.'' Jim is survived by Wileta, his son Bill Burch, (Bill's wife, Kathy), his daughter Barbara Lindsay, (Barbara's husband, Targe) and grandchildren Merrill Burch, David Lindsay, (David's wife, Stephanie), Kristina Lindsay, and his many friends and colleagues whose lives were enriched by his sense of humor, creativity and generosity.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I submit the following: The Declaration of Occupy D.C. Consented to by General Assembly November 30th, 2011 We have been captives of corrupt economic and political systems for far too long. The concentration of wealth and the purchase of political power stifle the voices of the increasingly disenfranchised 99 percent. Corporate dominance subverts democracy, intentionally sows division, destroys the environment, obstructs the just and equitable pursuit of happiness, and violates the rights and dignity of all life. Occupy D.C. is an open community of diverse individuals, facing different forms of oppression and impacted by economic exploitation to differing degrees, but united by a shared vision of equality for the common good. The harsh economic conditions that have plagued the poor, working class, and communities of color for generations have begun to affect the previously financially secure. This acute awareness of our common fate has united us in our struggle for a better future. We recognize that inequality and injustice systemically affect every aspect of our society: our communities, homes, and hearts. To build the world we envision, we commit ourselves to overcoming our personal biases so we can successfully challenge systems of oppression in solidarity. We are peaceably assembled at McPherson Square, practicing direct democracy on the doorstep of K Street, the epicenter of destructive corporate and governmental relationships. Recognizing that the term ``occupy'' is associated with exploitation, violence, and imperialism, we are reclaiming it to mean the peaceful liberation of public space. In this disenfranchised city, we are insisting that our economic and political systems serve the people's interests. Now is the time to advance and complete the struggles of the many who came before us. We are assembled because . . . It is absurd that the 1 percent has taken 40 percent of the nation's wealth through exploiting labor, outsourcing jobs, and manipulating the tax code to their benefit through special capital tax rates and loopholes. The system is rigged in their favor, yet they cry foul when anyone even dares to question their relentless class warfare. Candidates in our electoral system require huge sums of money to be competitive. These contributions from multi- national corporations and wealthy individuals destroy responsive representative governance. A system of backroom deals, kickbacks, bribes, and dirty politics overrides the will of the people. The rotation of decision makers between the public and private sectors cultivates a network of public officials, lobbyists, and executives whose aligned interests do not serve the American people. The entrenched two-party system overlooks public interests by pursuing narrow political goals. This climate encourages candidates to polarize voters for individual power and personal gain. Citizens' meaningful input has been compromised by gerrymandering, voter disenfranchisement, and unresponsive politicians. Residents of Washington, D.C., continue to lack autonomy and legislative representation. The 1 percent benefits from economic, political, and legal structures that oppress communities long targeted by displacement, denial of sovereignty, slavery, and other injustices. These persecuted but resilient communities continue to suffer through generations of disproportionately higher rates of unemployment, poverty, criminalization, and homelessness. Facets of the 1 percent campaign to blame these groups for these problems while obstructing healing and restoration. Those with power have divided us from working in solidarity by perpetuating historical prejudices and discrimination based on perceived race, religion, immigrant or indigenous status, income, age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, and disability, among other things. These divisions have inhibited our ability to work in solidarity, though today we recognize the power of uniting as the 99 percent. Financial institutions gambled with our savings, homes, and economy. They collapsed the financial system and needed the public to bail them out of their failures yet deny any responsibility and continue to fight oversight. Corporations loot from those whose labor creates society's prosperity, while the government allows them to privatize profits and socialize risk. Corporate interests threaten life on Earth by extracting and burning fossil fuels and resisting the necessary transition to renewable energy. Their drilling, mining, clear-cutting, overfishing, and factory farming destroys the land, jeopardizes our food and water, and poisons the soil with near impunity. They privilege polluters over people by subsidizing fossil fuels, blocking investments in clean energy and efficient transportation, and hiding environmental destruction from public oversight. Private corporations, with the government's support, use common resources and infrastructure for short-term personal profit, while stifling efforts to invest in public goods. The U.S. government engages in drawn-out, costly conflicts abroad. Numerous acts of conquest have been, and continue to be, pursued to control resources, overthrow foreign governments, and install subservient regimes. These wars destroy the lives of innocent civilians and American soldiers, many of whom suffer adverse effects throughout life. These operations are a blank check to divert money from domestic priorities. Government authorities cultivate a culture of fear to invade our privacy, limit assembly, restrict speech, and deny due process. They have failed in their duty to protect our rights. Exacerbated by profiteering interests, the criminal justice system has unfairly targeted underprivileged communities and outspoken groups for prosecution rather than protection. Corporatized culture warps our perception of reality. It cheapens and mocks the beauty of human thought and experience while promoting excessive materialism as the path to happiness. The corporate news media furthers the interests of the very wealthy, distorts and disregards the truth, and confines our imagination of what is possible for ourselves and society. Leaders are trading our access to basic needs in exchange for handouts to the ultra-wealthy. Our rights to healthcare, education, food, water, and housing are sacrificed to profit- driven market forces. They are attacking unemployment insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security, creating an uncertain future for us all.* A better world is possible. To all people, We, the Washington D.C. General Assembly occupying K Street in McPherson Square, urge you to assert your power. Exercise your right to peaceably assemble and reclaim the commons. Re-conceive ways to build a democratic, just, and sustainable world. To all who value democracy, we encourage you to collaborate and share available resources. Join your voice with ours and let it amplify until the heart of the movement booms with our chorus of solidarity. *These grievances are not all inclusive.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Mr. Frank Castelli's retirement as the Service Director for the City of Middleburg Heights after 25 years of dedicated service. Mr. Frank Castelli was born in Jefferson, Ohio and graduated from Geneva High School. He later continued his education by attending Cleveland State University. Mr. Castelli and his wife, Delia, have been married for 45 years and have one daughter, Claudia, and two sons, Marc and Matt. Frank also has two grandchildren, Marcella and Pete. Mr. Castelli is a veteran of the United States Army and served in Germany during 1955 and 1956. Following his service in the Army, Mr. Castelli worked in the insurance industry for nearly 30 years as a claim adjuster and commercial insurance agent. He also spent 16 years as the co-owner and operator of Trans Ohio Insurance Agency with his brother, Ron. In 1986, Frank became the Service Director for the City of Middleburg Heights, Ohio. In addition to his careers serving his country, fellow Ohioans and residents of Middleburg Heights, Mr. Castelli has been a leader in the community. Since 1976 he has served as the president of the Misty Lake Condominium Association and at one time served as a member of the Planning Commission. From 1976 to 1986 Frank was a councilman for Middleburg Heights, Ward 1. He has also been serving as the president of the Middleburg Heights Democratic Club since 1998 and is an active member of the Cuyahoga County Democratic Party Executive Committee. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honoring Mr. Frank Castelli as he celebrates his retirement.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to H.R. 1254, the Synthetic Drug Control Act of 2011 because it will do little, if anything, to curb abuse of synthetic marijuana. It will, however, unnecessarily burden the criminal justice system and inhibit important scientific research on synthetic substances. It will also impose further unnecessary costs onto taxpayers as the federal criminal code is expanded. Evidence suggests that criminalizing substances, as this bill envisions, does not change demand or prevent health harms that stem from their use. The deaths and injuries that result from abuse of any substance and the destruction that drug abuse inflicts on our families and communities is heartbreaking. I support comprehensive drug education programs which promote clear information for children and adults about how to recognize drug abuse and the risk factors that promote it. It is important to recognize that drug abuse proliferates differently depending on the socioeconomic conditions that exist in a given community, which makes it all the more important for the federal government to assist state and local governments in addressing this public health problem. This bill does nothing to boost real public health and education awareness campaigns which must be a part of addressing substance abuse. Instead, H.R. 1254 would place a number of synthetic substances under Schedule I of the Controlled Substances Act. As Schedule I is the most restrictive, placing substances on it makes research on these substances vastly more difficult. Scientific researchers have warned Congress that this legislation will impede research on treatments for a range of diseases and disorders, including Parkinson's disease. In addition, the Drug Enforcement Agency already has the power to place substances on the Schedule I list. Finally, criminalization of another group of drugs will engender an expansion of the criminal justice regime. Our present system of criminal justice already places a far too large and disproportionate burden onto poor and minority communities. Marijuana arrests in the United States cost on average $10,000 per individual from arrest to adjudication, according to public policy researcher John B. Gettman at the George Mason University School of Public Policy. The prosecution and prison terms that will necessarily arise from enforcement of this bill will impose enormous costs on taxpayers at a time when resources are scant. I urge my colleagues to join me in opposing this legislation.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Mr. Pierre Bejjani, the president of the Northeast Ohio Lebanese American Association, NOLAA, as he is honored by the American Nationalities Movement. Mr. Bejjani was born in Lebanon and immigrated to Cleveland, Ohio 1981. He attended The Ohio State University where he earned a degree in civil engineering. He returned to Cleveland after graduating and began working as a construction manager. Mr. Bejjani started his own business in 1991. Today, he serves as the managing director/executive editor of Profile News Ohio and is the senior partner for Diversity Advertising Agency. Mr. Bejjani has served the Cleveland community since the mid-1990s. He organized the first Annual Lebanon Day on November 22, 2011. He currently serves as the president NOLAA and vice president of the Cleveland American Middle East Organization. He is also on the boards of Worldwide Intercultural Network of Cleveland, Global Cleveland Initiative and the Recruiting Battalion of Northern Ohio. As a result of his dedication to the community, Mr. Bejjani has been received numerous awards. He received NOLAA's Community Recognition Award in 2009. In 2010 he was the recipient of the Census 2010 Partnership Award. Mr. Bejjani was also recognized for his work on the U.S. Army Strength in Diversity Program in April, 2011. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in recognizing the life and achievements of Mr. Pierre Bejjani and congratulating him on being this year's American Nationalities Movement's honoree.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Mr. David Dawson as he retires after 40 years of service at the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland. Legal Aid Society of Cleveland is a law firm for low-income individuals and provides services in the areas of consumer rights, domestic violence, education, employment, family law, health, housing, foreclosure, immigration, public benefits, utilities and tax. It was founded as a nonprofit in 1905 and until 1966 operated primarily with volunteers. In 1966, staff attorneys were hired and today there are 53 attorneys, 40 staff members and more than 1800 volunteers that serve Cleveland's low-income individuals. Legal Aid's mission is to secure justice and resolve fundamental problems for those who are low income and otherwise vulnerable by providing high quality legal services and working for systemic solutions. Mr. Dawson attended Kenyon College where he received a degree in English in 1964. He earned his Juris Doctor in 1971 from Vanderbilt University. He bravely served with the United States Navy between 1964 and 1967. He began working at the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland in 1971 as a staff attorney in the Hough Neighborhood Office. Throughout the past 40 years Mr. Dawson has also served as an Attorney in Charge, the Civil Director, and today serves as the Deputy Director for the Main Office and Interim Managing Attorney for the Lorain County Office. Because of his dedication to serving the people of Cleveland and vast expertise in poverty law, Mr. Dawson was honored by the Ohio Legal Assistance Foundation in 2010. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in congratulating Mr. David Dawson as he retires after 40 years of dedicated service to the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Reverend Marvin McMickle and congratulate him on his retirement after twenty- four years of service as the pastor of Antioch Baptist Church in Cleveland, Ohio. Rev. McMickle will become the president at Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School. Rev. McMickle was born in 1948 in Chicago, Illinois. He was ordained as a reverend in New York City in 1973. Rev. McMickle served as the pastor of St. Paul Baptist Church in Montclair, New Jersey and as the associate pastor for the Abyssinian Baptist Church in New York City prior to becoming the pastor of Antioch Baptist Church in Cleveland, Ohio in 1987. In addition to being a staple in Cleveland's spiritual community, Rev. McMickle is also a major influence in academia and politics. He earned his undergraduate degree from Aurora College, a Master of Divinity degree from Union Theological Seminary, a Doctor of Ministry degree from Princeton Theological Seminary and a doctorate in philosophy from Case Western Reserve University. Over the years, Rev. McMickle has taught at several colleges and universities including Ashland Theological Seminary, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland State University, Fordham, Princeton and spent a semester as a visiting professor at Yale University. Rev. McMickle has served as president of Shaker Heights School Board and Montclair Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). He has also served on the boards of Greater Cleveland Roundtable, United Pastors in Mission, Urban League of Greater Cleveland, Gateway Economic Development Committee and United Way Services of Greater Cleveland. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in thanking Rev. Marvin McMickle for more than two decades of leadership and service to the congregation of Antioch Baptist Church and residents of Cleveland. I wish him luck in his new position.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Mr. Harold L. Williams as he retires after 35 years of service at the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland. Legal Aid Society of Cleveland is a law firm for low-income individuals and provides services in the areas of consumer rights, domestic violence, education, employment, family law, health, housing, foreclosure, immigration, public benefits, utilities and tax. It was founded as a nonprofit in 1905 and until 1966 operated primarily with volunteers. In 1966, staff attorneys were hired and today there are 53 attorneys, 40 staff members and more than 1800 volunteers that serve Cleveland's low-income individuals. Legal Aid's mission is to secure justice and resolve fundamental problems for those who are low income and otherwise vulnerable by providing high quality legal services and working for systemic solutions. Mr. Williams began working at Legal Aid Society of Cleveland in 1975 in the Law Reform Unit. Since 2003, he has served as the managing attorney of Legal Aid's Consumer Law Unit. Mr. Williams also supervises Legal Aid's law participation in Ohio's Save the Dream foreclosure prevention program. He is the editor and principal author of Ohio Consumer Law. Because of his dedication to serving the people of Cleveland and his vast expertise in consumer law, Mr. Williams was the recipient of the William J. Brown Consumer Protection Award from the Ohio Attorney General in March 2010. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in congratulating Mr. Harold L. Williams as he retires after 35 years of dedicated service to the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland.