Dennis Kucinich

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, there are proponents of the bill who are claiming that the current exceptions to the penalty waiver provisions adequately protect the public, and I think it is very important at this moment, Madam Speaker to focus in on why that is not true. Unfortunately the exceptions to the penalty waiver provisions do not adequately protect the public. They may contain many of the buzz words which imply that the public health and safety is protected, however in reality the benefits of these exceptions are negligible. For instance, one exception permits the assessment of penalties when the violation has already caused actual serious harm. Paperwork requirements are put in place so agencies can prevent an accident before it occurs. This exception comes too late. It comes into play after the damage has been done. Furthermore, Madam Speaker, this is an extremely different standard of proof. It is practically impossible to show that a failure to file paperwork, not some intervening event, was the actual cause of the accident. Another exception allows fines to be assessed when the violation poses a serious and eminent threat to the public health or safety. Again, this is an extremely difficult standard of proof. It is practically impossible to show that the danger posed by a lack of paperwork poses an eminent danger. For instance, if an employer fails to provide adequate instruction on how to operate dangerous machinery, it would be impossible to prove that this failure created an eminent threat unless the employee has already been injured. That is why this idea about there are current exceptions to the penalty waiver provisions which adequately protect the public is flat out wrong. Moreover, the exception which allows fines when the failure to fine would impede criminal detection makes little sense. It is the failure to file information, not the failure to fine, that impedes criminal detection.

Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Slaughter) for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of this open rule. Our Nation's small businesses are the backbone of our economy and deserve relief from the burdens of unnecessary paperwork. However, H.R. 391, in its current form, could have wide-ranging and serious negative, unintended consequences. That is why the administration opposes it. In fact, four department heads have recommended a veto if the bill is passed in its current form. Similarly, senior citizens' groups oppose the bill. Environment, labor, public health organizations also oppose it. And several State attorneys general oppose it. This opposition stems from a well-intended but dangerous provision in the bill which would bar agencies from assessing civil penalties for most first-time paperwork violations. Essentially, this means that businesses would have one get-out-of- jail-free card which they can use even when they have willfully and maliciously violated the law. These provisions could interfere with the war on drugs, endanger our drinking water, jeopardize the care in nursing homes, and threaten our pensions, our environment and our health. Let me give my colleagues an example of the problem. Self-monitoring and reporting are the foundations of the Clean Water Act and the Safe Drinking Water Act. These reporting requirements are designed to give environmental protection officials knowledge of environmental compliance before any harm occurs. Now, under H.R. 391, the small businesses who run the drinking water systems would have little incentive to comply with reporting requirements because there would be no threat of a fine. The adequacy of the reports would be seriously jeopardized. The EPA would become even more dependent on inspections and not reports when detecting contamination of our drinking water. However, as I am sure my colleagues know, the EPA only has enough staff to inspect our 200,000 public water systems once every 40 years. Therefore, contamination of our drinking water may go undetected for extremely long periods of time. Another example: Reporting on toxic emissions. Under the EPA's toxic release inventory, companies that meet reporting thresholds must report their emissions of toxic pollutants into a community's air or water. The requirement that businesses disclose their toxic emissions has prompted significant voluntary emission reductions. H.R. 391, however, would effectively waive public reporting requirements until a business is caught for a violation. It would thus cripple an effective, voluntary, nonregulatory method of reducing pollution. Another example, Madam Speaker: Lead poisoning regulations. The Residential Lead-based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992 requires persons who sell or lease housing to give buyers and renters a pamphlet describing lead-based paint hazards. The entire purpose of the law is to prevent children from becoming lead-poisoned by requiring information about the risks of lead-poisoning be distributed before a family moves into a home. Under H.R. 391, however, this law becomes unenforceable. Even a real estate broker or landlord who deliberately failed to distribute this pamphlet, even if that happened, the EPA could not take enforcement action until after the health of a child has been injured or eminently endangered. A third example which will be of concern to all Americans: firefighter safety. I believe that, as currently constituted, H.R. 391 undermines worker protection laws with respect to firefighters and emergency workers. They depend, they depend on having adequate information to respond safely and effectively to chemical or fire emergencies. If a business does not report its hazardous chemical inventories as required under the Emergency Planning and Community Right To Know Act, firefighters' lives will be endangered if they are called to respond to a fire at the facility. Under H.R. 391, however, the failure to report hazardous chemical inventories is not enforceable until after a dangerous situation has already developed. I think our colleague and good friend the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Hoyer) said it well when he said that this legislation, this H.R. 391, could endanger the lives of America's fire and emergency service workers. Under the guise of exempting first-time violators from fines for paperwork violations, H.R. 391 would eliminate the enforcement of fines against businesses who fail to post notices about whether manufacturing and storage facilities contain hazardous chemicals. If firefighters are not informed of the presence of these dangerous materials, their lives could be needlessly jeopardized. The International Association of Fire Chiefs, the International Association of Firefighters, the National Fire Protection Association, the National Volunteer Fire Council, the Congressional Fire Service Institute, and the International Fire Association of Arson Investigators have all raised serious concerns about the impact of this legislation. According to these experts, removing or relaxing penalties for failure to comply with regulations that require disclosure of the presence of hazardous materials will almost certainly result in a lack of compliance and raises serious safety issues for firefighters. No amount, and I repeat no amount of remedial action, can compensate for the death or injury of a firefighter after the fact. Madam Speaker, H.R. 391 also preempts State law. The Federal Government has delegated enforcement of numerous environmental worker safety and health laws to the States. H.R. 391 would prevent States from assessing civil penalties from most first-time violations under these laws. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the States will lose about two million dollars a year in revenue. Madam Speaker, I will be offering an amendment that will address these concerns that is supported by the administration and by many interest groups. In summary it requires agencies to establish policies that would provide civil penalty relief for first-time violations without giving a free pass to businesses who intentionally break the law. Currently there is a veto threat on this bill. If my amendment is adopted, the bill would have strong bipartisan support and would likely become law. We should seize the opportunity to provide real relief to our Nation's small businesses, and I urge my colleagues' support for my amendment when I offer it under this open rule.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, today we will be considering H.R. 391, the Small Business Paperwork Reduction Act Amendments. This bill is strongly opposed by the administration, and four department heads will recommend a veto if the bill is passed in its current form. The concern stems from a provision that bars agencies from assessing civil penalties for most first-time paperwork violations. This provision allows businesses one free violation, even when the violation is intentional. This sets up a bizarre circumstance where bad-faith actors would have little or no incentive to comply with paperwork requirements. They would know that once caught, they could not be fined. When bad-faith actors do not file paperwork, it is extremely difficult for the government to detect illegal activity. The government would not be able to identify businesses that are putting workers, consumers, and seniors in jeopardy. I will be offering an amendment that will provide penalty relief for first-time violators without giving an across-the-board waiver to those who intentionally violate the law. If my amendment is adopted, the veto threat will likely be dropped and the bill can become law. I urge Members' support for my amendment to H.R. 391.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, as Co-chair of the Baltic Caucus I am particularly honored to commemorate the 81st anniversary of the restoration of Lithuania's independence together with the 746th anniversary of the establishment of the Lithuanian kingdom. Lithuania is rich in history. This country has continually been occupied by regimes which exploited its natural resources and its people. However, the seed of democracy continued to grow within the Lithuanian people. In 1990, after four decades of suppression, Lithuania finally achieved freedom and re-established the independent Lithuanian state. This hard-fought victory for independence and democracy stands as a testament to the courage, endurance and strength of the Lithuanian people. I am honored today as we commemorate not only the original declaration of Lithuanian independence, but the ongoing sacrifices which these people endured to secure their freedom. The Lithuanian struggle stands as a symbol of the need to fight repression and unjust domination throughout the world. I commend the people of Lithuania for their vigilance through the many difficult years. There is much cause to celebrate in Lithuanian communities everywhere. Lithuanian Independence Day in Cleveland will be celebrated with a ceremony and arts programs at our Lady of Perpetual Help Church. I urge my colleagues to join me in commemorating the 81st anniversary of Lithuanian Independence.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to expose a great injustice that has been committed by a federal agency against a needy population in the Cleveland metropolitan area. The victims of this injustice are homeless men who are struggling to get back on their feet and put their lives together. And the perpetrator of this injustice is the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). I have an increasing interest in the activities of HUD, given my experience with the agency over the past two years. I find dealing with HUD as a Member of Congress to be a most frustrating experience, and I must imagine the frustration felt by our constituents, who do not occupy a seat in Congress, with the agency. Indeed, HUD is a disappointment. It represents why many Americans have lost confidence in their federal government. Today I enter into the Congressional Record a collection of letters and newspaper articles that document the following situation in Cuyahoga County. The Department of Housing and Urban Development recently refused to provide continued funding to a very worthy program for homeless men in Cleveland because of a ``technical'' mistake. This decision has been appealed, and HUD has summarily rejected the appeal. Since 1995, the Salvation Army in Cleveland has operated an innovative program--the PASS Program--that helps homeless men by providing a place for them to live (for up to 12 months) while they put their lives back together. The program provides counseling, job training and transition skills. The program is one component of an entire ``continuum of care'' services that are coordinated by the Cuyahoga County Office of Homeless Services. The city and the county have developed an excellent system in which government officials and community organizations work together to develop a comprehensive response to the homeless problem in the metropolitan area. The County considers the Salvation Army program as their highest priority for funding. As an innovative effort, the PASS Program received demonstration project funds from HUD for several years. By the time they applied for another year of funding--a request of $1.5 million to support their program--this particular HUD demonstration program had been terminated. The County and the Salvation Army realized that this had happened, and contacted the appropriate HUD office in Columbus, Ohio to seek guidance. County staff asked HUD staff whether their program would be considered a ``New'' program or a ``Renewal.'' According to the County, HUD staff did not respond one way or another. So the applicant assumed that this would be considered a Renewal, and completed the paperwork accordingly. The application was submitted to HUD in Washington, and became one of 2,600 projects that sought funding. On December 23, 1998, when the President announced homeless grants across the country, Northeast Ohio received $9.4 million for a variety of HUD programs by various community-based organizations. Cleveland officials were shocked to learn that the PASS Program--their top priority--would not be funded. When contacted for an explanation, HUD officials explained that they could not consider the program because the applicant had committed a ``technical error'' and submitted the wrong form. When I met personally with top HUD officials, I was told that the reason this program was not funded was because the applicants had submitted the wrong budget form. The wrong budget form! Therefore, HUD could not consider the proposal and could not tell the applicant that this error had been made until after all of the grants had been announced. This is a great injustice, Mr. Speaker, and I urge the Congress to investigate this and other examples of abuses at HUD. The following documentation includes letters from the Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless and Cuyahoga County Commissioners Tim McCormick, Jane L. Campbell and Jimmy Dimora. Northeast Ohio Coalition for the Homeless, Cleveland, OH, December 24, 1998. Secretary Andrew Cuomo, Department of Housing and Urban Development, Washington, DC. Dear Secretary Cuomo: As a member of the Cleveland/Cuyahoga Continuum of Care process, we once again want to register our strongest dissatisfaction with the federal funding process conducted by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The Coalition is a collaboration of homeless people, members, and advocates. We spent a great deal of staff time and energy in getting the opinions and ``expert'' testimony of homeless people to be a part of the process. We staged regular meetings with those on the streets to develop a priority list of gaps in the community, and then compiled that information for the HUD application. The two projects that were skipped by officials in HUD Washington were two important projects for the community. This is the third year in a row that Cleveland/Cuyahoga County has seen the priorities of the community disregarded by officials in Washington and valuable resources that were intended to get homeless people into stable housing were denied our community. Again, we ask if your agency is being faithful to the Congressional mandate to return control of these funds to the local community? It is disingenuous to champion local control and yet every year discard the priorities of the local Continuum of Care coordinating body. We would have hoped that HUD would have gone to great lengths to fund a project like the Salvation Army's PASS program, which was deemed by the Continuum of Care committee as Cuyahoga County's highest priority for funding of Recovery Resource's project which was our second highest rated new project. We were unhappy with the process last year, and did not see any relief from the appeal process. This year the situation demands your prompt attention. This year we were denied funding for a program that currently exists in the community which was developed as the foundation for the services to single men. You will see Cleveland/Cuyahoga County back significantly in addressing the needs of homeless men by withdrawing funding from the PASS program. The other program, submitted by Recovery Resources, was an attempt to provide assistance to people coming out of treatment to maintain sobriety by funding a stable living environment. This is critical especially in light of the recent report by the National Coalition for the Homeless which found homeless people, in many cases, leave treatment and are forced to return to the streets and the drug and alcohol culture. We once again renew our call for some changes in the HUD Continuum of Care process in Washington so that the local coordinating body actually makes the decisions on where Federal funds are disbursed in Cuyahoga County. We ask that the priorities of the local community including homeless people be respected. There needs to be communication between HUD and the applicant before there is a public announcement if one of the projects that the community has deemed to be a high priority is to be skipped. We also believe that there should be a separate application process and deadline for renewal projects that does not overlap with the new or expanding project's applications so that locally, one committee can evaluate the impact of existing projects, and another entity can work on priorities for new or expanded projects. You said in your press conference that the Continuum of Care has been successful because it brings together non- profit groups, the private sector and local and state government in a partnership to design local programs to help homeless people to become self sufficient. In Cleveland, we have worked tirelessly to put in place this collaboration and expanded it to include homeless people in the process and yet we have repeatedly seen HUD discard our recommendations. We cannot build an effective continuum of care if our priorities are ignored by HUD Washington. Sincerly, Brian P. Davis, Executive Director.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of a music legend, Paddy Clancy of The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem. The Clancy Brothers were one of the first Irish musical groups to achieve international notoriety. The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem created numerous hit songs in the 1960's. Paddy Clancy was born in Carrick-on-Suir in Tiperrary county to a family of nine, all of whom were musically inclined. In the 1950's he and his brother Tommy emigrated to New York to pursue acting careers. It seemed the brothers were destined however, to make their mark not as thespians but as musicians. Later, their brother Liam was to join Paddy and Tom, with Tommy Makem they created The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem. The Clancy Brothers were known for their incredible harmonies and their energetic concerts. These talents were quickly recognized, and they built a loyal fan base, playing folk clubs in Greenwich Village. In 1961 they gained national notoriety following an incredible 16- minute set on The Ed Sullivan Show. Their music defied definition. It was both beautiful and raucous at once. They blended American folk music with traditional Irish forms. Paddy was equally capable of singing an Irish drinking song or an elegant ballad. Paddy and the Clancies also performed with Bob Dylan and Barbara Streisand. The Clancies were able to expose Americans to the glorious music of Ireland and still incorporate American folk into their music. Ladies and gentlemen, the contributions made by Paddy Clancy to music were incredible. I ask you to join me today in remembering this fine musician.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Mr. Jack Cordes, 75 and his wife Mrs. Ruth Cordes, 72 of Cleveland. After 53 years of marriage the couple died a day apart. Mr. and Mrs. Cordes grew up together and were inseparable. Jack Cordes served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Following the war both Jack and Ruth Cordes worked, Jack as a plumber and Ruth as a counter clerk for a bakery. Together, the couple lived through both joy and sorrow. Jack Cordes battled several types of cancer before falling ill with lung cancer on November 18th. During this struggle Ruth never left his side, providing comfort and support. She stayed with him even though she was in great pain. She suffered a heart attack from watching as her beloved husband grew ill. Ruth suffered a second heart attack on Sunday the 22nd and died later that afternoon. Jack died just a day later. Their lives were so interconnected; their true love was so interdependent; their commitment to each other was so evident. By living their lives as a true partnership, Jack and Ruth's passing reflects the true meaning of ``till death do us part.'' Ladies and gentlemen, the Cordes' lives and deaths are testaments to the strength of love. Please join me in remembering this extraordinary couple.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Earnest Machine Products Company as they celebrate their fiftieth year in business. Earnest Machine Products Company has proven itself as an outstanding family-owned business that adheres to simple principles of exceptional customer service, customer loyalty, and close employee relations. In 1947 Paul and Victor Zehnder started the Zehnder Engineering and Machine Company in Cleveland. The company manufactured and sold various industrial supplies until 1948, when Paul began selling surplus track shoe bolts. The bolts were in high demand at the time, and they enabled Paul to begin a long career of distributing nuts and bolts. In 1951 the company name was officially changed to the Earnest Machine Products Company. By 1967 the company's sales had tripled and Earnest Machine Products Company kept introducing new industrial products, such as enamel paints and roller bearings. Eventually, business expanded to include distributors in all 50 states. Quality products and hard work are important components to the success of Earnest Machine Products Company, but strong customer service and loyal employees are the backbone of the company's history of success. From the very beginning Zehnder promoted outstanding customer service by accepting collect calls before toll free numbers were introduced. The employees are treated like family. That sentiment, and steady growth over 50 years has enabled Earnest to establish and maintain a base of loyal employees. In fact, over 70 percent of the work force has been with the company for 15 years or more. In 1998 Earnest received ISO 9002 certification, which recognizes that the company is a quality supplier of industrial fasteners by American and European Quality Assurance agencies. Earnest has also maintained an accredited lab to test and insure the quality of their product. Today, Earnest Machine Products Company distributes over 30,000 different fastener types and sizes. The Earnest Machine Products Company has proven that adherence to employees, customer service, and quality can produce a successful business.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in memory of Frederick A. Jones, a gentleman who was an outstanding member of the Olmsted Falls community. Over the years Mr. Jones worked in a variety of ways to make Olmsted Falls a better place. He umpired Summer League baseball games, led a Boy Scout group, and served as the presiding chairman of the city's Civil Service Commission. After moving to Olmsted Falls in 1941 Mr. Jones worked as a volunteer fireman for 30 years, spending much of that time as a captain. During his tenure he helped connect the Fire and Police departments via a ham radio system. Mr. Jones also served in the U.S. Army Infantry during World War II, participating in the Rhineland offensive. After his service in World War II Mr. Jones returned to Olmsted Falls and worked for Bell Telephone until 1981. Mr. Jones was also a member of the committee that planned and oversaw the construction of a football field and track for Olmsted Falls High School. He and his wife, Betty, served as co-chairs of the Athletic Boosters Club for nine years. Mr. and Mrs. Jones also acted as the co- chairs of the Olmsted Falls local antique show at the Olmsted Community Church. He will be greatly missed.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of C. Sam Theodus. Sam was a great national labor leader and a great friend to many, particularly in the Greater Cleveland area; I am proud to count myself as having been Sam's friend. C. Sam Theodus was a key leader in the Teamsters. He was President of Local 407 from 1982 to 1987, and again from 1990-1995. Mr. Theodus was a member of Local 407 for 46 years. He was a man of the people, never placing himself above those he represented. He was dedicated to the advancement of ordinary working men and women, and he dedicated his life to improving the lot of others. This was his life's mission. In addition, Sam was a compassionate leader and loyal colleague. For anyone who knew Sam, knew that he stood on principle, and was willing to stand up for those beliefs. He fought to introduce rank-and- file elections for national Teamster offices, an idea that was considered impossible at one time. Now, of course, it is the national policy. He also challenged the traditional practice of appointing local leaders; Sam worked to allow all members to determine the leaders. That was the essence of his legacy, fighting for the democratic principles of improving the representation of his fellow Teamsters. I will always be proud of knowing and working with Sam Theodus. He was always in the trenches with the members, fighting every battle side-by-side with everyone else. Perhaps it was something he learned while serving his country in Korea. Sam's respect and confidence in the rank-and-file was recognized in 1991 when the Teamsters instituted their first rank-and-file election. He was the top vote getter for the position of vice-president in that election. Clearly the national Teamsters recognized what Local 407 had long known--that Sam Theodus was an incredible, compassionate, and dignified leader. I will miss Sam. To his wife Lillian, and his loving family, I extend my heartfelt sympathies. God Bless Sam Theodus.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in memory of Dean Griffin, president of the Cleveland chapter of the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA). He was a consummate professional as a broadcaster and a strong proponent of achieving fairness in union representation. Mr. Griffin was born in East St. Louis, IL and received a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Southern Mississippi. He held various radio jobs around the country before he moved to Cleveland and reported the news for WJKW radio and television in the 1960's and 1970's. He was known as an excellent political reporter and covered events such as national political conventions and the space program. After 11 years at WJKW Mr. Griffin lost his job when the network was sold. I had the pleasure of working with Dean when he served as a liaison between the Cleveland City Council and the mayor's office. At this same time he held positions as secretary of the Fire Department, where he was known to fight for the local labor union on important issues, and as chief of the Burke Lakefront Airport. In the 1980's, Mr. Griffin returned to radio and television, working for WAKR in Akron. While his daughter, Dawn, marched in the Brunswick High School Band Mr. Griffin announced the pregame, halftime, and competitive shows, continuing to announce the events even after she graduated. Mr. Griffin spent his life illustrating how to be an outstanding journalist and broadcaster. As long-time president of AFTRA he always worked diligently to better union representation and the lives of workers. He will be greatly missed.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ernie LaManna. For 50 years Ernie, 60, has worked in the barber shop on the corner of Lorain and West 65th. When he emigrated to Cleveland from Bari, Italy, in 1948, he worked in his father's barber shop, shining shoes. Ernie received his barber's license in 1954, a year before he graduated from West High School. Mr. LaManna briefly left the barber shop in 1956 to serve his country in the Armed Forces for two years. For a while in the late 1950's Ernie and his father, Frank, worked side by side. A picture showing Frank, Ernie, and another barber is a treasured keepsake for Ernie. Like many small businessmen, hard work and perseverance have helped the LaManna's barber shop to thrive. Ernie's dedication and commitment to his customers is outstanding. Among Ernie's many loyal customers is Dave Long who has had his hair cut by a LaManna for over 60 years. After 50 years of work, Ernie LaManna still enjoys what he is doing. He likes the social aspects of his job and is always eager to strike up a conversation with passers-by. His enthusiasm and sense of humor have helped him to maintain a strong and vital business. Ladies and gentlemen please join me in recognizing Ernie LaManna's 50 years of tireless work.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of a great public servant, Paul A. DeFrancisco. Mr. DeFrancisco served the people of Bedford Heights for nearly three decades. Mr. DeFrancisco worked for 35 years in radio and television. As an employee Paul was diligent, intelligent, and optimistic. His unfailingly positive nature was infectious, and his technical skill helped ``Today in Cleveland'' run smoothly. Mr. Paul DeFrancisco's greatest legacy is that of public service. For 29 years Paul worked on the Bedford Heights City Council. His wit and charm converted former foes into lifelong friends. Political opponents spoke highly of Paul's work. The City of Bedford Heights could not have asked for, nor could have received better representation than the high level of service provided by Mr. DeFrancisco. With graciousness and dignity, Paul served his community with humility and honor. Following ill health in mid 1998, Mr. DeFrancisco resigned from the city council. After his passing the flags in front of the Bedford Heights City Hall flew at half mast, a symbol of his fellow citizens' respect for his long-time public service. To think of Bedford Heights without Paul DeFrancisco is almost impossible. His work and service to the community will be felt for years to come. To be loved by friends and admired by opponents and to serve both is the goal of all great leaders; it is a goal which Paul admirably attained. Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in honoring the memory of Paul A. DeFrancisco.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the National Appreciation Day For Catholic Schools. As a former Catholic school student, I know first hand the value of a Catholic education. Catholic schools teach students discipline, pride, and respect for learning. I especially wish to recognize the delegation of students, teachers, and parents that make the National Appreciation Day For Catholic Schools a special day, they also know the value of Catholic schools. Their commitment to ensuring an exceptional Catholic education and maintaining quality Catholic schools means that Catholic students in the future will continue to benefit from outstanding educational opportunities. I would also like to recognize the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) for their efforts to promote educational and catechetical goals. By sponsoring events like the Seton Awards, which recognize individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Catholic education, the NCEA works diligently to insure better education across America. Providing excellent educational opportunities for all children is one of the most important goals in our society. I am encouraged by the involvement of the students, teachers, and parents who are observing the National Appreciation Day For Catholic Schools.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Rev. Francis M. Bednar for his many years of service and countless contributions to his community. Father Bednar, a Cleveland native, graduated from Cathedral Latin School and studied for the priesthood at Borromeo College and St. Mary Seminary. In 1974, after his ordination to the priesthood, he became the associate pastor at the St. Justin Martyr parish in Eastlake, Ohio. Between 1979-1985 he served at the St. Clement Church in Lakewood, Ohio. Since 1989 Rev. Bednar has served as pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Cleveland. In addition to his service with the Church, Father Bednar was diocesan director of the Perpetual Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. In 1982 he was named spiritual director of the Cleveland Division of the Blue Army of Fatima. In July 1997, he was elected district chairman of the Southeast District. Rev. Bednar was a wonderful man who was warm, caring, and deeply devoted to the Church. Away from his duties to the Church Rev. Bednar was also deeply devoted to his family. In recent years Rev. Bednar provided care for his parents with the same passion and determination that he pledged to the Church. His dedication was an inspiration to all who knew him. He touched many lives and his passing is a great loss. Rev. Bednar is survived by his parents, Michael and Agnes; brothers Richard, Philip, Jerome, and Michael; and sisters Mary and Bernadette. My fellow colleagues, I ask that we remember Rev. Bednar for his service to the Catholic Church and to the Cleveland community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in memory of Judge James ``Seamus'' P. Kilbane, who dedicated his life to serving the public. Judge Kilbane graduated from St. Ignatius High School, where he was an avid athlete, in 1941. He then attended John Carroll University before he served in Europe during World War II as a first lieutenant in the infantry. Following his service in the Army Judge Kilbane earned his Bachelor's degree from John Carroll University in 1948, working as a boilermaker and salesman while he was in school. In 1951 Judge Kilbane received his law degree from Western Reserve University Law School and in 1968 he earned a juris doctorate. While attending Western Reserve University he also served as a patrolman for the Cleveland Police Department. He resigned from that position in 1952 to practice law. From 1955 until 1962, Judge Kilbane served as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives, and in 1963 and 1964 he served as a member of the Ohio State Senate. As a legislator Judge Kilbane fought for legislation that established state nursing home standards as well as legislation that supported labor and welfare. In 1972 Judge Kilbane was elected judge of the Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court, where he served full-time until 1990. Judge Kilbane, however, continued judging cases on a part-time basis after 1990. He was known as a well-prepared, hard working judge who always stuck to his convictions. Judge Kilbane and his outstanding, life-long commitment to public service will be greatly missed.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Hedy Sommerfelt, a prominent figure in the Cleveland Polish Community. Hedy was a lifelong Slavic Village resident. While in elementary school she began to go to Polish school on Saturdays. There she learned to speak, write, and read the Polish language. Throughout her life she was an advocate of Polish culture. In 1946 Hedy married John F. Sommerfelt. This prompted her to join the Union of Poles in America (UPA), a fraternal insurance organization founded more than 100 years ago. In 1978, Mrs. Sommerfelt began working for the UPA as the financial secretary. Following that, she worked under longtime UPA president Richard Jablonski as the executive vice president. When Jablonski died in 1995, Mrs. Sommerfelt assumed the presidency of the Union of Poles. She was the first woman president of the organization. She also volunteered for many Catholic and Polish causes and was the president of the Immaculate Heart Parent Teachers Unit (PTU) in the 1960's. Those who worked with Hedy will forever remember the pens given to them which were topped with a tiny gold ``guardian angel.'' One of these pens, her trademark, was even given to President Clinton in 1996. She was a pillar of strength in the community. She had great energy which she used to help the Polish community in every way to further the cultural and spiritual growth of the community. Her influence was felt at every level of government. She was committed to the cause of Poland as well as the Polish Community in Greater Cleveland. She and her husband have been lifelong friends and I consider her passing a personal loss. Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in honoring the memory of this remarkable woman, Hedy Sommerfelt.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in memory of Robert Hagan, an exceptional father, a dedicated public servant, and a brilliant humorist. Mr. Hagan grew up in Youngstown, OH, one of six children in his family. He served as a Marine Corps flight instructor during World War II. Following the war he worked for his father's steel-erecting business, where he patented a new steel-scaffolding process. Always aspiring for something new and challenging, Mr. Hagan hosted his own TV variety show in Youngstown. He also appeared occasionally on the Mike Douglas syndicated television show when it was broadcast from Cleveland. In 1956, Mr. Hagan embarked on his political career by running for Trumball County commissioner. He lost that election, but ran again in 1962 and won. He served eight years at that position, resigning in 1969 in protest of a local judge's disregard for the commissioners. As a politician Mr. Hagan was a vocal critic of the Vietnam War and an ardent supporter of civil rights and labor unions. In 1970, while making a bid for the presidency, George McGovern hired Mr. Hagan as a special assistant in charge of one-liners. This offered Mr. Hagan the chance to merge two things he loved and understood best, politics and humor. He explained why this combination worked so well when he said, ``the very concept of humor, to me, is a very important one because it communicates ideas in a most pleasant way.'' Mr. Hagan was elected to the Ohio State House in 1981, where he served with his son Robert Hagan. After he failed in his bid to win re- election in 1988. Mr. Hagan continued to perform stand-up comedy and contribute editorials and guest columns to area newspapers. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to have known Robert Hagan. He set an example of how to do a job well, and have fun at it too. I will miss him. Mr. Hagan was the father of 14 children. His commitment to them, as well as his contributions to politics and humor, will be greatly missed.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Lech Walesa, 1983 Nobel Peace Prize winner, former President of Solidarity Union and the former President of Poland, on his visit to Cleveland. Mr. Walesa has been fighting for Democracy in Poland since he assumed the leadership of the independent trade union Solidarity in 1980. His rousing speech to striking workers from the top of a bulldozer began a social revolution and prompted talks with the government which resulted in legal recognition of Solidarity. After a military crackdown eighteen months later, which resulted in his spending a year in prison, Mr. Walesa continued his leadership of Solidarity underground. After his release, he returned to his mission of a Democratic Poland. He was awarded the 1983 Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts. Mr. Walesa was also named Man Of The Year by Time magazine, The Financial Times, and The London Observer. In 1990, Mr. Walesa became the first democratically elected President of Poland. His leadership planted the seeds of freedom and democracy in Poland and ended Communist rule. After a term in office in which he set a path to secure Poland's commitment to a free market democracy and set a model for the rest of Eastern Europe to follow, he retired. Mr. Walesa now heads the Lech Walesa Institute whose goal is to advance the ideals of democracy throughout Eastern Europe. My fellow colleagues, please join me in honoring Mr. Walesa for his long, hard struggle to bring democracy to the people of Poland.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of a great servant of the people of Ohio, Judge Anthony J. Celebrezze. Celebrezze served Ohioans for over five decades. His recent death at the age of 88, is a sorrowful event for myself and many in my state. Born in Anzi, Italy, Celebrezze emigrated to Cleveland at the age of two. He was one of 13 children. Like so many immigrants, Anthony Celebrezze grew up with modest means, but what he lacked in advantages he more than made up for in effort and ability. He worked his way through college at John Carroll University and through law school at Ohio Northern. In 1950, Anthony was elected to the Ohio Senate. Three years later he was elected mayor of Cleveland. He was the first foreign born mayor of Cleveland. For an unprecedented five terms Anthony Celebrezze tirelessly served the people in this position. His leadership of the city brought Cleveland national recognition and respect. In 1962, he was appointed by President John F. Kennedy to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare. Anthony Celebrezze worked to build Congressional support for Medicare and the Civil Rights Act of 1964, two legislative achievements that reflect the principles of compassion and decency. In 1965, he was appointed by President Johnson to a federal judgeship. Six years later the Federal Building in Cleveland was renamed the Anthony J. Celebrezze Federal Building. He was in the public eye for five decades, serving Ohio and the nation with honor and dignity. President Johnson said of Celebrezze that ``with tolerance and energy with single minded purpose, he presided over the greatest thrust for the future of American education and health that his nation has ever known.'' Judge Celebrezze was my role model, a man whose love of family and his community was never ending. I will never forget his warm smile, his friendly greetings, and his sense of decency, honesty and fairness. I am proud to have known him, and I think of him often. I, like many other Ohioans, will miss him terribly. I ask you to join me in honoring the memory of this great man, Anthony J. Celebrezze. He will be greatly missed.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, we are here because the policy of this administration on international finance and trade is causing a crisis for American workers and industries. The centerpiece of the administration's policy is to widen the trade deficit. They are depending on American consumers to continue spending record amounts to pull the rest of the world out of the severe recession it has plunged into. The rest of the world includes Russia, Thailand, Brazil and Mexico. Many of these countries have witnessed a dramatic devaluation of their currencies, which makes their product very cheap when sold in the United States. And when the products are flowing into the United States unfairly, underpriced to similar products made in America, the administration has chosen to allow the foreign product to undercut the American, and that is causing layoffs in many American industries, and it has reached a crisis level in steel. There is no question that the U.S. trade deficit is growing at a rapid pace. The goods and services trade deficit grew nearly 54 percent last year over the preceding year, according to figures compiled by the Economic Policy Institute, to a level of $170 billion. Cheap foreign steel is flooding the American market. Last year, a record amount of foreign steel came to the United States. In the third quarter, 56 percent more foreign steel was brought to the United States than in the third quarter of the preceding year. At the same time, American workers in industries affected by the foreign imports are losing their jobs. We are here today because the steel workers have been dramatically affected by the import of foreign steel made cheap by currency devaluations. Ten thousand American steel workers have already lost their jobs. Steel workers are not losing their jobs because the American steel industry is inefficient. In fact, the American steel industry is the world's most efficient. The reason American steel workers are losing their jobs is that the price of foreign steel, though more inefficient, is so much cheaper due to the devaluation of the currencies of those countries. Steel workers are not the only ones losing their jobs to cheap imports. According to the Economic Policy Institute, 249,000 workers, that is 249,000 American workers, lost their manufacturing jobs between March and December. Americans should know there is a direct connection between the inflow of cheap foreign products reflected in a growing trade deficit and American job loss. This is already having and will continue to have a profound negative effect on the United States economy. The Financial Times wrote in an editorial yesterday that the U.S. trade deficit is ``unsustainable.'' Unsustainable because the record levels of consumer debt, combined with mounting American job loss and resulting loss of wages and benefits, will make it impossible for Americans to continue to spend record amounts on foreign products; unsustainable because the economic policies that the International Monetary Fund have imposed on Thailand, Brazil and others create austerity and depression, not growth that will continue into the future and benefit the citizens of those countries. The administration is blind to this connection. In the President's recent report on steel, the administration proposes no comprehensive action to stem the inflow of foreign steel made cheap by currency devaluation. In recent statements to Congressional committees, members of the administration have counseled that America stay the course and continue importing cheap foreign imports at record levels. But this policy is unsustainable. The U.S. cannot continue as an oasis of prosperity while the rest of the world experiences economic depression of a magnitude in some countries that greatly overshadows our own Great Depression of the 1930's. The extent of the economic crisis around the world is so great that even if the United States doubles its record trade deficit, it will not be enough to pull the rest of the world out of its troubles, but it will be enough to send thousands and thousands more Americans out of work and send the United States into a recession. That is why we are here today, Mr. Speaker, to step into the breach by proposing the Visclosky-Quinn-Kucinich-Ney steel quota bill. Our bill will impose limitations on the imports of cheap foreign steel at levels not to exceed the average volume of steel products that was imported monthly during the three years before the recent import surge began in July 1997. Our bill is the only action that will directly confront the major cause of layoffs in the steel industry. Our bill is America's best hope in averting an economic crisis of our own. It is time to stand up for American steel workers. It is time to stand up for America's future. We cannot have a free nation if we let our manufacturing base fall apart, and that is what our trade policy is doing.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, in the name of the American people, who oppose this impeachment as being manifestly unfair, behold the prophetic power of the Biblical injunction, ``Judge not, that you not be judged.'' In the name of all the people who have suffered a dark night of assault, feel the might of the warning, let he who is without sin cast the first stone. In the names of Washington, of Jefferson, of Lincoln, and all those who fought to create one Nation indivisible, do not cleave this Nation with a partisan impeachment, for a House of Representatives divided against itself shall not stand. We speak of one Nation under God. In God's name do not tear apart this House and this Nation with a low-rent impeachment. There is much misunderstanding about just what impeachment means. It is not a form of censure. Impeachment is not a punishment. It is part of a process for removing a President. It has been reserved for the highest crimes, not low crimes. And I submit that if we vote to impeach President Clinton for his offenses, we have committed an offense more grievous because we will have nullified the votes of 97 million Americans. Do not take away the people's voice. Do not nullify the people's choice. Punish the President with censure if you must, but do not punish the American people by canceling their vote. Some day a generation far into the future will look at this moment and ask why and they will conclude that in impeaching a President, this House chose partisanship under the cover of patriotism and sanctimonius salutations to that all hallowed and selectively perceived rule of law. And that cloak of shame prepared for the President will also cover those carrying the cloak. For at this moment we are troubling our America. We are troubling our common bond. We are troubling our American community. We are troubling our American unit. The sun will rise and the year 2000 will soon come. And those who troubled their own House will have inherited the wind. The die is case. The President is about to be impeached. His offenses not high crimes, but low. His conduct, yes, beneath the dignity of the office but also beneath the requirements of what the Founders intended to rise to a standard of impeachment. His shortcomings for all the world to see, we must correctly review our own. The shortcomings of the investigation by the Independent Counsel, the shortcomings of the partisan Judiciary proceedings, the shortcomings of a day where impeachment, which is no alternative, is the only alternative. We have entered Wonderland with Alice and we have seen the Queen pronounce ``Sentence first--Verdict afterwards.'' In the name of the American people who oppose this impeachment as being manifestly unfair, behold the prophetic power of the Biblical injunction: ``. . . Judge not, that ye not be judged.'' In the name of all those people who have suffered a dark night of soul, feel the might of the warning: ``. . . Let he how is without sin cast the first some.'' In the Names of Washington, of Jefferson, and of Lincoln, and of all who fought to create one nation, indivisible, do not cleave this Nation with a partisan impeachment, for a House of Representatives divided against itself shall not stand. We speak of one nation, under God. In God's name, do not tear apart, this House and this Nation with a low-rent impeachment. There is much misunderstanding about just what impeachment means. It is not a form of censure. Impeachment is not a punishment. It is part of a process for removing a President. it has been reserved for the highest crimes, not low crimes, and I submit that if we vote to impeach President Clinton for his offenses we will have committed an offense more grievous, because we will have nullified the votes of 97 million Americans. Don't take away the people's voice. Don't nullify the people's choice. Punish the President with censure if we must. But don't punish the American people by canceling their vote. Let me talk for a moment about high crimes. It is a high crime that forty three-million Americans are without health care. It is a high crime that forty-four million Americans must worry about their Social Security. It is a high crime that wealth is being distributed upward. That the top 1% of the people hold more wealth than the bottom 90% of the people. And this act today redistributes the political wealth of the country. The Founders did not put impeachment in the Constitution so that a majority party some day could topple a President of the opposite party just because they had the votes. This process, when it is partisan, becomes an ad hoc, back-door transition to a parlimentary form of government. Someday a generation far into the future will look back on this moment and ask: ``Why?'' Why did they impeach a president when it was clearly partisan? Why, When it was less than a high crime? Why, when they knew it would fail in the Senate? Why, when they knew a trial in the Senate would shut down the government? Why, when they had a clear alternative of censure? Why, did they choose the harsh judgement and condemnation of impeachment over the forgiveness and redemption of censure? And they will conclude that, in impeaching a President, this House chose partisanship under the cover of patriotism and sanctimonious salutations to that all hallowed and selectively perceived Rule of Law. And the cloak of shame prepared for the President will also cover those carrying the cloak. For at this moment we are troubling our America. We are troubling our common bond. We are troubling our American community. We are troubling our American unity. The sun will rise and the year 2000 will soon come. And those who troubled their own House will have inherited the wind.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the Vocal Group Hall of Fame & Museum on their inaugural induction of the first class of vocal ensembles. They are a diverse group of performers that have enriched our lives with their influential music and unmistakable talent. Opening its doors in May 1998, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame & Museum was presented as a multimillion dollar facility, featuring exhibits and memorabilia of many of the best- known-close-harmony ensembles in music history. It also includes historical exhibits tracing the history of American vocal harmony from its roots in the Nineteenth Century and the history of musical recording technology, as well as an operating radio station for remote broadcasters by guest stations. With the help of Goldmine Magazine, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame elected a dynamic class of inductees this year. The initial class includes: the Ames Brothers, The Andrews Sisters, The Beach Boys, Crosby, Stills, and Nash, the Drifters, the Manhattan Transfer, the Platters, and the legendary Supremes. These groups graced us with their catchy melodies and unforgettable songs that have stood the test of time. But the Vocal Group Hall of Fame also realized the importance of the groups that influenced this class of inductees by giving them the Pioneers of Musical Style Award. This award was given to groups prior to 1940 who contributed to the foundations of American vocal harmony and substantially influenced other artists. This year, they included: the Boswell Sisters, The Five Blind Boys of Mississippi, the Golden Gate Quartet, the Mills Brothers, the Ravens, and the Sonny Til and the Orioles. My fellow colleagues, please join me in congratulating these music groups for their induction in the Vocal Group Hall of Fame & Museum. This institution has made it possible for us to honor and preserve the pioneers that have influenced the music we know today.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Rocky River Middle School, which has been named a 1997-1998 Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education. Only 167 schools in the country earned this prestigious award this year. Ten public schools in Ohio received the award, and two schools in Rocky River have been recognized. Blue Ribbon Schools are considered to be models of both excellence and equity where educational excellence for all students is a high priority. Rocky River Middle School had to demonstrate its effectiveness in meeting local, state and national educational goals and had to successfully complete a rigorous application process. Blue Ribbon Schools must offer instructional programs that meet the highest academic standards, have supportive and learning-centered school environments, and demonstrate student outcome results that are significantly above average. Rocky River Middle School is an outstanding school that is well deserving of this national recognition. Its academic programs and environment will serve as a model for schools across the country. My fellow colleagues, please join me in congratulating the students, teachers, and administration of Rocky River Middle School for their commitment to excellence.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the memory of Thomas Coury, a kindhearted man that dedicated his life to enhancing the well- being of others. Born in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, Thomas Coury came to the Greater Cleveland area in 1958, along with his three brothers, in response to the need for concrete pouring. Within one year, Thomas and his three brothers established the Concrete Wall Company and began pouring foundations for homes all over Brook Park. With an innate ability to care for others and a passion to reach out, Thomas and his brothers established Aristocrat Health Care. There, Thomas began his lifelong career in elderly care, converting schools, motels and other buildings into nursing and retirement homes. Through years of experience and development, Thomas and his brother have expanded Aristocrat Health Care into a multi-operational business. Stretching services throughout Cuyahoga and Lorain County extending into Florida. Outside of the business sector Thomas Coury was a man of vision, and dedicated much of his time to civic and political affairs. Striving for our youth to succeed, Thomas helped many young people higher their education and set endowment funds at area Catholic Schools. In addition to helping the youth, Thomas was a leader in the community as well. In 1995, Thomas accompanied President Clinton and Hillary Rodman Clinton on Air Force One to Jordan for the signing of a historic Middle East peace accord. My fellow colleagues, please join me in honoring the memory of Thomas Coury, a man who labored for the people and gave to his community all that he had to offer. Mr. Coury is survived by his wife, Theresa; a son, Thomas J.; daughters, Teri Strimpel and Tracy A. Ade; six grandchildren; three brothers and two sisters.