Dennis Kucinich

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of Kathleen's Kitchen, located in the heart of Cleveland's Westside neighborhood, as they are closing their doors on April 1, following a twenty-four year run of great food, great service, laughter and lively conversation. The restaurant, located in Kamm's Corners, is owned by sisters Kathleen Verrell, Cindi Condol and Micki Speck. The sisters took over the business when their mother, founder Kathleen Finnerty, passed away. Mrs. Finnerty opened Kathleen's Kitchen in 1982, and her kind heart and generous nature was continued on through her daughters, whose collective goodwill consistently extended out into the neighborhood, as they offered hot meals or coffee to those in need. Kathleen's Kitchen's warm and inviting atmosphere evolved from a corner diner into a favorite gathering place for residents, families, business owners, and people in all lines of work, from plumbers to presidents. President Bill Clinton visited Kathleen's Kitchen several times during his presidency. Though customers came from differing backgrounds, everyone was connected by a common quest--a familiar place to relax, enjoy a great meal, connect with others and capture the viewpoints of the day's events. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and gratitude of the owners, staff and customers of Kathleen's Kitchen, whose energy, warmth and friendship served as a daily reflection of real life in America. Although Kathleen's Kitchen will be missed by countless people, including myself, our wonderful time spent there will remain in our memories forever.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, Stephanie Tubbs Jones, Sherrod Brown, Marcy Kaptur, Ted Strickland, Tim Ryan and I rise today in tribute and recognition of City of Cleveland Council President Martin J. Sweeney, as he is being honored by the Cuyahoga County Democratic Party on March 26, 2006. Councilman Sweeney was born and raised in Cleveland. After graduating from St. Ignatius High School, he enrolled at Cleveland State University, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in political science. A natural athlete, Councilman Sweeney was a member of the 1986 Cleveland State Basketball team that reached the ``Sweet 16'' in that year's NCAA tournaments. He also graduated from the Leadership Cleveland Class of 2004--an organization that unites community leaders from a myriad of fields and areas with a focus on improving the overall quality of life throughout the Cleveland community. The residents of Ward 20 have entrusted Councilman Sweeney with the direction and well being of their neighborhood by voting him as their representative for four consecutive terms. Last December, Council Representatives also reflected their unwavering faith in his leadership by unanimously electing him as President of Cleveland City Council. Councilman Sweeney also serves the City as Chair of the Finance Committee. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join us in honor of Martin J. Sweeney, Ward 20 Cleveland Councilman and President of Cleveland City Council, as we join with the Cuyahoga County Democratic Party in recognition of his dedicated service and contribution focused on the residents of Ward 20. Councilman Sweeney's steady leadership and focus on uplifting the quality of life for his constituents serves to elevate the well being of our entire community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of George Becker, former International President of the United Steelworkers of America, a former marine, steelworker, and noble and fine worker for labor who has helped to build a greater United Steelworkers of America throughout his membership. Mr. Becker was raised in Granite City, Illinois as a second- generation Steelworker. Later he went to work at American City Steel in the summer of 1944. In 1965, he was named as a USWA staff representative and came to the International headquarters in 1975. In the Safety and Health Department, he was instrumental in establishing some of the first national health standards adopted by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration for workers exposed to lead, arsenic and other toxic substances. Mr. Becker served as administrative assistant to Lynn Williams, after Williams became international secretary in 1977 and international president in 1983. Becker served two terms as international vice president for administration, having been elected to that position in 1985 and re-elected in 1989. As vice president, Becker chaired the United Steelworkers of America's Aluminum Industry Conference and guided the union's collective bargaining in the aluminum industry. He led major corporate campaigns, including the campaign against Ravenswood Aluminum Corporation that achieved the significant firing of 1,300 permanent scab replacement workers and the return to work of 1,600 steelworkers after a 20-month lockout. In November 1993 he was elected United Steelworker's sixth international president and reelected in November 1997. George Becker's presidency was marked by many major achievements. He restructured the union efficiency and political strength. He led the successful merger of the United Rubber Workers into the USWA in July 1995. And in January 1997, he finalized the merger of the Aluminum, Brick and Glass Workers with the United Steelworkers of America. He also worked as a crane operator at General Steel Castings, and as an assembler at Fisher Body. Becker became active in the United Steelworkers of America as a member of Local 4804 at Dow Chemical's aluminum rolling mill in Madison, Illinois. Working as an inspector in the mill, he was elected successively as a local treasurer, vice president and president. Becker was a vocal advocate for the United Steelworkers of America in Washington, testifying before Congress and meeting with Congressional leaders and members of the Administration. On the world stage, he was an executive committee member of the International Metalworkers Federation and chairman of the world rubber council of the International Federation of Chemical, Energy, Mine and General Workers' Unions. This man is truly one to be honored and emulated as a great president of the United Steelworkers and a representative of labor who worked tirelessly for workers everywhere. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of George Becker, whose dedication and hard work in representing workers everywhere has helped the growth of the United Steelworkers of America.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, Stephanie Tubbs Jones, Sherrod Brown, Marcy Kaptur, Ted Strickland, Tim Ryan, and I rise today in tribute and recognition of Cleveland Mayor Frank G. Jackson, as he was honored by the Cuyahoga County Democratic Party on March 26, 2006. Mayor Jackson was elected last November to lead the City of Cleveland--a continuation of his lifelong activism and devotion on behalf of our Cleveland community. He is a United States veteran, having served our country in Vietnam. After being honorably discharged, he returned to his East 38th Street neighborhood--where his commitment to making a difference would only grow stronger. Following his military service, Mayor Jackson armed himself with a focus on educational achievement. He attended classes at Cuyahoga Community College and in 1975, he graduated with a Bachelor's degree from Cleveland State University. In 1977, Mr. Jackson earned a Master's degree in Urban Studies from CSU. In 1983, after working his way through law school as a night clerk at Cleveland Municipal Clerk's Office, Mr. Jackson earned a law degree from the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law. He worked as an assistant county prosecutor until his 1990 election to Cleveland City Council, representing Ward 5. For 15 years, Mayor Jackson focused his efforts on revitalizing the housing and commercial aspects of the Ward 5 community. He did so by forming vital bonds with neighborhood leaders and development organizations, and by setting a tone of integrity, diligence, commitment and cooperation among City Council members and City administrators--a vital relationship that remains strong today. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join us in honoring Frank G. Jackson, Mayor of the City of Cleveland, in recognition of his outstanding service and leadership focused on the people of the City of Cleveland. Mayor Jackson's integrity, energy, vision, unwavering service and complete devotion to his constituents continues to illuminate hope and strength throughout the streets of Ward 5 and throughout every Cleveland neighborhood--offering a vision for a brighter tomorrow for every one of us along Ohio's north shores.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. I thank the gentleman. In February, this House passed a reconciliation bill that cut $12 billion from the student aid program. That bill raised student loan interest rate caps and raised student loan taxes and fees. It placed billions of dollars in student aid at risk by cutting $2.2 billion in critical funds used to carry out and administer the student aid program. Just as the reconciliation bill did not help students, H.R. 609 will not improve access to college. The reauthorization bill we are debating today is not about making college affordable, and it is not about helping students pay for college. This bill makes significant changes in the Higher Education Act, but the purpose of many of the changes is not to benefit students. H.R. 609 certainly helps for-profit colleges. Proprietary schools, which have faced a number of controls and regulations to protect taxpayers and students from abuse, will see markedly less oversight. The new single definition of an institution of higher education will allow for-profit colleges access to additional student aid Federal funding. At the same time, changes to the sanctions of the 90-10 rule will leave students at risk, allowing for-profit colleges to remain out of compliance for 3 consecutive years before losing eligibility to participate in Federal student aid programs. The purpose of the 90-10 rule was to ensure that schools were not relying on student aid programs for the entirety of their funding. Easing requirements previously placed on for-profit schools places student aid programs at greater risk of misuse. They will be vulnerable to subsidizing short-term for-profit ventures. These changes in the 90- 10 rule will benefit for-profit colleges, but they will not help students. The Higher Education Act was intended to provide help for all Americans, regardless of their income level, with greater educational opportunities. The act recognizes the shared benefits by both society and the individual of a higher education. H.R. 609 will not help students and will not expand access to college. I urge my colleagues to join me in voting ``no.''

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of Clayton E. Keeling Jr., devoted father, Vietnam War Veteran, and friend and mentor to countless people throughout our community. Mr. Keeling grew up in the City of Cleveland. He honorably served our Nation for 4 years as a member of the United States Marine Corp, retiring in 1969 at the rank of Corporal. His courageous tour of duty in Vietnam was recognized with a Purple Heart Medal, National Defense Service Medal and a Vietnam Service Medal. Mr. Keeling's lifelong dedication to and focus on assisting United States Veterans was clearly reflected throughout his professional and personal life. He made an indelible impact on the lives of numerous veterans and their families as a Veteran's Representative at the Ohio Bureau of Job and Family Services, where he worked for many years. Moreover, Mr. Keeling volunteered his time and efforts to raise the lives of veterans and to raise their plight into the light of public consciousness. Mr. Keeling was a founding member of the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter 15 of Cleveland. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor, gratitude and remembrance of Mr. Clayton E. Keeling, Jr. I extend my deepest condolences to his daughter, Lindsay Keeling, to his dearest friends, Marie Sudduth, Jack Beech and Greg and Janet Tulley; and to his extended family and numerous friends. Mr. Keeling's sacrifice, courage and service that he offered on behalf of our Nation and on behalf of the veterans of our community, has truly made a positive difference and will be honored and remembered for all time.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor, recognition and celebration of the 65th Anniversary of the United Service Organization (USO), a non-profit, civilian organization established in 1941. Since then, the USO has filled a void in the lives of men and women serving in the U.S. military, by providing them with entertainment, recreation, support services and the priceless sense of connection to home. In 1941, the USO was incorporated in the State of New York. By 1944, USOs had been established in more than 3,000 locations across the country, held aloft by its volunteer membership. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who initially challenged six non-profit organizations to form a military support organization, became the first USO Honorary Chairperson--a role accepted by every President ever since. The mission of the USO has remained unwavering: To serve the spiritual, social, welfare, educational and entertainment needs of the men and women of the United States Armed Forces. Over the years, thousands of entertainers, famous and unknown, have volunteered their time and efforts to perform to grateful audiences on U.S. military bases around the world. From the legendary music of Duke Ellington to the manic comedy of Robin Williams, the USO tradition has carried on. The brilliant legacy of volunteerism that illuminates the life of the late Bob Hope, whose name is synonymous with the USO, is carried on through the song, dance and comedy of every volunteer who continues to keep the spirit of hope alive for our men and women serving our country far from home. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of the volunteers, past and present, of the United Service Organization. During times of war and peace, the USO continues to serve as a vital bond of calm and familiarity, uplifting the spirit of men and women in uniform with heartening support and entertainment reminiscent of home. We extend our deepest gratitude to those who have traveled thousands of miles, crossing perilous borders and lands of strife, to uplift their morale and reenergize the spirit of countless American soldiers around the world. On behalf of the memory of Bob Hope and the collective service of every volunteer--Thanks for the Memories.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Chairman, Medicare, like Social Security, is a solemn intergenerational promise. People pay into Medicare for a lifetime of work, and they expect quality health care when they retire or become disabled. With the passage of the Medicare Modernization Act in 2003, Medicare's ability to continue to provide quality health insurance both now and in the future has been threatened. Congress increased costs for beneficiaries, in all parts of Medicare, as it increased payouts to HMOs and drug plans. In passing Part D, Congress chose to side with the pharmaceutical and insurance industries rather than seniors and the disabled. Those on Medicare are at the mercy of the private sector for their drugs. There are 19 companies offering over 40 different prescription drug plans in Ohio, not including those offered through Medicare Advantage HMO's. Each of these plans can choose which drugs to cover and which to exclude from their formulary. They can change their formularies at any point in time. Corporate interests are deciding which drugs you can take instead of physicians. I wanted one prescription drug card, offered directly through Medicare, for seniors to use to cover all their drugs at pharmacies of their choosing. Congress could have passed a bill with both a real and simple benefit for Medicare beneficiaries, and for less money. Drug prices could have been negotiated and administrative costs could have been reduced through a plan directly under Medicare. In fact, the Center for Economic and Policy Research recently released a study showing that if Medicare negotiated drug prices, we would save so much money that we would be able to cover every single beneficiary with no co-payments, no deductibles, and no premiums . . . and still have $40 billion dollars left. Now, we have a program where the coverage is too little, the cost is too high, and complexity is preventing seniors from getting the drugs they need.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Chairman, in December 2004, I requested the Congressional Research Service to compile a report on military construction in both Iraq and Afghanistan. On April 11, 2005, I received the final report. Here is what it said: the Congressional Research Service found projects that suggest a longer term U.S. presence in Iraq. These included $214 million for the Balad Air Base and $49 million for the Taji military complex. This is the first congressional report that identified specific locations in Iraq where the U.S. is possibly constructing a permanent military presence in Iraq. At the appropriate time, I will enter this in the Record. Now I want to know, did anyone here vote to establish permanent bases in Iraq when they voted to invade that country? Did anyone here vote to send U.S. troops permanently to Iraq? Weren't we going to war on the belief Iraq had weapons of mass destruction? Weren't we going to war on the belief that Iraq was an imminent threat of a mushroom cloud the administration warned about? All that proved to be false. If the President had told you he wanted to spend over $300 billion and 2,300 American lives, plus tens of thousands of maimed servicemembers to build new military bases, permanent deployment of U.S. troops in the Mesopotamian Valley, would anyone here have supported that? I don't think so. That is why this administration had to fabricate a pretense for the invasion, and that is why you have to support the Lee amendment today. Do not allow this ill-conceived war to lead to a permanent deployment of troops in Iraq. Bring them home. Close down those bases.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, 3 years ago the Bush administration spoke to a doctrine of preemption that formed the basis for the United States' attack on Iraq. Three years later, Americans finally know there were no weapons of mass destruction, Iraq did not have the intention or the capability of attacking the United States; that Iraq, in effect, was not in a position to attack us. Now the American people know what a shambles the Bush administration's policy was in Iraq. Yesterday, the administration now identifies Iran as the top threat, and states again that we have the right to preemptively attack any country. Are we here on the threshold of permanent warfare, where the administration can keep naming enemies, and the American taxpayers with their sons' and daughters' blood have to keep paying for wars that we should not get into? We should not only vote against this supplemental appropriation, we should start to call into question the administration's entire international policy. They are setting America against the world, and we are paying for it every day.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of Richard L. Dechant, Sr., devoted family man, community activist, business leader, World War II veteran, and friend and mentor to many. Mr. DeChant grew up in Avon, Ohio. His father was a steelworker and his mother ran the family farm business. He learned early on the significance of family, hard work and community. By the time he was eight years old, Mr. DeChant's mother gave him a job selling home-grown produce door-to-door. He attended St. Ignatius High School and later earned a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Detroit. He married Marie in 1943 and together they raised five sons. They remained committed to each other until her death in 2004. For his entire adult life, Mr. DeChant worked as a tireless promoter on behalf of Cleveland and Northeast Ohio. While working with the Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company in the 1940's, DeChant began a life-long vocation of promoting the Cleveland community. As executive director of the Greater Cleveland Growth Board, now known as the Greater Cleveland Growth Association, for nearly twenty-five years, DeChant's focused service and advocacy on behalf of his beloved community drew millions of dollars of new industry into our region. He also participated in numerous trade missions throughout Europe and Asia. Although deeply committed to his work, his family was always foremost and central in his life. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and remembrance of Richard L. DeChant. I offer my heartfelt condolences to his sons, Thomas (Paul), James (Lyn), Richard Jr. (Sharon), David (Terri) and the memory of Doug (Bonnie); his grandchildren, Richard III, Brett, Jimmy, Dawn, Nicole, Matt and Carli; his brothers, Robert and Donald; and his extended family and many friends. Although Mr. DeChant will be greatly missed, the joyous legacy of his life, framed by kindness, energy and an unwavering focus on family and on making a difference, will forever resound within the hearts and memories of his family and friends, and within the spirit of our entire community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, 3 years ago, this administration began a grim march of folly into Iraq. Today, our troops are bogged down in the middle of a civil war. Iraq has become an incubator of terrorism. Over 2,300 U.S. troops have been killed, tens of thousands more injured and perhaps 100,000 innocent Iraqis have been killed, with countless others injured. As both the Iraqi public and the American people demand the U.S. leave Iraq, this administration plans to send more troops. We must bring our troops home. We must vote against any additional appropriations that would be used to keep our troops there. Plans exist right now that would enable the United States to bring our troops home, to begin the effort to bring our troops home. Not a dime more for continuing this war; not a dime more for an illegal war that was based on lies about weapons of mass destruction.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of Norbert Magalski of Parma, Ohio, a noble Good Samaritan and Gulf War veteran who has lent a hand to many. Mr. Magalski, as a trained emergency medical technician and tow truck operator has helped countless people on the roadside. Even in an age when people are too overwhelmed with their own priorities to lend a helping hand to strangers, he has made it a common practice in his life to help those who are in need of assistance on the road. Mr. Magalski was injured last Thursday by a suspected drunk driver while helping a young woman who had veered off I-76 and into a guardrail. He suffered broken bones in his left leg, left shoulder and face. It will be several months before he fully recovers. This man is truly one to be honored and emulated as he remains committed to lending a helping hand when needed. He is a modest and kind-hearted citizen who in spite of injury will continue to help strangers in need. His kindness and generosity is something that is not often seen in today's society. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family for his quick recovery. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of Norbert Magalski, whose dedication and courage in lending a hand to his fellow citizens has helped save the lives of many.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and memory of my close friend William B. ``Brad'' Norris--beloved husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, brother, and close friend to the entire community. His passing marks a tragic loss to his friends, family and the people that he served in the community. From early on, he headed the call to public service. He graduated from Culver Academy in Indiana and enlisted in the U.S. Army, He served his country with honor and courage, after which he moved to Cleveland, where he eventually joined Cleveland law firm Hahn Loeser and Parks. Mr. Norris was truly a civil rights activist. He visited President John F. Kennedy and also volunteered with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. By working with the Cleveland Regional Transit Authority during the late 1960's he helped organize opposition to a freeway plan that if enacted, it would have split eastern Cuyahoga County. He represented the city of Cleveland in a lengthy antitrust lawsuit against the Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company, in which CEI attempted to put its rival Muny Light Company out of business. This would have made CEI Cleveland's only municipal electric system. This was also a topic I fought passionately for when I was the mayor of Cleveland. He also played an instrumental role in the rebirth of Cleveland's first licensed educational, non-commercial public radio station, WCPN FM Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and remembrance of Mr. William B. ``Brad'' Norris. We remember him and celebrate the life that he led. We have experienced a great loss in the Cleveland community, and he will be missed greatly. I extend my deepest condolences to his beloved wife, Elizabeth; his sons Jack, Todd, and Robert; his daughters, Carolyn, Pamela and Betsie; a brother; six grandchildren and his friends and colleagues. The life that he lived, and the legacy that he leaves will live on in the hearts of his family and all the lives that he touched.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of my friend, Robert T. Woodworth, devoted father, grandfather, friend, United States veteran and long-time community activist, for his civic activism that continues to uplift our entire Westside Cleveland community. Mr. Woodworth was born in Cleveland to loving parents. His father drove streetcars in the city and his mother was a loving housewife. With extended family nearby, he learned early on the significance of family and community. Mr. Woodworth has infused those vital lessons of childhood within his own family, as he continues to be a foundation of strength and support for his daughter, Rhonda, and his granddaughters, Stephanie and Samantha. As a young adult, Mr. Woodworth enlisted in the United States Air Force, giving him the opportunity to travel the world. The languages he learned and friends that he made have never left him, transcending time and distance. He speaks fluent German, Spanish and French and remains closely connected to friends living in faraway lands. His passion for travel, community issues and global concerns parallels his passion for music. He is an avid guitarist and pianist and is an avid patron of classical music. Mr. Woodworth's warm demeanor and quick smile easily draws others to him. His unwavering belief in community service and volunteerism is illuminated throughout Cleveland's Westside, especially within our democratic process, where his grassroots involvement continues to positively impact our neighborhoods. His leadership and diligence has been key in several political races, including his role as campaign manager for then council candidate Nelson Cintron. Councilman Cintron became the first Hispanic councilman in Cleveland's history. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor, recognition and gratitude to Mr. Robert T. Woodworth. His joyous life, centering on devotion to family, friendship and community, continues to reflect warmth, energy and song--enriching and inspiring family and friends throughout our Cleveland community and far beyond.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman for the recognition to speak so that I can make my remarks with the proper perspective. My father, Frank Kucinich, was a World War II Marine Corps veteran. My brother Frank Kucinich, Jr., was a Vietnam veteran in the Marines. My brother Gary Kucinich was a Marine Corps veteran, 1968 to 1972. My sister Beth Ann Kucinich served in the United States Army. I would have served as well except that I was not able to get in as I have a heart murmur. We have a tradition of service in my family. My nephew Gary Kucinich, my brother Gary's son, is in Iraq right now. But having said all that, I want to say that while I believe it is honorable to serve our country and we should praise those who do serve, I rise in strong opposition to H. Con. Res. 354 and in support of the necessity and importance of nondiscrimination policies. The military's misguided Don't Ask, Don't Tell ban on lesbian, gay and bisexual servicemembers is clearly not compatible with university policies that prohibit campus recruiting by employers who discriminate on the basis of sexual orientation. There is no lack of ``equal'' access for any employer that seeks to recruit on America's college campuses, assuming those employers do not discriminate. But granting access to an employer, whether military, private sector or otherwise, that fails to meet a school's nondiscrimination policy is not equal access, but special access. It is a unique right to discriminate, granted only to the military. This Congress should be leading the way in the fight against discrimination, not supporting policies that allow the military to sidestep nondiscrimination policies. We should ensure that all men and women who wish to serve in the Armed Forces are allowed to do so by repealing Don't Ask, Don't Tell. Requiring schools to suspend their nondiscrimination policies for military recruiters and their openly discriminatory policies is a step backwards. Rather than condone and supporting these discriminatory policies, this Congress should work diligently to eliminate the need for nondiscrimination policies. I urge my colleagues to take the lead in the fight against discrimination. I urge my colleagues to vote against this bill.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of all members past and present, of the Catholic War Veterans, Post 579, as they commemorate sixty years of unity, honor and steadfast service to our community and to our country. The members of the Catholic War Veterans, Post 579, reflect a legacy of support andfriendship for United States Veterans and their families. Their individual and collective service is framed in honor, integrity, courage and great sacrifice. The Catholic War Veterans, representing all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, is a brethren of soldiers connected by triumph, tragedy and is held aloft by friendship, faith and community. Led by Post Commander and WWII Veteran John Sterba, the Catholic War Veterans volunteer their time and efforts to ensure that the memory and service of the men and women who served our country, will never be forgotten. Every Memorial Day for the past fifty-four years, nearly 14,000 American Flags mark the graves of veterans laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery--a unified community endeavor organized and carried out annually by the Catholic War Veterans and volunteers from local churches. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of the 60th Anniversary of the Catholic War Veterans, Post 579, of SS. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church. Unwavering service and deep sacrifice personifies the duty of our United States Veterans, forever reflecting humankind's innate struggle and quest for peace, justice and resolution--and their individual and collective contribution to our Nation will be remembered for all time.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of Othman Shemisa, MD., Ph.D, for his dedication and concern for families and individuals in need, here in Cleveland and miles beyond. Dr. Shemisa was recently honored by the Islamic Center of Cleveland for his volunteer efforts in assisting the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Last September, Dr. Shemisa traveled to New Orleans, where he lived for more than a month, volunteering his time and medical expertise to heal the women, men and children who had been left injured or sick in the wake of the devastating storm. Dr. Shemisa 's professional excellence, integrity and contribution is reflected throughout his family medical practice, as well as within the research and academic community, where he has served as professor, lecturer and researcher. Moreover, Dr. Shemisa's unwavering focus on assisting the most vulnerable members of our society--our poor and disenfranchised citizens, has uplifted the lives of countless families and individuals throughout the Cleveland area. His focus on outreach and advocacy is clearly evidenced throughout Cleveland's Arab American community, where he is an active member and leader. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of Dr. Othman Shemisa, whose willingness to help those in need and sincere concern for others reflects America's greatest legacy--our generous and compassionate citizenry. Dr. Shemisa's medical expertise, energy and efforts in giving back to the community serves to strengthen the very foundation that unifies our Cleveland community, reflecting hope for a better tomorrow for each and every one of us.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of Jimmy Deane, as he is named the Irish Good Person of the Year by the Irish Good Fellowship Club of Cleveland, Ohio. Mr. Deane's lifelong leadership and advocacy on behalf of worker's rights has served to empower countless individuals and families throughout our labor community. With the promise of honest work and hope for a new beginning, Mr. Deane journeyed to America from Ireland in 1962. He began work as a laborer in the construction trades and became a member of the union in 1962. In 1991, he was appointed to the position of Field Representative, and in 1995, he accepted the appointment of Business Manager. Throughout his union tenure, Mr. Deane remained focused on workers' rights, benefits, and safety. As a result of his concern, expertise and leadership, Laborers' Union, Local 310 reflected fiscal responsibility, integrity and effectiveness in representing and protecting its members. Mr. Deane's activism extends throughout our local labor and political landscapes. He is a member of the Laborers District Council of Ohio, an Executive Board Trustee of the Ohio Laborers Training Fund, and has also served as delegate to the AFL-CIO. Though his Irish homeland lives forever in his heart, Mr. Deane wholly embraced all that is America. His activism within our democratic processes and support of local candidates continues to strengthen our community and illuminates the core foundation of America--a union of workers who fight for equal representation, protection and justice for all. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor, gratitude and recognition of my good friend, Mr. Jimmy Deane, as he is rightfully named the Irish Good Person of the Year. Mr. Deane's integrity, conviction, and exceptional ability to bring people and ideas together for the common good, has served to raise the bar on all levels within the union, the workplace, and within our community. I wish Jimmy Deane and his entire family an abundance of health, peace and happiness, today and always.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman from Maryland for the opportunity to address this. We are all concerned about drug policy and about drug control policy. We are concerned about the impact drug addiction has on individual lives and families. We are concerned about the ripple effects of addiction on communities. But I would just like to make this observation as we prepare to vote on this bill: We have to be careful in our strategy to ensure that we do not mistake victims for enemies. We make a mistake when students are punished both through the legal system and then by denying them critical education provisions, as the drug provision of the Higher Education Act does. The recent scaling back of that provision by this Congress is a step in the right direction, but we must do more. Denying students the opportunity for a higher education does not solve the Nation's drug problems, nor does it provide drug treatment. We also make a mistake when we rely on randomized student drug testing to prevent addiction and abuse of drugs. Instead of focusing our efforts on educating our children about drugs and engaging them in the decisions about their lives and futures, drug testing assumes all youth are the same. Drug testing may be right in certain situations with reasonable evidence and a court order, but randomized testing renders all youths suspect and treats them as criminals. High expectations for our children may reap great rewards, but what will we sow with the expectation of deception? So we have to focus our efforts on helping our children, not punishing them, and we cannot allow the war on drugs to become a war on children. I am sure there are many provisions of the bill before us that are aimed at helping many communities, but I just wanted to make this observation in general about our policies, so that as we get into a broader discussion on other legislation, that we pay close attention to the policies that we are considering or are enacting in our schools.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor, welcome and recognition of Justice Adrian Hardiman of the Supreme Court of Ireland and Justice Yvonne Murphy of the Circuit Court of Ireland--united in marriage and also in their quest for truth and justice--and I welcome them both to Cleveland, Ohio, on St. Patrick's Day, March 17, 2006. For the past twenty-seven years, Tim Collins and Thomas Scanlon have organized the St. Patrick's Day Party and Parade, a joyous event that brings people together in the heart of Cleveland and is one that promotes and preserves the treasured traditions of their beloved Irish homeland. Once again, Euclid Avenue will spring to life as a sea of green and the spirited sound of drums and bagpipes begin their march along our city streets. This enchanted day promises old friendships renewed, the discovery of new ones, and serves as a living bridge that transcends space and time, connecting the north coast of Cleveland to the shores of the Emerald Isle. Justice Adrian Hardiman was born in Dublin and was called to the Bar in 1974, the Inner Bar as Senior Counsel in 1989, and was appointed to the Supreme Court in 2000. Justice Hardiman continues to be actively involved in social issues in Ireland. He speaks fluent Irish and is an advocate within the Court on behalf of the rights of those who speak native Irish. In 1974, Justice Hardiman married Justice Yvonne Murphy, judge of the Circuit Court of Ireland. They have three sons. Justice Murphy was born in Donegal and was a practicing barrister in County Donegal until being appointed as Judge of the Circuit Court in 1998. She has worked as a journalist in both print and radio mediums and is the author of several books, including ``Journalism and the Law'' and ``Insider Dealing''. Justice Murphy is chairwoman of the Irish Association of Women Judges. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor of the Honorable Justice Adrian Hardiman and the Honorable Justice Yvonne Murphy, for joining us in Cleveland as we celebrate St. Patrick's Day. Please also join me in recognition of Tim Collins and Thomas Scanlon for organizing this wondrous St. Patrick's Day party this year, as they have for the past 27 years. ``Ni dheanfaidh smaoineamh an treabhadh duit--You'll never plough a field by turning it over in your mind''--Old Irish Proverb.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the Wasserman Schultz amendment. It is widely known that mercury is a highly toxic chemical, especially to our children. It causes entire clusters of cells in the developing brain to die. It causes loss of fine motor skills, learning disabilities, and seizures. Later in life, it can translate into kidney diseases, and immune system disorders. One of the primary ways children are exposed to mercury is through consumption of fish--either they eat it or their mother does. At the same time, eating fish that is not contaminated has been shown to be important to childrens' health. The best way to deal with the problem is to stop mercury from getting into our environment in the first place. Of course, this administration and Congress have repeatedly refused to take substantive action to require coal burning power plants to take responsibility for their toxic mercury releases that end up in our fish. But because mercury pollution is allowed to persist, people are forced to take on the coal plants' responsibility by trying to avoid fish that are contaminated. In recognition of this, some States are considering laws that will label fish that are high in mercury. It is a critical consumer empowerment tool that is the last line of defense for those who do not want their children or themselves to be exposed to this toxic substance. But the Food Uniformity Act would undercut States' ability to even provide that basic level of protection through labeling. So not only does the bill undercut States rights, but it also undercuts personal responsibility. The Wasserman Shultz amendment makes an exemption for labeling laws that apply to mercury and fish and shellfish. It is a commonsense amendment. Please join me in supporting it.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I have heard from hundreds of workers about H.R. 2830. Over 400 UAW members called my office to express their concerns about 2830 as it has been reported out of committee. I was not alone in hearing from concerned workers. Workers from across America called congressional offices and asked for protection for their pension benefits. Now, my vote in favor of the Pension Protection Act in December was cast to codify the improvements negotiated by auto workers and to enable the steel workers to press for further improvements in the conference committee. I have some hope there is a process for making additional improvements. But my vote was conditioned on the expectation that the bill would be substantially improved in the conference committee. I will need to see significant further improvements before voting again. There are still some serious problems with H.R. 2830, and these problems must be addressed to ensure that all workers' pensions are protected. One such problem, which I hope will be fixed in the conference committee, concerns the rules affecting plant shutdown benefits for companies with small numbers of facilities. The rules are biased against such companies, which will be faced with onerous funding requirements in the event of the shutdown of a facility. The workers, of course, would be the ultimate bearers of the burden, since older workers would lose the shutdown benefits that enable them to fully vest in the event of a plant shutdown. Mr. Speaker, I encourage the conferees to adopt further shutdown benefit reforms. Conferees must also address the issue of cash balance plans. This bill does a great disservice to older workers by denying the reality that conversions from traditional defined benefit plans to cash balance plans harm older workers. A report released in early November by the GAO found that a majority of older workers experienced deep cuts in their pension when converted from a traditional plan to a cash balance plan, without transition protection. This is not only unfair, it is wrong. Providing transition protection for older workers should not be a choice for employers, but a requirement, and any change in the plans must protect the accrued benefits of employees, and the conference report should reflect that reality. Finally, I strongly support a provision to help airlines avoid terminating their pension plans by giving them additional time to fund their workers' plans. Section 403 of Senate bill 1783 will give airlines the time they need to meet their pension obligations, and that is a good provision, and we ought to support that. You know, then there will not be any bankruptcy movements because of pensions. There will not be any dumping of pension obligations on the PBGC, and there will not be any jettisoning of obligations to workers who have worked a lifetime and expect their pension benefits. And that kind of a provision will serve the workers and the American taxpayers. I want to say that we have an obligation here of the American retirees to support full PBGC retirement protection for pilots who are forced to retire at age 60. Workers should not be punished for retiring at the age of 60 when safety regulations require them to stop flying. The American people are waiting to see if we care for those who have put in their time. They deserve their security. This Congress has an obligation to America's retirees. We see corporations all over the country trying to throw their obligations onto the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, but when we have some companies that are trying to do the right thing, as we do with the Senate provision that recognizes that American Airlines is trying to do the right thing, then we should provide them with the help that they need to meet their pension obligations. This is a moment of truth for this Congress. Are we going to be true to our commitment to the American workers? Are we going to say to people who worked a lifetime, deserve the commitment that corporations made to them, that they are going to get the pension that they spent their lifetime for? There are a lot of people who are watching this debate, asking if Congress is going to do the right thing. I strongly support Mr. Miller's work here, and I hope this Congress will agree with this legislation.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, Congresswoman Nancy Kaptur, co-chair of the Ukranian Caucus, and I have been strong supporters of political freedom in Ukraine and have advanced the cause of Ukranian culture internationally and in the United States. Today we will vote ``present'' on H.R. 1053, a bill to authorize the extension of nondiscriminatory treatment (normal trade relations treatment) to the products of Ukraine. We wish to make clear that this was not a ``no'' vote, but a ``we know'' vote. We know that democracy is on the march in Ukraine. We also know that the conditions for a fully functioning democracy are not in place. We adhere to the principles of a similar bill to life Ukraine from Jackson-Vanik in the 107th Congress, H.R. 3939. However, that bill specified certain conditions be met prior to lifting that reflect the spirit of the law as much as the letter of the law, including that the government of Ukraine-- (1) Adopt and institute policies that remove undue restrictions and harassment on labor organizations to freely associate according to internationally recognized labor rights; (2) Take additional positive steps to transfer places of worship and related religious property for all confessions to their original owners; (3) Establish an independent legal and judicial system with rule of law that is free of political interference and corruption; (4) Commit to providing funding and administrative support for reforms of the legislature; (5) Demonstrate a firm commitment to freedom of the press by prohibiting physical harm and intimidation of journalists through such means as prevention of abuse of tax and libel laws; (6) Adopt and vigorously enforce laws to prohibit the trafficking of women and of illicit narcotics; (7) Accelerate governmental structural reform and land privatization policies which benefit ordinary citizens; (8) Adopt a more comprehensive program to protect the environment; (9) Support internationally recognized standards of transparency in monitoring of elections; and (10) Remedy trade disputes involving violation of international property rights, transshipment of counterfeit goods, and dumping of such products as steel into the United States market in such increased quantities as to cause harm to the domestic industry. Despite our high aspirations for the Ukraine, we do not believe that these conditions have been met, although we are mindful that there are people in civil society working to bring these principles to fruition. The Jackson-Vanik requirement for annual review of the trading relationship was originally intended as a way to sanction anti-Semitic regimes. According to the Anti-Defamation League, in a document attached to this statement, that we attach for the Record, at least one university in Ukraine, sadly, is still teaching anti-Semitism in Ukraine. We have both worked to ensure human rights, labor rights and environmental quality standards are including in trade agreements. However, the WTO does not permit trade on this basis. This makes new entrants into the WTO highly vulnerable to the export of their jobs to nations which offer cheap labor and no standards. A transfer of wealth from the great mass of the people of Ukraine to multi-national corporate interests will result unless there are safeguards. Any nation, and Ukraine is no exception, which is heavily influenced by oligarchical interests, could easily be sacrificed. We remain committed to continuing to work with the valiant people of Ukraine and the wonderful groups of the diaspora to lift up the economic, political and social progress of the Ukranian people. We are optimistic about the blossoming of freedom, economic democracy and human rights in Ukraine. Ukraine University Schooling in Anti-Semitism maup: schooling in anti-semitism MAUP is the main source of anti-Semitic agitation and propaganda in Ukraine. It organizes anti-Semitic meetings and conferences, regularly issues anti-Semitic statements and publishes two widely distributed periodicals, Personnel and Personnel Plus, which frequently contain anti-Semitic articles. At the same time, MAUP is a bona fide university--its English name is the Interregional Academy for Personnel Management--accredited by Ukraine's Ministry of Education, with more than 50,000 students enrolled at campuses in various locations. Business, political science and agriculture are among the subjects taught. The anti-Semitic activities are directed by MAUP's President, Georgy Tschokin, and a number of his colleagues. In addition, Tschokin is the head of another body called the ``International Personnel Academy'' (IPA), which he also uses to issue anti-Semitic statements. White supremacist David Duke has close links with MAUP: he ``teaches'' a course on history and international relations, has been awarded a doctorate for a thesis on Zionism and was a key participant in MAUP's June 2005 conference on ``Zionism: Threat to World Peace''. On November 22, Tschokin issued a statement of solidarity with Iranian President Ahmadinejad's threat to wipe out Israel. The statement blended traditional Christian anti- Semitism with anti-Zionism: ``We'd like to remind that the Living God Jesus Christ said to Jews two thousand years ago: `Your father is a devil!' . . . Israel, as known, means `Theologian', and Zionism in 1975 was acknowledged by General Assembly of UNO as the form of racism and race discrimination, that, in the opinion of the absolute majority of modern Europeans, makes the most threat to modern civilization. Israel is the artificially created state (classic totalitarian type) which appeared on the political Earth map only in 1948, thanks to good will of UNO . . . Their end is known, and only the God's true will rescue all of us. We are not afraid, as God always together with his children!'' . MAUP's June 2005 anti-Zionist conference was attended by anti-Semites from all over the region, as well as Duke, French Holocaust denier Serge Thion and Israel Shamir, a Russian Jew who converted to Christianity and is notorious for publishing anti-Semitic essays on the internet. The Palestinian Authority representative in Ukraine, Walid Zakut, was also reported to have attended. MAUP's anti-Semitic activities can be traced back to at least 2002. MAUP's leading figures have been at the root of attempts to bar Jewish organizations in Ukraine and, more recently, a call to ban ``The Tanya'', a classic work of Hassidic Jewish literature, on the grounds that it promotes racism against non-Jews. maup: context and responses At the Auschwitz liberation ceremonies in January 2005, Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko declared that his country had adopted a policy of ``zero tolerance'' towards anti-Semitism. Yet over this year, there has been a sharp spike in anti-Semitic incidents, including the brutal beating in August of a Yeshiva student in Kiev, who remains hospitalized in Israel in a coma. Following this attack, 30 Ukrainian rabbis declared: ``Calls to violence against Judaism and Jews are published in the press, freely distributed and sold. On the walls of synagogues, buildings, bus stops and along the road, anti-Semitic symbols appear more and more often.'' Critically, Mr. Yushchenko has done nothing against MAUP, aside from resigning from its Board. Ukraine needs to take decisive action now. Measures could include the following: Invoking anti-incitement laws against Tschokin and his colleagues; the Education Ministry revoking recognition of MAUP diplomas; a statement of condemnation by Mr. Yushchenko and a ban on David Duke entering Ukraine.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of Rose Nader, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, community activist, author and dear friend and mentor to many. Her passing marks a great loss for her family and friends, and also for the people of Winsted, CT, whom she consistently inspired and served with the highest level of dedication and honor. The great care and love that Mrs. Nader showered on her family extended throughout her community, where she carried the torch of advocacy on behalf of many social justice issues. She became deeply involved in many local, national and global issues, including active memberships in Peace Action, Co-Op America and the Women's International Relations Committee. Following a devastating flood in Winsted in the 1950's, Mrs. Nader organized a public gathering and refused to relent until U.S. Senator Prescott Bush promised to build a dry dam. The dam was built and the city of Winsted has been dry for half a century. Born and raised in Lebanon, Mrs. Nader worked as a teacher of French and Arabic before emigrating to America with her husband, Nathra Nader. Together they raised four children, with family the central focus of her life. She instilled values of integrity, hard work and active citizenship within the hearts and minds of her children, gently guiding and always teaching. Mrs. Nader offered them gifts of experience and wisdom through song, proverbs and culinary traditions of her beloved homeland, infusing her wisdom and joy around the kitchen table, connecting the old world to the new. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and remembrance of Rose Nader, whose unbridled joy for life served as a source of love, inspiration and guidance for her family and friends and for the people of Winsted, CT. I extend my deepest condolences to her children, Claire, Laura, Ralph, and the memory of Shafeek; to her three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and also to her extended family and many friends. Mrs. Nader's infinite heart and unwavering focus on giving back to the community will forever live within the hearts of family and friends, and will forever illuminate the soul of Winsted, CT, and miles beyond.