Dennis Kucinich

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of Alva ``Ted'' Bonda, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great- grandfather, brother, WWII Veteran, and dear friend and mentor to many, including me. Mr. Bonda's life was framed by tenacity, integrity and heart, and although he will be greatly missed, he deeply touched the lives of everyone he knew. Mr. Bonda will forever be remembered as a true renaissance man who possessed a high intellect, love for education and keen business savvy. He was born and raised in Cleveland and graduated from Glenville High School. He worked as a shoe store clerk and parking lot attendant before serving in the U.S. Army during WWII. Following the war, Mr. Bonda teamed up with childhood friend, Senator Howard Metzenbaum, to form their joint venture, APCOA Inc., which evolved into the world's largest parking lot company. Though an extremely successful businessman, Mr. Bonda's unwavering dedication remained focused on his family and the Cleveland community. Together, Mr. Bonda and the late Marie C. Bonda raised their three children, Penny, Joel and Tom. Mr. Bonda's faith in the City of Cleveland and love for its people was just as steadfast. When it was largely feared that the Cleveland Indians could be whisked away to another town, Mr. Bonda stepped up to the plate and convinced more than 50 Cleveland business owners to purchase the team. As the Team President, he consistently dismissed out-of-towners looking to buy the team because they would not promise to keep the club in Cleveland. Most significantly, Mr. Bonda contributed to sports history and civil rights history by hiring Frank Robinson as the first African American Manager in the Major Leagues. After retiring from business, Mr. Bonda renewed his commitment as a proponent of education. As a member of the Cleveland School Board during the 1980s, Mr. Bonda led the successful effort in persuading voters to support the first operating levy in many years. In 1984, he was appointed by then Governor Richard Celeste to the Ohio Board of Regents, where he served as Chairman from 1998 to 1991. Mr. Bonda was also a trustee with Brandeis University in Waltham, Mass. In 1995, Cleveland State University's College of Urban Affairs awarded Mr. Bonda an honorary Doctorate degree. A staunch and active Democrat, Mr. Bonda's wisdom and advice was consistently sought after by political hopefuls. His leadership infused significant energy and results into the momentum of numerous local and national campaigns, including those of President Jimmy Carter, presidential candidate George McGovern, Senator Howard Metzenbaum, Ohio Governor Richard Celeste, and my own congressional campaigns. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and remembrance of Alva ``Ted'' Bonda. I offer my deepest condolences to his daughter Penny, sons Joel and Tom, daughter-in-law, Jodi; his grandchildren; great grandchildren; extended family and many friends. Mr. Bonda left this world with a legacy that will forever shine hope and light upon his family, friends and upon our entire Cleveland community. His joy for life, caring heart and concern for the people of Cleveland defined his life and resounds every spring with the first at bat; and will live on in the hearts of all he who knew and loved well, today, and for all time.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I am urging all Members of the House to join in support of House Resolution 151, which is a resolution of inquiry that requests the President of the United States to provide to the House of Representatives documents in his possession relating to the anticipated effects of climate change on the coastal regions of the United States. With the devastation of hurricanes Wilma, Rita and others, we are aware that there is a new phenomenon that is affecting this country with respect to climate change. Scientists may dispute whether or not the meteorological changes that we have witnessed are somehow related to changes in the global climate, but one thing for sure, it is important that Congress begin a dialogue with the administration. It is important that we find out what connection there may be with climate change and effects on coastal regions. Hurricane Katrina certainly illustrated that we should be concerned about climate change. This resolution of inquiry, now sponsored by 151 Members of the House, aims to get the facts from the administration and begin a dialogue that would be important to our Nation's economy and our national security.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, we mark another sad and tragic milestone in the war in Iraq. Two thousand American soldiers have been killed in the war in Iraq. We must end this war. How many more of America's finest have to die for this war before we realize that the quagmire in Iraq cannot be solved by military force, and that our occupation is counterproductive? Iraq has been a colossal failure of American policy. From the beginning this administration has waged a campaign of misinformation and has continued to deliberately mislead the public and this Congress about the realities on the ground. The truth is that Iraq will never be free and the insurgency will not end until we end our occupation and allow the decisions about the future of Iraq to be made in Baghdad, not Washington. As Americans we lament the loss of every American life and every American injury and every Iraqi civilian casualty. We mourn the first casualties as much as the 2,000th casualty. Now more than ever, we need to support the troops. Support the troops by bringing them home.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, recent events in the State of Ohio makes it urgent that this Congress address issues that relate to the automotive industry. Delphi's recent bankruptcy filing may result in the closing of several Ohio plants that provide thousands of jobs. General Motors' sharp cutbacks in health care benefits for UAW members and retirees as well as Ford's announcement of sharp job cutbacks beginning in January of 2006 possibly affecting at least one major auto production facility make it imperative that we come together to do everything we can to help protect America's automotive industry. And we are doing that in Ohio by organizing not only our elected officials and our labor officials but the business community in coming together to address the challenge to one of our State's largest employment sectors that can only be met by a coordinated effort of our entire delegation. The automotive industry is in a state of crisis. We are cooperating to bring together all of the resources possible to make sure that we protect the jobs of autoworkers as well as all the allied unions who work with them and to make sure that one of America's great industries has the strength to endure.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I would like to submit the following statement for the Record. ``Will Record Profits spur investment in new domestic capacity?'' That is the title of this hearing. In a competitive market, the question would not be worth asking in Congress. There would be no doubt about the answer. But the petroleum refining industry is not a competitive market. Ten companies control 80 percent of the refining capacity, and just 5 companies control half of the Nation's capacity all by themselves. Since 1981, the concentration of refining capacity supply in fewer and fewer hands has increased. Mergers and acquisitions have fueled industry concentration. The result is astonishing: Operable capacity stopped rising in 1981, as it had for the previous 30 years. Instead, it went into decline, before it plateauing. For the past 20 years, capacity has been held relatively constant. Economics 101 teaches that rising demand meets constant supply at higher and higher prices. We can be confident that the industry is familiar with that economics lesson, and they have profited handsomely as a result. The question we should address is why should the U.S. Government continue to permit an anti-competitive environment that enables a few companies to rein in supply and drive up record profits? I am sure that we will hear from the industry a lot about onerous environmental regulations. They want the public to believe that they would have built more refineries if only they'd been allowed to do it. Not only is that not true, but it is a smokescreen. The industry hasn't tried but once in 25 years to build a new refinery. Yet, between 1994 and 2004, they closed 30 refineries. On balance, they have been closing refineries, not trying to open new ones. Closing refineries tightens supply, driving up prices when demand is rising. That is exactly what has happened, and they've made record profits. If there were no environmental regulations, the industry would have to invent them or something equivalent in order to disguise a corporate strategy to hold down supply. That is the real issue and Americans are paying mightily for it. Since 2001, according to Public Citizen, the largest 5 oil companies operating in the United States enjoyed after-tax profits of $254 billion. There are things Congress can do. One would be to pass H.R. 2070, the Gas Price Spike Act of 2005. This bill, which I introduced with 39 cosponsors, would implement a windfall profit tax on gasoline and diesel. Such a tax would be imposed on key oil industry profits above a reasonable rate of return. If oil companies are collecting excessive profits on the backs of consumers, they should be subject to a stiff tax on those excessive profits. The threat of heavy taxation will send a clear signal to oil companies that price gouging, and shorting supply, will not pay. In addition, H.R. 2070 will direct the revenue from the windfall profits tax to Americans who buy ultra efficient cars made in America. These individuals would receive a $6000 tax credit. The credit would be phased in, and cars that achieved 65 miles per gallon would receive a full tax credit. Today average cars get less than 30 miles per gallon. This tax credit will stimulate the market in ultra efficient vehicles. Lastly, the bill makes funding available to regional transit authorities to offset significantly reduced mass transit fares during times of gas price spikes. Providing low-cost mass transit will slow demand for gas and ease the price of gasoline, benefiting all Americans.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, it is long past the time since this Congress should be passing legislation to create a universal single- payer system of health care in the United States. This past week we saw General Motors cut $1 billion a year in health care expenses for 750,000 auto workers and retirees. People who have worked every day of their lives and made a contribution to this society are suddenly finding their health care benefits drastically reduced. Over 40 million Americans do not have health insurance. Millions more cannot afford to pay health insurance because they are finding premiums, co-pays, and deductibles rising. It is time that the government stepped in dramatically to create a single-payer system. It is time that we realize that health care is a basic right in our society. It is time that we saw that we are already paying for universal health care. We are not getting it. One out of every four dollars goes for the activities of the for-profit system, for corporate profits, advertising, marketing, the cost of paperwork, 20 to 30 percent. It is time that we stood up for the American people and for the health of our people and passed H.R. 676, a universal single-payer health care system.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of the 2nd Annual Ramadan Iftar Dinner, hosted once again by the Cleveland Office of the Ohio Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR). This joyous celebration reflects the significance of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, a sacred event reflecting the core values of the Islamic religion: a steadfast devotion to faith, peace, family and heritage. Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of the religion of Islam and one of the central forms of Islamic worship. Throughout the entire ninth month of the Islamic Calendar year, Muslims show their devotion to God by fasting daily from daybreak until sundown. The sacred month of Ramadan is a time of giving, gratitude to God and sacrifice, which serves to unify Muslims around the world with a great sense of connection to all humanity. Muslim Americans comprise a significant number of citizens in Greater Cleveland and across America. Moreover, the Muslim community greatly enriches the diverse fabric of our culture. Muslim Americans contribute immensely within all aspects of society, including premier achievements in science, medicine, business, religion, government service, education and art. The leaders and members of the Cleveland Office of the Ohio Chapter of CAIR remain focused on their vital mission: to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil liberties and establish community coalitions to promote justice and mutual respect. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of American Muslims of Greater Cleveland and Muslims around the world. We also stand in tribute to the leaders and members of CAIR, for celebrating the sacred month of Ramadan with our community, at the 2nd Annual Ramadan Iftar Dinner. This interfaith gathering is reflective of the freedoms of our democratic society and underscores a deep and abiding honor and respect for individuals of all cultures and faiths, thereby strengthening our entire Nation.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the staff members of the KeyCorp Campus, located on Tiedeman Road in Brooklyn, Ohio, upon their recent designation as a certified Green Building by the U.S. Green Building Council, USGBC. KeyCorp is the first financial service institution in the Midwest to earn this prestigious certification. KeyCorp has joined the ranks of premier corporations and manufacturers across the Nation that have invested their own resources to elevate the structural, operational and performance components of their facilities to the highest levels of environmental standards. The 2,000 plus staff at KeyCorp has worked diligently within the USGBC's new rating system, the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Existing Buildings, LEED, to become an officially designated Green Building. By adhering to LEED systems and standards, KeyCorp has restored their 750,000-square-foot technology and operations buildings and adjacent property to an environmentally sound haven for employees and surrounding flora and fauna. The campus was built on a brownfield site, which has been renewed with water-efficient, native landscaping. KeyCorp made the commitment to implement environmentally smart procedures which served as economically smart moves for the company. By installing low-mercury light bulbs, recycling paper and cardboard, greater usage of natural light, and using green-friendly housekeeping and maintenance products, the company is protecting their bottom line and protecting the environment as well. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of the leadership and staff members of the KeyCorp Tiedeman Campus in Brooklyn, Ohio, whose united efforts in raising the entire Campus into the light of environmental restoration and protection has earned them the official designation as a Green Building. KeyCorp's unified mission has made a positive impact on our community and serves as a vital reminder and example of the ability of the human race to coexist in harmony with our natural world.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of Mayor Louis J. Bacci--devoted family man, accomplished community leader, entrepreneur, United States veteran and admired friend and mentor. For 45 years, Mayor Bacci's vision, integrity and love for his constituents reflected throughout the Village of Cuyahoga Heights and miles beyond. Mayor Bacci was born and raised in Cuyahoga Heights and lived in the same house his entire life. His parents instilled in him a clear sense of service to others and an unwavering devotion to family, friends and community--qualities that defined his public service and framed his life. He consistently went above and beyond the `call of duty,' and was always willing to assist an individual or family in need. Mayor Bacci was first elected to represent the Village as a member of Council, a position he held for 16 years. He then went on to serve as mayor for 29 years. Titles, awards and accolades held no significance for Mayor Bacci--his family, friends and Village family always did. Mayor Bacci's easy-going nature, kindness, limitless generosity, sense of humor, vision and insight drew others to him and his advice was consistently sought after by everyone--from the neighbor down the street, to big city mayors. Unlike many candidates, Mayor Bacci never spent money on campaign literature. Rather, he discussed his intent along the sidewalks and on front porches throughout the Village, offering his homegrown tomatoes and lively conversation. Mayor Bacci was the heart and soul of Cuyahoga Heights, and he afforded every person the same respect and attention, regardless of their social or political status. Mayor Bacci's tireless efforts in all areas of local government served to elevate the well-being of every resident and business owner within Cuyahoga Heights. His dedication to the youth of the Village was reflected throughout his service as council member and mayor. Mayor Bacci's work and focus on education is reflected in the students and faculty of Cuyahoga Heights School District and is recognized throughout Ohio. His creation of college scholarship programs within the district has given numerous students an opportunity to achieve their academic goals. Cuyahoga Heights School District is ranked as one of the best in Ohio. Mayor Bacci's work on behalf of local and regional development, environmental preservation and job retention has positively affected the entire region. A founding member of the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District (NEORSD), Mayor Bacci was able to coalesce the commitment and support of suburban mayors and county leaders to unite our region for the common good. The long-term success of NEORSD underscores Mayor Bacci's strength in leadership. NEORSD provides efficient and low cost sanitary and water services to millions of residents throughout Cuyahoga County. Moreover, the focus of NEORSD has also extended to the restoration of our local environment by earmarking billions of dollars to fund successful cleanup projects that have succeeded in restoring and preserving our local river and wetland ecosystems. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor, gratitude and remembrance of Mayor Louis J. Bacci--an exceptional man and caring leader whose life profoundly affected the lives of millions. Mayor Bacci's passing marks a deep loss for countless individuals who called him friend--including me. His brilliant legacy of community progress tempered with preservation will be remembered always by the people of Cuyahoga Heights and by people in neighboring communities throughout Cuyahoga County and beyond. Moreover, it was the power of his kindness, grace, tenacity and heart that uplifted our entire community. I extend my deepest condolences to Mayor Bacci's beloved wife, Lillian; his beloved children, Charlotte, Laura, Juliann, John, Jack, and the loving memory of John Louis and Louis John; his 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; and to his extended family and many friends. Mayor Bacci's life and good works will serve as an ageless example of leadership, service to others and heart--and his legacy will forever resound throughout the Village of Cuyahoga Heights, and throughout our entire community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute and recognition of Jon and Karen Salerno, united in marriage and united in their unwavering dedication to family, faith and community, as they are recognized by civic leaders, friends and family for their significant contributions to our entire community, including the Italian American community. In honor of their volunteerism, the Salerno's have been chosen to serve as Grand Marshals of the 2005 Cleveland Columbus Day Parade. Jon and Karen continue to dedicate their personal time and talents to the promotion and preservation of Greater Cleveland's rich Italian heritage by numerous community events and programs, including the annual Cleveland Columbus Day Parade. Karen has focused her professional vocation in working to improve the lives of families and individuals who face life-long challenges of living with physical, mental and emotional disabilities. Karen has worked with the Summit County Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities for more than 25 years and is currently the Senior Director of Medicaid Services. Jon is also an active member with the Summit County Board of Mental Retardation. In the 1970s, Jon led the effort to implement new legislation that gave mentally challenged citizens the right to vote. Jon's interest in public service began in 1971, when he was elected to serve as Council Member with the Village of Moreland Hills. Since that time, local and national political candidates have sought after Jon's political wisdom and insight. Both Karen and Jon continue to volunteer their time as active members and leaders of many local civic organizations, including many Italian American organizations. As president of Media, Italia, Inc., Jon has produced and hosted the ``Memories from Italy'' radio program for more than 25 years. Fifteen years ago, Jon led the effort to organize the first WJCU radio-thon, an event that has raised thousands of dollars for the college radio station every year. Jon's outreach efforts also extend directly to our most vulnerable citizens. He is also the Board Chairman for Alternatives Agency, a community-based correctional facility in Cleveland that has been recognized for its positive impact on individuals making the transition from incarceration to freedom. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of Jon and Karen Salerno, for their exceptional commitment, leadership and service focused on uplifting the citizens and culture within our community. Their individual and united efforts within their profession, and their volunteer work on behalf of the Italian American community and our entire community, continues to enhance our society and gives us all hope for a brighter tomorrow. I wish Jon and Karen Salerno, and their grown children, Anthony, Jessica and Anthony's wife, Gina, an abundance of health, happiness and peace today and always.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute and recognition of the Ukrainian American Veterans, Post #24, of Parma, Ohio, as they will preside over the blessing of a commemorative monument anchoring the ``Walkway of Remembrance'' within the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, Ohio. The newly erected monument will forever symbolize the bravery and sacrifice of the men and women of Ukrainian heritage who heeded the call of duty on behalf of our country. The individual and collective service of these veterans continues to play a key role in protecting our democracy, during times of peace and times of war. American veterans of Ukrainian descent continue to be a vital source of strength in every branch of the United States military, dating back to the dawn of America. The deep dedication to justice and significant contribution to American society by Ukrainian American veterans has been, and continues to be, a vital strength within our community, and within our Nation. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor of the Ukrainian Veterans of America, Post #24, as they commemorate the unwavering service reflected by veterans of Ukrainian heritage; their honorable service within the United States Armed Forces will be remembered always. Let us also recognize United States veterans of every ethnic background, whose united commitment serves to strengthen our entire Nation.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, the President's speech yesterday proved one thing, that this administration is intent on war and nothing else. They are intent on sending more troops to die for a shifting tale of pure fiction, about WMDs, about trying to establish a democracy, about a war on terror. Come home, America. Deal with the terror of joblessness in the United States. Deal with the terror of lack of adequate health care, of people losing their homes and their hope. Deal with things here at home. Give people a chance to make things work for their families. Create a new WPA program to put millions back to work. Give health care for all. Stop taking this Nation to the edge of total war with the world.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, first of all, at the appropriate time, I will enter some extraneous information into the Record. Mr. Speaker, it is very clear when we look at what has happened in the last few years where we have had a number of mergers of oil companies, the top five oil companies, I believe, now dominate more than a third of the market. As a result, we see that prices keep increasing as market concentration increases. This is a clear example of what happens when monopolies dominate an economy. We have high prices, and we also have manipulation of supplies, increased profits; and now we have price gouging. With this manipulation of supply, we are also seeing an attempt today to attack our environmental laws. That puts us in a position where we sacrifice not only the standard of living of many Americans to the oil companies but now we are sacrificing the environment itself. I think that many Americans are already aware that one of the reasons that we are in Iraq is because of oil. I mean, very few people would dispute that now. There were no weapons of mass destruction, they are not going to have a democracy there, but the administration is preparing to stay there for the long haul, and it is because of oil. Oil is corrupting this government. Oil is costing us peace in the world. Oil is putting us on a path to economic ruin. Oil is dominating this political process right now. We need to take a new course. We can start with the windfall profits tax, but we have to go beyond that. We need to look at alternative energy, the power of the sun. Sunlight is a disinfectant in many ways, but it is also a powerful energy source. We need wind power, we need geothermal, we need to tap all available technologies to take us in a new direction where the globe itself is not at stake. What a disgrace it is that we put the lives and the existence of the Gwitchin Indians in Alaska at risk for more oil. What a disgrace it is that we violate people's human rights for more oil. What a disgrace it is that we are not taking a new direction, not just to save the planet, but to save democracy. Vote down the bill. Public Citizen, Washington, DC, October 5, 2005. Dear Representative: On Friday, October 7 the House will consider H.R. 3893, the ``Gasoline for America's Security (GAS) Act of 2005.'' This bill takes the approach that environmental laws must be weakened in order to encourage the U.S. refining industry to expand or construct new refining capacity. This is false. The facts clearly show that not only are current environmental laws in place at a time when the refining industry is experiencing record profits, but that recent, fundamental changes to the refining industry--namely recent mergers--have created financial incentives for refineries to encourage tight supplies. Until these market fundamentals--and not environmental rules--are corrected, Americans will continue to be price-gouged by oil companies. This week, the national average gasoline price hit $2.93/ gallon, up 50 percent from a year ago. These prices were well on their way to hitting record highs long before Hurricane Katrina. Oil and gasoline prices were rising long before Hurricane Katrina wreaked havoc. U.S. gasoline prices jumped 14 percent from July 25 to August 22. The problem is that too few oil companies control too much of the refineries, squelching competition but guaranteeing record profits for the industry. In 1993, the 5 largest U.S. oil refining companies controlled 34.5 percent of domestic oil refinery capacity; the top 10 companies controlled 55.6 percent. By 2004, the top 5--ConocoPhillips, Valero, ExxonMobil, Shell and BP-- controlled 56.3 percent and the top 10 refiners controlled 83 percent. As a result of all of these recent mergers, the largest 5 oil refiners today control more capacity than the largest 10 did a decade ago. This dramatic increase in the control of just the top 5 companies makes it easier for oil companies to manipulate gasoline prices. The proof is in the numbers. According to the Energy Information Administration, profit margins for U.S. oil refiners have been at record highs. In 1999, U.S. oil refiners made 22.8 cents for every gallon of gasoline refined from crude oil. By 2004, they were making 40.8 cents for every gallon of gasoline refined, a 79 percent jump. And the Washington Post noted that those profit margins have soared even higher in 2005, to 99 cents on each gallon sold, for a more than 300 percent increase since 1999. It is no coincidence that oil corporation profits-- including refining--are enjoying record highs. Since 2001, the largest 5 oil refiners in America have recorded $228 billion in profits. And will the environmental regulations make it easier to build new refineries? No, because the financial structure of the refining industry is what is prohibiting additional investment. That's because the industry is making record profits off of the current tight supplies. They have no interest in creating surplus capacity because that will erode their profit margins. Want proof? Start with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. In March 2001, FTC concluded in its Midwest Gasoline Price Investigation: ``. . . A significant part of the supply reduction was caused by the investment decisions of three firms . . . One firm increased its summer-grade RFG [reformulated gasoline] production substantially and, as a result, had excess supplies of RFG available and had additional capacity to produce more RFG at the time of the price spike. This firm did sell off some inventoried RFG, but it limited its response because selling extra supply would have pushed down prices and thereby reduced the profitability of its existing RFG sales. An executive of this company made clear that he would rather sell less gasoline and earn a higher margin on each gallon sold than sell more gasoline and earn a lower margin. Another employee of this firm raised concerns about oversupplying the market and thereby reducing the high market prices. A decision to limit supply does not violate the antitrust laws, absent some agreement among firms. Firms that withheld or delayed shipping additional supply in the face of a price spike did not violate the antitrust laws. In each instance, the firms chose strategies they thought would maximize their profits.'' So, that settles it: U.S. oil refineries would rather sell less gasoline and earn bigger profits than flood the market and earn lower profit margins. So gutting environmental laws, as H.R. 3893 proposes, will do nothing to expand refining capacity, but it will reduce public health protections for Americans. And a May 2004 U.S. Government Accountability Office report agreed with Public Citizen that recent mergers in the oil industry have directly led to higher prices. It is important to note, however, that this GAO report severely underestimates the impact mergers have on prices because their price analysis stops in 2000--long before the mergers that created ChevronTexaco, ConocoPhillips, and Valero- Ultramar/Diamond Shamrock-Premcor. Rolling back environmental laws will do nothing to lower prices, but it will weaken public health protections for Americans. Sincerely, Tyson Slocum, Public Citizen's Energy Program.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, Esther Weissman understood with all her heart that the cause of injured workers is one of society's great moral callings. Social consciousness infused her daily work as a lawyer. She knew she was fighting not only for just compensation for her clients, she was trying to save their lives from being sacrificed upon the altars of modern industrial society. They came to Esther on crutches, wearing arm slings, with eye patches and bandages of every sort from their encounters with the hazards of the workplace. They came to her office as pilgrims, migrants to a sacred place, seeking a miracle that would save their lives. Again and again Esther gave them hope, through honest and aggressive representation. In addition to her advocacy in the courts, Esther actively participated in the electoral system. She rallied other attorneys, labor leaders, and voters to protect the rights of workers and advance social justice at the ballot box. Her legacy includes preserving Ohio's legal protections for injured workers in the popular defeat of the anti-worker ballot initiative known as Issue 2, in 1997. Esther's was the cause of human dignity. Hers was the cause of economic justice. Hers was the cause of worker rights. Hers was the cause of the safe workplace. Hers was the cause of just compensation for injured workers. Hers was the cause of advocating for those too hurt, those too poor, those too weak to advocate for themselves. Esther Weissman was the Joan of Arc of injured workers. Again and again, holding up the banner of worker rights, she fearlessly fought on behalf of her beloved workers, with every fiber of her being, with all of her resources, with her last ounce of courage, to her last breath.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Stockyard Redevelopment Organization (SRO), which has done much to oversee the redevelopment of Cleveland's Stockyard neighborhood in Ohio's 10th Congressional District. Once the center of Cleveland's stockyard industry, this neighborhood, like many such neighborhoods in Cleveland and around the country in the decades following World War II, became blighted as companies fled to the suburbs, sunbelt, or overseas while residents followed the new freeways out of town. In March 2000, when SRO's newly appointed director Alex Brazynetz visited my office for the first time, he brought big dreams, significant problems, and a small request. His dream was the revitalization of this long-neglected inner city neighborhood. The problem was that the privately owned and crumbling West 67th Place was not eligible for highway funding or local road maintenance, while the owner was unable to provide the maintenance. The request was for a creative way to get this street fixed to retain the last remaining businesses and to attract new business to this blighted neighborhood. The key to overcoming the obstacle and realizing the dream was a federal Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to fix West 6th Place. In conjunction with the SRO, the Westside Industrial Retention and Expansion Network (WIRE-Net) and the EDA, the City of Cleveland agreed to purchase West 67th Place for a nominal fee, making the street eligible for a federal grant. The $1.2 million grant was the key to completing a $1.8 million infrastructure investment. This investment then leveraged $24.7 million in additional and proposed investment in the immediate area, along with realizing 362 additional jobs. Building on the success of the West 67th Place project, the SRO is currently undertaking a Land Use Study of the West 65th Street, Denison Avenue & Ridge Road corridors in collaboration with WIRE-Net and with support from Councilmen Matthew Zone (Ward 17) and Kevin Kelley (Ward 16) and the nearby City of Brooklyn, Ohio. Mr. Speaker and distinguished colleagues, the success in Cleveland's Stockyard neighborhood proves that small federal investments in our nation's cities can be stretched and leveraged to go a long way to help rebuild our cities. More of these opportunities must be made available. We must continue to rebuild the commercial, industrial, and residential bases of our nation's cities like Cleveland and neighborhoods like the Stockyard, with the help of federal investments like what we've seen successfully done in conjunction with the federal Economic Development Administration, the City of Cleveland, and the Stockyard Redevelopment Organization.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of Mr. Kevork ``George'' Arslanian, loving family man, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and dear friend to many, as his friends and loved ones gather in honor and celebration of his 100th birthday. Mr. Arslanian's life reflects a brilliant spectrum of survival, courage, tenacity, triumph, devotion to family and service to others. As a young child, Mr. Arslanian and his two brothers became orphans. During WWI, 40 members of the Arslanian family, including their father and mother, were killed in the horrific Armenian massacre by the Turkish military. The Armenian genocide resulted in the deaths of 1.5 million Armenians. A Turkish neighbor hid the three boys in her home, saving their lives. Soon after, they were sent to a Red Cross orphanage in Syria, where they barely survived among 60,000 other orphans. Throughout their years of struggle, Mr. Arslanian and his brothers remained focused on the promise of a new life in America. They left the Syrian orphanage and journeyed to Cuba, from where they had heard that entry into the U.S. would be easier. They soon discovered this was not the truth. The children spent 5 years in Cuba, surviving with nothing more than their own determination, courage and the promise of reaching the shores of America. In 1927, the boys, who had by now become young men, made the escape out of Cuba as stowaways on a ship that delivered them to a life of freedom, hope and possibility in America. The Arslanian brothers settled with relatives in Cleveland. Mr. Arslanian attended Miller Barber College in Cleveland, where he initially honed the art of his trade without pay. He then earned twenty dollars a week for 25 cent hair cuts. He soon became a licensed barber--the 11th in the State of Ohio, and in 1932, opened up his own shop in Garfield Heights. Six days a week for seventy-five years, Mr. Arslanian worked in the shop with his brother, and continued giving hair cuts until just a couple of years ago. Together, Mr. Arslanian and his beloved, late wife, Virginia, raised three sons. George and Virginia Arslanian were married for 67 years. Mr. Arslanian, one hundred years young, continues to be the foundation, center and light of his family--a family that includes his three sons, seven grandchildren and twenty great-grandchildren. His life-long devotion to his family and to his shop extends throughout the community, and is evidenced within his strong faith and his dedication to preserving the history, faith and culture of Armenia. Mr. Arslanian continues to be deeply involved with the Armenian Orthodox Church, and led the effort to establish St. Gregory of Narek Armenian Church. His unwavering support for immigrant families and for the preservation of Armenian culture is reflected in his long-time involvement with the Armenian General Benevolent Union and the Tekeyan Cultural Society. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of Mr. Kevork ``George'' Arslanian, whose brave heart, warm smile and fascinating life continues to educate and inspire those who know and love him well, especially his family and friends. Mr. Arslanian's life, outlined by hard work, integrity and family, personifies the phrase `American citizen.' The remarkable story of the young Arslanian brothers, their courageous journey and creation of new lives in America, is the story of the American immigrant, retold in a thousand languages, connecting all of humanity by the will to survive and the promise of freedom and peace. The incredible journey of citizens such as Kevork ``George'' Arslanian is the strength and foundation of our country. In honor of Mr. Arslanian's 100th birthday, we offer him an abundance of peace, health and happiness, and offer our gratitude to him for enriching our community and our nation. His great love for his family, community and for his beloved Armenia, transcends time and distance, serving as a bridge of goodwill, forever connecting America to Armenia.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of the Polonia Foundation of Ohio and the Ohio Polish Legion of American Veterans, U.S.A., as they unite the community in remembrance and celebration of Gen. Kazimierz Pulaski, for his legacy of courage and selfless dedication to the people of Poland and the people of the United States of America. Born on March 4, 1747 in Warzka, Poland, General Pulaski achieved great military success in Poland with his focused leadership and brilliant strategies in fighting the Russian domination of Poland. By 1777, General Pulaski had become one of the most renowned cavalrymen in Europe, and while in Paris that year, he was actively recruited by Benjamin Franklin to assist in the American quest for liberation. Sympathetic to the American cause, General Pulaski sailed to America and was made head of the newly formed American cavalry during the Revolutionary War. General Pulaski's deep level of commitment to the American cause was framed by energy and style. He reportedly wore a plumed hat, flashing saber, and an elaborate uniform, and spent his own money to feed and equip his troops. General Pulaski was involved in many significant battles during the Revolution. His ultimate stand took place in Savannah, GA in October 1779, where he led a valiant charge against British artillery. General Pulaski was shot and died a few days later. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and remembrance of Gen. Kazimierz Pulaski, who made the ultimate sacrifice in his valiant fight to secure the ideals of the American Revolution. An American hero, General Pulaski's life and legacy serves as a significant reminder of the vital contributions and great achievements by Polish immigrants within our Cleveland community, and throughout America.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, the Qualified Individual, or QI, program pays the monthly Medicare part B premium for low-income beneficiaries. On September 30, 2005, the authorization for QI-1 expired. If it is not reauthorized within days, over 160,000 low-income seniors and those with disabilities will lose this crucial assistance on which they rely to cover their health care costs. That means that some people who make less than $1,092 a month will lose almost 10 percent of their income. This is simply unnecessary, since QI's extension has strong and broad support. It is supported by 35 separate health advocacy organizations. In addition, the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. LaTourette) and I have a bill to extend the benefit that has bipartisan cosponsorship. In fact, a similar extension passed the House last year by a voice vote. This bill before us today will make sure our seniors do not lose their income by extending the benefit for 1 year. In doing so, it builds on a consistent history of temporary extensions in recent years. If this bill becomes law, I urge Congress to turn its attention to a more permanent solution. Every year the benefit has strong support, and more often than not we find ourselves rushing at the last minute to keep it alive. My hope is that before it expires again next year, Congress will pass a permanent reauthorization.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of the Ataya family for their collective vision, generosity and concern for the people of Twinsburg, especially the children, for donating their personal property and transforming it into a public park for residents of all ages to enjoy. Dr. Khalid Ataya, his wife, Dr. Alfida Ataya, and their three children, Dana, Samy and Ramsey, have dedicated the park in honor of Dr. Ataya's father, Mohammad Ataya. Mohammad Ataya worked diligently to provide a safe and secure home for his family in America, and has also ensured that the cultural bridge connecting the Ataya family--from Cleveland to Lebanon--remains viable and strong. Mr. Ataya continues to be the center of his family, a living legacy defined by a steadfast dedication to his wife, nine children, and his many grandchildren. In a clearing surrounded by trees, playground equipment, park benches and picnic tables spring from the green grass at Mohammad Ataya Park, located on Cambridge Street in Twinsburg. Plans are already in place to expand the playground and picnic area at the park--preserving a natural space where a sense of renewal is possible and where family unity abounds. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of Dr. Khalid and Alfida Ataya, for their vision and generosity in entrusting their land to the Township of Twinsburg for use as a public park, in honor of Dr. Ataya's father, Mohammad Ataya. Mohammad Ataya Park will flourish as a vital preservation of green space and will exist as a peaceful and joyous haven, accessible to all citizens, today and for generations to come. As founding members of the Arab American Community Center for Economic and Social Services (AACESS), Dr. Khalid and Dr. Alfida Ataya continue to embrace an energetic spirit and a dedication focused on service to others, and their efforts and volunteerism continue to enhance our entire community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time, and I rise in opposition to the Threatening Endangered Species From Recovering Act. This legislation, as many of us know, will do nothing to improve our ability to help species recover. As a matter of fact, this legislation will repeal all Endangered Species Act provisions that protect threatened and endangered plants and wildlife from the harmful impact of pesticides. Let us focus on this for a moment. Every schoolchild in America is aware that pesticides are threatening to birds. Our own national symbol, the bald eagle, is threatened with the provisions of this bill that would repeal the pesticides provisions that currently exist and which help protect endangered species. We would not spray pesticides on a bald eagle, would we? And if we would not do that, why would we vote for this bill? Pesticides have played a large part in the decline of many species, including the bald eagle. The bald eagle is the symbol of our national unity. There is something about the Endangered Species Act which represents something even greater than talking about plants and wildlife. There is a recognition that plants and wildlife and human beings are all part of the same interconnected process; that we are interdependent; that we are all one. To act as though plants and wildlife and insects are just here for our use, for our commercialization, for our disposal actually rejects our own humanity. There are deeper questions here about who we are as human beings that are reflected in legislation like this. I could talk for a while about how this bill is going to provide giveaways to developers at the expense of wildlife and endangered species. I could talk about how it is going to require the government to use taxpayer dollars to pay big developers to not violate the Endangered Species Act. I could talk about how this Threatening Endangered Species From Recovery Act would call for a tentative schedule for developing recovery plans for species that are currently protected. I could talk about all that, but I want to stress that what we are really doing here in voting for this bill is rejecting the whole idea of interdependence and interconnection; rejecting the idea of a bald eagle which stands for national unity and that we are all together.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I want to bring to the attention of the House a matter that really needs urgent consideration. There are 160,000 elderly and disabled Americans who depend on Medicare part B, a program called the QI program, qualified individual. That program is due to expire on Friday. That program, that benefit, pays Medicare part B benefits to people with incomes that are 120 percent to 135 percent of the Federal poverty level. How that translates is that people who are making less than $1,092 per month as an individual or $1,459 per couple, they are due to lose their benefit which, for some people, would be almost 10 percent of their income. The Medicare part B insurance program covers medical services like physician service, lab service, durable medical equipment, outpatient and home health visits. We have a bipartisan bill sponsored by myself and the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. LaTourette), H.R. 3800. We have to act in the next 24 hours to save the financial condition for 160,000 elderly and disabled Americans.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and remembrance of Jess A. Bell, dedicated family man, community activist, business leader, U.S. Veteran, and friend and mentor to many. Mr. Bell grew up in Cleveland, attended Baldwin Wallace College and served our country as a paratrooper during WWII and the Korean War. In 1959, he became president of the Lakewood-based Bonne Bell Inc., a company his father had started thirty-two years earlier. Mr. Bell's unwavering integrity, concern for others, boundless energy and expansive heart, reflected within every facet of his life--from his commitment to his family, to his concern for his employees, to his social activism on behalf of charitable causes. He blazed a trail of opportunity for all when he became one of the only business leaders in America to initiate a program to hire senior citizens, some of them in their nineties. Many companies have since followed in his path, realizing the significant contributions offered by older Americans. Always focused on the health and well-being of his employees, Mr. Bell, a marathon runner himself, provided on-site exercise facilities and offered financial incentives for employees who took personal responsibility for their physical health. In 1970, he founded the American Heart Association's Cleveland Heart-A-Thon. He also led the effort to establish a tennis tournament between the United States and Australia that served to promote the development of girls' junior tennis programs. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and remembrance of Jess A. Bell. Please also join me as I offer my deep condolences to his wife of 51 years, Juliana; his children, Julie, Buddy, James and Joe; his 14 grandchildren; his sister Bonne, and his extended family and many friends. Though he will be greatly missed, the joyous legacy of his life, framed by kindness, energy and an unwavering focus on lifting the lives of others, will live on forever within the hearts of his family and friends, and within the spirit of our entire community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Peterson) for the work he has done on this bill. I rise in support of S. 1752, the Reauthorization of the Grain Standards Act. Two weeks ago, I was opposed to the bill because it needlessly privatized grain inspectors, which could harm our agricultural export market. In the mid-1970s, the inspection service was federalized following several scandals involving some growers who tried to cheat foreign buyers by, for example, substituting saw dust for grain. Overall, there were indictments of 52 individuals and four corporations. Today, with Federal inspectors on the job, our foreign customers are confident in the quality of U.S. grain. But many of these buyers, international buyers, have spoken publicly about their reservations of a private inspection system. Such a scheme may harm U.S. exports of grains, something our farmers cannot afford. Worse yet, the benefits from privatization are almost nil. According to testimony from the National Grain and Feed Association, privatizing the inspector force will save 8 cents per ton of grain per export in the unlikely scenarios that the entire cost savings were passed along to farmers by way of better commodity prices. The average 500-acre soybean farm would gain a measly $46 a year in extra income. For nothing more than pocket change, that kind of privatization could undermine the 30 years of confidence in the quality of U.S. grain. That was an enormous risk for pocket change. Thankfully, because of the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Peterson) and others, this bill before us today does not include the risky privatization scheme that was contemplated. I once again want to thank the gentleman from Minnesota and his staff for the opportunity to work with them on this legislation.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of Ellie Mapson, Jr., community leader, activist, artist, dedicated family man and friend and mentor to many, as he is being honored by the West Park Community Coalition, Inc., for his grace, focus and tireless efforts in raising our Westside community into the light of possibility for everyone. Mr. Mapson's steadfast commitment to his community mirrors his unwavering focus on family and faith. Mr. Mapson's wife of 47 years, Maggie, their children, Daryl, Kimberly and Dana; the loving memory of David; and their four grandchildren remain central to his life. Mr. Mapson and his family are long-time members of the Second Calvary Baptist Church and the West Park Community Coalition, where he also serves on the Board of Directors. Mr. Mapson has devoted countless hours at his church as layman, program vice-president, past chairman of the board and Sunday school teacher. He also led the effort to develop a college scholarship program for member families. Mr. Mapson is known as a local historian and ironically, his own life became part of Cleveland history. In 1972, Ellie Mapson Jr. became the first African American to run for Cleveland City Council in a seat located west of the Cuyahoga River. He finished second out of five candidates. He went on to serve as president of the predominantly white West Park Community Council, and he was also the first African American member of the West Park Kiwanis Club and eventually served as its president. Mr. Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition of Ellie Mapson, Jr., whose integrity, warmth, faith and concern for others continues to pave the way for strength and renewal throughout our Westside community. Mr. Mapson's professional talents and spirit of volunteerism have fortified all aspects of the West Park Community Coalition, Inc. and the Second Calvary Baptist Church. His activism on behalf of our entire community offers light, hope and the promise of a better day for people of the Westside, and for our entire Cleveland community.

Mr. KUCINICH

Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month--a celebration of Americans of Hispanic heritage and their significant, collective and individual contribution to our community and to our nation. Hosting one of the events this year is the Cleveland Public Library. The Cleveland Public Library and regional branches continue their commitment to promoting our diverse community, richly infused with Hispanic culture and language. As part of the Library's 2005 Strategic Plan, new and permanent resources of Spanish Language collections is now underway, along with the implementation of a Spanish language website. Hispanic Heritage Month is reflective of the five hundred-year history of Hispanic culture and contribution to America. Hispanic Americans have contributed immeasurably to all areas of our culture-- from medicine, law and business, to education, music and the fine arts. Hispanic Americans in our community and in communities across the country are life-saving doctors and nurses, veterans, inspiring professors, dedicated teachers, committed elected officials, fair- minded judges, and hardworking factory employees. Americans of Hispanic heritage continue to bring energy, innovation, and a real sense of social justice to America, while retaining the cultural traditions of their homeland for all citizens to enjoy. Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, and join me in expressing my gratitude for the outstanding contributions made by Hispanic Americans. Their journey to America, fraught with significant obstacles and strife, paved the way for a better life for their children and future generations, and signifies what it means to be an American. Within our diversity we find strength. Within our traditions we find unity. Because of their journey, and the journey of people from all points of the world, we are stronger as a community, more unified as a nation, and better as people.