Sander Levin

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Dr. Augustine L. Perrotta, of Bloomfield Hills, MI. On April 27, 1997, Dr. Perrotta was named ``Italian-American of the Year'' by the Italian Study Group of Troy, MI. Each year, the study group honors prominent Italian-American members of our community who demonstrate outstanding service, activism, and leadership. Dr. Perrotta's recognition is well deserved. As the eldest of three children, Dr. Perrotta was thrust into a position of tremendous responsibility, due to the death of his father at an early age. He worked through college and attended medical school on scholarships, where he was valedictorian of his graduating class. As a practicing oncologist and hematologist for the past 25 years in the Detroit area, Dr. Perrotta has combined his commitment to the medical profession with his love for his Italian heritage. He is active in two Italian-American physicians' organizations, was recently named a ``Top Doc'' in his field by Detroit Monthly magazine, and serves as chairman of the Department of Medicine at Bi-County Community Hospital. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Dr. Perrotta's accomplishments and contributions to our community. On this very special occasion, I extend my very best wishes to him and his wife, Dorothy, and their three children: Augustine, Grace, and Michael.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 82nd anniversary of the Armenian genocide and urge an end to the denial of this atrocity by the government of Turkey. Denial of an event which cost the lives of one and a half million human beings should not and must not be allowed to continue. Throughout 1915 and 1916, the ``Young Turk'' government of the Ottoman Empire conducted a systematic campaign of murder and oppression against the Armenian minority throughout the country; first, rounding up and killing all Armenian political, military, and intellectual leaders, and then, by forcing the remaining Armenians from their homes and ``relocating'' them to camps in the desert where they died from thirst and starvation. At the time, the Armenian genocide was condemned by nearly all European powers. The United States, while neutral at this stage of the war, condemned the massacres and acted as the chief spokesman of behalf of the Armenians and issued strong protests against the reprehensible actions of the Ottoman government. Diplomatic dispatches and newspaper reports tell of deportations, beatings, and mass killing. Our own Ambassador, Henry Morgenthau Sr. wrote in 1915, ``* * * it appears that a campaign of race extermination is in progress under a pretext of reprisal against rebellion.'' Numerous articles appeared in the New York Times throughout August, September, and October of 1915. The articles cite eyewitness accounts from American, Greek, Bulgarian, Turkish, German, and British citizens as well as those from Armenians themselves which tell of widespread atrocities including forced deportations, mass starvation, deliberate drowning, and the sale of women and girls into slavery. Throughout the ``relocation,'' American missionaries and relief workers in Turkey risked their lives to save as many people as possible, namely orphaned children, and brought them to the United States which formed the foundation of today's Armenian-American community. At home in the United States, Americans collected and donated millions of dollars to help feed the survivors of this human tragedy. Following the war, the post-war government of Turkey held war crime trials and sentenced to death the major leaders responsible for the atrocity calling the fact ``proven and verified'' and describing the decision to eradicate the Armenians ``the result of extensive and profound deliberations.'' Repentance soon gave way to denial, as Turkey's post-war government was replaced by Nationalists who made war criminals into national heroes. Today, despite all the facts, eyewitness accounts, recognition by countries throughout the world, and the findings of their own post-war courts, the government of Turkey still refuses to acknowledge the genocide ever occurred. Instead, they claim, as did the Ottoman Empire before them, that they only ``relocated'' the Armenians from the eastern ``war zone'' to a more secure location and that the deaths were caused by the ``brutalities of war.'' Indeed, the government of Turkey goes one step further calling the Armenians ``traitors'' who collaborated with the enemies of the Ottoman Empire during war. The government of Turkey even claims that 2.5 million widely disbursed Armenian men, women, and children were a direct threat militarily to the 17 million and mobilized Turks. As evidence they cite a few scattered incidents of self-defense by Armenians against Turkish death squads. We cannot allow such blatant disregard and denial to go on. Genocide is genocide, no matter how, when, or where it happens. To deny is to accept. We need to remember and commemorate this horrible chapter in human history not only for the survivors and their families, but for ourselves. Respect for human rights and individual diversity are the cornerstones of our society. We cannot afford to forget the past, lest we doom the world to a similar such fate in the future. To me, and to my constituents, the Armenian genocide is not just a footnote in history. In Detroit and its surrounding suburbs lives the third largest Armenian-American community in the United States many of whom are the children and grandchildren of genocide survivors or actual survivors themselves. Mr. Speaker, for myself and my constituents, I rise today to urge the government of Turkey to end its denial and accept its past, no matter how painful. Only then can we all move forward to the future and stop these atrocities from repeating themselves over and over again.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, in exactly 100 days many thousands of elderly and disabled legal immigrants in our country will lose their only source of financial support, SSI, unless this Congress acts. This is not about welfare reform, it is about community responsibility. It is not about moving a young parent from welfare to work, but about elderly people who cannot work. It is not about people who came here illegally, but people who came here under our laws, who now find themselves disabled, most often because of age and illness: Asian-Americans caught up in the Vietnam war, often fighting on our side; Arab-Americans, many of whom fled the land of Saddam Hussein; people who, despite in numerous cases having defended their native land against Nazi invaders, left because of Soviet persecution against Jewish families; Hispanic-Americans dislocated by war or in pursuit of family reunification. When the President signed the Personal Responsibility Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act, he made it completely clear he would propose legislation this year to correct the provisions on legal immigrants. Today I am introducing the bill that the President has proposed.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to salute the Honorable Michael A. Martone, an Oakland County District Court judge from Troy, MI who will receive the Italian-American of the Year Award. This award, presented to Judge Martone by the Italian-American Study Group of Troy, is in recognition of his outstanding and continued commitment to the youth of our community. Judge Martone has developed and implemented a unique alcohol and drug intervention program which actually brings the courtroom to middle and high schools. His program, dubbed ``Court in the Schools: Critical Life Choices,'' illustrates to young adults the lifelong consequences of failing to think critically and breaking the law. On September 9, 1996, Judge Martone gained national recognition for his efforts to establish the program around the nation when he was profiled on NBC's ``Today Show.'' More than 12,500 students have participated in the program, not only in Michigan but in New York, Missouri, Florida, and Arkansas. In addition to continuing his expansion of ``Court in the Schools,'' Judge Martone remains active in the community as a volunteer with the Troy Community Coalition, Oakland County's HAVEN Courage House, and the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Judge Martone's accomplishments and outstanding contributions to the youth of our Nation. On this special occasion, I send my very best wishes to him and his wife, Martha Rose and their two sons, Jonathan and James.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, over the past two decades, college tuition costs have skyrocketed by over 200 percent while median household income increased by just 82 percent. Increasing college tuition has caused many students to rely more and more on college loans and other forms of aid to finance their way through college. The average student loan has risen from $518 in 1980 to $2,417 in 1995. In total, student loan debt has reached an all time high of $24 billion. Education is a high priority, and we have to find other ways to finance it besides sinking our children into debt. That's why I am introducing this bill that would allow families to exclude from income tax any educational assistance provided by their employers toward the education of their children. Several companies have already taken the lead in providing this kind of assistance. for example, General Motors [GM], Ford Motor Co., Chrysler Corp., and the United Auto Workers [UAW] have developed the Scholarship Program for Dependent Children. Under GM's program, the auto maker will provide up to $1,000 annually in tuition assistance for each dependent child of active, retired, or deceased GM workers who are pursuing post-secondary education or training. We need to encourage this kind of employer-employee partnership to meet the needs of working Americans without expanding the size of Government. This legislation would do just that. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to cosponsor this bill and support employer-employee cooperation in education.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I do not favor late-term abortions and feel they should only be allowed when necessary to preserve the life of or prevent serious health consequences to the mother. The bill we are considering today, like the similar bill I opposed last year, does not protect a woman from serious threats to her health--from serious threats to her future ability to have children. Unfortunately, the leadership did not allow us to consider an alternative today that does provide an exception to preserve the life of the mother or to prevent serious health consequences to the mother. I support the Greenwood-Hoyer legislation that would ban all late-term abortions--not just those considered ``partial-birth'' abortions in H.R. 1122--except in cases when necessary to preserve the life of or to prevent serious health consequences to the mother, as required by the Supreme Court.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to indicate that on Thursday, March 6, I accompanied the President of the United States to my home State of Michigan where he discussed education and the challenge of moving people from welfare to work. As a result, I missed rollcall votes 32 through 35. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay'' on rollcall votes 32 and 35, and ``yea'' on rollcall votes 33 and 34.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Patricia Gordon, a certified professional secretary, on the occasion of winning the 1997 Secretary of the Year. This award is an honor of distinction based on business experience, education, and Professional Secretaries International activities. Ms. Gordon has been an office professional for 23 years, with the last 10 years spent in service to East Detroit public schools. She also has earned her real estate license and is the mother of four. She is looking forward to continuing her education earning a degree in business. She has been active in the Macomb Chapter of Professional Secretaries International organization since 1993 and served her organization as the cochairperson for the 1996 Michigan Division Annual Meeting. And so, Mr. Speaker, today, I commend and congratulate Patricia Gordon on the honor of winning 1997 Secretary of the Year. I extend my best wishes and good luck in the future.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the gentleman yielding me this time. I rise in support of the Hong Kong Reversion Act, which affirms United States support for the autonomy of Hong Kong. When 21 other House Members and I visited Hong Kong and China in January, we saw firsthand the need for this legislation. Chinese Government representatives assured us that they would pursue the one China, two systems policy. The question was then and is now whether this means two political as well as two economic systems, whether political freedom will be preserved in Hong Kong alongside economic freedom. We are concerned about this because of the intrinsic value of political freedom itself, because political freedom enhances economic freedom, and because, as shown by nations like Singapore, economic freedom does not necessarily lead to political freedom. That is why we told C.H. Tung, China's supported chief executive for Hong Kong, that we were concerned about Beijing's decision to dissolve the democratically elected legislative counsel of Hong Kong. I asked Mr. Tung directly, ``Do you personally assure us that within a year after July 1 there will be a democratically elected legislative body in Hong Kong?'' He said ``yes.'' We should insist that Mr. Tung abide by this promise to restore democracy next year. Unfortunately, events since we left Hong Kong have pointed in a different direction, restriction of the rights to speech, assembly, and association. This bill makes clear the resolute expectation of the House that two systems within one China should mean political as well as economic freedom for Hong Kong. For in the end, the future of human rights in Hong Kong will impact the future of human rights in mainland China and indeed the future of human rights throughout the world.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, the recent increase in drug use among young people is a national tragedy. Studies have shown, both nationally and in my home State of Michigan, that drug use among young people has risen steadily over the past 5 years. Since 1991, marijuana use has almost doubled in all age groups. And there has been a dramatic increase in the use of alcohol and tobacco, the precursors to trying other more dangerous drugs. There are faces behind these numbers. In recent months, I have spent time with high school students throughout my district. What I found was alarming. It leads me to believe that the statistics may underestimate the challenge we face. Many students I spoke with had no real perception of the risks and dangers associated with drug and substance abuse. In one school, the very first question I was asked was about, and the main preoccupation appeared to be the legalization of drugs. In another instance, young women in the audience were indifferent toward the addictiveness of tobacco products and their effect during pregnancy, or on long-term health. It was clear to me from these and other discussions that there was a lack of adequate frank discussion of these issues, either at home or at school. Today, we are introducing the Drug-Free Communities Act of 1997, to help support community-based coalitions in the fight against teenage drug use. Community-based coalitions in my district in Michigan have successfully reduced substance abuse and related crimes in targeted areas. This bill would support communities undertaking similar local initiatives in their own neighborhoods. The idea is simple. Bring together all segments of the community-- parents, students, teachers, police officers, clergy, health care providers, government officials, and others--to develop a community- wide strategy to combat drug and substance abuse. The community-based approach makes sense because drugs do not just impact the people who abuse them. Drugs harm entire communities by threatening our work force, our health and economic security, and our values. These coalitions are homegrown, and empower local communities to solve their own problems. They reduce duplicative efforts and better focus limited resources. Coalitions foster partnership between the public and private sector, and can draw upon a variety of financial resources. In the district I represent, this community-based approach has yielded concrete results. It has brought a sense of community back into our neighborhoods. It empowers neighborhoods to improve their own lives through increased community interaction, awareness, and activity. In the spring of 1995, the Troy Community Coalition targeted drug use and related crimes in one apartment complex through the Neighbor-by- Neighbor Program. Since this initiative began, marijuana use and possession is down 50 percent in targeted areas. Assault and battery is down 15.4 percent. Vandalism is down 50 percent. Child abuse is down 50 percent. Neighborhood awareness has also improved. The Troy Police Department reports that local citizens are much more likely to report suspicious activities in their neighborhoods. Suspicious incident reports are up an astonishing 250 percent. Our communities have instituted a policy of zero tolerance toward youth substance abuse, whether it be smoking a cigarette, drinking a beer, or abusing illegal drugs. The law enforcement community and the court system are working hand-in-hand to make sure that juveniles who abuse alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs are punished. This ``zero tolerance'' approach involves every member of the community, not just the police and the courts. School officials, parents, and other community leaders help to identify repeat offenders early on, and correct unacceptable behavior before it becomes a problem. This legislation builds upon an approach which has already been shown to work. Community antidrug coalitions have yielded dramatic results in Michigan, and in other communities across the country. I am proud that I have the opportunity to join with my colleagues, Mr. Portman, Mr. Rangel, and Mr. Hastert, to introduce this important piece of antidrug legislation.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I join Chairman Archer and the ranking member in strong support of H.R. 668. It is vital that the House take action today to reinforce funding for the airport and airway trust fund. H.R. 668 temporarily restores the 10 percent passenger ticket tax and other airport and airway trust fund excise taxes which lapsed last December 31. This legislation extends these excise taxes through September 30, 1997. Prompt enactment of this legislation is essential to our Nation's air transportation system. Failure to do so would result in the airport trust fund having inadequate revenues to support airport capital improvements and safety enhancements beyond March 1997. While H.R. 668 addresses the short-term solvency of the airport and airway trust fund, Congress must do a better job of ensuring a dependable revenue stream to support our Nation's air transportation system. The excise taxes supporting the airport trust fund first expired at midnight on December 31, 1995. Despite pleas from some of us for immediate action, Congress sat on its hands for nearly 9 months before reinstating the excise taxes on August 27, 1996. Then, 5 months later, Congress let the excise taxes lapse again. Now, once again, we're temporarily extending the taxes until September 30. Certainly, there's a lot of interest in restructuring the ticket taxes that support the airport trust fund. I personally believe the current excise tax is inequitable and should be restructured so that the financial cost of maintaining our Nation's air transportation system is more fairly spread among those who use the system. Congress should explore all the options to make the ticket tax as fair as possible. I hope my colleagues will agree that we should resolve this matter promptly so this debate will never again disrupt the air transportation system.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Chairman, the vote is not about whether we are pro- choice or pro-life on abortion. This vote is whether life for hundreds of thousands of families who choose to plan their families will include a real chance to do so, not whether or not abortion will be available to that family. Some today will vote for both the privileged resolution and for the Smith resolution. What Mr. Smith is saying to them is that, without the Smith resolution being part of the law, a vote for the privileged resolution is a vote for spending U.S. dollars on abortion-related activities. That is not--not--correct. Since 1973, the Helms amendment has prohibited the use of U.S. dollars to perform, support, or encourage abortions overseas, and that mandate has been followed in good faith by the U.S. Government. Indeed, in order to ensure its implementation, and sensitive to the argument about the fungibility of moneys, when I was assistant administrator of AID, we instituted in the late 1970's a rigorous system to separate out U.S. moneys from other funds spent by organizations receiving American funds. This practice has been followed assiduously by every administration of AID, as indicated by audits certifying that not $1 of American funds is being used for abortion-related activities overseas. Further, the organizations which have received American funds and have been the subject of most controversy, in practice use either no funds from any source or in any case a negligible amount for any programs related to abortion. So this is the question, really: When the United States is fully abiding by the Helms amendment, when the Government has taken every possible step to separate American funds so no American money is being used for abortion-related activities, and when there is no real fungibility as to U.S. dollars, do we want to stop the availability of critical funds for family planning, for voluntary family planning programs desired by millions of families in fast-growing developing countries? Mr. Chairman, I urge that the answer for each of us is to vote for the privileged resolution.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize David A. Lathers, a dedicated teacher, principal, and community activist on the occasion of his retirement after 45 years of service to the Utica community schools. Since the fall of 1973, and the opening of Henry Ford II High School in Sterling Heights, David Lathers has served as principal. During his 24 year stewardship of Henry Ford II High School, David Lathers has been an advocate of strong professional standards and high student expectations. His efforts and encouragement have resulted in a number of academic success stories and innovative pilot programs at Ford II. The Far Eastern Institute, a Japanese language, history, and culture course was developed, piloted and resulted in a sister school program with Japan. The first commercial food program and commercial art programs in the district were developed at Ford II. In 1985, Henry Ford II High School was awarded the State Exemplary School Award, the first school in Macomb County to receive this award. And more recently, in 1996, the Ford II marching band was selected to perform in the Rose Bowl Parade. His commitment to the community has been equally impressive. David Lathers was instrumental in organizing a Kiwanis Club in Sterling Heights, establishing KEY Clubs at Ford II and Eisenhower High Schools and serving as a board member and vice-president of the West Macomb Y.M.C.A. In 1993, colleagues from the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals recognized David's tremendous contributions by naming him the outstanding principal of the year. And so, Mr. Speaker, while we reflect on the passing of an era for Henry Ford II High, we commend David Lathers for his lifetime commitment to the community, school district, and thousands of students upon whose lives he has made an impact. I extend my sincerest wishes for a healthful, rewarding, and productive retirement.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, as this session ends, an era is coming to an end in Michigan. After 32 years of commitment and dedication, Richard M. Lobenthal has led an impassioned fight against prejudice and discrimination as it affects all human beings. As the Michigan director of ADL, Mr. Lobenthal established a reputation as an advocate for the Jewish community speaking out against anti-Semitism and hate crimes. The mission of the Anti-Defamation League is to preserve and translate into greater effectiveness the ideals of American Democracy. Mr. Lobenthal's advancement of this mission encompassed all minorities and extended beyond the borders of the United States. Mr. Lobenthal has served in leadership positions on various boards and has been the recipient of numerous awards. He is a founder and past president of the Ecumenical Institute for Jewish-Christian Studies. He is also a founding board member of the Michigan Coalition for Human Rights and served as a cochair of the Bias Crimes Response Task Force of the Michigan Department of Civil Rights. Appointed by Governor Blanchard in 1987, Mr. Lobenthal served on the Michigan Council for the Humanities. In 1989, he was appointed by the Michigan Chiefs of Police as a consultant on anti-democratic movements. In 1989, Mr. Lobenthal's expertise was sought by the West German government in their study of social and political movements in Europe and Germany and their effects on democratic structure. In 1993, Mr. Lobenthal was named as an American consultant to an international conference in Sofia, Bulgaria aimed at reducing ethnic tension. I have been privileged to know Dick Lobenthal personally. For three decades, he has been a leader in the fight against injustice, anywhere and at anytime. Indeed, all of us have benefitted from his untiring efforts and dedication. He will be deeply missed.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, on Sunday, October 20, Congregation Shir Tikvah will break ground for their permanent home, a house of worship in the heart of Troy. Congregation Shir Tikvah was founded 14 years ago when Pam Spitzer and Phyllis Wenig met in an elementary school parking lot. Recognizing the need for a worship community for Jewish families in the area, 18 families came together and the number quickly grew to 70. Today, Congregation Shir Tikvah has a membership of 240 families. Until now, the congregation has held its services in the Morman, Catholic, Lutheran, Presbyterian, Unitarian, and Methodist Churches. The cross- cultural enrichment from these exchanges of hospitality fostered outreach to people of other faiths. Shir Tikvah's Ark houses a sacred Torah which was seized after World War II in Nazi Germany. It travelled from Germany to England and then to Detroit. Led by Rabbi Arnie Sleutelberg, the congregation is open and welcome to all. It is a place to gather for spiritual growth, education, and socialization. Rabbi Arnie and his congregants are an active presence in the faith community of the area. Shir Takvah translates as ``Son of Hope,'' and the congregation's groundbreaking on October 20 is, indeed, a symbol of their hope for the future. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the members of Congregation Shir Tikvah on the realization of their dream, and I wish them continued success.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, as the House adjourns today, I want to be certain that we take the fullest note of one of this year's most regrettable events, the death of Alexander Manoogian. Mr. Manoogian was a towering figure in the Armenian-American community and beyond. He built the Masco Corporation into a major business entity in this nation. He used his wealth with immense generosity for the benefit of his immediate community and the nation at large. We are thankful that he was given a long and full life. That will only make it more difficult to fill the vacuum which his death leaves for us all. In further remembrance of Alexander Manoogian, I now insert into the Congressional Record an article written after his death by Dennis Papazian, a distinguished scholar as well as a leader in the Armenian- American community. A Befitting Tribute to a Great Man (By Dennis R. Papazian, Ph.D.) The Alex Manoogian era of Armenian history, spanning 95 years, has come to a close. His earthly remains were laid to rest with great dignity and solemn ceremony at the majestic, cathedral-like St. John's Armenian Church of Greater Detroit, which he helped to design and build, on Thursday, July 18, 1996. The dan gark (wake) and funeral, both held in the church, were presided over by His Holiness Karekin I, Supreme Patriarch and Catholicos of All Armenians from Armenia and carried out with the ministrations of several diocesan Primates, a host of bishops and archbishops, and a score of other clergymen and deacons representing the Armenian Church in America, Armenia, and in the diaspora. Also represented at the funeral were clergy of the Armenian protestant churches, the Armenian uniate Catholic Church, the Armenian Prelacy, as well as many sister American churches. A delegation of government officials from Armenia, led by former vice-president of the Republic and current President of the Constitutional Court, Mr. Gagik Haroutunian, had flown in from Armenia to show their deep respect and abiding affection for the Honorary Citizen of Armenia and the ``National Hero of the Armenian People.'' Leaders of the Armenian community and virtually every Armenian organization and political party in the diaspora were represented at the funeral, including members of the Diocesan Council, the Board of Directors of the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU), the Armenian Assembly of America, the Armenian Democratic Liberal Party, the Armenian Revolutionary Federation, and a host of others. Leaders of the American community, from business, government, and philantrophy, were visibly in attendance. Distinguished American political figures in attendance included the governor of Michigan, the Honorable John Engler; the former governor of Michigan and current American Ambassador to Canada, the Honorable James Blanchard; various members of the state House and Senate; and representatives of Senators Carl Levin and Spencer Abraham as well as of the Michigan US Congressional delegation, including the Hon. Sander Levin. The dan gark was also attended by the Honorable Dennis Archer, mayor of Detroit, as well as by other civic dignitaries. The cavernous church was filled to overflowing on the occasion of both the dan gark and the funeral with mourners who had come from literally all over the world to pay their last tribute to a great Armenian-American. Distinguished personages arrived from as far as Armenia and Australia and from Canada to Latin America, to pay homage to perhaps the greatest Armenian philanthropist and leader of the 20th century. Mr. Manoogian's rich and active life spanned 95 years, from the turn of the century to the present, from the genocide of 1915 to the inauguration of the second free and independent Armenian Republic. The homily at the dan gark was delivered by His Eminence Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America, from New York, who was introduced by the pastor of St. John's Church of South field, MI, the Very Rev. Fr. Baret Yeretzian, who also expressed his love, respect, and devotion for Mr. Manoogian. Archbishop Shane Ajemian from Jerusalem read the Epistle and Archbishop Vatche Hovsepian, Primate of the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of America, chanted the Gospel. Archbishop Hovnan Derderian, Primate of Canada, recited the ``Christos vorti,'' Archbishop Mesrob Ashjian of New York read a message of condolence from His Holiness Aram, I, Catholiocos of the Great House of Cilicia, in Lebanon. The formal eulogy at the funeral, filled with insight and pathos worthy of the solemn occasion, was delivered by His Holiness the Catholicos who drew attention to Mr. Manoogian's love for his own people, for the world community, for the Armenian Church, for the good works of the AGBU, for Armenian education and culture, and for all people great any small in America and throughout the world. Before making his formal remarks, the Catholicos prayed for the souls of the 230 persons who had tragically lost their lives the previous day in the TWA plane crash. Fr. Zaven Arzoumanian of Florida read the Epistle and Archbishop Karekin Nersesian of Armenia chanted the Gospel. Archbishop Mesrob Ashjian recited the ``Christos vorti.'' The Catholicos chose for the scriptural theme of his address a reading from the Gospel of St. Matthew 26:31-46. `` `Come, you whom my Father has blessed, take for your heritage the kingdom prepared for you since the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food; I was thirsty and you gave me drink I was a stranger and you made me welcome; naked and you clothed me, sick and you visited me, in prison and you came to see me.' Then the virtuous will say to him in reply, `Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you; or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and make you welcome; naked and clothe you; sick or in prison and go to see you?'' And the King will answer, `I tell you solemnly, in so far as you did this to one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did it to me.' '' Surely, said the Catholicos, this exemplifies the life of Mr. Alex Manoogian. At the end of the funeral, His Holiness the Catholicos united the mourners in inviting all of them to join in the singing of the Hayr Mer. (the Lord's Prayer). As the pipe organ soared, the voice of the congregation filled the cavernous church with brilliant song with testified to the faith and hope of the people. The clergy and the congregation marched in solemn procession from the church into the Armenian Cultural Building for the memorial meal which was attended by nearly 1,000 mourners. His Eminence Archbishop Vatche Hovsepian give the invocation. Loving comments on the personal life of Mr. Manoogian were made by Mrs. Louise Simone, President of the Armenian General Benevolent Union, and Mr. Richard Manoogian, Chairman of the Board of MASCO Corporation, Mr. Manoogian's daughter and son. Mr. Gagik Haroutunian delivered the condolences of His Excellency Levon Ter Petrosian, president of Armenia, and offered his own words, of sympathy on behalf of the entire delegation from the Republic of Armenia. Mrs. Simone then read telegrams of condolence from President Bill Clinton of the United States and President Levon Ter Petrosian of Armenia. Telegrams were also announced from His Beatitude Torkorn Manoogian, Armenian Patriarch of Jerusalem, and His Beatitude Karekin Kazanjian, Armenian Patriarch of Constantinople (Istanbul), which were among the thousands receive from dignitaries and common folk from all over the world. Archbishop Karekin Nersesian of the diocese of Ararat in Armenia give the benediction. ``Today the entire Armenian nation is mourning, as we take part in the funeral services of our Patriarch,'' said Mr. Haroutiunian during his remarks. ``Alex Manoogian's death is a tremendous loss not only for the Armenian people. . . . Mr. Manoogian was an epoch-making phenomenon who shaped history. He gave charity a new meaning and new content; he set an example for teaching how to live with one's people and nation. He taught how to impart devotion and love.'' The color-saturated interior of the sanctuary, illuminated by shafts of light pouring through the narrow, richly colored stained glass windows and by dim golden lamps suspended from the great parabola arches, was tastefully decorated by large bouquets of white roses with cascading ivy. The black robes and cowls of the numerous clergy stood is stark and solemn contrast to the resplendent, although muted church. The Komitas Choir of St. John's Armenian Church was conducted by Maestro Khoren Meikhanedjian of New York and accompanied by Mrs. Louise Yardumian of St. Petersburg, FL. Soloists included Ms. Maro Partamian of New York and a quartet comprised of Mrs. Violet Cholakian, Mrs. Arlene Baylerian, Mrs. Denise Karakashian, and Mrs. Barbara Widener of metropolitan Detroit, who sang moving sharagans (hymns) during the funeral service. Closed circuit television carried the services into the lobby, the chapel, and the nursery of the attached Cultural Building where elegant tables were set up to supplement the 700-seat Cultural Hall from where the ceremonies of the hokejash (memorial meal), served to almost 1,000 persons, were also telecast. Entombment services, held by the His Holiness the Catholicos and the numerous clergy from Armenia, Europe, and America, took place at Woodlawn Cemetery following the hokejash with only family members in attendance. The casket was covered by earth brought from Armenia by Mr. Haroutiunian, and the tomb was sealed by the Catholicos with a cross. The site will be marked by a elegant kachkar (cross- stone) brought from Armenia by the Catholicos. ``No one was invited to the funeral,'' said the pastor of St. John's, Fr. Baret Yeretzian, ``that is not the custom. Everyone, clergy and laity, attended of his own desire out of love and respect for Mr. Manoogian. The funeral and dan gark, attended by 2,000 persons over two days, were a fitting memorial to a great and generous man.'' ``Mr. Manoogian's genius lay in his determination to resurrect the Armenian people after the genocide of 1915,'' said Dr. Dennis R. Papazian, a professor of history at the University of Michigan, Dearborn, and a resident of Troy, MI, ``to rebuild the Armenian Church, to encourage a free and independent Armenia, to preserve and expand Armenian culture, and to help the Armenian people return to their rightful place in the family of nations and in world history. We have truly lost a great champion of the Armenian people.'' ``We must also not lose sight of the fact that Mr. Manoogian was a great American. In fact his life was a monumental testimony to the greatness of America. Where else in the world could a man rise from a poor immigrant to a captain of industry, from a homeless boy to a great world- wide philanthropist? Surely Mr. Manoogian represented the American dream, and he never forgot it. He gave to all sorts of American causes. We are all the poorer for his passing. He will be sorely missed.'' The pallbearers were Mr. Manoogian's grandsons and nephews: James Manoogian, Richard Manoogian, Jr., David Simone, Mark Simone, Brian Manoogian, Douglas Manoogian, Chris Christo, and Paul Christo. Security for the various dignitaries in attendance was provided by the Michigan State Police and Masco Corporation. The Parish Council of St. John's Church, along with the Pastor, were active in preparation and administration. Cynthia Oknaian provided coordination with the various groups involved on behalf of the Church.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, on November 6, 1996, the 1996 B'nai B'rith International Great American Traditions Award will be presented by B'nai B'rith Foundation of the United States to Timothy D. Leuliette. Timothy Leuliette plays a leading role in American industry, as President and CEO of ITT Automotive. Under his leadership, that company has become a world leader in the design, production, and sales of high technology systems and components. The award recognizes that as absorbing as has been Mr. Leuliette's responsibilities in the corporate world, he has found time to apply his talents and dedication to the community at large. His efforts reflect his concerns about our Nation's children, as witnessed by his activities with Boy Scouts of America and the Children's center, about our Nation's health, as seen in his work with the Leukemia Society of America, the Hospice of Southeastern Michigan and the Arthritis Foundation, and about the employment and training of the next generation, as found in his work with Junior Achievement and Detroit Renaissance. The roster of the Honorary Committee for the dinner exemplifies the deep respect with which Tim Leuliette is held. It cuts across virtually all community lines--economic, regional, religious, and political. It is my privilege to have come to know Timothy Leuliette and to join in paying tribute to him and to his community endeavors.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the men and women of the Lions Club of Utica who celebrate 50 years of outstanding service to the community. Since their founding in October 1946, the Lions have been at the forefront of efforts to improve the neighborhoods of Utica and beyond. This year alone, the Lions Club raised $28,000, all of which will be donated to charity. These donations represent long hours of hard work by dedicated members who collect pledges $1 at a time. The Lions Club has a long tradition of providing services for the blind including a meaningful partnership with Leader Dogs for the Blind. In addition, the Lions have provided uniforms for the Utica High School Band and has helped finance excursions for both the Utica and Ford High School Bands to numerous destinations. Over the years, I have had the pleasure of becoming acquainted with many Lions and have observed first-hand the commitment and generosity of these men and women. Mr. Speaker, on Friday, October 4, the Lions Club of Utica will celebrate 50 years of service with a commemorative dinner at Club Monte Carlo. I would like to offer my sincere appreciation for their charitable work and encourage them to continue their rich tradition of serving the community for many years to come.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, on Tuesday, September 24, David Hermelin will receive from the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit an award of unusual distinction, the Fred M. Butzel Award for Distinguished Community Service. David Hermelin is synonymous with community. Community in its fullest and broadest sense. Like few others, his efforts have been as extensive as they have been intensive. He has been a pillar within the Jewish Community of Metropolitan Detroit. He is President of World ORT Union, a member of the Board of Governors of the Jewish Federation, Vice Chairman of the United Jewish Appeal, and a Director-at-Large of the United Synagogue for Conservative Judaism. He has been a linchpin in a variety of efforts critical to the security and well-being of the State of Israel and to amicable relations between the United States and Israel. His efforts has touched almost every other aspect of community life in and about Michigan. He has been deeply involved in the health needs of our State, as evidenced by his active work with the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute and Children's Hospital, among others. He has been instrumental in the flourishing of the arts, highlighted by his key role with the Detroit Symphony and Orchestra Hall, the Detroit Institute of Arts and the new Opera House of the Michigan Opera. David Hermelin has also been active in the business world. His endeavors have spanned his highly successful insurance business to his role in the development of Palace of Auburn Hills. While I have been lucky to know David Hermelin personally for many years, I do not know his middle name. Perhaps it is Peripatetic. David Hermelin has set an example for all to emulate, though few, if any, could quite do so. Amidst all of this whirlwind of activity, David Hermelin has always found time for his beloved family. He and his wife Doreen have never lost sight of a central tenet of their heritage--the family comes first. I join the very large extended family of David Hermelin's friends and admirers in extending heartiest congratulations on his receipt of the Butzel Award.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I do not favor late-term abortions and believe they should only be allowed in cases where the life or health of the mother is threatened. I voted to sustain the President's veto because the bill does not allow a physician to take into account even serious threats to a woman's health, as the Supreme Court has required. I would have voted for H.R. 1833 if there had been an exception to allow their procedure where there is medical evidence that the health of the mother is indeed threatened.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Rev. Carlyle F. Stewart III, who has provided many years of dedicated service to the Detroit metropolitan community. Dr. Stewart has been the pastor of Hope United Methodist Church in Southfield, MI for the past 13 years. He is a leader who reaches out to the community offering spiritual guidance and enrichment. He listens to people. He leads. Dr. Stewart is the cofounder of the Detroit Black United Methodist Youth Scholarship Committee which has awarded over $60,000 in scholarships to black United Methodist youths in the Detroit area. In addition, Dr. Stewart is the founder of the National African-American Youth Assistance Leadership Institute, Citizens Against Violence, and the Southfield Education Action Committee. Currently, Dr. Stewart is actively involved in the Boys to Men mentoring program for African- American males and the Bandele Project of the Spaulding Institute which finds homes for African-American children. This list of Dr. Stewart's accomplishments represents only the tip of the iceberg concerning his many initiatives dedicated to improving peoples' lives. Under the leadership of Dr. Stewart, it is no surprise that the congregation at Hope United Methodist Church has been growing dramatically. I have been privileged to know Dr. Stewart over the years and to participate in a variety of activities in his church. Mr. Speaker, on Saturday, September 21, Reverend Stewart will be honored in the city of Southfield. There will be a theatrical performance based on Dr. Stewart's book, ``Street Corner Theology: Indigenous Reflections on the Reality of God in the African-American Experience.'' Many officials and other dignitaries will gather to recognize Dr. Carlyle Stewart's numerous accomplishments over the years. I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to Rev. Carlyle F. Stewart III, for his outstanding service to our community.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, on Monday, October 7, Kelly Services, Inc. will celebrate the golden anniversary of their founding. Employees and customers throughout the world will attend events recognizing the 50 years of business which William Russell Kelly started on October 7, 1946. A major event will take place at the company headquarters in Troy, MI. From first year sales of $847.72 in 1946 to current sales of several billion dollars, Kelly Services has grown globally with the changing climate of business. From Russell Kelly Office Service to their World Wide Web site, Kelly has been at the forefront of change, anticipating their customers' needs and adapting to serve them. Always a staffing services industry leader, Kelly began expanding to other States in 1954 and was in all 50 States by 1979. The first international office was opened in Toronto in 1968, the first European office in Paris in 1972, and new offices continue to open in cities around the world. Today there are 1,300 locations in North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. ``Temps'' are available to fill office, labor, technical, scientific, home health care, legal support, and temporary-to-full time vacancies. Kelly Services defined the standard of industry competition by pioneering programs for the training, testing, and classification of temporary employee skills, enabling them to better serve their clients, both managers and workers. During more than 30 years of leadership, current president and CEO, Terrence E. Adderly has guided the development of a proud history. Along the way, Kelly Services has garnered a whole host of awards, including 1988 Detroit Press Michigan Company of the Year, 1990 Forbes Best Business Services and Supplies Company for the 1990's, Blue Cross/ Blue Shield Savings and Service Excellence Award, National Displaced Homemakers Network Partners in Change Award, U.S. Defense Investigative Service James S. Cogswell Award for Outstanding Industrial Security Achievement, and Michigan Minority Business Development Council Consumer and Commercial Services Corporation of the Year. From ``Kelly Girls,'' an icon of the post-World War II era, to the current impressive and diverse array of staffing employees and services, Kelly Services, Inc. has truly earned the respect and confidence of people throughout the world. I salute their accomplishments and join their employees and customers everywhere in this celebration.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, on Friday, September 27, I will be privileged to attend the 10th annual dinner dance held by the Sterling Heights Fire Fighters Union Local No. 1557. Five retiring firefighters will be recognized on that occasion. Among them are distinguished captains, and a fire inspector, training chief, and fire marshal--all recipients of honor awards and letters of gratitude. Together they have given over 123 years of dedicated service to the citizens of the city of Sterling Heights. Repeatedly over the past three decades each of them has unselfishly risked his life to protect the safety and property of Sterling Heights residents. The Sterling Heights Fire Department doesn't just fight fires--they are called upon by the community for other kinds of service, too. And so these men will also be remembered for their individual qualities-- for fine drawing work on fire pumper proposals, for fine departmental photographic work, for the quality of prayer offered and a divine singing voice when it was needed, for their work on previous retirement parties, and for citizen training and community open house participation. Mr. Speaker, I mention each individual firefighter's name and years of service today so that all Americans will know of their outstanding contribution and commitment to the people of Sterling Heights and surrounding communities: Capt. David W. Hagen, hired as a fireman January 15, 1973, died October 31, 1995--in memoriam; Chief of Training John Frisch, hired as a fireman August 23, 1971; Fire Inspector Bruce N. Cann, hired as a fireman January 4, 1971; Capt. Edward J. Burley, hired as a fireman January 4, 1971; and Inspector John (Jack) Swiatkowski, hired as a fireman January 4, 1971. Jack and Marge Swiatkowski, have been friends of mine for many years. They have been active in government--Marge is a former Commissioner, the community, and the union for a long time. I offer special congratulations to him. These gentlemen have earned the appreciation and respect of their community. Mr. Speaker, for this dedication, and uncommon valor, I pay tribute to these gentlemen and I join my neighbors in saluting them on the occasion of their retirement.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Officer Mark Oliverio of the Sterling Heights Police Department on his receipt of the 1996 DARE Officer of the Year Award for Michigan. Through the Drug Abuse and Resistance Education Program, Officer Oliverio has been a positive influence in the lives of hundreds of children in Sterling Heights, MI. For the last 5\1/2\ years, Officer Oliverio has taught 5th and 6th graders how to say ``no'' to the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse. In his own words, Officer Oliverio said ``I wanted to get in, and in my own way, fight the drug problem.'' Clearly, Officer Oliverio is achieving this goal. The DARE Officer of the Year Award recognizes Officer Oliverio's contributions to the community which extend beyond DARE instruction. Officer Oliverio still maintains a close relationship with the students of Havel Elementary School. He often ate lunch with students and attended extra curricular activities. In addition, he provided crisis counseling to students following a fatal bicycle accident. Havel Principal Robert Koenigsknecht said, ``He is always here for us.'' Over the years, my staff and I have attended many successful DARE graduations under the able guidance of Officer Oliverio. His compassion and dedication to his students is unmistakable. Mr. Speaker, I would like to extend my congratulations to Officer Oliverio on behalf of the children whose lives he has touched and the community he has enriched.

Mr. LEVIN

Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Concurrent Resolution 120 which commends Ukraine for its significant progress toward democratic and economic reform since it declared its independence 5 years ago. Under the able leadership of President Leonid Kuchma and the Parliament, Ukraine has made great strides in reform. Namely, they adopted a new constitution in June and stayed on the course of a vigorous economic reform initiative that has set the country on the track toward strength and stability. Under the economic plan, inflation has gone from the overwhelming level of 10,000 percent in 1993 to 181 percent in 1995 to an anticipated level of about 40 to 45 percent by the end of this year. Privatization efforts in Ukraine, while moving slowly, are now gaining momentum. By the end of 1995, the state had sold off 38 percent of its assets and privatized small enterprises at a rate of 400 per month. By the end of this year, Ukrainian officials hope to have five of Ukraine's largest enterprises sold off. Because of such efforts GDP has grown by 5 percent and average income levels have risen by over 100 percent. In addition to its economic achievements, Ukraine has also become an important factor in the new security arrangement in Europe. The country has fully complied with all reductions in force under the Conventional Forces in Europe Agreement. Furthermore, Ukraine is an active participant in NATO's Partnership for Peace Program. Most importantly, Ukraine has dismantled its nuclear arsenal which it inherited from the Soviet Union and has signed onto the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. The new constitution adopted overwhelmingly in June by Ukraine's Rada by a vote of 315 to 36 with 12 members abstaining, establishes Ukraine as an independent and democratic state. The new constitution guarantees the rights of minorities, including allowing for the autonomy of the Republic of Crimea within its borders. Furthermore, it sets the stage for that country's next elections to take place for Parliament in 1998 and for President in 1999. While Ukraine still has many problems to deal with, in particular commercial law reform, Chernobyl, and its energy shortfall, the framework now exists with the new constitution to make even more substantial progress over the next few years. Such progress deserves the support of the United States. I urge all my colleagues to vote for the resolution and take a good hard look at Ukraine. Congress needs to provide assistance to ensure that this country remains on the path toward democracy and a free market economy. The House should soon get its chance if an agreement is reached on the fiscal year 1997 Foreign Operations appropriation which will hopefully include $225 million in earmarked aid for Ukraine. This money will be used to help support needed infrastructure changes within Ukraine and help to shore up Ukraine's nuclear energy program.