William Lipinski

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I simply want to say that I appreciate very much the cooperation, the consideration given to me in crafting this bill by the gentleman from Tennessee, Chairman Duncan. I want to congratulate the staff on the Republican side and the Democratic side for working on this and coming up with this legislation. I salute them all. I urge passage of this bill. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, Chairman Duncan and I introduced H.R. 3267 following the tragic death of 7-year-old Jessica Dubroff on April 11, 1996, while trying to set a record as the youngest pilot. This legislation has widespread support in the aviation community because the bill allows the FAA to study whether further restrictions should be placed on children flying aircraft instead of establishing a minimum age at which a child can manipulate the controls of an aircraft in the statute. I believe that it may well be appropriate for us to establish such a minimum age, but I am willing to wait until the FAA completes its study before taking any action. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 3267 is responsible legislation that addresses the issue without overreacting. I urge its adoption. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Minnesota [Mr. Oberstar], ranking member of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself as much time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I join the chairman in expressing my strong support for H.R. 3159, the National Transportation Safety Board Amendments of 1996. This legislation reauthorizes the NTSB for 3 years, and makes a number of changes requested by the NTSB to allow the Board to continue its excellent work. As this bill moved through the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I repeatedly observed that the NTSB is probably the most respected Government entity in the United States. Since the committee reported this legislation, we have witnessed two devastating aircraft crashes that have focused the Nation's attention on the NTSB's work. In the most difficult of circumstances, the NTSB works with local, State, and Federal entities as well as with the families of accident victims. And the Board is not just involved in aviation--the NTSB leads investigations of accidents in every mode of transportation. As we discuss this reauthorization on the floor today, it is important for us to recognize the public service performed by the Board. They are a critical element of our national transportation system. Mr. Speaker, as requested by the NTSB, H.R. 3159 extends the Chairman's term for future Chairmen from 2 years to 4 in an effort to promote leaderships stability. It also enables the Board to fully participate in foreign investigations by providing protection from Freedom of Information Act requests for a 2-year period. Our intention is not to keep information from the public. Rather, the measure simply enhances the NTSB's access to information that will lead to improvements in aviation safety. The bill also encourages data sharing programs among the FAA, NTSB, and the aviation community by prohibiting the Board from disclosing voluntarily provided safety information. By sharing information before an accident occurs, we can save lives. The legislation establishes a framework which will enable this to occur. Mr. Speaker, the legislation we are considering today contains higher funding levels than those contained in the introduced bill. This slightly higher authorization in the out years, along the lines of an amendment offered by Mr. Oberstar during committee markup, will enable the NTSB to increase its workforce by some 20 employees. In recent months, with the ValuJet crash in the Florida Everglades and the TWA crash last week off Long Island, it has become even clearer to me that the NTSB needs every resource it can get. I want to thank the ranking member of the committee, Mr. Oberstar, for his leadership on this issue, and both Chairman Shuster and Chairman Duncan for their willingness to work with us. The higher funding level makes this a better bill for the American people. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Minnesota [Mr. Oberstar].

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding scout, John David DeBoer II in achieving the rank of Eagle Scout. The Boy Scouts of America, Troop 3 presented John DeBoer with the Eagle Scout Award at the All Saints Episcopal Church in Western Springs, IL on Sunday, June 23, 1996 in the presence of his fellow troop member, his parents, family and friends. The Eagle Scout Award stands for honor which is the foundation of all character. It stands for loyalty and without loyalty, all character lacks direction. Finally, the award displays courage, which gives character force and strength. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate John and his parents for the many years of participation in the Scouting program. The Boy Scouts of America has proven to develop a solid foundation for many of our youths, all over this fine country of the United States.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to express my full support of the Defense of Marriage Act. The issue of homosexual marriage is a major concern to many Americans, and I feel that the time has come for Congress to take a stand. What we say today and how we vote on this bill have both legal and moral ramifications for years to come. We cannot sit by and do nothing. Legally, the Defense of Marriage Act is what its title states. It will define the act of marriage for Federal purposes and preserve its sanctity. Currently, Federal law has no definition of the words ``marriage'' or ``spouse,'' even though the Federal Government uses those terms frequently. Traditionally, it has relied upon the relevant State's law when applying those terms. However, today we are at a crossroads with this practice, and it is time to make a choice. Right now a lawsuit in Hawaii may lead to the legalization of homosexual marriages in that State. The repercussions of such a decision would legally affect us all. The full faith and credit clause of the Constitution requires that every State honor the ``Public Acts, Records and Judicial Proceedings of [every other] State unless specified by Congress.'' By this clause, all 49 other States would then be required by law to recognize a marriage between members of the same sex as legal for all State purposes. Further, because we currently have no definition of marriage on the rule books, the Federal Government would be forced to recognize such homosexual marriages for Federal benefit purposes. The Defense of Marriage Act would safeguard the rest of the country from the decision made by one State. The American people might be surprised to learn that this bill would not outlaw homosexual marriages; although I believe it should--it would simply exempt a State from legally recognizing a marriage that did not fit it's own definition of marriage. States would still be free to recognize gay marriages if they so choose. However, and most importantly, this act would define ``marriage'' as ``only a legal union between one man and one woman as husband and wife'' at the Federal level. This Federal definition would ensure that a State could not define a ``marriage'' that the Federal Government would have to recognize. If the Federal Government does not act now, and Hawaii legalizes homosexual marriage, the Federal Government would then be obliged to provide the same benefits that heterosexual marriages currently receive. Unless this bill is passed establishing a Federal definition of marriage, all Americans will then be paying for benefits for homosexual marriages. Yes, we must put our foot down. Unless we pass the Defense of Marriage Act, we will putting our stamp of approval on gay marriages, forcing the rest of the Nation to follow the whim of one State. This bill simply preserves the sanctity of the act of marriage between a man and a woman. It is a bill which will ensure that each State will not have to follow the lead of another on this issue. This bill will give each State the leverage it deserves to decide for itself whether or not to legalize gay marriages. However, as we all know, this is more than just a legal discussion. We are here because the issue of gay marriages is a moral one. Marriage, no matter what your religious belief, is a sacred act. It is the joining of a man and a woman in a unity that is officially recognized by the State. Marriage is the foundation of our society; families are built on it and values are passed on through it. In our current age, where the sanctity of marriage is constantly being compromised, I feel that we must seize this rare opportunity to strengthen it. Homosexual marriages are not necessary; gays can legally achieve the same legal ends as marriage through draft wills, medical powers of attorney, and contractual agreements in the event that the relationship should end. Therefore, asking the rest of the country to recognize such marriages does nothing that the law cannot currently do, it is simply asking for special privileges. I feel that marriage is not an area where the law should bend. Our Nation's moral fabric is based on this sacred institution. Homosexual marriages would destroy thousands of years of tradition which has upheld our society. Marriage has already been undermined by no-fault divorce, pregnancies out of wedlock, and sexual promiscuity. Allowing for gay marriages would be the final straw, it would devalue the love between a man and a woman and weaken us as a Nation. I have received numerous letters and calls from constituents asking me to vote for this legislation. Literally thousands of churches across the country have asked us for our support. The American people have spoken, and now we have the responsibility to answer them. My fellow Congressmen and Congresswomen, I hope that you have the moral strength to vote with me for this bill so that it may be passed. Our country's moral future depends on it.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the VFW Palos Park Memorial Post 4861 on the occasion of their Remembrance Day. I was able to attend this moving ceremony which was filled with tributes of those who have bravely fought the overseas battles of this country and pledged themselves to defend human rights in time of peace and war. It was an honor for me to speak in front of these great crusaders. The members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars embody the highest ideals held to man, courage, constancy, and service. The Cross of Malta, the official emblem of the VFW, was selected as their emblem because it was the emblem of men who fought to free the oppressed. Additionally, these men have made a committment to administer to the sick and needy. For the men of the VFW, the Cross of Malta continues to symbolize the pledge of the original crusaders who pledged to defend human rights in time of peace and war. The VFW continues to honor the pledge of the original crusaders in all that they accomplish. Today, the VFW fulfills their vows of honor by giving aid to worthy comrades, offering a helping hand to widows and orphans and defends the right to life, liberty, and happiness. The admirable qualities that the VFW members embody are truly worthy of recognition. I would like to pay special tribute to the officers for 1995-96, Gerald E. Brown, post commander; Jack Westberg, past commander; Robert E. Elli, Sr. vice commander; Leon H. Tursky Jr. vice commander; Ted Karamanski, adjutant; Art Mitchell, quartermaster; Ernest Graul, chaplain; Peter Pragit, officer of the day; John A. Barun, service officer; and the trustees, Michael J. McMahon, Arthur Koren, and Walter Fieroh. Additionally I would like to pay tribute to the speakers of this event, Norm Busch, Congressman Harris Fawell, Patrick O'Malley, Jack O'Connor, and the Honorable Donald H. Jeanes, the Mayor of the Village of Palos Park. Mr. Speaker, I commend the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, Palos Park Memorial Post 4861 on their Remembrance Day ceremony and wish them continued success in all their endeavors.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute to an outstanding organization in my district that is celebrating 70 years of dedication in beautifying its community--the Western Springs, IL, Garden Club. The club founded in 1926 by a group of Western Springs residents dedicated to making the then young community a more livable place. It was chartered with the goals, according to its creed. ``To encourage and foster a greater appreciation among our members and neighbors of trees, shrubs, flowers and vegetables and stimulate an interest preserving wildflowers and birds.'' On June 29, the Western Springs Garden, a charter member of both the Council of State Garden Clubs, Inc., and the Garden Clubs of Illinois, Inc., will celebrate its seven decades of service at a special Pictorial Stamp Cancellation Ceremony by the Western Springs Post Office. Mr. Speaker, I salute the Western Springs on its 70th anniversary, and I wish its members many more years of promoting and protecting the natural beauty of its community.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the amendment offered by the ranking member of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Mr. Oberstar. Tuesday, the House Aviation Subcommittee held an 8-hour hearing on issues raised by the crash of ValuJet flight 592. In preparing for the hearing, we took a long look at the FAA and its inspection program. We recognize that there is a need for improvements in the system, and this amendment is intended to give the FAA the resources it needs to make those improvements. The amendment offered by the gentleman from Minnesota increases the appropriation for FAA operations by $1 million, and our expectation is that this additional funding will be dedicated to airline safety inspector training. This $1 million increase for inspector training will be possible through a reduction in funding for the Department of Transportation inspector general's budget from $40 million to $39 million. The Office of the Inspector General has publicly stated the need for improved inspector training. This amendment makes that possible. Currently, the IG's office is funded at a level to provide 440 full time equivalent employees. Compare this figure with the 350 full time equivalents currently at the National Transportation Safety Board. While I recognize the important work done by IG's in every Federal agency, it seems excessive to me to have almost 100 more employees in the IG's office at DOT than are employed at the NTSB. Mr. Chairman, the inspection program at the FAA needs to be adequately funded to do its critical work. This slight increase in funding today may well save lives tomorrow. If you believe that the FAA's inspectors should have training, you should support this amendment. Mr. Chairman, while I have the floor, I would like to take a moment to call to the attention of my colleagues some of the inspector general's statements at Tuesday's hearing. In the course of her remarks, she left the strong impression that Secretary of Transportation Pena was the subject of a criminal investigation relative to the ValuJet accident. Even when my good friend Chairman Duncan warned her that she might be giving a false impression and gave her the opportunity to clear it up, she simply said that she could not say anything more. Mr. Chairman, creating the impression that the Secretary of Transportation is criminally culpable, is a very serious action, and anyone who falsely does so should be held responsible. As you would expect, the impression left in fact turned out not to be correct. Later that day, the deputy inspector general and the assistant inspector general for investigations, both longtime career officials, issued public statements that the Secretary of Transportation is not, and has not been, a subject of investigation. It is one thing to call public attention to safety problems with the FAA. It is entirely another thing to make outrageous, exaggerated claims about a public official. There were plenty of other examples from our hearing of what I find to be unconstructive comments by the inspector general, but I felt this one should be highlighted for all the Members of this body. Mr. Chairman, I also would like to mention the fact that I personally asked her to name the other airlines that she felt were unsafe. She refused to do so; even when I asked her to protect the American flying public that she owed that answer, she refused to do so. The great concern she had about ValuJet she failed to communicate to the head of the FAA, to the Secretary of Transportation. I believe that, unfortunately, we are dealing with someone here who is making charges but refuses to back up the charges and does not really carry out her duty, and I think this $1 million reduction in her budget moving to the FAA is definitely warranted.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Oak Lawn Elks Lodge No. 2254 on the occasion of their annual Flag Day ceremony. The celebration, on June 9, 1996, marked the 28th year of this event. The extraordinary patriotism that was exhibited at this ceremony is truly an example of the best that America has to offer. For 28 years, the Oak Lawn Elks have honored the importance of the American flag to the history and future of the United States. In my speech at this ceremony, I spoke about the American flag and its history of inspiring hope and faith in this country as well as abroad. In her eloquent patriotic address, the Honorable Maureen Murphy, State representative, spoke about the importance of voter participation and registration. Her call for action and words of wisdom were truly awe inspiring and symbolic of great nationalism. the Oak Lawn Elks embody that true American spirit. I was especially moved to see the eight original American flags in addition to flags representing the armed services. I would like to pay special tribute to James Fealey, chairman of the Flag Day ceremony, in addition to the officers for 1996-1997, William J. Spratt, exalted ruler; Robert Richter, leading knight; George Kerr, loyal knight; Tony Kasper, lecturing knight; Jerome Lullo, treasurer; Donald Nowak, tiler; Norman A. Gates, esquire; Jack Snow, chaplain; Dave Sonne, inner guard; Cornelius J. Houtsma, presiding justice; William P. Holm, John Prisco, James Fernatt, Kevin G. Kennedy and William Skinner, the board of trustees. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Oak Lawn Elks for continuing their tradition of patriotism and wish them the very best in the years to come. I am proud and honored to represent the Oak Lawn Elks in Congress. Their energetic salute to the flag is an event I took forward to each year.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Chairman, I want to thank the gentleman from California for yielding this time to me. Mr. Chairman, as the former chairman of the Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries, or as the chairman of the late Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries, I rise today in very strong support of the amendment offered by the gentleman from Virginia [Mr. Bateman]. Mr. Bateman and I, when we had the Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries, worked very, very hard on behalf of the maritime industry. I am very happy that he has continued to do so over on the Committee on National Security, as I have tried to do on the Committee on Infrastructure and Transportation. Mr. Chairman, I commend the gentleman from Virginia and the other members of the National Security Committee for recognizing the need to improve the OECD Shipbuilding Trade Agreement to make it more equitable for the United States shipbuilding industry. The United States initiated negotiations for the OECD Shipbuilding Trade Agreement 5 years ago in order to end the massive government subsidies that give foreign shipbuilders an unfair competitive advantage. Unfortunately, the final OECD agreement fails to meet the objective of eliminating foreign government shipbuilding subsidies. For instance, the agreement contains a major restricting loophole which European Governments are using to spend millions of dollars for the modernization of their shipyards. In fact, the French Government refused to even sign the agreement until it was allowed to spend $480 million for such restructuring of its shipyards. In addition, United States trade negotiators agreed to grandfather certain subsidy programs by South Korea and Germany, which were initiated during the negotiations. Yet, the United States is expected to immediately depredate the title XI loan guarantee program for U.S. shipbuilders-- despite the fact that U.S. shipbuilders have not enjoyed a direct Government subsidy in over a decade. The OECD agreement is full of loopholes and exemptions that will benefit foreign shipbuilders. Moreover, the agreement does not even cover such major shipbuilding nations such as Poland, China, Taiwan, and Russia, allowing those countries to continue their direct and substantial subsidization of their domestic shipbuilding. Yet, the United States is expected to immediately reduce the current Title XI: Loan Guarantee Program. This will cause immediate harm to the U.S. shipbuilding industry. With Navy shipbuilding at an all time low, it is critical for our yards to secure commercial work. And, for the first time in 35 years, American shipbuilders are experiencing a resurgence in commercial business. These recently signed commercial contracts were made possible by the Title XI: Ship Loan Guarantee Program. Yet, the OECD agreement and the bill would bring a screeching halt to this resurgence by rendering the title XI program ineffective. A 30-month extension of the modest title XI, as provided in the Bateman amendment, is needed to give U.S. shipyards an adequate transition period to ensure their continued viability. This is a reasonable request when compared to the unfair competitive advantage subsidized foreign shipbuilders have enjoyed for the past decade--and will continue to enjoy in China, Poland, and other nonsignatory nations. This amendment is the absolute minimum we can, and must, enact. I urge my colleagues to support the Bateman amendment.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute today to a dedicated police officer who has spent a quarter century protecting the lives and property of his fellow citizens, Chief Charles D'Urso of the Countryside, IL, Police Department. Chief D'Urso recently marked his 25th anniversary with the department. The term ``working his way up through the ranks'' is especially true in the chief's case: He started as a patrolman in late 1970, became a sergeant in 1980, made lieutenant in 1985, and was appointed chief in 1993. In Chief D'Urso's more than 25 years on the force, the department has gone from a one-room station to a state-of- the-art facility. Thanks in part to Chief D'Urso's leadership, the 27 police officers on the force are among the best trained and best equipped in the area. In addition to the chief's professional success, he is active in his community, serving on the executive board of the Countryside Rotary Club. He is also a past president of the fifth District Chief's of Police. Mr. Speaker, I salute Chief D'Urso on his 25 years as a police officer and wish him many more years of service to his community.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding journalist in my district who was recently honored for her contributions to her community. Ms. Eileen Pech, of Berwyn, IL, was recently named Woman of the Year by the Morton Township Women's History Month Committee. The committee recognized Ms. Pech, a reporter for the LIFE newspapers, for her working toward the betterment of the community. Ms. Pech is widely respected in her community for her fair-minded, thorough, and often entertaining coverage of local events. She shuns the spotlight herself and in accepting the award, said she is ``much more comfortable'' sitting in the audience writing about the accomplishments of others. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Ms. Pech on receiving this prestigious award, and extend to her my best wishes on continued success.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an outstanding young man whose work as a broadcaster has been recognized by one of Chicago's largest radio stations, WBBM-AM. Mr. Maloney, a junior at Lyons Township High School in LaGrange, IL, was one of 10 students to be a ``reporter for the day'' among more than 500 entries. Tucker, who has been broadcasting on the high school's radio station, WLTL, since his freshman year, submitted to WBBM his 90- second report on a proposal to build a garbage building incinerator in his community. It is the second year in a row that Tucker has been honored by the station. In 1995, Tucker's report on his interview with ``Baywatch'' star David Hasselhoff, a Lyons Township High School graduate, earned him reporter-for-a-day status. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Mr. Maloney on this prestigious honor, and wish him continued success in broadcasting, or any other endeavor he pursues.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the memory of a man of outstanding public service from my district who recently passed away--Mr. Bill Hughes, director of the Pleasantdale Park District. Mr. Hughes, who battled colon cancer for 10 months, served the district for 5\1/2\ years. His tenure saw explosive growth in both the communities Pleasantdale served and programs the district offered. Perhaps Mr. Hughes' greatest achievement was helping to guide the development of Flagg Creek Golf Course, a premiere 9-hole course, in conjunction with the city of Countryside. Countryside Mayor Carl LeGant, who worked closely with Mr. Hughes said of his passing: ``It's sad. He was a good person to work with. He will be missed.'' Mr. Speaker, I join Mayor LeGant in mourning the loss of this community leader, and extend to Mr. Hughes' family my condolences.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute today to one of the finest journalists working my congressional district, Mr. Larry Randa, Vice President/Operations of the LIFE Newspapers, who recently became President of Suburban Newspapers of America [SNA]. Mr. Randa, who began with the LIFE as a general assignment reporter in 1974, takes the helm of a trade organization that represents suburban publications throughout North America with a combined circulation of 14 million readers. He is the third generation of the Randa family to be involved in the management of the LIFE, which was founded 70 years ago. The newspaper is generally recognized as one of the best Suburban newspapers in the United States. And through his reporting, editing and management, Mr. Randa has contributed mightily to that reputation. The University Missouri graduate is the winner of 50 local, State and national awards including three prestigious Peter Lisagor Awards from the Chicago Headline Club. In addition to his professional excellence, Mr. Randa is dedicated to his community, serving on the Board of Directors of the La Grange Unit of the American Cancer Society and the Darien Youth Club, is a deacon at the Presbyterian Church of Western Springs and coaches youth softball, basketball, soccer and volleyball.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate with the Polish people the 205th anniversary of the adoption of Poland's first Constitution. As the first liberal Constitution in Europe in 1791, it was preceded only by our own Constitution in 1787. This Polish document established a constitutional monarch and recognized the peasants for the first time as members of the nation. Mirroring our constitution, it too established three independent branches of government. It also carries the honor of being the first constitution established through a peaceful revolution. Unfortunately, this expression of liberty to all, by rule by majority, and religious freedom survived for less than 2 years as it became a moral threat to the neighboring absolute monarchies. Poland lost its independence that year when it was partitioned by Imperial Russia and Prussia. Only in the last 5 years has Poland again emerged as an independent nation through the fall of communism. Currently, free Poland enjoys open elections and economic success. The return of democratic principles to this nation has elevated its hopes for inclusion in the North American Treaty Organization [NATO] and full incorporation into the European Union. With Chicago the largest Polish city next to Warsaw, and with many of her immigrants residing in my district, I am pleased to support this resolution which honors the advancement of democracy in a country close to my heart and the hearts of my constituents.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I wish to pay tribute to two outstanding individuals who have contributed greatly to athletic competition in my district and throughout the Chicago area--Mr. Bob ``Slivers'' Slivovsky and Mr. Kenny Williams--who were inducted into the Illinois Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame on April 27, 1996. Slivers Slivovsky has devoted most of his life to athletics at Morton College in Cicero, IL, first as a member of the school's baseball team in the early 1950's, and for the last 24 years as equipment manager, a job title that does not even begin to describe his responsibilities. As Morton Athletic Director George Fejt said of his prized employee: He's our facility manager, sports information director, fundraising coordinator, and goodwill ambassador. However, it may be Slivers work outside of the school that made the difference in receiving his recognition by the hall of fame as a friend of basketball. For years, he has run and organized the Henry Vais Basketball Tournament at Morton, a two tiered competition for local grade-school players of differing skill levels that is recognized as one of he best tournaments of its kind. The tournament is his pride and joy--no team is eliminated and the kids enjoy themselves. It provides kids with an opportunity to play and not worry about the wins and the losses, as Slivers describes it.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute to two outstanding guardians of public safety from Cicero, IL. Firefighter Michael Piekarski and Police Detective Darlene Sobczak, who were recently recognized by the Cicero Lions Club on Lions Club World Service Day. Firefighter Piekarski and Detective Sobczak were honored for their outstanding contributions as part of the Lions Clubs' effort to recognize those who risk their lives to protect their fellow citizens. Mr. Speaker, I, too, congratulate these two fine public servants on this award and extend thanks on behalf of all my fellow citizens for their efforts and those of their colleagues who protect our lives and property.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I would like to extend my congratulations to the winner of this year's John F. Kubik Humanitarian Award, Ms. Vlasta Sneberger. Ms. Sneberger, a regional branch manager for MidAmerica Federal Savings Bank in Berwyn, IL, was presented with the award last month by the Sequin Retarded Citizens Association at their annual award dinner. Ms. Sneberger was recognized for her tireless service to the community. The John F. Kubik Award, named for a local newspaper journalist and publisher, was established to embody the community spirit and dedication of its namesake. Mr. Speaker, I commend Ms. Sneberger on receiving this award and wish her many more years of service to her community.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I pay tribute to an outstanding business person, Ms. Marsha Serlin, president and founder of United Scrap Metal of Cicero, IL, who was recently named ``1996 Small Business Subcontractor of the Year'' by the U.S. Small Business Administration Midwest Region. In 1978, Ms. Serlin, a young woman with two small children launched United Scrap Metal with $200 and a rented truck. At the time, it was the only company of its kind owned by a woman in the United States, but, through Ms. Serlin's hard work, it quickly grew into one of the bigger scrap metal scavenger services in the Chicago area. The company now enjoys annual revenue in excess of $40 million per year. According to Mr. Richard Gory of the Andrew Corp., Ms. Serlin's client, who nominated her for this honor: ``We have experienced consistent and unparalleled service, attention to detail, and superior bottom-line results from United Scrap Metal. The success of this company is directly attributable to the owner's unique ability to meet the complex needs and requirements of the industry in an extremely efficient and effective manner.'' In addition to her entrepreneurial success, Ms. Serlin is a tireless contributor to her community. She is on the board of the United Way/ Community Chest, a member of the board of governors of the Chamber of Commerce, an executive board member of the Boy Scouts of America, and serves on the board of directors of Symphony of the Shores, and CARE, Inc. In addition, Ms. Serlin serves on the board of directors of MRC Polymers, Inc., the Planning Commission Board for Cicero, is a past board member of the Cicero Education Committee and was a founding member of the Adopt a Homeroom program. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Ms. Serlin on receiving this impressive honor, and extend to her my best wishes for continued success in business and in her community.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I would like to pay tribute to an outstanding educator who was recently honored for her half century of dedication to the young people of her community. Sister Ellen Springer, the chair of the Nazareth Academy science department, recently received a Citation for Excellence in Science Teaching from the Pittsburgh Conference Science Week Committee. Sister Springer first joined the La Grange Park, IL, based school in 1946. In her 50 years with the school, she has helped students adjust to many changes, as the formerly girls Catholic high school became a coeducational institution. Mr. Speaker, I commend Sister Springer on this important honor and on her five decades of dedicated service helping to shape the minds and spirits of the young people of her community.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of the Oberstar amendment to H.R. 2149, the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1995. The maritime industry is one of the few industries in the United States that enjoys full immunity from our antitrust laws. Carriers are allowed to enter into conferences which are cartels of vessels that collectively set prices and allocate routes and cargo among its members. In the Shipping Act of 1984, Congress granted antitrust immunity of ocean conferences only if the carriers file their rates and contract terms with the Federal Maritime Commission. The Ocean Shipping Reform Act, however, would eliminate the requirement that ocean carriers disclose the essential terms of their contracts with shippers. Without this disclosure, the large carriers are likely to enter secret agreements giving major shippers low rates which could not be offered if the arrangement had to be disclosed. These secret contracts will create unfair competitive advantages for large shippers and large carriers, and the larger ports they serve. This is a real threat to the economic wellbeing and job security of smaller carriers and the smaller and medium size ports. H.R. 2149 will not result in an ocean transportation industry governed by market principles, but will result in a system in which carrier cartels will operate with legal impunity and large corporations will be able to secure secret, below cost transportation rates from carriers, with smaller shippers being charged higher and higher rates to make up for these concessions to mega-shippers. In other words, this legislation will simply intensify the alarming trends that already exist in the maritime industry--bigger and fewer ports, fewer and larger carriers, and larger shipping conglomerates. This is why I support the Oberstar amendment; the amendment would require carriers to file their rates and essential contract terms electronically. It balances carriers' full antitrust immunity with the simple requirement that they make the essential terms of their contracts with shippers public. It ensures that market forces are able to keep the power of industry conglomerates in check, providing safeguards to protect our consumers, manufacturers, and ports from secret deals that discriminate against them. Like H.R. 2149, the Oberstar amendment sunsets the Federal Maritime Commission. However, the amendment transfers the remaining enforcement responsibilities to the Surface Transportation Board, an independent transportation agency. The Ocean Shipping Reform Act transfers remaining authority to the Department of Transportation, a far more politicized cabinet department of the Federal Government. The Oberstar amendment aims to correct the two fundamental flaws of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act. The major goal of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act remains intact, which is to increase competition in the ocean shipping industry by substantially deregulating the industry. In fact, it is only with the adoption of this amendment that increased competition will occur in the maritime industry. I urge my colleagues to support the Oberstar amendment and then support the bill.

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the requisite number of words. (Mr. LIPINSKI asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman from Minnesota for yielding me the time, and I want to say that I feel I am compelled to speak on this particular bill because I had the fortune of being the last chairman of the late, great Merchant Marine subcommittee. H.R. 2149, the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, provides badly needed reform to the ocean shipping industry. The ocean shipping industry is one of the only transportation industries still heavily regulated by the U.S. Federal Government. By substantially deregulating the ocean shipping industry, this bill has the potential to restore the competitiveness of the American shipper. The United States is the only country in the world that maintains a Government agency to regulate ocean shipping. For this reason, the Ocean Shipping Reform Act sunsets the Federal Maritime Commission--a Federal agency which has clearly outlived its usefulness. The Ocean Shipping Reform Act also eliminates the detrimental tariff- filing and enforcement requirements. It preserves common carriage for all sizes of U.S. shippers who choose that method of ocean transportation. Most importantly, the bill also strengthens the laws that prohibit unfair trade practices on behalf of foreign carriers. Under the bill, the United States will retain the authority to police foreign carriers and governments who set anticompetitively low rates and other foreign activities detrimental to U.S. carriers. Despite these much needed reforms, I will not be able to vote for H.R. 2149 without an amendment. The Ocean Shipping Reform Act allows conferences of carriers to enter into secret contracts and still enjoy full immunity from U.S. antitrust laws. These secret contracts will only accelerate the trend in the maritime industry toward consolidation. With carriers operating free from antitrust laws, there would be no safeguards to prevent predatory activity. Small consumers, manufacturers, and ports will have no recourse from secret deals that discriminate against them. Allowing secret, discriminatory contracts is a fundamental flaw of H.R. 2149, the Ocean Shipping Reform Act. I urge my colleagues to adopt the amendment which would preserve the requirement that carriers file their rates. Only with the amendment will the Ocean Shipping Reform Act produce a stronger maritime industry capable of meeting the Nation's future ocean transportation needs. I urge my colleagues to vote for the Ocean Shipping Reform Act only and only if the Oberstar amendment passes this afternoon.

Mr. LIPINSKI

Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the Armenian community in my district to mark the 81st anniversary of an unspeakable tragedy. I am referring to the genocide of 1.5 million of their people by the Ottoman Empire. On April 24, 1915, 200 Armenian religious, political, and intellectual leaders from Istanbul, taken to the interior of Turkey and summarily murdered. Thus began an 8-year campaign to eradicate or deport all Armenian citizens from Anatolia and western Armenia. Yet, today, many people are unaware of this vicious crime against humanity. There is little mention of it in our history books. It is not taught to our children in school. And now, the Turkish Government is funding Chairs of Turkish history at prestigious American universities in order to cleanse its image and deny its past. For example, the Republic of Turkey endowed Princeton University with $1.5 million for its Ataturk Chair of Turkish Studies. The professor who holds this chair is the former executive director of a Turkish institute that works to discredit scholarship which mentions the Armenian genocide. However, my colleagues and I are here today to let the Armenian people know that we will not forget. We will not forget the aggression of the Ottoman Empire against innocent lives, particularly those of women and children. We will not forget that when the genocide ended, half of the world's Armenian population had been decimated. We will not forget that by 1923, the Turks had successfully erased nearly all remnants of the Armenian culture which had existed in their homeland for 3,000 years. I stand here today to say that the genocide did happen. Nobody can erase the painful memories of the Armenian community. Nobody can deny the photos and historical references. Nobody can deny that few Armenians live where millions lived over 80 years ago. It is our responsibility and our duty to keep the memories of this tragedy alive. A world that forgets these tragedies is a world that will see them repeated again and again. We cannot right the terrible injustice inflicted upon the Armenian community and we can never heal the wounds. But by properly commemorating this tragedy, Armenians will be least know the world has not forgotten the misery of those years. Only then will Armenians begin to receive the justice they deserve.