Karen McCarthy

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on the day of a ceremony to name the U.S. Department of State building in Washington, D.C. after Missouri's Favorite Son, Harry S Truman, the 33rd President of the United States of America. I am proud to represent the 5th Congressional District of Missouri where Harry Truman spent most of his life. He grew up in Independence, ran a haberdashery in Kansas City, and in his later years helped with the family farm in Grandview, Missouri. He was a soft spoken man from the Midwest whose vision and leadership led to lasting world accomplishments benefitting the citizens of our country as well and the world. Renaming the Department of State Building in our nation's Capital for President Harry S Truman is an appropriate tribute to a great leader. President Truman called his first year in office `a year of decisions,' in dealing with the end of World War II, the beginning of the Cold War, and the founding of the United Nations. He was able to ensure national security while at the same time impacting a worldwide stage of engagement through the Truman Doctrine and the Marshall Plan to resist communist threats and revive the ailing economies of Europe after World War II. President Truman is credited as a leading force in the creation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), an organization that has guaranteed peace throughout the Cold War and remains crucial to our nation's efforts to support democracies throughout the world. A leader in so many aspects, President Truman's vision and accomplishment on a worldwide level are reflected in the relative tranquility we experience throughout all regions today. His willingness to confront difficult and complex issues and find solutions to questions facing our nation during the most difficult time of his presidency is an inspiration to me. When I look at his picture hanging in my office, I draw strength from his courage and determination to take responsibility for the tough choices he had to make for our country. I am confident this public symbol of renaming the Department of State Building for President Truman will similarly inspire world leaders of today to continue to shoulder the responsibilities of public office and rise to the challenges before each of them to benefit our world. President Truman's legacy is appropriately captured in the Truman presidential Library located in the heart of my congressional district in Independence, Missouri. Last year I joined Secretary of State Madeleine Albright to commemorate the 50th anniversary of NATO and the accession of the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. This momentous occasion brought home to the heartland the reality of the vision and leadership which President Truman demonstrated in foreign policy which the Clinton Administration continues today. The reflections of this century will duly note the uncompromising spirit of President Truman and his bold implementation of foreign policy initiatives which unquestionably changed the course of history. Whether it be through humanitarian efforts or demonstration of strength or consummation of alliances, Harry Truman fought for the common man both in our nation and abroad. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to President Harry S Truman by remaining the Department of State Building in Washington, D.C. in his memory. I, along with my colleagues from Missouri who cosponsored the enabling legislation, pay this tribute to President Truman to publicly acknowledge the Truman legacy. President Truman, we thank you for your service to our the United States and the world, and I say thank you Mr. President for giving them hell!

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the work of an outstanding group called the Hunger Project. The Hunger Project is a strategic organization and worldwide endeavor focused on ending hunger throughout the world. The Hunger Project strives for a more permanent, wide reaching solution to assure that all of us, including the citizens of underdeveloped societies in Africa, Asia and Latin America will one day know a world without hunger. Each region, country, city and village that suffers from hunger is unique. It is this simple truth that guides the work of the Hunger Project. Instead of relying upon solutions that have been successful in other places, each situation is approached as a new initiative and a plan is designed specifically with the particular area in mind. Through the mobilization of both the grassroots and the local leadership, effective, specialized plans are devised and implemented. The Hunger Project stresses self-reliance and enablement; when people are given the right tools, they can create societal structures that will not only end their hunger, but also prevent it from ever happening again. The key component of the Hunger Project's strategy is the empowerment of women. The unique position of women in society allow them to be the most effective agents of change in the battle against hunger. The responsibilities of nutrition, family planning, education and others typically fall to women, yet women are traditionally shut out of their society's development and decision making process in developing nations. The Hunger Project mobilizes women to fight for the ability to take control over their own lives and the future of their families. This Saturday, the twenty-third of September, the Hunger Project is launching a new crusade against hunger targeted at South Asia. According to the Hunger Project's President, Joan Holmes, studies show South Asia suffers from the highest levels of childhood malnutrition in the world as a direct result of the oppression of women in this area. However, new laws in both Bangladesh and India allow women to serve in their local governments. The Hunger Project is utilizing this new opportunity to help women in those nations organize, mobilize and exercise these new rights to make hunger in their communities a memory. Mr. Speaker, the mission and work of the Hunger Project are both admirable and vital. The dedication and commitment of individuals such as Karen Herman and other supporters of the Hunger Project are making the end of global hunger a goal within our reach. I salute their noble undertaking and look forward to working in partnership to assure that one day their vision of a world without hunger is realized.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of Missouri's treasured historical and natural sites as it celebrates its 25th Anniversary. Twenty-two years ago as a Missouri State Representative, I had the privilege to join the members of the Cave Spring Association in creating and preserving the Cave Spring Nature Park as one of our country's celebrated historical sites. The roots run deep in the area now named the Cave Spring Nature Park. From as far back as pre-pioneer times this site was referred to as the ``Osage Trace.'' This name was attributed to the Indians who occupied the area: the Osage, Sac, Kansa, and Fox tribes. Later the area and its trails were surveyed and soon opened as trading routes to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Under the ownership of Jesse Barnes, this land would become one of the principal campgrounds for pioneer settlers, traders, and wagon trains heading west to discover the new territory. The cave spring was producing up to a million gallons of water a day to replenish the travelers and their horses, as well as creating a lush landscape. It was this breathtaking landscape that would later attract horseback riders and picnickers including the young Harry Truman and Bess Wallace during their courtship. A picture of the infamous cave at this site would later be featured in a 1945 Life Magazine edition entitled ``Truman's Missouri.'' From 1857 to 1877 the Cave Spring was owned by Harry Truman's grandfather, Solomon Young. Soon the Truman family would build their family farm just on the outskirts of the Cave Spring area, which is today appropriately known as Grandview. In the following years the Cave Spring would be the recognized by the Daughter's of the American Revolution as one of the foremost significant sites along the historic Santa Fe Trail. Unfortunately, over the course of the next few decades the Cave Spring would fall into a period of dormancy and neglect in which the cave itself was in a ``lost'' state in which its whereabouts were unknown. It was not until the construction of a church that a large sinkhole was created which revealed the cave and subsequently the spring was rediscovered to a new world of appreciation. This brought new exploration and celebration of the Cave Spring and its surroundings. Soon after the rediscovery, the Cave Spring Association was formed to ensure that this site would receive the appreciation it has earned to ensure that its legacy will live on forever. Since 1975 the Cave Spring Nature Park and Historic Site has provided the northwestern Missouri region with a variety of natural and historic opportunities, specializing in enrichment programs for children, young adults, and families. The Association has worked tirelessly to preserve this site and the rich history that it bears. Mr. Speaker, please join me in saluting the Cave Spring Nature Park and Historic Site and the entire Cave Spring Association for 25 years of service to the Greater Kansas City community.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring the incredible philanthropy and achievement of Phil Ramone. On September 24th Mr. Ramone will be awarded the Michael Bolton Charities Lifetime Achievement Award. Michael Bolton Charities, Inc. was established in 1993 to assist children and women at risk from the effects of poverty, homelessness, domestic violence, and physical and sexual abuse. Mr. Ramone's indefatigable generosity has enhanced the lives of countless women and children around the world for over three decades. This honor stands as a testament to Mr. Ramone's selfless acts which reflect his inherent benevolence and vision of life. Throughout his remarkable career Mr. Ramone has produced award winning works by some of the world's most talented recording artists. His genius embraces all aspects of the entertainment business, working brilliantly in both the technical and creative sides of the industry. Mr. Ramone is one of the recording industry's most well respected and prolific producers with a resume so vast and encompassing that his peers have deified him as the undisputed ``Pope of Pop.'' Mr. Ramone has produced galas for several U.S. Presidents and has been the driving force behind megastars such as: Frank Sinatra, Billy Joel, Paul Simon, Barbara Streisand, Madonna, B.B. King, Elton John, Gloria Estefan, Jon Secada, Fito Paez, Sinead O'Connor and Paul McCartney to name a few. Phil Ramone is invaluable to the artists he works with, such as Michael Bolton, and is an eight time Grammy Award winner, including Producer of the Year. As Chairman Emeritus of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, he is recognized by his peers as the most transcendent audio technician and stylistic creator in the music industry today. His grasp of technology revolutionized the recording studio with his first use of the Dolby four-track discrete sound system, satellite links, optical surround sound, fiber optic systems, and digital live recording. In addition to all of these accomplishments and accolades, Mr. Ramone possesses a kindness and humility that make him one of the recording industry's most profound humanitarians. Since his earliest success Mr. Ramone's charitable commitment has helped children living in poverty around the world improve their education and their lives. It is with great respect and appreciation that we acknowledge Mr. Ramone's lifetime charitable achievements and his exemplary character on September 24. I commend Michael Bolton Charities, Inc., for their recognition of Phil Ramone's lifelong contributions to both music and humankind. Mr. Speaker, please join me in expressing gratitude to Grammy winner Michael Bolton for his steadfast efforts to educate the Congress on the need to assist women and children at risk from the dangerous effects of poverty, domestic violence, homelessness, and physical and sexual abuse. With programs that foster self esteem, leadership skills, job training, and social awareness his charity provides the access and education that underprivileged women and children need for a better life. Phil Ramone has a positive outlook and steadfast commitment to a better future for all our children when he notes that, ``Our kids won't even think about virtual reality--it will be a regular part of their lives. Sometimes it's just so obvious to me, the future. It shows its face to me ever so often and then I say, `Oh, of course. Why shouldn't we do this . . .' It's like an inner vision that lets you understand that there's something better, more beautiful just ahead.'' Thank you, Phil Ramone.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an exceptional leader and friend to our Kansas City community and our country. Adele Hall is being honored as the 2000 Woman of the Year by the Central Exchange, an organization of which she is a founding member. Adele Hall has an extensive history of helping children and families in Kansas City and across our Nation. She has shown outstanding dedication as a philanthropist and representative of gender concerns for equality in the workplace and society. Adele Hall is considered by many in Kansas City as a lifelong friend to our community. Her civic pursuits have led her to hold positions in an outstanding number of Kansas City and national philanthropic organizations. She has served as Chair of many boards including Children's Mercy Hospital, the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation, the Partnership for Children, and the former Crippled Children's Nursery School, now Children's Therapeutic Learning Center. Nationally, she has served as a board member for the Trust Fund of the Library of Congress, the George Bush Presidential Library Center, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the Salvation Army. Currently, she is serving as Co-Chairman of a $175 million capital campaign for the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. She is the Vice-Chairman of the United Negro College Fund and the Youth Corps of America. As a founding member of one of Kansas City's most reputable women's organizations, the Central Exchange, she has worked tirelessly to promote the advancement of women in all sectors of society. For the past 20 years the Central Exchange has worked to bring people of diverse backgrounds together to encourage the personal and professional growth of women. Today the Central Exchange boasts nearly 900 members from all over the Kansas City metropolitan area. The astounding membership can be attributed to what members of the Central Exchange value the most, creating opportunities to meet and learn from other women. This is an extremely difficult goal when many women are busy with work and family responsibilities. Adele Hall's various roles and achievements throughout the history of the Central Exchange have demonstrated that she has succeeded in fulfilling her dream of increasing the visibility and effectiveness of Kansas City's women. Adele Hall's personal and professional record exhibits her spirit of commitment to others. Her entire life has exemplified the core values that we all strive for: commitment to the community, to family and to the innate desire to truly make a difference in the lives of others. Her devotion is an example to us all. I am honored to acknowledge Adele Hall for her successful efforts to promote equity and opportunity for women and children. I know that she is joined in receiving this award by her husband, Don, and their entire family. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating the Central Exchange 2000 Woman of the Year, Adele Hall.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5107, the Works Made for Hire and Copyright Corrections Act, a resolution to rectify a complex and contentious copyright issue for recording artists and record companies. Just prior to adjournment last year, four seemingly innocuous words were added to the Satellite Home Viewers Improvement Act: ``as a sound recording.'' But these words were inordinately powerful. Their insertion threatened one of our most precious rights, the right to claim ownership of one's artistic creations. By inserting ``as a sound recording'' into the bill, the work for hire provision of U.S. copyright law (revised in 1976) was fundamentally changed to prohibit the ownership of a sound recording by its creator after 35 years of sometimes onerous exploitation by a record company. Typically, after the 35-year term, ownership of these works returned automatically to the creator. But these four words denied forever the rights of recording artists to own their creative and deeply personal expression of themselves they so generously share with the rest of us. The words also revised existing law and industry practice and did not merely clarify it. The measure before us today corrects this injustice and repeals without prejudice the change made to U.S. copyright law last year. I commend Jay Cooper, counsel to the artists groups, and Cary Sherman, Senior Executive Vice President and General Counsel of the Recording Industry Association of America, for their resolute commitment to negotiate a mutually agreeable solution. I would also like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the recording artists who made Congress aware of the need to restore their rights, in particular Don Henley and Sheryl Crow, cofounders of the Recording Artists Coalition. I also applaud the tireless efforts of the members of the Recording Academy, Adam Sandler, and in particular, the Academy's president and CEO, Michael Greene. Without their perseverance and tenacity, this resolution would not have been reached. I also want to recognize the work of Margaret Cone and Susan Riley with the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists for their help. From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank the gentleman from North Carolina (Chairman Coble), the gentleman from California (Mr. Berman), and the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Conyers) of the Subcommittee on Courts and Intellectual Property for their active involvement and commitment to resolving this work-for-hire issue. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to join with members of the Committee on the Judiciary as a cosponsor of the legislation and especially with three of my colleagues on the subcommittee who also have been an integral part of this process: the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Boucher), and the gentlewomen from California (Ms. Lofgren) and (Mrs. Bono). I applaud the Committee for working together in a spirit of bipartisanship. I urge Members of the House to vote yes on this resolution, and I urge the Senate to work together as we did for swift passage this session.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for marriage penalty tax reform. Americans should not have to pay additional taxes simply because they have made the decision to get married. However, I will continue to oppose the marriage penalty tax relief as proposed in the bill under consideration today because it offers the majority of the relief to wealthy individuals subject to this tax without regard to the economy, future revenues or tax fairness. I will vote to sustain President Clinton's veto of this misguided effort. Many middle class Americans believe they do not receive value for their taxes. An important component of any tax reform debate should focus on renewing taxpayer's confidence that they are not only being taxed fairly, but that their tax dollars are being spend wisely. It concerns me that we are considering a marriage penalty tax relief proposal today without a broader discussion of reform of our tax policy. We don't make decisions in a vacuum and the decisions we make today will have an impact on future revenues and spending on priority initiatives. I want to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to come up with meaningful, fiscally responsible marriage penalty tax relief. We can afford to correct this oddity in the tax code and offer middle class families much needed relief. Unfortunately, the bill before us today does not do that. A couple making $31,000 annually would get a tax cut of only $182 under this bill, while the wealthiest five percent of couples would be getting a tax cut of approximately $1000 each year. Further, many of these higher-income families who would receive the majority of the relief under this bill are not impacted by the existing marriage penalty. Consequently, the bill as currently drafted gives the most affluent a marriage bonus. This isn't fair, it isn't responsible tax policy and it isn't affordable. The bill vetoed by the President costs $292 billion over 10 years. This tax cut is $110 billion more than the version which passed the House of Representatives earlier this year. A tax cut of this size passed without regard to other tax reform needed, such as the estate tax, and without regard to other dynamics in the economy is irresponsible. Adoption of this tax cut will greatly jeopardize our nation's ability to pay down the national debt, comprehensively reform the tax code and ensure the stability of Social Security and Medicare. I am hopeful that by working together we can come up with an economic strategy which provides fiscal security by using any surplus pay down our publicly held debt and make Social Security and Medicare solvent, while also providing a tax relief package that helps working families. The bill before us today doesn't do this and I cannot support it. I hope our actions today will bring the House leadership to the table to design a measure that the President can sign into law.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for estate tax reform. Small businesses and farm owners should not be penalized for their success nor should they have to worry about their ability to pass the family business on to future generations. However, I will continue to oppose the estate tax relief as proposed in the bill under consideration today because it offers significant benefit for the very wealthy individuals subject to this tax without regard to the economy, future revenues or tax fairness. I will vote to sustain President Clinton's veto of this misguided effort. Many middle class Americans believe they do not receive value for their taxes. An important component of any tax reform debate should focus on renewing taxpayer's confidence that they are not only being taxed fairly, but that their tax dollars are being spent wisely. It concerns me that we are considering repeal of the estate tax today without a broader discussion of reform of our tax policy. We don't make decisions in a vacuum and the decisions we make today will have an impact on future revenues and spending on priority initiatives. A vote to override the President's veto today can be viewed as a vote to give the wealthiest one percent of Americans an $850 billion tax break over the next twenty years. This is contrary to the wishes of two Presidents, Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft, who advocated for enactment of the estate tax. In 1907, Theodore Roosevelt said the following regarding this progressive tax, ``Such a tax would be one of the methods by which we should try to preserve a measurable quality of opportunity for the people of the generation growing to manhood.'' During his Inaugural Address in 1909, William Howard Taft said, ``New kinds of taxation must be adopted, and among these I recommend a graduated inheritance tax as correct in principle and as certain and easy of collection.'' Historically, the richest in our society are the ones who pay the majority of the estate tax, and the original justification for this progressive tax is still applicable today, but reform is needed as our economy and times change. Currently, only two percent of people who die have enough wealth to be subject to the estate tax. Of the two percent who pay the estate tax, only three percent are small business owners or farmers. Economic experts point out that the majority of assets taxed under the estate tax are unrealized capital gains and tax-exempt bonds which have never been taxed. I support estate tax relief which would exempt 99% of family farm estates from estate taxes. The measure I voted for earlier this year would have removed two-thirds of those who pay the estate tax from the tax rolls and increased the family exclusion for farms and closely held businesses to $4 million by increasing the limit on the small business exclusion from $1.3 million to $2 million per spouse. This would have provided real relief immediately. H.R. 8 would not provide relief to a single farm or small business from the estate tax until 2010. This relief is needed now, not in ten years. The measure I support would immediately increase the exemption equivalent of the unified credit against estate and gift taxes to $1.1 million. It also would provide a twenty percent across the board reduction to the estate and gift tax rates. I support estate tax reform which maintains fiscal responsibility. The cost of H.R. 8 is not offset and will cost the Treasury $105 billion over ten years and $750 billion over the second ten years. Fiscal discipline of the past eight years has brought us to time where we are enjoying economic growth and prosperity. Projected surpluses still require us to make difficult decisions about priorities, and I believe that the President was correct to veto this fiscally irresponsible tax bill. I voted in favor of a fiscally responsible proposal, the Rangel Amendment to H.R. 8, to provide immediate relief to two-thirds of the individuals in Missouri faced with estate tax liability. On July 13, the New York Times reported that if H.R. 8 would have been law in 1997, more than half of the tax savings would have gone to approximately 400 individuals who died that year leaving individual estates worth more than $20 million each. By contrast, the New York Times reported that the Democratic alternative which I supported would have exempted approximately 95% of all farmers who paid estate tax in 1997 and 88% of small business owners who paid the tax. If the President's veto is sustained today, I hope my colleagues on both sides of the aisle will come together to find a targeted, fiscally responsible compromise which can be enacted into law before the 106th Congress adjourns this fall.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to the Carter Broadcast Group, Inc., owner of KPRS-FM and KPRT-AM radio, the oldest African-American owned and operated radio station in America. This year they celebrate 50 years of excellence as one of Kansas City's, and the nation's, most established and respected broadcasters. In 1950, Andrew ``Skip'' Carter had a dream to build a black owned radio station in Kansas City that would serve the needs of his community. His station, KPRS-AM was only the second African-American station to receive a broadcast license from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Operating with just 1,000 watts, it went on the air playing such artists as Ray Charles and James Brown. It had to go off the air at sundown because of the low wattage. In 1963 Skip Carter received a license from the FCC to operate a 100,000 watt FM facility. In 1973, their stations became the first fully automated stations in the Midwest. Skip Carter and his wife, Mildred, had operated the two stations as a family business since their inception. Their grandson, Michael, had his own jazz show in the late 1960's at eight years of age. In 1987 Michael Carter was named President of KPRS Broadcasting Corporation by his grandfather to carry on the family tradition. The name was later changed to the Carter Broadcast Group, Inc. to honor Skip Carter's legacy. Between 1990 and 1996 KPRS advanced from the eighth rated station to the top rated station in the Kansas City market as measured by Arbitron. This recognition of the ``Hot 103 Jamz'' came about by the hard work and dedication of the total staff, which has been incorporated into the Carter Broadcast ``Family.'' There have been numerous accolades during their 50 years. Skip Carter was named to the Radio Hall of Fame, the station received a Crystal Award from the National Association of Broadcasters, a Griffin Award from the Missouri Broadcasters Association for Community Service, and their recent nomination for the Marconi Award from the National Association of Broadcasters which recognizes excellence in radio. Winners of the Marconi Award will be announced September 23 in San Francisco, our community will be cheering them as they are acknowledged and honored. They have been recognized for business successes and community service on many occasions. Three times they have been honored as a Top 10 Small Business of the Year by the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, the most recent being this past April. They have constantly stepped forward in the community in times of crisis. When children have been abducted, they have devoted live broadcast time to assist in finding them. They have lent their airwaves to help raise funds for community organizations such as the Ad Hoc Group Against Crime. In 1999 alone, the stations assisted more than 150 community organizations and aired 10,000 community service spots. Saturday, July 22, the Carter Broadcast Group is having a ``50th Anniversary Gala.'' The proceeds from this event will benefit the St. Vincent's Day Care Center, which servies many of Kansas City's critically at risk children. In celebration of this significant milestone, I am honored to recognize Michael Carter and the Carter Broadcast Group's efforts and legacy. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating the Carter family and the entire organization for 50 years of service to the Greater Kansas City community.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to the resolution and thank my friend and colleague, the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Jefferson), for giving me this opportunity to speak. There is no question that the Vietnam War strained the very fiber of our nation, however, the time has come to reconcile the discord of the past. Including trade in our new diplomatic relationship with Vietnam will allow us to create a positive partnership for the future. In January, I traveled to Vietnam and was struck by the evolution of their economy and the progress which has occurred to provide opportunities for both our countries. Mr. Speaker, in our increasingly global economy, shutting Vietnam out would be detrimental not only for the people of Vietnam and southeast Asia but for American citizens and businesses, as well. In the shadow of the historic market-opening agreement made only this month thanks to the efforts of U.S. Ambassador Pete Peterson, it would be a disaster for Congress to approve legislation to deny Vietnam eligibility for U.S. trade credits. Opening the Vietnamese markets will not only provide an economic boon for both Vietnam and the U.S. but will improve trade between the two countries, and that will go a long way toward healing the wounds both nations have been nursing for decades. I urge my colleagues to oppose this resolution. I rise in strong opposition to the resolution and thank my friend and colleague from Louisiana Mr. Jefferson, for giving me the opportunity to speak. The Vietnam war is the war of my generation and I will always have strong feelings regarding the longest war in our country's history and the conflict which strained the fiber of our nation. In January, I traveled to Vietnam and was struck by the evolution of their economy and the progress which has occurred to provide opportunities for both our countries.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Hoyer) for yielding me the time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the National Recording Preservation Act of 2000, known affectionately as the Grammy bill. As a member of the Congressional Arts Caucus and the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences who produced the Grammys, I am a firm believer in the power of recorded music. The preservation of our audio history is critical to sustain our cultural past for future generations. The Thomas-Hoyer bill, which I am proud to cosponsor, would establish a national recording registry in the Library of Congress to preserve recordings that are culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant to us as Americans. Many of these recordings are in jeopardy because they were originally created on a type of media such as wax cylinders, Depression-era disks, or wire recordings, that have not endured the passage of time well, or require special apparatus to play that is rare or no longer exists at all. It would be a tragedy to lose important compositions or recitations of our Nation's history when we have the ability to save them. An example near and dear to my heart is the compilation of works by Kansas City jazz great, Bennie Moten. Bennie and his band created the famous Kansas City swing style of jazz that later made Count Basie a star. Recording between 1923 and 1932, Bennie Moten's music is archived on 78 RPM records which require special equipment to play. If these precious musical works are not preserved, Bennie Moten's innovative sound that provided a foundation for other great artists will be lost forever. Mr. Speaker, it is not just music that would be robbed from us if we do not pass this critical legislation. Events from bygone eras have been recorded in sound as well as on paper. These recordings humanize the events we read about in textbooks and transport us to an understanding of our past more comprehensive than any history volume. During World War II, the Office of War Information recorded their broadcasts on disks that are in desperate need of preservation. These irreplaceable recordings include news about the war, music performances by war-era artists and speeches asserting our ideals and motives. Another treasure in jeopardy is the archives of the National Public Radio. NPR offers review and information about current events, as well as topical discussions. Unfortunately, these records are on tape which absorb moisture from the air. In order to save these historical sound documents for our children, the tape must be baked and recopied. Without this bill, these historical broadcasts will be lost. Mr. Speaker, the Grammy bill accomplishes a crucial task; safeguarding precious historical commemorations for generations to come. We all concede this protection is in place for our revered paper documents, such as the Declaration of Independence. It is time to bestow that same honor and respect on their audio counterparts. I commend the sponsors for their leadership, and urge my colleagues to support H.R. 4846. Mr. Speaker, I include the following for the Record. Treasures From the American Folklife Center (From Peggy Bulger, Director of the American Folklife Center) All in need of preservation. I. Wax cylinder era (1890-1930s) 1890--First field recording of folk music and folklore, as Harvard's Jesse Walter Fewkes uses new Edison recording machine to document songs and stories of Passamaquoddy Indian Noel Joseph in Calais, Maine. 1893--First recorded documentation of world music (I think), including Kwakiutl. Fijian Samoan Wallis Island, Javanese, and Turkish/Arabic music, made by Benjamin Ives Gilman in various pavilions at the Columbian Exposition in Chicago. 1895--Pioneering woman ethnographer Alice Fletcher teams up with her Omaha student, Francis LaFlasche, to record a comprehensive sampling of Omaha Indian music (this may also be the first recording under Bureau of American Ethnology auspices). 1895?--Bureau of American Ethnology begins a half century of recorded documentation of American Indian music and culture. 1907-41--Frances Densmore's 2000+lifetime recordings of American Indian music. 1906-08--Percy Grainger's recordings of English folksongs, including legendary English folksinger Joseph Taylor from Lincolnshire (Note: The Center's recordings were copied onto disc from the original cylinders when Grainger brought the cylinders into the Library in a sack--an early preservation effort). 1906-10--First cowboy songs recorded by John Lomax, including (??) ``Home on the Range''. 1929-35--James Madison Carpenter's recordings of Scottish ballad singer Belle Duncan. ii. disc era (1930s-1940s) Woody Guthrie's repertory, recorded by Alan Lomax, 193--. Leadbelly's repertory, recorded by John and Alan Lomax, 193--. Leadbelly's ``Goodnight Irene'' (or did he record this commercially first?). ``Rock Island Line,'' sung by Black prisoners in Cummins State Farm, Arkansas, recorded by John Lomax (accompanied by Leadbelly). ``Rock Island Line'' recorded by Leadbelly. The legendary interviews of Ferdinand ``Jelly Roll'' Morton with Alan Lomax on the stage of Coolidge Auditorium at the Library of Congress, describing the origins of jazz based on his personal experiences and observations, 1938. The Library of Congress/Fisk University Coahoma County (MS) Project--recordings by Alan Lomax and John Work of the entire spectrum of African American music in the Mississippi Delta, 1941-42 (includes the two following items). Muddy Waters (McKinley Morganfield)--the original Delta field recordings by Alan Lomax in 1941-42 (?), when Muddy Waters was a young man and before he went north to Chicago, electrified, and helped start the modern Rhythm and Blues style. Eddie ``Son'' House--Mississippi Delta field recordings of the legendary blues singer by Alan Lomax, 1941? ``Bonaparte's Retreat'' played on fiddle by Bill Stepp of Salyersville, KY, 1937, recorded by Alan Lomax--the source of the famous ``Hoedown'' music by Aaron Copeland's Rodeo. Willard Rhodes/Bureau of Indian Affairs Collection, the most comprehensive effort to document American Indian music in the post-WW2 period. American Dialect Society Collection--early documentation of American speech and dialect. Alan Lomax Michigan collection (1938?)--includes both urban blues and various unusual ethnic traditions (Here's an example of a disc collection that, because of the particular composition of the acetate discs, is flaking and falling apart as we speak). iii. Wire recordings (ca. 1947-65) iv. tape era (1947-present) Paul Bowles Moroccan Collection--60 to 70 7'' tapes recorded by noted author/composer Paul Bowles with the assistance of the Library of Congress, surveying the music of Morocco.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume, and I thank the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Scott) very much for that gracious introduction. I would also like to thank the gentleman from Arkansas (Mr. Hutchinson), who so eloquently described this very positive and special bill. I would also like to take a moment, Madam Speaker, to thank the chairman of the Committee on the Judiciary, the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hyde); and the ranking member, the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Conyers); as well as the chairman of the Subcommittee on Commercial and Administrative Law, the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Gekas); and the subcommittee ranking member, the gentleman from New York (Mr. Nadler), for expediting this very important effort for my community. Last Tuesday, the bill was heard in the subcommittee and marked up; last Wednesday in the full committee and marked up; and here we are on Monday, Madam Speaker, back to the floor for a vote by the full membership on consideration of the renewal of this important bistate compact. In the 1980s, when I served in the Missouri legislature in the House and chaired the Ways and Means Committee there, I and others of like mind, who realized that the uniqueness of Kansas City, with its State line dividing both a Kansas community and a Missouri community with common interests, might require some creative taxing mechanism in order to restore and to secure the very beautiful landmarks that we have there, both in culture, the arts, and also in our heritage, and yet not any one community could do it alone, so we created this bistate cultural compact that needed the approval by the people of greater Kansas City, which is, of course, home to 1.7 million supporters. We initially proposed this in the Kansas and Missouri legislatures, I happened to handle it in the Missouri House, and gained the approval of those two bodies in 1987, when we introduced it, and then again as we revised it. In 1994, when we finally agreed to it and passed it and it was signed into law by both governors, I came here as a State legislator to advocate for it before the Committee on the Judiciary and was very pleased for its passage in the House then. It is being renewed now because it needs to have some changes made to it. We sunset it, quite appropriately then, to make sure it would work successfully, and it has. Now we want to take it back to the community with the changes that the gentleman from Arkansas described in order for the voters to approve its continuance. The major success story of this effort, this rather unique effort, has been the restoration of our Union Station, a very important structure to both communities, located on the Missouri side. It is second in the Nation in size and history to Grand Central Station. It had fallen into great disrepair and deterioration, was looking for some current use, and this bistate cultural tax raised almost half the money needed to restore the building. It has been turned into a wonderful science center and museum and is a great gathering place for many, many cultural events in the community. It has been such a great bringing together of people on both sides of the State line, rallying around the importance of maintaining this important structure, that we want to go back now and let the commission discuss future use that might include comprehensive projects to support the arts for school-aged children and renovation or rehabilitation of arts facilities on both sides of the State line. Youth athletic facilities projects are desperately needed and seriously contemplated by the commission. And of course maintenance on existing athletic facilities will be included under new language in the compact. So I am very, very pleased today to be here in support of this effort, and I would like again to thank the members of the committee for their bipartisan effort in making this a priority and moving so expeditiously. Madam Speaker, I am providing for the Record some letters of support from individuals and organizations involved in this back home in Kansas and Missouri. Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, Kansas City, MO, July 17, 2000. Hon. Karen McCarthy, Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC. Dear Representative McCarthy: The Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce has been a strong supporter of the Kansas and Missouri Metropolitan Culture District Compact since it was first proposed more than 10 years ago by a civic task force organized by Kansas City Consensus. From the very beginning, the concept of a multijurisdiction tax for common purposes in a bistate region like Greater Kansas City has had great appeal. The Chamber was a principal player in the passage of the bistate tax to restore Kansas City's Union Station and establish Science City at the station. The success of that project has naturally led to speculation about other regional needs that might be met through this innovative approach. Consequently, The Chamber was a leader in the effort to expand the eligible use of bistate tax revenues through legislation in Kansas and Missouri to include sports and sports facilities as well as the cultural arts. The Chamber continues to be an enthusiastic supporters of the bistate tax concept and urges appropriate action by the Congress to facilitate the further use of this creative multijurisdictional initiative for regional purposes. Sincerely, Peter S. Levi, President.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Madam Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a little boy who, five months ago this Saturday, was tragically lost to his family. On February 22nd of this year, in Independence, Missouri, six year old Jake Robel was sitting in his mother's car when it was stolen. Jake got caught in the seat belt attempting to flee the car and was dragged to his death at speeds up to 80 miles per hour. The man accused of this horrific act had been released from jail that day, even though he had an outstanding warrant for his arrest. This senseless tragedy could have been avoided had a background check been made prior to the suspect's release from jail. In Jake's memory, I will introduce the Justice through Assured Knowledge and Enforcement Act of 2000, or ``Jake's Law'', which will require a comprehensive warrant check prior to release of prisoners. The Greater Kansas City community has rallied around this effort. Concerned parents and citizens have joined together to urge that Jake's Law become a reality. In addition to the over one million signatures they have collected on petitions, they have also held town meetings, which my staff and I have attended, to make their concerns known. I am introducing this legislation today in order to make sure their voices are heard, and Jake is remembered. Jake's Law will establish a nationwide prerelease records check system so that local law enforcement agencies will have immediate access to prisoners' records in jurisdictions throughout the United States. All law enforcement agencies will be required to integrate this mandatory warrant check into their standard prerelease procedure. Jake's Law does not federalize any crime or infringe upon state's rights. It simply ensures the cooperation and communication needed to safeguard people from individuals who should remain imprisoned. Mr. Speaker, I urge the House to support this common sense legislation, and prevent another tragedy like Jake Robel.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a former member who was laid to rest today. U.S. Representative William J. Randall died earlier this week in his home town of Independence, Missouri. He served in the United States House of Representatives from 1959 until 1977 representing Missouri's Fourth Congressional District. Through the years redistricting has changed the makeup of the districts in Missouri; his home address is now in the Fifth District which I currently represent. My Independence District Office is located in the U.S. Post Office which now bears his name. Known for his tireless constituent services, my office is inspired by him daily to serve our citizens to the best of our ability. Congressman Randall had a distinguished career here in the Peoples' House. Elected to fill a vacancy in March of 1959, he served eight additional full terms. His service in the House included work on the House Government Operations Committee. As Chairman of the Government Activities and Transportation Subcommittee he exercised oversight over the Federal Aviation Administration. He is credited with playing a major role in the process of selecting and training air traffic controllers, resulting in improved service and performance in air safety. His tenure is also noteworthy in that he represented then retired President Truman. As a member of the Armed Services Committee, he rose to the Chairmanship of the NATO Subcommittee. He was an expert in the understanding of the relationship with America and its European allies in the Cold War era. In his final term in Congress Representative Randall accepted additional responsibility and was named Chairman of the Select Committee on Aging and was an effective advocate for the senior citizens. Probably the highest tribute I am aware of for Congressman Randall comes from remarks on the occasion of his retirement by his colleague U.S. Representative J.J. Pickle of Texas. In his remarks about the work on the Armed Services Committee, Congressman Pickle said of Bill Randall: ``. . . many of us can sleep better at night because Bill Randall was so diligent in his duties.'' Following his service in Congress, Representative Randall returned to his home town of Independence, Missouri, and resumed the practice of law. Born in Independence, Jackson County, Missouri, July 16, 1909, he graduated from William Chrisman High School in 1927, Junior College of Kansas City, Missouri, in 1929, University of Missouri in 1931, and Kansas City School of Law in 1936. He served in the United States Army in World War II in the southwest Pacific and the Philippines. Elected as a judge of the Jackson County Court in 1946 he served in that capacity until elected to Congress in 1959. He was a valued mentor to me. His advise was wise and insightful. A man of the people, he continued attending community events and visiting with patrons at the Courthouse Exchange Restaurant on the Square in Independence, the city he loved and returned to. Everyone in the area knew Bill Randall and appreciated his service and down-to-earth style. He is preceded in death by his wife Margaret and survived by his daughter, Mary Pat Wilson and his very dear friend and companion Helen Keen, to whom we offer our sincere condolences.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of the amendment sponsored by the gentleman from Oregon to decrease funding by $7 million for the Department of Agriculture's Wildlife Services program. This program is costly, unnecessary, inhumane, dangerous and continues to expand eliminating any landowner incentive to control predators through other more cost-effective and humane measures. The predator control program is not cost-effective and its funding has increased to almost $10 million annually. Sheep and cattle killed by predators could be replaced at one-third the cost the government spends in trying to control predators. These predatory control methods are dangerous for the animals, but some of the forms of predatory control such as aerial gunning are also high risk to Wildlife Service employees. Since 1996, six employees have been killed in four helicopter and plane crashes, the most recent occurred on March 27, 2000. Ranchers should be taking care of predator control problems themselves. This amendment would not prevent ranchers and farmers from doing so. Currently, because of the federal subsidy, ranchers are discouraged from using more effective, humane, less-costly, and non- lethal methods such as guard dogs, electric sound and light devices, or predator exclusion fencing. There is no incentive for ranchers to use these types of control methods because the government is paying to kill the wild animals which attack these farmers' livestock. I don't object to farmers and ranchers protecting their property but I do object to the federal government paying for it. Again, this program is costly, unnecessary, inhumane, and dangerous. I urge the adoption of the amendment.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 341, had I been present, I would have voted ``aye''.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to my friend and nationally respected clergyman, Rev. Dr. Albert Lee (A.L.) Johnson, Sr. Reverend Johnson passed away after an extended illness. His is a loss felt by his family and congregation, the greater Kansas City community, and most certainly our nation. Reverend Johnson was a community activist and civil rights advocate throughout his life. He fought for the common person and his influence was far reaching both inside and outside the Christian church community. Justice and equality for all fell within the realm of his spiritual responsibilities as well as his public and moral responsibilities. He traveled to numerous and varied places in the world and touched the lives of individuals in a remarkable way. Rev. Johnson, as President of the local Council for United Action, was on the front line in the battle against racial and social injustice. Although small in stature, he was a giant of a man whose actions led to positive social change. His leadership made a difference in fair employment, housing, and public accommodations. Justice and equality for all fell within the realm of his spiritual responsibilities as well as his public and moral responsibilities. He traveled to numerous and varied places in the world and touched the lives of individuals in a remarkable way. His actions inspired greatness in those who serve the public. He was instrumental in the election of the first black mayor of Kansas City, the first black U.S. Congressman from the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri, and for me being the first woman to serve the Fifth Congressional District in the U.S. Congress. Rev. A.L. Johnson was a true friend who believed in me and counseled me. He could, in his quiet way, comment on an issue with just a few motivating words which resonated in my soul and encourage and inspire me to continue the tough fight for the people of the Fifth Congressional District and this great nation. His family and congregation allowed him to follow his second calling, that of a public servant. Although holding no elected or appointed office, he served our community with distinction on various boards, commissions, and task forces locally as well as nationally. He served as Chairman of the Permanent Organization Committee of the National Baptist Convention of America, Inc.; past Chairman of the Board of Operation PUSH; former national board member of the NAACP; past President of the Baptist Ministers Union; past President of the General Baptist State Convention; board member of Freedom, Inc.; and Treasurer of the Sunshine District Association. He was the Pastor of Zion Grove Baptist Church in Kansas City, Missouri from 1964 until his retirement in 1997. Upon retirement he continued to serve as Pastor Emeritus. He was a man of tremendous faith, vision, and character. Reverend Johnson's leadership in our community utilized his faith and vision to lift us all up. I ask the House to join me in expressing to his family our gratitude for sharing this great man with us, and to accept our condolence for their tremendous loss which we share. Mr. Speaker, please join me in expressing our heartfelt sympathy to his wife, Flossie, his five sons and five daughters, and his many relatives.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume, and I offer this amendment which adds clarifying language to the bill. This amendment is noncontroversial and enjoys bipartisan and bicameral support. This amendment allows the Department of Justice to accept a donation of greeting cards from the Salvation Army. The Department of Justice requested this language to continue a very successful prison card program which has operated successfully for over 25 years. Each year, as a part of their rehabilitation, millions of cards are distributed to help prisoners keep in touch with their families and friends, thus keeping them connected with society and, where possible, easing their return and acclimation to society upon release. From a public policy standpoint, this program is hailed as very successful by the Department of Justice, the Bureau of Prisons, prison administrators, majority and minority communities, faith-based organizations, and law enforcement officials. Again, this is a noncontroversial and widely supported program, and I urge the adoption of my amendment.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. I yield to the gentleman from Kentucky.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for accepting my amendment. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, today I join my constituents in the Fifth District of Missouri in remembrance and in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Korean war. On June 25, 1950 North Korea attacked South Korea. An emergency session was called by the United Nations Security Council resulting in 22 nations joining forces in the first United Nations initiative to preserve peace and harmony. President Truman sent our troops to Korea as part of that United Nations peace keeping effort to preserve democracy and repel communism. This nation must always be cognizant of the message stated on the 50th Anniversary Korean War Commemorative Flag ``Freedom Is Not Free''. We welcome home every Korean veteran and salute their valiant efforts on our Nation's behalf I rise today to remember and honor the 54,268 United States military who tied in the Korean conflict. We must never forget that 8,207 are missing in action, and only 3,450 returned of the 7,000 prisoners taken. Let us pray for prisoners of war and those missing in action. We must continue to seek information about missing soldiers and provide families with long awaited news and closure to years of unanswered questions. This nation must always remember and be appreciative of our brave sons and daughters who answer the call. Today our military stationed in South Korea continue to stand ready and vigilant. I salute them for their valiant service. In January I had the opportunity to travel to South Korea and visit the Korea Demilitarized Zone. During my journey I learned a great deal about the importance of a continued U.S. role in the region. The trip was a very real reminder that peace and stability still elude us. This month the world witnessed the first Korean Summit, a historical meeting for a region divided since 1945. South Korea's President Kim Dae-jung traveled to North Korea and met with Kim Jon 71, leader of North Korea. The talks resulted in a signed agreement, initiating steps for reunification. As the world watches with cautious optimism we hope for a long-term relationship that will bring peace and stability. While today Secretary of State Madeleine Albright announced United States troops will remain in South Korea indefinitely despite the improved relations in the region, we wait for the day when we can bring our United States soldiers home to their families. Thank you to all the Korean veterans, their families and those who continue to serve.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, today I announce my intention to introduce legislation to grant the consent of the Congress to the Kansas and Missouri Metropolitan Culture District Compact, a successful project I have worked on for over a decade. In 1987 1 sponsored enabling legislation in the Missouri House of Representatives to establish a bi-state cultural district for the Kansas City metropolitan area of five counties in Western Missouri and Eastern Kansas. This unique effort in our nation provides a secure source of local funding for metropolitan cooperation across state lines to restore historic structures and cultural facilities. Through the next seven years I worked closely with my counterparts in the Kansas State Legislature, the Mid-America Regional Council, KC Consensus, and civic leaders and elected officials to secure State and Federal approval. When the Bi-State Metropolitan Cultural District Compact was finally sent to the U.S. Congress for authorization in 1994, 1 appeared in Washington, D.C. in support of passage of this Compact, along with my co-sponsor, Missouri State Senator Harry Wiggins. I am proud to seek approval of the continuation of the Kansas and Missouri Metropolitan Culture District Compact. Approval of new State and Federal legislation to extend the Compact is necessary for three reasons. First, the existing Bi-state Contract sunsets at the end of the 2001 which means the local revenue stream will end unless new legislation extends the authority. Second, the new Contract expands the cultural definition to include sports facilities important to the region. Finally, with the consolidation of the governments of the City of Kansas City, Kansas and Wyandotte County into the unified government, the Kansas representation on the Bi-State Board was decreased by two Board Members. Consequently, Missouri currently has an advance of two votes. The new law corrects this inequity so that membership on the Board is balanced with half of the Members from each state. Over the past four years the Greater Kansas City area has seen the successes of the original Compact. It has made possible the restoration of Union Station which is one of the Midwest's greatest historic landmarks and the largest preservation project currently underway in the United States. The restoration project has been a unique example of a bi-state, private-public, local-federal partnership. Continuation of the Compact will allow the metropolitan area to further this productive alignment for successful arts and cultural initiatives in the region, and I expect more will be done in Kansas using the revenue in the next phase of the Compact. Mr. Speaker, I am requesting the House join me in supporting this worthwhile and successful effort in our districts by granting federal consent of the Kansas and Missouri Metropolitan Culture District Compact.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, today the Smithsonian Institute will honor the American Jazz Museum located in Missouri's Fifth District. The American Jazz Museum, previously known as the Kansas City Jazz Museum, is the first museum in the world devoted exclusively to jazz. The gallery showcases the often difficult plight and rare successes of one of America's first original art forms. The museum, which opened in 1997, is housed in a modern 50,000 square foot complex at the historic 18th and Vine district in Kansas City. Once inside, visitors find interactive exhibits and song samples which tell the story of jazz and its musicians in words, pictures, and sounds. Last year, the complex was visited by more than 350,000 visitors who came from all parts of the city, county, and world to relive the golden age of Kansas City jazz in the 1920's and 1930's. In this era, legendary Kansas City musicians such as Charlie ``Bird'' Parker, Count Basie, and Jay McShann developed swing and spread the popularity of jazz across the land. Not only does the museum educate those who come in from the street to learn about jazz, but it also offers 4 symposia each year to learn about a specific jazz musician or topic. These conferences are attended by musicologists and music lovers from around the world. Past symposia have studied Parker, Miles Davis, and the recent revival of swing music. I encourage my colleagues to take a cyber tour of the museum at http://americanjazzmuseum.com. In addition to educating its visitors, the museum has led to a revitalization of the historic area once home to several jazz clubs. The museum itself operates the Gem Theater to showcase today's up and coming musicians. There are now several other clubs and restaurants in the area, with a new commercial and residential complex scheduled to open within the next year. A once deserted urban neighborhood has returned to the days of peopled streets and late night music as a result of the success of the American Jazz Museum. A grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the Doris Duke Foundation helped the Museum create JazzNet to establish an endowment and support organizations that preserve and present Jazz nationwide. The museum has applied for other grants for various projects including an academic analysis on the lives of jazz musicians. The study would determine working and living conditions of artists in four major cities, and the research team would identify areas in which support for jazz musicians will be most beneficial in furthering their work. In three short years, the American Jazz Museum has become an impressive institution. It educates its visitors, entertains in its theater, analyzes the music and its musicians, and revitalized a deserted downtown area. Because of all these accomplishments, the American Jazz Museum is most deserving of special recognition from the Smithsonian Institute, and I congratulate them and wish them continuing success.