Karen McCarthy

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in favor of the bipartisan resolution sponsored by the House Majority and Minority Leaders. Let me begin by expressing my profound sorrow and deepest sympathy to the friends and families who have lost loved ones in this tragic attack, or who are awaiting word of their friend or family member's well being. I commend the efforts of the rescue workers and volunteers who are working around the clock to aid and assist the victims. Our Missouri FEMA Urban Search and Rescue Team will arrive in New York today to lend their expertise. Members of Congress and their staff will be donating blood tomorrow to ensure survivors have this vital resource. Our collective grief as a body is enormous and impossible to quantify. We stand united behind our President. Just as we rebuilt our belief in our NASA space program following the 1986 tragedy when the orbiter Challenger exploded after launch killing all crew including teacher Christa McAuliffe, we can come together as a people and strengthen our national security and work internationally to rid the world of terrorist attacks in the future. Mr. Speaker, I join with you and all members to remember the victims of the terrorist attacks in New York City, rural Pennsylvania, and at the Pentagon by observing this day, September 12, as a national day of unity and mourning as called for in this resolution. For the Record, I submit a number of personal reflections from members of my congressional staff. Jon Atlas, Legislative Correspondent: In the wake of this disaster, our challenges are threefold: First of all, we must continue to locate survivors of the attack and work to comfort the friends and families of those most affected. My heart goes out to all those whose family and friends have lost their lives or are still missing in the rubble. In this darkest of moments in history. I am encouraged to know that rescue workers from around the country have convened upon New York for no personal gain, but rather to help save the lives of their fellow Americans. This heroism is an example of our country greatest assets: our spirit. In the face of this tragedy, our country will come together: to help our neighbors cope, to ease the suffering, and to restore American confidence. After watching yesterday's rescue efforts unfold, I'm extremely honored to call myself an American knowing that people with such a grand spirit live within our borders. Secondly, we must ensure that we prevent future acts of terror from reaching American soil. The terrorists knew of our security weakness, and we must close these holes. Our airports must be safe, our roads must be safe, and our borders must be safe. One major area of concern for me is that in an age of immeasurable technological advancement, it is possible for a commercial jumbo jet to simply ``disappear'' from FAA communication. Each plane in the air should be accounted for at all time. By restoring the secure feeling to which we have become accustomed, America will proceed down the road of prosperity. Finally, we must seek out those who have shattered the dreams of so many innocent travelers, business people and federal employees and punish them for their heinous act. Soon, foreign governments will understand the consequences of harboring terrorists. The United States will send a clear message that these types of actions against our citizens will not be tolerated or forgotten. Yesterday's victims go beyond those within the area of the direct attack. America's freedoms and way of life were under siege, but our ideals held up. This morning, seeing the Capitol building with the flags flying made me realize our country will not fold under such massive disasters. Our citizens may have been attacked, but our democracy will persevere. Nicki Cardwell, District Aide: From the heartland we send our hearts, prayers and support for our fellow Americans personally suffering from this terrible atrocity. In American tradition we will continue with our daily work with heavy hearts and a quiet determination to preserve the freedom that this country represents. This injustice has raised an awareness of how vulnerable people of a free nation can be and we will preserver as generations before us. Evan Pickford, Legislative Correspondent: The terrorist attack yesterday was an incredibly sad event for everyone in our country, particularly the families and friends of the many victims of the attack. I feel incredibly fortunate that everyone close to me lived through the incident, but I am still deeply saddened by this tragedy. My utmost condolences go out to everyone who was hurt or lost a loved one from this terrible crime, and I hope for swift action to punish those responsible for these incidents. I hope that this tragedy brings together those survivors to show their love for each other and their appreciation of the value of human life. Beth Rosenberg, Legislative Assistant: September 11, 2001 will live forever in American history as a day of infamy. Yesterday our country was victimized. New York City and the Pentagon were transformed into scenes from a war movie, and the United States witnessed events of a magnitude never before seen in our country. While our country was slowed yesterday by these incredulous attacks, we were not stopped. As Congress convenes today, we demonstrate our nation's resolve and our ability to rally together as we condemn the perpetrators of these heinous acts. From Los Angeles to Washington, DC, Miami to New York, business in the United States will continue as usual. We will go on. We will survive. Today, as we begin another chapter of America's history, let us remember the innocent lives lost in yesterday's tragedy. Let our hearts be with their families and friends, and let our minds be on rebuilding our country. Scott Stark, Special Assistant: Broken buildings and shattered lives cannot shake the foundation of America. We are stronger than any act of terrorism and greater than any sneak attack could ever be. We cannot and will not be intimidated by terrorists. Indeed, we will continue to stand tall as a shining beacon of freedom through the world. Our government is still running, our American leadership is united and committed, and our resolution is only strengthened by these acts of cowardice.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute the Hallmark Channel in partnership with the Jim Henson Company for their recent gift to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Their generous contribution of this license will help the Commission relaunch a national v-chip campaign utilizing Kermit the Frog as the official ``spokesfrog'' empowering parents with the tools they need to control the programming that their children view. The Hallmark Channel and Jim Henson Company have recognized the importance of the v-chip and ratings initiatives in empowering viewers to control what comes into their homes over their television sets. Last year, these companies developed an award-winning promotional campaign that designated the world famous and beloved figure of Kermit the Frog as national ``spokesfrog'' for the v-chip and television ratings system. This year, the Hallmark Channel and Jim Henson Company have gone even further by giving the FCC a license to use Kermit on the informational materials that it distributes. The Commission just completed publication of this new brochure for widespread dissemination. I am proud to have the world headquarters of Hallmark located in my home district in Kansas City, Missouri. The company has a long history of serving the metropolitan Kansas City area as well as other communities throughout the nation. Hallmark has repeatedly demonstrated its civic commitment through its Hallmark Hall of Fame television programs. The powerful message of these award winning programs bring meaningful and wholesome entertainment into our living rooms. Its leadership in partnering with the Salvation Army has turned the donation of greeting cards to a prison chaplain for distribution to inmates so they may stay in touch with their families into a national model of rehabilitation involving both the federal and state prison systems. Hallmark not only provides millions of dollars annually to outstanding charitable causes, it has repeatedly been recognized as one of the most outstanding places to work in the country. Its creative environment is family focused, which invites its associates to excel and want to come to work each day. Clearly, Hallmark is an outstanding national model of corporate citizenship. Mr. Speaker, please join me and our colleagues in the United States House of Representatives in commending the Hallmark Channel and Jim Henson Company for this generous gift to the FCC. Their ongoing efforts to provide the viewing public with family friendly programming choices, and their helping in educating the public about the v-chip and the ratings systems are greatly appreciated.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to my friend, Hila ``Dutch'' Newman. In Missouri, Democrats from every region and every level of government seek her counsel, value her judgment, and understand that her word is her bond. Over the years her leadership, civic pride, integrity and commitment to our community have fostered a deep respect by all who know her. Dutch has a gift of uniting people in common cause. She personifies how one person can make a significant difference in the lives of others. On September 6, 2001 friends of Dutch Newman will gather to pay special tribute to her. A foundation in her honor will be initiated with an objective to provide innovative voter education and registration opportunities, as well as scholarship funding for our youth. The Dutch Newman Voter Education and Scholarship Foundation will become another facet of her legacy, and have a lasting impact on our community. The mission of the foundation is derived from her own, providing today's youth with unique voter education and registration opportunities and scholarships so they will be better able to participate in our democracy. Dutch epitomizes the citizen that President Kennedy sought when in his Inaugural Address he said, ``And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country.`` Dutch Newman has served in every facet of Democratic politics and always brings sound judgment, insight and perspective to her work. She presently holds the following offices: President of the Westport Landing Democratic Club; President of the State of Missouri Federation of Women's Democratic Clubs; and Vice Chairwoman for the Jackson County Democratic Committee. She serves as a member of: the Democratic State Committee and their Executive Board; Committeewoman for the 5th Ward in Jackson County; Chairperson of State House District 38; and Secretary for the 5th Congressional District. Dutch was the first woman to be appointed by a Governor to sit on the committee for the Senatorial Redistricting of the State of Missouri. She was also the Kansas City Coordinator for Senator Hubert Humphrey's presidential campaign in 1968, and Missouri Coordinator for the National Campaign Conference for Democratic Women in Washington, D.C. She has been a Missouri Delegate at the National Democratic Convention for six presidential elections. Her work has not gone unnoticed, especially her grassroots organizing, as she has been recognized by the Jackson County Democratic Party with the Harry S. Truman Award, as well as Woman of the Year Award presented by the Women's Fifth District Democratic Club, now entitled the ``Dutch'' Newman Woman of the Year Award. An article in today's edition of ``The Kansas City Star'' details many of the other aspects of Dutch's life, including her devotion to her children and grandchildren, and her service to our community outside politics, and I ask that it be made a part of today's Record following my statement. Dutch was one of the original founders of the Volker Neighborhood Homes Association, and is a member of: the Daughters of Westport, the Westport Historical Society, Neighborhood Crime Prevention; and the Guardian Angel Altar society. In recognition of her dedication and commitment to the quality of life in Kansas City, Mayor Wheeler presented her with a certificate of appreciation and proclaimed October 5, 1974 as ``Dutch'' Newman Day in Kansas City, Missouri. Her work with people with HIV and AIDS was recognized by a certificate of Appreciation from the National Association of People with Aids. The Dutch Newman Voter Education and Scholarship Foundation will be a constant reminder of the ideals she represents. Through this foundation young people will gain an appreciation for our country's government and become active citizens in the electoral process. Dutch Newman has accepted the challenges of life, conquered adversity, sacrificed for her family, and become a role model for our citizens, inspiring future generations to take an active role in their community. Thank you, Dutch for all you do and for your valued friendship. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring a Missouri treasure, Hila ``Dutch'' Newman. [From the Kansas City Star, Sept. 5, 2001] In Kansas City Politics, It Helps To Know Dutch (By Kevin Hoffmann) If you're a Democrat in Kansas City and want to run for a political office, then you better go Dutch. Going Dutch has little to do with money. It has everything to do with grass-roots politics and the woman who epitomizes it, Hila ``Dutch'' Newman. Newman, a force behind Democrat--and a few Republican-- candidates since the 1940s, will be honored at a special tribute Thursday night at the Kansas City Marriott Downtown. More than 500 people are expected to attend. The event's list of honorary hosts is a virtual who's who of past and present politicians. And whether they were seeking office in Kansas City, Jefferson City or Washington, Newman helped elect them all. ``Her reputation was that of a very effective worker who could deliver the vote for the Democratic party in the precincts she served,'' said Former Kansas City Mayor Charles Wheeler. Those precincts include the Country Club Plaza, Westport and Volker neighborhoods. Newman has a direct method of finding the candidates she trusts, then working earnestly knocking on doors, making phone calls and printing thousands of sample ballots to pass out to voters. Besides the tribute to Newman, a voter education scholarship foundation has been established in her honor. The foundation will provide voter education programs for youth and eventually will offer scholarships for students studying politics. ``I can't recall another event like this,'' said political and communication consultant Mary O'Halloran, an organizer of Thursday's event. ``Not a tribute to a political and community activist who has never served as an officeholder. ``The phrase I've been hearing over and over is that she's a legend in her own time,'' she said. ``They don't know of anybody else who has had the passion for succeeding and winning and at the same time have compassion for people.'' Former Kansas City Mayor Richard L. Berkley, a Republican, holds Newman in high regard. ``She's so active and involved,'' Berkley said, ``She's willing to work hard for those she wants elected to public office.'' U.S. Sen Jean Carnahan of Missouri said: ``Dutch proves one person can make a difference.'' Newman's roots are simple. She learned the gift of getting along with people and developed her sharp intuition while pouring beer at the Westport tavern owned by her father, Harry Bucher. While tending bar during World War II, Newman volunteered for the Civil Defense Program and was charged with planning a blackout test for Westport. Her first door-to-door effort was successful except for one glitch. As she drove around a darkened Westport with a Civil Defense Program official, Newman noticed a lone light coming from her third-floor apartment. She cringed. ``He said, `Dutch, isn't that your apartment building?' '' Newman returned home and errantly turned on the light. ``I could have killed him,'' she said. ``My apartment was the only one with a light on.'' George Aylward, who ran the influential Kansas City political club Democracy Inc., was impressed by Newman's ability to organize. He asked for her help with a candidate for Jackson County-assessor in the 1944 election. Newman campaigned through the local neighborhoods and picked up quite a few votes at her father's tavern. Aylward's candidate won big. Just like that, her career in politics took off. She worked for the club for several years with Aylward as her mentor. Eventually, she formed her own group, the Westport Landing Democratic Club. ``I really had a great instinct for whether or not they were in it for the people or for themselves,'' she said of her ability to back successful candidates. She also had a City Hall post: supervisor of the Commercial Recreation Department which oversaw things such as liquor licenses and massage parlors. In 1965, then-Gov. Warren Hearnes appointed Newman a fee agent in the Raytown license bureau, a post she had for nearly a decade. After that, she worked as Jackson County's supervisor of liquor control. In the 1960s and 1970s, women were scarce in back room political circles. But at a 2 a.m. strategy session at a club called the Green Duck, there was Newman alongside Bruce Watkins, Leon Jordan and Alex Presta. Newman is more than a fountain of good advice for politicians. She's also full of good stories. Like the time she was passing out campaign literature and a man answered the door naked. ``I said, `Here, read this and get inside before you freeze your rear off,' '' she recalled with a laugh. Or the time Newman and her sister, Sue Lawson, were in line at the 1976 Democratic convention in New York. As Secret Service agents checked the entering delegates ahead of them, Lawson nudged Newman. ``She whispers to me that she has a gun in her purse,'' Newman said, adding that her sister worked for the prosecutor's office. ``It was legal (for her) to carry them, but why she had one, I don't know.'' Newman decided they should inform the agents. ``I guess I should have phrased it better because in seconds there were 10 men surrounding us,'' she said. ``They literally picked us up by the shoulders and dragged us out of there.'' At the police station, Newman attempted to reach someone from Clarence Kelley, a former Kansas City police chief, then head of the FBI. Soon after, the women--minus Then there was the time she was in the hospital during the Gerald Ford-Jimmy Carter presidential race. ``The nurse comes in and says, `Mrs. Newman, I think this is a prank, but there's a guy on the phone who says he is Jimmy Carter,' '' Newman recalled. Indeed it was Carter, wanting to make sure Newman was OK. ``I was in the hospital another time and (George) McGovern called me,'' Newman remembered with a sheepish grin. She whispered, ``I really didn't like him that much.'' On a visit to Kansas City in his run for the White House, Vice President Al Gore stopped his motorcade when he saw Newman standing on the lawn of Penn Valley Community College. He got out of the limousine and ran over to give her a hug. Newman hasn't won all her battles. She backed Joseph P. Teasdale when he lost his second bid at governor to Kit Bond. Carter lost to Ronald Reagan. She couldn't prevent the closing of her neighborhood school at the Guardian Angels Church. But even in defeat, she set herself apart by staying loyal, several politicians said. ``Even if their ship was sinking,'' Newman said, ``I stayed with them.'' Newman once filed for a seat in the Missouri legislation but later withdrew. Once, she was approached to run for lieutenant governor. Among the reasons she declined was her family. ``I was sitting at home eating dinner with the family and I remember thinking, `I can't leave this for four or five days a week,' '' she said. Daughter Michele Newman said Newman always managed to be the consummate mother, even while staying busy in politics. ``My sisters and I always felt blessed to have such an incredible mom,'' she said. ``We were reflecting and it's amazing that first and foremost was us three girls and our father. We were always No. 1.'' ``She was the coach for our girls volleyball team at Guardian Angels . . . she was always the room mother at school,'' Michele Newman said. ``It's been incredible having her as a mother.'' The human side of Newman is what neighbors notice most. Tim Mulvany remembered his real estate agent telling him about Newman when he moved to her block in 1979. ``A week went by and there she was at the door,'' he said. ``She immediately included us in everything.'' Mulvany discovered Newman's political savvy in the first Kansas City election in which he voted. He noticed that Newman backed everybody he was voting for. He printed up a special campaign sign for the next election. It read: ``Whoever Dutch votes for.'' Neighbor Joe McKenna said Newman is the first to help with any neighborhood problem. ``If you need anything it seems like you always end up calling Dutch,'' he said. ``There's a lot of people who don't even know she's helped them.'' McKenna said Newman is always quick to help a neighbor whether it is providing a ride to the doctor's office or help with a utility bill. ``One time a little boy on the street got his bike stolen,'' McKenna said. ``By noon, there was a brand new bike on that boy's porch.'' McKenna smiled. ``That's Dutch.''

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to H.R. 4, the Securing America's Future Energy (SAFE) Act of 2001. I regret having to take this position because I support the Energy and Commerce Committee provisions of this bill, which were crafted in a bipartisan manner under the leadership of Chairman Tauzin and Ranking Member Dingell, as well as the Energy and Air Quality Subcommittee Chairman Barton and Ranking Member Boucher. Working together, the members of the committee created a balanced energy policy that recognizes the importance of conservation and efficiency as well as increased production from traditional sources of energy, while improving our nation's commitment to alternative and renewable energy resources. These efforts produced an excellent first step toward addressing critical national energy supply issues in an environmentally sensitive manner, improving efficiency so as to reduce waste, and ensuring our nation's energy security for future generations. The product of our committee's bipartisan work was combined with the sections reported by other committees. Instead of having conservation and efficiency as its center, the legislation added millions of dollars of tax benefits for corporations involved with exploration and production and distribution of energy supplies with no guarantees that the savings will be passed on to the American consumer. Several provisions were added which threaten sensitive environmental areas such as the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) and allow the private sector to short circuit important environmental regulations. These provisions fundamentally alter the balance that was needed to increase energy supply and protect the environment. The process by which the bill was pieced together for floor consideration was also seriously flawed. I worked with my colleagues in the Energy and Commerce Committee, on both sides of the aisle, to include important provisions that will improve the energy efficiency of the federal government through a streamlining of the Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP), saving taxpayers millions of dollars for years to come. We created an innovative funding mechanism called the Federal Energy Bank to establish a fund that would help federal agencies invest in more efficient technologies and renewable resources, recouping the savings for reinvestment later on. We also included incentives for production from renewable energy facilities through revisions to the Renewable Energy Production Incentive (REPI). When H.R. 4 was presented for floor consideration the Energy Bank provision, which was unanimously approved by committee, was missing, with no explanation of why other than that the Office of Management and Budget had concerns about the provision that had not been raised during the three previous versions of the legislation as it was developed in committee. After learning that those concerns could be addressed with minor revisions, I offered an amendment to clarify the language for the floor, but it was not made in order by the rule. As the details of the legislation came to light, it was determined that other important provisions contained in the Energy and Commerce Committee bill were removed without consultation with committee members. Mr. Speaker, legislation of this magnitude deserves complete and thorough review and the rush to get the measure to the floor should not supersede the good bipartisan work that was performed in committee and thwart the public policy gains that were made. Increasing the fuel efficiency of passenger vehicles and light trucks holds the greatest potential to reduce consumption of fossil fuels and emissions of harmful global greenhouse gases, but the implications on the industry and jobs requires a delicate balance on how we best approach this problem. The Energy and Commerce Committee took a first step toward addressing improved fuel efficiency through the requirement that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) take steps to decrease petroleum fuel consumption of new vehicles manufactured between 2004 and 2010 by five billion gallons than otherwise would have occurred. Because the rulemaking process under existing law has been stalled for the past six years we have lost the opportunity to approach increasing fuel efficiency at a reasonable pace. We should continue to work to increase the fuel efficiency of all vehicles. The automakers have indicated repeatedly that they have the existing technology to increase the fuel economy of their products and plan to implement those improvements in the near future. Making these changes to improve automotive fuel efficiency and actually affecting the number of these vehicles sold is a different matter. Whether for safety, convenience or performance reasons, Americans' buying habits have trended strongly toward larger sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and light trucks. The public supports improved fuel economy, but balanced with the desire to have vehicles that meet their transportation needs. The Energy and Commerce Committee provisions also call for a report that will examine alternatives to the current CAFE standard policy and requirements for each manufacturer to comply with these standards for vehicles it makes. The National Research Council report suggests alternative means by which we could achieve greater success at improving fuel efficiency such as a system of tradeable credits to augment the current CAFE requirement and eliminating the differentiation between foreign and domestic fleets. We should continue the effort to examine how best to accomplish this over the next several months and come back to this issue once we have learned more about the economic effects of the suggestions that have been included in the report. Mr. Speaker, we must follow through on our commitment to make the provisions of this bill the first step to increase the fuel efficiency of all vehicles, not the last. When considered as a whole, H.R. 4, is an incomplete solution to our nation's energy needs which will harm the environment we are charged with protecting. I cannot support such an unbalanced and shortsighted energy strategy, and I urge my colleagues to oppose this bill.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Independence, Missouri, a city in my district recently named a Top Ten All America City by the National Civic League for the third time. Of 93 cities that competed, Independence was unanimously selected by the 12 member panel of civic leaders during the first round. Independence previously received this honor in 1961 primarily for its city charter revisions. In 1981, it took top honors based on the work of the Independence Neighborhood Councils. On June 23, 2001, Independence again proved itself worthy of being the hometown of former President Harry Truman. David Rein, a spokesman for the National Civic League, describes the winners as ``models of exemplary grassroots problem solving,'' which perfectly describes the Independence delegation's message of ``Together We Can.'' The special designation of All America City pays tribute to Independence's unique spirit and inventive approaches in dealing with youth, infrastructure, and other civic issues. The participating businesses, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and schools did a tremendous job demonstrating the rehabilitation of older communities and the dedication of its youth to public service. To win a recognition whose stated goal is to honor ``communities that teach the rest of us how to face difficult situations and meet those challenges in innovative and collaborative ways'' is an achievement Independence can be proud of for years to come. Each city was judged on three efforts toward community betterment. Independence chose its street and park improvements, Midtown and Truman Road Corridor Project, and the William Chrisman High School Association for Chrisman Excellence ``ACE'' youth volunteer program. Independence has made $150 million worth of improvements to its transportation infrastructure in the past three years, and this past year 325 Chrisman students involved in the ACE program volunteered more than 11,000 hours of their time in community service. Those students who volunteered 40 hours or more were rewarded with a varsity letter. Even more impressive, the City won this honor after overcoming a period of decline in its public facilities as well as civic apathy. In his presentation to the All America City judges Truman impersonator Ray Ettinger, while holding a replica of the famous ``Dewey Defeats Truman'' newspaper, declared to the jury, ``I know a great comeback when I see one.'' Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring the 50 delegates and Mayor Ron Stewart who represented Independence in this competition. This award reflects the City's civic leaders and its citizens, whose commitment to bettering their hometown made these accomplishments possible. I concur with Lenneal J. Henderson, one of the All America City judges, who said, ``There was no debate about Independence.'' Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating the City of Independence for its excellence. I am proud to represent them.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to me. Mr. Chairman, I rise, very respectful of the gentleman offering the amendment, to oppose the amendment offered today. While I, too, have concerns for the safety of our food that has been genetically engineered, we need to continue the FDA's oversight and expertise in this area. Handcuffing the FDA by prohibiting their review process has very broad policy implications. The risks associated with transgenic fish, and specifically salmon, are overstated. Claims that transgenic salmon will create genetic pollution are unfounded because only sterile all-female stock would be commercialized, virtually eliminating any risk of cross-breeding with wild salmon. Legislating the approval process of FDA has far-reaching implications which could negatively impact future innovations to improve our food supply and our health. We have a world to feed, Mr. Chairman, and I urge my colleagues to oppose the amendment.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the Olver-Gilchrest amendment to strike the Kyoto rider language. The President has already indicated that he has no intention of implementing the Kyoto Protocol. That is unfortunate because we need to stay engaged at the table to encourage progress on this critical issue. However, it makes this rider unnecessary. Science has confirmed the existence of global climate change is real. The effects of this have significant implications for agriculture in our nation and around the world. The mix of crop and livestock production is influenced by climatic conditions and water availability. Increases in climate variability already make adaptation by farmers more difficult. In my state of Missouri, agriculture is a $4 billion annual industry, one-half of which comes from livestock, especially cattle. The major crops in my state are corn, soybeans, and hay. Corn and soybean yields could fall by as much as 22% or rise by as much as 6%, depending on the climate variability resulting from global climate change. As a result of global warming, we expect to see more frequent anomalies in our weather, with more frequent severe storms, floods, and droughts. Clearly these volatile weather patterns can have a highly negative impact on our ability to farm and protect and secure families and property. We might also expect to see more pests in our plants and food stream. We may see more insects, and plant disease is expected to become more prevalent. There may be many pests that are new to our area, and we might expect to see greater numbers of insects, some of which carry diseases like malaria. The insects could travel further north--into MO--as a result of global warming. Again, this could have a potentially significant adverse effect on plants and crops by destroying our nation's precious resources and jeopardizing human health. This morning, Deborah Clark from the University of Missouri-St. Louis, at a National Academy of Sciences forum, spoke about the ability of plants to sequester carbon. While planting trees and other carbon- sequestering crops will capture more carbon dioxide, many plants will be less productive if global warming continues because high temperatures limit the ability of plants to photosynthesize, thus reducing their ability to capture carbon. Our Nation's strategy to address climate change can produce a reliable supply of diverse fuels that minimize greenhouse gases and secure our leadership in energy technology to benefit our consumers and to export around the world. We must make the necessary investments in emerging technologies which will allow the United States to gain the edge in developing and marketing new products and lead to job creation. If we fail to act, we will lose the edge to other nations like Japan and Germany who are committed to this course of action. A decade of progress has occurred since former President Bush signed the original climate treaty in Rio in 1992. This rider makes it difficult for federal agencies to work on any issues related to climate change, which the U.S. is obligated to address as part of the Rio agreement. I urge others to join with me in voting in favor of this amendment, because whether or not the Kyoto protocol moves forward, we have an obligation to maintain our global leadership role in developing new technologies that will enable us to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and promote the agricultural economy. The rider is unnecessary and I urge my colleagues to support the Olver/Gilchrest amendment.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Kenneth Krakauer, whose death on June 16 is an incalculable loss to his loving family, cherished friends, and to our community. Ken touched the lives of many people through the inexhaustible energy and caring that he brought to every aspect of his life. He was a lifelong Kansas City resident and the great grandson of Bernhard Ganz, one of the first Jewish sellers in Kansas City. Throughout his life, Ken Krakauer remained extremely dedicated to his faith, country, and community. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps where he flew 27 missions in the European Theatre and was awarded the Air Medal with Five Oak Leaf Clusters for his bravery. He played a significant role in and was devoted to many organizations in our community, including: Director of the Menorah Medical Center for 42 years, Secretary of the Kansas City Crime Commission, Chairman and Co- founder of the Kansas City Chapter of the American Jewish Community, Co-chairman of the Kansas City Chapter of the National Conference of Christians and Jews, and a Director of the Barstow School, Visiting Nurses Association, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, UMKC University Associates, Jewish Family Services, and the Jewish Community Relations Bureau to name a few. Ken Krakauer also was an important part of the Kansas City business community. After his Presidency of the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, The Kansas City Star praised him as ``an unqualified success.'' His grandfather, Bernhard Adler, founded Adler's in 1894, and Ken became owner and President in 1956. Adler's was the place women of all ages shopped to find the latest in fashion. It was always a special occasion for me because of the high standard of service and quality in his stores. His staff reflected his love of helping people find the uniqueness in themselves. Ken Krakauer was instrumental in the founding of the Committee for County Progress (CCP) with community and civic leaders Bernie Hoffman, Jim Nutter, Sr., Charles Curry, Alex Petrovic, Sr., and Frank Sebree. The government reform movement in Jackson County resulted from their efforts. A charter form of government--modern, open and accessible--was created which was responsive to its citizens and inspired future generations of county leaders. I became active in the CCP, volunteering in local elections to keep the reform alive that Ken Krakauer achieved in the mid '60s as Chairman of the CCP. Through my friendship in high school with his daughter, a treasured relationship that has endured to this day, I came to revere Ken Krakauer for his sage political skills as well as his mentoring during my service in the Missouri General Assembly and my work in the United States Congress. I could always rely on his sound judgment and wisdom to assist me in sorting through the challenges I faced. Ken Krakauer's dedication to his community was matched only by his love for golf. He was a talented golfer at the University of Missouri where he was a captain of the golf team before graduating in 1938 from the School of Journalism. His passion for golf remained undiminished throughout his life as he served in leadership capacities in the Kansas City Golf Foundation, the Kansas City Golf Association, the Missouri Golf Association, the Junior Golf Foundation of Greater Kansas City, and the Missouri Seniors Golf Association. Ken Krakauer also authored numerous golf articles in ``Golf Digest'' and ``Golf Journal,'' as well as the book, ``When Golf Came to Kansas City,'' the 1986 winner of the National Golf Foundation's Eckhoff Award. He was instrumental in sponsoring college scholarships for area caddies through his participation as a member of the Western Golf Association's Evans Scholars program. Mr. Speaker, former U.S. Senator, Thomas F. Eagleton enjoyed Ken's friendship throughout his outstanding service to the people of Missouri. I wish to share his reflections with my colleagues: Ken Krakauer was a marvelous, steadfast friend. When I was young and in my first statewide race for Attorney General of Missouri, he supported me not for what I had done, but for what he hoped I might do. Later when I was in the United States Senate, he would occasionally drop me a note saying he disagreed with a certain vote I had cast. Ken Krakauer believed that an important part of friendship was candor. I have enormous affection for Ken and his wife, Jane, and for Randee and Rex. All of us will dearly miss this wonderful, intelligent man, Ken Krakauer. Ken Krakauer loved his family and friends with a passion even death cannot diminish. Mr. Speaker, please join me in expressing our deepest sympathy to his devoted wife of 55 years, Jane Rieger Krakauer, his son and daughter-in-law, Rex Rieger and Xiaoning Krakauer, his daughter and son-in-law, Randee Krakauer Kelley and Michael J. Kelley, and his beloved grandchildren, who loved him as KK, Tyler Randal Greif and Eli Jordan Greif. Their unqualified love of ``KK'' was shared with neighborhood children, untold schoolmates and friends as you will find in the remarks by Georgia Lynch which follow. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the attached testimonial given by Georgia Lynch at the memorial service on Tuesday, June 19th follow my statement in the Congressional Record. Our Sweet Beloved Uncle Ken, June 17, 2001 For those of you whom I do not know, I am Georgia Lynch. Jim and I moved next door to Ken and Jane 27 years ago. We had two little girls Megan and Kara, ages 5 and 3, and a black lab named Ned. We had no family in Kansas City. Immediately, Uncle Ken and Aunt Jane wrapped their arms around us and for the next 27 years we had family, just across the driveway. They have always been there for us, taking the place of the family we lacked. Our little girls stopped at their back door to ask for cookies, to show off their Halloween costumes, their Easter dresses, their prom dresses, their wedding dresses. Uncle Ken was there to talk about the problems of the day, to give advice and direction, or just to give a hug and a kiss. He was always there willing to be interviewed for school projects and essays, a wealth of knowledge on the most interesting subjects. He asked about their day, their friends, their sports, their boyfriends and was important in their lives. Dogs Megan and Charlie and then Jocko lived there too and were the girls' playmates. Our dog Ned was a problem when we first moved into our house. Our yard was not fenced and he was running the neighborhood. Uncle Ken to the rescue. He arranged for a man who lived in the country to take Ned and care for him. Uncle Ken was forever retrieving balls from his back yard that wandered over the fence, moving bicycles from his driveway, buying cups of lemonade from the girls' lemonade stands. Uncle Ken could always be counted on to buy school trash bags, flowers, candy, help with Brownie and Girl Scout projects, put a Band-Aid on a scratched knee. How wonderful to have Uncle Ken across the driveway. The girls knew he could look in our kitchen window and that he knew everything that went on in the house next door. Ken loved the Kansas City Chiefs, and always listened with great interest and concern to Jim's tales of adventure on the gridiron. He seldom missed a game and was always there to boost our spirits when we lost or give a strong pat on the back when we won. He followed the children's little sports too, gave directions on the art of roller skating and mastering a bicycle. He could always be counted on to help perfect a golf swing. His stories on Kansas City golf history were amazing. His stories on Kansas City in general were amazing. We listened and we learned. Our son Jake was born 19 years ago; Ken and Jane were at the door when we brought him home from the hospital. Ken asked us to reconsider calling the baby Jake, ``Sounds too much like an old Jewish man rather than an Irish Catholic baby boy.'' Ken said. ``Call him Michael or Patrick.'' But no, it would stay Jake. Jake loved his Uncle Ken, as did Megan and Kara. He too would knock on the back door asking for cookies and a chat. Uncle Ken was so sweet with Jake, such a wonderful role model for our young boy. A pat on the back, a bear hug, always a ``How's it going Jake?'' And then, he would listen. Most days, when Jim was out of town, my newspapers would be at my back door when I came down to the kitchen. How many many mornings did I see the top of his head walk past my kitchen window and hear the slight thump of Uncle Ken in his bathrobe, delivering the news to the kitchen door? How many times did I call him when the power went out, the alarms went off, a strange sound was heard? He would show up at my back door to see if we were OK, one time at 1:00 in the morning dressed in his trench coat over his pajamas with a butcher knife up his sleeve, ready to protect the children and me from an intruder. Two weeks ago, Jim was babysitting our two-year-old granddaughter Morgan Grace, on a Saturday afternoon. They too, knocked on the Krakauers' back door. Aunt Jane was not home but Uncle Ken was, and of course he brought them to the kitchen table for a big chocolate brownie and milk. Papa Lynch, Uncle Ken and now our grandbaby Morgan, continuing the tradition of so many years with our next generation. Jim said, as always, Uncle Ken talked with little Morgan one on one, giving her his full and loving attention, and a great time was had by all. What an anchor in our lives our Uncle Ken has been. He is more than a neighbor, more than a friend, he is our Uncle Ken, and we love him deeply and completely. He will always be a part of our lives. How we will miss his wave across the driveway. The last thing he ever did when entering his house was always to glance at our kitchen window before the garage door would come down. Always checking on us in his loving way. How I will miss those taillights pulling into the garage, the sound of the car door slamming, and that sweet smile and wave across the drive.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the amendment by the gentleman from California (Mr. Farr). This emergency supplemental is exactly the vehicle that should include measures to address the current energy emergency out West and relieve transmission congestion in the Midwest and avoid similar problems in other parts of the country before we have a repeat of this crisis. The Committee on Energy and Commerce held several hearings on the electric emergency bill over the past couple of months and identified transmission expansion as vital to California's situation. One of the components of the legislation was expansion of the Path 15 transmission lines that could deliver an additional 1,500 megawatts of power to California from the northwest. That measure identified the need for Path 15 expansion at $220 million. During that hearing, I asked witnesses what stood in the way of getting Path 15 transmission lines expanded and upgraded, and the director of that Western Power Association said, an appropriation. Mr. Chairman, the Committee on Energy and Commerce did not authorize an appropriation, but the chairman indicated that they felt they had that authorization already. We just need to step up to the plate. So funds to upgrade transmission systems all over our country is the most critical problem we can address today for our Nation's energy future. Besides the efforts to upgrade Path 15, the creation of the loan fund in the Farr amendment will allow for investment in other approaches to upgrade the transmission systems that have lacked commercial support. I urge adoption of the amendment.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Madam Speaker, on rollcall No. 166 passage of H.R. 1291, I was detained in my district attending the funeral service of a distinguished civic leader, Kenneth Krakauer. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Madam Speaker, on rollcall No. 167, agreeing to H. Con. Res. 154, I was detained in my district attending the funeral service of a distinguished civic leader, Kenneth Krakauer. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Madam Speaker, on rollcall No. 168, agreeing to H. Con. Res. 163, I was detained in my district attending the funeral service of a distinguished civic leader, Kenneth Krakauer. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, during rollcall vote No. 148, due to difficulties associated with my travel logistics, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay.''

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, during rollcall vote No. 149, due to difficulties associated with my travel logistics, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay.''

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor two of my constituents from Kansas City who recently have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to their community. William T. Esrey, Chairman and CEO of Sprint Corporation, and his wife Julie Esrey have been awarded the 2001 Star Award by the Kansas City Starlight Theater. The Starlight Theater is Kansas City's largest and oldest performing arts organization and is the second largest theatre of its kind in the United States. Founded in 1950, the Starlight Theatre is now in its 51st season. This distinguished Star Award was presented the Esreys, who are Honorary Co-Chairs for the 15th Annual Starlight Theatre Benefit Gala on Saturday, May 19, 2001. The Star Award is given to honor those individuals who have made outstanding contributions and dedicated long- time service to Kansas City, making a difference in the community. The Esreys are honored with this award through countless hours worked in the community to help benefit an extensive list of community service organizations. Under Bill Esrey's leadership, the Sprint Foundation has been a major benefactor of The Starlight Theater. Additionally over the past five years alone, Sprint has donated more than $17 million in Sprint Foundation contributions and matching grants to organizations in greater Kansas City. Mr. Esrey also spearheaded the drive that raised millions of dollars for the rehabilitation of Union Station and the development of Science City, including $9 million in Sprint contributions since 1991. Julie Esrey has worked both for Exxon and as an international economist for the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, as well as serving on the boards of Bank IV (Kansas), Duke University and Brown Shoe. In Kansas City, she has served as honorary Chairman, American Cancer Society Gala; Honorary Chairman, Lyric Opera Ball; Chairman, Children's Mercy Golf Classic; Chairman, March of Dimes Gourmet Gala; and Honorary Chairman, KCPT Speaking of Women's Health for 2001, as well as serving on the Central Governing Board of Children's Mercy Hospital from 1989 through 1995. During Bill Esrey's tenure as CEO, Sprint has grown into a $23 billion worldwide communications force and was named the most admired communications company in Fortune Magazine's survey of corporate reputation. Business Week named Esrey as one of the ``Top 25'' business executives in the world in 1997. Bill Esrey joined Sprint, then known as United Telecommunications, Inc., in 1980 as Executive Vice President of Corporate Planning. In 1984, Esrey led the effort to fundamentally reposition the company by entering the long distance market and building the nation's first all-digital fiber optic network. Today Sprint is a leader in the communications industry, which has emerged as one of the growth engines for the overall U.S. economy. Currently, Bill Esrey serves on the boards of Exxon-Mobil Corporation, Duke Energy Corporation and General Mills, Inc. He also is chairman of the Business Council and a member of The Business Roundtable. In addition to their dedication to the community and their careers, Bill and Julie are dedicated to each other and their family. Married since 1964, they have two grown children, Bill Jr. and John, who have participated in many local activities and follow in their parent's footsteps in giving back to the community. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in congratulating Bill and Julie Esrey on receiving the 2001 Star Award. Their dedication to the Kansas City community and their family is an example to all of us of the difference individuals can achieve who have dedicated their lives to making the world a better place. Thank you Bill and Julie.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Madam Speaker, for years now, Congress has tried to bring relief to small business owners with Superfund concerns. I applaud bipartisan effort on this legislation to alleviate the unnecessary financial burdens on small business owners who are unjustly brought into the legal fray for sites where they did not contribute to the contamination. The Superfund program and the redevelopment of Brownfield sites are essential to the economic prosperity of our communities. H.R. 1831, the legislation before us today, is a balanced and fair approach because while it provides protections to relieve small business that did not contribute to the contamination from unnecessary and unwarranted litigation, it holds the appropriate contaminators accountable. Much more work needs to be done to reform the Superfund program, including helping others seeking legitimate liability relief and holding those who did the actual contamination accountable, but this bill, seven years in the making, provides the long awaited relief that small businesses throughout our nation need. We must keep making progress on broader Superfund legislation Our actions at the Federal level should complement the successes of the Brownfields Program. Redevelopment of Brownfield sites helps all our communities and ultimately the small business owner. In 1998 the Kansas City Region was one of only 16 designated as a ``Showcase Community'' by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This past year the program was awarded the EPA Region 7's Phoenix Award, a national honor recognizing excellence in Brownfield redevelopment work. These honors translate to true results. Results in my district include jump starting the Lewis and Clark Redevelopment Area located in the historic West Bottoms known for years in Kansas City's growth as the ``stock yards.'' This area was ravaged by a devastating fire in 1998, leaving business and abandoned buildings gutted. Normally, a rebuilding process would begin except when there is a contamination complicating the process. In this instance, there were mitigating factors associated with contamination (mainly asbestos) and the federal Brownfields program was used to partner with the city and economic development to eliminate the contamination. With the involvement of the Brownfields program, a blighted eyesore on the threshold of downtown Kansas City has been removed and rejuvenated to restore and create jobs and economic development. A success story through the partnership of Brownfields and Superfund. In all parts of my district there are similar success stories whether it is the Historic 18th and Vine Jazz Entertainment District, to the Beacon Hill Neighborhood housing redevelopment, and the Blue River Industrial Corridor. Brownfields afford the opportunity to build upon the synergies of public and private partnerships, resulting in business and job growth, improvement of quality of life, and reinvestment in what would otherwise continue to be a depressed area. Ultimately, this translates into a thriving small business community. This is what the Superfund and Brownfields redevelopment programs were intended to create--not additional and unwarranted litigation. Madam Speaker, I support this legislation and urge its adoption, along with further Superfund reform efforts.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, during rollcall vote No. 99, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye''.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, during rollcall vote No. 98, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.''

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to both the Kansas City Southern Railway and the Gateway & Western Railway Company. These two rail companies are the recipients of the 2001 E.H. Harriman Gold Award, the highest award for railroad employee safety in the rail industry. At the core of both of these companies is an unwavering commitment to safety, so it is fitting that they were chosen as recipients of the E.H. Harriman Gold Award. The late Mrs. Mary W. Harriman in memory of her husband, Edward H. Harriman, a pioneer in American railroading, founded these annual rail employee safety awards in 1913. Chosen by a committee of transportation professionals, the awards are granted to railroads on the basis of the lowest casualty rate per 200,000 employee hours worked. This formula takes into account the volume of work performed, as well as the number of fatalities, injuries and occupational illnesses confirmed by the Federal Railroad Administration. The Kansas City Southern Railway Company is a Class I rail system, which operates over 2,728 track miles in 11 central and southeastern states. It was founded in 1887 with the vision of providing the most direct salt water access from the Midwest. Today Kansas City Southern has the shortest route between Kansas City and the Gulf of Mexico, serving the ports of Port Arthur, Texas, New Orleans and West Lake Charles, Louisiana, and Gulfport, Mississippi. Their commitment to safety, along with innovative business practices, makes Kansas City Southern a leader in the rail industry. Their vision of safety encompasses the wellbeing of every employee. Thriving on the vision and principles of its parent company, Kansas City Southern, Gateway Western Rail is also a formidable force in the rail industry. As one of only four rail gateways along the Mississippi River system in St. Louis, Gateway serves as a major interchange point between eastern and western railroads. It interchanges traffic with every major rail carrier in the United States and has access to the Mississippi River via two barge terminals. Since its inception in 1990, Gateway Western has enjoyed a steady increase in business volume and an outstanding record of safety. Kansas City Southern Railway and Gateway & Western believe in the necessity of safe worker conditions in saving lives. They cultivate an environment where employees look out for one another and actively participate in improving the safety of all workers, and an environment where employees are jointly responsible for the safety process. Kansas City Southern Railway and Gateway & Western Railway Companies are dedicated to uncompromising safety in meeting the needs of their customers, their employees, and the communities they serve. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in congratulating Kansas City Southern and Gateway & Western Railway Companies on receiving the Harriman Gold Award. Their commitment to putting safety first in the railroad industry serves as a national model.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in salute to the Butler Manufacturing Company and its 100 years of service and leadership to Greater Kansas City, the United States, and countries abroad. Throughout the last century, Butler Manufacturing has remained steadfast in its commitment to providing quality products and services worldwide. I am proud to recognize their achievements. Butler Manufacturing Company, founded in 1901 by innovators Emanuel Norquist and Charles Butler is now one of the world's leading providers of commercial and industrial construction services. Their first Butler building, completed in 1910, stood in use in central Kansas City for over 45 years. With the successful introduction of a sturdy two car version of the garage, Butler Manufacturing was in the building business to stay because the market demand was so great. With the passing of each decade, Butler Manufacturing has remained on the cutting edge of the nonresidential construction market. The 1920s were devoted to determining customers' needs and satisfying those needs with personal service, concepts that worked successfully for Butler's grain bins. In the 1930s, Butler answered the call from the U.S. Department of Agriculture by mass-producing 14,500 galvanized steel grain bins in under 59 days; one day ahead of schedule. By the 1940s, Butler Manufacturing had a complete line of rigid frame buildings ready to market. The 1950s brought about enormous change and growth within the company with the formation of five product divisions; two of which, commercial, industrial and institutional end users, and rural buildings, continue to be the strength of the company today. Marked as a decade of enhancement and expansion, the 1960s ushered in new technologies and advancements such as construction components which allowed for frames with wider, longer, and lower slopes. In the 1970s, Butler extended the long-term value of buildings by making them virtually weathertight and advanced traditional ideas on pre- engineering buildings through such innovations as Multi-Story, Long Span, and the distinct look of Landmark, which all were pioneering steps in the advancement of building systems. The 1980s were a time of acquisitions for Butler as they sought to grow new markets and increase market share in existing businesses. Throughout the 1980s into the mid- 1990s, acquisitions were made to expand Butler's architectural and aluminum market presence. Today, Butler Manufacturing has gained multinational recognition and continues to be a leader in business worldwide, including presence in South America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, while remaining dedicated to the core ideals of excellence and teambuilding, on which the company was founded. These ideals are also responsible for Butler's being named the recipient of the prestigious 2000 Paragon Award by the Human Resource Management Association of Greater Kansas City. Noted for their excellent practices in a broad range of human resource issues, the recognition of Butler's mentoring program highlights a continued commitment to the Greater Kansas City community as well. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join with me today in celebrating Butler Manufacturing Company's 100 years of innovation, customer service, and quality that founded and continues to sustain this company's place as a leader in manufacturing in America and the global community.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of a dedicated police officer, loving husband, father and hero to our community. Only three weeks away from retirement with the Independence, Missouri Police Department, Police Officer Terry Foster gave his life on March 18 while in the line of duty. Officer Foster was a life long resident of the Greater Kansas City Area and a 32 year veteran of the Independence Police Department. Officer Foster began his service to the Department in 1968, and worked his way up through the ranks to become a detective. Ten years ago he decided he would return to patrol duty, where he felt the community needed him the most. Terry Foster is best remembered by his peers and a people person who always took time to listen. His fellow officers describe him as a genuinely nice guy whose strong work ethic and friendly smile made him a mentor to many of the department's younger officers. ``He was a man that did his job well,'' said Independence Detective Carl Perry, ``He's going to be sorely missed.'' Terry Foster is the fifth Independence police officer and the first since 1966 to lose his life in the line of duty. This past Thursday, March 22, family, friends, and police officers from across the nation and my community came together to recognize the valor and courage of Officer Terry Foster, and lay his body to rest. ``The hundreds of officers who attended the funeral did so out of respect for a man who honored their profession,'' said Sidney Whitfield of the Jackson County Sheriff's Department. For the first time in 25 years, the Independence Police Department posthumously awarded Officer Terry Foster the department's medal of valor, which is the highest honor the department can bestow upon an officer. In the days following this tragic event, our community and the national law enforcement community joined together to mourn the loss of this outstanding man. Officer Terry Foster sacrificed his life for the greater good. Independence Mayor Ron Stewart, a former Independence police officer, described Terry Foster as an officer on the front lines of public service. ``As police officers we are charged with providing that first line of defense. He laid his life on the line for his fellow man,'' said Mayor Stewart. The commitment of Officer Foster leaves a lasting legacy that will further our genuine appreciation and deep gratitude to those who have dedicated their lives to protect and serve. Terry Foster's service to our community will never be forgotten. He made a difference in our lives. May we learn from his tragic death that every day police officers and firefighters risk their lives, and their families may sacrifice a loved one for the safety of all of us. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House to join me in saluting this heroic man and extending our condolences and gratitude to his wife Debbie, son, Christopher, daughter, Lori, step-son, Bryan, father, Albert, his beloved dog, Cassie Earlene, and the Independence Police Department.

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. Unfortunately, the marriage penalty tax relief as proposed by the President provides little relief to families with incomes under $30,000; and much of the benefit that is designed for middle-income families does not even start to take effect until after 2004. The Democratic alternative offers relief to all married couples with an income tax liability starting next year. The Democratic plan also protects transfers that are supposed to be made to the Social Security and Medicare trust funds. Mr. Speaker, at the beginning of the week I was with the President in my district in Kansas City as he outlined the details of his tax proposal; and as I listened, I found myself thinking that most of the workers in the small business facility where we gathered would benefit more from the provisions of the Democratic alternative tax plan, lowering payroll taxes and providing relief within the next year, rather than waiting for the complicated credit system in the President's plan.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the 21st Century Higher Education Initiative, which seeks to strengthen America's minority-serving institutions. This measure helps make college affordable, doubles vital resources, preserves historic landmarks, recruits minority teachers, and helps to prepare the 21st century workforce for global competition. These colleges and universities are critical to recognizing our national goal of having Americans of every ethnicity and race represented in all levels of society. In my state of Missouri, we have two excellent historically black higher education institutions, Harris-Stowe State College in St. Louis, and Lincoln University in Jefferson City. Harris-Stowe State College was founded as a result of a merger between two teaching schools in 1857, and soon became the first public teacher education institution west of the Mississippi River. Harris-Stowe State College has been a leader in teacher education, and continues this vital mission today. Lincoln University was founded in 1866 by the enlisted men and officers of the Civil War's 62nd and 65th Colored Infantries with a purpose to educate freed slaves, and in more recent years the university has expanded to include a broad curriculum across several academic disciplines. While the student bodies of these institutions remain predominantly African American, the composite is now multi ethnic. I salute the commitment of Harris-Stowe State College and Lincoln University, as well as all minority serving institutions, to enriching the fabric of American society through its graduates. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in full support of the 21st Century Higher Education Initiative and I urge my colleagues to embrace this important measure. This legislation is an important tool that will help all minority serving institutions flourish and continue to provide America with top quality minds. As we raise successive generations to move into the global economy, we must provide avenues for everyone to succeed, and, in turn, strengthen our nation.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along with my esteemed colleague from Missouri's 3rd District, the Democratic Leader, Mr. Gephardt, to honor a loyal friend, devoted father, remarkable public servant, and esteemed political and civic leader whose love of life will live on in the memory of all those lives he touched. Steve Vossmeyer died march 9, just five days before his 57th birthday. Citizens of the City of St. Louis, his beloved Central West End neighborhood, and the Great State of Missouri mourn his passing. Steve loved the law and he loved people. He was a popular political figure who used his wit and humor to cajole and prevail upon others to accept his point of view. He was a force to be reckoned with because he researched the situation thoroughly, asked tough questions of opponents, and loved to galvanize those of like mind around a challenge then execute a winning strategy. His love of sports, particularly Cardinals baseball, was legendary and shared enthusiastically with family and friends. An invitation to partake of Steve's culinary skills was a treasured occasion that brought the best minds together around his table and provoked conversations which extended well into the night. Mr. Vossmeyer served the United States Senate as the legislative Assistant to Missouri Senator Thomas F. Eagleton from 1969 to 1972. Steve accompanied Senator Eagleton and two other Senators on a fact finding mission to Vietnam in 1970. His interrogation of military personnel after their ``canned'' presentations uncovered significant admissions that the war was not going as well as public pronouncements had indicated. In response he drafted major portions of the War Powers Act. His strongly held beliefs in the democratic process motivated him to serve as an election observer for the first democratically conducted elections in Czechoslovakia after the fall of communism. Mr. Vossmeyer was elected a Missouri State Representative of the 86th District in 1972, and held that office for ten years. His first election was one of the biggest upsets in the state. He ran against a well known labor union official who outspent him by a margin of more than 4 to 1. His campaign utilized innovative techniques and new technology not previously employed in Missouri elections. At the close of each session, he prepared a comprehensive newsletter on the successes and failures, and those newsletters were quickly imitated almost verbatim--with his approval--by legislative colleagues of both parties. Steve was aided in these elections and constituent communications by Sandy Rothschild, a close friend from Washington University undergraduate days. During his tenure in the Missouri House he championed a number of measures that benefited women. Her sponsored several measures to protect rape victims from spurious attacks by defense attorneys and to balance the playing field for both sides in domestic relations disputes. He sponsored public records reforms and legislation to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment. He helped numerous women in their campaigns for public office. This list includes State Representative Sue Shear, Lt. Governor Harriet Woods and Dee Joyce Hayes, his former wife, who he helped a decade after their divorce in her successful effort to become St. Louis Circuit Attorney. As Chairman of the House Governmental Review Committee, Steve reformed many of the antiquated and ineffective procedures used by State agencies and modernized the State's mental health laws. Steve served the City of St. Louis as a Member of the Board of Electors. This body examined a series of problems confronting the St. Louis region, recommending various reforms. In the St. Louis community he remained a political activist fighting for good government and preservation of historic neighborhoods. His opinion on a broad range of issues was sought by numerous federal, state, and local officials, including former Missouri Congressmen Jack Buechner and Alan Wheat, as well as the sponsors of this Congressional Record Statement. He was always very generous with his time and consistently demonstrated concern for issues of public interest. Steve practice law in St. Louis full time with the firm he co-founded in 1979, Newburger and Vossmeyer. His principal partner was David Newburger, who he met while Mr. Newburger taught law at Washington University. His primary area of practice was civil litigation and domestic relations. Steve has a son, Robert Stephen Vossmeyer, and a daughter, Rebecca Sarah Vossmeyer. ``Becca'' is the child of his current marriage with M. Celeste Vossmeyer. He loved his children dearly. They were with him during his last days, as were friends mentioned herein joined by Richard Callow, Betty Neill, and Paul Steinmann. We include an article from the Sunday, March 11 edition of ``The St. Louis Post-Dispatch'' where a number of his friends reflect with Jo Mannies on their memories of Steve. Mr. Speaker, please join us in sending condolences to Steve's family in their time of grief. We will honor him by gathering March 19th from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the courtyard at Bar Italia in his neighborhood per his wishes that friends celebrate his life. In Marc Connelly's profound 1930 play, The Green Pastures, has characters suffer as they fight to save their families and countryside from oppressors. They discover God's love through suffering. We are glad that Steve's suffering is over and he has found God's love. We doubt that he will ever stop fighting the good fight. Ex-State Representative Steve Vossmeyer, Prominent Figure in Democratic Politics, Dies at 56 (By Jo Mannies) Former state Rep. Steve Vossmeyer, a St. Louis lawyer prominent in Democratic politics and local civic affairs, died Saturday of cancer at his home in the Central West End. He was 56. His close friends included some of the state's top political figures, including former Sen. Thomas F. Eagleton, for whom Mr. Vossmeyer worked in the late 1960s and early '70s; former Rep. Jack Buechner, a Republican who practiced law with Mr. Vossmeyer for several years; and Rep. Karen McCarthy, D-Kansas City, an old ally in the state Legislature. ``He was involved in politics because of his abiding belief in the people and service to the people,'' said his friend and law partner, David Newburger. Allies said that during his years in the Missouri House, from 1972-83, Mr. Vossmeyer played a key role in reforming Missouri's mental health laws and in changing the state's rape laws so that they treated married women equitably. ``He was one of the state's first feminists,'' McCarthy said Saturday. Friends said Mr. Vossmeyer's sense of humor was a key reason why he was such a popular political figure. ``He used his wit the way Old West gunfighters used their pistols,'' said political consultant Richard Callow, a close friend. Mr. Vossmeyer was born March 14, 1944, in St. Louis. His political involvement began early. After graduating with a bachelor's degree from Washington University, he studied international affairs at George Washington University in Washington. In 1968, Mr. Vossmeyer joined then-Lt. Gov. Eagleton's campaign for the U.S. Senate. Following Eagleton's election, Mr. Vossmeyer joined Eagleton's congressional staff. ``Steve Vossmeyer was exceedingly bright . . . . He put in more hours per day than anyone else involved in the campaign,'' Eagleton recalled. ``He was strongly against the Vietnam War. He simply couldn't believe the misinformation being put out by the Defense Department. He went with me on a trip to Vietnam in the early '70s. After we'd get the canned briefings by the generals and colonels he'd cross-examine them and turn up facts they'd left out.'' Mr. Vossmeyer's friends said he was most proud of his involvement in Eagleton's successful effort to win congressional passage of the War Powers Act, which requires presidents to obtain congressional approval when waging war. Mr. Vossmeyer returned to St. Louis to run for the Legislature in 1972. McCarthy said he was part of an alliance on women's issues that included the late Rep. Sue Shear and then-state Sen. Harriett Woods. `He was one to galvanize those of like minds around an issue,' McCarthy said. While serving in the state House, he also attended Washington University's School of Law, where he received his degree. In 1979, he co-founded the local law firm Newburger & Vossmeyer. ``I have never known a lawyer more dedicate and devoted to his clients,'' Newburger said. After leaving the Legislature, Mr. Vossmeyer remained a political activist. A Democratic panel nominated him in 1985 to take over as chairman of the Missouri Democratic Party, but an internal dispute scuttled that plan. In the early 1990s, Mr. Vossmeyer was involved in a now-defunct city- county effort called the Board of Electors, charged with tackling regional issues. Among survivors are his wife, Mary Celeste Vossmeyer; a son, Robert Stephen Vossmeyer; and a daughter, Rebecca Sarah Vossmeyer, all of St. Louis. The funeral will be private. A memorial service will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. March 19 at Bar Italia, 4656 Maryland Avenue.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in tribute to a pillar of the Kansas City community, the Central Bank of Kansas City. This month marks the 50th anniversary of Central Bank's service to the residents and businesses of Northeast Kansas City. Chartered in August of 1950, this financial institution has remained a stronghold in the community throughout the cultural and economic changes and growth that have occurred since it opened its doors. Through expansion and innovative services, Central Bank has demonstrated and continues to live up to its commitment and dedication to Northeast Kansas City. The American Bankers Association Banking Journal considers Central Bank of Kansas City one of the top performing banks in its category. A leader in community development, the bank joined with Old Northeast, Inc. Community Development Corporation, in 1999, to construct thirty new homes in the Northeast Community for low and moderate income families. Central Bank has also partnered with the Kansas City Neighborhood Alliance and Bishop Sullivan Community Center in an effort to revitalize housing in the Blue Valley neighborhood. In addition to promoting housing and small business initiatives such as the First Step Fund designed to assist small business entrepreneurs, they serve on the Safe Neighborhood Grant Advisory Council, which addresses the quality of life for the residents. Quality education is another priority of Central Bank. They participate in the ``Bank at School'' program which gives fifth grade students basic bank training. They participate on various boards such as the national Academy Foundation's business partnership for American education. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in celebrating the 50th anniversary of Central Bank of Kansas City. Its outstanding leadership serves the community well. Its continuing commitment to Old Northeast assures the vitality of this historic neighborhood.