Karen McCarthy

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support for increased funding for the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) as well as additional investment in the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the Institute for Museum and Library Service (IMLS). I congratulate my colleague from New York, Ms. Slaughter, for the adoption of her amendment earlier in the day which adds funding to these important programs. Further, I am astonished at the lengths the majority is going to in order to deny the will of the House. NEA has not had a funding increase since 1992 when its budget was almost $176 million. In fact, in the 104th Congress when I arrived, efforts were made by the Majority to eliminate the NEA. The funding level in the bill under consideration today, $98 million, is inadequate and should be increased within the context of a balanced budget. Congresswoman Slaughter's amendment does not make the program whole but it made a modest, much-needed increase in funding for the NEA. We need additional funds to support grants for art education which we know is key to reducing youth violence and enhancing youth development. If we are serious about curtailing youth violence, cutting funds to an agency that is getting positive results with its youth arts project is counterproductive. Consequently, I commend Congresswoman Slaughter for offering her amendment which would increase funding for the NEA by $10 million and provide an additional $5 million for the NEH and $2 million for the IMLS. In my district, NEA has successfully funded the Ailey Camp of the Kansas City Friends of Alvin Ailey, which is a national dance troupe. This 6-week dance camp has an 11-year history and has provided opportunities for more than 1,000 children. This camp provides a vehicle, through art, for children to grow and enjoy the experience of success. Beyond the dancing, they also have creative writing, personal development, antiviolence and drug abuse programs. Statistics confirm the success of this program on behavior and learning of these at-risk children. The NEA funds several programs at the American Jazz Museum (AJM) in Kansas City, the only museum of its kind in the country. NEA funding helps the AJM preserve and present jazz so that people from all over the city, the country, and the world learn to appreciate one of the first original American art forms. Four years ago, the NEA and the U.S. Department of Justice took the lead in jointly funding the youth arts project so that local arts agencies and cultural institutions across the nation would be able to design smarter arts programs to reach at risk youth in their local communities. One of the primary goals of the youth arts project is to ascertain the measurable outcomes of preventing youth violence by engaging them in community based art programs. This program has had a dramatic impact across the nation, and we must preserve adequate funding for NEA to continue it and to expand it. We should also be requesting additional funds to expand the NEA summer seminar sessions which provide professional development opportunities to our nation's teachers who are on the front lines in our efforts to reach out to our children. Mr. Chairman, art and music education programs extend back to the Greeks who taught math with music centuries ago. Current studies reaffirm that when music such as jazz is introduced by math teachers into the classrooms, those half notes and quarter notes make math come alive for students. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to oppose any back door attempt to undo Congresswoman Slaughter's victory. It is the right thing to do substantively as well as institutionally. Please support additional funding for the NEA, NEH and IMLS to send a message that art and music in the classroom increase academic achievement, decrease delinquent behavior and contribute to reducing youth violence.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to voice my strong support of H. Con. Res. 266, expressing the sense of the Congress regarding the benefits of music education. Music education has a long history, dating back to Ancient Greece. As part of a standard education, music was used to teach math and deemed equally important to forming a balanced individual. As a former educator, I know that an important component to youth development and a key solution to youth violence is access to art and music education in our schools. College Board studies have shown that students who play an instrument score significantly higher on their Scholastic Aptitude Tests than those who do not. High risk elementary students who participated in an arts program for one year gained eight percentile points on standardized language arts tests. Those who have exposure to music and art are less likely to have discipline problems. If we are serious about improving student achievement and curtailing youth violence in our schools, we must find adequate funding to bring music and art education to our children. Missouri's fifth district has taken major steps toward integrating arts education into the daily routine in schools. Magnet schools such as the Paseo Academy of Visual and Performing Arts and the Kansas City Middle School of the Arts teach children more than just reading, writing, and arithmetic. Students also learn how to create and appreciate music, painting, and dancing through hands-on experience. The Kansas City Symphony established an orchestral residency at the Paseo Academy to provide professional mentors to aspiring musicians. The results of programs like this are astounding. These schools have improved student test scores well above the district average and greatly increased parental satisfaction. Students enjoy attending school more than ever because of personal interest with the subject matter. I urge my distinguished colleagues to support this measure. Because of the vast amount of research proving the benefits of music education, we need to invest in more programs which will spark student interest in music such as the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) sponsored ``Challenge America'' initiative which would provide $50 million to more than 1,100 communities, bringing the arts and music to regions previously underserved by cultural programming. Music and art education remains important in the lives of children. From infants listening to classical music to facilitate brain development, to elementary students learning about music related careers from their favorite musicians, to high school instrument students who achieve above average SAT scores, the importance of music education cannot be denied. I urge my distinguished colleagues to continue to support music and art education programs such as ``Challenge America'' which contribute to the success of students as they become members of our democracy.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Chairman, during rollcall vote No. 256, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.''

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, earlier this week, the House gave unanimous support to House Resolution 509 offered by my distinguished colleague, the gentleman from Pennsylvania's 2nd district, Representative Chaka Fattah. This resolution recognizes the importance of the United States to study, reflect on, and celebrate African American music. Artists have used and continue to use the African American experience as an important source of inspiration for various musical genres including jazz, gospel, blues, rhythm and blues, rap, and hip-hop. It is especially important to recognize this in June, which President Clinton designated three years ago as African American Music Month. In 1997, the President noted that ``. . . America's musical heritage music is the voice that proclaims who we are as a people, then African Americans have helped to give this voice its content, its tone, its volume, and its power. . . . This music continues to grow and change, continuously adding depth and richness to America's cultural heritage.'' African American music, more specifically jazz, has played an important role in the cultural development of Missouri's Fifth District. In the 1920's and 1930's, Kansas City was the birthplace of swing and a major center in the maturation of bebop style jazz. Several jazz greats including Charlie ``Bird'' Parker, Count Basie, Big Joe Turner, and Jay McShann have called Kansas City their home, and their legacy is alive and well in the community today. To recognize Kansas City's role in jazz history and to further the appreciation of the art form, Kansas City has revitalized the district where jazz once played non-stop through the night. In 1997, the American Jazz Museum opened at the historic 18th and Vine address immortalized in Lieber and Stoller's song ``Kansas City.'' This 50,000- square-foot complex features interactive exhibits and sound samples chronicling the music and the musicians who made jazz great. Dedicated to the unknown African Americans who fought for self-sufficiency, the American Jazz Museum also remembers the plight of Africans in America from slavery to freedom. The Parker Memorial adjacent to the museum is a 17-foot sculpture of Charlie Parker in honor of his vast contributions to American culture. More than 350,000 visitors from the inner city, suburbs, and around the country experienced the museum last year alone. Kansas City showcases African American music through its annual Blues and Jazz festival which takes place near the historic WWI Liberty Memorial. More than 50,000 people come from all parts of the city and the region to enjoy some of the best music America has to offer. This resolution also comes in conjunction with the Jazz Conference sponsored by BET on Jazz and Billboard Magazine June 7-9 in Washington, DC to discuss new strategies for taking jazz into the new millennium. I hope many of my distinguished colleagues join me at this historic event to study the past and anticipate the future of jazz. By recognizing the influence and importance of African American music, we have called on Americans to learn the history of blues, jazz, and other genres. Hopefully, other cities will follow Kansas City's lead to promote and study the musicians and their music. Mr. Speaker, please join me in commending the gentleman from Pennsylvania and supporting adoption of this historic resolution.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for targeted estate tax relief. 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. The Democratic Substitute offered by the gentleman from New York lowers rates and broadens the base and is a rational alternative for estate tax reform. 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, individual tax burdens, and spending on priority initiatives such as prescription drug reform, school construction and paying down the debt. The estate tax was originally enacted into law as a way to reduce wealth inequality by targeting the accumulation of wealth by sons and daughters of the richest in our society. The estate tax serves an important purpose by continuing to equalize wealth in our society. Historically, the richest in our society are the ones who pay the majority of the estate tax. 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. According to the Joint Committee on Taxation, the largest estates pay most of the estate tax--5.4% of taxable estates paid 49% of total estate taxes in 1997. Further a United States Treasury Department analysis finds that 99% of all estate taxes are paid on the estates of people who are in the highest 20% of the income distribution at the time of their death and 91% of all estates taxes are paid by decedents by decedents with annual incomes exceeding $190,000 at the time of death. The estate tax is a progressive tax that serves the purpose intended by Republic Presidents Teddy Roosevelt and William Howard Taft who put this tax in place. Experts point out that the majority of assets taxed under the estate tax are unrealized gains and tax-exempt bonds which have never been taxed. Some small businesses and farmers are hit hard by this tax and it is a high priority for me to provide relief to these individuals. In my congressional district is Brown Industries a family owned small business which specializes in precision machined parts. I have toured their facility and met with members of the Kansas City Area Chapter of the National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA). All of the firms represented focused their number one concern on estate tax reform. These firms face liquidating entire section of their plants to pay current estate tax so that the business can be inherited. Estate tax reform should consider estate tax and economic opportunity and address the concerns of small businesses like Brown Industries. The Democratic alternative does this. They will be negatively impacted by H.R. 8. I support estate tax relief which would exempt 99% of family farm estates taxes. The measure I vote for today increased the family exclusion for farms and closely held businesses to $4 million by increasing the limit on the small businesses exclusion from $1.3 million to $2 million per spouse. This would have provided real relief immediately. Without adoption of the substitute H.R. 8 would not provide relief to a single farm or small business from the estate tax until 2010. This relief is much needed now, not in ten years. The measure I voted in favor of today would have immediately increased the exemption equivalent of the unified credit against estate and gift taxes to $1.1 million. It also would have provided a twenty percent across-the-board reduction to the estate and gift tax rates. Finally, I voted for an estate tax relief proposal which was largely offset and would cost approximately $20 billion over ten years to maintain fiscal responsibility. H.R. 8 will cost the treasury $105 billion over ten years. Beginning in 2010, it will cost $50 billion per year. While I am pleased that fiscal discipline of the past eight years has brought us to a time where we are enjoying budget surpluses, the surpluses in future years have not materialized and are only projections. I am optimistic the surpluses will be a reality and believe that we must commit them wisely. At this time, I am unconvinced that completely repealing the estate tax without further modifying our tax policy to ensure that wealthiest among us are paying their fair share is a wise decision. Projected surpluses still require us to make difficult decisions about priorities, and I believe that the measure I voted for today provides fiscally responsible relief. I strongly support targeted estate tax relief for individuals, small businesses and farm owners. I voted in favor of a fiscally responsible proposal today which would have provided immediate relief to many of the 989 individuals in Missouri who pay estate tax. As this bill moves forward in the legislative process I encourage both parties will work together to find a compromise which will provide the needed relief and which will be signed into law by the President.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Kansas City, Missouri's 150th Birthday. The sesquicentennial marks an era of growth and prosperity in the Midwest. John Calvin McCoy, the father of Kansas City, created a small trading town on the banks of the Missouri River. It was a link from the stunning East to the sprawling West. Truly in the Heart of America, this City was destined to become a great metropolitan area as it is today. The innovation of bridges allowed travelers and goods to move through Kansas City to complement the Missouri River's movement of commerce. Soon railroads aided this cause and Kansas City flourished. It became a metropolis known for its stockyards and wheat. The 1900's brought growth. The citizens of this distinguished and lovable city have seen the building of the Liberty Memorial, the only World War I monument dedicated by the five allied leaders; the development of the Country Club Plaza by J.C. Nichols, the first outdoor shopping venue now visited by travelers from all over the world for its elegance; the Pendergast era in which Kansas City's own political machine ruled for years; a Convention Center rebuilt from fire ruins in less than 90 days for the 1900 Democratic National Convention; and the birth of Kansas City Jazz which can still be heard throughout our country. We became a Major League sports city supported by the Kansas City Royals Baseball team, the Kansas City Chiefs Football team, and the home to the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. Unfortunately it is impossible to cover the entire expansive and rich history my City has displayed. Kansas City is now the second largest rail hub. We are second only to Rome in fountains and have more miles of boulevards than Paris. Kansas City is first in greeting card publishing as the home to Hallmark Cards. We have more freeway miles per capita than any major metro area and are 25th in U.S. population. Kansas City is adored for its 24 public lakes and 200 public parks. We stand 1.6 million people strong in the metropolitan area. We highlight our rich history through events and activities that enliven the culture of our community and celebrates its diversity and sense of unity. This year Kansas City was blessed with events such as ``Arrivals and Departures--Union Station'' a Kansas City symphony performance to highlight the importance and the memories shared at our newly renovated Union Station; Benjamin Ranch Celebration Picnic allowing our youth to experience the wild outdoors with horse rides, stagecoach and hayrides; the 18th and Vine Vintage Vine afternoon at the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum recreated the excitement of a Monarchs game; and finally the Kansas City Zoological Park brings our community 150 new animals. The grand finale will be held at Arrowhead Stadium where Walter Cronkite, Kenny Rogers, Little Richard, Oleta Adams, and the biggest fountain and pyrotechnic special effects show ever seen in the Midwest will swing us into the next incredible 150 years. Throughout the 150 years of Kansas City we have been known for our hospitality, strong work ethic, fairness, and ability to develop a consensus. These attributes of our community are constantly enhanced by our citizens' commitment to continue to grow and expand upon these inherent traditions. Mr. Speaker, please join me in celebrating the City of Kansas City's 150th Birthday.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise today in support of this measure. I join my colleagues in saluting Missouri's favorite son and one of this Nation's most popular Presidents, Harry Truman. I have a deep personal interest in the life and legacy of President Truman because I represent Independence, Missouri, where Truman launched his career in public service as Jackson County presiding judge. His famed presidential library and his childhood home and farm are located in my congressional district. Harry Truman distinguished himself as a plain spoken leader who cared about people. He has been a model to me in my service to the people of Missouri. I have a replica of the message that President Truman had on his presidential desk, which reads, ``The buck stops here.'' It is a constant reminder of his goal to maintain common sense and service to the people and helped him to prevail during the many difficult global situations he faced during his presidency. In his inaugural address, he outlined an unprecedented foreign policy agenda. Last year, I was able to join in witnessing the expansion of the Truman foreign policy legacy at the Truman Presidential Library. We commemorated the 50th anniversary of NATO, which he created. And in the spirit of Harry Truman, NATO was expanded to include representation from the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland. The naming of the U.S. State Department Building after President Truman is really one the most appropriate and meaningful tributes this Congress can make in his memory. May every individual who enters the State Department Building be inspired by the many national and foreign policy accomplishments of Harry Truman. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 3639, and I ask that we honor President Truman, this legendary leader, who has left such a tremendous great legacy to those of us who continue to work so hard to make possible the leadership and the greatness that our country commands today. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise today in support of H.R. 3639, a bill to designate the U.S. State Department building as the Harry S. Truman Federal Building. I join my colleagues in saluting Missouri's favorite son and one of this Nation's most popular Presidents, Harry Truman. Choosing to name the U.S. Department of State after President Truman is a fitting tribute to the man who helped end isolationism and establish this country's dominant role in international relations. I have a deep personal interest in the life and legacy of President Truman because I represent Independence, Missouri, where Harry Truman launched his career in public service as Jackson County Presiding Judge. His famed Presidential Library and his home and farm are located in my Congressional District. Harry Truman distinguished himself as a plain spoken leader who cared about people. He has been a model to me in my service to the people of Missouri. His honest, matter of fact approach to all issues is one all public servants can aspire to. In my congressional office I have a replica of the message that President Truman had on his desk which reads ``The Buck Stops Here.'' It is a constant reminder of his goal to maintain common sense in service to the people and helped him to prevail during the many difficult global situations he faced during his Presidency. President Truman's career was highlighted by many accomplishments: The famous Truman Committee of the early 1940's; victory in world war II; the recognition of the new state of Israel; and most notably his vision for the future of foreign policy. President Truman demonstrated the compassion and courage admired by the world through his strategic action in employing the Berlin Airlift and his commitment to ``support free peoples who are resisting subjugation . . .'' which became known as the Truman Doctrine. Truman in his inaugural address outlined an unprecedented foreign policy agenda calling for the ongoing support of the United Nations, the continued support for the Marshall Plan, the creation of a collective defense for the North Atlantic Region--NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), and ``Point IV--a bold new program'' to help the underprivileged peoples of the world. Last year I was able to join in witnessing the expansion of the Truman foreign policy legacy at the Truman Presidential Library. As we commemorated the 50th anniversary of NATO in the spirit of Harry Truman, NATO was expanded to include representation from the Czech Republic, Hungary, and Poland. I am extremely proud to have supported this legislation because I firmly believe that naming the U.S. State Department building after President Truman is one of the most appropriate, meaningful tributes this Congress can make in his memory. May every individual who enters the State Department building be inspired by the many national and foreign policy accomplishments of Harry Truman. Finally, I want to make part of the record a beautiful collection of words which the President carried in his wallet from the time he graduated from high school. According to the Truman Library, the President attributed the words to a poem by Alfred Lord Tennyson entitled ``Locksley Hall.'' The words are powerful and I hope my colleagues find the words as inspiring as I do. For I dipt into the future, far as human eye could see, Saw the vision of the world, and all the wonder that would be; Saw the heavens fill with commerce. Argosies of magic sails, Pilots of the purple twilight, dropping down with costly bales; Heard the heavens fill with shouting, and there rain'd a ghastly dew From the Nations' airy navies grappling in the central blue; Far along the world-wide whisper of the south-wind rushing warm, With the standards of the peoples plunging thro' the thunderstorm; Till the war-drum throbb'd no longer, and the battle-flags were furl'd In the parliament of man, the federation of the world, There the common sense of most shall hold a fretful realm in awe, And the kindly earth shall slumber, lapt in universal law. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 3639 to name the U.S. State Department building in honor of President Harry S. Truman, a legendary leader in matters of state whose lasting vision made possible the international leadership and greatness our country commands today.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Chairman, today we have a historic opportunity to fundamentally change the way we do business in Congress. Implementing biennial budgeting will insert new efficiencies and programmatic oversight into the budget process, provide agencies with more decisionmaking stability with which to plan for future needs, and allow the Congress more time to consider policy matters critical to the citizens. As is often the case with important policy decisions, Congress can benefit from the experiences of the States. My State of Missouri is among the 23 States that have implemented biennial budgeting. Missouri began using a mixed biennial budget process several years ago (1994- 1995 biennium). The day-to-day operations of the State continue to be authorized on a yearly basis, but our capital improvements budget--about $700 million-- operates on a biennium to aid in planning major capital investments and to increase agency oversight. As with the Missouri experience, a Federal biennial budget will improve both our fiscal and programmatic management, and enable us to become more efficient and more productive. This works in my State; I am here today to say it can also work at the Federal level. Improvement is vitally needed at the Federal level. Only twice in the past quarter-century has Congress completed action on all 13 appropriations bills by the start of the new fiscal year on October 1. Since my election to the House of Representatives in 1994, Congress has never gotten all of its budgeting responsibilities completed on time. In 1995, our inability to act forced a government shut down at the end of the year. In 1996, Congress didn't pass the Budget Resolution until mid-summer and barely completed all of the appropriations bills prior to the fiscal year deadline. In 1997, we didn't bother to pass a Budget Resolution at all. For the past two years we have only been able to complete work on the annual funding bills by passing an omnibus appropriations bill with less than 24 hours to review a multi-agency appropriation bill containing critically important program funding. This is no way to allocate precious taxpayer dollars or to do our critically important oversight duties such as finding ways to expand enrollment in Head Start, working in a bipartisan fashion to provide safe streets and schools for our children, identifying strategies to extend the solvency of the Social Security Trust Fund, or debating how we can provide quality health care to all Americans. Let us take an important step today toward truly reforming how we do our nation's business and adopt biennial budgeting. Biennial budgeting does not eliminate our responsibility to make the difficult choices among spending priorities nor with it cure all the problems within the budget process, but biennial budgeting is a step in the right direction. I strongly urge the House to adopt my distinguished colleague's amendment to H.R. 853 to establish a biennial budget process, so we can begin a new millennium with a renewed emphasis on cooperation, results, and efficiency.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, during rollcall vote Nos. 172, 173, 175, 176, and 177, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no.'' Mr. Speaker, during rollcall vote Nos. 174, 178, and 179 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yes.''

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Chairman, I rise to express concerns about HR 3709, the Internet Nondiscrimination Act, a bill which extends the moratorium contained in The Internet Tax Freedom Act of 1998 for five additional years until 2006. As a former Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee of the Missouri state house and former president of National Council of State Legislators (NCSL), I believe we need to address this issue with an eye toward creating a win-win situation for our states and localities, our mom and pop retailers on Main Street and the technology sector. I am not convinced that this bill has balanced all interests in a manner which achieves that goal. I want electronic commerce to prosper and I support eliminating discriminatory taxes on this type of commerce. However, I also support finding a way to ensure Main Street businesses and state and local governments are not penalized by competitive advantages enjoyed by internet commerce companies. We need a level playing field and I am committed to finding one. Not leveling the playing field could result in billions of dollars in lost revenue to states. By 2003 states will lose a total of approximately $20.1 billion in revenue if businesses are not required to collect the use taxes that are owed by purchases on electronic commerce. My state of Missouri will lose a projected $395 million--how will Missouri make up that revenue stream to ensure adequate funds for public education, critical infrastructure needs and other important state programs? The piecemeal approach in HR 3709 prevents comprehensive solutions to the subject of taxes on the Internet. The existing moratorium does not expire until October 21, 2001. Merely extending the moratorium does not address the main issue of providing a level playing field for sales tax collection. In the coming 17 months which remain in the existing moratorium, we must consider comprehensive solutions. Without a measured and thoughtful approach to addressing this complex issue we jeopardize the basic services which our constituents rely upon from our states and localities. We must sustain growth of the Internet and e-commerce with an appropriate revenue collecting structure built upon a foundation of fairness and equity to Main Street merchants.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, today I honor Robert J. Gillihan, president of Teamsters Joint Council No. 56. Bob Gillihan is a valued member of the Missouri-Kansas community and a leading force in the fight for workers' rights. Since an early age Bob Gillihan has demonstrated his untiring service to his country, his community, and his union. Joining the Marines in 1949, Bob honorably served our nation in Korea. While in the service, Bob displayed not just the courage of his convictions, but the persistence and determination necessary to lead. His personal and professional aspirations found ample expression in boxing's ``sweet science.'' Between the ropes, Bob distinguished himself and his service, becoming All Service Middleweight Champion. Following his career in the military, Bob returned to the Kansas City area and started working in the construction industry. Joining Teamsters Local 541, Bob began work on the Kansas Turnpike. His outstanding work ethic and determined nature earned Bob the respect of another dedicated union man, vice president of the Local, Red Ruark, who guided Bob into the concrete industry, and in 1968 seized upon his leadership and elevated him into the Local 541 office. Based on Red's endorsement and his own outstanding work, President Curly Rogers hired Bob as a Business Agent. In his new role in the Union Leadership, Bob became intimately involved in negotiations to improve the working conditions for his fellow men and women of the Local. Bob's tireless efforts on behalf of his colleagues led to significant improvements in wages, health, welfare, and pension benefits, and annual vacation time. In the course of his duties, Bob has improved the quality of life, refined the meaning of living, and cultivated a culture of values under which we all live. Bob Gillihan has spent his entire life on the front lines, fighting for the interests of families that need it most, and most deserve it. In 1980, Bob followed his old friend, Red Ruark, as vice president of Local 541, and was elected president in 1990, a position he holds today. Bob is also president of the Greater Kansas City Building and Construction Trades Council. A year later, Bob was elected secretary- treasurer of Teamsters Joint Council No. 56, a position he held until his appointment and subsequent election as the president of Joint Council 56 in 1999. In addition to his union duties, Bob has worked throughout his career on issues of importance to the community at large. Bob served for 9 years on the Board of Directors of Park Lane Hospital, currently serves as a Commissioner for the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority, and served as Trustee for the Mo-Kan Teamsters Pension Health and Welfare Trust Fund. A dedicated family man, Bob and his lovely wife, Marlene have raised eight children and are the proud grandparents of many future leaders. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the constituents of the 5th District of Missouri--on behalf of working families across America--I rise today to salute Bob Gillihan. Thank you, Bob, for all you have done, and all you continue to add to our lives.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, during rollcall vote No. 130, Radio Broadcasting Preservation Act, H.R. 3439, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no.''

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and respect that I bring to your attention, and to the attention of the House, the outstanding work and commitment of Rev. Dr. Wallace Hartsfield for 50 years of preaching to church congregations, serving the last thirty four years as pastor of the Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church in Kansas City. Reverend Hartsfield was born in Atlanta, Georgia, November 13, 1929. He was an only child, raised by his mother, Ruby Morrissatte. After a three year tour of duty in the United States Army, he attended Clark College in Atlanta and in 1954 he received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Clark College. He received a Master of Divinity degree from Gammon Theological Seminary in Atlanta in 1957. His first pastorate was at a Baptist church in Pickens, South Carolina. Reverend Hartsfield is chairman of the Congress of National Black Churches which represents 65,000 churches and 20 million members. Reverend Hartsfield is also chairman of the Economic Development Commission of the National Baptist Convention of America, Inc.; second vice president of the National Baptist Convention of America, Inc.; president of the Greater Kansas City Chapter of Operation PUSH; and an adjunct professor of the Central Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, KS. Reverend Hartsfield is married to Matilda Hopkins and on August 28 of this year they will celebrate their 43rd wedding anniversary. Reverend and Mrs. Hartsfield are the proud parents of four wonderful children: Pamela Faith, Danise Hope, Ruby Love, and Wallace S. Hartsfield, II. I have known Reverend Hartsfield over the years through his extensive involvement in the community. He has been a leader in many worthwhile causes and a wonderful role model for our city's young people. His leadership was invaluable, also, in redeveloping a blighted part of Kansas City when he led the Baptist Ministers' Union of Kansas City in their efforts to demolish the old St. Joseph's Hospital and replace it with a much-needed new shopping center, the Linwood Shopping Center. Residents of the city's central core had to travel some distances to buy groceries, drop off dry cleaning, and have a prescription filled, before the new development became a reality. Reverend Hartsfield successfully led the charge to secure with sufficient investment capital for the project, when resources for new development in that area of the city were scarce. He also was instrumental in the construction of a low-income 60-unit housing development, known as Metropolitan Homes, in that same geographical area. Reverend Hartsfield recently chaired the capital fund campaign to expand and update Kansas City's Swope Parkway Health Center, which provides invaluable assistance to many people who could not otherwise afford or have access to quality, state-of-the-art health care. Millions of dollars were raised and the new health center stands as a testament to the untiring efforts of committed and dedicated people like Reverend Hartsfield. Reverend Hartsfield has received numerous awards including: the One Hundred Most Influential Award from the Kansas City Globe newspaper; the Greater Kansas City Image Award presented by the Urban League; the Minister of the Year Award from the Baptist Ministers Union of Kansas City; a Public Service Award from the Ad Hoc Group Against Crime; the Role Model for Youth Award from Penn Valley Community College, in Kansas City; and a Community Service Award from Kansas City, MO, and then-mayor Richard Berkeley, among others. Additionally, he was named `One of the Top 50 Ministers in America' by Upscale magazine of Atlanta, GA and he received an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from both Western Baptist Bible College in Kansas City and also from the Virginia Seminary and College of Lyncher, VA. Further, Reverend Hartsfield is a member of the board of directors for the national organization of Operation PUSH, and the Morehouse School of Religion in Atlanta, GA, among others. This weekend in Kansas City, we are celebrating Reverend Hartsfield's 34th anniversary as pastor at the Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church in Kansas City, and recognizing all of his critically important work and the leadership he has provided in the community over that span of time. He has blessed the lives of so many. Reverend Hartsfield loves people and he loves helping people. He has made a difference in the city he calls home, Kansas City, and we are proud to have him as one of its outstanding citizens. Today, Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues join with me and the congregation of the Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church, the family of Reverend Hartsfield, and the citizens of Kansas City, MO in congratulating Reverend Hartsfield on his 50th preaching anniversary and for his 34 years of service to his church and his community.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to an outstanding individual from the State of Missouri. On April 27th, the Missouri Women's Council will honor Rose Kemp, Regional Administrator of the Women's Bureau, U.S. Department of Labor, with an award named on her behalf, the ``Rose Kemp Public Service Award.'' Ms. Rose Kemp was appointed as Regional Administrator of the Women's Bureau in 1983. She is responsible for policy development and implementation of workplace issues affecting women. In this role, Ms. Kemp has produced outstanding results by her commitment to promote the welfare of wage earning women, improve their working conditions, and advance their opportunities for profitable employment. Ms. Kemp serves on numerous boards such as the Greater Kansas City Urban League, Francis Child Development Institute, and the Women's Council at the University of Missouri--Kansas City. All have profited from Ms. Kemp's expertise. She has been awarded the ``Kansas City Spirit Award,'' the Department of Labor's ``The Distinguished Career Service Award,'' the YWCA Heart of Gold Award, and the 100 Most Influential Black Citizens in the Greater Kansas City Area in 1993, 1994, 1996, 1997, and 1998. Ms. Kemp's service has benefited all women and been an asset for our community. Mr. Speaker, please join me in saluting this courageous, innovative, and inspiring individual, Rose Kemp, as she accepts the first ever ``Rose Kemp Public Service Award.''

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Chairman, the American people have told us exactly what we're here to do: we are here to retire the national debt so our children aren't forced to pay our bills, we are here to maintain a balanced budget, we are here to ensure the long term solvency of Social Security and Medicare, we are here to relieve the tremendous burden from our nation's seniors by including basic prescription drug benefits in Medicare, we are here to invest in our children's future. We are her to offer prudent, targeted tax cuts for America's working families. H. Con. Res. 290 abandons the middle-class family, disregards the plight of America's senior citizens, and sacrifices our hard won fiscal discipline. H. Con. Res. 290, if adopted, will spend us right back into deficit, thus jeopardizing the Social Security trust funds, and will fail to stabilize Medicare or improve the quality of health care. Not one single dime will be used to reduce our national debt. In fact, by 2004 the budget must dip into the Social Security trust funds in order to finance the massive tax cuts for special interests sought in the Republican measure. Mr. Chairman, in 1999 our Federal Government spent 13 percent of its entire budget just paying off the interest on our national debt. Because of the Budget Act of 1994 and our continuing fiscal discipline to maintain a sound economy, we can pay off our debt by 2013. This must be our top priority. H. Con. Res. 290 jeopardizes paying off the debt and continuing our strong economy. Mr. Chairman, I support the Spratt substitute because it pays down the debt, ensures the solvency of Social Security, invests in our children, and includes prescription drug coverage in Medicare. Throughout my district I am approached by seniors who express their frustrations with having to choose between medically needed prescription drugs and putting food on their table. Whether these seniors live in the public housing complex at Brush Creek Towers in the economically depressed central city or in the more affluent part of my district in Lee's Summit's John Knox Village, the astronomical cost of their medications is forcing them to make an impossible choice: food or medicine. This must not continue. I strongly encourage my colleagues to reject H. Con. Res. 290, and vote to protect the Social Security trust fund. We must pay down the national debt. We need to ease the burden on our seniors and invest in our children, and provide for modest, prudent, targeted tax cuts for working families. Let's do what's right for the future of America.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise in celebration of extraordinary women of the 20th Century. Throughout our history women artists such as Missouri author, Laura Ingalls Wilder, have brought about needed social change in our state and nation. Today, I honor a recording artist From Kennett, Missouri who has maintained strong ties to our state. Sheryl Crow joins a list of Missouri women who have contributed to an extraordinary century of women. Ms. Crow's parents were big band musicians who encouraged her musical skills at an early age. She began playing the piano around the age of six and composed her first song at age 13. In the 1990's, Sheryl Crow forcefully expressed her thoughts and emotions on social causes such as youth violence, addressed in her platinum album lyrics', ``Watch out sister, Watch out brother/Watch our children as they kill each other/ With a gun they brought at the Wal-Mart discount stores'' in her ongoing battle with the discount giant over guns and children. In retribution, Wal-Mart refused to sell her award winning records. A Florida State Supreme Court eventually ruled against Wal-Mart for illegally selling ammunition to minors who used the bullets to kill a Pensacola man. Ms. Crow's music encompasses her personal experience and her passionately held beliefs to electrify audiences. Inspired by the likes of Walt Whitman and Bob Dylan. Sheryl Crow has influenced a generation of women to artistry and activism. Her ability to span generations and musical tastes has led Ms. Crow to be one of the most sought after musicians of our time. Her reputation for taking risks is demonstrated by her professional and personal courage to make mistakes and to achieve success. Her song, ``My Favorite Mistake,'' reminds us that we must all have the courage to take risks in order to create something worthwhile. In 1994 Sheryl Crow won Gammy Awards for Best New Artist, Record of the Year, and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for her hit ``All I Wanna Do.'' Two years later, the singer/songwriter won Grammys for Best Rock Album and Best Female Rock Vocal Performance for the song, ``If It Makes You Happy.'' Her 1998 double platinum album, ``The Globe Sessions'' was named Best Rock Album at the 1999 Grammy Awards. Her latest effort, ``Sweet Child O' Mine,'' received the 2000 Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance. Her peers in the music industry and her many dedicated fans have recognized Ms. Crow as a gifted musician and a woman empowered to inspire others. Sheryl Crow cares passionately about eliminating the use of land mines, as demonstrated by here recent efforts in Southeast Asia on behalf of the victims of such weapons of war. The artist has journeyed to Capitol Hill in support of debt relief for the world's most impoverished nations. Ms. Crow has been an outspoken advocate of women's rights and has highlighted her concerns about youth violence issues in songs such as ``Love is a Good Thing.'' I share her belief that one of the most effective ways of reducing youth violence in our culture is to support arts education in schools. Ms. Crow exemplifies the positive value of artistic expression. I salute Sheryl Crow for being an inspiration as an artist and advocate. Her efforts to make the world a better place will continue to contribute to a better future in the new millennium. ``For all you wanna do,'' Sheryl Crow, Missouri women thank you for your artistry, advocacy, your commitment to the Campaign for a Landmine Free World and a better life for our children.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of a leader beloved in my city and an athlete admired throughout our nation. Kansas City Chiefs #58, Linebacker Derrick Thomas, died February 8, 2000 at the age of 33. Derrick was a star for our nation. His philanthropic commitment is an inspiration to us all. Derrick Thomas was an exceptional football player. He participated in nine pro bowls, more than any other player in the Chiefs franchise history. Derrick holds the team record for sacks and the most NFL sacks in a game. In December 1997, Derrick gained his 100th sack, 1 of 16 players in the entire NFL ever to achieve this. Team leaders regarded him as a player who could single handedly influence the outcome of a game. Derrick captured 10 playoff appearances and was the Chiefs Most Valuable Player in 1991 and 1994. As 8-time AFC Defensive Player of the Week, a club-record, his athletic brilliance reflects his love and commitment for the game. Derrick has made a lasting impression on our community through his Third and Long Foundation, which encourages young students from the inner city to embrace the power of literacy. His moments shared in reading to children turned quickly to lasting friendships. Children have shared stories about Derrick's kindness, his dedication of time to help them with their academic needs, and his willingness to listen and be their friend and role model. His Foundation also assists families with their parenting and literacy skills. He has been recognized for these efforts by receiving numerous awards, including the prestigious 1993 Edge NFL Man of the Year and the 1995 Bryon White Humanitarian Award for service to team, community, and country by the NFL Players Association. Former President Bush recognized his achievements by declaring him the ``832nd Point of Light.'' His father, Robert Thomas, was a role model who motivated and inspired him to excellence. While returning from a mission in Vietnam in December 1972, Air Force Captain Thomas was shot down. Derrick delivered the keynote address at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial during the 1993 Memorial Day remembrance ceremony in honor of his late father. Derrick achieved many of his life long goals. He made a difference in our lives. We will always remember him. We will always remember his smile. May we learn from his tragic death the need to buckle up and in his memory remember each life is precious. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House to join me in saluting this incredible man and in extending condolences to Derrick's family, teammates, and friends.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize fellow Kansas Citian Judy Perry. Judy has served as the Executive Director of Harvesters Community Food Network in Kansas City, MO for the past 15 years. Harvesters has worked tirelessly to provide meals to less fortunate Kansas Citians and their families. Under Judy's direction Harvesters has tripled in size to serve twenty-six counties in Missouri and Kansas with more than 15 million pounds of food. Judy's experience prior to her involvement with Harvesters was a Regional Administrator for the Neighborhood Reinvestment Corporation, which is a Congressionally chartered neighborhood revitalization program headquartered in Washington, DC. Her service has also brought her to Santiago, Chile with the Peace Corps where she taught English in a rural school. Judy's experiences in Chile sent her home with the whole new perspective on poverty and what Americans take for granted. It is on the local level that we have truly seen Judy's dedication in her efforts to strengthen the bonds of our community. In addition to her work with Harvesters, Judy has served as chair of Mayor Richard Berkeley's Task Force on Food and Hunger. She has served as the co- chair of the Heart of America Hunger Network. She is currently the first vice-president of the Board of Directors of the Greater Kansas City Association of United Way Agencies. Judy also serves on the Board of Directors of Foodchain--The National Network of Prepared and Perishable Food Rescue Programs. I was honored to nominate Judy and Harvesters to receive the Congressional Award of the ``Victory Against Hunger'' campaign, which they were awarded in 1995. Judy Perry is an inspiration to us all. Her dedication and commitment to public service serves as an example to all of us who work to make the world a better place. This month Judy will celebrate her 55th birthday with her retirement from harvesters. Judy plans to stay involved with the community and with hunger issues through volunteer and consulting work, and she hopes that someday she will return to the Peace Corps. Judy's immediate plan is to spend time with her four grandchildren. May she find relaxation and contentment in the adventures that await her. Mr. Speaker, please join me in thanking Judy for her service to our community and the Nation.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of fellow Kansas Citian, Harvey J. McDonald, Jr., who lost his battle with cancer early this year. The passing of this exceptional man leaves us with a great sense of sadness and grief. Harvey, or ``Bud'' as his friends called him, will best be remembered for his integrity and loyalty to others. Harvey graduated from Southwest High School in 1973 where he played football for the Southwest Indians who won the State championship during his senior year. A proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union No. 124 for 20 years, Harvey demonstrated an outstanding commitment as a representative and advocate for union concerns. Harvey also influenced the lives of many of Kansas City's youth as a Raytown Little League coach. His driving motivation was present in everything he did. Harvey was cherished and loved by all of his friends and family and will be sorely missed. He was truly an inspiration for all who knew him and were touched by his dedicated spirit. Loyalty, kindness, and integrity were hallmarks of his character. Along with many others from our region and across the Nation, I mourn the death of this outstanding man. Mr. Speaker, please join me in extending sympathy to his wife-- Esther, son--Matthew, and the entire McDonald family.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from New York for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to H.R. 6. It is untimely, it is unlawful, it is unfair, and it is unaffordable. It is also irresponsible and punitive tax policy. It is untimely and unlawful because Section 303 of the Congressional Budget Act, the law of the land for 25 years, prohibits a tax cut of this magnitude before Congress adopts a budget resolution. We hope that resolution will establish a framework for using the surplus to extend the solvency of Social Security and Medicare. It is unfair because 60 percent of all married couples will not benefit from it. In fact, middle class families with children will find their taxes increasing because this measure forces them to pay the alternative minimum tax. It is not affordable. It consumes one-fourth of the anticipated surplus, keeping us from paying off the national debt, thus jeopardizing the strong economy we now enjoy. It is irresponsible tax policy because it fails to address the marriage bonus and further distorts tax fairness. Under this measure, two-thirds of the total tax relief will go to wealthy taxpayers. The gentleman from Illinois is going to point out that nearly 60,000 married couples in my district will benefit from your tax scheme, but that is only 30 percent of the married people in my district. Sixty percent will not benefit, and many of them will face a tax increase. The valentine we should be sending American families is one which provides fiscal security by using any surplus to pay down our publicly held debt and make Social Security and Medicare solvent. Then construct a tax relief package that helps working families. I want to protect the Social Security and Medicare benefits enjoyed by nearly 100,000 of my constituents.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to underscore the importance of addressing the multi-faceted issues involved in providing access to health care for all Americans. In a country of unsurpassed material resources, healthcare should be a right, not a privilege; yet, the number of uninsured and disenfranchised populations that have to limit their exposure even to basic primary health services, has reached staggering proportions. If we are to successfully turn-around this untenable situation, we must develop comprehensive, coordinated, targeted approaches that proactively address systemic health-related issues in our communities. I have recently become aware of the efforts of the Carondelet Health System (CHS) to develop a ``Community Outreach Network'' that would serve as a model for universal access to health services in multi- cultural communities. CHS, comprised of more than 50 hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, home care agencies and physician groups across the United States, has a strong presence in the State of Missouri with its national headquarters located in St. Louis, and a number of institutions in my own district. Since its inception, CHS has focused on its commitment to the uninsured, disenfranchised and medically underserved members of the community. One-third of the population reached by CHS members is Hispanic, and there are a growing number of ethnic minorities who come to CHS institutions to find a home in an increasingly complex health care delivery system. Given the multicultural community that CHS serves, CHS has launched a national collaborative initiative to increase community health access; provide a comprehensive continuum of care for the uninsured; and focus on minority health status improvements. Breaking down barriers to health care by enrolling uninsured children and families in available programs; coordination and integration of community health resources on the local level, and cultural competency training for medical staff who serve diverse, multicultural communities will be key elements of the CHS Community Outreach Network. National health systems such as Carondelet, with unique expertise in reaching out to the uninsured and under-served, can play a highly beneficial role as collaborative partners with the federal government in developing models for community health access that can be replicated by others in health care community. As the Department of Health and Human Services develops its budget and Congress sets its spending priorities for Fiscal Year 2001, I would hope that attention will be paid and resources will be allocated to pilots and demonstrations that support current Administration goals to increase access to community health services. This is imperative in multi-cultural communities where language and other cultural differences present barriers to achieving community health objectives. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the Chairman of the Labor, HHS, Education Appropriations Subcommittee, Mr. Porter, and the Ranking Minority Member, Mr. Obey, for their commitment to insuring that access to health care for all Americans is a fundamental and basic right. I look forward to working with the Subcommittee in the upcoming session of Congress to find ways to increase support for critically needed minority health initiatives.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute and pay tribute to a model of labor and management cooperation, Kaiser Permanente and Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 96. Over the course of six months, Kaiser and SEIU worked diligently to craft a cooperative solution to their employment contract. Throughout the process, joint management and union committees met weekly to reach agreement on both economic and non-economic issues. SEIU #96 and Kaiser Permanente approached their negotiations in a win-win manner. This collaborative process utilized an Interest Based Bargaining (IBB) technique focused on creative problem solving and developing stronger relationships between the two partners. A Mediator from the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) facilitated the process. The uniqueness of this labor and management partnership is that it represents the first time in the U.S. that IBB has been used on two contracts simultaneously. The ratified agreement includes both technical/clerical staff and professional staff bargaining units with Kaiser Permanente. The three year agreement builds upon the innovation of the IBB negotiation process by including a performance based pay system with a bonus program for all employees based upon quality improvements occurring. This monumental accomplishment would not have been possible without the foundation established by both SEIU and Kaiser's commitment to cooperation as demonstrated by their participation in the Labor- Management Council of Greater Kansas City. Further on a national level, Kaiser and the AFL-CIO agreed in 1997 to remain neutral during any union organizing card drives. This cooperation has further evolved through the signing of this three year agreement. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring the Executive Director of SEIU Local 96, Sherwin Carroll, and the President of Kaiser Permanente Kansas City Region, Cynthia Finter, for their leadership in crafting this cooperative process. Finally, Mr. Speaker, please join me in applauding Kaiser Permanente and SEIU #96 for being pioneers and national role models in labor-management cooperative partnerships.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the new 1999 American League Rookie of the Year, Carlos Beltran of the Kansas City Royals. Carlos was the nearly unanimous choice for the prestigious award after an exceptional season in which he averaged .293 at the plate with 22 homers, 108 RBI, 112 runs, and 25 steals in 35 attempts. Carlos is one of those rare players who has been able to put together power with speed, skill with enthusiasm, and an obvious love for the game. He is widely recognized as one of the brightest and most talented players to come into the game in years, fielding impressive performances both at the plate and on his centerfield beat. Carlos joins a distinguished group of only eight players in baseball history to begin a promising career by surpassing the 100 benchmark in both RBIs and runs. His distinguished colleagues in that group include such baseball greats as Ted Williams, Joe DiMaggio, and another great Kansas City Royal, Fred Lynn, the last outstanding freshman to win the award in 1975. Carlos becomes the third Kansas City Royal to win the Rookie of the Year, joining Lou Pinella in 1969 and Bob Hamelin in 1994. Carlos has another, even more important reason to celebrate, and further cause for congratulation. Carlos was recently married, and is presently enjoying his honeymoon in the Caribbean with his new bride, Jessica. At a young 22 years of age, Carlos has begun an auspicious career both on the baseball diamond and as a cherished member of his new and adopted community. Kansas City has warmly welcomed Carlos and encouraged him on his personal and professional quest for excellence. As a fellow Kansas Citian and longtime fan of the Kansas City Royals, I thank Carlos for all his contributions to our team, to baseball, and to the people of Kansas City. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Carlos on his marriage, and saluting the 1999 American League Rookie of the Year. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join my colleague, the distinguished Ranking Member of the Appropriation Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, and State, the gentleman from New York, Mr. Serrano, to highlight a successful initiative for more than 25 years, and to urge its continuation. The Salvation Army has been working with the Bureau of Prisons to operate what is known as the Prison Card Program. Under this highly successful program, greeting cards are donated to The Salvation Army which are then given to inmates at correctional facilities across the country. This program allows inmates to keep in touch with family and friends--affording them the opportunity to stay in contact not only during the holiday season and on special occasions, but throughout the year. This clearly benefits the inmates and their loved ones, but we know that the community at large benefits because prisoners who maintain strong ties are less likely to return to prison once their sentence is completed. In short, this a win-win program. The Department of Justice and the Bureau of Prisons should be commended for their support of this program. The Prison Card Program has the support of Congress and the Department should have confidence in such support for this program--which has operated for more than a quarter-century. My colleague, the gentlemen from New York, Mr. Serrano, and I are prepared to work with the distinguished Chairman of the Appropriation Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, and State, the gentlemen from Kentucky, Mr. Rogers, and other Congressional supporters of the program in the coming months to ensure that the Department of Justice receives the continuing and specific authority that might be needed to ensure that this important charitable program is sustained well into the future. I can assure the Members of the House that I will work with them to develop legislative language if necessary to assure a long term solution on this issue. The parties involved should be confident that Congress supports programs such as this. The gentleman from New York, Mr. Serrano, and I share the support for this program and know what a valuable contribution it has made to the inmates, their family and friends and the public. The Salvation Army should be commended for its Prison Card Program as should the Justice Department and the Bureau of Prisons for their continuing support of this important program. Mr. Speaker, please join with my colleagues in supporting the Prison Card Program.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jim and Virginia Stowers on the launch of the Stowers Institute for Medical Research located in my district in Kansas City, MO. Their generous support of biotech research will profoundly impact upon the lives of those who suffer from cancer, and benefit the friends and family members of those who battle the disease. On this occasion, I salute the Stowers for their selfless contributions to the field of science in establishing their institute to bring ``Hope for Life.'' To our community, Jim and Virginia Stowers are local heroes. To those who will one day benefit from their charity, they will no doubt be referred to as saints. Their remarkable story is triumphant and inspirational. In 1958, Jim Stowers founded Twentieth Century Investors and created what would later be known as the American Century Companies. Today, Mr. Stowers heads the company as chairman of a successful multi-billion dollar firm investing in mutual funds across the nation. His wife, Virginia, worked as a nurse to support her growing family and her husband's dream. She shared her husband's vision and confidence by working to help her family and those most in need in her nurturing professions as nurse, wife, and mother. Their commitment to cancer research is derived from their own hardships and personal survival experiences. Mr. Stowers was diagnosed in 1986 with prostate cancer. Mrs. Stowers fought breast cancer in 1993 followed by years of treatment, and their daughter, Kathleen's current encounter with cancer was the impetus for the creation of the Stowers Institute for Medical Research. Jim Stowers serves as president with Virginia serving as vice president over every aspect of their legacy to scientific research. The Stowers Institute is attracting the most highly sought researchers in biology, technology, and engineering who want to join in this exciting and worthy venture. World renowned experts from the University of Washington, the California Institute of Technology, the University of California, Berkeley, the McLaughlin Institute, and the University of Missouri-Kansas City are exploring the makeup of our DNA and analyzing the forthcoming information in a facility where research into life systems will produce a better understanding of the nature of cancer. Scientists and doctors would then be able to use this research in developing treatments, medicine, and ultimately, a cure. Our community has watched the construction of this facility which is anticipated to be in complete operation next year. It rescues from urban blight the site of the former Menorah Hospital near universities and cultural centers. The Stowers endowed to the Institute a gift of $336 million to fund the ongoing research of scientists so they can dedicate their valuable time to science instead to raising money for their work. Investment of the multi-billion dollar assets in mutual funds, contributions by other donors, and the gift of the estate of Virginia and Jim Stowers is expected to reach $30 billion or more in the next millennium, which will secure financial support for the Institute. Mr. Speaker, please join me in thanking Virginia and Jim Stowers for their tremendous gift, which assures their ongoing mission for ``Hope for Life.'' I look forward to the successes of the Stowers Institute for Medical Research and share the same hope they have inspired.