Karen McCarthy

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay special tribute to the Honorable Jan Meyers, a former U.S. Representative and a personal mentor, who is the recipient of the 1998 Volunteer of the Year award presented by the Volunteer Center of Johnson County, Kansas. Ms. Meyers has spent her life volunteering for numerous projects aimed at benefiting our community. Her career as a public servant, both as an elected official and as a volunteer, has been focused on bettering her neighborhood, the nation, and the world. Her career started by working on local charitable and civic affairs including being an active member of the Overland Park, Kansas, City Council for five years. As a pioneer in Bi-State cooperation, Ms. Meyers was selected as the first Chair for the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC), our bi-state metropolitan planning organization. She then was elected to the Kansas Senate where she served for six years. In 1984, State Senator Meyers ran for the U.S. House Kansas 3rd District and won in a decisive victory. Once her career as an elected official began, she championed legislation that was important to her district, region, and the nation. Congresswoman Meyers succeeded to Chair the House Small Business Committee, the first Republican woman to chair a legislative committee in the House since 1954. Meyers also served with distinction on the International Relations Committee, Economic and Educational Opportunities Committee, and the Select Committee on Aging. In 1997, she retired from Congress after 13 years of distinguished service. Today, Ms. Meyers serves as a board member of the Metcalf Bank, the Johnson County Library Foundation, and the Johnson County Community College Foundation. While in the House, Congresswoman Meyers fought successfully to achieve fiscal responsibility. The Concord Coalition rated her in the top 10 percent of House members for her votes to cut the budget deficit. When I arrived in Congress in 1995, I had the honor of serving with Congresswoman Meyers on the Small Business Committee, where I looked to her as a mentor and friend for guidance of issues facing the Committee and the House. She remains a dedicated and respected public figure who continues to be a pioneer in business and community activities. The business and civic community have honored her with the Golden Bulldog Award for her fiscal votes to cut the deficit and eliminate wasteful spending, the National Taxpayers' Friend Award for her votes to cut spending and her opposition to tax increases, the Guardian of Small Business, the Entrepreneur's Perfect Partner Award, and the Outstanding Services Award from the Kansas Library Association. Before her career as elected official, Ms. Meyers was an original board member of the Johnson County Community College Foundation and the United Community Services. She also served as a member of the Board of the Johnson County Mental Health Association, and President of the Shawnee Mission League of Women Voters. Ms. Meyers was a key player in developing Overland Park's Legacy of Greenery Committee, and chaired the committee to expand and fund a system of streamway parks in Johnson County, Kansas. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating the Honorable Jan Meyers as the recipient of the Volunteer of the Year for 1998. It is an honor for me to recognize Jan for her hard work and dedication. I wish her well in her future endeavors and community activities.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Russell Patterson, a major contributor to the arts community in Missouri and a friend of mine who is retiring after 40 years as founder and Artistic Leader of the Lyric Opera of Kansas City. He also organized The Kansas City Symphony and has served as its Artistic Director. In addition to his position with the Lyric Opera of Kansas City, he is Festival Director and Principal Conductor at the Sunflower Music Festival as well as founder and serving as Artistic Director of the Buzzards Bay Musicfest, Mr. Patterson also is credited for founding the Missouri River Festival of the Arts in Boonville, Missouri. He has appeared as guest conductor in opera and concert engagements in Mexico City, London, New York, Seattle, Cincinnati, and Sacramento. Mr. Patterson has spent his career enriching Kansas City with his talent and vision. He is a graduate of the Conservatory of Music at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. He helped establish the Middle- America Opera Apprentice Program in conjunction with the Conservatory. The Apprentice Program is designed to prepare exceptional young singers for a professional operatic career. The Program continues to gain national recognition for its commitment to aspiring artists. As a trailblazer in the arts community, Mr. Patterson has served on the Advisory panels for the National Endowment for the Arts and the Missouri Arts Council, as a consultant to the Ford foundation, and on the Board of Directors of OPERA America. He has received numerous awards and honors including the Alumni Achievement Award, the Dean's Awards, the nationally prestigious Conductor's Award from the Alice M. Ditson Fund of Columbia University, and the W.F. Yates Medallion from William Jewell College. In 1996, Mr. Patterson was honored at the OPERA America 25th Anniversary Conference for his years of service. Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratulating Russell Patterson for his commitment to our community's future artists and his service in music in Kansas City. I wish he and his lovely wife Terri well in all of their future endeavors, and hope we can enjoy some tennis at the Cape.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to one of the greatest leaders of our era, President Nelson Rolihlaha Mandela Nelson Mandela's lifelong struggle to abolish apartheid in South Africa earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993, the Presidency of his country and worldwide acclaim. Nelson Mandela spent twenty-seven years in prison because he believed in the equality of all, sacrificing his own personal liberty for his convictions. The Congressional Gold Medal is a fitting tribute to this most deserving leader. Following his ascendancy to the Presidency of his nation, President Mandela signed into law the South Africa's new constitution which includes sweeping human rights and anti- discrimination guarantees. Nelson Mandela has never wavered in his devotion to democracy and equality. Despite terrible provocation, he has never responded in kind to the scourge of racism. His life has been an inspiration, in South Africa and throughout the world, to all who are oppressed and deprived and to all who are opposed to oppression and deprivation. I hope that we all examine our souls and understand our responsibility to make our own nation as tolerant of diversity as Mr. Mandela has worked to make South Africa; not just for the sake of our own generation, but the generations to come.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, it is always difficult for me to describe my thoughts when my feelings so overwhelm me. I would first like to extend my heartfelt sympathy and admiration to the Byrd family, their strength in the face of such sorrow is truly a testament to the power of the human character. Their pain most of us can only imagine. All Americans are affected by this tragedy. This lynching, this hate crime, this murder, is a throwback to days that remain an affront to our national dignity, to our American way of life, and we cannot tolerate such actions and still call ourselves Americans. It is a horrifying reminder that while we have made so much progress in our quest for civil equality and civil society, we still have so far to go. Mr. Speaker, I call on all of us to steal the power of this act, to twist this tragedy into something that we can use to fight the hatred that caused it, something that will instill fear in the hearts hatemongers everywhere . . . let us use this shared outrage, this shared anger to solidify our commitment to the pursuit of true civil equality, to real civil rights. And let us make the senseless death of James Byrd mean something . . . we must not let such actions continue in America.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Honorable S. Sue Shear, a Representative from the 83rd Legislative District. She is currently serving her 13th term in the Missouri House of Representatives. Her district takes in all or part of six communities: Clayton, Ladue, Olivette, Creve Coeur, Overland and University City. Representative Shear has spent the last 26 years fighting for the rights of women, bettering conditions for Missouri's children, older adults, the disabled, health care in general and working to improve the conditions in Missouri's prisons. She sponsored numerous measures reflecting her commitment to the environment, working people, and consumers. She was the original author of the award winning ``Parents as Teachers'' program, first established in Missouri and now a national model. One of the battles not won was for the Equal Rights Amendment of which she was the original sponsor and for which she became the symbol for women across the state. Susie has also become an icon; treated with respect and affection by fellow legislators, especially women colleagues who have dubbed her ``the mother of us all.'' The Missouri house honored her at the close of its current session with a renewed commitment to women's equality in her honor. Susie was born March 17, 1918. Now the senior woman in the House of Representatives, Susie recently celebrated her 80th birthday. She married the late Harry D. Shear and they had three children: M. Katherine, a psychiatrist; Kenneth R., a lawyer; and Kerry R., an art historian. Ken wrote a letter to her on her 75th birthday in which he said: ``Going to Jeff City with you last month brought home to me just what an accomplishment you have made, without a college degree, without a law degree, to have forged yourself a role as one of the leaders of state government. The way I see it, you created a situation in which you had the role of being a leading spokeswoman for feminist and liberal causes, before you quite knew how to fill the role. And then you grew into it. A neat trick.'' Perhaps Susie's greatest legacy is her clear commitment to stand firm in her beliefs. For this and many of her attributes, Women in Public Life at the University of Missouri-St. Louis will aptly bear her name. She has inspired, nurtured, and taught many women the skills they need to make their way in the world. I am very fortunate to have served with her for 18 years in the Missouri General Assembly. I unabashedly called her ``Mom.'' She was the mother I needed as I made my way as a young woman through the trials and tribulations of public service. In her Darwinian function, she gave birth to me in the political arena, set standards she expected me to meet, and shoved me out of the nest to become a member of Congress. Susie is retiring this year after serving 26 years in the Missouri House. Her children and grandchildren are to be commended for their generosity in sharing he with the broader community, our state and nation. The world is a better place for her life of public service. Thank you, Mom, for teaching me the joy of giving back to society.

Mrs. McCARTHY of Missouri

Mrs. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 187, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no.''

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, today the people throughout Ireland will make a historic vote for peace and progress. I would like to commend all of the leaders who have worked assiduously to reach this agreement to establish a political framework to reunite the people of Ireland. For lasting peace to take hold in Northern Ireland, economic stability and growth must be achieved. The Republic of Ireland is often referred to as the ``Celtic Tiger'' because of the strides that its citizens have made in building their economy and in attracting foreign investment capital. The same pattern of growth and development as occurred in the Republic now needs to take hold in the North of Ireland. Secretary of Commerce Richard Daley will lead a trade mission this June to promote economic development and private investment by U.S. firms. I support this initiative because long term stability is directly linked to economic prosperity. History has shown that the key to resolving longstanding tension is through economic expansion. Mr. Speaker, today the people of Ireland are making a choice on whether they wish to move forward or return to the violence and the bloodshed of the past. This vote is an important step in the journey toward peace and trust. I commend the U.S. and foreign leaders who will make peace a reality by their work to encourage investment and growth in Northern Ireland.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of a national dialogue on Social Security. I was honored that the Concord Coalition and the American Association of Retired Persons chose to host the first town hall meeting on Social Security reform in my district, the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri. The President's participation in this bipartisan forum and numerous others around the nation, ensures that a thoughtful and inclusive national dialogue will enable all Americans to express their views as to the future of Social Security well into the 21st century. The President is encouraging Congress to reserve the anticipated budget surplus for bolstering Social Security and reducing the national debt. Congress must take steps to implement the President's call for action. I urge my colleagues to resist any delays in action which would result in the anticipated surplus being dedicated to other programs. We must preserve the integrity of Social Security to afford all citizens of this country that this successful safety net will be there for them when they retire, as it has been since President Roosevelt initiated it in 1935.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, in commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the creation of the State of Israel, I rise to pay tribute to the pioneers and visionaries who survived the holocaust and who built this magnificent nation. Fifty years after its creation, Israel is still the lone beacon of democracy in the Middle East, and our most stalwart ally. At midnight on May 14, 1948, the State of Israel was established as the British mandate over Palestine ended. The moment that Israel declared itself a free state, U.S. President Harry S. Truman of Independence, Missouri declared our country's support for this fledgling nation. President Truman's words still ring true. He said, ``I had faith in Israel before it was established, I have faith in it now. I believe it has a glorious future before it--not just another sovereign nation, but as an embodiment of the great ideals of our civilization.'' On May 15, the day after President Truman recognized the state of Israel, the surrounding nations invaded to crush this newly free society. Mr. Speaker, in 1993 I visited Israel to study their culture, their laws and their government, and I was impressed by the accomplishments of the citizens who built a thriving economy and ability to manage its diversity. Throughout all of challenges that this nation has faced, its citizens remain positive about the future and secure in their belief in democracy and personal liberty. In 1998, 50 years after President Truman's prescient remarks, Israel is a vibrant democracy experiencing strong economic growth and a period of relative peace. As we congratulate the people of Israel on their 50th anniversary, we must not forget the mutual support and the strong ties that exist between us. As the Congressperson who represents President Truman's home, I feel a special connection to the people of Israel, and on this day I would like to congratulate them and wish them success as they decide on a common purpose that will unify the country.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, in commemorating Earth Day, I rise to pay tribute to Rachel Carson, whose courage and conviction in writing the 1962 acclaimed novel Silent Spring inspired a generation to action. She was the founder of the modern environmental movement, and her spirit was one of the driving forces behind the first Earth Day in April of 1970. I participated in that first Earth Day, as I have in each of them for 28 years, to demonstrate my support of the environmental gains we have made and to renew my commitment to those issues we must still resolve. One of the most pressing issues that we are faced with today is that of global climate change, the effects of which can be seen in the unprecedented severity of climate changes ravaging the world. The global scientific community has established the seriousness of the problem through their landmark research in Antarctica. In December of 1997 I participated in the Kyoto Round of the Global Conference on Climate Change, a process begun in 1992 at the Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit. The agreement which was reached in Kyoto outlines the important principles which need to be undertaken to slow the emission of greenhouse gasses, which are the primary contributors to the warming of our climate. On this important day we recognize the challenges that we must confront as a society to assure that the earth remains a livable place for future generations. We must take advantage of new technologies and fuel alternatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and with these technologies assist developing nations to be environmentally responsible as they compete in the global marketplace. Mr. Speaker, thirty-six years ago, Rachel Carson changed our thinking about the Earth. On this Earth Day, I urge my colleagues and the American people to honor her by embracing public policy which will continue to make our world a better place in which to live.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and salute the establishment of a Women's History Collection at the Jackson County Historical Society Archives and Research Library. Two remarkable women, Barbara Potts, former Mayor of Independence, and Jane Flynn, former administrator of the Landmarks Commission, have researched and preserved the lives of leading Kansas City women and their history. Last weekend this exhibit was launched with a celebration at the University of Missouri-Kansas City entitled ``Give Children the Gift of Women's History.'' As we salute Women's History Month we must remember the importance of passing on our heritage to new generations. During the 20th Century a great deal of significant change has taken place for women. The institution of Congress has evolved from 1917 when Jeanette Rankin was the first woman Member of Congress to the 53 women who currently serve in the House. There is respect for the contributions made by women Members of Congress who are playing a significant role in establishing sound public policy. It is important that young women know who their Founding Mothers are. This exhibit exemplifies what pioneering women have done to move our community forward. This array of women include the women who started Children's Mercy Hospital, Dorothy Gallagher, whose family built what is now the Guadalupe Center, and Linda Hall, whose library researchers depend on worldwide. Sharing the history of important Kansas City women with subsequent generations will be made possible by this exhibit. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to applaud Barbara Potts and Jane Flynn for their initiative to establish the Women's History Collection and all the women whose lives comprise it.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor today to rise and salute one of the most inspirational leaders of our country, Ceasar Chavez. Ceasar Chavez is a legend within the Latino community and our nation. He is one of my heroes as well. This past Saturday, March 28, 1998, I had the pleasure of participating in a street dedication ceremony renaming a street in the predominantly Hispanic community on the west side of Kansas City in my Congressional District, Avenida Ceasar Chavez. The festive atmosphere of the ceremony was enhanced by the presence of Richard Chavez, Ceasar's younger brother, who has continued the work which Ceasar started to benefit all working men and women. Visiting with Richard and listening to his experiences demonstrated the extraordinary nature which one, and later many, dedicated individuals can have on bettering our community and nation. In 1962, when Ceasar Chavez founded the National Farm Workers Association (NFWA), his purpose was to unite all of the Mexican farm workers in California in their struggle for better wages and working conditions. Ceasar Chavez was a very charismatic leader, who headed a movement that used only nonviolent tactics. Ceasar Chavez used strikes and boycotts as leverage in applying economic pressure on the employers to settle wage disputes and improve the work environment. Ceasar Chavez was a visionary who built consensus. He realized that the existence of oppression towards any group of people was wrong, so he joined the fight to help further the cause for Filipino farm workers. In 1965, during the Grape Boycotts, Filipino and Mexican workers united and protested the low wages and poor working conditions. In 1970 this remarkable effort resulted in an amicable resolution. For nearly a decade like many of my generation, I refused to consume grapes to show solidarity. Muchas gracias otra vez por permitirme esta opportunidad compartir mi sentimiento sobre un grand heroe Americano, Ceasar Chevez. Mr. Speaker, I salute and applaud the efforts of Ceasar Chavez and the community leaders in my Congressional District who have the vision to ensure that his memory and works will permanently be remembered for future generations, not only through the dedication of Avenida Ceasar Chavez, but by the historical translation passed on from generation to generation.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, on rollcalls no. 81, on HR 3581, Campaign Reform & Election Integrity Act; 82, on HR 34, Illegal Foreign Contribution Act; 83, on HR 2608, the Paycheck Protection Act; 84 and on HR 3582, the Campaign Reporting and Disclosure Act. I was absent due to respiratory illness. Had I been present, I would have voted no on rollcall 81, yes on rollcall 82, no on rollcall 83, and yes on rollcall 84.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Floyd R. Gibson, Senior Judge, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit who will be celebrating his recent birthday this Sunday with his friends. Judge Gibson has dedicated his professional career to public service. From his graduation from the University of Missouri- Columbia in 1933 where he earned both his law degree and bachelor's degree, through his 32 years on the Eighth Circuit, Floyd R. Gibson has enriched our community. Floyd and his lovely wife, Gertrude have raised three successful children, Charles, John, and Catherine. His family accomplishments occurred while demonstrating a distinguished career in public policy and the law. Judge Gibson entered private practice in the Kansas City area upon his graduation where he rose to become a named partner in three firms. While in private practice, Judge Gibson was elected County Counselor for Jackson County. He later turned his efforts to state government where he served 21 years in both the House and Senate of the Missouri General Assembly. The Judge distinguished himself in the Missouri Senate as Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, Majority Floor Leader, and in his final term as President Pro Term of the Senate. His success did not go unnoticed-- in 1960 the ``St. Louis Globe Democrat'' newspaper named Floyd Gibson the Most Valuable Member of the Legislature. With such credentials, President John F. Kennedy nominated him in 1961 to become a U.S. District Judge for the Western District of Missouri. Judge Gibson was named to the position of Chief Judge one year to the day of his September 1961 appointment. In June of 1965 President Johnson appointed Judge Gibson to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. He served as the Eighth Circuit Chief Judge from 1974 to 1980 when he assumed senior status. The Judge has received numerous awards and honors, as well as having been published on many occasions. A member of the Missouri, Kansas City, Federal, and American Bar Associations, Judge Gibson has distinguished himself through his legal work. He gives back to our community through his service on the Board of Trustees for the University of Missouri-Kansas City and as an Advisory Director to the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation. A Kansas Citian for more than 80 years, Senior Judge Floyd Gibson is a critical part of our community's fabric and history. Through his decisions he has invoked a sense of equity and fairness that have benefitted our citizens. His work in codifying the probate statutes have improved the system significantly. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to salute a great friend and legal scholar of the bar, Floyd R. Gibson, Senior Judge for the U.S. Court of Appeals Eighth Circuit.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise today on behalf of the Zion Grove Missionary Baptist Church and its congregation. This Sunday, March 29, Dr. Frank L. Selkirk III, a respected leader and friend in Kansas City, Missouri will be installed as the Senior Pastor. The history of Rev. Selkirk and Zion Grove are very much intertwined. At the age of eight, Rev. Selkirk became a member of Zion Grove, and at the age of twelve, preached his first trial sermon there. He was fondly referred to as the ``Boy Wonder'' by ministers in our community. Rev. Selkirk has more than the name of his father and grandfather, he continues to follow the Selkirk tradition by becoming a third generation preacher in his family. After graduating from the University of Kansas, he received his Master of Divinity at Central Baptist Theological Seminary, and his M.A. and Ph.D. at Harvard University. He has traveled extensively to sixty countries serving as a minister in several of them. Rev. Selkirk has established an outstanding reputation among his peers and is known for his down home preaching. Rev. Selkirk has served as senior pastor in California and as an area minister for the American Baptist Churches where he served ninety churches as ``pastor to pastors.'' Under his direction as Pastor, the Zion Grove Missionary Baptist Church raised one hundred thousand dollars in ninety days to pay off the Church mortgage. In celebration of this feat, I joined the entire congregation and many guests from our area in January for a mortgage Burning Service whose theme was ``Burning the Past--Blazing on Toward the New.'' This is an appropriate theme for Rev. Selkirk's ongoing mission to his growing congregation. His goal is to provide day care and after school services as additional resources for his congregation. As a counselor, gang prevention specialist, and revival preacher, he uses his faith as an influential tool to solve the problems which afflict our community. I recognize Rev. Selkirk today because of his distinguished accomplishments. He continues to deliver positive messages to encourage a legacy of new beginnings. Rev. Selkirk envisions a future brimming with opportunity and charity for all people. Our community is blessed to have a leader who creates a significant difference in the lives of everyone he encounters. Those that hear his sermons or work with him on civic projects realize that he leaves his impression upon their lives. Recipients of his message walk away with a lasting feeling that motivates them to take action and use their talents to better the lives of everyone. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor for me to recognize Rev. Frank Selkirk III, and the Zion Grove congregation. Together they have formed a union devoted to serving the needs of our community through Christian example and duty.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, our guest chaplain today called upon us to find the courage to make the tough decisions before us for the sake of the American people. A timely blessing indeed, for this week we will consider campaign finance reform. I support a bipartisan measure to reform the process. But the Republican leadership will present us with a very partisan campaign finance measure which contains some of the very worst ideas on campaign finance reform. The so-called Paycheck Protection Act is completely unbalanced and will not work. The Voter Eligibility Verification Act discriminates against voters, is deeply flawed, is not needed, will not work and has nothing to do with campaign finance reform. The Republican bill also does nothing to ban soft money and raises contribution limits for donations to Federal candidates. This bill takes a giant step in the wrong direction. This has been called a charade, a sham. Mr. Speaker, let us vote on the real thing for the sake of the American people.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor today to rise and salute a recipient of Vice President Gore's Hammer Award, Mr. Marshall V. Miller, Esquire, of Miller and Company in Missouri's 5th Congressional District for his outstanding contributions to improving the trade compliance process on international trade issues. The reforms which Mr. Miller has achieved in the U.S. Custom Services trade compliance process has resulted in the Department's improvement in service to American businesses and their customers. Miller and Company is receiving special recognition as a team that has significantly contributed in supporting the President's National Performance Review Principles. This emphasis on client services directly reflects the performance principles. Through the reinventing government process, Marshall Miller has participated as a member of the Partnership and Compliance Assessment Team which has identified, prioritized, and created action plans for removing barriers, enhancing maximum compliance, and reducing costs to the trade industry and the customs service. Receiving the Hammer Award is a special recognition and honor which Miller and Company and its primary principal, Marshall Miller, have earned. Those that are fortunate enough to know Mr. Miller are aware of his energy and quest for efficiency. Mr. Speaker, I applaud my constituent, Marshall V. Miller, on receiving the Vice President's 1998 Hammer Award.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Kansas City, Missouri. The second largest parade in the country, Kansas City represents the best of the tradition of the Irish. Started by local radio personality Mike Murphy in 1973, the celebration now includes families, community and school groups, civic and labor organizations representing the greater Kansas City metropolitan area. The parade has become one of the largest in America because of the dedication and commitment of the Irish community. The traditions of celebrating the history and lineage of the families of Ireland have become ingrained in our community. Generations after generation continue the reminder of the importance of St. Patrick's Day. From a small crew and a block long parade to the success of today's 100,000 plus participants, Kansas City demonstrates the values of keeping tradition alive. I enjoy the parade and all of the community cheer and enthusiasm. This morning the excitement was captured for the nation on ABC's ``Good Morning America'' program. Even on a cold and dreary day, Kansas City's St. Patrick's Day Parade brings the shining Irish pride of all of us to light. Mr. Speaker, I salute the 25th Anniversary of Kansas City's St. Patrick's Day Parade and the excitement it has brought to our community and its residents through the hard work and determination of the Irish community of my district.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall no. 18, passage of H.R. 424, I was detained in transit on US Airway Flight #6 out of Pittsburgh which had multiple mechanical problems. Had I been present, I would have voted aye.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I am honored today to rise on behalf of former President Harry Truman's home town daily newspaper, ``The Examiner'' which is celebrating its 100th anniversary. ``The Examiner's'' reflective motto for the celebration ``proud past, exciting future'' is certainly appropriate. Having been founded on February 19, 1898 as ``The Jackson Examiner'' by Colonel William Southern, Jr., ``The Examiner'' serves eastern Jackson County, Missouri as a daily newspaper. With a rich heritage of journalism, the newspaper captures the essence of life in former President Harry Truman's home community. ``The Examiner'' maintains an operating philosophy which ``counts the day lost when you or your company has not done something to benefit the community it serves.'' The newspaper staff is committed to sound Midwestern principles and dedicated to serving its readers. ``The Examiner'' as we know it today has evolved into a pillar in the community during its century of service to Jackson County. Now celebrating its 100th year in business, ``The Examiner'' also celebrates its first year of being on-line with interactive journalism. The publication has been led since 1986 by publisher Ben F. Weir, Jr. who through his leadership has continued to ensure that ``The Examiner'' remains on the cutting edge of journalism. Currently held by Morris Communications Corporation of Augusta, Georgia, ``The Examiner'' publishes daily news in the greater Independence and Blue Springs areas of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, our community is fortunate to have the commitment and leadership of the Weir family, as well as other dedicated publishers like Colonel Southern and former co-publisher Frank Rucker, who remain committed to communicating the news of the day and serving their community. It is with great pride that I salute ``The Examiner'' on 100 years of success. On Thursday, February 19, 1998 I have the distinct honor of joining ``The Examiner'' family in celebrating their 100th anniversary.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, on rollcall No. 3, moving the previous question, I was unavoidably detained at Washington National Airport. Had I been present, I would have voted Nay.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Chairman, today I rise to voice my concern about an issue of fiscal responsibility. The proposal to rename Washington National Airport for former President Reagan, while an attempt to honor a revered leader of this country, is an unfunded mandate on the state and local governments of Virginia as well as the businesses of this region. Public Law #104-4, enacted by the 104th Congress, which I cosponsored, prohibits the federal government from imposing requirements on state and local governments without adequate funds to carry out the order. The enactment of this legislation without a guarantee of federal funds to pay for it violates the intent of the law. The cost of this mandate will effect the federal government as well as state and local governments and the regional airport authority. It is estimated to run in the millions of dollar when one considers all of the revisions which will have to be made to our air traffic control system, airline schedules, computer programs, baggage tags and other preprinted items, and the cost of changing the road signs leading to and around the airport and numerous other related activities. The State of Virginia estimates that changing the road signs alone will cost $60,000. In addition to the costs, the action of revising a previously named facility is without precedent and the general practice of the House to consult with the Members who represent the affected facility before moving forward is being ignored. Mr. Moran and other members from the Washington area are opposed to this renaming and support the decision- making authority that a previous Congress gave to the Washington Metropolitan Airports Authority. We should reject this measure as it is an action that may set us on a course for a number of name changes to existing buildings across the country to honor various icons of either party. We should respect the precedent of consultation with Members of affected areas and maintain the practice of honoring distinguished Americans without partisan debate. The Federal Aviation Administration has stated that such a change needs ``strong and documented justification, primarily concerning air safety,'' because of its recognition of the costs to the system of making such a change. Mr. Chairman, today we need to ask ourselves if the benefits of changing the name of an airport from one former President to another outweigh the costs, and whether this is the best way to honor the principal of federalism for which former President Reagan stood firmly. I believe that it is important to remember as we enter into this era of intergovernmental cooperation and budget balance the restraint which brought us to this point of fiscal responsibility.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, my colleague, Mr. Dreier, and I, rise today to pay tribute to the life of a man who has touched so many lives and who has contributed so much to our community: Mr. Robert Palmer Ingram. We submit into the Record an article in honor of Mr. Ingram's memory and contributions as recounted by Diane Stafford in my hometown newspaper, the Kansas City Star: Robert Palmer Ingram, an indefatigable salesman and civic leader, died Tuesday in his sleep at his Kansas City home. He was 80 years old. Since arriving in Kansas City in the mid-1940s, Ingram founded or led more than a dozen companies, was a director of at least seven others, served as a trustee or a governor of six major civic or educational organizations, was an honorary consul to Belgium and held offices or memberships in many other clubs, councils and committees. Fueled by his voracious reading, Ingram brought curiosity and wise counsel to wide-ranging endeavors. He shunned the spotlight but left a public imprint as the former owner and publisher of Ingram's, the Kansas City monthly business magazine that continues to carry his name. To classical music lovers, Ingram was known as the man who poured millions of dollars into classical music radio station KXTR, keeping it on the air for years despite unprofitability. He also owned KBEA, which had a ``Music of Your Life'' format. He sold those properties in 1996. Henry Bloch, co-founder of H&R Block Inc., said that many times through the years, including Monday, he saw Ingram eating lunch alone and reading at the River Club. ``I've known him for a long time, and I can say he did a lot for Kansas City--in real estate, with the radio stations and the magazines,'' Bloch said. ``He was a very nice person.'' Quick-thinking, quick-moving and often slightly disheveled, Ingram whirled his thin frame from meeting to meeting, wedging in reading and note scribbling whenever time would allow. He and his wife, Beth Ingram, at one time said they subscribed to as many as 150 periodicals. ``He slowed down recently, but he stayed so upbeat about Kansas City,'' said Mike Morrissey, past chairman of the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, who sometimes ate lunch with Ingram at the Kansas City Club. ``He was very supportive of anything you ever wanted him to help you with. He and Beth were very generous in the Kansas City community, not only financially but with their time.'' Former Kansas City Mayor Richard L. Berkley said he admired Ingram ``for remaining active and participating in so many civic, cultural and political activities. . . . It was impressive to see him still come to the Civic Council meetings and other events he was involved in, even when you knew it was getting more difficult for him to move around.'' Ingram's energy left a brick-and-mortar legacy for the city. One project, TenMain Center, a downtown redevelopment effort in the 1960s, nearly ruined his wealth and his health after the intended prime tenant (the Kansas City Board of Trade) and fellow investors pulled out. Ingram stuck with the office tower project, though, and saw it through to fruition. At one time he owned 10 downtown buildings but in later years retained ownership only of the Argyle Building, a renovated tower that housed the offices of Ingram Properties and his publishing enterprises. Ingram eschewed many outward trappings of wealth but admitted a fascination with high society. Even in failing health in recent months, he attended a swirl of benefits and functions. His interest in wealth and society, in part, led to his ownership of The Independent, the area's society journal. The Lyric Opera of Kansas City was a major beneficiary of the Ingram's philanthropy since it founding in 1958. Ingram money turned the old theater library into a luxurious gathering space for benefactors. Ingram largess also created a new music library for the Kansas City Symphony. He was born in Norfolk, Va., and grew up in a suburb of Pittsburgh, where, he said, he began selling door to door ``anything he could'' by age 8. By age 10 he was following the stock market and buying his first stocks. And by age 12, he grandly noted later, he had learned to use rejection as a spur to do better. He studied journalism at Washington and Lee University and at the University of Pittsburgh but left college without getting a degree because, he later said, he thought he needed a job more than he needed more education. His first job was in sales at Anchor Hocking Glass Co. The company dispatched him to Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky, Michigan and back to Pennsylvania before sending him to Kansas City. He decided to plant roots and in 1947 founded Robert P. Ingram & Co., an independent manufacturers' representative specializing in housewares and toys. Soon thereafter, he met and married Beth (Mary Elizabeth Renfro). The Ingrams had two children, Marsha Jill Ingram Reynolds and Robert Palmer (Chip) Ingram III, both of whom live in the Kansas City area. There are four grandchildren. Always spurred by the desire to do civic good, Ingram sometimes was thwarted. In the 1960s, for example, he was part of an investor group that was outbid by Charles O. Finley to buy the Kansas City Athletics baseball team. In the 1970s he was unsuccessful in working for an ice hockey and convention center downtown. On balance, Ingram's successes predominated. From operating the locker concession at Kansas City International Airport to becoming a major investor and director of Rubbermaid, Ingram earned notice for his entrepreneurship and intelligence. ``There are very few things in life that have given me the same pleasure I have received from starting and growing businesses,'' Ingram said in a promotional ad for Ingram's not long before his death. Always, he told interviewers, he considered himself a salesman. In any setting Ingram might be seen thumbing through a wad of business cards, searching for the appropriate one among his many interests and passing it out to a prospective customer. Ingram's sales acumen was acknowledged in 1969, when he received the Saleman of the Year award from the Advertising and Sales Executive Club of Kansas City. In recent years Ingram made a few concessions to age. Once prone to getting speeding tickets, he hired a driver to shuttle him from appointment to appointment. But despite increased frailty, he took pride in working in his office from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every Monday through Friday he was in Kansas City, said Marie Brown, his executive assistant. In recent years he and his wife split time between their residence in The Walnuts, near the Country Club Plaza, and their condo in Palm Beach, Fla. They also had an apartment in New York. A lifelong Republican, Ingram relished his 1969 appointment by Richard Nixon as metro chairman of the National Alliance of Businessmen. He also was a member of the Points of Light Foundation. A roundup of Ingram's business presidencies in addition to Robert P. Ingram & Co. includes Ingram Investment Co., Lasalle Leasing Co., KBEA Broadcasting Co., KXTR Broadcasting Co., Kansas City Bus Advertising Co., Security Locker Co., TenMain Center, Dow Research, Econo-Car Rental and the Argyle Building Co. He was chairman of Ingram Media, Custom Publishing by Ingram's and Ingram Properties. He was publisher emeritus of The Independent and the former publisher of Ingram's and its predecessor, Corporate Report/ Kansas City magazine. He sold Ingram's this year. He was a past director of Rubbermaid, Harzfelds, Gilbert/ Robinson, Baltimore Bank & Trust Co. of Kansas City, American Cablevision of Kansas City and Country Club Bank. At the time of his death he was a director of FLM Industries and the Housing Development Corporation and Information Center in Kansas City. On the civic scene, Ingram's participation was wide and deep. He was trustee of the University of Missouri-Kansas City, the UMKC Conservatory of Music and Midwest Research Institute. He was on the board of governors of the Straight Theatre Association, the American Royal Association and the Urban League of Kansas City. He was a member of the business council of the Nelson- Atkins Museum of Art and the museum's Society of Fellows. He was a member of the Lyric Opera Guild, the Fine Arts Guild of William Jewell College and the Friends of the Kansas City Symphony. He was a member and director of the Civic Council of Greater Kansas City. He was a past president of the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City and Downtown Inc. Ingram was appointed to two significant public-service commissions in the late 1960s. He was one of five men on a six-month commission to study civil disorders in Kansas City in 1968, and a year later he accepted an appointment to the Capital Requirements for Public Schools Committee for the Kansas City School District. He held memberships in the 711 Club, the Man of the Month Fraternity, Alliance Francaise, the Friends of Vielles Maisons Francaises, the Carriage Club, the Kansas City Club, the Vanguard Club and BENS. Friends and family attended his funeral on October 24th at Country Club Christian Church, 6101, Ward Parkway.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor a respected leader in the health care industry and a friend, Jerry B. Hedrick, Jr. He has tirelessly contributed his insight and guidance to positively effect the public policies of health care companies in our country. He is retiring after 22 years of service to the pharmaceutical industry culminating as vice president, government affairs of Hoechst Marion Roussel. Mr. Hedrick joined Marion Laboratories, a predecessor company to Marion Merrell Dow, Inc. and Hoechst Marion Roussel, in 1975 as a consultant. In 1976 he was named manager of special projects and administration and in 1983 advanced to director of state government affairs. He assumed the position of vice president, government affairs in January 1988, and continued in this role with Marion Merrell Dow, Inc. until August 1995 when he was named to his present position. In addition to his accomplished career in the pharmaceutical industry, Jerry is equally renowned as an announcer and participant in the American Quarter Horse Association and the American Rodeo Association. He was chosen by his peers in the United Rodeo Association to announce the finals and championships 10 years in a row. He also served in the same capacity for the Quarter Horse Association championships for a similar period. Mr. Hedrick is a leader in his community where he actively participates with several organizations. He is a member of the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce; he is one of the founding trustees of the Midwest Bioethics Center, he sits on the advisory council at Emporia State University and he is the current Kansas State director for the American Quarter Horse Association. He is also involved with the Heart of America Council of the Boys Scouts of America and volunteers his time to help the Dream Factory, an organization dedicated to granting the wishes of very ill children. I can attest to his strong desire to make a difference in his personal and professional life. Through his work and volunteer efforts Jerry has made many positive contributions. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring and acknowledging the lifelong achievements of Jerry B. Hedrick and in wishing him the best upon his retirement.

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri

Ms. McCARTHY of Missouri. Madam Speaker, pursuant to clause 2 of rule IX, I hereby give notice of my intention to offer a resolution which raises a question of the privileges of House. I ask unanimous consent that the form of the resolution appear in the Record at this point.