Karen McCarthy

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, during rollcall vote No. 223 on H.R. 3400 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea.''

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Marian Klebanoff who will receive the State of Israel's Heritage Award on Sunday, May 19, 1996, in Wichita, KS. Marian has dedicated her life to her family and to her community and to the State of Israel. Marian was born in 1916 in Kansas City, MO, the second child of Edith and Benjamin Bell. She graduated from Linwood Elementary School and Central High School. Marian attended the Kansas City Art Institute, the University of Kansas, and the University of Tulsa. In 1940 she married Nathan Wedlan of Kansas City where they lived most of their married life. The had two daughter, Myrna who is married to David Lyons and Bobbi who is married to Larrie Weil. Marian first visited Israel in 1973 with her husband who died later that year. In 1978 she moved to Wichita, KS, to marry Joseph Klebanoff who has two sons, Gary and Alan. She and Joe have been blessed with seven wonderful grandchildren: Jonathan Wedlan Lyons, Brett Harrison Lyons, Parker Anders Weil, Sarah Marion Weil, Sarah Annie Klebanoff, David James Klebanoff, and Kara Klebanoff. Marian's devotion to her family is equaled only by her commitment to helping others. She began her public service as a high school student when she volunteered at Congregation Beth Shalom in Kansas City, MO, as a librarian. A great lover of children, Marian taught Sunday school and nursery school and was camp director at Beth Shalom. Marian has lived several places during her adult life and has always been actively involved in her community. In Kansas City Marian served as the director of Jewish education and art gallery coordinator for the Jewish Community Center; she also was a board member of Congregation Beth Shalom Sisterhood, National Council of Jewish Women, Hadassah, and Jewish Federation. While living in Tulsa, OK, Marian was president of the National Council of Jewish Women and served on the board of directors of Hadassah, Jewish Federation, and ORT. More recently Marian has served on the board of directors of Jewish Federation of Wichita, Temple Emanu-El Temple, Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood, Hadassah, and B'nai N'rith Women. She has been president of Temple Emanu-El Sisterhood and also has served as chairperson of the Education and Anti-Defamation League communities as well co-chair of the women's division of the Jewish Federation. Marian is also a member of the Wichita Gardens Botanica, Wichita Art Museum, Wichita Center for the Arts, Wichita Symphony Association, Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum, American Civil Liberties Union, and the Mainstream Coalition. I am proud to list the many organizations with which Marian has worked, but Marian's life has been much more than the sum of all the wonderful parts. The Hebrew language has no word which directly corresponds to the English word ``charity.'' The closest word for ``charity'' in Hebrew is ``Tzedakah'' which is a Judiac admonition to be righteous, compassionate, and, above all, help one's fellow man. Marian is a most perfect example of this combination of community service and responsibility. I am honored to rise before this distinguished body to recognize Marian Wedlan Klebanoff who has earned my respect and that of her family and her friends. She is a worthy recipient of the State of Israel's Heritage Award for her devotion to her family, to her synagogue, to her community, and to the State of Israel.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to our late President, Harry S Truman, on the 112th anniversary of his birth. In his life and his Presidency, Harry Truman exhibited the characteristics of leadership courage decisiveness, humility, and deep respect for others. His no-nonsense, buck-stops-here approach to facing even life's most difficult situations enabled him to become one of our country's greatest presidents. President Truman was a leader in the true sense of the word. He refused to let uncomfortable situations or unpopular opinions stand in his way of making the difficult decisions required of a statesman. He stepped into the Presidency at a time of crisis for this Nation, and he guided us into our most productive years. The lessons we can learn from Harry Truman are applicable today. As we in Congress continue our efforts to balance the budget, reform welfare and health care, and provide a future our children can say yes to, we should remember his approach to governing, and his commitment to the people of this Nation. Above all, Harry Truman got the job done. It is time for us to get the job done, Mr. Speaker, in memory of this great American. Happy birthday, Harry.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, during rollcall vote No. 142 on House Resolution 419 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yes''.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, yesterday marked the 26th Annual celebration of Earth Day. In the time since the first Earth Day, much has been accomplished in to the way of environmental protection. Landmark legislation such as the Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act, the Endangered Species, Act, and the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency have resulted from a commitment to protection of our natural resources that is exemplified by Earth Day. There is no question that today our water is more clean and our air is more breathable than it was 25 years ago. Species that were threatened or endangered 25 years ago, such as the American Bald Eagle, are now thriving. Wetlands are better protected, toxic dump sites are more quickly identified and treated, environmentally sensitive sources of energy are being developed and put into use, and our public lands are more sensitively preserved and maintained. The job is certainly not complete. Much can be done to strengthen the laws on the books, but much can de done to make compliance with those laws more achievable. Long-term environmental protection can only be accomplished through a partnership between the environmental and business communities. In seeking to expand and improve environmental protection, we must also consider the legitimate concerns raised by those who live with the regulations. Despite all the positive and popular steps that have been taken to protect the environment in the past quarter century, and the additional work that needs to be done, the leadership of the 104th Congress has attempted to halt, roll back, and eliminate many of the protections for the environment we hold sacred. Legislation has passed the House during this Congress to dramatically reduce one of the most successful laws on our books, the Clean Water Act. While not perfect, the Clean Water Act has gone a long way towards cleaning up our Nation's rivers, lakes, and streams; but the bill that passed the House rejects those successes and represents a major step backward in cleanup of polluted waterways. Another target of this Congress has been the Environmental Protection Agency. In pursuit of a worthy cause--streamlining and making more efficient the environmental regulatory process--legislation has passed the House to establish stringent new requirements for risk assessment and cost benefit analysis of major federal regulations affecting health, safety, or the environment. Should this bill become law, it would hamstring EPA's ability to promulgate and enforce regulations designed to protect the environment. In addition, funding for EPA has been slashed by more than 25 percent. The House Leadership's commitment to reducing environmental protection funding has resulted in fewer hazardous waste cleanups, a reduction in enforcement, and a decrease in needed water infrastructure and treatment programs. Today, as we celebrate the 26th anniversary of Earth Day, it is important to reflect on the successes that have been achieved in environmental protection over the years, and the work that must continue to be done to ensure our natural resources will be preserved for generations to come. Instead of misguided attempts to roll back protection, we need to develop ways to preserve our environment that are cost-effective, efficient, and responsible. I participated in the first Earth Day celebration in 1970 by walking to my teaching job rather than driving, and discussing with my students the responsibility each individual has to the environment. I have marked the anniversary of Earth Day each year since, and this year I helped to create a community garden with Americorps volunteers in my district. All of my life I have worked for sound environment, and I practice conservation and recycling at home and in my offices. As a member of the Transportation Committee's Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment, and the Science Committee's Subcommittee on Energy and Environment, I work as an advocate for substantive changes in law and policy that will ensure a quality environment. Concern about our environment must be reflected in each of our lives daily. From recycling our newspapers, to planting trees, to using public transportation whenever possible, together we can make our environment cleaner and safer. Let us each pledge to make every day, Earth Day.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. I thank the gentleman from Minnesota for yielding me this time. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of H.R. 842, the Truth in Budgeting Act. For more than 40 years Americans have been contributing to transportation trust funds designed to ensure a safe, efficient, and reliable transportation infrastructure. Since 1969, these trust funds have been included as part of the unified budget for the purpose of masking the extent of our deficit spending. The budget chairman's chart revealed what's been spent--but no mention of the unmet needs of this Nation. In my State of Missouri, we have more than $1.7 billion in unmet highway needs, including 261 lane miles of 4-lane highway needs, and 136 bridges in need of major repair or replacement. Mr. Chairman, balancing the budget was a priority when I campaigned for Congress, and I have worked hard to reach that goal. But in our quest for a balanced budget, it makes no sense to let our infrastructure fall into disrepair. Each year we will find ourselves in a greater dilemma if we refuse to seriously address our many transportation needs today. The Truth in Budgeting Act will remove the transportation trust funds from the artificial constraints that prevent needed money from being released. It will allow for greater investment in our Nation's future, and reward the American people's commitment to a strong transportation infrastructure. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 842.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, today we have an opportunity to give the American people something they want and something they need, a guarantee that if they change jobs they will not lose their health insurance. It is that simple. We know how to do it. The President, the Republican Senate and House Democrats all agree. So I ask what is the problem? the problem is that the House leadership has surrendered to their extremists and loaded up a truly bipartisan bill with special interest provisions that would cost the American taxpayer millions of dollars. My constituents are not asking for something for nothing. They are willing to pay for health insurance. Let us push those special interests aside, work together, and give American families basic security. Mr. Speaker, I urge the Republican leadership to put politics aside, clean up this bill so we can give Americans this important first step toward health care reform. It is the right thing to do.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, I join with the gentleman from New Jersey in moving to recommit this bill to committee with instruction to report the Roukema bill, H.R. 2893, for final passage. Kennedy-Kassebaum- Roukema has supported from the White House, from the American public, from the health care industry, and bipartisan support in the Senate. It is legislation which can be signed into law tonight. To recommit puts sound public policy above special interests. To recommit assures American families of security by providing genuine health care reform. In a Congress that touts fiscal responsibility, to vote against this motion is fiscally irresponsible. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this motion, to stand for true reform, to stand against special interests, to stand for the American people. Vote ``yes'' to recommit.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a distinguished business and civic leader, R. Hugh ``Pat'' Uhlmann, who would have celebrated his 80th birthday Sunday, March 17. Born on St. Patrick's Day 1916, Mr. Uhlmann died February 7, 1996 having contributed his generosity and kindness to our community throughout those years. Mr. Uhlmann always will be remembered as a renaissance man with a bright mind and warm heart. His principal in life defined his every action: what is hateful to you, do not do unto others. A talented and highly successful businessman, Mr. Uhlmann spent 50 years as a member of the Kansas City Board of Trade, where he began his career as a grain trader in 1938. He was president in 1960-61. After serving our Nation during World War II, Mr. Uhlmann rejoined Uhlmann Grain Co. Later, he was vice-president of Midland Flour Milling Co. before buying control of Standard Milling Co. with his father and brother, Paul, in 1951. The name was changed to the Uhlmann Co. in 1981. He served as president, chairman, and chairman emeritus. Mr. Uhlmann was a trail blazer for Jewish Kansas Citians. He was often the first Jewish person appointed to boards or accepted into business and social clubs in Kansas City, opening the door for others who would follow. Mr. Uhlmann encouraged many Kansas City businesses to hire their first Jewish employee. Mr. Uhlmann was also committed to opening doors for other minorities. He was a voice for tolerance who spoke quietly, but effectively. Many families and individuals of all backgrounds have been touched by Mr. Uhlmann's sincere interest in helping others. One son recalls a winter day when he watched from a window as his father gave a stranger outside the coat he was wearing. When queried, Mr. Uhlmann explained that the man had just lost his job, was down on his luck, and needed the coat far more than he did. Mr. Uhlmann's energy and generosity will have a lasting effect on our community. He was a founding member of Friends of the Zoo, president of the Friends of Art, a trustee of Children's Mercy Hospital, Rockhurst College and a contributing member of many other civic, religious, cultural and educational institutions. His unique blend of humor and intellect led to opportunities as a radio commentator and columnist. His love of life was displayed through numerous hobbies; reading, gardening, cooking, golfing, fishing, and horseback riding. Longtime friend Henry Bloch of H&R Block said that Mr. Uhlmann often served lunches in his office and that it was an honor to be invited. These lunches were an opportunity for lively exchange of ideas and commentary on key issues and a chance to experience Mr. Uhlmann's culinary talent. Mr. Uhlmann took up painting at age 74 and won awards for his work. Mr. Uhlmann left this world with a lifetime of exhilarating experiences unmatched by most people. His most lasting legacy is his family. Mr. Uhlmann said he knew when he met his wife, Helen Jane, 57 years ago that they would marry. Theirs was a marriage of unconditional love, loyalty, and fun that makes most enviable. In the written memorial Mr. Uhlmann wrote of Helen Jane: ``I sit here with tears in my eyes thinking how close we have been and what a beautiful life we have had . . . When I found out about my cancer, her love, concern, encouragement and high spirits that she put on for my benefit have made it possible for me to go on.'' Pat and Helen Jane's three children, Patricia Rich, John and Robert, are the pride of his life. While Pat also adored his seven grandchildren he loved all children. He enjoyed telling wonderful stories and he had a way of bringing out the child in all of us. Pat Uhlmann has been an inspiration in my life and has enriched the people of Kansas City in ways few individuals have ever achieved. He will indeed be missed.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay special tribute to one of my constituents. On game days, he wears the number 90 on a red and white jersey and is every quarterback's nightmare. I am speaking of the Kansas City Chiefs all-pro defensive lineman, Neil Smith. Today I want to take note of Neil Smith's efforts off the field. Instead of sacking quarterbacks, Neil Smith is stopping illiteracy. He is the national spokesperson for the Foundation for Exceptional Children's ``Yes I Can'' program which encourages disabled children to reach their goals. But while Neil is working to improve education, the House leadership is making drastic cuts in education programs. In Missouri, title I programs, which help children with learning disabilities, will lose over $19 million--critical funds for students who need extra help in reading, writing and math. I want to say to the House leadership--it's fourth down, 1 yard to go, and there are 30 seconds on the clock--let's go for it and reinstate the much needed funds for our children. Thank you, Neil Smith, for sharing your talents and success to help all children achieve their dreams as you have.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of NFL's finest defensive players and one of Kansas City's finest citizens, Neil Smith of the Kansas City Chiefs. Mr. Smith is in Washington today to accept a prestigious award from the U.S. Junior Chamber of Commerce [JAYCEES] which has selected Neil Smith as a member of the Congress of Ten Outstanding Young Americans. Neil Smith spent his childhood struggling in school with a learning disability. He was in junior high school before the education system acknowledged his special challenges and helped him discover ways in which he could learn and succeed. Neil Smith will never forget the cruel labels placed on children with dyslexia. That is why today he dedicates time and energy to help youngsters living with learning disabilities. As a former educator, I personally appreciate Mr. Smith's selfless efforts to heighten public awareness and find solutions for individuals with disabilities. He is the national spokesperson for Foundation for Exceptional Children's ``Yes I Can'' Program which encourages disabled children to reach their goals and recognizes their many achievements. He recently partnered with the Learning Disabilities Association of Missouri to fund and produce a public service announcement aimed at dispelling the misconception that children with learning disabilities are ``dumb'' or ``slow''. He says they just need to be shown things in a different way. Neil Smith's efforts remind the Congress that these youth need the support of an education system that works for them, not against them. All children have dreams and each and every one of them deserves the opportunity to achieve those dreams just as Neil Smith has. In Mr. Smith's words, ``People with learning disabilities are not unfortunate. The unfortunate people are quarterbacks.'' Thank you, Neil, for your dedication to our children and your inspiring energy both on and off the field.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, due to official business in my district, I was unable to cast votes on Tuesday March 5, and Wednesday March 6. Had I been here, I would have voted as follows: ``Yes'' on rollcall vote No. 44--H.R. 2778, to provide tax benefits for U.S. troops in Bosnia; ``yes'' on rollcall vote No. 45--Approval of the Journal; ``yes'' on rollcall vote No. 46--H.R. 270, the rule for consideration of H.R. 927; ``yes'' on rollcall note No. 47--H.R. 927, the conference report on the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity Act.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of the Miller- Schumer-Kingston amendment to phase-out the Federal sugar program in 5 years. The sugar price support program is a wasteful giveaway that benefits only select sugar producers and results in higher prices for consumers. The artificially high prices drive up costs for domestic food manufacturers and make U.S. food producers less competitive. The sugar program has a direct cost to all Americans. Every time we go to the supermarket and buy sugar, and every time we buy products that are made with sugar, we pay for the sugar program. The General Accounting Office has estimated that the sugar program costs U.S. consumers at least $1.4 billion a year in increased food products. This amendment brings a reasonable end to the sugar price support program. It phases-out supports over a 5-year period, and gives producers who currently benefit from the program time to adjust to a more competitive marketplace. At a time when we are rethinking farm policy, it would be a mistake to maintain the status quo for sugar. I urge all my colleagues to support the Miller-Schumer-Kingston amendment.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to participate in rollcall vote No. 885 on December 22, 1995. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea''.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, thousands of Federal employees in my district are once again furloughed and nine cabinet-level agencies plus EPA and NASA serving millions of Americans have shut their doors. The Republican leadership for a second time has chosen to use American taxpayers as pawns in an effort to compromise the President's vow to protect Medicare, Medicaid, education, and the environment. The Republican leadership has failed in its responsibility to the American people to enact a budget. This failure has wide-ranging effects. It's not just the Federal employees who are prevented from working. Crucial services to the American public are not available: FHA mortgages are going unprocessed; small businesses are not receiving assistance; and veterans' benefits may be delayed. As a former member of the Missouri State Legislature and chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee--we balanced our budget while protecting vital services and passed our spending measure every single year. We do it at the State level as do county's and cities and business and homes and we should be able to do it at the Federal level. It is time to work together to get the job done. It is time to pass necessary spending bills and to offer a budget resolution that protects the values of the American people. The American people want teamwork and this is what we as Democrats insist upon.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding to me. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the rule and urge members to vote ``no'' to the rule and to the conference report. This bill would eliminate the current COPS Program that gives grants to localities to put 100,000 additional community police officers on the streets of our Nation. The citizens of my district in Missouri have benefited from this program. In 25 cities across the country the violent crime rate is down, the murder rate is down, the crime rate is down. In my own district the COPS Program in phase 1 has funded 94 total law enforcement officers in towns and communities like independence, Lee's Summit, Raytown and Sugar Creek. In Kansas City alone 26 law enforcement officers have been funded. If the COPS Program is turned into a block grant fund, there is a real danger [[Page H 14080]] that communities like mine will lose Federal funding and face elimination of a successful program that prevents crime. Mr. Speaker, I have visited with citizens and law enforcement officials and the cops on the beat. I have seen the work that they are doing with community volunteers to prevent crime. If we allow this valuable program to be made into a block grant these funds may be diverted and may not be spent on preventing crime. According to the Jackson County prosecutors office, overall crime in Kansas City has decreased 15 percent from 1994. This includes a 25- percent reduction in homicides, 10-percent reduction in violent crimes, and a reduction of 5 percent in part 1 crimes such as auto theft. The COPS Program has real, tangible, results. The COPS Program is working. I urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on the rule and to oppose passage of this bill.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and to honor the memory of one of Kansas City's outstanding business and civic leaders, Edward A. Smith. Mr. Smith died tragically November 20, the victim of a hit and run accident. Ed Smith leaves a legacy of outstanding achievements and selfless contributions to the community he called home, Kansas City, MO. He worked tirelessly within both the business and civic communities, quietly direct many high level philanthropic efforts and helping to shape important businesses and foundations. Ed Smith gave a lifetime commitment to making Kansas City a better community for all of us. In his eulogy to the more than one-thousand mourners who gathered to say farewell last week, Rabbi Alan Cohen said of Ed Smith, ``He was a mentor to a great many people. He was a visionary. He truly left his mark.'' I join with his many friends and family members in describing Ed Smith as an ``uncommon person.'' Rabbi Cohen added that although Mr. Smith loved the law, his fiercest loyalty was to his family. ``His loyalty extended to everything he did'' according to Rabbi Cohen. ``He was always ready to give back to people and places that had been a part of him.'' Henry Bloch of H & R Bloch has said that Ed Smith is largely responsible for the success of H & R Bloch, where Smith was a long time director. According to Henry Bloch, ``Whenever we had a problem, we said, `let's call Ed.' He was a man of superior intellect, but not ego.'' Close friends have described Ed Smith as someone who worked tirelessly and was passionate about philanthropy. Many have noted that he was one of Kansas City's most effective behind-the-scenes leaders, never seeking recognition for his work, but focusing instead on getting things accomplished. In the late 1970's Mr. Smith attended a dinner party with several other civic leaders. They agreed to form a community foundation, passing the hat and amassing just over two-hundred-dollars that night. That group has since become the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation and Affiliated Trusts which now manages assets of $270- million in 450 charitable funds. It also owns the Kansas City Royals baseball team. Among the many awards Edward Smith received: the University of Missouri, Kansas City, Chancellors Medallion in 1991; the Charles Evans Whittaker Award in 1992 given by the Lawyers Association of Kansas City; the National Conference of Christians and Jews Citation award in 1993; Ingram's Magazine named Edward Smith one of their ``Local Heroes'' and ``Hall of Famers'' in 1994-1995. Ed Smith was very active in the Jewish community. He was a member of the Beth Shalom congregation and a past director of the Jewish community Center. He also held a directorship with the Beth Shalom Foundation. In 1986, Mr. Smith received the Civic Service award from the Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy. Edward Smith was born January 20, 1918 in Worcester, MA. He attended Clark University in Worcester where he graduated with honors in Economics in 1939. He went on to Harvard Law School where he graduated in 1942. A founder of one of Kansas City's most prominent law firms, Smith, Gill, Fisher and Butts, Ed Smith was instrumental in building its success and in facilitating its recent merger with the Bryan Cave law firm. Edward Smith leaves his wife, Beth K. Smith, with whom he has celebrated 50 years of marriage, and four children: Sarah S. Malino, Judith E. Smith, Deborah M. Smith and James D. Smith. He also leaves eight grandchildren. Beth Smith shared her husband's commitment to civic, cultural, and social causes, and her leadership is revered in the community. Today Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join with me and with the people of Kansas City, who keenly feel the loss of Edward Smith. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this sorrowful time. Edward Smith was an outstanding individual who took a special interest in helping young people develop their abilities and leadership skills. The [[Page E 2240]] void he leaves in our community will long be felt by all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. The legacy of leadership he leaves will live on in future generations whose lives he has touched in the most remarkable way.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, my constituents have been telling me that they want Congress to get on with the business of balancing the budget, make responsible spending cuts that will not harm our elderly, our children, and our environment. The continuing resolution that we agreed to last night commits us to those priorities. This agreement would not have been reached and the Government would not have reopened today had the Democratic caucus not insisted that the House stay here and work over the weekend. If we had adjourned on Saturday, as the leadership planned, Federal workers would not now be back on the job and the stalemate would continue. I commend every Federal worker for their public service in these difficult times. Now that the Government is up and running, Mr. Speaker, it is time for us to get down to the real issues at stake in the balanced budget debate. We must make the tough decisions to return our Government to fiscal responsibility and to balance the budget in 7 years. Let us work together to reach the balanced budget goal in a way that helps working families and protects the most fragile part of our society. Let us return our constituents to a sense of pride in their Government.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to urge support for the Whitfield amendment and, with adoption of that amendment, to recommend support for the bill. Inclusion of the Whitfield language will make this a bill worthy of passage. One of the functions of the ICC is to evaluate and approve railway mergers. The impacts of such mergers can be wide and far reaching-- affecting other railroads, rail passengers, rail employees, farmers, small businesses, and shippers who depend on reliable, affordable rail transit. It is in the national interest to ensure that mergers which take place do not have a deleterious effect on any of these important functions. It is essential that the new Department of Transportation panel, created under this legislation, be vigilant and thorough in its examination of rail mergers. Only through full and complete consideration of such a merger can all of the potential ramifications be properly examined. It is also important that other appropriate voices, such as that of the Attorney General, be a part of the deliberative process. We have an obligation, Mr. Chairman, to ensure that the public has access to affordable modes of rail transportation, that small railroads can compete with the larger ones, and that rail employees be treated fairly. I expect the new DOT panel to fully take into account these important issues when considering railroad mergers.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to share with my colleagues a most thoughtful and insightful article by Dr. Wallace B. Smith, president of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I am proud to say that the church is headquartered in Independence, MO--the heart of my congressional district. Under the stewardship of Dr. Smith, who has served as president for 20 years, the church has carried [[Page E 2162]] out its mission of spreading peace and harmony throughout our community and the world. The church's temple, an architectural wonder, rises like a beacon and serves as an eternal reminder of the powerful spiritual presence we are so fortunate to have in our community. The compassion and concern the members of the church have for mankind is perhaps best illustrated in the following article, which I commend to the attention of my colleagues and ask that it be inserted into the Congressional Record. [From The Saints Herald, Feb. 1995] Individualism and Compassion (By Wallace B. Smith) The rhetoric of some politicians these days seems to be echoing a deep-felt mood among many citizens that ought to be troubling for followers of Jesus Christ. The mood is not unique to any specific people, race, ethnic group, or nationality, although it was manifested rather widely in the United States during and subsequent to the November 1994 elections. Much was said about a seeming desire for change on the part of the electorate, and change was certainly reflected in the election results. There was a desire, it was said, to make government more responsive to the people--if necessary, by replacing the current political office holders with new, albeit untested, ones. This desire has now been accomplished and has been interpreted by some as mandating a change in the social agenda as well. Indeed, the conservative philosophy of less dependence on government, more individual initiative, and increased self-reliance has been on the rise. Unfortunately, such seemingly desirable societal traits can also be viewed as ``code words'' that encourage the needs of the poor to be ignored, individual freedom to become license, the self systematically exalted, and injustice against the weak and the powerless fostered. These latter qualities, which are manifestations of the sin of self-centeredness, are the very characteristics Jesus consistently pointed out to his disciples as those to be guarded against. That is why such traits, when they begin to be a reflective of the mood of a nation or a people, should give followers of Jesus Christ cause for concern. Whether we who live in the United States of America are experiencing such a mood just now is a question that needs to be explored in light of some pertinent information. A publication from Bread for the World recently called attention to the Personal Responsibility Act being advocated by some U.S. congressional leaders. This act lumps the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program; food stamps; and school lunches in with other general welfare reforms in such a way that they are reduced three times as much as they were in the early 1980s. At the same time, according to Bread for the World, these congressional leaders are calling on the religious community to assume more responsibility to assist people in need. If the approximately 350,000 churches in the United States were all to assist equally in this task, each would need to give $170,000 to make up the $60 billion in funding it is said the passage of the Personal Responsibility Act would save the government over a four-year period. Such a response is a practical impossibility. Even more at risk are programs that help hungry people worldwide. All foreign aid represents only about 1 percent of the U.S. federal budget, and only about one-third of that goes to programs focused on reducing poverty and promoting sustainable development. Yet foreign aid will probably be cut another 25 percent in the coming year, and the poor and the hungry will be affected the most. It is important to realize these are not just partisan political issues. Members of Congress from both political parties feel tremendous pressure to be responsive to their constituents. These are people, many of them staunch churchgoers, who are telling their governmental representatives to cut programs that assist poor people, homeless people, people without sufficient food and basic necessities. Why would they do that? Perhaps some truly believe that the moral values that link personal responsibility with social change are presently missing among a large number of society's poor and disadvantaged. But, as Jim Wallis points out in Sojourners, ``to call for self-improvement and a return to family values while ignoring the pernicious effects of poverty, racism, and sexism is to continue blaming the victim'' (September-October 1994, page 16). Perhaps what is needed most in this time of societal discontent is a willingness to take more responsibility for our own lives, to live more simply, but also to be more willing to take action on behalf of those whom Jesus calls to our attention as most worthy of our concern. For, as we are reminded in Matthew 25: ``When the Son of man shall come in his glory . . . then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink; I was a stranger, and ye took me in; naked, and ye clothed me; . . . Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.''

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Steven Bishop, who is retiring on December 1, 1995 after serving a distinguished 25 years with the Kansas City, MO Police Department, the last 5 years as chief of police. Throughout his tenure, Chief Bishop has demonstrated an admirable willingness to face the toughest issues. Shortly after taking office, Chief Bishop appointed a task force of Police commanders, clergy and community leaders to study ways in which officers could better communicate and work with citizens to deter crime. A community policing force eventually was established, partnering neighbors with officers throughout our community. His ongoing pursuit to build a safer community is further evidenced by his work on the Governor's Commission on Crime and the President's Committee on Drug-Free Schools. These and other anti-crime efforts have earned him national recognition. Among Chief Bishop's honors was a special appearance at President Clinton's State of the Union Address earlier this year at which the President paid tribute to him for his outstanding efforts and leadership. Chief Bishop's interest in law enforcement began well before his days as police chief. In 1970, 3 years after leaving the Marine Corps as a Vietnam veterans, Bishop graduated from Central Missouri State University with a degree in police administration. While serving as a police officer, Bishop continued to develop his skills and abilities by earning a master's degree in personnel management from Central Michigan University and attending numerous training conferences and seminars. Over the years, he participated in the sergeants supervisory leadership course, the officer survival seminar, the national hostage negotiations seminar, the national organized crime training seminar, and the 147th session of the F.B.I. National Academy. Not surprisingly, Bishop's impressive aptitude and positive attitude soon won him respect and promotions. He advanced to the rank of sergeant in 1975, captain in 1980, major in 1987, lieutenant colonel in 1989, and chief of police in 1990. He was only 43 years old when he was sworn in to head the department on June 14, 1990. Chief Bishop's list of accolades includes being named the Ad Hoc Police Officer of the Year in 1988 for his efforts to fight drugs on the City's East Side, and the ABC News ``Person of the Week'' for his work to foster better relations between the police and the community In light of his 25 years of outstanding service to the Kansas City Police Department and the people of Kansas City, I know that my colleagues in the House join with me in honoring Steven Bishop. We certainly wish Chief Bishop all the best in his future endeavors. His leadership will be sorely missed in my district. Thanks, Chief.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride and respect that I rise today to bring to your attention, and to the attention of the House, the outstanding work and commitment of Rev. Wallace Hartsfield for the last 29 years to parishioners of the Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church in Kansas City. Reverend Hartsfield was born in Atlanta, GA, November 13, 1929. He was an only child, raised by his mother, Ruby Morrissatte. Reverend Hartsfield received a bachelor of [[Page E 2123]] arts degree in 1954 from Clark College in Atlanta and a master of divinity degree from Gammon Theological Seminary in Atlanta, in 1957. His first pastorate was at a Baptist church in Pickens, SC. Reverend Hartsfield is married to Matilda Hopkins and this year on August 28 they celebrated their 38th 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. 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. 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 come up with sufficient investment capital for the project, when resources for new development in that area of the city were scarce. He was also instrumental in the construction of a low-income 60-unit housing development, known as Metropolitan Homes, in that same geographical area. 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; he was named ``One of the Top 50 Ministers in America'' by Upscale magazine of Atlanta, GA; 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; he received 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. 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 a member of the board of directors for the national organization of Operation PUSH, the Congress of National Black Churches in Washington, DC, and the Morehouse School of Religion in Atlanta, GA, among others. We are celebrating Reverend Hartsfield's 29th anniversary as pastor at the Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church in Kansas Ctiy, and recognizing all of his good 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're 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 for his 29 years of service to his church and his community, and in wishing him many more wonderful years as pastor of the Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the last word. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of the National Highway System bill, which reaffirms the Federal Government's commitment to building and maintaining the finest highway transportation system in the world. Before I begin, I would like to say a few words about my colleague and mentor, the gentleman from California [Mr. Mineta], who will soon retire from his Chamber. It is altogether fitting that the man who came to this body to ``build bridges between people and over rivers'' that we are completing a highway bill in his final days in Congress and that we are doing so in the spirit of comity and bipartisanship, the governing principals of Norm Mineta. I will sincerely miss his guidance and friendship. The National Highway System [NHS] bill we consider today is very much the product of Mr. Mineta's extensive work over the years at the Transportation Committee. This bill builds on the 90,000-mile Interstate System by adding an additional 70,000 miles of roads to be included in the new highway system. The idea behind the new NHS is to connect the interstate system and other roads of national significance with, airports, sea and river ports, train depots, and commercial and downtown areas. The fifth district of Missouri, in the geographic center of the Nation and with a reputation as a transportation hub for the country, will benefit greatly from passage of this bill. The measure includes the important designation of Interstate 35, a superhighway for trade connecting Canada, the United States, and Mexico. In addition, the NHS bill includes such roads as Jackson County Roadway, U.S. 50 and Missouri 291. Mr. Chairman, this bill will help position the United States to enter the next century with the finest transportation system in the world and provide us with the ability to move goods and people in a more safe, efficient, and cost-effective manner. I encourage our colleagues to support this very important bipartisan effort.

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, during rollcall vote No. 664 on H.R. 1617 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present I would have voted ``yea.''

Ms. McCARTHY

Ms. McCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, during rollcall vote No. 665 on H.R. 402 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present I would have voted ``yea.''