Jerry Moran

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chairman, it is a bit of history that brings me back to the House floor, an issue related to agriculture, food and medicine trade with Cuba. In July of 2000, this House of Representatives adopted an amendment that I offered to allow the sale of food, medicine, and agriculture commodities to the country of Cuba. That amendment was adopted in July of 2000 by a vote of 301-116. A majority of Republicans, a majority of Democrats supported that amendment. As a result of that amendment being adopted, in the conference committee significant discussion occurred, and ultimately the new legislation, TSREEA, the Trade Sanction Export Enhancement Act, of 2000 was adopted. And that law was working reasonably well for a period of time. And then in February of 2005 the Department of Treasury adopted a regulation changing some of the rules related to trade with Cuba. Mr. Chairman, we have had the opportunity now of taking advantage of the opportunity to sell for cash, cash up front, to Cuba agriculture commodities, food and medicine, to the tune of about $400 million in the previous year. But the regulation that the Department of Treasury adopted in February of 2005, began to seriously limit the opportunity for American farmers to export their agriculture commodities to Cuba. The rule that the Department of Treasury promulgated changes the time frame in which the cash must be paid. Again, let me reiterate what we are talking about here is not whether Cuba must pay cash in advance, but the timing of that payment. And the rule that was adopted by the Department of Treasury changed that time by a few days. It turns out to be 10 days to 2 weeks. And the issue becomes that the cash must be paid prior to the shipment from the United States as compared to prior to delivery in the port in Havana. As a result of that, it has increased the cost of doing business with Cuba in a significant way, and, in fact, we have had a significant reduction, 22 percent reduction, in the sale of agriculture products since the adoption of that rule. This amendment that I offer today, Mr. Chairman, simply is a prohibition against the spending of any money to enforce that regulation and therefore return us to where we were prior to February of 2005. It is identical language to what was included in the appropriation bill last year in both the House and the Senate. The language was removed in conference. But this House of Representatives and our companion body across the way adopted identical language in the Treasury/ Transportation appropriation bill a year ago. And the gentlewoman from Missouri (Mrs. Emerson) has made that effort in 2005, which we all agreed to when this bill was adopted a year ago. So the sole purpose here today is to return us to preFebruary 2005. We will probably have the opportunity to debate the value of trade with Cuba and what it means to the Castro government. And I welcome that opportunity. It seems to me that unilateral sanctions, we clearly can reach the conclusion that unilateral sanctions by the United States are only harmful to our own agriculture sector, to our own farmers, at a time in which drought affects much of the country. High energy and input costs are dramatically increasing. It seems to me that there is no reason for us to make these sales more difficult. And, in fact, the reduction of those sales is almost 21 percent of corn, 17 percent of wheat, and 27 percent, 26 percent of meat products from the United States, reduction in those sales since the adoption of this rule. This amendment is obviously supported by a wide array of farm organizations. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chairman, again, let me reiterate that this has nothing to do with changing the sanctions that are in place. The law remains. The administration created a new rule a year ago for which there is no commercial basis. And the argument that farmers will not be paid, it is farm organizations and farmers who are supporting my amendment today. And, finally, the suggestion that we must save taxpayers expense, there are no taxpayer dollars involved in trade with Cuba. There is no subsidy. There is no agricultural credit provided. This is really about a noncommercial reason, just trying to make the trade more onerous, more expensive, so that our farmers have less of an opportunity to export their goods to Cuba. Again, Mr. Chairman, I would ask support. Return us to the compromise that was created prior to February of 2005.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Wisconsin for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the resolution. I thank the gentleman from Michigan for his remarks. My particular interest in this legislation, in honoring the interstate transportation system, is the gentleman that has been mentioned in both remarks, and that is President Eisenhower, a fellow Kansan, and that historic moment on June 29, 1956, when our President initiated the interstate highway system, is one that we memorialize in Kansas. We are very much a transportation-dependent State. We are land-locked in the middle of the country and roads and highways that lead elsewhere are lawfully important to us, particularly in the sense of commerce and moving industrial goods and agricultural commodities to market. But President Eisenhower, in his life and his involvement in the interstate system, is memorialized in Abilene, Kansas, his hometown, at the Eisenhower Center where photographs of the interstate construction are on display. Mr. Speaker, I rise this afternoon just to again remark about this remarkable individual, this former general, this former President of the United States, who had the foresight as a military leader and commander to bring the country together in regard to a transportation system that is so important to us today. So as a Kansan, I am here to pay tribute not only to the interstate system, but to President Dwight D. Eisenhower. I thank the committee and the gentleman for yielding me the time and for bringing this occasion to the House floor today. I urge my colleagues to support this historic occurrence that matters so much to Kansas and Americans in 2006, 50 years later.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, there is an occurrence and an occasion in Kansas that occurs each and every year. It is a very special time in our State. It is the harvest time for wheat. Of course, Kansas is known as the Wheat State. It is a time in which families, sons and daughters, return home to the family farm. There is a lot of work to be done, but there is a history, a culture, a tradition, a family time each and every year in which harvest is a special moment. But, Mr. Speaker, this year unfortunately is one of those times in which it appears that the Kansas wheat harvest and, in fact, the harvest across the Midwest is going to be less than what we would hope. In fact, the 2006 crop is expected to be the worst in the last 10 years, and many yields are expected to be less than 50 percent of normal. This is a huge consequence to the economy of our State, to the Midwest, and really to the country. Rainfall has been about 28 percent of normal this year. In fact, 84 of Kansas' 105 counties received no precipitation during the month of February when that wheat crop is attempting to grow. Of those remaining counties, the greatest amount of rainfall in those other counties was thirty one-hundredths of an inch for the month. This is the fifth and sixth years across many portions of our State and in Nebraska and eastern Colorado and Oklahoma and Texas and South Dakota and Wyoming in which drought has had serious consequences. In 2005, drought damage was also exacerbated by tornadoes and hailstorm and freeze. In 2005, every county but four in our State was declared a disaster county. Today we debated the emergency supplemental appropriations act. I am very supportive of the efforts to bring disaster assistance to the farmers of the gulf coast and those affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. But, Mr. Speaker, $500 million was included in that bill but directed only to those farmers and other producers who were in hurricane-affected counties. It is one thing, Mr. Speaker, for us to deny farmers across the country any assistance due to budget considerations, due to our desire to work toward balancing the budget; but it is not understandable in my State that we would pick and choose which farmers receive assistance based upon whether or not the event is a result of a hurricane. Those farmers who have had inadequate moisture in the Midwest for the last 5 and 6 years are no less damaged than those farmers who were affected by the rains and the breaking of the levee and the saltwater in Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi. I can explain to my constituents about the desire to hold the line on spending, but I can't explain to them why their problems are not addressed in this emergency supplemental but some other producers, some other farmers have been. And so, Mr. Speaker, I am hoping to set the stage tonight as we conclude the debate on the emergency supplemental, but as we work our way through the remainder of Congress to see that there is some level of disaster assistance provided to all farmers, regardless of the cause of their losses. Many in this body will say, but Congressman, isn't it crop insurance's duty to provide that kind of assistance? And isn't ad hoc disaster, isn't this disaster assistance package unnecessary? Well, Mr. Speaker, I chair the subcommittee responsible for crop insurance. The reality is that crop insurance policies insure about 50 percent of the crop losses. The best policies cover 85 percent of the losses. And there is no insurance coverage for livestock. When you have 5 and 6 years of disaster in which you are only being compensated for 50 percent of your losses and you have paid the premiums for that coverage and your average return on equity as a farmer in our State is 3.66 percent, you can't lose year after year after year and stay in business. The average age of a farmer in Kansas is 59 years old. Our farmers are reaching the conclusion that there is no future in agriculture, and that is not only detrimental to the communities of Kansas, to that individual farm family, but it is detrimental to the people of this country to lose agriculture as a way of life and as an economic driver of our economy. So we do need to work to improve crop insurance in our subcommittee. Our agriculture committee is working to do that. But the reality is the problem is with us today, and we are losing another generation of farmers. We will revisit the issue, I hope. 2005, which should be included in this year, is not in this bill; but 2006 may be even worse. Mr. Speaker, I look forward to working with my colleagues, the leadership of this House in an effort to make sure that farmers can survive into the future.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ken Haas of Hays, Kansas for his years of service to this community through his diverse career in education. Mr. Haas began teaching in 1964 at Kennedy Middle School as an industrial arts and physical education instructor. He also influenced countless students by serving as the school's guidance counselor. In 1999, after 35 years of work in the Hays school district, Ken was approached by Father Mike Scully and asked to assume the role as principal of Thomas More Prep-Marian High School, a private Christian high school in the Catholic tradition. Ken was nearing the point of possible retirement in his current position and awaiting him was the well-deserved free time that one earns after working so long in a challenging vocation. After a weekend of prayer and consideration, Ken decided that it was the Lord's desire for him to accept the position. That was 7 years ago. After improving the school's leadership structure, balancing the school's budget, and sustaining enrollment, Mr. Haas has chosen to retire from his current position. Even in retirement Ken plans to be involved where he's needed around the school. Mr. Haas is a committed professional who is well-regarded among his peers and students. He is known for attending athletic events, even the ones that don't generate the largest crowds. He still surprises many former pupils with his unique ability to greet them by name after not seeing them for many years. Just another sign of how much he cares. Mr. Haas has served Hays students and their parents well for over 40 years, and that is why Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor him today.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Emma Kolb, who has recently finished her 69th year of service to students and parents in western Kansas. She has gone above the call of duty and made her teaching career of 47 years into a passion by volunteering for 22 years after her retirement. Ms. Kolb began teaching in 1937 in Rush County, KS, and for the next 15 years worked in several other country schools. In 1951 she started at Lincoln Elementary School in Hays. For the next 33 years Emma taught grades second through sixth until she retired in 1984. If Emma's story stopped there it would still be praiseworthy, but she didn't stop there. She went on to volunteer for 22 more years in the same school building. The length of her tenure may only be overshadowed by the amount of joy she gave to those she worked with and worked for. During a recent party Lincoln Elementary School staff showed their appreciation for Emma's amazing work by celebrating her commitment to students and her 88th birthday. I too would like to express my gratitude for Emma's 69 years of service to Kansas students. Ms. Kolb said that during her many years of work inside the school system that ``any changes that were made were for the good . . . and that we have a good school system here.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in thanking and honoring Emma Kolb for being a part of those positive changes in the lives of so many students and their schools.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, thank you very much. I rise in support of this amendment. As I understand, it is a place holder for the opportunity for us to further discuss and refine the opportunity to continue funding of data mining. I chair the subcommittee that has responsibility for crop insurance, and this to me is one of the most successful programs in weeding out and finding fraud and abuse. I encourage the conferees. I was glad to hear the gentleman from Texas, Mr. Bonilla's remarks, as we try to find an opportunity to make certain this program continues. As a member of the authorizing committee, I look forward to working with you to see that the necessary authorization occurs. It is an awfully important program and one that we will hold a hearing on in the future in hopes that we can expand this opportunity to other areas of the Department's operations. I appreciate the gentleman yielding.

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to John M. Evans--one of our Federal Government's finest public servants and a long time resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia. This March he retired from an exceptionally distinguished career of service to his country. He has served our nation as a career civil servant for over 33 years. He has been an exceptional leader and has played a key role in ensuring effective financial management for the Department of Defense. It gives me pride to have the opportunity to honor him today for his tremendous accomplishments. Mr. Evans began his career with the Navy in the financial management field working for various field activities. He progressed to a management position in the Military Traffic Management Command at the Department of Defense where he had responsibility for Personnel and Administration. Mr. Evans first served in the Department of Defense Comptroller office as a senior budget analyst for a number of major Department of Defense-wide programs, including the DoD Family Housing Program, the DoD Real Property Maintenance Program, Navy Military Construction, and DoD Depot Maintenance. Mr. Evans also served as the Director for Revolving Funds beginning in April of 2000. While Director, he was responsible for financial management oversight for all DoD revolving and working capital funds, including the Defense Working Capital funds. Since 2001, Mr. Evans was the Director for Operations. As Director, Mr. Evans was responsible for the Department's Operations and Maintenance appropriations, including programs that support the global war on terror and the Department's homeland security functions. Senior leaders, both in the Congress and the Department of Defense, have benefited from Mr. Evans' experience, outstanding leadership, and distinguished performance. His efforts have enabled our nation's leaders to make the most effective use of defense resources to ensure America's military strength. On behalf of my colleagues, I thank him for his service to our country and wish him well on his retirement.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, much of what I am about in Congress is about the fight to preserve and enhance the opportunities that exist in rural America. My goal, among others, as a Member of Congress is to see that there is a future for the communities and the people who live there across my State. I represent one of the most rural districts in the country. A component of that is to make certain that the citizens of those rural communities can access adequate and affordable health care. We often think of health care as a hospital or a physician. Tonight I rise with great concern about a development across our country and especially in rural America that is occurring in regard to the loss of community pharmacy. We are beginning the process of losing that Main Street business and that health care provider, the community pharmacist. In many communities across my State, and I am sure it is true around the country, that community pharmacist is struggling and the doors are beginning to close. Examples: today in Kansas, southeast Kansas, the population less than a thousand people, that pharmacist is closed for the last 4 months, no other pharmacist in the community. The next pharmacy is 30-35 miles away. This has an impact not only upon the hospitals and doctors in that area, but clearly an impact upon the community members, the patrons of that pharmacy, those who rely upon the health care to be delivered by that pharmacist. My own father, 90 years old, rarely sees a doctor because if you see a doctor, that doctor will tell you something is wrong with him, and he does not want to know that. But he relies upon his community pharmacist because he is there drinking a cup of coffee to put the blood pressure cuff on his arm and provide him advice and suggestions about a healthy life. That community pharmacist is an important component of our business community, and it is a way we deliver health care in communities across our country. Due to the consequences of the prescription drug bill part D, our community pharmacist's future is bleak. In part it is due to the lack of timeliness of the payments that are occurring. The average wait in Kansas is 45-60 days. When I was in Leoti, Kansas, in March, and Leoti is a community of about 900 people, that community pharmacist had not been reimbursed for one prescription drug bill delivered to a senior since January 1. Almost all pharmacists in my district and across the State have had to take out a line of credit just to stay in business. I want to highlight a bill that has been introduced by the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Jones) and by the gentleman from Arkansas (Mr. Berry) and a bill by the gentleman from Mississippi (Mr. Wicker) that would require those sponsors of those drug plans to promptly pay the submitted claims. It is unacceptable that a pharmacist would have to wait 2 months to be paid for the bills, and it is unacceptable because it is wrong. It is not the right thing to do, but it is a terrible occurrence because it means the demise of his or her business. In addition to that, almost all pharmacists lose money on the prescriptions they fill under the Medicare plan part D, and the sponsors of those plans allow almost no negotiating room for those pharmacists. We need to change that. I would highlight a bill that I and the gentleman from New York (Mr. Weiner) have introduced, the Community Pharmacy Fairness Act, to give independent pharmacists the freedom to ban together to negotiate with drug manufacturers. Time is of the essence. Pharmacist Kody Krein from St. Francis, Kansas, he grew up in that town. His life goal was to return to St. Francis as a community pharmacist. He has given us until July 1 and then he will make a decision whether he can continue as the sole pharmacist in that town. His three kids are in the school system in St. Francis, Kansas. It would be a terrible thing to lose that community pharmacist, to lose his family, and to lose that man's hope for a career in his hometown. That does not happen enough in rural America where a young son or young daughter actually is returning home to the family community. There is no pharmacist in the St. Francis area for 35 miles. We have a short period of time before we can correct this. You may say this is a handful of examples. I am exercised about this issue. It is troublesome to me that this Congress, this place, Washington, D.C., has become so political that we cannot address this issue, that if an issue is brought to the floor that we are fearful that the Democrats will make an issue of it, that we have come to the point where nothing is done because there are political consequences to the issue even being discussed. There are challenges and problems that are created by part D that need to be addressed. These issues are so important to me that it is time for us to set aside the political bickering and actually address the needs of the country. It is a political place that we work in. We all know that, but the problem is that we simply cannot use politics as an excuse to do nothing. It is time for us to make certain that good things occur and we cannot be responsible for the loss of a business, the loss of a family, and the loss of three students in a classroom in rural communities across our country. Mr. Speaker, I ask that we no longer delay, that we bring attention to this issue to the House floor.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to claim the gentleman's time.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening to honor the work of Governor John Anderson, a man who chose a life of public service. His service to Kansas and the United States was spread across the middle part of this century and spread across the three branches of our government. After being educated by both Kansas State University and the University of Kansas he began his career as a public servant by joining the staff of U.S. District Court Judge Walter Huxman. Continuing with the judicial branch, Governor Anderson was elected as Johnson County Attorney in 1947. His election to Kansas State Senate in 1953 gave him the opportunity to serve as one of Kansas' state legislators for three years. Governor Anderson was appointed as Kansas Attorney General in 1956 and was then elected Governor in 1960. During his two years in the state's top position, Governor Anderson used his diverse government experiences to help reform and restructure several institutions, including: the state's pardon and parole systems; the public welfare system; and the state's public school system. I would encourage my colleagues in the House to join me in honoring this public servant by passing H.R. 4674, to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 110 North Chestnut Street in Olathe, Kansas, as the ``Governor John Anderson, Jr. Post Office Building.''

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to one of Kansas' most famous sons, President Dwight D. Eisenhower. His remarkable career in public service and his legacy of protecting our country and the American people is most deserving of a memorial here in our Nation's Capital. President Eisenhower spent his childhood in Abilene, Kansas, which is located in my district. Upon graduation from Abilene High School in 1909, he enrolled at West Point. Eisenhower soon became an esteemed figure and one of the most beloved military leaders in American history. After leading the U.S. and its allies to victory in World War II, he rose to the eminent rank of five-star general and went on to become the first commander of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's military forces in Europe. In 1953, Eisenhower became the 34th President of the United States. Initial site approval must be granted by Congress in order for monument design plans to proceed. The Eisenhower Commission was responsible for initially selecting the four-acre location near the Department of Education that has now been designated for the memorial. I was joined by the entire Kansas delegation in supporting H.J. Res. 78, the House companion bill to S.J. Res. 28. I recognize that the designation of the memorial site is an instrumental first step in making this tribute a reality. Eisenhower himself once said that ``this world has always set a high value on leadership.'' Eisenhower's valiant leadership qualities, innumerable successes, and staunch defender of American liberties make him worthy of a monument attributing to such. I stand here today offering my support for this important resolution.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening to recognize this year's inductees into the National Teachers Hall of Fame located in Emporia, Kansas. We have all had special teachers in our lives, and we are indebted to them for their desire and unending efforts to see that students achieve their fullest potential. Now in its 15th year, the Hall of Fame continues its mission to honor exceptional teachers and to promote excellence in its teaching profession. Congratulations to the 2006 inductees, Peggy Carlisle, Floyd Holt, Harlan Kredit, Pat Graff and Linda Kaye White. At Pecan Park Elementary in Jackson, Mississippi, Peggy Carlisle has used her talents to make science and math stimulating to her students. A 2005 Mississippi Hall of Masters teacher, she uses her skills to help students realize they are only limited by the size of their dreams. According to the parent of a former student, Mrs. Carlisle makes science interesting. Just walking into her room lets you know that this is not a regular classroom, but a learning environment specifically arranged to get young minds thinking. By using many hands-on activities, she brings life to books and dusty old facts. Floyd Holt, a physics teachers at Franklin D. Roosevelt High School in Hyde Park, New York, loves knowledge and conveys this to his students through his dedication to teaching. Floyd strives to make education interesting and create unique learning activities such as Spaceship Classroom of the Future. He has won the 1994 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science and Math in the USA and today also the 2000 USA Today Award. According to a former student, what sets Harlan Kredit apart is that as well as he teaches biology, he teaches life even better. At Lynden Christian High in Lynden, Washington, Mr. Kredit believes kids need to connect to the world outside of their school for education to be meaningful and productive. He embodies this philosophy through his work as a ranger naturalist at Yellowstone National Park and through teaching environmental education to teachers at the American Wilderness Leadership School. He is a recipient of the 1994 Washington State Conservation Teacher of the Year Award and the 2004 Presidential Award for Excellence in Teaching Science. Pat Graff, a journalism, humanities and social studies teacher at La Cueva High in Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a bridge builder between different organizations, the media and business. She has had numerous students return to her school to give credit for her help and expertise and putting them on their current career path. Her additional accomplishments include being named the New Mexico English Teacher of the Year and also winning the 2004 Governors Award for Outstanding New Mexico Woman. Lynn Kaye White of Haycock Elementary in Falls Church, Virginia, has shared her love of music and education around the world. She has traveled to Japan in 2003 with the Fulbright Memorial Fund and also to New Zealand to participate in the 2002 Fulbright Hays Seminar. She is able to seamlessly take the resources she has gathered from around the world and turn them into meaningful, substantive learning opportunities for her students. Peggy, Floyd, Harlan, Pat and Linda exemplify what it means to be a teacher, what it means to make a difference. I commend the National Teachers Hall of Fame for their efforts to recognize great teachers. These five inductees collectivity have 134 years of teaching experience. I salute these men and women for their dedication to the students of this country. It is my hope that they will find satisfaction in knowing the positive difference they have made in the lives of their students. It is my honor to recognize these teachers here in the United States House of Representatives.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commemorate the 125th Messiah Festival in Lindsborg, Kansas. This April, the community of Lindsborg will celebrate Holy Week by performing Handel's ``The Messiah.'' This musical interpretation of the Easter story has been enjoyed in Lindsborg since the late 1800s when local immigrant pioneers first gathered together to perform this historic piece. Many pioneers settling in the Smoky Valley on the plains of Kansas journeyed far from their homes in Sweden. They sought a better way of life and the choice to practice a religion free from the will of Sweden's state church. These pioneers thrived in their newly adopted Kansas home. They adjusted to a new American way of life, but the citizens of Lindsborg never lost sight of the culture and values that formed their Swedish heritage. One tradition that has sustained the life of this community through the years is the annual Messiah Festival. In 1881, Reverend Carl Swensson, the founder of Bethany College in Lindsborg, and his wife, Alma, organized the Bethany Oratorio Society in the parsonage of Bethany Lutheran Church. Alma taught the music and English words of ``The Messiah'' to 40 parishioners. After a winter and spring of instruction, Bethany Lutheran Church began a storied tradition as host to this community celebration marking Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday with beautiful music. The enterprising spirit and strong Swedish heritage of the early pioneers who began the Messiah Festival has since led to great cultural and educational additions to the State of Kansas. As the Messiah Festival tradition has grown, so has the town of Lindsborg, and Bethany College. This liberal arts institution has expanded to offer baccalaureate degrees in over thirty fields to an enrollment of 600 full and part -time students from 19 states and 12 countries. The Lindsborg community continues to honor its foundation of cultural expression by hosting art and music festivals and offering unique arts, crafts and import gift shops. It is with great pleasure that I represent this Kansas community in Congress. Lindsborg demonstrates how collaboration, a rich cultural heritage, and appreciation for beautiful music celebrating the Lord can create a tradition worthy of 125 years of repeating. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in recognizing the Lindsborg community for their 125th Anniversary Messiah Festival and for their many contributions to the State of Kansas.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize March as American Red Cross month. This faithful organization strives each day to carry out their motto, ``There when you need us.'' On behalf of a grateful nation, I thank the Red Cross for their important service to those individuals in need. This month we recognize the vital role played by this organization in communities across our Nation and abroad. Since its founding in 1881 by Clara Barton, this organization has been committed to serving America in peace and in war, during times of natural disaster and national calamity. In 1905, this organization was chartered by Congress ``in accord with the military authorities as a medium of communication between the people of the United States and their armed forces.'' Since then, the Red Cross has provided communications and other humanitarian services to help members of the U.S. military and their families around the world. Time and time again, from floods and tornadoes to diseases and terrorist attacks, the Red Cross has led the way in providing disaster relief in times of emergency. By offering clothing, food, shelter, health care, and mental health services, the Red Cross has extended a helping hand and provided comfort and encouragement to millions of people around the world. The Red Cross is also highly regarded for their efforts in health and safety preparedness. In order to be effective in times of crisis, it is imperative to have adequate preparation. The Red Cross is instrumental in keeping the Nation's blood banks supplied, by organizing and conducting blood drives. The Red Cross has also taken the lead in providing CPR and First Aid training to countless volunteers. In times of trouble, these preparation efforts make all the difference and embody the true spirit of the American people, which is to help out our fellow man in times of trouble. In May, the American Red Cross will turn 125 years old. This organization, while having its roots firmly steeped in the past, is eagerly looking towards the future and overcoming the challenges that come our way. I have confidence they will succeed. The Red Cross is a vehicle for the common American to help their neighbor and that spirit will never fade. I commend the Red Cross for serving the United States and its international neighbors for 125 years.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the citizens of Palco, Kansas for long-term efforts to sustain and revitalize their community. Mayor Leo VonFeldt is proud to call this town of 235 people home. ``Palco continues to grow,'' Vonfeldt said. ``The community has done a lot to keep going forward.'' Over the last ten years, the citizens of Palco have taken action to ensure that their community continues to be home to another generation of Kansans. In 1996, a USDA Rural Development grant was supplemented by $125,000 of local dollars in order to complete an expansion of Kyser Machine Products. This effort provided six jobs to the local economy. The development of Keller Motors/Petro Plus & Quality Collision Repair was completed in 1998. This half a million dollar project included a $250,000 owner investment, $200,000 in local contributions and Federal funding of $50,000. The result of this shared investment is that 6 employees now provide area residents a full service gas station, 24 hour fuel access and auto collision service. The business has made a positive contribution to the community. The significance of that contribution was highlighted when owner Myron Keller was recognized as the 2004 National Young Entrepreneur of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Keller said he was humbled by the award, which in his opinion belongs to the entire community. ``Our community recognizes that we can't just sit back. We must be pro-active and keep working hard for a better future,'' Keller said. ``Nothing just happens in rural America. You have to make it happen.'' In 2002, a dedicated effort was made to enhance local government services through construction of a new city building. The facility was funded by $120,000 in local donations and includes a city office, ambulance service and fire department. The following year, community food service availability was greatly improved when the Palco Community Development Corporation purchased and completely remodeled a local restaurant. The $45,000 project has resulted in 6 day a week restaurant service. In addition, new ownership took over Palco's grocery store which preserved access to grocery service for local residents. In 2004, an investment of $132,000 from local and Federal sources resulted in the renovation and opening of the Palco Medical Clinic. The clinic provides residents with needed health care service. Also, Midwest Community Bank opened a facility in Palco which preserved local access to lending and investment opportunities. That same year, the city completed a two year community enhancement initiative. The $2.2 million project established a home improvement program, a new sewer plant and construction of a new city street near the downtown area. In the last decade, the citizens of Palco have leveraged more than $3,250,000 of private, local and Federal investment into their community. Most recently, the town has taken on the task of developing a local day care facility. Community leaders hope to have the facility open by the fall of this year. According to Mayor VonFeldt this is just one more example of the community coming together to achieve a goal. ``Citizens are willing to give of their time, energy and resources,'' VonFeldt said. ``This is what makes Palco great.'' For rural communities to survive and prosper into the future, citizens must be willing to create their own opportunities for success. Ongoing efforts to revitalize Palco are an example of how hard work, vision and community support can create just such an opportunity. Citizens throughout Kansas are working together to enhance the quality of life in their communities. Palco is a success story that demonstrates how teamwork and creative thinking can make a positive difference in rural America.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of Ted Hodges, a high school student from Salina, Kansas, who recently won the Kansas Voice of Democracy Audio Essay Competition. Ted's speech illustrates that our everyday activities are freedoms that should not be taken for granted. I would like to submit the text of his speech for the record to encourage the citizens of our Nation to cherish their freedoms. How I Demonstrate My Freedom I wake up, take a shower, get dressed, eat breakfast go to school I practice football, do my homework, talk with my family and friends, then go to bed. I go read the paper, go to church, watch TV. Each one of these simple, ordinary actions in itself seems mundane, but is actually a concrete expression of freedom that I enjoy daily. Going to school an indulgence? Attending church a privilege? Writing an essay a luxury? C'mon. Those are all things that we take for granted, right? They are things that I have to do! In an address to Congress in 1941, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt enumerated four freedoms that every American should expect and protect: freedom of speech, freedom to worship, freedom from fear, and freedom from want. To me, this is a tremendous ideal that America has been defined by throughout the years. I am the everyday beneficiary of these four freedoms. Firstly, I express my freedom of speech by doing things such as writing letters to the editor of my local newspaper, posting web logs on the internet, and also encouraging school board members to change various policies. All of these things I can do without fear of retribution. I can peacefully demonstrate or agitate for change on any subject. I can read articles in newspapers, magazines, and websites that represent every viewpoint of the political spectrum. I can make my own contributions, find my own voice. The next freedom mentioned by President Roosevelt--freedom of religion--also is present in my life. Every day I see different religions. Christianity or Judaism, Muslim or Hindu: each of these has a place in this great nation. Some larger, some smaller, all tolerated. And not promoted or encouraged by the state or in our schools. I am free to offer a prayer to the God that I worship at any time, anywhere. Whether it's being a crucifer for the last eight years during my church's Sunday services or leading the team prayer after a hard-fought football game, I have that freedom. Another freedom, freedom from fear, is too found in our society. Personally, I have the freedom to sleep well at night knowing that our troops are working diligently not only to preserve our way of life, but to also bring that opportunity to many others. A day does not go by that we should not be extremely appreciative to those who have stepped into the line of fire to keep our nation free from fear. Laws that will govern and protect me and my family whether we are black or white, male or female, young or old. Freedom from want: Where do I start? I have all the privileges that the wealthiest nation on earth can give me. A strong school, competent teachers, good roads, and reliable energy. A hot shower. Food that's safe. Freedom from want is something that we as Americans utilize every second of every day. As I look back on Franklin D. Roosevelt's four freedoms I begin to wonder, ``How can I show my appreciation and demonstrate my own commitment to freedom?'' The answer is shown in many of my every day actions. By taking advantage of every opportunity bestowed upon me: working diligently at school so that I can become a better informed citizen. By exercising my religious freedom to worship God as I choose. By not being afraid to voice my opinion. By becoming an active member of my community--doing volunteer work, serving on boards. By paying taxes and holding the government accountable. By working to improve the way of life for my descendants. By registering for the selective service and being ready to serve our country. And by being a dedicated, informed voter. Living within the confines and routines of a typical teenager's life, freedom might seem like a rare commodity. But the simple act of putting a pen to paper, of committing my voice to a recording for the Voice of Democracy audio essay profoundly represents the many freedoms I take for granted every day.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Virginia and the gentleman from Minnesota for their efforts in regards to this piece of legislation, and especially thank Mr. Etheridge, my ranking member. The Subcommittee on General Farm Commodities and Risk Management has jurisdiction over the Commodities Futures Trading Commission; and our work product, together with the full committee, is here before the House today for its consideration. I would assure my colleagues in the House that our committee has taken extraordinary steps to make certain that we provide oversight, review, and understanding of what is transpiring at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission since the passage of the Commodity Futures Modernization Act in 2000. Mr. Speaker, I actually believe that the Commodity Futures Modernization Act of 2000 was one of the most successful pieces of legislation that has been passed by Congress in my time here. What we learned in the hearings and oversight in the reauthorization effort was that it is working well. With only a couple of changes, a couple of additions to this legislation, we bring this modernization act back to the floor for approval again today. We made a change to deal with what is known as the Zelener case to make certain that the CFTC has jurisdiction over foreign exchange contracts. A court determined CFTC did not have jurisdiction. We have now made that clear. We need to continue to keep our eye on other commodities other than foreign exchange to make certain that if similar circumstances arise to the foreign currency problem that Congress acts. And we also continue to find frustration with the inability of the Securities and Exchange Commission and others to come together to develop the protocols necessary for single stock futures to be traded on markets in the United States. I think there is great opportunity for expansion of this market if we can come together on uniform responsibility for margins between the CFTC and the SEC. This legislation establishes a firm deadline by which we expect that response to be concluded. So I urge passage of this bill and thank my colleagues for their efforts.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from California.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I am here this evening to honor a legend at Kansas State University, its football program coach Bill Snyder. At a press conference earlier today, Coach Snyder announced his retirement as the head coach of the Kansas State Wildcats after 17 seasons. Coach Snyder leaves behind a legacy of success for a football program, a school, and a community that is stronger and better because of his tremendous leadership. Football is a great American tradition, and this tradition is alive and well in Manhattan, Kansas. This is Wildcat country, where during football season Powercat flags are proudly flown and where Saturdays are spent at Wagner Field cheering K-State to victories. But times were different when Coach Snyder took over the Kansas State football program in 1988. Sports Illustrated had identified K-State as the worst college football program in the Nation. Undeterred, Coach Snyder took on the challenge, and through hard work and determination performed what has been labeled as the ``Miracle in Manhattan.'' By 1993, K-State had achieved a victory in the Copper Bowl. During the next 10 seasons, they would advance to bowl games, including the Cotton Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, and a memorable defeat over first-ranked Oklahoma in 2003 to seize the Big 12 Championship. With 135 victories, Coach Snyder is K-State's all-time winningest football coach. He is credited with orchestrating what many regard to be the biggest turnaround in college football history. As former Oklahoma and Dallas Cowboy coach Barry Switzer once said, ``Bill Snyder isn't the coach of the year, and he isn't the coach of decade. He's the coach of the century.'' Coach Snyder's successes on the field are matched by his achievements off the field. He has taught his players the value of a sound work ethic, attention to detail and respect that has helped them succeed during the game as well as in the classroom and in their lives. Coach Snyder has used his prominence in the hearts of K-State fans to promote causes that have strengthened the Manhattan community and our entire State of Kansas. No one could deny the pride that has risen following K-State University President John Wefald's decision to hire Coach Snyder. The school's growing athletic program, flourishing and succeeding student body, visionary administration and supportive alumni have all contributed to Kansas State University being one of our country's premier institutions of higher education. On behalf of many grateful Kansans, I thank Coach Snyder for his contributions. It will be hard to imagine K-State football without this legendary coach, but I wish him and his family the very best.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ramona, KS, for successful community revitalization efforts. Pat Wick and Jessica Gilbert have always considered this town of 100 people to be home. It is where their parents were born and raised. As children, these sisters would accompany their parents on annual visits from their home in California to help their grandparents with summer harvest. As adults, Pat worked as a clinical psychologist and Jessica was a philanthropic organization consultant. When they returned to Ramona in 1989 for a family reunion, the sisters felt a strong pull to come home. They reestablished their roots building by building. In 1990, Pat purchased and the sisters renovated a home they now call The Ramona House, in honor of their ancestors. Pat and Jessica purchased a second house in 1995 and remade it into Cousin's Corner bed and breakfast. The sisters purchased a third home that is now a lodge called Jake's Place. All of this was accomplished through frequent visits to Ramona, even while Pat and Jessica continued their careers in California. By the year 2000, Pat and Jessica decided to take the final step and moved home. The sisters now live in the Ramona House and operate Jake's Place and Cousin's Comer. More recently, they purchased the old bank building and turned it into The Dirt Gamblers Museum, which is home to photographs and other items honoring Ramona's pioneer history. The sisters have also contributed to the revitalization of Ramona through extensive community involvement. They have helped organize several civic and community events, including a spring tea party, a citywide Memorial Day service, a Main Street Fourth of July parade and an outdoor Nativity in the city park complete with live animals and singing angels. In an effort to celebrate Halloween and promote regional tourism, Pat and Jessica are currently helping promote a Scarecrow parade in Ramona and several other area communities. If all of that isn't enough, Pat is the town's mayor and Jessica is the city clerk. At age 93, Tony Meyer is Ramona's oldest citizen. He believes Pat and Jessica are doing great things for the community. ``The sisters have awakened this town again,'' Meyer said. Warren Fike, a lifetime resident, also notices a positive change. ``Having the sisters come in has helped keep Ramona alive,'' Fike said. ``The steps they've taken to improve the town have motivated more people here to help, too.'' The sisters believe Ramona's revitalization is beginning to take hold. ``We're romantics, and we have a passion for this place,'' Jessica said. ``We want people to be proud they're connected to the town and want them to invest in it again.'' ``It's a special place,'' Pat noted. ``It's Mayberry R.F.D. come to life.'' For rural communities to survive and prosper into the future, citizens must be willing to create their own opportunities for success. Ongoing efforts to revitalize Ramona are an example of how hard work, vision and community support can create just such an opportunity. Citizens throughout Kansas are working together to enhance the quality of life in their communities. Ramona is a success story that demonstrates how teamwork and creative thinking can make a positive difference in rural America.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize John Zutavern of Abilene, Kansas and congratulate him for receiving the 2005 Excellence in Local Government award from the League of Kansas Municipalities. I commend him for his excellence in leadership and passion for helping citizens of Abilene and the State of Kansas. John's love for his community and his home-State is visible to everyone around him. He has been a diligent ambassador for Abilene and promotes the virtues of the city wherever he goes. He always welcomes guests with a warm greeting and hearty handshake. People like John are the ones who give small towns their good name. John is involved in many community and civic groups, and his influence extends to all areas of the community. John has served the citizens of Abilene as a member of the City Commission since 1991, serving as Mayor on two different occasions. He is responsive to citizens and is known for being unafraid to take on new challenges. Forward thinking and innovativeness are also characteristics that John possesses, both of which help him in his leadership roles. John's influence also extends to a state-wide level. He was appointed Chairman of the Governor's Advisory Committee for Children and Families where he served from 1996 to 2000. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Kansas Health Institute. John has also served the League of Kansas Municipalities and is considered ``the go-to guy'' on the Governing Body. He has served with the League since 1994, taking on the responsibility of Vice President, President, and Chair of the Executive Director search committee. I am pleased that John's hard work and dedication has not gone unnoticed by the people of Kansas. Tonight, I extend my congratulations to John for being the 2005 Excellence in Local Government Award recipient, an honor he well deserves. Thank you for your dedication to serving the people of Abilene and the people of Kansas.