Jerry Moran

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, tonight I rise to voice the concerns of farmers and ranchers who struggle to feed the world as well as their own families. Kansans will tell you it is difficult to make a living on the farm. Federal farm policies do not take into account the current scenario of input prices rising to record levels. Natural disasters, whether it is hurricanes in the South, in the gulf, or droughts in the Midwest, still fall far beyond what a farm bill or crop insurance policy can adequately address. As we have seen with hurricanes Katrina and Rita, not only do such disasters introduce terrible human suffering and paralyze the region in which they hit, but they also affect with transportation bottlenecks and skyrocketing energy prices many others a long way away. Any suggestion that things are good in ag country does not meet the reality test. Having completed 69 town hall meetings, one in each of the counties that I represent, I know farmers are greatly affected by the high cost of fuel, fertilizer, and natural gas. American agriculture depends on natural gas to bring food to our tables. We use natural gas for irrigation, for drying our crops, processing our food, and, most importantly, in producing our fertilizer. In addition to price of natural gas and fertilizer, the cost of diesel is a major concern for producers. In Kansas, it is estimated that the average farmer's fuel bill will increase $17,000 this year. Since January, diesel fuel has increased from $1.95 a gallon to $3.15 a gallon this month. Kansas farmers say when you do the math, it just does not pencil out. It is easy for a Congressman to talk about these issues, but the mail from my Kansas farmers can better tell of the real struggles and convey the real story of life on the farm. Mr. Speaker, this is a letter from a farmer at Otis, Kansas. He gives me his name and tells me he is a middle-age farmer with an operation located in western Barton and eastern Rush counties. He tells me: ``The recent fuel and fertilizer price increases are pushing my bottom line into the red. Three years ago I could buy a transport load of diesel fuel for $7,800 and today the same amount costs me $27,740, a difference of 330 percent.'' He says: ``It seems as though other industries can pass fuel expenses by putting on fuel surcharges. However, we are not able to do that. The American public is taking the farmer for granted with the cheap quality food that we provide. Wait until we are dependent upon foreign food like we are oil. I just hope and pray that the farmer can survive. Thanks for any help.'' And this from Lynette Stenzel, a farmer in Ness City, Kansas. She tells me she is ``extremely concerned with rising fuel prices. It not only affects the economic concerns on the farmer, but our local government, schools, churches, hospitals and even our community service organizations. More money into the expense side of farming leaves less on the income side to support schools, churches and help raise funds for community projects. When living in a rural area, the economic situation of the farmer really does affect local bills as well.'' She tells me that her younger brother, who now operates a third- generation family farm, said he felt if and when he had to pay the same amount for fuel as he got for a bushel of wheat, it would be time to give up the farm. ``I am hoping he forgot that comment, as that time is here. His 12-year-old son wants to continues the family farm, so hopefully that will be possible.'' Finally, from a farm couple in Southwest Kansas: ``The real America is not in the political realm of Washington. Real Americans cannot afford to drive to work. They won't be able to heat their homes in the winter. Real American farmers continue to lose money feeding the world. We need real help for the real America.'' Mr. Speaker, we need to work together as Members of Congress, as policymakers in these very challenging times. We must pursue economic, agriculture, and energy policies that increase the chances that our farmers can continue to farm the land and feed the world. Mr. Speaker, as my farmers said, we need real help for the real America.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise this afternoon to discuss the economic harm that U.S. farmers and ranchers have experienced as a result of the Japanese embargo of U.S. beef. This issue has gone on far too long, and we in Kansas have lost our patience. Mr. Speaker, Japan has prohibited the imports of beef from the United States since December 2003 when a single case of BSE was found in a Canadian-born animal. Since that time, the United States has undergone rigorous and thorough surveillance programs for BSE testing and has implemented safeguards to protect human and animal health. These safeguards have far exceeded internationally recognized standards promoted by the World Organization for Animal Health, of which Japan is a member. While the Sanitary and Phytosanitary Agreement provides that members of the WTO have the right to take measures to protect human, animal and plant health under principles of sound science, the SPS Agreement does not allow WTO members the right to discriminate and restrict trade arbitrarily. The U.S. State Department, the Office of the United States Trade Representative, and the United States Department of Agriculture have worked tirelessly to reopen this market for U.S. beef, and I commend them for their efforts. On October 23, 2004, nearly a year ago, the United States and Japan concluded an understanding that established a process to lead to the resumption of beef imports from the United States. Despite this agreement a year ago, the Government of Japan continues to delay imports of beef from the U.S. on a basis and factors not grounded in science or consumer safety. Losing the export market to Japan is having a significant impact upon our entire industry, and it also puts at risk a well-established bilateral trading relationship. This 2-year delay has now almost totaled $3.4 billion in losses to American agriculture. Whether you are a farmer or a rancher, a beef processor or a retailer, this loss of market is having a detrimental effect upon that business, upon our rural communities, and upon the agriculture economy. The U.S. cattle and beef industries are losing $100 million each month that Japan remains closed to U.S. beef markets. Since December 2003, the U.S. meat industry has lost 10,000 jobs, mostly attributed to a loss of the export markets. In March this year, Mr. Speaker, I introduced House Resolution 137, which currently has more than 80 co-sponsors. I encourage my colleagues to join me in sponsoring this legislation. The resolution is a sense of the House of Representatives that if the Government of Japan continues to delay in meeting its obligations under the understanding reached last October, then the United States trade representative should immediately impose retaliatory trade sanctions against Japan. While I do not wish for the U.S. and Japan to enter into a drawn out trade dispute, the reality is that Japan cannot have it both ways, and they must be required to uphold their agreement. The United States works to promote free trade agreements throughout the world, and it is important for our trading partners to honor the current agreements and international standards; and without those assurances, support for trade agreements will clearly erode. Recently, I was joined by over a hundred Members of Congress in writing President Bush asking him to make restoring this market of U.S. beef to Japan his highest economic priority in his discussions with the Japanese Prime Minister. I support our government's efforts to reopen our beef exports to Japan; but, again, Japan continues to unjustifiably delay the process. Last month I testified before the House Committee on Ways and Means and urged the committee to bring this resolution to the floor and show Japan the serious nature of this trade issue. I appreciate very much the gentleman from California (Mr. Thomas) for holding the hearing and for allowing me to testify. Many members of that committee during the hearing agreed that this action needs to be taken to address this issue. Mr. Speaker, Japan cannot have it both ways. They cannot benefit from exports to the U.S. while denying our imports such as beef with no scientific evidence to support their actions. Congressional patience has been exhausted. It is time that House Resolution 137 be brought to the floor and a clear message be delivered to Japan. Let us allow the will of the House to be heard. Patience is a virtue no longer.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to speak out of order for 5 minutes.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, this evening I rise to recognize October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Thankfully, we have made progress in raising awareness and attention of domestic violence and providing assistance to the affected victims. However, it is a problem that has not gone away. We must not forget about these crimes that disrupt homes and destroy families. It is estimated that over 2 million acts of domestic violence take place each year here in the United States. According to a recent study in my home State of Kansas, one domestic violence act occurs every 24 minutes. Domestic violence is an issue that affects all aspects of our society and is not bound by race, economics or age. It can be blamed for increased medical care costs, decreased productivity, and increased absence from work. Domestic violence also promotes a culture of depression, hopelessness and fear. One incidence of domestic violence can create a cycle of despair that is difficult for not only the victim but also the entire family to overcome. In my small hometown of Plainville, Kansas, a family grieves over the loss of their daughter. Patty Kruse-Hicks, a kind, loving daughter, and a devoted mother to her three children, lost her life due to domestic violence. On April 19, 2004, the world changed forever for her family and all those who loved her. Patty is more than a statistic. Her legacy and love will live in the hearts of all who knew her. Too often we think an act of domestic violence does not occur on our street, in our hometown, or to people and families we know, but this act of violence tells me that no street, no community, no hometown is immune. There are other victims of domestic violence who are often overlooked. Each year an estimated 3.3 million children are exposed to violence committed by family members against their mother or caretaker. During 2002 in Kansas alone, there were over 8,000 cases where children were the victims of domestic violence. Children who see violence are more likely to commit or suffer violence when they become adults. The cycle of despair continues from one generation to the next. While the realities of domestic violence are grim, we do have hope. Our hope stems from the belief that with education, resources and support, victims of domestic violence can overcome their circumstances. Hope is what sustains and motivates the nine domestic violence centers I represent in my rural 69-county district. These agencies help advocate for victims, provide essential services, and spearhead efforts to increase domestic violence awareness throughout most part of rural Kansas. I would like to highlight one such effort. In Emporia, the SOS, Inc., agency recently partnered with the Girl Scout Council of the Flint Hills, and their Studio 2 Be Troop, including 40 girls, ranging from the ages of 11 to 17. This effort focused on teaching these youth about domestic violence and the legal system. The highlight of this year-long project was a mock trial event that the youth participated in during the month of September. The troop girls were the defense and prosecution teams, the jury, and even the victims of crimes. This project was supported by the legal community, and many lawyers and judges gave their time to work with these Girl Scouts. This project taught the participants that domestic violence is not okay and our communities should take it very seriously. This project was a one-of-a- kind experience for these girls, and garnered significant national attention. Mr. Speaker, tonight I rise to recognize October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Thankfully, we have made progress in raising awareness and attention to domestic violence and providing assistance to victims. However, it is a problem that certainly has not gone away. We must not forget about these crimes that disrupt homes and destroy families. It is estimated that 2 million acts of domestic violence will take place this year in the United States. According to a recent study, in my home State of Kansas one domestic violence act occurs every 24 minutes. Mr. Speaker, I ask for continued support and assistance for the domestic violence programs we in Congress have responsibility for.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the community of Alma, Kansas for the successful revitalization of the Alma Creamery. Beginning in 1946, this town of 762 people was identified by the presence of the Alma Creamery, famous for producing delicious Alma Cheese. Bernie Hansen, a pioneer in the development of value-added foods, furthered this tradition when he purchased the company in 1986. Bernie developed the company and sold it more than a decade later. Unfortunately, the creamery then closed in 2000. This was a setback to the community of Alma. And for more than 3 years, the production plant lay dormant. However, during this time, Alvin Kahle and Jim Ferguson, two longtime employees, did something great. On their own initiative, they regularly cleaned up and maintained the plant with the hope that one day it would reopen. Their hopes were fulfilled in October of 2003 when former owner Bernie Hansen purchased the plant at an auction. Bernie quickly rehired Alvin and Jim. He also asked Linda Craghead, who serves part-time as Wabaunsee County economic development director, to serve as general manager of the company. In addition, more than one million dollars was invested in equipment, facilities and personnel. On April 28, 2004, the hopes of Bernie, Linda, Alvin, Jim and the entire community were realized. On that day, the first batch of hand- made Alma Cheese was produced in a completely remodeled plant. Since the plant reopened, this delicious product has been attracting more and more customers. The company's workforce has expanded from 5 to 15 employees in order to keep up with increasing demand. According to Bernie Hansen, the company's growth is the result of an inspired team effortt ``The renewed success of Alma Creamery can be attributed to a hard working staff, a supportive community and a trusted brand name widely-recognized across the state of Kansas,'' Hansen said. For rural communities to survive and prosper into the future, citizens must be willing to create their own opportunities for success. The revitalization of Alma Creamery is an example of how hard work, innovation, professional management and community support can create just such an opportunity. Citizens throughout Kansas are working together to enhance the quality of life in their communities. Alma Creamery 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, this evening I rise to recognize and celebrate the life of a constituent and friend, Ina Mae Selfridge. Ina passed away suddenly on Sunday, July 17, at the age of 76. Her death is a tremendous loss to her family, her community, and the many individuals who were fortunate enough to call her a friend. Probably the greatest compliment I could give Ina is that she was a great farm girl. In truth, she embodied much of what is good and decent about the family farm and the way of life we enjoy in Kansas. Ina is one of those people you meet and you think to yourself, I am in the presence of an extraordinary human being. I have known Ina through her many years of service to the organization Women Involved in Farm Economics, otherwise known as WIFE. Most recently, Ina was the national president of WIFE and has served in this position for the past 2 years. Ina was also the State president and member of the Gold Waves Chapter 76 of WIFE located in central and southwest Kansas. It would not be fitting to talk about Ina and not bring up the ideals and accomplishments of WIFE. Ina truly cared about agriculture and about rural communities. On her many visits to Washington over the years, Ina joined other WIFE leaders to advocate on behalf of the family farm. From health care to energy policy to emergency drought assistance, Ina knew what was going on in farm country because she lived it each and every day. In fact, Ina's trips to D.C. were usually scheduled so they would not interfere with harvest. In written testimony she gave in 2003 on credit availability in rural areas, she wrote that she would have preferred to be here in person, but it was wheat harvest and ``all hands are on deck for the entire family.'' Indeed, Ina was an integral part of her family farm, even at age 76. Ina farmed in true partnership with her husband Elmer Selfridge and several of her sons. Their farm in eastern Hodgeman County included wheat, forages and grains for their 1,000-head feedlot. She is survived by her husband; her four sons, Randy, Tyler, Brad, and Wade; and nine grandchildren. Ina would want me to use part of this time to talk about agriculture. Today I wear a domino on my lapel that she gave to me. It represents WIFE's theme that agriculture has a domino effect on America. Like dominos standing next to each other, when the farmer suffers economic loss, so do local businesses, schools, communities, churches, and local government. Today, however, I wear the domino to show how Ina's life had a positive domino effect on the many lives of everyone who came in contact with her. Ina had an enthusiasm that few possess. You could not be around Ina and not feel a sense of excitement about what the future might hold. The pioneer spirit of optimism and hard work that established farms across Kansas was alive and strong in Ina. Insights into the life she lived can be derived from her e-mail address, which is simply ``happy.'' This is not to say there were not hardships on the farm. Many parts of Kansas are just now recovering from 5 years of drought, but Ina's can-do personality is an inspiration to us all. The last time she was in my office she said, ``I may not be the WIFE president next year, but I will be back again to remind you about the importance of agriculture.'' Today I bet she would say, ``Time to get back to work. The wheat harvest is in, but we must get ready for the fall crops.'' Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ina's family in this time of difficulty with the knowledge that their loss on Earth is God's gain in heaven. It is my absolute privilege to have known Ina. The world is a better place because of her, and she will be greatly missed.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to take my Special Order at this time.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening to honor the life's work of a man whose mission is to serve the Lord, his God. Last weekend, the Reverend Billy Graham held what could be his last crusade. The crusade in New York marked the culmination of a life dedicated to preaching faith, equality, and love to people the world over. As a young man growing up in rural Kansas, I remember gathering in front of the television set with my mom and dad to hear this man speak. With integrity and truth he spoke of God's love for all people and our need to know this love in our own hearts. Even at that young age, I sensed that there was something special about this man; and, as I grew older, his words were a source of strength to my faith. In times of trouble and disaster, we turn to God for strength and comfort. Three days after September 11, 2001, as our Nation grieved the loss of life, America needed to have its faith restored. Our sense of peace that we had felt in our neighborhoods and our towns and our country had been severely shaken, and our belief in the goodness of man had been severely challenged. Billy Graham, showing the effects of Parkinson's disease and age, slowly climbed the steps to the pulpit at the National Cathedral during a service to reflect upon these events. Although physically frail, the strength of his spirit projected confidence. With the assurance of his faith, he helped us understand that despite the evil that we had seen, God's love remains, God's love never fails and, with that love as our foundation, we could prevail. Reverend Graham's words gave meaning to the lives lost and restored faith to a mourning Nation. In 1957, Billy Graham held his first of seven crusades in New York City. Although his crusade in 1957 occurred at a time in our Nation's history when race divided all, Reverend Graham refused to preach in segregated audiences. To begin one night of the crusade in 1957, Reverend Graham invited Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. to give an opening prayer. Another night of the crusade, the event was presented in Spanish. Reverend Graham and his team went to great lengths to ensure that the crusade meetings were accessible to those with disabilities. Although he had intended the crusade to last only 6 weeks, he stayed 16, in order to meet the needs of the people of New York. By refusing to restrict his message to one audience, Billy Graham affirmed the equality of all people and God's equal love for all. Returning last weekend to New York City, Reverend Graham continued sharing his message of faith, equality, and love for all people. Billy Graham has been a spiritual adviser to every President since my fellow Kansan, Dwight D. Eisenhower. He has written 24 books. His radio program ``Hour of Decision'' has been broadcast on Sundays around the world for more than 50 years. Reverend Graham has even been rated 47 times by the American people as one of the ``Ten Most Admired Men in the World.'' However, it is his ability to reach people with the message of God's love that makes Billy Graham truly a special man. Throughout his ministry, Billy Graham has preached to over 210 million people in more than 185 countries and territories. Yet, it is his personal impact on my life and the encouraging words that he has left with our Nation that I am most grateful for and will always cherish. Marking the occasion of his last crusade, I rise tonight to honor and thank Reverend Billy Graham for his influence on my life, on our Nation, and the world.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, I rise to voice my opposition to the existing law that provides an automatic annual cost-of-living pay increase for Members of Congress. While I appreciate the hard work of my colleagues on this bill, I object to the process and believe it should be reformed. Failure to allow an up or down vote on this issue only serves to increase cynicism towards the political process and confirms the feeling of many voter that their representatives are out of touch. The American public deserves better. Members of Congress should be on record with our constituents as to whether we believe an increase in our salary is justified. Given the opportunity, I would vote ``no''. Fiscal discipline must start with Members of Congress. While our nation's economy continues to improve, our national debt remains at unprecedented levels and many rural Americans are struggling. Struggling to put food on the table. Struggling to make their farms and businesses profitable. Struggling to pay skyrocketing medical costs. Struggling to educate their children. Struggling to save for retirement. The people we represent deserve responsible government and Congress should not receive an automatic cost-of-living increase during these challenging economic times.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, my arrival in Congress, it really was about what do I do to make certain that folks in Kansas, people across rural America have a quality of life, that they have the opportunity to put food on the family's table, that they have enough money to save for their retirement and for their kids' college education. But even perhaps more important than that, the goal for me as a policymaker has been what can we do to see that the communities that make up my State are around for a while longer. Rural America faces many challenges; and among those challenges is an often declining economy, and an economy related to agriculture. But one of the things that became clear to me early on in my time in Congress is access to health care matters. If we care about the future of our communities, we need to make certain that our citizens, the people who live there, can access a physician, can have access to a hospital, that the hospital doors remain open, that there is home health care and nursing home care. So for much of my time in Congress, I have worked on issues related to the availability of health care. I have been an active member and chaired the Rural Health Care Coalition. And I commend my colleagues who are actively engaged in a group of Republican and Democrat Members of this body who work time and time again to see that good things happen in the delivery of health care in rural America. The goal there has to be to make certain that we are reimbursed, that our providers, our hospitals and physicians and nurses and other health care providers, are reimbursed through Medicare in particular in a way that makes it possible for financially those health care providers to continue to provide the service and that we need to continue to make efforts to reduce the paperwork and bureaucratic burden that increase the cost of providing services, especially in communities where senior citizens comprise a significant component of the population. Many of the hospitals in the First Congressional District of Kansas, 60, 70, 80, and sometimes even 90 percent of the patients admitted to a hospital seen by our physicians are over the age of 65; and, therefore, Medicare is responsible for payment at least in part of the hospital or physician bill. During my time in Congress despite this continual focus on access to health care, one other thing has become clear to me. There is an overriding issue that should consume us all. I rise tonight to try to bring to my colleagues' attention the necessity of beginning to address the ever-rising cost of health care. I am in the middle of 69 townhall meetings. I represent 69 counties in Kansas, and every year I conduct a townhall meeting in each of those counties. I remember the townhall meeting in Hoxie, Kansas. During that townhall meeting, the first question was from a teacher who said, Last year my premiums for my health insurance to the school district that I paid out of my pocket were $450. This year it is $700. What are you going to do about it? The next question was from the farm implement dealer who said, We are trying to stay afloat here. It has been a difficult year. Drought on the high plains. You know how difficult the agriculture economy is. We are trying to keep our employees insured. We raised our co-payments. We raised our deductibles and our insurance premiums still went up 49 percent. And there was the question, What are you going to do about it? The third question came from a lady who said, My brother has cancer. He has been in Texas in an experimental treatment program, and he has now returned home to Kansas and his treatment costs are $40,000 a year. My mom and dad and other brothers and sisters, we are all trying to figure out how do we as a family come up with $40,000 a year to take care, to perhaps save my brother's life. Again, the implied question, What are you going to do about it? So from that townhall meeting several years ago, it has been a growing desire on my part to move the House of Representatives, the Senate, the policymakers, the administration toward addressing the issue of health care costs. I think there are things we can do. It is more than just decrying the problem. We clearly need more access to primary care physicians. Too much health care is delivered through the emergency room. I commend the Bush administration for their focus on community clinics. That is an important component of making certain that people who could not otherwise afford health care are not showing up at the emergency room, but could access a primary care physician or a nurse practitioner through our community clinics. We need to focus more on wellness and prevention. I think perhaps the biggest bang for our buck in reducing health care costs is to encourage and to educate citizens of our country about nutrition, about life- style, about habits, about exercise. Clearly our information technology system has to be overhauled. We have tremendous technology in the delivery of health care, but not in the way that we keep records and provide for their payment. IT needs to be overhauled for better and easier data retrieval. We clearly need to make certain that our reimbursements for our hospitals under Medicare and Medicaid are adequate to cover the costs, otherwise there is simply a cost-shifting onto those who have insurance. I have been supportive of health savings accounts and opportunities for small businesses to pool their purchasing power to access health care for their patients. I heard earlier about prescription drugs. We need to continue to work as a body, as a Congress and as policymakers in our Nation's capital to reduce the ever-escalating costs of health care.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, will the gentleman yield?

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, today I offer an amendment to appropriate funds for the eradication of noxious weeds. I first would like to thank the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Bonilla), the chairman of the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies, as well as the gentlewoman from Connecticut (Ms. DeLauro), for their leadership in what I know is a very difficult task of allocating funds within the budgetary restraints that we find ourselves. I would also like to thank their staff for their hard work and their efforts to accommodate my amendment. This amendment would allocate within the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service $15 million to fund the Noxious Weed Control and Eradication Act of 2004. This legislation, the act, was authorized for the past 2 years, but no funding has yet been appropriated to carry out the purpose of the program. The Noxious Weed Control and Eradication Act passed the House in October of 2004 and allows the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture to establish a grant program to control and eradicate noxious weeds. This legislation gives local weed management entities the ability to control local weed problems and provides the funding necessary for them to meet a very serious need in many places across the country. This legislation has broad bipartisan support and will benefit the entire Nation. Noxious weeds are a significant environmental and economic concern. I know from my own experiences in Kansas, we have a difficult time controlling the very difficult and noxious weeds. Sericea lespedeza is a weed that has invaded many acres of the foothills region of Kansas, which contain some of the few remaining acres of native tall grass prairie. Sericea lespedeza is just one example of many invasive species that create economic hardship across the country; and by finally providing these funds, we can help in the battle to eradicate this and prevent a major outbreak of noxious weeds. This is a matter in which timing is critical; and we need to give our communities, our local entities, and our farmers, landowners, the tools they need to manage our natural landscapes. Mr. Chairman, I thank my colleagues for the offering of this amendment.

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

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, I ask unanimous consent to withdraw my amendment and look forward to working with the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Bonilla) in regard to this issue being considered in the future.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, based upon previous conversations with the gentleman from Texas and the staff of the agriculture subcommittee, I am willing to withdraw my amendment under the understanding that we have reached in regard to cooperation on this issue in the future.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life of Captain Charles ``Chuck'' McAtee. After leading a life devoted to public service, Captain McAtee passed away on Friday, April 8, 2005 from acute leukemia. In his life, Captain McAtee was committed to the principle of country before self. When duty called, he answered, serving proudly and honorably as a United States Marine in the Korean War. His experiences in Korea inspired him to later lead the effort to ensure the dedication of the Northeast Kansas Korean War Memorial in Topeka in 2003. He also generously shared his love of country with others, such as his financial support to Marine Junior ROTC programs. Following active military service, Captain McAtee pursued two of his great interests in life--public service and the law. He first demonstrated a devotion to law through his work for the law firm of Eidson, Lewis, Porter & Haynes in Topeka, Kansas. He also used his legal knowledge serving as an officer to the 1st Marine Division Association. Captain McAtee later became involved in public service at the age of 27, working as a special agent for the Federal Bureau of Investigation. He then transitioned into State government, combining his passion for law and law enforcement through service as the Director of Penal Institutions for the State of Kansas--a position that would define the remainder of his life. As Director of Penal Institutions for the State of Kansas, Captain McAtee played a major role in the case of the Clutter family murders and bringing their killers to justice. The murders eventually became the subject of author Truman Capote's book In Cold Blood. Captain McAtee's position brought him in close contact with the convicted murderers in the Clutter case, receiving frequent uncensored correspondence from them and visiting with them during their time on death row. Captain McAtee also demonstrated leadership and commitment to public service by representing the Republican Party as a candidate for Congress in 1972, and as a candidate for Kansas's Attorney General in 2002. Although his experiences took him around the world and into the national spotlight, he never abandoned the values instilled in him by his parents, neighbors and friends in the small, Kansas hometown of Mahaska. The principles of hard work, integrity, and justice that had been engrained in him in his youth, guided his efforts throughout his life. Captain Charles ``Chuck'' McAtee was a true public servant who fit the situation within which he was called to serve. I join his many friends in extending my deepest sympathies to his family during their time of loss.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Madam Speaker, I am honored today to introduce to the House of Representatives the Reverend Fred Holloman of Topeka, Kansas. Reverend Holloman is a retired Southern Baptist minister and is currently a member of New Beginnings Baptist Church in Topeka, Kansas. Reverend Holloman retired in 2002 after serving 50 years in the ministry. He had attended seminary at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth, Texas, after graduating from the University of Alabama. After serving in Oklahoma and Missouri, Reverend Holloman moved to Kansas in 1958. He was pastor in Baxter Springs, Manhattan, Lawrence, and Kansas City before concluding his career as a Baptist minister with a 15-year tenure in Topeka. I am especially glad to be introducing my friend Reverend Holloman today because he served as the chaplain of the Kansas Senate during my time there. Fred was there a lot longer in the Kansas Senate than I. He has served as the senate chaplain for now 24 years, where he is known for his wit and his incisive thought when he delivers his invocation, but also known as someone who cares and has compassion for every member of our legislature and their families. Many of Reverend Holloman's relatives have joined us today and are in attendance. He and his wife, Pat, have nine children. His children and grandchildren have come here to our Nation's Capital all the way from Texas and Kansas. Please join me in welcoming the Reverend Holloman to the United States House of Representatives.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the efforts of the citizens of Longford, Kansas in their work to create and support Longford Water Company, LLC. For years, this town of 89 people has had a reputation for providing high quality, good tasting water. Road signs near the community advised, ``For Good Health and Longevity Drink Longford Water, Kansas Purest.'' Groundwater from Longford is clean and soft because it is naturally filtered by a distinctive group of underground rocks known as the Kiowa Formation. Years ago, communities used to compete at the Kansas State Fair regarding the quality of their water. Water from Longford was a frequent winner. More than a year and a half ago, a group of local individuals formed Longford Water Company, LLC. The reason: to research the possibility of capitalizing on Longford's reputation for high quality water by bottling it for sale. They discovered that most of the bottled water for sale has been treated by reverse osmosis, a process used to purify water through removal of unwanted chemicals. This procedure is expensive and removes natural minerals from the water that contribute to good physical health. Due to its high quality, Longford water does not need to be subjected to this added expense. Following extensive research, the company took the following actions: announced that the production facility will be located in Longford; agreed to purchase water from the City of Longford; in order to minimize marketing and shipping costs, established a marketing distribution system that focuses on a 50-mile area around the community; selected KIOWATA as the marketing name for the water and financed the entire project through private funds. Because of this team effort, The Longford Water Company is now ready to produce, market and distribute KIOWATA water. According to Wava Kramer, president of the board of managers, the company has raised the real estate tax base of the city, provided local employment and contributed to the positive image of the Longford community. Ms. Kramer also noted the entire effort has resulted in other benefits. ``Langford water has been long known as nature's finest gift to Kansas,'' said Kramer. ``Another gift is that the process of creating Longford Water Company has brought our community together. Our town is small in size but big in spirit.'' For rural communities to survive and prosper into the future, citizens must be willing to create their own opportunities for success. The Longford Water Company is an example of how hard work, innovation, professional management and community pride can create just such an opportunity. Citizens throughout the First Congressional District of Kansas are working together to enhance the quality of life in their communities. Longford Water Company, LLC 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 in support of H.R. 1524. I thank my colleague, Mr. Moore, for sponsoring this legislation to name the post office at 12433 Antioch Road in Overland Park after long-time Mayor Ed Eilert. The job of mayor is a challenging position. Each day they are tasked with the responsibility of making their community, their home, a better place to live. They do this with the eye of the public always on them as they live and work in that community. The fact that May Eilert was re-elected six times speaks volumes of his dedication and character. During his over 24 years in office, Mayor Eilert worked hard to improve Overland Park, and his leadership is well respected. Mr. Moore spoke of the infrastructure improvements that Mr. Eilert helped bring to Overland Park--the Clock Tower Plaza, KU's Edwards Campus and the Fire Training Center, to name a few. I want to emphasize that these centers and buildings are much more than physical structures. They are symbols of economic development, job creation and improvements in quality of life. During the time Ed served as Mayor, Overland Park grew to be the second-largest city in Kansas. Ed's vision helped to ensure that the city is both bigger and better for the businesses, individuals and families who are proud to call Overland Park their home. Mayor Eilert's commitment to Overland Park extended beyond his role as mayor. He was an active member of many civic organizations including the League of Kansas Municipalities and the National League of Cities. He has also served as secretary and treasurer of the Johnson/Wyandotte Counties Council of Mayors. He currently serves as a commissioner of the Kansas and Missouri Metropolitan Cultural District, a board member of Services for Seniors and Advocates for Citizens with Retardation, a member of the advisory council for Emporia State University's school of business and a member of the advisory council for United Community Services and Temporary Lodging for Children. Mayor Eilert is a charter member of the South Overland Park Rotary Club, the Overland Park Historical Society, the Overland Park Arboretum and Friends of Johnson County Developmental Supports. He also is a member and elder, and a former chairman of the board, of Overland Park Christian Church. I commend Ed for his service to the community and his contributions to improving the quality of life in Overland Park. I recognize that Kansas is home to many leaders who work to make our state a great place to live and work. I also acknowledge that our growth and prosperity is possible because of the efforts of local leaders like Mayor Eilert who are willing to serve our communities. Mayor Eilert touched lives every day. He directly affected the residents of Overland Park in a positive way. I am grateful for his hard work and dedication, and I join with my fellow Kansas representatives in honoring Mayor Eilert.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the selfless efforts of the citizens of Kensington, Kansas in their work to re-open their community's grocery store. A little more than 19 months ago, this community's only grocery store closed. This town of 511 people immediately felt the loss of the store. Residents no longer had local access to basic necessities such as dry goods and fresh cuts of meat. The closest grocery store was in the county seat of Smith Center--nearly 15 miles away. I know that most Members of Congress do not have to concern themselves with whether their communities have a grocery store. However, for many of the communities in my district, keeping the local grocery store open is a constant struggle. The citizens of Kensington decided to take action. Following a community meeting, board members were elected to form the Kensington Community Store, Incorporated. This organization was created to oversee the construction and development of a non-profit community grocery store with noon deli. Since that time, support for the project has been impressive and inspiring: the Kensington city council committed to construct a 60' x 75' steel building; several lots of ground were donated for building construction; community ``work nights'' were held to ready the store for opening; Vo-tech classes at the local high school constructed metal and wood shelves; the local Lions Club assisted with interior construction of the store. All totaled, more than $130,000 has been raised to support the project. Donations of all sizes have come from more than 250 individuals, businesses, clubs and foundations. The final piece of the puzzle fell into place when an agreement was reached to share wholesale supply delivery dates with a grocery store in a community 27 miles down the road. The arrangement allows the store in Kensington to sell merchandise at competitive prices. Thanks to a team effort, the Kensington Community Store is now a reality. According to John Struckhoff, chairman of the committee that organized the project, having a grocery store back in town provides an anchor business that can be used to attract other businesses to Kensington. It also helps stabilize property values and provides citizens of all ages a place to purchase groceries without having to leave town. Mr. Struckhoff also noted that the whole experience has resulted in other benefits. ``It is amazing how many individuals and groups donated money and time to this project,'' Struckhoff said. ``This shows how a small town in Kansas can come together to support a project that provides a common good to all citizens. It really makes you proud to live in Kensington.'' All across the State of Kansas are stories just like this one. Of neighbors helping neighbors, not because they have to, but because they want to. Because it is the right thing to do. Their efforts deserve our support and recognition. Citizens throughout the First Congressional District of Kansas are working together to enhance the quality of life in their communities. The Kensington Community Store 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 honor Mr. Steve Fossett, pilot of the Virgin Atlantic GlobalFlyer, and all those who assisted him during his successful world record-setting flight around the world last week. Steve Fossett flew the first solo, non-stop, non-refueled aerial circumnavigation of the globe in a jet aircraft, completing the record- setting flight in 67 hours and one minute, with an average speed of nearly 300 miles per hour. This feat began on Monday, February 28, 2005, and ended Wednesday, March 3, 2005, at the renowned ``America's Fuel Stop,'' the Salina Municipal Airport, Kansas, USA. With aviation pioneers like Earhart, Beech and Cessna to its credit, it is only fitting that today's modem aviation pioneer chose Kansas as the location to set his world record. Mr. Fossett is an accomplished adventurer, having set numerous world records in aviation and sailing. In fact, Mr. Fossett owns the world record for the number of world records held, with a total of 62, to date. Collaborating with Sir Richard Branson, famed British entrepreneur and founder of the Virgin Group of companies, he embarked on this around-the-world voyage, aiming to set world records in speed around the world without stopping or refueling, distance over a close circuit without landing, and distance without landing. The Virgin Atlantic GlobalFlyer, the plane Mr. Fossett flew for this trek, was specially designed to be lightweight, aerodynamic, and fuel-efficient. Mr. Fossett encountered several obstacles during his flight, including the failure of his plane's navigation system and the discovery of a fuel shortage. However, his perseverance and determination to succeed, despite the challenges, have earned him yet another notation in the record books. I am also proud of those who assisted Mr. Fossett and the Virgin Atlantic GlobalFlyer, especially the talented and dedicated staff of Dr. Dennis Kuhlman, Dean of the College of Technology and Aviation at Kansas State University at Salina. K-State at Salina is one of the top aviation schools in the nation, boasting excellent facilities for student use, which also helped to attract Mr. Fossett. The efforts of K-State at Salina to train aviation mechanics and pilots are helping to ensure safe air transportation into the next generation. In addition, I extend sincere congratulations to the Salina Airport Authority Board of Directors, Mr. Tim Rogers, Executive Director, and the many fine airport staff members. While the airport's 12,300 ft. runway was a significant factor in the site selection for this historic attempt, it didn't hurt that the Salina Airport Authority has established expertise in the areas of airfield security, ground handling, equipment and media services. Other significant contributors to the mission were the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce, led by Mr. Gerald Cook, President/CEO, and staff; and, the City of Salina, Mr. Monte Shadwick, Mayor; Mr. Dennis Kissinger, City Manager, and staff. This was truly a collaborative effort, of magnificent proportions, befitting a record-setting feat. I join the world in congratulating Steve Fossett and honoring the contributions of the greater Salina community on a job well done.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

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

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I obviously respect the opinion of the gentleman from Minnesota, who has long experience in regard to transportation, particularly hours of service issues. I am surprised somewhat by the characterization. He and I characterize my amendment differently. It is my understanding that the hours of service exemption for agricultural commodities, including the ones that are described specifically in my amendment, have been in place for a long period of time and only in 2002 did confusion arise with the issuance of a guidance from the Department of Transportation in regard to the definition of agricultural commodities. Again, I would emphasize that this is designed to make clear that all agricultural commodities, not those that are just specifically named in the past, would be eligible. The crisis that an agricultural hauler, a trucker, has in getting agricultural commodities to market is the same regardless of which crop it is. I believe this amendment simply makes clear what has been the practice in the past and also makes certain that this rule-making authority is not utilized to eliminate the exemption in the future. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. The amendment I offer this afternoon also is an hours of service amendment, although perhaps the most narrow of the amendments offered today. The existing law allows for an hours of service exemption for agricultural products during the time of harvest and planting. The amendment I offer simply clarifies two things. One, it defines what an agricultural commodity is, and basically would make clear that the definition includes livestock, milk and other farm products. It does not include any products of agricultural products. So this is clearly about peanuts, not about peanut butter. It is about cotton; it is not about t-shirts. This exemption has been in existence for the last decade, as I understand, and in the desire to make more clear the definition, I offer this amendment. This amendment will clear up the confusion that exists and will prevent FMCSA from arbitrarily eliminating agricultural commodities from the exemption in the future. Other than these changes, the agricultural exemption remains the same. It is seasonal, applying only during designated months as designated and determined by the States to meet critical agricultural transportation needs. This language is included in the base bill. The bill that I strongly support includes the language about hours of service exemption for agriculture commodities. The amendment I offer today does the two things I just mentioned: Clarifies what the definition of an agricultural product is, and indicates that the Secretary of Transportation cannot eat away at this amendment in its provision in its rulemaking authorities. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. MORAN of Kansas

Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I am honored today to introduce to my colleagues here in the House the Reverend James T. Akers of Madison, Kansas. Reverend Akers currently serves as the chaplain of the American Legion, and is an ordained priest with the Anglican Orthodox Church in Madison. Reverend Akers answered the call to the Lord's service when he left public school administration and entered the clergy. He has served his church and has focused his efforts on his colleagues, his comrades, and the American Legion as he tries to meet the spiritual needs of veterans and their families. Since 1992 this chaplain has been the chaplain at Ball-McComb American Legion post in Emporia, Kansas, and has been the American Legion district chaplain twice and for the past 7 years has been the Department of Kansas chaplain. We are honored in Kansas to have him now as the National American Legion chaplain. He is a U.S. Army veteran himself, who fought in the Korean War, and Reverend Akers is not only involved in the American Legion and service to other veterans, but he is also a member of the Disabled American Veterans, the Reserve Officers Association of the United States, and is a Companion of the Military Order of World Wars. I have known Reverend Akers for a long time now. We often meet people in life who make a tremendous difference just on meeting them. He is a warm and caring and compassionate person who loves his fellow man, and it is a real honor to have him today as our guest chaplain in the United States House of Representatives.