Dennis Moore

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for having this Special Order and for giving us an opportunity to talk to the American people about what is happening in our country. Mr. Speaker, on February 17, 2004, the national debt of the United States of America exceeded $7 trillion for the first time in our Nation's history. Sixteen months later, our national debt now stands at $7.8 trillion. In that time, our country has added $800 billion to our national debt, which I believe is unconscionable. Two months ago, this House approved an increase of $781 billion in the statutory debt limit, raising that figure to a record $9 trillion. Mr. Speaker, enough. The out-of-control rise in the national debt over the last year and the rise in our debt demonstrated in the fiscal year 06 budget resolution conference reports are further signs of the dangerous position I think in which we find our country and our future. In 2001, this country had 10-year projected surpluses of $5.6 trillion, and now we have likely 10-year deficits of, deficits instead of surpluses, of $3.8 trillion. That is a $9.4 trillion reversal. Whether intentional or otherwise, our country's current fiscal policies are depriving the Federal Government of future revenues at a time when unprecedented numbers of people are going to start to retire, the baby boomers, and that is going to put a tremendous strain, a tremendous strain on our country and our ability to pay for Social Security and Medicare. Our current fiscal irresponsibility is going to land squarely on the shoulders of our children. Mr. Speaker, we talk so much here in Washington, D.C. and in Congress about values, and I say to my colleagues, putting our children deeper and deeper and deeper in debt is not a family value. My dad taught me when I was a little kid that you should live within your means, live within a budget, and do not spend more money than you have, and I think that truly is a value that we should teach our children. It is truly a value that we should follow here in Congress for our country. Because if we put our country and our children and grandchildren in a hole so deep we will never be able to climb out, we will not have done them any favors, and I think we will have committed an immoral act on them. A true measure of values is not always what people say; it is where people decide they are going to spend their money. Congress is all about setting priorities, and part of the priorities, if we decide the priorities in this country are going to be more tax cuts, the permanent elimination of the estate tax is going to cost $280 billion over 10 years, as opposed to raising the credit to $3.5 billion, or $3.5 million, which is only going to cost $80 billion over 10 years; $80 billion versus $280 billion over 10 years. If we decide that is what is important, then we are going to have to make cuts in other domestic spending, such as children nutrition programs or not funding No Child Left Behind, which we shortchanged $9 billion the first year it was implemented, and other important domestic programs. I think values need to be discussed in real terms and we need to understand that again, a true measure of values is where we decide we are going to spend our money. If tax cuts are the most important thing for us, then that is the way it is going to be. But if we decide other things are important to us, children's nutrition programs, education, and all the other domestic programs, then we need to make those decisions. I thank the gentleman for providing the time this evening.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life and career of Federal District Court Judge for the District of Kansas G. Thomas VanBebber, who died on May 26th. U.S. District Judge G. Thomas VanBebber, 73, died unexpectedly and peacefully at home in Overland Park, Kansas. He was born to Roy VanBebber and Anne Wenner VanBebber in 1931 and grew up in Troy, Kansas, where he established a law practice after his graduation from the University of Kansas and its School of Law in 1955. There, he was a member of the editorial board of the Law Review and was a member of the Order of the Coif. He served as an Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Kansas for 2 years, and he was the Doniphan County, Kansas, Attorney for 6 years as he established a 25-year private practice in Troy. Before he entered the judiciary, Judge VanBebber was active in politics and was Chairman of the Doniphan County Republican Central Committee. He served 2 terms in the Kansas House of Representatives before being appointed chairman of the Kansas Corporation Commission, the state's utility regulatory agency, by Governor Robert Bennett. Among his memberships was tenure as a Director of the Kansas State Historical Society. In 1982, he was appointed U.S. Magistrate Judge for the District of Kansas, in Topeka, and he was appointed as U.S. District Judge for the District of Kansas in 1989. He sat in Kansas City, Kansas, and became Chief District Judge in April 1995, a position he held until he elected to assume Senior Judge status in December 2000. He had continued to carry an active workload of federal cases until his death. Judge VanBebber was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Virginia Anne Henry. He leaves his wife, Alleen, at home; and his stepson, David Castellani, of Los Angeles, California. He also leaves his brother, John Gregory, and his wife, Vondell; his brother, William and his wife, Yvonne; his brother-in-law Ward Henry, and many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, and cousins. I have known Alleen and the Judge for many years. They are wonderful people. We all will miss Tom VanBebber. On May 28th, the Lawrence Journal-World carried an article reviewing the notable moments of Judge VanBebber's judicial career. I include it with this statement and thank you, Mr. Speaker, for the opportunity to pay tribute to a jurist who was described in the Kansas City Star as a man who ``forged a legal career that defines the principles of fairness, courage and intelligence . . . He was known for his gregarious warmth outside the courtroom, but when he put on the black robe he was all business and expected litigants to have the same attitude.'' [The Lawrence Journal-World, May 27, 2005] Federal Judge VanBebber Dies at 73 Rulings included OKC bomb case, South Lawrence Trafficway, Phelps U.S. District Court Judge G. Thomas VanBebber died Thursday. He was 73. ``He was an indomitable spirit . . . a wonderful judge,'' said Steve McAllister, dean of the Kansas University School of Law. VanBebber, who lived in Overland Park, called in sick Wednesday. ``He died peacefully in his sleep, sometime between 6 and 6:30 a.m.,'' said Ralph DeLoach, clerk/administrator for the U.S. District Court of Kansas. ``He was respected not only by his peers, but by all court staff who worked for him--highly respected,'' DeLoach said. VanBebber was perhaps best known for sentencing Michael Fortier, a key witness for the prosecution in the Oklahoma City bombing trial that led to convictions of Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols. Fortier admitted knowing about the plot to bomb the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building and choosing not to warn authorities. VanBebber sentenced Fortier to 12 years in prison and ordered him to pay $200,000 in fines. Fortier's attorneys appealed the sentence, arguing it was excessive given his cooperation with prosecutors. A federal appeals court upheld the sentence. Other VanBebber rulings: 1997--Issued an injunction halting work on the proposed South Lawrence Trafficway until after completion of an environmental impact statement. 1999--Denied the Rev. Fred Phelps' attempt to sue Shawnee County Dist. Atty. Joan Hamilton for allegedly prosecuting him in an attempt to limit his anti-homosexual picketing. 2004--Denied an attempt to force Washburn University to remove a statue from campus that some considered anti- Catholic. The sculpture, entitled ``Holier Than Thou,'' depicted a scowling, heavyset clergyman wearing ceremonial headgear that some said was shaped like a penis. ``The court cannot conclude that a reasonable observer would perceive the university's display of `Holier Than Thou' as an attack on Catholics,'' VanBebber wrote in his ruling. VanBebber grew up in Troy, Kan. (population 1,000). He earned a bachelor's degree from Kansas University in 1953; a law degree in 1955. In 2001, he received the KU Law Society's distinguished alumnus award. He practiced law in Troy until 1959, when he became an assistant U.S. attorney. He returned to private practice in Troy in 1961, serving as Doniphan County attorney from 1963 to 1969. He was elected to the Kansas House, serving one term from 1973 to 1975. He served on the Kansas Corporation Commission, from 1975 to 1979. VanBebber was appointed a federal magistrate in 1982. Seven years later, he was appointed to the federal bench by President George H. W. Bush. He served as chief judge from 1995 to 2000, assuming senior judge status on Dec. 31, 2000. ``He was a wonderful judge and an even better person,'' said U.S. Chief Judge John W. Lungstrum, who lives in Lawrence. ``He was a great student of history and literature,'' he said. ``He had a tendency to relate to anecdotes and people he knew while growing up in Troy--I say that not to imply that he was homespun in character; I say it because he related to small-town values in a way that brought a lot of wisdom and common sense to the bench. He was truly brilliant.'' Lungstrum succeeded VanBebber as the federal court's chief judge in Kansas. As a child, VanBebber contracted polio and often relied on crutches and, in recent years, a wheelchair. ``He was in pain every day, but he never let on that there was a problem,'' Lungstrum said. ``His courage and stoicism were tremendously inspirational to the court.'' VanBebber is survived by his wife, Alleen, an attorney.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, for 12 years, I had the honor of serving as Johnson County District Attorney. I was proud of the accomplishments of our office during my tenure, including establishing the first Victim Assistance Unit, and beginning programs to protect the victims of family violence--spouse abuse and child abuse. When I left office to enter private practice, one of my Assistant District Attorneys, Paul Morrison, was elected and was sworn in as Johnson County District Attorney in 1989. This year Paul is celebrating 25 years of working in the Johnson County District Attorney's office, the last 16 as District Attorney. As my Assistant D.A., Paul headed up our county's narcotics prosecution efforts, and tried many homicide cases. As District Attorney, he and his office have been tough, but fair. His professionalism is unquestioned. Paul has continued the tradition of personally prosecuting many of Johnson County's most difficult and serious cases. During his 25 years as a prosecutor, Paul has tried over 100 jury trials, including many complex homicide cases. Among the accomplishments during his years as D.A., Paul has established a gang task force, successfully promoted ``hard 40'' legislation to increase sentences for murder, and helped establish D.A.R.E. programs in our county. All of Paul's friends enjoyed this story: two years ago, on his 49th birthday, Paul was driving down a suburban street when he witnessed a burglary. Paul followed one of the suspects in his car, and ended up chasing him down on foot. Two youths were charged with burglary, theft and possession of alcohol. Paul is a past president of the Kansas County and District Attorneys Association and of the Johnson County Bar Foundation. He is a past recipient of the Clarence M. Kelly Award for Excellent in Criminal Justice Administration in Kansas City, and was named 2001 Prosecutor of the Year by the Kansas County and District Attorneys Association. Paul has actively supported community organizations, serving as board president of Sunflower House and Safehome, Inc., two organizations that began during my term as D.A. Paul has also been active in the Metropolitan Organization to Counter Sexual Assault (MOCSA), where he served on the board and chaired the Johnson County Advisory Council. He has also chaired the Johnson County United Way campaign. Paul and his wife Joyce are the proud parents of three children, and are active in their church, Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Shawnee, Kansas. Mr. Speaker, on Friday, June 3rd, a reception in the Johnson County Courthouse will celebrate Paul Morrison's career in the District Attorney's office. Although I am unable to attend, I am proud of Paul and I want to recognize my friend for devoting his career to protecting our families and our community. The citizens of Johnson County hope his career continues for many more productive years.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mark Elmore of Olathe, who worked and guided Johnson County Developmental Supports, JCDS, for 27 years. Sadly, Mark Elmore died Sunday, May 15, at the age 61. I knew Mark Elmore. He was a good and decent man. Based in Lenexa, JCDS is a comprehensive community service agency that supports Johnson County people of all ages with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities, along with their families. It provides direct services to more than 500 individuals daily. Elmore joined the agency as executive director in 1978. His leadership moved the agency from a period in the late 1970s, when staff cutbacks were a reality and financial stability was threatened, to the steady growth and fiscal solvency JCDS enjoys today. Annabeth Surbaugh, chairman of the Johnson County Board of Commissioners, led the Johnson County community in mourning the death of this dedicated and well respected leader. As she stated publicly on learning of his death, Mark Elmore's commitment to JCDS was total. He took tremendous pride in the accomplishments of JCDS, leading the highly recognized agency through nine consecutive 3-year national accreditation awards. His self-imposed job description included doing whatever was needed to provide the best services and programs to consumers with special needs to enhance their overall quality of life. Chairman Surbaugh noted that in the early years of developing JCDS, Elmore was known to have taken clients into his own home, to visit them in their homes and at work, and to even shovel snow off sidewalks outside the facility to ensure the safe arrival of both staff and consumers. ``Johnson County has lost a great man with a great heart and a great friend. Mark Elmore was a man of high principles. His encouragement, dedication, and compassion for the special-needs community set an example for all of us,'' Surbaugh said. ``He was the heart and soul of JCDS.'' Mark Elmore also was well known throughout the state of Kansas, becoming a driving force in creation of developmental disability programs and legislation in the state. Elmore was a key player in the development and implementation of the 1995 Developmental Disability Reform Act, which emphasized opportunities for integration and inclusion in community life. Changes ushered in by the Act have resulted in a continued expansion of services and supports at the local level, and the advance of what has now become a coordinated network of individual and agency service providers, which in Johnson County now serves nearly 1,000 individuals and families. In a statement, Gayle Richardson, chairperson of the JCDS Governing Board, spoke on behalf of the agency in reacting to Elmore's death. ``If you wish to learn how to leave this world a better place, I commend Mark Elmore to you. He was not only a skilled professional, but a man beloved by his family, staff, and the folks he served at JCDS. He gave his heart and his mind to his job, and his legacy to us is a flourishing agency, whose mission is to enhance the lives of people with disabilities--not a glamour job, but a most satisfying one,'' Richardson said. ``He made us proud and eager to fulfill this mission. One of his last gifts was to work with the Board to ensure the health of JCDS beyond his term, which came all too soon.'' County Manager Michael B. Press agreed. ``His life truly exemplified the spirit of public service: to help the needy, to succor the distressed, and to serve the community without regard to the necessary personal sacrifices required,'' he said. ``Our hearts and prayers are with his family at this time. He will be missed.'' Mark Elmore is survived by his wife, Jeanette; son and daughter-in- law, Brenton and Kirsten Elmore; daughter and son-in-law, Tracie and Raymond Kaiser; and two grandsons. The couple would have celebrated their 40th anniversary next month. Mr. Speaker, Johnson County has suffered a tremendous loss with the untimely death of Mark Elmore. I join with all Johnson Countians in mourning his loss, and place in the Congressional Record two articles from the local news media reporting on Mark Elmore's life and legacy: [From the Kansas City Star, May 18, 2005] Advocate for the Disabled Dead at 61 Mark Elmore, the Olathe man whose dedication and passion for those with developmental disabilities spanned more than three decades, died Sunday of a brain tumor. He was 61. As executive director of Johnson County Developmental Supports, Elmore helped create landmark legislation in Kansas. The new laws allowed those with mental and physical challenges to live in their own homes and learn life skills vital to landing a job, making friends and finding meaning in life. ``He gave his heart and mind to this job,'' said Gayle Richardson, chairwoman of the support group's board of directors. ``His legacy to us is a flourishing agency.'' ``Flourishing'' was not the adjective Elmore would have chosen 27 years ago. In 1978, he was hired to turn around the agency facing deep federal cuts that threatened to close its doors. He streamlined the agency and improved services by listening to parents and their children about their desire to live at home, away from sterile and impersonal institutions. He found money to hire expert workers and expand services. When Elmore started, the agency served 66 persons. Today, Johnson County Developmental Supports, also known as JCDS, serves 530 clients daily and oversees aid for more than 1,300 residents. Its annual budget is $20 million. ``Johnson County has lost a great friend with a great heart,'' said Annabeth Surbaugh, chairwoman of the Johnson County Commission. ``Mark Elmore was the heart and soul of

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Cleaver and I join today to pay tribute to William T. Reed, the President and CEO of KCPT, Kansas City's public broadcasting station, who has announced his retirement effective June 30, 2005. He steps down after 13 years as head of Kansas City Public Television. Bill Reed joined KCPT in 1992 and emphasized education, local programming and outreach. The station received numerous awards from PBS, the National Educational Telecommunication Association NETA, and community organizations for its local programming and services, including 21 regional Emmy awards and one national Emmy for the documentary, ``Be Good Smile Pretty''. Four of the station's signature program series, ``Ruckus'', ``Rare Visions'', ``Roadside Revelations'' and ``Kansas City Week in Review'', began under Reed's leadership. He also introduced viewers to the beautiful writings of Kansas City Star columnist Charles Gusewelle, who this spring will produce his fourth documentary for KCPT, called ``Stories Under the Stone''. Reed's collaboration with Gusewelle also launched KCPT's home video library venture. Later this year, children and their parents also will benefit from the development of an interactive reading program called ``Bark Park Place''. Bill Reed made partnerships and collaborations an important part of the station's business plan. In 2003, KCPT was named Best Place to Work for Community Partnerships by the Kansas City Business Journal. Many of those partnerships, like Chalkwaves, a digital instructional media service for elementary and secondary schools now used across the country, changed the education landscape. Additionally, the Kansas City Regional Access Consortium for Higher Education, KC REACHE, a distance education effort partnering KCPT with nine area colleges and universities, began under Reed's stewardship long before distance learning was commonplace. Other successful partnerships include Network KC, an in-depth news partnership with the Kansas City Star, KCUR-FM, KPRS-FM and UMKC's Back Channel, a student production for the web; and Speaking of Women's Health, a partnership with Shawnee Mission Medical Center to conduct a yearly health symposium for 1,700 women. The TV Dinner and the KCPT Holiday Auction were also created, and a partnership developed with the Gamma Phi Beta Sorority for the Antiques, Garden and Home Design Show to raise additional funds for the station. From 1997 to 2001, KCPT successfully conducted a capital campaign that raised $10 million to renovate its facilities on 31st Street and to purchase digital television equipment. The station was among the first stations to go on the air with digital television and was cited by PBS as one of seven Digital Pioneers in public television. Reed began his public broadcasting career in 1967 as General Manager of KIXE, the public television station in Redding, California. He joined the Public Broadcasting Service, PBS, in Washington, DC, in 1974, where he was promoted to Senior Vice President in 1978 and worked until 1991. While at PBS, Reed led the planning and implementation of PBS Home Video and the PBS Adult Learning Service and the development of PBS VIDEO--a service for educational institutions. After leaving PBS, he also served as a consultant to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, CPB. Reed served the boards of a number on local and national organizations: the Public Broadcasting Service Board of Directors from 1972 to 1974; the Association of America's Public Television Stations', APTS, Board of Trustees from 1995 to 2001; and American Public Television, APT, Board of Directors from 1997 to 2003. He was elected as the National Educational Telecommunications Association's, NETA, first chairman in 1997. Reed served as President of the Jackson County Historical Society from 1996 to 1998, President of the Public Television Association of Missouri, PTAM, from 1994 to 1998 and 2002 to present, and Chairman of the Kansas Public Broadcasting Council, KPBC, from 1997 to 1998. Reed also served on the Corporation for Public Broadcasting's, CPB, Digital Television Task Force from 1998 to the present, and was a member of Video Advisory Committee to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education from 1993 to 2000. In 1991, the Pacific Mountain Network Board honored Reed with its Governor's Award for Distinguished Service to Public Television. He also served as a private sector representative in telecommunications for the U.S. Department of State to the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe, 1989-London; as Chairman of the Broadcast Panel for U.S.-U.S.S.R. Bilateral Information Talks, 1988-Moscow; and as President of the Western Educational Network, 1972. Bill Reed was born in Los Angeles, California. He received his B.A. in History and, following a year of graduate studies, his General Secondary Teaching Credential from the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. From 1963 to 1965, he served in the U.S. Army, including one year in Vietnam, where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the Air Medal with Three Oak Leaf Clusters and the Army Commendation Medal for Valor. Mr. Speaker, Bill Reed and his wife, Mary Ann, will continue to live in Kansas City after his retirement. A nationwide search is underway for his replacement and his shoes will be very difficult to fill. Mr. Cleaver and I commend Bill Reed for his many accomplishments on behalf of the Kansas City community during his tenure at KCPT and wish him and Mary Ann all the best in the years to come.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, on February 17, 2004, the national debt of the United States exceeded $7 trillion for the first time in our country's history. One year later, our national debt is $7.7 trillion. In the past year, our country has added $700 billion to our national debt. The conference report for the FY06 budget resolution that is before us today would increase the statutory debt limit by $781 billion to a record $9 trillion. Mr. Speaker, enough is enough. The out-of-control rise in our national debt over the last year and the rise in our debt envisioned in this conference report are further signs of the terrible fiscal position in which we now find ourselves. In 2001, we had ten-year projected surpluses of $5.6 trillion [2002- 2011]. Now, over that same time period, we have likely ten-year deficits of $3.9 trillion. That's a $9.5 trillion reversal in our ten- year fiscal outlook. Whether intentional or otherwise, our country's current fiscal policies are depriving the Federal government of future revenue at a time when we ought to be preparing for an unprecedented demographic shift that will strain Social Security and Medicare. Our current fiscal irresponsibility will eventually land squarely on the shoulders of our children and grandchildren, who will be forced to pay back the debt we are accumulating today. The ``debt tax'' that we are imposing on our children and grandchildren cannot be repealed. It can only be reduced if we take responsible steps now to improve our situation. Both parties need to work together in a bipartisan fashion to bring our budget back into balance so we can avoid the higher long-term interest rates and weakened dollar that are the inevitable consequences of rising deficits and a high national debt. We are witnessing on a daily basis the reaction of the global financial markets to our fiscal irresponsibility, and as we can see in this conference report, Congress has not yet gotten the message that deficits and debt matter. For starters, Congress needs to reinstate PAYGO rules for the entire budget, including spending and revenue measures. Budget enforcement rules that apply to only certain parts of the budget will not have a significant impact on our rising deficits, as Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan mentioned in his recent testimony before the Budget Committee. This fiscal year alone, interest on the national debt is expected to rise to $178 billion, and the administration projects that that figure will increase to $211 billion during the next fiscal year. To put that figure in perspective, projected interest on our national debt next year will be $75 billion more than projected spending on education, public health, health research, and veterans' benefits combined [$138 billion]. Further, the budget conference report before us today, which was filed only three hours before the House began to consider it, would require the House to cut Medicaid funding by as much as $15 billion over the next five years. Just two days ago the House voted, by a vote of 348-72, to reject harmful cuts to the Medicaid program, and this conference report blatantly ignores the will of the House. In addition to assuming an ever-larger share of our annual budgets, the interest on our debt, and the debt itself, are increasing our reliance on foreign borrowers, which will weaken our position in the world and increase the risk that another nation will be able to assert greater leverage over America. Over the last year, our country has borrowed nearly $400 billion [$389 billion] from foreign countries, and almost half [44 percent] of our publicly-held debt is held by foreign creditors [$1.96 trillion, out of $4.4 trillion of publicly held debt]. Finally, our deficits and debt threaten the Social Security and Medicare programs that have raised so many of our seniors out of poverty and helped sustain the strongest middle class in history. With a projected 75-year unfunded liability of $3.7 trillion, both parties in Congress need to work together to address Social Security's solvency problem, and this conference report does nothing to protect Social Security. In fact, it continues the practice of raiding the Social Security trust funds to pay for other expenses of the Federal Government. It is time for Congress to stop playing games with our national debt, with Social Security, and with our kids and grandkids' futures and take a commonsense, bipartisan approach to solve our budget problems.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, we join today to pay tribute to William T. Reed, the President and CEO of KCPT, Kansas City's public broadcasting station, who has announced his retirement effective June 30, 2005. He steps down after 13 years as head of Kansas City Public Television. Bill Reed joined KCPT in 1992 and emphasized education, local programming and outreach. The station received numerous awards from PBS, the National Educational Telecommunication Association, NETA, and community organizations for its local programming and services, including 21 regional Emmy awards and one national Emmy for the documentary, ``Be Good Smile Pretty''. Four of the station's signature program series, ``Ruckus'', ``Rare Visions'', ``Roadside Revelations'' and ``Kansas City Week in Review'', began under Reed's leadership. He also introduced viewers to the beautiful writings of Kansas City Star columnist Charles Gusewelle, who this spring will produce his fourth documentary for KCPT, called ``Stories Under the Stone''. Reed's collaboration with Gusewelle also launched KCPT's home video library venture. Later this year, children and their parents also will benefit from the development of an interactive reading program called ``Bark Park Place''. Bill Reed made partnerships and collaborations an important part of the station's business plan. In 2003, KCPT was named Best Place to Work for Community Partnerships by the Kansas City Business Journal. Many of those partnerships, like Chalkwaves, a digital instructional media service for elementary and secondary schools now used across the country, changed the education landscape. Additionally, the Kansas City Regional Access Consortium for Higher Education, KC REACHE, a distance education effort partnering KCPT with nine area colleges and universities, began under Reed's stewardship long before distance learning was commonplace. Other successful partnerships include Network KC, an in-depth news partnership with the Kansas City Star, KCUR-FM, KPRS-FM and UMKC's Back Channel, a student production for the web; and Speaking of Women's Health, a partnership with Shawnee Mission Medical Center to conduct a yearly health symposium for 1,700 women. The TV Dinner and the KCPT Holiday Auction were also created, and a partnership developed with the Gamma Phi Beta Sorority for the Antiques, Garden and Home Design Show to raise additional funds for the station. From 1997 to 2001, KCPT successfully conducted a capital campaign that raised $10 million to renovate its facilities on 31st Street and to purchase digital television equipment. The station was among the first stations to go on the air with digital television and was cited by PBS as one of seven Digital Pioneers in public television. Reed began his public broadcasting career in 1967 as General Manager of KIXE, the public television station in Redding, California. He joined the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) in Washington, D.C., in 1974, where he was promoted to Senior Vice President in 1978 and worked until 1991. While at PBS, Reed led the planning and implementation of PBS Home Video and the PBS Adult Learning Service and the development of PBS VIDEO (a service for educational institutions). After leaving PBS, he also served as a consultant to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). Reed served on the boards of a number of local and national organizations: the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) Board of Directors from 1972 to 1974; the Association of America's Public Television Stations' (APTS) Board of Trustees from 1995 to 2001; and American Public Television (APT) Board of Directors from 1997 to 2003. He was elected as the National Educational Telecommunications Association's (NETA) first chairman in 1997. Reed served as President of the Jackson County Historical Society from 1996-1998, President of the Public Television Association of Missouri (PTAM) from 1994-1998 and 2002 to present, and Chairman of the Kansas Public Broadcasting Council (KPBC) from 1997-1998. Reed also served on the Corporation for Public Broadcasting's (CPB) Digital Television Task Force from 1998 to the present, and was a member of the Video Advisory Committee to the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education from 1993 to 2000. In 1991, the Pacific Mountain Network Board honored Reed with its Governor's Award for Distinguished Service to Public Television. He also served as a private sector representative in telecommunications for the U.S. Department of State to the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe (1989-London); as Chairman of the Broadcast Panel for U.S.-U.S.S.R. Bilateral Information Talks (1988-Moscow); and as President of the Western Educational Network (1972). Bill Reed was born in Los Angeles, California. He received his B.A. in History and, following a year of graduate studies, his General Secondary Teaching Credential from the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California. From 1963 to 1965, he served in the U.S. Army, including one year in Vietnam, where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the Air Medal with Three Oak Leaf Clusters and the Army Commendation Medal for Valor. Mr. Speaker, Bill Reed and his wife, Mary Ann, will continue to live in Kansas City after his retirement. A nationwide search is underway for his replacement and his shoes will be very difficult to fill. We commend Bill Reed for his many accomplishments on behalf of the Kansas City community during his tenure at KCPT and wish him and Mary Ann all the best in the years to come.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, on February 17, 2004, the national debt of the United States exceeded $7 trillion for the first time in our country's history. One year later, our national debt is $7.7 trillion. In the past year, our country has added $700 billion to our national debt. The conference report for the FY06 budget resolution that is before us today would increase the statutory debt limit by $781 billion to a record $9 trillion. Mr. Speaker, enough is enough. The out-of-control rise in our national debt over the last year and the rise in our debt envisioned in this conference report are further signs of the terrible fiscal position in which we now find ourselves. In 2001, we had ten-year projected surpluses of $5.6 trillion [2002- 2011]. Now, over that same time period, we have likely ten-year deficits of $3.9 trillion. That's a $9.5 trillion reversal in our ten- year fiscal outlook. Whether intentional or otherwise, our country's current fiscal policies are depriving the federal government of future revenue at a time when we ought to be preparing for an unprecedented demographic shift that will strain Social Security and Medicare. Our current fiscal irresponsibility will eventually land squarely on the shoulders of our children and grandchildren, who will be forced to pay back the debt we are accumulating today. The ``debt tax'' that we are imposing on our children and grandchildren cannot be repealed. It can only be reduced if we take responsible steps now to improve our situation. Both parties need to work together in a bipartisan fashion to bring our budget back into balance so we can avoid the higher long-term interest rates and weakened dollar that are the inevitable consequences of rising deficits and a high national debt. We are witnessing on a daily basis the reaction of the global financial markets to our fiscal irresponsibility, and as we can see in this conference report, Congress has not yet gotten the message that deficits and debt matter. For starters, Congress needs to reinstate PAYGO rules for the entire budget, including spending and revenue measures. Budget enforcement rules that apply to only certain parts of the budget will not have a significant impact on our rising deficits, as Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan mentioned in his recent testimony before the Budget Committee. This fiscal year alone, interest on the national debt is expected to rise to $178 billion, and the administration projects that that figure will increase to $211 billion during the next fiscal year. To put that figure in perspective, projected interest on our national debt next year will be $75 billion more than projected spending on education, public health, health research, and veterans' benefits combined [$138 billion]. Further, the budget conference report before us today, which was filed only three hours before the House began to consider it, would require the House to cut Medicaid funding by as much as $15 billion over the next five years. Just two days ago the House voted, by a vote of 348-72, to reject harmful cuts to the Medicaid program, and this conference report blatantly ignores the will of the House. In addition to assuming an ever-larger share of our annual budgets, the interest on our debt, and the debt itself, are increasing our reliance on foreign borrowers, which will weaken our position in the world and increase the risk that another nation will be able to assert greater leverage over America. Over the last year, our country has borrowed nearly $400 billion [$389 billion] from foreign countries, and almost half [44%] of our publicly-held debt is held by foreign creditors [$1.96 trillion, out of $4.4 trillion of publicly held debt]. Finally, our deficits and debt threaten the Social Security and Medicare programs that have raised so many of our seniors out of poverty and helped sustain the strongest middle class in history. With a projected 75 year unfunded liability of $3.7 trillion, both parties in Congress need to work together to address Social Security's solvency problem, and this conference report does nothing to protect Social Security. In fact, it continues the practice of raiding the Social Security trust funds to pay for other expenses of the federal government. It is time for Congress to stop playing games with our national debt, with Social Security, and with our kids and grandkids' futures and take a commonsense, bipartisan approach to solve our budget problems.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I was once talking with a group of constituents from Wyandotte County, and asked who they looked up to in Kansas City, Kansas. A gentleman said, ``I can't say I look up to her because she is barely five feet tall, but I do admire and respect Carol Marinovich.'' As Mayor/CEO of the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas, Carol Marinovich established a record of achievement that inspired awe throughout the Kansas City area and beyond. Whether as a teacher, special education coordinator, or Kansas City Councilwoman, she has brought a sense of hope, pride and progress to Wyandotte County. First elected as Mayor of the City of Kansas City in April 1995, she served as Mayor/CEO of the Unified Government since its establishment in April 1997, stepping down from that post on April 20th of this year. During that time, Carol provided leadership in a period of unprecedented change and growth that has transformed Wyandotte County into a place with much to celebrate. She spearheaded the city/county consolidation process, taking two separate entities and bringing them together into one more effective and efficient government. House by house, she worked with neighborhood groups to reinvest in our neighborhoods. Evidence of that success is everywhere: the Mount Zion Estates, Turtle Hill, Cathedral Pointe, Mission Cliffs, Rainbow Park, Mount Carmel Place, Carmelle Estates, River's Edge East, Jersey South, Nehemiah, and the Strawberry Hill Townhomes and St. Peter/Waterway. In 2004, 500 housing permits were issued in Wyandotte County--a 40 year high. In the same year, crime dropped by 7 percent and Wyandotte County experienced the fewest murders in ten years and unemployment dropped for the first time in five years. With Carol's guidance, downtown revitalization has been spurred by projects such as the Hilton Garden Inn with the adjacent, renovated Reardon Center, the new Board of Public Utilities building, and the federal Region VII Environmental Protection Agency headquarters. She has helped make dreams of developing western Wyandotte County a reality, where the Village West project is still expanding. Today we are all proud it is home to the Kansas Speedway, Cabelas, the Nebraska Furniture Mart, and the Great Wolf Lodge. As she left office, $1,000,000 of redevelopment projects were under construction in the city's urban core, and the mill levy had dropped 18 percent during her tenure. In 1989, Carol became the first woman elected to the City Council of Kansas City. Six years later, she was the first woman elected Mayor of Kansas City, Kansas. During her tenure, she received the Excellence in Local Government Award from the League of Kansas Municipalities and has been recognized by Governing Magazine as one of the Public Officials of the Year in America. She was picked by Kansas City Magazine as ``Best Local Politician'' and was awarded the Excellence in Community Service Award by the Points of Light Foundation. Mr. Speaker, I'm 6'2'' tall, but I look up to Carol Marinovich. Mayor/CEO Carol Marinovich turned our community into a place where you would want to work, shop, live and raise a family. I am proud of everything she has accomplished and even more proud to call her a friend. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record for review by the House of Representatives an article that was carried by the Kansas City Star on the day Mayor Marinovich concluded her tenure in office. [From the Kansas City Star, Apr. 20, 2005] Marinovich Leaving Driver's Seat With KCK transformed, mayor's term ends (By Mark Wiebe) A bleak landscape confronted Carol Marinovich when she was elected mayor of Kansas City, Kan., in 1995: high crime, plummeting population, a crumbling retail base. Today, violent crime has been cut in half, record numbers of housing permits are being issued, and Wyandotte County boasts the largest tourist attraction in Kansas with its Village West retail district. One constant throughout that decade of change has been Marinovich, the former schoolteacher who once said she decided to run for mayor because ``it was my town--and it was going down the tubes.'' Tonight, Marinovich ends her political career in local government when Joe Reardon is sworn in as the Unified Government's second mayor and CEO. After 16 years in public service, she leaves behind a county that has shed its image as the area's beleaguered stepchild. During that time, she's made countless tough decisions, but the ones she believes will shape her legacy are often overlooked in the narrative of the county's success: consolidation of the city and county governments in 1997, and neighborhood revitalization. The latter helped Marinovich, 54, cultivate allies at the grass-roots level. Consolidation was but one issue that created political enemies for her, and some complained of her unyielding style. Even among some of her most vocal critics, though, there is a grudging respect for the change she helped usher in. That stubbornness, supporters said, was a decided asset. ``Has she upset people? Made them mad? Yes,'' said Cindy Cash, president of the Kansas City Kansas Area Chamber of Commerce. ``When you're doing what you think is best for the community, you do run the risk. . . . But she does have the best interest of the community at heart.'' Progress, not polish Marinovich isn't a highly polished politician. Her extemporaneous moments are sometimes peppered with unfinished sentences. She is not adept at working a crowd. Put her in a cocktail party where she doesn't know anyone, she says, and ``I'd probably stay five minutes then get in my car and go home.'' The issue that secured her first political victory, to the City Council in 1989, is one that remains close to her heart: the revitalization of the city's urban neighborhoods. She kept that emphasis through her six year tenure on the council and then into the mayor's office. ``Neighborhood groups weren't heard of'' before Marinovich became mayor, said Patty Dysart, executive director of the Armourdale Renewal Association. ``I can remember five or six. But they would ride in parades and that was about it.'' Today, the county boasts more than 130 neighborhood groups, many of them active in crime watches and cleanups, reporting code violators and organizing community events. As soon as she was elected, Marinovich established ``impact teams'' that made cleanup sweeps through neighborhoods. Such efforts demonstrated to neighborhood leaders like Dysart-- tough-talking and demanding grassroots supporters--that Marinovich meant business. ``She didn't have my respect at first,'' Dysart said. ``I just didn't think she cared, especially about Armourdale.'' Her opinion changed when Marinovich participated in an impact team and attended some of Dysart's meetings. She realized then that Marinovich was ``just quiet and shy but has this big heart.'' Hard-won respect Despite her supporters' admiration, Marinovich leaves a city that is not entirely enamored of her. In her 2001 run against Elmer Sharp, she grabbed what many considered an unimpressive 53 percent of the vote. In this month's mayoral election, she supported former state Rep. Rick Rehorn; he lost by an 18 percent margin. Former Unified Government Commissioner Joe Vaught, who backed Marinovich in 2001, said her stubborn and uncompromising leadership style had alienated some people. Still, he said, ``our city moved forward, and she was in charge. So whether I liked her or didn't like her, the city moved forward and that was important.'' Then there's the county's Achilles heel: high property taxes. Despite an 18 percent reduction in the Unified Government's rate of taxation since 1997, most property tax bills continue to rise as property values surge. State Sen. David Haley, who lost to Marinovich in a landslide in 1997 and who later sparred with her on many legislative matters, accused the mayor of not doing more to lower taxes. ``I just think she had the power to be a catalyst for progress for the taxpayers,'' he said. ``It's not an abuse of power; it's just an underutilization of all that office could have done.'' Despite that criticism, Haley insisted that Marinovich ``does have a track record that is enviable. And at the end of the day, she accomplished a tremendous amount for Wyandotte County.'' Marinovich acknowledges that the Unified Government, which came with the promise of more efficient government, needs to rein in spending. In 1997, county and city spending stood at $168.8 million. In 2003, the last year available for the government's actual expenses, that figure had jumped 24.6 percent, to $210 million. Wage increases, rising health-care costs, the addition of nearly 100 employees--many of them hired to form a new emergency medical service--account for much of that increase. But with a budget that stands at more than $250 million this year, the government's expenses aren't going down. Marinovich, who attributes many of the budget issues to the plight of an aging city, said one of the biggest challenges for the next administration would be to get that spending under control. If it can't, she said, ``That doesn't bode well for the future.'' a lasting mark If Marinovich controlled her legacy, she would place revitalization and consolidation of the city and county governments above economic development. County Administrator Dennis Hays seconds that. Consolidation ended decades of local Democratic Party machine politics. But, Hays said, it also gave the community a single body to make decisions. ``We could not have done what we did with the speedway and Village West without it,'' Hays said. ``Our community needed a single voice to take a risk and move forward.'' Consolidation also gave Marinovich immense power. With a veto threat in hand, the ability to break tie votes and the authority to hire and fire the administrator (with the commission's support), the Unified Government's mayor occupies a position of strength that other mayors around Kansas City can only dream of. It's a government with true executive power, said real estate agent Mike Jacobi, co-founder of the consolidation movement. And Marinovich has used that power responsibly, he said: ``She restored our integrity. Taxes were skyrocketing; values were falling. ``When you restore the integrity of the community,'' he said, ``it's OK to invest here again. It's OK to live here again.'' the marinovich legacy The most visible evidence of Wyandotte County's economic resurgence under Carol Marinovich is Kansas Speedway and Village West commercial district. To make way for that massive complex in 1998, Marinovich and the Unified Government Commission displaced 150 families in western Wyandotte County--the most difficult moment of her political career, she has said. Other hallmarks of her tenure: Consolidation of the city and county governments. Voter approval of consolidation in 1997 quelled the influence of a powerful Democratic Party machine that had overseen decades of economic decline. As a city councilwoman, she teamed with District Attorney Nick Tomasic to take on the city's adult entertainment industry, eventually wiping it out. With the Unified Board of Commissioners' support, she stepped up the demolition of blighted structures and cracked down on code violators, angering landlords who viewed the measures as too harsh. left undone The unfinished business that Marinovich had hoped to address: Furthering economic development to broaden the tax base and lower tax bills for property owners. Creating plans for an ambitious development near the confluence of the Missouri and the Kansas Rivers. Bringing more commercial and residential development to the urban core. what's ahead Marinovich insists she doesn't know what she will do next. Her immediate plans are to take a brief vacation and to spend more time in her garden and with her husband, Wyandotte County District Judge Ernie Johnson. Is another run for higher office looming? ``Not at this point,'' she says. ``I don't enjoy the politics. Never have. I don't think I ever will.'' career highlights 1989: Becomes first woman elected to the Kansas City, Kan., City Council. 1995: Becomes the city's first woman elected mayor, defeating incumbent Joe Steineger. 1997: Wins voter support for consolidation of the city and Wyandotte County governments; elected first mayor and CEO of the county's Unified Government, defeating state legislator David Haley. 2001: Wins second term as mayor and CEO, defeating former City Councilman Elmer Sharp; plans are announced to use tax incentives to bring Cabela's, Nebraska Furniture Mart and Great Wolf Lodge to the city. 2002: Named one of the nation's top 11 public officials by Governing magazine. 2004: Announces she won't seek re-election, becoming the first mayor in decades to leave voluntarily. April 20, 2005: Hands over office to Mayor-elect Joe Reardon.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share with you and my colleagues outstanding news that, for the second straight year, the Kansas City Kansas Community College [KCKCC] debate team, coached by Darren Elliott, has swept both community college national championships. Even more impressive, the 2005 KCKCC team won with an almost entirely new team--just two sophomore returnees from last year's 2004 national championship team. The KCKCC team completed its sweep by winning both the team and Lincoln-Douglas debates at the Phi Rho Pi national championships in Philadelphia after winning the CDEA [Cross-Examination Debate Association] Community College National Debate Championship title at San Francisco State University in late March. KCKCC dominated the Phi Rho Pi championships by putting both teams in the finals of the Policy Two-Person Debate and since both finalists were from the same team, sophomores John Bretthauer of Tonganoxie and Peter Lawson of Leavenworth shared first place honors with freshmen Clay Crockett of Emporia and Garrett Tuck of Overland Park. In addition, the KCKCC duo of Blue Valley freshmen Laura Koslowsky and Ashley-Michelle Papon took second. Lawson then went on to become the first debater ever to repeat as National Policy Lincoln-Douglas One-Person Debate champion by finishing undefeated throughout the tournament. KCKCC entered 4 persons in the event with all 4 making it to the elimination rounds, with Tuck and Koslowsky closing out the finals with Crockett finishing third. In winning the CEDA title, Tuck, Bretthauer and Crockett were named to the All-American first team and Lawson to the second team. They were joined on the national championship team by Kyle Bragdon, Papon and Koslowsky. At an open meet that debated the topic, ``How the U.S. should reduce fossil fuel consumption,'' KCKCC won the title by defeating 4-year teams from West Virginia, Vanderbilt, San Francisco State, Towson, Eastern New Mexico, Vermont, Rochester, Cal-State Chico, and Georgia State. With all 5 freshmen returning next year, I look forward to the KCKCC debate team winning 3 in a row! The team was honored at a reception hosted by Governor Kathleen Sebelius at the Kansas State Capitol in Topeka, and I am proud to have this opportunity to add to their well-deserved accolades by entering this statement into today's Congressional Record.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join with the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association in paying tribute to two of the Kansas City metropolitan area attorneys of distinction, James Borthwick and Edward Boyle. Today the Bar Association is presenting them with its Deans of the Trial Bar Award at their Bench-Bar & Boardroom Conference at the Lake of the Ozarks. Both of these gentlemen are longtime leaders of both the Kansas City metropolitan area's bar and of their home communities. James (Jim) Borthwick is a partner with the firm of Blackwell Sanders Peper Martin LLP, of Kansas City, Missouri. A magna cum laude graduate of Central College with a J.D. from the University of Michigan, he joined the Blackwell firm as an associate in 1964. With a practice focused on litigation in the areas of business and commercial activity, insurance and intellectual property, Jim defended accounting firms against claims of professional liability and manufacturers against products liability claims. He has handled more than 75 accountant and lawyer malpractice cases to conclusion over the last 20 years and was lead trial counsel in defense of a suit by the Resolution Trust Corporation/Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation against the former directors of Franklin Savings Association; the jury verdict for the defendant was described as one of the biggest defense wins of 1996 by the National Law Journal. Just as importantly, Jim Borthwick has been active in a wide variety of community and charitable organizations, including: the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, the Friends of Art, the Friends of the Zoo, the Johnson County Democratic Party, the State Committee of the Kansas Democratic Party, Kansas City Consensus, United Community Services of Johnson County, and the Village Presbyterian Church. Professionally, he is affiliated with: the American Bar Association and its Tort and Insurance Practice Section, the Defense Research Institute, the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association, the Missouri Bar Association, and the Lawyers Association of Kansas City, where he has served on the Board of Directors and as President. Edward Boyle is of counsel with the firm of McCormick, Adam & Long, of Overland Park, Kansas. A magna cum laude graduate of the University of Notre Dame and an Order of the Coif graduate of the University of Kansas School of Law, where he was editor in chief of the University of Kansas Law Review, Edward Boyle also served as LTJG in the United States Navy from 1960-62. His practice areas include: complex litigation, land use and zoning, medical malpractice, medical products and devices, wrongful death and motor vehicle accidents. Prior to entering private practice, he served as Special Assistant Attorney General of Kansas for Antitrust from 1971-74. Edward Boyle also has been actively involved in professional activities, serving as secretary of the Kansas State Board of Discipline for Attorneys from 1978-80, member of the Johnson County, Kansas and American Bar Associations (including as secretary of the Johnson County Bar in 1967), the Kansas Trial Lawyers Association and the Kansas Inns of Court. Mr. Speaker, both of these distinguished gentlemen reflect creditably upon their profession and their communities. I am pleased to take note of the honors they are being awarded by the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association and I commend them to you and to our colleagues in the House of Representatives.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a distinguished leader in the fields of higher education and community service who soon will be stepping down after 15 years of valuable service as president of MidAmerica Nazarene University, which is located in the Third Congressional District. Dr. Richard Spindle is a visionary leader who oversaw significant expansion of MidAmerica Nazarene University during his tenure as president, including a major enrollment increase, construction of two new dormitories, the Cook Center and the Bell Family Arena. Founded in 1966, MidAmerica Nazarene University is a private, liberal arts university offering undergraduate and selected professional and graduate degrees. Since the initial semester of operation, enrollment has increased dramatically and now totals approximately 1,400. A Christian community in the Wesleyan-Holiness tradition, MidAmerica Nazarene University seeks to transform the individual through intellectual, spiritual and personal development for a life of service to God, the church, the Nation and the world. During the past 2 years, I have been privileged to work with Dr. Spindle in a successful effort to obtain federal funding for MidAmerica Nazarene's criminal justice instruction program. He has been a major force for positive change and advancement in the Olathe community and throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area. I join with many of our neighbors in wishing Richard and Billy Spindle all the best as they prepare to move to Brazil in August in order to consult with Brazilian Nazarene College. Mr. Speaker, I am placing in the Record a recent news article from the Olathe News, which details a celebration that was held in Dr. Spindle's honor at MidAmerica Nazarene, highlighting many of the personal qualities which made him a popular and effective administrator. I commend him to you, Mr. Speaker, and to our colleagues in the House of Representatives. [From the Olathe News, Apr. 24, 2005] Spindle Preps for His `Transition' (By Arley Hoskin) Leaders don't retire, they transition. And that's the way MidAmerica Nazarene University president Richard Spindle views his departure in May. The community gathered Thursday at the university's Cook Center to celebrate Spindle's transition. As leaders in the community spoke of Spindle during the gathering, it became clear that Spindle had both their respect and admiration. ``We've been fortunate here to have a leader like Dr. Spindle,'' Olathe Mayor Michael Copeland said. In Spindle's honor, Copeland deemed the day ``Richard Spindle celebration day.'' MNU experienced extraordinary growth during Spindle's 15 years as president. But the focus of the evening was not on MNU's all-time high enrollment, the development of Cook Center, the ground breaking for the new dormitory or the plans for a new cultural arts center. When people spoke of Spindle, they spoke not just of a man with many accomplishments, they spoke of a friend. ``Some people you feel good about and relate to,'' said Ron Wimmer, Olathe school district superintendent. Spindle was that kind of man, Wimmer said, and he also brought credibility to the university. Many of the school districts new employees graduate from MNU, but Spindle contributed more to the community than a pool of employees. Wimmer enjoyed his presence at the Olathe Chamber of Commerce meetings and Spindle is someone whom Wimmer considers a friend. Wimmer is not alone. A video shown during the celebration was filled with accolades from faculty, staff and alum. Spindle is the kind of leader who knows students by their first names, MNU alum Bryan Beaver said. Others agreed. ``I really did not expect to be able to call the president a friend. I feel like I can say that,'' said Allison Bartholomew a 2002 graduate. Students were not the only ones who noticed Spindle's caring personality. A person's handshake says a lot and Spindle's spoke of confidence and care. Frank Devocelle, CEO of Olathe Medical Center recalled the first time that Spindle shook his hand. Both men extended their right hands, and Spindle reached out and cupped Devocelle's hand with his left hand. ``It left (me) with a feeling of warmth, a feeling of caring and a feeling of concern for others,'' Devocelle said. Spindle was known for his concern for others. ``He was a role model of servant leadership,'' said MNU chaplain Randy Beckum. ``Not by power, (but) by integrity.'' Spindle took pride in beautifying the campus--he not only helped developed plans for campus renovations, but participated in some of those ventures. Alumni president Jill Kenney remembers planting trees along Mur-Len Road with Spindle and his wife, Billy. It was cold and the trees were puny she said, but the Spindle's had a vision. The trees were just part of the Spindle's vision. Spindle developed a 100-year plan during his time as president and he was able to see the two new dorms, and the Cook Center and Bell Family Arena built. More importantly he saw the lives of students change. ``These 25 years have been filled with joyous opportunities,'' Spindle said. The students were always his main concern, said academic dean Frank Moore. He was the same man inside the office as he was outside, Moore added. Billy, who shared her husband's passion for students, was also honored at the celebration. Billy served on the women's auxiliary and generated more than $150,000 worth of scholarships through the sale of birthday cakes and the MNU country store, now MNU mercantile and diner. Billy also is known for leading by example. ``She is a part of everything, heart and soul,'' said Kathy Smith, who served with Billy on the women's auxiliary. The Spindles plan to move to Brazil in August where Richard Spindle will serve as a consultant for Brazilian Nazarene College.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, our country needs to reduce its dependence on foreign oil and increase its national energy independence. Increasing our energy independence will stabilize future energy prices, benefit American consumers and businesses, and enhance both our energy security and our national security. As a member of the House Renewable Energy Caucus, I have supported measures to encourage and increase the use of renewable and alternative energy sources. H.R. 6 included tax incentives for energy efficiency programs and renewable energy sources such as wind and solar production that I would like to vote for. As a co-chair of the Biofuels Fuels Caucus, I also support the renewable fuels standard which I have promoted to decrease our dependency on foreign oil, help U.S. farmers and protect the environment. There are several issues, however, that concern me about H.R. 6, and these issues have continually blocked congressional passage of comprehensive energy legislation over the last few years. It has become clear that removing these provisions would ensure that the Senate will pass, and the President will sign, this measure. Section 22 of H.R. 6, provides for drilling in the Alaskan National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). While some consider this area to be one of the most promising U.S. onshore oil and gas prospects, studies indicate that this area could only provide six month's supply of oil, 10 years from now, and consequently have no significant effect on our nation's dependence on foreign oil. This 1.5 million acre coastal plain, however, is an area often referred to as ``America's Serengeti'' because of the presence of caribou, polar bears, grizzly bears, wolves, migratory birds, and many other species living in a nearly undisturbed state. In fact, the Refuge and two neighboring parks in Canada have been proposed for an international park, and several species in the area are protected by international treaties or agreements. In the 108th Congress, I supported a conference agreement on H.R. 6 that eliminated the provisions opening up ANWR for drilling. A future conference agreement needs to eliminate this controversial section from this bill to ensure its passage. Title 15, Section 1502 of H.R. 6, contains a safe-harbor provision protecting producers of methyl tertiary butyl ether [MTBE] and other fuel oxygenates from product liability claims. This provision includes language applying the safe-harbor retroactively, potentially barring several pending suits against some of the worst environmental polluters in our country. Under this provision, cities and towns would be prevented from bringing against potential offenders ``defective product'' lawsuits, which some cities have employed to recapture the cost of MTBE clean ups. Approximately 130 lawsuits have been filed by states, cities, water districts, and businesses over MTBE contamination. The trade association for the MTBE industry conservatively estimates that a nationwide cleanup of MTBE will cost between $500 million and $1 billion. The U.S. Conference of Mayors, however, maintains that those costs could run higher than $29 billion. Our states and localities, which are struggling with budget deficits, should not be forced to pay the tab for these clean ups. If our states and localities are forced to pay these costs, the real costs will be borne by taxpayers, who should not be responsible for the actions of a few MTBE producers. I also cannot support provisions in this legislation that do nothing to safeguard electricity consumers from unscrupulous utility companies that abuse market power and manipulate electricity prices. Rather than holding these electricity companies accountable, this bill would weaken consumer protections regarding electricity. I supported Representative John Dingell's amendment that would have protected electricity consumers by increasing penalties for violations of the Federal Power Act and would authorize the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to refund electricity overcharges. Unfortunately, the House defeated this amendment that would have helped safeguard electricity consumers. I urge my colleagues to work together to pass a true comprehensive energy legislation that is fiscally responsible and that protects consumers, our communities, and environmentally sensitive areas. Our national energy situation should not be a partisan issue, and I hope that both parties can come together to do the right thing for America.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker I rise today to mourn the recent passing Andrew Rollins, Jr., of Kansas City, Kansas. Andy Rollins was a longtime civic activist in Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas, who spent over 40 years working to improve the lives of his neighbors and the conditions within his community. I am placing in the Congressional Record with this statement two recent news articles, from the Kansas City Star and the Kansas City Kansan, detailing Andy Rollins' 88 years of good works. He served for 16 years as the president of the Kansas City, Kansas, chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, continually worked to bring economic development funds and strategies to Kansas City, Kansas, and actively supported local efforts to assist drug addicts and alcoholics. Additionally, he served our country with distinction as a member of the U.S. Army during World War II, receiving European, African, and Middle Eastern Theater Ribbons, the Good Conduct Medal, the American Campaign Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal. Mr. Speaker, Kansas City, Kansas, is a much stronger and richer community for having Andrew Rollins, Jr., as a member of the community. I commend him to you and to the members of this House and I join with his family and his many, many friends in mourning his loss. [From the Kansas City Star] Andrew Rollins' Passion for Growth Left Mark on KCK (By Robert A. Cronkleton) City and county leaders fondly remembered Andrew Rollins Jr., a long-time Kansas City, Kan., activist, who died last week at the age of 88. Rollins helped secure private financing for community projects and had worked for years to promote economic development in Kansas City, Kan., and the metropolitan area. ``I don't know anyone who cared about the community more than Rollins did,'' said Don Denney, a spokesman for the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kan. ``He was a very caring individual and he did a lot of work behind the scenes.'' Rollins' community work dated back to 1962, when he founded the Depth Rehabilitation Alcohol Group. Over the years, he helped secure private financing for various community projects including the Kansas City, Kan., Police Cadet Program, a housing project in Nicodemus, Kan; the Mid-America Regional Council; the Gateway I and II office complex, and the construction of the current Kansas City, Kan., City Hall and the joint city-county public health department. Rollins had owned a security company and for 16 years had served as the president of the Kansas City, Kan., chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. He worked over the years to bring a hotel to downtown Kansas City, Kan., next to the Jack Reardon Civic Center. At one time he was associated with a Saudi Arabian group that was presented as investors for hotel projects that never materialized. ``I loved the city and I loved to see the city grown,'' Rollins said in a 1991 interview. Dennis Hays, county administrator Unified Government, said Rollins worked tirelessly to find the developers and financing to make the hotel project happen. The Hilton Garden Inn was eventually built at the site and opened in September 2002. While Rollins was not involved in the final financing for the project, Hays said, Rollins was very active in searching for financing and should be credited for his work. ``Andy was amazing,'' Hays said. ``He had friendships dating over more than 60 years, back to the days of World War II.'' Those friendships included federal, state and local officials, Hays said. ``He had access to those folks and an uncanny ability of getting the right people together to address issues and solve problems,'' Hays said. ``He was able to pull the right people together.'' Police Chief Ron Miller said he had known Rollins for many years and worked with him on several issues. He always supported the Police Department, Miller said, and was a good conduit for information on issues facing the community. ``Andy Rollins loved Kansas City, Kan., and always supported this community,'' Miller said. ``He had national exposure in various groups, but he was always proudest of Kansas City, Kan.'' LaVert Murray, director the Unified Government's development department, said Rollins was a mixture between a community activist and a community booster. ``He worked hard to better his community,'' Murray said. ``His desire was to make Kansas City, Kan., the best community that existed in the U.S. and to improve the entire metropolitan area.'' In 1992, Rollins received four medals and ribbons he earned in the U.S. Army during World War II. The decorations were the European, African, Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon; the Good Conduct Medal; the American Campaign Medal; and the World War II Victory Medal. Survivors include his two sons, Rev. Andrew J. Rollins III of Topeka and Edward T. Rollins of Mission; two ex-wives, Margaret Louise Hutchinson of Mission and Patience O'Hare of Kansas City, Kan.; a brother and his wife, Henry C. and Geraldine Rollins of Seattle; and two grandchildren. Rev. Rollins said his father loved Kansas City, Kan., because it was his hometown, he had spent his entire life there. ``One of the things he shared with me was that when he was born, he was born in an impoverished situation, the wrong side of the track you could say,'' Rollins said of his father. That didn't stop his father from being determined to leave his mark and contribute something positive to the community, Rollins said. He said his father believed that anyone could have a significant impact in life, despite their humble beginnings. ``Sometimes you can be dealt a worse hand than the person you are playing against, but if you play your cards better, not even the best hand will still win,'' Rollins said.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of legislation designating the United States Postal Service facility located at 12433 Antioch Road in Overland Park, Kansas, as the Ed Eilert Post Office Building. I was joined in sponsoring this legislation by the gentleman from Kansas (Mr. Tiahrt), the gentleman from Kansas (Mr. Ryun), and the gentleman from Kansas (Mr. Moran); and I am grateful for their support. Recently, an era came to an end in Overland Park. Mayor Ed Eilert stepped down as mayor, an office to which he was elected six times and held for a total of 24 years. Since he was sworn into office in 1981, Overland Park has grown to become Kansas' second largest city. Its population has nearly double to over 165,000. The number of people working within the city limits has more than tripled with roughly 120,000 jobs in Overland Park today, and hotel capacity has increased from 800 rooms to 5,100 rooms. During his tenure, 21,000 single-family and 19,000 multi-family residences have been added in Overland Park, along with 23.7 million square feet of office, retail, and industrial space. Over the years, the city has seen the arrival of the Sprint campus, three new hospitals, the University of Kansas Edwards campus, the Carlsen Center at Johnson County Community College, and a city convention center. Additionally, under Ed Eilert 's leadership, the city added the landmark Clock Tower Plaza and the Farmers Market in the downtown area, a neighborhood conservation program, and Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, the International Trade Center, the W. Jack Sanders Justice Center, and interchanges at I-435 at both Nall Avenue and Quivira Road. Mayor Eilert also supported construction of the Fire Training Center which has been used by many other cities and county fire departments in the Kansas City metropolitan area, and he worked with Johnson County Community College to create a training facility for Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway employees on the college campus. And during Mayor Eilert's tenure, the city's land area expanded by 36 percent to nearly 62 square miles. Finally, Overland Park enjoys a top rating for a solid financial condition. It has received numerous awards as an outstanding city. For years, Overland Park has had the lowest property tax rate of any first-class city in Kansas. Ed Eilert was first elected to Overland Park City Council in 1977 and became council president in 1980. He formerly taught at Shawnee Mission North High School and knows firsthand how Overland Park has benefited from its nationally recognized school systems. He made his first visit to the city in 1960 because it was the home of Jan Bush, whom he met while studying at Emporia State University and would marry 2 years later. The Eilerts moved to Overland Park in 1965 when he completed graduate school. In 1977, he began his first campaign for political office and has been a public servant since then. He has also been a financial consultant with A.G. Edwards & Sons and serves on the board of directors of Metcalf Bank. When we consider the array of challenges that Ed Eilert faced in his 24 years as mayor of Overland Park, Members cannot help but agree with Bob Sigmund, the opinion page editor of the Johnson County Sun who recently wrote that ``Ed Eilert provided the vision and leadership in shaping Overland Park's success as an ideal place to live, work and raise a family. Eilert's political skills have been especially useful in easing tensions and maintaining an acceptable balance between the older, established neighborhoods in northern Overland Park and the rapidly expanding new subdivisions in the south.'' I am proud to call Ed Eilert my friend. While we are members of different political parties, I have always been impressed by his sound judgment, diligence, and dedication to his community and to the public welfare. When he sought the Republican nomination for the House in 1996, he lost narrowly to then-State Representative Vince Snowbarger for the nomination to succeed Representative Jan Meyers. I often tell third district residents that I would have not sought election to Congress myself had Ed Eilert been elected 2 years before I became a candidate for the office. Dedication of this postal service facility in Overland Park is a small, but fitting, tribute to a man who has dedicated most of his adult life to public service at the community level. He has worked tirelessly to bring people together while ensuring quality economic development and competence in the delivery of local services. I commend Mayor Ed Eilert and again thank my colleagues in the Kansas House delegation for their support. I urge my colleagues to approve this legislation today, and I hope the other body will follow suit quickly so we can see it signed into law.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Roeland Park, Kansas, Mayor Lori Hirons, who recently left elective office after 4 years of service as mayor, 8 as a city councilmember and 1 year of service on the Roeland Park zoning appeals board. Lori Hirons has been a visionary and diligent leader of the city of Roeland Park during her tenure as a public servant. Individuals like her across America regularly make significant commitments of their time, resources and personal patience in order to fill these important roles in local government: we cannot thank them enough for doing so. During her tenure as mayor, I was privileged to work with Mayor Hirons and Senator Sam Brownback to bring to Roeland Park $1.25 million in vitally needed Federal funds to improve that city's stormwater management facilities. Additionally, Lori and her husband, Frank, have been longtime advisors to me in my capacity as Representative of Kansas' Third Congressional District and I am proud to consider them close, personal friends as well. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record with these remarks an article recently carried by the Kansas City Star that summarizes Mayor Hirons' lengthy record of service and achievements for Roeland Park. I join with her neighbors in wishing her and Frank all the best as they consider new challenges and I hope she will hear the calling of public service again at a future time. [From the Kansas City Star, Apr. 20, 2005] Hirons Has Made a Difference in Her City (By Kara Cowie) Much has changed in Roeland Park Mayor Lori Hirons' 13 years with the city. City Council meetings no longer run until 1 a.m. and are more amiable than they used to be. Neighborhoods are now looking forward to much-needed street and storm water improvements. And instead of a vacant Venture plaza, a soon- to-be vibrant shopping center with a Lowe's home improvement store and brand-new Price Chopper is in the works. It's taken many, many meetings to make it all happen, but Hirons is pleased with the results of her four years as mayor, eight years as a Ward 1 council member and one year on the city's board of zoning appeals. Now she's ready for a break. ``I don't think I've done anything in government that's superstar status, but I do think I took the road less traveled,'' Hirons said. ``And I always said I never wanted to be carried out of here in a box.'' So, after more than a decade of Wednesday night meetings, tonight will be her last. Just after 7:30 p.m., Hirons is to pass on the gavel to Councilman Steve Petrehn, who ran unopposed for the position earlier this month. City Administrator John Carter is sad to see her go. ``I've been doing this for 30 years, and the last four were the most enjoyable years working with a very good mayor,'' he said. What makes Hirons so special, Carter added, is ``her caring for her community, her ethics and her desire to do what's right,'' as well as her ``doggedness.'' Hirons never gave up her dream of seeing the old Venture plaza redeveloped, and she pushed to expand RoeFest and to turn the Roeland Park Community Center into a true community hub, he said. Hirons, too, is proud of those accomplishments and several others. ``I can look back 12 years and see a real difference,'' she said. ``That gives you a feeling of pride and accomplishment. `` But she is quick to point out the credit isn't hers alone. She's worked with several progressive council members who shared her vision for the city. Councilman Scott Gregory has know Hirons for about 15 years and, although they don't always see eye to eye, Gregory said, they do share a mutual respect. ``Over the years, Lori and I have been just screaming at each other and yet we come through it being able to talk, being able to deal with each other,'' Gregory said. ``I truly believe that she has remained focused and hasn't indulged in intrigue and manipulation.'' Hirons is the first to admit that public service isn't a popularity contest, and some council members may think she's too brusque. ``I am very direct; I am very honest,'' she said. ``You've got to be yourself.'' Hirons' direct and honest nature is one of the things Mission Mayor Laura McConwell appreciates the most. ``She's approachable and she is straight; you can believe what she says, and she doesn't play games,'' McConwell said. ``Whether I agree or not, it's a lot easier to know where someone's coming from.'' Plus, McConwell added: ``She's a lot of fun. She's just a dynamo.'' Hirons joined the council in 1993 after a one-year stint on the board of zoning appeals and several years' involvement with her church and neighborhood. She was elected mayor in 2001 with 64 percent of the vote. In that time she's helped secure professional management for the city and a new building for City Hall and the police department. She's also helped set up benefit districts for storm water projects, secure a $1.2 million federal grant for drainage improvements and implement a city ethics ordinance, which she described as a moral compass for council members. Still, Hirons said, her biggest accomplishment is the $31 million Venture plaza redevelopment project, which is expected to boost the city's sales tax base. ``The work I did on that is hopefully my gift to the city,'' she said. Now Hirons plans to devote more time to her career as the vice president for public affairs for Citi Cards, a division of Citigroup in Kansas City, and her husband, Frank. As for politics? ``I don't believe this is the last time you're going to see my name on a ballot, but it won't be in 2006,'' she said.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of S. 256, the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act. The bankruptcy bill before us today is the product of years of bipartisan discussions and compromises, and while this legislation is not perfect, it is a serious, good faith effort to reform our bankruptcy laws and reduce the worst abuses in the consumer bankruptcy system. The House has passed substantially similar legislation with strong majorities in each of the last four Congresses, and the Senate followed suit last month when it passed S. 256 by a 3-1 margin. Bankruptcy filings have increased by 70 percent over the last decade, and last year alone Americans filed over 1.6 million consumer bankruptcy petitions. S. 256 will not eliminate bankruptcy filings in our country, but it is a necessary effort to change the status quo and ensure that only those debtors who most need the bankruptcy system will be able to use it. S. 256 would raise the repayment priority of domestic support obligations, including alimony and child support, from seventh to first, and would make failure to pay domestic support obligations a cause for conversion or dismissal of a debtor's case. S. 256 would also protect tax-exempt retirement savings accounts from creditors' claims. The bill expressly upholds the Supreme Court's recent ruling that creditors may not seize Individual Retirement Accounts [IRAs] when people file for bankruptcy, ensuring protection for retirement accounts relied upon by millions of Americans. Consequently, IRAs now join 401(k)s, Social Security, and other benefits tied to age, illness or disability that are afforded protection under bankruptcy law. Further, S. 256 would make non-dischargeable credit card purchases of $500 or more, if made within 90 days of filing for bankruptcy, and all cash advances that total $750 or more, if made within 70 days of filing. Sometimes consumers who know that they will have to file for bankruptcy protection make excessive purchases on credit with the full knowledge that they will never have to repay this debt. Approximately $44 billion in consumer debt is erased each year through bankruptcy, and this discharged debt increases the costs of goods and services for all consumers. Retailers pass on to consumers the costs that are lost to bankruptcy, and the means test included in S. 256 could save between $4 billion and $5 billion of this discharged debt. Additionally, the bill seeks to tighten the homestead exemption by limiting the amount of equity a homeowner could protect if a piece of property in a homestead exemption state is purchased within the 40- month period prior to a bankruptcy filing. Bankruptcy filers convicted of a range of crimes, including fraud, violations of securities laws, and criminal acts resulting in injury or death would lose the ability to shield their assets in property holdings regardless of when they purchased their property. The bankruptcy bill's homestead exemption provisions attempt to ensure that wealthy debtors with the means to payoff at least some of their debts will no longer be able to hide behind the bankruptcy system. As some opponents of the bill have noted, some debtors are forced to file for bankruptcy as a result of unmanageable medical bills, divorce, or job loss. These financial hardships unfortunately happen every day, and too often prevent honest, hardworking individuals and families from getting ahead or pulling themselves out of debt. This legislation seeks to protect the ability of these debtors to file for relief under Chapter 7 of the bankruptcy code by creating a means test that will continue to allow low-income debtors who earn less than the median income of the state in which they live to file under Chapter 7. According to the 2000 Census, the median household income in my congressional district is approximately $51,000. The means test recognizes that those in our society who are the least able to repay their debts should have the opportunity to enjoy a fresh start in life. And because many debtors are forced to file for bankruptcy as a result of medical expenses, S. 256 allows bankruptcy filers to challenge the means test by demonstrating ``special circumstances,'' such as a serious medical condition, that justify additional expenses or adjustments to their income. Individuals who are forced to file for bankruptcy due to medical expenses should be able to emerge from bankruptcy with the possibility of a second chance in life. Finally, S. 256 contains several provisions that seek to improve consumers' financial literacy in an attempt to decrease the total number of future bankruptcy filings. The bill would require debtors to receive credit counseling from a non-profit credit counseling agency prior to filing for bankruptcy, and requires filers to complete an approved instructional course on personal financial management before receiving a discharge under either Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. Mr. Speaker, while S. 256 is certainly not a perfect piece of legislation, it is my hope that this bill will reduce the number of bankruptcy filings in our country and maintain a fair bankruptcy system for those who need it the most in our society.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce legislation that would repeal the estate tax for 99.7% of all estates in our country. During my time in Congress, I have strongly supported estate tax relief for American families, farmers, and small businesses, and continue to support the ability of one generation to transfer a business and assets to the next generation. During my first term in Congress I voted to override then-President Clinton's veto of a measure that repealed the estate tax, and later voted for President Bush's 2001 tax cut package, which included a phase-out and temporary repeal of the estate tax. Unfortunately, however, our country's fiscal situation has changed dramatically over the last several years, and while I continue to support estate tax relief, I also continue to support fiscally responsible policies that will not transfer trillions of dollars in debt to future generations. On February 17, 2004, the national debt of the United States exceeded $7 trillion for the first time in our country's history. One year later, our national debt is $7.8 trillion. In the past year alone, our country has added $800 billion to our national debt. The ``debt tax'' that we are imposing on our children and grandchildren cannot be repealed, and can only be reduced if we take responsible steps now to improve our fiscal situation. This week the House is scheduled to consider a full repeal of the estate tax. Repeal of the estate tax will cost approximately $290 billion over just the next ten years, and although I support full repeal in theory, the sad truth is that our country cannot afford the luxury of an estate tax repeal at this time. My legislation would provide immediate relief by raising the amount of an estate exempt from any estate tax liability from $1.5 million to $3.5 million. Additionally, the exemption for married couples would rise to $7 million under my bill. I believe this measure strikes an appropriate balance between the enormous cost of full repeal and the unacceptable cost of doing nothing. 99.7 percent of the estates in our country would face no estate tax liability at all under this legislation. Further, H.R. 8, the estate tax repeal bill that the House will consider in the near future, would preserve the reinstitution of carryover basis rules that are contained in the 2001 tax law. Replacing the step-up in basis that currently exists with the carryover basis rules that used to exist in our tax code, and will temporarily reappear in 2010, would impose a very real, very significant compliance burden, and capital gains tax increase, on approximately 71,000 estates every year. By repealing the step-up in cost basis, which allows heirs to value an inherited asset at the market value of that asset on the date of a benefactor's death, H.R. 8 would force individuals and families to determine the price of a transferred asset at the date at which the asset was originally purchased. This means that a piece of property originally purchased several decades ago for $25,000 and sold for $325,000 today would be subject to a taxable capital gain of $300,000. Taxable gains on transferred property are particularly burdensome in light of the unprecedented real estate boom our country has experienced over the last several years. My legislation would preserve the step-up in basis and thereby provide substantial capital gains tax relief to thousands of American families. Full repeal of the estate tax may still be an option for future Congresses to consider, but until we are able to improve the fiscal situation of our country, Congress should attempt to strike a balance between total repeal and the status quo, which will significantly increase the estate tax burden in 2011. We need to ensure that the federal government is preparing adequately for the unprecedented demographic shift that will strain Social Security and Medicare in the decades to come. Spending nearly $300 billion over the next ten years on full repeal of the estate tax poses a genuine threat to Social Security and Medicare and will impose an unnecessary burden on our children and grandchildren, who will be forced to pay back with interest the debt we are accumulating today.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to note an important event in the Third Congressional District of Kansas. On Apri1 18, 2005, the Volunteer Center of Johnson County in Overland Park, Kansas, will honor outstanding youth volunteers. Seventy-one young people have been nominated by school personnel and nonprofit organizations for their dedication and service to the community. Youth volunteerism continues to grow and be a strong force in Johnson County. These 71 youths exemplify the true meaning of volunteerism and giving back to their community. It is my honor to recognize each student volunteer, their school, their age, number of hours volunteered, and their hometown by listing them in the Congressional Record. Molly Allison-Gallimore, Home School, 15, 500+, Spring Hill, KS. Kirsten Amble, Shawnee Mission Northwest High School, 17, 150, Shawnee, KS. Brett Beyer, Shawnee Mission Northwest High School, 18, 350, Lake Quivira, KS. Cheryl Bornheimer, Shawnee Mission West High School, 18, 100, Shawnee Mission, KS. Brea Buchanan, Olathe East High School, 16, 217, Olathe,

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Sherman W. Dreiseszun, of Leawood, Kansas, who on May 14, 2005, at Kehilath Israel Synagogue of Overland Park, Kansas, will celebrate his Second Bar Mitzvah. On May 25, 1935, at Voliner Synagogue of Overland Park, Sherman W. Dreiseszun, the son of Sam and Bertha Dreiseszun, was called to the Torah to celebrate his Bar Mitzvah and take his place as an adult in the Jewish Community. The Old Testament defines a person's life as three score and ten (seventy years). Since the age of Bar Mitzvah is thirteen, when a man has the good fortune to reach his eighty-third birthday, he has earned the right to celebrate his Second Bar Mitzvah. Sherman's commitment to Judaism and to Kehilath Israel Synagogue was deeply rooted in the promise he made during his service in World War II. Sherman was a waist gunner in the Air Force, and the plane to which he was assigned was forced to ditch in the Atlantic. While in the ocean, hoping to be rescued, Sherman pledged that if he was saved from that peril, he would commit himself to Judaism, his Synagogue, and to the Jewish community. Sherman made good on that promise, first by becoming the youngest President of Kehilath Israel to ever hold that position in 1959 and 1960, and then being re-elected President in 1978 for an additional term. He has worked for and led numerous organizations, reaching out to improve individual lives in the Jewish community. Sherman's dynamic work on behalf of Kehilath Israel, the Jewish community and the overall Kansas City community has created a new face for the entire metropolitan landscape. Sherman has been the backbone and the lifeline for Kehilath Israel Synagogue. To show the respect that the congregation has for Sherman, he has been designated as Honorary President for Life. On July 7, 1946, Sherman married Irene Friedman. Irene and Sherman will be celebrating their 59th wedding anniversary this summer. Irene also will be celebrating her 80th birthday on August 25, 2005. Irene and Sherman are the parents of the late Barbara Dreiseszun, the late Richard Dreiseszun; daughter-in-law Gail Dreiseszun of Shawnee Mission, Kansas; and of daughter and son-in-law Helone and Marshall Abrams of Denver, Colorado. Their grandchildren Brooke and James Levy and Erica and Evan Fisher all reside in New York City. Mr. Speaker, I thank you for this opportunity to pay public tribute to Sherman W. Dreiseszun, who has been the backbone and the lifeline of both his Synagogue and his community at large. I congratulate him on his upcoming Second Bar Mitzvah and congratulate him and Irene on their upcoming 59th anniversary.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Dr. Ray Daniels, superintendent of the Kansas City, Kansas, school system, who is retiring after a distinguished career as an educator and administrator. As superintendent of the Kansas City, Kansas, Public Schools for the last eight years, Dr. Ray Daniels has been called ``the model for what superintendents could and should be.'' He has devoted his entire professional career to the Kansas City school district. This distinguished career began at Northwest Junior High School in 1965 where he worked as an English teacher and head boys' basketball coach. He later joined the faculty at Wyandotte High School and served as head track coach. Dr. Daniels worked his way up as an assistant principal at Wyandotte in 1973 and became Director of Personnel for the school district in 1976. He was named Assistant Superintendent for Personnel Services in 1980. When appointed superintendent in March 1998, Dr. Daniels immediately worked to close the achievement gap for minority students and students living in poverty, and to correct low student achievement, high dropout rates, unsafe schools, and poor attendance. He is recognized as being ahead of the curve, implementing reforms in his district long before the trend of stronger accountability became popular across the country. Dr. Daniels' efforts have paid dividends for Kansas City schools and our community. His district continues to see significant progress in reading and math achievement. He has provided leadership and served on numerous community organizations including the KCK Area Chamber of Commerce, United Way of Wyandotte County, Heart of America Family Services, Cancer Action, the Wyandotte Health Foundation, Metropolitan Lutheran Ministries, and the Downtown KCK Kiwanis Club. Dr. Daniels has earned the respect and trust of the community as he has led his district in becoming one of the most successful examples of urban school reform in America. The Kansas Association of School Administrators named Dr. Daniels the 2005 Kansas Superintendent of the Year and he was a candidate for the National Superintendent of the Year honor. Dr. Daniels was also named ``Educator of the Year'' by Young Audiences. There is probably not a tougher job than serving as a superintendent of an urban school district and not a better person for the job these last eight years than Dr. Ray Daniels. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the citizens and parents of Kansas City, Kansas, I say to Dr. Ray Daniels: thank you for your service to our community and our children. You will be missed!

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce legislation designating the United States Postal Service facility located at 12433 Antioch Road in Overland Park, Kansas, as the ``Ed Eilert Post Office Building.'' I am joined in sponsoring this measure by my colleagues from Kansas: Representatives Todd Tiahrt, Jim Ryun and Jerry Moran, and I am grateful for their support of this bipartisan legislation. Later this month, an era will come to an end in Overland Park. Ed Eilert will step down as Mayor of Overland Park, an office to which he was elected six times and held for twenty-four years. Since he was sworn into office in 1981, Overland Park has grown to become Kansas' second largest city. Its population has nearly doubled to over 165,000, the number of people working within the city's limits has more than tripled, with roughly 120,000 jobs in Overland Park today, and hotel capacity has increased from about 800 rooms to 5,100 rooms. During his tenure, 21,897 single family and 19,533 multifamily residences have been added in Overland Park, along with 23.7 million square feet of office, retail and industrial space. Over the years, the city has seen the arrival of the Sprint campus, three new hospitals, the University of Kansas Edwards campus, the Carlsen Center at Johnson County Community College, and a city convention center. Additionally, under Ed Eilert's leadership the city has added the landmark Clock Tower Plaza and the Farmer's Market in the downtown area, a neighborhood conservation program, the Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, the International Trade Center, the W. Jack Sanders Justice Center, and interchanges at 1-435 at both Nall Avenue and Quivira Road. Mayor Eilert also supported construction of the Fire Training Center, used by many other city and county fire departments in the Kansas City metropolitan area, and he worked with Johnson County Community College to create a training facility for Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway employees on the college campus. And during Mayor Eilert's tenure, the city's land area expanded by 36 percent, to nearly 62 square miles. Finally, Overland Park enjoys a top rating for a solid financial condition. It has received numerous awards as an outstanding city. For years, Overland Park has had the lowest property tax rate of any first-class city in Kansas. Ed Eilert was first elected to the Overland Park City Council in 1977 and became Council president in 1980. A former teacher at Shawnee Mission North High School, he knows firsthand how Overland Park has benefited significantly from its nationally recognized school systems. He had made his first visit to the city in 1960 because it was the home of Jan Bush, who he met while studying at Emporia State University and would marry two years later. The Eilerts moved to Overland Park in 1965 when he completed graduate school. In 1977, he began his first campaign for political office and has been a public servant continuously since then. He also has been a financial consultant with A.G. Edwards & Sons and serves on the board of directors of Metcalf Bank. When you consider the daunting array of challenges that Ed Eilert faced in his twenty four years as mayor of Overland Park, you cannot help but agree with Bob Sigmund, the opinion page editor of the Johnson County Sun, who recently wrote that Eilert ``provided the vision and leadership in shaping Overland Park's success as an ideal place to live, work and raise a family . . . Eilert's political skills have been especially useful in easing tensions--and maintaining an acceptable balance--between the older, established neighborhoods in northern Overland Park and the rapidly expanding new subdivisions in the south.'' I am proud to call Ed Eilert my friend. While we are members of different political parties, I have always been impressed by his sound judgment, diligence, and dedication to his community and to the public welfare. When he sought the Republican nomination for the U.S. House in 1996, however, he lost narrowly to then-State Representative Vince Snowbarger for the nomination to succeed Representative Jan Meyers. I often tell Third District residents that I would have not sought election to Congress myself had Ed Eilert been elected two years before I became a candidate for the office. Dedication of this Postal Service facility in Overland Park is a small but fitting tribute to a man who has dedicated most of his adult life to public service at the community level, working tirelessly to bring people together while ensuring quality economic development and competence in the delivery of local services. I commend Mayor Ed Eilert and again thank my colleagues in the Kansas House delegation for their support. I hope the House can move quickly to approve this legislation so we can soon see it signed into law.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Speaker, since February 1990, Terri Schiavo and her family have been coping with a tragic situation involving the most sensitive and difficult question imaginable. Congress and the American people should respect any person and their family dealing with an end of life decision. Over the past 15 years, 19 judges sitting on six different courts have ultimately determined that Terri Schiavo did not wish to be kept alive in a persistent vegetative state. Congress should respect her wish and stay out of the personal lives of families in tragic situations such as this. These heart-rending decisions are best made by the individual and family after discussions with treating physicians and clergy--not by Washington politicians. At the time I received notice there would be a vote on the bill regarding Terri Schiavo, I went immediately to the airport but was not able to get a flight to Washington in time. Had I been present, I would have voted to respect the wishes of Terri Schiavo. I hope every American will consider writing or revising a living will to clearly state their wishes regarding end of life decisions and keep a similar tragedy from happening in their family.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in opposition to the FY06 budget resolution, and reluctant opposition to the Democratic alternative. Unfortunately, I do not believe that the choices before us today adequately confront the serious deficiencies in our budget process. The congressional budget process is broken, and badly in need of real reforms that will reinstate fiscal responsibility into Congress. The Blue Dog Coalition, of which I am a member, has introduced a twelve- step plan that takes the necessary first steps toward reforming our budget process. While I support many of the provisions in the Democratic budget, including a partial restoration of ``pay-as-you-go'' [PAYGO] rules and level funding for domestic priorities such as education, veterans' health care, and local law enforcement, I am disappointed that this alternative did not include any of the Blue Dog budget process reforms. The Blue Dog twelve-step plan would stop Congress's recent borrow- and-spend practices by reinstating PAYGO rules for the entire budget, including spending and revenue measures. Budget enforcement rules that apply to only certain parts of the budget will not have a significant impact on our rising deficits, as Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan mentioned in his recent testimony before the House Budget Committee. Additionally, the Blue Dog budget process reform plan would: create a ``rainy day'' fund for emergency spending, which forty-five states currently have; require a roll call vote on any bill calling for more than $50 million in new spending; repeal the House rule that allows the House to avoid a direct, up-or-down vote on debt limit increases; and require cost estimates by the Congressional Budget Office [CBO] for every bill that Congress votes on. These reasonable, common-sense reforms are necessary for a functioning budget process and long overdue. The fiscal situation in our country is now out of control, and only tough budget discipline will get us back on track. On February 17, 2004, the national debt of the United States exceeded $7 trillion for the first time in our country's history. One year later, our national debt is $7.7 trillion. In the past year, our country has added $700 billion to our national debt. The out-of-control rise in our national debt over the last year is just another sign of the astonishing fiscal turnaround that our country has experienced over the last four years, and another sign of the terrible fiscal position that we now find ourselves in. In 2001, we had ten-year projected surpluses of $5.6 trillion [2002- 2011]. Now, over that same time period, we have likely ten-year deficits of $3.9 trillion. That's a $9.5 trillion reversal in our ten- year fiscal outlook. Whether intentional or otherwise, our country's current fiscal policies are depriving the Federal Government of future revenue at a time when we ought to be preparing for an unprecedented demographic shift that will strain Social Security and Medicare. Our current fiscal irresponsibility will eventually land squarely on the shoulders of our children and grandchildren, who will be forced to pay back the debt we are accumulating today with interest. This ``debt tax'' that we are imposing on our children and grandchildren cannot be repealed, and can only be reduced if we take responsible steps now to improve our situation. Both parties need to work together in a bipartisan fashion to bring our budget back into balance so we can avoid the higher long-term interest rates and weakened dollar that are a consequence of rising deficits and a high national debt. This fiscal year alone, interest on the national debt is expected to rise to $178 billion, and the administration projects that that figure will increase to $211 billion during the next fiscal year. To put that figure in perspective, projected interest on our national debt next year will be $75 billion more than projected spending on education, public health, health research, and veterans' benefits combined [$138 billion]. In addition to assuming an ever-larger share of our annual budgets, the interest on our debt, and the debt itself, is increasing our reliance on foreign borrowers, which will weaken our position in the world and increase the risk that another nation will be able to assert greater leverage over America. Finally, our deficits and debt threaten the Social Security and Medicare programs that have lifted so many of our seniors out of poverty and helped sustain the strongest middle class in history. Unfortunately, the administration's FY06 budget, which was released last month, would spend $2.6 trillion of the projected Social Security surplus over the next ten years. With a projected 75 year unfunded liability of $3.7 trillion, both parties in Congress need to work together to address Social Security's solvency problem. It is time for Congress to stop playing games with our national debt, with Social Security, and with our kids and grandkids' futures and take a commonsense, bipartisan approach to solve our budget problems.

Mr. MOORE of Kansas

Mr. MOORE of Kansas. Mr. Chairman, we have in this country a $7.7 trillion national debt. We have deficit for the past 4 years of over $400 billion a year. We have interest between a half a billion dollars and three-quarters of a billion dollars a day, interest a day on our national debt. We have got to change the way we are doing business in this country, or our children and grandchildren and future generations will not have a chance. The first rule of holes is when you are in a hole and you do not want to go deeper, stop digging. We just keep digging this hole deeper and deeper and deeper. This should not be about Republicans and Democrats. This should not be partisan at all. We are all in this together. We ought to be working together to return to fiscal responsibility. Some people talk fiscal responsibility, but they are not willing to practice it. I proposed a couple of years ago that we reinstate what is called PAYGO, pay-as-you-go rule. That would require if you have a new spending proposal or a new tax cut proposal, you have to say how it will be paid for. Pretty simple, pretty commonsense. Chairman Alan Greenspan has recommended that to the Committee on the Budget, to the House of Representatives that we should return to the PAYGO rule and we should do that. That would keep us from putting our country deeper and deeper in debt. But we are not doing that, and we have got to change the way we are doing business here. We are putting our kids and grandchildren in a hole so deep I am concerned that they will never be able to climb out if we do not turn things around here. We should all come together, Republicans and Democrats, and say we are going to restore fiscal responsible; we will take care of business. But we cannot have just unlimited tax cuts. It is like a kid going into a candy store saying, I got a dollar, when what he wants to buy is a $1.50 worth. They say, You do not have enough money. But I want it. Well, we cannot have everything we want. We can have selected tax cuts, we can have selected spending; but we cannot have everything across the board and keep our country in the black.