Peter Visclosky

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to the rule because it does not make in order an important bipartisan enforcement amendment proposed by our colleagues, the gentleman from Texas [Mr. Barton] and the gentleman from Minnesota [Mr. Minge]. The Barton-Minge takes a common sense approach to enforcing the budget reconciliation bill. It acknowledges that our best hope of actually balancing the budget is to put every section of the budget on the table, including entitlements and revenues, and that we must hold the President and the Congress accountable. Enforcement is important. The lessons of previous budget resolutions is that agreeing to a balanced budget does not guarantee it will be. No fewer than four times over the last 15 years Congress and Presidents have approved budget-balancing amendments, but they have not led to a balanced budget because they were not enforceable. We have been told repeatedly that enforcement mechanisms should be addressed. We have been told by the Committee on the Budget, enforcement should be addressed. We have been told by the Committee on Rules, enforcement should be addressed. It has not been addressed in this rule. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong opposition to the rule because it does not make in order an important bipartisan enforcement amendment proposed by our colleagues, Mr. Barton and Mr. Minge. The Barton-Minge amendment takes a common sense approach to enforcing the budget reconciliation bill. It acknowledges that our best hope of actually balancing the budget is to put every section of the budget on the table--including entitlements and revenues--and that we must hold the President and the Congress accountable if we do not live up to the budget targets agreed to earlier this month. While I voted for the budget resolution earlier this month, I did so with serious reservations. One of my most serious concerns is the lack of meaningful enforcement procedures to ensure that the budget is balanced as projected by the year 2002. The lesson of previous budget resolutions is that agreeing to balance the budget does not guarantee that the budget will actually be balanced. No fewer than four times over the past 15 years Congress has approved budget agreements that were supposed to get us to a balanced budget, but failed to actually do so. For example, in 1982, the budget resolution called for a balanced budget in 1984. Yet, the budget was not balanced by that date. In 1985, under Gramm-Rudman I, we were told that the budget would be balanced in 1991. It was not. In 1987, under Gramm-Rudman II, we were told that the budget would be balanced in 1993, but it was not. In 1990, under the Budget Enforcement Act, we were told that, finally, the budget would be balanced in 1994. Again, it was not. The common thread in these failed attempts to balance the budget was the lack of a meaningful enforcement mechanism. I would also like to point out that enforcement is not a new or transitory issue. In the last two Congresses I sponsored important legislation designed to bring strong enforcement procedures to the budget process. This legislation, the Balanced Budget Enforcement Act, was originally introduced by then-chairman of the Budget Committee Leon Panetta and, after that, our former colleague from Minnesota, Tim Penny. I have appeared before both the Rules Committee and the Budget Committee asking that comprehensive enforcement mechanisms be included in the budget process. So far, however, no action has been taken by either committee. Leading up to consideration of the budget reconciliation bill, we were told that enforcement would be addressed as part of the legislation. Unfortunately, however, the Rules Committee did not make the Barton-Minge enforcement amendment in order, and we again find ourselves with a major budget bill that contains no serious enforcement language. Mr. Speaker, I am extremely disappointed that this rule does not make language on enforcement in order, and I urge my colleagues to oppose it.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to John T. Myers and in strong support of H.R. 1058, designating the new postal facility in Terre Haute, IN, as the John T. Myers Post Office. John Myers' career is one of inspiration and dedication. The third most senior Republican in the House and the Republican dean of Indiana's congressional delegation when he retired last year, John Myers served the people of Indiana's Seventh Congressional District with honor and dignity for 30 years. During the course of those years, John earned the reputation as a man of impeccable character, honesty, and integrity. A staunch fiscal conservative, John took great pride in the knowledge that he never voted for a tax increase as he worked hard to provide a better life for his children and his grandchildren as well as all the children of our Nation. I had the honor of serving with John since I was first elected to Indiana's congressional delegation in 1984. Before that I got to know him when I worked on the staff of the late Congressman Adam Benjamin, Jr. From the moment I met Mr. Myers over two decades ago, I never once doubted that he was someone I could trust as both a generous friend and a trusted colleague. John's leadership on the Committee on Appropriations, the committee on which I serve, was particularly distinguished. From the time he joined the committee in 1970, John compiled a remarkable legislative record, punctuated by fairness and, as many speakers have already said, a sense of bipartisanship. Throughout his career and most recently as chairman of the Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, he used his experience to craft needed flood control projects for his farming intensive district. However, John's work on the subcommittee always went beyond helping out his own constituents. He was a longtime advocate for high-technology research, including projects in new cancer treatments, plant biodiversity, superconductivity, and general science at Purdue, Indiana State, and other universities throughout the Nation. It was a great honor for me to serve under his chairmanship on the Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development in the last Congress. Although I was sad to see John Myers leave the Congress last year, his presence has left behind an indelible impression on the men and women with whom he served. Passage of H.R. 1058 is a fitting tribute to a man who never really left behind his hometown roots in Indiana and yet managed to become one of this body's most honorable and capable leaders. I wish John, his wife Carol, and his family every happiness.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to congratulate St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Hammond, IN, on the joyous occasion of its centennial celebration this Sunday, June 22, 1997. The day's festivities will begin with a Mass of Thanksgiving at 3:00 p.m., officiated by the Most Reverend Dale J. Melczek. Following the mass, a gala reception will begin at 4:30 p.m. in the parish's Panel Room Banquet Hall. The reception will include dinner, several guest speakers, and live performances by the Lubo Pala Slovak Folk Band, the Vychodna Slovak Folk Dance Ensemble, soprano, Dorothy Hoover, the St. John adult choir, and the Stanley Paul Orchestra. The founding of St. John the Baptist Church is one of struggle and triumph. In the spring of 1897, after successfully petitioning Bishop Joseph Radermacher for a Czechoslovakian priest to serve those in the community of Slovak heritage, a welcoming committee met Father Benedict Rajcany in Hammond on April 17, Holy Saturday. His first mass was offered on Easter Sunday 1897 at Sacred Heart Church in Whiting, IN, since no Slovak church existed at the time. Soon after, the Slovak Catholic Union Branch 130 transformed its meeting hall into a church, which was dedicated on July 4, 1897. The church was dedicated to St. John the Baptist because the new pastor stated he felt like ``one crying in the wilderness'' in his new assignment in the United States. By the time World War I began in 1914, the church had been enlarged to accommodate 650 parishioners. By 1921, the first regular assistant, Father Michael Kosko, was appointed to the church. During his ministry, Father Rajcany continued to place emphasis on the English language and on the Americanization of his parishioners. Some objected, but their reluctance was soon overcome. At approximately the same time, priests from St. Joseph College in Rensselaer, IN, journeyed to assist the parish on weekends. By 1925, it became apparent that a new and larger church would be needed. That same year, the future pastor of St. John, Reverend John Kostik, C.P.P.S., arrived as a permanent assistant. Later, at the suggestion of Father Rajcany, Father Kostik was appointed pastor of St. John by Bishop John F. Noll. Also during that year, the parish was placed under the supervision of the Society of the Precious Blood, and it continues to be served by priests of the society to this day. Groundwork for the new church, the work of Chicago architect Herman Gaul, began in May, 1930. Knowing the economic seriousness of the times and the dangers of bankruptcy, Father Kostik placed the success of the $300,000 venture in the hands of St. Therese, the Little Flower of Jesus. Amazingly, during this period of financial disaster, the parish lost only $340, and the entire debt was retired by 1942. The new Romanesque style church, with its 190-foot steeple, stands as a tribute to God from those founders of Slovak heritage. In the late 1940's, much-needed additions to the parish were begun. Plans conceived by then-pastor Father John F. Lafko, C.P.P.S., were carried out by his successor, Father Gabriel Brenkus, C.P.P.S. In 1948, construction on the first phase of the new school, consisting of classrooms, a convent, and the Panel Room Banquet Hall, began. After its completion in 1951, the second phase of construction, consisting of an auditorium, gymnasium, and additional classrooms, began in 1955. The final addition to the St. John the Baptist complex was a new rectory, which was completed in 1967. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating the parish family of St. John the Baptist, under the guidance of Father John Kalicky, C.P.P.S., and former pastor-in- residence Father Edward Homco, C.P.P.S., as they prepare to celebrate their centennial in 1997. Their slogan, ``We Remember, We Celebrate, We Believe,'' reverberates throughout the community in a celebration of faith--faith in God, faith in country, and faith in people. In this spirit, St. John has enhanced the quality of life within the Hammond community through its religious, educational, and cultural contributions for the past 100 years.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Andy Jacobs and in strong support of H.R. 1057 to designate the new postal facility in Indianapolis, IN, in his honor. I had the pleasure of serving with Andy since I was first elected to join the Indiana's congressional delegation in 1984 and until his retirement last year. In that time, I grew to appreciate him not only as one of the most thoughtful, honorable, and well-spoken legislators to serve in this body, but also as a good friend. Because Andy's sons, Andy and Steve, and my boys, John and Tim, were born about the same time, we were able to share the mutual joys of fatherhood together. And whether our advice to each other on raising sons would be considered problematic or not, we always took pleasure about talking about Johnko and Bronko. While I will certainly miss his wisdom and sense of humor in these Halls, I find comfort in the knowledge that Andy is enjoying his retirement with his wife, Kim Hood, and by watching his two boys grow up to be mature young men. Since Andy was first elected to represent Indiana's 10th Congressional District in 1964, he made his mark as a tremendous legislator. As a new Member of Congress, he helped to write the 1965 Voting Rights Act, and led the House debate to help get the United States out of Vietnam. A member of the Committee on Ways and Means, Andy quickly developed an expertise in Medicare and Social Security, and he worked tirelessly to help improve the lives of millions of America's senior citizens. During his tenure in the House, he served as chairman of both the Subcommittee on Health and the Subcommittee on Social Security of the Committee on Ways and Means. In Andy's capacities he was able to strengthen and enhance the Social Security Administration and Medicare programs. Widely recognized as one of the most fiscally conservative Members of Congress, Andy was an early proponent of a balanced budget constitutional amendment, and took the lead on other efforts to reduce Federal spending. He also was legendary among Members of the House for his own frugality, regularly returning tens of thousands of dollars to the U.S. Treasury from his personal office's funds. Mr. Speaker, in his own unique way, Andy Jacobs came to epitomize what is good and right about serving his fellow citizens as a Member of Congress. Indeed, with his interests ranging from poetry to Social Security, the people of Indiana and the rest of the Nation are fortunate to have had Andy Jacobs representing their interests in the United States Congress. Passage of H.R. 1057 is only a small token of our appreciation, and I urge my colleagues to support it.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today to congratulate Dr. Francisco F. and Geraldine Levinson on their receipt of the 1997 Merrillville Exchange Club's Book of Golden Deeds Award. Dr. and Mrs. Levinson will receive this award at a luncheon held at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza in Merrillville, IN, tomorrow, June 12, 1997. The Levinsons will be joined by friends and family on this special occasion. The Exchange Club, a national organization devoted to a variety of initiatives involving the Nation's youth, the well-being of its communities, and responsibility of its citizens, bestows the Book of Golden Deeds Award upon individuals who have accepted leadership roles in bettering the communities and/or world in which they live. The Levinsons have been awarded the Book of Golden Deeds Award, the most distinguished award the service club can bestow, for their many contributions to the communities of Gary and Merrillville. The Levinsons have positively impacted these communities by contributing their time and energy in the areas of health, community organizations, and sports. Dr. Levinson served on the Gary Board of Health for 25 years, and the Indiana State Board of Health for 20 years. Among his many accomplishments while with these organizations was his instrumental role in bringing water fluoridation to the area's filtration system. Dr. and Mrs. Levinson were also essential in the erection of the main building for the Lake County Association for Retarded Children. In addition, Dr. and Mrs. Levinson have devoted their efforts to numerous volunteer organizations. Dr. Levinson served 5 years of active duty in the U.S. Army, followed by 29 years in the Active Reserves, from which he retired as a lieutenant colonel. He was also an active member of the Gary Exchange Club where he instituted the Toothbrush fund raiser, which successfully raised money for the organization by selling toothbrushes to large corporations. Dr. Levinson has also maintained leadership positions in numerous professional, civic, and community service organizations. Over the years, he has served as president of the Gary Dental Association, the Northwest Indiana Dental Association, the Indiana State Dental Association, Jewish War Veterans, and B'nai B'rith. He has also served on the board of directors for the YMCA, Jewish Welfare Federation, and Consumer Credit Counseling of Northwest Indiana. Mrs. Levinson has been active in many community organizations, as well, including the Methodist Hospital Auxiliary, the Job Corps Agency, Israel Bond Drive, Jewish Federation, Temple Beth-El, and Temple Israel. She was also a soloist for the Macedonian Choir, and has served on the auxiliary of the Northwest Indiana Dental Society. The Levinsons have also devoted much time to promoting sports within the community. Over the past 10 years, the Levinsons have been positive influences on the members of the Merrillville High School tennis team, during which Dr. Levinson has acted as a volunteer assistant coach. Creating organizations for community sporting activities has also been a priority for the Levinsons. Some of their endeavors have included the highly successful Gary Junior Tennis Association and the Ross Township Tennis and Racquet Club. The Levinsons were also very active in Club Vida, a social, athletic, and recreational club, where Dr. Levinson was the financial manager of the Club Vida basketball team. In 1940, Dr. Levinson coached the basketball team all the way to the first game of a national championship at Denver, CO. Other awards Dr. Levinson has received include the Sagamore of the Wabash Award, presented by former Indiana Governor, Robert Orr, and the Lugar Fitness Award, presented by U.S. Senator, the Honorable Richard Lugar. The Sagamore of the Wabash Award is the most prestigious award granted by the Governor of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending Dr. Francisco F. and Geraldine Levinson on their receipt of the 1997 Merrillville Exchange Club's Book of Golden Deeds Award. Their children, Eileen Samuelson and Don Levinson, five grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren, can be proud of the hard work and dedication the Levinsons have displayed while working to improve the quality of life for the residents of Indiana's First Congressional District.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, earlier today, I was unavoidably detained and was not present for rollcall votes 180 and 181. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on both.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is truly my pleasure to rise today to congratulate Mr. Adam James on winning the 1997 Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and its Ladies Auxiliary Voice of Democracy broadcast script writing contest for Indiana. A resident of Hobart, IN, Adam is one of 54 high school students Nation wide to win a college scholarship for his script on the topic, ``Democracy--Above and Beyond.'' The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States and its Ladies Auxiliary is now in its 50th year of sponsorship for the Voice of Democracy audio-essay scholarship competition. The program requires high school student entrants to write and record a 3- to 5-minute essay on an announced patriotic theme. Adam James was sponsored by VFW Post 5365 and its Ladies Auxiliary in Hobart, IN. He was named the recipient of the $1,000 Department of Arizona and Auxiliary Harry A. Kosht Memorial Scholarship Award earlier this year. A junior at Hobart High School, Adam aspires to pursue a career in law. Adam's winning broadcast script reads as follows: Living in the United States, the one thing that I cherish is democracy. Waking every morning and not donning this cloak of freedom is a notion I cannot fathom. Many Americans, myself included, often take our freedom for granted. We treat it as a right instead of the privilege that it is. Fortunately for us, in our democratic society, freedom is a right. I wish that I could praise my ancestors for providing me with freedom, but I cannot. I am not related to any of the soldiers who fought or played a part in the American Revolution. My father's family were immigrants who came here in the 1800s. My mother's side of the family came to the states after World War II. Although they did not fight for America's freedom, my grandparents on my mother's side are subjects of a story that truly demonstrates what democracy is. My grandfather Nikola was a leader of a European underground movement against the Communist government. He used to tell stories about having to carry a semi-automatic pistol with his whenever he took my grandmother on a date. In fact, on the day he died, three years ago, he was still wanted dead or alive in the former Yugoslavia. In the 1940s, my grandfather was fighting against his government when Adolf Hitler invaded Eastern Europe. Being a high-ranking soldier, my grandfather knew that Hitler would imprison him, so he and my grandmother packed up their few possessions and escaped. They made it back on foot to middle Italy, where they were captured by German soldiers and placed in a work camp. Held as prisoners there, they slaved until the United Nations freed Europe from the grasp of the demoniacal Hitler. After the war, my grandparents were put in a detention camp, where my mother was born. Later, they moved to America, settled in the Midwest, and my grandfather became a steelworker. Here they bought a home and raised five children. This is what makes democracy what it is. In their former country, my grandparents had to hide to prevent being killed and would have been lucky to live to the age of thirty. In America, they had a choice of how they wanted to live their life, and how they wished to raise a family. Few countries of this world would allow this to happen. Many countries claim to be democratic but impose laws similar to those of a third world dictatorship. If these and all other countries had a government like the one in the United States, the world would not carry the burden of wars, both civil and global. These disputes claim thousands of lives and ruin the families of those who die. Besides wars, millions of people die each year from starvation because of dictators withholding food from the poor citizens. If these people lived in the United States, they would still be alive today. A democracy has many benefits for its citizens. Those who live in a democratic system are allowed to make choices that those in a communist or socialist society are not allowed to make. We are allowed to choose what career to pursue, and the amount of education we need in order to train for this career. Communist societies choose careers for their people at an early age and force them to endure the government's choice. Even if the people are successful with this venture, they cannot keep all profits made. These governments take all money earned by their subjects, then dole out an equal amount to each of them. Although this provides a proverbial safety net for people, this monotonous equality cannot make for an enjoyable life. Under the quilt of democracy, people are allowed to choose their livelihood. People are allowed to strive to be better and not worry about giving extra earnings to the government. Democratic societies are fertile fields of hopes and aspirations. Democracy is a way of life that all people should respect, although some people do not. I often become angry when I see images of people burning American flags or building militias against our government. I cannot comprehend how anyone could disagree with the concept of democracy. Then I have to stop and think of why this angers me. These people are just expressing themselves as our democracy allows them to do. This ability to express ourselves freely is what makes democracy so great. Burning the symbol of freedom that thousands of men have given their lives for is ignorant and wholly disrespectful, but these people are entitled to their opinion in a country such as America. The human mind has no boundaries in democracy. People can choose to do what they please, even if it is disrespecting the very idea that allows them to be free. This is what first attracted my grandfather to this great country. I am proud to live in a country where democracy is the type of government practiced. Mr. Speaker, I would like to once again extend my most heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Adam James on his receipt of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and its Ladies Auxiliary ``Voice of Democracy'' national scholarship. His parents, Doug and Zagorka James, can be proud of their son for the tenacity he has displayed in achieving this most noteworthy accomplishment. This young man has a promising future ahead of him, which will undoubtedly include improving the quality of life in Indiana's First Congressional District.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, It gives me great pleasure to congratulate Dr. Leslie Singer on receiving the 1997 Indiana University-Northwest Chancellor's Distinguished Service Award. This award was presented to Dr. Singer earlier this spring in recognition of his lifetime of service to Indiana University-Northwest. An economics professor at Indiana University-Northwest for 43 years, Dr. Singer has made numerous contributions to the fields of financial economics, regional and industrial economics, economic forecasting, and economics of art markets. His ground-breaking scholarly publications in the area of fine arts, for instance, have received world wide recognition and have been cited by numerous scholars. Such publications as The Wall Street Journal and Business News often quote Dr. Singer's opinions and forecast on the prices of fine art. In addition, Dr. Singer has written two economics text books, and has been published in several distinguished journals, including ``The American Economic Review,'' ``The Social Science Quarterly,'' ``The Journal of Business Forecasting Systems and Methods,'' and ``The Journal of Cultural Economics.'' Through his extensive studies, Dr. Singer has also served to aid Northwest Indiana businesses, as well as Indiana governing bodies, in a variety of capacities. Throughout his career, he has written numerous articles pertaining to the local economy, with a specific emphasis on Northwest Indiana's steel industry. In addition, Dr. Singer participates in the Indiana Economic Outlook panel, which presents a forecast for the Northwest Indiana regional economy each year. Dr. Singer also served as an advisor to the budget committee of the Indiana General Assembly, as well as to the late U.S. Senator, Paul Douglass. Several major corporations and hundreds of local businesses have grown to rely upon Dr. Singer's expertise for location and market analysis. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending Dr. Leslie Singer on his receipt of the 1997 Indiana University-Northwest Chancellor's Distinguished Service Award. His notable achievements in the field of economics have proven to be valuable assets to businesses within Indiana's First Congressional District and across the Nation.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Chairman, I move to strike the requisite number of words. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of the amendment offered by my colleagues, the gentleman from New Jersey [Mr. Pallone] and the gentleman from Michigan [Mr. Knollenberg]. For years, Armenia and Azerbaijan have engaged in a tragic conflict over the status of the Nagorno-Karabagh region. While a cease-fire has been in place since 1994, there are still thousands of refugees and civilians who are desperately in need of our help. I was disappointed that the committee rejected an amendment to the original foreign aid bill that would have encouraged U.S. humanitarian assistance to the Nagorno-Karabagh area. This amendment would have provided much needed assistance to the refugees and any civilians living in the area. The Pallone-Knollenberg amendment does not address the issue of U.S. aid nor does it take sides in the conflict between Armenia or Azerbaijan. Instead, the amendment simply expresses the sense of the Congress that the United States Government should take a leadership role in bringing a resolution to the conflict. The amendment also reaffirms the current neutral stance of the United States and encourages direct negotiations between the parties to the conflict. I support this amendment because there can be no better way to assist the war torn victims of this longstanding conflict than to help bring about a lasting peace in the region. There is nothing wrong with the U.S. remaining neutral. It is wrong for us to stand on the sidelines doing nothing to bring about a permanent resolution to this war. The Clinton administration has taken the initiative in similar conflicts around the world, and there is no good reason why we should not do the same in Nagorno-Karabagh. Mr. Chairman, the people of this region are in need of our help. The best thing that we can do for them right now is to vote for the Pallone-Knollenberg amendment. I strongly urge my colleagues to support it.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to congratulate the Croatian Sons Lodge No. 170 of the Croatian Fraternal Union on the festive occasion of its 90th anniversary and golden member banquet on Sunday, June 1, 1997. This year, the Croatian Fraternal Union will hold this gala event at the beautifully renovated Croatian Center in Merrillville, IN. Traditionally, the anniversary celebration entails a formal recognition of the union's golden members, those who have achieved 50 years of membership. Honorees who have pledged their allegiance for 50 years include: Frank Boskovich, Mary D. Cost, Olga J. Curley, Lillian Damjanovich, Violet Evans, Eleanor Fischer, Adolph Kurpis, Joseph J. Labas, Annebelle Mazlack, Robert D. Medved, Henry Mikulich, Elizabeth Morgavan, Helen Mrak, Vincent R. Mrzlak, Rosemary Muick, Mary Pastuovic, Mary Pintar, Frances Sasak, Abert P. Seibal, Frederick J. Simunic, Donald R. Starkey, Jack Tomlin, and Marion A. Youngerman. These loyal and dedicated individuals share this prestigious honor with approximately 280 additional lodge members who have attained this status. This memorable day will begin with a mass at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in Gary, IN, which will be officiated by the Reverend Father Benedict Benakovich. Following dinner, there will be a program featuring guest speaker, Mr. Bernard M. Luketich, national president of the Croatian Fraternal Union. The festivities will be culturally enriched by the performance of several Croatian entertainment groups. The Croatian Glee Club, ``Preradovic,'' directed by Brother Dennis Barunica, and the Hoosier Hrvati Adult Tamburitza Orchestra, directed by Ed Sinndicih, will both perform at the anniversary celebration. The Croatian Strings and Junior Dancers, and the Adult Kolo Group, under the direction of Elizabeth Kyriakides, will provide additional entertainment for those in attendance. I am proud to commend lodge president, Betty Morgavan, and all the other members of the Croatian Fraternal Union Lodge No. 170, for their loyalty and radiant display of passion for their ethnicity. It is my hope that this year will bring renewed hope and prosperity for all members of the Croatian community and their families.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to reiterate my commitment to balancing the budget of this country and to announce my reserved support for the resolution. I support the resolution because I wish to move the budget process along, but I also feel compelled to enumerate a serious concern I have regarding the pending resolution. The targets outlined today should be enforceable and they are not. Why should they be enforceable? Let us look at the historical record. Under the 1982 budget resolution shown on the chart to my right we were told that the budget would be balanced in 1984. The green lines are targets. The red lines are the truth. The budget was not balanced. In 1985, under Gramm-Rudman 1, we were told that the budget would be balanced in 1991. It was not. In 1987, under Gramm-Rudman 2, we were told that the budget would be balanced in 1993, and it was not. In 1990, under the Budget Enforcement Act, we were told that finally the budget would be balanced in 1994, and, again, all of those green targets show a balanced budget. All of the red lines show the historical record. Today the last lines I will draw attention to would be the 1997 deal that does not even give the pretext that in the immediate future the deficit will go down. The red line shows the March CBO baseline. What do all of these budgets have in common? None contain enforcement mechanisms and never was the budget balanced. That is why earlier this year I introduced the budget enforcement act of 1997, which was cosponsored by my colleagues, the gentleman from Minnesota [Mr. Minge], the gentleman from Texas [Mr. Stenholm], and the gentleman from California [Mr. Dooley]. That is why I joined with 59 of my colleagues in sending a bipartisan letter to the Committee on the Budget requesting that tough enforcement language similar to that contained in the balanced budget enforcement act be included in tonight's resolution. When the Committee on the Budget did not include comprehensive enforcement language, an effort was made in the Committee on Rules to give the entire House the opportunity to approve or reject enforcement procedures as part of the budget resolution approved by the committee. Unfortunately, the Committee on Rules rebuffed this request. This is a serious flaw and one reason why I and other supporters of the conservative coalition budget will work hard to overcome the experience of history and keep the pressure on all parties involved to make sure that the targets set today are finally met tomorrow. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to reaffirm my support for a balanced budget. Since coming to the Congress in 1985, I have been committed to balancing the Federal budget for the future of our children and our children's children. That is why I am an original cosponsor and strong supporter of the Blue Dog Coalition budget. The coalition's budget sets a benchmark for balancing the Federal budget in a manner that is both a fair and responsible. First, the coalition budget sets a smooth and steady glidepath to a balanced budget. It reduces the deficit by a roughly equal amount each year for the next 5 years, achieving 38 percent of its deficit reduction in the first 3 years. One of the reasons that the coalition budget contains such a steady glidepath is because it postpones tax cuts until we complete the tough work of balancing the budget. I do not oppose tax cuts, but I do believe that our first priority should be to put our fiscal house in order. By delaying tax cuts, the coalition budget is able to avoid adding billions to the Federal debt and will save additional billions by not paying interest on that debt. Because it resists the temptation to grant expensive tax cuts before the budget is balanced, the coalition budget is able to address many of the long-term financial problems faced by entitlement programs. The coalition budget plan makes important structural reforms to Medicare and Medicaid, and extends the life of the Social Security to the year 2043. The coalition budget deals with these issues so effectively that it balances the budget without relying on the Social Security trust fund surplus by the year 2005, and would not rely on any trust fund surplus by 2007. The lessons of previous budget resolutions, is that reaching an agreement to balance the budget does not guarantee that the budget will actually be balanced. We need only look to the Gramm-Rudman-Hollings experiences of the past decade to be reminded how easily a balanced budget agreement can fall off track. The coalition budget addresses this reality by including strong enforcement provisions based on legislation that I have introduced along with our colleagues Representatives Stenholm, Minge, and Dooley. This bill, the Balanced Budget Enforcement Act, H.R. 898, would reform the budget process by locking in deficit reduction through hard deficit targets, which would be enforced by across-the-board sequestration if the targets are not met. Without meaningful enforcement mechanisms like this one, we run the risk of passing a budget resolution that amounts to nothing more than Gramm-Rudman III. In many ways, the coalition budget represents the perfect world. Unfortunately, we don't live in a perfect world, and as such, I have reached a point where I am willing to put the ideals of the coalition budget aside and support a bill that will get us to a balanced budget despite its flaws. First and foremost, I am concerned that the tax cuts contained in the committee-approved budget resolution will sabotage our efforts to achieve a balanced budget by 2002 and keep it balanced thereafter. We have repeatedly been assured that the tax cuts in this bill have been structured in such a way that they will not prevent us from balancing the budget by 2002. Despite these assurances, there is overwhelming evidence to suggest that the cost of many of these tax cuts will rise substantially after 2002, when they are fully phased in. For instance, the Joint Committee on Taxation has estimated that, in the 5 years after 2002, the tax cuts outlined in this bill will cost an additional $165 billion, almost twice as much as in the preceding 5 years. It would be a cruel hoax on the American people if we enact tax cuts this year, only to have these same cuts cause the deficit to explode again after 2002. I am also concerned that the specific nature of the tax cuts contained in the resolution will benefit the wealthiest in our society, while those who really need tax relief will be left out in the cold. Clearly, if we are going to enact tax relief this year, we should do so in a way so that the cuts we approve are targeted to people on Main Street, not Wall Street. I am also disappointed that this budget does not follow a steady glidepath to balance. While the coalition budget reduced the deficit smoothly from 1998 to 2002, the committee-approved budget resolution actually causes the deficit to increase in the first several years before from an estimated $67 billion in fiscal year 1997 to $90 billion in fiscal year 1998, where it will hold nearly steady until the painful cuts kick in and the deficit falls to $53 billion in the year 2001, eventually achieving a $1 billion surplus in the year 2002. In fact, more than two-thirds of the deficit reduction occurs in the final 2 years of the plan. This is an approach that was tested--and failed--in the early 1980's under President Ronald Reagan. When it came time to make the difficult cuts, they did not materialize, and the deficit skyrocketed. One has to wonder how much money could be saved in interest on the Federal debt if we began chipping away at the deficit earlier, rather than later, in the process. Concerns about the exploding nature of the tax cuts makes enforcement of this budget resolution even more important. That's why on May 13, I joined 59 of our House colleagues in sending a bipartisan letter to Budget Committee Chairman Kasich and ranking member Spratt, requesting that tough enforcement language, similar to that contained in the Balanced Budget Enforcement Act, be included in the budget resolution. When the Budget Committee did not include comprehensive enforcement language, an effort was made in the Rules Committee to give the entire House the opportunity to approve or reject enforcement procedures as part of the budget resolution approved by the committee. Unfortunately, the Rules Committee rebuffed this request, and the House will not have the opportunity to vote on a resolution that contains strict enforcement mechanisms. Finally, I am concerned that the budget resolution before us puts off many of the difficult decisions on entitlement programs. As we all know, many of these programs, which primarily serve the elderly, disabled, and children, will be in serious financial jeopardy when the baby boomers start retiring in the next 10 years. While this budget resolution extends the life of the Medicare part A trust fund by 10 years, it shies away from tackling the long-term problems faced by Medicare and other entitlement programs. In closing, I believe that balancing the budget is our moral responsibility as Members of Congress. I have always supported a balanced budget, and the responsibility to achieve this goal is not one that I take lightly. For the first time in more than a generation, we have a realistic chance to pass a budget that will actually achieve balance in 5 years. Although I would much prefer to see an enforceable budget resolution, where the deficit decreases every year and tax cuts don't threaten to undo our efforts after 2002, the time has come to put the future of our children and grandchildren first by voting for this balanced budget resolution.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Pastor Emeritus Ralph G. Hoffmann on his 60th-year ordination anniversary as a priest in the Gary Diocese. On Sunday, May 18, 1997, the parish of St. Mary of the Lake in Miller, IN, will honor Monsignor Hoffmann at a Tribute and Toast, which will feature a potluck dinner and several guest speakers. Monsignor Hoffmann was born in 1911, in Hartford City, IN. He attended school at St. John the Evangelist, in Hartford City, IN, and St. Joseph's College. With the support of his family, Monsignor Hoffmann joined the seminary and studied at St. Gregory and St. Mary of the West, both in Cincinnati, OH. Shortly after his ordination on May 22, 1937, a day he describes as the highlight of his career, Monsignor Hoffmann accepted his first assignments at Holy Trinity Hungarian Catholic Church, in East Chicago, IN; and St. Mary's Church, in Michigan City, IN. In 1943, Monsignor Hoffmann began the portion of his career for which he is best remembered when he served in the European theater of operations as an Army chaplain during World War II. Assigned to the 83d Infantry Division under the command of Maj. Gen. Robert Macon, Monsignor Hoffmann offered spiritual guidance and moral support to soldiers who took part in the Battles of Normandy, the Hurtgen Forest, Greater France, and the Battle of the Bulge. Before leaving Europe in 1946, he met Gen. George Patton and Gen. Omar Bradley. In addition, he was granted a private audience with Pope Pius XII, where he was asked to discuss the state of Austria. Monsignor Hoffmann was separated from the service in May 1947 with the rank of major. Upon his discharge from the U.S. Army, Monsignor Hoffmann served several parishes, including St. Dominic, in Bremen, IN; St. Patrick, in Chesterton, IN; and St. Mary of the Lake, in Miller, IN; where he remained for 20 years. Monsignor Hoffmann was also appointed to a variety of organizations within the Catholic Church during his career. In 1958, he became the first director of the Priests' Eucharistic League. In addition, he served as the area moderator of the Council of Catholic Men in 1965, diocesan coordinator of the 41st Eucharistic Congress in 1975, and was appointed Episcopal vicar of the Gary Vicariate in 1976. Eight years later, Monsignor Hoffmann was appointed Episcopal vicar and dean of the St. Matthew Deanery. In addition to being very active within the church, Monsignor Hoffmann devoted much of his time to public service as well. In 1975, then-Governor Otis Bowen appointed Monsignor Hoffmann to the Indiana Task Force on Migrant Affairs. This task force was comprised of representatives from private and public service agencies, migrant communities, employers of migrants, and concerns members of the public. Since his retirement from the priesthood in 1986, Monsignor Hoffmann has remained active within the community, through his membership with the Knights of Columbus and Sierra Club, as well as his continued involvement with his former parish, St. Mary of the Lake. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating Monsignor Hoffmann on the 60th-year anniversary of his ordination. I would also like to take this opportunity to commend him on his service and dedication to our country and the citizens of Indiana's First Congressional District

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I would like to commend the Latin American Community Alliance for Support and Assistance of Northwest Indiana, Inc. [LACASA], its Adult Education Learners, its Head Start Students, and its Agency Volunteers, on the achievements earned during the 1997-98 program year. LACASA is dedicated to serving the Hispanic residents of northwest Indiana, who experience difficulty in obtaining needed social and educational services. Some quality services which the organization offers include: an adult education program, geared toward students at all levels; a Head Start program, which provides training in parenting skills, and an opportunity for parents to become empowered in the education of their children; and Access Assistance, a program stressing job search and person and community leadership preparation. Currently, LACASA is working to develop additional programs meant to improve the quality of life for northwest Indiana's Hispanic population. For those in need, LACASA hopes to provide transportation services to its programs, as well as to agencies where its clients are referred. The organization would also like to establish health stations in an effort to assist families in understanding their basic health needs and inform them about how to access the existing health care system. Finally, LACASA hopes to expand its services to the elderly by familiarizing them with in-home care options to prevent unnecessary institutionalization. Students who have participated in LACASA's 1997-98 Adult Education Learners Program include: Juan Luis Alvarado, Juan Manuel Alvarado, Maria C. Alvarez, Maria Magdalena Alvarez, Armando Arellano, Lesly I. Arellano, Maria Z. Avila, Patricia A. Avila, Alejandra Ayala, Maria Barajas, Joseph Bialorucki, Barry D. Billinghsley, Enrique Camacho, Jesus Camacho, Carmen Maria Carrillo, Phung S. Choi, Maria I. Concepcion, Filomeno Contreras, Juan L. Contreras, Gladys M. Coronado, Hiram D. Crespo, Maria L. Cuba, Efrain Delcid, Maria Margarita Delreal, Agustin Diaz, Carmen Flores, Eduardo Garcia, Galdino Garcia, Nestor Garcia, Patricia E. Garcia, Roman Garza, Juse Luis Gonzalez, Magdalena Gonalez, Sonda D. Gooch, Mary Guerrero, Herhsy Gunn, Carmen Haro, Patricia A. Hayden, Carolos Hermosa, Juan Hernandez, Maria Herrera, George Howard, Alicia Huizar, Vicente Huizar, Matha Ann James, Hermila Lopez, Herminia Lopez, Luis Lopez, Charlean Mack, Luz M. Magana, Maria A. Magana, Marilu Maldonado, Ana Rosa Martinez, Erick J. Martinez, Georgina C. Martinez, Guadalupe G. Martinez, Miguel A. Martinez, Flavia Maya, Lisa M. Medina, Maria Merlos, Urbano Merlos, Egan Morgan, Fidel Nava, Gerardo Nunez, Ruben Ordonez, Alma Rosa Ortiz, Isabel Paz, Carmen Perez, Maribel Ponce, Marcos Juan Puebla, Mase T. Reed, Luis Eduardo Rivera, Danetta M. Robinson, Caridad Rodriguez, Elizabeth Rodriguez, Jose Mario Rodriguez, Nancy Rodriguez, Roberto Rodriguez, Zuleima Rodriguez, Jose L. Rojas, Omayra Rosario, Griselda Salas, Fermin Sanchez, Maria Santos, Juan M. Soto, Mary Soto, Warren G. Strange, Arthur K. Thomas, Jheaneth Thomas Ernesto Tinoco, Michael Torres, Teresa Torres, Teresa Tril, Katrina D. Triplett, Charleane Vaughn, Lourdes Vazquez, Jose Vera, Ramon Villanueva, and Guadalupe M. Zurita. The 1997-98 LACASA Head Start Program participants include: Jessica Acevedo, Yahaira Aguayo, Emilio Flores, Cinthia Garcia, Casandra Guerrero, Harlene Haro, Anneliese Hartonian, Saul Hernandez, Henry James, Yarelis Nieves, Heraclio Herrera, Tabitha Pearson, Marissa Perez, Amanda Ramos, Alfonso Rodriquez, Javier Torres, Kristian Torres, Zuleyka Chavez, Crystal Cuadra, Enrique Cuanetl, Selena Flores, Stefanos Glinos, Rosa Hernandez, Fabian Herrera, John Jacquez, Marcus James, Alejandro Herrera, Maria Martinez, Sabrina Millsap, Mathew Ortiz, Jeffrey Perez, Abimael Ramos, Christopher Salgado, Michael Walker, Alberto Irizarry, and Kayla Cheek. LACASA Agency Volunteers for 1997-98 include: Mary Belle Ang, Kysha Amour-Porter, Amy Abrego, John Breckenridge, Janis Breckenridge, Terrance Martinez, Ray Acevedo, Manuel A. Roman, Carmen Fuentes, Marilu Maladonado, Maria Cuba, Georgina Martinez, Eloisa Vizcaria, Rosa Magana, Fannie Torres, Mr. Maldonado, Nelson Flores, Nora Valtierra, Samantha Long, Erica Ocasio, Dyron Long, Betty Magana, Luz Magana, Gladys Reyes, Juan Luis Alvarado, Aurora Glinos, Zuleima Rodriquez, Gabriel Magana, Jr., Albina Venegas, Jennifer Ash, James Ash, Helen Williams, Manuel Alvarez, Elena Hernandez, Stanly Garlarki, and Pat Garlarki. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending the LACASA Adult Education Learners, Head Start Students, and Agency Volunteers for their dedication to the pursuit of education. I would also like to congratulate LACASA for its continuing efforts to preserve the Hispanic culture, while improving the quality of life for the Hispanic residents of northwest Indiana.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, It gives me great pleasure to announce that the Hammond Police Department will represent northwest Indiana in the Police Memorial Week taking place in our Nation's Capital from May 11 to 16, 1997. The Hammond police motorcycle brigade, comprised mainly of traffic enforcement officers, will leave northwest Indiana tomorrow for their day long journey to Washington, DC. The Hammond Police Department, which conducts its own memorial ceremony for its fallen officers every year, will be the first police department in northwest Indiana to participate in the Police Memorial Week. On May 11, the Hammond police officers will gather with other motorcycle officers from across the country at Robert F. Kennedy Stadium to attend the Law Ride Motorcycle Parade, which will include a procession to Judiciary Square. During the week, the officers will be given the chance to attend seminars, candlelight vigils, and the main memorial on May 16 at Judiciary Square. The Hammond motorcycle brigade, which has expressed interest in participating in this memorial in past years, took the initiative in earning the necessary funds by conducting a raffle and securing donations from Hammond businesses. Any remaining money will be generously donated to the Indiana Surviving Families Fund, which helps families who have lost a police officer in the line of duty. Those Hammond police officers who will ride in the brigade tomorrow include: Lt. John Pohl, Sg. Dennis Serafin, Cpl. Anthony Sonaty, Cpl. Charles Legg, Cpl. Danny Small, Cpl. George Gavrilos, Cpl. Kerry Newman, Officer Bret Plemons, and Officer Richard Tumidalsky. In addition, Chief of Hammond Police, Fred Behrens, will be joining the aforementioned police officers in Washington on Wednesday, May 14. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to welcome the Hammond police brigade to our Nation's Capital as they remember police officers who have been killed in the line of duty. I would also like to take this opportunity to commend the Hammond police, as well as police officers across our Nation, on the dedication and courage they demonstrate daily in working to keep our communities safe.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge my colleagues to join me in promoting an effective way to encourage the redevelopment of abandoned, idled or underutilized commercial and industrial sites known as brownfields. Nationwide, brownfields are often overlooked for redevelopment because of real or perceived contamination. As a result, developers frequently turn to undeveloped greenfield sites. This creates a vicious cycle of lost tax revenues and job opportunities for local residents, while the brownfields are not cleaned up. There is wide bipartisan support for measures that would encourage the redevelopment of brownfields. Although the specifics have not yet been worked out, I am pleased that the recent budget agreement contains a brownfields initiative to assist cities in cleaning up contaminated sites as part of a broader economic redevelopment strategy. Effective brownfield redevelopment must create jobs, clean the environment and generate economic activity in our urban areas. However, we must not start a race to the bottom where cleanup standards are sacrificed on the altar of brownfield renewal. We must ensure that brownfield redevelopment does not become a back door to let polluters off the hook. A final product that does not meet these reasonable standards falls short of a readily achievable goal. In March, I introduced the Brownfield Cleanup and Redevelopment Act, H.R. 1206. This legislation would establish a process whereby States with EPA-certified voluntary cleanup programs would be authorized to make final decisions regarding the cleanup of low- and medium-priority brownfield sites. To date, roughly three dozen States have implemented or are in the process of implementing voluntary cleanup programs. While these programs have been popular, the benefits of State cleanup programs will be significantly enhanced in the context of a Federal system that, first, encourages Federal-State partnerships; second, provides legal finality to the cleanup process; and, third, removes Federal requirements for certain procedural permits for cleanups conducted under certified voluntary State programs. My bill would expedite the clean up of eligible brownfield sites while protecting human health and the environment and creating jobs. H.R. 1206 is designed to encourage the cleanup of brownfields by providing certainty and finality to owners or prospective purchasers that the EPA will not require additional cleanup after an EPA-approved State voluntary cleanup has occurred. My bill makes clear that if State voluntary cleanup programs meet certain criteria and are certified by the EPA, then approved cleanups conducted by certified State programs could proceed in lieu of Superfund. However, under H.R. 1206, the EPA administrator would certify State voluntary cleanup programs based on several criteria including, first, adequate opportunities for meaningful public participation in the development and implementation of cleanup plans at eligible facilities; second, the provision of adequate technical assistance, resources, oversight and enforcement authority; and, third, certification from the State that the cleanup of an eligible facility is complete. In addition, certified State programs could modify Federal permit requirements for eligible facilities to expedite their cleanups. However, this bill is narrowly targeted to address only sites that are not Superfund sites that are not included on the national priorities list or subject to enforcement actions. Further, under H.R. 1206 the EPA explicitly retains its authority to gather information on any brownfield site. If it is discovered that the site is contaminated in such a way that it would not be considered a low- or medium-priority brownfield, it will no longer be eligible as a facility under the legislation, and EPA would retain full enforcement authority under Superfund. I also want to briefly highlight another bill I have introduced. It is H.R. 1462 which would authorize $20 million over 3 years to establish a pilot revolving loan fund for State voluntary cleanup programs. Because of their experience in administering targeted loan assistance programs, States are in a good position to use Federal funds to support local cleanup and redevelopment projects. Under H.R. 1462 States would provide a 20-percent match and begin repaying loans within 5 years. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to sponsor these bills which will build upon existing redevelopment efforts. By creating a distinct beginning and end to the voluntary cleanup process, businesses and jobs will be more attracted to unproductive brownfields as opposed to undeveloped farmland and other greenfield sites.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, at a time when crime concerns are on every citizen's mind, those who have dedicated their lives to law enforcement are to be commended. I would like to make a special commendation to Officer Timothy J. Mitchell, a very devoted law enforcement officer from Indiana's First Congressional District. Officer Mitchell retired from the Schererville Police Department in April of this year. He will be honored by family, friends, and members of the Schererville Police Force at a testimonial dinner tomorrow night at Teibel's Restaurant in Schererville, IN. Tim joined the Schererville Police Department on March 31, 1977, after receiving an honorable discharge with the rank of sergeant from the U.S. Air Force in 1976. He worked in both the patrol and detective division of the police force, and was promoted to the rank of corporal on February 15, 1984. During his career with the Schererville Police Department, Tim participated in the Officer Friendly Program. This program began within the northwest Indiana region in the early 1970's, and was designed to educate children on issues of safety and encourage communication between police officers and children. As Officer Friendly, Tim visited schools throughout the region, teaching lessons of safety to children during dangerous times of the year, such as Halloween and summer, and promoting such programs as Bicycle Safety. Tim was also a participant in the Schererville Police Department's Drug Awareness Resistance Education program [DARE] for 2 years. The first Schererville police officer assigned to the DARE Program, Tim was instrumental in charting the program's course since its implementation in the department in 1989. As a DARE officer, he presented a program designed to encourage youth to ``say no to drugs'' by means of explaining the harmful effects of drugs. In addition, Tim took the initiative in further promoting the ``say no to drugs'' campaign by serving as a drug and alcohol instructor at Grimmer Middle School in Schererville, IN, as well as speaking on the subject for various organizations. Tim has chosen to utilize his experience and talents in teaching children by earning his bachelors degree in elementary teaching at Purdue University-Calumet. He hopes to spend his retirement teaching at Grimmer Middle School. In recognition of his efforts, Tim was selected Schererville's Man of the year by a local newspaper in 1991. Recipients of this honor are selected for their tireless dedication and service to their communities by means of public service, leadership, or simply caring for their town. Tim was especially honored for his dedication to the promotion of drug education among northwest Indiana's young people. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating Officer Timothy Mitchell on his 20 years of service to the Schererville Police Department. His wife, Rhonda, and their children, Crystal and Terry, can be proud of his devoted service to the citizens of Schererville.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, art is the expression of the human spirit throughout its greatest moments of tragedy and triumph. The people of the Republic of Armenia have survived some of modern history's most horrific acts of genocide and repression, yet their spirit survives and their art celebrates that survival. Two residents of Indiana's First Congressional District, Dr. Raffy and Vicki Hovanessian of Munster, IN, are national leaders in private humanitarian efforts that distinguish the United States and enrich our relationships with modern nations, such as Armenia. Mrs. Hovanessian has recently focused her efforts on the organization of a month-long art show, entitled ``Dreams and Visions,'' which begins tomorrow, April 30, at the Westin Hotel in Chicago, IL. The show will celebrate the talent and resilience of contemporary Armenian artists. Artists, whose works will be exhibited, include: Achot Achot, Garen Andreassian, Caren Arakelian, Arevig Arevshadian, Manuel Baghdassarian, Samuel Baghdassarian, Ashod Bayandour, Mardin Bedrossian, Arman Grigorian, Reuben Gregorian, Sardis Hamalbashian, Samuel Hampartsoumian, Ara Hovsepian, Hovannes Markarian, Garine Matsakian, Arax Nergararian, Arthur Sarkissian, Ararat Sarkissian, Gagig Tchartchan, and Felix Yeghiazarian. Under the auspices of the Fund for Armenian Relief, the humanitarian aid agency of the Diocese of the Armenian Church, the above-mentioned artists will directly benefit from the proceeds of this show. The proceeds will provide an opportunity for the artists of the Republic of Armenia to participate in the Documenta at Kassel, Germany, in June of this year. The Documenta is an international art show held every five years. The art show planned by Mrs. Hovanessian is entitled ``Dreams and Visions,'' since the contemporary works symbolize the aspirations of the people of Armenia as viewed through the spectacular imaginative prisms of these artists' talents, as well as show their hopeful vision for a new era of peace in our time. Their art illustrates the unquenchable, creative human capacity for reconciliation and rebuilding. The art show will demonstrate, in an exemplary manner, the solidarity of the Armenian people for their country and its culture, which is passing through one of its most decisive and crucial periods in history. Currently, Armenia is experiencing the effects of emancipation from the oppressive rule under the Soviet Union and entry into the democratic system of a free and independent republic. Culture is surely one of the most effective ways of enhancing and promoting this positive and radical change in the centuries old life of the Armenian people. Over the years, the Hovanessians have devoted countless hours and resources toward a variety of charitable works, both in the United States and Armenia, with the goal of improving the quality of life for native Armenians, as well as Armenian-Americans. One of the notable causes for which they have worked is the Saint Neresses Seminary in New Rochelle, NY, which sponsors an exchange program between the United States and Armenia for new seminarians. The Hovanessians have aided in raising $1 million for Saint Neresses. In addition, under the auspices of His Holiness Karekin I, Catholicos of All Armenians and Supreme Patriarch of the Armenian Church, Dr. and Mrs. Hovanessian have recently been appointed by the Armenian Church and government to chair museum exhibitions commemorating the 1700th anniversary of Armenians' acceptance of Christianity. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to convey the gratitude and respect I and others have for the leadership of Dr. Raffy and Vicki Hovanessian in devoting themselves to contemporary artistic expression in Armenia and other notable humanitarian causes.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to rise today to pay tribute to a truly remarkable man, Mr. Tony Zale. Tony passed away on March 20, 1997, in Portage, IN, at the age of 83. He was a man well known for his accomplishments as a champion boxer, contributions to his community, and devotion to his friends and family. Tony was a champion boxer, fittingly remembered as ``the Man of Steel'' for both his steel-like ability to withstand and deliver powerful blows in the boxing ring, and his association with a city priding itself on its massive steel production. A native of Gary, IN, Tony began his successful boxing career in 1934 upon leaving his job as a steelworker at age 21. After experiencing a string of losses early in his career, Tony Zale first displayed his extraordinary desire to achieve when he returned to steel work at U.S. Steel in 1935. Willingly accepting the most physically challenging jobs in the mill, Tony returned to boxing in 1937 with a renewed confidence and a physique so muscular it was renowned to be ``metallic.'' Shortly thereafter, Mr. Zale's ambition of becoming a champion boxer was fulfilled when he defeated the National Boxing Association champion in July 1940. In 1941, Tony earned universal recognition as a world titleholder as he defeated World Middleweight Champion, Georgie Abrams. When returning from his service with the U.S. Navy in 1945, Tony faced his most dangerous challenger, Rocky Graziano, for what would be the first of three brutal matches. Winning the first match, losing the second, and then regaining his title in the third, Tony Zale forever marked his place in history as a champion boxer during the epic Zale-Graziano fights. When Tony retired from boxing in 1948, he left the profession with the accomplishment of fighting and beating every contender in the middleweight division during his championship reign from 1941 through 1948. During the 1950's Tony Zale was inducted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame. Tony put forth the same effort and dedication bettering the community in which he lived as he did during his boxing career. After retiring from boxing, Tony coached at the Chicago Park District youth boxing program, where he taught children the fundamentals of boxing, as well as the fundamentals of living a good, clean life. Tony was a man devoted to teaching children the importance of education, and a coach remembered for his willingness to offer guidance both inside and outside of the ring. Other community service initiatives in which he participated include serving as a Catholic Youth Organization boxing coach, promoting youth boxing tournaments, and visiting with polio patients. Tony Zale was honored for his efforts in October 1990, when President George Bush presented him with the Presidential Citizen's Medal. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Mr. Tony Zale. His children, Mary Medeiros and Theresa Gassis, grandchildren, and nieces and nephews, can all be proud of his professional accomplishments, as well as his commitment to improving the quality of life for the residents of Indiana's First Congressional District. Tony Zale will always be remembered as a true leader and will remain a role model for generations to come.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, tomorrow, April 25, 1997, the officers and delegates of the Northwest Indiana Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO, will hold their 23d Annual Labor Awards and Community Service Banquet at the Knights of Columbus Hall in East Chicago, IN. This event honors those individuals who have provided outstanding service to labor and the community. It also serves as the Federation's ``Workers Memorial'', activity recognizing those who have been seriously injured or killed in the workplace. This event is northwest Indiana's largest labor celebration of the year, involving 45,000 member unionists and their friends. Participants will gather together to celebrate an evening of labor solidarity. The Federation's highest honor, the 16th Annual President's Award, will be bestowed upon the Honorable Robert A. Pastrick, mayor of the city of East Chicago. This honor is awarded to an individual enhancing the well being of workers throughout northwest Indiana by countless contributions which have furthered the philosophy of the labor movement. In addition, Mr. John Buncich, Lake County sheriff, will be this year's recipient of the annual Service to Labor Award. This award is presented in honor of an individual's dedicated service and support to the labor movement. The Federation's Community Services Award will be presented to Mr. Ed Hiatt for offering both organized labor and the people of northwest Indiana dedicated leadership, compassion and service. Mr. Hiatt assisted with various Federation of Labor projects, including union counseling and the AFL-CIO Christmas Drive. In addition, two members of the Steelworkers Organization of Active Retirees [SOAR], Mr. John Mayerik, age 89, and Mr. Walter Mackerel, age 96, will be honored with the ``Old Warrior'' Award. This award is presented in recognition of the recipients' lifelong commitment to the labor movement and the principles which it embodies. Specifically, Mr. Mayerik served as president of Local Union 1014 and staff representative of the United Steelworkers of America. Presently, he is serving as trustee of SOAR Chapter 7-31-14. Mr. Mackerel actively served Local Union 1066, and he was instrumental in establishing and leading the retiree organization in District 7 of the United Steelworkers of America. Both gentlemen have unselfishly devoted their time and effort to assisting both individuals and the communities in which they live for a number of years. Also, the Federation's Union Label Award will be presented to the United Steelworkers of America, District 7. District 7 will be awarded this honor for demonstrating the true meaning of labor ``solidarity'' during the Bridgestone Firestone labor struggle. USWA, District 7 has been attributed with providing the leadership and commitment needed to win this fight for labor, as well as revitalizing the entire labor movement in northwest Indiana. Each year, the Lake and Porter County area United Ways join with the Northwest Indiana Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO, to conduct an 8-week basic union counselor training course. Upon completion of this program, those participating will be qualified to provide the labor community with invaluable information concerning available health and human services assistance. This year's counselor course participants will each receive a certificate of achievement at the awards banquet. They include: Jack Atwood, James Dilbeck, and Bruce Foreman from UAW #2335; William J. Brady and John F. Martinez from Carpenters #1005; David Brock and Andrew Cummins from Boilermakers #524; Duke Deflorio and Mike Winarski from Carpenters #599; James Dilbeck and Bruce Foreman from UAW #2335; Denise Drake, Lillian Garth, and Linda Shedrow from Consumer Credit C.S.; Hilario G. Gonzalez from USWA #1010; Jon L. Iglar and Herbertine Peck from AFSCME #1448; Jack Joyce, Robert Milsap, and Lon C. Powe from USWA #1014; Andrew J. Kremke and Joaquin Lopez from Teamsters #142; Lee Lynk, UAW 3235; Jessica Morris, Community Representative; Thomas Parker from USWA #1066; and Isacc R. Rosado from USWA #2281. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending all of the award recipients chosen by the Northwest Indiana Federation of Labor, AFL-CIO, for their contributions to the labor movement. Their devotion to this cause has made America work.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 82nd anniversary of the Armenian genocide. I am pleased to join my House colleagues on both sides of the aisle in remembering the terrible atrocities that were committed against the Armenian people earlier this century. Despite the efforts of some, there is no denying that the Armenian genocide occurred. History is clear that the Ottoman Empire engaged in a systematic attempt to destroy the Armenian people and their culture. It started on April 24, 1915, when over 200 religious, political, and intellectual leaders of the Armenian community in Istanbul were brutally executed. By 1923, over half the world's Armenian population-- an estimated 1.5 million men, women, and children--had been killed. The Armenians are an ancient and proud people. In the fourth century, they became the first nation to embrace Christianity. During World War I, the Ottoman Empire was ruled by an organization known as the Young Turk Committee and became allied with Germany. Amid fighting in the Ottoman Empire's eastern Anatolian provinces, the historic heartland of the Christian Armenians, Ottoman authorities ordered the deportation and execution of all Armenians in the region. By the end of 1923, virtually the entire Armenian population of Anatolia and western Armenia had been either killed or deported. Despite the well documented fact that over 1.5 million Armenian were killed and hundreds of thousands more were exiled from their homes, there are some who still choose to believe that the genocide did not take place. The U.S. National Archives contain numerous reports detailing the process by which the Armenian population of the Ottoman Empire was systematically decimated. Further denial of the Armenian genocide by certain parties, either due to ignorance or malice, can only be seen as a misrepresentation of history and should be roundly condemned. While it is important to remember the horrible facts of history in order to help comfort the survivors, we must also remain eternally vigilant in order to protect Armenia from new and more hostile aggressors. Even now, as we rise to commemorate the accomplishments of the Armenian people and mourn the tragedies they have suffered, Turkey and other countries are attempting to break Armenia's spirit by engaging in a debilitating blockade against this free nation. Last year, I led the fight in the House of Representatives to free Armenia from Turkey's viscous blockade by offering an amendment to the fiscal year 1997 Foreign Operations appropriations bill. Under current law, U.S. economic assistance may not be given to any country that blocks humanitarian assistance from reaching another county. Despite the fact that Turkey has been blocking humanitarian aid for Armenia for many years, the President has used his waiver authority to keep economic assistance for Turkey intact. My amendment, which passed in the House by a bipartisan vote of 301 to 118, would have prevented the President from using waiver authority and would have cut off U.S. economic aid to Turkey unless it allowed humanitarian aid to reach Armenia. Unfortunately, my amendment was not included in the final version of the Foreign Operations appropriations bill and the Turkish blockade continues unabated. I am proud to say that a strong and vibrant Armenian-American community thrives in my district in northwest Indiana. My predecessor in the House, the late Adam Benjamin, was of Armenian heritage, and northwest Indiana's strong ties to Armenia continues to flourish. Mrs. Vickie Hovanessian and her husband, Dr. Raffi Hovanessian, residents of Indiana's First Congressional District are two Armenian-Americans who have contributed greatly to the quality of life in Armenia, as well as to the Armenian-American community in northwest Indiana. Although it has suffered greatly, Armenia is once again a strong, sovereign nation. Its people are determined to succeed, and I am proud of the steps that Armenia has made to promote democracy. It is my sincere hope that Armenia remains strongly committed to democratic ideals and that our two countries continue to remain close friends. In closing, I would like to thank my colleagues, Representatives John Porter and Frank Pallone, for organizing this special order to commemorate the 82nd anniversary of the Armenian genocide. Their efforts will not only help to console the victims and their families, but also serve as a reminder to remain vigilant in the fight to protect basic human rights and freedoms around the world.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing legislation that will cut an estimated $35.3 billion in corporate welfare over the next 5 years. My bill, the Corporate Responsibility Act of 1997, eliminates or reforms 12 Federal programs that currently use billions of taxpayers dollars to subsidize corporate America. I am introducing this legislation because I am extremely concerned about the hundreds of billions of taxpayer dollars spent every decade on special interests and Fortune 500 corporations. Estimates of current total corporate welfare expenditures range from $200 billion to $500 billion over 5 years, money that would go a long way toward balancing the budget and investing in our future. Last year, the Congress passed important legislation to reform the welfare system. It is time to reform the corporate welfare system by getting dependent companies off the Government dole. In the 104th Congress, I introduced similar corporate welfare legislation. That bill, H.R. 3102, took aim at seven of the worst corporate welfare programs in the Federal budget, including the Market Promotion Program, the U.S. territorial possessions tax credit, and the Export Enhancement Program. I was extremely pleased when legislation was signed into law last year, Public Law 104-188, that eliminated the territorial possessions tax credit. Eliminating this program, which gave companies a tax break for sending good U.S. job abroad, will save taxpayers $10.6 billion over the next 10 years. While the premise of my new bill remains the same--to reduce corporate welfare--I have expanded the scope of my legislation, and added a lockbox mechanism to ensure that all savings and revenue go directly toward deficit reduction. This bill would save $35.3 billion over 5 years by ending eight corporate welfare programs and reforming four others. Because I've limited this legislation to the most egregious examples, my bill is a litmus test for anyone is serious about ending corporate welfare. In short, this bill puts a balanced budget, jobs, education, and a clean environment ahead of handouts to Fortune 500 companies and special interests. The legislation I am introducing today represents an important step in the effort to end wasteful spending and balance the Federal budget. I urge you and my other House colleagues to cosponsor and support the Corporate Responsibility Act. The Corporate Responsibility Act of 1997 would: Eliminate the Export Enhancement Program [EEP]: The U.S. Department of Agriculture [USDA] subsidizes the export of agricultural commodities by paying exporters cash bonuses to export agricultural products. Since its inception in 1985, EEP has paid out more than $7 billion in bonuses, mostly to giant agribusinesses. Taxpayers should not be asked to hand out these corporate giveaways or subsidize the purchase of food products by foreign consumers. Estimated savings: $2.1 billion over 5 years. Eliminate the Market Access Program [MAP]: USDA subsidizes foreign advertising costs of multinational and U.S. corporations, such as McDonalds and Wrangler. MAP--formerly known as the Market Promotion Program--funds consumer-related promotion of products through trade shows, advertising campaigns, commodity analysis, and training of foreign nationals. Taxpayers should not be asked to pick up the tab for the advertising costs of large companies that can afford to advertise on their own. Estimated savings: $350 million over 5 years. Overhaul the 1872 Mining Act: Allowing foreign companies to buy public land for $2.50 per acre and pay no royalties on the valuable minerals extracted is a license to steal that should be revoked. Many of the mining interests that benefit from this system are not even U.S. companies. My bill would establish a leasing system and require these companies to pay an 8-percent royalty on the valuable minerals extracted from Federal land. Estimated savings: $300 million over 5 years. Eliminate the subsidy for the Tennessee Valley Authority [TVA]: TVA receives $106 million each year in a direct Federal subsidy. In this era of power deregulation and deficit reduction, the Government can no longer afford to subsidize the TVA in this way. Even TVA's chairman, Craven Crowell, has said that his agency can make due without its annual appropriation. Estimated savings: $500 million over 5 years. Reform irrigation subsidies: Under current law, USDA gives farmers-- often large agribusiness--Freedom to Farm payments along with irrigation subsidies for the same crops on the same land. My bill would end this double dipping by requiring recipients to pay for irrigation costs if they are already receiving Freedom to Farm subsidies. Estimated savings: $500 million-$1 billion over 5 years. Eliminate the Tobacco Program: The Federal Government aids producers of tobacco through a combination of marketing quotas, price-supporting loans, and restrictions on imports. Tobacco is the sixth largest cash crop in the country and most of the price-supports and marketing quotas benefit huge companies like Phillip Morris and RJR Nabisco. Estimated savings: $200 million over 5 years. Eliminate the Advanced Technology Program [ATP]: ATP gives away nearly half a billion dollars a year in research and development grants to huge high-technology firms like Caterpiller, General Electric, and Xerox to help develop new products. These companies are very well financed and should be using their own money for R&D. Estimated savings: $1.1 billion over 5 years. Reform process for developing timber roads in national forests: Timber companies profit tremendously from the use of roads in national forest lands, but they pay virtually none of the cost of building them. My bill would stop subsidizing the construction of roads which are mainly used by timber companies go gain access to timber. Estimated savings: $250 million over 5 years. Reform the U.S. role in the General Arrangements to Borrow: The General Arrangements to Borrow [GAB], part of the International Monetary Fund [IMF], are intended to prevent any future internal monetary crisis caused by developing countries that are unable to pay their bills. We are bailing out these countries--and the banks that support them--despite the fact that they have enough capital to spend vast amounts of money on money-losing State-sponsored industries, huge bureaucracies, and large militaries. My bill would prevent increased U.S. participation in the GAB. Estimated savings: $3.5 billion over 5 years. End special tax treatment of alcohol fuels: Manufacturers of gasohol, a motor fuel composed of 10 percent alcohol, received a tax subsidy of 54 cents per gallon of alcohol used. Archer-Daniels-Midland--which produces most of the country's gasohol--has made billions of dollars from this tax break. These subsidies have a dubious balance of public versus private benefits, and they are an inefficient use of our energy resources. Estimated savings: $2.4 billion over 5 years. Eliminate the Foreign Sales Corporation [FSC] tax break: The Tax Code's FSC provisions permit U.S. exporters to exempt 15 percent of their export income from U.S. taxation. This encourages U.S. companies to form subsidiary corporations in a foreign country--which can just be a mailing address--to qualify as an FSC. A portion of the FSC's own export income is exempt from taxes, and the FSC can pass on the tax savings to its parent company because domestic corporations are allowed a 100-percent dividends-received deduction for income distribution from an FSC. Estimated savings: $7.5 billion over 5 years. Eliminate the ``title passage'' tax break: Companies can treat sales income as foreign source income--therefore realizing a tax break--by passing title to the property sold offshore even though the sales activity may have taken place in the United States. The title passage rule allows a company with excess foreign tax credits to classify more of its income as foreign source, then the company receives an implicit tax subsidy. My bill would put an end to this practice by closing this tax loophole. Estimated savings: $16.6 billion over 5 years. Total estimated savings: $35.3 billion over 5 years. Deficit reduction lock box: This bill includes a deficit reduction lockbox to ensure that all savings/revenue go directly toward deficit reduction and are not used to finance other programs.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is truly my pleasure to congratulate the Gary Alumnae Chapter of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority as it hosts a statewide Founders Day Celebration on Saturday, April 26, 1997, at Marquette Park in Gary, IN. The Gary Alumnae Chapter will host the Founders Day Celebration with the help of 14 Delta Sigma Theta Chapters throughout the State of Indiana. The statewide celebration will feature Delta Sigma Theta Sorority's National President, Marcia L. Fudge, Esq., as the keynote speaker at a private banquet. After the celebration, Ms. Fudge will be introduced to community leaders at a reception held at Marquette Park from 5 to 7 p.m. During the reception, Mayor Scott King of Gary, IN, will present her with a proclamation from the city of Gary. In addition, Ms. Fudge will receive a proclamation from Indiana Governor, Frank O'Bannon. The festivities will conclude with area Deltas worshiping with Ms. Fudge at St. Timothy Community Church in Gary, IN. Founded in 1913 at Howard University, the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority is a public service sorority comprised of over 200,000 members, both nationally and internationally. The founders of Delta Sigma Theta defined the organization's purpose as ``establishing and maintaining a high standard of morality and scholarship among women.'' Since its inception in 1938, the Gary Alumnae Chapter has worked diligently to fulfill the Delta Sigma Theta mission in northwest Indiana through members' participation in a variety of public service initiatives. Some of the local activities include: sponsorship of food banks and clothing drives; aid to Marion Home; a local shelter for pregnant teens; sponsorship of Delteens, an organization which organizes activities for high school junior and senior girls; and the awarding of $4,000 in college scholarships annually. The chapter also participates in Project Read, Stop the Violence Campaign, Kids Vote USA, and voter registration efforts. In addition, the Gary Alumnae Chapter has devoted much of its energy and resources to national public service efforts. Members of the chapter aid the NAACP, NAACP Defense Fund, the United Nations Children's Fund, and Habitat for Humanity, through financial contributions, and participation in local events. It is my distinct privilege to congratulate the members of the Gary Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta as it hosts the statewide Founders Day Celebration. The members of this organization are most deserving of the pride and honor exhibited on this very special occasion, as they have provided invaluable services to the citizens of northwest Indiana through their hard work and dedication. May this event prove to be most successful and rewarding.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing legislation that will help correct a gross oversight within our Nation's pension system. Under section 415 of the Internal Revenue Code, pension benefits from multiemployer pension plans are limited to the average of the retired employee's three highest consecutive years of income. This compensation-based limit makes perfect sense for many types of corporate pension plans, where pensions are based on compensation and income levels are relatively steady and tend to increase over time. But for many participants in multiemployer pension plans, limiting pension benefits in this way is both unfair and inequitable. Unlike their corporate counterparts, benefits earned under multiemployer pension plans have very little relationship to actual compensation. Rather, benefits are generally based on a worker's years of covered service and the collectively bargained dollar amount of contributions made into the multiemployer plan. But the compensation- based limits contained in section 415 override the benefit rates set in the multiemployer plan, often decreasing a retiree's pension benefit well below what was negotiated. Workers in the building and construction industries are particularly disadvantaged by section 415. Compensation for these workers can fluctuate dramatically from year-to-year, with the availability of work in these mobile, cyclical industries. For workers in these industries, section 415 often has the effect of driving the compensation-based limit much lower than the worker's average income. What's more, finding the 3 highest years of consecutive compensation often means basing the benefit limit on a period well before the date of retirement, which can mean a dramatic drop in income and lower standard of living once the worker retires. Legislation passed by the 104th Congress, Public Law 104-188, which provided a long-overdue increase in the minimum wage, also exempted public employees from the pension benefit limits contained in section 415. But for reasons that have gone unexplained, Public Law 104-188 did not extend this exemption to multiemployer pension plans. Mr. Speaker, no one should misinterpret either the intention or the effect of this legislation. These plans are not tax shelters and exempting multiemployer plans from section 415 will not result in an unfair windfall of pension benefits. Instead, my legislation would take a necessary step to ensure that benefits from multiemployer plans are not artificially reduced, and that every retired worker covered by these plans receives the pension benefits that he or she rightly deserves. I urge you and my other colleagues to cosponsor and support this important measure.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to commend Saul Ruman, an outstanding citizen of Indiana's First Congressional District. On Thursday, April 3, 1997, Saul was presented with the 1997 Lifetime Achievement Award by the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association. He received this award during a luncheon at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Indianapolis, IN. Saul, a resident of Munster, founded the firm Ruman, Clements, Tobin S. Holub shortly after his graduation from the Indiana University School of Law in 1952. From the time of its inception, the firm has concentrated in the areas of personal injury and wrongful death litigation and, over the years, has successfully attracted clients from across the United States. During his distinguished career, Saul has been counsel in over 100 Federal and State appellate cases. He represented Senator Robert Kennedy during his candidacy for President of the United States, several justices on the Indiana Supreme Court, and has litigated numerous cases of significant importance and public interest during his years of trial and appellate practice. Not only has Saul excelled in his professional life, but he has been a great asset to the Indiana legal community as well. Saul has impacted the judicial process in the State of Indiana through hi appointments to the Indiana Supreme Court Character and Fitness Committee on the Board of Law Examiners, the Indiana Judicial Nominating Commission, and the Indiana Supreme Court Committee on Rules. In addition, Saul has secured membership in a variety of professional organizations, including the American Board of Trial Advocates, the International Academy of Trial Lawyers, the National Institute for Trial Advocacy, the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association, and the Trial Lawyers Section of the Indiana State Bar Association. Saul has also devoted much of his time as a member of the board of visitors to the Indiana University School of Law. Along with being bestowed the ninth annual Lifetime Achievement Award, Saul has earned recognition in the publication ``Best Lawyers in America'' in 1993 and 1997. Those listed in this publication are selected by their peers on the basis of professional performance and ability. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other esteemed colleague to join me in congratulating Saul on his receipt of the Indiana Trial Lawyers Associations' Lifetime Achievement Award. His wife, Beverlee, and their children, Loral, Melissa, and Elizabeth, can be proud of Saul's exceptional accomplishments. His endeavors within the legal profession are certainly admirable and his outstanding dedication and leadership are a model and inspiration to each and every one of us.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, on Saturday, April 12, 1997, numerous outstanding Hispanics from Indiana's First Congressional District will be honored for their notable contributions to northwest Indiana. Student recognition certificates, a President's Award, a Cesar Chavez Community Service Award, and an Outstanding Family Award will be presented by the Northwest Indiana Hispanic Coordinating Council during a banquet held at the American Legion Post No. 369 in East Chicago, IN. Hispanic students representing northwest Indiana and northeast Illinois high schools will be recognized for academic and athletic achievement. The students who will receive awards for outstanding academic achievement include: Christina Sanchez and Neil Sharp, Andrean High School; Christine Mendoza, Calumet High School; Christine Siordia, Chesterton High School; Heather Vela, Donald E. Gavit High School; Sandra Martinez, East Chicago Central High School; Michael Soto, George Rogers Clark High School; Deanna Westerfield, Griffith High School; Diana Nevarez, Hammond High School; Christopher Calderon, Highland High School; Eric Chavez, Lake Central High School; Michelle Perez, Merrillville High School; Bethany Diaz, Morton High School; Jeanette Hernandez, Portage High School; Jesse Cisneros, River Forest High School; Elisa Maria Paramo, TF South High School; Kristina Vega, Thomas A. Edison Junior/Senior High School; Mike Cortez, Thornton Fractional North High School; Meghan Dougherty, Valparaiso High School; Antoinette Cardenas, West Side High School; Heather Trojnar, Whiting High School; and Jesse Flores, William A. Wirt High School. Students who will recieve awards for outstanding athletic achievement include: Nick Botts, Calumet High School; Brian Osan, Chesterton High School; Marco Lecea, Donald E. Gavit High School; Joel Rodriguez, East Chicago Central High School; Francisco Rodriguez, George Rogers Clark High School; Daniel Guerrero, Griffith High School; Christopher Moore, Hammond High School; Tony Elder, Highland High School; Vincent Sess, Lake Central High School; Jessica Vargas, Merrillville High School; Jason Mendoza, Morton High School; Leroy Vega, Portage High School; Michael Cortez, River Forest High School; Joe Yanez, Thomas A. Edison Junior/Senior High School; Antonio Diaz, Thornton Fractional North High School; and Jorge Del Real, Whiting High School. The council will also present the Outstanding Family Award to the Rosillo family. This distinguished family was carefully selected from many qualified families on the basis of their unity and dedication to one another's successes. In addition, Benjamin T. Luna will be presented with the President's Award. This honor is given to an individual exhibiting extraordinary leadership skills by means of guiding and mentoring the Hispanic community at large. Also, Medi-MEX, Inc., a nonprofit organization which provides medical services to the poor in Mexico, will receive the Cesar Chavez Community Service Award. The Cesar Chavez award is presented to an agency or group of individuals which have made noticeable contributions to the Hispanic community. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in applauding all of the award recipients chosen by the Northwest Indiana Hispanic Coordinating Council. All of these individuals are most deserving of the honors bestowed upon them. Moreover, I would like to commend the Northwest Indiana Hispanic Coordinating Council, its president, Socorro M. Roman, and all of the council members for committing themselves to the preservation of their culture. It is my privilege to recognize them for their outstanding achievements.