Peter Visclosky

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to congratulate the Lithuanian American Council of Lake County, IN, and the Lithuanian community on the 79th anniversary of Lithuanian independence. The Lithuanian American Council celebrated Lithuanian independence from the Soviet Union, which occurred in 1918, on Sunday, February 16, 1997, at St. Casimir's Church in Gary, IN. Following tradition, the anniversary ceremony began with a church service starting at 11:30 a.m. After the church service, the Lithuanian American Council held a flag raising ceremony outside of the church to honor those Lithuanians who pledged their allegiance to independence for their people. The event concluded with a dinner in the church hall. I would like to take this opportunity to commend the Lithuanian American Council of Lake County and its officers, including: Vincent J. Gumulauskis, who has been president for 5 years; Pete D. Auksel and Casimir Balt, both of whom are vice-presidents; Birute Vilutis, secretary; and Walter Ruzga, treasurer. Allow me to also commend the board of directors, whose members include the Reverend Ignatius Urbonas, Aleksas Degutis, Alex Navardauskas, Dan Pauls, Frank Petrites, Brone Tampauskas, and Izidorius Tavaras. Finally, I would like to commend every member of the Lithuanian American Council for the loyalty and enthusiasm they have displayed. The Lithuanian American Council of Lake County, IN, is a branch of the Lithuanian American Council, Inc. It was founded in 1940 and originated in large cities such as Boston, Chicago, and New York. The organization in Lake County was initially headquartered at St. Francis Church in East Chicago, IN, until recently when the building was demolished. The organization was then moved to St. Casimir where its home is today. It is my sincere hope that 1997 will bring renewed prosperity for all members of the Lithuanian community and their families. May this 79th anniversary year prove to be a most joyous one.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the rule on H.R. 1. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong opposition to H.R. 1, the Paycheck Reduction Act. This bad bill is just one more attempt by the Republican-controlled 105th Congress to weaken the rights of working men and women. I am very concerned that permitting employers to compensate hourly employees' overtime work in time-off, rather than in cash, will in many workplaces, significantly reduce workers' take home wages. I oppose this bill because it would significantly weaken labor protections for the people who can lease afford to lose them, such as construction workers. It is the carpenters, electricians, pipefitters, and sheet metal workers, in my district, who during the warm spring and summer months, work all the overtime possible so they can accumulate enough money to last them through the cold winter months. They know that in December, January and February they are going to have more time-off than they want. It is this core of the work force that no longer looks at the 40-hour work week as a standard, but rather, as nostalgia. These are the same people who are the most likely to suffer coercive practices by their employers by being forced to accept compensatory time--which they don't want and can't afford--instead of benefiting from the premium overtime pay they have earned. In a perfect world, all businesses have the financial resources to cash out all employees at the end of every year for their unused compensatory time, as the bill would require. But this is not a perfect world. Many small contractors do not have the cash resources to even-up with their workers, and they would send them into the slow winter months without the money in their bank accounts that they and their families need to survive. My colleagues on the other side of the aisle talk about pay as you go. A pay as you go policy is the only way companies should be able to pay their workers. But I don't take my word about the true intent of this bad bill. In February, during a Senate hearing on that body's version of this legislation, one of the Republicans' handpicked comp. time advocates urged support for the bill based on the acknowledged fact that building contractors can't afford to pay their employees overtime. She even went far enough to elaborate on a scheme of how an employer could require a construction worker to work over 50 yours a week without having to pay overtime. Although this testimony was subsequently disavowed, the transparent aim of H.R. 1 and its Senate counterpart is to allow businesses to work their employees overtime without time-and-a-half pay. What the authors of the Paycheck Reduction Act would like you to believe is that this bill offers workers more control over their working lives. What it really does is take away an individual's right to choose. Under H.R. 1, workers don't have the ability to schedule their earned compensatory time when they need it. In fact, employers can schedule compensatory time anytime they choose without ever having to consult the workers. For example, a working mother who puts in 47.5 hours a week at $5 an hour will earn $256.25 for the week. Substitute comp. time for the overtime premium, and she gets $200 a week and the promise of compensatory time off--totally subject to the employers discretion. That equals an almost 22-percent pay cut for that mother. In essence, H.R. 1 gives employers a veto over their workers' use of their own earned hours off. I further oppose H.R. 1 because of the subtle, but lasting, negative effects that it would have on worker benefits that are indexed to an employee's hours or earnings. Beyond the short term, H.R. 1 contains no provision for crediting overtime hours worked, and it ignores all the long days and late nights that employees have given to their employers. Because of this, whenever employees draw on benefits tied to earnings, from unemployment to a pension, they're going to experience a reduction in those benefits; Mr. Speaker, when the people back home in my district sit down each month to figure out financially how they are going to make it through the upcoming month, they take into account their expected overtime wages. Employers don't just hand out bonuses any more. Today, you've got to earn them. I'm voting against this misguided bill because without overtime pay, many of my constituents can't afford to send their kids to college, buy a reliable care for work, or provide themselves and their families with adequate care. This bill guts the protections of the Fair Labor Standards Act, and it undermines living standards for workers. H.R. 1 is not designed to give workers more control over their working lives. It is, instead, an attempt to snatch hard won rights out the hands of this country's workers and deny them basic, simple needs, like respect for their hard work, a decent living wage, and a chance to provide for their families. I urge a ``no'' vote on the Paycheck Reduction Act, H.R. 1.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the 176th anniversary of Greek Independence Day, which is on March 24. I use this occasion not only to mark Greek independence, but also to celebrate the unique relationship that exists between the Greek and American peoples. As almost every school child knows, modern democracy has its roots in the ancient Athenian system of government that was developed over 2,500 years ago. While the democratic ideals developed during this time did not always rule in Greece, the writings of its leaders and philosophers have influenced generations of people in almost every country around the world. Among those who were influenced by ancient Greek philosophers was American Founding Father Thomas Jefferson, who taught himself how to read Greek at an early age. In his adulthood, Jefferson called upon his knowledge of the Greek tradition of democracy when writing the Declaration of Independence and other important works, which were a catalyst to American independence from the British. Years later, Jefferson's writings helped inspire the Greek people to rise up and successfully win their independence from the Ottoman Empire--the very event that we celebrate today. This close and symbiotic relationship continues to this day. Greece is one of the only countries to have supported the United States during every major international conflict this century, and it plays a vital role in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. The United States, in turn, has worked to bring a peaceful solution to the situation on the island of Cyprus, which was brutally invaded by Turkey in 1974. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to join my colleagues in celebrating Greek Independence Day. I salute the Greek people for having the courage to break the bonds of oppression 176 years ago and I look forward to continued cooperation between our two nations. Finally, I would like to salute my distinguished colleague from Florida, Mr. Bilirakis, for arranging this special order today.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate a distinguished young man, Anthony Todd Williams, for attaining the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America. Anthony is a member of the Boy Scout Troop 550. He will receive this award at an Eagle Scout court of honor on Sunday, March 16 at St. Maria Goretti Church Hall, located in Dyer, IN. An elite group, comprising only 2.5 percent of all Boy Scouts, attains the Eagle Scout ranking, which is the highest of seven rankings in the Boy Scouts organization. In order to become an Eagle Scout, a Scout must complete the following three tasks: earn 21 merit badges; complete a service project; and demonstrate strong leadership skills within the troop. Anthony, a student at Lake Central High School, made a turtle island in a community pond for his service project. Anthony has also helped to coordinate various troop outings, and he attended Boy Scout camp for 4 years. In addition Anthony attended the National Scout Preserve in Philmont, NM, which is a high adventure camp with a rugged terrain. Anthony currently has plans to attend the Sea Base Scuba High Adventure Camp in August of this year. The rank of Eagle Scout always has carried with it special significance--and not only within Scouting. Eagle Scouts are recognized as individuals with great talent and promise as they enter institutions of higher education, the work force, or engage in community service. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating Anthony Todd Williams for his commendable achievement. His parents, Kim and Richard Williams, can be proud of their son because it takes a great deal of tenacity and devotion to achieve such an illustrious ranking. 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, I rise today to bring to the attention of my colleagues a situation that threatens to upset the Middle East peace process. Palestinian leader Yasir Arafat has reportedly invited leaders from throughout the world to participate in a weekend conference, supposedly to discuss ways to move the peace process forward. While Mr. Arafat has invited diplomats from the United States, Japan, Egypt, Jordan, and Europe to participate in this conference, conspicuously absent is an invitation to the country of Israel. How can a meeting supposedly designed to discuss ways to facilitate peace in the Middle East not include Israel? Obviously, it cannot. Any serious attempt to move the peace process forward should--and must-- include Israel. It does not take a scholar of Middle Eastern history or politics to know that Israel is integral to the region's future, as well as the success of the peace process itself. Excluding Israel from this proposed conference can only be seen as an attempt to fracture the world community's support for Israel and marginalize Israel's role in the peace process. The United States must not let itself be manipulated in this way. I applaud President Clinton's efforts to bring peace to the Middle East, but we are at a very delicate point in the process, and we must be extremely careful about how we proceed. A primary tenet of the Oslo Accords is that peace negotiations should take place between Israel and Palestinian authorities. Allowing Mr. Arafat to make an end-run around Israel by excluding it from this meeting violates the principles of the Oslo Accords and poses a serious threat to the peace process. Mr. Speaker, Yasir Arafat's call for a Middle Eastern peace conference is empty without the direct and meaningful participation of Israel. If the United States allows this conference to go forward in its current form, we will be doing irreparable harm to the peace process. Therefore, I urge you and my other colleagues to join me in calling on Yasir Arafat to include Israel in this weekend's meeting or to withdraw United States participation in this one-sided and counterproductive conference.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, as a native of northwest Indiana, I have witnessed a great, unfolding story. This story is one of pride and principle, enterprise and excellence. It is the story of American workers given the chance to contribute to society, with the labor movement's guiding hand. Today, I would like to call your attention to 45 men of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Local Union No. 599, of Hammond, IN, who will be recognized for 25 years or more of service. They will be recognized during a pin ceremony at a banquet to be held on March 15, 1997, at Carpenters Hall in Hammond, IN. The Carpenters Local No. 599, which received its charter in 1899, will honor members for their years of service. The members who will be honored for 60 years of service include: John Horvath and John Stolarz. The members who will be honored for 55 years of service include: James Eminhizer, Frank Heitzman, Russell Kelley, Ray Ligocki, Oscar Wahlstrom, and Cecil Webb. The members who will be honored for 50 years of service include: Fred P. Dopoler, Carl O. Frisk, Michael Grimmer, Lawrence A. Hess, Joseph H. Hoadley, Joseph P. Lowry, Beryl Morris, Wayman Porter, John Sowinski, Walter Spencer, and George Warlsbaugh. The members who will be honored for 45 years of service include: Daniel D. Deflorio, Jack W. Depew, John Crzych, William Luckiewicz, Herman K. Nashkoff, and Joe Seneff. The members who will be honored for 40 years of service include: Edward A. Bulock, Wallace Cieszkiewicz, Eugene J. Langel, George Pooler, and Merlin Zahner. The members who will be honored for 35 years of service include: Melvin L. Blair, Richard Carnett, Ralph C. Graham, Aloysius Sajdyk, and Walter Scott. The members who will be honored for 30 years of service include: Roger Benson, Jr., William Chick, Eugene D. Hartz, Steve Hudi, Peter Lolkema, and Ronald L. Webster. The members who will be honored for 25 years of service include: Arthur A. Bach, Lewis Carver, John A. Tuskan, and Anthony R. Vigil. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other colleagues to join me in commending these dedicated members of the Carpenters Local No. 599 for their hard work in fulfilling the American dream. I offer my heartfelt congratulations to these individuals, as they have worked arduously to make this dream possible for others. They have proven themselves to be distinguished advocates for the labor movement, and they have made northwest Indiana a better place in which to live and work.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to commend Mr. Edward Williams, an outstanding citizen of Indiana's First Congressional District. On Thursday, March 13, 1997, Edward will be named East Chicagoan of the Year during a recognition banquet at the Knights of Columbus Hall in East Chicago, IN. Edward, a native of East Chicago, is a graduate of Indiana University in Bloomington. He is currently the director of education and development for the Showboat Mardi Gras Casino. Prior to holding this position, Edward was the president and chief executive officer of Lakeshore Employment and Training Partnership. In this capacity, Edward utilized his aggressive motivational and leadership qualities, which led Lakeshore to successfully train and secure employment for thousands of young adults and other unemployed residents of Lake County, IN. Not only has Edward excelled in his professional life, but he has been a great community leader as well. Edward's emphasis on the needs of our youth has challenged countless young people to be the very best they can be. He is an accomplished speaker and has addressed thousands of citizens on such diverse topics as education, motivation, economic, and community development, family issues, religion, and community involvement. Edward is a member of several professional associations, and he has received numerous appointments to local, State, and national boards. For example, Edward is a member of the East Chicago Library Board, a trustee of Antioch Baptist Church, and a Lilly Fellow. Along with the distinguished award of East Chicagoan of the year, Edward has been bestowed with the State of Indiana's highest public service award. The Sagamore of the Wabash. The award was issued by Gov. Evan Bayh. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other esteemed colleagues to join me in congratulating Edward on being honored as East Chicagoan of the Year. His children, Kelly, Kirk, and Kevin, can be proud of their father's accomplishments. His unselfish dedication will be marked forever in history.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, the United States has been built by great citizens who unselfishly dedicate their time to community service and volunteerism. The Lake Area United Way and its volunteers have worked diligently to assist those in need throughout Indiana's First Congressional District. The Lake Area United Way has organized a black tie fundraising gala in which all proceeds go to benefit its umbrella organizations. This affair will take place at the Raddison Star Plaza in Merrillville, IN on March 22, 1997. This outstanding benefit would not take place without devoted individuals to make the event possible. These volunteers include: Mr. Vic DeMeyer, manager of Corporate Consumer & Community Development for the Northern Indiana Public Service Co.; Mr. Tom McDermott, president of the Northwest Indiana Forum; Mr. John Davies, senior team leader of the Northwest Indiana Forum; Mr. Norbert Dreyer, area manager of Ameritech-Indiana; Mr. Jeff Fox, branch manager for Bank One, Merrillville N.A.; Mr. John Gauder, director of marketing for U.S. Cable of Northern Indiana; Ms. Pat Giannini, community relations consultant for Amoco Oil Co.; Ms. Barbara Haas, group vice president of consumer service for the Northern Indiana Public Service Co.; Mr. Jim Hornak, president of the United Brotherhood Carpenters & Joiners; Ms. Kaydell Knarr, administrator for the school city of Hammond; Mr. George Kuebler, public relations manager for St. Anthony Medical Center; Mr. Peter Manous, attorney-at-law for John M. Kopack & Associates; Ms. Jan Moran, president of Moran Designs Corp.; Mr. Daniel Root, general manager for the Center for Visual & Performing Arts; and Ms. Delores Williams, assistant vice president of Nursing for Northlake Methodist Hospital. In addition, this event could not be possible without the dedicated Lake Area United Way staff, including: Mr. Louis Martinez, president; Ms. Mary Ellen Nichols, executive assistant; Ms. Diane Karp, vice president of fund raising; Mr. Bob Scott, director of the fund raising campaign; Ms. Colleen Gallagher, senior manager of the fund raising campaign; Ms. Janiece Cerjeski, campaign associate, Mr. Steve Hunter, campaign assistant; Mr. Alex Monanteras, vice president of finance and administration; Mr. Pat McNiece, director of information systems; Ms. Mariann Munro, manager of financial accounting and human resources; Ms. Tracy Williams, finance assistant; Mr. David Sikes, director of allocations; Mr. Jerry Powell, director of labor and information and referral; and Ms. Chelsea Stalling, director of marketing and communications. The mission of the Lake Area United Way is to bring together the resources of our community to assist people in helping themselves and one another. The Lake Area United Way is an organization that strives for continuous improvement in the quality of relationships with one another, volunteers, and all individuals and businesses in the community. The Lake Area United Way strives to achieve this goal by treating all people in a courteous and professional manner in order to instill confidence and trust in their organization. Their hallmark is the delivery of timely, high-quality service by being accessible and responsive to ensure satisfaction. At the same time, the organization works hard to effectively communicate the appropriate information in order to achieve the individual and organizational goals. The Lake Area United Way also strives to identify and resolve problems in a timely and satisfactory manner, while disseminating information about the funded services that help people, as well as the places where help is available. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other colleagues to join me in commending these distinguished volunteers and staff members of the Lake Area United Way for their continuing effort to improve the quality of life for Indiana's First Congressional District. In closing, I would like to extend my congratulations to the Lake Area United Way, as well as best wishes for a successful gala on March 22.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to call your attention to a special award that was recently given to our distinguished colleagues and longstanding leaders of the Congressional Steel Caucus, Ralph Regula and Jack Murtha. Last month, Ralph and Jack were recognized by the American Iron & Steel Institute and the U.S. Department of Energy [DOE] during DOE's Industrial Efficiency Symposium in Arlington, VA. On February 25, Ralph and Jack received individual awards testifying to their unflagging contributions to the future of the American steel industry. The awards were in recognition of the central role they have played, both as leaders of the caucus and as individual legislators, in creating the metals initiative program within the energy efficiency function of DOE. The metals initiative, a government-industry collaborative program designed to improve the competitiveness of steel and other metal industries, has received $120 million in appropriations over the past decade to develop direct steelmaking, advanced process controls, and an optical sensor for measuring temperatures. In their respective positions as chairman and vice chairman of the Congressional Steel Caucus, Ralph Regula and Jack Murtha have worked tirelessly over the years to promote and expand the economic viability of the American steel industry and the jobs of its workers. The Steel Caucus is a bipartisan organization, which has served as a forum since the 1970's for Members of Congress to exchange information and ideas with steel industry representatives, steelworkers and their representatives, and the administration. And their hard work has paid off handsomely: Today, the American steel industry and its workers are the most productive and efficient in the world. Mr. Speaker, I hope you and my other House colleagues will join me in congratulating Ralph and Jack for receiving this award in recognition of their crucial support for the American steel industry and its workers.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, today, I am joined by our colleague, Representative Charlie Stenholm, in introducing the Balanced Budget Enforcement Act of 1997. This legislation, which was originally introduced by former chairman of the Budget Committee, Leon Panetta, would put in place tough, new measures to reform the budget process and eliminate the Federal budget deficit by the year 2002. It would do so by using a unique combination of an annual cap on appropriations, reconciliation, and sequestration, to pressure the President and the Congress to achieve annual deficit reduction goals, resulting in a balanced budget in 2002 and each year thereafter. Unlike similar pieces of legislation designed to produce a balanced budget, the Balanced Budget Enforcement Act contains no loopholes, and is designed to reward committees which meet their deficit-reduction responsibilities. A more detailed summary of the legislation appears after these remarks. Like many of my colleagues, I am extremely concerned that we have failed to plan for this Nation's future and that we are about to saddle our children and our grandchildren with debts that they cannot possibly hope to pay. While we have made some progress in bringing the deficit under control over the past several years, the fact remains that in fiscal year (FY) 1996, the Federal Government spent $107 billion more than it took in. What's more, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that under current law, the deficit will begin rising again this year, climbing back to $278 billion by Fiscal Year 2007. The Balanced Budget Enforcement Act of 1997 would stop this destructive trend, and set us on the path to a budget that is truly balanced by 2002. In closing, Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to cosponsor this important legislation. The sooner we begin a serious effort to balance the budget, the better off our children and grandchildren will be. Balanced Budget Enforcement Act of 1997 summary (1) Deficit Reduction Targets (in addition to the amounts required by current law) to reach balance in 2002. [In billions] ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 Total ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Discretionary caps.............................................. 10.6 22.1 34.8 47.9 61.3 176.8 Entitlement/revenue scorecard................................... 19.9 40.5 55.6 69.7 85.2 271 Debt service.................................................... .9 3.6 7.7 13 20 45.4

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, today, I am introducing legislation to expedite the cleanup of our Nation's waters. This bill, the National Clean Water Trust Fund Act of 1997, would create a trust fund established from fines, penalties, and other moneys collected through enforcement of the Clean Water Act to help alleviate the problems for which the enforcement actions were taken. This legislation is identical to a measure I introduced with bipartisan support in the last Congress, and it was the model for a amendment that received 156 votes in 1995 during House consideration of legislation to reauthorize the Clean Water Act. Currently, there is no guarantee that fines or other moneys that result from violations of the Clean Water Act will be used to correct water quality problems. Instead, some of the money goes into the general fund of the U.S. Treasury without any provision that it be used to improve the quality of our Nation's waters. I am concerned that Environmental Protection Agency [EPA] enforcement activities are extracting large sums of money from industry and others through enforcement of the Clean Water Act, while we ignore the fundamental issue of how to pay for the cleanup of the water pollution problems for which the penalties were levied. If we are really serious about ensuring the successful implementation of the Clean Water Act, we should put these enforcement funds to work and actually clean up our Nation's waters. It does not make sense for scarce resources to go into the bottomless pit of the Treasury's general fund, especially if we fail to solve our serious water quality problems due to lack of funds. Specifically, my bill would establish a national clean water trust fund within the U.S. Treasury for fines, penalties, and other moneys, including consent decrees, obtained through enforcement of the clean Water Act that would otherwise be placed into Treasury's general fund. Under my proposal, the EPA Administrator would be authorized to prioritize and carry out projects to restore and recover waters of the United States using the funds collected from violations of the Clean Water Act. However, this legislation would not preempt citizen suits or in any way preclude EPA's authority to undertake and complete supplemental environmental projects [SEP's] as part of settlements related to violations of the Clean Water Act and/or other legislation. For example, in 1993, Inland Steel announced a $54.5 million multimedia consent decree, which included a $26 million SEP and a $3.5 million cash payment to the U.S. Treasury. I strongly support the use of SEP's to facilitate the cleanup of serious environmental problems, which are particularly prevalent in my congressional district. However, my bill would dedicate the cash payment to the Treasury to the clean water trust fund. The bill further specifies that remedial projects be within the same EPA region where enforcement action was taken. Northwest Indiana is in EPA region 5, and there are 10 EPA regions throughout the United States. Under my proposal, any funds collected from enforcement of the Clean Water Act in region 5 would go into the national clean water trust fund and, ideally, be used to clean up environmental impacts associated with the problem for which the fine was levied. To illustrate how a national clean water trust fund would be effective in cleaning up our Nation's waters, I would like to highlight the magnitude of the fines that have been levied through enforcement of the Clean Water Act. Nationwide, in fiscal year 1996, EPA assessed $85 million in penalties for violations of the Clean Water Act. My bill also instructs EPA to coordinate its efforts with the States in prioritizing specific cleanup projects. Finally, to monitor the implementation of the national clean water trust fund, I have included a reporting requirement in my legislation. One year after enactment, and every 2 years thereafter, the EPA Administrator would make a report to Congress regarding the establishment of the trust fund. My legislation has garnered the endorsement of several environmental organizations in northwest Indiana, including the Grand Calumet Task Force, the Indiana Division of the Izaak Walton League, and the Save the Dunes Council. Further, I am encouraged by the support within the national environmental community and the Northeast-Midwest Congressional Coalition for the concept of a National Clean Water Trust Fund. I would also like to point out that, in a 1992 report to Congress on the Clean Water Act enforcement mechanisms, and EPA workgroup recommended amending the Clean Water Act to establish a national clean water trust fund. In reauthorizing the Clean Water Act, we have a unique opportunity to improve the quality of our Nation's waters. The establishment of a national clean water trust fund is an innovative step in that direction. By targeting funds accrued through enforcement of the Clean Water Act--that would otherwise go into the Treasury Department's general fund--we can put scarce resources to work and facilitate the cleanup of problem areas throughout the Great Lakes and across this country. I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to commend to you and my other distinguished colleagues, Ms. Irene Ketchum, an outstanding citizen of Indiana's First Congressional District. Irene is a shining example of commendable dedication to voluntarism. At the end of 1996, in recognition of her unselfish commitment to the community of northwest Indiana, Indiana State Representative Dan Stevenson of Hammond, IN, presented Irene with Indiana's highest honor designated by Governor Evan Bayh, the Sagamore of the Wabash. This distinguished award was bestowed upon her at a Democratic precinct open house at the Wicker Park Social Center. Irene's distinguished career includes being managing editor of the Herald Newspapers in Gary, IN, from 1950-55. From 1956 to 1979, Irene served as clerk treasurer for the town of Highland, and in 1980, she became a trustee and board secretary of the Lake County Public Library. Over the years, Irene has devoted her time to many community service organizations. She has served as treasurer of the Highland Community Events Council, president of the Highland Women's Democratic Club, and auditor of the Highland Democratic Club. Moreover, Irene has served as treasurer, secretary, vice president, and president of the Indiana League of Municipal Clerks and Treasurers, and she is a lifetime member of the Girl Scouts of America USA. In 1995, the Girl Scouts Calumet Council honored Irene with its Woman of Distinction Award. Irene unselfishly spends 1 day a week at an east Chicago, Indiana church rectory, doing office work, and 1 day a week at Our Lady of Grace school library. Irene also aids the Hammond Public Library with the program for seniors once a month. Currently, Irene is treasurer for the St. John Deanery Council of Catholic Women, and she is president of the Our lady of Grace Court 80, National Catholic Society of Foresters. In a country that benefits immensely from voluntarism, Irene has proven that unselfishness has unlimited rewards that do not go unrecognized. Irene can be proud of her efforts to enrich the caliber of life in Indiana's First Congressional District. Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in commending Irene for her lifetime devotion to community service.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to participate today in this special order to commemorate Black History Month. As we celebrate the great contributions of African-Americans throughout the history of our country, we can look to the civil rights movement of the 1960's as a pivotal time when what ``was'' and what ``could be'' were brought into striking relief through sometimes violent conflict. The civil rights movement was a period of enormous growth for our country. As a nation we were forced, by great African-American leaders, such as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, and others, to examine ourselves and confront the forces of hate and ignorance that were cleaving our society. That tumultuous period is now behind us, and many great things have happened as a result of that struggle. The African- American community was strengthened, and as it was, so was the entire Nation. As we face the present, and look ahead to the future, however, some stark realities exist. The fact remains that much still needs to be accomplished before true equality and racial harmony is a fact of life in this country. Now, more than ever, we need strong African-American leadership. We must have African-American activists, who, like the leaders of the civil rights movement, are able to take action and inspire. One such activist-leader lives in Indiana's First Congressional District. Mr. James Piggee has been a teacher and coach in the Gary, IN, school system for 30 years, and his activism is unique in that it focuses on educating young black students about their past, while at the same time giving them an opportunity to prepare for the future. For the past 12 years, Mr. Piggee has been actively involved in organizing and leading the historical black college tour in which over 1,800 students from across the United States have participated. This experience has allowed African-American students to experience various parts of their history and culture as it has developed in traditionally black colleges and universities throughout the country. In addition to gaining an historical perspective on African-American intellectual life, they get a chance to learn about the schools they may one day attend. One of the many positive results of Mr. Piggee's work is that over 60 percent of the students who participated in one of the tours enrolled at one of the colleges they visited. As part of his work, Mr. Piggee has helped over 500 students secure grants, scholarships, and financial aid to historically black and other colleges and universities in the United States. Mr. Piggee, who tragically lost his son Marc in a drive-by shooting on November 12, 1996, is an active member in many civic and community organizations in northwest Indiana, including the board of directors of Indiana Black Expo, the State Board of Minority Health Coalition, and Healthy Start. He is a recipient of many distinguished awards, such as the Governor's Voluntary Action Programs and Excellence in Education Award, Indiana University's Outstanding Teacher Award, Gary and Merrillville, IN, Lions Club Teacher of the Year Award, Inland Steel Teacher of the Year Award, Gary Community Corporation Heritage Award, National Council of Negro Women, Gary, IN, Chapter, Outstanding Service Award, and the Indiana State Board of Health Outstanding Service Award. Besides his continued dedication to teaching, Mr. Piggee is also the coordinator of the developing options opportunity for responsible students, or DOORS, program. This program provides an environment that is conducive to the successful transition from high school to secondary education, the military, or the work force. Mr. Speaker, activists like Mr. Piggee will ensure that at all levels the fight for equality will not end. His work should inspire us all to look to the future and know that change is always at hand. His work shows us that what is today, can be better tomorrow. In closing, I would like to commend my colleagues, Representatives Louis Stokes and Maxine Waters, for organizing this important special order on Black History Month.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to commend an outstanding citizen of Indiana's First Congressional District, Mr. Ernest Niemeyer. On Friday, January 24, 1997, a testimonial dinner at the Radisson Star Hotel in Merrillville, Indiana, was held to honor Ernie for his 28 years of dedicated public service. Ernie has devoted most of his life to improving and maintaining an outstanding environment for Indiana's First Congressional District. Over his distinguished career, Ernie served as a Lake County councilman for 4 years, Indiana State senator for 12 years, and Lake County commissioner for 12 years. Ernie's public service began in 1962, when he was elected as a Lake County councilman. In 1968, Ernie was appointed to the Lake County Parks Board. Ernie was immediately elected president. Under his stewardship, the park board obtained the first two county parks: Lemon Lake and Stoney Run. In 1970, Ernie successfully ran for sixth district State senator. Ernie served his constituency as the chairman for the agricultural subcommittee. In this capacity, he introduced and was successful in passing legislation for funding projects, including the Williams Levee in the Kankakee River. Ernie was then promoted to senate majority whip. In 1984, Ernie was elected as third district Lake County commissioner, where he proudly served as a senior member. During this tenure, he served twice as commissioner board president. Over the years, Ernie has also devoted time to numerous committees and boards. He has served as chairman of the Lake County Drainage Board and the Kankakee River Basin Commission. He also was an active member of the County Planning Commission, the Lake County Solid Waste District, and the Indiana State Association of County Commissioners. Ernie's unselfish dedication to his civic duty must also be commended. Ernie was a member of the Lowell VFW, and Post 101 American Legion. He is a past president of the Indiana Auctioneers Association and past director of the National Auctioneers Association. Ernie was also a president of the Indiana Livestock Auction Markets Association, and he still retains membership in the Lowell Chamber of Commerce. In addition, Ernie answered his country's call and joined the U.S. Army during World War II. He served 2 years in the South Pacific Theatre as a combat infantryman with the 158th Regimental Combat Team. This regiment was engaged in battles in the jungles of New Guinea leading to the liberation of the Philippines from the Japanese imperial forces. During those campaign battles in the Philippines, Ernie earned and was awarded the prestigious Combat Infantryman's Badge, three battle stars, and individual campaign ribbons. For bravery and dedication beyond the normal call of duty to his comrades in battle, he was honored with the Bronze Battle Star Special Award. After returning home, Ernie took steps to begin his professional career as an auctioneer. In 1951, he graduated from auctioneers school and established one of the most successful auctioning businesses in northern Indiana. Ernie shares this business with his son, Rick. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending Ernie for his tireless efforts to improve the quality of life for Indiana's First Congressional District. Ernie, his wife, Norma, and their children, Doyle, Rick, and Pam, can be proud of his record of unselfish dedication to the public. His service will forever remain a part of northwest Indiana's great history.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, today, I am pleased to introduce the Highway Rail Grade Crossing Safety Formula Enhancement Act, which is designed to provide a more effective method of targeting available Federal funds to enhance safety at our Nation's most hazardous highway rail grade crossings. This bipartisan legislation, which is the companion bill to legislation sponsored by Senators Lugar and Coats, will provide a more effective method of targeting available Federal funds to enhance safety at our Nation's most dangerous highway rail crossings. Specifically, this bill would improve the Federal funding formula to account for risk factors that identify which States have significant grade crossing safety problems. The factors considered in the bill include a State's share of the national total for public highway rail grade crossings, its number of crossings with passive warning devices, and its total number of accidents and fatalities caused by vehicle- train collisions at crossings. The Rail-Highway Crossing Program, also known as section 130, currently provides States with crossing safety funds as part of a 10 percent set-aside in each State's Surface Transportation Program [STP] funds. The program's goal is to provide Federal funds for State efforts to reduce the incidence of accidents, injuries, and fatalities at public railroad crossings. The States use these funs to build underpasses and overpasses, install passive or active warning devices, and improve pavement surfaces and markings. Several hundred people are killed, and thousands more injured, every year in the United States as a result of vehicle-train collisions at highway rail grade crossings. A significant number of these accidents occur in rail-intensive States, such as Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Kansas, and Texas. More than one quarter of the Nation's 168,000 public highway rail grade crossings are located in these five States. One third of deaths caused by vehicle-train collisions nationwide between 1993-95 occurred in these states. With 6,587, my home State of Indiana ranks fifth in the Nation for the number of highway rail grade crossings, and Indiana is annually among the top five States nationwide in terms of accidents and fatalities caused by vehicle-train crashes. Just 2 weeks ago, a 15- year-old boy from Valparaiso, IN was struck by a train while traveling to school. Several years ago, my own mother, fortunately, survived a vehicle-train collision at a crossing where there were no warning devices. This legislation will help prevent senseless accidents like these. Maximizing the return from Federal funds requires that they be targeted to areas with the greatest risk. In a 1995 report to Congress on the status of efforts to improve railroad crossing safety, the General Accounting Office [GAO] found anomalies among the States in terms of the funds they received in proportion to three key factors: Accidents, fatalities, and total crossings. With the legislation I am introducing today, we have a unique opportunity to maximize existing resources, improve safety at highway rail grade crossings, and save lives. The establishment of a new funding formula is an innovative step in that direction. By targeting funds to States on the basis of risk factors, we can put scarce resources to work and use a commonsense approach by allocating Federal dollars where the need is greatest. This legislation does not call for new Federal spending, but rather a more equitable and effective distribution of existing highway funds to states to enhance safety at dangerous highway rail grade crossings. States that would benefit under the revised formula are: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Wisconsin. Finally, I would point out that my bill addresses the grade crossing safety problems by refining a key provision of the existing Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act [ISTEA]. Using my proposal as a foundation, I will work with my colleagues to help assure that Congress passes highway reauthorization legislation that makes the best use of available Federal resources for rail crossing safety. In the 104th Congress, I introduced a similar measure, in conjunction with the entire Indiana delegation, which I testified in support of last July during Surface Transportation Subcommittee hearings regarding ISTEA policy. I believe that continued emphasis on finding new and better ways to target existing resources to enhance safety at highway rail grade crossings will contribute to the overall effort in Congress and in the States to prevent accidents and save lives.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. today, and we reflect on his life and work, we are reminded of the challenges that democracy poses to us and the delicacy of liberty. Dr. King's life, and unfortunately his vicious murder, remind us that we must continually work and, if necessary, fight, to secure and protect our freedoms. Dr. King, in his courage to act, his willingness to meet challenges, and his ability to achieve, embodied all that is good and true in that battle for liberty. The spirit of Dr. King lives on in many of the citizens in communities throughout our Naiton. It lives on in the people whose actions reflect the spirt of resolve and achievement that will help move our county into the future. In particular, I would like to recognize several distinguished individuals from Indiana's First Congressional District, who, in the past year and in their own ways have, have acted with courage, met challenges, and used their abilities to reach goals and enhance their communities. Mr. Jack Parton, director of the United Steelworkers of America, District 7, Mr. Eric Mason and Mr. Michael Krueger, both graduates of Portage High School, led a prodiversity rally in Portage, IN, last May to peacefully, but forcefully, counter a march by the Ku Klux Klan. Their efforts sent a strong and clear message to members of the KKK, as well as members of our communities and citizens throughout the country, that ethnic, racial, and religious hatred will not be tolerated. The counter-rally that they developed and carried out was an overwhelming success. It generated enormous support from religious, labor, business, and civic groups throughout the region. The courage of these men should be held up as an example to all that, through thoughtful, united action, the values of human rights that we all cherish can--and must-- be maintained, even in the face of ignorance and hatred. I would also like to recognize Janee Bryant, Brandon Crayton, Brandie Frifth, LaKisha Girder, Damara Hamlin, Markika Harris, Rasheedah Jackson, Leah Johnson, Jacleen Joiner, Ayashia Muhammad, Clinton Pearson, Kala Simmons, Sheria Smith, David Suggs, DeKeyur Summer, Jennifer Thompson, Stephanie Thompson, Courtney Williams, and Joey Willis. These outstanding individuals are the members of the Tolleston Junior High School team, which won the Indiana State Bowl Championship in spelling. This wonderful accomplishment is a reflection of their hard work and dedication to study. Their scholastic effort and rigorous approach to learning have made them the best in the State. They have brought pride to themselves, their families, their school, and their communities. Their success is also a credit to the outstanding ability and leadership of their teacher-coaches, Mrs. Margaret Hymes, Mrs. Paula Thompson, Mrs. Sandra V. Alfred, Ms. Dionne Moore, Mrs. Janice L. Williams, and Mrs. Juanita Vincent. The Tolleston students, who won the State Bowl Championship in spelling, as well as their gifted teachers, deserve recognition as true role models in our State. Though very different in nature, the achievement of all of these individuals reflects many of the same attributes that Dr. King possessed and the values he espoused. Like Dr. King, these individuals saw challenges and rose to the occasion. They had goals and worked to achieve them. Mr. Speaker, I urge you and my other colleagues to join me in commending their initiative, resolve, and dedication.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to commend the Save the Dunes Council, and its executive director, Tom Anderson, as they celebrate their 44th anniversary. The Save the Dunes Council is primarily responsible for the creation of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. The Save the Dunes Council was formed to establish a dunes national park. Its main goal was to fight off plans of powerful political and economic interests to industrialize the entire Hoosier shoreline on Lake Michigan. In 1952, Dorothy Buell, a citizen of Ogden Dunes, invited two dozen area women to a meeting in her house on the first day of the summer. This fledgling group was called the Save the Dunes Council. Their main focus was to raise money to buy the 5 miles of beach and dunes generally located between the towns of Dune Acres on the east and Ogden Dunes on the west. These women did succeed in purchasing a piece of the unprotected land at a 1953 Port County tax sale, which now stands as Cowles Bog. From these early beginnings, the council, which included Herb and Charlotte Read, and Illinois Senator Paul Douglas, traveled to Washington, DC, to fight plans to industrialize the area. As a result, on November 5, 1966, the first Indiana Dunes bill was enacted to create the 5,800-acre Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Since 1983, Dale B. Enquist has been superintendent of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. This year, Mr. Enquist received the Department of the Interior's highest honor, the Meritorious Service Award. The Council fought corporate interests and the entire Indiana legislative and congressional delegations in the days before the National Environmental Policy Act and open meetings law. While two steel plants and a deep water port on Lake Michigan now sit in the heart of the dunes, 14,000 acres of Indiana's dunes are forever protected as a State and national parkland. The Save the Dunes Council developed tactics and strategies that were never used before. It stood up to corporate America and won the battle. The Save the Dunes Council has preserved one of the country's most beautiful and precious assets to ever exist. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending the Save the Dunes Council, as well as the hope it embodies in its continuing effort to preserve our environment.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor to commend the Circles of Serbian Sisters of Northwest Indiana. This distinguished organization is holding its fourth annual benefit at St. George Serbian Orthodox Church in East Chicago, IN this Sunday, October 6, 1996. The Circles of Serbian Sisters of Northwest Indiana is the combined effort of four separate Circles of Serbian Sisters organizations, each of which contains about 200 members. The presidents of the Circles of Serbian Sisters are: Ms. Helen Tezich, from St. George Serbian Orthodox Church in East Chicago; Ms. Natalie Tieca, from St. George Serbian Orthodox Church in Schererville; Ms. Ann Rudman, from St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church in Merrillville; and Ms. Milica Bodrozic, from St. Elijah Serbian Orthodox Church in Merrillville. Four years ago, these organizations unified to assemble this humanitarian fundraiser in order to provide aid to orphaned and refugee children in the former Yugoslavia. Last year alone, the Circles of Serbian Sisters sent over 7,000 packages and vaccines to these displaced children, who are forced to live in refugee camps and shelters. These individually wrapped packages consisted of underwear, sweat suits, and candy. Circles of Serbian Sisters of Northwest Indiana works with the International Orthodox Christian Charities and the Serbian Orthodox Church in the former Yugoslavia. Four priests, who have supported this effort from the very beginning are: Father Steve Kovaceivich, from St. George Serbian Orthodox Church in East Chicago; the Very Reverend Father Milan Savich, from St. George Serbian Orthodox Church in Schererville; the Arch Priest John Todorovich, from St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church; and Father Lazar Kostur, from St. Elijah Serbian Orthodox Church. The following distinguished clergymen from the Serbian Orthodox Church have sent their blessings for the event Metro Bishop Irney-- Kovacevich--Serbian Orthodox Hierarch of the New Granica Metropolitinate, seated in Third Lake, IL; His Eminence Metropolitan Christopher--Kovacevich--Serbian Orthodox Hierarch for Midwestern America, seated in Libertyville, IL; and His Grace Bishop Sava-- Jurich--Serbian Orthodox Bishop of Australia and New Zealand, Surrogate Bishop to His Holiness Serbian Orthodox Patriarch Pavle, administrator of the Serbian Orthodox Diocese of USA and Canada. During this year's banquet, which is held at a different church each year, two sisters, Ms. Millica Bodrozic and Mara Dobrijevich, who have been involved in this movement from the very beginning, will describe what they experienced as they traveled to the former Yugoslavia to deliver the aid packages. Thank you notes from the orphaned children will also be read during this benefit. Mr. Speaker, during this sad time in the former Yugoslavia, the mission of the Circles of Serbian Sisters offers renewed hope in the humanity of all people. I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending the Circles of Serbian Sisters and wishing them well on their fourth annual banquet, as well as the continued success of their humanitarian efforts.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, one of the remarkable qualities of Indiana's First Congressional District is the harmony between its massive industries and its exquisite natural treasures. One of the northwest Indiana's jewels is the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore [IDNL] on the shores of Lake Michigan. Two outstanding individuals, who have dedicated their lives to successfully preserving the beauty of northwest Indiana, are Herb and Charlotte Reed. Herb and Charlotte are two of a select few people in the country to be named ``American Heros'' for their work to protect our national public lands. Herb's direct involvement with the Indiana Dunes began in 1952, when he joined the Save the Dunes Council. Save the Dunes was formed to establish a dunes national park, as well as to preserve the Indiana Dunes, which were threatened by powerful political and economic interests trying to industrialize all of Indiana's Lake Michigan shoreline. As a result of the fine work of the Save the Dunes Council, the 5,800-acre Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore was established in 1966. Today, the park consists of approximately 15,000 acres, 2,182 of which are located in Indiana Dunes State Park and managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. In 1966, Charlotte joined the fight after Congress agreed to authorize the IDNL. She served as one of the very first park rangers and later became the Save the Dunes Council's first paid staffer. Since that time, Charlotte served as the Council's executive director from 1974 to 1992, and she currently serves as its assistant executive director. Over the years, Herb and Charlotte have been actively involved in several other environmental organizations. In the late 1950's, Herb founded the Porter County Chapter of the Izaak Walton League, which is one of the region's strongest voices for environmental action. Charlotte is cofounder of the Hoosier Environmental Council. Charlotte is a recipient of the Indiana Department of Environmental Management's [IDEM] Environmental Impact Award. She was chosen for this honor as a result of her advocacy on behalf of environmental protection issues during IDEM's formative years. Herb and Charlotte have both been recognized by several organizations for their joint efforts to preserve our natural treasures. Awards bestowed upon them include the 1990 Gold Cup Award from the Hoosier Environmental Council, the 1991 Gold Cup Award from the Hoosier Sierra Club, and two industry-sponsored awards. As a result of the Reeds' work, a State and national park will forever protect 15,000 acres of Indiana's dunes, home to giant sand dunes, river forests, prairie lands, and bogs. The national lakeshore contains 1,400 plant species--only four national parks contain more plant diversity. Herb and Charlotte Reed are dear friends and successful environmental activists. I cannot say enough about this exalted couple. Their efforts to create the national lakeshore in Indiana will forever remain a large part of the history of Indiana's First Congressional District. It seems only fitting that Herb and Charlotte live in a cabin enveloped by the national lakeshore. It is from this vantage point that they fought their four-decade war for the dunes, while at the same time raised their five wonderful children. Mr. Speaker, I urge you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending Herb and Charlotte for their commitment and valiant efforts to protect and preserve the environment for generations to come. Herb and Charlotte Reed are, indeed, living legends.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to the long and illustrious careers of my distinguished colleagues and good friends, Andy Jacobs and John Myers. I have had the honor of serving with John and Andy since I was first elected to join Indiana's congressional delegation in 1984. Before that, I got to know them when I worked on the staff of the late Adam Benjamin, Jr. Andy and John have always demonstrated that they are men of impeccable character, honesty, and integrity. Indeed, Indiana and the Nation are fortunate to have had these two honorable and capable individuals representing their interests in the U.S. Congress for the past three decades. Since he was first elected to represent Indiana's Tenth Congressional District in 1964, Andy Jacobs has been 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 Ways and Means Committee, 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 Health, Medicare, and Social Security Subcommittees. In this capacity, he was able to strengthen and enhance the Social Security Administration and the Medicare Program. Widely recognized as one of the most frugal Members of Congress, Andy put his money where his mouth is by being an early proponent of a balanced budget constitutional amendment. the third most senior Republican in the House and the GOP Dean of Indiana's congressional delegation, John Myers has served in the House since 1966, when he was first elected to represent Indiana's Seventh Congressional District. Over the years, John has earned the reputation as a staunch fiscal conservative, and he takes pride in the fact that he has never voted for a tax increase. John's leadership on the Appropriations Committee has been particularly distinguished. Since he began his service on the committee in 1970, John has compiled a remarkable legislative record, punctuated by fairness and bipartisanship. Throughout his career, and, most recently, as chairman of the Energy and Water Subcommittee, he has used his experience to craft needed flood control projects for his farming- intensive district. However, John's work on the subcommittee goes beyond helping out his constituents. He has been a long-time advocate for high-technology research, including progress in new cancer treatments, plant biodiversity, superconductivity, and general science at Purdue, Indiana State, and other Indiana universities. Andy Jacobs and John Myers will be sorely missed after they retire at the end of the 104th Congress. Indiana and the Nation will lose the invaluable experience of their combined 60 years in the U.S. Congress. I am happy, however, that Andy and John can look forward to spending plenty of time with their families. I would like to convey my best wishes to Andy's wife, Kim, and their two boys, Andy and Steve. I would also like to tell John and his wife, Carol, that they are lucky to have more time to spend with their two daughters, Carol Ann and Lori, and their two grandsons, Justin and Austin. In closing, Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank Andy Jacobs and John Myers for all they have done for me during my tenure in the Congress. In addition to being fonts of wisdom and experience, they were always there for me when I needed them--first and foremost as friends. John and Andy, I am a better person, a better legislator, and a better father, because I have known you. I wish both of you good and decent men every joy and happiness in life.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, one of the remarkable qualities of Indiana's First Congressional District is the harmony between its massive industries and its exquisite natural treasures. One of the northwest Indiana's jewels is the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore [IDNL] on the shores of Lake Michigan. Two outstanding individuals, who have dedicated their lives to successfully preserving the beauty of northwest Indiana, are Herb and Charlotte Reed. Herb and Charlotte are two of a select few people in the country to be named ``American Heros'' for their work to protect our national public lands. Herb's direct involvement with the Indiana Dunes began in 1952, when he joined the Save the Dunes Council. Save the Dunes was formed to establish a dunes national park, as well as to preserve the Indiana Dunes, which were threatened by powerful political and economic interests trying to industrialize all of Indiana's Lake Michigan shoreline. As a result of the fine work of the Save the Dunes Council, the 5,800-acres Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore was established in 1966. Today, the park consists of approximately 15,000 acres, 2,182 of which are located in Indiana Dunes State Park and managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. In 1966, Charlotte joined the fight after Congress agreed to authorize the IDNL. She served as one of the very first park rangers and later became the Save the Dunes Council's first paid staffer. Since that time, Charlotte served as the Council's executive director from 1974 to 1992, and she currently serves as its assistant executive director. Over the years, Herb and Charlotte have been actively involved in several other environmental organizations. In the late 1950's, Herb founded the Porter County Chapter of the Izaak Walton League, which is one of the region's strongest voices for environmental action. Charlotte is confounder of the Hoosier Environmental Council. Charlotte is a recipient of the Indiana Department of Environmental Management's [IDEM] Environmental Impact Award. She was chosen for this honor as a result of her advocacy on behalf of environmental protection issues during IDEM's formative years. Herb and Charlotte have both been recognized by several organizations for their joint efforts to preserve our natural treasures. Awards bestowed upon them include the 1990 Gold Cup Award from the Hoosier Environmental Council, the 1991 Gold Cup Award from the Hoosier Sierra Club, and two industry-sponsored awards. As a result of the Reeds' work, a State and national park will forever protect 15,000 acres of Indiana's dunes, home to giant sand dunes, river forests, prairie lands, and bogs. The national lakeshore contains 1,400 plant species--only four national parks contain more plant diversity.

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 board of directors, and its administrator, Ms. June Long, on LACASA's first annual fundraiser dinner. LACASA, whose office is located in Gary, IN, will hold this monumental event on Saturday, September 28, 1996, at the Patio Restaurant in Merrillville, IN. The LACASA Board of Directors Officers include: Mrs. Aida Padilla, president and director of the Senior Companion Program; Mrs. Julie Tanis, vice president and public school teacher; Mr. Joaquin Rodriguez, secretary and community advocate; and Mr. Ray Acevedo, treasurer and photographer. Members of the board of directors include: Mrs. Bertha Cardenas, Mrs. Hortencia Hernandez, Mrs. Maria Magana, Mrs. Socorro Roman, Mr. Roeman Whitesell, Ms. Jeannette Hinton Padgett, Ms. Maria Vasquez, Mr. Martin Valtierra, Mr. Ben Luna, Mrs. Maria Lopez, Mrs. Mary Jean Maloney, and Ms. Finis Springer. LACASA, which was organized in 1994, is dedicated to serving the Hispanic residents of northwest Indiana who experience difficulty in obtaining needed social and educational services. It serves northwest Indiana's Hispanic residents, who comprise 52 percent of the total population in this area, with quality services to meet their special needs. Special programs that LACASA offers are: adult education, offered at various levels from basic adult education to preparation for the high school equivalency test; Head Start, which provides parenting skills training and an opportunity for parents to become empowered in the education of their children; and Access Assistance, which includes a food pantry, learning job search skills, and youth personal leadership and high school preparation instruction. While LACASA already provides several beneficial services, it has plans to continue 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 agencies where its clients are referred. It would also like to offer tutoring services for Hispanic youth and establish health stations in an effort to assist Hispanic 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. LACASA is funded and receives support from the city of Gary-Community Development Block Grant, Lake Area United Way, Health and Human Services-ACYF, Gary Community School Corp., National Hispanic Institute, U.S. Hispanic Leadership Institute, Indiana Literacy Foundation, and Kankakee Workforce Development Services. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending LACASA. This fine organization should be congratulated on its continuing efforts to preserve the Hispanic culture, while at the same time improving the quality of life for the Hispanic residents of Indiana's First Congressional District. May their first annual fundraiser be a successful and joyous event.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate St. Mark Catholic Church, its pastor, the Reverend Robert P. Gehring, and the 421 parish families, on the celebration of St. Mark's 75th anniversary. On September 22, 1996, St. Mark Church, located in Gary IN, will hold a grand banquet at the Hellenic Cultural Center in Merriville, IN, to proclaim its celebration theme, ``Continuing the Mission of Christ.'' This banquet will be preceded by a jubilee Mass at St. Mark Church celebrated by Bishop Dale J. Melczek. I would also like to congratulate the current Pastoral Council, which include Maria Azcona, Richard Burgess, Joan Bynum, Pat Corgan, Jesse Covarrubias, Alma Erris, Maria Gutierrez, Marcia Mizen, Roni Opong- Duah, Natalie Ousley, Felicia Flowers Smith, and Carl Terlicher. In 1994, this council, which serves as an advisory body to assist the pastor in decisions concerning the operations of St. Mark Church, replaced the former parish council. Early in this century, traveling missionaries ministered to the needs of Catholics in the northwest Indiana area, and small parishes were formed in scattered villages and towns to aid the missionaries in their work. However, there was a strong need to establish a permanent parish. Without waiting for church authorities to ease a critical situation, a group of laymen collaborated to begin a Catholic parish in Glen Park, IN. Members of that group included: J.J. Kelley, Thomas F. Kennedy, Maurice Cox, John B. Rockford, and John P. Churchill. These men purchased a building from the German Evangelical Church of North America on May 19, 1921, and they moved the building from 20th and Grant Street to a site at 39th and Broadway. In August of that same year, Father John B. DeVille, an assistant at Holy Angels Parish, told the committee and Bishop Herman J. Alerding that he would accept the responsibility of ministering to the spirtual needs of the fledgling St. Mark Parish. Father DeVille celebrated Mass regularly in the church on Broadway, and he taught religious education classes to children. On February 4, 1922, the first marriage at St. Mark Church took place between Carlo Terlicher and Aurelia Chiabai. Aurelia Terlicher, who is 92 years old this month, is still a member of the St. Mark Parish family. Albert Antonio Sgambelluri was the first to be baptized at St. Mark on October 2, 1921. It wasn't until June 17, 1923, that Bishop Herman J. Alerding appointed Father Joseph Ryder as the first pastor of St. Mark Church. Within 5 years of its inception, the rapidly growing St. Mark Parish needed newer and larger facilities. As a result, construction of the combination church, school, and convent began in July, 1926, on the selected site at 501 West Ridge Road. The Right Reverend John Francis Noll presided over the dedication ceremony of the new facility in July, 1927. At first, Sisters of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ gave their time and service to the schoolchildren of St. Mark. However, after the school building was completed, Father Ryder secured the services of the Dominican Sisters and they assumed the role of faculty at the school and resided in the convent on Ridge Road. The Sisters of the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ eventually replaced the Dominican Sisters in September 1931. In June 1986, the Sisters reluctantly announced the end of their ministry at the school. A new principal, Ms. Muriel Lennstrum, was hired along with several other lay teachers. In April, 1951, a new school building was completed to accommodate the evergrowing enrollment of schoolchildren. In the early years of the parish, St. Mark School originated from religious education classes. As St. Mark celebrates its 75th anniversary, Ms. Maria Vazquez serves as principal of St. Mark School, which boasts an enrollment of 149 pupils enrolled in the grade school. Clare Coppinger and Dorothy Pictor have organized an alumni association with over 1,000 members from the classes of 1932-1957. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating the current pastor, the Reverend Robert P. Gehring, and the 421 parish families of St. Mark as they celebrate the church's 75th Anniversary. St. Mark is a multiethnic and multicultural parish known for its caring and welcoming of all people. May they continue to celebrate for many years to come.

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 three law enforcement officers from Indiana's First Congressional District: Chief Jesse W. Cook, Sgt. William Schultz, and Sgt. Stephan Neese. Chief Cook will retire in October of this year, Sergeant Schultz will retire this month, and Sergeant Neese retired back in May of this year. These three men celebrated their retirement at a testimonial dinner on Friday, September 13, 1996, at Teibel's Restaurant in Schererville, IN. When Chief Cook began his career at the Schererville Police Department in 1972 as a juvenile detective, he was one of only seven officers. Currently, the Scherervill Police Department boasts 37 police officers. After working his way up the ranks, he became chief of police in 1972. During his distinguished career, Chief Cook completed studies at the FBI National Academy in 1984, and he earned a degree in criminal justice from Indiana University Northwest in 1994. Sergeants Schultz and Neese each served 20 years with the Schererville Police Department. In 1976, they both began their careers as probationary patrolmen. Sergeant Schultz was next assigned as the Schererville Police Department's first K-9 officer, and Sergeant Neese became the department's first accident reconstructionist. Sergeant Neese was instrumental in developing this particular department. Both men worked diligently through the ranks to earn their final appointments as sergeant. These brave men can be proud of their service to Indiana's First Congressional District. They worked hard to make the town of Schererville a safer place in which to live and work. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating Chief Jesse W. Cook, Sgt. Stephan Neese, and Sgt. William Schultz on their service and dedication to the citizens of Schererville.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to commend Dr. Randall C. Morgan, Jr., a decorated physician who has dedicated his life to improving the quality of life for African-Americans, as well as all Americans. On July 31, 1996, Dr. Morgan was installed as the 95th president of the National Medical Association [NMA]. Dr. Morgan announced that the theme of his 1-year term as NMA president would be ``NMA Development for the 90's.'' The goals of this agenda are to enhance the organization's membership, image, and financial development. Our Nation's oldest and largest minority physician organization, the National Medical Association, was founded in 1895 to represent the interests of more than 22,000 African-American physicians. The organization's mission to improve the health status of America, particularly black Americans. Dr. Morgan's family has lived in Gary, IN for three generations. Dr. Morgan graduated from Gary Roosevelt High School, Grinnell College, Howard University Medical School, and the Northwestern University Medical Center. Dr. Morgan has practiced medicine in his hometown for over 20 years. With the assistance of his late father, Dr. Randall Morgan, Sr., he founded the Orthopaedic Centers and served as its president until its affiliation with the Indiana Hand Center in 1966. Dr. Morgan currently has offices in Gary, Hobart, Merrillville, Portage, and Valparaiso. Dr. Morgan has enhanced his professional skills by being certified by several organizations. These organizations include: Diplomate of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery; Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery; and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Moreover, Dr. Morgan is licensed to practice medicine in Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, and California. Dr. Morgan has shared his expertise with many professional organizations of which he is a member. These memberships include: American Medical Association, since 1974; National Medical Association, since 1975; Indiana State Medical Society, since 1976; Lake County Medical Society, since 1976; Indiana Orthopaedic Society, since 1977; Illinois Orthopaedic Society, since 1977; International Arthroscopy Association, since 1981; Arthoroscopy Association of North America, since 1981; Mid-America Orthopaedic Association, since 1982; Clinical Orthopaedic Society, since 1986; and board of directors of Banc One Merrillville, since 1986. Dr. Morgan's success has been recognized by several prestigious institutions. In 1992, he received an honorary doctor of science degree from Grinnell College in Grinnell, IA. In 1986, Dr. Morgan was named ``Physician of the Year'' by the National Medical Association, northwest Indiana chapter. In 1972, Dr. Morgan was recognized as ``Orthopaedic Resident of the Year'' by Northwestern University in Chicago, IL. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending Dr. Randall Morgan, Jr. for his dedicated service to the medical profession. He, his wife, Karen, and their children Sharon, Laura, and Carla, can all be proud of his commitment to improve the quality of life for the residents of Indiana's First Congressional District. Dr. Morgan, like his father, is a true pioneer in his profession.