Peter Visclosky

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Chairman, I would again begin, as I did under the rule, to thank the chairman and all of the members for their good work and for this nonpartisan bill that is before the House today but to reiterate, as the chairman alluded to in his remarks during general debate, that there is one fundamental disagreement. That is two environmental riders that were added to the legislation. During the amendment process, I will have an amendment to remove those. I would like to use my time during the general debate to set the stage for the House, if I could, on the two issues before us. Both deal with the Army Corps. Both deal with wetlands. Both deal with the Clean Water Act. If they are not removed from the legislation, the administration has indicated that they would veto the legislation because they are now included. I would suggest to the body that they should be removed today. The first deals with the issue of jurisdictional appeal. Today if a property owner wants to find out if there is a wetland on his or her property, they would approach the Corps and receive a determination. If the determination is not satisfactory to the property owner, they would then proceed to the permitting process and thereafter have jurisdiction to go to the U.S. Federal courts. The Corps, since 1996, and the administration has recognized that this is not good policy. I would acknowledge to all of my colleagues it is not good policy and it ought to change. That is what they are about, to promulgate an administrative appeal process so that if a property owner is aggrieved, there is an appeal process within the Corps itself before recourse is taken, especially to the Federal courts. I think that that is what we should be about and that is the process that we should retain. In the bill, $5 million is included to fully fund the completion and implementation of this appeal process. And we call upon the Corps to do it as expeditiously as possible. I think that the language that was approved by the other body is acceptable and that the offending language on the jurisdictional issue goes for one final portion talking about final agency action. What the gentleman from California (Mr. Packard) would do in the legislation is to suggest that if an appeal is taken, it would be considered a final agency action and that the property owner could then go to Federal court without first seeking a permit. I do not believe that this is appropriate policy, because a jurisdictional determination, first of all, does not restrict use of the property. It simply suggests that a permit would be necessary and 95 percent of the permits requested are granted. Instead of expediting the process, and that is certainly what I think most people want to see encouraged on both sides of the political aisle, it would result in delay. Because instead of people and personnel at the Corps considering permit evaluations and considering other matters dealing with wetland and expeditious consideration, they would be defending those actions in Federal court. It would burden the courts. It would burden the Department of Justice and it certainly is a burden to the Corps. Finally, it seeks remedy where there is no harm. The issue only arises if there is a wetland. And it is the primary policy of this Nation it preserve those wetlands. And it only occurs if a permit is required. So I would suggest at this point in time the language that is included in the bill would simply lead to more litigation, and it would not solve the problem as intended. The second issue refers to a program called Permit 26. And essentially today, and since about 1977, there are 37 different general permits that the Corps of Engineers established to again expedite the process. They are meant to protect wetlands. They are meant to facilitate implementation of the Clean Water Act. If a certain criteria is not met under general permitting, then an individual permit would be necessitated. Permit 26 is the only one of the 37 that does not meet the standards of the Clean Water Act because it is based on size and acreage and not on activity. The administration recognized this in 1996 and began to develop a permitting process that is activity based. In 1996, they reduced acreage and allowed the Permit 26 to continue 2 years while this program proceeded. On July 1 of last year, the situation was extended until March of this year, and comments were solicited from the public. In October of last year, one of the six activities that had been proposed by the Corps based on the comments received were withdrawn, that dealing with master plan development. The Corps heard the concern of property owners, developers, and landowners. An additional comment period was set aside in September of last year. As we speak, a third comment period relative to this permitting process is now underway. It began on July 21 to make sure that the public input is provided. It is anticipated, as with the jurisdictional issue, that this permitting situation will be resolved and a final process will be put into place by the end of this year. I think it is inappropriate for us to intervene in an extraordinary fashion to now delay that implementation after the Corps has worked so hard to ensure that it is put in place this year. I am very concerned about this provision. This is not something that is minor or insignificant. And again, I would remind all of my colleagues that FEMA, the EPA, the Army Corps of Engineers have strongly objected and the administration has now issued a veto threat. I do believe that the language ought to be removed. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. (Mr. VISCLOSKY asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Madam Speaker, I would like to use my time on the debate on the rule to do three things. The first is to indicate my support, as well, for passage of the rule. It is a good rule. Secondly, I would like to thank the gentleman from California (Chairman Packard) and to thank all of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle on the committee, and to thank all of the staff for their hard work on this very good bill. Given the allocations that the subcommittee faced, given the responsibilities that the subcommittee faced, and given the positioning we must place ourselves in to have a successful conference with the other body, I do believe that we have done a very good job. Having said that, I want to use the remainder of my time to set the stage for the amendment I will offer to the bill. The issue deals with the question of the Clean Water Act, current permitting processes that are violative of the Clean Water Act, and the preservation of wetlands in this country. Wetlands are key in the United States of America, and are vital as far as flood protection. Wetlands are essential as far as our water quality. They are valuable as far as the preservation of wildlife habitat, and they are critical for recreational opportunities. We are losing the benefit of these wetlands, and if the language contained in the bill today is not stripped out, we will lose additional wetlands in an unwarranted fashion. When European settlers began to come to North America, there were 220 million acres of wetlands. As the chart indicates, in 1995, according to the Department of Agriculture, there are only 124 million acres left. According to the Army Corps of Engineers, the Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Environmental Protection Agency, we continue to lose 70,000 to 90,000 acres of precious wetlands every year, and this must stop. Beginning under the Reagan administration in 1985, it became the policy of our national government to do something about this issue. The ante was upped, so to speak, in 1989 under President Bush. I have a statement for my colleagues from President Bush dated June 8, 1989. Essentially, the President said that somewhere around 1989 he would hope that future generations begin to understand that things changed and we began to hold onto our parks and refuges, and we protected our species. In that year, under the Bush administration, the seeds of a new policy about our valuable wetlands were sown, a policy summed up in three simple word by President Bush: ``No net loss.'' The legislative riders that again I believe are violative of the Clean Water Act and will lead to the loss of additional wetlands are strongly opposed by the Army Corps of Engineers. They are strongly opposed by the Federal Emergency Management Administration. They are strongly opposed by the Environmental Protection Agency. It is my understanding that the President has indicated the bill would be vetoed if these anti-environmental riders were not stripped from the bill. This is a serious and fundamental issue. I would remind all of my colleagues that this is only the second time in 21 years that an administration has issued a veto threat on this bill. We are talking about a major and substantive change. I would remind my colleagues as well that in the last three Congresses, over 225 bills have been introduced on wetlands and the Clean Water Act. We have not been able to solve some of the conflicting positions and opinions through the authorization process. This is not the time, this is not the vehicle, to do this. I would encourage all of my colleagues to listen to the debate and to support my amendment during consideration of the bill to strip this rider out. That is my one fundamental objection. It is a serious difference of opinion. It is the only one, I would point out, that I have with the chairman of the committee.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, today I was joined by the other nine members of the Indiana House delegation in introducing legislation to name a post office in East Chicago, Indiana, after a true hero of my congressional district, Marine Corps Lance Corporal Harold Gomez. Lance Corporal Gomez was the first citizen of Northwest Indiana to give his life for his country during the Vietnam War. My colleagues and I firmly believe that the time has come to honor him in a way that will value his memory and his sacrifice. To name a post office after Lance Corporal Gomez, a place that is synonymous in our country with the center of a community's life, is an appropriate way to accomplish this worthy goal. Lance Corporal Gomez was born in East Chicago in 1946 and graduated from East Chicago's Washington High School in June 1965. After working briefly at Inland Steel Company, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and was ordered to Vietnam in 1966. A fire team leader in a rifle company of the Third Marine Division, a land mine killed Lance Corporal Gomez on February 21, 1967, while on duty in South Vietnam. For his valiant leadership and bravery during that day's combat, the Marine Corps posthumously awarded him the Silver Star Medal. Lance Corporal Gomez was also awarded the Purple Heart Medal, a Combat Action Ribbon, a Presidential Unit Citation, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Rifle Sharpshooters Badge. In Harold Gomez's all-too-brief life, he touched many lives and was admired by friends and comrades alike. I consider it a privilege to take this opportunity to honor a true hero who still serves us now as a source of inspiration to the citizens of East Chicago and the whole of Northwest Indiana. On behalf of those citizens from my district who answered their country's call, those who made it home and those who did not, I am proud to introduce this legislation to name an East Chicago post office in honor of Lance Corporal Harold Gomez.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, due to a commitment to my family on Wednesday, June 9, 1999, I was unable to cast my floor vote on rollcall Nos. 182-184.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with the greatest pleasure that I pay tribute to an exceptionally dedicated, compassionate, and distinguished member of Indiana's First Congressional District, Mr. Ivory Brown, of Gary, Indiana. After teaching and coaching in the Gary Public School System for 41 years, Coach Ivory ``Ike'' Brown will retire on June 12, 1999. Upon completion of his last day, Mr. Brown will be honored at the Genesis Convention Center in Gary, Indiana, with a final, formal salute from his friends and colleagues for his service, effort, and dedication. In 1954 Coach Brown graduated from Roosevelt High School in Gary, Indiana, and enrolled as an undergraduate at Wiley College. He began his graduate work at Indiana University, where he earned his Master's degree. Mr. Brown continued his education at Texas Southern University where he took advance courses. An educator and coach for more than four decades in the Gary Community School Corporation, Ivory Brown's accomplishments in the classroom and on the court are shining examples of the pride and dedication he exhibited in his work. Mr. Brown began his teaching career with the Gary Community School Corporation in 1958 where he served as an elementary, middle, and high school teacher until 1968. From 1969-1972, he was a driver education specialist and in 1972 until his retirement, he served as a physical education instructor and head basketball coach at West Side High School. From the beginning of his coaching career, Ivory Brown has served as an inspiration to thousands of students, fans, and players at West Side High School and throughout Northwest Indiana. Through his tireless efforts, he has assisted more than one hundred fifty high school athletes in their pursuit of higher education by helping them obtain college scholarships in basketball and track. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending Ivory ``Ike'' Brown for his lifetime of dedication, service, and leadership to the students and faculty of the Gary Community School Corporation, as well as the people of Northwest Indiana. Coach Brown's efforts as an educator and a basketball coach blended together to help kids make the most of their potential and earn their success in the world. Northwest Indiana's community has certainly been rewarded by the true service and uncompromising dedication displayed by Mr. Ivory Brown.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is with the greatest pleasure that I pay tribute to an exceptionally dedicated, compassionate, and distinguished member of Indiana's First Congressional District, Chancellor Hilda Richards of Gary, Indiana. After serving as Chancellor of Indiana University Northwest for six years, Hilda Richards will be retiring next month. On June 5, 1999, Chancellor Richards will be honored with a final, formal salute for her service, effort, and dedication, at Innsbrook Country Club in Merrillville, Indiana. Born in St. Joseph, Missouri, Chancellor Hilda Richards received her Diploma in Nursing from St. John's School of Nursing in 1956 and continued her education in New York City, New York, where she graduated cum laude from Hunter College with her Bachelor of Science degree in 1961. Chancellor Richards continued her education at Columbia University, where she received her Masters in Education in 1965, Masters of Public Administration in 1971, and her Doctorate of Education in 1976. Chancellor Richards understands that a solid educational foundation will challenge one's mind, empower one's sense of well-being, and rekindle one's heart, with a commitment to values and beliefs essential to becoming and being a whole individual. In the words of Chancellor Hilda Richards herself, ``I knew I wanted to make a difference--and I needed a good education to do that. My personality would not allow it to be any other way.'' Chancellor Richards has continued to challenge herself by doing post-doctoral work at Harvard University. Chancellor Hilda Richards began her professional life as a staff nurse at Payne Whitney Clinic of New York Hospital in 1956. Four years later she became an instructor of nursing in the Department of Psychiatry at City Hospital in New York, where she also rose to the position of head nurse in the Department of Psychiatry. From 1971 to 1976 she served as the Director of Nursing Programs and Chair of the Health Science Division at Medgar Evers College in New York City, and from 1976-1979 she served as the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs for Medgar Evers College. Chancellor Richards continued her professional career as Dean of the College of Health and Human Services at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. Before coming to Indiana University Northwest to serve as Chancellor, she served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Indiana University of Pennsylvania from 1986-1993. Though extremely dedicated to her academic work, Chancellor Hilda Richards selflessly gives her free time and energy to her community. Chancellor Richards is a life member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and a member of the American Nurses Association. She also serves as a board member for several organizations in Northwest Indiana, including: The Gary Education Development Foundation, Inc.; Tradewinds Rehabilitation Center, Inc.; Boys and Girls Club of Northwest Indiana; WYIN-Channel 56; and the Northwest Indiana Forum. Additionally, Hilda Richards has volunteered countless hours of service to the Times Newspaper Editorial Advisory Board, the Indiana Youth Institute, and The Methodist Hospital. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me in commending Chancellor Hilda Richards for her dedication, service, and leadership to the students and faculty of Indiana University Northwest, as well as the people of the First Congressional District. Northwest Indiana's community has certainly been rewarded by the true service and uncompromising dedication displayed by Chancellor Hilda Richards.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to congratulate the Croatian Sons Lodge Number 170 of the Croatian Fraternal Union on the festive occasion of its 92nd Anniversary and Golden Member banquet on Sunday, June 6, 1999. This year, the Croatian Fraternal Union will hold this gala event at the Croatian Center in Merrillville, Indiana. Traditionally, the anniversary celebration entails a formal recognition of the Union's Golden Members, those who have achieved fifty years of membership. This year's honorees who have attained fifty years of membership include: Frances Joan Banchy, Willard A. Conway, Thomas Fadlevic, Marie Flynn, Edward W. Fritz, Frank Grishka, Steve Massack, Violet Mae Mikulich, John Mlacak, Mary Patterson, Marian P. Ritter, and Mike Svaco. These loyal and dedicated individuals share this prestigious honor with approximately 300 additional Lodge members who have previously attained this status. This memorable day will begin with a morning mass at Saint Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in Gary, Indiana, with the Reverend Father Benedict Benakovich officiating. In the afternoon, there will be a program featuring a guest speaker, Mr. John Buncich, Sheriff of Lake County, Indiana. The festivities will be culturally enriched by the performance of several Croatian musical groups. The Croatian Glee Club, ``Preradovic,'' directed by Brother Dennis Barunica, and the Hoosier Hrvarti Adult Tamburitza Orchestra, directed by Edo Sindicich, will both perform at this gala event. The Croatian Strings Tamburitzans and Junior Dancers directed by Dennis Barunica, and the Adult Kolo group, under the direction of Elizabeth Kyriakides, will provide additional entertainment for those in attendance. A formal dinner banquet at 4 o'clock in the afternoon will end the day's festivities. Mr. Speaker, I urge you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending Lodge president Betty Morgavan, and all the other members of the Croatian Fraternal Union Lodge Number 170, for their loyalty and radiant display of passion for their ethnicity. The Croatian community has played a key role in enriching the quality of life and culture of Northwest Indiana. 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. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to pay tribute to an outstanding citizen of Indiana's First Congressional District, W. Ken Massengill. On Saturday, June 5, 1999, Mr. Massengill, along with his friends and family, will celebrate his retirement from United Steelworkers of America (USWA), District 7. The celebration will take place at St. Elijah Serbian-American Hall in Merrillville, Indiana. Ken Massengill has dedicated a substantial portion of his life to the betterment of union members and the community of Northwest Indiana, as well as the entire state. Mr. Massengill's distinguished career in the labor movement has made his community, state, and nation a better place in which to live and work. For more than twenty-five years, Mr. Massengill has served as an important figure as a member of the United Steel Workers of America. He has held several positions throughout his tenure, but none as important as Assistant Director of District 7, USWA, a position from which he retired in February of 1999. As a union representative, Ken Massengill has held a variety of offices, ranging from union steward to Sub-District Director. In addition to his service to the union, he has devoted much of his time to community initiatives. Some of the activities Mr. Massengill has been involved with include: board member for both the Porter County and Michigan City United Way, Chairman of the Lake Area United Way Board of Trustees, member of the Indiana University Labor Studies Advisory Board, and President of the Indiana Unemployment Insurance Board. Additionally, he serves as the Indiana Steelworkers PEC Legislative Director, PAC Coordinator, and in 1994 was appointed by Former Governor Evan Bayh to the Indiana Port Commission where he currently served as the Chairman of the Port Commission. On this special day, I offer my heartfelt congratulations to Ken Massengill. His large circle of family and friends can be proud of the contributions this prominent individual has made. His work in the labor movement provided union workers in Northwest Indiana opportunities they might not have otherwise had. Mr. Massengill's leadership kept the region's labor force strong and helped keep America working. Those in the movement will surely miss Mr. Massengill's dedication and sincerity. I sincerely wish Ken Massengill a long, happy, and productive retirement.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to commend one of Northwest Indiana's most distinguished citizens, Mr. Calvin Bellamy, of Munster, Indiana. On May 23, 1999, Mr. Bellamy will be honored for his exemplary and dedicated service to Northwest Indiana. His praiseworthy efforts will be recognized at Purdue University Calumet's Commencement Exercise as he will be receiving an honorary doctor of humane letters degree. Calvin Bellamy, a longtime resident of Northwest Indiana, has dedicated his life to public service. In 1964, Mr. Bellamy graduated from Indiana University and continued his education at the University of Michigan where he received his Juris Doctor cum laude and Order of the Coif in 1967. He has continued his scholarly work in law and has been nationally recognized for his writing on constitutional questions. Mr. Bellamy currently serves as the chairman and chief executive office of Bank Calumet, with which he began his affiliation in 1975. While Calvin Bellamy has dedicated considerable time and energy to his work at the bank, he has always made an extra effort to give to the community. Some of the organizations for which he serves as the director of include: the Lake County Community Development Committee, the Northwest Indiana World Trade Council, and the Northwest Indiana Local Initiatives Support Corporation. Additionally, he has served as president and director of the Hammond Public Library, Lake Area United Way, and the Legal Aid Society of Greater Hammond. He has also been active with the Hammond Historical Society, the Lake County Bar Association, Northern Indiana Arts Association, and the Indiana Bankers Association. Although his work and community service put extraordinary demands on his time, Calvin Bellamy has never limited the time he gives to his most important interest, his family, especially his lovely wife, Cathy. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending Calvin Bellamy for his lifetime of dedication, service, and leadership in Northwest Indiana. His large circle of family and friends can be proud of the significant contributions this prominent individual has made. Our community has certainly been rewarded by the true service and uncompromising dedication displayed by Mr. Calvin Bellamy.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to commend the members of the Gary, Indiana, branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). On Friday, May 21, 1999, the Gary NAACP will hold its 36th Annual Life Membership Banquet and Scholarship Dinner at the St. Timothy Community Church in Gary, Indiana. This annual event is a major fundraiser for the Gary branch of the NAACP. The funds generated through this activity, and others like it, go directly to the organization's needed programs and advocacy efforts. In addition, the dinner serves to update and keep the community aware of the activities, accomplishments, and accolades of the local and national chapters of the NAACP on an annual basis. The featured speaker at this gala event will be South Carolina's Congressman James E. Clyburn. Representative Clyburn represents the 6th Congressional District of South Carolina and was first elected to Congress in November of 1992. He currently serves as the Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus and is a Life Member of the NAACP. This year the Gary NAACP will honor five outstanding leaders for their efforts to further equality in society. Joining more than five hundred outstanding civil, community, and religious leaders of the region, the following distinguished individuals will be inducted as life members of the Gary NAACP: Louise Lee, Foster Stephens, and Father Pat Gaza of Gary, Indiana; James Sudlek of Hammond, Indiana; and Joyce Washington of Calumet City, Illinois. The Gary NAACP was organized in 1915 by a group of residents that felt there was a need for an organization that would monitor and defend the rights of African-Americans in Northwest Indiana. The national organization, of which the Gary branch is a member, focuses on providing better and more positive ways of addressing the important issues facing minorities in social and job-related settings. Like the national organization, the Gary branch of the NAACP serves its community by combating injustice, discrimination, and unfair treatment in our society. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Louise Lee, Foster Stephens, James Sudlek, Father Pat Gaza, and Joyce Washington, as well as the other members of the Gary NAACP for the efforts, activities, and leadership that these outstanding men and women have utilized to improve the quality of life for all residents of Indiana's First Congressional District.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of bipartisan legislation that I am introducing with Representatives Istook, Sandlin, LaHood, and 17 of my colleagues. The Tax Fairness for the States Act of 1999 will restore millions of dollars of lost revenue for the states, and establish an incentive program for those Native Americans who play by the rules. The Supreme Court has continuously upheld the states' power to levy taxes on non-tribal members within Native American Tribal Trust Lands. The problem that remains, however, is the mechanism to collect these taxes. Our bipartisan measure would solve this problem. The Tax Fairness for the States Act would authorize the Secretary of the Interior to promulgate rules to remove those Native Americans lands from the Tribal Trust on which a retail establishment exists that is not collecting the proper state excise taxes. This is not a discriminatory piece of tax legislation aimed at harming Native Americans. Rather, it focuses on the collection of excise taxes that, according to the Supreme Court, should have been collected in the first place. This legislation does not affect transactions between tribal members; it would only impact those retail establishments that are not collecting and passing on these legal taxes on non-tribal members. The Tax Fairness Act would protect the rights of Native Americans by requiring the Secretary of the Interior to promptly notify any tribe that is under investigation for not forwarding applicable state taxes and gives them a chance to respond. This notification would set out the time and manner in which a tribe has to answer the allegations, including a 90-day comment period in which interested parties could submit statements and request a formal hearing before the Department of the Interior. These important provisions will ensure due process for all tribal members. Furthermore, our legislation contains incentives for tribes who operate establishments in accordance with the law. The Tax Fairness bill awards Native Americans who play by the rules by giving priority among Native American tribes competing for federal grants to those tribes that can certify their compliance with state law. This measure ensures equity in the process of state taxation. This is not about Native American sovereignty, nor is it about discrimination. This measure will give back the hundreds of millions of dollars that states lose annually because these taxes are not collected. Support this measure, support tax equity for the states.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to announce that the Silver Bell Club, Lodge 2365 of the Polish National Alliance of the United States, will be hosting the 26th Annual Hank Stram-Tony Zale Sports Award Banquet on May 17, 1999, at the Radisson Hotel in Merrillville, Indiana. Twenty outstanding Northwest Indiana High School athletes will be honored at this notable event for their dedication and hard work. These outstanding students were chosen to receive the award by their respective schools on the basis of academic and athletic achievement. All proceeds from this event will go toward a scholarship fund to be awarded to local students. This year's Hank Stram-Tony Zale Award recipients include: Tiffany Crawford of Chesterton High School; Analisa Dziedziejko of Valparaiso High School; Dana Gombus of Merrillville High School; Laura Jelski of Highland High School; Kevin Krajewski of Crown Point High School; Matt Kubiak of Wheeler High School; Andrius Malinauskas of Hammond High School; Mike McGinley of Lake Station High School; Troy Mezera of River Forest High School; Karen Saliga of Hammond Clark High School; Mary Samreta of Hobart High School; Todd Smolinski of Lake Central High School; Jeremy Stockwell of Andrean High School; Christopher Trojnar of Bishop Noll High School; Justin Valentine of Lowell High School; David Verta of Whiting High School; Joshua Wyant of Boone Grove High School; Robert Yamtich of Munster High School; Laura Zagrocki of Griffith High School; and Jeff Zeha of Portage High School. The featured speaker at this gala event will be Mr. Paul Hornung. Mr. Hornung is a former football player from Notre Dame University and is known as the original ``Golden Boy.'' He received the Heisman Trophy in 1956 and is a former NFL player for the Green Bay Packers. He was a star player for the Packers in a variety of positions for many years. Hank Stram, one of the most successful coaches in professional football history, will also be in attendance at this memorable event. Hank was raised in Gary, Indiana, and graduated from Lew Wallace High School where he played football, basketball, baseball, and ran track. While attending college at Purdue University in West Lafayette, Hank won four letters in baseball and three letters in football. During his senior year he received the Big Ten Medal, which is awarded to the conference athlete who best combines athletic and academic success. After college Hank entered the NFL, where he became best noted for coaching the Kansas City Chiefs to a Super Bowl victory in 1970. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my distinguished colleagues to join me in commending the Silver Bell Club, Lodge 2365 of the Polish National Alliance of the United States, for hosting this celebration of success in sports and academics. The effort of all those involved in planning this worthwhile event is indicative of their devotion to the very gifted young people in Indiana's First Congressional District.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, as my colleagues have pointed out, access to emergency care is one of the most important issues in the managed care debate. Protection during medical catastrophes--the confidence lent by knowing that we have a doctor, and have access to quality medical care--is one of the primary reasons we buy health insurance. We want to make sure that if someething happens to us or our family, we will be covered. It is an unjust shock to insurance-holders when their time of need comes, and they rush themselves or their loved ones to an emergency room, only to have their insurance company tell them that because they did not have the medical knowledge to foretell the true extent of the emergency, their medical care will not be covered. It is clear why insurance companies have these policies; emergency care is the most expensive type of medical attention available. It requires 24-hour staffing and resources that must be instantaneously available for any incident. But the fact is that people buy health insurance because they know they could not afford to pay for medical care out of pocket if they needed extensive treatment. Emergency care is one of those treatments that is just too expensive to pay for up front. However, if multi-million dollar corporations cannot afford this care, surely private individuals who are also paying their monthly health insurance premiums cannot either. Managed care companies' continuing denials of emergency care are changing the face of health care in a very broad way. What happens when insurance companies refuse to pay for treatment is that, often, it just doesn't get paid. The debate over instituting a prudent layperson standard for emergency care does not just involve patients and insurance companies, it inolves hospitals, as well. Hospitals are already required to treat uninsured patients out of their emergency rooms, and lost millions of dollars doing so. When we let insurance companies impose arbitrary limits on the type of emergency care they will cover, we essentially increase the population of uninsured that hospitals are required to serve. The number of uninsured individuals in this country is already a problem; we surely do not need to allow insurance companies to create another population of ``pseudo-insured,'' whose insurance premiums are never passed on to the health care providers. In addition to this overarching change in the relationship between patients, hosptials and insurance companies, denials of emergency claims are also changing health care in a more personal way. Emergency rooms, aware of the unfunded liability posed by the pseudo-insured, are treting patients differently. For example, I was contacted by one woman in Northwest Indiana, whom I shall refer to as Louise. She is not a member of a health maintenance organization (HMO). However, when she rushed her seven-year-old som to the emergency room with a broken arm, she was not able to stop home first and pick up her insurance card. The hospital, again aware that if it did not follow protocol it could be left with the bill, protected itself by acting on the assumption that she was in an HMO. The Emergency Room doctor tried to get prior authorization to run several diagnostic tests on the boy, who had fallen from a slide and was having abdominal pain in addition to the pain in his arm. He could not. But the denial did not come about becasue it was immediately obvious that there was a confusion about the insurance. Louise's participation in the HMO was not questioned. Rather authorization was denied and Louise was instead told to drive her son to a clinic thirty miles away. When the doctor attending to the boy at the emergency room objected, he was told that, because the bone was not sticking out of the skin, Louise was expected to sign a form assuming all responsibility for the boy's condition and drive him to the clinic. Instead, Louise agreed to pay for the tests out of pocket, thinking that the insurance company would surely pay for treatment if the tests proved it was necessary. She was wrong. By the time the emergency room physician reviewed the x-rays and tests and found that the boy's arm was broken at a greater than 45- degree angle, the clinic to which he had been referred had closed. When the emergency room physician again asked for permission to set the arm, Louise was told to go home and bring the boy to an orthopedic physician's office at the clinic in the morning, fourteen and one-half hours later. She was encouraged to carefully monitor her son's finger circulation and sensation, because if there was further loss of circulation or it the bone broke through the skin she would have to take him back to the emergency room. Louise could not believe the treatment her son was receiving. At this point, when her son had been lying on his back with a broked arm for five hours, the confusion over Louise's, insurance was cleared up, and her son's arm was finally treated. Managed care organizations' unfairly limiting patients' access to emergency care is having a ripple effect on our health care system, and it has to stop. Reasonableness must be introduced into the health insurance system. It is reasonable for an insurance-holder to go to the emergency room, the emergy care must be covered. If the treatment prescribed by a licensed medical practitioner is reasonable, that must be covered as well. Letting profit-seeking obscure the basis understanding in health insurance--that you buy health insurance to pay for your health care--is wrong. The Patients' Bill of Rights, which would institute a ``prudent layperson'' standard for emergency care, will go a long way toward making it right.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, here we are, six weeks after we passed the Bipartisan Steel Recovery Act by an overwhelming margin, seven months after we called on the President to take all necessary action to end illegal steel imports, and nearly two years after the flood of illegal steel imports began to hit our markets, and still the crisis continues. Last week, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced that steel imports rose from February to March of this year by 25 percent. During the same period imports from Japan rose 36 percent, imports from Brazil rose 54 percent, imports from Korea rose by 11 percent, and imports from Indonesia rose 339 percent. The problem becomes even more evident when you compare March's figures to those of July 1997 before the crisis began. Using that time frame, imports from Japan are up 22 percent, imports from Brazil are up 25 percent, imports from Korea are up 77 percent, and imports from Indonesia are up a remarkable 889 percent. Mr. Speaker, this is unacceptable. Last Thursday, the Department of Commerce announced its final determination that Japan has been dumping steel on American markets. By the Administration's own words, foreign nations are breaking trade laws. Yet, despite the rhetoric, the Administration continues to stand by and do nothing but claim that the situation is improving, even when the numbers show otherwise. President Clinton declared in his State of the Union Address in January that ``We must enforce our trade laws when imports unlawfully flood our nation.'' He threatened Japan by stating, ``if the nation's sudden surge of steel imports into our country is not reversed, America will respond.'' However, it was Japan that responded with imports in January that were up 75 percent from pre-crisis levels. After a brief dip in February, during which the Administration was fooled into believing that its empty rhetoric and useless posturing was actually working to stem the tide, Japan resumed dumping by increasing its March imports 36 percent over February's numbers and 22 percent over pre- crisis levels. Mistakenly convinced of the correctness of their own ineffectual policies, President Clinton's advisers continue to delude him that their approach will bear fruit. The Administration has focused on warnings of action that no nation believes will ever come. As evidence, just yesterday, the President said during a press conference, ``We will take action if steel imports do not return to their pre-crisis levels on a consistent basis. Playing by the rules of trade is the best way to sustain a consensus for open trade.'' After the Administration failed to act on its first admonition to the Japanese, and on every warning since, the credibility of the threat has disappeared. Given the clear fact that the President can no longer be counted on to do anything more than just talk about enforcing our trade laws, instead of taking direct action, Congress must fill the void. The need for action may now be greater than ever. Foreign countries can now rely on the Clinton Administration's unwillingness to deter their attempts to flaunt our trade laws, dump steel on American markets and drive American steelworkers out of work. The Senate must repudiate the Administration's message and finish the job we in the House began by passing the Bipartisan Steel Recovery Act. We have seen what the White House will, and will not, do if given the chance. Congress must now do what the Clinton Administration has proven incapable of and end the surge of illegal steel imports onto our shores that is driving hardworking American families out of work and away from their dreams.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to commend seven dedicated teachers from Northwest Indiana who have been voted outstanding educators by their peers for the 1998-1999 school year. These individuals, Bea Cak, Debra Clements, Jayne Gardner, Kevin Garling, Brenda Kovich, Toni Sulewski, and Denise Thrasher will be presented the Crystal Apple Award at a reception sponsored by the Indiana State Teachers Association and Horace Mann Insurance Company. This glorious event will take place at the Broadmoor County Club in Merrillville, Indiana, on Tuesday, May 4, 1999. Toni Sulewski will also receive the Torch of Knowledge Award for being selected the outstanding member of this distinguished group of educators. Bea Cak from Hanover Community School Corporation has taught for 27 years. Currently she teaches second grade half of the day, and serves as the district elementary resource teacher at Jane Ball Elementary the other half of her workday. As a resource teacher, Bea has the responsibility of providing information and techniques to keep staff personnel updated. During monthly staff in-service sessions she shares creative K-6 activities that all teachers can utilize in their classrooms. Her colleagues know her as a dedicated teacher since she puts so much time into developing special projects for the school and her surrounding community. Debra Clements is described by her peers as an outstanding professional and dedicated teacher. She is an English/language arts teacher at Highland High School where she has taught for 19 years. To grow professionally, Debra has been actively involved in textbook selections and handbook revisions. She strives to be approachable and communicates well with administrators, fellow teachers, students and parents. Her special inner core of education-related beliefs and opinions are well received and respected. Within her 25 years of teaching, Jayne Gardner had the opportunity to teach in many diverse settings. Currently, she serves as an English/ language arts teacher at Kahler Middle School. She utilizes her ability as a mediator to discuss and address the concerns of teachers. Through her caring attitude she exhibits a great deal of thoughtfulness towards both students and teachers. Jayne's dedication to the profession of teaching is exemplary to any new educator. For the past 13 years, Kevin Garling has been the agriculture teacher at Lowell High School. His teaching approach is built upon the theme ``Kids come first.'' As a sponsor of the Future Farmers of America, he has taken the club members to state and national competitions. He has created a parental group to work with the club members. Kevin's unselfishness and commitment to his students are an inspiration to all who know him. Brenda Kovich, a national board certified teacher, has worked with academically talented students at Elliott Elementary School in Munster, Indiana, for the past 15 years. She has written and received numerous grants, including a grant from the Lilly Foundation. Brenda is a continuous source of enthusiasm for both her students and others. Toni Sulewski from the Crown Point Community School Corporation has taught for 30 years. Dedicated to those students who have difficulty with school, she persevered to ensure an alternative school program was developed in the community. As a professional educator, she works closely with the special education staff to adapt teaching methods to the various students' learning styles. Her performance as a professional is twofold: one is her dedication to the students and their development; while the second is her dedication to fellow teachers and the safety of their environment. Denise Thrasher teaches foreign language and literature at North Newton High School. Her commitment to students is obvious. She tutors students during lunchtime and also after school. Despite having cancer surgery and undergoing chemotherapy treatments, she has remained very active both teaching and serving on local and state school committees. Denise's energy is an incentive to all. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my distinguished colleagues to join me in commending these outstanding educators on their receipt of the 1999 Crystal Apple Award. The years of hard work they have put forth in shaping the minds and futures of Northwest Indiana's young people is a true inspiration to us all.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, on Friday, April 30, 1999, numerous outstanding Hispanics from Indiana's First Congressional District will be honored for their notable contributions to Northwest Indiana. Several Hispanic students from local high schools as well as individuals and community organizations will be recognized at the Northwest Indiana Hispanic Coordinating Council's 11th Annual Banquet. The Hispanic Coordinating Council consists of several organizations that have committed themselves to improving the quality of life for the Hispanic residents of Northwest Indiana as well as providing an effective avenue for promoting Hispanic interests and their shared cultural heritage. The students who will receive awards for Outstanding Academic Achievements include: Guillermo Amezcua, Clark High School; Crystal Bannister, Calumet High School; Alejandro Barraza, Thornton Fractional South; Patricia Campos, Andrean High School; Veronica Delgado, East Chicago Central High School, Adriana Dominguez, Whiting High School; Angela Espinoza, Indiana Academy; Nicholas Ferrer, Munster High School, Leonarda Gajardo, Bishop Noll High School, Esteban Gonzalez, Emerson School of Visual and Performing Arts; Melissa Hernandez, Morton High School; Linda Hinojosa, Merrillville High School; Adriana Lopez, Hobart High School; Samantha Martinez, Gavit High School; Cassandra Mateo, Portage High School; Amy Mendoza, Lowell High School; Angela Monsivais, Thomas A. Edison Jr.-Sr. High School; Danielle Ontiveros, Valparaiso High School; Eliezer Rolon, Thornton Fractional North; Lisa Russi, River Forest High School; Rebecca Spindler, Hanover Central Sr. High School; and Katharina Velez, Hammond High School. The students who will receive awards for Outstanding Athletic Achievements include: Vanessa Bustos, Thornton Fractional North; John Cantu, Alex Ramos, and Mark Gonzalez, Hobart High School; Rosalinda Cedano, Bishop Noll High School; Katherine Flores, Calumet High School; Enrique Fontanez III, Portage High School; Rafael Gonzalez, Central High School; Antonio Greppi, Andrean High School; Francisco Hernanadez, River Forest High School; Paul Navarro, Merrillville High School; Cesar Rodriguez, Whiting High School; Nicholas Rodriguez Gavit High School; Alfonso Salinas III, Hammond High School; Patrick Santana, Thomas A. Edison Jr.-Sr. High school,; Ruben Trevino, Munster High School; Alfonso Vargas IV, Morton High School; and Benjamin Ybarra, Clark- Whiting High School. The Council will also present the President's Award to Lou and Stella Torres. Leonor Velasquez will receive the Cesar Chavez Exemplary Service Award. The Outstanding Family Award will go to Ralph and Thelma Mora. Michael Lopez of East Chicago, Indiana, will receive the Community Service Award for his dedication and contributions to Northwest Indiana. Finally, the Humanitarian Service Award will go to the following organizations: Ameritech, Asociacion Benefica Hijos De Borinquen, National Conference of Puerto Rican Women, and the Puerto Rican Parad and Cultural Committee of Northwest Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in applauding all of the award recipients chosen by the Northwest Indian 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 for committing itself to the preservation of the Hispanic culture. Without the contributions of Hispanic-Americans, the rich, diverse, ethnically flavored culture of Northwest Indian would not be complete.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 84th anniversary of the Armenian genocide. As in years past, I am pleased to join my House colleagues on both sides of the aisle in ensuring that the terrible atrocities committed against the Armenian people are never repeated. The event we come together to remember began on April 24, 1915, when more than 200 religious, political, and intellectual leaders of the Armenian community were brutally executed by the Turkish government in Istanbul. By the time it ended in 1923, this war of ethnic genocide against the Armenian people by the Ottoman Empire claimed the lives of over half the world's Armenian population--an estimated 1.5 million men, women, and children. Sadly, there are some people who still question the fact that the Armenian genocide even occurred. History is clear, however, that the Ottoman Empire engaged in a systematic attempt to destroy the Armenian people and their culture. The U.S. National Archives contain numerous reports detailing the process by which the Armenian population of the Ottoman Empire was systematically decimated. That is one of the reasons we come together every year at this time: to remind the world that this event did indeed take place and that we must remain forever vigilant in our efforts to prevent all such future calamities. I am pleased to report 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 continue to flourish. Over the years, members of the Armenian-American community throughout the United States have contributed millions of dollars and countless hours of their time to various Armenian causes. Of particular note are Mrs. Vicki Hovanessian and her husband, Dr. Raffi Hovanessian, residents of Indiana's First Congressional District, who have worked to improve the quality of life in Armenia, as well as in Northwest Indiana. In fact, Dr. Hovanessian serves his country and his faith as the personal physician to His Holiness the Catholicos, enabling His Holiness to travel to Rome for the recent opening of the Armenian exhibit at the Vatican library--an event attended by His Holiness the Pope. Mrs. Hovanessian has worked to increase awareness of Armenian culture through her efforts to showcase the work of Armenian artists in exhibitions here in the United States. On a national level, their efforts together were integral to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Armanian Apostolic Church of America, which has grown and thrived since it was established. They played a key role in raising $5 million for Armenian causes during His Holiness the Catholicos' recent visit to the United States to celebrate the historic event. Two other Armenian-American families in my congressional district, Heratch and Sonya Doumanian and Ara and Rosy Yeretsian, have also contributed greatly toward charitable works in the United States and Armenia. Dr. and Mrs. Doumanian have dedicated their lives to supporting Armenians both in this country and in Armenia. These distinguished citizens were actively involved in the observance of the 100th anniversary of Armenian independence and Dr. Doumanian was recently honored for his selfless endeavors with the Crystal Globe Award from the Asian-American Medical Society. I was privileged to be there when Dr. Doumanian received that acknowledgment of his innumerable contributions to his family and his faith. The projects undertaken by these dedicated individuals, together with hundreds of other members of the Armenian-American community, have helped to finance many essential projects in Armenia, including the construction of new schools, a mammography clinic, and a crucial roadway connecting Armenia to Nagorno Karabagh. The Armenian people have a long and proud history. 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. While it is important to keep the lessons of history in mind, 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. That is why three years ago, I led the fight in the House of Representatives to free Armenia from Turkey's vicious 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 301-118, would have prevented the President from using his 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 of Armenia continues unabated. Furthermore, last month, I testified before the Foreign Operations Appropriations Subcommittee, as I have for each of the past several years, to request that the subcommittee maintain its practice of reserving one-third of NIS funding for the Southern Caucasus; sixty percent of those funds for Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan; and no less than twenty-five percent of Southern Caucasus funds for Armenia alone. I also argued that the current ban on assistance to Azerbaijan should remain in place until Azerbaijan takes serious, demonstrable steps to ending their current conflict with Armenia, starting with an end to their own blockade. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleagues, Representatives John Porter and Frank Pallone, for organizing this special order to commemorate the 84th anniversary of the Armenian genocide. Their efforts will not only help to bring needed attention to this tragic period in world history, 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 proud to introduce a measure which I have supported since the 103rd Congress. This bill, the Clean Water Trust Fund Act, would put all funds collected through Clean Water Act fines and penalties into a trust fund to be used specifically for cleaning up polluted waters. This common sense measure links environmental penalties with environmental remedies, and ensures that money collected for environmental violations will not be lost in Washington. In Northwest Indiana, one of the most unique and naturally beautiful coastlines in the world has been the site of a major industrial center for over a century. With the advent of environmental regulation in the last fifty years, the companies which had before polluted the waters with impunity had to reform their manufacturing processes and begin paying fines and penalties if their new procedures did not decrease their pollution emissions to an acceptable level. The residents of my hometown were comforted by the understanding that these new rules would protect our environment--our coastline and groundwater and potable water supply--and keep us from being poisoned by the very industries on which we relied for work. But it just has not worked the way it should. Instead of working together, the hand that fines and the hand that cleans are attached to different bodies. Money collected for polluting drinking water can be used for anything from mohair subsidies to McDonalds' overseas advertising. This is clearly not the heroic role of environmental regulation envisioned by my friends and neighbors when we first supported the Environmental Protection Agency's control over how much and what an industry could dump into our nation's waters. My bill would begin to repair this disconnect. Under the Clean Water Trust Fund Act, residents of Northwest Indiana who read about millions being paid by a local company in Clean Water Act fines will know that money will come back to the region and be used to repair the environmental damage. It is as simple as that. The measure instructs the EPA Administrator to work with the states and turn the funds collected in fines and penalties into environmental remediation for the areas affected. We can have no higher priority than creating a society where our citizens have the opportunity to live safely and healthily. Making sure that everyone has access to safe, clean water is one of the most basic requirements of civilization. This measure, which would reconnect penalties to relief, is an important first step. Mr. Speaker, with the support of over thirty of my colleagues from both sides of the aisle, I am pleased to introduce the Clean Water Trust Fund Act.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to commend two of Northwest Indiana's most distinguished citizens, Denis and Carolyn Ribordy of Ogden Dunes, Indiana. Denis and Carolyn were honored for their exemplary and dedicated service to our community on April 7, 1999. Their praiseworthy efforts were recognized at the Center for Visual and Performing Arts as they received the 1999 Distinguished Citizen's Award, sponsored by the Calumet Council of Boy Scouts of America. The Distinguished Citizen's Award is given to worthy recipients who demonstrate their dedication and outstanding service to the community. Denis and Carolyn Ribordy, longtime residents of Northwest Indiana, hale from East Chicago and Indianapolis, respectively. After both graduated from Butler University College of Pharmacy, they returned to Northwest Indiana, and have made our area their permanent home. In 1955, the Ribordy's opened their own pharmacy, Ribordy Drugs, Incorporated. Denis Ribordy served as the founder and President of the 26-store retail drug chain in Northwest Indiana until Ribordy Drugs was sold to Walgreens in 1985. While the Ribordys have dedicated considerable time and energy to their work, they have always made an extra effort to give to the community. Denis is very involved in several organizations including: Chicago Motor Club, Hunter Corporation, Lake County Easter Seal Society for Crippled Children and Adults, Incorporated, Mercantile National Bank, Northern Indiana Public Service Company, Northwest Indiana Forum, and Trade Winds Rehabilitation Center, Incorporated. Additionally, he serves as a trustee for Butler University and Methodist Hospital of Gary, Indiana. Carolyn serves as an elder at the Ogden Dunes Presbyterian Church and was a past recipient of the Robert Anderson Award for Exceptional Commitment to Community Service. Though the Ribordys are dedicated to their career and community, they have never limited their time and love for their family. The Ribordys have raised four children; Cheryl, 41; Scott, 39; Nancy, 36; and Mark, 33, of whom they are immensely proud. Mr. Speaker I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating Denis and Carolyn Ribordy for receiving the 1999 Distinguished Citizen's Award. Their dedicated service to Northwest Indiana is commendable and admirable. Indiana's First Congressional District is proud to count two such dedicated, conscientious citizens, Denis and Carolyn Ribordy, among its residents.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, today, led by a remarkable woman, Congresswoman Julia Carson, we honor the actions of another remarkable woman, Mrs. Rosa Parks. Congresswoman Carson has worked tirelessly to insure that Mrs. Parks receives a Congressional Gold Medal, a distinction reserved for only the most heroic individuals who have affected change on a grand scale. It is particularly fitting that Mrs. Parks receive this award, since through her simple action, refusing to give up her seat on a crowded Montgomery bus, she affected the modern history of the most powerful nation in the world. However, Mrs. Parks is not only the Mother of the Civil Rights Movement, she is one of its current guardians, and I believe that in honoring her most well-known deeds, we must honor the other contributions she has made as well. Another leader who refused to see people stripped of the dignity and self-respect they deserve, Mahatma Ganhi, once said that. ``Whatever you do, however small and insignificant it may seem, it is most important that you do it.'' Mrs. Parks' actions, and the enormous ramifications her small action has had, are a perfect example of the importance each individual must put in their own endeavors. Mrs. Parks' actions since that fateful day in Montgomery have helped many people reach their full potential. Although her leadership in the Montgomery bus boycott made her famous, her subsequent 33 years of work as a member of Congressman Conyers' staff also made a real impact on the lives of others. In fact, Mrs. Parks has spent her whole life, not merely one day in 1955, providing an example for all of us of the difference one person can make. In 1987, Mrs. Parks founded the nonprofit Rosa and Raymond Parks Institute for Self-Development, which motivates youth to reach their potential through many programs, including bank training, substance- abuse prevention and goal setting. The institute she founded is not designed to organize a mass rebellion or spark a sense of outrage in the children it reached. Instead, Mrs. Park believes that spending time with children, giving them a good sense of their history and the pride they should have in it can affect real change. She spends a good deal of her time teaching the children she works with about the contributions of Africans in America, she sets the record straight about events during the civil rights movement with the expertise of someone who knows. The program she designed emphasizes pride, dignity, courage, leadership, and the importance of marketable skills. The institute's most well-known program, Pathway to Freedom, enables youth to research history around the country--by bus--tracing the underground railroad. Mrs. Parks teaches kids, ages 11-17, about the Underground Railroad that carried slaves through a secret route of wooded hideouts and safe houses to freedom in Canada. She given them the opportunity to participate in a month-long tour of those ``Pathways to Freedom.'' An example of personal responsibility who cleaned the bathrooms in her private school to pay for her own tuition, Mrs. Parks also passes this empowering sense of self on to the children with which she works. Awarding Mrs. Parks the Congressional gold Medal not only honors her stand, so to speak, in 1955, it also honors the many contributions she has made since then. Congresswoman Carson's tribute to Mrs. Parks reflects her understanding of the importance the leadership of African- American women has on the nation.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, today I introduced the Corporate Responsibility Act of 1999 which will save an estimated $33 billion in corporate welfare over the next five years. This bill eliminates or reforms twelve federal programs that currently use billions of taxpayer dollars to subsidize corporate America. Three years ago, Congress reduced welfare for individuals and families. Now it is time to do the same for corporations. This legislation is necessary to eliminate the system of tax breaks, subsidies and other policies given to wealthy special interests by the federal government. Time magazine estimates that corporate welfare costs American taxpayer $625 billion every five years. Foreign Sales Corporations (FSCs), which give tax breaks to corporations who transport American jobs overseas, alone account for $1.7 billion each year. My bill, similar to one introduced in the 105th Congress, takes aim at the worst examples of corporate welfare in the federal budget, including FSCs, special tax treatment of alcohol fuels, the Market Access Program, the Export Enhancement Program, and federal funding of forest roads for logging. The bill also includes a lock-box mechanism to ensure that all savings and revenue go directly toward reducing the public debt. This bill would save more than $33 billion over five years by ending corporate welfare programs and reforming others. Because this legislation is limited to the most egregious examples, my bill is a litmus test for anyone who is serious about ending corporate welfare. In short, this bill puts the best interest of our citizens--a balanced budget, jobs, education, and a clean environment--ahead of handouts to huge corporations and wealthy special interests. Consequently, I urge my colleagues to cosponsor and support the Corporate Responsibility Act of 1999.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. Mr. Speaker, northwest Indiana lost an outstanding citizen last month. Paul William Tanner, Sr., who devoted his life to our county, passed away on March 10, 1999. Throughout his life, Mr. Tanner served as an exceptional example of a good American. As a United States Army World War II veteran of the North African campaign against General Rommel, Mr. Tanner demonstrated the enduring qualities of loyalty, honor, devotion, and service to our country. While serving in the Armed Forces during World War II, he suffered shrapnel wounds and was captured by the Germans. Following his capture, he was forced to march to Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, from where he was flown to Italy, where he remained for about a month. During his stay in Italy, he was fed one small bowl of cabbage daily. From Italy, he was forced to march to various countries, including Austria and Germany. As a prisoner of war, Mr. Tanner was required to work on a farm thrashing barley, and while performing this difficult manual labor, he inhaled thick dust which weakened his lungs. He contracted tuberculosis, which led to a lifelong debilitating battle with bronchitis and emphysema. After gaining his freedom and returning to the United States, Mr. Tanner completed his college education and became a public school teacher. His weakened lungs forced him to take an early retirement and led to his eventual death at the age of 76. Mr. Speaker and my distinguished colleagues, I ask you to join me in commending Mr. Paul William Tanner, Sr., for his dedication to this country. His family and friends can be proud of his strong devotion and service to the United States. He will be missed by all who loved him.

Mr. VISCLOSKY

Mr. VISCLOSKY. I join my colleagues today to recognize the 178th anniversary of Greek Independence Day. As the U.S. Representative of a region with over 5,000 people of Greek descent, I know that this important event will be joyously celebrated throughout Northwest Indiana. I would like to honor not only this important day in Greek history, but the strong and unique relationship that exists today between the United States and Greece. The development of modern democracy has its roots in ancient Athens. The writings of Plato, Aristotle, Cicero and others were the first to espouse the basic tenets of a government of the people and by the people. While these ideals were not always followed in ancient Greece, these writings provided a roadmap for later governments in their attempts to establish democracy in their countries. The Founding Fathers of the United States were particularly influenced by the writings of the ancient Greeks on democracy. A careful reading of ``The Federalist Papers'' reveals the significant part the early Greeks played in the formation of our government. Thomas Jefferson called upon his studies of the Greek tradition of democracy when he drafted the Declaration of Independence, espousing the ideals of a government representative of and accountable to the people. Decades later, these ideas were a catalyst in the Greek uprising and successful independence movement against the Ottoman Empire--the event we celebrate today. On March 25, 1821, the Archbishop of Patros blessed the Greek flag at the Aghia Laura monastery, marking the proclamation of Greek independence. It took eleven years for the Greeks to finally defeat the Ottomans and gain their true independence. After this long struggle against an oppressive regime, Greece returned to the democratic ideals that its ancestors had developed centuries before. Today, this country's relationship with Greece is as strong as ever. Greece has been our ardent supporter in every major international conflict of this century, and they play an important role in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and the European Union. Greece is also a key participant in the United Nations peacekeeping force in Bosnia, providing troops and supplies. In turn, the United States has worked to attain a peaceful settlement to the conflict in Cyprus, the island nation that was brutally invaded by Turkey in 1974. Mr. Speaker, I would thank our colleagues, Mr. Bilirakis and Mrs. Maloney, for organizing this Special Order, and I join all of our House colleagues in recognizing Greek Independence Day. I salute the spirit of democracy and family that distinguish the Greek people, as well as their courage in breaking the bonds of oppression 178 years ago. I look forward to may more years of cooperation and friendship between our two nations.