July 25, 1996 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8527 that were completed by the Center for Michigan hospitals are leading the not penalize low-cost areas, like west Health Affairs and the Michigan Health State and the Nation in developing Michigan, as they try to develop alter- and Hospital Association regarding the low-cost, quality hospital care. The en- natives to fee-for-service coverage. excellent health care that is delivered tire health care community is working f in my district and throughout west together in west Michigan to find ways The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a Michigan. The studies show that west to lower the cost of health care, while previous order of the House, the gentle- Michigan hospitals have lower costs still increasing the quality of the serv- woman from the District of Columbia while also delivering health care that ices delivered. I applaud health care [Ms. NORTON] is recognized for 5 min- is consistently equal to or better than providers in my region for the innova- utes. the expected rates for lengths of stay tion and leadership that they have [Ms. NORTON addressed the House. demonstrated. And I would like to and mortality. These factors combined Her remarks will appear hereafter in highlight two hospitals in the Third help to illustrate the fact that health the Extensions of Remarks.] care in west Michigan is both low in District, Blodgett Memorial Medical f cost and high in quality, and that we Center and Butterworth Hospital, for can serve as a model for national ef- being recognized for the second year in The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a forts to reform our health care system. a row as one of the top 100 hospitals in previous order of the House, the gen- Over the past 10 years, we have seen the Nation. Hospitals included in this tleman from North Carolina [Mr. national consumer health care prices report, which is conducted by HCIA, JONES] is recognized for 5 minutes. increasing significantly. Last year’s in- Inc. and Mercer Health Care Consult- [Mr. JONES addressed the House. His crease in consumer health care prices ing, reduced expenses per adjusted dis- remarks will appear hereafter in the of 4.5 percent was the lowest in 22 charge, lowered mortality, and cut Extensions of Remarks.] years, but this increase is still nearly length of stay. If all hospitals emulated f two times the increase in overall this performance, hospital expenses The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a consumer prices. So you can under- would decline by 17 percent, inpatient previous order of the House, the gen- stand why a report illustrating the low mortality would drop by 24 percent, tleman from Oklahoma [Mr. COBURN] is cost of hospital care in west Michigan and average lengths of stay would de- recognized for 5 minutes. is an important event. These low costs crease by almost a day. These are the [Mr. COBURN addressed the House. can be attributed to several factors, kind of results that we are going to His remarks will appear hereafter in but the most significant ones are that need in order to decrease health care the Extensions of Remarks.] administrators are operating efficient costs in a way that does not decrease f hospitals, doctors are making respon- the quality of care. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a These results will also help us ad- sible decisions about appropriate care, previous order of the House, the gen- dress the rapidly increasing rate of and patients are not over-utilizing tleman from Texas [Mr. STOCKMAN] is spending in the Medicare program. The health care resources. recognized for 5 minutes. The most traditional measure of hos- Social Security Board of Trustees’ re- pital resources in inpatient bed capac- port for the Medicare trust fund illus- [Mr. STOCKMAN addressed the ity, measured by beds per 1,000 resi- trates the grim prognosis that the rate House. His remarks will appear here- dents. The number of beds in west of increased spending poses for the after in the Extensions of Remarks.] Michigan hospitals has decreased by 26 Medicare trust fund. One way that we f percent over the past 10 years. This re- can slow this increase in spending is by The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a flects the changing philosophy in the utilizing alternatives to fee-for-service previous order of the House, the gentle- health care sector toward less intrusive coverage. woman from Florida [Ms. ROS- treatments, shorter hospital stays, the It is ironic, however, that the low LEHTINEN] is recognized for 5 minutes. use of outpatient and home care, and cost of health care in west Michigan [Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN addressed the greater emphasis on preventive care. In currently hinders our ability to attract House. Her remarks will appear here- west Michigan, the number of acute Medicare managed-care organizations. after in the Extensions of Remarks.] care beds per 1,000 people dropped to In order to determine payments to f 2.35 in 1993, meaning that we had 1,700 managed care plans, Medicare uses a The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a fewer beds than would be expected at formula that is based on 95 percent of previous order of the House, the gen- the statewide average. And the State the average amount that Medicare tleman from Arizona [Mr. SHADEGG] is average is still below the national av- pays per beneficiary for fee-for-service recognized for 5 minutes. erage of 3.3 beds per 1,000 people. care. Low-cost areas, like west Michi- [Mr. SHADEGG addressed the House. In addition, the admission rate to gan, receive dramatically lower man- His remarks will appear hereafter in acute care hospitals in west Michigan aged care payments, based on this for- the Extensions of Remarks.] is 28 percent lower than the average mula. As a result, the payments are f rate across the State and throughout too small to attract managed care or- the Great Lakes region. The length of ganizations. This comes down to a The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a time that a person is expected to stay basic issue of fairness because Medi- previous order of the House, the gen- in the hospital upon admission has also care beneficiaries pay the same tleman from Florida [Mr. DIAZ- fallen considerably in west Michigan amount to participate in the program, BALART] is recognized for 5 minutes. from 1980 to 1993. The average length of but those in high-cost, high-utilization [Mr. DIAZ-BALART addressed the stay at 5.3 days is over 15 percent lower areas are able to access better benefits House. His remarks will appear here- than the national average. In terms of through managed care. It is improper after in the Extensions of Remarks.] length of stay for selected medical that areas, such as west Michigan, that f cases, west Michigan hospitals per- have worked hard to keep their medi- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under a formed better than expected in all cat- cal costs low are then penalized with previous order of the House, the gen- egories. The days of care per 1,000 peo- less adequate Medicare coverage. If we tleman from Minnesota [Mr. ple in west Michigan is 35 percent expect to help lower Medicare spending GUTKNECHT] is recognized for 5 min- lower than the days of care per 1,000 through the use of alternatives to fee- utes. people at the national average. Finally, for-service coverage, we must ensure [Mr. GUTKNECHT addressed the the per person operating costs in west that managed care payments are devel- House. His remarks will appear here- Michigan hospitals are 30 percent lower oped in a fair manner. after in the Extensions of Remarks.] than the statewide average, and the ex- I address the House today to com- f penses per admission are also 10 per- mend west Michigan for the low-cost cent lower than the State expense per health care that its hospitals have de- TRIBUTE TO THE LATE admission. veloped. As we proceed with Medicare HONORABLE HAMILTON FISH, JR. All these statistics may be numbing, and other health are reform, I urge this The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under but together these data show that west body to take steps to ensure that we do the Speaker’s announced policy of May H8528 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 25, 1996 12, 1995, the gentleman from New York and I understand that yesterday he de- ing adjacent districts, Ham and I [Mr. GILMAN] is recognized for 60 min- voted a portion of his show in an ex- fought many battles together: the bat- utes as the designee of the majority tremely gracious tribute to Ham Fish. tle to try to keep the General Motors leader. Since his first election to the House plant operating in Tarrytown; the bat- Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I would in 1968, Ham served on the House Judi- tle for better commuter service on our gladly have made any sacrifice to avoid ciary Committee, which becomes his Metro North rail lines; the fight to ex- having to stand before you today for principal love. As a distinguished mem- pand Stewart Airport and with it the this solemn purpose. ber of that committee, Ham became a economy of our region; the struggle on Before I make comments on this spe- champion of civil rights under the law, behalf of our apple growers and vegeta- cial order, I would like to note for our and human decency tempered with jus- ble farmers; the continual fight to colleagues’ information, that on Tues- tice. render our majestic Hudson River pol- day, July 30, 1996, at 10 a.m. at St. Al- The entire Nation first learned of lution free and pristine—there was no bans Episcopal Church on the corner of Ham’s talents during the wrenching cause, no group, no constituent in Massachusetts and Wisconsin Avenue, days of Watergate. As a member of the which Ham Fish did not have a love there will be a memorial service for Judiciary Committee, Ham was one of and an abiding interest. our distinguished colleague, Hamilton the first Republicans to vote in favor of This week, the Poughkeepsie Journal Fish. impeaching President Nixon, to the ob- chronicled memories of Ham from The House Sergeant at Arms will jection of many of his constituents in- many of this neighbors: ‘‘He was a very provide bus transportation for Mem- cluding his own father. Ham, however, gentle man,’’ said Michael Giordano. ‘‘I bers, and buses will depart the east recognized that a government of laws just loved him. He was a sweetheart,’’ front of the Capitol at 9:15 a.m. and re- had to have precedence over any indi- said Betsy Abrams. ‘‘He will be remem- turn to the Hill following the recep- vidual or party loyalty. His belief in bered by everyone in Dutchess Coun- tion. our constitutional system of govern- ty,’’ said Richard Archer. Mr. Speaker, the passing of Hamilton ment was absolute and he was willing If Ham had sought election to a 14th Fish, Jr., is a genuine shock which re- to endure criticism and censure to term in Congress 2 years ago, there is verberated in this Chamber as well as stand up for it. no question his friends and neighbors back in our Hudson Valley region of When Ham passed on earlier this would have reelected him. Had that New York. We knew that Ham was ill week, the Poughkeepsie Journal, his happened, Ham would have become when he announced his retirement hometown newspaper, asked Ethel chairman of our House Judiciary Com- from this body only 2 years ago, but his Block, who was chairman of the mittee. intelligence, his helpfulness, his integ- Dutchess County Republican Party at Ham was fully cognizant of that fact, rity, and his charm were so overpower- the time of Watergate, to recall her but it did not distract him. Instead, he ing—right until the end—that it is vir- recollection of Ham Fish’s role at that threw his considerable energies into tually impossible to believe that he is time: ‘‘I personally had such faith in the private practice of law here in no longer with us. him that after that vote [to impeach Washington, with the prestigious firm Ham Fish was born right here in Nixon], I was sure that it must have of Mudge, Rose, Guthrie, Alexander, Washington, DC 70 years ago last been the right thing to do. It took a lot and Ferdon. Just a few weeks ago, he month. At the time of Ham’s birth, his of backbone,’’ Ms. Block noted. visited our International Relations father, Hamilton Fish II, was serving Throughout the coming years, Ham’s Committee, and I was pleased to intro- in his fourth term in this Chamber. seniority on the Judiciary Committee duce him to our colleagues and to the The senior Congressman Fish went on grew, until he eventually became rank- many guests in attendance at our hear- to serve until near the end of World ing Republican on that committee. ing. Ham was as alert and as welcome War II, earning a nationwide reputa- However, Ham’s contributions were le- as ever. tion as a critic of the New Deal and as gion even before he reached that pin- Ham Fish is the father of three sons, ranking minority member on the nacle of leadership. He was one of the Hamilton III, Nicholas Stuyvesant, and House International Relations Com- four original sponsors of the extension Peter Livingston, and of one daughter, mittee. of the Voting Rights Act which were Alexa Fish Ward. He also leaves behind In fact, members of the Fish family, enacted into law in 1970, 1975, and 1982. eight grandchildren. usually surnamed Hamilton, have Just as his father earned fame and Ham’s first wife, the mother of his served in the Congress, representing glory as the champion of Afro-Ameri- children, was Julia Fish. Julia was New York, since the earliest days of cans during World War II, Ham earned killed in a tragic automobile accident our Republic. One Hamilton Fish, after recognition as their champion at a during his first year as a Congressman. service in this body, went on to serve time when prejudice and racial hatred Later, Ham married Billy Lester Cline, as a Senator and as Secretary of State became much more subtle but just as a vivacious person who died of a brain in the Grant administration. insidious. tumor in 1985. Our Hamilton, the one who shone so Ham fought discrimination in edu- Ham’s widow, who so many of us brightly in this Chamber during the cation by his authorship of the Civil know so well, is Mary Ann last third of the 20th century, brought Rights Restoration Act in 1988, requir- Tinklepaugh Knauss, who in her own to this Chamber a heritage of public ing all operations in any entity receiv- right is one of the premier activists service nearly 200 years old. ing Federal funds to adhere to all anti- here in Washington. Currently, Mary Ham received his B.A. from Harvard, discrimination requirements contained Ann serves as an assistant to New York and his LL.B. from the New York Uni- in the major Civil Rights Acts of 1988. Gov. George Pataki here in his Wash- versity School of Law. In between, he It was with courage that Ham Fish ington offices. committed himself to service with our prodded the Congress into adopting To the entire Fish family, we extend Foreign Service, and as a member of this legislation; it was with even more our sincerest condolences. We know the Naval Reserve. He was admitted to courage that he led the successful bat- that their grief is great, but perhaps the New York Bar in 1958. tle to override the Presidential veto of they will receive some consolation Ham Fish first sought election to the it. from the realization that so many of us House in 1966. He narrowly lost to a The Fair Housing Amendments Act share their loss. popular incumbent, but 2 years later of 1988, the Civil Rights Act of 1990, and We also extend our condolences to was victorious. In order to win that perhaps most significantly of all the the people who Ham Fish represented 1968 election, Ham first had to defeat a far-reaching Americans with Disabil- so superbly for over a quarter of a cen- local district attorney in the Repub- ities Act of 1990 are all legislative land- tury. Each and every one of them is lican primary. The person Ham de- marks that are living monuments to well aware, as we all are, that a giant feated was named G. Gordon Liddy, Congressman Ham Fish. in public service has now departed from who later went to achieve notoriety in Ham did not restrict his incredible their midst, and that the world is a far other ways. Today, Mr. Liddy is a na- energies to the work of his Judiciary better place thanks to the dedication tionally syndicated radio show host, Committee. Back at home, represent- of Ham Fish, Jr. July 25, 1996 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8529 I thank our colleagues who have protesting the presence of these Afri- guished chairman of our House Com- joined us in this special order. can-Americans in the 369th that to de- mittee on Rules, Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recog- fend his country he had to defend his Mr. SOLOMON. Mr. Speaker, I thank nize the dean of our New York delega- regiment, and he cocked his pistol and Chairman GILMAN for taking this spe- tion, the gentleman from New York, said, if you touch one of these soldiers cial order to pay tribute to not only a CHARLES RANGEL. I will kill you dead. great Congressman, a great American, (Mr. RANGEL asked and was given That person was Capt. Hamilton but really a great friend of all of ours. permission to revise and extend his re- Fish, the father of the person that we Ham Fish, Jr. It seems like only yes- marks.) served with. He took them to Europe terday, although it was 18 years ago, Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I want to and they came back to America as the that I walked onto this floor as a newly thank my friend, BEN GILMAN, for get- most decorated unit that served in the elected Member of Congress and there ting this time for the New York delega- entire World War II. And there was not were 35 Members from New York State tion. a parade that the 369th veterans ever back in those days, before reapportion- A few minutes ago one of the Mem- had, until the time that Hamilton ment cost us all of our seats and now bers on the floor asked, is this only for Fish’s dad died, that he was not at that we are down to 32, I guess. But the only New York Members? And I did not give parade. two left after the passing of Ham Fish, a full answer, but, no, Hamilton Fish When I met his son, I felt as though is you, Mr. Chairman, and CHARLIE and his memory will never be just for I knew him because his dad accepted RANGEL over there. New York Members or Members of this me and the things I believed in because It seems like this young pup now is Congress, because I think when you see of our military background but was al- the third ranking member of our dele- where we are today and where we were ways critical of his liberal son Hamil- gation. That does not seem possible, 2 or 4 years ago, most everybody that ton. but I recall it because I can recall how was here would say, do you remember So, then, Hamilton and I go on to the proud Ham Fish was at the last delega- the old days of civility, of tolerance, of Judiciary Committee, where we found tion meeting that he presided over. He mutual respect? How we could dis- a voice there that was not only there pointed out back in those days when agree, and yet have respect for each to weigh the facts, to see whether or Frank Horton was here, and Frank other? not they were so serious that we should Horton was the chairman of a very im- And I am reminded that throughout even think about impeachment, but he portant committee. I beg your pardon, the rules which govern us in this body, was a mediator, a conciliator, one that he was the ranking member of a very interlaced throughout them are words, brought Democrats and Republicans important committee, along with Nor- together, not just for the TV cameras, such as ‘‘yielding to the gentleman,’’ man Lent, who was ranking on Com- but to sit down, to weigh the evidence kind and gentle words that allow us to merce, and BEN GILMAN, you were and to see whether it made any sense protect the interests of our constitu- ranking on Foreign Affairs, and myself not to impeach or not to impeach but ents, and, at the same time, to have ranking on Rules, and the 5 members of to better understand how important this place be one that we respect, and the New York delegation were the this was for the integrity of our great would want not only our constituents ranking members on 5 of the 13 com- Nation and to make certain that Chair- to respect us, but history would do it. mittees. man Rodino would not have to make And who really epitomizes that? We That was really something that Ham anything that looked partisan because have had a lot of people, Tip O’Neill, was proud of back in those days. It just he was there to work it out. makes you think of the difference be- Silvio Conte, Chairman Natcher, and The funniest thing in the world was tween Ham Fish and perhaps the rest even Bob Michel, who fought for the seeing Hamilton Fish working out of us. beliefs of his party. Yet, when you problems and his dad having a press I look over here and I see the gen- think about a person that, no matter conference saying he should not even tleman from Louisiana, BOB LIVING- what the issue was, Hamilton Fish was be thinking about impeaching the STON, and he is the chairman of the not only a gentleman, but he had real- President. Is that not what makes Committee on Appropriations, and he ly the type of class, because he came America great? And it was. from class. His grandfather was Gov- I hope that in memory of our dear has a reputation like JERRY SOLOMON ernor and Senator and Secretary of friend that maybe when we are tempt- of sometimes being a little excitable State. His dad, who I knew before Ham- ed to be angry with each other, maybe perhaps; but I can remember how many ilton, was not only a member of this when we are tempted to say the things times when I had a tendency to be ex- body for 24 years, but how would I that we all regret after we say them, citable and Ham would walk up and we know him so well was because after that we can wonder what Hamilton would sit down in the back of the serving in Korea, the only veteran’s or- would want us to do no matter how Chamber and it would just rub off, that ganization that seemed to want a Ko- angry and how many differences we calmness that that man exuded. It was rean veteran was the 369th African- had about reaching that common goal. something that you had to really look American Veterans Association, and I And so we all lose a dear friend, but at in him and respect. had to learn about the history of that I lose someone that is a part of a very, Mr. GILMAN said so much here, I am group. very long tradition. He is a part of the going to be brief because we do have an It turns out that the 15th Regiment, history of the House of Representa- awful lot of Members here that are which later became the 369th Regi- tives, and he served us so well that we coming on the floor and want to talk, ment, were groups of African-Ameri- can all know in the State of New York but Ham Fish really was the quin- cans who wanted to serve in World War that nobody from any other State tessential family man and I believe one I and were denied the opportunity. could possibly do better in presenting of the most devout public servants that They could not enlist to fight for their what a Congressperson should be. ever served in this body and certainly country. So what did they do? They In his memory I will try to be a more in the Hudson Valley that you and I marched all up and down in my district compassionate, a better understanding and some of the others here have the on Lenox Avenue with broomsticks, person, because it is not our individual privilege of representing. To me, Ham training each other, hoping that Amer- beliefs that count, it is how do we look Fish was not just a Congressman, he ica would change its mind and allow as a body that represents not just our was a mentor of mine and he taught us them to defend the free world. districts but the United States of all so much. America. He was in New York and we He was just a great friend and it was b 1815 are proud, but he was first an Amer- truly an honor and privilege to have Eventually they won out and they ican. served with him representing the Hud- were trained and they were sent to Eu- Mr. GILMAN. I thank the gentleman son Valley. Ham’s good nature was just rope. And there were some protests from New York [Mr. RANGEL] for his renowned throughout this Congress. among the white soldiers. But the cap- moving words. I even see some former Members of tain of that 369th pulled out his gun I am pleased to recognize the gen- Congress from New York sitting over and told the white soldiers that were tleman from New York, our distin- here, and, BOB, you remember too from H8530 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 25, 1996 both sides of the aisle. He just em- Ham served in Congress for 26 years, Mr. GILMAN. I thank Congress- bodied what it means to be a represent- representing the same congressional woman KELLY for her moving remarks. ative of democracy and he will un- district from the Hudson Valley of New I would be pleased to yield to the doubtedly be remembered as a true York that I have the honor of rep- gentleman from New York, Congress- gentleman of this House, and what bet- resenting today. man MAURICE HINCHEY. ter respect can you say of a person Each of us has our own personal Mr. HINCHEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank than that. memories of Ham Fish. My husband our friend, the gentleman from New We will miss him dearly. Our deepest and I remember Ham as a good friend York [Mr. GILMAN], the distinguished sympathies go out to his wife Mary with a wonderful sense of humor. We chairman of the Committee on Inter- Ann, his entire family and, Ham, we also remember him as a public servant national Relations, for arranging this just wish you the best, good friend. devoted to the well-being of the people tribute to our friend, Hamilton Fish, Mr. GILMAN. Thank you, JERRY SOL- of the Hudson Valley in New York. Jr. Mr. Speaker, it was with deep sorrow OMON, for your kind remarks on behalf In fact, the term ‘‘public service’’ of Hamilton Fish. was at the core of Hamilton Fish’s life. that we received the news that the Na- I am pleased to now recognize the He served in the Navy during World tion and New York have lost one of its great men, Hamilton Fish, Jr. Ham gentleman from New York [Mr. MAN- War II. After the war, Ham attended stood for what was best in this institu- TON]. the Harvard Graduate School of Public tion and what is best about our system Mr. MANTON. Mr. Speaker, I thank Administration, and then joined the of government. He was the kind of per- the gentleman for setting up this spe- U.S. Foreign Service. In the early fif- son that Jefferson and Madison had in cial order. ties he was posted to Dublin, Ireland. mind when they wrote the Constitu- Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay trib- He really loved Ireland. He talked tion, the kind of person they wanted ute to a dear departed friend and col- about it often. and expected to serve in the legislature league, Hamilton Fish, Jr. It was a Following this stint, he earned his they were creating. They wanted the true honor to serve with Ham fish as a law degree from New York University seats in this Chamber to be occupied by fellow New York delegation member. in 1957, and practiced law in the city people who took their responsibilities His presence in the House has been and in Dutchess County, NY until he more seriously than they took them- dearly missed over the past 2 years and became a Member of Congress in 1968. I selves, people of judgment, people of he will continue to be missed both in first met him 2 years before he was re- substance. Ham was above all a Washington and in the Hudson Valley, districted into my area. thoughtful, judicious person, a man of which he proudly represented in Con- I set up and worked in his first office integrity. This institution already gress. in Westchester County and my husband misses his wisdom. Hamilton Fish, following a 150-year- and I worked to back him for the next Ham was known and respected for his old family tradition of congressional 24 years. As a matter of fact, my staff independence. He was still a relatively service, was a most conscientious and card for Hamilton Fish’s office expired junior Member of Congress when he thoughtful legislator. He was naturally 20 years to the day I was sworn into gained national recognition for his gifted at working with colleagues on Congress. My husband and I have been committee vote to recommend im- both sides of the aisle to reach biparti- priviledged to know first three, and peachment of President Nixon. He will san agreements that resulted in legis- now four, generations of this Hamilton always be remembered for that vote, lation benefiting all of us today. Fish family. They have represented the for his decision to apply his high stand- As an ardent advocate of civil and gentility of the Hudson River Valley. ards of integrity impartially, even human rights, he worked diligently to Ham was a gentleman’s gentleman. His when he must have been under great pass legislation such as the 1982 Voting behavior on the floor of the House set pressure to do otherwise. But it would Rights Act extension, the Fair Housing a standard many of the Members of be a mistake to take that one vote as Act of 1988, and the Americans with this Congress would do well to emu- the measure of his independence or of Disabilities Act of 1990. His hard work late. his career. Ham was proud to be called was also instrumental in passing the His career was marked by accom- a loyal Republican, but he knew that Civil Rights Act of 1991 that provides plishments in the areas of civil rights, loyalty does not mean surrender of women and minorities with monetary the environment, crime, the handi- one’s own judgment and temperament. damages when discriminated against in capped, and business regulation. Ham Much of what Ham accomplished was the workplace. His commitment to was a strong supporter of the Legal done quietly, behind the scenes, in his New York and this country was excep- Services Corporation because he recog- conversations and discussions with his tional and his accomplishments beyond nized and prized the important role colleagues on both sides of the aisle. He number. Ham Fish was also a champion LSC plays in providing legal assistance believed that he served his party best for freedom and human rights in Ire- to those who otherwise could not afford when he served the country best, and land. I am honored to follow in his path it. that he served the country best by as a cochair of the Ad Hoc Committee The 1990 Civil Rights Act and the bringing the best of his own mind and for Irish Affairs. Americans With Disabilities Act rep- heart to every issue he addressed. Mr. Speaker, I am most thankful resent hallmark achievements and will There have been Hamilton Fishes in that Ham Fish graced the halls of this stand as lasting legacies to the mem- Congress since our republic was young. House. His integrity and credibility ory of Hamilton Fish. His family was one of the most cele- was widely recognized and earned him To know Hamilton Fish, Mr. Speak- brated and distinguished families in respect and admiration from all of his er, was to know someone dedicated to the Hudson Valley of New York, which colleagues. truth and the dignity of public service. is also my home, and they have made I would like to send my condolences This institution is too often criticized their mark. One of his forebears served to Mary Ann and all of the Fish family. for its problems, the partisanship, the as President Grant’s Secretary of My thoughts and prayers are with you lack of comity, and the arduous proc- State. His father was famous for his at this most difficult time. ess that is the people’s business. staunch opposition to the New Deal. Mr. GILMAN. I thank the gentleman Unfortunately, it is seldom judged by Another forebear was known as an ar- from New York, Mr. MANTON, for his the virtues of its individual Members. biter of New York society, an aris- kind remarks, and I am pleased to Ham Fish carried out his work with tocrat among aristocrats. I know some yield at this time to the gentlewoman dignity and respect, and represented people thought of Ham that way. His from New York, Congresswoman SUE the very best of this institution. bearing, his manners, even his height KELLY, who succeeded Hamilton Fish, Mr. Speaker, we will miss Ham. My marked him as a distinguished person, representing that district in New York. thoughts and prayers go out to his someone who literally stood head and Mrs. KELLY. Mr. Speaker, we were wife, Mary Ann, and his children, Alexa shoulders above the rest. Ham had all all deeply saddened by the passing of Ward, Hamilton, Nicholas Stuyvesant, the good characteristics we associate our friend, and a distinguished Member and Peter Livingston, and his eight with aristocrats like Lincoln and Jef- of this institution, Hamilton Fish. grandchildren. ferson. But like them, he believed in July 25, 1996 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8531 all the people, and did not set himself Indeed, we are distant cousins. I can- I had the good fortune of working above anyone. He brought people up to not help but remember how gracious with Ham for 6 of the 26 years that he his level by treating them as if they and charming he was when I came to spent in Congress, and during that had always been there. Congress 19 years ago. He opened his time I came to appreciate the fact that For many years, he served as the heart to me, and showed me the ropes Ham was not only deeply concerned ranking member of the House Sub- as a freshman Congressman, and helped and involved with local issues, he cer- committee on Immigration. To some guide me throughout the processes in tainly can be considered one of the people, this seemed incongruous, per- my early days as I stumbled along and most expert Members in policy. haps even threatening. Here was a man tried to learn about this intricate Ham served as the Ranking Repub- whose ancestors had settled in long be- place. lican on the Committee on the Judici- fore the Revolution making policy on I am proud to rise on his behalf be- ary and Immigration Subcommittee. immigration. But perhaps it was this cause Ham Fish, Jr., emulated what I More important, Ham was a moderate perspective that let him understand believe to be all that is good and fine and a fair man who could work with just how much America is an immi- about public service. Members on both sides of the aisle and grant Nation, and how much immi- Ham Fish, Jr., was not the only one rise above partisan politics to achieve grants continue to contribute. Despite in his family to serve as has been indi- the goals of the American people. the traditional hostility between the cated before. There has been a Fish in Hamilton Fish was part of a true po- Irish and the English, Ham was prob- the country’s history going back to its litical dynasty in New York’s Hudson ably honored and loved by more Irish origin. Ham’s great grandfather served Valley, a dynasty as old as the republic groups back in the Hudson Valley than as Governor of New York, U.S. Senator, itself. It is from Nicholas Fish, who any of us who can trace our ancestry and Secretary of State. His grandfather fought in the American Revolution and back to Ireland. Some of my friends up served in the House of Representatives. mounted an unsuccessful campaign for there still wonder if he had some hid- His father served in the House of Rep- Congress, to Ham’s great grandfather den connection or relation to Ireland, resentatives for over 20 years and who ran as a Whig in 1842, to Hamilton to Italy, or to Poland, since he was so earned a name for himself as a strong Jr., who served his country honorably fair and generous to their people. I opponent of the New Deal and an out- in the Navy during World War II and in don’t think he did—but any of them spoken proponent of the free enterprise the House of Representatives for 26 would have been honored if they could system. years, from 1969 to 1994. Although there were times when his count him as one of their sons. But Ham, Jr., in his own 26 years on congressional district was more con- Ham and I both represented parts of behalf of New York’s 21st District servative than he was, Ham never the Hudson Valley for many years, throughout the Hudson Valley, placed strayed from his moderate, fair ideals. most of my time in the State Assem- his mark on American history as well. As was indicated, he was the picture Despite the fact that his father, Hamil- bly, most of his time in Congress. Our ton Sr., was an isolationist, Ham was mutual love of the valley brought us of civility, integrity, gentlemanly cor- diality, and he was steadfast in his be- an advocate for human rights issues together many times. Ham could al- and refugees worldwide. He worked lief in the institution of Congress and ways be counted on to support any ef- tirelessly during the cold war to allow in the worthiness of his service in the fort to protect the valley’s beauty, for Soviet Jews to enter the United grace, and charm, and to advance the U.S. House of Representatives. As a Member and ultimately ranking States. During the 1970’s, Ham was an welfare of its citizens. It was Ham Fish outspoken critic of the Nixon adminis- minority member of the Judiciary who wrote the legislation preserving tration and its involvement in the Committee, Ham Fish, Jr., was a cham- Eleanor Roosevelt’s home at Hyde Vietnam war. As a member of the Com- pion of civil rights and social justice, Park as a national historic site, al- mittee on the Judiciary, Ham was one and he believed in the fiscal integrity though his father could not bear to of the first members of his party to call of this Nation as well. hear her name. I hope that his actions, for President Nixon’s resignation. He was a strong proponent of the his spirit, and above all his character Ham also had an exemplary record on will long be remembered in our valley, line-item veto and the balanced budg- civil rights issues. Ham fervently sup- and I hope they will be remembered too et. But of all of those activities and the ported the 1978 extension of the equal here in Congress. If his spirit serves as others that have been discussed here rights amendment and the 1982 Voting an example to us, perhaps it can raise this evening, Ham will be remembered Rights Act. He also supported the all of us to his towering height. because he was a warm and gracious Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 I extend my condolences to his and friendly person. and the Civil Rights Act of 1991. widow, Mary Ann, and his children. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate his assist- As Ralph Neas, the former director of ance and his guidance throughout the b 1830 the Leadership Conference on Civil time that I was privileged to serve with Rights said, ‘‘Many of the almost two Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank him. We affectionately knew each dozen civil rights bills passed in the the gentleman from New York [Mr. other and called each other ‘‘Cousin’’ 1980’s would not have become law with- HINCHEY] for his kind words. rather than by our proper names. We out him.’’ Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recog- engaged in special orders from time to Mr. Speaker, I, too, would like to ex- nize the gentleman from Louisiana time to commemorate his heritage and tend my deepest sympathies and condo- [Mr. LIVINGSTON], chairman of the forebears in the Congress, and it was lences to the Fish family. While this Committee on Appropriations, who I my privilege to call him my friend. country has lost a great civil leader, understand is a relation of Mr. Fish. To Mary Ann and to his children and his wife, Mary Ann, has lost a dear, de- (Mr. LIVINGSTON asked and was to all of his family, my wife Bonnie voted husband, his children, Ham, given permission to revise and extend joins with me in extending our prayers Nick, Peter, and Alexa, have lost a fa- his remarks.) and our best wishes to the memory of a ther, and of course his eight grand- Mr. LIVINGSTON. Mr. Speaker, I fine and wonderful American. children have lost a friend and a role thank the gentleman from New York Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank model. [Mr. GILMAN], my friend, for yielding Chairman LIVINGSTON for his kind re- As a freshman Member of Congress in me this time, and I thank him for tak- marks. I am pleased to yield to the 1988, I learned from Ham Fish. This ing out the time to pay tribute to a gentlewoman from New York [Mrs. Congress would do well to heed his leg- great American, Hamilton Fish, Jr. LOWEY]. acy. He was a leader, a colleague, and Mr. Speaker, I am very, very pleased Mrs. LOWEY. Mr. Speaker, tonight a friend. He will be sorely missed. to rise along with all of the members of we gather to mourn the loss and cele- Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the New York delegation who have spo- brate the life of Congressman Hamilton Ms. LOWEY for her kind statement, and ken, and I think it is testament to the Fish, Jr. Hamilton Fish was one of the I am pleased to yield to the gentleman character of Ham Fish, Jr., that he has kindest, elegant, finest Members with from new York, Mr. LAFALCE. had such a strong bipartisan show of whom I have had the pleasure of work- Mr. LAFALCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise support for his memory. ing with in this House. today to join with my colleagues in H8532 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 25, 1996 paying tribute to our late colleague, gates. The first gate is, ‘‘Is it true?’’ My husband and he had a certain pas- Hamilton Fish, Jr. As the fourth gen- The second gate is, ‘‘Is it necessary?’’ sion for certain fun and they had a cer- eration from his famous family to b 1845 tain memory that they would remem- serve in Congress, Ham could easily ber. His wife, who is probably known as have acted as if he were entitled to his The third gate is, ‘‘is it kind?’’ Many a vivacious, caring person, is certainly position, as if he were born to it, but of us here would not get out of the first one that I have gotten to know and we that was the exact opposite of the way gate, but Ham always would. He passed had occasion, I guess just 2 months he was. all those gates in whatever he did. He ago, for us all meeting together. So Ham Fish was as down to Earth and hit the issues hard, and yet there was this week this Congress, New York will genuine as anyone I have ever known. an old expression from Proverbs, a soft miss him, but America will miss him Most important, Ham Fish was indeed answer turns away wrath. We need because in many ways he was not only a gentleman. One word. And a very more of it here. He exemplified that. the ideal person from New York, but he gentle man. I go back a long way with Ham. It also was the ideal Congressperson for He could, and did, hold his own in the started in 1946, when we both got out of America. rough and tumble of politics, but he the service in World War II, went to We all will not only lose a friend but would not hurt a soul. He must have college and then periodically kept our lose someone who has been epitomized had as a tenet: Hurt no one. Embarrass friendship going during the years. as being an idol and a symbol. no one. Be kind and gentle to everyone. I was always in awe of Ham’s herit- Mr. Speaker, this week, Congress and Because that is the way Ham Fish was, age. It did not seem to be anybody that America suffered a sad and great loss. Former Representative Hamilton day in and day out. He epitomized what had a greater heritage than Ham, but Mary Ann Fish, his lovely wife, told me Fish, Jr. passed and has left a deep void every person should strive to be. in our reservoir of decency and fair He also epitomized what every legis- a story the other day of Ham going into the Rotunda and pointing to one play. lator should strive to be: A fervent ad- This devoted husband, caring father vocate for his point of view, yet some- of the murals and pointing out that Nicholas Fish was standing beside and loving grandfather served the peo- one always willing to see the other side ple of the 19th District of New York for George Washington as he received the and always understanding of the neces- more than a quarter of a century. But, surrender from Cornwallis. And this sity to compromise for the greater he provided more than service to New man was very polite and he said, thank good. York’s citizens. One got the clear sense that when you very much, Mr. Fish. Hamilton Fish, Jr. provided a high Ham looked at someone he did not see He said, on the other hand, there was standard of statesmanship, an unparal- labels like Republican or Democrat, a mural of Dutch settlers coming leled measure of respectability and dig- liberal or conservative. Ham saw a fel- across and landing in New Amsterdam, nity, an unprecedented display of non- low human being, someone who de- and my ancestor was the minister at partisan cooperation. served to be heard, regardless of ideol- that time; of course, a full 100 years be- Those of us who serve in this 104th ogy, regardless of any other arbitrary fore Nicholas Fish ever appeared in Congress can learn much from Hamil- classification. And that perhaps was Yorktown. And he was always being ton Fish, the manner in which he lived his true hallmark. That arbitrary clas- poked with fun for things like this, but his life, the honor he brought to this sifications were not only not smart, had a delightful, easy, wonderful sense institution, the distinction with which but that they were and are dehumaniz- of humor. he served his party. ing. We develop many friendships down His ability to function as a gen- Mr. Speaker, I join in praising the here. Some are political. Some are per- tleman in the sometimes murky and record of service that Hamilton Fish sonal. Some are diplomatic. Some are perilous waters of politics must be at- gave to his fellow Americans. I, too, ex- business. Yet at the same time, as you tributed in part to the deep roots of his tend my sympathies to his wife and his work through this place, you under- ancestors which guided him and gave entire family. stand those people who have that spe- him important benchmarks. This son In the long run, Ham will be remem- cial quality that you know they will of New York was always up for the bered for his hard work, yes. But even not betray you if you are vulnerable. challenge, always prepared for the more than that, I will remember Ham Ham was one of those people. task. for his grace, his kindness, his There are questions which we always Throughout his life, he refused to ac- gentleness, his wisdom, his tolerance, ask ourselves: What do I believe; what cept mediocrity. He had hopes and and his love for his fellow human do I stand for; what do I really want. dreams, he had goals, he had vision, beings. And there can be no greater Ham never used that. He always and he dared to be different and deter- role model and no greater legacy than changed the ‘‘I’’ to a ‘‘we.’’ What do we mined to make a difference. In Congress, he distinguished him- that. believe; what do we stand for; what do self, making his mark in many places, Mr. GILMAN. I thank Congressman we really want. If anybody epitomized leaving his permanent imprint on the LAFALCE for his kind remarks. service over self-service, it was Hamil- sands of time. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield to ton Fish and we are going to miss him. He supported civil rights, fought for Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from western New York justice, stood for equality and was un- the gentleman for those moving com- [Mr. HOUGHTON]. wavering in behalf of the principles (Mr. HOUGHTON asked and was ments, Mr. HOUGHTON. that make this Nation great. given permission to revise and extend I yield to the gentlewoman from Tirelessly, he was a role model for his remarks.) North Carolina Mrs. EVA CLAYTON. role models, a leader among leaders Mr. HOUGHTON. Mr. Speaker, I Mrs. CLAYTON. Mr. Speaker, I want and a champion for all. would say to the gentleman from New to thank the gentleman and the delega- In this august body, he was more York, Mr. GILMAN, as I was listening to tion from New York for allowing me, than a Member of Congress. He was Mr. LAFALCE and others, it really is from North Carolina, to say a word of Congress. too bad that you cannot hear what tribute to all of our friends and col- He leaves us now, not to quit, but to other people really feel about you league, Hamilton Fish. My husband fight another fight, to write another while you are alive. I do not know and I both, too, knew Hamilton Fish. chapter, to run another race. whether Ham is listening or whether he We knew him in a personal way. To his darling wife, Mary Ann, who I can listen, or that is possible in the I am a new Member to Congress so I consider to be my friend, to his three overall scheme of things, but it is a do not have that long lineage of get- sons, Hamilton III, Nicholas, and wonderful tribute to hear people from ting to know someone, but I did know Peter, to his daughter, Alexa, and to different walks of life, different asso- him in a personal way. He did indeed his many grandchildren, I say hold fast ciations say what they have about him. have fun. So I want to tell you that al- to the fond memories, stay strong on I just would like to say a few things. though he was a gentleman and a the wings of tradition Hamilton pro- There is an old Arab proverb that says, scholar, he was also a person who could vided and celebrate the legacy he has A word when spoken must pass three relate to human beings. left through the life he lived. July 25, 1996 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8533 Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield to Ham always was a strong advocate for that she laughed a lot, and Ham helped the gentleman from New York [Mr. causes that he deeply believed in, the her to laugh a lot. He was also someone LAZIO]. sense of civil rights, the sense of right who received the benefit of that sense Mr. LAZIO of New York. Mr. Speak- over wrong. of humor, a man who had great cour- er, I guess, like Congresswoman CLAY- He was particularly remembered for age. TON, I remember my friend as a little his efforts in support of not just civil Mr. Speaker, I remember we were at bit of a prankster, someone with a rights but environmental protection. a conference in Madrid where we had a sense of humor who would joke, a man With Ham’s passing, our Nation has few hours off. This is when Ham was who certainly had dignity and guts, lost a great American. My condolences not well. We would go to an art gallery, who showed independence and bril- and the condolences of my wife Patri- and he was indeed a true collector of liance, but also was not beyond whis- cia go to his wife, Mary Ann, and to his art and an appreciator of art. I thought pering something very funny in your sons Nicholas, Peter, and Ham Fish III at that time this man of great courage ear as you went down the aisle. and his daughter Alexa Fish Ward and also has made politics into an art and As it turned out, I met Ham Fish not their eight grandchildren, all of which has done it exceedingly well. 15 or 20 years ago but only 4 years ago I know he loved deeply. We have lost a I just want to say that we will cer- now when I was beginning my first great friend. tainly miss Ham Fish, and he will live term in Congress. He was finishing up Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield to on in love. I am reminded of a quote what would end up being his last term the gentlewoman from Maryland [Mrs. from Thornton Wilder, who said: in Congress. But almost immediately, MORELLA]. ‘‘There is a land of the living and a he and I struck out together for what Mrs. MORELLA. Mr. Speaker, I land of the dead; and the bridge is love, might be an unlikely duo, sort of an thank the gentleman for yielding. the only survival and the only mean- odd couple, to hang out in the back of I thank him and his colleagues from ing.’’ this Chamber, talk a little bit, see each New York, Mr. RANGEL and Mr. GIL- Tony and I extend to Mary Ann and other once in a while, what were very MAN, for having this special order to to the family of Ham Fish our deepest civilized and very social New York allow us to pour out our hearts to condolences. State delegation meetings. somebody that we dearly love. I firmly Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank I remember him enjoying his sundae believe that those of us who serve in the gentlewoman, Congresswoman ice cream with complete relish on his this body are diminished as well as the MORELLA, for her kind remarks. face as the desserts were offered. I re- American public are diminished by the I yield to the gentleman from Massa- member him in flashes of both frustra- loss of Ham Fish, Jr. He was fourth chusetts [Mr. FRANK]. tion and annoyance at things that we generation in terms of serving this Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts. Mr. did in this body, a sense of defiance great country in Congress 26 years. Speaker, I got to know Ham Fish when when he thought we were going down I learned about Ham Fish when I was I joined the House and became a mem- the wrong path out of political expedi- involved in the campaign of a man who ber of the Committee on the Judiciary ency. served with him in the early years, where he was then a senior Republican. Ham Fish was somebody who had the Charles Mac Mathias, who then went ability to have a sense of honor and a Later he became the ranking Repub- on to the U.S. Senate. To me Ham Fish lican. sense of humor. He was able to mix himself was a tradition. When I was both with a good old Yankee prag- Mr. Speaker, I want to talk a little elected to serve in the 100th Congress bit about some of the things he so ex- matism, and I think he represents the starting in 1987, I turned to Ham and very best traditions of the Republican emplified that are less in fashion than told him that I knew so much about Party and of this Chamber. they used to be. You will look very him and looked forward to serving with He was a man of great courage who hard to find a politician who worked as always kept his bearings. During my him. Well, he smiled in his very warm hard for people unlikely to vote for freshman term, I always thought that way, recognizing I had a lot to learn. him in return. In the first place Ham I did find that Ham Fish was a role he was protective of me. He was the Fish was a champion of a decent policy model. He was always very upbeat. sort of generous person who always protecting the human rights of people took time out to help a new Member, There might be times that I would all around the world. Ham Fish spent sit down and discuss things if you had come into this Chamber and go over to an awful lot of time on people who a question, and I will always cherish him despondent about some issue that were never going to be able to vote for the wisdom that he was able to share was coming up or perplexed about a him, were never going to be able to with me. vote that needed to be cast. He was al- vote at all in the United States. As my colleagues know and they ways assuage one in terms of recogniz- He was a man who became an expert have been talking about tonight, Ham ing what truly are the priorities, and in the intricacies of immigration law Fish came from a remarkable Amer- the priorities, I think, for him were so that he could give full vent to his ican political family historical not just really human contact. burning desire to help people live in from a New York perspective but from I found him somebody who could freedom. I say burning desire because a national perspective, a family whose make us see what was really impor- Ham’s quiet, relaxed demeanor may record of public service can be traced tant, who had a very warm sense of have fooled people. humor, somebody who became a hero back to the beginnings of our Nation. b 1900 In Congress Ham Fish himself was because he deserved it in the areas of something of a tradition. He was a cen- civil rights, human rights, fair hous- One of the things we can learn from trist who got things done. He liked to ing, employment discrimination allevi- him is that being civil and being work together with people. He played a ation, caring about minorities, caring thoughtful in no way rules out being key role in forging compromises that about women, having a streak of effec- passionate. This was a man of great resulted in important legislation like tive independence. We could always passion on behalf of human rights, and the Fair Housing Act of 1988, the Amer- rely on Ham to do that. Very often I he exerted a good deal of his own influ- icans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and did converse with him about the issues ence and his own resource of time and the Civil Rights Act of 1991. that we had to decide because I looked energy on people all over this world. As a House Committee on the Judici- on him as somebody who was a real Immigrants are not the most popular ary member, not just a member but as role model and one who would lead me people these days, and people who live the ranking member, he showed great correctly in the right way. in other countries are not the most courage back in the 1970’s by voting his So Ham Fish will be missed. I got to popular people in America. I wish the conscience as one of the few Repub- know Ham and his wife Mary Ann per- spirit of Ham Fish informed this place licans who voted for the articles of sonally. My husband and I traveled a little bit more today when it came to impeacement against former President with them. We always appreciated his recognizing that we, with the great Richard Nixon. warm sense of humor, his understand- blessing of living in this wonderful free As the ranking member Republican ing of human foibles. And with Mary country have some obligation to help on the Committee on the Judiciary, Ann, her sense of love of life, the fact people elsewhere. H8534 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE July 25, 1996 Similarly Ham, hardly from a dis- father, his ability obviously to differ prize winning book on his great-grand- trict where civil rights in the tradi- strongly with his father on these issues father, who served as Secretary of tional sense was a burning constitu- and maintain the loving relationship State under President Ulysses Simpson ency issue for him, was a consistent de- that was there. Grant. He was of our great Secretaries fender of legislation that said America And I was privileged to see that du- of State. Ham’s family was grounded in has an obligation to end discrimina- plicated in Ham’s own response to his public service. They devoted their lives tion, to do what we can as a Federal own children. I knew his son, Ham. I to helping America through various Government to reach into those pock- was particularly friendly and had been crises. Sometimes they might have ets that unfortunately persist of rac- with his son, Nick, and I send my con- been wrong in the ultimate judgment ism and of sexual discrimination. He dolences to them, and both of Ham’s of who had the right policy or the was a consistent and staunch defender. sons became Democrats and had dif- wrong policy at a given time, but they I must tell you as we have debated ferences with him, and they main- never wavered in terms of their cour- affirmative action in these past couple tained with Ham the same kind of lov- age and their dedication. of years that I missed Ham Fish be- ing relationship in which strong per- When Judiciary Ranking Minority cause I believe that the voice and the sonal affection coexisted with deep po- Member Hamilton Fish criticized the commitment and the passion he litical differences that Ham had treatment of the minority by the then- showed on behalf of fairness would showed with his father, and that abil- majority during the formulation of the have served us very, very well. ity to do that is something all of us 1994 crime bill, he did not do it with I also want to talk about Ham Fish would benefit from. rancor. He just laid it out in simple as a legislator, a longtime legislator. So he is a man who enriched our lives English and in simple declarative sen- He was here for what, 26 years. I guess in a lot of ways, and, like everybody tences. That is why we respected him. the term-limits people think that is a else here, I miss him a lot. He was honest, to the point, and terrible thing. People who think we Mr. GILMAN. I thank the gentleman straightforward. should have term limits regret the fact from Massachusetts, Congressman He was a gentleman who was also a that a man like him was here for 26 BARNEY FRANK, for his moving re- Republican. His father had been a Pro- years, not for lack of anything else to marks. gressive and a Republican. His grand- do, not as a careerist, but as a man who f father was a Republican. His great- had a passion which could best be satis- CONTINUATION OF TRIBUTE TO grandfather had been a Whig and then fied by helping other people and who HAMILTON FISH a Republican. Those four spanned the got better at it and better at it and The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. century and a half of our two-party who was a superb legislator who under- system. They saw the evolution of the CAMPBELL). The time of the gentleman stood. from New York under the majority two-party system. They contributed And sometimes people defend mod- leader’s designated time has expired, ideas and vigor to that two-party sys- eration and give it a bad name because and so under the Speaker’s announced tem. moderation gets defended sometimes as policy of May 12, 1995, the gentleman And to MaryAnn, the children, and a kind of mindlessness, as if the middle the grandchildren: All of us will re- from New York [Mr. RANGEL] will be was the place to be, as if by definition, recognized for the first portion of that member the wonderful things Ham did as if the arithmetic means was always time designated by the minority lead- as a friend and as a Member of this the right place. Ham Fish was mod- er. Chamber. He consistently did the right erate in his approach, and, yes, he was Mr. RANGEL. I thank the Chair, and thing. We honor him for that and we a great legislator, and he could com- I yield to the gentleman from Califor- honor him for being a dedicated, warm promise and bring people together, but nia [Mr. HORN]. human being. it is because he started from some- Mr. HORN. Mr. Speaker, I think each Mr. RANGEL. Thank you so much for where. He did not walk out and say, one of us in our own way and perhaps that statement. I recognize the gen- ‘‘OK, what’s the middle of this issue sometimes differently have seen one of tleman from Connecticut. and how can I be a big hero by talking the basic qualities of Ham Fish, a be- Mr. SHAYS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the about what a middle-of-the-roader I loved Member of this House, and that gentleman from New York for yielding, am?’’ He had passionate and firm con- is that he was a gentleman. He was a and I thank both of my colleagues from victions on immigration, on racial jus- warm and wise man. He was compas- New York, Mr. GILMAN and Mr. RAN- tice, on other areas. He understood how sionate. He not only cared about man- GEL, for allowing those of us who are to legislate, and that is a talent unfor- kind, he also cared about his neighbors not part of New York, but certainly tunately scorned these days in many and his friends. He was decent, effec- part of this Congress, to just express quarters rather than celebrated. tive, and quiet spoken. And as many our love and our admiration and affec- So I consider this country to have know in this Chamber, some of our tion for Ham Fish. But I want to claim been enormously enriched by Ham most effective legislators are quiet spo- him as someone who had tremendous Fish’s service on the judiciary commit- ken and work behind the scenes to impact on Connecticut because his dis- tee as a senior Republican, a man who, bring people together and to build a trict was in Westchester County, to the as we know, was not always in accord consensus. west of Connecticut and to the north of with his party on all issues but who un- Ham Fish had an engaging smile, and part of our district. In fact, I think derstood the importance of party in what you saw was what he was. He was Ham’s home and my home are probably this country and showed, I think, how not a phony. He was a person that was less than 20 minutes apart. you could both be loyal to your party interested in people. Ham Fish was a good friend of my and independent on issues of principle And how I came to know him as a predecessor, Stewart McKinney. They when that was important. newcomer to this Chamber in 1993 was were two very distinguished Members And finally, let us talk about family because my mother had been a devoted of this Chamber, both of whom are no values. I think he exemplified that at follower of his father. And like his dif- longer living. But I remember thinking its best too in a 2-generation way. He ferences with his father on foreign pol- as a young person that I was rep- had fundamental disagreements with icy, I had those differences in my own resented by an extraordinary man, his own father. He was in Congress a family. His father was one of the great Stewart McKinney, but also I felt in few years and had his own father, a isolationists of the 1930’s. My mother some ways represented by another ex- man of very, very strong convictions. who had been an active seeker of world traordinary individual, Ham Fish, be- Yes, his father opposed the New Deal, peace was a devoted isolationist, and cause he was still part of our area, and he also opposed American participation she and Hamilton Fish’s father used to he was just someone who stood out al- in World War II, and he took out ads exchange letters on occasion, and as most any time he spoke as someone criticizing his son when his son voted most of us know, his father was going who was thoughtful, someone who was for impeachment, and Ham Fish, the strong at 100. quiet in one sense, but strong behind Congressman, never let that interfere Ham Fish was part of an American that quietness, and at times you do not with the loving relationship with his political dynasty. Allen Nevins wrote a always get to see the courageousness of