May 21, 1998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E931 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

INTRODUCTION OF THE FIRE SAFE and elderly individuals from perishing in ciga- waste waster facility. Port Austin now has the CIGARETTE ACT OF 1998 rette related fires. distinction of having the best tasting water in f the state. It is no wonder that other surround- HON. JOHN JOSEPH MOAKLEY ing communities would like to tie into the Port A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO MIKE AND Austin system. Although he will not seek re- OF MASSACHUSETTS JOELLA KERSCHNER ON THE OC- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES election, I am sure he will remain a strong in- CASION OF THEIR TWENTY- fluence and continue to support efforts to im- Thursday, May 21, 1998 FIFTH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY prove the lives of the citizens of Port Austin Mr. MOAKLEY. Mr. Speaker. Today, I am and Huron County. introducing the Fire Safe Cigarette Act of HON. PAUL E. GILLMOR Edwin is astutely optimistic that there will be 1998, which would direct the Consumer Prod- OF OHIO strong development in the Port Austin area uct Safety Commission to promulgate a fire IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES over the next ten years and he plans to con- safety standard for cigarettes. tinue to remain a key player. His leadership in Each year thousands of innocent people are Thursday, May 21, 1998 brining a major breakwall and harbor develop- killed, maimed or permanently disfigured by Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ment effort to Port Austin goes directly to the carelessly discarded cigarettes. Under a typi- pay special tribute to an outstanding couple recognition that this is a leading fishing, boat- cal cigarette fire scenario, the smoker falls from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District, Mike ing, and recreation destination in Michigan. asleep in a bed or sofa with a burning ciga- and Joella Kerschner. I extend my best wishes He could not have had such a successful rette, the ash smolders for hours, then bursts to Mike and Joella, who will be celebrating career and fulfilled life without the support of into flames in the middle of the nightÐa time their Twenty-Fifth Wedding Anniversary on his wife, Doreen, and their four children, 11 when everyone is least prepared. Saturday, May 23, 1998. grandchildren and 1 great grandchild. His loy- Cigarette related fires are not rare or freak Mr. Speaker, Mike and Joella exemplify alty and dedication is evident through his job occurrences. In 1995, 1,122 individuals per- what a loving, strong, healthy marriage should at Mayes IGA Foodliner where he has worked ished and 2,667 individuals were seriously in- be. For as long as I have known them, Mike for 40 years and is now manager. jured from these fires. One third of the victims and Joella have been the best of friends and Mr. Speaker, if we want to teach our citi- were innocent children. Furthermore, cigarette the closest of companions. Through their mar- zens to be driven by the concept of commu- related fires caused more than $500 million in riage vows, they have dedicated their lives to nity and family, we need only introduce them property damage in 1995. each other, to share in the joy of marriage. As to individuals like Edwin Korn. I ask you and I first became involved with this issue when we celebrate the Twenty-Fifth Wedding Anni- all of our colleagues to join me in wishing a family of seven perished in a cigarette relat- versary of Mike and Joella's wedding, let us Edwin Korn the best of luck in all his future ed fire in my Congressional District. Five chil- reflect on their lives, their love for one another, endeavors. drenÐall under the age of tenÐwere burned and wish them a happy and healthy marriage f to death. This tragedy occurred on Memorial in the years to come. CONGRATULATING ALBERT Day Weekend in 1979. Mr. Speaker, as Mike and Joella Kerschner COURNOYER ON 40 YEARS OF Now, almost twenty years later, I am still celebrate this very special occasion, I wish SERVICE AT THE PUBLICK fighting to give the CPSC that authority to pro- them, their children, Karl, John, and Chris, and HOUSE HISTORIC INN mulgate a fire safety standard for cigarettes. all of their families many years of love and Two technical bills, the Cigarette Safety Act happiness. I hope my colleagues will join me and the Fire Safe Cigarette Act, have been in congratulating Mike and Joella Kerschner HON. RICHARD E. NEAL passed and enacted into law. on their Twenty-Fifth Wedding Anniversary, OF MASSACHUSETTS As a result of the legislation, we now know and in wishing them the very best in the fu- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that a cigarette can be slightly altered to sig- ture. Thursday, May 21, 1998 nificantly reduce the number of cigarette relat- f Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, I ed fires. The key characteristics of a fire safe am privileged today to honor one of my con- THANK YOU, EDWIN KORN, JR. cigarette are: a filter tip, a smaller diameter, stituents, Mr. Albert Cournoyer, as he cele- less porous paper, more expandable tobacco, brates his 40th year of hard work and dedi- and no citrate additive. By simply modifying HON. JAMES A. BARCIA cated service to the Publick House Historic Inn these characteristics, cigarette manufacturers OF MICHIGAN in Sturbridge, Massachusetts. could significantly reduce the number of ciga- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES The Publick House has been successfully rettes related fires each year. Thursday, May 21, 1998 operating and thriving in Sturbridge for 227 All the technical work required to develop a years. I have to think that part of the reason fire safety standard is completed. The CPSC Mr. BARCIA. Mr. Speaker, our communities for the Inn's long and prosperous presence in is ready and willing to do it. We just need to grow and succeed when there is strength in this area of Massachusetts is due to the work give the CPSC the authority to promulgate a community and strong leaders. I rise today to of fine employees such as Albert Cournoyer. fire safety standard and the Fire Safe Ciga- pay tribute to one individual, Edwin Korn, Jr., Mr. Cournoyer first began assuming respon- rette Act of 1998 does just that. who has been the backbone of Port Austin for sibility at the Publick House in 1958, at the After twenty years of work on this issue, I almost 40 years, serving 36 of those years as young age of 14. His work ethic and positive am frustrated that the victims of cigarette relat- the President of the Port Austin Village Coun- attitude were quickly manifested and noticed ed fires continue to be the innocent. Too often cil. as he performed the duties of handyman and the victim is the child asleep in the upstairs Edwin was born in Detroit and moved to dishwasher. Mr. Cournoyer's commitment and bedroom, or the elderly neighbor in the apart- Port Austin in 1950. He left Port Austin only skill allowed him to move on from these jobs ment next door. Study after study has proven twice; once to attend college and again to to other facets of the Inn's operations so that that it is technically and economically feasible serve his country in the Army. Since then, he by age 21, he was promoted to Head Chef. to develop a fire safe cigarette, clearly Con- has been a strong presence in Port Austin and Albert Cournoyer's career in the culinary gress needs to weigh in and require cigarette an important leader of the community. arena continued to grow until he was made manufacturers to develop fire safe cigarettes. Appointed clerk in 1962, he served one term Executive Chef and later to the point where he No more children should fall victim to cigarette as Trustee before becoming President. He has was entrusted with the duty of overseeing food related fires that are preventable. overseen some amazing changes in Port Aus- service operations at Old Sturbridge Village. Let's pass the Fire Safe Cigarette Act of tin including the switch from well water to lake One of Mr. Cournoyer's greatest achieve- 1998 and save thousands of innocent children water and the construction of a world-class ments, the fruits of which we witness today,

∑ This ‘‘bullet’’ symbol identifies statements or insertions which are not spoken by a Member of the Senate on the floor. Matter set in this typeface indicates words inserted or appended, rather than spoken, by a Member of the House on the floor. E932 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 21, 1998 came when he served in the capacity of Direc- However, current data indicates that only enth and eighth grade junior high school, tor of Maintenance in the early 1980's. At this 51.8% of today's nephrologists will still be in Shepherd strives to maintain excellence, effec- time he directed and supervised all renova- practice in the year 2010. tiveness and equity in the education of young tions and construction to the Country Motor Most primary care physicians are not trained people in the ``middle grades.'' This school of Lodge and adjoining restaurant. to treat the complex multi-symptom medical 513 students serves both regular and special In June of 1997, however, Albert problems typically seen in ESRD and are un- education students. Shepherd was recognized Cournoyer's accomplishments, experience, familiar with particular medications and tech- for its ability to combine these two populations consistent maintenance of the highest quality nology prescribed for such patients. The de- through a successful peer partnering program. standards, and hospitable demeanor received creasing supply of nephrologists, coupled with As with other Blue Ribbon schools, Shep- their crowning recognition in an announcement an expanding population of renal patients, herd prepares our young people for tomor- which named him the newly appointed Inn- puts the health of our nation at risk. row's challenges through active learning pro- keeper of the Publick House. Based on Mr. The Medicare Critical Need GME Protection grams. Shepherd's hands-on learning philoso- Cournoyer's record of excellence it came as Act provides a tool to help combat such short- phy is perhaps best evidenced by its science no surprise that such a worthy candidate re- ages of qualified professionals. The bill would curriculum. After undergoing several major ceived the Innkeeper position. simply provide the Secretary of Health and technology-related renovations last year, The qualities that Albert Cournoyer has ex- Human Services with the flexibility to continue Shepherd has become a technology leader in hibited for 40 years and continues to reveal in full-funding for a specialty or subspecialty north central Illinois. At least one new com- his work at the Publick House are those that training program if there is evidence that the puter with multimedia capabilities and Internet all citizens should strive to emulate. For the program has a current shortage, or faces an access has been installed in each classroom. Publick House's frequent patrons, celebrants imminent shortage, of physicians to meet the In addition, clusters of up to six new comput- of special occasions, and travelers stopping needs of our health care system. The Sec- ers were placed in four locations of the build- off at this landmark, Albert Cournoyer, for 40 retary would grant this exception only for a ing, and a Special Education computer lab years, has been making their experiences limited number of years. The Secretary would was installed. both memorable and enjoyable. I am fortunate have complete control of the exception proc- Among Shepherd's strong points are an in- to serve such an outstanding citizen and I am ess. Programs would present evidence of the tegrated curriculum designed by cross-curricu- proud and honored to congratulate him today. shortage and she could agree or disagree with lar grade level teams, a commitment to the f the analysis. Nothing in this bill would require development of skills in the area of language the Secretary to take any action whatsoever. arts and exemplary students, faculty and ad- THE MEDICARE CRITICAL NEED The bill also includes protections for budget ministrators. These and many other accom- GME PROTECTION ACT neutrality. If the Secretary approves a spe- plishments led qualified Shepherd for Blue cialty or subspecialty training program for full- Ribbon status. HON. FORTNEY PETE STARK funding under this bill, the Secretary must ad- Mr. Speaker, today I recognize and honor OF CALIFORNIA just direct GME payments to ensure that no Shepherd Junior High School as a recipient of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES additional funds are spent. the prestigious Blue Ribbon Schools Award. Thursday, May 21, 1998 Again, The Medicare Critical Need GME Shepherd exemplifies the standard of excel- Protection Act does nothing more than provide lence to which all junior high schools should Mr. STARK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to in- limited flexibility to the Secretary of Health and be held. I am proud to represent a district that troduce ``The Medicare Critical Need GME Human Services to ensure that we are training includes schools of Blue-Ribbon caliber. Protection Act of 1998.'' This important legisla- the health care professionals that meet our f tion seeks to protect our nation against the de- nation's needs. pletion of health care professionals that are I would encourage my colleagues to join me CONGRATULATIONS TO JOHN trained to appropriately treat costly and deadly in support of this important legislation. By giv- KELLY illnesses. ing the Secretary the flexibility to allocate Under current law, the Medicare program funds to attract and train professionals in cer- HON. DIANA DeGETTE provides reimbursement to hospitals for the di- tain ``at risk'' fields of medicine, we will signifi- OF COLORADO rect costs of graduate medical education train- cantly improve patient care and lower long IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ing. That reimbursement is designed to cover term health care costs. Thursday, May 21, 1998 the direct training costs of residents in their f initial residency training period. However, if a Ms. DEGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to resident decides to proceed with further train- A BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL commend the career of one of the longest ing in a specialty or subspecialty, a hospital's serving National Officers of the American reimbursement is cut to half (50%) for that ad- HON. JERRY WELLER Postal Workers Union (APWU), AFL±CIO, ditional training. OF ILLINOIS John Kelly, who has announced his retirement The rationale for this policy is strong. In IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES after a most distinguished career representing general, we have an oversupply of specialty Union members. physicians in our country and a real need to Thursday, May 21, 1998 John Kelly was a native of the Philadelphia, increase the number of primary care provid- Mr. WELLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to PA area, but came to the Denver area when ers. By reducing the reimbursement for spe- honor the selection of Warren P. Shepherd he was four years old. He was a graduate of cialty training, the Medicare program has pro- Junior High School as a Blue Ribbon School. North High School and began his career with moted increases in primary care training rather Located in Ottawa, Illinois, Shepherd is one the United States Post Office on September than specialty positions. of only 166 secondary schools in the nation 30, 1962, eight years before Congress created I agree with this policy. However, as is often presented with this prestigious award by the the U.S. Postal Service. the case, there are always exceptions to the United States Department of Education. The John's sterling union career began as a rule. We do not want to hinder training of par- Blue Ribbon Award is sought after by thou- steward, later as secretary, and finally, as ticular specialties or subspecialties if there is sands of schools across the country. President of the Denver local. In 1971, five strong evidence that there is a serious short- Blue Ribbon status is bestowed upon postal unions merged to form the APWU, and age of those particular physicians. That is why schools with qualities including strong leader- John became a full-time union officer. As the I am introducing The Medicare Critical Need ship, a clear vision and sense of mission, high National Vice President for APWU, John GME Protection Act. quality teaching, challenging and up-to-date served on the National Executive Board, the To provide an example of a current sub- curriculum, and solid evidence of family in- highest governing body of the Union. Today, specialty facing serious shortages of profes- volvement. These are the schools that best he is the senior business agent for the APWU, sionals, we can look at nephrology. Between prepare children for the challenges they will an organization which has grown to include 1986±1995, the number of patients with End face in the future. Blue Ribbon schools are business agents nationwide. Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) has more than also effective in meeting local state and na- During his tenure with APWU, John was doubled. At present, more than 40 million tional goals. well-known not only for his skills at arbitration Americans die from kidney failure or its com- Led by Principal Michael Bannister, Shep- but for his ability to help the members under- plications each year. In 1998, the estimated herd Junior High School clearly has the char- stand the very technical language of their con- cost to treat ESRD will exceed $12 billion. acteristics of a Blue Ribbon school. As a sev- tract with the Postal Service. His expertise May 21, 1998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E933 was so thorough that the APWU used his applying for admission to the Congregation of IN HONOR OF PRINCIPAL MARY S. services in national contract negotiations and the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. He MURPHY numerous other special projects that affected began his studies for the priesthood three the union. He has promoted union advocacy years later in Washington, DC and was or- HON. ROBERT MENENDEZ and educated colleagues on how to interpret dained in 1948. OF NEW JERSEY the Collective Bargaining Agreement and the Upon his ordination, Father Al received an IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES National Labor Relations Act. obedience in Japan. For the next twenty Thursday, May 21, 1998 For 28 years John has represented the years, he presided over a little mission north APWU in the Denver Region, which includes Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today of Tokyo. His work in Japan ended after he the states of Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, to show my appreciation for one of our finest was diagnosed with lung cancer, resulting in Utah, and Wyoming. John was one of the prin- educators and administrators, Ms. Mary Mur- the removal of a portion of his left lung. Father cipal architects of the five-state Denver Re- phy, who is moving on after sixteen years of Albert recovered upon his return to the United gional Assembly, an entity that flourishes invaluable service to Our Lady of Good Coun- States, dedicating himself to mission pro- today. He is so highly respected that no one sel High School. She served fourteen years as motion. has run against him in the National Election in an English teacher and Senior advisor, and more than 20 years. My fellow colleagues, let us recognize Fa- three years as principal. Again, I take this opportunity to thank John ther Al's fifty years of service to the world's Mary Murphy has inspired hundreds of her Kelly for his years of service to the APWU and underprivileged and congratulate him as he pupils to become outstanding students who want to wish him and his family the best in re- celebrates his Fiftieth Jubilee Mass. went on to successful careers. But perhaps tirement. more importantly, she emphasized to her stu- f f dents the importance of being kind and con- siderate individuals. HONORING BLUE RIBBON SCHOOLS A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO JESSICA Ms. Murphy is compassionate, caring, funny IN SAN DIEGO COUNTY L. CHAPMAN ON HER APPOINT- and a good listener. These qualities allowed MENT TO ATTEND THE U.S. MILI- her to capture students' attention and become HON. RANDY ‘‘DUKE’’ CUNNINGHAM TARY ACADEMY AT WEST POINT, an important influence in their lives. OF CALIFORNIA NY I salute Principal Mary Murphy for being an IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES excellent educator, leader, and role model. She will be leaving Our Lady of Good Counsel Thursday, May 21, 1998 HON. PAUL E. GILLMOR High School, but her work will always stay in Mr. CUNNINGHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise OF OHIO her students' hearts and minds. today to honor three high schools in San f Diego County which have now had their excel- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES lence recognized and proclaimed as National JASON ESPIRITU, GUAM’S NA- Blue Ribbon Schools. Thursday, May 21, 1998 TIONAL GEOGRAPHY BEE FINAL- IST Torrey Pines High School, in Encinitas, Cali- Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to fornia, in my 51st Congressional District, part pay tribute to a truly outstanding young lady of the San Diego Union High School District, from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District, Jes- HON. ROBERT A. UNDERWOOD principal Marie Grey, and superintendent Dr. sica L. Chapman. Jessica recently accepted OF GUAM William Berrier. her appointment to attend the United States IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Coronado High School, in Coronado, Cali- Military Academy at West Point, New York, Thursday, May 21, 1998 fornia, part of the Coronado Unified School where she will join the incoming Cadet Class Mr. UNDERWOOD. Mr. Speaker, for the District, principal Dr. Jeffrey David, and super- of 2002. intendent Dr. Rene Townsend. last couple of days, Washington, D.C. played University of San Diego High School, in Jessica, who is from Bowling Green, Ohio, host to 57 state-level winners from all over Linda Vista, California, principal Dr. Richard will soon be graduating from Bowling Green America as they vie to win the 1998 National Kelly. High School, and will begin preparing for one Geography Bee. Celebrating its 10th anniver- Let the permanent RECORD of the Congress of the most challenging, rewarding, and edu- sary, the National Geography Bee was devel- of the United States show that these Blue Rib- cational experiences of her life: her four-year oped in response to concern about lack of ge- bon Schools display the qualities of excellence commitment at West Point. ographic knowledge among young people in that are necessary to prepare our young peo- While attending Bowling Green High School, the United States. The finalists range from ple for the 21st Century. Jessica has proven herself to be an excep- ages 11 to 15. Each rose above a field of f tional student and an outstanding student-ath- about 5 million students in order to earn a lete. In the classroom, Jessica's accomplish- place in the 10th annual national champion- IN HONOR OF FATHER ALBERT ments are unparalleled as she has attained a ships. The finals were held on May 19th and JAMES EVANS, SS.CC. perfect 4.0 grade point average, placing her 20th hosted for the 10th consecutive year by first in her class of 290 students. Jeopardy's Alex Trebek. HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH The state level winners represent all 50 In addition to her academic achievements, states, the District of Columbia, the five U.S. OF OHIO Jessica has performed very well on the fields IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES territoriesÐAmerican Samoa, Guam, the of competition. Jessica was the Co-Captain of Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the Thursday, May 21, 1998 the Varsity Cross Country Team and the Var- U.S. Virgin IslandsÐand the Department of Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor sity Volleyball Team. She was also a member Defense Schools. Twelve of the 57 students Father Albert Evans who celebrates his Fiftieth of the Varsity Track and Varsity Basketball are repeat state winners. Ten others com- Jubilee Mass at Our Lady of Good Counsel on Teams. Jessica was active in the National peted in the 1997 finals. Among them, Jason May 31, 1998. Honor Society, German Club, and attended Espiritu, is from my home Island of Guam and Father Al, as he is known to friends, was the United States Air Force Academy's Sum- I am proud to announce that he finished in the born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. Graduat- mer Science Seminar. top ten. ing from James Ford Rhodes High School in Mr. Speaker, each year, I have the oppor- Jason, a seventh grade student at St. An- 1932, Father Al joined the unemployed tunity to nominate outstanding young men and thony's School in Tamuning, is the son of masses of the Great Depression. For the next women to the nation's military academies. I Virgilio and Amelia Espiritu. As you may have ten years, he would hold a variety of odd jobs, am pleased that Jessica has accepted her ap- guessed, his favorite subjects in school are working as an orderly in Cleveland City Hos- pointment and will be joining West Point's Social Studies and Geography. To prepare for pital, a factory worker, a dock worker, and a Class of 2002. I would urge my colleagues to the competition he employed a number of ref- truck driver. stand and join me in paying special tribute to erence materials such as atlases, almanacs, In 1939, Father Al enrolled in Saint Mary's Jessica Chapman. I am sure she will do very news magazines and National Geographic vid- College in Kentucky. It was while studying at well at West Point, and in all of her future en- eos. His fine performance could be contributed Saint Mary's that Father Al found his calling, deavors. to preparation and his every day habits of E934 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 21, 1998 reading newspapers and keeping up with cur- IN HONOR OF ANTHONY DI BIASIO came in touch with. He reached out to those rent events. The facts that he is hearing-im- in trouble with a steady hand supported by his paired never prevented Jason from doing well HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH Christian belief of loving one's neighbor. and making Guam proud. OF OHIO Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me in saluting On behalf of the people of Guam, I con- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the family of Major Ned Swinney for the out- standing contributions he made to the world of gratulate Jason Espiritu on his very fine per- Thursday, May 21, 1998 formance. We commend his efforts towards law enforcement. excellence and expect no less from him in the Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor f years to come. Anthony ``Tony'' DiBiasio for his tireless efforts on behalf of the school children of Lakewood, A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO BRIAN C. VANVALKENBURG ON HIS AP- f Ohio for the past fifty years. After serving his country in the U.S. Air POINTMENT TO ATTEND THE LET’S HELP OUR NATIONAL Force during the Second World War, Tony U.S. MILITARY ACADEMY AT PARKS AND THE AMERICAN went on to receive a B.S. and Masters from WEST POINT, NY TAXPAYER Ohio University and continued doctoral studies at Western Reserve University. For fifty years, HON. PAUL E. GILLMOR ``Mr. D.'' has demonstrated this love of learn- OF OHIO HON. GEORGE MILLER ing as a teacher, administrator, coach, and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF CALIFORNIA currently, as Executive Director of the Lake- Thursday, May 21, 1998 wood Public Schools Foundation. He has also IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES served as president of both the Lakewood Mr. GILLMOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Thursday, May 21, 1998 Education Association and the Lakewood pay special tribute to a truly outstanding young PTA. man from Ohio's Fifth Congressional District, Mr. MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, In addition to his work with Lakewood Brian C. VanValkenburg. Brian has recently today I am introducing legislation, with the co- schools, Tony has also served as Director of accepted his offer of appointment to the sponsorship of several of my colleagues, to Project Read, conducting reading workshops United States Military Academy at West Point, provide a fair return to the public for the com- at colleges and universities throughout the New York, and will be joining the incoming mercial use of our national parks and to use country. He has also sat on the Board of Di- Cadet Class of 2002. those funds to maintain and enhance park re- rectors of Keep America Beautiful and was a Very soon, Brian will be graduating from sources and visitor services. valued member of the Lakewood Kiwanis Vermilion High School, and will begin prepar- The National Park Service is being ham- Club. Tony has been published in a number of ing for one of the most challenging, rewarding, strung in the changes it can make to its con- professional journals. and educational experiences of his life: his cessions policies by the provisions of the out- Having made a significant contribution to his four years at West Point. dated 1965 Concessions Policy Act. At a time community, it comes as little surprise that While attending Vermilion High School, when families, senior citizens, and other rec- Tony had made something of a ``name'' for Brian distinguished himself as an outstanding reational users visiting our parks are required himself. The street in front of Lakewood High student and a very fine student-athlete. In the to pay higher fees, the same is not being re- School has been dubbed Tony DiBiasio classroom, Brian's academic successes are quired of commercial operators who profit from Square. A scholarship fund at the high school outstanding, as he has attained a 3.77 grade our national parks. For far too long, the public and the Fitness Center at the Lakewood point average, placing him tenth in his class of has not received a fair return on the commer- YMCA also bear his name. Tony's service to- 194 students. cial revenues generated in our national parks. wards others has been honored by the Amer- Brian has been active in the National Honor It's time to end this situation. ican Legion and the American Red Cross. Society, and has participated in the National ``The National Park Service Concession Pol- My fellow colleagues, let us join the entire Latin Exam. In addition, Brian has shown him- icy Reform Act of 1998'' is the successor of Lakewood community in thanking Anthony self to be a leader with his election to presi- the NPS concessions reform legislation of the DiBiasio for his commitment to the young peo- dent of his class during his junior year. On the 103rd Congress, which, although it passed the ple of Lakewood, Ohio. May his many years of fields of competition, Brian was a member of House in 1994 by an overwhelming vote of service to community and country serve as an the Vermilion Sailors Varsity Football Team. 386 to 30 and the Senate by an equally over- example to us all. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to have the op- whelming vote of 90 to 9, never was enacted f portunity to nominate Brian for appointment to into law. The provisions of my bill have been the United States Military Academy. I am cer- SALUTE TO MAJOR NED SWINNEY the subject of numerous hearings over the tain he will do very well. I would ask my col- years and addresses problems identified in leagues to stand and join me in paying special GAO and Inspector General reports. It is a HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON tribute to Brian VanValkenburg, and in wishing proposal that has had the support of the Ad- OF MISSISSIPPI him well in all of his future endeavors. ministration, environmental organizations, and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f taxpayer watchdog groups. Similar legislation Thursday, May 21, 1998 TRIBUTE TO NAT BINGHAM has been introduced in the Senate by Senator Mr. THOMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Dale Bumpers. to honor the late Major Ned Swinney, who HON. GEORGE MILLER The legislation provides meaningful competi- was born January 13, 1938, in Jefferson OF CALIFORNIA tion for NPS contracts to provide goods and County, MS to the late Jim and Leola IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES services to park visitors. The bill eliminates Swinney. certain preferential rights of renewal and Major Swinney departed this life on May 10, Thursday, May 21, 1998 phases out possessory interest, both of which 1998, but he left a proud legacy as a hus- Mr. MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, I have been major barriers to competition. In band, father, and law enforcement officer. He would like to pay tribute to Nat Bingham, an addition, it provides that the funds generated attended the Jackson public schools and re- advocate for the fish and the fishermen on the from concession contracts will stay in the ceived an associate degree from the Baptist West Coast, whose untimely death earlier this parks to benefit park resources and visitor Seminary of Mississippi. month has left a void so large, it will be dif- services. Major Swinney began his career as a law ficult, if not impossible, to fill. His list of ac- If we want to increase the return to the pub- enforcement officer in 1956 as a military police complishments on behalf of the fish and for- lic and enhance park resources while still officer in the United States Army. He began ests was long and varied, forging compromise making available to visitors a quality conces- his 25-year-long association with the Hinds between opposing groups for the good of the sions service, we need to install a competitive County Sheriff's Department in July 1972 resource. process instead of maintaining advantages for where he served as Deputy Sheriff, Staff A commercial fisherman for over 30 years, select commercial operators. The National Seargent, Lieutenant, Captain, and was pro- his efforts in fisheries restoration began almost Park Service Concession Policy Reform Act moted to Major in 1992. as long ago when, in his typical forward look- achieves these purposes. I hope Members will Major Swinney exhibited thoughtfulness and ing way, he headed projects in North Coast add their support to this legislation. compassion for people in the community he watersheds for salmon rearing and stream May 21, 1998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E935 restoration. He initiated the Sacramento win- will also serve as a scholarship dinner in his SUPPORTING H.R. 59 ter-run salmon broodstock program and the honor on May 23, 1998 in Toledo. Sacramento spring-run chinook working group. A product of the Toledo Public Schools him- HON. SAM JOHNSON He was a critical voice in the debate leading self, Ben began his career in 1968 at Wood- OF TEXAS to the enactment of the Central Valley Project ward High School, where he taught general IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Improvement Act, rallying the fishing industry science and coached freshman boys basket- Thursday, May 21, 1998 to support our efforts to provide water for fish and wildlife. ball. Ben truly discovered his passion as a Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, He was active in coho salmon recovery ef- teacher and coach at Toledo's Scott High I rise today in support of H.R. 59, the National forts, and was a member of the Ecosystem School in 1969, where he remained until re- Right To Work Act. This bill would repeal Roundtable dealing with funding proposals for tirement. While at Scott, he taught health edu- those sections of Federal law which allow big the Bay-Delta. He was a long-time member of cation, became Chair of the Physical Edu- labor to force hard-working Americans to pay the Commercial Salmon Stamp Committee cation Department, and coached the junior union dues under the threat of losing their and the California Advisory Committee on varsity and varsity boys basketball teams. Dur- jobs. Salmon and Steelhead Trout. He also served ing his seventeen years as head coach, his This is un-American. Yet, it happens to as president of the Pacific Coast Federation of teams have won an amazing ten City Cham- thousands of men and women every single Fishermen's Association (PCFFA) for 9 years. pionships, and last year, the Scott Bulldogs month of the year. Union bosses take the Through it all he fought tirelessly for the indus- won the Ohio State Championship. No doubt, hard-earned money of workers who have no try and the restoration of the fish they depend the Bulldogs with this victory expressed their legal say in the matter. Mr. Speaker, it was Congress who created on. appreciation to him for his lifelong dedication this problem. We gave big labor the privilege Nat gave up fishing a few years ago to work to them. Eight of the teams under his leader- full-time on fish and fish habitat conservation and authority to take this money away, by tak- ship have ranked among the top ten Ohio ing away the worker's freedom to choose as the Habitat Director for PCFFA. In this role, AAA teams. His accomplishments earned Ben he was instrumental in the developing and whether or not to pay union dues. the designation of AAA Boys Basketball Congress must now give that freedom back building support for new habitat protection Coach of the Year. measures that were included in the most re- to American workers. H.R. 59 empowers Americans and gives cent reauthorization of the Magnuson Act. He Ben's success as a basketball coach has them the choice that never should have been was a current member of the Pacific Fishery not been simply about fostering technical skills taken from them in the first place. Management Council, and prior to be ap- and teamwork on the basketball court. States I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 59, the pointed to the Council he served as chairman a noted local sportscaster, ``While building the National Right To Work Act. of their Salmon Advisory panel. A proponent area's top basketball program at Scott, Ben f for protecting marine areas, he was to be the has not let his players forget why they are in Pacific Council's representative on the upcom- school. He not only insists on athletic achieve- INTRODUCTION OF THE JUDICIAL ing Year of the Ocean Conference in Monte- ment but academic efforts as well.'' Indeed, 90 ANTI-NEPOTISM ACT rey. percent of his players have gone on to col- Nat Bingham was an independent thinker, a lege! Truly a mentor to his players, Ben puts HON. JENNIFER DUNN strong moral voice, and a great conservation- his philosophy into action, explaining ``Most of OF WASHINGTON ist who looked at the long term, not just the our boys come from broken homes. I spend IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES present. He would take on large industryÐ more time with them than the typical coach. I Thursday, May 21, 1998 whether it was oil, timber, or agribusinessÐ have a year-round relationship with them. We the government, the environmental commu- try to keep basketball in perspective. Aca- Ms. DUNN. Mr. Speaker, today I am intro- nity, or even his own fishing industry when he demic achievement and personality improve- ducing legislation to preserve the institutional felt they were wrong. He approached these ment are the most important things.'' integrity of the federal courts. This bill will clar- challenges as a consensus builder not an ad- ify the 1922 anti-nepotism law (section 458 of versary, however, trying to build bridges be- Ben also founded the City of Toledo Recre- Title 28 of the United States Code) which pro- tween opposing interests for the good of the ation Department's Annual Early Bird Basket- hibits the appointment or employment in any resources and the people that depend on ball Clinic, serving over 600 children in each court of individuals who are related within the them. of the 8 years he directed the program. He degree of first cousin to any justice or judge There are some people who have been so has directed various recreation and youth of- of that court. important and have been doing the work for fices in both Toledo and Erie, Pennsylvania. Currently, there is disagreement about so long in their community that their value to Finally, he worked with the University of Tole- whether this anti-nepotism law applies simply the people, the community and the resource is do's Summer Sports Program for 13 years, to judges' personnel decisions or whether it in- impossible to measure. At the same time, they from 1970 to 1983. cludes presidential appointments to judicial of- have been fighting the fight for so long, you Ben Williams is a graduate of Bowling fices in federal courts. I believe that the law must apply to both if can't remember what it was like before they Green State University, where he earned both came along. Nat Bingham was one of those courts are to remain unbiased. It is the duty of his undergraduate and graduate degrees. He Congress to ensure that the credibility of our people. His contributions to the protection of has also worked toward his doctorate at Gan- the resource and our environment were im- judicial branch is not compromised. That is non College in Pennsylvania, George Wash- measurable, and the thought of fighting the why I am introducing the Judicial Anti-nepo- ington University, and Sir George William's good fight without him is almost impossible to tism Act. This legislation clarifies the intent of University in Montreal. He holds a teaching imagine. We will continue to fight however, to the original law to preclude the appointment of award from Phi Beta Kappa, and has received save the salmon and their habitat. Nat would a judge to a court if that person is related expect no less, and it is an appropriate way to many other awards for his exemplary teaching within the degree of first cousin to any judge, honor his memory. and service to our community. including a judge retired in senior status, of f In addition to an extraordinarily successful that same court. teaching and coaching career, Ben is happily If the law were not to apply to the familial TRIBUTE TO BEN WILLIAMS married to Arielle. They are the proud and ear- relationship of judges, close family members nest parents of Robert, Kristie, and Leah. would be able to serve concurrently on the HON. MARCY KAPTUR same court, causing litigants to lose con- Perhaps Ben Williams' proudest profes- fidence in a system clearly designed to be ob- OF OHIO sional moment came when Scott High School IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES jective and impartial. We simply cannot afford last year renamed its field house in his honor. to let this happen. We must assure that fed- Thursday, May 21, 1998 In accepting the tribute, Ben spoke of his eral judges are independent from any outside Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to State Championship team. ``This close unit influence in order for their decisions to be recognize the outstanding career of an educa- has shown what discipline, hard work, and completely impartial and based only on the tor in our community. A lifelong educator with caring can do for all who wish to beat the laws and facts of the cases. the Toledo Public School system, Ben Wil- odds.'' Indeed these stand as fitting words by I encourage my colleagues to support this liams will be feted at a retirement event that which we all might live. bill and help uphold the just character and E936 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 21, 1998 composition of one of our most revered institu- members of Southern High School's mock trial the organization for every mortgage loan tions. team for their outstanding performance in the made by the bank. This partnership will finally f Mock Trial National Championship held in Al- make possible the development of the Wor- buquerque, New Mexico from May 8±9. They CELEBRATION OF THE VALLEY sted Woolen Mills site, the former location of placed second in a competitive program in- BANK a factory destroyed by fire in 1993. Prior to volving 45 state teams. Not only did Southern Third Federal's donation, Greater Cleveland High School take second honors, Leslie Trav- Habitat had trouble finding financial backing. HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON is, a fourth year Southern High student, was OF MISSISSIPPI also awarded the distinction of best attorney in My fellow colleagues, join me in recognizing IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the competition. Third Federal Savings Association's commit- Thursday, May 21, 1998 Mr. Speaker, the people of Guam are ex- ment to its surrounding community and in con- Mr. THOMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today tremely proud of Ria Baldevia, Brian Biacan, gratulating the bank of its 60th Anniversary. to celebrate as well as acknowledge the 100th Sharon Cadag, Leona Cruz, Vera Lynn birthday of The Valley Bank in Greenwood, Gozum, Leanna Libby, Charles McJohn, f Mississippi. Originally founded in 1898 in Denise Mendiola, John Moorhead, Pergrin Rosedale, Mississippi, The Valley Bank has Pervez, Teddy Salas, Michael San Nicolas, IN HONOR OF THE 32ND ANNIVER- persevered, persisted, prevailed and pros- Aubrey Santos, Tricia Ann Santos, Leslie SARY OF THE INDEPENDENCE OF pered into a system of community banks with Travis, and Joshua Tyquiengco not only for GUYANA eleven locations across the Mississippi Delta their exceptional achievement, but also for extending into the states' capital at Jackson, their admirable performance as Guam's am- one of the fastest growing cities in Mississippi. bassadors in this national contest. HON. ROBERT MENENDEZ The Valley Bank was founded by David Mock trial is an arduous competition which Reinach, W.B. Roberts, Saint Kohn, Isaac calls on a team's creative intelligence, logical OF NEW JERSEY Kohn, Godfrey Frank, J.L. Wilson, and G.J. reasoning, and quick wit to outmatch the other IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES McGehee, Jr. It was the vision of these seven competitors. Southern High School's perform- aspiring gentlemen to create a financial institu- ance illustrates what can be accomplished Thursday, May 21, 1998 tion in the Mississippi Delta. With this vision, through hard work, dedication and teamwork. The Valley Bank has grown to become a well On behalf of the people of Guam, I congratu- Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today known bank throughout the country. In 1997, late Southern High School and the members to honor the New Jersey Arya Samaj Mandir, The Valley Bank ranked 78th out of 14,850 of their mock trial team for their magnificent Inc. for their efforts to commemorate the 32nd banks in the nation on its return on assets and achievement. anniversary of the Independence of the Re- return on equity to stockholders. In addition to f public of Guyana. On Tuesday, May 26, they that, The Valley Bank ranked #1 out of 126 will be hosting their third annual commemora- IN HONOR OF THIRD FEDERAL banks in Mississippi in both loan volume and tive flag-raising for the independence of Guy- dollar amount of loans made under the Farm SAVINGS ASSOCIATION ana in the Council Chambers at City Hall in Service Agency and in business and industry loans. Jersey City. New Jersey Arya Samaj Mandir, HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH Inc. was incorporated in 1988 and aims to pre- Mr. Speaker, in this day of mega-mergers OF OHIO serve and promote Arya/Hindu culture in New where banks are being bought and sold, con- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES solidated, and reaching across state lines, The Jersey. Thursday, May 21, 1998 Valley Bank remains one of the few banks that The history of Guyana parallels that of the continues the tradition of personal service, Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor United States in several ways. Similar to the customer satisfaction and community involve- Third Federal Savings Association, which has U.S., Christopher Columbus was the first Eu- ment. It is refreshing to know that The Valley served as a leader in Cleveland's banking Bank today is as old-fashioned as it was 100 community for sixty years. ropean to see the Guyana coast in 1498. Guy- years ago when it first opened its doors for Third Federal Savings continues to build ana is also a land of immigrants with citizens business. upon its legacy as a strong civic institution by tracing their roots to India, Portugal, China, Mr. Speaker, please join me in celebrating spearheading the Broadway Development Ini- and Africa. Guyana is the only country on the the 100th birthday of The Valley Bank. May it tiative, a group of 100 organizations dedicated mainland of South America with English as its prosper for an additional 100 years based on to the revitalization of Cleveland's Broadway- official language. the principle of dedicated personal service. Slavic Village area. The initiative includes a di- Guyana also shares with the United States f verse assortment of community groups from the experience of gaining independence from CONGRATULATIONS TO SOUTHERN the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland to govern- ment entities. the colonial interests of Europe. The Dutch, HIGH SCHOOL’S MOCK TRIAL the French, and the British have each occu- TEAM The crown jewel of the redevelopment area will be Third Federal's $17.3 million operations pied Guyana at various times between 1621 HON. ROBERT A. UNDERWOOD center, which will be completed in November and 1966. In 1992, Guyana successfully insti- 1999. In addition, the bank has pledged to in- tuted free and fair elections. OF GUAM vest $10 million in the community within the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES In closing, I would like to thank the New Jer- next ten years. sey Arya Samaj Mandir, Inc. for their flag-rais- Thursday, May 21, 1998 Third Federal will also ally with Greater Mr. UNDERWOOD. Mr. Speaker, I would Cleveland Habitat for Humanity in combating ing ceremony and congratulate the Republic of like to take this opportunity to congratulate the the problem of homelessness, donating $10 to Guyana for its 32nd year of independence