February 26, 1998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E237 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

AFFORDABLE HOUSING hearings, we learned that most of the build- reducing the national debt and ensuring the IMPROVEMENT ACT ingsÐan estimated 73 percentÐplaced in long-term solvency of the Social Security sys- service between 1992 and 1994 were newly tem. HON. NANCY L. JOHNSON constructed; the rest were existing and reha- After decades of deficit spending, Congress OF CONNECTICUT bilitated buildings. Many older neighborhoods and the Administration have taken the difficult steps necessary to eliminate the budget deficit IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES have extensive stocks of housing that could be rehabilitated and converted to low-income and restore overdue fiscal responsibility to the Thursday, February 26, 1998 rental use or improved for continued low-in- federal government. From an all-time high of Mrs. JOHNSON of Connecticut. Mr. Speak- come rental use. However, these projects are $290 billion just six years ago, the unified er, today the gentleman from Washington [Mr. often more expensive and more difficult to de- budget deficit is projected to be eliminated as METCALF] and I are introducing the Affordable velop. The bill would create a preference for soon as this year, with some forecasters now Housing Improvement Act, a measure that projects which contribute to ``a concerted com- predicting a growing surplus in the unified would: Increase the cap on the low-income munity revitalization plan,'' and it would require budget. housing tax credit, which has not been ad- States to include ``whether the project includes Despite this good news, we must put these justed for inflation since it was originally en- the use of existing housing as a part of a com- near-term projections in the broader context of acted in 1986; index the cap for inflation; im- munity revitalization plan'' in the selection cri- the long-term budget outlook and remember plement several administrative reforms rec- teria. that those decades of deficit spending have ommended by the U.S. General Accounting The measure would allow combining the saddled the federal government with a pub- Office and the Ways and Means Subcommit- housing credit with HOME funds in high cost licly-held debt of nearly $3.8 trillion. This year, tee on Oversight; allow the use of the credit areas, and it would allow the use of the credit the interest payments alone on the debt will for developing community service areas for for community service areas for programs account for 14% of all federal spending or programs such as child care, Head Start, and such as child care, Head Start, and job train- roughly 244 billion taxpayer dollars. These are job training, designed to serve individuals in ing. dollars which could have been used much the community who may not live in the credit- We also learned of several opportunities to more wisely, and unless Congress preserves financed housing but who meet the income re- improve the administration of the credit and the projected surpluses, this debt is the legacy quirements of the housing credit program; and they are included in this bill. The bill would: re- we are poised to leave to our children and encourage the use of the credit to revitalize quire the submission of a timely and com- grandchildren. existing communities. prehensive market study to the allocating Congress must take advantage of the cur- Last year, the Oversight Subcommittee held agency for a proposed development, prepared rent economic growth and positive budget out- two hearings on the administration of the low- by a neutral party commissioned by the devel- look to reduce this debt burden and address income housing tax credit program. We oper and approved by the allocating agency; the solvency of critical programs such as So- learned that: require that a written explanation be available cial Security. Reduced government borrowing The need for low income housing is greater to the general public for any allocation of cred- will increase economic growth, raise future than ever. Census data showed an unmet de- its which is not made in accordance with es- standards of living, encourage greater saving mand for affordable housing of more than 5 tablished priorities and collection criteria; re- and investment, and help prepare our nation million units in 1996. The Census Bureau quire allocating agencies to include in their for the retirement of the baby-boom genera- projects that this number will climb to 8 million qualified allocation plans requirements for reg- tion. units by the year 2000. ular site visits and enforcement of habitability Certainly, we will have debates over addi- The program provides better housing than requirements; require that State agency fees tional spending and targeted tax relief, but I traditional public housing programs because be limited to no more than the costs incurred believe these discussions should be within the private investors have a stake in making sure by an allocating agency in administering the framework established by last year's historic the structures are well-built and maintainedÐ tax credit program; and provide that States bipartisan budget agreement. Furthermore, I a condition of receiving the credit. that over-allocate their share of credits will ex- believe the economic benefits of debt retire- Investor demand for the credit has in- perience a reduction in the following year's tax ment far outweigh the short term impact of creased since its enactment in 1986. This credits. spending increases or tax cuts and therefore greater demand has stimulated more competi- Mr. Speaker, the Clinton administration has should be our first priority as we begin to craft tion, resulting in an increase in private equity proposed increasing the per capita cap, and this year's budget. The resolution I introduce today states sim- raised per credit dollar. Nationwide, developer the gentleman from Nevada [Mr. ENSIGN] has demand for housing credits now exceeds sup- introduced a bill to increase the per capital ply that during this year's budget process, ply by more than 200 percent. This means cap and index it for inflation as well. I support Congress should focus on reducing the pub- States have a wider variety of proposals from their efforts. But we must improve the credit. licly held debt, addressing the solvency of the which to choose. I would encourage my colleagues to join the Social Security system, and maintaining the Mr. Speaker, this is a good program. It en- gentleman from Washington and me in spon- fiscal discipline which put us on the path to a joys strong support on both sides of the aisle. soring the Affordable Housing Improvement balanced budget. Now is not the time to let It combines good public policy with private Act of 1998. spending fever grip Congress and I urge all of my colleagues to support this common sense sector innovation and efficiency. But it can be f improved. initiative. In our hearings, we learned that 43 percent INTRODUCTION OF A RESOLUTION f URGING CONTINUED FISCAL DIS- of the households in properties placed in serv- PERSONAL EXPLANATION ice between 1992 and 1994 were one-person CIPLINE households and 24 percent were two-person HON. BILL REDMOND households. Only one-third of the units were HON. JIM DAVIS OF NEW MEXICO occupied by three or more people. To encour- OF FLORIDA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES age the States to allocate credits for develop- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ments for families with children, the bill will re- Thursday, February 26, 1998 quire allocating agencies to include ``tenant Thursday, February 26, 1998 Mr. REDMOND. Mr. Speaker, I ask unani- populations of individuals with children'' in cri- Mr. DAVIS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, today I mous consent to insert into the RECORD imme- teria they use in allocating credits. introduce a resolution calling on Congress to diately after Roll Call Vote number 19 that I The bill would also encourage the use of the maintain fiscal discipline during this year's would have voted in the negative on this credit to revitalize existing communities. In our budget process and to focus our attention on amendment. I was unavoidably detained.

∑ 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. E238 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks February 26, 1998 A TRIBUTE TO R. GRAYDON were the ``aspirations of the Islamic Revolu- Last year I sought a General Accounting Of- BRIGGS OF GRAND LEDGE, tion.'' In this regard President Khatami indi- fice (GAO) study to determine exactly the MICHIGAN cated that the Iranian and American people amount needed to preserve these treasures. cherished similar ideals. The Congressional Black Caucus requested HON. NICK SMITH Despite these hopeful statements, however, the GAO to conduct this survey, and after a OF MICHIGAN the members of the Baha'i faith in Iran still are year long undertaking, this comprehensive re- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES subject to systematic persecution aimed at the port was given to me on February 6th. destruction of this community in its own home- Every HBCU responded to the GAO survey. Thursday, February 26, 1998 land. Although the number of executions of The report documents 712 historic properties Mr. SMITH of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise members of the Baha'i faith are down from the owned by these institutions, and projects a today to pay tribute to R. Graydon Briggs of level of killing that occurred during the earlier cost of $755 million to renovate and preserve Grand Ledge, Michigan for his outstanding phases of the Iranian revolutionÐtwo were these sites. The current authorization requires service to public safety. killed during 1997 for apostacy, and the num- a dollar for dollar match from the schools, and Fire controlled is one of the man's greatest ber of Baha'i in prison has fallen from 750 in the legislation I introduced will expand the au- friends; unchecked, it is our deadly enemy. 1986 to 21 at present, individual members of thorized program by $377.5 million. This au- Each year, millions of fires kill thousands of this faith are still subject to harassment or ar- thorization, Mr. Speaker, requires a dollar for Americans and destroy billions of dollars of rest due to their religious beliefs. dollar match by the school. property. Daily, across this nation, fire fighters Of most concern are the state enforced Mr. Speaker, once we lose a site of historic risk their lives to protect us, our homes, our measures designed to deny the ability of the significance, it is gone forever. The extent of businesses, and our belongings. Graydon Baha'i community to sustain itself. Baha'is are the threat these sites face is exemplified by Briggs is one such man. After serving his forbidden to elect leaders, organize schools or their recent nomination to the National Trust country bravely during the Korean conflict, Mr. conduct religious activities. Elected assemblies for Historic Preservation's Eleven Most Endan- Briggs returned home to Michigan and began which, since the Baha'i have no clergy, serve gered List. The schools which will benefit from a career of service that spanned four decades. to govern the community were disbanded by this legislation are much more than academic For 37-years, Mr. Briggs served his commu- Iranian government order in 1983. All commu- institutions. For many Americans these nity as a firefighter protecting lives and prop- nity properties, including cemeteries, and other HBCUs represent the very core of their com- erty of Grand Ledge residents and the neigh- holy places were confiscated soon after the munities, and were a source of refuge, shelter, boring townships of Eagle, Oneida, and Wa- 1979 revolution, and none have been re- and inspiration during the dark days of seg- tertown. turned. regation. Indeed, the nomination to the Eleven His leadership abilities and organizational Baha'is are denied jobs and pensions on Most Endangered List states in part, ``During skills caused him to be appointed to the rank the basis of their faith, and Baha'i students are the Civil Rights Movement, HBCUs were as of Fire Chief. He discharged this office with in- prevented from attending universities which, in important as churches in the black commu- tegrity for 31 consecutive years. Chief Briggs turn denies the opportunity for economic ad- nity.'' had the unique ability to cohesively unite both vancement and further impoverishes the com- Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues from both paid and volunteer firefighters under his com- munity. Members of the Baha'i faith have no sides of the aisle to join with me in this strug- mand. Under his dedicated leadership Grand legal standing and have no recourse to en- gle to save a significant part of our heritage. Ledge saw many improvements in their fire force their civil and economic rights within the f department. They received their first aerial lad- Iranian judicial system. der truck, something uncommon to smaller Mr. Speaker, I believe that if we want to ’’WHAT NEXT IN IRAQ?’’ rural communities. A new rescue truck with truly test the sincerity of President Khatami's the ``jaws of life'' tool was added. The city's recent offer to open a dialog with the Amer- HON. ROBERT WEXLER first water rescue boat was placed in service. ican people we should ask his government to OF FLORIDA New pumper and tankers were added. These end the repression of the Baha'i and other reli- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES improvements helped lower fire insurance gious minorities in Iran. Our government Thursday, February 26, 1998 rates for Grand Ledge. should use its voice and vote in the upcoming Chief Briggs was honored in 1971 when he meeting of the UN Commission on Human Mr. WEXLER. Mr. Speaker, Saddam Hus- performed rescue breathing on a young girl Rights in Geneva to press the Iranian authori- sein is the same brutal dictator today that he rescued from an apartment fire in which she ties to prove to the international community was when he gassed his own people with was trapped. Her life was saved by this com- that Iranian society really does cherish reli- chemical weapons, starved them to death and passionate effort by Chief Briggs. giosity, liberty and justice by ending the sys- machine-gunned them in mass graves. The In addition to firefighting skills and adminis- tematic persecution of the Baha'i and all of its only difference is that today he has been trative capabilities, Chief Briggs became a su- religious minorities. given a new lease on life by the United Na- perlative instructor. He organized and con- f tions. Don't get me wrong. I respect the nego- ducted numerous fire training schools and tiation effort by United Nations Secretary Gen- taught his art to hundreds of new firefighters. PRESERVING HISTORICALLY eral Kofi Annan in Iraq. He deserves the He has committed his life to the service of oth- BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVER- world's gratitude for avoiding warÐfor the time ers. SITIES being. As a Member of the Congress of the United Annan's new agreement with Iraq, however, States of America, I am pleased to rise today HON. JAMES E. CLYBURN will not end the long term conflict between Iraq to recognize his accomplishments and join OF SOUTH CAROLINA and the world community, and may ultimately with his many friends and admirers in extend- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES create more problems than it resolves. One element of the agreement calls for a ``Special ing my highest praise and warmest wishes for Thursday, February 26, 1998 many happy years to come as he enters his Group'' of senior diplomats and U.N. inspec- retirement. Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, yesterday I in- tion experts to inspect the eight Presidential f troduced H.R. 3266, legislation which will be Sites in Iraq. With the inclusion of diplomats of great benefit to our nation's Historically and politicians in the inspection effort, secrecy PERSECUTION OF BAHA’I Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and and surprise inspections will be compromised, CONTINUES IN IRAN will help preserve a vital cultural link for this and U.N. efforts to discover and eliminate country. I am very proud that each member of Iraq's weapons of mass destruction will be se- HON. BENJAMIN A. GILMAN the Congressional Black Caucus has joined verely handicapped. OF NEW YORK with me in co-sponsoring this bill. All of a sudden, international politics and the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Our bill will amend the Omnibus Parks and greed of countries like France and Russia for Public Land Management Act of 1996 to pro- big profits in trade with Iraq are paramount to Thursday, February 26, 1998 vide additional funding for the preservation a successful U.N. effort to inspect and destroy Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, President and restoration of historic buildings and struc- dangerous weapons. Khatami of Iran recently addressed the Amer- tures at HBCUs. There is currently an author- By conceding in the U.N.-Iraq Agreement to ican people in a televised interview in which ization of $29 million for this activity, but much bring the issue of lifting sanctions against Iraq he stated that ``religiosity liberty and justice'' more is needed. to the Security Council, presumably before all February 26, 1998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E239 inspections are completed and weapons de- Seven years after the Gulf War, Saddam parent who stays at home to care for a young stroyed, the world has handed Saddam Hus- Hussein is still a menace to his own people child; (3) help low-income working families re- sein a significant political victory. In fact, it and to world peace. Only by assisting the Iraqi ceive day care through the current child care would be a serious mistake to ease economic people to liberate themselves will we prevent block grant; (4) improve child care quality and sanctions against Iraq. President Clinton cor- Hussein from becoming an even more serious safety; (5) encourage businesses to provide rectly stated in his Pentagon speech that threat seven years from now. child care to their employees; and (6) increase sanctions have already cost Hussein $110 bil- f the availability of after-school care. lion, and the President aptly wondered how In my home state of Connecticut, day care PERSONAL EXPLANATION much stronger Hussein's armed forces would costs for young children average about $7000 be today without sanctions. a year; presenting a major financial barrier for Bellyaching about the U.N.-Iraq Agreement, HON. JOHN L. MICA many families. To help these families pay for however, does not serve American interests OF FLORIDA quality child care, my legislation would in- well. Equally shortsighted is the effort to gear IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES crease the current Dependent Care Tax Credit up for some future invasion of Iraq while our Thursday, February 26, 1998 (DCTC) for every family earning less than stated objective remains limited to the ``sub- $60,000. This tax cut will help hard-working, stantial reduction'' of Iraq's weapons of mass Mr. MICA. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to middle-income families in Connecticut and destruction capability. What the United States vote on 2±25±98 as I was in Central Florida throughout the nation afford quality day care must do is commit herself to help the Iraqi with the President visiting the victims of the for their children. For example, a dual-income people liberate their nation from Hussein's dic- horrible tornadoes which struck our commu- family earning $40,000 a year with two chil- tatorial reign. nity. dren in routine day care would have their The Clinton Administration has incorrectly Mr. Speaker on Roll Call #19 (the Nadler taxes cut by almost $2000; double the amount concluded that the only way to overthrow Hus- amendment to HR 1544) I would have voted of tax relief now provided by the Dependent sein is with a massive ground invasion. This no. Care Tax Credit. assessment grossly overestimates Iraq's mili- Mr. Speaker on Roll Call #20 (the Conyers The Investment in Children Act would also tary strength. The weaknesses of Iraq's forces amendment to HR 2181) I would have voted help those families with a parent who cares for were exposed during the Gulf War in 1991, no. their young children at home. The legislation and the Iraqi military is significantly weaker Mr. Speaker on Roll Call #21 (Passage of would allow families with a child under the age now, in great part because of the cumulative the Witness Protection and Interstate Reloca- of 4 who do not receive the Dependent Care effect of years of sanctions. On the other tion Act) I would have voted yes. Tax Credit to file for an expanded Child Tax hand, American intelligence and military pre- Mr. Speaker on Roll Call #22 (the Jackson- Credit. This credit would be equivalent to the paredness to successfully strike Iraq are sig- Lee (TX) amendment to HR 1544) I would current $500 Child Tax Credit plus an addi- nificantly stronger. have voted no. tional amount equal to the average increase in Several Middle East experts, including Am- Mr. Speaker on Roll Call #23 (the Jackson- tax relief provided to two-worker families bassador Paul Wolfowitz, Dean of Inter- Lee (TX) amendment to HR 1544) I would through the expansion of the DCTC. The pro- national Studies at Johns Hopkins, have ques- have voted no. vision ensures the same amount of new tax tioned the notion that only a comprehensive Mr. Speaker on Roll Call #24 (Passage of relief for one-worker families caring for a ground invasion by the U.S. can bring down HR 1544, Federal Agency Compliance Act) I young child at home and two-worker families Saddam Hussein. I am convinced that if we would have voted yes. with a child in day care. take the following steps, in addition to prepar- f ing for military action when the next inevitable While a tax credit may help many middle-in- crisis with Saddam Hussein occurs, we will INTRODUCTION OF THE come Americans better afford day care, it may help to facilitate democracy in Iraq and rid the INVESTMENT IN CHILDREN ACT not help low-income working families with lim- world of a rogue dictator: ited tax liability. To ensure these families also 1. Challenge the claim of Saddam Hussein HON. BARBARA B. KENNELLY have access to quality child care, the Invest- as the legitimate ruler of Iraq. No doubt this ment in Children Act would increase the cur- OF CONNECTICUT goal was made more difficult by the credibility rent Child Care and Development Block Grant Hussein has garnered through his new inter- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (CCDBG) by $8 billion over the next 5 years. national agreement. Thursday, February 26, 1998 States would be required to use no less than 2. Make clear the intention of the United Mrs. KENNELLY of Connecticut. Mr. Speak- 70 percent of this new funding to provide sub- States to recognize a provisional govern- er, if there was any doubt about the need to sidies and other assistance to low-income, mentÐa Free IraqÐand start with the Iraqi make day care safer and more affordable, it working families who need child care. While National Congress. states can already access the CCDBG to help 3. Find a mechanism to make the frozen as- should be erased by one clear statistic: 60 percent of mothers with children under the age the working poor, most of the funding is dedi- sets of Iraq in the U.S. and elsewhere avail- cated now to welfare families, leaving too little able to the anti-Hussein forces. The U.S. and of six are now in the workforce; a rate 5 times higher than 50 years ago. Of course, some help for those working in low-wage jobs and U.K. alone have over $1.6 billion in frozen as- still trying to afford quality child care. sets which should be used to finance demo- might say these parents are making the wrong When they cannot remain at home with their cratic forces in Iraq. ``choice'' by going to work. But the fact is that 4. Lift economic sanctions from regions in many parents don't have a choice. Single children, every parent has two basic expecta- Iraq that are wrested from Saddam Hussein's mothers obviously have to work to support tions of any child care arrangement: it should control, and make oil resources available to their children and an increasing number of be safe and it should provide a stimulating the anti-Hussein forces for humanitarian needs married couples also both have to work to and nurturing environment. To make this ex- and economic development. make ends meet. Rather than ignoring this pectation a reality, the Investment in Children 5. Provide weapons and logistical support to economic reality, or questioning the role of Act would spend $3 billion over the next five the resistance, as well as air cover for liber- women in the workforce, we should help these years to help states check the safety of day ated areas within the Southern and Northern hard-working families find affordable, quality care facilities and to improve the quality of no-fly zones. child care. child care programs. For example, the funds Saddam Hussein remains nothing less than However, this does not mean we cannot could be used by the states to: increase unan- an international war criminal who should stand also help families with a parent who stays at nounced safety inspections of child care facili- trial for his crimes against humanity. He has home to care for a young child. The debate, ties; improve and expand training of child care broken every agreement he has made with the after all, is about caring for children, regard- providers; promote early learning programs; United States and the world community since less of whether they are in day care or at and reduce staff-to-child ratios. the Gulf War. He will no doubt once again home. One way to increase the availability of qual- subvert this agreement, and when he does, I am therefore introducing legislation today ity day care programs is to encourage busi- we must be prepared to initiate military air that focuses on improving child care in six crit- nesses to provide on-site day care for their strikes immediately aimed specifically at de- ical areas. The Investment in Children Act employees' children or to contract with existing stroying Saddam's personal power infrastruc- would: (1) make day care more affordable for child care providers. This legislation therefore ture, including his communications network middle-income families by reducing their includes the Administration's proposal to pro- and the Republican guard. taxes; (2) provide tax relief to families with a vide a 25% tax credit (up to $150,000) for E240 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks February 26, 1998 businesses providing child care to their em- gional Director in Chicago. Jack joined the 1994; in 23 of those 29 casesÐ79 percentÐ ployees. The credit would be available to busi- SBA in November, 1975. As District Director, the defendant was black, although blacks nesses for building or expanding on-site child Jack was responsible for the administration of make up only 44 percent of the circuit's popu- care facilities, operating existing on-site child SBA's loan management assistance, govern- lation. Another instance of the distorted effect care facilities, or contracting with a licensed ment contract, and advocacy programs for of the death sentence is the evidence emerg- child care facility. small businesses throughout Illinois. Jack's ef- ing under the Federal death penalty for drug Finally, this legislation recognizes the need forts as Chicago District Director have resulted kingpins. Of 37 defendants against whom the for more after-school care. Research from the in several billion dollars in loans and federal death penalty was sought between 1988 and FBI indicates that children between the age of contracts on behalf of Illinois' small business 1994, 4 defendants were white, 4 were His- 12 and 17 are most at risk for committing or community. panic, and 29 were black. being victims of violent crime between 3 and Jack's 23 years as District Director and 34 It has been 25 years since the U.S. Su- 6 pm. Other menacing issues, including teen- years of federal service have greatly benefited preme Court invalidated the death penalty in age pregnancy, also become a problem during Illinois' small business concerns. However, his Furman v. Georgia; there is now a large body this interval between the school bell and the service did not end there. Jack has volun- of evidence to indicate that the death penalty work whistle when an estimated 5 million chil- teered his considerable expertise to benefit is still imposed in a manner that goes beyond dren go without adult supervision. To provide the Heart Association, the Kiwanis Club, the words of the law. It targets African-Ameri- constructive educational and recreational pro- United Fund and Boy Scouts of America. cans in a totally unacceptable way and al- grams for more children during these perilous I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring though I strongly support improving the safety hours, the legislation would increase funding John L. Smith, an outstanding community and of witnesses and increasing the coordination for after school programs by almost $4 billion business leader and role model. I wish him the between the Federal and State governments over the next five years. Three billion dollars best of luck in his retirement. May he continue in protecting and relocating witnesses, I can- of this new funding would be sent to the states to share his talent and love of community that not support legislation which imposes an as a capped entitlement to help them promote he has given to the federal government and overtly prejudicial death penalty. I urge my col- a variety of after-school programs. Addition- the community at large. leagues to defeat this bill. ally, the five-year authorization level for the f f Department of Education's 21st Century Com- munity Learning Center Program, which pro- WITNESS PROTECTION AND INTER- THE PERSIAN GULF VETERANS vides grants to local schools or after-school STATE RELOCATION ACT OF 1997 ACT OF 1998 care, would be increased to $1 billion. SPEECH OF Before I conclude, let me remind all of my HON. LANE EVANS colleagues that providing additional tax relief HON. LOUIS STOKES OF ILLINOIS for middle-income families to help them afford OF OHIO IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES day care or care for their children at home will IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Thursday, February 26, 1998 be drastically undercut unless we reform the Wednesday, February 25, 1998 Alternative Minimum Tax (ATM). Without Mr. EVANS. Mr. Speaker, I am today intro- changes, the AMT will rob 8 million families of The House in Committee of the Whole ducing the Persian Gulf Veterans Act of 1998. the current $500 Child Tax Credit over the House on the State of the Union had under This important legislation offers a framework next ten years, not to mention any potential consideration the bill (H.R. 2181) to ensure for compensating veterans suffering from Gulf new tax credits. The Investment in Children the safety of witnesses and to promote noti- War illnesses, responds to the need many vet- fication of the interstate relocation of wit- Act therefore includes a provision that would erans have expressed for identifying effective nesses by States and localities engaging in models to treat hard-to-define diseases, and prevent the AMT from hitting middle-income the relocation, and for other purposes: families depending on tax credits. addressed other problems Congress has in- Taken as a whole, the provisions in the In- Mr. STOKES. Mr. Chairman, I rise in oppo- vestigated since 1992. Joining with me, as vestment in Children Act would improve the sition to H.R. 2181, the Witness Protection original cosponsors of the Persian Gulf War accessibility, safety and quality of child care in and Interstate Relocation Act of 1997. Al- Veterans Act of 1998, are my distinguished America and that represents nothing less than though I support the witness notification and colleagues, Representatives ABERCROMBIE, an investment in our future. I urge all of my relocation provision in this bill as well as the BISHOP, BLAGOJEVICH, BROWN, CARSON, CLY- colleagues to support this effort to provide bet- goals of the witness intimidation provisions, I BURN, FILNER, GUTIERREZ, KENNEDY(MA), MAS- ter care for millions of children across our object strongly to the inclusion of the death CARA, ORTIZ, PETERSON, REYES, RODRIGUEZ, great nation. penalty for witness intimidation that results in and UNDERWOOD. I am also pleased the Per- f death. It is also troubling that the death pen- sian Gulf Veterans Act of 1998 has the sup- alty is again applied for conspiracy offenses. port of the major groups advocating on behalf TRIBUTE TO JOHN L. ‘‘JACK’’ This subjects a defendant to be sentenced to of Persian Gulf veterans. The American Le- SMITH, DISTRICT DIRECTOR, CHI- death without tangible evidence of guilt of gion, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. CAGO DISTRICT OFFICE, U.S. murder and substantially increases the risk of and Vietnam Veterans of America have all ex- SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRA- a mistaken conviction and execution. I cite the pressed support for this measure. TION report from the Death Penalty Information Seven years ago this week, allied ground Center, ``Innocence and the Death Penalty: forces, with air and naval support, countered HON. BOBBY L. RUSH The Increasing Danger of Mistaken Execu- Iraq's invasion of its neighbor Kuwait. Of the OF ILLINOIS tions,'' which reports 69 instances since 1973 nearly 700,000 American troops who served in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES in which condemned prisoners were released the Persian Gulf theatre, about 100,000 have from death row because of wrongful convic- signed onto registries maintained by the De- Thursday, February 26, 1998 tions. It did not have figures on how many in- partments of Defense and Veterans Affairs. Mr. RUSH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to nocent people were actually executed. The Departments' estimates of those reg- honor John L. ``Jack'' Smith, who is retiring as I concur with the American Bar Associa- istered who have diagnoses which are not the District Director, Chicago District Office, of tion's resolution that the system for administer- easily treated vary from 10±25 percent. Meet- the U.S. Small Business Administration. An ing the death penalty in the United States is ing the needs of those suffering from illnesses, event will be held in his honor on Thursday, unfair and lacks adequate safeguards. The including those which defy ready diagnoses February 26, 1998, in Chicago, Illinois. Jack Bar Association resolution goes on to declare and treatments, is a continuing obligation of began his service to his country in 1951 when that a moratorium should be imposed on exe- our nationÐan obligation we must honor. With he joined the Navy. From 1967 to 1970, Jack cutions until a greater degree of fairness and the current buildup of American troops in the worked as a loan specialist for the Economic due process is in place. Persian Gulf region, the need for enacting the Development Administration after two years as There is compelling evidence from many ju- Persian Gulf Veterans Act of 1998 is even Director of Financial Assistance for the Busi- risdictions that the race of the defendant is the more compelling. ness and Job Development Corp. in Pitts- primary factor governing the imposition of the The Persian Gulf Veterans Act of 1998 calls burgh. In October, 1973, Jack joined the Of- death sentence. In the Ocmulgee judicial cir- for an independent agency to advise the De- fice of Minority Business Enterprise of the De- cuit in Georgia, the district attorney sought the partment of Veterans Affairs on the appro- partment of Commerce as the Midwest Re- death penalty in 29 cases between 1974 and priateness of the federal research agenda on February 26, 1998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E241 the numerous illnesses suffered by Gulf vets PREVENTING THE TRANSMISSION new HIV infections in the U.S. occurs among and the probable causes of these illnesses. OF HIV people between the ages of 13 and 20. Young gay and bisexual men experience dispropor- The research review would lay the foundation tionately high numbers of AIDS cases and for compensating Persian Gulf War veterans HON. TOM LANTOS HIV infections. We know that the proportion by determining where associations can be OF CALIFORNIA of AIDS cases has risen among women and made between specific exposures and ill- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES among several minority groups, despite de- nesses and where other information must be clining in several other populations. The Thursday, February 26, 1998 facts are compelling, and rather than ignore considered. Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, earlier this these facts, we should direct our attention to It may take years to determine why so many month the Subcommittee on Health and Envi- specific populations that have been specifi- veterans are sick, but we know one thing for cally affected. ronment of the Commerce Committee held a Research and science are our tools; we sure. Our veterans are suffering and many hearing on ``Preventing the Transmission of should use them to guide us in our federal share similar symptoms that are not attrib- the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV),'' at policies. Because the scientific and statis- utable to any particular cause. It seems fair to which a number of witnesses discussed the tical findings in regards to HIV transmission use these symptoms, rather than some yet-to- problems related to this serious health issue indicate significantly different proportions of HIV infection in different population be-determined causes as the basis for com- facing our nation. The subcommittee also con- sidered legislation that has been introduced in groups, I am fully supportive and a proud co- pensation. While this approach would require sponsor of H.R. 1219, the Comprehensive HIV the House relating to HIV transmission. I re- scientist to determine which conditions are Prevention Act of 1997, introduced by my es- quested the opportunity to present a statement most likely the result of Gulf War service, vet- teemed colleagues Representative Nancy for inclusion in the record of the hearing, Mr. erans would not have to prove that a certain Pelosi (D-CA) and Representative Constance Speaker, because of the importance of this Morella (R-MD). Their legislation will pro- exposure caused an adverse health outcome. issue to my congressional district and because mote targeted, primary prevention programs That would require some science that simply of the serious national importance of this that effectively consider the increasing chal- does not exit. health problem. Unfortunately, there is consid- lenge for high risk populations such as peo- erable misunderstanding of the issue and the ple of color and women. H.R. 1219 would en- Determining the ``prevalence'' of the ill- hance federal coordination and planning by nesses Gulf War veterans experience more best way to deal with it. giving authority and responsibility for devel- often than other veterans from the same era, Mr. Speaker, I ask that my statement to the oping a strategic HIV prevention and appro- is an epidemiologic approach endorsed by sci- Subcommittee on Health and Environment be priations plan to the Secretary of HHS, in entists from the President's Gulf War advisory placed in the RECORD, and I urge my col- consultation with an Advisory Committee. leagues to give thoughtful consideration to this In addition, the bill will authorize further re- panel. On February 5th, Dr. Arthur Caplan, a important issue. It is probable that the House search for investigating possible new HIV in- member of the Presidential Advisory Commit- will be considering legislation involving the fection sites. With its provisions for commu- tee on Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses, stated transmission of HIV later this year, and it is nity-based prevention programs, counseling and testing programs, treatment and related that his Committee felt that a prevalence important that all of us here in this body be model gave the veterans the greatest benefit services for rape victims, funding for AIDS/ well informed on this issue. HIV education and information dissemina- of the doubt. According to Dr. Caplan, ``Gulf STATEMENT OF CONGRESSMAN TOM LANTOS tion, as well as adolescent and school-based War Illness is a very real phenomena. No one programs—the Pelosi-Morella act is a thor- HEARING OF THE SUBCOMMITTEE ON HEALTH ough and natural extension of current HIV on this committee should doubt that for a mo- AND ENVIRONMENT ON PREVENTING THE prevention programs in the United States. It ment . . . What should be forthcoming . . . TRANSMISSION OF THE HUMAN IMMUNO- will approach HIV prevention through meth- is an unwavering commitment from this Con- DEFICIENCY VIRUS (HIV) ods that are locally defined, community- gress and this administration to provide the HOUSE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE based, and that utilize at-risk population health and disability benefits to all those who Mr. Chairman, I thank you for conducting targeting. became sick when they came back from the this hearing on HIV transmission and pre- In contrast, the HIV Prevention Act of 1997 Gulf.'' vention and for this opportunity to express (H.R. 1062) is based upon a belief that identi- my support of our country’s public health ef- fying individuals who are HIV positive, in The Persian Gulf Veterans Act of 1998 forts in dealing with this serious epidemic. and of itself, can prevent new infections. It is would also require the Institute of Medicine of As you know, the Center for Disease Con- a major setback to the progress we have been the National Academy of Sciences (NAS/IOM) trol (CDC) reports over 600,000 AIDS cases re- making in implementing effective HIV pre- ported nationally since the outbreak of the to review emerging technologies to assess ex- vention programs. Despite the fact that no AIDS epidemic. Annually, 40,000 new HIV in- other disease is required to be reported by posure to agents that may have been present fections are reported and approximately federal mandate, and despite the fact that in the Gulf or to identify new diagnostic tools 650,000–900,000 Americans are diagnosed HIV- the CDC has not requested that Congress cre- for some conditions. It would ask the NAS/ positive. According to the San Francisco ate such an unprecedented mandate for HIV, IOM to assess the most effective treatment AIDS Foundation, California alone currently H.R. 1062 still calls for mandatory partner protocols for illnesses like those from which reports over 100,000 cases which accounts for notification. nearly 18% of all AIDS cases in the U.S. Only Furthermore, H.R. 1062 mandates reporting Persian Gulf veterans suffer and to review the New York reports a larger total number of of HIV infected people to the State public research undertaken by the federal govern- AIDS cases. These figures indicate precisely health officer and the CDC. Not only should ment and offer its own assessment of the re- why the fight against HIV transmission and HIV reporting remain a state responsibility, search to date along with identifying research infection is a top public health priority. but this mandate is a coercive measure that should be done to fill the knowledge gaps. Despite these overwhelming numbers asso- which would discourage people at risk for ciated with HIV infection, I am greatly en- HIV from seeking treatment and testing at a This would provide the ``third-party'' perspec- couraged by the fact that California has re- time when we are making impressive break- tive sought by many Persian Gulf veterans, as cently reported a 60% decline in AIDS-relat- throughs in new treatments. This measure well as the American public. The Persian Gulf ed deaths in the first six months of 1997, as would only hurt our efforts to slow HIV Veterans Act of 1998 would also require the compared to the first six months of 1996. And transmission, a public health concern. There information infrastructure VA, DOD and Con- it is especially urgent that we understand is no reason for us to isolate and differen- what has enabled California to dramatically tiate HIV from other sexually transmitted gress need to review the extent of veterans' decrease its number of AIDS deaths and diseases, nor to stigmatize HIV infected citi- health care problems and monitor these agen- cases so that we may reproduce these efforts zens. cies' abilities to address them with adequate and continue to successfully combat the dis- The creation of a national partner notifica- compensation and health care services. ease. Federal funding has been a main impe- tion program as would be mandated by H.R. tus through which we have developed new 1062 would also be an unnecessary waste of We must never give up on our efforts to drug therapies, and we cannot underestimate resources. Furthermore, the Ryan White learn why many of our Gulf vets are sick, but the significance of improved access to medi- CARE Act Amendments of 1996 already re- we must also use the best available means to cal care and increased prevention efforts in quires states to administer partner/spousal treat their symptoms and to compensate them reducing AIDS transmission and fatalities. notification programs as a condition of re- for their disabilities. Our veterans deserve the Our country needs to take an intelligent ceiving HIV care funding. The HIV Preven- approach to the AIDS epidemic. By intel- tion Act of 1997 would prevent state and benefit of the doubt on this issue, and that's ligent approach, I mean that we need to take local officials from effectively targeting what the Persian Gulf Veterans Act of 1998 is into account how different populations are their programs and making decisions to designed to give them. affected by this disease. We now know that meet the needs of their individual, unique E242 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks February 26, 1998 populations. We cannot tolerate a reductive the needs of children, women, and minorities Pequannock Township until its official incorpo- one-size-fits all solution to HIV infection, a who are affected by AIDS and the HIV infec- ration 75 years ago. complex epidemic. tion. While the area was originally farm country, We should not simplify our efforts to pre- Thank you again for holding this impor- vent HIV transmission. In fighting the epi- tant hearing. I hope you will be supportive of by the early 1800's Riverdale was a place of demic of HIV, we have learned a great deal state and local officials in their efforts to great activity. Along with the introduction of its from our colleagues in scientific research. combat HIV transmission and infection. first school house in 1812, there existed a Because I believe that needle exchange pro- thriving business in wooden staves, hoops and f grams have proven to be an effective and hoop poles. In the late 19th century, with the cost-effective way of reducing the spread of TRIBUTE TO DOYLE WILLIAMS coming of the railroad and the establishment HIV, I am delighted to also be a cosponsor of of several larger businessesÐincluding Du- H.R. 2212, the HIV Prevention Outreach Act of 1997, introduced by Representatives Elijah HON. GEORGE MILLER Pont, a rock quarry and two rubber factoriesÐ Cummings and Nancy Pelosi. OF CALIFORNIA the population of Riverdale increased rapidly. A single clean syringe costs less than 10 Many more houses were erected in the area, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES cents, and treatment for one HIV-infected in- and a newer, and larger, schoolhouse was dividual costs over $100,000. More than half a Thursday, February 26, 1998 built by 1904. billion dollars in health care expenditures Mr. MILLER of California. Mr. Speaker, I Interestingly, the issue of school size, and could be avoided through the implementa- the desire to avoid being taxed for the con- tion of needle exchange programs. There is a rise today to invite my colleagues to join me tragic cost to not acting and implementing in recognizing Doyle Williams, retiring Busi- struction of a large schoolhouse in the needle exchange programs. The Cummings- ness Manager and Financial Secretary of the Pequannock section of town, was actually one Pelosi bill would end the ban on federal fund- Plumbers and Steamfitters' Local 342. of the decisive factors that spurred Riverdale ing of needle exchange programs, and along Doyle has long been an active and commit- residents to form an independent borough. with H.R. 1219, it enables us to battle AIDS ted member of Local 342. Being initiated as After many long meetings by the New jersey in such a way that does not ignore the in- an apprentice in May 1959, Doyle soon be- state legislature, Riverdale residents were fi- roads we have already made into how the came a leader amongst his union brothers. nally granted the right in 1923 to officially sep- disease has affected certain populations. It is my pleasure to announce that I am Understanding the importance of a strong arate from Pequannock, and incorporate as an not alone in my sentiments about needle ex- union organization to his community's many independent municipality. change. The findings of the scientific com- working men and women, Doyle undertook to For the past 75 years, Riverdale Borough munity support my view that needle ex- position Local 342 as an integral member of has prospered as a community and continues change is a necessary and extremely effi- Contra Costa County's labor movement. His to thrive today. While still covering the same cient way of dealing with HIV transmission. personal involvement with the California State 1.8 square mile area that it has for several To date, six federally funded studies, includ- Pipe Trades Council, the Central Labor Coun- centuriesÐranking it as the second smallest ing a Consensus Development Conference by cil of Contra Costa County, the Contra Costa municipality in Morris CountyÐRiverdale has the National Institutes of Health and also a nonetheless emerged as one of its fastest study by the University of California, San Building & Construction Trades Council and Francisco for the Centers of Disease Control many other such organizations, has benefitted growing communities. By all accounts, the and Prevention, all demonstrate the effec- not only the members of his own union, but all Borough of Riverdale will continue to prosper tiveness of needle exchange in reducing an of those working in the trades. in the future, and I ask you, Mr. Speaker, and important risk factor for HIV transmission. I would like to personally thank Doyle for his my colleagues to congratulate all residents of It is not a coincidence that by providing activism in the area of public policy. On the Riverdale on this special anniversary year. clean needles to injection drug users who numerous occasions that I have addressed f comprise nearly 50% of newly infected HIV the House on behalf of our country's working victims, we are slowing the spread of HIV NATIONAL FOREST MANAGEMENT men and womenÐon such critical issues as not only to those who will use the needles PRACTICES NEED ATTENTION but to their partners and their children as the minimum wage, occupational safety, na- well. tional trade policies, to name just a fewÐ This information has found the ears of the Doyle was always there to let me know that I HON. BOB SCHAFFER American public, approximately 66% of spoke with the support of labor. His thoughts OF COLORADO which support needle exchange. Distin- and counsel over the years have been invalu- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES guished and respected public health organi- able to me, and it has been my honor to work zations such as the American Medical Asso- Thursday, February 26, 1998 with him. ciation, the American Public Health Asso- Mr. BOB SCHAFFER of Colorado. Mr. ciation, as well as public officials and legal On behalf of the U.S. House of Representa- tives I would like to congratulate Doyle Wil- Speaker, the health of the national forests in groups such as the United States Conference the west and the economies of rural western of Mayors and the American Bar Association liams and wish him a happy and healthy re- have all heard the facts supporting needle tirement. communities are at risk from current national exchange and are supportive of preserving f forest management practices. Severe threats the authority of the Secretary of Health and from fire, insects and disease endanger the Human Services to determine if federal funds THE 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE forests and the health, happiness and well- can be used for needle exchange programs. BOROUGH OF RIVERDALE, MOR- being of the citizens of Colorado. While prop- In the matter of HIV transmission and in- RIS COUNTY, NEW JERSEY erly utilized timber harvests can effectively fection, we should listen to what our sci- contribute to restoring the health of forests, entific knowledge makes undeniable; we need comprehensive programs such as those HON. RODNEY P. FRELINGHUYSEN timber programs on the national forests have authorized by the Pelosi-Morella bill, and we OF NEW JERSEY been almost completely eliminated in Colo- need to give our public health officials the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES rado. means to combat HIV through needle ex- There has been an unprecedented increase change, as expressed through the Cummings- Thursday, February 26, 1998 in the annual net growth of national forests Pelosi bill. Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise since the turn of the century. Historical records I urge the Congress not to delay the use of today to commemorate the 75th Anniversary and studies of paired ``then and now'' photo- federal funds for needle exchange programs. Furthermore, I want to reiterate the impor- of the Borough of Riverdale, Morris County, graphs suggest that the growth potential of tance of learning from our research inves- New jersey. Although not an independent mu- timber has been consistently and seriously un- tigations of HIV infection and AIDS cases. nicipality until 1923, Riverdale has a long a derestimated. Many scientists believe that Col- The spread of HIV has taken a specific path rich history that extends well before the Revo- orado has more, and older, trees now than at that we have traced, and that we must take lutionary War. any time in recorded history. steps to counteract. The word is out that Riverdale was first settled by Dutch and It is well established that healthy forests needle exchange is a successful way of ad- English pioneers in 1695 and was part of a have a diversity of age classes and succes- dressing HIV transmission. The word is out larger area historically known as Pompton, sional stages. However, our forests have that we can best approach this problem by funding research and funding programs that after the local Indian village and tribe that bore changed with the passage of time. Decreased will allow states to target and address the the same name. The borough itself went use of our resources appears to have resulted specific developments of the HIV/AIDS epi- through several name changes since its first in the overgrowth of shade-tolerant understory demic. We need to lift the ban on federal settlementÐcalled at First New Greenwich, plant species, the overload of forest fuels, in- funding of needle exchange and to address then TownshaÐand remained a subsection of creased numbers of trees, and, alarmingly, a February 26, 1998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E243 decrease in overall forest diversity. Increased TRIBUTE TO DR. MONROE D. projects and programs by individuals and or- forest volume and denser canopies cause SENTER ganizations who are promoting a culture of more rain and snow to evaporate into the at- peace. mosphere before reaching the forest floor. HON. JOHN J. DUNCAN, JR. During the period between January 30, That evaporation leads to a decrease in avail- OF TENNESSEE 1998 and April 4, 1998 groups throughout the able water supplies for threatened and endan- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES world will sponsor projects and programs to create greater awareness and consciousness gered species, drinking water and agricultural Thursday, February 26, 1998 supplies. of the principles and practices of nonviolence, Mr. DUNCAN. Mr. Speaker, for many years including symposia on interfaith and inter-ra- Insect outbreaks and large, intense fires are Dr. Monroe D. Senter has been a highly re- cial healing; days of dialogue, prayer and becoming more common and more severe on spected member of the Knoxville community. meditation; artistic and cultural events; essay these dense, homogeneous forests. Currently, A few days ago, Dr. Senter celebrated his contests and special activities for children. 20±30 million acres of National Forests are 100th birthday. On this occasion, I would like In my home city of Chicago, many groups susceptible to catastrophic wildfires. As subur- to call his career and many accomplishments are working to focus the hearts and minds of ban populations migrate further away from the to the attention of my colleagues and readers our citizens on nonviolence in recognition and cities, forest fires consume more property and, of the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD. celebration of ``A Season for Nonviolence.'' tragically, more lives. Those fires also cause Dr. Senter was born on February 21, 1898, I commend the efforts of all of the groups serious air and water quality problems. In the in Knoxville, Tennessee. I am told that as a and individuals in Chicago and across Amer- wake of destructive fires, erosion and flooding young man he walked nearly ten miles each ica who are dedicating their time and re- contribute to the degradation of mountain day to attend high school. He was president of sources to this noble goal. I am very pleased streams, and ultimately, to our water supplies. his class, played football, and graduated as and honored to recognize them today. Valedictorian in 1919. f Mr. Speaker, the health and capacity of for- Dr. Senter went on to study at Knoxville IN COMMEMORATION OF THE LAST ests is directly related to the volume of timber College and later earned his Masters Degree SUNDAY IN FEBRUARY AS A NA- harvested. Without harvesting, thinning or pre- from the University of Minnesota. In 1966 he TIONAL DAY OF CARING scribed burns, timber inventory accumulates to was conferred with an honorary Doctor of the point where growth is impeded, and Laws Degree from Knoxville College. stands become susceptible to wildfires, beetle In his long career as an educator, Dr. HON. DAVID L. HOBSON infestations and disease. Timber harvests add Senter served as a teacher at College High OF OHIO valuable and essential resources to the econ- School and Austin High School and was the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES omy while reducing the potential for cata- Principal of Beardsley Junior High School for Thursday, February 26, 1998 strophic fires by eliminating dangerously high over 30 years. In addition, for two years he Mr. HOBSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise before levels of fuels. While many advocate the use acted as Director of Education and Guidance you today to commemorate the last Sunday in of prescribed fires, without the complement of for the U.S. Department of Education in Wash- February as a National Day of Caring. This timber harvests, even those fires may have ington, D.C. Dr. Senter has been President of the Knox- day is set aside for communities to show con- detrimental side effects. For example, pre- cern for those among them who are homeless scribed burns often destroy economically via- ville Education Association, the East Ten- nessee Education Association, the Tennessee and to call attention to the additive effect of in- ble and renewable resources while violating dividuals in alleviating the suffering of people air quality and visibility standards. Education Association, the Tennessee State Teachers Association, and the American in need. Since 1991, residents of Ohio's Miami In recent times, the U.S. Forest Service has Teachers Central Division. Valley have come together and offered a vari- shifted away from their mission of multiple However, Dr. Senter's contributions are not ety of ways to serve those less fortunate on uses and sustained yield. Competing public in- only in the realm of education. He has been the Day of Caring. My colleague, Representa- terests push the Forest Service to a manage- involved in a long list of community organiza- tive TONY HALL, and I personally have been ment style motivated not by sound policy, but tions including the Knoxville College Trustee long-time participants and co-chairmen of this by fear of special interest backlash. Manage- Board, the Y.M.C.A., the National Urban important day. I am proud to have had the op- ment, it seems, is controlled not by what is League, the Kiwanis Club, and his church, the portunity on five occasions to join in by cook- best for the forest, but by what interest group Lennon Seney United Methodist Church. ing pancakes at the annual Day of Caring Kickoff Breakfast alongside other concerned protests the loudest. Meanwhile, timber budg- The citizens of Knoxville certainly owe a Miami Valley residents. ets and timber sales decline and administra- debt of gratitude to Dr. Senter for his many years of service and dedication to the commu- Over the past seven years, the Day of Car- tive costs escalate. Directing funds away from ing has been a tremendous success. Thou- timber budgets negates Forest Management nity. The world would be a much better place if sands of area residents have participated. In plans, undermines public input into the proc- all, over $110,000 has been raised for dona- ess, and harms the forest ecosystem. Such we had more men like Dr. Monroe Senter. f tions to area organizations that serve the impediments to the Forest Service mission needy. Additionally, The Day of Caring pro- have resulted in a de facto policy of reduced A SEASON FOR NONVIOLENCE vides an opportunity to acknowledge those management, increased risk of wildfires, and who combat the problems that plague the hun- deteriorating forest health. HON. LUIS V. GUTIERREZ gry and the homeless. It promotes many of Better national forest timber programs are OF ILLINOIS the area organizations whose primary mission essential to the proper stewardship of Ameri- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES is to address the needs of those less fortu- nate. Local affiliations of organizations such as ca's forests and to the health, condition and Thursday, February 26, 1998 integrity of the environment. Accordingly, I the United Way, Hospice, Aim for the Handi- strongly urge my colleagues and the Chief of Mr. GUTIERREZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today capped, the Red Cross, and Habitat for Hu- to give my support to ``A Season for Non- manity individually sponsor events. Volunteers the U.S. Forest Service to support proper har- violence'', an international grassroots move- from the Franciscan Medical Center, The vest management tools to ensure better forest ment in commemoration of the 50th and 30th Good Neighbor House, The Girl Scout Coun- health throughout the country. Moreover, I anniversaries of the assassinations of Ma- cil, and the Mad River Lion's Club also partici- urge the Congress to support the Rocky hatma Mohandas K. Gandhi and Martin Luther pate. The Day of Caring truly celebrates the Mountain Regional Forester's strategy to re- King, Jr. spirit of volunteerism that is alive and well in verse the decline of forest management pro- ``A Season for Nonviolence'' envisions a the Miami Valley. grams and to reach a more effective program better world for all human beings. This move- This past Sunday, February 22, 1998, was level by the year 2000. Finally, I implore all of ment's actions are based on values firmly this year's Day of Caring. Nearly 1,000 volun- my colleagues in the House of Representa- rooted in our society's diverse beliefs and tra- teers kicked off the day with the Day of Caring tives to support Congressional efforts to im- ditions. To this end, ``Gandhi/King: A Season Pancake Brunch at seventeen different loca- prove efficiency, effectiveness, and account- for Nonviolence'' applies its efforts and re- tions in the Miami Valley. Two locations of- ability in the management of our national for- sources to identifying and bringing into full fered over 500 free brunches for the hungry ests. public focus the rich spectrum of grassroots and homeless. Fifteen sites served over 7,000 E244 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks February 26, 1998 pancake and sausage breakfasts in an annual FOREST HEALTH AND out replanting. Responsible, well-planned cuts fundraising effort. Congregations of all de- MANAGEMENT diversify forest ecosystems while leaving many nominations and organizations participated in large, standing aspens, and providing valuable raising funds this year for the Emergency HON. BOB SCHAFFER habitat for wildlife, including many threatened Housing Coalition and the Hunger Coalition. OF COLORADO and endangered species. Timber management requires access to The factors that contribute to homelessness, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES stands in need of regeneration. Unfortunately, Thursday, February 26, 1998 such as joblessness, financial distress, chemi- the Clinton Administration advocates a ``no ac- cal dependency, mental illness, and domestic Mr. SCHAFFER of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, cess'' policy to a large portion of our public violence are immensely complicated. Con- each fall, scores of people travel to the high lands. Well over 34 million acres of our public cerns about providing adequate health care country to witness the changing colors of lands could be off-limits to access for recre- and education for those in need weigh heavily Colorado's aspen trees. The changing leaves ation and management under the Administra- on the minds of many. While these problems symbolize our state's diverse, scenic environ- tion's proposed forest transportation policy. will not be solved quickly or easily, The Day ment as well as its thriving economy. Sadly, a That decline is particularly disturbing in light of of Caring highlights that a ground-swell of con- recent study by the Club 20 Research Foun- the Clinton Administration's plans to sever a cern by our communities really can make a dation concludes that Colorado's aspen are at vital link between local communities and their difference. The dream of the first Day of Car- a risk due to years of mismanagement by the forests by discontinuing timber-based reve- ing Committee was to bring communities to- federal government. nues for schools and roads in favor of a for- gether under the common thread of caring and Club 20 was founded in 1953 by various in- mula developed by the federal government. giving of time, talent, and support. It is cer- dividuals, counties, communities, businesses There are more aspen trees in Colorado tainly realized every year on the last Sunday and associations in Western Colorado. This than any other state. Aspen are symbolic of in February in the Miami Valley. I would be grass roots organization follows a broad range the changing seasons in a state that prides wonderful if other communities might also fol- of issues and provides a valuable forum for itself on a strong economy, a good quality of low the Miami Valley's lead and participate in considering the many complex and controver- life, and an appreciation for the out-of-doors. their own local activities next year on the Day sial issues facing our state. Club 20 exempli- National forests in Colorado account for not of Caring. fies local involvement aimed at providing edu- only the production of timber but for a large cational, environmental and economic benefits part of the state's economic benefit from f to our state. I applaud their efforts and their recreation and tourism. research and commend my colleagues to con- The Forest Service's de facto policy of re- TRIBUTE TO MELVA BUCKSBAUM sider Club 20's findings. ducing harvests, increasing the risk of cata- James Hubbard, Colorado's State Forester, strophic wildfires, and deteriorating forest warns that if the Forest Service continues to health is unacceptable. It is time for the Forest HON. NITA M. LOWEY manage as they do presently, most of Colo- Service to manage the forests as Congress di- rado's aspen trees will disappear within the rected it to for multiple use and sustained OF NEW YORK next forty to fifty years. According to the For- yields. Such a policy is best for the health of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES est Service, the average age of aspen in our forests and for the vitality of our state. Western Colorado is between 90 and 110 Mr. Speaker, I am working closely with my Thursday, February 26, 1998 years, well beyond the point at which they ma- colleagues on the House Resources Commit- ture and begin to deteriorate. Unless the For- tee and the Subcommittee on Forests and Mrs. LOWEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to est Service adopts an aggressive manage- Forests Health to ensure that the Forest Serv- recognize the invaluable contributions of Mrs. ment regime designed to restore the health of ice and the Administration hear Colorado's Melva Bucksbaum. Mrs. Bucksbaum has dis- Colorado's aspen trees, our aspen stands will message loud and clear. On February 25th, tinguished herself as a strong supporter of the be lost due to disease, insect infestation and the subcommittee conducted oversight hear- arts and through her numerous accomplish- decay. ings on the Administration's roadless area ments has earned the honor of being recog- Congress directed the Forest Service to moratorium. There, we considered testimony nized at the Jewish Museum's ``Festa do manage forest lands for multiple use and sus- from county commissioners, forestry experts Brazil'', a masked ball in celebration of Purim. tained yields. Today, Forest Service practices and Forest Service officials on the issue of ac- Melva has promoted art throughout the show a disturbing trend towards a lack of ac- cess to public lands. On March 26th, we will United States and Israel, with a particular tive management. Unfortunately, those prac- hold another hearing before the House Re- dedication to contemporary art and artists. Her tices seem to be driven not by what is best for sources, Budget and Appropriations Commit- generosity toward The Jewish Museum's Leg- the forest, but by what group protests the tees into the operations, budgeting and man- acy Campaigns helped make possible the Mu- loudest. That dynamic thwarts good policy and agement of the Forest Service. There, with my prohibits resource management. seum's expansion and renovation, as well as colleagues, I hope to examine better manage- The federal government, which controls the creation of a vital endowment fund. ment alternatives and push for positive more than 70% of the land on Colorado's change. Proper management of our national In addition to sitting on the Boards of the Western Slope, has neglected to manage for forests can provide habitat for wildlife as well Jewish Museum and the Des Moines Art Cen- the health of our forests. Their neglect is un- as recreational and economic resources for ter, Mrs. Bucksbaum serves with a number of forgivable given the consensus among for- America. other distinguished institutions: the Graduate esters that, without active management, aspen f School of Design, Harvard University; the trees die off and fail to regenerate. International Committee of the Tate Museum, The Forest Service and the Department of STATEMENT OF LYNN EXE London; the Whitney Museum; American Interior advocate drastic increases in the use Friends of Israel Museum; Save Venice; the of prescribed burns as a management tool. HON. BARNEY FRANK Independent Curator's Association; the Ken- While some advocate prescribed burns as a OF MASSACHUSETTS nedy Center's National Committee for the Per- ``natural'' alternative to timber management, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES even proponents concede that prescribed forming Arts and the International Council of Thursday, February 26, 1998 the Museum of Modern Art. Since 1995, Mrs. burns fail to regenerate aspen stands, which Bucksbaum has actively managed the Martin do not burn easily. Moreover, prescribed burns Mr. FRANK of Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, Bucksbaum Family Foundation, which is listed have serious detrimental effects on air and last year in my Congressional Office in Bridge- water, Massachusetts, I met with an eloquent as one of the founders of the United States water quality. Selective timber harvesting provides an ef- and dedicated patriot, Lynn Exe, who de- Holocaust Museum. fective alternative to prescribed burns. Small, scribed to me her disappointment at the way Mr. Speaker, on March 4, Melva will be rec- patch-work timber cuts facilitate the regenera- in which the Fleet Reserve Association dealt ognized by the Jewish Museum for her years tion of aspen stands, provide economic bene- with her insurance situation. At her request, I of community service as this year's Purim Ball fits to the state, and enhance wildlife habitat am entering into the RECORD her description honoree. It is an honor and a pleasure for me without detrimental effects on air and water of her objection, and her invitation to the FRA to join the Museum in honoring Melva quality. Selective cuts of less than 40 acres to respond. I do so as Mrs. Exe's Representa- Bucksbaum on this very special occasion. allow for the regeneration of aspen trees with- tive in the House, who believes that she as a February 26, 1998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E245 citizen deserves the right to be heard. The ing problem in our countryÐHow do we pro- As Chairman of the Appropriations Sub- First Amendment to the Constitution, to which tect disappearing farmland while simulta- committee on Military Construction, I have vis- we all pay homage, singles out a few basic neously protecting our natural resources? ited U.S. bases at home and around the world rights for particular emphasis, and one of Keeping local farms in agriculture is abso- and I have been shocked at the deplorable those is the right to petition for the redress of lutely essential to local economies across the working and living conditions we are asking grievances. Mrs. Exe chooses to do so, and country, and California's Sixth Congressional our soldiers and their families to endure. The as her Representative in Congress, I am District is a prime example. Approximately, Military Construction Bill funds family housing pleased to be able to do my constitutional duty 167,000 acresÐhalf of Marin County's total as well as construction of troop barracks, hos- and insert her petition at this point in the landÐare farms or ranches. In Sonoma Coun- pital and medical facilities, schools and child- RECORD. ty, 40 percent of the 1.2 million acres of land care centers for military personnel and their Bridgewater Mass., January 21, 1998. is agriculture. The majority of this farmland is families stationed here and abroad. CONGRESSMAN BARNEY FRANK, divided into small third and fourth generation Mr. Speaker, the fact is, we did our home- DEAR SIR, My husband, John B. Exe, family-owned operations. Of the 285 agricul- work and crafted a responsible bill. Every United States navy, retired, served his coun- tural operations currently in Marin County, 78 project in this bill meets a validated military re- try with honor and dedication and retired are considered large farms (annual gross in- quirement and every project is executable this after 20 years service. During my husband come of $100,000 or more), and 207 are con- fiscal year. The bill we sent to the President service he took out the FRA insurance plan. sidered small or mini-farms. The average farm He was told by the navy that should he pay was $610 million less than last year's bill and high premiums in the event of his death his size is 588 acres. almost $2 billion less than the level just two widow would not have to pay any further in- By authorizing the purchase of agricultural years ago. That is hardly wasteful spending. surance premiums. conservation easements, H.R. 1995 allows I have long supported the line-item veto au- My husband had great love for his country willing landowners to receive compensation for thority and Congress' responsibility to correct and the navy. Therefore he believed that his keeping their farms in agriculture. At the same the President's mistakes when he makes country would honor the pledge they made time, the lands remain on the tax rolls, and them. Within two days of vetoing 38 items on to him and other service men. private property rights are protected. The ma- the Military Construction Bill, the Administra- Shortly after my husband’s death I re- jority of local landowners support this billÐin- ceived my first insurance premium, due and tion admitted it made mistakes on two can- payable. Upon making enquiries I was told cluding Joe and Doris Mendoza. cellations. Hours later, that number was up to the funding had run out. Later I was told by POINT REYES STATION, CA, eleven and then eighteen. The line-item veto a representative of FRA that the navy had November 7, 1997. is a powerful tool and Congress must ensure told them to stop paying widows and to put Hon. JAMES HANSEN, that this new authority is held to the highest funding into HMO’s. This is a lie still being Subcommittee on National Parks and Public possible standard. told our service men and retirees. In other Lands, U.S. House of Representatives, The line-item veto can be a useful tool if it words our service men do not deserve the is used fairly, carefully and responsibly. Mr. truth. Once again this country has broken Washington, DC. faith. DEAR MR. HANSEN: We are writing in sup- Speaker, we sent a strong message yesterday Should this happen in Bosnia, Iraq, Mongo- port of Lynn Woolsey’s legislation H.R. 1995, that Congress will accept nothing less. lia the United States would call this geno- the Point Reyes National Seashore Farm- f cide. I call what the United States has done land Protection Act. We operate a 500-cow genocide against widows of service men in dairy on the ‘‘Historic B Ranch’’ located on CONGRATULATIONS TO NANCY the United States. the Point Reyes peninsula which became LEE HINDS A US judge ruled that retirees can sue the part of the Point Reyes National Seashore government for breaking the promise of free when it was authorized in 1962. We have en- HON. GEORGE P. RADANOVICH lifetime health care. joyed a favorable tenant/landlord relation- Now as usual the navy has once again ship with the National Park Service for over OF CALIFORNIA proved inept with the closure of military 25 years, and have operated a viable business IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES bases dependents now have to go to an out- partnership with our son during that period. We reinvested our proceeds from the sale of Thursday, February 26, 1998 side pharmacautical CO. Which has not been the ‘‘B’’ Ranch in 2,300 acres of land on the organized completely a dependent obtaining Mr. RADANOVICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise east side of Tomales Bay. This property lies meds through mail order often have to wait today to congratulate Nancy Lee Hinds, the within the boundary of the Farmland Protec- two to three weeks. God help our heart pa- founder of Hinds' Hospice Home Foundation tion Act. Lynn Woolsey has worked very tients. Also, after submitting prescriptions diligently to write this legislation in a man- in Fresno, for being recognized with the Social which are being returned due to changes ner to address the concerns of the agricul- Action Award. Nancy Lee Hinds has dedicated which are not notified of this causes another tural land owners while protecting the inter- her life to the dying and their families, and is wait for the patient. It would appear the ests of the people of the United States and very deserving of this honor. navy had knowledge and plenty of time to their investment in the lands of the Park. organize instead of which they appear to cre- The award for Social Action is named annu- We feel that this innovative concept pro- ate confusion and more disorganization. ally by Temple Beth Israel for works on the di- tects the land from development for the ben- Does anyone really care my words are just ocesan and community levels. The award rec- efit of the park while providing for agri- a whisper, but I am sure they will eventually ognizes the long practice of Christian virtues. culture’s need of a ‘‘critical mass’’. It leaves become a loud roar. And many more people the land in private ownership and on the Nancy Lee Hinds was chosen for this award will become aware of tactics which the gov- local tax rolls. Win! Win! We also greatly based on both her current work and her instru- ernment and Untied States Navy have done support the principle of using a local land mental efforts to have hospices recognized their best to keep secret. trust to administer this arrangement. throughout the state. The genocide to our retirees and their fam- Please enter our support of H.R. 1995. Nancy Hinds' Hospice Foundation is a non- ilies must STOP!!! Sincerely, The buck stops here gentlemen. It is now profit organization that provides care for those J.H. MENDOZA, SR. who have life limiting illnesses and no further YOUR responsibility. I will be very surprised DORIS S. MENDOZA. but very interested to obtain a response. medical treatment available. Hinds' Hospice I am 73 years of age. I would like to see f Foundation has cared for patients that range changes in what time I have left. OVERRIDE OF MILITARY CON- in age from 3 months to 103 years. The Hos- LYNNE EXE. STRUCTION LINE-ITEM VETOES pice Foundation also provides outpatient care f that involves volunteers caring for patients in HON. RON PACKARD their own homes. Outpatient volunteers also SUPPORT FOR H.R. 1995 perform such duties as yard work, grocery OF CALIFORNIA shopping, and haircutting. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. LYNN C. WOOLSEY Nancy Lee Hinds was born and educated in Thursday, February 26, 1998 OF CALIFORNIA Cleveland, Ohio. There she received a Bach- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. PACKARD. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased elor of Science degree in nursing. In 1970, to rise today to praise our colleagues in the she married Godfrey Hinds, a missionary doc- Thursday, February 26, 1998 Senate for successfully overriding the veto of tor in Ireland. In 1977, her husband died of Ms. WOOLSEY. Mr. Speaker, the Point H.R. 2631, which will restore all 38 Military cancer in Northern Ireland. Following the Reyes National Seashore Farmland Protection Construction projects canceled by the Presi- death of her husband, Nancy opened her Act, H.R. 1995, is a unique solution to a grow- dent late last year. arms and doors to the dying and has been E246 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks February 26, 1998 dedicating her life to caring for them ever Star Medal; Meritorious Service Medal with a discretionary grant program that would pro- since. seven oak leaf clusters; Air Force Commenda- vide more extensive on-campus child care Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I tion Medal with one oak leaf cluster; Air Force services. This would help low-income parents congratulate Nancy Lee Hinds for unselfishly Outstanding Unit Award with ``V'' device and more readily pursue a college education by dedicating her life to helping others. It is the one oak leaf cluster; National Defense Service providing child care services on the campus of leadership and care exhibited by Nancy Lee Medal; Vietnam Service Medal with two serv- the college they are attending. Hinds that warrants this recognition. I ask my ice stars; Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Last year we celebrated the 25th anniver- colleagues to join me in wishing Nancy Lee with palm device; and the Republic of Vietnam sary of Title IX of the Education Amendments Hinds many more years of success. Campaign Medal. of 1972. This is the law that has done so f The singularly distinctive accomplishments much to expand college athletic opportunities of Colonel Mank culminate a long and distin- for American girls and women. It is imperative CONGRATULATING COURTNEY H. guished career in the service of his country that we reaffirm our commitment in this area, MANK ON HIS RETIREMENT and reflect great credit upon himself and the and that we not retreat from what we have FROM THE U.S. AIR FORCE United States Air Force. worked so hard to accomplish. I ask members to join me in wishing Colonel As we develop a teacher training piece in HON. CHET EDWARDS Mank the very best as he returns to Killeen, the Higher Education reauthorization, I want to OF TEXAS Texas upon his retirement. reiterate my commitment to a provision that is IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f especially important to women, and one which is not covered in this particular bill. This in- Thursday, February 26, 1998 INTRODUCTION OF THE WOMEN’S volves the need to include in any Higher Edu- HIGHER EDUCATION OPPOR- Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to cation reauthorization bill provisions that will TUNITY ACT OF 1998 congratulate Colonel Courtney H. Mank on his enhance the training of both paraprofessionals July retirement from the United States Air and non-certified teachers to become fully cer- Force. I hope Members will join with me today HON. DALE E. KILDEE tified members of the teaching profession. to thank Colonel Mank for his contributions to OF MICHIGAN We must continue our effort to insure that the U.S. Air Force, his community and the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES groups traditionally underrepresented in grad- country. A graduate of Killeen High School in Thursday, February 26, 1998 uate education, namely women and minorities, Killeen, Texas in 1964, Colonel Mank earned Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, I am introducing have a prominent focus in the reauthorization a bachelor's degree in education from South- today the Women's Higher Education Oppor- of these provisions of the Higher Education west Texas State University in 1968. In 1977, tunity Act of 1998. I am particularly pleased Act. If the reauthorization bill fails to include he completed his master's degree in person- that nine of my colleagues have joined me as such a provision then we must seek passage nel management from Webster College. original cosponsors of this bill. They include: of an amendment to accomplish that important He received a commission as a second lieu- Mrs. JOHNSON of Connecticut, Mrs. LOWEY, objective. tenant through the Air Force Reserve Officer Mrs. MCCARTHY of New York, Mrs. MINK of And last, but by no means least, we must Training Corps in 1968, and was assigned as Hawaii, Mrs. MORELLA, Ms. NORTON, Ms. not only continue but intensify efforts to make chief of security police at Laughlin AFB, SANCHEZ, Ms. WOOLSEY, and Mr. SCHUMER. sure that the campus is a safe heaven for Texas. This is a very important piece of legislation, learning. This means a stronger program to In June 1970, Colonel Mank was transferred and I am very hopeful that many of its provi- combat violence on the college campus and a to Cam Ranh Bay, Republic of Vietnam, sions will be incorporated in the legislation re- better, more effective reporting of campus where he served as base defense officer. He authorizing the Higher Education Act. crimes, especially those involving sexual as- returned to the United States in June 1971, As the ranking minority member on the sault. and was assigned as commander of the 58th Postsecondary Education Subcommittee, I in- Mr. Speaker, my colleagues and I have Security Police Squadron, Luke AFB, Arizona. tend to do more than simply voice support for worked closely with the American Association Colonel Mank's selection as an Air Staff the provisions of this bill. I will do whatever I of University Women in formulating this bill. I Training Officer in June 1972 resulted in an can to see many of its provisions find their want to congratulate the Association for its assignment to Headquarters U.S. Air Force, way into the reauthorization bill upon which we strong commitment in furthering educational Office of the Inspector General for Security are now working. opportunity for women, and congratulate the Police, Washington, D.C. The following year, With respect to the bill's student aid provi- Association staff for the superb work they he was assigned to Langley AFB, Virginia, in- sions, I believe it is critically important that have done in putting this initiative together. spection team. In March 1975, Colonel Mank part-time students continue to be eligible for We now face the hard, but enjoyable work of was assigned to the Air Force Military Person- both Pell Grant and campus-based student doing whatever we can to incorporate these nel Center, Randolph AFB, Texas, as a career aid. Many of the part-time students in college provisions in the legislation reauthorizing the management staff officer and executive officer. today are women who work, raise a family and Higher Education Act. In February 1979, Colonel Mank was as- attend college on a part-time basis. It is impor- f signed to the Alaskan Air Command Security tant, therefore, that if eligible, they can obtain Police Staff, Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, as chief federal student aid. They should not be dis- A TRIBUTE TO STEVE DAHL ON of the operations branch. While at Elmendorf, qualified simply because they are not full-time HIS 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF the colonel assumed command of the 21st students. SERVICE FOR LISTENING AUDI- SPS in March 1980. Colonel Mank was then If they have children who need to be cared ENCES OF CHICAGO assigned as chief of security police, Head- for while they are in school, it is equally impor- quarters, Air Defense, Tactical, Langley AFB, tant that they receive satisfactory dependent HON. WILLIAM O. LIPINSKI Virginia, in February 1982. In July 1984, he care allowance. We would propose, therefore, OF ILLINOIS was transferred to Holloman AFB, New Mex- that the allowance of $750 in current law be IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ico, assuming command of the 833rd SPS. doubled, to $1500. After transferring to Ramstein Air Base, Ger- In current law, we also have a requirement Thursday, February 26, 1998 many, in August 1986, Colonel Mank became that at least 5% of the campus-based aid go Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I pay tribute to chief of the physical security division, deputy to part-time students where they make up at an outstanding entertainer who has amused chief of staff, security police, Headquarters least 5% of the institution's student enrollment. and enlightened radio listeners throughout the U.S. Air Forces in Europe. We are well above this requirement in the Chicago community for 20 years, Mr. Steve He later transferred to Headquarters Elec- SEOG, College Work Study and Perkins Loan Dahl. tronic Security Command, Kelly AFB, Texas, programs. While a specific statutory percent- Mr. Dahl, who recently celebrated 20 years as the chief of security police. age requirement may no longer be necessary, in Chicago broadcasting on February 23, In July 1991, the colonel became com- we must nevertheless remain vigilant in mak- 1998, is a true innovator in modern radio. His mander of the 857th Security Police Group, ing sure that these campus-based aid pro- rapier wit and tell-it-like-it-is style have kept his Minot AFB, North Dakota. Colonel Mank as- grams continue to aid the part-time student in listeners glued to their radios for the past two sumed his current position on June 1, 1993. a fair and equitable manner. decades. Even though Steve Dahl has The colonel's military decorations and It is also clear that we should go beyond the changed radio stations throughout the years, awards include the Legion of Merit; Bronze necessary student aid changes and establish one thing has remained constant for Mr. Dahl, February 26, 1998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E247 his love and respect for the power of radio as In addition to the positive community impact opers. The Land Preservation Tax Fairness both a medium and art form, and his respect which comes directly from the good works of Act will provide this opportunity to a larger for his listeners. the Assumption Church, the church has also number of people and help preserve more Mr. Dahl is truly a great American success been instrumental in establishing other houses farmland and natural areas for future genera- story. As native of California, he tirelessly of worship, hospitals and schools in Morris tions. honed his craft at stations throughout his County. Through the founding of St. Virgil's I hope my Colleagues will join me in sup- home state. When he came to Chicago in Church in Morris Plains, St. Joseph's Church porting this legislation so that we can help pro- 1978 at age 23, Steve Dahl was already a in Mendham, Bayley Ellard High School and tect the environment and reduce the tax bur- seasoned pro and immediately drew large au- All Souls Hospital (now the Mt. Kemble Divi- den on the American public. diences with his outsider's perspective and sion of Morristown Memorial Hospital), As- f boundless humor and energy. Throughout his sumption Church has greatly expanded the 20 years in Chicago, Mr. Dahl has shown that spiritual and social opportunities available to THE STOP KIDS FROM SMOKING a radio personality can be creative and funny, residents of Morris County. ACT while remaining the consummate professional. The Church of the Assumption is led today Part of the attraction his listeners have with by its Pastor, Rev. Msgr. Martin F. Rauscher. HON. STEVE R. ROTHMAN Mr. Dahl has been his relationship with his Additional clergy at the church includes the OF NEW JERSEY family. Unlike many broadcast personalities Associate Pastor, Father William Winston and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES who manufacture a professional on-air per- nine priests and deacons. As these individ- Thursday, February 26, 1998 sona from their real lives, Mr. Dahl has woven uals, with the assistance of the church's par- ups and downs of marriage and raising a fam- ish, lay the foundation for continued success Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ily into most of his shows in a way in which into the next century, I want to ask you, Mr. introduce the ``Stop Kids From Smoking Act'', any family can relate. It is not unusual for the Speaker, and my colleagues to join me in a bill that will go a long way to achieving the Mr. Dahl's wife, Janet and three sons, Patrick, commemorating the Church of the Assumption important goal of ending youth smoking. This Matthew, and Michael to have discussions, of the Blessed Virgin Mary on its sesqui- bill would make it illegal for any establishment debates and even the occasional argument centennial anniversary. that allows children under the age of eighteen over the airways. f to have a vending machine. The premise for Mr. Dahl not only takes his profession seri- this bill is simple: if children are unable to buy ously, but his obligation to his community as INTRODUCTION OF THE LAND tobacco, it makes it significantly harder for well. He has donated his talents and countless PRESERVATION TAX FAIRNESS them to start smoking. hours of his time to worthy causes throughout ACT We have effective laws that require individ- the Chicago area, especially in his suburban uals to show proof that they are eighteen in hometown where Janet Dahl serves as a HON. JOHN J. DUNCAN, JR. order to buy tobacco products. However, each year minors illegally purchase 256 million member of the Board of Education. OF TENNESSEE packs of cigarettes. How is this possible? It is Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Mr. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES easy. Kids go to the one place where they do Dahl on his 20th Anniversary of entertaining Thursday, February 26, 1998 Chicago. I would like to extend my very best not get cardedÐvending machines. They go wishes for continued success in the years to Mr. DUNCAN. Mr. Speaker, I have intro- to the diners, hotels, restaurants, and other come. duced the Land Preservation Tax Fairness places that generally have a vending machine f Act. This legislation will cut taxes on income in a hall or entranceway, put their money in earned when an individual sells his or her land the machine and get tobacco. Rarely are they THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE or development rights to a nonprofit organiza- even seen, and less often are they ques- CHURCH OF THE ASSUMPTION, tion with the purpose of preserving this land. tioned. MORRISTOWN, NEW JERSEY This bill will make it more economically via- I realize that some states and towns across ble for a person to sell his or her land to an the country have already taken this a step fur- HON. RODNEY P. FRELINGHUYSEN organization to keep it undeveloped rather ther by banning tobacco vending machines OF NEW JERSEY than sell the property to someone who may entirely. My bill would not preempt these laws. Instead, it would simply ensure that no child IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES develop it. I do not think all development is bad. However, I think we should reward peo- under the age of eighteen be able to buy to- Thursday, February 26, 1998 ple who are willing to pass up large sums of bacco in any situation, even when they are not Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise money so that their property can be pre- being watched and questioned. today to commemorate the 150th Anniversary served. Please join me and my bipartisan original of the Roman Catholic Church of the Assump- Currently, individuals must pay taxes on any cosponsors in protecting America's youth from tion in Morristown, New Jersey. income they may receive when they sell their the deadly habit of smoking. Let's stop illegal The Assumption Church, the oldest standing property or development rights to the govern- tobacco use by minors and save this next church in Morristown, has served as a gather- ment or nonprofit organization which will keep generation from premature death from to- ing place for spiritual worship since 1848, the land undeveloped. I think the legislation I bacco-related disease. when the first Mass was held there on Christ- have introduced will encourage more people A BILL To prohibit the use of vending ma- mas Day. Founded several months earlier that to do this by reducing the amount of taxes chines to sell tobacco products in all loca- year by Father Bernard McQuaid, who be- they must pay on any income realized from tions other than in locations in which the came the church's first Pastor, it was given such a sale. presence of minors is not permitted. the name, ``Church of the Assumption of the Reducing the pressure to build on currently Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Blessed Virgin Mary,'' and became the first undeveloped property, particularly in areas resentatives of the United States of America in Catholic church established in Morristown. At that are in close proximity to either a national Congress assembled, the time of its dedication by Bishop Hughes in park or metropolitan area, is especially impor- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. March, 1849, the parishioners at the new tant. My bill will combat the negative effects This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Stop Kids From Smoking Act’’. church numbered only 120 in total. In contrast, on urban sprawl and protect the natural areas approximately 1800 families belong to the par- SEC. 2. FINDINGS around our national treasures. The Congress finds that— ish today. Under current law, sellers can only deduct a (1) almost 90 percent of adult smokers Continuing the tradition of social outreach small proportion of their original investment began at or before age 18; begun by Father McQuaid, who, in 1850, start- from any gain that they may make on this type (2) 35 percent of high school kids currently ed a school in the basement of the church, the of sale. However, this bill will allow individuals smoke cigarettes; Church of the Assumption today participates in to deduct the entire amount of their original in- (3) each year minors illegally purchase close to forty social ministries along with other vestment from any gain they may realize 256,000,000 packs of cigarettes; churches in Morristown. These range from (4) more than 5,000,000 kids alive today which will result in more people making an ef- under the age of 18 will die prematurely from meals and housing for the needy to programs fort to preserve undeveloped land. tobacco-related disease unless current sales for the spiritual enrichment of young adults, Without this type of tax relief, only the are reversed; and and include its newest ministry, a weekly Sun- wealthy farmers and landowners will be able (5) numerous studies and surveys show that day Mass for the Deaf. to afford not to sell their property to devel- significant percentages of young people are E248 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks February 26, 1998 able to purchase cigarettes from vending ma- are coming fromÐinstead of on finding a job, farmers and businesses who want to donate chines, even in jurisdictions that have laws or holding one. And it makes them prone to food. Current law says the value of food is restricting the placement of the machines or get sick, from every flu bug that comes nothing more than the cost of its ingredientsÐ requiring the use of locking devices. around, and up to some very serious dis- which already are deducted as a cost of doing SEC. 3. ACCESS. eases. business. (a) VENDING MACHINES.—Vending machines may be used to sell tobacco products only in When Congress enacted welfare reform, we That means it makes no difference to the an area or establishment from which individ- increased federal support for food banks by green eyeshades in ``Accounting'' whether the uals under the minimum age prescribed by $100 millionÐbut the money inserted into the food is donated or dumped. In fact, it costs a subsection (b) are denied access. gap between need and supply is falling far few pennies more to donate the food (in trans- (b) MINIMUM AGE.—No manufacturer, dis- short. We originally took away $23 billion from portation or labor costs). The same is true for tributor, or retailer of tobacco products may food stamp recipients. But we gave just $100 farmers: why not plow under unsold crops, if sell a tobacco product to an individual who million to food banks. With that, they are it costs you time or money to donate them in- is under the age of 18, except that if a State struggling to provide just a few days worth of stead? Many businesses and farmers donate or municipality has established a higher age, no manufacturer, distributor, or retailer of emergency food to the people who've lost food anywayÐbut many more probably would tobacco products may sell tobacco products their food stamps, or whose food stamps don't if we treat food as a charitable donation, in the in that State or municipality to an individ- last the entire month. It's just not enough. same way that old clothes and other donated ual who is less than such higher age. It made common sense to increase our sup- goods are treated. (c) PREEMPTION.—This Act shall not pre- port for food banks significantly, and we did Late last year, I introduced the Good Sa- empt any State or municipal law which bans just that. With evidence mounting that this still maritan Tax Act, H.R. 2450, and I urge my vending machines that sell tobacco products, falls impossibly short of what is neededÐand colleagues to support that. I also am looking nor will it preclude any State or locality that many food banks simply cannot make it into ways we can remove obstacles to trucking from enacting such a stronger ban in the fu- without more supportÐit makes common companies and others who can help get food ture. sense to revisit the decision on the appro- to hungry people. SEC. 4. DEFINITION. Third, we must increase the minimum wage. For purposes of this Act, the term ‘‘to- priate amount of additional support. bacco product’’ includes cigarettes, cigars, This survey of food banks adds to the evi- As the Latham, New York food bank put it, little cigars, pipe tobacco, and smokeless to- dence of booming demands on food banks. It ``The fastest growing group of people being bacco. is not designed to be statistical analysis. But served by food pantries is the working poor. SEC. 5. PENALTY. it does provide perspective from around the That is a disgrace. Minimum wage should lift Any person who violates this Act is liable countryÐa window on what is happening in people out of poverty.'' to the United States for a civil money pen- communities of every size. There are other good anti-hunger initiatives alty of $1,000 for each violation. What I found most striking overall is that, of as well, but if we are serious about answering f the food banks that estimated the increase in the clear call of food banks in trouble, these demand for food, 70% reported demand grew three ought to be at the top of the agenda. EMPTY SHELVES: 1998 SURVEY OF much faster than 16%. That is the rate re- Food banks have been doing the hard work U.S. FOOD BANKS ported in a December 1997 survey by the U.S. on the front lines of fighting hunger for dec- Conference of Mayors that shocked me, and ades. They are supported by their commu- HON. TONY P. HALL many other Americans. And yet so many food nities, and they are the organizations that in- OF OHIO banks are reporting even higher rates. I think creasing numbers of citizens turn to. In my IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES it underscores the fact that poverty reaches own state of Ohio, one in nine people seek beyond our cities. It scars rural committees emergency food assistance every month, ac- Thursday, February 26, 1998 and suburban ones tooÐa fact that many peo- cording to a September 1997 report by the Mr. HALL of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I commend ple overlook when they conjure in their minds U.S. Department of Agriculture. to my colleagues' attention the following report the image of a welfare mom, or a food stamp When I visited my local food bank in Dayton on the tremendous challenges food banks recipient, or someone in line at the local food recently, I was amazed to find it was the same across the United States are facing. Despite pantry. place I had come often in the past. Then, the our booming economy, demand is rising at Beyond that, the story of hunger in America shelves were brimming with foodÐand good surprising rates in most communities. that the food banks are documenting is an in- food too. Lately, the shelves have been Here in Congress, most of the talk about dividual one. It increasingly features working empty, and when I visited it seemed they con- hunger has focused on welfare and the reform people, whose low-wage jobs don't pay tained more marshmallows than nutritious sta- bill that we passed in 1996. But when you enough to put food on the table. Often, it in- ple foods. I was able to convince Kroger to leave Washington, the focus shifts to the food cludes people for whom hunger is a symptom make a generous donation to help Dayton's banks. That's where hungry people turn when of deeper problemsÐof illiteracy, a lack of food bank. I urge my colleagues to see for they've run out of options, and it's where the education, a history of substance or domestic themselves what is happening in their own millions of Americans who regularly donate to abuse. But equally often it includes people communities, and to lend a hand in whatever canned food drives send their support. who are trying to climb out of their problems, way you can to answer this growing need. The food banks are in trouble. I am not here trying to improve their prospects and willing to Increasing numbers of people are so hungry to rehash welfare reform, Mr. Speaker, and I participate in initiatives aimed at giving them they're willing to stand in line for food, Mr. was surprised that most food banks aren't in- the tools they need, And, when the story in- Speaker. I cannot rest knowing that, too often, terested in doing that either. As the food bank cludes a food bank, it always features people there is no food at the end of that line. And in Montgomery, Alabama put it, ``We are doing doing the Lord's workÐand in increasingly I urge my colleagues to take a few minutes to our best to meet the need, and we think in the creative ways. The survey describes some of review this report, and to see the situation for end we will help make welfare reform work.'' those approaches, and I think many of them themselves. A lot of food banks expressed similar opti- deserve attention and praise. EMPTY SHELVES: 1998 SURVEY OF U.S. FOOD mism, and I share their hope. I think all of us The food banks, and the hungry people who BANKS do. are doing their best to escape poverty, cannot A Report by Hon. Tony P. Hall, Member of Of all the ways we can make welfare reform do it alone. We need a range of initiatives to Congress, February 25, 1998 work, food is the least expensive one. Job fill the gaps, and I will be using this survey to BACKGROUND training, transportation to get to a job, child support my work on at least three ideas: In January, 1998 I surveyed more than 200 care, health careÐthese are all pricey invest- First, and most immediately, the food banks food banks to learn their experience in meet- ments. Food is an investment tooÐalthough need more money. I am working on a bill now, ing the needs of the people, and the charities some people talk as if food is like a carrot you but the fact is that even millions of dollars that serve them, who turn to food banks. dangle in front of a mule to make it go where would be a small investment in making sure Fifty-five responded in detail. you want it to go. That might work with ani- that welfare reform succeeds. I'm also looking The questionnaire was designed to accom- plish two goals. First, it would provide infor- mals, but it simply doesn't work with people. into including the President's request for $20 mation that could be used to gauge the depth Hungry makes people tired. It saps their million to support gleaning initiatives, because of a phenomenon documented in the U.S. spirit and drive. It robs them of the concentra- food banks rely heavily on gleaned food. Conference of Mayors’ December 1997 report, tion they need to learn job skills. It forces Second, we need to end the tax law's dis- which found 16 percent more people were them to focus on where their next few meals crimination against charitable donations from turning to food banks for assistance in 1997 February 26, 1998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E249 than just a year earlier. Second, it would In Everett, Washington, demand has al- In Norfolk, Nebraska, several large agen- yield a response—including a weekly grocery most tripled in the past year for its three- cies have closed their doors because they list—that could be sent to Members of Con- day food boxes, available to clients just once lacked money or manpower, compounding gress or corporations who may be able to a month. In Abilene, Texas, the food bank is the 15 percent increase in overall demand. provide publicity or other help in meeting keeping up with demand, but only by ‘‘feed- In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, many char- their local food bank’s practical needs. ing twice the number of people we fed last ities cannot even afford the subsidized prices The questionnaire posed these questions: year.’’ of products the food bank offers. (1) Is the demand for your services greater In Kansas City, Missouri, charities served Nor is the demand for just an added boost— than you are able to meet? If so, please char- by the food bank are reporting increased de- it is for much more intensive help. acterize the extent of unmet need. (2) Is the mand from 60 percent to 138 percent. One in In Lubbock, Texas, ‘‘increasing numbers of demand for your services increasing? If so, five of these agencies had to cut down on the people turn to the food bank and our partner can you estimate how much it has grown in amount given to each client; one in ten had agencies as a first stop for emergency food the past year? (3) What additional re- to turn people away. assistance—rather than a resource for sources—food or money—do you need to an- Demand is up 60 percent in both Lame stretching food budgets.’’ swer the immediate needs of the people you Deer, Montana and Elizabeth City, North Charities in Albany, Georgia also ‘‘are serve? (4) What solutions to the problems of Carolina. And in Asheville, North Carolina, being called on more and more to help those hunger and poverty are most promising in demand was 52 percent higher in the last half in need.’’ your experience? of 1997 than in the first half. Finding: Food Banks Need More Resources Crookston, Minnesota’s 1997 flood turned Food banks across the nation are coping SUMMARY OF FINDINGS out to be a blessing because it brought out with this challenge by ‘‘stretching’’ food— The overwhelming majority of those who the generosity of Americans, as natural dis- putting less into packages for clients, or responded indicated that food banks are hav- asters so often do. ‘‘Partly as a result of the buying beans and other cheap foods. In ing increasing difficulty keeping enough food flood we have enough food and funds at this Latham, New York, for example, the number on their shelves to feed those in need. Seven time,’’ Crookston reports. Still, they distrib- of clients has increased by 25 percent at of every 10 food banks that estimated how uted 50 percent more food in 1997—not count- some charities, but just 10 percent more food much demand was up responded that it was ing the disaster relief—and usually run short rising even faster than the 16 percent in- of meat for their clients. is being distributed. That strategy runs into crease documented by the Mayors. This does In Ladson, South Carolina, the food bank two obstacles, however. not challenge their findings; it simply under- estimates it is meeting only half of the need First, and obviously, food can only be scores the fact—often overlooked—that pov- for food, yet demand still grew 45 percent ‘‘stretched’’ so far. Dayton, Ohio’s food bank erty reaches beyond the inner city to scar over the past year. Fredericksburg, Vir- echoes what many others say: ‘‘We are no much of rural and suburban America as well. ginia’s food bank reports a similar situation. longer able to provide the variety of food Food banks also emphasized that many of ‘‘We could distribute three times the food we that we used to.’’ This problem goes beyond their clients are working, but cannot afford now do,’’ it says; actual demand is up 42 per- the depressing prospect of eating lousy food to put food on the table at the low wages cent. day in and day out: without proteins and they are earning. Living-wage jobs were the In Atlanta, Georgia and Tyler, Texas, de- fresh produce, malnutrition quickly sets in, favorite suggestion of those who made policy mand is up 30 percent over a year ago. In with all of the health problems that accom- recommendations, but with the qualification Cumberland, Maryland it is up 37 percent. In pany it. Children and the elderly are at spe- that low-paying jobs only prolong the prob- Phillipsburg, New Jersey, with demand up 30 cial risk. Second, in the words of Mobile, Alabama’s lem. percent, ‘‘we are just able to keep our heads The responses endorsed the goals of welfare above water,’’ the food bank reports. food bank, ‘‘even those in need are affected reform, although many questioned the route Food banks reporting increases of one- by national trends. Many of these people chosen to reach those goals. And many of the fourth to one-fifth over last year include need food products that require minimum food banks responding described creative and those in Montgomery, Alabama; Phoenix, preparation.’’ For people trying to hold down promising approaches to some problems Arizona; Evansville, Indiana; Lewiston, one or more jobs, this is particularly impor- their clients encountered regularly. Among Maine; Boston, Massachusetts; Hancock, tant. And many foods that offer quick prepa- these are programs designed to help clients Michigan; Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; and ration do not lend themselves to being manage their money better, address their Sioux Falls, South Dakota. ‘‘stretched.’’ Some food banks try to counter the wide- child care needs, and take other steps toward In Oregon, demand is up 18 percent state- spread lack of knowledge about how to spend self-sufficiency. wide. Across Ohio, food banks report in- creases of 10 percent. This is still consider- food dollars wisely with classes on nutrition Finding: Demand at Food Banks is Booming able, considering that one in eight Ohioans and managing money. Some go beyond that Estimating the increase in need for emer- seeks emergency food assistance every to provide the skills needed to overcome gency food is a challenge, food banks report. month, according to a September 1997 study problems that often are at the root of hun- It is the rare organization that can con- by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. ger—including classes on job readiness, over- fidently say it is meeting its community’s There were smaller increases reported, too, coming drug, alcohol and domestic abuse, needs. It is an overwhelmingly common view of: 17 percent in Bloomington, Indiana; 17 child care and parenting, first aid and home that more food can always be used. percent in Des Moines, Iowa; 15 percent in security. Most of the food banks limit the help they Norfolk, Nebraska; 13 percent in St. Louis, The grocery lists the survey requested food extend, often providing enough food for only Missouri; 10 percent in Grand Rapids, Michi- banks to complete were particularly instruc- two to five days each month. As food banks gan; 8–9 percent in Orange, California; 4 per- tive. It seems that food banks can use almost across Arizona found, ‘‘pantries are report- cent in Howell, Michigan; 4 percent in anything, and the only item in sufficient ing that residents in need are regularly ex- Tillamook, Oregon (but which saw demand supply in many communities is day-old hausting the number of times they can re- rise 27 percent the prior year); and 9 percent bread. Most urgently needed are staple foods, ceive emergency food boxes.’’ The question in Silverdale, Washington. with meat particularly hard to come by. In becomes, is demand up—or are we just realiz- And the food banks are not alone. The Boulder, Colorado, ‘‘we almost never have ing there are more hungry people than we charities that many of them depend upon re- beef, pork, ham or hamburger,’’ the food knew? port increasing numbers of people are turn- bank reported. It was a comment echoed The increased need is clear, however, in ing to them for food. often by other food banks. the new faces turning up in lines for food, The food bank serving Elizabeth City, Personal care items, diapers, soaps and de- many say. For example: North Carolina, has seen 15 charities that tergents, and paper products—all not covered In Camden, New Jersey, one-third of the long have been in existence turn to the food by food stamps—were another frequent re- 215 non-profits the food bank serves are re- bank after welfare reform. Among all of the quests. Produce, both fresh and frozen, and porting a 50 percent increase in first-time re- agencies it serves, one in three is ‘‘stretch- all kinds of canned goods are also needed. quests. The rest say demand is up between 30 ing’’ food to try to help more people; one in ‘‘Ensure’’ and other supplements, as well as and 40 percent. four is unable to keep up with the demand no infant formula, also were requested. In Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, one in ten matter what it tries, it found in its own sur- In Lame Deer, Montana, the shelves are clients are first-timers. That food bank has vey. bare by the last week of each month, with seen no increase, but believes that welfare In Cumberland, Maryland, 50 charities cereals and soups the first to disappear. reform has not yet hit the region. have signed up for help from the food bank, In Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, ‘‘fresh prod- Beyond this indicator, the sheer numbers bringing a one-third jump in the number of ucts are non-existent’’ throughout each of people turning to food banks for help is organizations that rely upon the food bank. month. strong evidence that, in the words of an In Mobile, Alabama, demand is up 35 per- In Lubbock, Texas, staples are expected to Evansville, Indiana food bank, ‘‘we can’t cent. Half of that is due to serving more indi- be in short supply by summer. begin to meet this need,’’ or as a food bank viduals. There are more charities operating After all of the donations are in, money is in Wilmington, North Carolina put it, ‘‘I feel food pantries in Fort Smith, Arkansas as still needed to make up for ‘‘the staples that we are only scratching the surface. We will well. And across Arizona, there are nearly 15 aren’t often donated,’’ as the food banks in never be able to solve hunger, but maybe we percent more charities being served by food Fredericksburg, Virginia and other commu- can make an effort at managing it.’’ banks. nities said. Money also would help meet the E250 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks February 26, 1998 growing need for freezers and refrigerators to nia’s food bank. ‘‘Food availability is down to bring the kids—and one that mom could store food, and vans to deliver it. all over the country. This means we have to afford.’’ That observation was echoed repeat- With money, food banks can buy more food purchase more product.’’ edly, along with a recommendation for more than if they receive food donations directly, ‘‘Do-It-Yourself’’ child-feeding programs Abilene, Texas’ food bank explained in a Many food banks are getting involved in LONG-TERM SOLUTIONS comment repeated often. They also can pay producing food—not just handling it. ‘‘We the overhead expenses essential to continu- ‘‘We’re helping people exist, but can’t do are grouping, gleaning, and/or processing an ing to supply food. ‘‘Most of all we need more much to solve the problems that are keeping increasing amount of vegetables and fruits,’’ money,’’ the food bank in Los Angeles said. them hungry,’’ the food bank in Elizabeth said the food bank in Lubbock, Texas. ‘‘Not ‘‘No matter how frugal we are, our operating City, North Carolina reported. only does this assure fresh food, but it is pro- costs rise.’’ ‘‘Somehow we have to get to the roots of Food banks also need more volunteers, viding job-training opportunities for many hunger and poverty and turn people around many said. Finally, most would be lost with- economically disadvantaged persons in our in their formative years. . . . Help them to out commodities provided through federal region.’’ help themselves.’’ the food bank in Orange An organization in Lansing, Michigan was programs—but most could use a lot more County said. There there may always be a established to do just that, and it has commodities than they are getting. need for ‘‘just a little help with financial matched apples, potatoes and other produce Food Banks’ Wish List emergencies,’’ Howell, Michigan’s food bank from the state’s farms with donations of said, but there are many ways to help people In addition to their tangible needs, several sugar and other ingredients, cold storage, overcome their own trouble holding jobs. food banks described a real need for more trucking, and food processing to send truck- public awareness of what the people they loads of food to the communities that need POLITICAL ASSESSMENTS serve face—and what food banks are doing to it. The survey yielded several political assess- respond. ‘‘Acceptance of the fact that there SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS ments about where best to lay blame for the are poverty and hunger in the United States fact of hunger and poverty. ‘‘Undoing all of would be a good start,’’ the Waynesburg, Jobs the liberal policies that have mired millions Pennsylvania food bank said. A considerable majority of food banks sup- of our citizens in entitlement dependency,’’ The Des Moines, Iowa food bank rec- port efforts to get people off welfare and was the recommendation from a Verona, Vir- ommends ‘‘a national initiative to raise the back to work. ‘‘Jobs, jobs, jobs!’’ a food bank ginia food bank. ‘‘Cut food stamps so people awareness of all Americans of the lifelong in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania advised. ‘‘When will look for work,’’ a food bank in damage hunger and poverty can do.’’ Des people have good, reasonably paying jobs Tillamook, Oregon suggested. Moines and others also advocated giving then there is no hunger, nor the need for our Far more blamed welfare reform. ‘‘My day ‘‘profit-making food industry companies . .. services.’’ of disillusionment came on Aug. 22, 1996 an incentive to donate.’’ Another food bank in Bloomington, Indi- [when] political expediency made a bad bill Finally, a broader appreciation of their cli- ana has found that employing needy people become law. We’ve been struggling since that ents’ needs would also help food banks do in its operation has far-reaching effects. day and it appears for the hungry things will their jobs, some said. ‘‘While our primary ‘‘Helping someone else is always helpful for only get worse,’’ said the Des Moines, Iowa goal is to feed the hungry, food does very lit- yourself,’’ its operation has proved. food bank. tle good if there is no power to cook it,’’ the Oregon food banks suggested letting people Another in Boston, Massachusetts called it Silverdale, Washington food bank said, sug- get some cash assistance if they work part- ‘‘senseless to remove people’s means of sus- gesting contributions to electric bills. time, and enacting state Earned Income Tax taining their existence without developing STRATEGIES FOOD BANKS USE TO COPE Credits—both initiatives to encourage work. an alternative means for them to obtain the Access to Low-Cost Food Increase the Minimum Wage necessities for their families.’’ Food banks are using a variety of ways to But many also cautioned that low-wage Another took no side in the debate over meet the challenge of increased demand— jobs are not enough to end their clients’ de- the role welfare reform has played in the and one of the most promising is a push to pendence on emergency food. ‘‘The fastest current situation. ‘‘Our concern is not with harness their access to low-cost food. growing group of people being served by food the political pros and cons of welfare reform For example, the food bank in Mobile, Ala- pantries is the working poor,’’ the food bank but how we can best make what has already bama said, it can provide $350 worth of food in Latham, New York complained. ‘‘That is a been decided upon work,’’ said Montgomery, each month to families at a cost of $25. If disgrace. Minimum wage should lift people Alabama’s food bank. they did that during a transition period, a out of poverty.’’ And another pointed out the ironic route family could use the money saved on food to ‘‘Service sector positions at the minimum welfare has traveled. ‘‘There was a time in pay for transportation, child care, and other wage only continue the crisis,’’ a Boston, America’s history that the WPA and the CCC costs of starting a new job. ‘‘The bottom line Massachusetts food bank has found. ‘‘Make built a lot of libraries and camp sites for a is that when a comparison is made between it more profitable to work and get ahead,’’ lot fewer tax dollars than are required now additional monthly costs of going from wel- said one in Norfolk, Nebraska. ‘‘Full-time just to maintain the welfare infrastructure,’’ fare to work, and feeding a typical welfare- work should equal at least enough for neces- the Silverdale, Washington food bank point- to-work family, these are approximately sities,’’ the Crookston, Minnesota food bank ed out. equal,’’ the food bank has found. wrote. CONCLUSIONS A Grand Rapids, Michigan food bank has Skills Training refined the idea further into its ‘‘Waste Not As states work to replace the federal wel- A common companion to hunger is the Want Not’’ initiative. That helps clients in fare system with structures of their own, the lack not only of appropriate job skills—but need save their cash for other necessities. It number of people turning to food banks for of a range of other capabilities as well. encourages the donation of funds, which are emergency assistance is growing. New strat- Among ‘‘Service sector positions at the min- tax-deductible, rather than of food; the re- egies are being tried, many with success, and imum wage only continue the crisis,’’ a Bos- sult is 25 percent more resources. It lets cli- they need to be encouraged. ton, Massachusetts food bank has found. The ents choose their own food, significantly cut- To ensure Americans who turn to food recommendations: mentoring, literacy train- ting down on the amount of food wasted. And banks for help do not go hungry, food banks ing, money management, nutrition and it stays flexible enough to get the food it need additional support. meal-planning, and ‘‘practical living’’ skills. needs from food banks, rather than from gro- They need the goodwill and charitable con- The food bank in St. Louis found that ‘‘pro- cery stores. The approach is promising, and tributions of their community, and that par- grams that lead a family through the sys- the food bank estimates its operating costs ticipation of more of its individuals and tem, from the beginning to self-sufficiency’’ have fallen to just over half of food banks’ business. worked wonders. national average. They need public and private initiatives Fresno, California’s food bank also sees a Child Care that complement their efforts and address serious need for low-cost food available at As welfare reform returns people to work, the root causes of hunger and poverty. retail for needy people. It serves 25–30 per- food banks and others are finding that their They need federal laws that ensure a living cent of its community’s needs. Atlanta, lack of access to child care is a severe obsta- wage and encourage generosity. Georgia’s food bank also recommends co- cle. ‘‘Affordable and reliable child care is And they cannot do without the support of operatives where low-income people can . . . one of our most pressing needs,’’ the federal funds and a federal commodity foods. shop, and Cincinnati, Ohio’s food bank rec- food bank in Silverdale, Washington said. Ingenuity alone cannot make up for the ommends more farmers markets. Even food ‘‘There are many single moms that not only dramatic cuts in our nation’s nutrition safe- banks are having a difficult time getting could, but are eager to, get off welfare roles ty net. Neither the private sector, nor most low-cost food, according to Orange, Califor- if they could just find a safe, nurturing place local communities, can fill the gap alone.