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Home , Hank Aaron, Joe Adcock, Milwaukee County Stadium, Turner Field

October 19, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE 25823 Kilpatrick Nethercutt Shuster ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER (1) congratulates Henry ‘‘’’ Aaron on Kind (WI) Ney Simpson PRO TEMPORE his great achievements in and rec- King (NY) Northup Sisisky ognizes Henry ‘‘Hank’’ Aaron as one of the Kingston Norwood Skeen The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. greatest professional baseball players of all Kleczka Nussle Skelton LATOURETTE). Pursuant to clause 8 of Klink Oberstar Slaughter time; and Knollenberg Obey Smith (MI) rule XX, the Chair announces that he (2) commends Henry ‘‘Hank’’ Aaron for his Kolbe Olver Smith (NJ) will postpone further proceedings commitment to young people, earning him a Kucinich Ortiz Smith (TX) today on motions to suspend the rules permanent place in both sports history and Kuykendall Ose Smith (WA) on which a recorded vote or the yeas American society. LaHood Owens Snyder Lampson Oxley Souder and nays are ordered, or on which the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Lantos Packard Spence vote is objected to under clause 6 of ant to the rule, the gentleman from Largent Pallone Spratt rule XX. California (Mr. OSE) and the gentleman Larson Pascrell Stabenow Any rollcall vote on H.R. 3885, pro- from Maryland (Mr. CUMMINGS) each Latham Pastor Stark viding discretionary spending offsets LaTourette Payne Stearns will control 20 minutes. Lazio Pease Stenholm for fiscal year 2000, will be taken after The Chair recognizes the gentleman Leach Pelosi Strickland debate has been concluded on that mo- from California (Mr. OSE). Lee Peterson (MN) Stump tion. Levin Peterson (PA) Stupak Rollcall votes on any other motions GENERAL LEAVE Lewis (CA) Petri Sununu will be postponed until after debate has Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I ask unani- Lewis (KY) Phelps Sweeney mous consent that all Members may Linder Pickering Talent been concluded on those motions. have 5 legislative days within which to Lipinski Pickett Tancredo f LoBiondo Pitts Tanner revise and extend their remarks on Lofgren Pombo Tauscher CONGRATULATING HENRY ‘‘HANK’’ House Resolution 279. Lowey Pomeroy Tauzin AARON ON 25TH ANNIVERSARY Lucas (KY) Porter Taylor (MS) The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Lucas (OK) Portman Taylor (NC) OF BREAKING MAJOR LEAGUE objection to the request of the gen- Luther Price (NC) Terry BASEBALL HOME RECORD tleman from California? Maloney (CT) Pryce (OH) Thomas AND RECOGNIZING HIM AS ONE There was no objection. Maloney (NY) Quinn Thompson (CA) OF THE GREATEST BASEBALL Manzullo Radanovich Thompson (MS) Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I ask unani- Markey Rahall Thornberry PLAYERS OF ALL TIME mous consent that the gentleman from Mascara Ramstad Thune Mr. OSE. Mr. Speaker, I move to sus- (Mr. CHAMBLISS) control the Matsui Rangel Thurman pend the rules and agree to the resolu- McCarthy (MO) Regula Tiahrt time. McCarthy (NY) Reyes Tierney tion (H. Res. 279) congratulating Henry The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there McCollum Reynolds Toomey ‘‘Hank’’ Aaron on the 25th anniversary objection to the request of the gen- McCrery Riley Towns of breaking the tleman from California? McDermott Rivers Traficant McGovern Rodriguez Turner career record established by There was no objection. McHugh Roemer Udall (CO) and recognizing him as one McInnis Rogan Udall (NM) of the greatest baseball players of all b 1245 McIntosh Rogers Upton time, as amended. Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, we McIntyre Rohrabacher Velazquez The Clerk read as follows: McKeon Rothman Vento are indeed privileged to be here today McKinney Roukema Visclosky H. RES. 279 to honor and recognize a true Amer- McNulty Roybal-Allard Vitter Whereas Henry ‘‘Hank’’ Aaron a his- ican hero, and as we start this debate I Meehan Royce Walden toric home run in 1974 to become the all-time Meek (FL) Ryan (WI) Walsh Major League Baseball home run leader; yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Meeks (NY) Ryun (KS) Wamp Georgia (Mr. ISAKSON). Menendez Sabo Waters Whereas Henry ‘‘Hank’’ Aaron over the Metcalf Salmon Watkins course of his career created a lasting legacy Mr. ISAKSON. Mr. Speaker, I am Mica Sanchez Watt (NC) in the game of baseball and continues to con- honored today to join my Georgia col- Millender- Sanders Watts (OK) tribute to society through his Chasing the leagues but really join all of this Con- McDonald Sandlin Waxman Dream Foundation; gress in paying tribute to Henry Aaron. Miller (FL) Sanford Weiner Whereas Henry ‘‘Hank’’ Aaron hit more is no mystery to anybody Miller, Gary Sawyer Weldon (FL) than 40 home runs in 8 different seasons; Miller, George Saxton Weldon (PA) in this room. He broke Babe Ruth’s Whereas Henry ‘‘Hank’’ Aaron appeared in Minge Schaffer Weller record and 25 years ago today hit his Mink Schakowsky Wexler 24 All-Star games; Moakley Scott Weygand Whereas Henry ‘‘Hank’’ Aaron was elected 715th home run. He was a distinguished Mollohan Sensenbrenner Whitfield to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in his player in the Southern League, Moore Serrano Wicker first year of eligibility, receiving one of the throughout the South, then to Mil- Moran (KS) Sessions Wilson highest vote totals (406 votes) in the history waukee and finally to . Moran (VA) Shadegg Wise of National Baseball Hall of Fame voting; He is known for his home runs, but Morella Shaw Wolf Whereas Henry ‘‘Hank’’ Aaron was in- Murtha Shays Woolsey there is so much more. Hank Aaron Myrick Sherman Wu ducted into the National Baseball Hall of was a leader who played with deter- Nadler Sherwood Wynn Fame on August 1, 1982; Napolitano Shimkus Young (AK) Whereas Henry ‘‘Hank’’ Aaron finished his mination, whether the team was good Neal Shows Young (FL) career in 1976 with 755 home runs, a lifetime or the team was bad. In this day, in batting average of .305, and 2,297 runs batted this era of high-paid athletes and NAYS—2 in; prima donnas and egos, Hank Aaron al- DeFazio Paul Whereas Henry ‘‘Hank’’ Aaron taught us to ways had the level temperament. He follow our dreams; was a man of distinction, and probably NOT VOTING—11 Whereas Henry ‘‘Hank’’ Aaron continues to his greatest distinction was the year in Buyer Johnson (CT) Ros-Lehtinen serve the community through his various which he caught and surpassed the commitments to charities and as Senior Vice Camp LaFalce Rush Babe, because he dealt with threats, he Green (TX) Lewis (GA) Scarborough President and Assistant to the President of Jefferson Martinez the ; dealt with discrimination, he dealt Whereas Henry ‘‘Hank’’ Aaron became one with those that would undermine his of the first African-Americans in Major effort; but he diligently and quietly b 1242 League Baseball upper management, as At- and professionally, day in and day out, So the joint resolution was agreed to. lanta’s vice president of player development; pursued and finally caught . and Hank Aaron broke a lot of records in The result of the vote was announced Whereas Henry ‘‘Hank’’ Aaron is one of the baseball. He may have broken a few as above recorded. greatest baseball players: Now, therefore, be it hearts of teams that lost to him, but to A motion to reconsider was laid on Resolved, That the House of Representa- all of us in Atlanta and in Georgia and the table. tives— around America we are proud that

VerDate May 21 2004 11:14 Jun 14, 2004 Jkt 039102 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR99\H19OC9.000 H19OC9 25824 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE October 19, 1999 Hank Aaron came our way. He is a dis- highly respected by everyone, but he Thank you, Hank, for everything you tinguished American. He is a distin- was such a total player that sometimes have done. guished Georgian, and all of us in Geor- people did not fully appreciate what he Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, will the gia today are pleased to honor the man meant to his team. That is the kind of gentleman yield? we know as ‘‘Hammering Hank.’’ baseball player he was, and that is the Mr. BARRETT of . I yield Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, it is kind of human being he has been as an to the gentleman from , with great honor that I yield 5 minutes executive officer with the Atlanta Wisconsin. to the distinguished gentleman from Braves, as a citizen of Georgia, as a Mr. KLECZKA. Mr. Speaker, I thank Georgia (Mr. BISHOP) to make his pres- leader in his community and his State the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. entation. and his Nation. BARRETT) for yielding. Mr. BISHOP. Mr. Speaker, I thank Thank you, Hank, for the inspiration Mr. Speaker, I am somewhat older the gentleman for Maryland (Mr. that you have given to me and to mil- than my colleague, the gentleman from CUMMINGS) for yielding this time. lions of Americans. Yes, ‘‘heights by Wisconsin (Mr. BARRETT), although I Mr. Speaker, Shakespeare wrote, great men reached and kept were not attended those games at County State, ‘‘Heights by great men reached and attained by sudden flight but they and I sat in the bleachers. We could re- kept were not obtained by sudden while their companions slept were toil- cite the entire team from Vel Crandel flight but they while their companions ing onward through the night.’’ Thank to , Billy Bruton, and natu- slept were toiling onward through the you, Hank. Keep on toiling. rally Hank Aaron. I was disturbed like night.’’ Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, it is the gentleman was when the team sort It was no sudden flight for Henry with great honor that I yield 3 minutes of left one evening and ended up in an- Aaron, from an area called Down the to the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. other State, but nevertheless the back- Bay in Mobile, Alabama, to an area BARRETT), another one of our col- ground and the things that Hank Aaron called Toulminville, out near Carver leagues from the Fifth District. stood for are still alive in all the hearts Park and Edward Street, where he Mr. BARRETT of Wisconsin. Mr. of those who watched those games from began his baseball career playing for a Speaker, it is a real honor and pleasure not only Milwaukee but Wisconsin. Toulminville Little League team; and for me to rise today to pay tribute to In my office here in Rayburn I have as he demonstrated his prowess with a one of my heroes, Hank Aaron. I think a ball that is signed by Hank Aaron bat and with a glove, he achieved great anybody who is a baseball fan in this that he gave to me a couple of years heights over great pain, but there was country knows what a tremendous per- ago at one of our days or hot much gain. son Hank Aaron is and everything he dog days or whatever it was. So, Hank, It is my pleasure, Mr. Speaker, to did for the game. thanks for all the memories. For me, it is even more than that. It join my colleagues today in celebrating Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, I is a little difficult for me to talk here the 25th anniversary of Hank Aaron’s yield such time as he may consume to about Hank Aaron while the Braves are 715th home run, the blast that set the the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. still alive in the playoffs because I am all-time career record. That was a BOEHNER), who has a very interesting very careful to separate my emotions great day not only for Hank Aaron and experience to relate about Mr. Aaron. about the Braves from my emotions Mr. BOEHNER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the Atlanta Braves but for the millions about Hank Aaron. The reason for that the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. of fans in Georgia and throughout the is I used to love the Braves. In fact, as CHAMBLISS) for yielding me this time. country. It was just one of many shin- an 11-year-old boy I went to 31 Braves Mr. Speaker, on April 4, 1974, Hank ing moments in a lifetime of truly ex- games. Of course, they were the Mil- Aaron made history at River Front traordinary accomplishments. waukee Braves then, and they were, for In addition to hitting more home me, the team of my life. They broke in by hitting home runs than anyone else, Hank Aaron had my heart and they broke the hearts of run number 714 off Reds Jack more runs batted in, more , thousands of other Wisconsin kids only Billingham to tie Babe Ruth’s all-time amassed a career batting average over to make thousands of Georgia kids home run record. 300, won three Golden Glove Awards as happy several years later; but if one is It was and it was Hank one of baseball’s finest fielders, and an 11- or 12-year-old kid and their base- Aaron’s first swing of the 1974 season. earned a place in the Hall of Fame long ball team pulls up roots and heads out The Cincinnati Enquirer described it, before he retired from the game. of town, that is a pretty devastating and I quote, ‘‘as a towering shot over Hank Aaron, as I said, was born and event in their life at that time. the left-field wall.’’ grew up in Mobile, Alabama, as I did. I continue to root for Hank Aaron as Well, I can confirm that because I Needless to say, he was a hero to me much as I continue to root against the was sitting out in left field on April 4, and all of the kids in our neighborhood Braves, and I continue to root for Hank 1974, at the Reds’ traditional opener for there in Toulminville. Aaron because he really was, I think all of major league baseball, and it was In recent years, now that we are both for all of us, the ultimate hero. The the only time I had ever cheered when well-entrenched citizens of Georgia, I grace, the way he handled pressure, the somebody hit a home run against the have learned from a fairly close van- way he moved so gracefully through Reds. Millions of Americans have felt tage point about how much he has con- right field made all of us just joyful the same way watching Mark McGwire tributed to the State and the country, watching him. and , and it did not matter through his Chasing the Dream Foun- As a young kid playing baseball, he which team Hank Aaron played for to dation, and all his charitable and com- also gave a lot of credibility to those of be cheered for. He was doing something munity activities. us who were not good enough fielders bigger than baseball itself. Over the years, I have come to appre- to play anywhere but right field. He Hank Aaron’s achievement reminded ciate all the more the characteristics made right field respectable, and as a Americans that nothing is impossible. that he has always exemplified; his un- I appreciate what he did It taught us that any individual can do wavering commitment and dedication for those of us who did not have the anything if he is willing to make the not only to the game of baseball but to speed to play center field. sacrifices to make it happen. the well-being of his fellow citizens as I am here today because Hank Aaron Mr. Speaker, in a few years they are well, his grace and his humility under did so much for this game and so much going to tear down River Front Sta- fire, his kindness and service of others, for this country. I think he has done so dium and build a new ball park on the of outstanding leadership that he pro- much for the kids in this country, be- Ohio River, but Henry Aaron’s achieve- vides through example. cause he has given them someone to ment will stand forever, and I urge my once said that Hank look up to. Kids need heroes. Kids need colleagues to support the resolution. Aaron was the most underrated super- good role models. Hank Aaron is a Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield star in baseball. Certainly, he was hero, and he is a good role model. myself such time as I may consume.

VerDate May 21 2004 11:14 Jun 14, 2004 Jkt 039102 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR99\H19OC9.000 H19OC9 October 19, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE 25825 Mr. Speaker, as I sat here listening, I never to forget from whence he has League, Atlanta , Mil- could not help but think about how come. He has made a commitment, and waukee , 1954–1976. wonderful it is that we from both sides he has synchronized his conduct with ‘‘Hit 755 home runs in 25-year career of the aisle stand here today to recog- his conscience by lifting others up as to become majors’ all-time homer nize a great American, and I say that he has gone up the ladder of life. king. Had 20 or more for 20 consecutive very clearly, a great American. The Hank Aaron Rookie League, co- years, at least 30 in 15 seasons and 40 or Hank Aaron has certainly touched ordinated with the Atlanta Housing better eight times. Also set records for the lives of so many, and just listening Authority, has gotten many youngsters games played (3,298), at-bats (12,364), to the statements that were just made off the street and on to the playing long hits (1,477), total bases (6,856), runs from my friend, the gentleman from fields. batted in (2,297). Paced National Ohio (Mr. BOEHNER) and my friends He has also worked extensively with League in batting twice and homers, from Georgia and from Wisconsin, Big Brothers and Big Sisters organiza- runs batted in and those are only three States. I am sure tions throughout our country. Despite four times each. Won most valuable that Hank Aaron touched the lives of all that he has done, Hank Aaron does player award in National League in many, many boys and girls, women and not classify himself as a role model be- 1957.’’ men, throughout all 50 States, touched cause of his athletic abilities. Those of us who are baseball fans are them in some way or another, all being b 1300 statistics freaks. We go for RBIs and in a very positive way. batting averages. That is how we judge The wonderful thing about this reso- He is quoted as saying, the man. This man excelled. But he has lution is that it acknowledges Hank Role models are something you have to be excelled off the field as well. Aaron for all the things he has done careful about. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is Let me read to my colleagues from and all of the things he continues to a role model. Abraham Lincoln is a role Hank Aaron’s own words: ‘‘I know that model. A teacher can be a role model. My do. Even on his 25th anniversary of mother is a role model to my seven brothers most people, when they think of me, breaking the major league baseball ca- and sisters. I played baseball. I just happened think of home runs; or if they really reer home run record established by to have a gift that I was blessed with. But know about the game, think of 755. But Babe Ruth, quiet and unassuming Hank Hank Aaron the baseball player is not nec- what I would like them to remember Aaron holds more major league batting essarily a role model. about me is not the home runs or the records than any other player in his- Hank Aaron considers Abraham Lin- hits or the runs batted in, but that I tory, including most home runs and coln a role model. Little does he know was concerned about the well-being of most runs batted in. that the House Committee on Govern- other people. You have to reach out, In 1970, Mr. Aaron became the first ment Reform considered this resolu- and you have to speak out.’’ player to compile both 3,000 career hits tion at the same time H.R. 1451 hon- Mr. Aaron goes on to say, ‘‘I have and more than 500 home runs. In 1972, oring Abraham Lincoln was being con- tried to be a home run hitter off the Mr. Aaron’s salary increased from a sidered. Both bills passed out of the field, too. I may not have hit the huge lofty $125,000 per season to a hefty committee on a voice vote. The bill home runs that hit or $200,000 per season, at the time, unbe- honoring Abraham Lincoln passed the that Martin Luther King and Jesse lievably, making him the highest paid House just 2 weeks ago. Jackson hit. But at least I am hitting baseball player in baseball history. Hank is right. He is not a role model line drives. And maybe some of them He accomplished all of this despite because he was a great baseball player. will clear the fences.’’ the enormous amount of hate mail re- He is a role model because, in addition Mr. Aaron, you have hit ceived prior to breaking Babe Ruth’s to being a great baseball player, he has after grand slam. You are a hero on the record. integrity and courage. He has fought to field. You are an inspiration off the If anyone has had an opportunity to break color barriers and still, to this field. It is my honor to stand in this listen to Mr. Aaron talk about the pain day, continues to give back to his com- well of the people’s House and pay trib- that he felt during the time that he munity. ute to you. was trying to break the record, if one As did Abraham Lincoln, Hank Aaron Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, I could hear him talk about the threats has contributed to the colorful and di- yield 21⁄4 minutes to the gentleman that were made on his life and the verse fabric of this Nation, and he did from Ohio (Mr. KASICH), the distin- threats made on his family’s life, one so when the tide was against him. guished chairman of the House Com- would have to add another very impor- So to you, Mr. Aaron, we say, thank mittee on Budget and a great baseball tant word to describe him. He is indeed you for all that you are and thank you fan. a courageous man, for he went out and for all that you are not. Mr. KASICH. Mr. Speaker, my col- he did what he had to do anyway; and I urge all of my colleagues to support leagues ought to know that the gen- while he was doing it, it may have H. Res. 279 honoring Hank Aaron, a tleman from Georgia (Mr. CHAMBLISS) caused him pain, but it surely brought true legend. is asking for unanimous consent that him glory and it surely put an imprint, Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, it is Mr. Aaron be added to the lineup to- a positive spirit, in the DNA of every my pleasure to yield 3 minutes to the night in this critical game in Atlanta. cell of every baseball fan throughout gentleman from New York (Mr. BOEH- Without objection, I think, Mr. Speak- the country. LERT) who happens to represent Coop- er, it ought to be in order. Today, Mr. Aaron divides his time erstown, the home of the Hall of Fame. I wanted to just take a second to pay among many jobs. For Turner Broad- Mr. BOEHLERT. Mr. Speaker, I tribute to Hank Aaron. I do not know casting, he serves as corporate vice thank the gentleman from Georgia for all of the statistics. I know that he president of community relations and yielding me this time. broke Babe Ruth’s record. I remember is a member of the Turner Broad- Mr. Speaker, I thank Hank for mak- the night that he hit his home run in casting board of directors. He serves as ing today necessary. He is one of Amer- Cincinnati and then when he turned senior vice president and assistant to ica’s truly great heroes. It is my privi- around and broke the record in At- the president of the Atlanta Braves. lege to represent baseball’s mecca, lanta; obviously, one of the greatest Mr. Aaron also spends a great deal of Cooperstown, New York. So in a way, I men to have ever played baseball. time working with young baseball am a surrogate congressman for Mr. But the reason why I wanted to just hopefuls from underprivileged Atlanta Aaron. say a few words about Mr. Aaron today communities. He often talks about the Let me read to my colleagues from is because I think our country is in situation the way it was when he came the plaque from the baseball shrine, dire need of heroes of the real thing, up, the fact that many opportunities to the Hall of Fame, when Mr. Aaron was the real McCoy. Today we have some play baseball were not there; and he inducted in 1982. It reads, ‘‘Henry great heroes that I think that Henry has made a tremendous commitment ‘Hank’ L. Aaron, Milwaukee National Aaron would give a nod of agreement

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to: Mark McGwire; Sammy Sosa; Lance gentleman from Ohio (Mr. OXLEY), who Senate which gave to you the exclusive Armstrong, who overcame cancer to is the coach of the Republican baseball use of number 715 on Alabama State li- win that great victory in the bicycle team. cense tags, which is the number of race; Roger Staubach for what he has Mr. OXLEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank home runs that you hit in order to done and to take his career on the the gentleman from Georgia for yield- achieve the first world record. I do not field; Tom Landry, also interestingly ing me this time. know if you are using that license tag enough from the same team, athletes Mr. Speaker, I rise also in honor of a or not, but it is still available. that our young people can look up to great American, Hank Aaron. I had the But representing Mobile, Alabama today. opportunity to see Hank Aaron in 1958 and seeing your career blossom and I am always disappointed when I read in when I seeing you rise to the pinnacle that in the newspapers or in the sports mag- was visiting there with my parents. I you have, watching your brilliant ca- azines about the athletes who some- had a chance to see him play a number reer knowing all along that I know times forget that it was only through of times after that. But I remember so Hank Aaron, he is from my hometown, the grace of God that they were given well that experience. and now to stand in the well of the the talents that they were really per- I remember I was a big sports fan, United States Congress and to tell you mitted to develop. I think, as Mr. still am, reading the sports magazines, today, how proud I am to represent you Aaron would tell us, no athlete can be and others, how and how proud the people of Mobile, great without hard work. But no ath- Hank Aaron came up from Mobile, Ala- Alabama are of you. lete can be great without the grace and bama. He started out as a cross-handed We recently built a first-class sta- dium for the Mobile Bay Bears in Mo- the gifts that God gave them. softball player. I always wondered how bile, Alabama. It is a class act. The I think what Mr. Aaron represents in anybody could hit cross-handed at all. stadium is one of the finest in America. a way is a permanent hero, a perma- Come to find out that, with his talent The Mobile Bay Bears are doing great. nent representative, a permanent and drive and ability, he was able to But the people of Mobile honored, once model of the way that the modern ath- set so many records, including the lete ought to conduct himself or her- again, Hank Aaron by naming it the home run record because of that dedi- Hank Aaron field. self, remembering at all times that the cation and hard work and true talent. kids are watching, that the kids learn So, Hank, I look forward to visiting He has been one that has made us all you later on this afternoon. We look to admire and emulate integrity, play- proud to be Americans in what he has ing by the rules, being able to play forward to visiting you and Mrs. Aaron. been able to accomplish on the baseball I will tell your friends and family back hard, but without vindictiveness, being field and off. able to be a good loser, and, most im- in Mobile hello. My hat is off, as the Republican man- I understand you are going to be liv- portant, being able to be a good win- ager, the successful , by the ing in Georgia. I hope that when you ner, and, in all times, remembering way, of a 17 to 1 victory this summer. fully retire that you will remember that one’s career is only one injury Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield your roots, and that you will come away from being over, and it is only by 1 minute to the distinguished gentle- back to Mobile, Alabama. I hope that the blessings that one has that one be- woman from Florida (Mrs. MEEK). you are there so I can recognize you comes a great performer. Mrs. MEEK of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I I would just like to say to Mr. Aaron, when I see you driving down the street. thank the gentleman from Maryland I hope you will display that tag num- thank you for what you represent. I for giving me this time to honor this ber 715 that the State Senate gave you hope that you will pass this on as often amazing American hero, Hank Aaron. I exclusive authorization to use for the as you can to the young athletes today wish we had more Hank Aarons, Mr. rest of your life. who can be the kind of heroes to the Speaker, a man who remained humble, So welcome to Washington. I join my kids that grew up in your era, like me, despite all the honors he achieved, a colleagues in giving you the highest of that these young people can be to our man who set a record, not only on the praises for your brilliant career, but young children today. most of all for this extreme character Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield , but in the lives of the that you represent in America here 1 minute to the distinguished gen- young men and young women of this country. today. tleman from Tennessee (Mr. CLEMENT). Mr. CLEMENT. Mr. Speaker, the gen- We all admire Hank Aaron. It is an b 1315 honor that he is here today to bring a tlemen from New York (Mr. BOEHLERT) ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE freshness to this House, to bring hon- and myself and others just got back The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. CAL- esty to this House, to bring a dedica- from Cooperstown, New York. The first VERT). The Chair would remind the tion to this House. We are so very glad time I had ever been there. I had the Members that remarks in the debate to have him here and honor him for opportunity to look and review the must be addressed to the Chair and what he really is, and that is a true Hall of Fame. should not mention the honored guests American hero who remained humble, I saw the pictures and all the honors in the gallery. that Hank Aaron had received by being and he still is. He has still given to the Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, may I inducted into the Hall of Fame. I was world the best he has, and the best is inquire as to how much time each side there in Atlanta, Georgia, just hap- coming back to him. has. pened to fly from Nashville, Tennessee Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, it is The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- to Atlanta. That particular day, I was my privilege to yield 3 minutes to the tleman from Maryland (Mr. CUMMINGS) chairman of the Tennessee Public distinguished gentleman from Mobile, has 5 minutes remaining, and the gen- Service Commission in our great State, Alabama (Mr. CALLAHAN), the home of tleman from Georgia (Mr. CHAMBLISS) and I flew down there just hoping that Hank Aaron. has 81⁄2 minutes remaining. that would be the day that Hank Aaron Mr. CALLAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield would break the record of Babe Ruth. thank the gentleman from Georgia 1 minute to the distinguished gen- I loved Babe Ruth. I will remember very much for yielding me this time. tleman from Wisconsin (Mr. OBEY). that great man always, knowing that Mr. Speaker, let me tell my col- Mr. OBEY. Mr. Speaker, I grew up in another great man broke his record by leagues I am proud to stand here in Wisconsin as a Chicago Cub fan. That the name of Hank Aaron who has made this well today just as I stood in the does not have much to do with baseball us proud in so many ways. I am proud well of the House of Representatives in these days, I know, but I have to say of baseball; I am proud of its tradition. the State of Alabama during the glo- that when the Braves moved from Bos- I am proud of what it means to Amer- rious years of Hank Aaron’s career and ton to Milwaukee, I had the privilege ica and to the world. in the State Senate also, Hank, when, of seeing Hank Aaron play in Mil- Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, I am if you may recall, we presented you waukee County Stadium many, many very pleased to yield 1 minute to the with a resolution I passed through the times.

VerDate May 21 2004 11:14 Jun 14, 2004 Jkt 039102 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR99\H19OC9.000 H19OC9 October 19, 1999 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE 25827 I think what we are doing here today this society, even if they beat the Chi- But we also thank him for showing is doing two things: first of all, yes, we cago Cubs over and over and over America what a true American is all are paying tribute to him for what he again. about. And we say to him, God bless. achieved in baseball. But even more Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, how Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance than that, I think we are here simply much time do we have? of my time. to pay tribute to him for the way he The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, I played the game. He did not dem- tleman from Maryland (Mr. CUMMINGS) yield myself the balance of my time. onstrate just power, he demonstrated has 3 minutes remaining, and the gen- Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor integrity, he demonstrated determina- tleman from Georgia (Mr. CHAMBLISS) and recognize a man of great athletic tion, he demonstrated at all times the has 71⁄2 minutes remaining. ability, a man who has a great passion qualities that we most admire in all Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield for life, a man who had a great vision Americans. And I think because he has myself the balance of my time. for where he wanted to go, a man of been a role model not just profes- Mr. Speaker, it certainly is an honor great compassion, and a man who had sionally but personally, he has been a to stand here today and to have Hank unbelievable leadership skills. grace to the game and a grace to the Aaron in the audience. I cannot begin Hank Aaron was born the third child country to whom his career has done to express the thrill it is, I am sure for of a rivet bucker of a shipbuilding com- great honor. all of us. pany in Mobile, Alabama. While in high Mr. CHAMBLISS. Mr. Speaker, I When I think of my own life as a lit- school, Hank Aaron began playing with yield 1 minute to the gentleman from tle boy in south Baltimore, where we the Mobile Bay Bears, a semi-pro team. Oklahoma (Mr. WATTS), the chairman did not have grass fields, but we played One day in Mobile he was playing of the Republican Conference. on little play lots where vacant houses against the , which Mr. WATTS of Oklahoma. Mr. Speak- had been torn down; and where we did was on a barnstorming tour throughout er, we have talked this afternoon about not have bats because we could not af- the South playing other semi-pro Hank Aaron’s sports contribution. But ford them, but we used broomsticks; teams, when the manager of the Indi- let me read you what a couple of folks and we could not afford , so anapolis Clowns said, I have to have have said about him: we found any kind of ball that we could that guy come play for me, and he ‘‘He was a caring guy and self-effac- get our hands on; the fact is that we signed Hank Aaron to come play for ing. He wanted things to be fair in an were following a dream. We were fol- the Indianapolis Clowns. unfair world.’’ ‘‘He taught us to follow lowing a dream because of people like A couple of years later, he was scout- our dreams.’’ And, ‘‘He taught a kid Hank Aaron. ed by the Milwaukee Braves, and at from Eufaula, Oklahoma to follow his When we looked at him, we saw us. that point in time, at age 18, he was dreams.’’ We had someone that we could look up signed by the Milwaukee Braves and The reason I like sports is because it to and be proud of. And so that al- was sent to the Northern League in is about effort and reward, it is about though we were sliding onto bases that Wisconsin. At that time, when he went discipline and results, it is about going were made out of a piece of cardboard, to Wisconsin, one of the first times he the extra mile and getting more out of oftentimes cutting ourselves because had ever been away from Mobile, Ala- it because you do. It is about knowing we did not have the grass fields; and al- bama, Hank Aaron began chasing his the rules and following them and hit- though many times we found ourselves dream. In 1952, he was rookie of the ting more home runs because you do. frustrated because when we hit a home year in the Wisconsin league. He knew some unfairness in his life, run, the field was so small we usually The next year he moved to Jackson- but he pursued his dreams anyway. He broke somebody’s window, the fact re- ville in the Sally League. He became paid the price, he practiced and he mains that we were still pursuing a the most valuable player in the Sally didn’t take no for an answer. Sports is dream. League in 1953. In 1954, he went to the about leveling the playing field in a As I listened to my colleague, the big leagues, but they did not give him real way. Henry Aaron proves that. gentleman from Washington (Mr. a chance to make it in . Hammerin’ Hank, thank you. Con- MCDERMOTT), talk, I could not help but It was only because of an injury to gratulations on this milestone in think about an interview that was re- Bobby Thompson, who the Braves had sports history. Thank you for wanting cently had with Mr. Aaron. I felt so acquired from the Giants during the off things to be fair in an unfair world. proud of him because I realized that he season, that Hank Aaron got a chance Thank you for teaching our kids that would have traded in all of these com- to play. But once he took over in left dreams can still come true in a some- pliments that are being made here field, and he ultimately moved to right times unfair world. today if he could see more African field, the rest became history. Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield Americans and more minorities in On April the 23rd, 1954, Hank Aaron 1 minute to the gentleman from Wash- every level of baseball. And he talked hit his first major league home run. ington (Mr. MCDERMOTT). about that, and I am so glad he has Twenty years later, on April 4, 1974, Mr. MCDERMOTT. Mr. Speaker, it is done that. Hank Aaron hit home run number 714, with a great deal of pleasure that I get But I also say that Mr. Aaron made it as was witnessed by our friend, the up to acknowledge the man who broke clear that after the baseball playing gentleman from Ohio (Mr. BOEHNER). the heart of a Chicago Cub fan over and days are over, and after the curtain Four days later, on April 8, 1974, at 9:07 over and over again. But, more impor- goes down, and after the baseball play- p.m., Hank Aaron hit home run number tantly, was his stature and the way he ers are unseen, unnoticed, 715 at Atlanta Fulton County Stadium. carried himself in this country. unappreciated and unapplauded, he And those of my colleagues who have I think he would really be happy wants to make sure that they have op- an opportunity to go to today if, instead of all these speeches, portunity. For I am sure it is clear to today, which sits right across the the United States Senate had not him that an individual can have all the street from where Atlanta Fulton turned down an African American genetic ability that anyone could want, County Stadium used to sit, ought to judge that they brought out and hu- and all the will that an individual take a minute to go over and take a miliated on the floor of the Senate. could possibly want, but if that indi- look at what is now a parking lot. That would mean we had moved some- vidual does not have the opportunity, There my colleagues will see a brass where. they are not going anywhere fast. plate in the shape of a home plate. Mr. Robinson, Mr. Aaron showed us So we thank him for all that he has That is where home plate sat in At- what it ought to be, but we still have a done. We thank him for lifting up little lanta Fulton County Stadium. In the long way to go. We need people like boys and giving them something to , where home field number 715 Henry Aaron to show this country that dream about. We thank him for giving used to be marked, there is the original we have to respect all the people in Americans something to cheer about. section of the fence still existing today

VerDate May 21 2004 11:14 Jun 14, 2004 Jkt 039102 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 0688 Sfmt 0634 E:\BR99\H19OC9.000 H19OC9 25828 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD—HOUSE October 19, 1999 with the number 715 painted on it. That Henry Aaron, the baseball player and the The question is on the motion offered is where Hank Aaron hit number 715. man, are recorded by the U.S. Congress. by the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. The next year, after he hit number We cannot forget the difficult times, the trou- CHAMBLISS) that the House suspend the 715, Hank Aaron was traded back to bled waters, and the lonely bridges that Henry rules and agree to the resolution, Milwaukee, which was his original Aaron and his family had to contend with. House Resolution 279, as amended. home playing area. He spent two sea- When a young Henry Aaron dared to dream of The question was taken; and (two- sons there playing for then the Mil- being a professional baseball player, he could thirds having voted in favor thereof) waukee Brewers, and wound up, as we not have imagined the naked, raw, and the rules were suspended and the reso- have already heard, hitting 755 home uncaring face of discrimination that he would lution, as amended, was agreed to. runs. later confront virtually every day. But despite A motion to reconsider was laid on He retired after the 1976 season, but the hurdles that both baseball and life placed the table. here are some of the records which in his way, henry Aaron refused to allow his f Hank Aaron still holds: obviously, dreams to die. He fought on not only to merely b 2130 most home runs ever hit in a career; play professional baseball but to surpass the 2,297 runs batted in; 6,856 total bases records of Ruth on his way to becoming one DISCRETIONARY SPENDING OFF- touched during his career; and 1,477 of the greatest players of all times. Today I SETS ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2000 extra base hits during his career. honor Henry Aaron, not only for the thrill of Mr. LEWIS of Kentucky. Mr. Speak- Hank Aaron obtained these records watching a great player swing his way into the er, I move to suspend the rules and because he was a model of consistency. record books but for the pride of watching a pass the bill (H.R. 3085) to provide dis- In his 24-year career, he played in 22 great man march his way into the history cretionary spending offsets for fiscal All Star games. He hit between 24 and books. year 2000, as amended. 45 home runs for 19 straight seasons. I rise, indeed I ask all of us to rise today in The Clerk read as follows: For 11 years, he had 100-plus runs bat- honoring the now and forever Number 44 of H.R. 3085 ted in. For 15 years, he scored 100-plus the Atlanta Braves, Mr. Henry Aaron. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- runs. He won two batting titles and Mr. DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, public resentatives of the United States of America in four Gold Gloves. officials are used to scrutiny and, to varying Congress assembled, After he retired, Hank Aaron came degrees, accustomed to the sometimes harsh SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. glare of the spotlight. But none of us have had This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Discre- back to Atlanta and has been employed tionary Spending Offsets Act for Fiscal Year with the Braves organization since. to endure what Henry Aaron had to endure as he approached number 715. The pressure, I 2000’’. Today, he is a senior vice president SEC. 2. TABLE OF CONTENTS. with the Atlanta Braves organization. can only assume, must have been suffocating. The table of contents for this Act is as fol- Several years ago, Hank and his love- Everywhere he went, cameras focused on lows: ly wife, Billy, started the Chasing the him. Every step he took was followed by an Sec. 1. Short title. Dream Foundation. Today, Hank army of reporters with the same probing ques- Sec. 2. Table of contents. Aaron recognizes that there are any tions. Hank Aaron was living in a fish bowl. TITLE I—OFFSETS FOR DISCRETIONARY number of young people out there who And it wasn’t a very warm bowl at that. A SPENDING do not have the opportunity that he vocal minority of hate-filled folks out there ac- Subtitle A—Agriculture tually took umbrage at Aaron’s success and had and Hank Aaron and his wife, PART I—FOOD SAFETY INSPECTION AND tried, unsuccessfully, to undercut his courage. Billy, established this foundation to ENFORCEMENT FEES The manner in which Hank Aaron assumed provide an opportunity for kids be- Sec. 111. Fees for inspection of poultry and the post of career home run leader speaks as tween the ages of 9 and 12 to have the poultry products and related much about the man as the feat itself. activities. opportunity to improve themselves. I am a baseball fan, and therefore I am a Sec. 112. Fees for inspection of livestock, They do not have to be athletes. They Hank Aaron fan. I remember the evening of meat, and meat products and can be people who need rides to dance April 8 with startling clarity: the first inning related activities. Sec. 113. Fees for inspection of egg products classes or people who need music les- walk, the fourth inning shot off the first Al sons paid for. But if they exhibit an and related activities. Downing pitch he swung at that night, the pan- Sec. 114. Conforming amendments. ability, if they exhibit good scholastic demonium that followed. It is a moment for- PART II—ASSESSMENTS UNDER TOBACCO habits, they are available to apply for ever etched on my mind, and, indeed, on the PROGRAM a scholarship from the Chasing the American cultural landscape. Sec. 121. Extension and increase in tobacco Dream Foundation, chasing the dream, Baseball fans love statistics, and when it assessment. just like Hank Aaron did many, many comes to plain numbers there was none more PART III—ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH years ago in Mobile, Alabama. impressive than the Hammer. 755 career INSPECTION SERVICE COST-SHARE FEES Today, this great American, Henry home runs. 2,297 RBIs, including 11 seasons Sec. 131. Biotechnology testing permit user Louis Aaron, is still chasing his dream, with more than 100. 6,856 total bases. 24 All- fees regarding plant pests. his dream to make America a better Star game appearances, two batting titles and Sec. 132. Biotechnology testing permit user place to live, and he is doing his part. four gold gloves. These are numbers that fees regarding plants. Sec. 133. Fees for license and registration Hank, we all salute you, my friend. speak for themselves. God bless you, and thank you for ev- services under Animal Welfare But Hank Aaron gave us so much more, as Act. erything that you do for America. a ballplayer and as a man. In this age of sky- PART IV—GRAIN INSPECTION, PACKERS, AND Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, it is fit- rocketing salaries and off-the-field soap op- STOCKYARD ADMINISTRATION LICENSING FEE ting today, a day on which our Atlanta Braves eras, Hank Aaron provides all of us with a Sec. 141. Grain standardization fees. play for the right to join the New York benchmark of professionalism and a shining Sec. 142. Packers and stockyard licensing Yankees in the , that the United example for our children of what success is all fee. States Congress takes the time to pause and about. PART V—FOREST SERVICE FEES honor the contributions of a great Brave, Mr. Later on in the evening of April 8, 1974, Sec. 151. Timber sales preparation user fee. Henry Aaron. Aaron told reporters the record-breaking Sec. 152. Fees for commercial filming. Number 44 for the Atlanta Braves is the all- homer wouldn’t have meant as much if the Sec. 153. Timber and special forest products. time leader in home runs, a record that stands Braves hadn’t won the game. What humility. Sec. 154. Forest service visitor facilities im- provement demonstration pro- among the greatest in sports. And while Thanks, Hank: your feat meant so much more gram. records are made to be broken, the spirit of in- to the American people because of the way Sec. 155. Fair market value for recreation spiration that Mr. Aaron’s example offers to all you accomplished it. concessions. Americans will stand for all time. I am pleased ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Subtitle B—Commerce to join my Georgia colleague, Congressman The SPEAKER pro tempore. The PART I—NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC SAXBY CHAMBLISS, in a truly bipartisan effort to Chair would remind the Members not ADMINISTRATION NAVIGATION SERVICES FEES ensure that the tremendous achievements of to introduce occupants of the gallery. Sec. 211. Navigation services fees.

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