I think we have some very challenging and interesting areas under the jurisdiction of the Subcommittee of VA, HUD, and Independent Agencies of the Appropriations Committee.

I hope that you will have the opportunity or some of your colleagues will have the opportunity to present these concerns to our Homeland Security Director, Tom Ridge.

A group of citizens decided that it was essential to save this heritage landmark for future generations.

Using local donations they bought the mill and 32 surrounding acres to form the Jolly Mill Park and formed the Jolly Mill Park Foundation.

The park, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, is a gift from the Foundation to the community.

Today I offer my appreciation and that of all my colleagues for the spirit of volunteerism and community that characterize the unselfish dedication of the Foundation and its many members over the last 16 years to preserve this singular…

The Foundation has an ongoing commitment to protect the history and heritage of rural Missouri.

Not only have they restored the mill to its condition at the turn of the century.

Today I rise to call attention to a group of dedicated people in the Seventh Congressional District of Missouri who demonstrate the impact of that spirit.