Lou Barletta

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Mary Gabriele as she is celebrated as the oldest Italian-American in the Hazleton Area, an honor bestowed upon her by the Hazleton Chapter of UNICO. UNICO is the largest Italian-American service and volunteer organization in the United States, and has a significant, positive impact within my congressional district. On March 19, 1909, Mary was born to Nicholas and Tomasina Lauro in Medix Run, Pennsylvania. Her family moved to Hazleton Heights in 1916 where she was able to establish strong, communal roots. As one of nine children, Mary began working at the Duplan Silk Mill at the youthful age of 14. The fact that she committed long and arduous hours at the facility did not stop her from obtaining an education, however. She went on to impressively complete her studies at St. Gabriel's High School during the evenings--a feat symbolic of her tireless work ethic. Mary married Nazario Gabriele in 1935, and the newly married couple moved to Peace Street in Hazleton. It was here where Mary and Nazario raised their four children: Carmel, Nicholas, Mary, and Thomasina. After dedicating years to her family, Mary returned to the workforce at numerous retail stores in the area, including Bon Ton, Leader, Dotte's, and Fashion Bug. Mary and Nazario were married for a wonderful 49 years before Nazario passed away in 1984. Currently, Mary resides at Providence Place in Drums, where she remains active and enjoys visits from friends and her extended family, including five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Mary Gabriele as the oldest Italian-American in the Hazleton Area. My community is extremely fortunate to have now called her a neighbor for close to 100 years. I hope she will be able to celebrate this monumental occasion in the company of her family and friends.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to help commemorate the 100th anniversary of the completion of the Nicholson Bridge, also known as the Tunkhannock Creek Viaduct. Located in Nicholson, Pennsylvania, which I currently represent, the structure has continually served as a vital piece of infrastructure, providing my constituents with efficient transportation throughout Pennsylvania and New York. Led by the Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad, construction of the Tunkhannock Creek Viaduct commenced in 1912. Its completion, dedication, and opening for use took place on November 6, 1915. This engineering marvel was an integral piece of a larger project known as the Clarks Summit-Hallstead Cutoff, engineered in order to shorten the rail line between Scranton, Pennsylvania and Binghamton, New York. The Clarks-Summit Hallstead Cutoff proved to be a huge success, exponentially reducing travel time and subsequently improving transportation efficiency. The bridge's role in this effort was particularly helpful to the residents of Nicholson, a rural town tucked away between Wyoming County and the Endless Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania. In 1975, the America Society of Civil Engineers designated the Nicholson Bridge as a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark due to the bridge's significant contribution to the development of the United States, and to the field of Civil Engineering. Furthermore, as of 1977, this structural feat was listed on the National Register of Historic Places--an honor attributable to its architectural, engineering, and transportation significance. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to recognize the Nicholson Bridge as it celebrates its 100th anniversary. I know that I speak on behalf of a proud community when I say that I am eternally grateful for this engineering wonder, and I look forward to the structure's preservation over the years to come.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Geisinger Health System as it celebrates the 100th anniversary of its establishment. Geisinger Health System is an integrated health services organization within my congressional district that is widely admired for its development of innovative care models and its advances in the use of electronic health records and telemedicine. Over a century ago, Abigail Geisinger, the organization's founder, made the intentions for her namesake quite clear when she said, ``Make my hospital right; make it the best.'' The fact that the first Geisinger Medical Center opened earlier than expected in order to serve its community in the wake of a typhoid emergency in 1915 is indicative of the very organization Ms. Geisinger envisioned, and that legacy continues to this day. Due to the dedicated commitment of its employees, the health system has grown from the original medical center in Danville into a physician-led, integrated health services organization that is respected both nationally and worldwide. In fact, Geisinger serves more than 2.6 million residents throughout 44 counties in central, south- central, and northeast Pennsylvania--many of whom live in rural, medically underserved areas. Comprised of approximately 23,500 employees, a 1,200 member multi- specialty group practice, hospitals, research centers, an alcohol and chemical dependency treatment center, and a health plan, Geisinger provides the Commonwealth with a patient care mission that is second to none. Furthermore, the health system leverages an estimated $8.9 billion annually, revenue that has positively impacted Pennsylvania's economy, and remains integral to statewide development. Mr. Speaker, I am humbled to join Geisinger Health System in commemorating its 100th anniversary, and remain eternally grateful for the many services the organization provides to my constituents. I wish the organization many more successful years to come.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Colonel Rick Harney, Jr. on the occasion of his retirement from the United States Army. Throughout his 37 year career, Col. Harney has selflessly served our country and community; namely, during the time he spent as Director of the United States Army Heritage and Education Center (USAHEC) at the Carlisle Barracks, which I am honored to represent. USAHEC is a tremendous institution within my congressional district charged with educating members of our Armed Forces and honoring soldiers--past and present. Col. Harney enlisted in the Army in August of 1978. In 1987, after matriculating from the United States Officer Candidate School in Fort Benning, Georgia as a Distinguished Military Graduate, he received his commission as a Field Artillery Lieutenant. He has undertaken many notable assignments, including Assistant Commandant and Chief at the United States Army Quartermaster School in Fort Lee, Virginia, and Commander of the Defense Distribution Center at the Anniston Army Depot in Alabama. Such roles have enabled Col. Harney to positively influence his colleagues, as well as the future strategic leaders of our military. A Magna Cum Laude graduate from Hawaii Pacific University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, he also holds an impressive number of advanced degrees, including a Master of Business Administration from Webster University, a Master of Military Arts and Science from the United States Army Command and General Staff College, and a Master of Strategic Studies from the Air War College. In addition to his academic success, Col. Harney has received an extensive amount of awards and decorations. These include the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Meritorious Service Medal with Silver Oak Leaf Cluster, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, Joint Service Achievement Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Achievement Medal with five Oak Leaf Clusters, Joint Meritorious Unit Award with Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Superior Unit Award, Master Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, and Parachute Rigger Badge. Such accolades are indicative of the high caliber of his dedicated service to our nation. On July 7th, 2014, Col. Harney assumed duties as the Director of the USAHEC at the Carlisle Barracks in my congressional district. As an instructor and educator, Col. Harney has significantly improved the experiences of his fellow instructors and students. The initiatives and programs he has implemented have shaped the lives of the future leaders of our military, and have enhanced the effectiveness of the United States Army War College. Even though he will no longer be present at USAHEC on a day-to-day basis, his legacy will inevitably carry on. Mr. Speaker, I am humbled to congratulate Col. Harney on the culmination of a distinguished, 37 year career in the United States Army. I hope that he will celebrate the occasion in the company of his wife, Leslie, his children, Dominick, Aerin, Marc, and Ashley, and his grandchildren, Izumi, Eugene, Marc, Marvelo, Mecca, Ayrielle, and Ash'kelon. I wish him all the best in this next chapter of his life.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the great aerospace manufacturer Pratt & Whitney on the 90th anniversary of their incorporation. Beginning with the first 24 men and two women who reported to work in 1925, and continuing through today, Pratt & Whitney's main purpose has been to build ever newer and better aircraft engines. Today, that small company has grown to employ more than 31,000 people, including many in my district, in well-paying jobs in careers they can be proud of. Pratt & Whitney employs 103 people in Middletown, Pennsylvania, and I'm proud to say that they are looking to expand to over 200. This is cutting edge technology that, in turn, is putting food on the table for folks back home. In the last ninety years, there have been few innovations that have affected our daily lives as much as the jet engine. And Pratt & Whitney has been there every step of the way for every improvement and breakthrough in technology. Mr. Speaker, Pratt & Whitney has defined aviation, and built dependable engines for nine decades. And I wish them all of the best for their next 90 years.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize my constituent, Mrs. Arline Frances Dennis, as she celebrates her 100th birthday. Arline presently resides with her son in Shickshinny, which I am proud to say is in my district. She has continually served our area through her involvement in the church and in the community as a whole. Arline was born on November 23, 1915 in Reyburn, Pennsylvania. She grew up attending a one room school, and later went on to graduate from Shickshinny High School. Growing up, she belonged to the Reyburn Bible Church, where she was an active member of the congregation. As an avid piano player and energetic teacher, Arline taught Sunday school and helped to organize a number of the church's Christmas programs. She also dedicated her time to the church youth group, ``Christian Endeavor.'' In 1939, Arline married Charles Elmer Dennis, and the two were married for 63 years before Charles passed away in 2002. They have two sons together, Wayne Charles and Zane Elmer. The family attended Harmony Methodist Church, where Arline played the piano, directed the choir, and taught Sunday School, and Charles was the Sunday School superintendent. Later, the two went on to be founding members of the Woodland Bible Chapel. With her love for music and community, Arline continued to play the piano and teach Sunday school at this new house of worship. Though she no longer plays the piano or teaches, Arline continues to attend services at Woodland Bible Chapel. Outside of church, Arline has served our community in a variety of roles. For 16 years, she proudly served as the Judge of Elections in Union Township, located in Luzerne County. Furthermore, in addition to giving private piano lessons to over 500 students until 2010, Arline also taught music at Muhlenburg Christian Academy for 22 years, touching the lives of many students until she retired at the age of 90. With a passion for travel, Arline also coordinated community bus trips to New Jersey and Florida. In fact, during their marriage, Arline and Charles visited every state in the continental US and also traveled to Hawaii and Israel. Mr. Speaker, I wish to recognize Mrs. Arline Frances Dennis on this important milestone, and to thank her for her time spent serving our area. Arline's commitment to her faith, family, and community are admirable, and I wish her a happy and healthy 100th birthday celebration in the company of family and friends.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Colonel Rick Harney, Jr. on the occasion of his retirement from the United States Army. Throughout his 37 year career, Col. Harney has selflessly served our country and community; namely, during the time he spent as Director of the United States Army Heritage and Education Center (USAHEC) at the Carlisle Barracks, which I am honored to represent. USAHEC is a tremendous institution within my congressional district charged with educating members of our Armed Forces and honoring soldiers--past and present. Col. Harney enlisted in the Army in August of 1978. In 1987, after matriculating from the United States Officer Candidate School in Fort Benning, Georgia as a Distinguished Military Graduate, he received his commission as a Field Artillery Lieutenant. He has undertaken many notable assignments, including Assistant Commandant and Chief at the United States Army Quartermaster School in Fort Lee, Virginia, and Commander of the Defense Distribution Center at the Anniston Army Depot in Alabama. Such roles have enabled Col. Harney to positively influence his colleagues, as well as the future strategic leaders of our military. A Magna Cum Laude graduate from Hawaii Pacific University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, he also holds an impressive number of advanced degrees, including a Master of Business Administration from Webster University, a Master of Military Arts and Science from the United States Army Command and General Staff College, and a Master of Strategic Studies from the Air War College. In addition to his academic success, Col. Harney has received an extensive amount of awards and decorations. These include the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Meritorious Service Medal with Silver Oak Leaf Cluster, Joint Service Achievement Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Achievement Medal with five Oak Leaf Clusters, Joint Meritorious Unit Award with Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Superior Unit Award, Master Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, and Parachute Rigger Badge. Such accolades are indicative of the high caliber of his dedicated service to our nation. On July 7th, 2014, Col. Harney assumed duties as the Director of the USAHEC at the Carlisle Barracks in my congressional district. As an instructor and educator, Col. Harney has significantly improved the experiences of his fellow instructors and students. The initiatives and programs he has implemented have shaped the lives of the future leaders of our military, and have enhanced the effectiveness of the United States Army War College. Even though he will no longer be present at USAHEC on a day-to-day basis, his legacy will inevitably carry on. Mr. Speaker, I am humbled to congratulate Col. Harney on the culmination of a distinguished, 37-year career in the United States Army. I hope that he will celebrate the occasion in the company of his wife, Leslie, his children, Dominick, Aerin, Marc, and Ashley, and his grandchildren, Izumi, Eugene, Marc, Marvelo, Mecca, Ayrielle, and Ash'kelon. I wish him all the best in this next chapter of his life.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Chairman, first, let me thank the chairmen of the Natural Resources and Agriculture Committees for working with our committee on title IX of the bill. Title IX authorizes the President to declare a major disaster for wildfires on Federal lands and provide assistance to the Departments of the Interior and Agriculture for extraordinary wildfire suppression costs in excess of the 10-year average. These provisions protect FEMA's Disaster Relief Fund and preserve FEMA's wildfire assistance that is currently available to State, local, and tribal governments through the Stafford Act. Because this provision was not included in the reported bill, a legislative history document has been developed to articulate the congressional intent for title IX, as well as how it is expected to be implemented. Mr. Chairman, I will insert this legislative history document into the Record. (Chairman Bill Shuster, Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, July 9, 2015) H.R. 2647: Resilient Federal Forests Act of 2015, Title IX--Major Disaster for Wildfire on Federal Land legislative history Definition of ``Major Disaster'': By bifurcating the definition of ``Major Disaster'' in the Stafford Act, the Committee preserves the existing definition, and the programs that flow therefrom, and adds an additional definition for ``Major Disaster for Wildfire on Federal Land,'' for which a separate and distinct declaration, process and assistance have been established pursuant to the new Title VIII of the Stafford Act. ``Major Disaster for Wildfire on Federal Land'' meets the definition ``disaster relief'' pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(D) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. Request for Declaration of a Major Disaster for Wildfire on Federal Land: There are four distinct requirements that must be met before the President may issue a declaration for a major disaster for wildfire on federal land. (1) Each request must be made in writing by the Secretary making the request on behalf of that Department. (2) The requesting Secretary must certify that in that current fiscal year, the Department's wildfire suppression operations account received no less than an amount equal to the 10-year average. This amount cannot include any carry over from previous years and must include any rescissions or reductions. Also, future 10-year averages must take into account the total amount expended on wildfire suppression, including appropriations and assistance provided under Title VIII of the Stafford Act. (3) The requesting Secretary must certify that all funds available for wildfire suppression operations will be obligated within 30 days and there are wildfires on federal lands continuing to burn that will require firefighting beyond the resources currently available. (4) The requesting Secretary must request a specific amount which is the estimate of funds needed to address the current wildfires on federal lands. The Committee does not intend for the respective Secretary to have to make a request for each fire they anticipate will exceed the wildfire suppression operations appropriations. As the definition for ``Major Disaster for Wildfire on Federal Lands'' includes ``wildfire or wildfires'', it is intended that the respective Secretary's request will include all known fires that will require extraordinary resources beyond those remaining in the wildfire suppression operations account of that specific federal land management agency. Each Secretary will make a request for the resources required by that particular department. Assistance Available for a Major Disaster for Wildfire on Federal Land: The only assistance available for a declaration of a major disaster for wildfife on federal land is the transfer of available funds from a new account established for these purposes to the requesting Secretary in the amount requested. The Committee intends for the funds appropriated into the new account established by the President for major disaster for wildfire on federal land assistance will be designated by Congress as being for disaster relief pursuant to section 251(b)(2)(D) of the Balanced Budget and Emergency Deficit Control Act of 1985. The declaration and assistance available for a major disaster for wildfire on federal lands are based on the existing major disaster declaration process delegated by the President to be administered by the FEMA Administrator. The Committee expects the process for a major disaster for wildfire on federal land will be managed in a similar manner through a delegation of the President's authority to the FEMA Administrator. Further, the Committee expects that the account established by the President for a major disaster for wildfire on federal land will be a dedicated sub-account of FEMA's Disaster Relief Fund. However, pursuant to the legislative language, none of these funds can be comingled or transferred between these accounts. Once assistance is transferred to the Department of the Interior or the Department of Agriculture, it is not required that the assistance be used only for those wildfires identified in the request. The assistance may be used for wildfires that begin after the declaration or were not identified in the request. Funds transferred may be used for all wildfire suppression operations eligible activities. The Committee anticipates these will be no year funds, available until exhausted. It is entirely foreseeable that a wildfire that begins on or severely impacts federal lands requiring assistance under Title VIII of the Stafford Act could continue to grow, impacting state, local, tribal governments and certain non- profit properties and infrastructure. The provision of assistance under Title VIII of the Stafford Act in no way impacts the ability of state, local and tribal governments and certain non-profits to apply for assistance under FEMA's other disaster programs, if eligible, including the Fire Management Assistance Grant Program, an emergency declaration, or a traditional major disaster declaration. Prohibition on Transfers: No longer can the Department of the Interior and the Department of Agriculture borrow from non-fire suppression accounts to fund the extraordinary needs of wildfire suppression operations. section-by-section Section 901. Wildfire on Federal Lands: This section defines a major disaster for wildfire on federal lands. Section 902. Declaration of a Major Disaster for Wildfire on Federal Lands: This section establishes the procedure for requesting a declaration of a major disaster for wildfire on federal lands and provides for assistance. Section 903. Prohibition on Transfers: This section prohibits the transfer of funds between wildfire suppression accounts and other accounts not used to cover the cost of wildfire suppression operations.

Mr. BARLETTA. After watching the floodwaters of Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee destroy the homes and upset the lives of my constituents, my first priority has been to protect the programs that come to their aid, namely the disaster relief fund. This is a program that helps families get back into their homes, businesses reopen their doors, and local municipalities clear the streets so that our communities can recover when the next big storm strikes. I have seen the disaster relief fund provide assistance when it is needed most. Our constituents rely on Federal disaster assistance. It should not be jeopardized under any circumstances. Again, let me thank Chairman Bishop and Chairman Conaway for working with the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Mr. Nick Manganaro as he celebrates his 90th birthday. Nick began working at Medico Industries at the young age of 13, and he has continually served my local community in his duties at the company's Hanover Township facility. The son of Italian immigrants, Nick was born on May 23, 1925, and graduated from Pittston High School in 1943. He proudly went on to serve in the Navy during WWII and was stationed in Panama. Upon returning to Pittston in 1946, Nick immediately resumed his work at Medico Electric Motor Company. To this day, Nick is still employed by Medico Industries, where he has worked for 77 years. His work ethic is unparalleled. A wearer of many hats, Nick has worked on the rigging crew, operated cranes, drove tractor trailers, and maneuvered all of the construction equipment. Within the company, Nick is considered to be a father figure to many employees, always willing to provide support and guidance to those in need. He is admired by his coworkers and customers for his bright attitude, modest demeanor, and dedication to the company. Though he cannot perform all the job functions he once could, Nick continues to work seven days per week--a habit that is indicative of his tireless, hard-working character. He still lives at the Manganaro family homestead, where he resides next door to his sister, Maria Capolarella Montante. The two have one living brother, Joe Manganaro. Outside of work, Nick is a member of St. Rocco's Parish in Pittston, and is a life-long member of the San Cataldo Society in Pittston, a social organization that is united in celebrating its member's Italian heritage, familial values, and religious principles. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize Mr. Nick Manganaro on this important milestone, and I admire his diligent work ethic and sense of commitment. I thank Nick for his service to our country and community, and I hope that he will celebrate this year in the company of his family and friends.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to help commemorate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of The Honey Pot Volunteer Active Fire Department in Honey Pot, Pennsylvania, which continually works to ensure public safety within my congressional district. Out of seven fire departments in the City of Nanticoke, it is the only independent station supported solely from fundraisers and the State fire grant. After a devastating fire consumed three houses, a group of Honey Pot residents chartered the department in April of 1965. Under the leadership of the department's first chief, Theadore Zdiarski, the organization raised sufficient funds to purchase a $32,000 1965 FWD pumper through the sale of rags, metals, and other miscellaneous items; an impressive feat in and of itself. Throughout the years, the department has responded to calls in neighboring municipalities such as Nanticoke, Wilkes Barre, Plymouth, Plymouth Township, Shickshinny, and Dupont; service that has greatly enhanced public safety across Northeastern Pennsylvania. In 1992, the company created a junior firefighter program. In doing so, the company not only successfully increased their membership, but also engaged with local youths. In addition to their stellar record of public service, the company has repeatedly used fundraising efforts as a way to positively influence the community. For example, when the department needed to replace its aged pumper truck in 2000, the members organized a ``cabbage roll,'' a fundraiser where participants compete in rolling heads of cabbage down a hill. The cabbage roll made local headlines across Northeastern Pennsylvania, and such an event is testament to the integral role the company plays in the local community outside of the fire station. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to recognize The Honey Pot Volunteer Active Fire Department as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. On behalf of a grateful community, I wish to thank the department and its members for their tireless service and unwavering commitment to increasing public safety.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Mr. Nick Manganaro as he celebrates his 90th birthday. Nick began working at Medico Industries at the young age of 13, and he has continually served my local community in his duties at the company's Hanover Township facility. The son of Italian immigrants, Nick graduated from Pittston High School in 1943. He proudly went on to serve in the Navy during WWII and was stationed in Panama until 1946. Upon returning to Pittston, Nick immediately resumed his work at Medico Electric Motor Company. To this day, Nick is still employed by Medico Industries, where he has worked for 77 years. His work ethic is unparalleled. A wearer of many hats, Nick has worked on the rigging crew, operated cranes, drove tractor trailers, and maneuvered all of the construction equipment. Within the company, Nick is considered to be a father figure to many employees, always willing to provide support and guidance to those in need. He is admired by his coworkers and customers for his bright attitude, modest demeanor, and dedication to the company. Though he cannot perform all the job functions he once could, Nick continues to work seven days per week--a habit that is indicative of his tireless, hard-working character. He still lives at the Manganaro family homestead, where he resides next door to his sister, Maria Capolarella Montante. The two have one living brother, Joe Manganaro. Outside of work, Nick is a member of St. Rocco's Parish in Pittston, and is a life-long member of the San Cataldo Society in Pittston, a social organization that is united in celebrating its member's Italian heritage, familial values, and religious principles. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize Mr. Nick Manganaro on this important milestone, and I admire his diligent work ethic and sense of commitment. I thank Nick for his service to our country and community, and I hope that he will celebrate this year in the company of his family and friends.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Dr. Glenn D. Steele, Jr. on the occasion of his retirement. Dr. Steele is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Geisinger Health System, an integrated health services organization within my congressional district that is widely admired for its development of innovative care models and its advances in the use of electronic health records and telemedicine. After receiving his bachelor's degree in history and literature from Harvard University, Dr. Steele went on to graduate with his medical degree from New York University School of Medicine and his PhD in microbiology from Lund University in Sweden. He has served as the Chairman of the American Board of Surgery, as well as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Deaconess Professional Practice Group. An influential academic, Dr. Steele has contributed immensely to advances in the areas of gastrointestinal cancer, pre-cancer, and, most recently, healthcare delivery and financing. In fact, he is the author or co-author of more than 483 scientific and professional articles, an impressive feat in and of itself. In 2001, Dr. Steele assumed his role as Chief Executive Officer of Geisinger Health System. Under his direction, the organization has grown from 7,000 employees to 23,500; all of whom provide valuable healthcare services to citizens both in my congressional district, the Commonwealth, and across the nation. Dr. Steele has also overseen Geisinger's growth and development into nine hospital campuses, two research centers, and a 467,000-member health plan. Combined, these entities leverage an estimated $7.7 billion, revenue that has strongly impacted Pennsylvania's economy for the better. Furthermore, national accolades have repeatedly been bestowed upon Geisinger for its work in integration, quality, and service-- accomplishments that Dr. Steele has played an integral role in facilitating. Geisinger's patient care mission is second to none, and Dr. Steele has taken the organization one step further in developing a commitment to medical education, research, and community service. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to congratulate Dr. Steele as he celebrates the culmination of an impressive, impactful career. Though his daily influence within Geisinger will be missed, his legacy will inevitably carry on. I hope that he finds this new chapter of his life to be as exciting as the last, and that he enjoys this occasion in the company of family and friends.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. I thank the chairman for helping me to improve this bill by including Steve King's immigration prohibitions and strong tools to stop currency manipulation. We need to establish a process at Customs that will stop duty evasion, which hurts manufacturers in my district. You and I, Mr. Chairman, have talked about having Customs investigate and decide duty-evasion cases subject to deadlines. Subjecting the decisionmaking process at Customs to review at the U.S. Court of International Trade will allow U.S. manufacturers hurt by duty evasion to finally get the relief that they deserve. Mr. Chairman, do you commit to working with me on achieving these goals in conference?

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, our national military cemeteries are hallowed ground. And I ask my colleagues to agree . . . and support my bill, H.R. 2490, ``Bertie's Respect for National Cemeteries Act.'' On October 15, 1969, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, a man named George Emery Siple shot and killed Bertha Smith, known to everyone as ``Bertie.'' Siple was convicted of the murder . . . and sentenced to life in prison without parole. Thirty years later, he died in prison. Because he was a military veteran, he was buried in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in 1999. He was buried there despite a federal law passed in 1997. That law said that veterans convicted of federal or state capital crimes . . . are not permitted to be buried in Veterans Affairs National Cemeteries or Arlington National Cemetery. For Bertie Smith's family, this is a heart-wrenching situation that has gone on for three decades. Jackie Katz--Bertie's daughter--has called it ``hell'' and a ``horror'' to live with the fact that George Siple was memorialized and buried with full military honors. When I first began to look into this issue, it was clear to me that it was as frustrating as it was heartbreaking. Back in 1997--led by our Pennsylvania Senators--Congress passed a law that said that veterans found guilty of capital crimes could not be buried in our national veterans cemeteries. At that time, you may remember, the country was still reeling from the Oklahoma City bombing. And veterans everywhere were justifiably appalled that Timothy McVeigh, a military veteran, could be buried with full military honors. Now, McVeigh did not receive that burial. But a major problem we discovered was that the law was not actively enforced for others until 2006. Since then, the VA has relied on an ``honor system,'' which requires family members to willingly report their relative's criminal record. In 2013, Congress once again sought to protect our VA National Cemeteries by passing a law to explicitly allow the VA to remove veterans from cemeteries, if they had been convicted of a federal or state capital crime. However, this law does not extend to veterans buried between 1997 and 2013, a time period that includes George Emery Siple. That's why I've introduced ``Bertie's Respect for National Cemeteries Act.'' What this law will do is: Require Veterans Affairs to take every reasonable action to ensure that a veteran is eligible to be buried, including searching public criminal records. It will clarify Congress's original intent by providing Veterans Affairs the explicit authority . . . to remove veterans convicted of capital crimes that were wrongly buried after 1997. And it will specifically provide for the removal of George Emery Siple from Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. This bill really only reaffirms what Congress intended in the first place. And it enjoys the support of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. There are precedents for the removal of convicted murderers from veterans cemeteries--from Arlington National Cemetery, and VA cemeteries in Michigan, and Oregon . . . to name just a few. Additionally, nothing in the bill would withdraw previous military honors, such as Purple Hearts or medals for valor, otherwise earned by the deceased veterans. The discussion of military veterans who have been convicted of murder often raises the issue of mental health treatment and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). There is no question that PTSD is a real condition affecting many service men and women, and I have always stood for funding the evaluation and treatment of those who may be afflicted. That said, those who have been convicted of capital murder by our judicial system have been declared guilty of the worst offense possible, and any mitigating factors would have been considered at trial and sentencing. And I don't think it's too much to say that murderers should not be buried next to true American heroes. And the memories of victims like Bertie Smith should not be disregarded. I ask my colleagues for their support in saying that real, true honor really means something in our National Military Cemeteries.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, our national military cemeteries are hallowed ground. And I ask my colleagues to agree and support my bill, H.R. 2490, Bertie's Respect for National Cemeteries Act. On October 15, 1969, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, a man named George Emery Siple shot and killed Bertha Smith, known to everyone as ``Bertie.'' Siple was convicted of the murder and sentenced to life in prison without parole. Thirty years later, he died in prison. Because he was a military veteran, he was buried in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in 1999. He was buried there despite a Federal law that was passed in 1997. That law said that veterans convicted of Federal or State capital crimes are not permitted to be buried in Veterans Affairs national cemeteries or Arlington National Cemetery. For Bertie Smith's family, this is a heart-wrenching situation that has gone on for three decades. Jackie Katz, Bertie's daughter, has called it ``hell'' and a ``horror'' to live with the fact that George Siple was memorialized and buried with full military honors. When I first began to look into this issue, it was clear to me that it was as frustrating as it was heartbreaking. Back in 1997, led by our Pennsylvania Senators, Congress passed a law that said that veterans found guilty of capital crimes could not be buried in our national veterans cemeteries. At the time, you may remember, the country was still reeling from the Oklahoma City bombing. And veterans everywhere were justifiably appalled that Timothy McVeigh, a military veteran, could be buried with full military honors. Now, McVeigh did not receive that burial. But a major problem we discovered was that the law was not actively enforced for others until 2006. Since then, the VA has relied on an ``honor system,'' which requires family members to willingly report their relative's criminal record. In 2013, Congress once again sought to protect our VA national cemeteries by passing a law to explicitly allow the VA to remove veterans from cemeteries if they had been convicted of a Federal or State capital crime. However, this law does not extend to veterans buried between 1997 and 2013, a time period that includes George Emery Siple. That is why I have introduced Bertie's Respect for National Cemeteries Act. What this law will do is require Veterans Affairs to take every reasonable action to ensure that a veteran is eligible to be buried, including searching public criminal records. It will clarify Congress' original intent by providing Veterans Affairs the explicit authority to remove veterans convicted of capital crimes who were wrongly buried after 1997. And it will specifically provide for the removal of George Emery Siple from Indiantown Gap National Cemetery. This bill really only reaffirms what Congress intended in the first place. And it enjoys the support of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. There were precedents for the removal of convicted murderers from veterans cemeteries--from Arlington National Cemetery and VA cemeteries in Michigan and Oregon, to name just a few. Additionally, nothing in the bill would withdraw previous military honors, such as Purple Hearts or medals for valor, otherwise earned by the deceased veterans. The discussion of military veterans who have been convicted of murder often raises the issue of mental health treatment and posttraumatic stress disorder. There is no question that PTSD is a real condition affecting many servicemen and -women, and I have always stood for funding the evaluation and treatment of those who may be afflicted. That said, those who have been convicted of capital murder by our judicial system have been declared guilty of the worst offense possible, and any mitigating factors would have been considered at trial and sentencing. I don't think it is too much to say that murderers should not be buried next to true American heroes. And the memories of victims like Bertie Smith should not be disregarded. I ask my colleagues for their support in saying that real, true honor really means something in our national military cemeteries.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, on Tuesday, May 12, Wednesday, May 13, Thursday, May 14, Friday, May 15, and Monday, May 18, 2015, I was out on medical leave on account of a successful procedure to clear a blocked artery and was unable to be present for recorded votes. Had I been present, on May 12, I would have voted ``yes'' on roll call no. 216, the Don't Tax Our Fallen First Responders Act (H.R. 606), ``no'' on roll call no. 217, the Edwards amendment to H.R. 1732, ``no'' on roll call no. 218, the Democratic Motion to Recommit with Instructions to H.R. 1732, ``yes'' on roll call no. 219, the Regulatory Integrity Protection Act (H.R. 1732), and ``yes'' on roll call no. 220, the Defending Public Safety Employee's Retirement Act (H.R. 2146). On May 13, had I been present, I would have voted ``yes'' on roll call no. 221, the rule allowing floor debate on H.R. 1735, H.R. 36, and H.R. 2048 (H. Res. 255). On roll call no. 222, I would have voted ``no'' on the Democratic Motion to Recommit with Instructions, and I would have voted ``yes'' on roll call no. 223, passage of the Pain- Capable Unborn Child Protection Act (H.R. 36.) I also would have voted ``yes'' on roll call no. 224, passage of H.R. 2048, the Uniting and Strengthening America by Fulfilling Rights and Ensuring Effective Discipline Over Monitoring Act of 2015. On May 14, had I been present, I would have voted ``yes'' on roll call no. 225, the rule allowing further debate on H.R. 1735 (H. Res. 260). I would also have voted ``yes'' on roll call no. 226, the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015 (H.R. 1191) and ``yes'' on roll call no. 227, the Hezbollah International Financing Prevention Act of 2015 (H.R. 2297). Additionally, on amendments to H.R. 1735, I would have voted ``no'' on roll call no. 228, Polis amendment no. 2; ``yes'' on roll call no. 229, Brooks of Alabama amendment no. 5; ``yes'' on roll call no. 230, Walorski amendment no. 15; ``no'' on roll call no. 231, Smith of Washington amendment no. 16; and ``yes'' on roll call no. 232, McCaul amendment no. 17. Had I been present on May 15, on amendments to H.R. 1735, I would have voted ``yes'' on roll call no. 233, Rohrabacher amendment no. 23; ``yes'' on roll call no. 234, Lamborn amendment no. 27; ``no'' on roll call no. 235, Blumenauer amendment no. 32; ``yes'' on roll call no. 236, Lucas amendment no. 38; ``no'' on roll call no. 237, Nadler amendment no. 41; and ``no'' on roll call no. 238, the Democratic Motion to Recommit H.R. 1735 with instruction. I would have voted ``yes'' on roll call no. 239, final passage of H.R. 1735, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016. On May 18, had I been present, I would have voted ``yes'' on roll call no. 240, the Veteran's I.D. Card Act (H.R. 91), ``yes'' on roll call no. 241, the Service Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business Relief Act (H.R. 1313), and ``yes'' on roll call no. 242, the Boosting Rates of American Veteran Employment Act (H.R. 1382).

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to help commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the establishment of Luzerne County Head Start, which provides my constituents with valuable services in early childhood education and family development. The organization plays a vital role within our community, and I am thankful for its work. Luzerne County Head Start has offered crucial aid to children and families since its inception in 1965. The program has worked tirelessly to provide 1,162 children in Luzerne and Wyoming Counties with an environment that is favorable to early academic development. Last month, I enjoyed spending time at the Hazleton Head Start Center, and was impressed with the students and faculty I met. The three and four year olds were excited to read and engage in their class science project. They are learning the skills that will help them to succeed in kindergarten. Additionally, Head Start strives to encourage similar standards in healthy physical development. Members of the Head Start faculty educate their students about comprehensive health and nutrition, supplying them with information that will increase their well-being. In addition to placing an emphasis on early childhood development, Luzerne County Head Start also focuses on strengthening families. In order to assist them in achieving greater self-sufficiency, the organization provides families with a wide array of services, including housing, employment, and education. Notably, Head Start offers support to parents interested in attaining a high school General Equivalency Diploma as well as other education and employment opportunities, all of which go a long way in ensuring brighter futures for parents and their children. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to honor Luzerne County Head Start as it celebrates its 50th Anniversary, and I commend the work that its faculty undertakes in order to serve the children and families of Luzerne and Wyoming Counties.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 172) to designate the United States courthouse located at 501 East Court Street in Jackson, Mississippi, as the ``R. Jess Brown United States Courthouse''.

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 172.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 1690) to designate the United States courthouse located at 700 Grant Street in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the ``Joseph F. Weis Jr. United States Courthouse''.

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 1690.

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. H.R. 1690 designates the United States courthouse located at 700 Grant Street in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the Joseph F. Weis Jr. United States Courthouse. Joseph F. Weis, Jr., served as a Federal judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit from 1973 until assuming senior status in 1988. He served in that capacity until his death last year. Prior to his appointment to the United States Court of Appeals, Judge Weis was appointed to the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Prior to his appointment to the Federal bench, he served as a judge on the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County and was in the private practice of law. Judge Weis served our country during the Second World War as a captain in the United States Army and is buried in Arlington National Cemetery. Given Judge Weis' service and dedication to our country, it is fitting to name this courthouse after him. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BARLETTA. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.