Lou Barletta

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor and acknowledge Dr. Joseph E. (Tim) Gilmour for his role as the fifth President of Wilkes University. His unprecedented dedication to education has provided outstanding opportunities for our community as well as all the students of Wilkes University. When Dr. Gilmour leaves Wilkes in the spring of 2012, he will certainly be leaving behind a great legacy. In June of 2001, Dr. Gilmour accepted the position of President. Dr. Gilmour's accomplishments are too numerous to fully acknowledge. He successfully reached Wilkes University's enrollment goals six years ahead of schedule, increasing the student body by over 26%. He led the creation of an urban planning research-based think tank, the Joint Urban Studies Center. He spearheaded the Institute of Energy and Environmental Research to study the effects of the Marcellus Shale Drilling. Also, to his credit, was the university's partnership with its neighbor Kings College to help revitalize downtown Wilkes-Barre with the opening of their joint Barnes and Noble Bookstore. Prior to his position as President with Wilkes University, Dr. Gilmour was an assistant professor of higher education, associate member of the graduate faculty and a senior research fellow at the University of Maryland College Park, associate director of academic affairs for the Council of State College and University Presidents for Washington State, university planning specialist in the Office of Budget and Planning at the Pennsylvania State University, vice president for strategic planning at Georgia Tech, and finally, provost and chief academic officer at Northwest Missouri State University from 1995 to 2000. In addition to his lengthy service in education, Dr. Gilmour serves on the board of the Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business and Industry, the Diamond City Partnership, United Way, Earth Conservancy and the Center for Advancing Partnerships in Education. His history of service to Northeastern Pennsylvania spans well beyond his impressive record of service to the university. Mr. Speaker, I honor Dr. Tim Gilmour for his dedicated service to our community in northeastern Pennsylvania, specifically his outstanding promotion of Wilkes University's educational goals.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor and acknowledge Father Thomas O'Hara for his 12 years of service as President of King's College, a liberal arts Catholic college located in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Father O'Hara fostered a strong sense of community throughout King's College. As a native of my own hometown of Hazleton, PA, he is the first alumnus president of King's College. Ordained in 1978 by the Congregation of Holy Cross, Father O'Hara first taught political science at King's College from 1988 to 1994. He now leaves the Presidency to return to the classroom as a political science professor. Under Father O'Hara's administration, King's College has achieved national accolades for its academic programs and service to the community. King's was recently recognized among the Nation's best in a ranking that stresses service to the community and social mobility of the student body. He has seen the College through tremendous physical growth as well, with the Scandlon Gymnasium expansion and the addition of the Alumni Hall, Gateway Corners and Barnes and Noble downtown bookstore, Kings has greatly increased the opportunities available to its students. Mr. Speaker, I recognize today a true Northeastern Pennsylvania inspiration who has dedicated his life to the service of others. Father O'Hara has admirably accomplished King's mission of preparing students for meaningful and purpose driven lives. I commend his important service to his community and his country.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, almost 7 months ago I stood in this Chamber and took the oath of office. It was one of the proudest days of my life. Since my swearing-in, we've worked together to change the direction of this country, and we've changed it for the better. We've cut Federal spending by $361 billion. We've repealed an unpopular and unwanted government health care plan. And we've started dialing back some of the overregulation that's been slowing our economic growth. During my short time here in Washington, I've heard some very passionate arguments, and I've seen some very heated debates. But they are nothing, Mr. Speaker, like the angry, confusing, misleading rhetoric I've heard in the last 2 weeks regarding the raising of the debt ceiling. Some media reports around the Capitol make it seem like we will never come to an agreement. Not only are Democrats and Republicans seemingly miles apart, but it appears as if both parties have splintered internally. The bickering is dividing our government. It's dividing the American people, and it's bringing us to the brink of financial disaster. Based on the calls my office has received over the past several days, my neighbors back in northeastern Pennsylvania want it to stop. They want a solution, and I'm sure every one of you and your neighbors back home do too. There is no such thing as the perfect deal. There is no such thing as complete and total victory. Many of us came here opposed to raising the debt ceiling. Many of us prefer the Cut, Cap and Balance approach. Many on the other side prefer a clean debt ceiling increase with no spending cuts. While the Budget Control Act is far from perfect, it accommodates the priorities of the people sitting on both sides of the table, both sides of the aisle, and both sides of the Capitol. If we, in this Chamber, if our friends in the other Chamber, or if the President holds out for the perfect plan, well, the United States will likely default on its obligations. As the responsible stewards of the people's government, we cannot let that happen. And I am confident that we will not let it happen. But we need to work together. We need to trust each other. We need to realize that the perfect deal is neither possible nor practical. We are at a critical moment in our history. This country has lived far beyond its means for far too long. The out-of-control spending has been going on in Washington for generations. Governments spent as if there were no tomorrow; and now we and our children and our grandchildren are left to pay the price. I know the debt ceiling has been raised before, to the benefit of both Republican and Democratic administrations. Well, I wasn't there then and I didn't create this mess, but I'm sure going to clean it up, and that's why I'm here. That's why the people of northeastern Pennsylvania sent me here. And while the thought of re-election should never, never enter anyone's mind when we're doing the people's business, let me say that this issue is far bigger than the next election. This issue is far bigger than one man or one branch of government or one political party. How we solve this looming crisis is the defining issue of this Congress. We can either continue on the path that we've been on, a path of reckless spending, of increasing taxes, of mounting debts and deficits; or we can change our direction. We can put the brakes on the out-of-control spending. We can forge a new direction, one of fiscal responsibility, one of capped spending, one of balanced budgets. We can send a message to the American people and to the world that the United States is getting its fiscal house in order. And if we do that, we can bring stability to the shaky global economy. We can reassure skeptical business owners and encourage them to create jobs. And we can create a better financial future for our children and our grandchildren. I believe our choice is clear. I ask my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, when you reach for your voting cards today, first take a glance at the pictures in your wallets, of your children and your grandchildren. We are not Republicans; we are not Democrats. We are Americans. Today, let's put the American people first.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor and acknowledge a local television personality and educator who has parlayed his regional fame and physical endurance into a community-wide fundraising effort for severely mentally and physically handicapped children in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Joe Snedeker was born at St. Joseph's Hospital in Carbondale, Pennsylvania, on February 19, 1966. At an early age, Joe showed an aptitude for science. After graduating from Millersville University, Joe got a teaching job at Carbondale Area High School. Between teaching; marrying his wife, Dawn; and raising three children, Joseph, Luke, and Aleah, Joe worked at a local television station on weekends. As a sign of his lifelong commitment to education and learning, Joe recently finished his master's degree in Biology/Environmental Science from East Stroudsburg University. In 1999, Joe was hired full-time at WNEP-TV. Over the last several years, hundreds of thousands of residents in Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania have tuned in to Joe to find out what the daily weather forecast would be. Joe not only provides the weather forecast, but he also seeks to educate viewers about basic scientific principles. Fourteen years ago, Joe, an avid cyclist, initiated an annual charity bike ride. For several days each summer, Joe pedals from location to location, raising money for severely mentally and physically handicapped children at St. Joseph's Center in Dunmore, Pennsylvania. Over the years, Joe has started his ride as far away from Northeastern Pennsylvania as Atlantic City, New Jersey; Plymouth Rock, Massachusetts; Cleveland, Ohio; and Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. Thousands of miles pedaled adds up to well over a million dollars raised--money that supports the outstanding work of the dedicated staff, administration, and volunteers at St. Joseph's Center, an independent Catholic agency sponsored by the Congregation of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary that strives to provide individuals and families who have special needs the opportunity to develop their abilities and potential to the fullest extent possible. Mr. Speaker, I commend Joe Snedeker for his charitable work on behalf of the mentally and physically handicapped children at St. Joseph's Center in Dunmore, Pennsylvania. Thousands of people--from the families of those children, to the staff and administration of the center, to Joe's devoted viewing audience--join me in congratulating him and wishing him many years of happy pedaling.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Chair, on rollcall No. 541, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no.'' Amendment No. 5 Offered by Mr. Lamborn

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor and acknowledge two Italian mayors who serve some of the most popular destinations in Italy: Dott. Antimo Silvestre, Mayor of Casandrino, Italy, and Dott. Antonio Di Brino, Mayor of Termoli, Italy. As an Italian-American and a former mayor of a Pennsylvania city rich in Italian culture, I believe it is important to recognize my counterparts in my family's native country. Located in southern Italy, Casandrino is part of the Greater Naples area, which has a population exceeding one million people. The Palace of Capodimonte, the Napolitan National Gallery, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro all surround the city center of Casandrino, attracting visitors from around Italy and the world. Casandrino remains at the center of Italy's culture of art, history, and commerce. Termoli has a rich history as a seaside village on the Adriatic coast of Italy. It is known for the purity of its waters and white, sandy beaches. Less developed and more historical than other seaside towns of Italy, Termoli features restored Romanesque architecture and many fine restaurants and resorts. Termoli humbly welcomes thousands of Italian and foreigners each year. Mr. Speaker, I commend the vital role mayors hold in our local communities. I understand that mayors face many similar challenges around the world, and I recognize my friends and colleagues Dott. Antimo Silvestre and Dott. Antonio Di Brino as distinguished leaders in their communities.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, our economy is stalled. Our unemployment rate is still way too high. Two-thirds of all small business owners say it's a bad time to expand. That's why it was important for me to spend part of last week meeting with local business and economic leaders in a Small Business Roundtable. We discussed how federal overregulation hampers business growth and expansion. We talked about legislative reform and the different needs of businesses and industries of various sizes. I spoke to the leaders of CAN DO, Greater Hazleton's economic development agency, which celebrated its 55th anniversary this year, and with the Columbia-Montour Chamber of Commerce. Everywhere I went, I spoke with business leaders who are in the trenches every single day. They understand how government impacts their companies. They see how high taxes and burdensome overregulation keep them from growing. One of the commitments I made to the people of northeastern Pennsylvania was that I would take their voices here to Washington with me. Mr. Speaker, the business leaders back home are crying out for relief. They're asking for us to get off their backs. They want to be able to grow, to expand, to buy more equipment, and to hire more workers. Roundtable talks are a way for me to stay in touch with groups of constituents who are experts in their fields, and to get their opinions about current and future regulations and legislation. The discussions we've had so far have been extremely helpful, and the free flow of ideas and comments between panel members is fantastic. Also last week, I convened an education roundtable to talk about fixing our broken system. Local educators and I discussed ways we can improve the synergy between educational programs, and how we can remove classroom hurdles and let teachers teach the workforce of the future. When I toured the manufacturing and research-and-development Schott North America's Advanced Optics and glass manufacturing facility in Duryea, Pennsylvania, I heard about their need for skilled workers. These are the kind of jobs we need in northeastern Pennsylvania and in the United States. We must make sure that educators are able to prepare young people for those jobs. One place that is working to prepare the workforce of tomorrow is the Career Technology Center of Lackawanna County in Scranton, a consortium of nine school districts in northeastern Pennsylvania that provides instruction in 26 career areas. I saw firsthand the instruction that is going on in the technology center, and I'm proud of the work they do for our young people. Of course, nowadays, our children face many hurdles on the road to their future. A serious and growing hurdle is the increasing amount of gang activity. I know northeastern Pennsylvania is about the last place anyone would think about when it comes to gangs, but national gangs are drawn to our quiet towns and our quality of life. Last week, I proudly co- hosted a gang awareness seminar with Pennsylvania Senator John Yudichak. We were privileged to welcome D. Darell Dones, supervisory special agent of the Behavioral Science Unit of the FBI, to the area. Agent Dones presented startling information about gangs and led a panel of experts who provided a frank assessment of local gang problems and potential gang solutions. Agent Dones noted that this cooperative effort--co-hosted by a Democratic state senator and a Republican congressman--was unlike any he'd seen in the country. But the most special moment for me was when I helped present a veteran with medals he earned more than 65 years ago. Hazleton resident George Puhak helped liberate the Philippines during World War II, but for some reason, this Army veteran never received all of the medals he was entitled to. Representatives from the Embassy of the Philippines made the trip from Washington to Hazleton to present Mr. Puhak with the medals he earned all those decades ago. It was an honor for me to participate in the presentation, which took place in front of some of Mr. Puhak's children and grandchildren. Mr. Puhak's courage--and the commitment and dedication shown by his fellow members of The Greatest Generation--should stand as a shining example for today's youth, for whom we are working so hard here in Washington.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart because Northeastern Pennsylvania has lost a truly great man. Earlier today, Charles D. ``Rusty'' Flack, Jr., passed away after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Rusty leaves behind his wife, Kathi Stine Flack; his eldest son and namesake, Chad; and twins Jamie and Alex. Rusty was only 56 years old. Rusty was a tremendous civic leader who tirelessly strived to ensure the organizations he treasured thrived. He directed a number of non- profit organizations and took many leadership roles in the community. He served as chairman of the board of Wyoming Seminary Preparatory School and the Luzerne Foundation. Previously, he served as chairman of the board of trustees at Misericordia University and Wyoming Valley Health System. Rusty was driven to serve his community, and he found his true calling by following in his father's footsteps as a pioneer in the business world. When his father, Charles D. Flack, Sr., died in 1979, Rusty and his brother, Hal, took charge of Diamond Manufacturing Co., a fourth-generation family-owned business that has manufactured and sold perforated metal, plastic, and other materials in West Wyoming, Pennsylvania, since 1915. Rusty and Hal rescued the company from financial difficulties and subsequently built it into the largest supplier of perforated metal in North America. The company's products are seen in industrial, architectural, and design applications around the world. The Flack brothers sold the company just last year, but they remained connected to the company, and Rusty stayed on as chief executive officer. On a personal note, I've had the privilege of knowing Rusty for almost a decade. He was a kind and generous man who loved his family, his community, and his business. I truly admire all that he was able to accomplish in both his personal and his professional lives. I am honored to have had an opportunity to know Rusty, and I will treasure his loyal friendship. Mr. Speaker, Rusty Flack served Northeastern Pennsylvania with distinction. He leaves a remarkable legacy as a businessman, a civic leader, a patriot, and a family man. Mr. Speaker, today, I ask my colleagues to join me in marking the passing of Charles D. ``Rusty'' Flack, Jr.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, 3 weeks ago Tuesday, a police chief in my district stopped a man for speeding. The driver was an illegal alien. He didn't speak English, so a translator was called. The man had been in the United States for 6 years. He had been arrested before. He had no job. He didn't know where he lived. He had $3,000 cash in his pockets, and he had two public benefit access cards. When the police chief called Immigration and Customs Enforcement, ICE said, ``Let him go.'' At a time when our Nation is broke and when programs for our elderly are being cut, ICE must not allow people like this to defraud the American taxpayers. Mr. Speaker, 3 weeks ago I asked ICE to explain this decision and put in writing the policy regarding the detention of illegal aliens found by local law enforcement. Why was this man let go? Three weeks later and I am still waiting. I demand an answer. My constituents deserve an answer, and millions of Americans deserve an answer. We're all still waiting.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, once again, I rise this morning to share with my colleagues in the House what my neighbors at home shared with me during the May Constituent Work Period. The week at home coincided with National Small Business Week. I was happy to meet with a number of small business owners. And I participated in the ribbon-cutting of the newest small business in my hometown of Hazleton--a little sandwich shop. Small businesses like that are the lifeblood of this country. More than 50 percent of Americans either work for or own a small business. And while big business usually gets the press, businesses with more than 100 employees make up less than one half of one percent of all of the businesses in the United States. I'm a former small business owner. My wife and I started a business with twenty-nine dollars and ninety-five cents. I know what it takes to grow a business. I know how burdensome overregulation and high taxes cripple small business owners and prevent them from expanding and hiring more people. We in Congress need to support businesses of all sizes. Back home, I toured the Packerton Yards, a brownfield site in Carbon County. Local economic developers hope to turn an abandoned railroad station into a 57-acre industrial park that would employ hundreds of people. Of course, one of the things we need to do to grow business in the future is to provide a skilled workforce. During my week at home, I was privileged to participate in the commencement exercises of about 1,000 students from King's College and Lackawanna College. Some of these students are just starting their professional careers. Some are adults who returned to college to improve their chances at a better career. All are to be commended for their hard work and dedication, and I know my neighbors back home join me in wishing them luck. I also had the chance to interact with future graduates at McCann School of Business and Technology in Lackawanna County, and with students who are making the most of their educational opportunity at the Keystone Job Corps Center in Drums, Luzerne County. It was inspiring to talk with them and hear about their hopes for the future. And as this Congress continues to debate the future of health care, I toured facilities in my district that help people suffering from the ravages of cancer and from autism. Both the Northeast Regional Oncology Center and the Friendship House of Lackawanna County provide compassionate care, and their employees are to be commended for their work. Finally, on May 17, thousands of people across Pennsylvania went to the polls and cast their votes for local and county races. I'd like to congratulate all those candidates who were successful in the primary election races, and I'd like to commend everyone who sought public office. As anyone in this Chamber can attest, running for office is not easy. It requires a tremendous amount of sacrifice, for the candidates and their families. Public service is a noble cause. It is the cornerstone of our democracy. And as we head into this Memorial Day weekend, we must remember that serving the public--and even voting itself--honor the memories of all those who died defending our freedom.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor and acknowledge Dr. Harmar Brereton, who is receiving the B'Nai B'Rith Amos Lodge No. 136 Americanism Award, one of the community's most prestigious public service awards. As a radiologist, Dr. Brereton has been committed to bringing great change to the medical community in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Dr. Brereton established the Department of Radiation Oncology at Mercy Hospital, and with his medical group, Radiation Medicine Associates of Scranton, and the development and management company he founded, Healthcare Management Resources Inc., he established several additional cancer centers in the region. His medical professional service includes the Lackawanna County Medical Society and Pennsylvania Oncology Society, having served as president of both; and the American College of Radiation Oncology, of which he is a founding chancellor. Dr. Brereton is a professor of medicine and assistant dean for development at The Commonwealth Medical College, which is committed to the future of medicine in Northeastern Pennsylvania. His service to our area reaches beyond the medical community. He has been an active member of the boards of the Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, the Scranton Area Foundation, the Northeast Regional Cancer Institute (founding chairman), the Countryside Conservancy, WVIA (chairman), the Keystone College Jazz Institute, and the Schemel Forum of the University of Scranton (founder). Dr. Brereton and his wife, Leslie, have two children and three grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, Dr. Harmar Brereton has served our community with distinction. His years of commitment to our area's medical and cultural development should be honored and respected. Mr. Speaker, today, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking Dr. Harmar Brereton for his dedication, and in recognizing his receiving of the B'Nai B'Rith Amos Lodge No. 136 Americanism Award.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, once again it is a privilege to rise this morning and share with my colleagues in the House what my neighbors at home shared with me during the last constituent work period. During those 2 weeks in April, I met with business and community leaders in Wilkes-Barre to see how they're working to keep their downtown alive and vibrant. For example, they converted an old storefront, right in the heart of the city, into a business incubator which encourages local entrepreneurs and start-up firms. The Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business and Industry is also trying to restore the city's Irem Temple, a local landmark that is a truly beautiful building, one of the last buildings of its kind in the United States. I toured an ongoing flood control project in the city of Scranton. There, the Army Corps of Engineers is working to make sure the flood walls meet new standards to protect thousands of residents and dozens of businesses. These constituents have been very patient, waiting decades for their relief. Now, the Corps of Engineers and the Federal Emergency Management Agency are finalizing plans that will provide the protection they deserve. About 200 people came out to my Home to House public forums, where they learned about the issues we're tackling here in Congress. I was eager to talk with them about Medicare reform and about the steps we're taking to cut the outrageous overspending. Most of my constituents understood what we're doing here, especially the senior citizens. They know that we're trying to save the future for their children and their grandchildren. Many of my constituents also told me they don't want us to raise the debt ceiling without securing substantial budget cuts. But everywhere I went, my neighbors asked me what we're doing here in Congress to lower the price of gas. Over the 2-week constituent work period, regular unleaded gas cost between $3.90 and $4 a gallon. People would come up to me at the gas station as I was filling up and tell me that we need to work harder here to solve this problem. I am happy to report that this week and last I voted on two bills that will put thousands of Americans back to work, while increasing American energy production to help address rising gasoline prices. There are two events in the constituent work period that stand out for me. One was speaking to a class of students at St. Jude's School in Mountain Top. These bright, eager young men and women were curious about what we do here in Congress. They asked insightful questions. They wanted to learn about Washington. They offered some insights on how to make their futures brighter. As I continue to examine education and workforce programs as a member of the House Education and the Workforce Committee, I will remember these students and their advice. The second event was the arrival of the Patriot Flag in my hometown of Hazleton. This giant symbol of the United States is traveling around the country to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. It was my privilege to stand on the steps of city hall and help first responders, law enforcement, Boy Scouts, and members of the military fold the Patriot Flag. Less than 36 hours later, we learned that Osama bin Laden was dead. The death of the most visible face of international terrorism is a historic event, and it is one that unified our country. My neighbors in the 11th District of Pennsylvania are proud to congratulate our brave men and women in our Armed Forces and intelligence services, and we thank all of them and their families for their continuing sacrifices. We also commend President Obama for taking bold action. The spontaneous celebrations after bin Laden's death in front of the White House, at Ground Zero in New York City, and all across the country once again remind us that there is more that unites us than divides us. We are all, at the core, proud Americans. If we can learn anything from recent events, it is that America is strong and resilient. If we stay dedicated to our efforts, we can get our country back on track. Fueled with the feedback I heard from my neighbors during 2 weeks at home in northeastern Pennsylvania, I am ready to keep fighting for them. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor and acknowledge the Victor Alfieri Society of Scranton, Pennsylvania, on its 100th anniversary. The Victor Alfieri Society was started by eight men in 1908, and it received its charter three years later. The Victor Alfieri Society was founded to help Italian immigrants become citizens of the United States while preserving their Italian heritage. The society did serve as a social club, but its primary mission was to help immigrants newly arrived in America. The Victor Alfieri Society has grown to include more than 600 members, and it boasts diverse membership and leadership. Originally a men-only club, the Victor Alfieri Society today counts both men and women as its members. Additionally, members of other ethnic groups have joined its ranks. The society is dedicated to helping the entire community while continuing to honor and spread Italian culture. Mr. Speaker, the Victor Alfieri Society has become a well-known place of fun, values, culture, and community outreach. What began as a small gathering place for Italian immigrants is now a large and vital part of Scranton, and it benefits countless residents. Mr. Speaker, today, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing and congratulating the Victor Alfieri Society's 100th anniversary.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor and acknowledge Lieutenant Colonel Michael Patrick Goyne, who is retiring from the United States Army Reserves after 29 years of active and reserve service. LTC Goyne was born in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Administration of Justice at the Pennsylvania State University. He then went on to earn his Master of Public Administration degree from Marywood University, and his Master of Science degree in Community Counseling from the University of Scranton. LTC Goyne has also attended many military schools, including Telecommunications Operator School, the Air Assault School, the Quatermaster Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, the Ordnance Officer Advanced Course, Combined Arms Services and Staff School, and Command and General Staff School. LTC Goyne's non-active duty has taken him across Pennsylvania. While serving on active duty, LTC Goyne was deployed to Saudi Arabia during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. For his second deployment, LTC Goyne served in Iraq as a part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. LTC Goyne has earned the Bronze Star (with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster), the Meritorious Service Medal (with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters), the Army Commendation Medal (with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters), the Army Achievement Medal (with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster), the Army Good Conduct Medal, the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal (with Silver Oak Leaf Cluster), the National Defense Service Medal (with 1 Bronze Service Star), the Armed Forces Reserve Medal (with Silver Hour Glass, M Device and number 2 numeral), the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Southwest Asia Service Medal (with 3 Bronze Service Stars), the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon (with number 3 numeral), the Army Reserve Components Overseas Training Ribbon, the Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia), the Kuwait Liberation Medal (Government of Kuwait), the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, the Meritorious Unit Commendation, the Combat Action Badge, and the Air Assault Badge. Mr. Speaker, Lieutenant Colonel Michael Patrick Goyne has served our country with distinction. His 29 years of commitment to protecting our freedom should be honored and respected. Mr. Speaker, today, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking Lieutenant Colonel Michael Patrick Goyne for his service, and in recognizing his retirement from the United States Army Reserves after 29 years of active and reserve service.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor and acknowledge Mr. and Mrs. John and Tina Dowd, recipients of the 2011 Volunteers of America Pennsylvania's Spirit of Youth award. The Spirit of Youth award is given to those who instill hope and belief in the advancement of all. Their support of the community and of Volunteers of America ranges from helping children to helping those who are young at heart. John and Tina Dowd exemplify these traits, and have used their own lives to help others. John Dowd grew up in Sunbury, Pennsylvania. He attended Shikellamy High School before studying engineering at the Pennsylvania State University. John is the president of Sundance Vacations, which he grew from one small office in Pocono Lake, Pennsylvania, into a national company that was named one of the Inc 500 fastest-growing companies two years in a row. As he grew his business, he also dedicated himself to giving back to his community. In addition to his work with Volunteers of America, John donates to the Luzerne Foundation and the Wyoming Valley Children's Association. His company sponsors local Little League and booster club sports teams, and he participates in many other local and national charitable causes. Tina Dowd co-founded Sundance Vacations with her husband, John. Tina is a graduate of Kutztown University of Pennsylvania. She has been an integral part of growing the business. In November 2010, Tina accepted the Employer of the Year Award at the seventh annual Stevie Awards for Women in Business. In addition to managing and training employees, Tina oversees all of the firm's communications. John and Tina spend a lot of time with their three daughters, but like her husband, Tina volunteers for many organizations. Tina serves as vice president of an organization serving homeless children and their families in Carbon County--an organization she helped found. She is a member of the Lehighton Area School District Board of Directors, the Community Action Council of Palmerton Area Churches, and the Luzerne Foundation Millennium Circle. She is a past board member of the Northeast Pennsylvania Better Business Bureau. Mr. Speaker, Mr. and Mrs. Dowd have not only grown a business that employs more than 700 people, but they have used their talents to give back to the community they love so much. Their philanthropic efforts and volunteerism have helped so many of our neighbors. John and Tina are extraordinary both as a couple and as individuals. Mr. Speaker, today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating John and Tina Dowd, recipients of this year's Volunteers of America Pennsylvania's Spirit of Youth award.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor and acknowledge Pat Stella, a recipient of the 2011 Volunteers of America Pennsylvania's Spirit of Youth award. The Spirit of Youth award is given to those who instill hope and belief in the advancement of all. Their support of the community and of Volunteers of America ranges from helping children to helping those who are young at heart. Pat has dedicated herself to doing just that through her business and volunteer efforts. Pat Stella is the owner and operator of 11 McDonald's restaurants throughout Luzerne, Carbon, Lackawanna, and Wayne counties in Pennsylvania. Growing up in Chicago, Pat's mother started working as a secretary in the McDonald's corporate office. Her family moved to Pennsylvania after selling everything they had to buy a McDonald's franchise. Pat, a former elementary school teacher, began working for McDonald's when her family opened a second restaurant more than 30 years ago. She became the owner-operator of the enterprise in 1980. Pat's work ethic and service has been recognized in many ways. In 2003, Pat received the McDonalds Street Fighter Award for her superior marketing and business sales. She has also received the Women Operators' Network 2003 Shining Star Award. Most notably, Pat earned the highest award a McDonald's owner can received, the Golden Arch Award. Pat not only dedicates herself to her work, but she also dedicates herself to her husband and three children, and to her community. In addition to working with Volunteers of America, Pat serves on the boards of the Pittston Chamber of Commerce and Scranton's Ronald McDonald House. She is a past member of McDonald's National Operators Advisory Board and its Steering Committee, and she has served as the co-chair of the Philadelphia McDonald's Owner/Operator Association. Mr. Speaker, Pat Stella's work ethic is not the only trait to make her stand out in our community. Pat's service to our area has touched many lives. Mr. Speaker, today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mrs. Pat Stella, a recipient of this year's Volunteers of America Pennsylvania's Spirit of Youth award.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I'm angry. This week, I drove down to Washington from my hometown of Hazleton--a commute I make each week. As I filled up my tank, I got angry. At home right now, gas prices average about $3.80 a gallon. That's almost a dollar a gallon more than just six months ago. In some parts of my district, gas is now at $4 a gallon. Mr. Speaker, I am angry. People back home are angry, and this Congress should be angry. For too long, Washington has been ignoring our nation's need for liquid fuel. Let's be completely honest: We need liquid fuel, and we will always need liquid fuel--in my lifetime, in my children's lifetimes, in my grandson's lifetime. So why isn't Washington doing anything to address that need? Alternative energy is fine. Solar power, wind power, even nuclear power--those are all well and good, but they're not going to move our nation's cars. They're not going to move our nation's trucks and trains. They're not going to keep our planes in the air. Why does every energy plan we have seem to downplay our need for liquid fuel--liquid fuel that can be and should be produced here at home? Instead, we rely on foreign sources for our liquid fuel. The United States may be the richest, most powerful nation in the world, but we ask other countries to provide the resources we need to power our factories, drive our vehicles, heat our homes, and live our lives. And when there is a problem virtually anywhere in the world, we pay for it here at the pump. We pay for it when we buy milk, bread and eggs. We pay for it when we pick up our kids at school. We pay for it when a police car patrols our neighborhoods. We pay for it when we go on vacation. So much of our economy is tied to the rise and fall of gas prices. And every single sign we see--the unrest in the Middle East, the economic tiger in the Far East, the coming seasonal spike in energy prices as Americans head into the summer vacation season--compels us to act. And what is Washington doing? Nothing. And that's what makes me--and the American people--so angry about this problem. It's not that we don't have the resources. We do. From the Arctic to the Gulf of Mexico, we have plenty of liquid fuel here in the United States. We also have plenty of other natural resources that can be used to free up liquid fuel to move our cars, trucks, trains, and planes. For example, in my home state of Pennsylvania, we have up to 500 trillion cubic feet of natural gas available in the Marcellus shale. In northeastern Pennsylvania, we're sitting on more natural gas than Saudi Arabia has oil! What's more, there's research that indicates there is another, deeper layer of different shale that can yield even more natural gas in the future. It's not that we don't have the innovators. We do. In and near my district, we have brilliant people figuring out ways to extract natural gas from Marcellus shale, and make our abundant coal cleaner, and turn that hard coal into liquid fuel. So what's the problem? To me, the answer is simple: Washington. At a time when gas prices are crushing our economy, we must use all the ways we can to provide people with some relief. Instead, we tie up liquid fuel producers in red tape. We need to cut that tape. We need to tap in to our nation's vast natural liquid fuel resources. And we must encourage innovation for new liquid fuel sources. Every day I come here, we talk about continuing resolutions and budgets and taxes and creating jobs. But absolutely nothing we can do right now will stimulate our economy as much as putting more gasoline, diesel, home heating oil, aviation fuel, and other liquid fuel into the market. What in the world is Washington waiting for?

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Thank you. Madam Speaker, I came here to be a responsible Representative and to fight for my constituents. I didn't come here to shut down the government. My district has the highest unemployment in the State. People are hurting. They look at the reckless spending in Washington, and they get angry. It's just this simple: They don't spend money they don't have. So why does Washington? This bill prevents Members of Congress and the President from getting paid if the government shuts down. I get it. The American people get it. Why doesn't Washington get it? It's something any business owner or logical individual anywhere in America can understand: If you don't work, you don't get paid. Maybe this just makes too much sense for Washington.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and acknowledge the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Slovak Catholic Federation in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. In 1911, the Slovak immigrant community in the United States was nearing the peak of its existence. Slovak Americans longed for religious communities of men and women who would evangelize and teach in the best traditions of the Cyrilo-Methodian heritage of their Catholic faith. On February 11, 1911, the Slovak Catholic Federation was founded by the Reverend Jozef Murgas, pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Slovak Church. Its establishment resulted from a meeting of bishops, priests, and lay people who wished to unify Slovak Catholics in the United States. The Zdruzenie Slovenskych Katolikov, as it is known in the Slovak language, was incorporated in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, on December 30, 1912. The story of the Slovak Catholic Federation can be seen in its list of accomplishments, and in the religious activities of its member societies and local chapters. Projects of the federation support various Catholic organizations and religious communities, and promote activities for young people. For most of its existence, the federation raised money to support Slovak refugees who were displaced by war and communist oppression, assisted religious communities and institutions seeking to rebuild after 70 years of communism, and worked to help establish the Pontifical College of Saints Cyril and Methodius in Rome, Italy, where priests from Slovakia can advance their theological studies. Over the last 100 years, the work of the federation has flourished. Local chapters were established in many Slovak parishes in northeastern Pennsylvania and across the country, with districts or regions coordinating the federation's work at the local level. Mr. Speaker, the Slovak Catholic Federation has performed numerous works of charity and religious outreach over 10 decades. It has positively affected countless Slovak Catholics both here and abroad. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring the Slovak Catholic Federation on the 100th anniversary of its founding, and I ask them to join me in wishing them many years of continued success.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to share with my colleagues in the House what my neighbors at home shared with me during the past constituent work week. Throughout the week I heard from small business owners, local officials, university leaders, teachers, students, Rotarians, and a Purple Heart National Guardsman about the issues facing Pennsylvania's 11th Congressional District. Although the voices were different, the message was the same. We need to get our economy back on track. Last week I spoke at the Rotary Club in my hometown of Hazleton about the debt crisis crippling our Nation. The Rotarians were engaged, attentive, and concerned about the spending habits of Washington. Madam Speaker, I let them know that we have a debt crisis in this country, not because Washington taxes too little, but because Washington spends too much. For far too long, the Federal Government has overspent, overtaxed, and over-borrowed. That stops now. If we are serious about our economic prosperity, we must cut wasteful spending in favor of investments proven to work. Last week I visited the SHINE 21st Century After-School Program at Panther Valley Elementary School in Nesquehoning. Located in 10 schools in Carbon and Schuylkill Counties, SHINE is a data-driven, rural education model designed to provide academic enrichment to at-risk students. I commend Jeanne Miller, Director of the SHINE Program, and Lehigh-Carbon Community College for partnering together to benefit pre-service teachers and, more importantly, some of our region's most deserving students. Like the D.C. Opportunity Scholarship Program, the SHINE model stands out as a program that works. As a member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, I will continue to examine how education at all levels is preparing students for careers. I was privileged last week to welcome Chairman Kline and the House Education and the Workforce Committee to Wilkes University in Wilkes-Barre for a field hearing on the role of higher education in job growth and development. Witnesses from Wilkes University, Empire Beauty School, Luzerne County Community College, and Lackawanna Junior College demonstrated firsthand how northeast Pennsylvania is taking strides to provide quality higher education. Additionally, Chairman Kline and I met with and read to a kindergarten class at Riverside Elementary East in Moosic. The reception we received from all of the students was unbelievable, and I couldn't be more appreciative of the students, teachers, and school administrators for putting such a fantastic visit together. Also, last week I welcomed Chairman Mica, Subcommittee Chairman Shuster, and the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to Scranton for a listening session on the future of our roads and infrastructure. The listening session helped me and other members of the committee gain a greater level of insight from local leaders with expertise and real world experience in transportation and infrastructure policy. During the listening session, we spoke about job creation, heard some examples of burdensome regulation, listened to ideas about cost-effective maintenance plans, and were briefed on public-private partnerships as new ways to build and repair Pennsylvania's roads and bridges. Madam Speaker, the challenges we face in our district are great, but they are not unique. My friends and neighbors in Pennsylvania's 11th Congressional District are hardworking people, and I will continue to bring their voices to Washington throughout the 112th Congress. Finally, Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to note that we're all here today, free to talk and debate, because of the brave men and women serving in our Armed Forces. I was humbled and honored this week to attend the Purple Heart medal presentation in Hazleton to Pennsylvania Army National Guard Sergeant First Class John Leonard. Sergeant Leonard was injured in an IED explosion in Iraq in February. It is men and women like Sergeant Leonard who make me proud to be standing freely in this House Chamber today.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, today I wish to acknowledge the accomplishments of Keenan Monks of Hazleton, who recently placed sixth in the 2011 Intel Science Talent Search, a national competition for high school seniors with exceptional promise in math and science. To earn sixth place, Keenan conducted research on a math equation that can help improve Internet security and cryptography. His work distinguished him from most of the 1,744 high school seniors who entered the talent search. In January, he was named one of 300 semifinalists, then he was chosen to be a finalist and compete here in Washington just a few weeks ago. Keenan is a 17-year-old student at Hazleton Area High School. He is captain of the cross-country and track and field teams. Keenan has been playing the piano for 12 years. He has won several piano competitions, has performed at Carnegie Hall, and enjoys sequencing music. Keenan has volunteered with the Great Pennsylvania Cleanup, helping remove trash from community roadways. Keenan also coauthored a paper published in Discrete Mathematics. Mr. Speaker, Keenan Monks is an extraordinary young man. He is a hard worker. He has an innovative mind and an eager spirit. He will no doubt continue to be a bright star in our community. Mr. Speaker, today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mr. Keenan Monks of Hazleton for winning sixth place in this year's Intel Science Talent Search.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor and acknowledge Mr. Lance O. Diehl of Millville being named the Columbia-Montour Council of the Boy Scouts of America's 2011 Distinguished Citizen. Mr. Diehl is a longtime resident of Northeastern Pennsylvania. He graduated from Millville High School in 1984, and graduated Magna Cum Laude from Bloomsburg University in 1988. In 1990, he earned his Master's Degree in Business Administration from Lehigh University, and in 1993, he graduated from the Stonier Graduate School of Banking. In the past, Mr. Diehl has served on the boards of the Bloomsburg Chapter of the American Red Cross, the United Way of Columbia County, and the Columbia-Montour Business & Educational Partnership. Currently, Mr. Diehl serves on the boards of the Millville Mutual Insurance Company, the Millville Community Alliance, and the Pennsylvania Bankers Association. He is vice chairman of the Columbia Alliance for Economic Growth, and the president and CEO of First Columbia Bank & Trust Co. and CCFNB Bancorp. Mr. Diehl has always been dedicated to his community. In 1995, Mr. Diehl was the co-chair of the Little Fishing Creek Swimming Pool Renovations. In 1999, he was the co-chair of the Columbia County United Way Campaign. Mr. Diehl has always enjoyed coaching the youth of our community. He has held coaching positions with Millville Boys Varsity Basketball, Millville Boys & Girls Junior High Basketball, Millville Boys and Girls Elementary Basketball, Little League, and AYSO Soccer. Mr. Diehl is an active member of Millville United Methodist Church, serving on various committees and acting as a Sunday School teacher. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Diehl has been an active and dedicated member of our community. He has taken a role as a humanitarian and mentor. His service has helped many of his neighbors and guided many of our youth. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Mr. Lance O. Diehl on being named the Columbia-Montour Council of the Boy Scouts of America's 2011 Distinguished Citizen.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor and acknowledge Major General James R. Joseph and congratulate him on his recent promotion to Assistant Adjutant General--Army, Pennsylvania, National Guard, Joint Force Headquarters, Pennsylvania. Mr. Joseph, or ``Jimmy Joe,'' as I know him, enlisted as a soldier in 1971 to begin his military career. He graduated from basic training at Fort Dix, New Jersey, and obtained his advanced individual training as a military policeman at Fort Gordon, Georgia. General Joseph completed a tour of duty in Vietnam, where he was assigned to the 716th Military Police Battalion. He finished his active duty tour at Fort Polk, Louisiana, with the 258th Military Police Company. But General Joseph did not stop serving our country. He joined the Pennsylvania Army National Guard in 1974 and was assigned to be a combat engineer with Company C, 876th Engineer Battalion. Currently, General Joseph serves as the primary advisor to the Adjutant General for all joint logistics matters, including commodity and material management, property and personnel movement, storage and distribution, and defense movement coordination, including the acquisition and sustainment of unique equipment used by National Guard units in homeland defense, civil support, and counterdrug operations. He has oversight of the Eastern Army Aviation Training Site, 166th Regional Training Institute, and the Medical Battalion Training Site. Mr. Speaker, General Joseph has dedicated his life to serving our country. His family has made sacrifices as he committed himself to protecting our freedom and keeping our citizens safe. His courage and commitment is something to be greatly respected and honored. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to congratulate my friend, ``Jimmy Joe,'' and I ask my colleagues to stand with me in honoring Major General James R. Joseph for his greatly deserved promotion to Assistant Adjutant General of the Pennsylvania Army National Guard.

Mr. BARLETTA

Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor and acknowledge Mr. Bob Morgan, this year's recipient of the Greater Wilkes-Barre Friendly Sons of St. Patrick's Man of the Year Award. Mr. Morgan was born in Carbondale, PA. He graduated from Wyoming Valley West High School and King's College. Bob is currently employed as a Financial Advisor, Assistant Vice President with PNC Investments where he specializes in providing advice on asset/liability management, retirement and wealth transfer needs for clients of the Kingston and Edwardsville branch offices of PNC. Bob and his wife, Marcella, have two children. Bob is currently beginning his 13th term as the Treasurer for the Greater Wilkes-Barre Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. Bob has also served as President of the Society, on the Awards Committee, and on the Planning Committee for the Friendly Sons Annual Golf Tournament. Bob is a Past President, Vice President, and member of the Board of Trustees of the Wyoming Valley Serra Club. He is also a member of the St. Conrad's Young Men's Society, Plymouth Council 984 Knights of Columbus, and Bishop Hafey Assembly Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus. Bob currently serves as an officer of the Holy Redeemer Football Parents Club, and he and his wife, Marcella, served as Chairpersons of the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction in 2007 and 2008. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Morgan has dedicated himself to serving our community. His avid volunteerism has helped many of his neighbors, and his continued mission to stand up for his fellow citizens should be admired. Mr. Speaker, today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mr. Bob Morgan on receiving this year's Greater Wilkes- Barre Friendly Son's of St. Patrick's Man of the Year Award.