Michael Castle

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I thought somebody who's not from North Carolina should say something nice about North Carolina basketball in North Carolina, and I have a full statement, which I will submit. But I just want to congratulate the team and the university. And it's happened a lot before. We all know the excellence of North Carolina basketball. This is their sixth national title. Roy Williams has won twice now in his 6th year in coaching the team, improving to 594 wins and 138 losses in 21 seasons as a head coach, which gives him the highest winning percentage of any active coach in men's basketball. The individual players who are graduating this year excelled, obviously, and they deserve a tremendous amount of credit. Junior Wayne Ellington was the Most Outstanding Player. He, too, deserves a great deal of credit. And to our friends from North Carolina, I also recognize the academics of the institution and the great work which they have done not only for the State of North Carolina but other States such as my State of Delaware and other places that the North Carolina graduates have gone. North Carolina is in its third century. It has 71 bachelor's, 107 master's, 74 doctorate, and four professional degree programs, and they're all very important for the future of North Carolina and for America. So we offer our congratulations to the entire University of North Carolina, to their athletic department as well as the basketball team, and obviously the academic school for all the great work which they have done. They are a shining example for the rest of us in this country. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, I had yielded back the balance of my time, but the distinguished gentleman from Kentucky has arrived and would like 2 minutes. I ask unanimous consent to yield him 2 minutes.

Mr. CASTLE. Before he starts, I am just surprised that the gentleman from North Carolina didn't object to somebody representing Kentucky basketball speaking, but Mr. Rogers is a distinguished gentleman. I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Rogers).

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, I urge everybody to support this resolution, and I yield back the balance of our time.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 396, the resolution honoring the first graduating class of the University of California, Merced. Opening on September 5, 2005, the University of California, Merced became the 10th campus in the University of California system and was founded with a mission to increase college-going rates among students in the San Joaquin Valley. San Joaquin Valley was California's largest and most populous region without a UC campus before the founding of UCM. With a total of just over 2,500 students currently, UCM is expected to grow to about 25,000 students within the next 30 years. UCM charges just over $8,000 in tuition and fees; 75 percent of UCM's students receive financial aid; 42 percent of the student population are eligible for Pell Grants. UCM offers 18 undergraduate majors and nine areas of emphasis for graduate students through their three schools, the School of Engineering, the School of Natural Sciences, and the School of Social Sciences, Humanities, and Arts. It also has plans to open a School of Medicine and a School of Management in upcoming years. I offer my heartfelt congratulations to the 518 students who have persisted over the past 4 years and will walk across the stage to receive their degree, in acknowledgement of all their hard work, next week. I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate all of the young individuals who are graduating with their degrees from all of our country's institutions of higher learning. For all these reasons, I encourage my colleagues to vote in favor of this resolution. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, we have no further speakers at this time. I encouraging everybody to support the resolution, and I yield back the balance of our time.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize Bruce Thompson for his recent promotion to the rank of Brigadier General. Through years of relentless hard work and determination, General Thompson ascended to Brigadier General, a rank that only a few will obtain in their lifetime. I am proud that this man serves the state of Delaware, as well as the United States of America. A native of Westchester, Pennsylvania, General Thompson's military career began when he received his commission through the Air National Guard Academy of Military Science in 1980. He quickly earned his pilot wings a year later, and became an Instructor and Standardization/ Evaluation Pilot for the C-130 Aircraft with 32 combat sorties and 197 combat support sorties. He served as the 166th Airlift Wing Commander and is a veteran of Operations Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Noble Eagle, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. General Thompson is a command pilot with over 4,500 hours in the C-130A, C-130H2, T-37 and T- 38. During his service thus far, General Thompson has earned numerous awards and decorations, including the Legion of Merit and the National Defense Service Medal. I fully expect that he will continue to earn awards and citations under his new rank. I commend Bruce Thompson upon receiving this great honor and for his years of extraordinary service and countless contributions to the Delaware Air National Guard. General Thompson is an exemplary citizen, and on behalf of all Delawareans I would like to thank him and his family for the many sacrifices they have made during the past twenty- nine years. His promotion to the rank of Brigadier General is an appropriate milestone in a truly remarkable career.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize Ms. Madison Devon Dodge for her efforts in the fight against diabetes and her profound impact on the lives of thousands of individuals who suffer from the disease. From May 2 to 5, 2009, Madison Dodge will be honored here, in Washington, D.C., at the 14th Annual Prudential Spirit of Community Awards. I find Madison's accomplishments over the last eight years, although she is only thirteen years old, beyond extraordinary. She has raised in excess of $40,000 for diabetes research and treatment since she began volunteering in 2001. I am confident that she will not only continue to raise money to fight diabetes, but more importantly, that she will continue to bring hope to those suffering from diabetes and impact their individual lives in meaningful ways. To promote her fight against diabetes, Madison familiarized herself with Washington D.C. at an early age. She has met with numerous congressman and senators to keep them informed about the challenges associated with this debilitating disease. She also holds the distinct honor of being named a two-time Delaware delegate to the Call to Congress program. Additionally, Madison was invited to attend a recent House Education and Labor Committee hearing entitled Renewing America through National Service and Volunteerism to discuss and examine the importance of national service in meeting some of our country's critical economic needs, at which I had the opportunity to highlight her volunteer work. In Delaware, she takes part in several fundraisers every year such as her biannual Skate 4 A Cure, Dinners for Diabetes, and other events including raffles and craft sales. It is inspiring to see that such a young lady can be so passionate about this worthy cause and demonstrate her passion so vigorously on a daily basis. As the co- chair of the Congressional Diabetes Caucus, I personally understand how important her mission is to Members of Congress, as well the countless families impacted by diabetes. I would like to thank Ms. Madison Dodge for her years of service to the men and women suffering from diabetes, as well as our greater community here in the State Delaware. I am confident that her Prudential Spirit of Community Award will only inspire her to help more people and strengthen her resolve in the fight against diabetes.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize Ms. Amy Liu for establishing the Sichuan Earthquake Relief Fund and raising over $43,000 to aid victims of the earthquake that struck south-central China in May 2008. From May 2 to 5, 2009, Amy Liu will be honored here, in Washington, D.C., at the 14th Annual Prudential Spirit of Community Awards. The efforts of Ms. Liu in her attempt to aid those devastated by the disaster in China are remarkable in and of themselves. Amy founded, organized, and led a month long fundraising effort that sent more than $20,000 directly to the Chinese Red Cross, where it was redistributed for disaster relief and rebuilding. I find Amy's accomplishments in this situation to be absolutely extraordinary. Not only did she raise an incredible amount of money to help people in dire need, she served as an exemplary role model for her peers in the process. Ms. Liu has also volunteered at the First State Chinese School, the A.I. DuPont Hospital, the Brandywine Hundred Library, and the Stand Up for What is Right and Just program. In addition, Amy was a guest of mine at a recent House Education and Labor Committee hearing entitled Renewing America through National Service and Volunteerism to discuss and examine the importance of national service in meeting some of our country's critical economic needs. At the hearing, I had the opportunity to highlight Amy's exemplary community service. I am confident that Amy will not only continue to volunteer and serve the Delaware community and people in need, but more importantly, that she will continue to impact individual's lives in profound and meaningful ways. I would like to thank Ms. Amy Liu for her service to the men and women who suffered in China after the May 2008 earthquake, as well as for her continual service within our greater community in the State of Delaware. I am confident that her Prudential Spirit of Community Award will only inspire her further to help more people and act as an even larger and more prominent role model for the young and old in our community.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise in support of the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act, H.R. 1913. This legislation will provide needed assistance to State and local law enforcement agencies, and it will make changes to Federal law to facilitate the investigation and prosecution of violent, biased- motivated crimes against people for no other reason than their perceived or actual race, religion, natural origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or disability. We must work together to protect all Americans from hate-motivated violence, which is alarmingly prevalent and so often goes unreported. Such crimes of hate have dramatic impacts on individuals, families and communities, and they must be subject to comprehensive Federal law enforcement assistance and prosecution. While State and local governments will maintain principal responsibility, an expanded Federal role will help ensure the investigation and prosecution of serious forms of hate crimes in cases when local authorities are either unable or are unwilling to do so. Concerns have been raised that the measure will impinge free speech. I would like to reiterate that H.R. 1913 applies only to biased- motivated, violent crimes, violent actions that result in death or bodily injury. It does not restrict speech in any way. In fact, the bill explicitly states, ``Nothing in this act or the amendments made by this act shall be construed to prohibit any expressive conduct protected from legal prohibition by, or any activities protected by the free speech or free exercise clause of, the First Amendment to the Constitution.'' H.R. 1913 is supported by virtually every major law enforcement organization in the country as well as by civil rights, education, religious, and civic organizations. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act today.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to the Delaware Autism Program as it celebrates its 30th anniversary in the State of Delaware. The Delaware Autism Program currently serves approximately 700 students statewide in six approved centers and operates at more than 30 community-based sites with the support of more than 400 staff members. Designed in 1978 through the collaboration of state legislators and parents of children with autism, the Delaware Autism Program (DAP) offers valuable services to both students and families. DAP seeks, in its core components, to provide access to respite for parents of children with autism, residential support through the public school system, and community and vocational training and support. Along with the dedication to providing students with the best educational services in the nation, these have established DAP as a significant and invaluable resource for Delaware's Autism community Since its inception, DAP has been a leader in autism education. The development of the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), an educational tool now recognized worldwide for its initiation component of communication, was pioneered at DAP in 1985. The Brennen School in Newark, along with other DAP sites, has proven itself a leader in the implementation of evidence-based best practices in education for students with autism, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) interventions. Over the past 30 years, DAP has continued to grow and expand; in the past decade alone, the number of school districts hosting the program and the number of students and staff have doubled. With a continuum of educational settings ranging from separate schools, to community-based preschools, to inclusive settings in general education classrooms, the Delaware Autism Program has done and continues to do our great state of Delaware an immeasurable service. On this 30th Anniversary, I would like to recognize the unequaled devotion of the Delaware Autism Program staff and the ongoing support of their parent community and host districts. Since 1978, DAP staff have given their time, their energy, and their hearts in the support and education of students and their families. I commend the Delaware Autism Program for its tireless dedication and I look forward to its continued success in serving this special group of students and their families.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to the Knights of Columbus ``Christopher Council'' (Council #3182) as they celebrate their 60th anniversary of service to the Church and Community in the State of Delaware. The Knights of Columbus exists throughout the United States, providing valuable services to their communities that would otherwise be left undone. For over 125 years, the organization has dedicated time, money, energy, and service to the sick, disabled, and anyone in need of help through a variety of programs. During the last sixty years, the Christopher Council has gone above and beyond its call of duty and provided an extraordinary amount of service to our local community. I commend them for their efforts. This Council's work here extends to a variety of organizations and interests, as the members have continually sought to help others indiscriminately since the inception of its charter on September 29, 1948. Most recently, this Council has given major support to the St. Helena and Holy Rosary Parishes and Schools by actively supporting their annual carnivals and by sponsoring scholarships. Furthermore, the Christopher Council regularly offers numerous services to the Claymont and Wilmington area outreach programs as well as Claymont's annual Community Pride Festival and their yearly Christmas parade. Additionally, this organization assists the Cub Scouts, the Little Sisters of the Poor, and the Special Olympics, among other worthy organizations. They act as a leader within their own great institution by hosting our statewide Knights of Columbus summer picnic each year. Once again, I am proud to recognize the Knights of Columbus Christopher Council for the profound impact they have made on our community. I am confident that they will continue to build on their accomplishments and strengthen their organization while improving our community even further. I wish them all the very best for the future.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the House Republican standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding funding the House Appropriations Committee appropriated for the following national projects my colleagues and I requested as part of FY 2009 Omnibus Appropriations Act, H.R. 1105: Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Fund for the Improvement of Education, Innovation and Improvement Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Reach Out and Read Address of Requesting Entity: 56 Roland Street, Suite 100D, Boston, MA 02129-1243 Description of Request: $4,965,000 for the Reach Out and Read Program, authorized under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act to make literacy programs a standard part of pediatric primary care, trains doctors and nurses to train parents, and helps families and communities encourage early literacy skills. Specifically, this funding will be used to ensure that all children and families receive the support and assistance they need to develop these skills and children are prepared to start kindergarten ready to learn. I support the funding of this nation-wide program and note that Delaware does not benefit more from this funding more than any other state. Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Fund for the Improvement of Education, Innovation and Improvement Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Teach for America Address of Requesting Entity: 315 West 36th Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10018 Description of Request: $14,895,000 for the Teach for America Program, authorized under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act to provide for recruiting, selecting, training, and supporting a national teacher corps in underserved communities. I support the funding of this nation-wide program and note that Delaware does not benefit more from this funding more than any other state. Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Fund for the Improvement of Education, Safe Schools and Citizenship Education Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Center for Civic Education Address of Requesting Entity: 5145 Douglas Fir Road, Calabasas, CA 91302-1440 Description of Request: $25,095,000 for Center for Civic Education's We the People Program and Cooperative Education Exchange Program, authorized under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act as part of the Civic Education Program to support programs which represent the federal government's most effective means of educating American students about the fundamental ideals of our nation and to assist emerging democracies in establishing a political culture supportive of democratic values, principles, and institutions. I support the funding of this nation-wide program and note that Delaware does not benefit more from this funding more than any other state. Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Fund for the Improvement of Education, Safe Schools and Citizenship Education Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Center for Civic Education Address of Requesting Entity: 5145 Douglas Fir Road, Calabasas, CA 91302-1440 Description of Request: $5,019,000 for Center for Civic Education's National Council of Economic Education for cooperative Education Exchange Program, authorized under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act as part of the Civic Education Program to support programs which represent the federal government's most effective means of educating American students about the fundamental ideals of our nation and to assist emerging democracies in establishing a political culture supportive of democratic values, principles, and institutions. I support the funding of this nation-wide program and note that Delaware does not benefit more from this funding more than any other state.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize the Clayton Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary upon the celebration of their 50th anniversary in the State of Delaware. The auxiliary's first meeting was on March 13, 1959, when members of both the Kent County Ladies Auxiliary and the Smyrna Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary were present to answer questions and explain the procedures behind founding an auxiliary. At this meeting, Jeri Hurlock was elected as the auxiliary's first president. It was then decided that Mrs. Hurlock, Mrs. Ethel Donaway, Mrs. Ann Dickerson, and Mrs. Julia Mast would meet and write the first constitution and by-laws. The next meeting, held on April 6, 1959, established a canteen committee to provide food and refreshment for the firemen while they were out fighting fires. With the appointment of this committee, the auxiliary began its now long-standing tradition of dedicating its time and effort in support of the Clayton Fire Company. Through fundraisers such as fashion shows and concession stands, the women were able to repay the Clayton Fire Company, which had provided the initial loan to establish the auxiliary. Over the past five decades, the auxiliary has successfully continued to raise funds to benefit both the fire company and the town of Clayton. A junior program for 16 to 18-year-olds was created in 1973, and today, membership in the Clayton Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary has grown to over 70 women, including 35 life members. On this 50th Anniversary, I would like to recognize the unequaled devotion of the Clayton Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary. Since 1959, the women of the auxiliary have volunteered their time, their energy, and their hearts in support of the Clayton Fire Company and its surrounding community. I commend them for their tireless dedication and immeasurable contributions, and I wish them all the best on this momentous anniversary.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Speaker, I have followed all of the discussion, and I understand the first vote is an instrumental vote and it actually does something. This particular resolution I don't understand at all. Essentially, as I see it, it is a cover-up vote for the administration saying they did everything right. I don't disagree that there were problems in the previous administration. There are problems in this administration with all of this. There are a lot of problems in Congress, and perhaps with AIG. But to suggest that this administration has done everything correctly is just not accurate. It was Mr. Geithner, after all, when he was the head of the New York Federal Reserve and made the first payment to AIG in which they received most of the stock of AIG who was involved from that point on. It was his people who were involved from that point on. There were discussions recently in the stimulus package about who actually took out the language with respect to allowing these bonuses to take place because there was language apparently put in by the Senate that would have prohibited that. And again, the White House was apparently involved in that. Then there were discussions as to when everybody knew about this. And Mr. Geithner apparently indicated that he was informed I guess late last week and then informed the President. And yet we heard from Mr. Liddy at AIG that the Federal Reserve was involved with this from the beginning and knew about it from the beginning, and he assumed probably shared that information with Treasury. Either way, you are talking about the administration. Individuals either did know or should have known, and to absolve the administration of fault is just wrong. And whether we vote ``yes'' or ``no'' on the previous bill, in my judgment everybody should vote ``no'' on this legislation. It is just not proper. I am not even sure why we are trying to consider it today, but it is not proper. It is not accurate. The bottom line is it should have a ``no'' vote.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. I thank the gentleman from Kentucky for yielding, and I would like to thank both of the speakers, Ms. Woolsey and the gentleman from Kentucky, for rationally explaining a program not many people understand. Mr. Speaker, I did have the opportunity and the pleasure of serving on NAGB, the National Assessment Governing Board, for several years when I was Governor of Delaware, and it was not easy work, by the way. I would call it a pleasure, but it involves a lot of difficult meetings, discussion of testing or whatever it may be. But the bottom line is that they do put together the National Assessment of Educational Progress, the NAEP tests, which are given universally as far as the States are concerned, in our country, and are as good a measuring device as we have to the progress of education from year to year. Some of this is quite voluntary, but all States participate in it in grades 4, 8 through 12, particularly in the reading and the math areas, and we can determine that we have done somewhat better, perhaps a lot better from year to year, as we look at these tests. I can tell you that those 26 people, who change from time to time and come from a variety of different backgrounds, are all very dedicated to the concept of making this very apolitical, of making it so that it's a fair standard in tests for all those who are going to take it, and making sure that all the reporting requirements are met in a proper way. This goes through the Secretary of Education and is reported by them, and I think they would do a wonderful job with this. This is, to me, a very important measuring stick. While congratulatory resolutions may not be the most important thing we do in the Congress of the United States, I think recognizing an entity such as this, which is independent of us and independent of the White House, for all that matters, and deals with preparing this kind of reporting, this kind of background for the testing, is a very significant thing to do to make sure that they are being honored for an achievement which I think has been very helpful in terms of dealing with education. All of us deal with education policy on a regular basis. We know how important it is to understand that what we are doing is perhaps a step, a small step or a large step in the right direction, and I think that the NAEP tests do that. For that reason I would hope that we could all support this resolution. Again, I thank those who spoke on the floor for their very thorough and excellent explanations of what NAGB does and what NAEP is all about.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to Fred Sears, II. In a state with many ``firsts'' in its history, I am proud of the fact that Fred Sears will be the first recipient of the ``Goldey-Beacom College Ethics in Business Award.'' As a native of Delaware, Fred's career in the banking industry spanned 38 years and culminated with his serving as President of Commerce Bank. Since 2003, Fred has served as President and CEO of the Delaware Community Foundation where he oversees the management of 900 funds with more than $230 million in assets and the distribution of $15 million in grants annually. These charitable funds benefit all of us in Delaware. However, Fred's leadership at the Delaware Community Foundation is only a small glimpse of the impact he has had on our community. He has served on at least 56 boards, clubs or organizations over the past five decades. His leadership, guidance, counsel and support are sought by government entities, non-profits, sports programs, community groups, educational institutions, and businesses. His willingness to help others has no limit and we are all forever appreciative of what he has done to make our state a better place for everyone. Leaders like Fred Sears come along once every couple of generations. His integrity and ethics are unsurpassed and he is a great example for others to follow. This is not the first time Fred has been honored or recognized for his good deeds. In 1977 the Wilmington Junior Chamber of Commerce presented him with the Young Man of the Year Award. Since then Fred has been recognized by the Boy Scouts of America, the Wilmington Rotary Club, the United Negro College Fund, the NCCJ, and the Opportunity Center, Inc. Each time, these community organizations recognized Fred for his leadership and willingness to assist others. I have known Fred for many, many years and I am most proud of being able to call him my friend. Individuals like Fred Sears bring about positive change, and when a small state like Delaware finds someone like him it allows us to show a nation how people working together can make the world a better place. I congratulate Fred on receiving the first ever ``Goldey-Beacom College Ethics in Business Award'' and thank him for his extraordinary service to Delaware.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the House Republican standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding funding for Delaware included as part of FY 2009 Omnibus Appropriations Act, H.R. 1105: Division A--Agriculture, Rural Development, FDA, and Related Agencies Name of Project: Agriculture Compliance Laboratory Equipment, Delaware Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Delaware Department of Agriculture Address of Requesting Entity: Tatnall Building, William Penn Street, Dover, DE, 19901 Account: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Salaries and Expenses Description of Request: $69,000 for the Delaware Department of Agriculture to upgrade the equipment and facilities in the lab needed to provide a safe testing environment with its own ventilation system and a high-capacity incinerator to reduce the risk of zoonotic diseases from animals spreading to workers in the facility. Division B--Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Name of Project: For Preliminary Engineering Assessments before Message Switcher Upgrades Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Delaware State Police Department Address of Requesting Entity: Tatnall Building, William Penn Street, Dover, DE, 19901 Account: COPS Law Enforcement Technology Description of Request: $100,000 to update Delaware's Message Switcher hardware, which connects Delaware law enforcement to federal agencies so that they may receive critical information useful for fighting crime. Name of Project: For the purchase and installation of In-Car Cameras and Related Equipment Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: The Delaware State Police Department Address of Requesting Entity: Tatnall Building, William Penn Street, Dover, DE, 19901 Account: COPS Law Enforcement Technology Description of Request: $500,000 will be used for the purchase of 300 digital cameras and associated computer equipment to be placed in all Delaware State Police vehicles. Name of Project: For the purchase of a Mobile Gunshot Locator System Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: State of Delaware Address of Requesting Entity: 303 Transportation Circle, Dover, DE, 19901 Account: COPS Law Enforcement Technology Description of Request: $250,000 will be used to purchase the ShotSpotter Gunshot Location System (GLS) for the City of Wilmington, City of Dover, and the Delaware State Police. The amount of deaths resulting from gunfire continues to be the single leading cause of crime-related death in the United States, and Delaware has experienced numerous gun crimes. A 60-90 percent decrease in gunfire has occurred in other states who have utilized ShotSpotter. This system will place sensors at specific coordinates to accurately detect and locate the origin of gunshots, which can help lead law enforcement to apprehend criminals with that information. Implementing ShotSpotter in Wilmington and Dover, and having a non-fixed movable system will assist Delaware law enforcement in fighting against crime. Name of Project: For Programs to increase the Efficiency and Effectiveness of License Plate Scanning Technology for Law Enforcement Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: New Castle County Address of Requesting Entity: 3601 North DuPont Highway, New Castle, DE 19720 Account: COPS Law Enforcement Technology Description of Request: $200,000 will be used to upgrade the wireless data throughput and mobile data terminals (MDTs) and implement an Automated License Plate Recognition System (ALPR) so that officers will more efficiently be able to access data in the field and adequately address vehicle theft. Name of Project: To Provide Service Intervention to Girls Ages 12-18 (DE Girl's Wraparound Project) Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Children and Families First Address of Requesting Entity: 2005 Baynard Boulevard, Wilmington, DE 19802 Account: OJP--Juvenile Justice Description of Request: $400,000 for providing intensive home-based counseling and case management to girls ages 12-18 who have been incarcerated or are at immediate risk of incarceration. Children and Families First is a not for profit social service agency that developed in Delaware in 1992. The Girls Wraparound Program uses research-based tactics to prevent recidivism in youth with histories of juvenile delinquency. The goal of this six month program will be to not only eliminate involvement in the juvenile justice system, but also improve family functioning, and improve personal strengths to assist the girls in succeeding in school and the workforce. Name of Project: For the Purchase of Video Surveillance Cameras in the Downtown Area Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Newark, Delaware, Police Department Address of Requesting Entity: 220 Elkton Road, Newark, DE 19711 Account: COPS Law Enforcement Technology Description of Request: $115,420 to provide eight digital surveillance cameras in the downtown Newark area to assist in crime prevention, detection, and the identification of suspects. This large population, that is concentrated in a small area, would benefit from this surveillance program which will prevent and help catch criminals involved in street crimes and robberies. Similar surveillance programs have been implemented in other cities around the state of Delaware and have experienced tremendous success. Name of Project: To Create a Community Model for Formal and Informal Earth and Space Education Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Delaware AeroSpace Education Foundation Address of Requesting Entity: 5 Essex Drive, Bear, DE 19701 Account: National Aeronautics and Space Administration Description of Request: $500,000 to create a community model for formal and informal Earth and Space Education using two unique outdoor exhibits as a focal point for school programming, professional development and public outreach. The goal of this project is to provide schools and the general public with an inquiry-based, interdisciplinary framework of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) learning experiences. Name of Project: To Test and Evaluate Mobile Crime Scene and Evidence Tracking Application Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Delaware State University (DSU) Address of Requesting Entity: 1200 North Dupont Highway, Dover, DE, 19901 Account: COPS Law Enforcement Technology Description of Request: $2,000,000 to test the efficacy of day to day crime scene investigatory capabilities to allow greater effectiveness of law enforcement. DSU developed a Mobile Crime Scene and Evidence Tracking Pilot Project in close cooperation with State of Delaware's Department of Safety and Homeland Security, and state and local law enforcement agencies. Name of Project: To Expand Services to At-Risk Students in Middle and High School Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Jobs for Delaware Graduates (JDG), Inc. Address of Requesting Entity: 381 W. North Street Dover, Delaware 19904 Account: OJP--Juvenile Justice Description of Request: $1,353,000 will be used to expand Jobs for Delaware Graduates (JDG) programs to ``at-risk'' students in Middle School and High School and increase school graduation rates. JDG was organized in 1979 as a private, non-profit corporations designed to prepare highly at-risk seniors to transition from school to work. JDG targets students who may be economically disadvantaged, lack job skills, display poor academic performance, have personal or family problems, or have disciplinary problems and works with these children daily to keep them on the right track. During the 2006-2007 school year JDG served a total of 2,322 students. Funding will help JDG expand services to 1,320 additional students; implement a middle school program for grades 7th and 8th; and increase the graduation rates for at-risk high school students. Name of Project: To Continue a Statewide Survey of Youth that Provides Estimates of Student Substance Abuse, Crime, and Gambling Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: University of Delaware, Center for Drug & Alcohol Studies Address of Requesting Entity: 210 Hullihen Hall, Newark, DE 19716 Account: OJP--Juvenile Justice Description of Request: $65,000 will be used to supplement the Delaware School Survey Project to provide special analysis of juvenile substance use, violence, and delinquency. Name of Project: Delaware River Enhanced Flood Warning System Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: NOAA-Operations, Research and Facilities Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) Address of Requesting Entity: 25 State Police Drive, West Trenton, New Jersey Description of Request: $235,000 to the Delaware River Basin Commission for the Delaware River Enhanced Flood Warning System. Funding for this project will be used to assist the DRBC, in conjunction with NOAA/NWS, USGS and the Army Corps of Engineers, with the enhancement of the basin's flood warning system. Division C--Energy and Water Development Name of Project: Red Clay Creek, Christina River Watershed, DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Army Corps, Investigations Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Address of Requesting Entity: 100 Penn Square East, Philadelphia, PA 19107 Description of Request: $287,000 for flood damage reduction, ecosystem restoration, water quality control, and other related purposes at Red Clay Creek. Name of Project: White Clay Creek, New Castle, DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Army Corps, Investigations, Flood Plain Management Services Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Address of Requesting Entity: 100 Penn Square East, Philadelphia, PA 19107 Description of Request: $200,000 is listed for possible continuation of a study which would evaluate recent flooding that has occurred as a result of numerous storm events in the last several years that have caused substantial flood damages and have altered channel segments. The study would update flood plain mapping and provide other flood plain management type assistance to communities along the White Clay Creek. Name of Project: Delaware Coast Protection, DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Army Corps, Construction Legal Name of Requesting Entity: DE Dept. of Natural Resources & Environmental Control Address of Requesting Entity: 89 Kings Hwy, Dover, Delaware 19901 Description of Request: $373,000 to reimburse the state of Delaware for the Federal share of the annual operation and maintenance of the sand bypass facilities. Name of Project: Little Mill Creek, New Castle County, DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Army Corps, Flood Control Projects (Section 205) Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Address of Requesting Entity: 100 Penn Square East, Philadelphia, PA 19107 Description of Request: Little Mill Creek is listed among potential Section 205 projects. Funding would be used for flood mitigation on the lower reach of Little Mill Creek. Specifically, project includes revaluation of the 1995 Feasibility Report, preparation of a Supplemental Environmental Assessment and Real Estate Plan, and developing the plans and specs for the lower reach. Name of Project: Harbor of Refuge, Lewes, DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Army Corps Operations & Maintenance Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Address of Requesting Entity: 100 Penn Square East, Philadelphia, PA 19107 Description of Request: $235,000 to repair and re-enforce Harbor of Refuge Breakwater wall. Funding will be used to strengthen the most damaged spots at the south end of the mile-and-a-half long wall in a manner that should dramatically slow further deterioration at the south end of the 100 year-old structure--the National Register of Historic Properties Breakwater at the Harbor of Refuge. Name of Project: Indian River Inlet and Bay, Sussex County, DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Army Corps Operations & Maintenance Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Address of Requesting Entity: 100 Penn Square East, Philadelphia, PA 19107 Description of Request: $235,000 to determine the cause of and make repairs to severe scour holes that have developed in the areas of the Indian River Inlet Bridge, Coast Guard facility and jetties; also to perform dredging of the channel located in the Indian River Bay area, and use the material to fill scour holes. Name of Project: Intracoastal Waterway, Delaware River to Chesapeake Bay Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Army Corps Operations & Maintenance Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Address of Requesting Entity: 100 Penn Square East, Philadelphia, PA 19107 Description of Request: $13,710,000 for operations and maintenance of the Canal, including painting Summit Bridge, repairing potholes on St. George's & Summit Bridges, and for paving and structural improvements on the 1st tier service road on the north side of the Canal. Name of Project: Mispillion River, DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Army Corps Operations & Maintenance Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Address of Requesting Entity: 100 Penn Square East, Philadelphia, PA 19107 Description of Request: $249,000 for maintenance dredging of critical shoaling areas within the 6-foot federal channel which presently pose a hazard to commercial fishing navigation channel; placement of dredged material on the shoreline, which will aid in habitat restoration that will benefit the federally threatened migratory bird, the Red Knott, and horseshoe crab; and for developing plans for replacement of the south jetty at Mispillion River. Name of Project: Wilmington Harbor, DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Army Corps Operations & Maintenance Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Address of Requesting Entity: 100 Penn Square East, Philadelphia, PA 19107 Description of Request: $3,479,000 for operations and maintenance of Wilmington Harbor and to construct cross dike at Killcohook Disposal Area and perform additional dredging. Funding was also requested for an aggressive disposal area management plan supported by both hired labor and leased equipment, and for critical dike-raising work within the disposal areas. Name of Project: Hydrogen Storage System for Vehicular Propulsion (DE) Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: DoE, EERE, Vehicle Technologies Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Delaware State University Address of Requesting Entity: 1200 N. DuPont Highway, Dover, 19701 Description of Request: $1,427,250 for developing new hydrogen storage materials at Delaware State University and to test them in a hydrogen storage containment system that will be designed by scientists in the Mechanical Engineering department. Name of Project: Mid-Atlantic River Commissions Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Army Corps Expenses Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Delaware River Basin Commission Address of Requesting Entity: 25 State Police Drive, West Trenton, New Jersey, 06828 Description of Request: $2,365,000 to fund the Mid-Atlantic River Commissions, including the federal obligation contained in the Delaware River Basin Compact (P.L. 87-328, Article 13, Section 13.3c) to support the Delaware River Basin Commission, formed in 1961 as a federal- interstate compact commission consisting of the basin states, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware and New York. Name of Project: Delaware River Comprehensive NY, NJ, PA & DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Army Corps Investigations Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Address of Requesting Entity: 100 Penn Square East, Philadelphia, PA 19107 Description of Request: $5,000 for feasibility study to develop a flood analysis model and watershed flood management plan, and evaluate the existing flood warning system for the Delaware River Basin. Division D--Financial Services and General Government Name of Project: New Castle County Chamber of Commerce for an Emerging Enterprise Center, business incubator Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: New Castle County Chamber of Commerce Address of Requesting Entity: 12 Penns Way, New Castle, DE 19720 Account: Small Business Administration Description of Request: $499,000 to be used for upgrades to the incubator will be used to outfit the Emerging Enterprise Center's incubator space with walls and office doors where they do not currently exist; construct 4,000 square feet of lab space; purchase office furniture for incubator offices; purchase conference room furniture; purchase conference room audio/visual equipment; and to fund initial operating costs including salaries and overhead for the project to become self-sufficient. Division E--Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Name of Project: City of Wilmington wastewater treatment plant headworks upgrade Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: STAG Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Wilmington Address of Requesting Entity: 800 French Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19801 Description of Request: $300,000 to the City of Wilmington for the wastewater treatment plant headworks upgrade. This project will address a hydraulic limitation at the wastewater treatment plant which prevents this regional treatment plant from treating additional wet weather flows. Name of Project: New Castle County for Old Shellpot Interceptor improvements Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: STAG Legal Name of Requesting Entity: New Castle County Address of Requesting Entity: 87 Reads Way, New Castle, Delaware 19720 Description of Request: $698,000 to New Castle County for Old Shellpot Interceptor Improvements. Funding will be used for the lining and rehabilitating of the existing Old Shellpot Interceptor, consisting of over 40,000 linear feet of pipe. Name of Project: Green Horizons Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Forest Legacy Legal Name of Requesting Entity: State of Delaware Address of Requesting Entity: Tatnall Building, William Penn St., Dover, DE 19901 Description of Request: $2,000,000 for Delaware's Green Horizons Forest Legacy project. Funds will be used for Delaware to acquire and protect an additional 460 acres of undisturbed forestland and represents phase-VI of efforts to purchase and protect the remaining acreage of the Glatfelter Pulpwood Company, the state's largest private landowner. Division F--Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Name of Project: Beebe Medical Center for the construction of a new School of Nursing Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Health Resources and Services Administration Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Beebe Medical Center Address of Requesting Entity: 424 Savannah Road, Lewes, Delaware 19958 Description of Request: $476,000 to Beebe Medical Center for the construction of a new School of Nursing. Funding will be used for capital improvements, including site work, architectural design, construction, and equipment. The goal of the School of Nursing Expansion is to train more nurses to care for patients in Delaware and the Delmarva Peninsula. The new 2-story building will accommodate the growth of Beebe's nursing enrollment by 100%, from 30 to 60 students in each class. Name of Project: Christiana Care Health System to renovate and expand Wilmington Hospital's Emergency Department Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Health Resources and Services Administration Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Christiana Care Health System Address of Requesting Entity: 1501 West 14th Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19801 Description of Request: $285,000 to Christiana Care Health System to renovate and expand Wilmington Hospital's Emergency Department, and the on-campus primary care Health Center expansion project. Federal funds will help support doubling the physical size of the Emergency Department to 63,000 square feet and adding 26 treatment bays, an 87% size increase; will also support the on-campus Health Center, a primary care facility that offers adult, pediatric, dental, women's health, pre-natal, ophthalmology and podiatry health services. Name of Project: DE Dept. of Education--Starting Stronger early childhood learning initiative Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Delaware Department of Education Address of Requesting Entity: 401 Federal Street, Suite 2, Dover, DE 19901 Account: Fund for the Improvement of Education Description of Request: $190,000 to the Delaware Dept. of Education for the Starting Stronger early childhood learning initiative, which will support Delaware's Vision 2015 initiative. Starting Stronger will encompass an integrated matrix of professional development, family support resources and collaborative learning experiences that are aligned with Delaware's early learning standards. Name of Project: Delaware Division of Public Health, infant mortality reduction initiative Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Centers for Disease Control Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Delaware Division of Public Health Address of Requesting Entity: 417 Federal Street, Dover, Delaware 19901 Description of Request: $190,000 to the Delaware Division of Public Health for an infant mortality reduction initiative to implement eight of the State of Delaware's Task Force recommendations: Fetal Infant Mortality Review; Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System; Delaware Healthy Mother and Infant Consortium; Center for Excellence in Maternal and Child Health and Epidemiology; Access to Care; Preconception Care; Comprehensive (Holistic) Family Practice Team Model of Care; and a State-wide Education Campaign. Name of Project: Delaware State University for facilities and equipment Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Health Resources and Services Administration Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Delaware State University Address of Requesting Entity: 1200 N. DuPont Highway, Dover, Delaware 19901 Description of Request: $190,000 to Delaware State University for facilities and equipment. Funding will assist with the establishment of a school of pharmacy in central Delaware to aid in supplying the needed pharmacy workforce and adequately address the growing healthcare needs of the retiring population. Name of Project: Delaware Technical & Community College for purchase of equipment Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Health Resources and Services Administration Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Delaware Technical & Community College Address of Requesting Entity: 100 Campus Drive, Dover, Delaware 19903 Description of Request: $190,000 to Delaware Technical & Community College for purchase of equipment at each of the College's four campuses located throughout the State of Delaware (Georgetown, Dover, Stanton and Wilmington). Lab upgrades and new instructional equipment will help train students for high-demand careers in such areas as health, engineering technology, biotechnology, computer science and other technological and industrial fields. Name of Project: Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League Achievement Matters! program Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Fund for the Improvement of Education Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League Address of Requesting Entity: 100 West 10th Street, Suite 710, Wilmington, DE 19801 Description of Request: $190,000 for the Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League to expand the Achievement Matters! program. Funding will be used to provide community and school-based interventions for low income and minority students. The funding will help complete the final phases of the project and provide services to this community to improve retention and high school graduation rates for children, prepare students for life beyond high school, whether it is in college, the military, or in the workforce, and aim to reduce the achievement gap. Name of Project: Capital infrastructure improvements to St. Francis Hospital Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Health Resources and Services Administration account Legal Name of Requesting Entity: St. Francis Hospital Foundation Address of Requesting Entity: 701 N. Clayton Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19805 Description of Request: $285,000 to make capital infrastructure improvements to St. Francis Hospital, including two new roofs, windows, HVAC systems, heat pumps, water lines, doors and wall penetrations. Name of Project: University of Delaware's Delaware Biotechnology Institute Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Health Resources and Services Administration Legal Name of Requesting Entity: University of Delaware Address of Requesting Entity: 107 Hullihen Hall, Newark, Delaware 19716 Description of Request: $190,000 for the University of Delaware's Delaware Biotechnology Institute, including equipment. Funding will be used to strengthen Delaware's biomedical research capabilities by building on existing programs in cancer research and bioinformatics, supporting the necessary research infrastructure, and beginning new infrastructure in cardiovascular and neuroscience research. Name of Project: Wesley College for renovation and equipping of the nursing school- Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Account: Health Resources and Services Administration account Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Wesley College Address of Requesting Entity: 120 North State Street, Dover, Delaware 19901 Description of Request: $333,000 to Wesley College for renovation and equipping of the nursing school. Funding will be used for construction of a 22,000 sq ft facility to expand the nursing programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels and acquire new technology. Wesley's current nursing facilities are undersized, outdated, and in need of upgrading. The project will help decrease the negative impact of the nursing shortage, improve the ability of nurses to provide quality care, and to train, educate and improve productivity of the regional healthcare workforce. Division I--Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, Related Agencies Name of Project: St. Michael's School and Nursery Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: St. Michael's School and Nursery Address of Requesting Entity: 700 N. Walnut Street, Wilmington, DE 19801 Account: Economic Development Initiatives Description of Request: $285,000 for rehabilitation of the heat and air conditioning systems at St. Michael's School and Nursery. The ten large and six small HVAC units in the building were installed in the summer of 1987 and had a life expectancy of 12-15 years. Problems with the units have interrupted St. Michael's ability to provide safe and reliable service to the families it serves. The original building is 41 years old and has not been refurbished since 1995. Name of Project: The Ministry of Caring Inc., Wilmington, DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Ministry of Caring Address of Requesting Entity: 506 N. Church Street, Wilmington, DE 19801 Account: Economic Development Initiatives Description of Request: $475,000 for Mary Mother of Hope House I, an emergency shelter within the Ministry of Caring, which serves the housing and supportive services needs of homeless women 18 and over who are willing to work on the root causes of their homelessness through intensive case management. This project will fund a renovation to make it handicap accessible and enhance its safety with a sprinkler and fire system. Other features include renovated living spaces on every floor, including the lower level, and an additional stairwell to the building's rear and a handicap ramp for access from a side entrance. Name of Project: Automotive-Based Fuel Cell Hybrid Bus Program, DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: University of Delaware Address of Requesting Entity: 107 Hullihen Hall, Newark, DE 19716 Account: Buses and Bus Facilities Description of Request: $475,000 for University of Delaware's Automotive-Based Fuel Cell Hybrid Bus project. Fuel-cell technology offers the potential to reduce our reliance on foreign oil supplies and to decrease the effects of harmful emissions on our environment. This project represents an effort to develop, build, and deploy a fuel-cell- powered hybrid transit vehicle, to be used within the state of Delaware. The vehicles developed in this project will be fully tested in real-life situations, and the results will be presented to transit agencies throughout the U.S. and other interested countries. The University of Delaware transit system and the Delaware Transit Corporation are fully cooperating on this project and will be important partners throughout the course of this work effort. This project was authorized by SAFETEA-LU. Name of Project: Indian River Inlet Bridge, DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: State of Delaware Department of Transportation Address of Requesting Entity: 800 Bay Road, PO Box 778, Dover, DE 19903 Account: Transportation, Community, and System Preservation Project Description: $1,900,000 to design and construct a new bridge along SR-1 over the Indian River Inlet. The design and construction will be performed utilizing the Design-Build project delivery approach. The replacement bridge will alleviate the safety risk caused by the present scour condition at the foundations. The new structure will completely span the inlet with all foundation members constructed on dry land. The proposed alignment will be west of the existing bridge at a critical evacuation route in the event of natural disasters. The project was authorized by SAFETEA-LU. Name of Project: Easter Seals Delaware, New Castle, DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Easter Seals Delaware Address of Requesting Entity: 61 Corporate Circle, New Castle, DE 19720 Account: Economic Development Initiatives Project Description: $142,500 for Easter Seals Delaware to construct a 25,000 square foot addition to its existing facility in New Castle County to better serve children and adults with disabilities. The addition, which is also being financially supported by foundations, the county and local businesses, will accommodate a world-class assistive technology center, therapy services for children and adults, day services for adults with disabilities and the administrative staff. Name of Project: I-95 Toll Facility Rehabilitation and Highway Speed E-ZPass Improvements, Newark, DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: State of Delaware Department of Transportation Address of Requesting Entity: 800 Bay Road, PO Box 778, Dover, DE 19903 Account: Interstate Maintenance Discretionary Project Description: $2,375,000 to reconfigure the I-95 toll plaza to incorporate Highway Speed E-ZPass toll lanes. The current I-95 toll facility, which is located near the Delaware-Maryland border, experiences extremely high levels of traffic congestion at the toll facility in Newark, causing long delays, traffic accidents, and increasing air pollution in the region. This project is anticipated to reduce traffic congestion, improve overall safety, and reduce pollution by adding speed lanes and a new access way for the toll takers. Name of Project: Chesapeake and Delaware Canal Recreation Trail, DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Address of Requesting Entity: 100 Penn Square East, Philadelphia, PA 19107 Account: Federal Lands (Public Lands Highways) Project Description: $570,000 for transforming over 13 miles of existing Army Corps service road on the north-side of the Chesapeake and Delaware Canal into a multi-purpose recreation trail with associated amenities (trail heads, signage, and self-composting restroom facilities, and security). Recreation at the C&D Canal was authorized in the Water Resources Development Act of 2007 (Public Law No: 110-114). Name of Project: State of Delaware Turnpike Improvements Project Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: State of Delaware Department of Transportation Address of Requesting Entity: 800 Bay Road, PO Box 778, Dover, DE 19903 Account: Interstate Maintenance Discretionary Project Description: $2,755,000 to improve the safety and efficiency of two major routes along the Northeast Corridor. The project was authorized by SAFETEA-LU and received $1,490,000 in the FY08 THUD Appropriations bill. It consists of two phases designed to improve the movement and safety of interstate, regional and local traffic through this heavily traveled intersection. The two phases include: a redesign of the I-95/SR-1 interchange and adding a fifth lane to I-95. Name of Project: Delaware Children's Museum, DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Delaware Children's Museum Address of Requesting Entity: 100 West Street, Suite 1004 Room 7, Wilmington, DE 19801 Account: Economic Development Initiatives Project Description: $190,000 to build Delaware's First Children's Museum. Delaware is one of only two states in the country without a museum dedicated to children. The Board of the Delaware Children's Museum is conducting a capital campaign to raise $16.55 million to build Delaware's first children's museum. Funds provided by a federal appropriation would be applied to the renovation of an existing building and the construction of exhibits at the Christina Riverfront. This project would fund construction of a 37,000 square foot museum facility that will house eight major science and technology-oriented exhibits. Name of Project: Delaware Technical and Community College, Dover, DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Delaware Technical and Community College Address of Requesting Entity: 100 Campus Drive, PO Box 897, Dover, DE 19903 Account: Economic Development Initiatives Project Description: $118,750 to expand the Trade & Industry building to establish an Energy Management Education Center. The center's programs will include: (a) New Associate degrees to educate energy managers and ``green power'' technicians; (b) New certifications in renewable energy technologies (solar, wind, geothermal, biomass), energy management, energy cost analysis and assessment, green building construction, hybrid transportation, industrial maintenance, and the only hands-on ammonia refrigeration training site east of Kansas and north of Georgia; (c) Workshops for technicians, facility managers, residential energy users, and specialized industries such as poultry and cold storage; (d) Public educational events; and (e) Demonstration labs. Name of Project: Wilmington Housing Authority, Wilmington, DE Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Bill Number: H.R. 1105 Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Wilmington Housing Authority Address of Requesting Entity: 400 North Walnut Street, Wilmington, DE 19801 Account: Economic Development Initiatives Project Description: $475,000 for renovations of Crestview Apartments. This structure suffered the ravages of a fire in May of 2006 causing the displacement of residents, many of whom are elderly. Wilmington Housing Authority (WHA) is undertaking a major renovation project that includes structural repairs, energy efficiency measures, and the installation of a sprinkler and fire suppression system so that WHA public housing residents can have a higher standard of safe, decent housing upon the re-opening of Crestview Apartments. The exterior facade of the building was not damaged directly by the fire, however a structural assessment of the facade revealed that the concrete and steel supporting the structure is very deteriorated.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to Marlene Elliott Brown. In a state with many ``firsts'' in its history, we are proud of the fact that Marlene was the first female State Director for USDA Rural Development, and after eight years she has left big shoes to fill for those that will follow her. This amazing woman's nearly twenty-six years of tireless federal service have been nothing but extraordinary. A native of Laurel, Delaware, Marlene's career in public service began in 1982, when she joined the staff of the late U.S. Senator William V. Roth. She became the Senator's State Director and served him faithfully for eighteen years. On March 14, 2001, she was appointed by President George W. Bush to serve as the Delaware/Maryland Director for USDA Rural Development. Marlene's eight years in this position are marked with many noteworthy accomplishments including: 1065 Delaware families or individuals becoming new homeowners; 2855 jobs created or saved; 44,188 homes and businesses that benefited from improved central water and wastewater systems; and 235 homes of individuals with disabilities that were repaired to remove health and safety hazards. But Marlene's impact on those around her is certainly not limited to her professional career. She is a role model for others and is involved in many community organizations, having served as President for the Georgetown-Millsboro Rotary Club, Vice Chairman of the Republican State Committee, Honorary Commander at the Dover Air Force Base, Board Member of the Delmarva Christian High School, member of the Delaware Tech Educational Foundation Council, and through her faith as a member of Trinity UMC and the Delmar Christian Center. Marlene once described the late Senator William Roth in the following words, ``all were better for the time spent with him. He gave everyone opportunity, he led by example, and he showed the path for public service.'' I find Marlene Elliott Brown to be all of those things and more. She is a thoughtful leader, an insightful and honest woman, a tireless volunteer in her community and church, a dedicated public servant, and above all, a loyal and generous friend. I congratulate Marlene for her years of extraordinary service to the state of Delaware and the countless citizens who have been touched in some way by her dedication. On behalf of all Delawareans, I would like to thank her parents--Marshall and Blanche Elliott; her husband--Jim; and her friends for sharing her with us over these many years. Marlene is an exemplary citizen and like other outstanding individuals before her, ``we are better for the time spent with her.''

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to S. 328, the DTV Delay Act. Since 1996, our nation's first-responders have been calling for more broadcast spectrum to be made available for better and more effective communication among emergency services. Tragically, the lack of such spectrum was cited by experts as partially leading to many unnecessary deaths among those responding to the 2001 terrorist attacks in New York City. In fact, completing the digital television transition so that this spectrum may be used by police, firefighters, and emergency personnel was the main communications-related recommendation of the 9/ 11 Commission. In 2005, after years of delay, Congress finally established February 17, 2009 as the date when the country will switch to all-digital broadcasting and eliminate the disruptions to public safety communications. Unfortunately, after more than a decade of preparing for the transition, the bill before us today would delay the digital transition for another three months. Like many Delawareans, I am concerned about the management of the digital transition process and the shortfall in the number of converter box coupons available. It is critical that we act quickly to provide additional resources to address these complications and ensure our constituents are prepared for the transition date. Still, public safety services and broadcasters have spent millions of dollars preparing for the February 17th transition date and postponing the deadline again will only create more confusion and delay the implementation of this vital 9/11 Commission recommendation.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize Apostle Joyce Cofield. On January 31, 2009, Apostle Cofield will be honored at a banquet celebrating her 14th pastoral anniversary at Anointed Word Evangelistic Fellowship. Apostle Cofield is the founder of Anointed Word Evangelistic Fellowship in Wilmington, Delaware. Apostle Cofield entered full-time ministry in 2000 and has over 30 years of experience in ministerial leadership. During her time as senior pastor of Anointed Word, Apostle Cofield has emerged as an accomplished leader: in 2008 she was profiled in the National Registry of Who's Who, and she recently published a prophetic book of poetry entitled, From the Father's Heart to My Heart to Your Heart. Apostle Cofield is a graduate of a local bible college and has continued her education at various secular institutions in the Wilmington area. As part of her vision to bring restoration to families and individuals, she regularly reaches out to the homeless in Delaware--not only to meet practical needs for food, clothing and shelter, but by motivating, instructing and enriching their lives. Apostle Cofield lives by several creeds including, ``the most important thing is to know God and for God to know you'', as well as ``attitudes are contagious, is yours worth catching?'' The members of Anointed Word admire and respect Apostle Cofield for her selfless acts, strong leadership and passion for community outreach. I thank Apostle Joyce Cofield for her many years of service to the members of her congregation at Anointed Word Evangelistic Fellowship, the greater community, and the State of Delaware. I am confident that as she celebrates this significant milestone in her ministry, she will remain committed to many more years of demonstrating her faith in both word and deed.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to rise today and pay tribute to Colm F. Connelly, the United States Attorney for the State of Delaware. On September 4, 2001, after receiving a Presidential nomination and confirmation from the United States Senate, Colm assumed his position as the chief federal law enforcement officer in our state. It is not possible to quantify the many ways our communities have benefited from the work he did while in office, but I can say without doubt that Delaware is now a better, safer place because of his hard work and ceaseless dedication. Though Colm is now departing the U.S. Attorney's office to join the law firm of Morgan, Lewis & Bockius, he leaves behind an extraordinary legacy to which others can aspire. During his seven year tenure, Colm put systems in place to integrate federal and local law enforcement. Through fines and forfeitures, his office collected nearly $600 million for the government. Furthermore, Colm successfully prosecuted numerous cases, including the trial and conviction of both Bruce Stewart and Thomas Capano. Remarkably enough, Colm was able to obtain a drug conviction of Stewart without police recovering drugs, and a murder conviction of Capano without police recovering a body. Once again, I thank Colm F. Connolly for his selfless service to our community--his work has and will continue to touch the lives of many. Colm served the office to which he was appointed seven years ago with great distinction and honor, and the State of Delaware is greatly indebted to him. Due to his selfless efforts, Delawareans can rest assured that justice prevails and we are safer. Colm has set the bar high, and he will be missed by many. I wish him nothing but the best as he moves forward to pursue new opportunities and help others in need.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize Valerie Woodruff, Delaware's Secretary of Education. Val will retire this year after a 44 year career in public education and serving the state of Delaware for over 30 years. During her term as Secretary, Val led the implementation of Delaware's accountability system and worked with Congress and the U.S. Department of Education to implement the federal No Child Left Behind Act in Delaware. Although Val's work in public education began long before her service in Delaware, Val has had a huge positive impact on Delaware's education system. Val led the development of the first school-based Wellness Center in Delaware that has served as a model for additional Delaware schools. Val served as a Thomson Fellow for the Coalition of Essential States, where she participated in, and conducted workshops in her capacity and was selected as Delaware's Principal of the Year in 1990. Val also serves as a member of several boards including the Delaware Workforce Investment Board and its Youth Council and the State Chamber of Commerce Partnership. Additionally, Val represents Delaware on the Southern Regional Education Board, serves on the Executive Committee of the Southern Regional Education Board, and is the first K-12 educator to serve as Vice Chair. She also served as President of the Council of Chief State School Officers from November 2005 to November 2006. Val was born in Steubenville, Ohio and grew up in West Virginia. She attended Alderson Broaddus College in Philippi, West Virginia and graduated in 1966 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Secondary Education in English and Social Studies. In 1971, Val began her work in Delaware and received her Master of Education degree in Guidance and Counseling from the University of Delaware in Newark, Delaware. I would like to thank Val for her many years of service and her focus on developing quality teachers and school leaders, as well as the importance of providing an excellent educational experience to all children in Delaware. Val's work has resulted in improved student achievement and positive recognition of Delaware public education.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to recognize and to thank Rev. Silvester Beaman, pastor of the Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in my hometown of Wilmington, Delaware, for leading the House in prayer this morning. Pastor Beaman's prayer, asking this body to be a voice for the voiceless, to help the hurting and to inspire the weary is a message for all of us which we should carry forward each and every day. Pastor Beaman is widely known for his passionate and uplifting sermons. When I visit his congregation, I am welcomed with open arms by an enthusiastic group of individuals. He has worked to grow his church to more than 2,000 members, and he oversees a youth mentoring program, a senior citizens ministry and an AIDS task force. His compassion has no limits, and his enthusiasm cannot be contained. It is for these reasons that I have asked him to come before us today and to lead us in prayer. I would be remiss if I did not recognize Pastor Beaman's wife and childhood sweetheart, Renee, and daughter, Asaiah, who are also with us today. Pastor Beaman, thank you for being here and for sharing your blessing with the U.S. House of Representatives.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and pay tribute to the late Michelle L. Smith. On Monday morning, December 22nd, the Delaware City Fire Company was informed of the tragic loss of Firefighter Michelle L. Smith, who succumbed to the traumatic injuries she sustained on December 20th. Michelle was assisting with the care of a critically injured motorcyclist at the scene of an accident on DuPont Highway when she was hit by a passing car. This is the first death in the line of duty for the Delaware City Fire Company in its 121-year history. Michelle L. Smith has served the Delaware City Fire Company and the Delaware City Ladies Auxiliary for over five years, holding the position of Secretary with the Ladies Auxiliary. She also served with the Volunteer Hose Company of Middletown, DE. Michelle will be greatly missed by her family, friends, and coworkers. She exemplified the honor and dedication that all firefighters throughout Delaware and across the United States strive for on a daily basis. The President of Delaware City Fire Company, Wally Poppe stated that, ``Firefighter Smith typified Delaware City Fire Company as a firefighter and as a member of the Ladies Auxiliary. She took great pride in her numerous contributions, including emergency response, fire prevention and community awareness.'' Michelle L. Smith will be greatly missed and her heroism, dedication, and selflessness will serve as an inspiration to all those who knew her.