Michael Castle

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman from Illinois for yielding, and I thank you, Mr. Chairman. I rise in opposition to H.R. 1257, the Shareholder Vote on Executive Compensation Act, which seeks to ensure that shareholders have a say in their company's executive compensation and disclosures. Let me just say that I agree with both the speakers on the other side so far. There is a problem with CEO and other high-level compensation in the United States. I happen to disagree with the solution which is offered by this legislation. In fact, I would urge that this solution probably will not be a solution. I would like to go through that if I could. In July 2006, the Securities and Exchange Commission, the SEC, adopted a package of rules designed to enhance the transparency of proxy compensation disclosure for CEOs, CFOs and the other three highest paid executive officers and directors, the first major reform since 1992. These new disclosure requirements are being implemented for the first time and are a major step forward in promoting transparency and arming shareholders with detailed information on how executives are being paid. Therefore, we are attempting to legislate in this area before there is any evidence to suggest that the current SEC robust disclosure requirements are not working. The bill before us intends to prevent excessive executive compensation. Yet, at a Financial Services Committee hearing on March 8, all six witnesses agreed that a better way to prevent unmerited pay would be to require that publicly traded corporations adopt majority voting policies for the election of board members. At the present time, more than 150 stockholder proposals relating to majority voting have been filed, and more than half of the companies in the S&P 500 have some form of majority voting policy in place. Furthermore, company organization and structure is traditionally governed by State law, while Federal securities laws generally govern the disclosure of information to investors. In my home State of Delaware, corporate laws are already providing shareholders with majority votes. Majority voting enables stockholders to more easily unseat directors they believe have made poor judgments. The law enables stockholders to focus on compensation committee members in particular if they so choose. In addition, compensation for executives of publicly owned companies listed on the New York Stock Exchange is determined by a compensation committee that is composed of totally independent directors. Clearly, the market and States are active in working in this area. H.R. 1257 intends to provide shareholders with an advisory vote on executive compensation. However, public company equity is overwhelmingly in the hands of intermediaries like retirement plans and mutual funds that manage the economic interests on behalf of others. Therefore, the actual shareholder is already two steps removed from the holders of the true economic interests in the company. In addition, intermediaries often rely on advice, sellers like the Institutional Shareholder Services, ISS, when voting on company proxies. Consultants such as the ISS are often criticized for their particular biases and their lack of transparency in their decision- making. It greatly worries me that this bill could set a precedent of giving activist institutional investors who may have their own political and social agendas unrelated to the financial wealth of the companies more influence. This legislation presents a counterproductive change to an American approach to corporate governance that, while not perfect, has produced better results for stockholders than any other financial system in the world. I have an article written by Secretary Robert Reich about this, in which he, too, opposes the changes that are being proposed here. He indicates, ``House Democrats are now working on legislation to give shareholders the right to have more say over pay.'' And that is a growing consensus, but he says it is wrong. Shareholders won't constrain the growth of CEO pay because most shareholders don't care about it. The vast majority own their shares through mutual funds and pension funds and don't know which companies they are invested in at any given moment. Then he says later, ``Depending on shareholders to rein in CEO pay is like relying on gamblers to rein in the owners of Las Vegas casinos.'' That is my concern with this. While we have identified the problem, the solution which has been identified in this legislation is not the right solution. The SEC recently enacted substantial new disclosure requirements, as I indicated, governing executive compensation to ensure transparent compensation packages, and these requirements should be given time to take effect. Disclosure is a vital component of our financial system, which increases investor confidence, promotes market discipline, encourages fairness in the U.S. markets and enables more informed decision-making by investors. I believe there are many unintended consequences associated with the legislation before us today. Therefore, I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join me in opposing this legislation.

Mr. CASTLE. Reclaiming my time.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with Speaker, it is with great enthusiasm that I rise today to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Naamans Little League. By providing a positive outlet for children, this organization has played a vital role in shaping young leaders in my home state of Delaware. After it was founded in 1957, the organization has grown rapidly because of its efficient organization and the valuable service it provides to the community: uniting children with sports. While it began with only 60 boys on 4 baseball teams, Naamans Little League now has over 500 players on 42 teams and has formed both a Tee Ball League and a Senior League. I was fortunate enough to celebrate with the League after they participated in the Little League World Championship. This opportunity further convinced me that their significance within the community cannot be emphasized strongly enough. Their efforts have allowed countless people to understand and enjoy the benefits of physical activity, team work, sportsmanship, and responsibility. After spending just a short while at the celebration, it became very clear to me that this organization has a profoundly far reaching impact, shaping individuals, friendships, families, and communities. I am pleased to announce that a flag will be flown over the capital in honor of the Naamans Little League's 50th anniversary. I commend this great organization for their immeasurable contributions to Delaware and wish them all the best on this momentous anniversary.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize Aretha E. Morton for being appointed as State Bishop for my home state of Delaware in 2006. This great honor has been bestowed upon her due to her long-standing dedication to the Baptist church. I congratulate Bishop Aretha E. Morton on an outstanding career in ministry. She began her career by singing and recording in several different Gospel groups. By the age of twenty-one, she made the decision to commit her life to the ministry and preached her first trial sermon. Her hard work as a preacher was acknowledged in 1983, when she became the pastor of Tabernacle Baptist Church, making her the first female Baptist Pastor in the State of Delaware. Ten years later, she was given another great honor when the Wilmington Fire Department appointed her as Chaplain for the Wilmington Fire Department. This honor made her the first woman and the first African American Fire Chaplain. In 1995, she connected her church with the Full Gospel Church Fellowship. This church, now named the Tabernacle Full Gospel Baptist Church, has become the largest affiliate church of its kind in the Delaware area. In 2002, she was named the Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship's District Overseer of the Year. Her success in ministry continued when she became one of the first female bishops in the Full Gospel Church Fellowship International. Fellow clergy refer to her as ``Mother'' and in September of 2005 she was even listed on Gospel Today's ``World's Most Loved Pastors'' List, illustrating her respected, humble and revered reputation. After over 40 years of bringing her love, talents, and enthusiasm to the Baptist ministry, she was appointed Bishop of the Baptist Church for the State of Delaware. I can think of no candidate more deserving of our recognition and praise than Bishop Aretha E. Morton. I congratulate Bishop Morton on an exceptional career of service and dedication.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Chairman I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise to offer an important amendment to the legislation before us today. As many of my colleagues have noted, terrorists are increasingly targeting rail and transit systems throughout the world. The recent bombings in India, London and Madrid are clear evidence of this dangerous trend. While the concept of rail security is relatively new here at home, security officials in Europe and Asia have decades of experience with terrorist attacks, and I have long believed in the importance of leveraging this experience to improve our own system. In 2003, I asked the Government Accountability Office to undertake an in-depth study of foreign rail security practices. Over the course of several months, a GAO team visited 13 different foreign rail systems, and a subsequent report identified many innovative measures to secure rail systems, many of which are currently being used in the U.S. Most significantly, however, the GAO report identified four important foreign rail security practices that are not currently being used to any great extent in the United States. First, the report found that other nations have improved the vigilance of their security staff by performing daily unannounced events, known as covert testing, to gauge responsiveness to incidents such as suspicious packages or open emergency doors. Similarly, two of the thirteen foreign operators interviewed by GAO also reported success using some form of random screening to search passengers and baggage for bombs and other suspicious materials. This practice has been used sporadically in the U.S., including in New York City following in the 2005 London bombings, but has never been implemented for any continuous period of time. The GAO also noted that many foreign governments maintain a national clearinghouse on security technologies and best practices. Such a government-sponsored database would allow rail operators to have one central source of information on the merits of rail security technology, like chemical sensors and surveillance equipment. Finally, while GAO noted that the Department of Transportation has taken steps to encourage rail operators to consider security when renovating or constructing facilities, many foreign operators are still far more advanced when it comes to incorporating aspects of security into infrastructure design. For example, this photograph here to my left of the London Underground demonstrates several security upgrades, such as vending machines with sloped tops to reduce the likelihood of a bomb being placed there, clear trash bins, and netting throughout the station to prevent objects from being left in recessed areas. As you can see, the London stations are also designed to provide security staff with clear lines of sight to all areas of the station, including underneath benches and ticket machines. The British government has praised these measures for deterring terrorist attacks. In one incident their security cameras recorded IRA terrorists attempting to place an explosive device inside a station. According to London officials, due to infrastructure design and improvements, the terrorists were deterred when they could not find a suitable location to hide the device inside the station. While the GAO acknowledged that deploying these four practices in this country may be difficult, in fact, random screening may pose many challenges, it is clear that these foreign security techniques deserve greater consideration. Therefore, the amendment I am offering today would take steps to improve rail and transit security by requiring the Secretary of Homeland Security to study the cost and feasibility of implementing these practices and submit a report making recommendations to the Homeland Security Committee and Transportation Committee within one year of enactment. Mr. Chairman, recent attacks on rail and transit throughout the world underscores the importance of acting now to upgrade security here at home. My amendment will make certain that we are knowledgeable and consider all available options when it comes to ensuring the safety and security of our rail system. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Chairman, I will just take a moment. First, let me first thank very much the distinguished Congresswoman from Texas for her very kind words about the amendment. I am a strong believer, as you have indicated as well, that when there are good ideas out there that we should borrow these ideas. I believe this is something we should do. I don't mean to burden Homeland Security with studies, but to me this is a relatively simple study matter and something which I think will ultimately provide greater safety to people in this country. Hopefully, all can support this amendment. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Speaker, regrettably, I rise in opposition to the Fiscal Year 2007 Emergency Supplemental Spending bill. Earlier this year, our military submitted a request to Congress for emergency funding to protect our brave soldiers, and it is our duty to respond to this important request in a timely fashion. Unfortunately, the legislation before us today includes billions of dollars in non- emergency spending and numerous provisions relating to troop withdrawal not requested by the Administration, which have the potential to delay passage of this vital emergency funding. Much of the extra spending included in this bill will go to wasteful pork barrel projects and non-emergency subsidy programs, including millions of dollars for spinach farmers in California and peanut storage in Georgia. While I have strongly supported some of the policy provisions added to this bill, such as the minimum wage increase and expanded funding for homeland security, I am concerned that the Democratic leadership is attempting to hold critical resources for our soldiers in limbo in order to force political votes. Our military leaders on the ground in Iraq have warned that disruptive changes in day-to-day operations will occur without immediate supplemental funding. In fact, the acting Secretary of the Army recently stated that if it does not receive additional funding by the end of April, the military will be forced to start making difficult decisions, such as postponing repairs on equipment. Sadly, rather than providing our military with the tools it has requested, the Democratic leadership is forcing a political agenda, which is certain to lead to an impasse with the Administration and further delay this important funding. I have disagreed with many aspects of our strategy in Iraq, and I have worked hard to convince our government to change its course in the region and begin pursuing robust diplomacy to end the conflict. Indeed, I am hopeful that my efforts, and those of my colleagues, have prompted the Administration to begin engaging in an intense diplomatic initiative to establish peace and stability, so that our troops may return home to their families. However, when it comes to funding for our soldiers who are serving in harm's way, it is not appropriate for Congress to set arbitrary timelines for withdrawal or condition military resources based on partisan objectives. It is important that our strategy in Iraq include goals for bringing the troops home, but excluding the judgment of U.S. commanders and mandating an exact deadline for withdrawal--regardless of the situation on the ground-- would endanger our brave soldiers. Mr. Speaker, the President has pledged to veto this legislation due to the inclusion of non-emergency spending and policy provisions. We can not afford to waste precious time arguing over disingenuous political proposals and extraneous pork barrel spending projects. I intend to vote against this bill and I will adamantly oppose any attempts to play politics with funding for our soldiers.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to Ms. Christine Carzo for receiving the 2007 New Castle County Chamber of Commerce William V. Roth Citizenship Award. I can think of no one more deserving of this prestigious award which was created in honor of the late Senator Roth. During her academic career at St. Elizabeth's High School, Christine has continually distinguished herself as a stellar student. Hard work and dedication paid off during her freshman year when she received the second highest GPA in her class. Since then she has been inducted into the National Honor Society, which she was secretary of for the 2006-07 school year. Christine is also a National Merit Commended Scholar and ranks third in her class. While remaining committed to her academics, Christine has also been able to pursue a rich variety of extracurricular activities. She has spent over 185 hours performing charitable services for her community, many of which were at the Ronald McDonald House of Delaware. Christine is copy editor of her high school year book in addition to participating in mock trials, playing volleyball, and, interestingly enough, playing bass guitar in a local band. I commend this extraordinary young women for her many great accomplishments. She serves as an example to others and an asset to our community. I would like to congratulate her for receiving the William V. Roth Citizenship Award and wish her the best of luck in the future.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to Julian H. ``Pete'' Booker for receiving the 2007 New Castle County Chamber of Commerce Wallace M. Johnson Community Service Award. This great honor has been bestowed upon Mr. Booker for his commendable efforts to reduce teen automobile crashes in my home state of Delaware as well as for his dedication to numerous other philanthropic causes. Julian, better known as Pete, created Delaware's SMARTDRlVE program, which educates high school students about safe driving techniques. Through this program nearly a dozen local agencies are partnered with more than two dozen high schools in order to ensure young drivers are able to safely handle the challenges of being behind the wheel. The program has achieved great success and has largely impacted many people in Delaware. This success was recognized in 2006 when the program received a national safety award. Pete is currently finishing his second three-year term on the United Way of Delaware's Board of Directors, where he has volunteered since 1994. His talents and tireless dedication to such a worthy cause have facilitated and enhanced much needed programs in Delaware communities. Pete further demonstrates commitment to his community by volunteering a great deal of time and resources to numerous other charities. The American Red Cross of the Delmarva Peninsula, the Delaware Association of Non-Profit Agencies, and Catholic Charities are but a few causes he has volunteered to assist. Pete has also utilized his professional success to further the many causes he champions. As the president and CEO of Delmarva Broadcasting Company, he is able to donate generous portions of air-time to campaign thank-you ads as well as underwrite a portion of United Way's public events. The state of Delaware is greatly indebted to Mr. Booker for his selfless efforts. He has created a charitable legacy that has, and will continue to, touch many. I would like to congratulate Pete for receiving the Wallace M. Johnson Community Service Award, I cannot think of a more deserving recipient.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to five exemplary women as they are inducted into the Hall of Fame of Delaware Women. Sujata Kumari Bhatia, Carolyn S. Burger, Liane M. Sorenson, Shirley M. Tarrant, and Val Whiting all possess extraordinary abilities which they have used to achieve great things and better their communities. Each inductee is truly deserving of this high distinction for the profound impact they have made not only upon Delaware, but the entire country. Sujata Kumari Bhatia To achieve her goals, Dr. Bhatia pursued a rigorous academic career. In only four years at the University of Delaware, she obtained three bachelors degrees in the fields of biology, biochemistry and chemical engineering in addition to a master's degree in chemical engineering. She then went on to earn both her MD and PhD at the University of Pennsylvania. Since her graduation, the Unversity of Delaware has presented her with the 1999 Woman of Promise award as well as the 2006 Presidential Citation for Outstanding Achievement. She has also been invited to attend several symposiums for the Nation's top engineers. With advanced training in both the fields of engineering and medicine, Dr. Bhatia has positioned herself to bring a great deal of innovation to the world of biomedical materials. She currently works for DuPont Central Research and Development as the only physician- scientist. She is actively putting her unique expertise to work by spearheading a project to develop a surgical sealant which will greatly advance the way doctors care for wounds. Beyond her worthwhile professional endeavors, Dr. Bhatia has also dedicated herself to helping the community. By mentoring young women at the University of Delaware's Engineering Department and also the Charter School of Wilmington, she positively impacts the engineering field as a whole, as well as individual lives. She further demonstrates her charitable spirit and leadership skills by serving on the Board of Directors of the University of Delaware Engineering Alumni Association, the Delaware Governor's Council on Lifestyle and Fitness, and the Delaware section of the American Chemical Society. On top of all this she is still able to find time and energy to donate to other causes such as the Ronald McDonald House, the Salvation Army, American Heart Association and the Special Olympics to name only a few. Carolyn S. Burger Carolyn S. Burger is a pioneer in the telecommunications industry. Her outstanding work ethic, effective managerial and interpersonal skills, intelligence, and perseverance have enabled her to break through the many barriers that stood in her way. After graduating from Wilson College, Ms. Burger quickly ascended the ranks at the former Bell-Atlantic Company. She was the first woman in every management position she held at the company. She attained her goals by delivering quality, bottom-line results while still treating her employees and co-workers with the utmost respect. Ms. Burger became the first woman in the United States to lead a telecommunications company when she was promoted to President and CEO of Bell Atlantic Delaware. In this position she achieved a great deal. She is well known for bringing about legislative reform in the Delaware General Assembly which provided customers with more competitive rates. She retired from the company in 1996, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy. Ms. Burger utilizes her strong leadership skills to effect change in the community. She champions many important issues as well as other charitable causes. She is the cofounder of ``Swinging with a Star'' golf tournament, which facilitates networking among women in business and raises money for girls prqgrams throughout the state of Delaware. Her philanthropic spirit and business prowess has secured a healthy financial future for the Delaware Art Museum and helped fund programs which are invaluable to the state of Delaware. Liane Mc Dowell Sorenson Throughout her prolific career, Liane Sorenson has actively demonstrated her deep commitment to women, children and families. As the Director of Women's Affairs at the University of Delaware, she championed issues relating to date rape and gender-based harassment. In addition to establishing Sexual Assault Awareness Week at the University, she lobbied to improve procedures for handling reports of rape and harassment. A passion for public service brought her to the State Senate, where she is now a Senator and the Minority Whip. She has proven herself to be a true leader by advancing important legislative issues concerning cancer, women's health, historical preservation, and child advocacy. In recognition of her hard work she was awarded the Legislative Award from the Delaware Recreation and Parks Society in 2001. While maintaining a busy work schedule, Senator Sorenson still finds time to give back to the community. She is Chair of the Advisory Board of the Delaware Breast Cancer Coalition, a founding member and past President of the Hockessin Historical Society, and a member of the Newark Symphony Orchestra, to name only some of the ways she gets involved. She has received many awards for her efforts including ones from the Delaware Humanities Forum and the Newark Branch of the NAACP. Shirley M. Tarrant Shirley M. Tarrant was the founder and president of the Suburban County Hospital Task Force. In this role she tirelessly fought to bring a much needed hospital to the Newark Delaware area. After seven years of overcoming obstacles, Shirley's dream was realized when Christiana Hospital finally came to be. Ms. Tarrant is passionate in whatever she does. On top of her devotion to bringing quality healthcare facilities to Delawareans, Ms. Tarrant is active within the community. When the University of Delaware's medical technology program was almost terminated, Ms. Tarrant played a pivotal role in saving it. She was the Founder and First President of the Newark Girls Club, the Chairperson and member of the Delaware Health Facilities Authority, and the Secretary of the University of Delaware Alumni Association among a long list of other activities. On many occasions Ms. Tarrant has been recognized for her achievements. Delaware Today Magazine named her one of the 30 people who ``changed Delaware''. She was also named the University of Delaware's Most Outstanding Alumnus in 1985. She has received the Dr. Wallace M. Johnson Community Service Award in addition to many other awards commending her outstanding accomplishments. Val Whiting Val Whiting is an accomplished athlete, scholar, and leader in the Delaware community. Her basketball career took off when she was in high school and played in many state championships. At Stanford University, she led her team to two NCAA Championships and was named Pac-10 Conference Player of the Year. Ms. Whiting was an alternate to the 1995 National Team, which took the gold medal at the 1996 Summer Olympics. Recently both ESPN and the NCAA recognized Ms. Whiting as one of the ``Top 25 NCAA Players of the Past 25 Years.'' Although she was accepted to medical school, Ms. Whiting pursued her athletic dreams of playing professional basketball. After playing abroad in Italy, Brazil and elsewhere, she returned to the United States to play in the WNBA for the Detroit Shock and then the Minnesota Lynx. She is now one of a few African-American women trainers in the state of Delaware. Ms. Whiting is an active leader in the Delaware community. She works to motivate young people to make good decisions and lead successful lives. She is a spokesperson for AIDS Delaware in addition to volunteering for the Police Athletic League and serving on the Board of Directors of Girls Inc. She founded GAMESHAPE, a life skills program for young girls, as well as the Ms. Whiting Economic Literacy League for girls. For her efforts she has received awards from the WNBA, Wilmington Mayor James Baker, the Police Athletic League and many others. I cannot applaud the accomplishments of these five women enough. Their ceaseless commitment to their personal goals as well as those of the broader community is testament to their rich quality of character. They are great role models for the people of Delaware and I would like to commend their outstanding accomplishments. I wish them all the best as they accept the well- deserved honor of being inducted into the Hall of Fame of Delaware Women.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Chairman, I offer an amendment.

Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise to offer myself a simple but much needed amendment to the legislation before us. According to a 2006 report by the Office of Government Ethics, many Federal agencies have become increasingly reliant on non government employees to work closely with government personnel and provide advice on important procurement and spending issues. For example, Federally Funded Research and Development Centers, or FFRDCs, as they are commonly known, are in most cases financed exclusively by the agency of the Federal Government and provides services similar to the duties of the Government Accountability Office. There are currently 36 of these centers, which are normally affiliated with an industrial firm, a university or a nonprofit institution that contracts with the Pentagon, Homeland Security, Department of Energy and other Federal agencies to provide decisionmakers with recommendations on procurement policy and important issues that steer billions in taxpayer dollars. In fiscal year 2000, FFRDCs received over $6 billion in Federal funding for their services, yet they are not considered to be Federal employees. Beyond just FFRDCs, other private advisers are increasingly being used to provide critical guidance and recommendations. In fact, some of the most secret and inherently governmental jobs, including spending decisions and budget preparation at the Pentagon and Department of Homeland Security, are increasingly contracted out. Because private advisers and government employees play under different rules, our current conflict of interest laws do not apply to nongovernment workers serving in quasi-governmental controls. In fact, the Office of Government Ethics has determined that current law prohibits government employees from making recommendations on matters where they have a financial conflict of interest. But it does not presently apply to FFRDC personnel or the private advisers who sit right next to those employees making high-level decisions that involve billions in taxpayer dollars. While there is no doubt that the majority of these nongovernment advisers are dedicated individuals with highly specialized skills, there is purely a need to prevent financial conflicts of interest from impacting our government's important spending priorities. In fact, there have been reported incidents in which the advice of private advisers may have been tainted by personal conflicts of interest. In one case, an FFRDC contradicted government auditors, including the Government Accountability Office, and advised the Pentagon to move forward with a risky fighter jet program. As it turned out, the program suffered costly setbacks, eventually spending billions more than originally planned. It was later discovered that the President of the FFRDC that recommended the program had financial ties, which may have skewed their recommendations. My amendment would simply require the Office of Government Ethics to study this issue and submit a report to Congress within 180 days on recommendations for requiring nongovernment personnel who serve in an advisory role to the government to comply with personal financial conflict of interest regulations, such as those that currently apply to Federal employees. This is obviously a very complicated issue, but I firmly believe that it is Congress' responsibility to make certain that ethical people are providing sound advice when it comes to crucial government decisions regarding procurement and spending. I believe this amendment will help us better understand whether there is a need for such provisions and ensure that our government maximizes its return on investment at the best value for the taxpayer. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CASTLE. I very much appreciate the support of the distinguished gentleman from California. I think that is significant. Mr. Chairman, I do feel this is an area that we should look into. I am not enough of an expert to specifically recommend how to do it. That is why we are asking for the study in 180 days. There is potential for conflict here, and we are dealing with very, very large sums of money, and in my judgment, as part of a lot that we are doing this year in bringing in everybody with governmental basis in terms of making decisions, I think it's a very good idea that we do this. I appreciate his support. I hope the amendment will eventually lead to the best rules and regulations possible with respect to conflicts of interest as far as the future is concerned and the best interests of the country. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the distinguished gentleman from California for yielding to me. I rise today in opposition to the previous question for the committee funding resolution. The resolution at hand underfunds our Committee on Standards of Official Conduct, not compared to previous years but in light of problems that exist and the education that is needed. At a time crucial to restoring America's faith in our ability to govern ourselves, the Rules Committee dismissed an amendment offered by Chairwoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones and Ranking Member Doc Hastings which would have allowed us to equip the Ethics Committee with the resources necessary for enacting meaningful reform. Opposing this previous question will enable the House to consider the amendment to fully fund the Ethics Committee, which I believe will actually save us money in the long run, and I encourage my colleagues to allow us to debate and support this important amendment. Mr. Speaker, some will say that the increase to the Ethics Committee is already substantial. To those Members, I would like to remind them that when making their request, the chairwoman and ranking member took into consideration the past problems and the recent changes to our rules, and determined the staffing and resources necessary to provide training, oversight and interpretation of those rules to this body. We have rightfully tightened our travel rules, requiring preapproval; finally banned travel on corporate jets; and we have enacted specific restrictions on accepting food and drinks at briefings, and T-shirts or books from organizations or constituents. Some are allowed, and some are not. Mr. Speaker, more than a memo is needed to convey these guidelines. Members and staff should already be receiving training on the Rules governing the 110th Congress. Instead, we are beginning the month of March, and it is unclear even when the training could be available. On top of the new rules already adopted, there is more to be done, in my opinion. We need to have a permanent and professional committee staff, and we need to expand ethics training to lobbyists. How can we expect the committee to exercise duties of even the most minimum oversight and investigations with a budget that does not meet the stated needs of the chairwoman and the ranking member of that committee? As elected representatives, we come to Congress with the trust of those we represent. The poor decisions of a few have dishonored this great body and have challenged the faith Americans deserve to have in each of us. Enforcing high standards of ethics and civility may seem to be the responsibility of the majority party, but they are, in fact, essential within every one of us elected to hold the public trust. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to oppose this previous question to allow consideration of this amendment.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great enthusiasm that I rise today to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Naamans Little League. By providing a positive outlet for children, this organization has played a vital role in shaping young leaders in my home State of Delaware. After it was founded in 1957, the organization has grown rapidly because of its efficient organization and the valuable service it provides to the community: uniting children with sports. While it began with only 60 boys on 4 baseball teams, Naamans Little League now has over 500 players on 42 teams and has formed both a Tee Ball League and a Senior League. I was fortunate enough to celebrate with the League after they won the Little League World Championship. This opportunity further convinced me that their significance within the community cannot be emphasized strongly enough. Their efforts have allowed countless people to understand and enjoy the benefits of physical activity, teamwork, sportsmanship, and responsibility. After spending just a short while at the celebration, it became very clear to me that this organization has a profoundly far reaching impact, shaping individuals, friendships, families, and communities. I am pleased to announce that a flag will be flown over the capital in honor of the Naamans Little League's 50th anniversary. I commend this great organization for their immeasurable contributions to Delaware and wish them all the best on this momentous anniversary.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the distinguished gentleman from North Carolina for yielding to me. Mr. Speaker, since the beginning of the Iraq war, one of my foremost concerns has been the long-term stability of the Middle East, and the potential impact that chaos in this region could have on our security. Our men and women in the United States military, among the hundreds of Delawarians, are doing extraordinary work under very complex and difficult circumstances. We owe them an enormous debt of gratitude. Notwithstanding the heroic efforts of our military personnel, the Iraqi Government has been unable to overcome the constant instability and sectarian violence that has marked much of the last 4 years. We have increased top levels in the past, including Fallujah in 2004, and Baghdad this past July, with mixed results. Despite the incredible efforts of our brave solders, it is clear to me that an increase in American forces alone cannot resolve this conflict. Therefore, I will support this resolution, because I believe that the surge will be unsuccessful without a comprehensive diplomatic strategy to engage the international community and turn the responsibility over to the Iraqi Government. That being said, I am disappointed that today's discussion has been structured in such a way that Members are limited solely to an up-or- down vote on the troop increases. On Friday, after Congress passes this resolution, we will still lack the strategy necessary to stabilize the Middle East and bring our soldiers home. This Congress owes the American people a truly complete and comprehensive discourse regarding our future in Iraq. The situation facing our soldiers is extremely complex, and it is unfortunate that the Democratic resolution fails to accurately reflect that reality. In December, the bipartisan Iraq Study Group presented a comprehensive blueprint to achieve stability in the region and transfer responsibility over to the Iraqi Government, which I have in my hand and I went back and reread this week. I would encourage everyone to reread it. In my opinion, one of the important recommendations made by the group was to call for a robust diplomatic effort to stabilize Iraq and ease tensions in the region. In fact, some of our Nation's greatest military minds, including former Secretary of State Colin Powell, have joined the group in recommending that every country with an interest in averting a chaotic Iraq, including all of Iraq's neighbors, Turkey, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iran and Syria among them, participate in this important dialogue. The group also recommended that we engage the United Nations Security Council, the European Union and other international institutions in launching this new diplomatic offensive. The intensive diplomacy recommended by the Iraq Study Group should be familiar to all of us who remember the Cold War. One of the best examples of this approach to diplomacy was evident when a week after President Reagan asked General Secretary Gorbachev to ``tear down this Wall,'' he sent his administration to Moscow for diplomatic talks. The Iraq Study Group's recommendations are by no means a panacea. But their report does represent a new path forward, based on the pragmatic style of diplomacy that helped us win the Cold War. For this reason, I have joined Congressman Frank Wolf and some of my colleagues in introducing legislation that endorses the Iraq Study Group's call for an integrated diplomatic initiative. In focusing on a true strategy for achieving stability in Iraq, this resolution seeks to improve our global standing and concentrate our efforts on funding an end game based on a genuine commitment to diplomacy. To obtain these goals, the Wolf resolution seeks to lift our debate above the existing political rhetoric and pursue a comprehensive strategy to build regional and international support for stability in Iraq. It is equally crucial that we do everything within our ability to accelerate the training of Iraqi troops and provide them with the resources necessary to assume control of their own destiny. Mr. Speaker, as we speak, thousands of our Nation's bravest and brightest are risking their lives to serve our country in Iraq. Protecting American soldiers must continue to be our greatest priority. I will oppose any attempt to cut off funds for our troops who are serving in harm's way. Therefore, it is crucial that we advance constructive strategies, such as those identified by the Iraq Study Group, to end the violence and bring our troops home to their families.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize Mr. D. Wayne Holden and Mr. Sherman L. Townsend for their distinguished contributions to my home state of Delaware. In 2001, the Delaware Community Foundation established an award, now known as the Allen Cup Award, in order to honor the achievements of philanthropic leaders that posses the vision and drive to affect meaningful change throughout Delaware, and more specifically in the central and southern regions of my home state. I cannot think of two more deserving recipients. Wayne Holden, a Dover, Delaware native, has always been deeply passionate about improving his community. Many of his philanthropic projects are carried out through The Thank You Fund, a donor-advised fund that he and his wife, Betsy, started through the Delaware Community Foundation (DCF). The Holdens are responsible for supporting numerous charitable organizations ranging from the Nature Conservancy to the DCF Youth Philanthropy Board. Wayne has also played a pivotal role in preserving the quality of Delaware's communities. At a time when the Schwartz Center for the Arts and the Dover Art League experienced serious financial instability, Wayne donated his own leadership skills and financial resources in order to save these organizations. Through his work as First Vice President at Merrill Lynch in Dover, Wayne has been able to inspire others to create charitable legacies and thus furthered his own philanthropic mission of improving Delaware. Sherman Townsend, has worked alongside Wayne on the Board of the Delaware Community Foundation and also in business as the First Vice President for Investment at Merrill Lynch. Throughout his many endeavors, Sherman has been successful at building a legacy of leadership and charity within his community. As an active board member of the DCF since 1986, he has helped the foundation grow and flourish. His noble efforts have secured $2 million grants, established a $3.3 million endowment and lead to partnerships with organizations such as the United Way. Sherman's philanthropic spirit shines brightly in all aspects of his life. In addition to advising and helping his clients build charitable legacies, he and his family have established a fund which supports many important organizations such as, the Children's Beach House, Meals on Wheels, and the Bayhealth Foundation. Sherman has further demonstrated his dedication to the community through his involvement on the University of Delaware Board of Trustees, paying particular attention to the development of scholarships for students and the School of Nursing. I could speak for hours and still not do these two men justice. Their contributions will have a lasting impact upon our state and I am truly grateful for all they have done. I cannot think of two men more fit to receive the Allen Cup Award. I wish the Delaware Community Foundation warm wishes as they bestow this honor upon such deserving recipients.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of Littleton P. Mitchell and Jane E. Mitchell, two of the leading civil rights advocates from my home state of Delaware. On February 6th, Howard High School of Technology will kick off a fundraising drive to establish a chair in honor of the Mitchells at the University of Delaware. I cannot think of two more worthy recipients. Littleton was born in Milford, Delaware and attended Howard High School. He served as a lieutenant in the United States Army Reserve and spent time at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, as well as the Tuskegee Air Base in Alabama. In addition to his Army service, Lit, as he was known to his friends, worked at the Governor Bacon Residential Treatment Center for Social and Emotional Disturbed Youth for 36 years. Most noteworthy though, were his contributions as State President of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). During his 31 years as President of Delaware's NAACP, Littleton played an important role in several civil rights advancements. He helped integrate all of Delaware's hospitals and worked to eliminate Delaware's Inn Keepers Law that allowed restaurants to refuse service to Black citizens. During the same period, Lit oversaw the integration of local movie theaters and Delaware's volunteer fire companies. I could continue but his accomplishments are too vast to cover in a single document. Jane Mitchell was not only Littleton's loving wife, but an accomplished registered nurse and community activist. Also a graduate of Howard High School, Jane's nursing career led her to many different hospitals around the United States, including the Tuskegee Institute Hospital in Alabama, the Jewish Hospital of Philadelphia and several hospitals throughout Delaware. She held the distinguished titles of Head Nurse at the Governor Bacon Health Center, and Director of Nursing at Delaware State Hospital. Jane's impressive career achievements and numerous volunteer activities have earned her a great deal of recognition. Most notably, she was recognized by the National Association of College Women as the Woman of the Year and the Alpha Nu Sigma Chapter of the Rho Sorority awarded her the Outstanding Negro Woman Award. This couple has achieved so much in their lives, it is truly impossible to do them justice at this time. I am grateful for all they have given to the State of Delaware and I cannot think of two better people to name a chair after. I wish Howard High School luck in their endeavor and I know they will work diligently to honor their distinguished alumni.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize the accomplishments and career of the Honorable Terry R. Spence. Mr. Spence is the longest serving Speaker of the House of Representatives in the history of the State of Delaware. Speaker Spence also has held the position longer than any speaker in any state legislature in the United States of America. Mr. Spence was born and raised in Wilmington, Delaware. He received an associate's degree in business from Goldey-Beacom College and he later received his bachelor's degree from Wilmington College. Speaker Spence is truly a born and bred Delawarean and he has served our state honorably for over 26 years. First elected in 1980, Terry quickly rose through the ranks to become the Majority Whip of the General Assembly. He served in this position for 3 years and was consistently reelected as a Republican, even though he served in a Democratic district. As a State Representative for the 18th District, Terry has worked tirelessly to defend the middle class. As a member of Labor and Veteran Affairs committees, Representative Spence has fought to protect the constituents of the 18th. Having worked with Terry during my years as lieutenant governor, governor, and now U.S. Representative, I can attest to his strong leadership and his dedication to not only his constituents, but to all Delawareans. Serving as Speaker of the House is a formidable task, and Terry has managed to successfully carry out his duties over an extraordinary period of time. Speaker Spence continues to serve as a dignified leader in the General Assembly and I wish him luck as he begins his work with the 144th session of Delaware's legislative body. I commend him for a life of service and thank him for his tireless dedication to Delaware.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great sadness that I rise today to remember the brave and heroic life of Barbaro. This magnificent racehorse connected with so many Americans because of his drive and determination. A Rocky Balboa figure, Barbaro continued to fight even when the odds were strongly stacked against him. While many veterinarians said that a horse could not survive with the type of injuries Barbaro sustained at the Preakness, he fought for over 8 months, greatly exceeding expectations. What followed the injury was an outpouring of support not frequently seen in our world today. Letters, donations and gifts came in from all over the world, all because of what this wonderful horse embodied. Barbaro had a strong connection to my home State of Delaware as he raced at Delaware Park and was trained by local trainer Michael Matz. The Barbaro story is an inspirational tale that will be remembered for generations. While a racing champion many times over, Barbaro's greatest talent was bringing people together and inspiring them.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize the career of Stanley W. Taylor. Stan has served in Delaware's Department of Correction for 30 years. He has proven to be a tough and formidable leader in an organization that requires exceptional skill, knowledge, and dedication. I commend Mr. Taylor for his years of service. Stanley W. Taylor has been a Delaware resident since the age of 5. He was educated at Indian River High School and the University of Delaware. He began his career with the Department of Correction in 1976 when he served as a correctional officer at the Sussex Correctional Institution. He quickly moved through the ranks at Sussex Correctional, being promoted to the positions of correctional counselor, training academy director, security superintendent, and warden. Stan's hard work and skill was recognized when he was promoted to chief of the Bureau of Prisons, a position in which he was responsible for all prison operations. When Department of Correction Commissioner Robert Watson retired in 1995, my colleague Senator Tom Carper, who at the time was serving as Governor of Delaware, appointed Stan Taylor to serve as commissioner of the Department of Correction. For more than 10 years, Stan Taylor has overseen an organization that is responsible for over 6,500 incarcerated offenders, over 18,000 probationers, and more than 10 correctional facilities. He is the first person in the history of the First State to begin his career as a correctional officer and rise through the ranks to eventually lead the Department of Correction as its commissioner. I join with the people of Delaware to thank Stan for his continued dedication to the correctional system. He has served in a role that can be difficult at times, but is a necessity to the security of our State. I commend him for a life of service and thank him for his tireless dedication to Delaware.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, just in closing I thought I would reference back to what I said in the opening, and that is that this particular program which is known as the 50 State Quarter Program, has made a profit, if you want to call it that, through what we call seigniorage of about $6 billion for the Federal Government. How can that be? It is fairly simple: it costs about a nickel to make a quarter, and we essentially sell the quarters, if you will, for 25 cents; and that amount of money, that extra money is carried over, that 20 cents. And since none of these coins are being basically turned in because of all the collecting which is going on, this is money which the Federal Government can spend, it is called seigniorage, and it has worked out extraordinarily well. This program not only honors and recognizes these very important entities that have been spoken to by their representatives here today, but also provides an opportunity for the Federal Government to continue to profit from this program, which will, by the end, end otherwise in the year 2008. So I would encourage everybody to vote for it. I hope, to the distinguished woman from the District of Columbia, that the fifth time is good luck. We have had great luck here in the House; it is in the Senate that we seem to struggle a little bit, and hopefully we can get it done this time. And let me make a point that I think is important. There has been a lot in the news lately about a delegate voting bill which some people here on the floor may be interested in. This is not that bill, and I am not either denigrating or advocating that bill today. But I think it is very important to understand what this is: it is just a clear recognition of those areas that have been left out of this quarter program that many of us think should be brought in and, for that reason, are very supportive of this legislation. Hopefully this is a bill which both political parties can be very supportive of when the time comes to vote on it. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, at this time I yield such time as he may consume to the distinguished gentleman from Puerto Rico (Mr. Fortuno).