Michael Castle

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Chair, I rise today in support of the Home Star Energy Retrofit Act of 2010 (H.R. 5019), which aims to provide an incentive based program for homeowners who invest in improving their home's energy efficiency. Energy efficiency is the fastest and cheapest way to reduce our energy consumption in the home, and cut energy costs for American households. According to the Alliance to Save Energy, the average American household spends $2,100 each year paying for home energy, and could save 25 percent through better energy efficiency. Beyond the benefits of lowering the cost of energy bills for American households, energy efficiency plays a critical role throughout the U.S. by reducing energy consumption, which improves our energy security. Recognizing that the national debt continues to grow, Congress has the responsibility to pay-as-we-go, and ensure that appropriated funds proceed through the budget process. For this reason, I also support the amendment to sunset the Act if the funding for this program will have a negative net effect on the federal budget deficit. Because funding under the ARRA for the weatherization program has been slow to implement, I also have concerns regarding the Department of Energy's ability to implement this new program under the tight deadlines required by the bill. Authorizing this program, instead of providing emergency spending, will hopefully give Congress adequate oversight over implementation of the program, which will still be subject to available funding through the regular appropriations process.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, on rollcall No. 252, the Barton of Texas Amendment No. 2 to H.R. 5019, the Home Star Energy Retrofit Act of 2010, had I been present, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize Aynsley Taylor Inglis, a Delaware native, who has been selected to compete in the International Ballet Competition this summer. This competition is the most prestigious international competition held in North America, with contestants from around the globe competing every four years in an Olympic style event. This is truly a remarkable accomplishment, as Miss Inglis' selection to this competition distinguishes her as being among the elite professional ballerinas in the world. As a participant in the International Ballet Competition held in Jackson, Mississippi, Aynsley will represent the First State Ballet Theatre, her home State of Delaware, and the United States of America. She will be one of only six American competitors in a field of 39 professional female ballerinas from around the world. According to the USA International Ballet Competition Executive Director, Sue Lobrano, there were a record number of applicants for this year's event, making it the most competitive year in the history of the prestigious competition. I commend Aynsley for her hard work and tireless dedication to achieving excellence within her profession, and because of her commitment to excellence, she is truly deserving of this great honor. I have the utmost confidence that Aynsley will make us proud by representing our State and Nation with grace and poise.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart but great honor that I rise today to pay tribute to the life of Mrs. Joyce E. Perry. Joyce Perry was a woman who put her faith to work by mentoring young people in her community as a coach and as a teacher. A gifted athlete, devoted educator, and loving wife and mother, Joyce greatly advanced the sport of women's basketball in the state of Delaware. A native of Milford, Delaware, Joyce was an outstanding student athlete at the University of Delaware. Joyce was a trailblazer--co- captaining UD's first women's basketball teams and lettering on their first tennis and field hockey teams. She played a major role in the growth of the university's Athletic Program and is revered as one of its most successful coaches. Mrs. Perry began her college coaching career as head women's basketball coach at Wesley College in Dover, Delaware, but soon returned to her alma mater by becoming UD's second women's basketball head coach in 1978. Joyce led the Lady Blue Hens for 18 seasons, the longest women's basketball tenure in the school's history. Her 266 career victories remain a UD career record for basketball--in both the men's and women's programs. During Joyce's tenure, the Lady Blue Hens had a record of 266-212, including six-straight winning seasons from 1987 to 1993, three 20-win campaigns, six East Coast Conference (ECC) regular season titles, and three straight ECC Tournament titles. She coached nine all-conference selections, three conference players of the year, and one conference rookie of the year. Her players earned numerous academic awards, and Mrs. Perry was twice named ECC Coach of the Year, once in 1984 (22-4) and again in 1989 (23-6). In 2004, Joyce was inducted into the University of Delaware Athletics Hall of Fame. I am honored today to recognize Mrs. Joyce E. Perry--a woman of great compassion and of fierce completive spirit. She will be greatly missed; as a wife to husband Gregg, a former standout football player and current football coach at the University of Delaware, as a mother to sons Rhett and Trey, and as a Delaware athlete, coach, and mentor. Joyce's influence and contributions have reached far and wide, both within and beyond our state; her mark is indelible.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great honor that I rise today to recognize the career of The Honorable State Representative V. George Carey. A member of Delaware's House of Representatives for the past 26 years and president of Carey Farms, Inc., Representative Carey is a man who has given much to his community and his state, but most of all, has served his constituents of the 36th District with honor and humility. Representative Carey is retiring after an accomplished and unique career in the General Assembly, and his presence in the State House will be greatly missed. George was elected in 1984 to the State House of Representatives; the same year I was first elected Governor of the State of Delaware. I had the privilege of working with George for eight years while I was in Dover, and have fond memories of that time. George will leave behind an indelible legacy in the General Assembly for his efforts with land conservation, tax-ditch reform, and most of all, an outstanding commitment to the constituents he represented. As one of only two active farmers serving in the General Assembly, George has built a reputation in the State House as an authority on agricultural issues, and has used that expertise to be a positive force on behalf of farmers throughout Delaware. He has been a member of the Agriculture Committee for more than two decades, and his retirement will leave a void of leadership and knowledge that will be extremely difficult to fill. Representative Carey helped create the Delaware Agricultural Lands Preservation Program, noted to be among the most successful initiatives of its kind in the nation. His leadership with the program extended beyond the halls of the General Assembly, when he became one of the first farmers in the state to enter his farmland into the program. Last year, George was given the Delaware Association of Conservation Districts' Legislative Award for his career service and devotion to conservation efforts. In addition to land conservation, George was instrumental in reforming Delaware's tax-ditch system. He served on the Tax Ditch Right-of-Way Task Force, and sponsored House Bill 452, which addressed and corrected many issues that had resulted from a confusing and archaic system. Throughout the past two and half decades as the Representative for the 36th District, George has worked diligently as a delegate for his constituents, ensuring that they have a voice in the General Assembly. He has pushed for reform when needed, as shown by his efforts to develop a solution for the tax-ditch issue. And when common sense calls for conservation, he has tirelessly advocated for such measures. As a long-time member of the Joint Bond Bill Committee, he has been instrumental in improving and enhancing the community he serves. George has secured funding to bring a variety of projects to his district, such as the Milford and Milton Riverwalks, the Milford Library, the Greater Milford Boys & Girls Club, and the Milton Museum. State Representative V. George Carey has had an exemplary career of public service. I am proud to have served with him for the eight years that I did, and relish this opportunity to honor him on the occasion of his retirement. He was steadfast in his mission to champion the wellbeing of his district, and will be remembered for his contributions to Sussex County, and the State of Delaware.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great honor that I rise today to recognize the career of Mr. Richard Citron, who is retiring after 42 years of federal service. Mr. Citron has developed a reputation of expertise in delivering state-of-the-art healthcare throughout his 38 years working in Veterans Affairs, and his well-earned retirement will leave a void in the field. Mr. Citron has served as the Director of the Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Medical Center since August of 2007. Richard served in the United States Army from 1968 to 1971, and began his career in healthcare by working for a year at a Mobile Army Surgical Hospital in Chu Lai, Vietnam during the war. His career has taken him all over America, including stints as Assistant Director of the University Drive VA Medical Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and terms as Director of both the Jesse Brown VAMC in Chicago, Illinois, and VAMC in Wilmington, Delaware. In addition to his nearly four decades working as a Veterans healthcare professional, Mr. Citron is a Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives, a defining credential for those in his profession. As Director of the Philadelphia VAMC, Richard oversaw operations of the medical facilities that serve the sixth largest metropolitan area in the nation, including the city of Philadelphia and surrounding six counties in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. He was responsible for a staff of more than 2,000 dedicated individuals working at the main campus in West Philadelphia and community-based outpatient clinics at Fort Dix, in Gloucester County and Camden, New Jersey, as well as Center City Philadelphia, and Horsham, Pennsylvania. Richard takes particular pride in the advancements made within the Behavioral Health and Women's programs instituted or strengthened during his time as Director at the Philadelphia VAMC. Having left an indelible legacy in Veterans healthcare, Richard can rest assured that we are indebted to him for his service to our country. I wish him the best in retirement, and thank him for his dedication to assisting those who have sacrificed so much in defense of this great nation.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Mr. Speaker, the debate about how to reshape health insurance in order to reduce skyrocketing costs, and increase access, has dominated the attention of Congress for the past year. While there are many areas of agreement, Congress and the American public remain divided and it is easy to see why. While I am glad the ``deem and pass'' procedure was abandoned, and the House of Reprsentatives allowed an actual vote on the bill, I feel strongly that Congressional leaders and the President have missed a real opportunity to take incremental, bipartisan steps that recognized the concerns of Americans who feel as though they will foot the bill for widespread reforms that they do not embrace. To expand access, H.R. 3590 will enact mandates for both individuals and employers, with hefty fines for non-compliance, at a time when our economy has already challenged cash-strapped small businesses across the nation. This new mandate to acquire health insurance will greatly expand the bankrolls of insurance companies without any new standards against price fixing, or steps to encourage competition across state lines-- both of which would create vast incentives to drive down costs. Such giveaways to the insurance companies only reward the rising costs of health care with higher taxpayer subsidies to cover them. Throughout the debate, I have advocated for commonsense policies that aim to lower costs and expand access, without compromising the quality of American medicine or raising taxes on the American people. I have urged leaders to consider legislation to drive down the costs of care first, in order to increase access and coverage through affordability. According to the Congressional Budget Office, the legislation would cost nearly a trillion dollars, the cost of health insurance premiums would actually rise, and it would be paid for through new taxes and fees and nearly $500 billion in reductions in spending on Medicare. What CBO can't accurately report, is that the bill is also littered with budget gimmicks to cover the actual, long-term cost of the bill. This bill pays for six years of coverage with 10 years of tax increases and back-loads the cost in the years ahead in order to disguise the true costs. The proposed cuts to Medicare are unlikely to ever occur; Congress is likely to override them. $70 billion for the new long-term care program is spent before any benefits are paid out. $53 billion is taken from the Social Security Trust Fund to offset new health care spending. Punts the fix for Medicare reimbursements to doctors, costing $371 billion, which Congress has committed to passing. Uses the revenues from an expansion in federally financed student loans as offsets, instead of putting those savings back into education or for lower payments from students. There are many commonsense steps we could be taking, some of which are in this bill and have widespread support: Reforms that forbid insurance companies from denying coverage based on a pre-existing condition or disability, and ban lifetime and annual spending caps that put patients at risk for bankruptcy when faced with a serious illness; allowing unmarried children to remain on their parents' insurance through age 26; incentives for Americans to seek preventive care; helping seniors afford prescription drugs through closing the donut hole, and development of lifesaving drugs and therapies that protect patient safety and innovation; an increase in support for community health centers that provide routine care for thousands of patients in Delaware; and provisions to address physician and nursing shortages. These are steps we could have taken, and they should have been coupled with increases in competition and cost-controlling measures. Additional policies absent from the plan that deserve an up or down vote: Making health insurance more portable and affordable by allowing patients to shop for health insurance plans across state lines; Small business pooling and tax credits without mandates that threaten jobs and productivity; Eliminating the $60 billion in Medicare fraud each year; Increasing efforts to enroll the 4.3 million who already qualify into existing programs like Medicaid and SCHIP; and Limiting abusive lawsuits, which would reduce costs of care. While there are policies embedded in this legislation that have bipartisan support, they are buried under budget gimmicks that threaten the long-term solvency of Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security--the existing entitlement programs that are draining the federal budget based on their current obligations. Health care reform will impact the lives of every American, our federal budget, and 1/6 of our economy. Reform should hold insurance companies accountable, eliminate barriers to competition and quality care, promote prevention, and drive down health care costs. To ignore the costs and enact unrealistic and misleading legislation will only prolong our health care challenges for generations to come.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to Jeanette Eckman, a remarkable woman who is to be posthumously inducted into the Hall of Fame of Delaware Women. Jeanette is truly deserving of this high distinction for her contributions to our State and the valuable legacies she left for historians. Ms. Eckman was an educator, political activist, historian, and author. Her works, endorsed by our State, are considered official historical documents which have preserved vital aspects of Delaware's past. She served as director and historian for the 300th anniversary of the settlement of New Castle by the Dutch colonials in 1950-55, and received an honorary award from the Queen of the Netherlands for her devotion to Dutch colonial history in the Delaware Valley. In 1915, Ms. Eckman became the first women in the First State to be appointed to an executive position with the Republican State Committee, organizing women voters in the State soon after the women's suffrage amendment was ratified. She served as secretary for women's affairs for U.S. Senator T. Coleman du Pont in the 1920s. As a champion of women's rights and preserving American history in the State of Delaware, Jeanette is the epitome of what this Hall of Fame represents. Her contributions to the State of Delaware are remarkable, irrespective of her gender. She was an amazing woman, and her legacy continues with this accolade.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to Sister Ascension Banegas, an extraordinary woman who is to be inducted into the Hall of Fame of Delaware Women. Sister Banegas is truly deserving of this high distinction for the profound impact she has made not only upon Delaware, but around the world. Sister Ascension Banegas, Spanish Carmelite Sister of Charity, has lived in Delaware since 1994. She has worked on behalf of the less fortunate in Japan, England, and New York City, before moving to rural Delaware to be the very first trained nonprofit immigration provider in the southern part of the State. In 1996, she helped co-found ``La Esperanza'' (``Hope'') Community Center, which is a multiservice, bilingual center in Georgetown, Delaware. Because of Sister Ascension's influence, La Esperanza and nearby Delaware Technical and Community College have great numbers of immigrant English language learners, which aids in the integration and empowerment of immigrants in Southern Delaware. In October of 2009, she received the Bank of America Local Hero Award, and is profoundly respected by her clients and colleagues for her ceaseless advocacy, spirit, strength and humor on behalf of the Spanish-speaking community. Sister Ascension has dedicated 55 years to helping people in need around the globe, having a life-changing impact in communities in Spain, Japan, London, Brooklyn, NY and Delaware. Her tireless advocacy on behalf of those suffering from poverty and discrimination is unrivaled, and she remains committed to fight for justice for hardworking immigrants and foreign nationals living in Delaware. Her ceaseless efforts to improve the situation of the immigrant population, as well as that of the broader community, are testaments to her tremendous quality of character. I commend her for her outstanding service to the State of Delaware, and wish her all the best as she accepts the well-deserved honor of being inducted into the Hall of Fame of Delaware Women.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to Kathryn Young Hazeur, who is to be inducted into the Hall of Fame of Delaware Women for her notable lifelong involvement with education. Her outstanding work ethic, superb organizational skills, intelligence, and perseverance have enabled her to break through the many barriers that stood in her way. Kathryn is an educational pioneer in the State of Delaware, as she was the first African-American to earn a graduate degree in the First State, and was also the first director of Head Start for the State. Throughout her outstanding career in education that spanned over four and a half decades, as both a teacher and as a principal, Kathryn impacted the lives of thousands of young people fortunate enough to be under her tutelage. Over the years, Kathryn has utilized her strong leadership skills to enact positive change in the community. She served as the Chair of the Desegregation Commission for the Wilmington Public Schools during the desegregation era in the Wilmington school system, and has been active on numerous committees for Saint Joseph's Catholic Church. In 2003, she was the recipient of the Phi Delta Kappa (Teachers) Sorority ``Lifetime Achievement Award.'' Kathryn has built a legacy of legendary teaching and nurturing of Delaware's young people, as well as community service. I am grateful for her marvelous service to the State of Delaware, and wish her all the best as she accepts the well-earned honor of being inducted into the Hall of Fame of Delaware Women.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize Beverly Louise Stewart, who is to be inducted into the Hall of Fame of Delaware Women for her contributions to education in Delaware. Beverly pioneered an innovative method of tutoring, and created a thriving educational center out of her own home. Beverly started Back to Basics, a one-on-one private tutoring service, in 1985 after teaching at Sanford School. What started as a small tutoring service in her kitchen, and with her as the only instructor, is now a vibrant firm that employs approximately 80 degreed tutors, and a multitude of services in addition to basic subject help. The center offers corporate education, adult education, English as a Second Language, and a unique state-approved private school. The motto of Back to Basics is ``Aim High!''--which is certainly the axiom of Beverly's story, as well. The accolades Beverly has collected over the years speaks to the ingenuity of Back to Basics. She was given the ``Delaware Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year Award'' by the New Castle County Chamber of Commerce's The Capitol Review in 1998, and the Delaware Small Business Administration's ``2004 Small Businessperson of the Year.'' In 2007, Delaware Today named her one of the ``Top 35 Women in Business.'' As a Member of the House Committee on Education and Labor, it makes me proud to see all that Beverly has accomplished as a citizen of Delaware, both to advance education, and as small business leader. I am grateful for her contributions to the State of Delaware, and wish her all the best as she accepts the well-earned honor of being inducted into the Hall of Fame of Delaware Women.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize Dr. Judith Gedney Tobin, who is to be inducted into the Hall of Fame of Delaware Women for her remarkable accomplishments in the field of forensic pathology. Dr. Tobin demonstrated expertise and longevity as a pathologist, working as the Assistant Delaware State Medical Examiner from 1964 to 2009. She became the only woman to serve as President of the Nanticoke Hospital Medical Staff and the first woman to be inducted into the Nanticoke Hospital's Physician Hall of Fame. In 2006, Dr. Tobin was recognized for her leadership and contributions to the discipline of pathology when the Delaware Division of Health and Human Services named the Southern Office of the Chief Medical Examiner building in her honor. She was appointed by the Governor of Delaware to the Board of Medical Practice, served on the Board of the Delaware Institute of Medical Education and Research, and in 1985 was awarded the Distinguished Service Award for her professional contributions. Dr. Tobin has been the recipient of many awards for her role as a leader, role model and advocate for her profession and in her community. Her impact as a forensic pathologist will forever be remembered by the countless number of people who were affected by her work. In addition, she helped found the Western Sussex Boys and Girls Club, and served on the boards of the Blood Bank, American Cancer Society, as well as Children and Family First. Dr. Tobin succeeded and thrived in an extremely challenging medical field, and contributed so much as a volunteer and citizen. I am grateful for her service to the State of Delaware, and wish her all the best as she accepts the well-earned honor of being inducted into the Hall of Fame of Delaware Women.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to Jacquelin Pitts, an exemplary woman who is to be inducted into the Hall of Fame of Delaware Women. Jackie is truly deserving of this high distinction for the profound impact she has made not only here in Delaware, but around the world, as well. Jacquelin Pitts is a gifted athlete, devoted educator, and invaluable leader in the Delaware community. She has advanced the sport of women's lacrosse around the world, providing advocacy and coaching in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, developing it in Japan and the former Czechoslovakia, as well as introducing the sport to Cuba. Here in the First State, she helped co-found the Delaware Women's Lacrosse Association, the Delaware High School Girls All-Star Game, and lacrosse and field hockey camps for high school students, serving 13,000 girls over 25 years. Jackie's positive influence on young people extends beyond the field and into the classrooms and hearts of those she has coached, taught and worked with over the years. Now in her 51st year as a math teacher at Sanford School, she was also chairwoman of the Math Department for 25 years. She was selected for a U.S. Presidential Scholar's Teacher Recognition Award in 2000, and was once chosen to serve on an advisory committee to the U.S. Department of Education. Jackie has made an indelible impact on the sport of lacrosse for girls and women locally and worldwide as a player, coach and ambassador with lacrosse associations in Delaware, around the United States and internationally. She continues to contribute to our State as a teacher, community leader and role model. I commend her for her outstanding service to the State of Delaware, and wish her all the best as she accepts the well-merited honor of being inducted into the Hall of Fame of Delaware Women.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with pride and admiration that I rise today to pay tribute to the Delaware medical groups that have traveled to Haiti over the past month to administer medical relief aid. To date, over five dozen individuals have gone to Haiti with Delaware's medical teams--including doctors and staff from Alexis I. duPont Hospital for Children, Bayhealth Medical Center, Christiana Care Health System, and St. Francis Healthcare Services--and a great many more have aided in preparing and assisting the teams with logistical planning and much needed medical supplies. When news of Haiti's devastating earthquake reached members of Delaware's medical and disaster response community, plans of aid and assistance were immediately underway. Delaware medical professionals were on the ground, setting up emergency clinics and treating patients within ten days of the earthquake's occurrence, a remarkable feat considering the effect the earthquake had on travel into and out of the country. These medical teams are comprised of truly dedicated individuals, individuals who are able to persevere despite the physically and mentally demanding nature of medical missions and the inevitable frustration and conflict that must attend a catastrophe such as this. Each day, all day, they see patients--administering aid and medications, performing desperately needed operations, and establishing local connections that will prove vital as relief work moves forward. They do this amidst logistical challenges and harsh conditions, contending with aftershocks, extreme weather, and a lack of shelter, supplies and running water. Their support, their efforts, and what they have been able to accomplish, including arranging for the transport and treatment of critical-need babies who require medical care not available to them in Haiti, are remarkable. While I know there will be many more groups, organizations, and hospitals to thank going forward, I call attention today to the Delaware medical teams who have already responded with aid and resources in the wake of this major catastrophe. I wish to recognize these individuals for their quick response; they knew the importance of providing quality medical care and acted with great zeal. I wish to recognize them for their tireless dedication; they have worked day and night, performing surgeries back-to-back. Finally, I wish to recognize them for their continuing compassion; they have set aside, without reservation, their own lives in order to help others. Their commitment to the Haitian population has been tenacious. The efforts of Delaware's medical and disaster response community are nothing short of inspirational. These men and women are not just medical professionals; they are heroes and role models. They have donated their time, their energy, and their hearts. Their efforts have been tireless, and I am humbled by that which they have already accomplished. I feel great pride in representing a state whose citizens are aware of and responsive to the needs and affairs of our global community. Catastrophes call for banding together. Delaware's medical community has answered that call and, I have no doubt, will continue to do so in the coming weeks and months.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Chairwoman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Chair, I yield myself such time as I may consume. This amendment, offered with Mr. Lynch, requires the President, through the Secretary of the Treasury, to submit to Congress a comprehensive report on terrorism financing that was first mandated by the Intelligence Reform Bill of 2004, but has yet to be submitted. Following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, our government acted quickly to combat terrorist financing. However, post-9/11 terrorist financing has become more decentralized, and those involved are using less sophisticated means to move money and avoid official banking systems. Terrorist financiers are exploiting new technology to transfer money electronically and employing money laundering schemes to cover up their activities. In response to the 9/11 Commission recommendations, Congress passed the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004. Section 6303 of this 2004 law required the President to submit to Congress a comprehensive report evaluating and making recommendations on the current state of U.S. efforts to fight terror financing. This important report was due in September of 2005, but it has never been completed. Multiple U.S. Government departments and agencies are involved in the effort to combat terrorist financing, including Treasury, Justice Department, Homeland Security, State Department, Defense Department, FBI and the CIA. These various entities are to be commended for their efforts to track and disrupt complex terrorist financing schemes since 2001. Still, with so many government entities involved in combating terrorist financing, it is critical that we heed the lessons of the past and undertake a thorough assessment of our progress. The amendment I am offering today with Congressman Lynch reiterates Congress' requirement that the President undertake a thorough evaluation of our efforts to disrupt terrorist financing, including the ability to coordinate our intelligence and keep pace with evolving trends. The bottom line is that terrorists need money to operate, and we need to be fully prepared and adaptable to combating their ability to access these funds. There is no room for delay in this endeavor, especially since top U.S. intelligence officials indicate a possible likelihood of another attempted terrorist attack on the United States at some time in the relatively near future. Thank you for the opportunity to discuss my amendment. I look forward to working with the members of the committee on these important matters. Madam Chairwoman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Chairwoman, we hope this report can be done relatively soon. The amendment actually allows for 180 days more from this time in order to submit it. We have been in touch with the administration. We know that they're aware of this, and hopefully it can be completed. I think it may help with the safety of our country and perhaps dealing with the financing of terrorists in this world, so we look forward to it. I appreciate the support. I also appreciate all the words and support of Mr. Lynch in getting to this point. With that, I encourage everyone to support it and yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Uni- Capitol Washington Internship Programme. This program provides Congressional offices with not only tremendous Australian students and employees, but also wonderful people, and I am pleased to have hosted a number of students--including our most recent student, Cassandra Lawry--over the past several years. The Uni-Capitol Washington Internship Programme was founded in 1999 to offer students from Australia's top universities the opportunity to learn and appreciate the American political system, serve as ambassadors for their country and gain valuable academic and professional experience. Each year, after competing for admission into this highly selective program, these students put their studies on hold and come to Washington, D.C. to intern for eight weeks, largely at their own expense. The Uni-Capitol Washington Internship Programme is not only beneficial for the Australian students, but also for their new co-workers, who are able to gain insight from their unique perspective on political issues. This year, I have the privilege of hosting Cassandra Lawry. Cass comes to us from Sylvania in New South Wales and is currently completing her bachelor's degree at Wollongong University, where she is studying history and politics. During her time here, Cass has attended briefings, drafted constituent correspondence and assisted my staff with various other administrative duties. Cass's work ethic and positive attitude have made her a great addition to our team. She hopes that experience gained from her internship on Capitol Hill will provide valuable knowledge that she can use in the completion of her degree when she returns home. Following graduation, Cass plans on returning to Washington, D.C. to work on Capitol Hill. Once again, I thank and commend Cassandra Lawry for her outstanding service to my office and this country, as well as the Uni-Capitol Washington Internship Programme for connecting us with numerous other dedicated students like her. I look forward to continuing our partnership for many years.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to the Ladies Auxiliary of the Seaford Volunteer Fire Department as they celebrate their 75th anniversary in the state of Delaware on February 6, 2010. The Ladies Auxiliary was formed on February 18, 1935, after Mrs. William B. Huston called a group of firemen's wives and friends together with the purpose of forming an organization to support the Seaford Volunteer firemen. Originally known as the `Seaford Ladies' Volunteer Auxiliary, the women chose Mrs. Huston as their first president, with Mrs. Sallie Robinson, Mrs. Malcolm Orr, Mrs. Norris Tull, Miss Florence Culver, and Mrs. Charles Marvel supporting the Ladies Auxiliary in other officer positions. The first years saw the women making do with limited means. Without a formal kitchen until 1942, the Ladies Auxiliary used Mary and Charlie Marvel's kitchen to prepare coffee and refreshments for fire scenes. While the main reason for organizing was to provide refreshments for the firemen during emergency situations, the Ladies Auxiliary of the Seaford Volunteer Fire Department has taken on a great deal more since its formation. Over the last 75 years, they have raised funds to benefit the fire company as well as the town of Seaford, hosting numerous events and fundraisers such as fashion shows, concession stands, banquets, and annual bake sales, craft shows and penny parties. And since the dedication of the new fire house in 1950, the Ladies Auxiliary and the Seaford Volunteer Fire Department have hosted the Delaware Volunteer Firefighter's Association State Convention three times. In 2001, the Ladies Auxiliary began a `junior' members program for students age 13 and over. Though the Ladies Auxiliary has experienced change over the years, their goal has always remained the same--to serve the volunteer firemen and community of Seaford in any way that they can. On this 75th anniversary, I would like to recognize the unequaled devotion of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Seaford Volunteer Fire Department. Since 1935, the women of the Ladies Auxiliary have volunteered their time, their energy, and their hearts in support of the Seaford Volunteer Fire Department and its surrounding community. I commend them for their tireless dedication and immeasurable contributions, and I wish them all the best on this momentous occasion.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to acknowledge my home state of Delaware for its promotion of February as Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month (TDVAPM). Dating violence amongst adolescents is a serious and sobering matter. In the U.S., one in three adolescent girls is a victim of physical, emotional, or verbal abuse from a dating partner. In fact, females between the ages of 16 and 24 are the most vulnerable to intimate partner violence, experiencing abuse at almost triple the national average; a resonating two-thirds of teens who experience abuse never tell anyone. These statistics underscore the vital importance of TDVAPM--an opportunity to rededicate ourselves to raising awareness and promoting prevention. Combating the serious and often overlooked issue of teen dating violence begins with us. We have the power to educate and empower the young people in our communities and in our states. They must be given examples of healthy relationships. They must be taught that speaking out against physical and emotional abuse is crucial and necessary. Their attitudes must be changed away from supporting violence to embracing mutual respect. This is our responsibility--as elected officials and as parents and teachers and mentors--and these are the goals of TDVAPM. In Delaware, the Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Initiative has, since its inception, been recognized as the full month of February, and this year marks the first time it will be recognized as such on a national level. Since 2006, Delaware schools and organizations have been partnering together for this worthy cause, demonstrating a commitment to ending teen dating violence and supporting the victims and survivors among us. Delaware's Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month Planning Committee, along with Child, Inc., the Delaware Coalition against Domestic Violence and the Delaware Victims' Rights Task Force, work diligently to not only raise public awareness, but provide young people with the resources they need to receive help and to break the cycle of violence. Today, I wish to thank and recognize these groups and the many other organizations and individuals involved in this initiative. They are proof that prevention is possible--through empowerment and education.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding funding benefitting the State of Delaware included in H.R. 3326, the Fiscal Year 2010 Defense Appropriations Act. Name of Intended Recipient: Delaware National Guard Location: First Regiment Rd, Wilmington, DE 19808 Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Account: DRUGS Name of Project: Delaware National Guard Counterdrug Task Force Project Description: The Act includes $300,000 to provide counterdrug support to federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and to Community Based Organizations requesting Drug Demand Reduction Assistance. Funding will provide unique military support and resources to our police agencies which enable the police to concentrate more police resources to other priorities in their department. Increased funding from federal appropriations will permit the Delaware National Guard to provide support to open requests from the FBI, Delaware State Police, and local authorities. It will also enable the Delaware Guard to expand its Drug Education Program. Name of Intended Recipient: WL Gore & Associates Location: 555 Paper Mill Rd., Newark, DE 19711 Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Account: OM, DW Name of Project: Special Operations Forces Modular Glove System Project Description: The Act includes $4,780,000 to accelerate the fielding of the Modular Glove System for U.S. Special Operations Forces (SOF). This is a five piece system that provides the war fighter the necessary protection across a wide range of climactic conditions. Developed to be compatible with the SOF's Protective Combat Uniform designed for frigid conditions, this SOF Modular Glove System provides cold weather protection to -50 degrees as well as waterproof protection in wet conditions. The Special Operations Command has an established requirement for a Modular Glove System to better meet the real-world mission needs of its SOF in a broad range of deployed environments. This funding would accelerate the fielding by about one year to ensure all U.S. SOF forces in theater have access to this high technology, readiness enhancing system. Name of Intended Recipient: University of Delaware Location: Hullihen Hall, Newark, DE 19716 Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Account: RDTE, A Name of Project: Composite Applied Research and Technology for FCS and Tactical Vehicle Survivability Project Description: The Act includes $3,200,000 to rapidly advance the Technology Readiness Level of existing and promising new ultra- lightweight composite structures and armor for combat and light, medium and heavy tactical vehicle applications. Using heavy materials such as steel and aluminum will continue to result in vehicles that are too heavy to transport and will overload vehicles--which reduces life, increases maintenance costs and requires more frequent vehicle replacement. The project is addressing the critical needs of the U.S. Army to protect our soldiers and provide them with the best equipment to carry out their missions. Lightweight composite vehicle structures and armor increase mobility and mission payloads while increasing soldier protection against direct fire, improvised explosive devices and explosively formed penetrators. Name of Intended Recipient: INVISTA S.a r.l. Location: 2801 Centerville Road, Wilmington, DE 19808 Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Account: RDTE, A Name of Project: Improved Thermal Resistant Nylon for Enhanced Durability and Thermal Protection in Combat Uniforms Project Description: The Act includes $3,200,000 to increase the safety and protection of U.S. soldiers with improved flame resistant, durable, and lower cost materials for the U.S. Army combat uniforms. These improvements will meet an urgent need due to the threat of Improvised Explosive Devices (IED). This project will fund and accelerate research, development, testing, and evaluation for nylon fiber development, fiber formulation, fabric scale up and performance blend specification for U.S. Army combat uniforms. Name of Intended Recipient: ILC Dover LP Location: One Moonwalker Road, Frederica, DE 19946-2080 Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Account: RDTE, DW Name of Project: Joint Services Aircrew Mask Don/Doff Inflight Upgrade Project Description: The Act includes $2,400,000 for research, development, testing, and evaluation of a Joint Services Aircrew Mask, which will provide above the neck Chemical, Biological, and Anti-G protection to DoD aircrew personnel. The mask is a hood that goes over the wearer's head and seals at the neck. This project will enhance our military's mission capability while minimizing performance degradation in chemical and biological contaminated scenarios. Name of Intended Recipient: Piasecki Aircraft Corporation Location: 2nd Street West, Essington, PA 19029 Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Account: RDTE, N Name of Project: X-49A Envelope Expansion Modifications Project Description: The Act includes $3,600,000 to conduct flight demonstrations at New Castle County Airport in Delaware on the Vectored Thrust Ducted Propeller (VTDP) Compound Helicopter technology's potential to increase rotorcraft speed, range, and survivability. These funds will cover the cost of design, fabrication, assembly, instrumentation and check out of propulsion and control system modifications that will enable flight beyond the current operating limits of the baseline conventional helicopter. Many current US combat and humanitarian operations require rotorcraft capabilities well beyond those of existing fleet helicopters. Name of Intended Recipient: ANP Technologies, Inc. Location: 824 Interchange Blvd., Newark, DE 19711 Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Account: RDTE, DW Name of Project: NIDS Handheld Common Identifier for Biological Agents Project Description: The Act includes $2,400,000 for research, development, testing, and evaluation to develop a handheld device for detection of a variety of biological warfare agent related bacteria and viruses. According to the Report of the Commission on the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism (released in December 2008), a biological attack is more likely to be used by terrorists than any other weapons of mass destruction in the near future. The proposed handheld common identifier for biological agents will allow war fighters to perform rapid, on-site biological agent tests during threat situations. Name of Intended Recipient: University of Delaware Location: Hullihen Hall, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716 Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Account: RDTE, N Name of Project: Advanced Composite Maritime Manufacturing Project Description: The Act includes $1,600,000 to research and develop design, engineering and manufacturing technologies for U.S. Navy ship structures based on advanced lightweight composite materials. The objective of this project is to keep Navy, SOCOM (Special Operations Command), and Coast Guard craft at the forefront of technology, and help insure superiority of the US military in the water over current and future adversaries. The application of these materials and technologies will provide ship structures that are optimally engineered, and manufactured using state-of-the-art methods to provide the highest performance at the lowest cost. Name of Intended Recipient: University of Delaware Location: Hullihen Hall, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716 Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Account: RDTE, N Name of Project: Millimeter Wave Imaging Project Description: The Act includes $1,360,000 for research, development, testing, and evaluation to develop real-time millimeter- wave imaging to allow U.S. soldiers to see in harsh conditions, including dust, fog, sand, and clouds. Millimeter wave imaging systems are able to image through smoke, fog, marine layer, blowing dust and sand, and fabric. The technology development is supported by the Office of Naval Research with the intent to deploy systems on military helicopters landing in harsh environments such as the ``brownout'' conditions faced when landing in the deserts of places such as Afghanistan and Iraq. It will also improve situational awareness of Naval vessels, particularly when close to the shore or at ports. Name of Intended Recipient: University of Delaware Location: Hullihen Hall, University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716 Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Account: RDTE, A Name of Project: Cybersecurity in Tactical Environments Project Description: The Act includes $800,000 for research, development, testing and evaluation to detect vulnerabilities and intrusions in the U.S. Army's battlefield networks. The U.S. Army uses mobile computer networks to both communicate between soldiers, and between soldiers and their weapons systems. This concept is called network centric warfare, and the security and availability of this network is critical to combat operations. The project will focus on detection of data exfiltration in tactical networks, intrusion detection in mobile ad-hoc networks, detection of malicious hardware and software components, and detecting security threats in commercial off the shelf (COTS) wireless networking equipment. Name of Intended Recipient: Fraunhofer USA Center for Molecular Biotechnology Location: 9 Innovation Way, Suite 200, Newark, DE 19711 Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Account: RDTE, DW Name of Project: Army Plant Vaccine Development Program Project Description: The Act includes $1,600,000 for research, development, testing, and evaluation to deliver a combined multivalent one-shot vaccine to protect the U.S. Armed Forces and civilian communities against plague and anthrax. This quick response ability can assist communities around the world with mass therapeutic treatment or for mass vaccination in the event of bioterrorist attack or natural disease outbreak such as an avian influenza. Name of Intended Recipient: Delaware National Guard Location: First Regiment Road, Wilmington, DE 19805 Requesting Member: Congressman Michael N. Castle Account: OP, A Name of Project: Phoenix Quad-Band Satellite Receiver for the Delaware National Guard Project Description: The Act includes $3,200,000 for a mobile communications terminal to provide the Delaware National Guard with improved high data rate exchanges between various satellites and ground communications systems in secure and non-secure digital formats.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize the career of Colonel John Robert McCarnan, retiring Chief Executive Officer of the Delaware River and Bay Authority Police Department (DRBA-PD). Colonel McCarnan, through exemplary commitment and service, has protected the people of our great state for more than 40 years, and he has proven to be a tough and formidable leader in a profession that requires exceptional skill and dedication. Colonel McCarnan's tenure as CEO of DRBA-PD began in July of 1993. Since that time, he has led the DRBA-PD to new heights, working hard to establish high standards and promote professionalism, integrity, and customer service-oriented policing. DRBA-PD is known as a professional and progressive police organization, and this is a direct result of John's diligence and talent. Police officers serve such an important function in our society, and to be as effective as possible, they must have dedicated and organized leaders. John has been this and more to DRBA-PD and he leaves behind him big shoes to fill for those that will follow. A genuine Delawarean through and through, John earned his Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Wilmington University and later his Juris Doctor Degree from Widener University's School of Law. John began his law enforcement career as a patrol officer with the Wilmington Bureau of Police, later moving to the New Castle County Police Department, where he served for 20 years. John worked faithfully and diligently during his years with New Castle County, serving eight of them as Chief of Police. After his retirement from the New Castle County Police Department, John lent his skills to the Delaware State Government, first as Deputy Attorney General and later as Executive Director of the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control. Some of John's professional affiliations include: both the Delaware and American Bar Associations; the District of Columbia and the Pennsylvania Bar; the U.S. District Courts for Delaware and Pennsylvania; and Life Member, and former Chairman, of the Delaware Police Chief's Council. John is a dedicated man who has had a very successful career, filled with achievements both impressive and numerous. But John is more than that; he is a loving husband to his wife, Sharen, he is a devoted father and grandfather to his children, Barbara and Darren, his daughter-in-law, Dana, and his grandson, Robbie, and he is a concerned citizen, serving as an Executive Board Member of the Delaware Safety Council. John also served 6 years as a member of the Delaware Army National Guard. I can attest to John's outstanding achievements and his fine character, and today, as he begins a new chapter in his life, I stand to honor and recognize the service he has rendered to both the individual citizens and the collective communities of Delaware. The Delaware River and Bay Authority Police Department's mission is to protect and serve Delaware and New Jersey, and Colonel John McCarnan has been doing exactly that for the past 16 years. I thank him for his service and wish him the best on this momentous occasion.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to Mr. Marvin N. Schoenhals, former Chairman of the Wilmington Savings Fund Society (WSFS). Mr. Schoenhals, through his leadership, hard work and dedication, has accomplished a great deal for the state of Delaware, and I am honored to recognize him for his achievements, both personal and professional. Skip joined WSFS in 1990 as President and Chief Executive Officer of both WSFS Financial Corporation and its principal subsidiary, Wilmington Savings Fund Society, located in Wilmington, Delaware. He was named Chairman in 1992 and served in this capacity until November 1, 2009, when Skip assumed the role of non-employee director. Skip's nearly 20 years as WSFS Chairman are marked by many noteworthy accomplishments; during his tenure, Skip led the $3.6 billion financial services company to world class service levels and significantly increased shareholder value. But Skip's impact on others is not limited solely to his professional career. He is a role model for others and is actively involved in his community, lending his knowledge and expertise to worthy causes and organizations. Skip is Chairman of Vision 2015, a coalition of Delaware leaders working towards making Delaware's public education the best in the world. He serves on, and from 2003 to 2004 was Chairman of, the Board of Directors of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce and is also a member of the Delaware Business Roundtable, Chairman of its Education Committee, and a Trustee, and former Chairman, of the Delaware Public Policy Institute. A cause very dear to Skip's heart is the Sunday Breakfast Mission, our state's largest shelter and rehabilitation facility. Each fall, WSFS partners with the Sunday Breakfast Mission to sponsor the Great Thanksgiving Food Drive, and, as Chairman of the Mission, Skip spearheads the effort, working diligently on behalf of his fellow Delawareans. With Skip's direct involvement in this initiative, the drive has experienced exponential growth, collecting a total of 37 tons of food for 2008. In 2009, Skip was awarded the Delaware State Chamber's Josiah Marvel Cup. This distinguished award is given annually in recognition of outstanding contributions made to the state, community and society; I applaud the Chamber's selection of Skip for this recognition and can say without hesitation that the honor which has been bestowed upon him is one he most truly deserves. Skip's career in the financial industry has been nothing short of exemplary, and anyone that knows Skip knows that he is, and no doubt will remain, very active in his many professional, business, community, and advisory organizations. Moreover, Skip is truly a great guy--dedicated to his wife, Linda, and to his church. Today, I commend Mr. Marvin N. Schoenhals for the service which he has rendered our state as not only Chairman of WSFS, but as a caring and devoted member of our society. In recognition of his tireless dedication and immeasurable contributions, I thank Skip and offer my best wishes on this momentous occasion.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to pay tribute to the Bridgeville Fire Company for 100 years of outstanding service to the people of Delaware. The importance of emergency fire and medical services within our communities cannot be emphasized enough. I am proud to represent a state that is home to such selfless and dedicated firefighters, EMTs, and service volunteers as those of the Bridgeville Fire Company in Bridgeville, Delaware. The Bridgeville Fire Company was born from a tradition of strong community involvement, and the Company has kept that tradition alive through the years. The fire department was organized on December 14, 1909 in the old Opera House. Ira Lewis, William E. Dimes, and Howard E. Hardesty were appointed to secure the necessary membership to incorporate what is known today as the Bridgeville Volunteer Fire Company, Inc. Over the next 12 months, plans were drawn and approved for the first building, at a cost of $1,100. Since then, the Bridgeville Fire Company has steadily grown into a pillar of strength within the community. A century later, I would like to recognize and honor all the current and former members of the Bridgeville Fire Department for their service to our community, including: President Allen Parsons; Vice President Steve McCarron; Secretary John Tomeski, Sr; Treasurer Pete Stephens and Fire Recorder Malhon Baker. Their efforts inspire others and I am honored to highlight the positive influence that they have had throughout Delaware and beyond. On this anniversary I would also like to once again commend the Bridgeville Fire Company for 100 years of exceptional service. The bravery and hard work of its members past and present and of its dedicated ladies auxiliary make Delaware a safer place to live, and I wish them all the best on this momentous occasion.

Mr. CASTLE

Mr. CASTLE. I thank the gentleman from Idaho for yielding. Madam Chair, I rise in very strong support of this bipartisan amendment to create a Consumer Financial Protection Council which, of course, I am pleased to cosponsor. This amendment strikes the right balance in promoting strong consumer protections while ensuring the safety and soundness of our Nation's financial system. I am convinced that the current language in the bill threatens to expand the reach of the Federal Government, to limit innovation, to restrict choices of financial products, and to interfere with day-to- day activities of small business. Utilizing a council of existing regulators is a cost-effective and responsible approach to achieving the same goals as intended by the Consumer Financial Protection Agency. Our amendment establishes a council of existing regulators, which we know as the Treasury, Fed, OCC, FDIC, et cetera, instead of an entirely new agency and bureaucracy with all of the costs and attendant bureaucracy that would be involved with that. Utilizing a council balances power instead of using a single politically appointed administrator. I would hope that everybody in the Chamber would support this change by the gentleman from Idaho. I think the underlying legislation has some problems. There are some cost issues, and there are probably some job issues and other things we have to worry about, but I think this particular change which is in this amendment is key to progressing in a way that would protect consumers but that would make sure that we are not distracting from the world of business in terms of commerce and banking in the United States of America.