Joe Courtney

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks on the resolution under consideration.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, dreams of higher education have become increasingly elusive for thousands of well-qualified students from low- income and disadvantaged backgrounds. On February 7, 2008, the House passed the College Opportunity and Affordability Act, legislation that will move our Nation one step closer to expanding higher education opportunities for all. I rise today to celebrate this achievement and recognize the role that Dr. Maria Martinez, the University of Connecticut's director of the Center for Academic Programs, has served in delivering higher education outreach services to Connecticut's most vulnerable communities. For the past four decades, TRIO programs, including Talent Search, Upward Bound, and Student Support Services, have facilitated access to higher education opportunities for disadvantaged students in Connecticut and across the Nation. Dr. Martinez is charged with implementing TRIO and similar programs at the University of Connecticut. On March 22, 2007, in light of pending reauthorization of these programs under the College Opportunity and Affordability Act, Dr. Maria D. Martinez testified before the House Committee on Education and Labor. Perhaps the most poignant of her testimonials included a reference to one of UConn's TRIO alumni, Dr. Franklin Chang-Diaz. She stated that Franklin struggled with English in high school and was recruited into UConn's Student Support Services program. Upon completing his undergraduate degree, Franklin earned a doctorate in plasma physics at MIT, was recruited by NASA, and became America's first Hispanic astronaut. He currently holds the world record for most space missions flown. The College Opportunity and Affordability Act strengthens these programs and brings hope to thousands of students just like Franklin. In Dr. Chang-Diaz's words, ``TRIO is one of the ways this country really becomes the land of opportunity.'' Madam Speaker, education systems form the pillars for potential prosperity and health of any society. Our Nation must remain vigilant of these systems and continue to improve them until they reflect our highest aspirations. Continuing to support programs like TRIO is necessary to ensure these worthy objectives. I ask my colleagues to join with me and my constituents in recognizing the importance of TRIO programs and Dr. Martinez's role in delivering these services to underprivileged students in Connecticut.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise today to recognize the heroic efforts of four members of eastern Connecticut's community: Robert Butler, John Roberts, and Shelly and Greg Erb. These individuals' selfless and quick, smart actions saved the lives of two kayakers from the frigid waters of the Noank River. On Friday, February 7, 2008, Robert Butler and John Roberts will be presented with a Meritorious Public Service Award by Rear Admiral Timothy Sullivan and Captain Dan Ronan. Shelly and Greg Erb will be presented with a Certificate of Merit. On January 30, 2008, Shelly Erb was driving to her home in Noank, Connecticut, when she spotted a stranded kayaker on the bank of the Noank River. Once home, she immediately notified her husband, Greg Erb who called 911 and the Noank Village Boatyard. Shelly and Greg's quick, decisive actions to notify both emergency responders and the Noank Village Boatyard would ultimately prove to save both kayakers' lives. Employees of the Noank Village Boatyard, Robert Butler and John Roberts received the call from Mr. Erb. The waters were near freezing, and understanding that prolonged exposure posed serious life- threatening risks, the men immediately launched a boat to find the kayakers. Soon after, Robert and John were able to locate the kayakers, one of whom remained in the water, nearly unconscious. Robert and John rescued the kayaker from the water and helped both to a waiting ambulance. Both kayakers survived. The events that unfolded on January 30 could have very possibly ended in tragedy. Instead, our community witnessed the very best of its neighbors. I ask my colleagues to join with me and my constituents in recognizing and saluting the heroic efforts of Robert Butler, John Roberts, and Shelly and Greg Erb.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, for the past 50 years LEGO has transformed childhood play and provided invaluable academic and economic contributions to local communities around the globe. On January 29, 2008, LEGO celebrated its 50th anniversary. I rise today to recognize 50 years of LEGO innovation and contributions. LEGO USA headquarters is located in my district in Enfield, Connecticut. Over the past three decades since headquarters moved from Brookfield to Enfield, Connecticut in 1975, the company has made substantial contributions to the local community. Today it remains the town's largest employer. Although the Enfield offices have struggled in recent years in light of increasing globalization pressures, I remain hopeful that it will continue to innovate and thrive as part of Connecticut's economy. Education and family programs, which have been highlights of the corporation in the past, will continue to have positive lasting impacts on the community in the future. The LEGO Creative Child Care Center KinderCare@Work program, which accommodates children ages 6 weeks to 12 years of age, has received national accolades for quality childhood development services. LEGO's KinderCare@Work program incorporates an engaging, thought-provoking curriculum into a healthy and safe environment for children from the local community. Quality early education programs, like LEGO's KinderCare@Work, are essential for promoting academic and professional success in latter years and should be a model for other private and public early education programs. Programs geared towards middle and high school students, such as the FIRST LEGO League (FLL), also provide impetus for academic success and an environmentally and socially conscientious society. FLL programs encourage students to look at problems currently affecting global communities from a pragmatic and analytical perspective. LEGO USA has been a regular host of FLL tournaments. In 2007, students from Enfield and all of Connecticut joined students from around the globe in addressing a fundamental question that continues to be the focus of leading environmentalists, engineers, scientists, and politicians: the economic, environmental, and social impact that our energy consumption choices have on our global community. From, simple yellow and red blocks to black knights and ninjas, the iconic toy has remained a classic, thought-provoking source of play for children around the world. For providing positive academic and economic development in communities around our globe and inspiring generations of artists, architects, and engineers, I ask my colleagues to join with me and my constituents in honoring LEGO's 50th anniversary.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, for decades the United States has looked towards Australia as one of our closest of cultural, economic and security partners. This is true not just between the two governments but among Americans and Australians who have crossed the Pacific to visit with or work with each other. I am pleased to rise today to recognize the Uni-Capitol Washington Internship Program, which annually delivers some of Australia's best and brightest university students to a bipartisan and bicameral array of congressional offices for two-month internships. This is the first year that I have been privileged to participate in the Uni-Capitol Washington Internship Program. A student emissary to my office, Anthony Bremner, has added first-hand value to our understanding of global issues and perspectives as seen from Australia. Anthony, who visits us from the University of Queensland, is a text- book example of the high caliber of this program. Over the past two months, he has applied his volunteer experiences from the constituency office of Australia's newly elected Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, to my office. During this time, Anthony has attended committee briefings, drafted constituent correspondence, and assisted my staff with research. His Australian accent frequently sparked conversations with my constituents interested to learn where he was from and to share their international experiences with him. This international exchange has demonstrated that through sharing our American and eastern Connecticut values and experiences we foster greater understanding and appreciation of the United States. Anthony is not alone in this effort. This year, a record 13 students from all across Australia were matched with as many congressional offices. They were drawn from seven Australian universities in four different states and the Australian Capital Territory. Far from a solely academic exercise, the Uni-Capitol program is a practical investment in our global community, given the diverse array of congressional participants and an equally diverse array of student interests ranging from law to commerce, from the environment to communications, from international affairs to American studies. Including this current group, 81 Australian students will have interned in Washington since the program's inception nine years ago. For launching and directing this effort here in Washington, much credit is due to its founder Eric Federing. Eric is a former senior House and Senate Congressional staffer who has worked to bridge the wide geographic distance between the U.S. and Australia through his efforts at the Uni-Capitol Washington Internship Program. Madam Speaker, I would encourage all of my colleagues to seek connections with members of our global community. Similarly, I would encourage American university students to seek established and creative ways to connect with their counterparts around the globe. On this note, I ask my colleagues to join with me in recognizing the contributions of the Uni-Capitol Internship Program and, again, thank Anthony Bremner for his participation and hard work.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Chairman, I want to start by first of all thanking Chairman Grijalva who during this 110th Congress has shown that he is a true friend of the State of Connecticut with his advocacy on the 8-Mile River bill and now for the MMM Scenic Trail bill. I also want to recognize Congressman Olver for his hard work on this issue, and Congressman Murphy and the other cosponsors of this legislation. People are extremely excited who live in the area that will be affected by this trail. Again, I think it will be a wonderful step forward for New England. And as Chris said, reconnecting with its terrific natural beauty and natural heritage. Four of the towns which this trail goes through touch Connecticut's Second District. Suffield, Durham, Haddam and Madison, at various points on the map that Congressman Murphy presented, are part of the national scenic trail. This is a system, to sort of get back to the bill before us today and maybe away from some of the global issues which were just discussed, it was a system created in 1968. Twenty-three trails have been given designation by Congress during the last 40 years in a very nonintrusive way with no damage done to people's property rights, but in a way that is a partnership relationship between the Federal Government and local landowners and communities. It is my understanding that the Governor of the State of Connecticut, Governor Rell, a Republican, is supporting a letter in support of the legislation. I think that is indicative of the feeling of the communities that are touched by it, certainly in the State of Connecticut, and particularly by the private, nonprofit Connecticut Forest and Park Association, which Mr. Bishop gave great praise to, and they deserve it for the work that they have done over the many years. But I think it is important that when we talk about the work that they did, they are vigorous advocates and supporters of this legislation because they see it as consistent with the mission that they have carried out for 75 years, to keep the trail accessible to families, to individuals from all over the world. They deserve, I think, the biggest credit for their support for this legislation over the last few years. Finally, I want to say in response to the prior speaker, the Members of the U.S. Senate from the State of Connecticut did support production of new sources of energy in the energy bill which was sent to the Senate. Production tax credits for geothermal wind and solar were paid for by taking away tax breaks for oil companies. Unfortunately, the opposition party in the Senate stripped those critical, important, necessary changes that our country is yearning for. We in the Northeast are as committed as any part of the country in terms of the need to transform our energy system so we will have a thriving economy that will be there for our children and our grandchildren.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and legacy of former Governor William O'Neill, who passed away on November 24, 2007. Bill O'Neill is today recognized as one of the giants of Connecticut history. He served as Governor from 1980 to 1982, and was a leader who had a commonsense, compassionate vision of government, raising teachers' salaries, rebuilding our roads, and creating a pathbreaking prescription drug benefit for seniors. In Connecticut over the last 2 weeks, there has been an outpouring of affection for the Governor and his wonderful surviving wife, Nikki, partly because of his great work for the people, but also because of the plainspoken, humble way he carried himself in the State's highest office. As the Irish would say, Bill O'Neill never put on airs. And that is why last week, at a funeral service at St. Patrick's Church in his beloved East Hampton, the same church he served as an altar boy and the same church he faithfully attended for over 70 years, people from all walks of life came to pay tribute to him and Nikki and honor a man who set a beautiful example for us all, of service, decency and compassion. I ask my colleagues to join with me in honoring Governor O'Neill's contributions to Connecticut and offer sincerest condolences to his family and friends.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Professor Marc Zimmer of Connecticut College for his outstanding achievements and contributions to local, national, and international academic communities. Marc was honored with a Professor of the Year award by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) and The Carnegie Foundation in Washington, D.C. on November 15. Upon completing his undergraduate degree in chemistry at the University of Witwatersrand in South Africa, Marc moved to the United States where he earned his doctorate at Worcester Polytechnic Institute and worked as a postdoctoral fellow at Yale University. Marc remained in the academic community, continuing original research in the fields of chemistry and joining the Connecticut College faculty in 1990. Throughout this period, he served on numerous boards and committees in chemistry and related fields and was a featured lecturer at some of the most prestigious colleges and universities in the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and Africa. His publications in pioneering chemistry subjects have promulgated technological innovation, but just as importantly, inspired student involvement and interest. His most recent publication, ``Glowing Genes'', simplifies complexities of chemistry and biotechnology to a pedestrian relevancy and understanding. ``Glowing Genes'' explores the potential of green fluorescent protein (GFP), a glowing component in the Aequorea victoria jellyfish species, with detecting biological weapons, combating cancer, and improving agricultural production. Academic faculties provide the foundation for education systems, and in turn, potential health, safety, and prosperity of our society. Professor Zimmer has proven to be an exemplary academic leader at Connecticut College, and more broadly through his contributions to international chemistry curriculum. These contributions will undoubtedly ensure a healthier, safer, and more prosperous society for all. I ask my colleagues to join with me and my constituents in recognizing Professor Zimmer's outstanding accomplishments and contributions and welcome many more to come.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Maureen Festi of West Hartford, CT, for her outstanding achievement in the field of education. After 29 years of educating youth, Ms. Festi was honored with the 2007 Preserve America National History Teacher of the Year Award on November 16, 2007. For the past 15 years, Ms. Festi has dedicated her life to teaching the children of Earl M. Witt Intermediate School in Stafford Springs, CT. Her dedication to her field and her passion for her students are apparent in her creative and imaginative approach to the American history curriculum. Ms. Festi has devoted her life to ensuring that her pupils do not simply memorize history, but also identify its relevance in their lives today. By extending her lessons beyond the four walls of the classroom, Ms. Festi adds contemporary meaning to a study that is focused on the past. A leader and an innovator in her field, Ms. Festi is truly deserving of this national recognition. I ask all my colleagues to join with me and the people of Connecticut in congratulating Ms. Festi for this honor and thanking her for her continued commitment to the education of the children of Connecticut.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate 200 years of Vernon, Connecticut's rich history. Beginning in 2008, the Vernon community will commence a yearlong second centennial celebration, the ``Countdown to 200'', that will reflect on the past and welcome the future. In the early 18th century, settlement began with families from East Windsor cultivating the land and laying groundwork for future development and eventual incorporation of Vernon in 1808. Throughout the 19th century and diminishing with the end of the World War II, textile factories would serve as the main economic lifeblood for the region, especially in Rockville, a town that would later be incorporated in Vernon. During the Civil War, these mills would produce textiles that would clothe Union soldiers. While textiles formed the most notable industry in the region, agriculture had strong roots since settlement in the early 18th century. In 1965, agricultural and industrial communities were linked with the consolidation of the city of Rockville and Vernon. Vernon has produced a number of notable figures, including Gene Pitney, ``The Rockville Rocket'' as well as four-time Super Bowl football champion, Bill Romanowski. Charles Ethan Porter, a renowned still life painter and former Virginia Governor, Mark Warner, also call Vernon their hometown. The relics of earlier settlement and production, including the keystone arch tunnel on Tunnel Road, the Tower on Fox Hill, and the old textile mills, serve as a reminder of the versatility of our quaint New England town. Vernon and its residents have faced a number of problems that have notoriously afflicted small industrial towns. The Vernon community has weathered this adversity, and has and will continue to adapt and endure. I ask my colleagues to join with me and my constituents in celebrating two centuries of Vernon's history, and welcome many more to come.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize John P. Casey, President of Electric Boat in Groton, Connecticut, who has been honored by the Eastern Connecticut Chamber of Commerce with its William Crawford Distinguished Service Award. Each year, the William Crawford Distinguished Service Award is awarded to an individual in eastern Connecticut who exemplifies the spirit of service to their neighbors and who has worked to improve the quality of life in eastern Connecticut. Any who know him should have no doubt that John Casey meets the criteria for this award. As President of one of the largest employers in the region, John Casey is, by definition, a pillar of the communities of southeastern Connecticut. However, John's impact goes far beyond his role as a corporate executive. Throughout the years he has risen through the ranks at Electric Boat, he has demonstrated a unique brand of leadership which recognizes that more can be achieved when all elements of the workforce are summoned tackle a challenge. This approach is helping to streamline the submarine construction process and reduce the costs to the taxpayer--both critical milestones to increasing our submarine production rate. John is also a fighter for the causes important to eastern Connecticut. In 2005, he was a key figure in the fight to save Submarine Base New London. His arguments in favor of the synergy that is achieved by locating the ``Submarine Capital of the World'' next to the nation's premier builder of submarines helped keep the base open. His voice rose above many others in convincing key decision makers that the Sub Base was too vital an asset to Connecticut and our Nation to lose. John Casey is a true leader in eastern Connecticut, and one I have had the honor and pleasure to work closely with over the past year. I commend the Eastern Connecticut Chamber of Commerce for recognizing his great work on behalf of his employees, the region and our Nation, and I ask my colleagues to join with me in honoring him.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Thank you, Congressman Lynch, for letting me join in on today's resolution. I come from the southern end of Red Sox Nation in eastern Connecticut. We are still closer to Fenway Park than we are to Yankee Stadium or Shea Stadium, so it's still safe for me to publicly speak out on this resolution. As someone from a multigenerational Red Sox family like Mr. Capuano, we suffered and worried and have terrible memories, but obviously this is not our fathers' Red Sox any more. This is a great team that combined a lot of new players, Dustin Pedroia, ``Jake'' Jacoby Ellsbury, Daisuke Matzusaka, along with the 2004 veterans of the last World Series, to again have another great exciting season, particularly the ALCS where they came back down 3-1. As Mr. Capuano said, Red Sox Nation extends far and wide. Last March I was on board the USS Alexandria, a nuclear submarine out of Groton, Connecticut, under the ice in Alaska. I spent a day driving around with a great crew, professional and just so impressive in the work they do for our Nation. Sat down for breakfast after sleeping onboard the ship and was immediately confronted by the sailors who said they had only one question for me. I figured it was the war on Iraq, health care. And the one question was, Yankees or Red Sox? I was able to reassure them that I was a Red Sox fan, since they all were as well. But one of the sailors indicated to me that he was coming up for re- enlistment and his dream was to do it in Fenway Park in front of the Green Monster. When I came back to Washington, we contacted President Lucchino of the Red Sox, who bent over backwards for this sailor and his family, his fiance, and they did, in fact, stage a re-enlistment ceremony in front of the Green Monster, wearing the 2004 ring as he signed the papers, committing himself again to our Nation. And I just want to read from the Boston Globe the comment of Petty Officer Vecchione who said, ``It's a sacred place. I had the ring on my finger as if I was married to the Red Sox for a few minutes.'' And I think really what that incident showed, though, is that we have a management who sees that it's a two-way street in Red Sox Nation. We love our players, but they love their fans; and that's why we have such a great fan base who are so passionate about this incredible team that goes back to the early days of baseball. And I appreciate again the bipartisan support and even the support from some Members who root for other teams in this resolution and urge its passage.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and service of Army Sergeant Jason M. Lantieri, a twenty-five year old young man from my district who died on October 10, 2007 while serving in Iraq. Family, friends and the Killingworth community gathered last Thursday to honor, and say goodbye, to this special young man. Jason was a bright, talented, and outgoing student-athlete at Haddam- Killingworth High School in Higganum, Connecticut. There, Jason's athletic abilities were undeniable as he played on the school's soccer, basketball, and baseball teams. In addition to his athletic prowess, Jason's commitment to his school and fellow classmates was solidified through his active role in student council. Following graduation in 2000, Jason enrolled in Western New England College in Springfield, Massachusetts. In subsequent years after earning his business degree, Jason joined the Army and was assigned to the 725th Brigade Support Battalion of the 25th Infantry Division based in Fort Richardson, Alaska. During the next two years, he proudly, and bravely, served our Nation in Iraq. On October 9, 2007, Jason was injured in a vehicle accident outside of Baghdad in Iskandaryah, Iraq. He passed away from his injuries the next day. Earlier this year, Jason was able to fulfill his passion for travel and adventure on a break from Iraq in Europe. He wrote about his travels, stating, ``Europe is a great place to just live for the day and for the moment.'' Although I did not know Jason, it is clear to me that he lived his life to the fullest, and made the world a better place for his family, friends and all those who knew him. Jason's passing brings a profound sadness to the southeastern Connecticut community. His memory and contributions, however, will live on in our hearts and minds. I ask my colleagues to join with me in honoring Jason's life, his service and ultimate sacrifice to our Nation, and offer condolences to his friends and family at this difficult time.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 643rd Military Policy Company of the Connecticut National Guard, based in Westbrook, Connecticut. Over the weekend, I joined Connecticut's Adjutant General, MG Thaddeus Martin and other elected officials as a ``Freedom Salute'' in honor of the 643rd's recent return from a deployment in Germany in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, the longest of any Connecticut National Guard unit in support of ongoing military operations. In February 2006, 130 members of the 643rd MP, commanded by Captain Santo Pizzo of Glastonbury, deployed to Germany where they provided security and military law enforcement at U.S. military facilities in Hanau, Darmstadt, and Baumholder. While there, the unit helped track terrorists suspected of planning attacks against military facilities, including the military barracks in Hanau. In addition, the 643rd MP also tackled other challenges, such as drug and alcohol related crimes and domestic disturbances. Specialist Ryan Maynard of Franklin, Connecticut, was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for saving a 2-month old child from choking. While this is a notable achievement worthy of praise, Specialist Maynard noted in the New London Day that: ``It's not one individual that makes a unit. It takes everyone coming together to make the mission successful.'' Any military deployment is hard not only on our men and women in uniform, but also on their families and loved ones waiting at home for them to return. The 643rd's deployment was especially tough, as they saw their deployment in Germany extended twice--leaving them abroad for nearly 3 more months than they expected. Extended deployments such as this have real consequences for our National Guard, not only in their readiness to respond to threats at home and abroad, but also in the strain it places on the families who selflessly support our men and women in uniform. This weekend's ``Freedom Support'' was a testament to their strength during this long deployment and their continued support for their loved ones in uniform. I ask my colleagues to join me in welcoming the men and women of the 643rd MP home, and congratulating them on a safe and successful deployment.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the military service of Sgt Justin Clough, the most recent recipient of the USO's Marine of the Year award. Although Justin is only 22, he has demonstrated bravery and leadership beyond his years. Since joining the U.S. Marine Corps, Justin has served two tours of duty and led more than 100 combat missions in Iraq as the squad leader of the 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment. During these missions, his squad was frequently attacked by direct and indirect fire. His dedication to leadership and training would ensure the safety of his fellow marines and ultimately prove to save his own life. On December 26, 2006, Justin was wounded by an insurgent sniper while on a routine patrol in Fallujah. Following the attack, his comrades, which included Justin's twin brother Nathaniel Clough, swiftly brought him to safety. On September 20, the usa recognized Justin with one of its most prestigious honors, the Marine of the Year award at the 66th annual USO World Gala. In addition to the Marine of the Year award, Justin was chosen as the top marine in his company and battalion, awarded with the Purple Heart, and recommended for the Bronze Star with Combat ``V'' for valor. Since returning to Stonington, CT, Justin has balanced physical therapy and volunteer work with the local high school football team. Upon receiving his medical discharge papers, he hopes to attend a university or work on a military base as a civilian. While his presence will certainly be missed in the 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, his leadership will undoubtedly yield success in future academic and work endeavors. I ask my colleagues to join with me and my constituents in saluting Justin's service to the Marines and our Nation.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to salute the charitable donations of Pfizer and its employees. A corporate leader in southeastern Connecticut, Pfizer's world research and development headquarters is located in my congressional district in Groton, Connecticut. In the August 23 edition of the Chronicle of Philanthropy, Pfizer was recognized as the largest corporate charitable donor in the United States. The Chronicle's study, which encompassed 150 of the largest U.S. businesses outlined in Fortune magazine, examined the amount of cash and product donations during the past 3 fiscal years. During this period, Pfizer and its employees donated more than $1.7 billion, with pharmaceutical products composing nearly 95 percent of the total. In 2006, Pfizer donated nearly $800 million to charities abroad, an increase of 92 percent from the previous year. These donations have greatly contributed to emergency and long-term health needs in developing nations. Corporate citizenship and philanthropy have filled a significant role in assisting needy groups in our society. As a highly educated, compassionate group of people who are devoted to finding cures for disease and ailments, it is not surprising that Pfizer's employees are leading the way nationally in support of charitable causes. As philanthropy becomes an increasingly integral component of business practices, we must recognize the importance of corporate charitable endeavors and the positive impacts on local, national, and international communities. I ask my colleagues to join with me in recognizing Pfizer's charitable contributions that have supported health and social objectives domestically and abroad.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, from June 29 to August 1, 2007 I asked members of the Suffield, CT, community to share their opinion on changing the name of the local post office to honor Cpl Stephen R. Bixler. During that period, my office received over 170 letters, calls and e-mails in overwhelming support of the idea. The comments I received described a thoughtful and compassionate man who wanted nothing more than to serve his Nation and make a difference for his community, and I wanted to take a moment and share some excerpts with my colleagues. ``Being the very proud and saddened grandmother of Cpl Stephen R. Bixler, renaming the Suffield Post Office in his honor would be a special tribute, keeping his memory alive for all who knew, loved, and respected him. He gave his life to secure our freedom.''--Cpl Bixler's grandmother. ``Stephen Bixler was a close friend of mine, in which I served with during Operation Iraqi Freedom with 3rd Battalion 8th Marines. During this period, Stephen showed what it meant to be a Marine through his hard work and dedication to the Marine Corps and in making the quality of living for the Iraqi people better. From when he was a Boy Scout, Stephen went out of his way to provide service to others. Being part of the Boy Scouts, Stephen was able to excel in all that he did leading him to earn Eagle Scout. Stephen decided to serve his country and protect others by joining the United States Marine Corps. In the Marine Corps, Stephen utilized his outstanding qualities of selflessness, determination, and dedication to the job at hand. Stephen strived to be the best at everything that he did. When 3rd Battalion 8th Marines returned state-side, Stephen volunteered to return with 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion for a second tour of duty in Iraq. He successfully completed his first of many schools when 2nd Recon Battalion asked for volunteers to leave to go back to Iraq. Stephen jumped at the opportunity and did it courageously. Before Stephen left, he told me that he did not think that he would make it back this time. Stephen went to many schools in Suffield, CT, when he was home and loved to talk to the students about his experiences. Stephen went on the deployment and lost his life in Fallujah, Iraq doing what he loved. During the time I knew Stephen, I saw that he was a courageous and selfless individual by his actions. He changed the life of everyone whom he came in contact with. His service in the Marine Corps and in Boy Scouts made a lasting impression on Suffield, Connecticut residents, and on to all those who knew him. Stephen's loss has deeply impacted his family and those who had the pleasure of voting for him.''--A fellow marine who served with Cpl Bixler. Stephen gave his life selflessly while serving his second tour of duty in Fallujah, Iraq on May 4, 2006. Stephen served our country proudly knowing that the risk to himself was of the highest level and yet he went straight for the front lines. It is important to note that Stephen was given the Medal of Valor for his final act which saved the lives of his fellow marines traveling through a desperate area of the Al Anbar providence. It was Stephen who noticed the danger along the route and who stopped his caravan to investigate and mitigate the danger. Stephen was a valuable member of our community as a young person who was always willing to give of himself as a Boy Scout (Eagle Scout rank), a member of the St. Joseph's Church, and as a friend who was filling to volunteer to help whenever the opportunity arose. Stephen's willingness to help his community was not limited to Suffield, CT. His devotion to the Marines was Stephen's way to serve our country on behalf of us all. Just before he returned to Iraq for his second tour of duty, I asked Stephen why he felt he needed to return. His response was simple. He said that the Iraqi people needed his help. He told me that after a few days of the Marine presence in the small towns of the Anbar Province that children returned to play and that people were back at work in the shadow of security provided by Steve and his fellow marines. Steve was humble in his view of his profound work.''--Friend of Cpl Bixler. Stephen Bixler was a close friend to both my husband and I, whom my husband served with during Operation Iraqi III 04-06. I had the privilege of knowing Stephen outside the United States Marine Corps. Stephen was a hardworking, dedicated and thoughtful individual. He always thought of others before throwing himself into the mix. His family and friends always came first. He exemplified what it meant to be a great friend, a great Marine, and a great leader. I only know the stories from Iraq either from my husband or his brother. They talked nothing of greatness and leadership. Stephen knew what he was doing, loved what he was doing and was passionate about being a Marine. Stephen became like a brother to me. Staying at our house and helping my husband out when something needed to be fixed. He was never afraid to get his hands dirty. He always came with a smile and left with one. His attitude was always positive even on those tough days at work. Knowing Stephen made me a better person today. There is not a day that goes by that I do not walk past the pictures we have hanging in his memory or a night that I fall asleep that I am not thinking of him. He was a loved individual with so much to offer. His loss will always leave a lasting impression not only in Suffield but everyone that he reached out to.''--Friend of Cpl Bixler. Stephen Bixler was a close friend of both my brother and I, whom my brother served with during Operation Iraqi Freedom III 04-06. I also had the privilege of serving with Stephen Bixler in Camp Fallujah during this deployment. During this period, Stephen exemplified what it meant to be a Marine and a citizen soldier through his hard work and dedication to helping to improve the standard of living for numerous Iraqi families.'' ``During the short time that I knew Stephen, I learned that he was a caring and selfless individual by his actions. His life impacted those he came in contact with, extending beyond his friends and family. His service to others made a lasting impression not only on Suffield, Connecticut residents, but it extended to the citizens of Iraq and fellow service members within the armed forces. Stephen's loss has deeply impacted those that knew him and his family.''--Friend of Cpl. Bixler. ``We knew him as a wonderful friend, student, track teammate, and overall outstanding citizen. Please help facilitate this honor to his memory.''--Friends of the Bixler Family. ``A unique way of remembering our own and the tremendous price families pay for something others may take so lightly.'' ``Steve was an exceptional young man that my wife and I knew well. He attended our church and was an altar boy. His dream was always to be a Marine and he gave his life in the service of his country doing what he wanted to do. We have shared many moments with his mom and dad, Linda and Richard, grieving over the loss of someone so young.''--Friend of Cpl. Bixler. ``In my opinion, there would be no better way to honor both Stephen and his family than by renaming the Post Office. Stephen is a hero, and I believe this is the very least he deserves for the sacrifice that he has made for his country. It is now our turn to repay our respect and honor by renaming the Suffield Post Office in Cpl. Bixler's name.''--Friend of Cpl. Bixler. ``My senior year I attained a car for the first time and I would drive Steve to practice and home at the end of the day. We got along great, we could always make each other laugh at the littlest things and others on the tram would laugh with us. We used to hang out so much the athletic director didn't realize I was two years older than Steve. I had a great time with him and I will truly miss him. Steve was a great student and enjoyed by everyone, he was a talented young man.''--Friend of Cpl. Bixler. ``Stephen Bixler was one of my older brother's closest friends. They ran cross-country and track together in high school and I remember always going to the meets and watching them compete. Steve was quite possibly one of the nicest guys on the team, if not the entire high school. Stephen entering the Marines and defending his country was something he felt passionately about. I support your idea to rename the Post Office in memory and honor of Stephen Bixler. What he did for our country may not be known to many people throughout the country, but it is widely known throughout our town and I believe that this renaming would be an honor in his family's eyes.''--Friend of Cpl. Bixler. ``Stephen graduated from Suffield High School in 2003, 2 years after our son and one year before our daughter. He and our son Jon were good friends, having competed together in Cross Country and Track & Field at Suffield High. During the years that Jon had his license, and Steve was still too young, Steve was the one exclusive passenger who was picked up each morning on the way to school and returned home each evening after a meet or practice. The two of them, and the old truck they rode in back and forth to school, were men on a mission who could only be deterred by the chance to do `donuts' in an empty high school parking lot with a fresh covering of snow! ``During the summer, they were part of a small group on the Cross Country team who attended running camp in Vermont. They always enjoyed entertaining us with the stories they brought home about the camp antics and the occasional practical jokes.'' ``Steve was a model student, with a warm personality and a great sense of humor. He was also quiet and serious with a great respect for his family and country. All during high school, Steve's friends knew his first dream was to be a U.S. Marine. When many of his friends left for the `footloose' life of being new college students, Steve left for the most difficult job--Marine training. As a marine, Steve's assignments throughout the world had one cause and that was to assist people in need. Steve was a young man that any parent would be honored to have as a son.''--Parents of one of Bixler's close friends. ``The Iraq war is not a subject that comes and goes--it is always on the air. Its everlasting presence reminds me of Stephen Bixler--in my studies, watching the news, even conducting research at work. ``Naming the post office after Steve would not just be an honor to Steve but also a gift to the people of Suffield. Though we can never bring Steve back, and no building can compensate for his death, feeling like we have paid tribute to Steve is a necessary part of the community's healing.'' ``I graduated High School with Stephen Bixler and considered him a friend. I remember going to Stephen's house to play when I was very young and I remember riding the bus with him for as long as I can remember. For all of my years as a student in Suffield, I can remember Stephen's house was always extensively decorated by his mother. When these decorations went from hoping for his return, to mourning his loss, the effect was well felt throughout the community in the deepest, most heartfelt way. Stephen was well liked and greatly respected, and will forever be appreciated. As long as Stephen's family supports the honor then I believe nothing should stand in the way of this.''--Classmate and friend of Cpl. Bixler. ``Stephen was my cousin. He lost his life fighting for us in Iraq. Stephen loved what he did, being a Marine. He lost his life doing what he loved. Growing up, Stephen emulated the ``All American Kid''. An athlete, a scholar and Eagle Scout. He defined what all Marines should strive to be. Aside from all these things, Stephen was a son, a brother, and a friend to many. He has made our family proud, and anyone who knew him. Anyone who didn't know him missed out on a wonderful person.''--Cousin of Cpl. Bixler. ``As a former classmate and teammate of Corporal Stephen R. Bixler, I can attest to his deserving the honor of the Suffield Post Office name. Steve was a valued member of every team, class, and organization that he participated in. He was always there to encourage creativity, determination, and strength in the people around him. Steve lived his dream by joining the Marines. He seemed to have found a home in his service. As a Marine, he was able to stand out from the crowd, just as he did as an athlete and intellectual. Steve deserves this honor because he gave his life for his country. Steve deserves this honor because he was one of America's finest soldiers. However, Steve mostly deserves this honor because of who he was as a person. He was kind and sought out the best in those around him. He was an inspiration to everyone and that is why the Suffield Post Office should be named the Corporal Stephen R. Bixler Post Office.''-- Classmate of Cpl. Bixler.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to discuss a very serious issue facing the Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut. On July 15, 2007 aboard the United States Coast Guard barque Eagle training vessel, a Third Class male minority cadet returned from watch to his stateroom to find a small noose in his bag. The next morning at an all-hands muster, the cadet stepped forward to show the entire crew the noose and make clear that he was offended by it. Although the person responsible could not be identified, the commander of the Eagle held an ``all hands'' meeting to outline the clear standards of conduct and expectations for Coast Guard cadets. The Academy followed up by conducting race-relations training for all cadets. Alarmingly, the officer conducting the training later found a noose in her office as well. I recently had the opportunity to speak to the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, Admiral Thad Allen, to express my concern over these incidents. Racism and hate have no place at our military academies, on our academic campuses or in our society. Our discussion made it clear to me that the Coast Guard takes this matter seriously, and is working to get to the root of the problem and identify the perpetrators. The Coast Guard Investigative Service is currently reviewing this matter and I am confident that they will do all they can to ensure that those responsible for these hateful acts are held accountable for their actions. We must make clear that actions like this have no place at the Coast Guard Academy--a facility that is shaping future officers responsible for the protection of our nation. The image of the noose is an enduring symbol of the brutal lynching that occurred in the south during the civil rights era and its powerful effect should not be taken lightly nor its evocation tolerated. It is important that the Coast Guard, and our society, sends a strong message to these misinformed individuals that there is zero tolerance for racism and hate. The Coast Guard Academy has always held the highest standard of academic excellence and world-class training for those who protect our shores. The Coast Guard's core values of honor, respect and devotion to duty are more than simple words--they are a way of life that the Academy strives to en grain in every cadet. A vast majority of the cadets represent the best the Coast Guard and our nation have to offer: bright, dedicated young men and women who demonstrate tolerance and respect for each other, regardless of race or background. Those who do not meet the Coast Guard's core values simply have no place at its Academy.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of Mohegan Indian Chief, Ralph W. Sturges. Chief Sturges died on September 30, 2007. Chief Sturges was a renaissance man whose commitment to community and Nation knew no bounds. In 1938, following the devastation of the New England Hurricane, Chief Sturges contributed to cleanup and relief efforts in eastern Connecticut under the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). After his work in the CCC, Chief Sturges joined the Army's intelligence division, serving in World War II in New Guinea and the Philippines, ultimately earning a bronze star for his service. In subsequent years, he became the Director of Public Relations for New England divisions of the Salvation Army and a board member for the Directors for Connecticut Hospice. In 1992, prior to federal recognition of the Mohegan Nation, he was elected ``Chief for Life'', which he dutifully filled until his passing on September 30, 2007. In 1994, his legacy was solidified with the federal recognition of the Mohegan Nation, a cause that he inherited from his mother and tirelessly saw through to fruition. In 1996, Chief Sturges secured development plans for the Mohegan Sun, which is now one of the world's largest and most successful casinos. At every step of the way, Chief Sturges was careful to reach out to his community and neighbors making the success of Mohegan Sun a harmonious addition to southeastern Connecticut. In addition to his military accolades, philanthropy work, business endeavors, and leadership roles, Chief Sturges was a notable artist. His sculptures have graced the halls of the Connecticut State Capitol, Montville High School, and the Mohegan Sun. While his passing brings sadness to the Connecticut community, his legacy and contributions will be remembered for generations to come. I ask my colleagues to join with me and my constituents to honor his life and offer condolences to his family.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of Mohegan Indian Chief, Ralph W. Sturges. Chief Sturges died on September 30, 2007, in New London, Connecticut, at the age of 88. A lifelong resident of Connecticut, Chief Sturges was a renaissance man whose commitment to community and Nation knew no bounds. During his early life, he worked for the Civilian Conservation Corps and joined the U.S. Army's intelligence division during World War II, where he subsequently earned a Bronze Star for his outstanding service. After the war, Chief Sturges worked tirelessly for Federal recognition of the Mohegan tribe, which finally occurred in 1992. Because of his efforts, he was elected ``Chief for Life,'' which he faithfully worked as an ambassador of goodwill during the extraordinary growth of Mohegan Sun Resort and Casino as a world-class destination. While his passing brings sadness to the Connecticut community, his legacy and contributions will be remembered for generations to come. I ask my colleagues to join with me and my constituents to honor his life and offer condolences to his family.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I thank Congressman Clay. I also want to thank Congressman Westmoreland for his kind words in support of H.R. 3325, which I'm the sponsor of, to name the post office at 235 Mountain Road in Suffield, Connecticut, after Corporal Stephen R. Bixler, who at the age of 20, on a second deployment in Iraq, lost his life serving our Nation. As the prior speakers have indicated, this young man was not with us long, but made an extraordinary mark on all who knew him and served with him, particularly in his home of Suffield, Connecticut, which is a small Connecticut town of 14,000 people. It was founded in 1749 before our Nation even was born, and his family on his mother's side goes back three generations. As you can imagine, in a tight-knit, small community, he was well-known despite being a quiet young man because of his work in the community as an Eagle Scout. He was a varsity track athlete and an outstanding student. He had a twin sister, Sandra, who graduated with honors from the University of Connecticut; and, clearly, Stephen could have followed that same path. But he followed a road less traveled, and he enlisted for the Marines before he even graduated from Suffield High School and, as I indicated, was on his second tour of duty when he lost his life on May 4, 2006. His funeral at Sacred Heart Church in Suffield, which was attended by Archbishop Mansell from the Hartford Archdiocese, was an extraordinary outpouring of support from his community. And all I can say is that event was not the end as far as the town was concerned. They have held many ceremonies in memory of Stephen. They named a stretch of road in Suffield in his memory. And it is fitting that the post office, which is the only Federal building in Suffield, should be named in his honor. His father has been a letter carrier for 35 years in the United States Post Office; but to be sure, our office solicited requests from the community to make sure that there was actual support in town. We had an outpouring of support: 170 letters came in, again, people who knew him as a young child all the way up through his time in the Marines, and I will submit letters from the Governor on down in support of this measure at this point. State of Connecticut, Executive Chambers, July 20, 2007. Congressman Joe Courtney, Cannon House Office Building, Washington, DC. Dear Congressman Courtney: I am writing to encourage you to pursue legislation in the United States Congress that will change the name of the U.S. post office on Mountain Road in West Suffield, Connecticut to honor Marine Corporal Stephen R. Bixler. As you know, Corporal Bixler was killed in Fallujah, Iraq on May 3, 2006 while on foot patrol. Corporal Bixler was proud of his service to the nation, and believed that he was able to make a difference in the lives of the Iraqi citizens he encountered. In addition to being a valiant member of our armed forces, Corporal Boxler was a Suffield native and an Eagle Scout. Renaming the post office in his honor would be an especially fitting tribute to Corporal Bixler because it will be a lasting reminder of his selfless service to our nation. I join with State Representative Ruth Fahrbach, Suffield's Board of Selectmen and numerous residents of Suffield, in urging you to pursue this legislation to preserve the memory of one of our fallen heroes. Very truly yours, M. Jodi Rell, Governor.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contribution of Fire Chief Michael Varney to the citizens of Ellington, Connecticut and the strength of our volunteer corps of first responders. Michael was recently selected by Fire Chief Magazine as the 2007 Volunteer Chief of the Year, a great honor in the field and a testament to the commitment and selfless public service of this citizen hero. The award is made all the more special given that the nomination and selection comes from his peers from across the nation amongst an enviable group of worthy candidates. Our nation owes a great debt to these first responders who voluntarily put their life on the line to ensure the safety of their community and Connecticut is very fortunate to have Chief Varney as a member of its fire service. After graduating from high school, Michael followed in his father's footsteps and began his career at the Ellington Volunteer Fire Department where he has now served for 23 years. He quickly moved up the ranks and became chief seven years ago. During that time, Michael has superbly led the 50-person department and has been instrumental in securing almost $500,000 in federal grants to provide the critical life-saving equipment necessary to protect his community. He has led with dedication and poise under extreme circumstances and developed the respect of the region's premier firefighting personnel. Michael has also contributed to the state and regional preparedness through his involvement with the Connecticut Fire Chiefs Association and the state's Emergency Management and Homeland Security Coordinating Council. He is also a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs committee that has put together a national emergency response network of firefighters, hospital staff, and other emergency personnel. His full-time position with the Department of Information Technology has provided invaluable communication systems expertise not only to his department but also to regional and national organizations. Chief Varney represents the changing role of our nation's first responders and I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring his life of service and dedication to the protection of our communities.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, last week President Bush threatened to veto a bipartisan agreement that will provide health insurance to 10 million of America's children. Before acting on this threat, the President should talk to our Nation's Governors, 43 of whom support a robust reauthorization of children's health insurance, known as SCHIP, set to expire this Sunday night. Governors such as Republican John Huntsman of Utah, Republican Tim Pawlenty of Wisconsin, Republican Arnold Schwarzenegger of California, and Republican Jodi Rell of my State of Connecticut have all endorsed protecting this program, which the bipartisan agreement will accomplish. Make no mistake about it; the President's plan will disqualify millions of American children from SCHIP coverage in the future. We already know, in Connecticut, 5,000 children will be kicked off the existing SCHIP program if his plan goes through. Mr. Speaker, Republican and Democratic Governors together recognize the importance of a strong SCHIP program. It is time for him to listen to these Governors and back off his veto threat.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Thank you, Congressman Sutton, for yielding. And I just want to follow up with my friend from the Armed Services Committee about the lack of strategic balance that presently is occurring right now in Iraq and Afghanistan. In late August, German authorities arrested three terrorists who were plotting a major attack on an American military installation in Germany. Where were they trained? Well, we know the answer. They were trained in northern Pakistan, in that region of the world where our own military and intelligence officials have identified the real threat to Europe and the U.S. in terms of where future hits are going to take place. As a member of the Armed Services Committee, I was in Afghanistan in May. We had briefings from military commanders over there who have said that training camps are in full level of activity, and they made a flat prediction that we are going to see attempted attacks emanating from that region of the world. Let's step back. We have 26,000 troops in Afghanistan; 165,000 troops in Iraq. Is this a strategy that is really aimed at what is in the national interest of this country? I mean obviously if we look at just recent events in terms of where arrests are taking place, where the real training is taking place to hit Europe and the U.S., the fact of the matter is it is in the northern part of Pakistan, which is an area that the Taliban is now pretty much able to move and operate unimpeded because we have a dysfunctional relationship with the Pakistani Government and the Afghan Government is too weak to basically police those borders. And I think a lot of the debate that is taking place right now after the Petraeus-Crocker report, which is appropriately focused on whether or not the benchmarks that the Iraq Government set forth have been met and what is the level of wear and tear in terms of our Armed Forces, they are clearly important to discuss, but we also need to have an overall strategic vision about what is in the national interest of this country. And the fact is being involved at the level that we are at right now in a civil war in Iraq is not in America's national interest, and for the sake of our military families, as Congresswoman Shea-Porter indicated, and certainly for a safer, smarter foreign policy, we need to have a change in course and a redeployment. Over the summer the New York Times did a study on the situation right now in terms of the mid-level officer corps of our Armed Services, our ground forces. In the 2001 graduating class from West Point, which just completed their 5-year tour of duty, 44 percent of the class have left the Armed Forces. That is the highest number in three decades. People need to think about that in terms of what is happening to the best and the brightest in our military. They are voting with their feet. They are leaving the armed services. And many commanders from the Vietnam era, General Shinseki being one of them, the Army chief of staff who had the wisdom and vision to predict that we would need hundreds of thousands of troops if we were going to truly police Iraq after Afghanistan, have spoken all across the country about the fact that what's happening in Iraq today is having the same effect, same negative effect, on our Armed Forces that the war in Vietnam had, which is a hollowed-out mid-level officer corps of our armed services. It took a generation to recover from that, and we are now seeing, with the exodus that is happening right now with, again, the best and brightest of our West Point graduates leaving our armed services, that we, for the sake of our own future, ground forces and military readiness, need to have a change of course in Iraq. And Senator Webb has an amendment that's coming up, the Dwell Time Amendment, which will require the Armed Forces by law to make sure that our Armed Forces have the same amount of dwell time as they do deployment. I think that is an important step. I am very excited that it looks like we are going to get to the 60-vote number in the Senate and overcome a cloture, that we are going to start bringing some sanity back into our military and defense policy so that we don't destroy the greatest warfighting machine in the world. And I know Congressman Welch from Vermont, my neighbor to the north and a good Red Sox fan, is also someone who has talked a lot about this issue in terms of the impact on our military families, and I would be happy to hear from Congressman Welch from Vermont.

Mr. COURTNEY

Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, today I rise in tribute to the life of Judge Daniel F. Spallone. Mr. Spallone passed on August 20, 2007, after a full life of public service to his state and country. He was 85 years old. As was common for men of his generation, the college career of a young Daniel Spallone was interrupted by the events of World War II. While he was unable to enlist in the armed forces due to childhood polio, he felt the call to duty and volunteered for the American Field Service (AFS) ambulance corps. Members of the AFS drove life-saving ambulances under extremely dangerous conditions on the war front, and Mr. Spallone served bravely with British forces in Burma, India, and Italy from 1942-1945. By virtue of his service to his country, he and other AFS volunteers were awarded an honorable discharge from the United States Army by act of Congress in 1991. Following his war service, Mr. Spallone returned to the University of Connecticut and received his bachelor's degree in 1949 and obtained his law degree in 1960, also from UConn. Spallone served as town attorney to Deep River, Connecticut from 1965 to 1970 and also served on a number of elected and appointed local boards and commissions. In 1970, he was appointed to the Circuit Court and in 1974 was elevated to the Court of Common Pleas. This was followed by a 1978 appointment by Governor Ella Grasso to the Superior Court bench. In 1984, Mr. Spallone was appointed as a charter member of the Appellate Court where he was noted for his keen ability to focus on the key issues in cases before the court. He served on the bench until his retirement in 1991, after which he continued to work as a trial judge referee. Mr. Spallone's distinguished record has carried over to a second generation of the Spallone family. His son Jamie is a State Representative from the 36th Assembly District of Connecticut. He does an outstanding job for his constituents and the State of Connecticut, just as his father did. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring the life of Judge Daniel F. Spallone and his service to our great nation. His years of dedication to the ideals of the American judicial system has left a lasting legacy for the State of Connecticut and his knowledge, generosity, and dedication will live on in the memory of all those he has touched.