Matt Cartwright

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Kathleen Crampsie. On March 17, 2015, Kathy will receive the Shamrock Award during the Panther Valley Irish American Association's 67th Annual Banquet. Kathy is a well-known musician throughout the Panther Valley. She uses her musical talent to bring joy to the people whether it is at church services, nursing homes, or public events. She also is a mentor of young men and women aspiring to musical careers. Kathy began her music career, in 1977 when she volunteered her time to play guitar at her parish church, St. Joseph Catholic in Summit Hill. After joining, Kathy started the church's guitar group, which became known as ``Kathy's Angels.'' Mrs. Crampsie became an active and leading participant in the St. Joseph Catholic Church choir and its music program. She also started a children's choir that has performed at area nursing homes around the holidays. The children's choir even had the opportunity to sing the national anthem at a Philadelphia Phillies game. Kathy's service to the community does not stop at music. She volunteers as a CCD for the Catholic community of the Panther Valley. As the secretary of the Summit Hill Lions Club, Kathy coordinates the organization's eye glass program. In the past, she has coached cheerleading at Panther Valley High School, Our Lady of the Valley School, and for the Summit Hill Knee Hi Association. Kathy also coached girls softball for Summit Hill and volleyball for Our Lady of the Valley. Kathy has been married to Bob Crampsie for four decades, and the couple has raised four children and been blessed with eight grandchildren. I congratulate Mrs. Crampsie on receiving the Panther Valley Irish American Association's Shamrock Award, and I commend her for all the selfless work she has done for her community.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Thomas J. Reilly, Sr., who will be named Man of the Year by the Greater Pittston, Pennsylvania Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. Mr. Reilly is chairman of Reilly Associates, an engineering firm that operates in Pennsylvania and New York. With more than 50 years of experience, Reilly has built a reputation as a leader in civil engineering. Early in his career, he worked on stabilizing large dams for the Pennsylvania Gas and Water Company. When Hurricane Agnes hit in 1972, Reilly worked to restore infrastructure and rebuild roads throughout Pennsylvania's Wyoming Valley. In the 1980s and 1990s, Mr. Reilly replaced highway bridges, designed the six mile-long Casey Highway, and constructed a new wastewater treatment plant serving the Wyoming Valley that processes 50 million gallons of wastewater a day. Mr. Reilly's work in recent years includes a flood control system in the Keyser Valley and Green Ridge sections of Scranton; infrastructure for the Center Point Commerce and Trade Park; improved water quality through the separation of storm and sanitary sewer lines in West Pittston and Pittston; and plans for the revitalization of Pittston's Main Street. Mr. Reilly is a parishioner of St. John the Evangelist and serves on the Church's finance council. He has volunteered his expertise on many of his parish's construction projects. He is also a member of the Knights of Columbus. Reilly previously served as the president of the Greater Pittston Chamber of Commerce and the Pittston Kiwanis Club, and as a trustee of his alma mater, Scranton Preparatory School. It is a distinct privilege to honor Thomas Reilly on receiving the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons Man of the Year Award, and I commend him on his lifetime of public and community service.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Barbara Schiandra who is to be named Person of the Year by the Greater Pittston Sunday Dispatch. In October 2014 Ms. Schiandra organized one of the biggest fundraisers in the history of Pittston, Pennsylvania. Over the course of four days, Ms. Schiandra raised both awareness of breast cancer's toll and the importance of its prevention and $30,000 for breast cancer research--all during the first annual and very successful Paint Pittston Pink event. It was Ms. Schiandra's own experience that led to this remarkable achievement. She was pregnant with her youngest son when she discovered her own cancer. At only 34 years old she was diagnosed with a highly aggressive type of cancer with a high recurrence rate. After she began chemotherapy, she learned that she qualified for a clinical trial of a vaccine at the University of Pennsylvania sponsored by the Pennies in Action Fund, the eventual beneficiary of her community work. Initially, the plan for Paint Pittston Pink was to utilize breast cancer awareness flags to line Pittston's Main Street during the month of October. Paint Pittston Pink quickly grew into a much larger event, attracting hundreds of people and a host of local businesses. The ColorMePink 5K and Caped CURE-Sader Family Fun Walk drew over 500 participants to Downtown Pittston. At the end of the four days, Barbara and her team presented a check for $30,000 to the University of Pennsylvania Pennies in Action Fund to support its cancer research. Greater Pittston, and all those affected by cancer, were highly moved by her efforts. I congratulate Ms. Schiandra on being named Person of the Year by the Greater Pittston Sunday Dispatch, and I applaud both her inspirational personal courage and her heroic efforts to fight cancer. With efforts like Barbara's, we will one day fully beat this disease.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Honorable Martin Kane, Magisterial District Judge in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Judge Kane has been named the 2015 Man of the Year by the Greater Wilkes-Barre Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. He will receive this award at the Friendly Sons' annual banquet on March 13, 2015. Judge Kane has honorably served Luzerne County for 30 years. Judge Kane is an Air Force veteran who served tours of duty in Vietnam and Thailand. He graduated from St. Mary's High School, Texas Christian University, and Wilson College, and is certified as a district judge. He has been married to his wife Kathryn for 40 years. Elected in 1985, Judge Kane has presided over more than 300,000 cases in his career. Many of those cases were high-profile homicide and drug cases presented by the Pennsylvania Attorney General's office, Pennsylvania State Police, and the Wilkes-Barre Police Department. Kane was appointed by Pennsylvania Chief Justices Ronald Castille and Steven Zappala to serve on the Legislative Committee, the Grievance and Bylaws Committee, and the Minor Rules Committee Intergovernmental Task Force of the Pennsylvania District Courts. Judge Kane is also special liaison to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board and special liaison to the Pennsylvania Supreme Court for the District Judges of Pennsylvania. He previously served as the president of the District Judges Association of Pennsylvania. Additionally, Judge Kane has served the Greater Wilkes-Barre Friendly Sons of St. Patrick as treasurer. He is also an active member of many community organizations, including the N.E. Slovak Club, the Triangle Club, the Wilkes-Barre Eagles Club, the American Legion, AMVETS, the Ancient Order of Hibernians, the Polish American Vets, the Knights of Columbus, and the Catholic War Vets. And Judge Kane serves as an officer of the Wyoming Valley Crime Clinic. This is quite a list. It is a distinct privilege to honor Judge Kane on receiving the Greater Wilkes-Barre Friendly Sons Man of the Year Award, and I commend him on his lifetime of public and community service.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise with some relief to note that yesterday, we did come together to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security. A number of us came together and ignored the extremist shutdown crowd and did the responsible thing and funded this Department. I regret that the Department had to spend millions of dollars to prepare for a shutdown that it anticipated having to go through. Nevertheless, this is a Department that protects our Nation at a time when ISIL is executing journalists and aid workers and Christians and Muslims, when al Shabaab is threatening our Nation's biggest shopping mall. We need the Department of Homeland Security. And I say, Bully. Let us continue to do the responsible thing and fund our departments, including the Department of Homeland Security.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Gloria Blandina. Ms. Blandina is to receive the 2014 Joseph Saporito, Sr. Lifetime of Service Award, presented by the Greater Pittston Sunday Dispatch for her lifelong dedication to the development of young children. Born and raised in Pittston, Pennsylvania, she received a degree in early childhood education from West Virginia University in 1971. Ms. Blandina went on to receive her Master's degree in Early Childhood Education from Marywood University in Scranton. She spent several years working at a day care center and teaching early childhood education at Penn State University before her appointment to the Children's Trust Fund by Governor Tom Ridge in 1998. In addition to her numerous professional accomplishments, Ms. Blandina is an active member of her community. She volunteers with the Social Justice Committee to deliver food to individuals in need. She has served on the board of directors of Luzerne County Head Start, the Pittston YMCA, the Family Enhancement Center, and as the President of the St. Mary's Assumption Home School Association for the Education of Young Children. Ms. Blandina is currently the director of the Pittston Care and Concern Free Health Clinic, which offers a range of medical services to individuals without health insurance. The clinic has served over 3,500 patients under Ms. Blandina's leadership. She, like the doctors, nurses, social workers, and others who keep the clinic running, volunteers her time to this worthy cause that has helped so many in northeastern Pennsylvania. I congratulate Ms. Blandina on receiving the Joseph Saporito, Sr. Lifetime of Service Award, and I commend her for all the selfless work she has done for the Greater Pittston Area.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor James Barrett McNulty for his commendable leadership while serving as the Mayor of Scranton, Pennsylvania. Mayor McNulty's earnest commitment to service has led to great strides in revitalizing the economy and rich culture of Scranton. His administration undertook a number of development projects that provided the foundation for successful attractions that the city still offers today. Born and raised in Scranton, James McNulty is the eldest of six siblings. He graduated from The University of Scranton, where he received his bachelor's degree in political science. His remarkable enthusiasm for helping his community is clearly a key component of his stellar career in public service. He began as an aide to U.S. Representative Daniel Flood, and he eventually sought public office himself, becoming the mayor of the City of Scranton in 1982. Mayor McNulty's outgoing personality and hands-on management style helped him lead the way in restoring Scranton's economy and profile. Two of Jim McNulty's most prominent projects were the building of a historic rail museum and the refurbishment of a train terminal into the now prestigious Radisson Lackawanna Station Hotel, both of which brought many jobs and tourists to the city. These endeavors proved to be lasting successes, as both continue to offer educative and enticing windows into the fascinating rail history of Scranton. Both projects helped Scranton's economic past become its economic future. Though he no longer serves as the Mayor of Scranton, McNulty remains widely recognized for his continuing engagement with the city government and the residents it serves. James Barrett McNulty proved to be a great mayor and outstanding citizen. His leadership has always been rooted in his strong desire to help the people of Scranton. For this reason, I honor the former Mayor of Scranton, Pennsylvania.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, from the shores of the Delaware and the banks of the Allegheny, to the streams and the creeks that feed them, Pennsylvanians know that water is vital to our health, our recreation, and our wildlife. Mr. Speaker, our waterways remain at risk. To protect them, the EPA is considering a rule to restore Clean Water Act protections to thousands of waterways in Pennsylvania and across the country. When finalized, this rule will mark the biggest step forward for clean water in more than a decade. Unfortunately, polluters and their allies are now working to derail this clean water rule. They have even scheduled a rare, joint House- Senate hearing to set the stage for this dirty water attack. I say it is time for Congress to get out of the way and let EPA do its job and protect our water, as is its charge.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Paul Lantz as he completes his term as President of the Jewish Community Alliance of the Greater Wyoming Valley. Under Paul's dedicated leadership, the Jewish Community Alliance has made great strides in preparing for its future, most notably in the acquisition of land that will allow for establishment of a new Jewish Community Center for the Wyoming Valley. This project will maintain many of the traditional aspects and artifacts of the current structure but will also allow the center to expand into a modern facility designed to meet future needs. The Jewish community in the Wyoming Valley has had a rich history of charitable and educational works dating back many years, and this project will allow this work to continue well into the future. Educated at Connecticut College, Paul graduated with a bachelor of arts in zoology. After receiving his master's in business administration from the University of Connecticut, Paul went to work for Price Waterhouse in New York as a CPA. In 1981, he moved to Wilkes- Barre with his wife, where they still reside. Paul is actively involved in the Wilkes-Barre community in many ways. In addition to serving as the President of the Jewish Community Alliance, Paul has also served on the board of several non-profit organizations, such as the SPCA, the Domestic Violence Service Center, The Wyoming Valley Children's Association, and the Boys & Girls Clubs. Currently, Paul is the owner and President of the A. Rifkin Co. in Wilkes-Barre and Hope Uniform & Security Products in Columbia, New Jersey. I congratulate Paul on his work as President of the Jewish Community Alliance of the Wyoming Valley, and I commend him for his dedication, his quiet confidence, and his selflessness in offering his time and talents on behalf of others.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in recognition of Thomas J. Keeney, past Grand Knight of the Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania Knights of Columbus Council 302. Mr. Keeney was born on July 3, 1946. His father, a Major in the army, was stationed in Arkansas, Japan, and New Jersey and took the Keeney family with him as he traveled around the world. In 1964, Thomas graduated from Coughlin High School in Wilkes-Barre and currently resides in Plains with his wife, Karen. After finishing high school, Thomas Keeney joined the air force in the winter of 1965. He was trained as an aircraft mechanic at Lackland Air Force Base and Sheppard Air Force Base. Upon completing his training, he was stationed at RAF Lakenheath Air Base in England. At Lakenheath, Thomas served as a Crew Chief on F-100D & F aircraft. While in England, Thomas married Irene V. Tucker. In the summer of 1968, they were blessed with their first son Patrick. Thomas finished his service with the air force in 1969, leaving with the rank of Sergeant. When he returned to the United States, Thomas settled back in Wilkes- Barre and had his second child, Maurita. He took a job as a laborer at the Pressed Steel Plant on Penn Avenue. Thomas entered the apprentice program for Plumbers with Pipe Fitters Local 147 of Wilkes-Barre in 1970. He completed his apprenticeship in 1974 with Scranton's Local 90. As a journeyman plumber, he worked with many contractors in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Thomas left the construction industry to work for the City of Wilkes-Barre, as a member of the city's sewer department. In 1985, he returned to the construction industry where he worked for Penn State Mechanical as a plumber, welder, and foreman. While working with Penn State Mechanical, he obtained his Masters Certificate in Plumbing and Heating with the cities of Wilkes-Barre and Scranton. In 1995, as a Plumbing Trade Instructor for the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections, Thomas helped prepare inmates for a job in the plumbing trade after rehabilitation. After working for the Department of Corrections, he went on to be a caretaker for Camp Raninu and then took a position with the VA, before he retired in 2011. Thomas Keeney also served his country with distinction as an army reservist in the 79th Army Regional Command. Starting in 1974, Thomas was a Specialist 4 Welder with the 365th Engineers of Wilkes-Barre. When he left the Engineers, Thomas had attained the rank of Sergeant. Thomas then joined the 300th Field Hospital Unit and was retrained as a combat medic. He was then promoted to Sergeant First Class and reassigned to the NCOIC of the 338th Medical Group Headquarters in Folsom, Pennsylvania. At Folsom, Thomas was responsible for the care and training of the soldiers assigned to the Medical Group Headquarters. After serving at Folsom, Thomas returned to Wilkes-Barre, where he served with the 424th Military Police Liaison Team as the Senior Medic and Instructor. While with the 424th, Thomas was responsible for all medical and environmental issues for setup and operation of military POW camps in the U.S. and overseas. After being promoted to Master Sergeant, he was sent to the Regional Command Headquarters at Willow Grove, Pennsylvania to be a Senior Medic for the 79th ARCOM. Thomas retired from the army reserves when the 79th ARCOM was disbanded in spring 1996. Additionally, Thomas has served as a member of the Knights of Columbus for a number of years. He has been the Grand Knight twice, first from 1998 to 2000 and recently from 2012 until 2014. He was also a District Deputy for the Pennsylvania Knights of Columbus and Faithful Navigator of the Bishop Hafey Assembly Fourth Degree Knights. In addition, Thomas has been involved with many organizations. He was the past President of the Wilkes-Barre Friendly Sons of Saint Patrick, where he currently holds the position of Secretary. He has also served as the President of Council 302 Home Association and was a former Trustee of the Plumbers Local 90. It is an honor to recognize Mr. Keeney for his service to the Knights of Columbus and all of his achievements. He is a true patriot, and I applaud him for his dedication to his country and the work he has done for his community.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my frustration in the process by which this bill was brought to the floor and my disappointment that the process has yielded a bill that I cannot support. This bill did not go through regular order. The Judiciary Committee did not hold any hearings or markups on the bill. And now under a Closed Rule, Members do not have the opportunity to offer amendments, let alone debate the merits of specific sections they wish to change. I submitted an amendment to H.R. 36 that would have extended the exception for all incest victims. Under a Closed Rule, this amendment was rejected. Incest victims are victims regardless of their age. What some people call ``consensual incest'' often begins as child sexual abuse. Even if the relationship continues into adulthood, there is still a perpetrator and still a victim. In addition, it is hugely unfair to require an incest victim to report a relative to the police. In the future, should the House again consider legislation railing to abortion, I urge my colleagues to bring the bill through regular order so that all Members can participate in the debate over this sensitive issue.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Dr. Lori A. Williams, who will be honored as the 137th President of the Lackawanna County Medical Society during its Annual Presidential Reception on Saturday, January 24. Dr. Williams has brought her training and education to the task of providing and improving health care in Eynon, Lackawanna County, and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Dr. Williams is an alumnus of the University of Scranton and Hahneman Medical School. She completed her internship and residency at MacDill AFB in Biloxi, Mississippi. Dr. Williams is board certified in internal medicine. She served three years as a staff internist at MacDill AFB in Tampa, Florida. After serving as a major in the Air Force, Dr. Williams returned home to northeast Pennsylvania. Upon returning to Eynon, Dr. Williams set up a private practice where she has been a driving force in the Lackawanna medical community. Throughout her career, Dr. Williams has provided exceptional medical care and served as a leader in her field. An outspoken advocate for fellow physicians, she has served on the House of Delegates of the Pennsylvania Medical Society. Dr. Williams has also served as the Society's chief spokesperson on patient rights and quality of care issues. It is a great honor to recognize Dr. Lori Williams for her work in the medical field. I am grateful for her leadership and advocacy in the Lackawanna medical community. May she continue to achieve excellence in providing care to the citizens of the great Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Francis Chesko, who is being recognized by the Mahanoy City Historical Society on Saturday, December 13, 2014. During World War II, Mr. Chesko took part in the D-Day Invasion and the Battle of the Bulge, reached the rank of sergeant in the 148th Engineer Battalion, received five Bronze Stars and the Army Presidential Unit Citation for his service. In 1942, Francis received his basic training in Camp Shelby, Mississippi. In October, he was deployed and stationed in Swidon, England, where he helped construct a Bailey bridge and a landing strip. While in Swindon, Francis was informed that his brother Joseph, who was also enlisted, was stationed 25 miles away from Francis's post. The two were able to visit each other one weekend with permission from Francis's captain. Shortly thereafter, Francis's outfit was ordered to move south to Southampton and prepare to leave for German-occupied France. On June 6, 1944, Francis landed on Utah Beach as part of the Allied Invasion of Normandy. On July 19, 1944, Francis was wounded during German shelling in the town of La Haye du Puits. He returned to Swindon for treatment. After his recovery, Francis was sent back across the English Channel and joined the 7th Armored Division in Holland. While serving with the 7th Armored Division, Francis endured the Battle of the Bulge. During the battle, while his unit was constructing a small tree-cut bridge, Francis narrowly avoided being hit by an 88-mm enemy mortar shell. While guarding a bridge in Holland, German forces took Francis's unit by surprise. After a friendly anti-tank round misfired, Francis and comrades had to fall back from their position. While trying to avoid a German tank, Francis was knocked over by debris sent flying by enemy gunfire. Friendly reinforcements arrived and disabled the German armor. Later, German forces began bombarding Francis's position. In the midst of the shelling, he took cover in a ditch and did not discover until the next morning that a mortar struck the ground above. Fortunately, the round did not go off. Francis's unit was dug in at the town of St. Vith, Belgium when Germans attacked the town on December 17, 1944. His division was ordered to hold their position for three days; they held it for five. German forces eventually took the town, but on January 23, Allied Forces recaptured it. After the Battle of the Bulge, Francis's unit helped construct the longest bridge of the war (1,300 feet) over the Rhine river. As he pushed into Germany, Allied Forces liberated 1,200 captive American soldiers. Francis currently resides in Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania with his wife Rose. They have been married over 65 years and have been blessed with 3 children, 6 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren. I am sure Francis has been thanked many times for his brave service to his country, but, today, I add one more official notation of gratitude for his heroic answer to our nation's call to military duty.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Blaise Alan Dente for being awarded UNICO's ``Man of the Year'' Award for 2014. Mr. Dente is a lifelong resident of Pittston, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Seton Catholic High School. Mr. Dente received a Bachelor of Science in Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism from East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania. Today, he is the owner of Dente's Catering and Rental, which has been voted the Sunday Dispatch's ``Best Caterer of Greater Pittston'' in both 2011 and 2013. Mr. Dente is a member of the American Culinary Federation, a national organization of chefs, cooks, and culinary students. Through this association, he obtained his certification as a Certified Chef de Cuisine, which he has held since 2003. He was also inducted as an ``honorary fellow'' in the American Academy of Chefs, the prestigious honor society within the American Culinary Federation. In addition, Mr. Dente is a member of the local chapter of ACF, Professional Chefs of Northeast Pennsylvanian. Within this local chapter, he has chaired several committees and has years of service in various chapter offices. Mr. Dente has also held the position of Chapter President and currently serves as the chapter's Chairman of the Board. In 2008, he was named Chapter Chef of the Year. Mr. Dente is also an active member of the local community. He serves as a Eucharistic Minister, lector, and usher at his church, Our Lady of the Eucharist. Mr. Dente is a member of both the Wilkes-Barre and Greater Scranton Chambers of Commerce and sits on the Executive Board of Directors, Pittston Chamber of Commerce. In addition, Mr. Dente volunteers for the Pittston Tomato Festival Committee and is a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus Council 372 & Assembly 948. He is also a member of the Color Guard Core Group and serves as Assembly Faithful Scribe. In 2010, Mr. Dente was named one of the ``Top 40 under 40'' Business Professionals. Mr. Dente is also a graduate of Leadership Wilkes-Barre. It is a great honor to recognize Mr. Dente's many achievements and to congratulate him being UNICO's ``Man of the Year'' for 2014. I wish him continued success with his business and express my gratitude for his involvement in the community.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, last night, I voted ``no'' on H.R. 83 (The Continuing Resolution/Omnibus bill) despite adequate funding levels in several areas because it contained far too many poison pills. The best way forward would have been to compromise on a bill that did not include policy riders and would have funded the government without jeopardizing our financial security, the environment, our retirees, and our election system. I fully support the provisions in H.R. 83 that provide robust funding for our military, provide a 1% pay raise for military and civilian employees, and would provide additional funding for Tobyhanna Army Depot. However, I ultimately voted ``no'' because the legislation places the interests of greedy Wall Street investment bankers ahead of regular American working families. The Continuing Resolution/Omnibus bill, which passed by a narrow 219-206, guts important Dodd-Frank safeguards against a repeat of the $700 billion taxpayer bailout of Wall Street financiers. It also exponentially raises the limits on campaign contribution cash that wealthy individuals (like Wall Street bankers) can donate to federal political parties. In one bill, House Speaker John Boehner has managed both to jeopardize the American economy and further weaken the foundations of our American democracy itself. We should have been able to vote on a bill that focused on funding our government, instead we had to vote on a bill that contained numerous giveaways to private interests and that is why I voted ``no.''

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life's work of David E. Glowinski. For the better part of four decades, Mr. Glowinski has served the Defense Contract Management Agency with distinction. On January 2, 2015, Mr. Glowinski will retire from federal service after more than 37 years. David E. Glowinski was born in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. A graduate of Wilkes University, David graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and a Master's in Business Administration. After finishing school, David began working for the Department of Defense in August 1977. He was stationed at General Dynamics in Eynon, where he worked as Quality Assurance Specialist. In 1980, David became an Industrial Specialist and has served in that capacity until the present time. During his time with the Department of Defense, Mr. Glowinski built up a reputation for being an outstanding worker and vigilant steward of resources. David was well known for his superior technical skills and constantly relied on for his technical expertise at General Dynamics. He was often called upon to complete complex delivery predictions and notices for Top 500 contractors. In addition, Mr. Glowinski managed expedited customer requests which assisted early delivery in support of critical worldwide missions. Because of his dedication, Mr. Glowinski was recognized for outstanding performance in each of his 37 years at General Dynamics. I take great honor in congratulating Mr. Glowinski on his retirement from federal service. His career with the Defense Contract Management Agency has been exceptional. I offer my thanks for his service to our country, and I wish him the best in retirement.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I am introducing the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act of 2014 today to help disabled coal miners get benefits that they are entitled to but often unable to access. Coal workers' pneumoconiosis, commonly referred to as ``black lung,'' is a debilitating and deadly disease caused by the long-term inhalation of coal dust in underground and surface coal mines. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, black lung has caused or contributed to more than 76,000 deaths since 1968, with thousands of miners still sick and dying from the disease. The Federal Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969, which included the Black Lung Benefits Act, contained a program designed to provide compensation and medical care to miners who are totally disabled due to black lung. To secure benefits, disabled coal miners must engage in lengthy and complex litigation against local operators that has been proven to unfairly burden claimants and prevent them from receiving the benefits to which they are entitled. In 2009, the Government Accountability Office found that ``coal miners face a number of challenges pursuing federal black lung claims, including finding legal representation and developing sound medical evidence to support their claims.'' More recent award-winning investigations by the Center for Public Integrity and ABC News uncovered numerous cases in which coal operators and their attorneys defeated claims by hiring doctors who systematically failed to diagnose black lung disease, or by withholding medical evidence from miners, surviving spouses, and judges that would have proven the miners' eligibility for benefits. These and other unethical practices were examined as part of a July 22, 2014, hearing before the Senate Subcommittee on Employment and Workplace Safety. In addition, bureaucratic delays impede timely decisions about miners' benefits, with miners waiting an average of 42 months to receive a decision on their claim from an administrative law judge in the Department of Labor. In the past year, the Department of Labor has taken several steps to address these issues; however, administrative actions alone will not be able to solve the systematic problems facing victims of black lung disease. That is why Congress has an obligation to reform this program so that it better serves and honors those who have helped supply the energy that our country relies on to light our homes and power our factories. I want to thank Congressman George Miller, the senior Democrat on the Committee on Education and the Workforce, for his leadership on this issue, and for Representatives Joe Courtney, Nick Rahall and Robert C. ``Bobby'' Scott for joining me in sponsoring this important legislation.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the exceptional work of Fethullah Gulen. Mr. Gulen has long stood as a pillar of peace and humanity and as a model for opposition in the face of rising dictatorship. A respected member of the Pennsylvania community, Fethullah Gulen has worn many hats throughout his life. A vocal leader of the Turkish civic movement, Mr. Gulen has been forced to live in a self-imposed exile in Pennsylvania for fear for his safety. The founder of the `Gulen Movement,' Fethullah Gulen has long been a voice of reason in a world of turmoil. Widely known as a highly- respected leader, he has encouraged Turkish citizens to vote for those who are respectful to democracy and the rule of law, rather than one party or another. He has consistently promoted a moderate blend of Islam in a time of growing radicalism and is well known for his global network of educational establishments, extending to over 140 countries. His views promote a tolerant Islam, emphasizing hard work and education, as well as building bridges between the Muslim and Western world and science and religion. While the global community looks to Turkey with both growing concern and enduring hope, it is my honor to commend Fethullah Gulen for his tireless efforts to promote the ideals of peace, democracy, an educated electorate, and the human rights of the Turkish people.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the 175th anniversary of the Temple Covenant of Peace. They are the third oldest Temple in Pennsylvania and the tenth oldest in the United States. Committed to a mission of cultivating a love and understanding of Jewish heritage and to inspiring fellowship in the Jewish Community, they have offered many avenues for service to the larger community. Their history is intertwined with the history of the City of Easton, Pennsylvania. Founded on August 26, 1839, the Congregation Brith Sholom (Covenant of Peace) held their services in a rented space on Third and Bank Street in Easton. As they grew, they endeavored to build a synagogue on Sixth Street between Pine and Ferry. Its facade mirrored that of a great synagogue in Florence, Italy. Until 1959, it was the oldest synagogue in continuous use, for 117 years, in the United States. In 1954, the Covenant of Peace purchased property to build a new synagogue for their growing congregation. This synagogue was dedicated on November 20, 1959. The synagogue was built with no work performed on the Sabbath or on Jewish holidays. The Temple Covenant of Peace has what is believed to be one of the first free-standing monuments to the victims of the Holocaust. Through the years, members of the Temple Covenant of Peace have served the Easton community well. The Rabbis and members have served on the boards of community non-profits and similar organizations. They have organized food drives and participated in community dialogues on faith and the ethical issues of our day. They have stood with members of the community to help them grieve times of loss and to offer courage in times of change. It is my honor to commend the Temple Covenant of Peace and their commitment to cultivating a love and understanding of the Jewish heritage and to inspiring fellowship in the Jewish Community as well as service in the broader community in the Easton area.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the 100th anniversary of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union 375 and to acknowledge their persistent endeavor to fairly represent their members. On February 3, 1914, a dedicated group of seventeen electricians organized into the Local Union 375. Their goal was to obtain better wages and better working conditions. In 1947, LU 375 initiated an apprenticeship program. Now seen as a key function, the apprenticeship program meets the demand for high quality electricians highly skilled in fiber-optics and advanced technologies as well as the traditional delivery modes. That same year, LU 375 joined the National Electrical Contractors Association, which leveraged their bargaining power. The benefits afforded members increased again in 1961, when the Health and Welfare Plan was put in place to provide healthcare and other benefits. Another milestone was reached on June 1, 1990, when LU 375 began to train Telecommunication Technicians as part of the Telephone Interconnect Communications system agreement. On December 19, 1998, LU 375 moved to their new office and training center at what is now their current headquarters in Allentown. A short eleven years later, in 2009, they hired their first full-time Training Director and expanded the apprenticeship program. Today, they serve up to 150 apprentices in their training center and offer programs to keep veteran members current on the newest techniques and technologies. Although hit by the economic downturn in 2008, they have since seen new opportunities, including those generated by the redevelopment of downtown Allentown through the Neighborhood Improvement Zone awarded in 2013. As one of the oldest unions in the region, LU 375 has grown to a membership approaching 1100, with ranks continuing to expand thanks to well-planned organizing. After 100 years, the IBEW Local Union 375 has remained true to their mission to provide strong, fair representation and open communication for members, fellow unions, contractors, and the community. It is an honor for me to recognize their 100 years of service and fraternity.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and remember the bravery of American troops who fought in the Battle of the Bulge and to recall the unique prayer cards General George Patton distributed to his Third Army in December 1944. The prayer, which asked for favorable weather, was printed on the back of a Christmas greeting from General Patton. The troops received these prayer cards prior to the Battle of the Bulge. The incident of the now famous Patton Prayer commenced with a telephone call to the Third Army Chaplain on the morning of December 8, 1944. After weeks of severe rains that threatened the prospects of victory, General Patton called to ask Msgr. James H. O'Neill if he knew a prayer for good weather. While looking out on the steadily falling rain, the chaplain wrote an original prayer alongside a Christmas greeting, and then had it circulated it to all 250,000 Third Army troops on the eve of the Battle of the Bulge. The prayer, in part, read: ``Almighty and most merciful Father, we humbly beseech Thee, of Thy great goodness, to restrain these immoderate rains with which we have had to contend. Grant us fair weather for Battle. Graciously hearken to us as soldiers who call upon Thee that, armed with Thy power, we may advance from victory to victory . . .'' The Battle of the Bulge, one of World War II's most critical battles, started when Nazi forces launched a major surprise offensive on December 16. Fought among the dense forests bordering Belgium and Luxembourg, it was the bloodiest battle the U.S. encountered during the World War II, with over 18,000 Americans killed and over 65,000 captured or injured. The heavy rains and thick fog eventually subsided, and Allied forces were able to hold off Nazi forces and severely deplete their resource supply. The Battle of the Bulge is symbolic of the resilience and strength of American soldiers, who were unyielding in the face of both enemy fire and debilitating weather. After the Battle, General Patton told Msgr. O'Neill that ``our prayers worked.'' To General Patton, prayer was just as powerful a weapon of war and as defense and attack strategies. It is an honor for me to commemorate the valor of these American soldiers, the leadership of General Patton, and the ultimate victory of the ``Greatest Generation.''

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Mr. John Heuberger, who will retire on Friday, October 3, 2014 from his position as the Deputy Commander of DLA Distribution in Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania. Mr. Heuberger is a Vietnam Era Veteran, having served in the United States Navy from 1971-1974 as a Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class. He later spent three years in the Naval Reserve and began his career as a federal employee, where he continued to proudly serve our country. As a federal employee, Mr. Heuberger worked at a wide range of facilities across New York and Pennsylvania. His assignments included the Veterans Administration Extended Care Center in St. Albans, New York, the Veterans Administration Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York, the Veterans Administration Center in Northport, New York, and as a General Supply Officer at Tobyhanna Army Depot in Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania. Since 1992, Mr. Heuberger has served as Distribution Facilities Manager, DLA Distribution at Tobyhanna Army Depot. Mr. Heuberger is the recipient of the Army Award for Civilian Service, the Department of the Army Certificate of Appreciation, numerous other awards, and has been honored by Vice-President Al Gore with the National Partnership for Reinventing Government Award. Mr. Heuberger is a role model in the workplace--truly an individual other federal employees should seek to emulate. His hard work and dedication to all facets of our making our military the best it can be are overly commendable. During his Tobyhanna years, he drew on past experiences and relationships to hone his leadership skills, consistently sought to promote positive thinking, and provided invaluable guidance to his colleagues and fellow employees. The role Mr. Heuberger played in his years of service at DLA is an integral part of the critical mission to supply and equip our military. I am honored to recognize outstanding individuals engaged in this mission. I extend my congratulations to Mr. Heuberger for a job well done in service to our nation. The Department of Defense and everyone at Tobyhanna will miss him, I'm sure, but I wish him well in retirement.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lieutenant Colonel Starr Seip of Pine Grove, Pennsylvania, on her promotion to Colonel in the U.S. National Guard, for which a ceremony will occur tomorrow, July 26. LTC Seip has served our country honorably, having been assigned to the 28th Division Support Command (DISCOM) in the International Zone of Baghdad at the Embassy of the United States during Operation Iraqi Freedom. In preparation for that military assignment, LTC Seip left home for training at Fort Dix in New Jersey on Mother's Day 2006. Upon the completion of her training, she returned home for a brief period before leaving for Iraq on Memorial Day 2006. Additionally, LTC Seip served as the mayor of the Ocean Cliff section of Baghdad and had an integral role in the preparation of the mass casualty plan for the Embassy. LTC Seip's deployment ended on July 14, 2007 and, upon her return, she was greeted on the Pennsylvania House Floor along with her colleague Captain Cara Walters. LTC Seip is the youngest of 5 children born to Frank and Patricia Dubbs. She is married to Tim Seip and is mother to Elisa Seip. LTC Seip's current assignment is to be the Deputy Commander for the 28th Division Medical Detachment. On behalf of all of the citizens of Pennsylvania's 17th Congressional District, I offer my thanks for impressive and dedicated service in the defense of our country, I congratulate Lieutenant Colonel Seip on her promotion, and ask all my colleagues here in the House of Representatives to join me in honoring our invaluable service members like Starr Seip.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Maryland for yielding. I would like to thank Congressman Welch from Vermont for his leadership on this bill as well. It is no secret that Congressman Welch is one of the great champions in the House on the issue of energy efficiency, and it has been my pleasure to work with him on this. I would also like to thank Chairman Upton and Ranking Member Waxman for their support in guiding this bill through committee. This legislation is a great example of what we can do when we work together in a bipartisan fashion. I would like to thank the majority and minority staffers. It is to their credit that they worked to craft an amended version of this bill that everybody could agree on. It was great to see this bill pass unanimously out of the committee. K-12 school districts spend billions on their energy bills every year, approximately $6 billion a year, according to Energy Star, second only to personnel costs, exceeding the costs of textbooks and exceeding the costs of supplies. Energy expenses are one of the few costs that can be reduced while, at the same time, improving classroom instruction. In fact, high- performance schools can lower a school district's operating costs by up to 30 percent. There are numerous Federal initiatives already available to schools to help them become more energy efficient. However, these programs are spread across the Federal Government, making it challenging, time consuming, and costly for schools to identify and take full advantage of these programs. I have heard it said that you practically need a degree in library science to research and find all of these programs. First introduced in the Senate as S. 1084 by Senators Mark Udall and Susan Collins, the bipartisan Streamlining Energy Efficiency for Schools Act aims to provide a coordinating structure for schools to help them better navigate available Federal programs and financing options. This legislation doesn't spend an additional dime and keeps decisionmaking authority with the States, with the school boards, and with the local officials. The bill establishes a clearinghouse through the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, which will disseminate information on Federal programs and financing mechanisms that may be used to develop energy efficiency, distributed generation, and energy retrofitting projects for schools. I urge my colleagues to pass this bill. Again, I thank the gentleman from Maryland for yielding and for his assistance in this matter.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce 2014 Award Recipients. Each year the Chamber selects several individuals and organizations that have contributed to economic and community development in Schuylkill County. The honorees this year are Cindy Petchulis, Bob Greene, Maria Rowlands, Theresa Pothering, The Cotler Group, and the Sexual Assault Resource & Counseling Center of Schuylkill County. Cindy Petchulis of the Providence Place Retirement Community is the 2014 Business Woman of the Year. Cindy was critical in helping expand the Providence Place Facility, and is well known for her positive attitude and love of community. A caring people-person, Cindy excellently maintains Providence Place as a peaceful community where its patients can live and its employees can be productive. Bob Greene of Pioneer Pole Buildings, Inc. is the 2014 Business Man of the Year. Bob treats all his employees as family, which encourages retention and helps the company grow. He strives to be on the cutting edge of his business and wants his company to be the best. Bob is always willing to help the people of Schuylkill County. He is a sponsor for Big Brothers/Big Sisters, the Wounded Warrior Project, Pottsville Lions Car Cruise, 4-H, and his local community Easter Egg hunt. Under his leadership, his company has been recognized by the National Frame Builders Association with the Building of the Year award. Theresa Pothering and Maria Rowlands are the Entrepreneurs of the Year, as they established an accounting firm, Rowlands and Pothering. With their strong leadership skills and expertise, they were able to turn a dream into a successful business. Clients enjoy that Rowlands and Pothering is a place where ``everybody knows your name,'' and clients do not hesitate to recommend them. The Cotler Group is the 2014 For Profit Organization of the Year. The Cotler Group has been family-owned for over 60 years and has contributed significantly to Schuylkill County's quality of life and economic vitality. Through its various holdings, the multifaceted business group provides employment for many in the County. The Cotler Group is well known for the development and expansion of one of Schuylkill County's premier golf courses, Mountain Valley. Their ventures bring out-of-county businesses and individuals into the area, enhancing sales for many local vendors. This company and its owner, Steve Cotler, work quietly behind the scenes and are involved with a wide and varied number of organizations and charities. The Sexual Assault Resource & Counseling Center of Schuylkill County (SARCC) is the 2014 Non-Profit Organization of the Year. This non- profit engages all individuals, families, and communities in healing from sexual violence plus advocates and educates to eliminate sexual violence. It has served approximately 7,500 individuals within Schuylkill County who turned to them for support. SARCC works hard to make Schuylkill County a better and safer place to live. This organization serves its clients on a person-to-person basis and is instrumental in prevention education in schools throughout the county. All of their services are available for free to all men, women, and children in Schuylkill County. Lastly, the 2014 James Stine Lifetime of Service Award honoree is Joseph Jones, Sr. Mr. Jones exhibits outstanding commitment and achievement, and his efforts have dramatically benefited Schuylkill County. After graduating from the Shamokin public schools, Mr. Jones served three years in the Navy during World War II as a Lieutenant, JG in the Pacific Theater. He then went to Ursinus College, Dickinson School of Law, and New York University law school for an LLM. He served as the editor-in-chief of the Dickinson Law Review and graduated first in his J.D. class. Mr. Jones was admitted in 1950 into the Pennsylvania Bar Association and moved to Pottsville where he began practicing law with Hicks, Williamson & Friedberg. He is now a senior partner with the firm, which is now known as Williamson, Friedberg & Jones, LLC. Mr. Jones has also chaired successful capital fund raising campaigns for the Schuylkill United Way, Greater Pottsville Industrial Development Corporation, Salvation Army, Boy Scouts of America, Pottsville Free Public Library, Good Samaritan Hospital, Pennsylvania State University--Schuylkill Campus, Ursinus College, Hawk Mountain Council B.S.A., Pottsville Hospital, Pottsville Area Development Corporation, and Schuylkill Economic Development Corporation. It is a great honor to recognize the Schuylkill County Chamber of Commerce 2014 Award Recipients. These leaders are creating opportunity and raising the quality of life for others in Schuylkill County. May they continue to flourish for many years to come, and may they continue giving back to the community that supports them.