Jim Gerlach

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Frederick Mennonite Community, an elderly continuing care community, on its 110th anniversary. This community has been providing outstanding service to its more than 300 residents on eighty acres in western Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. This bucolic setting is large enough to accommodate a wide variety of lifestyles, yet small enough to maintain a sense of community. Residents have the option to live in independent living cottages, apartments, assisted living, and nursing care facilities. The organization's goal is to offer housing and support options for every individual preference and need. Frederick Mennonite Community strives to promote and encourage every individual to live life to their fullest. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring Frederick Mennonite Community on its 110th anniversary. I hope that this community is able to continue to live out its mission statement: ``In the spirit of Christian love, Frederick Mennonite Community cares for and enriches the lives of older adults, while valuing the staff, volunteers and community that serves them.''

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Holy Saviour Club of Norristown, Pennsylvania. The Holy Saviour Club was founded by Italian-American immigrants from the town of Montella, Italy. It was the desire of the founding families to share their Italian heritage and culture with their fellow Montgomery County citizens. The Holy Saviour Club will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a weekend celebration on August 4th-6th and the members and guests will participate in a celebratory procession, feast, and a solemn mass at Holy Saviour Church. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring the Holy Saviour Club of Norristown, Pennsylvania as it celebrates its 100th anniversary. It is my hope the Club continues to prosper and promote the Italian heritage and culture of its members for the benefit of the larger Montgomery County community.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Borough of Kenhorst in Berks County, Pennsylvania. The residents of Cumru Township, upset with what they described as an exorbitant streetlight tax, a lack of fire and police protection, and a lack of street improvement, decided to secede from the Township to create their own municipality, thereby resulting in the establishment of the Borough of Kenhorst nearly 75 years ago. Its name is of most interesting origins. Along New Holland Road to the south of the proposed borough was a large estate owned by the Horst family. Along Lancaster Avenue was a large farm operated by the Kendall family, also known as Kendall Park. Consequently, the founders decided to combine both names and Kenhorst Borough was thereby incorporated on August 25, 1931. The Borough remains largely residential, but has recently seen expansion along the two main throughways--New Holland Road and Lancaster Avenue--because of the community's outstanding beauty and quality of life. Today, the Borough is considered one of the premier communities in Berks County and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring the Borough of Kenhorst on its 75th anniversary and recognizing the service of a multitude of citizens who worked tirelessly to establish, promote, and grow the Borough to become the exemplary community it is today.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to have my name removed as cosponsor of H.R. 65.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. I thank the gentlewoman from Florida. Mr. Speaker, I think most of us understand we must succeed in Iraq if we are to win this global war on terror. Like any war, we may not want to be there, but now we must successfully complete the task before us. It is not and will not be easy. But as one said, there is no substitute for victory. We must prevail. But at the same time, we also need to make it undeniably clear to the Iraqi Government that our patience and support are not blank checks that can be cashed with American lives and tax dollars ad infinitum. To do that properly and effectively, it is imperative that the Congress do its job to proactively and comprehensively evaluate the current level of progress of the Iraqi Government and clearly report its findings on an ongoing basis to the American people. By doing so, we would be firmly pushing the Iraqis themselves to continue their efforts to stand up and take charge of their destiny. The American people are looking to us to answer their questions on how much progress is being made, what are the Iraqis themselves willing to do to fight for their freedom, and when will the men and women come home. For this very reason, I recently introduced a resolution calling on certain House and Senate committees to evaluate and issue specific findings and conclusions on the progress of the Iraqi Government to take over operational control to maintain proper civil order, to foster economic growth and self-sufficiency and preserve the Iraqi people's freedoms as set forth in their Constitution. It is my firm belief that if this fact-finding and reporting process is undertaken, it will set the stage for further evaluation and consensus-building both inside and outside of Congress on our role in Iraq and will go a long way to ensure that our future involvement there continues to be the right policy, both for Iraq and America.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res 368) expressing the sense of the Congress with respect to honoring the goals and ideals of Alex's Lemonade Stand Days, June 9 through 11, 2006.

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks on this legislation and to insert extraneous material on the bill.

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the short but incredibly meaningful life of my constituent, Alexandra Scott. Alex, as she was known, was an extraordinary young girl who possessed ideas and a vision far beyond her years. Shortly before Alex's first birthday, she was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a common and aggressive childhood cancer. Alex fought valiantly against her disease, and at the age of 4, she came up with the idea to set up a lemonade stand to raise money to help her doctors find a cure for other children with cancer. The idea was put into action by Alex and her older brother, Patrick, when they set up the first ``Alex's Lemonade Stand for Childhood Cancer'' on their front lawn in July of 2000. For the next 4 years, despite her deteriorating health, Alex continued to hold her annual lemonade stands to raise money to help other children with pediatric cancer. Her drive and enthusiasm did not go unnoticed, as she inspired many to follow her example. Since Alex's first lemonade stand in 2000, thousands of other lemonade stands have been established across the country by children, schools, businesses and community organizations, all to benefit Alex's inspired cause. As of May 2006, her national campaign has raised over $6 million for childhood cancer research. In recognition of her good work, Alex was honored with numerous awards, including the Good Housekeeping Hero for Health Award, the Philadelphia 76ers Hometown Hero Award in 2002 and 2003, the Philadelphia Foundation's Philanthropist of the Year Award for 2003, the Association for Fundraising Professionals Youth in Philanthropy Award in 2004, a Kellogg's Child Development Award in 2004, and a Volvo for Life Award in 2003. Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation has also received the PPRA Gold Medal Award for 2005, the 2006 Ben Appelbaum Advocate for Youth Award, and the Philadelphia Sports Writers Humanitarian Award for 2005. During the last months of Alex's life, Chuck Zacney, the owner of the racing horse Afleet Alex, saw a story about Alex and her determination to raise money to help children with pediatric cancer. Mr. Zacney first made a donation on his own and then decided he wanted to donate a portion of Afleet Alex's winnings to the foundation. Not only did a portion of Afleet Alex's winnings go to fight childhood cancer, but lemonade stands were set up at two of the most prestigious horse racing events in the country, the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness. On August 1, 2004, Alex died peacefully at the age of 8 after battling cancer for most of her life. Alex's spirited determination raised awareness and money for all childhood cancers while she bravely fought her own deadly battle. Alex's parents, Jay and Liz Scott, established the Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation in her memory and have worked to create awareness and raise funds for childhood cancer research. Each year the foundation holds ``Alex's Lemonade Stand Days'' during the second weekend in June where lemonade stands are set up all across the country, all with one single goal, to raise money to help children with childhood cancer and to honor the memory of Alex. During the national ``Alex's Lemonade Stand Days'' there are nearly 500 separate stands erected across the country. This kind of support speaks volumes about the character, the vision and the inspiration of this young girl. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to stand before you today to support House Concurrent Resolution 368, which honors the goals and ideals of this annual event, and, most importantly, honors the drive, determination and selflessness of this tremendous young lady, Alex Scott. I urge all of my colleagues to support House Concurrent Resolution 368. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Fitzpatrick).

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time and yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Beulah Spatz for her 70 years of service to her employer, Campbell's Fitting Company of Boyertown, Pennsylvania. Beulah began with the company, then called Campbell Nipple works, in 1936 with a high school degree and a passion for math and accounting. Beulah began her career as a receptionist and clerk for the owner, Mr. Louis Campbell. In 1939, Beulah's career dream came true when Mr. Campbell elevated her to the position of controller. In 1949, Mr. Campbell sold the company to Mr. Frederick Paff, who changed the company's name to Campbell Manufacturing Company and, with this son Thomas D. Paff, expanded and improved business operations and opportunities. Today, under the leadership of Thomas J. Paff, Campbell is a leader in the industry both nationally and internationally. Beulah has steadfastly stayed with the company through name and ownership changes. In the years she worked at Campbell, she's gone from using a typewriter to main frames to the modern personal computer. Beulah has been the company's foundation and her colleagues remark that she always knew where every penny was coming from and being spent. Beulah is now looking forward to spending her hard-earned retirement with her daughter Suzie. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring Beulah Spatz for her exemplary record of service and dedication to the company, its management and employees. And I wish to extend to her this institution's best wishes for health and happiness in the coming years.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church of Norristown, Pennsylvania for its 176th anniversary celebration. The first gathering of this congregation was held in 1830 in a small building on the corner of Airy and Walnut Streets. Under the influence of Richard Allen, the Founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, more and more individuals began to become members. However, the members had to meet in local homes and businesses and were not officially recognized as a church body until 1832. In 1832, the congregation officially organized and adopted the name Mount Zion, a name derived from highest point in the City of Jerusalem. A more modern interpretation of the name refers to one's ``spiritual homeland'' or ``safe haven''. The name Mount Zion appropriately applies to the congregation because many of its earliest members from 1832 to 1845 fled to Canada to escape slavery and oppression. A large majority of the original members returned in 1845 with great determination and courage to acquire and build their very own spiritual safe haven. Adversary seemed to later follow the congregation and the Church lost many of its buildings, funds, and records through a series of improper transactions. However, the congregation never lost faith and one member, Mother Caroline Lewis, supplied the funds necessary to secure the Basin Street Church property. On May 20, 1867, the Church was granted its charter under the name Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church of Norristown. The Church has provided the Borough of Norristown outstanding spiritual, communal, and political leadership ever since. The Church was often used as a school, safe house, and shelter and it moved current location in 1915. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church, Norristown, Pennsylvania on its 176 years of history, heritage, and community leadership.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, during consideration of H.R. 5427, the Fiscal Year 2007 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act, I was not present for rollcall 196, 197, 198, 199, 200 and 201. Had I been present, on rollcall 196, I would have voted ``yea,'' on rollcall 197, I would have voted ``nay,'' on rollcall 198, I would have voted ``yea,'' on rollcall 199, I would have voted ``yea,'' on rollcall 200, I would have voted ``nay,'' and on rollcall 201, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Rabbi Brian Michelson of Berks County for his service to the Jewish Community Center and surrounding community. Rabbi Michelson grew up in the New York City area and went on to pursue a bachelor of arts degree from Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. After earning his BA, Rabbi Michelson received his MAHL from Hebrew Union College in Los Angeles, California and then his Rabbinic Ordination from Hebrew Union College in Cincinnati, Ohio. Recently, he completed a graduate certification in Healthcare Ethics from Rush University. In 1998, along with his wife Holly and their daughters Naomi and Gabriella, the family moved to Reading, Pennsylvania where the Rabbi joined the Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom. Before moving to Pennsylvania, the Rabbi chose to help spread the faith in Melbourne, Australia. Rabbi Michelson is extremely active in the community. He is the Chair of the Chaplin's Advisory Committee of the Reading Hospital and is also an Associate Chaplain for the health community. Additionally, he is a Board member of Home Healthcare Management, serves on its Medical and Professional Advisory Committee, and is Vice-Chair of its Ethics Committee. In his quest to pursue development of interfaith relations, the Rabbi is also a member of the core group for the Interfaith Hospitality Network. When not working in the medical arena, the Rabbi is active in the Reform Congregation Oheb Sholom where he teaches adult education programs. He is also an instructor with the Reading Area Community College's Department of Continuing Education, where he teaches an Introduction to Judaism course. Rabbi Michelson's philosophy of action is to simply do what needs to be done. When not spending time on inter-faith and healthcare issues, the Rabbi manages to spend time cooking, drinking coffee, sailing, and watching movies. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring Rabbi Brian Michelson for his outstanding dedication and service to the Jewish Community Center, the Reading Hospital, and the entire Berks County community.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Rabbi Joel Weintraub of Berks Country for his service to the Jewish Community Center and surrounding community. Rabbi Weintraub hails from New York City, was educated at Brooklyn College and then went on to get his masters degree and Rabbinical Ordination from Yeshiva College. In 1972, the Rabbi moved to Atlantic City, New Jersey, to take charge of his first congregation. In 1982, the Rabbi moved his wife, Shirley, and their family, sons Yossi and Yissi, to Reading, Pennsylvania, and the Kesher Zion Synagogue. Once in Reading, the Rabbi became an active member of the community. He has taught at Alvernia and Albright Colleges, being the Director of Hillel activities, and facilitated Passover Seders at both education institutions. Also, in order to promote interfaith dialogue, the Rabbi was involved in the annual Kristallnact program, spoke at local churches and schools, and gave tours of the synagogue. Additionally, Rabbi Weintraub used his dynamic personality to host radio and television shows and write articles for both secular and Jewish newspapers. When not hosting Bible studies, Shabbat dinners, and teaching Hebrew School, the Rabbi enjoys being able to pursue his hobbies that include racquetball, swimming, and reading. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in me today in honoring Rabbi Joel Weintraub for his outstanding dedication and service to Berks county and the Jewish Community Center.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Rabbi Yosef Lipsker of Berks County for his service to the Jewish Community Center and surrounding community. Rabbi Lipsker was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. The Rabbi received his formal training at Yeshiva, New York and continued his education as a student Rabbi in Sydney, Australia. The Rabbi continued a long family tradition of dedication to faith and community. In 1997, the Rabbi moved his wife Chana and their seven children; Chaya, Seldi, Menachem, Shterna, Sholom, Zalman, and Hudi; to Reading, Pennsylvania. The Rabbi believes that food, faith, and fellowship bring a community together and invites the local community to events such as the Lag B'omer barbecue picnic, the Shavuot Ice Cream Party, and the legendary Matzah Bakery program where couples from Jewish community join the Rabbi on a walking tour of Brooklyn's many eateries. The Rabbi also organizes and holds Chanukah concerts at the Berkshire Mall and the Chanukah on Ice Program for the entire community. The Rabbi does not just bring the community together for holidays, but he uses various speakers and programs to facilitate interfaith dialogue. Teaming together with Boscov's Department Store, and the Reading Hospital, the Rabbi offers intercommunity relationship classes. Rabbi Yosef understands the importance of bringing the entire community together to learn more about the traditional Judaism and its role in everyday life. When not working in the community, the Rabbi volunteers at the Caron Foundation and welcomes Jewish patients at Caron, together with and members of the local community, to his home for weekly Shabbat dinners. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring Rabbi Yosef Lipsker for his outstanding dedication and service to Berks County, the Jewish Community Center, and the Caron Foundation.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Katherine Osenbach for being inducted into the Da Vinci Discovery Center of Science and Technology's Hall of Fame. The Da Vinci Discovery Center of Science and Technology honors outstanding teachers and high school students who excel in science and technology. This year, Katherine Osenbach of Allentown Central Catholic High School will receive this honor and recognition during the May 16, 2006 awards ceremony. A senior in high school, Katherine, has already decided to pursue a career as a scientific researcher in the fields of biology and physics. She is well on her way to achieving her goal. She has participated in such events as the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science and in numerous independent research projects, including one titled ``Does Mozart Motivate the Mind?'' She has also acquired hands-on experience and completed such tasks as helping a veterinarian extract a horse's tooth and collecting samples for local water sources. Additionally, Katherine has participated in the National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine in Boston and worked on an atomic fusion research project at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Katherine does not only excel in science, but she is also an accomplished musician, a recipient of the Girl Scout Gold Award, a National Merit Scholarship semi- finalist, and vice president of her school's National Honor Society chapter. She will be attending the University of Scranton in the fall and will pursue a degree in biology. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring Katherine Osenbach of Allentown Central Catholic High School as she is inducted into the Da Vinci Discovery Center of Science and Technology's Hall of Fame.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Edward and Merle Ford on their 50th wedding anniversary. Edward and Merle celebrated this wonderful milestone on February 28, 2006 after having spent half a century in love and with the shared experiences of family life. Edward Lee Ford was born on July 31, 1929 in Hemingway, South Carolina. He relocated to Pennsylvania to attend Pine Forge Academy. Prior to graduating from Pine Forge, Edward and his twin brother, Jesse, were drafted into the Army where they served as medics. During his time at Pine Forge and while in Germany, Edward diligently wrote to Merle Elizabeth Cheatham. Merle was born on January 1, 1934 in Baltimore, Maryland, and like Edward, attended Pine Forge Academy. During the early days of their romance, letter-writing kept their love alive. On October 23, 1955, Merle Elizabeth Cheatham and Edward Lee Ford were wed at the chapel on the grounds of Pine Forge Academy. The Fords have four children; Rhonda, Terry, Dwayne, and Lisa; three grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Merle and Edward have likewise kept their connection to Pine Forge Academy strong. Merle worked as the Registrar, Secretary to the Principal, and Typing Teacher at the Academy, while Edward designed and built Kimbrough Hall, several of the log cabins, and renovated North Hall into the Music Conservatory. Edward even served as the first president of the Pine Forge National Alumni Association. In 1995, Edward, along with his brother Jesse, received the honor of being alumni of the year. In addition to their dedication to each other and the Academy, the Fords are pillars in their church where they serve as Head Deacon/Deaconess at the Walnut Street Community Seventh-day Adventist Church in Pottstown, Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring Edward and Merle Ford on their fifty golden years of love and dedication to each other. I hope they will continue to live in the house Edward built for Merle and that they are blessed with continued joy, health, and love.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Russell Kolb for his 50 years of outstanding service to the Ridge Fire Company of East Vincent Township, Chester County Pennsylvania and the communities it serves. In addition to his active membership in the Company for 50 years, Mr. Kolb is also a Trustee and President of the Company. During his time of service, Mr. Kolb has earned the love and respect of his fellow citizens for his dedication and commitment to the local community. Throughout his tenure, he has been the lead fundraiser for the Company's chicken barbeques, fairs, and annual Thanksgiving turkey raffle. He also serves on the Building and Truck Committees, which oversee the purchase of new equipment, building repairs, and major renovations. The countless hours of service he has provided to the Company and community are testament to his passion for volunteerism and exemplary citizenship. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring Mr. Russell Kolb, one of Chester County's and Pennsylvania's great citizen volunteers, for his ceaseless and unselfish commitment to the safety and betterment of his local community and fellow citizens.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sir Knight Pasquale Colletti for his outstanding service to the Chester County community as the Knights of Columbus' Past Faithful Navigator. The Chester County, Pennsylvania Fourth Degree Assembly #1873 has faithfully served the community and parishes for many generations. Mr. Colletti has received numerous accolades and awards from the Assembly and fellow Knights hold him in high esteem for the compassion he shows to families with loved ones in military service. Mr. Colletti extends help, support, and prayers for servicemen and women either before or during deployment or after their return. His leadership in patriotic causes and community service is inspirational. He is a true patriot, an exemplary citizen, and a pillar of the Chester County community. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring Sir Knight Pasquale Colletti for his leadership, dedication, and love of country. I hope that Mr. Colletti will continue to undertake his great works on behalf of the community and County and help Pennsylvania Fourth Degree Assembly #1873 continue its long history of distinguished community service.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church on the occasion of its 135 years of continuing service. On April 23, 2006, Bethel African Methodist Church, the oldest African-American church in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, will celebrate its 135th anniversary. Bethel had a very humble beginning. While the Church was initiated in 1869, original members of the Church began holding worship services for many years in local homes. It was not until 1871 that the Church marked its formal founding as an African Methodist Episcopal Church. During 1871, the Church also moved into its present and only sanctuary. Many renovations, upgrades, and membership additions have helped the Church grow, but members still turn to their original roots for strength and stability. Over twenty pastors have served the congregation of Bethel and their current pastor, the Reverend Dr. Vernon Ross, Jr., has helped provide both spiritual and community growth. Through his leadership, Bible studies and Sunday school have grown tremendously and over 100 new members have found a new church home. Bethel has taken the initiative to create an after-school program, a women's and men's ministry, and a program to facilitate Christian education. They have also added a youth/young adult choice program and expanded the voice mass choir. In addition to this growth, the congregation remains focused on its missionary and lay organizations and has added to its outreach ministry by using church vans to stay involved in the community. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church on the wonderful occasion of its 135th anniversary. Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church is committed to serving its community and is carrying out its mission to minister to the spiritual needs of the people of the greater Pottstown community in a most extemporary fashion.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Hand-in-Hand, an organization that seeks to break down barriers by uniting the entire Saint Joseph's University community, area volunteers, and the disabled communities of the tri-state region. Saint Joseph's University was founded by the Society of Jesus in 1851 and is home to 3,450 full-time undergraduates and 2,900 graduate and nontraditional students. The University's strong liberal arts tradition is marked by rigorous and open-minded inquiry, high academic standards, and the development of the whole person. Hand-in-Hand was founded by George Carasiti, a Saint Joseph's of 1978 graduate. Hand-in-Hand brings to campus approximately 450 area people with mental and physical handicaps and 750 local high school students who have volunteered to be their buddies for the day. The high school students also pair with Saint Joseph's students from various campus organizations, sports teams, and fraternities and sororities who in turn, run game booths, play music, and serve as mascots and buddies for their annual event. Hand-in-Hand earned a 1988 Presidential Citation from the White House Office of Private Sector Initiatives for ``outstanding contributions to the American spirit of volunteerism and community action.'' Also honored by the Montgomery County Association for Retarded Citizens and the Elwyn Institute, Hand-in-Hand is the model for similar festivals at 10 other colleges and universities, including the University of Scranton, Johns Hopkins University, and Georgetown University. Additionally Saint Joseph's Office of Student Leadership and Activities named Hand-in-Hand the best student organization in 2000 and again in 2004. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring Hand-in-Hand for their efforts to change the mindsets, open hearts, enrich lives, and break down the barriers of fears and ignorance that have isolated people with disabilities from the rest of American society.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Edward and Merle Ford on their 50th wedding anniversary. Edward and Merle celebrated this wonderful milestone on February 28, 2006 after having spent half a century in love and with the shared experiences of family life. Edward Lee Ford was born on July 31, 1929 in Hemingway, South Carolina. He relocated to Pennsylvania to attend Pine Forge Academy. Prior to graduating from Pine Forge, Edward and his twin brother, Jesse, were drafted into the Army where they served as medics. During his time at Pine Forge and while in Germany, Edward diligently wrote to Merle Elizabeth Cheatham. Merle was born on January 1, 1934 in Baltimore, Maryland, and like Edward, attended Pine Forge Academy. During the early days of their romance, letter-writing kept their love alive. On October 23, 1955, Merle Elizabeth Cheatham and Edward Lee Ford were wed at the chapel on the grounds of Pine Forge Academy. The Fords have four children; Rhonda, Terry, Dwayne, and Lisa; three grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Merle and Edward have likewise kept their connection to Pine Forge Academy strong. Merle worked as the Registrar, Secretary to the Principal, and Typing Teacher at the Academy, while Edward designed and built Kimbrough Hall, several of the log cabins, and renovated North Hall into the Music Conservatory. Edward even served as the first president of the Pine Forge National Alumni Association. In 1995, Edward, along with his brother Jesse, received the honor of being alumni of the year. In addition to their dedication to each other and the Academy, the Fords are pillars in their church where they serve as Head Deacon/Deaconess at the Walnut Street Community Seventh-day Adventist Church in Pottstown, Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring Edward and Merle Ford on their fifty golden years of love and dedication to each other. I hope they will continue to live in the house Edward built for Merle and that they are blessed with continued joy, health, and love.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Boy Scout Troop 95 of North Coventry Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania on the occasion of its 50th Anniversary. It is the mission of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) to build character, foster citizenship, and develop fitness. These three aims are the bedrock of the American Scouting movement and the foundation of 50 years of scouting experience for Troop 95. Troop 95 is a tremendous group of young men that have and continue to practice the policy of ``boy-led and boy-run'' in the development of teamwork, leadership skills and personal responsibility. They develop the rules and standards to meet and work together to accomplish their many goals and objectives. The Troop is also a safe haven for young men. It seeks to create a place where everyone feels physically and emotionally secure. The scouts of Troop 95 live the Scout Oath and Law each moment of each day, to the best of their individual and combined abilities. The Troop has also created an extremely high standard of tolerance and acceptance. Scouts communicate openly with each other and demonstrate camaraderie and friendship at all times. Troop 95 has also created an environment based on learning and fun. Scouts seek the best from each participant, and go the extra mile to help each person achieve personal success. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the Scouts, their outstanding leaders, and scout parents of Troop 95, past and present, for the terrific contributions they have made in their community and for the positive development of the moral, physical, and emotional well-being of the young men who have participated in the Troop over the past 50 years.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Officer Marc A. Reider for his thirty years of exemplary service to the citizens and businesses of Tredyffrin Township in Chester County, Pennsylvania. Officer Reider retired as a decorated officer on December 23, 2005 from the Tredyffrin Township Police Department. As an outstanding public servant, Officer Reider retired as one of the most highly trained officers in the field of accident reconstruction. In addition to his many honors, he also served on the Tredyffrin Township Police Department's Traffic Accident Review Board. While on this Board, he oversaw the agency's forensic mapping team where his leadership and attention to detail helped to recreate and solve difficult auto related cases. Officer Reider is highly regarded throughout Pennsylvania as an expert witness in vehicular accidents and also serves as a member of the American Board of Forensic Examiners. Officer Reider also takes the time to share his knowledge with younger members of the police force. He has held a Pennsylvania Municipal Police Certificate since 1983 and has had the distinct honor of serving as an expert instructor in traffic accident investigations for the Montgomery County Municipal Police Academy. Throughout his distinguished career, Officer Reider has worked tirelessly to make the Township, County, and Commonwealth a safer place. His dedication to service and professionalism will be greatly missed. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring Officer Marc A. Reider for his many years of exceptional service and professional contributions to the Tredyffrin Township Police Department and community. I am honored to stand before you to congratulate and celebrate Officer Marc A. Reider on his many impressive accomplishments.