Jim Gerlach

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the gentleman from California, Chairman Thomas, and his staff for their cooperation in bringing H.R. 1053 to the floor today. Also I would like to thank my colleague from Pennsylvania, Mr. Weldon, and the other cochairs of the Ukrainian Caucus, Mr. Bartlett, Ms. Kaptur and Mr. Levin, for all of their hard work in helping to generate such a broad, bipartisan coalition of support for H.R. 1053. Most importantly I would like to thank the Jackson-Vanik Graduation Coalition and all the leaders of the Ukrainian-American community in southeastern Pennsylvania and throughout the country for their tireless efforts in support of this legislation, and commend them on the tremendous job they have done promoting the progress the Ukraine has made over the past few years. During the Orange Revolution of 2004, the whole world watched as the people of Ukraine protested allegations of massive corruption, voter intimidation and direct electoral fraud. They sent a clear message that regardless of these obstacles, they wanted and supported with their votes a pro-democracy, pro-reform candidate for President, Victor Yushchenko. This election highlighted the commitment of the Ukraine people to a free and prosperous democracy, and the country overnight became a role model for the entire region. Since the election, the government has remained committed to broad- based reform and economic liberalization. This commitment was evident most recently on Monday, March 6, when the United States and Ukraine signed a bilateral WTO Agreement on Market Access, a major step towards Ukraine ultimately joining the WTO. H.R. 1053 is another important step for Ukraine as it becomes a partner in the global economy. The bill lifts the Jackson-Vanik restrictions and authorizes President Bush to permanently extend normal trade relations treatment to Ukraine. The United States Congress adopted the Jackson-Vanik legislation in 1974 to halt normal trade relations between the United States and those countries that restricted free immigration, especially for persons of the Jewish faith. Over 30 years later, virtually everyone agrees that Ukraine's record on freedom of immigration and religious freedom and tolerance is good. These restrictions have long been outdated, a fact recognized by the administration in its granting of normal trade relations status to the Ukraine on a yearly waiver basis by the President. Because of this, my legislation will not affect current trade relationships with the Ukraine on a dollar-and-cents term. However, the message we are sending by making this relationship permanent is priceless to the people of the Ukraine. It strongly reaffirms our long-term partnership and support as Ukraine continues down the path of reform and democracy. Again, Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleagues, the cosponsors of the bill, and the chairman and members of the Committee on Ways and Means for their work in bringing this bill to the floor today.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, due to a long-scheduled meeting with the Secretary of Veterans Affairs this afternoon regarding the future of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Veterans Cemetery, I was unable to be present on the floor during rollcall votes 612, 613, and 614. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall No. 612, ``yea'' on rollcall No. 613, and ``yea'' on rollcall No. 614.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor five distinguished gentlemen on the occasion of their induction into the Hall of Fame of the Norristown Area High School Hall of Champions Association. The Norristown Area High School Hall of Champions Association was established in 1977 to honor and commemorate the accomplishments of distinguished alumni of the Norristown Area High School. The 2005 Annual Hall of Fame inductees will be: James R. Caiola, posthumously; Salvatore P. Carfagno; Carl G. Sander; David G. Fry; and Guy Reinbold. James R. Caiola, Class of 1926, was a Norristown area attorney for nearly sixty years. Additionally, Mr. Caiola was very active in his community and was instrumental in the founding of the Norristown Fraternal Order of Police Lodge, No. 31. He also prepared the first pension plan for police officers and was active with Camp Rainbow, a camp for underprivileged children. Mr. Caiola passed away in February of this year. Salvatore P. Carfagno, Class of 1943, is also being honored for his notable accomplishments after graduation. Mr. Carfagno served as director of nuclear engineering and the head of the engineering department of the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia from 1948 to 1989. Mr. Carfagno also served as a consultant to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and has published numerous technical papers and has given lectures throughout the United States and several foreign countries. Carl G. Sander, Class of 1948, had an impressive career with Scott Paper Company where he served as a regional marketing manager. Therefore, he joined McCormick and Company where he served as managing director of a subsidiary in England. From 1976 to 1979, Mr. Sander continued his career in England with Country Kitchen Foods. Upon Mr. Sander's return to the United States in 1984, he demonstrated the spirit of entrepreneurship and started his own company, the Carl G. Sander Co., a food brokerage company in Jacksonville, Florida. David G. Fry, Class of 1973, is the head of the structural chemistry department of Hoffman-LaRoche Company in New Jersey. He has published more than 35 research papers and is involved in numerous research programs for drugs intended to combat both hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS. Guy Reinbold, Class of 1974, has had an outstanding career in the hospitality industry. He has worked as the director of food and beverage services at the Marriot Waterfront Hotel in Baltimore and he has previously worked locally at both the Whitford Country Club and the Chadds Ford Inn. In 1999, he was appointed the director of culinary development for Marriot Hotels and, in 2000, he was named vice president of culinary for Marriot International. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to rise and recognize these remarkable and talented individuals who have all excelled in their respective fields and brought honor to the Norristown Area High School and Community.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor five distinguished men and women on the occasion of their induction into the Norristown Area High School Hall of Champions Association. The Norristown Area High School Hall of Champions Association was established in 1977 to honor and commemorate the athletic accomplishments of distinguished alumni of the Norristown Area High School. The 2005 Annual Hall of Champions Inductees will be John Sewell III; Willie A. Suber, posthumously; Robert V. Mitchell; Angela Henry Lee; and Melissa Mary Kelly. John Sewell III, Class of 1954, was a football and track and field standout for three years in high school and won the District One shot put title with a distance of 49 feet, 11\3/4\ inches. Mr. Sewell also played both offensive and defensive line positions in football. During his career, he earned all-star team honorable mention. Willie A. Suber, Class of 1958, received All-Suburban honors as halfback during the 1957 Eagles football team's undefeated season, which was only the second in school history. Mr. Suber also participated on the track and field team and ran both the 100 and 200 yard dashes. Mr. Suber passed away in 1994. Robert V. Mitchell, Class of 1961, was well-known in high school as a basketball, baseball, and track star. Mr. Mitchell helped lead the basketball team to the Suburban One title in the 1960-1961 season. Mr. Mitchell also batted .313 for the baseball team which placed second in the league, and he set a school high jump record of 6 feet 4\1/2\ inches while helping the track team to the District One title in 1961. Angela Henry Lee, Class of 1987, was the captain of the indoor track team and co-captain of the 1984 outdoor team. In 1984, she won four medals in the PIAA State title meet in the 400 meter dash, the 100 meter dash, the 4x100 yard relay, and the 4x400 yard relay. Mrs. Lee also won four additional medals in the District One track meet as well as winning three gold medals in the Suburban One championships. Melissa Mary Kelly, Class of 1998, was an outstanding basketball and softball player. Her athletic accomplishments resulted in her being named to the first team Suburban One League all three years, while also leading the basketball team in scoring and assists. Ms. Kelly also won all-league honors for her athletic talent in softball all three years. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise today to recognize these remarkable and talented men and women who have all excelled in their respective sports and have made a positive impact on their school and community.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Senior Companion Program, SCP, of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. The SCP of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania provides an innovative service for senior citizens in need of additional home care, but who are not yet ready to enter a nursing home. The Montgomery County SCP is the sixth of its kind in Pennsylvania and the 250th SCP in the United States. The SCP of Montgomery County has been in existence since September 2003. Since that time, the SCP of Montgomery County has worked diligently to help senior citizens remain independent at home as long as possible by having their volunteers, or ``Companions,'' make visits to the seniors' homes and provide care and companionship. The Companions of the SCP are usually low-income senior citizens, committing 20 to 40 hours a week to help other seniors who are frail and in need of additional help. The Companions receive a small, tax- free stipend for their time spent volunteering. During the visits, the Companions engage in all sorts of daily activities from helping seniors with correspondence, monitoring medications, playing games, exercising, helping with errands and appointments, and sharing meals. These activities help seniors continue to lead a regular, active life. The Companions of SCP can also provide much-needed relief for the caregiver in the seniors' home. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring the Senior Companion Program of Montgomery County. The SCP Companions play a significant role in the Montgomery County community by giving back to its citizens in very important ways. They have worked to improve the overall quality of life for over 200 senior citizens by giving them the extra help they need in order to remain self-sufficient in their homes.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, on Monday, October 17, 2005, I was unable to be present on the floor to vote on rollcall votes Nos. 521, 522 and 523. If I had been present, on rollcall vote 521 I would have voted ``yea,'' on rollcall vote 522 I would have voted ``yea,'' and on rollcall vote 523 I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Lower Merion Conservancy during its 10th anniversary celebration. The Lower Merion Conservancy was formed in 1995 when the Lower Merion-Narberth Watershed Association merged with the Lower Merion Preservation Trust. The Conservancy focuses on education, conservation and the preservation of historic resources and open space in Lower Merion Township, Montgomery County, PA. The Conservancy actively engages members of the community to participate in conservation through programs such as Stream Watch, in which individuals adopt a stream to monitor, and Bird Watch and Butterfly Watch, in which people identify and number species near their homes. Additionally, the Conservancy has an easement program to protect Township properties and has forest restoration and native plant gardening programs. Folks from the Conservancy partner with school groups for educational programs with children, the highlight of which is the Children's Earth Day Forest. These projects emphasize to our young people the responsibility we all share to protect our natural resources. I want to especially recognize the Conservancy's Executive Director, Mike Weilbacher. His leadership and efforts in educating the public about the environment and conservation have earned him awards from the Pennsylvania Resources Council, the Pennsylvania Wildlife Association and the Pennsylvania Alliance for Environmental Education. I am proud to represent an organization that has spent so many years in service of our environment and our community. I wish to extend my appreciation, and that of all those who have been helped by members of the Conservancy. I encourage my colleagues to join me in saluting the Lower Merion Conservancy on reaching this milestone.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Comcast Cable Communications for their contributions to community service and volunteerism as demonstrated in their unique one-day Comcast Cares Day volunteer community project. Comcast Cable Communications has an impressive history of investing in the people and the communities that they serve. From its founding more that 40 years ago, Comcast has diligently given back to its communities through various community outreach programs. In 1997, Comcast employees and their families participated in the Philadelphia Cares Day. The Philadelphia Cares Day began as a day of city-wide community service in the Comcast headquarters' hometown. Over the next several years, Philadelphia Cares Day became what is now known as Comcast Cares Day. Today, Comcast Cares Day, the signature event of the company, is a national day of volunteer service for Comcast employees and their families in all the communities where Comcast operates. The goal of Comcast Cable Corporation is to have 30,000 volunteers go into the communities the company serves and give back by improving the community aesthetically and by creating a stronger social presence for the company. At each event, Comcast goes out of their way to provide free manpower, supplies, and refreshment for each event. Most importantly, Comcast Cares Day unifies the company with the local community by working together towards a common goal. In 2004, Comcast employees and their families volunteered to give back to their community during Comcast Cares Day. This inspiring group of individuals logged an estimated 180,000 hours worth of service in their respective communities. After such an impressive turnout in 2004, Comcast hopes to exceed their number of volunteers in 2005 by completing projects such as cleaning, painting, landscaping, preparing meals at food banks, and refurbishing community parks and recreation centers. Specifically our area, the spirit of volunteerism and activities of Comcast employees' creates a positive impact on the Plymouth Township Community. One hundred and ninety volunteers will be recruited to work in Plymouth Township and they will address numerous community needs in a day of service to their fellow citizens. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in recognizing Comcast Cable Corporation for their commitment to volunteerism and community service, not only in Pennsylvania, but throughout the country.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Augustus Lutheran Church in Trappe, Pennsylvania on the occasion of their 275th anniversary. The Augustus Lutheran Congregation was founded with its first baptism on May 8, 1730. From there, the first church was built. Originally described by an early Church press release as a ``shrine of Lutheranism,'' the Augustus Lutheran Church has diligently served its community since 1743. The first church building was constructed by its first pastor, Henry Melchior Muhlenberg. Its construction, according to church documents, marks the beginning of the Lutheran movement in America. This unique church also stands as an extraordinary symbol that emphasizes the impressive 275 years that the Augustus' ministry has served its community in Pennsylvania. The Augustus Lutheran Church has always had a close and reciprocal relationship with its community. Prior to the construction of the Church, the Augustus congregation built the first schoolhouse in Providence Township, Pennsylvania, where Muhlenberg served as one of the teachers. Consequently, in 1743 when the congregation decided to build a church, men in the community donated their labor and materials by hauling stone and timber, while the women and children split and shaved shingles for the roof. The official dedication ceremony took place on October 6, 1745 when a dedicatory stone was placed in the wall over the main entrance. In 1751, the gallery was erected to house the newly purchased pipe organ that was brought from Europe. This pipe organ was unique in that it was one of first pipe organs in any country church in America. As the congregation grew throughout the next one hundred years, so did the need for a new church that could adequately accommodate its members. In 1852, a new cornerstone was laid and a new brick church was constructed. Throughout the following years, extensive reconstruction was done on the new church. Sunday school facilities were created, the pulpit was refurnished, and the pipe organ was electrified and enlarged by the addition of an echo organ chamber and chimes. In 1960, a new parish house was added and in 1987, new stained glass windows were added. Today, the Augustus Lutheran Congregation has grown substantially to include 480 families with 1,000 baptized members. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing the Augustus Lutheran Church for its rich and honored history and its exemplary contributions to the religious and community life of the Trappe area for the past 275 years.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor William F. Richardson on the occasion of his retirement after many years of distinguished service as the Executive Director of the Berks County Action Program in Pennsylvania. As Executive Director of the Economic Opportunity Council and the Berks County Action Program (BCAP), Mr. Richardson has actively fought to mobilize the human and financial resources to combat poverty in the City of Reading and the County of Berks. Under Mr. Richardson's leadership, BCAP has initiated, coordinated, and implemented numerous social programs to fight against poverty. This organization is well known for its ability to stimulate activities within their local communities and for the services it continually provides for the low- income, financially distressed, and disadvantaged citizens in the area. These invaluable services include job training, counseling, vocational rehabilitation, housing, parenting classes, home management, child care classes, and substance abuse prevention. In attempt to make a difference in the lives of the poor in his community, Mr. Richardson entered into community service as the assistant to former Mayor Victor Yarnell from 1968 to 1969. He then made the decision to leave City Hall and take a position as the assistant director for community liaison for the Reading Redevelopment Authority in 1969. In 1979, Mr. Richardson resigned from the Authority and came to his current position as the Executive Director of the Economic Opportunity Council. Throughout the past 35 years, Mr. Richardson further proved his commitment to helping the less fortunate by participating as an active member of his community, serving on numerous boards, including those of the Reading Parking Authority and the Reading-Berks Human Relations Council. Mr. Richardson is also the president of the Greater Berks Food Bank. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring this extraordinary gentleman and his selfless mission to help those in need and for the invaluable service he has so diligently provided. I wish him the very best of luck in his retirement.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Westwood Fire Company EMS in recognition of their dedicated service to the citizens of Chester County, Pennsylvania. The Westwood Fire Company EMS was recently awarded the 2005 Pennsylvania State Ambulance Service of the Year Award. This prestigious award is given each year to an ambulance service that provides outstanding service to the residents and continued training and development for its community volunteers. Founded in 1947, the Westwood Fire Company EMS provides fire, rescue, and EMS services to their local surrounding areas with competence and expertise. In the beginning, the Company had 13 original members. Today, they have expanded their numbers significantly with over 35 active firefighters, EMS personnel, and Fire Police officers. The Westwood Fire Company EMT provides primary service to the Township of Valley and portions of East Fallowfield and Highland Townships. In these areas, the Company operates two pumpers, a pumper rescue, a brush unit, a traffic control unit, and a BLS ambulance. The Company responds to approximately 700 EMS calls per year and 350-fire/ rescue calls. Moreover, the Company further contributes to its community by providing automated external defibrillators at discounted prices for schools and community organizations. Additionally, in an effort to educate the community and keep themselves up to date on the latest rescue techniques, the Company frequently provides weekly training drills. The services provided by the Westwood Fire Company EMS are free of charge and the Company depends solely on the countless volunteers who spend time away from their families so that they can help others in their community. In turn, the community frequently gives back to the Company by providing them with financial assistance that is used to help purchase supplies, apparatus, and essential equipment. This selfless attitude has helped the Company grow and prosper over the past 50 years. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring the Westwood Fire Company EMS for its recognition as the 2005 Pennsylvania Ambulance Service of the Year and for the invaluable service they provide to their fellow citizens of Chester County, Pennsylvania.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the East Brandywine Fire Company, Station 49, on the occasion of their 50th anniversary. The East Brandywine Fire Company has a long and distinguished history of improving the quality of life within its community by providing the highest quality of emergency fire and medical service. Located in Guthriesville, Pennsylvania, the East Brandywine Fire Company proudly serves both East and West Brandywine Townships and a portion of Upper Uwchlan Township. The Company was formed out of necessity in 1955 when two devastating fires broke out and the existing fire companies didn't respond in a timely manner. Residents were upset by the slow response and decided to take matters into their own hands and form a fire company of their own. On April 12, 1956, a charter was drawn and the East Brandywine Fire Company had its first monthly meeting. Today, the Company consists of 20 plus active members who are always on call. The members meet weekly for training and update themselves regularly on new fire training and rescue techniques so they can be prepared for any emergency situation they may be presented with. In total, the Company serves 26 square miles and approximately 14,000 people. Over the past 50 years, literally hundreds of men and women made significant contributions of time and effort to the Company. An important asset of the East Brandywine Fire Company is the Ladies Auxiliary--an organization that has played multiple roles throughout the Company's history. The Auxiliary has brought in thousands of dollars by catering banquets, selling antiques, and hosting chicken barbeques in the community. Today, there are 90 members, 15 of which are active. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring the East Brandywine Fire Company, Station 49, for their invaluable service and contributions they have made to their community over the past 50 years.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary life and career of John Gurski. John was an outstanding father, teacher, and football coach who touched countless lives throughout his impressive career. Coach Gurski began his career as a teacher and coach in the fall of 1964. He immediately established himself as one of the most well-liked and dedicated faculty members. During his first season coaching the football team, Coach Gurski took great interest in instilling drive, dedication, and spirit in the athletes he coached. Coach Gurski was often known to get on the football field with his team to teach the players particular tackling and blocking techniques. He was never afraid to get his hands dirty and be directly involved with his players and the coaching process. The football team took to his style of coaching and his personality immediately. They saw him not only as a great coach who could push them beyond their limits, but also as a dignified role model on which to base their own lives. Coach Gurski had an impressive career at Wilson High School in Reading, Pennsylvania. He holds the Wilson High School coaching career record of 151-44-4 and a lifetime career record of 198-57-6. It is particularly impressive to note Coach Gurski's dedication to the sport of football and to touching the lives of students and athletes. He gave up a promising business career after graduating from the prestigious Wharton School of Business to coach football and he made an indelible impression on his athletes throughout his many years at Wilson High School. The Wilson School District honored Coach Gurski on October 21, 1998, when the Wilson School Board of Education unanimously voted to rename its stadium the ``John Gurski Stadium.'' It was also decided that a monument would be erected inside the stadium in his honor. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing Coach Gurski's leadership and coaching ability that positively shaped the lives of hundreds of young men that came through the Wilson High School. Unfortunately, Coach Gurski passed away on February 28, 2005. Nonetheless, his spirit and influence will be felt for generations to come.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to have my name removed as a cosponsor of H.R. 3304.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Paoli Troop 1 of the Boy Scouts of America on its 94th birthday. In 1911 at the Good Samaritan Church in Paoli, Pennsylvania, Paoli Troop 1 was established. Its name was derived from it being the first Boy Scout Troop in the Paoli area. The Reverend Horace A. Walton was the Troop's first Scoutmaster and he established two patrols within the Troop called the Wolves and the Lions. As the group grew in membership, three additional patrols were created. The Colour Patrol guarded and carried the Troop colors. Thereafter the Eagle Patrol was established and, most recently, the Fox Patrol was added in 2003. At the outset, Paoli Troop 1 had significant challenges. They were poorly equipped in both uniform and camping gear. During World War I, Troop activity diminished due to the lack of available young men. Following the War, Colonel Clifton Lisle became Scoutmaster and the Charter was resurrected under a ``Group of Citizens'' as sponsor. In 1924, the Troop moved to Wayne, PA. Tradition has always been the foundation of Paoli Troop 1. Adherence to the Scout Law and Scout Oath constitute the bedrock principles of the Troop, but other traditions play an important role in the Troop's daily life, such as giving a sailor hat as a memento of the first summer trip. The Troop also adheres to the tradition of military dress (the wool shirt and military press) as started by Colonel Lisle. For 20 years, Richard T. ``Dick'' Bensing led the Troop until his retirement in 2004. Today, Scoutmaster Mike Manotta heads the Troop. Paoli Troop 1's approaching 94th birthday is a wonderful achievement. With a rich, long history, the Troop has maintained its core purpose of promoting, maintaining, and carrying out the principles of the Boy Scouts of America and to work for the best interests of its members. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing Paoli Troop 1 on its 94th birthday. The Troop's efforts to create a positive environment to shape our youth into exemplary role models and citizens is a marvelous contribution to our state and nation and we commemorate them for this.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Victim Services Center (VSC) of Montgomery County, Inc. on its 30th anniversary. In 1974, a group of five women from Montgomery County, Pennsylvania organized VSC, then called Women Against Rape, due to concerns over the lack of a sensitive and uniform response to victims of sexual assault. As awareness of sexual assault grew, the need to recognize that both men and women are victims, and that both sexes can contribute to the solution, transformed the agency into what was known as the Rape Crisis Center. In 1985, additional services were added to support victims of other serious crimes, including a victim witness program. To reflect this expansion of services, the name of the organization was subsequently changed to Victim Services Center of Montgomery County, Inc. and it is thus known today. Victim Services Center has become a comprehensive crime victims organization that provides free, confidential 24-hour crisis intervention, advocacy, and counseling service to victims of crime and safety education programs to schools from preschool to college. It likewise provides outstanding training services to professionals and law enforcement personnel. Approaching nearly 30 years of service, Victim Services Center has achieved a exemplary reputation in Montgomery County for confidential, supportive services that have aided thousands of people seeking help. Without the presence of Victim Services Center in the community, crime victims would be left to fend for themselves through a maze of government agencies and court proceedings, while also having to cope with the trauma of criminal victimization. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me today in recognizing Victim Services Center of Montgomery County, Inc. on its 30th anniversary. The VSC's tremendous efforts in aiding victims of sexual assault and other crimes have truly made a difference in our community.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, on May 19, 2005, during consideration of H.R. 2361, I was absent during rollcall number 196. Unfortunately, the vote occurred earlier in the evening than was expected and I was unable to make it to the floor in time to vote. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' for the Rahall-Whitfield amendment.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Pine Forge Athletic Association on the occasion of its 35th anniversary. In 1970, the Pine Forge Athletic Association was founded by Merle Harner and Robert ``Skip'' Trainer. Both men had young children who wanted to be involved in youth sports, but the neighboring area sports programs were overcrowded. Mr. Harner and Mr. Trainer took it upon themselves to create the Pine Forge Athletic Association in order to give the youth of the community an opportunity to play baseball and softball with their friends and neighbors. The Association started with a philosophy and a mission to provide insightful instruction on the basic fundamentals of baseball and softball, while at the same time instilling the players with moral values and good sportsmanship. The Association also emphasized giving each team member an opportunity to play in each game. The first team in 1970 had approximately 12-15 players and played at a small field at the Pine Forge Elementary School. Since the early 1970s, the Pine Forge Athletic Association has grown tremendously in size. Today, there are nine different divisions in the Association that accommodate players from the ages of five to nineteen. To accommodate the large number of participants, the Association utilizes at least fifteen different locations that host Little League, t-ball, softball, and a rookie league. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring not only the Pine Forge Athletic Association for the positive contributions it has made to the citizens of Berks County, Pennsylvania, but also Merle Harner and Robert ``Skip'' Trainer for helping with the positive development of the moral, physical, and emotional well-being of the young men and women who have participated in the Pine Forge Athletic Association over the past 35 years.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding me this time, and I thank the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Oxley) for taking up this bill so quickly, and the gentleman from California (Mr. Sherman) for his work on behalf of this important legislation. I would also like to thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Baca), the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Gutierrez), the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Kanjorski), the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. LaTourette), and the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Paul) for their efforts as well. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to encourage my colleagues to support H.R. 749, the Expanded Access to Financial Services Act. This bipartisan legislation will amend the Federal Credit Union Act to allow credit unions to offer money order, check cashing, and wire transfer services to anyone who is eligible to be a credit union member, whether or not they have credit union membership. The bill is identical to section 307 of H.R. 1375, the Financial Services Regulatory Relief Act, which passed the House by a vote of 392 to 25 on March 18, 2004. H.R. 748 reaches out to individuals who, for whatever reason, do not have established bank accounts. These unbanked Americans, estimated to be up to 10 million households, are frequently charged high fees for a variety of financial services. By bringing competition to the marketplace, we can provide our constituents access to lower-fee alternatives. Many of those who would utilize these services are hardworking immigrants trying to wire money home to help provide for their families. According to the Pew Hispanic Center and Multilateral Investment Fund, $10 million is sent back to Latin America each year, a figure that can more than double in the next 5 years. It is my hope that the underserved persons who are reached by this bill will be able to use these services to establish a credit history that can then allow them to take advantage of other financial services. An initial positive experience with a depository institution may encourage the ``unbanked'' to explore other financial products. Further, bringing immigrant workers into financial institutions is important for national security. Credit unions are required to follow the recordkeeping and reporting requirements of the Bank Secrecy Act. They must also determine that customers are in the field of membership, a process that would involve personal documentation review. Having international money transfers go through regulated financial institutions makes it easier for law enforcement officials to learn of and follow suspicious activity. This legislation has the support of the National Credit Union Administration, the Credit Union National Association, and National Association of Federal Credit Unions. H.R. 749 is a good, bipartisan bill. It reaches out to communities that have historically been left out of the financial services arena and encourages hardworking Americans to develop relationships with financial institutions. I hope the Members will choose today to give their constituents access to affordable financial services.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Downingtown, Pennsylvania Area Chamber of Commerce on the occasion of its 60th anniversary. The Downingtown Area Chamber of Commerce was established in 1945 and then later incorporated in 1947. Throughout the past sixty years, the Chamber of Commerce has worked diligently to represent, assist, and grow the Downingtown business community and, in turn, has become one of the most respected business organizations in Chester County, Pennsylvania. For the past 60 years, the Downingtown Area Chamber of Commerce has worked to unify and sustain the business community in the area. The Chamber has continually worked hard to maintain a strong economic base in Downingtown and continues to maintain and provide an environment that is appealing not only to businesses and merchants, but also to residents. Because of these strong initiatives demonstrated by the Downingtown Chamber of Commerce and its solid reputation for facilitating economic growth in the area, the Chamber has been instrumental in cultivating Downingtown as ``The Good Neighbor Community.'' Today, there are approximately 350 members of the Downingtown Area Chamber of Commerce. The members are comprised of small business owners, industrial companies, professionals, residents, and organizations interested in supporting the activities and principles of the Downingtown community. Moreover, the members are interested in economic prosperity for their community. The Chamber works conscientiously to make sure that Downingtown thrives and prospers. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring the Downingtown Area Chamber of Commerce for its drive and dedication over the past 60 years to provide the citizens of Downingtown with a community that is economically prosperous and building on its past successes for a brighter future.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Uwchlan Ambulance Corps for their 30 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Chester County, Pennsylvania. The Uwchlan Ambulance Corps was started in 1975, by a group of Chester County residents who recognized the need for a non-profit volunteer service in their community that could provide emergency medical services for those in need. This motivated group of citizens had a vision to provide critical emergency care to their neighbors and this vision has lived on and thrived throughout the past 30 years. Today, the Uwchlan Ambulance Corps still operates a non-profit organization that provides 24 hour protection from their two community- based stations. They have four Advanced Life Support/Basic Life Support ambulances and two Advanced Life Support paramedic units at their disposal. The Corps prides itself on its keen ability to grow and expand their unit to match the needs of their quickly expanding community. The Corps covers nearly 45 square miles of territory ranging from rural Chester County to the more heavily developed areas in the community. Of the 70,000 residents and nearly 60,000 visitors and merchants in Chester County, there has been an average of 2,700 calls each year to the Uwchlan Ambulance Corps. With 60 active volunteers and 12 full-time staffers, the Uwchlan Ambulance Corps raises the bar in the region for exceptional emergency medical service. Furthermore, the Uwchlan Ambulance Corps has contributed to their community on many different levels. The volunteers work diligently to provide numerous educational opportunities for the community, along with several outreach programs. The Corps also participates in capital campaigns, and building renovations, all of which are successful attempts to ensure the survival of this thriving ambulance corps. They work efficiently and swiftly with the changing needs of their community and in turn provide an outstanding service to the citizens. Today, the Uwchlan Ambulance Corps prides itself on providing high- quality emergency and medical transportation services to the ill and injured citizens of Chester County, Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring the Uwchlan Ambulance Corps for their commitment to providing quality care, and community service to the region. It is an honor to recognize an organization that selflessly provides for its community each day and in turn creates a better quality of life for the citizens of Chester County, Pennsylvania.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Alisha Mathias, the Boyertown Area Outstanding Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. Officer Mathias has been a member of the Colebrookdale Township Police Department since February of 1999 and has made countless contributions to her community over the past six years. Prior to becoming a police officer, Mathias was a Montgomery County emergency dispatcher and a Montgomery County deputy sheriff. During that time, she also assisted in Camp Cadet program and was a D.A.R.E. instructor, working to give kids the life skills they need to avoid involvement with drugs, gangs, and violence. When Officer Mathias went to the Police Academy in Montgomery County, she was the only female in her class of 30. After graduation, Officer Mathias further proved her competence when she was awarded the Meritorious Service Award for her valiant efforts in the arrest of several car thieves in the surrounding area. Officer Mathias has her roots in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania. She attended Pottsgrove High School and today she lives in Oley, Pennsylvania. Prior to moving to Oley last year, Officer Mathias lived in the Boyertown area for 6 years with her husband, Rodney, and her two young boys, Ayden and Kellen. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in recognizing Officer Alisha Mathias for her years of exemplary service to the Boyertown community and for her notable community service contributions. It is an honor to stand before you to congratulate Alisha Mathias, one of Boyertown, Pennsylvania's most distinguished citizens.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor John Schaeffer who has recently been named the Boyertown Area Educator of the Year, by the Berks and Montgomery County Newspapers. John Schaeffer began his teaching career in the Boyertown Area School District 35 years ago and has since continued to touch students' lives and inspire them to be the best that they can be. As a math teacher, Mr. Schaeffer excelled at reaching out to his students by utilizing his own teaching philosophy and practice. From the very beginning, Mr. Schaeffer realized that each student learns the same material at a different pace. Mr. Schaeffer decided that the best approach would be one of simplicity. He deliberately tries to make things simple for his students so they can learn the basics and, once the foundation had been laid, he would develop their knowledge base in greater detail. Mr. Schaeffer is also keenly aware that each child's learning style and ability is different from their classmates. He works to adapt his teaching style to help each child individually in order to achieve their goals. This skillful enhancement of the learning process has worked remarkably well for both Mr. Schaeffer and his students as he encouraged his students. John Schaeffer is also considered a great educator because of the time and effort he exerts to create a personal relationship with each of his students. He shows care and empathy for his students which, in turn, allows him to create relationships built on trust and understanding with his students. Mr. Schaeffer feels that gaining this trust is an important step in the learning process. Mr. Schaeffer wisely spoke, ``I think the teacher's role has had to change because you have to show you care for them as a kid, and then you deal with the math problem.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring John Schaeffer for his many years of exemplary service and distinguished contributions to the Boyertown Area School District and its students over the past 35 years. He has touched countless lives and made an incredible impact on both the students and parents in Boyertown. I am honored to stand before you to congratulate and celebrate John Schaeffer on his many impressive accomplishments.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Johanna Clark, the Boyertown Outstanding Student of the Year. Johanna Clark is that special kind of student who not only excels in her academic work at school, but one who enthusiastically participates in all sorts of extracurricular activities. Johanna is seen by many in such a positive light that she is commonly described as caring, effervescent, intelligent, and responsible. Johanna has said that she lives to help other people and make them happy. This is clearly evident through the work she is involved in. She is a member of the Boyertown High School Key Club, Student Council, ``Insight,'' the high school cable television talk show, the Boyertown Holiday House tour, peer mediation, and the meth hotline mentoring program. Johanna diligently provides support for others while consistently demonstrating a strong work ethic. Johanna's academic achievement is quite impressive, with a current grade point average of 4.01. She has taken honors English courses since her freshman year and she began taking both honors social studies and science as a sophomore. As a senior, she has added to her impressive academic schedule by taking AP environmental science. And Johanna has been a member of the National Honor Society since her junior year. Johanna has future plans to attend Millersville University where she will major in early childhood education, elementary education, and she then plans to get her certification in English as a Second Language. Johanna has expressed interest in teaching second grade upon graduation. As a high school student, she has already gained considerable experience working as a Sunday school teaching assistant at St. John's Lutheran Church in Boyertown for many years. At St. John's, Johanna also assists with the youth group, serves as an acolyte, and helps out in the nursery. Johanna is the daughter of Jenny and Fitzhugh Clark and is the third of four children. Johanna's family life has served as a source of inspiration for her by instilling her with lasting values and an extraordinary work ethic. She stated how grateful she was to have people in her life who have inspired her, and in particular, her grandmother, Jeanne Dill. Johanna says that ``she is the most honest and giving person I know. I have worked so hard over the years to be like her as best as I could and to make her proud . . . because of her, in a big way, I am who I am today.'' Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring this tremendous young lady. Johanna Clark is an inspiration to all through her hard work and community service. It is an honor to stand before you to recognize and congratulate Johanna on her many impressive accomplishments and to wish her the very best of luck in the future.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of H.R. 3 and commend Chairman Young and Ranking Member Oberstar for their hard work in bringing this bill to the floor. As a Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I am proud of the work of our committee and am hopeful that we can enact TEA-LU quickly to give out State departments of transportation the stability and resources they need to plan for, design and build important highway and transit projects. I would also like to highlight a few issues that I look forward to working with the chairman and ranking member on as this bill moves forward. First, I strongly support a provision that was included in S. 1072, the Senate's version of the reauthorization in the 108th Congress. This provision, section 1620 of S. 1072, would provide a 2 percent set aside of funds to be used to address stormwater mitigation. If included in H.R. 3, the provision would bring over $29 million back to Pennsylvania to help address some of the major stormwater runoff problems. Stormwater runoff is a significant source of water pollution, untreated sewage overflows, beach closings and flooding. I believe addressing this need with specific funding in the bill to correct runoff problems associated with existing highways is good policy. Many of the communities in my own district have to deal with the impacts of runoff from highways and roads, yet have no funding to do so. This provision would correct this problem and give local communities access to much- needed funding for stormwater mitigation. Second, I have worked with my colleagues on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee from Pennsylvania to address a problem that has recently come to our attention regarding ``flexing'' of Federal highway dollars to shore up the operating budgets of Pennsylvania's transit agencies. I hope that the chairman will continue to work with us to see that our concerns are taken into account. While I certainly understand the ongoing crisis confronting SEPTA and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's other transit agencies, and hence believe the flexing of Federal highway dollars may provide an appropriate, short-term answer to the agency's budgetary problems, I likewise believe that any agreed- to flexing plan should be contingent upon an agreed-to repayment of these much-needed dollars within a short and fixed time period. These highway dollars are absolutely critical to the continued improvement of our region's road infrastructure. While the Pennsylvania Legislature and Governor Rendell continue to work toward a permanent solution to mass transit funding, the need to provide transit agencies with a ``hand up'' with these dollars may be appropriate. But that assistance should only be provided if the Commonwealth agrees to return these dollars to the effected MPOs within a specified time period to ensure the use of these dollars for the initial purposes for which the appropriations were made by the Federal Government. Further, I would like to see a plan in place to assure that the projects delayed by the flexing action are fast-tracked once the flexed dollars are returned. Mr. Chairman, providing flexibility to our metropolitan planning organizations is a laudable goal, but these Federal dollars were never intended to plug holes in the operating budgets of transit agencies, I therefore ask the chairman and members of the committee to work with us to achieve an acceptable solution. Finally, in the section 307 of the National Highway System Designation Act of 1995, there was included a provision that prohibited states from imposing arbitrary overhead rate caps. Section 307 did have its desired effect, most States are following common overhead and auditing procedures that promote quality design work. The problem is that section 307 provided states a window of opportunity to opt out of the Federal Highway Administration FHWA, overhead and auditing procedures by adopting State laws establishing alternative procedures. Thirteen States have taken advantage of this opt out and passed law to impose arbitrary overhead rate caps. As a result, Congress cannot be assured that the most qualified firms are being selected for working on Federal-aid design projects. At the same time, many of these States require their own audits with their own procedures, instead of accepting the uniform audit procedures used by most of their peers. This places unnecessary burdens on engineering firms and diverts time, staff and focus away from the technical aspect of the project. Section 1703 of S. 1072, the Senate version of the highway reauthorization in the 108th Congress, included a permanent fix for this problem and I hope that the provision finds its way into the final bill. Again, I would like to commend Chairman Young and Ranking Member Oberstar for their commitment to our Nation's highways and transit systems. I am proud to support H.R. 3 and urge all my colleagues to support the bill as well.