Jim Gerlach

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, unfortunately, on Monday, September 14, 2009, I missed three recorded votes on the House floor. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall 696, ``yea'' on rollcall 697, and ``yea'' on rollcall 698.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Historic Yellow Springs on the 35th Anniversary of its founding as a non-profit organization committed to preserving and enhancing one of the true historical treasures in Chester County, Pennsylvania. Thanks to the vision and leadership of Connie Fraley and other founders of Historic Yellow Springs, the organization purchased the picturesque 145-acre site and 13 historic buildings on the property in 1974. The property traces its history back to the early 1700's when Lenape Indians first discovered ``yellow water'' bubbling from the ground. Stone ruins from America's first military hospital, which treated injured soldiers from the Valley Forge encampment during the Revolutionary War, are also part of the property. And the beauty of the property has inspired impressionistic painters and artists from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts Country School during the early part of the 20th Century. Since establishing Historic Yellow Springs as a non-profit organization in 1974, the talented staff and dedicated members of the Board of Directors have done a tremendous job of offering creative programming to teach generation after generation about the history of the property and to provide exceptional educational and artistic opportunities by holding classes in the library, Connie's House and the Barn Studio. Staff and the Board of Directors will celebrate the 35th Anniversary during Founders Day on Sunday, September 20th and dedicate the recently restored Iron Spring Gazebo in the memory of Founder Connie Fraley. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in congratulating Historic Yellow Springs as it celebrates this memorable milestone and in expressing sincere appreciation for the exemplary work of the staff and Board of Directors.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, unfortunately, on Tuesday, September 8, 2009, I missed three recorded votes on the House floor. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call 687, YEA on Roll Call 688, and YEA on Roll Call 689.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a dedicated public servant and a resident of Chester County, Pennsylvania, who has retired after more than 35 years of loyal service to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Christopher J. Nangle began his career as a park ranger at Marsh Creek State Park in 1974 and has faithfully served there until his retirement on August 14, 2009. He was promoted in 2004 to Chief Ranger for Marsh Creek and French Creek State Parks. Chief Ranger Nangle has done a tremendous job preserving the extraordinary natural resources of the 1,075-acre Marsh Creek State Park and making sure that the approximately 12,000 visitors who flock to the Park on summer weekends to fish, hike or sail on the 535-acre Marsh Creek Lake have a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience. Whether rescuing a dog trapped on icy Marsh Creek Lake or successfully leading the search for hikers lost in the dense woods, Chief Ranger Nangle has demonstrated great leadership and professionalism. In addition, he has shared his wealth of knowledge and experience as a Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission water and ice rescue instructor. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in congratulating Christopher J. Nangle on his exemplary career and honoring his outstanding service and dedication to the people of Pennsylvania.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of H.R. 3326 the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2010. Analytical Graphics, Inc. (AGI) COTS Technology for Space Command and Control, Exton, PA--$2 million to refine existing COTS technologies to make them completely applicable for space command and control programs. The funds will enable development and demonstrations of various COTS technologies for integrated space command and control. Arkema, King of Prussia PA--$2 million to develop lightweight, breathable clothing resistant to chemical and biological agents. Bally Ribbon Mills, Bally PA--$3 million to develop a technology and machine to produce 3D bias woven composite structures for aerospace applications. Cerus Corporation, Bala Cynwd, PA--$3 million requested for blood safety and decontamination technology development. Morphotek, Exton PA--$1 million for potent human monoclonal antibodies against BoNT A, B and E suited for mass production and treatment of large populations. Rajant, Malvern PA--$3 million for portable mobile emergency broadband systems.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of H.R. 3170, the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2010. West Chester University's Entrepreneurial Leadership Center, West Chester, PA--$150,000 to create the Entrepreneurial Leadership Center, which will sponsor faculty-lead teams of students to provide the expertise start-up small businesses need to succeed; at the same time, students will learn the skills they need to become entrepreneurs. The project will encourage the development of emerging small businesses.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Chester County Council of Boy Scouts of America, which is celebrating its 90th Anniversary. Founded in 1919, the Chester County Council began with 15 Troops and approximately 300 scouts. During the last 90 years, the Council has helped enrich the lives of boys and young men through activities geared toward building character, developing leadership skills and instilling a commitment to serving others. The Council has a stellar history with long-standing traditions, including camping at the Horseshoe Scout Reservation and the Sunday chapel service ``overlooking the valley of the Octoraro.'' The Council has thrived for nine decades due to dedicated volunteers, leaders and alumni who graciously commit countless hours mentoring and leading the youth of Chester County. And the exceptional support from community and business leaders combined with tremendous programs and facilities make the Council one of the premiere scouting organizations in the nation. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in congratulating the Chester County Council of Boy Scouts of America on reaching a very special milestone and offering best wishes for continued success in mentoring generations of local youth and building a stronger community and nation.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of H.R. 3183, the Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010. The Electric Power Research Institute, Palo Alto, CA--$1 million to develop ultra fast power processor for Smart Grid. Silicon Power located in Malvern, PA is a partner on this project.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my concern about the House Democrat health care reform package and its impact on small businesses and jobs. At a time when our Nation's unemployment rate is approaching 10 percent, this legislation would impose new surtaxes on high-wage earners to pay for reform. The reality is that this is not a tax on the rich, as many would claim, but rather a tax on small business owners, who provide 70 percent of the jobs in the United States. And if enacted, these taxes could cost 4.7 million more jobs to be lost. Now is not the time to be pushing legislation that would cause even more Americans to lose their jobs. Instead, we need to focus our ways and our attention on ways to make health care more affordable for small business owners so that they can meet the needs of the health of their employees and stay in business. That is why we should allow small businesses to band together in statewide and nationwide pools to obtain lower insurance premiums and provide a tax credit for small business owners and the self-employed. We need to help small business owners with the right health care reform, not legislation that just raises their taxes in these tough economic times.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of H.R. 3293, the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010. Devereux Center for Effective Schools, King of Prussia, PA--$100,000 for school-wide positive behavior support for at-risk youth in Reading School District. Harcum College, Bryn Mawr, PA--$243,000 to provide mentoring and training to science teachers, and expand the health sciences at Harcum. Neumann College, Aston, PA--$200,000 requested for Pharmacy Education for Workforce Development in Aston and Phoenixville. Downingtown Library Company & Downingtown Area Senior Center Building Campaign, Downingtown, PA--$350,000 to redevelop an existing mill building on the former Sonoco Paper property. This forms an important civic hub for the community as well as the proposed River Station redevelopment project. Phoenixville Public Library, Phoenixville, PA--$157,000 to update the library's collection.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of H.R. 3288, the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2010. Borough of Downingtown, Downingtown PA--$500,000 to build Boot Road Bridge over the Brandywine Creek, which will provide access to Chester County's lone Keystone Opportunity Zone. BARTA, Reading PA--$250,000 for the design, engineering and construction required to rehabilitate, restore and develop the historic Reading Railroad Franklin Street Station located next to the BARTA Park-N-Transit Facility. Borough of Phoenixville, Phoenixville PA--$250,000 for new sidewalks, lights, and pavers. The project is part of the Borough's overall redevelopment plan. Riverplace Development Corporation, Reading PA--$250,000 for The Penn Corridor Redevelopment Project to make the downtown areas of Reading, West Reading and Wyomissing clean, safe, lively and attractive.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Valley Forge Baptist Temple as the congregation celebrates its 25th Anniversary. Since its founding in 1984, ``The Caring Church'' has expanded to accommodate the growing congregation. After holding double Sunday- morning services, a new 32,000 square foot auditorium, nursery and office wing was built in 1996. Valley Forge Baptist Temple supports more than 160 missionary families and organizations worldwide. Through the faith promise commitments and contributions from its members, the Church uses these funds to help evangelize the world. Pastor Scott Wendal, Sr. has led the Church for the last 25 years, ministering and serving the people of the community. And the fruits of his labor are a growing congregation and vibrant, innovative programs that enrich lives and strengthen families. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Valley Forge Baptist Temple and in honor of all members past and present.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a dedicated public servant from Chester County, Pennsylvania has retired after a 35-year career with the West Whiteland Township Police Department. Lieutenant Claude A. ``Friz'' Frisbie was among the first police officers hired when West Whiteland established its department in 1974. After courageously serving his country during two tours in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division, Lieutenant Frisbie was eager to play a leading role in the newly-formed West Whiteland department. He supervised the Patrol Division and directed operations, coordinated training, and provided scheduling for four patrol teams. One of Lieutenant Frisbie's first initiatives was creating a Traffic Unit to address the substantial traffic issues in the Township and to better serve its citizens. Lieutenant Frisbie's valor and professionalism in the line of duty have earned him several Commendations of Merit, Heroism and Bravery. He also has earned the respect of his peers and served as mentor and source of inspiration to younger officers. Lieutenant Frisbie's remarkable career and accomplishments will be celebrated on Friday, July 17, 2009 during a dinner at the Downingtown Country Club. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in praising the outstanding service of Lieutenant Claude A. Frisbie, and all those who take an oath to serve and protect their communities.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding the earmark I received as part of H.R. 2997, the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2010. Rodale Institute, Kutztown PA--$349,000 for crop-rotation research to improve air, soil and water quality.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor an outstanding southeastern Pennsylvania manufacturer celebrating its 100th anniversary. Johnson Matthey Inc. was officially incorporated on June 30, 1909 and has grown from a platinum works shop in Philadelphia to a thriving business that employs approximately 8,700 workers at operations in more than 30 countries. The company's North America headquarters is in Wayne, Pennsylvania and several plants operate throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Johnson Matthey focuses on catalysis, precious metals, fine chemicals and process technology. While the company's roots extend back to the 19th Century, Johnson Matthey has continued to develop its technology, demonstrating the company's ability to maintain world leadership by adapting constantly to rapidly changing customer needs. While adhering to rigorous environmental standards itself, Johnson Matthey products have contributed greatly to a cleaner environment and have enhanced the quality of life for millions of people around the world. Throughout the week of June 30, 2009, Johnson Matthey management, employees, affiliate companies, parent company, and communities will commemorate the company's centennial. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in congratulating everyone at Johnson Matthey for reaching this memorable milestone and in wishing the company continued success in creating jobs and improving the quality of life across the globe.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of H.R. 2996, Department of the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2010. City of Reading Wastewater Treatment Plant, Reading PA--$500,000 for upgrades to address environmental issues as required by Department of Justice Consent Decree.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Rita S. Jones who is retiring as superintendent of Great Valley School District in Chester County, Pennsylvania after faithfully serving more than 39 years as a dedicated teacher and outstanding administrator. Dr. Jones started her distinguished career in a third-grade classroom in Johnstown, Ohio in 1971. She came to Pennsylvania in 1978 as assistant superintendent/director of special projects in the Downingtown School District and then became superintendent in the Daniel Boone School District in 1986. For the last 16 years, Dr. Jones has served as superintendent at Great Valley. Dr. Jones has earned the respect of parents, teachers and staff for her excellent leadership and contagious optimism while challenging teachers and students to work hard and maximize their potential. Fellow educators throughout the state recognized Dr. Jones' commitment to a high standard of educational excellence in 1998 when she was named Pennsylvania Superintendent of the Year. After the school day ended, Dr. Jones continued serving her community by giving her time and talents to the Brandywine Branch of the American Red Cross, The March of Dimes, Chester County Futures and several other professional and civic organizations. Colleagues and friends will celebrate her wonderful career on Monday, June 22, 2009 during a dinner at The Desmond Hotel and Conference Center in Malvern. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring Dr. Rita S. Jones for her 39 years of distinguished service as a teacher and administrator and recognizing her unwavering commitment to educational excellence.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of H.R. 2847, the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2010. Alvernia University, Reading PA--$470,000 to form a partnership with the Reading Police Academy, and create a high-tech laboratory, which will be used by the Academy to train police officers and criminal justice students in investigation techniques for white collar, internet and cyber crime. Berks County Emergency Response Team, Exeter Township, PA--$350,000 to buy armored vehicle and other equipment to provide safe approach to dangerous scenes. Cabrini College, Radnor PA--$100,000 for a project that will focus on the impact of domestic violence on children and ways that school personnel can help provide support to students affected by domestic abuse. Police Athletic League of Norristown, Norristown PA--$90,000 to support the continued delivery of programs to youth ages 5-18 through the Norristown PAL Center. St. Joseph's University, Philadelphia, PA--$200,000 requested to support and develop an interdisciplinary approach to dealing with crisis violence and create a state-of-the-art strategy for violence prevention in the communities of Pennsylvania. Spring Township Police, Reading PA--$90,000 for video cameras for each of the department's patrol vehicles.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a pioneer of private education who has provided 25 years of faithful service to the students, families and staff at Coventry Christian Schools in Pottstown, Pennsylvania. Mark E. Neihls started planning a preschool and registered Christian school in 1983, pouring amazing amounts of energy into fulfilling his vision of providing a world-class education to students in Montgomery, Chester and Berks Counties. Coventry Christian was incorporated in 1984 and opened with seven preschool students taught by two volunteer teachers. Thanks to Mr. Neihls' outstanding leadership as superintendent, the School has grown to more than 400 students in preschool through 12th grade and has more than 50 employees on two campuses. Mr. Neihls earned the respect of students, teachers and their families by refusing a paycheck for 19 years while, at the same time, often working six days a week and being available to students well beyond regular school hours Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring Mark E. Neihls for his 25 years of humble service as founder and superintendent of Coventry Christian Schools and recognizing his unwavering commitment to a high standard of educational excellence in a Christian setting.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Helmuth J.H. Baerwald who is retiring after faithfully serving the residents, businesses and elected officials of East Norriton Township, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania for 32 years. Mr. Baerwald's distinguished career of public service to East Norriton started in May 1977 when he became the Township's Finance Officer and Assistant Manager. A little more than three years later, he was appointed Township Manager and Secretary/Treasurer. Evidence of Mr. Baerwald's outstanding leadership during the last four decades abounds. He was instrumental in the building of a Veterans Memorial at Old Stanbridge Street and Germantown Pike. He was a driving force in establishing a sister city program between East Norriton and Treptow-Kopenick, Germany. And his prudent investment and management practices helped the Township acquire a 35-acre municipal complex, including the Township offices, storage facility and highway department garage. Mr. Baerwald earned the respect of his peers and elected officials with his sharp administrative skills, which have been invaluable as the Township has grown. In addition to serving the Township, Mr. Baerwald selflessly gave his time to several organizations, including the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors and the Montgomery County Association of Township Officials. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in recognizing the outstanding service and extraordinary career of Helmuth J. H. Baerwald and all who dedicate their careers to serving the public.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Knights of Columbus, Light of Christ Council 8726, for its 25 years of outstanding charitable work and dedicated service to three parishes in western Berks County, Pennsylvania. Since its founding in June 1984 at the St. Ignatius Loyola Parish, Council 8726 has grown to more than 200 members committed to nurturing spiritual growth and a tremendous desire to help anyone in need. The members' selfless service has included financial backing and volunteer work in support of St. Mary's Shelter for single mothers, a Veterans Memorial monument in Whitfield, a Special Olympics basketball tournament, and weekend soup kitchens that feed hundreds who would otherwise go hungry in the Reading area. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in congratulating the Knights of Columbus, Light of Christ Council 8726, upon its 25th Anniversary and recognizing the exemplary efforts of the Council's members in serving and supporting Berks County churches, communities and charities.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to be removed as a cosponsor of H.R. 1346. My name was added in error.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a tremendous friend of the people of Ukraine and the Ukrainian-American community, who is to be honored this coming Sunday, May 17, 2009.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Downingtown Area Senior Center as it celebrates 35 years of outstanding service to senior citizens in Chester County, Pennsylvania. The extremely hard-working and exceptionally dedicated staff at the Center provides an array of positive and informative programs that allow seniors to make new friends, enrich their lives and remain engaged in the community. Madam Speaker, the Downingtown Area Senior Center will celebrate its 35th anniversary on Friday, May 15th, 2009, and I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring the Center for reaching this special milestone and recognizing the valuable contributions the Center provides in improving the quality of life for the Downingtown area's senior citizens.

Mr. GERLACH

Mr. GERLACH. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a proud southeastern Pennsylvania community celebrating its 150th anniversary. The Borough of Downingtown was incorporated 1859 thanks to the foresight and leadership of 54 citizens and landowners residing on approximately 1,500 acres, which were part of a land grant from King Charles II of England to Pennsylvania's namesake, William Penn. Originally known as Milltown prior to the formal establishment of the Borough, the village was an important stop for merchants and others traveling between Philadelphia and Lancaster on our nation's first turnpike. Due to its proximity to Philadelphia, the Borough played a prominent role in our young nation's fight for independence by serving as a storage depot for General George Washington's Continental Army. Water from the East Branch of the Brandywine Creek powered paper mills and fueled industrial growth in the Borough well into the 20th Century. Although the mills have long since closed and might be considered relics of the past, the sturdy stone structures are being rehabilitated and viewed by elected officials and business leaders as an important part of the Borough's future. Residents, businesses and community leaders will commemorate the 150th Anniversary on Saturday, May 16, 2009 with a celebration parade through the Borough. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring the Borough of Downingtown on reaching this amazing milestone and congratulating all of those whose tremendous community spirit that have made the Borough a special place to live, work and raise a family.