Timothy Johnson

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, on May 4, 2009, I was unable to cast my votes on H. Res. 230 and H. Con. Res. 111 and wish the record to reflect my intentions had I been able to vote. Had I been present for Roll Call No. 229, on suspending the Rules and passing H. Res. 230, Recognizing the historical significance of the Mexican holiday of Cinco de Mayo, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for Roll Call No. 230, on suspending the Rules and passing H. Con. Res. 111, Recognizing the 61st anniversary of the Independence of the State of Israel, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, unfortunately last night, April 27, 2009, I was unable to cast my votes on H. Res. 329, H.R. 1746, and H. Res. 335 and wish the Record to reflect my intentions had I been able to vote. Had I been present for rollcall No. 207, on suspending the Rules and passing H. Res. 295, Recognizing the anniversary of the tragic accident of the steamboat ship SS Sultana, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 208, on suspending the Rules and passing H.R. 1746, the Pre-Disaster Mitigation Act of 2009, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 209, on suspending the Rules and passing H. Res. 335, Supporting the goals and ideals of National Volunteer Week, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Fred Welch, a dedicated and selfless member of the community who passed away on March 13, 2009. Fred was born in Linden, Tennessee and later attended the University of Tennessee. After graduation he attended Auburn University and Iowa State University. Fred's areas of specialty were in soil science, specifically soil fertility and fertilizers. This area of expertise led him to work at the Georgia Experiment Station, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and finally the agronomy department at the University of Illinois. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn, whom he married in 1956 in Cherokee, Alabama. They were blessed with three sons, five granddaughters, and three grandsons. After retiring from the University of Illinois in 1990, Fred and his wife traveled whenever possible and founded an active seniors group that meets once a month to discuss politics and meet candidates. This organization, the Active Senior Republicans, has grown from just the two of them to over one hundred citizens of the Champaign area. I hope all of you will join me in recognizing Fred Welch for his contributions to his community, Champaign County, and the University of Illinois.

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, on March 30, 2009, I was unable to cast my votes on the Motion to Table H. Res. 295, H.R. 20, and H.R. 479 and wish the record to reflect my intentions had I been able to vote. Had I been present for rollcall No. 163, on the Motion to Table H. Res. 295, Raising a question of the privileges of the House, I would have voted ``nay.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 164, on suspending the Rules and passing H.R. 20, the Melanie Blocker Stokes MOTHERS Act, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 165, on suspending the Rules and passing H.R. 479, the Wakefield Act, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Truman Allen and Susan L. Moore for their contributions to the Young Men's Christian Association. Truman Allen Moore was born to Truman E. and Margaret Allen Moore with three siblings. Truman married the love of his life Susan L. Lacy at the beginning of his post-graduate education on August 19, 1967. They have a daughter and a son, Amanda and Mark. Truman obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business in 1967 and a Master of Science in Education from Eastern Illinois University in 1971. Truman's first job for the YMCA was an Assistant Physical Director in Danville while in his post-graduate education. From this position, he rose to Program Director in Paris then to Kewanee. Truman was promoted to Executive Director of YMCA Youth and Government at Kewanee in 1974. He then served this position at Knox County from 1978-2001 and Champaign County for two years before becoming President of YMCA Youth and Government. Lester Y. and Luella C. Lacy had a daughter named Susan L. Moore on October 16, 1944. She grew up with a brother and a sister. Susan graduated from Kansas High School in 1962 as the Valedictorian. She went on to obtain a Bachelor of Arts in Education from DePauw University in Indiana in 1966 and a Master of Science in Education from Eastern Illinois University in 1971. She began her professional life by becoming a teacher at the grade school level. Susan served Illinois in towns Flossmoor, Danville, and Charleston while pursuing her Master's. She worked at the Wethersfield School in Kewanee as a reading specialist for second graders while volunteering with the YMCA Youth and Government. She became its secretary in 1979 before becoming the Program Director in 2001. I hope all of you will join me in recognizing Truman and Susan Moore for their contributions to the YMCA and their communities.

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, unfortunately last night, March 16, 2009, I was unable to cast my votes on H.R. 987, H.R. 1217, and H.R. 1284. I was dealing with the death of a very dear friend of mine over the weekend and was visiting with his family Monday night. Had I been present for Rollcall No. 125, on suspending the Rules and passing H.R. 987, naming the John Scott Challis, Jr. Post Office, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for Rollcall No. 126, on suspending the Rules and passing H.R. 1217, naming the Specialist Peter J. Navarro Post Office, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for Rollcall No. 127, on suspending the Rules and passing H.R. 1284, naming the Major Ed W. Freeman Post Office, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I submit the following: (1) Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations bill included in H.R. 1105 Account: Higher Education Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Eastern Illinois University Address of Requesting Entity: 600 Lincoln Avenue, Charleston, IL 61920 Description of Request: $190,000 for the Eastern Illinois University for the purchase of a new campus-wide siren and emergency system upgrade to extend the communication from the county emergency management officials into the classrooms and other interior public campus space. The proposed system will have emergency notification from both the classroom to the emergency responders and also from the emergency responders into the classrooms. The systems will be designed to crosstalk between the campus distributed fire alarm systems, computer network, and wireless speakers. This system will be expanded to provide more effective and efficient notification to the campus and public. Of this funding, $90,400 will be used for 226 interior speakers at public locations around the campus, $33,500 will be used to install the wireless computer center, $6,700 will retrofit existing alarms and interface with radio connections, $21,200 will be spent to purchase and install panic buttons and their mobile receivers across campus, and $38,200 is set aside for Higher Education (FIPSE) administrative costs. (2) Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Transportation-HUD Appropriations bill included in H.R. 1105 Account: Economic Development Initiatives Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Octave Chanute Aerospace Heritage Foundation-Chanute Air Museum Address of Requesting Entity: 1011 Pacesetter Drive, Rantoul, IL 61866 Description of Request: $118,750 for the construction of a new building for historic aircraft display. Of this amount, $70,000 will be used for property acquisition, $8,000 will be allocated for a site survey, $13,000 will be used to conduct a feasibility study by an architectural firm, and $27,750 will be used for the installation of public facilities on site. (3) Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations bill included in H.R. 1105 Account: Innovation and Improvement Legal Name of Requesting Entity: National Writing Project Address of Requesting Entity: 2105 Bancroft Way #1042, Berkeley, California 94720 Description of Request: $24,291,000 for the National Writing Project to fund programs in teacher development, quality writing, and research to help improve student performance in writing across the nation. (4) Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations bill included in H.R. 1105 Account: Innovation and Improvement Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Reading is Fundamental Address of Requesting Entity: 1825 Connecticut Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20009 Description of Request: $24,803,000 for the Reading is Fundamental program which prepares children to read by delivering free books and literacy resources to children in-need across the country. (5) Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations bill included in H.R. 1105 Account: Innovation and Improvement Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Center for Civic Education Address of Requesting Entity: 5145 Douglas Fir Road, Calabasas, California 91302 Description of Request: $25,095,000 for the Center for Civic Education to be used to support programs that educate American students about our nation's fundamental ideals and democratic values. (6) Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations bill included in H.R. 1105 Account: Safe Schools and Citizenship Education Legal Name of Requesting Entity: National Council of Economic Education Address of Requesting Entity: 1140 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 202, New York, New York 10036 Description of Request: $5,019,000 for the National Council of Economic Education to support programs that educate American students about our nation's fundamental ideals and democratic values. (7) Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Energy & Water Appropriations bill included in H.R. 1105 Account: Army Corps of Engineers, Investigations Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District Address of Requesting Entity: Clock Tower Bldg., PO Box 2004, Rock Island, IL 61204 Description of Request: $8,604,000 for the first phases of construction of new 1,200 foot lock chambers at L/Ds 20, 21, 22, 24, 25, LaGrange and Peoria; for implementing small-scale navigation aids; and beginning ecosystem restoration projects along the Mississippi River and Illinois Waterway. This request is consistent with the intended and authorized purpose of the Army Corps of Engineers, Investigations account and has previously been authorized by P.L. 99- 662 and P.L. 110-280 Sec. 8001-8005. (8) Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Energy & Water Appropriations bill included in H.R. 1105 Account: Army Corps of Engineers, Construction Legal Name of Requesting Entity: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District Address of Requesting Entity: Clock Tower Building, PO Box 2004, Rock Island, Il 61204 Description of Request: $17,713,000 to address the adverse impacts to the aquatic ecosystem caused by maintenance of the river's navigation channel. This includes habitat rehabilitation and measures to determine if enhancement projects are effectively preserving and improving fish and wildlife habitat on the river.

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Richard M. Schoell, Executive Director of the Office of Governmental Relations at the University of Illinois. Rick recently announced his retirement from the University after spending 22 years of dedicated time and effort ensuring that the University of Illinois remains one of the premier research institutions in the world. I have known Rick for every one of those 22 years through my time as a State Representative in Illinois and as a Member of Congress, where I have been honored to be able to represent the University of Illinois' campus at Urbana-Champaign. His work ethic, dedication, and professionalism have been a reflection of his overall character and he will be sorely missed, not only on campus, but in my office as well. Rick, I wish you nothing but the best in your future endeavors. It has been an absolute pleasure to work with you these past 22 years.

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, unfortunately on Friday March 6, 2009, I was unable to cast my votes on Approving the Journal, the Motion to Recommit on H.J. Res. 38, and H.J. Res. 38 and wish the record to reflect my intentions had I been able to vote. Had I been present for rollcall No. 107, on Approving the Journal, I would have voted ``aye''. Had I been present for rollcall No. 108, on the Motion to Recommit on H.J. Res. 38, the Continuing Resolution, extending it through the end of Fiscal Year 2009, I would have voted ``aye''. Had I been present for rollcall No. 109, on passing H.J. Res. 38, the Continuing Resolution through March 11, 2009, I would have voted ``nay''. It is high time we buckled down and got our work done in a timely fashion and in an open and transparent process. This Omnibus Appropriations bill is long overdue, but at the same time we should not be throwing a bill on the House floor that has been cobbled together by a select few Democrats behind closed doors. The result is what we witnessed in the Senate where it could not pass by the time the current CR expired and the need arose to pass another short term CR through March 11, 2009. This process needs reform and it is my hope that the FY2010 Appropriations process will move under regular order and by the start of the new fiscal year on October 1, 2009.

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, unfortunately last night, March 9, 2009, I was unable to cast my votes on H. Res. 210, H. Res. 222, and H.R. 131. Had I been present for Roll Call #110, on suspending the Rules and passing H. Res. 210, Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that providing breakfast in schools through the National School Breakfast Program has a positive impact on classroom performance, I would have voted ``Aye.'' Had I been present for Roll Call #111, on suspending the Rules and passing H. Res. 222, Congratulating the National Assessment Governing Board on its 20th Anniversary in measuring student academic achievement, I would have voted ``Aye.'' Had I been present for Roll Call #112, on suspending the Rules and passing H.R. 131, the Ronald Reagan Centennial Commission Act, I would have voted ``Aye.''

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 180th anniversary of the First Presbyterian Church of Danville, Illinois. Built on land so graciously dedicated by Reverend Enoch Kingsbury, the First Presbyterian Church was founded on March 7, 1829 by eight charter members. The Church provided the first school and library of Danville. From its humble beginnings in the 1830s, the church took a stand against slavery. Confirming their stance on slavery, the church would be honored with a visit from Abraham Lincoln, where he worshiped when his duties as attorney brought him to Danville. The First Presbyterian Church continues to have a positive impact on the community by establishing and supporting several programs including Aunt Martha's Youth service, a free clinic, Faith in action, a program for adults 60 years of age and older, and Big Brothers Big Sisters, a mentoring service for youth. The church is a strong supporter of the arts through the use of the Aeolian-Skinner Pipe organ and the use of their facilities for musical performances. I hope all of you will join me in recognizing The First Presbyterian Church in its faithful mission to be servants of Christ, both in their church and their community.

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on project funding, I am submitting the following information regarding project funding I requested as part of Fiscal Year 2009 Omnibus Appropriations bill that was included in H.R.1105: Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Agriculture Appropriations bill included in H.R.1105 Account: Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: University of Illinois Address of Requesting Entity: College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, 1301 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, IL 61801 Description of Request: $176,000 for the University of Illinois Extension to extend its MarketMaker information technology platform to a national level that will enable food producers, processors, wholesalers and retailers electronic access to geographically referenced data, thus enhancing the opportunity for food and agricultural entrepreneurs to identify and develop new and profitable markets and improve the efficiency and profitability of food systems in the United States and globally. Of this amount $91,277 is for personnel; $28,752 for Supplies; $17,204 for Publications; $13,198 for Services; $13,679 for travel; and $11,890 for USDA administrative costs. Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Agriculture Appropriations bill included in H.R.1105 Account: Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: University of Illinois Address of Requesting Entity: College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, 1301 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, IL 61801 Description of Request: $461,000 for the University of Illinois to conduct collaborative, multidisciplinary research to promote optimal human health by studying novel attributes of food. Of this amount $322,300 is for Personnel; $14,000 is for Participant/Trainee Support; $60,600 for Supplies; $3,300 for Publications; $29,800 for Travel; and $31,000 for USDA administrative costs. Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Agriculture Appropriations bill included in H.R.1105 Account: Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: University of Illinois Address of Requesting Entity: College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, 1301 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, IL 61801 Description of Request: $745,000 for the Soybean Disease Biotechnology Center, located within the National Soybean Research Laboratory (NSRL) at the University of Illinois, which provides cutting edge research and a first line of defense against major soybean diseases. Of this amount $595,000 is for Personnel; $80,000 for Supplies; $20,000 for Travel; and $50,000 for USDA administrative costs. Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Agriculture Appropriations bill included in H.R.1105 Account: Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: University of Illinois Address of Requesting Entity: College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, 1301 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, IL 61801 Description of Request: $564,000 for the Livestock Genome Sequencing Initiative at the University of Illinois and international partners in two consortia who are creating maps of the complete cattle and swine genomes. Of this amount $253,800 is for Personnel; $140,000 for Supplies; $115,400 for Services (sequencing); $17,000 for Travel; and $37,800 for USDA administrative costs. Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Agriculture Appropriations bill included in H.R.1105 Account: Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: University of Illinois Address of Requesting Entity: College of Veterinary Medicine, 1008 Hazelwood Dr., Urbana, IL 61802 Description of Request: $235,000 for the Illinois Center for One Medicine, One Health at the University of Illinois which will focus on research, training and outreach efforts designed to improve our society's preparedness and response to natural and intentional exposures of biological, chemical and physical agents. Of this amount $117,500 is for research; $47,000 is for the instruction of courses various academic programs; and $70,500 for training programs and exercises to serve state departments of agriculture and public health. Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Agriculture Appropriations bill included in H.R.1105 Account: Cooperative State Research, Education, and Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: International Arid Lands Consortium Address of Requesting Entity: 1955 East 6th Street, Tucson, AZ 85719 Description of Request: $401,000 for the International Arid Lands Consortium to use research and technical assistance expertise at the University of Illinois, University of Arizona, University of Nevada's DRI, New Mexico State University, Texas A&M University and South Dakota State University in the critical fields of sustainable agriculture, land management and water use. It cooperates with researchers in Israel, Jordan and Egypt to enhance its effectiveness. Of this amount $301,000 will go to peer reviewed research projects at the member institutions and $100,000 will go to administrative costs. Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 CJS Appropriations bill included in H.R.1105 Account: Office of Justice Programs--Juvenile Justice Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Project Success of Decatur and Macon County Address of Requesting Entity: 310A West William Street, Decatur, IL 62522 Description of Request: $180,000 to implement the ``Truancy Prevention and School Success'' project to provide truancy prevention/ intervention programming for public school children in grades K-8. Of this funding $64,920 is for Personnel; $3,000 for equipment; $4,000 for Travel; $7,650 for supplies; and $100,430 for consultants and tutors. Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 CJS Appropriations bill included in H.R.1105 Account: NOAA--Operations, Research, and Facilities Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Illinois State Geological Survey Address of Requesting Entity: 615 E. Peabody Drive, Champaign, IL 61820 Description of Request: $725,000 for the Illinois Height Modernization project to update the benchmarks in the state (approximately half can no longer be located), unify the database of benchmarks, and provide a digital elevation (LiDAR) model for the state. Of this amount $64,708 is for salaries and benefits; $11,000 is for travel; $16,500 is for Computing Hardware and Services; $200,000 is for Level lines for new benchmarks in Northern Illinois; $190,000 is for LiDAR data collection; $2,000 for outreach forums; $377 for commodities; $400 for telecommunications; $119,665 for facilities and administration; and $120,350 for NOAA/NGS overhead. Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 CJS Appropriations bill included in H.R.1105 Account: NOAA--Operations, Research, and Facilities Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Midwestern Regional Climate Center Address of Requesting Entity: 2204 Griffith Drive, Champaign, IL 61820 Description of Request: $3,900,000 for the Regional Climate Centers (RCC) program which will be split between the 6 Regional Centers to gather climate data from around the country, providing quality assurance and disseminating information to Federal, state and local government agencies, universities, businesses and the general public. After administration costs to NOAA/NESDIS approximately each RCC will receive $570,000. For the Midwest Regional Climate Center $381,800 will be used for Personnel; $156,200 is for University of Illinois overhead; $20,000 for operational support; and $12,000 for travel. Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations bill included in H.R.1105 Account: Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA)--Health Facilities and Services Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Dewitt-Piatt Bi-County Health Department Address of Requesting Entity: 910 Rte. 54 East, PO Box 518, Clinton, IL 61727 Description of Request: $238,000 for the construction of an office facility to house operations of the local public health department which will include a dental clinic to meet growing needs in the community. Of which, all of the $238,000 will be spent on contractual services, such as labor and construction materials. Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Energy and Water Development Appropriations bill included in H.R.1105 Account: Army Corps of Engineers--Investigations Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Grayville, Illinois Address of Requesting Entity: 122 S. Court St., Grayville, IL 62844 Description of Request: $96,000 for a planning study to determine the feasibility of building a low-water dam near the main channel of the Wabash River at Grayville, Illinois. Of this total amount, $10,000 will be used for preliminary analysis and scope definition; $25,000 will be used for a ground and aerial survey; $25,000 will be used for environmental coordination; $25,000 will be used toward generating the dam feasibility report; and $10,000 will be spent on a preliminary design of the dam. Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Energy and Water Development Appropriations bill included in H.R.1105 Account: Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Lake Land College Address of Requesting Entity: 5001 Lake Land Boulevard, Mattoon, IL 61938 Description of Request: $1,332,100 to develop a campus-wide alternative energy plan to encompass the use of wind energy, geothermal, and photovoltaics in an effort for Lake Land College to take a leadership role in regard to alternative and renewable energy education. Of this amount, $1,332,100 will be spent on materials and equipment in the Northwest Classroom Building and include the upgrade of HVAC and electrical, lighting, and plumbing systems along with the removal of asbestos. Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 interior Appropriations bill included in H.R.1105 Account: STAG--Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Project Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Lexington, Illinois Address of Requesting Entity: 329 West Main Street, Lexington, IL 61753 Description of Request: $300,000 for the City of Lexington, Illinois for the construction of a new city-wide sanitary sewage collection and treatment system. The City is under a ``consent decree'' with the Illinois EPA that avoids legal action against the City as long as construction of the new system is undertaken in a timely manner. Of this amount, all of the $300,000 will be spent on design services for the new system. Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Transportation--HUD Appropriations bill included in H.R.1105 Account: Transportation, Community, and System Preservation Legal Name of Requesting Entity: University of Illinois Address of Requesting Entity: Facilities & Services, 1501 South Oak Street, Champaign,IL 61821 Description of Request: $570,000 for the extension of Fourth Street to Hazelwood Road in Champaign, Illinois for new development purposes and increased traffic needs. This will relieve traffic congestion along First Street and provide better access to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign campus, the University Park Hotel & Conference Center, and The Research Park at the University of Illinois. Of this amount, $171,500 will be spent on engineering costs; $307,000 will be spent on installing a traffic signal at the corner of St. Mary's Rd. and Fourth St.; clearance activities will cost $33,500; and $58,000 will be spent on installing a storm sewer. Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Transportation--HUD Appropriations bill included in H.R.1105 Account: Economic Development Initiatives Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Bloomington, Illinois Address of Requesting Entity: 107 E. Chestnut Street, Bloomington, IL 61701 Description of Request: $166,250 for the renovation of a 33,000 square foot former medical building into a regional arts education center for children. The final component of the City's new downtown Cultural District, the new center will enable the growth of area arts organizations, provide after-school arts programs for at-risk children in the city's core neighborhoods and continue the economic revitalization of Bloomington's downtown. Of this amount, $146,250 will be used to replace the building's heating and air conditioning system and $20,000 will be used for classroom equipment and furnishings. Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Transportation--HUD Appropriations bill included in H.R.1105 Account: Economic Development Initiatives Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Illinois State University Address of Requesting Entity: Campus Box 304, Hovey 310, Normal, IL 61790 Description of Request: $95,000 for the development of a university research park for small to medium sized businesses that will assist regional business development and create opportunities for new jobs in Illinois. The business incubator and university research park will be mixed use with particular emphasis on specializing in renewable energy, nanotechnology and advanced manufacturing. Of this amount, $30,000 will be used for office equipment; $5,000 will be used for supplies; and $60,000 for personnel.

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, unfortunately yesterday, February 11, 2009, I was unable to cast my votes on H. Con. Res. 47, H. Res. 154, and H.R. 448. Had I been present for rollcall No. 60, on passing H. Con. Res. 47, Providing for an adjournment or recess of the two Houses, I would have voted ``nay.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 61, on suspending the rules and passing H. Res. 154, Honoring John D. Dingell for holding the record as the longest serving member of the House of Representatives, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 62, on suspending the rules and passing H.R. 448, the Elder Abuse Victims Act, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, unfortunately last night, February 10, 2009, I was unable to cast my votes on the Motion to Instruct Conferees on H.R. 1, H. Res. 114, H. Res. 60, H. Res. 143, H. Res. 128, and H. Res. 134 and wish the record to reflect my intentions had I been able to vote. Had I been present for rollcall No. 54, on the Motion to Instruct Conferees to H.R. 1, stating that the Economic Stimulus bill must be made available for 48 hours before a final vote, I would have voted ``aye.'' It is unbelievable to me that we are more than likely going to be asked to vote on an $800 billion piece of legislation, that will be drafted behind closed doors, after having less than 24 hours to review it. We owe it to our constituents to take our time with this bill, study it extensively and ensure that the stimulus will actually create jobs. Had I been present for rollcall No. 55, on suspending the rules and passing H. Res. 114, Supporting the goals and ideals of ``National Girls and Women in Sports Day,'' I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 56, on suspending the rules and passing H. Res. 60, Recognizing and commending University of Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford for winning the 2008 Heisman Trophy and for his academic and athletic accomplishments, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 57, on a motion to table H. Res. 143, the personal resolution offered by Rep. John Carter to ensure that Chairman Charlie Rangel steps aside during his ethics investigation, I would have voted ``no.'' Over the past couple of years we have had an unbelievable number of ethics violations by Members of Congress that have deteriorated the trust that the American people had for its Representatives and it is about time we took a hard line on ethics violations. Rep. Rangel has admitted that he has made mistakes and the House ethics committee is currently investigating him on numerous separate cases. To make clear to the American people that this is a House of integrity, I must ask Chairman Rangel to step aside until the ethics committee can complete its work. Had I been present for rollcall No. 58, on suspending the rules and passing H. Res. 128, Honoring Miami University for its 200 years of commitment to extraordinary higher education, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 59, on suspending the rules and passing H. Res. 134, Recognizing the 50th Anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s visit to India, and the positive influence that the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi had on Dr. King's work during the Civil Rights Moement, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on project funding, I am submitting the following information for publication in the Congressional Record regarding project funding I requested as part of Fiscal Year 2009 Defense Appropriations bill that was included in H.R. 2638: (1) Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson. Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Defense Appropriations bill included in H.R. 2638. Account: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation--Army. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: SmartSpark Energy Systems. Address of Requesting Entity: Current--2111 S. Oak Street, Suite 106, Champaign, IL 61820. Previous--60 Hazelwood Drive, Champaign, IL 61820. Description of Request: $640,000 to develop a highly reliable, maintenance free remote solar power system. This system will be designed to power equipment in remote areas for over 10 years allowing the Defense Department to have reliable power sources where grid power is unavailable. It is my understanding that this funding will be used as follows: Engineering Labor and Overhead--$395,000; Materials and manufacturing of alpha and beta prototypes--$100,000; Outside testing to validate reliability and durability--$75,000; Outside Consultants and Travel--$35,000; Test equipment required for product development-- $35,000. (2) Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson. Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Defense Appropriations bill included in H.R. 2638. Account: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation--Army. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Creative Thermal Solutions, Inc. Address of Requesting Entity: 2209 N. Willow Road, Urbana, IL 61802. Description of Request: $800,000 to develop a miniature man-portable cooling unit system targeted to the soldier's protective vest. This cooling unit will weigh no more than 2 pounds and will allow soldiers to carry a cooling unit with them into battle, allowing them to utilize his or her mental and physical strengths to their fullest extent. It is my understanding that this funding will be used as follows: $640,000 for Research and Development; $160,000 for Materials and Capital Equipment. (3) Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson. Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Defense Appropriations bill included in H.R.2638. Account: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation--Navy. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Trusted Computer Solutions. Address of Requesting Entity: 2021 S. First Street, Suite 207, Champaign, IL 61820. Description of Request: $800,000 to develop an advanced cross-domain network access system that will allow defense and intelligence personnel to safely travel to any destination in the world with equipment that will allow access to classified information without exposing their identity or the aforementioned information. It is my understanding that this funding will be used as follows: Development, including raw materials and prototype production equipment--$300,000; Testing--$200,000; Systems and Software Research--$300,000. (4) Requesting Member: Timothy V. Johnson. Bill Number: Fiscal Year 2009 Defense Appropriations bill included in H.R. 2638. Account: Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation--Defense Wide Classified. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: SAIC, Inc. Address of Requesting Entity: 1901 S. 1st Street, Suite D-1, Champaign, IL 61820. Description of Request: $800,000 This project is classified and therefore I am unable to provide a breakdown of the use of these funds in the Congressional Record. These funds will be used to develop technologies necessary to identify and target objects of interest with precision and to defeat denial and deception capabilities of our adversaries.

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, unfortunately last night, September 22, 2008, I was unable to cast my votes on H.R. 6685, H.R. 1907, and H.R. 6853 and wish the Record to reflect my intentions had I been able to vote. Had I been present for rollcall No. 616, on suspending the rules and passing H.R. 6685, to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to provide an annual grant to facilitate an iron working training program for Native Americans, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 617, on suspending the rules and passing H.R. 1907, the Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program Act, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 618, on suspending the rules and passing H.R. 6853, the Nationwide Mortgage Fraud Coordinator Act of 2008, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, unfortunately on September 16, 2008, I was unable to cast my votes on the Motion to Adjourn. Had I been present for rollcall No. 592, on the Motion to Adjourn, I would have voted ``nay.''

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker unfortunately last night, September 15, 2008, I was unable to cast my votes on H. Res. 1200, H. Con. Res. 390, and H.R. 6889, and wish the record to reflect my intentions had I been able to vote. Had I been present for rollcall No. 589 on suspending the rules and passing H. Res. 1200, honoring the dedication and outstanding work of military support groups across the country for their steadfast support of the members of our Armed Forces and their families, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 590 on suspending the rules and passing H. Con. Res. 390, honoring the 28th Infantry Division for serving and protecting the United States, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 591 on suspending the rules and passing H.R. 6889, to extend the authority of the Secretary of Education to purchase guaranteed student loans for an additional year, and for other purposes, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, unfortunately Tuesday night, July 29, 2008, I was unable to cast my votes on H.R. 2490, H.R. 6113, and H.R. 2192, and wish the Record to reflect my intentions had I been able to vote. Had I been present for rollcall No. 534 on suspending the rules and passing H.R. 2490, to require the Secretary of Homeland Security to conduct a pilot program for the mobile biometric identification in the maritime environment of aliens unlawfully attempting to enter the United States, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 535 on suspending the rules and passing H.R. 6113, Paperwork Assistance Act, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 536 on suspending the rules and passing H.R. 2192, to amend title 38, United States Code, to establish an Ombudsman within the Department of Veterans Affairs, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, unfortunately Monday night, July 14, 2008, I was unable to cast my votes on H. Res. 1067, H. Res. 1080, and H. Con. Res. 297, and wish the record to reflect my intentions had I been able to vote. Had I been present for rollcall No. 486 on suspending the rules and passing H. Res. 1067, Recognizing the 50th anniversary of the crossing of the North Pole by the USS Nautilus, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for Roll Call No. 487 on suspending the rules and passing H. Res. 1080, Honoring the extraordinary service and exceptional sacrifice of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), known as the Screaming Eagles, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for Roll Call No. No. 488 on suspending the rules and passing H. Con. Res. 297, Recognizing the 60th anniversary of the integration of the United States Armed Forces, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, unfortunately last night, July 8, 2008, due to my plane being delayed by over an hour and a half due to mechanical issues, I was unable to cast my votes on H.R. 3981, H.R. 1423, and H.R. 4199. Had I been present for rollcall No. 471, on suspending the rules and passing H.R. 3981, the Preserve America and Save America's Treasures Act, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 472, on suspending the rules and passing H.R. 1423, the Dorothy Buell Memorial Visitor Center Lease Act, I would have voted ``yea.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 473, on suspending the rules and passing H.R. 4199, to amend the Dayton Aviation Heritage Preservation Act of 1992 to add sites to the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 6331, the Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act of 2008. Due to a flight delay on June 24, 2008, I was unable to cast my vote in favor of this important piece of legislation. The Medicare Improvement for Patients and Providers Act is critical to my district as it stops the scheduled cut in physician payment rates under the Medicare program and provides for a 1.1 percent increase in 2009. If these cuts are not halted by Congressional action, under current law, physicians across the country are to receive a 10.6 percent cut in their Medicare payment rates. This will lead to a loss of health care access for Medicare beneficiaries in every Congressional district. Short of a permanent fix to the sustainable growth rate for doctors, it is imperative that Congress pass short-term extensions, such as this, to ensure that physicians around the country are reimbursed by Medicare for the care they are providing to our Nation's seniors. It is important to recognize that many of these doctors own small businesses and the services they provide to their communities are undeniable and necessary. We must ensure that Medicare beneficiaries have access to doctors, and passing this legislation will ensure access to care. While I was disappointed that the bill included cutting Medicare Advantage payments in order to pay for the physician payment increase, I believe that the underlying issue of physician payments must take precedence in order to preserve access for Medicare beneficiaries with their local physicians. As the President has given Congress until July 15 to act on this issue, I look forward to having an opportunity to pass legislation to fix this issue for our physicians and Medicare beneficiaries.

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, unfortunately yesterday, June 24, 2008, I was unable to cast my votes on the Motion to Adjourn, the Motion to Adjourn, and H.R. 6331. Had I been present for rollcall No. 441 on the Motion to Adjourn, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 442 on the Motion to Adjourn, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 443 on suspending the rules and passing H.R. 6331, the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, unfortunately last night, June 23, 2008, I was unable to cast my votes on H. Res. 1242, H. Con. Res. 372, and H. Res. 1051, and wish the record to reflect my intentions had I been able to vote. Had I been present for rollcall No. 438 on suspending the rules and passing H. Res. 1242, Honoring the life, musical accomplishments, and contributions of Louis Jordan on the 100th anniversary of his birth, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 439 on suspending the rules and passing H. Con. Res. 372, Supporting the goals and ideals of Black Music Month, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 440 on suspending the rules and passing H. Res. 1051, Congratulating James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia, for 100 years of service and leadership to the United States, I would have voted ``aye.''

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois

Mr. JOHNSON of Illinois. Madam Speaker, on June 17, 2008, I was unable to cast my votes on H.R. 2964, H.R. 3702, and H. Res. 1275, and wish the record to reflect my intentions had I been able to vote. Had I been present for rollcall No. 414 on suspending the rules and passing H.R. 2964, the Captive Primate Safety Act, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 415 on suspending the rules and passing H.R. 3702, the Montana Cemetery Act, I would have voted ``aye.'' Had I been present for rollcall No. 416 on suspending the rules and passing H. Res. 1275, Honoring the life of Timothy John Russert, Jr., public servant, political analyst, and author, I would have voted ``aye.''