Derek Kilmer

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the national service organization AmeriCorps on its twentieth anniversary. AmeriCorps has provided young Americans with the opportunity to meet critical needs in the communities in which they work. AmeriCorps partners with nonprofit organizations, government agencies, schools, and faith-based organizations to support intensive community service work. AmeriCorps was first formed under President Clinton in 1993 as a part of the Corporation for National and Community Service. Since its inception, 800,000 people have taken the AmeriCorps oath, with about 80,000 now serving annually. Mr. Speaker, AmeriCorps members are hard at work in my district and all across the country. They tutor students in junior and high schools. They work directly with families to help them overcome barriers to employment. They advocate for victims of domestic violence. They teach CPR classes. In short, AmeriCorps members are making a difference and are strengthening communities. Not only do communities benefit from AmeriCorps--so do the participants. These young people are able to work side-by-side with local community partners on issues that are important to them. AmeriCorps functions as a framework for how individual citizens motivated to public service can come together and make a difference in a tangible way. AmeriCorps has demonstrated remarkable successes over the last 20 years; I look forward to more accomplishments and more impact over the next 20 years. I am hopeful that a new task force created by President Obama earlier this year can help identify new ways that AmeriCorps can employ members' talent and ingenuity to further national priorities. As Martin Luther King, Jr., once said, ``Everyone can be great because everyone can serve.'' Mr. Speaker, I would like to close by extending my gratitude for the hard work AmeriCorps members are doing by serving and making America even greater.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ed Stern, Kitsap Economic Development Alliance's 2013 Economic Development Champion of the Year. Mr. Stern's vision and tireless service have created substantive opportunities for local, regional and statewide development. Mr. Stern has spent his entire adult life working for the benefit of his community. For over 25 years, he has spearheaded economic development in the region. Mr. Stern currently serves on Poulsbo's City Council, sits on the boards of the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance and the Association of Washington Cities, and serves the Puget Sound Regional Council as chair of the Central Puget Sound Economic Development District. Mr. Speaker, 2012 was a busy year for Mr. Stern. He led a large, active delegation of Kitsap leaders in crafting the Regional Economic Strategy, a comprehensive blueprint for economic reform and development aimed at securing long term, sustainable economic health in the region. He championed state legislation that would revitalize local retail cores by helping cities renovate abandoned buildings. He also worked to provide citizens of Poulsbo with free, high-speed internet, courtesy of a large antenna on Fourth Avenue. It is precisely because of these accomplishments that Ed Stern has received this award from the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance. He has driven real change for his community members, for their regional neighbors, and for the citizens of Washington State. As I close, I can say with confidence that Ed Stern, with his limitless energy, has made significant contributions to our region and its citizens. I am pleased to recognize his service today in the United States Congress.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jim Carmichael, a recent recipient of the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance's Lifetime Achievement Award. For 30 years, Mr. Carmichael has worked to advance the economic interests of Kitsap County through steadfast service to his community. As a result of his dedication, Mr. Carmichael has had a profound influence on the economic development of Kitsap County and the surrounding region. Mr. Carmichael began his work in the county in 1977, when he was hired as the chief lender for Kitsap Bank. By 1985, he was its President and Chief Operating Officer. Kitsap Bank has thrived under his stewardship, expanding throughout the region and creating good, living-wage jobs. Due to the foresight and judgment of Jim Carmichael, Kitsap Bank successfully navigated the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. Mr. Speaker, as an active member of the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance, and as its former board president, Mr. Carmichael worked to foster local entrepreneurship, attract business to the region, and educate the community about the benefits of development. As a board member of the YMCA, he worked to promote the well-being of some of our most vulnerable citizens. As the head of Kitsap Bank, Mr. Carmichael ensured the availability of lending opportunities, making our communities stronger, healthier, and more self-reliant. Mr. Carmichael has always been someone that leaders throughout our community and state--including yours truly--could contact to better understand financial issues, economic development opportunities, or other civic matters. Mr. Speaker, it is because of these great accomplishments that he has received this special award. Today, I can say with confidence that the careful judgment of Mr. Carmichael, and his extraordinary commitment to the promotion of the public good, has made our state a better place to live and do business. I am pleased to recognize his service today.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service of Private First Class James Chester Mohn who went missing in action in the Himalayan Mountains on June 6, 1943. I am honored to share these brief remarks as part of his final farewell, today, August 4, 2013. James Chester Mohn was a Tacoma area native. Growing up in the Fern Hill area, he graduated from Lincoln High School with the class of 1939. Shortly thereafter, he was drafted in the Army Air Corps and worked as a radioman on C47-A cargo transport planes. Loaded with munitions, Mohn and his crew left Lalmanirhat, India on the 25th of May, 1943 and they were reported missing in action on June 6, 1943. In November of 2010, nearly 70 years after the cargo plane was last seen, remnants of the plane were discovered and the plane was identified. Now, we join Gladys Terry, the sister of James Mohn and Virgil James Holman, Mohn's nephew, in celebration of his life while paying respect for his ultimate sacrifice. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to help VFW Post 91 and the greater Tacoma community in their acknowledgement of this local serviceman. In addition, I am grateful to the Lincoln High School R.O.T.C. and the Puyallup Tribe Veterans Committee for their participation on this occasion. With the final farewell of James Mohn, we are reminded of the enormous sacrifices that the servicemen and women of our armed forces make each day for the safety of Americans at home and abroad. While it is with heavy hearts that we recognize this unfortunate loss of life, this occasion also gives us the opportunity to again thank the men and women who help protect and defend our nation and our way of life. I am pleased to recognize James Chester Mohn and all of our servicemen and women today, who continue to honor our nation with their bravery, loyalty, and devotion.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Quinault Indian Nation and the Quinault Canoe Society in their efforts to host the 2013 Canoe Journey. This annual event revitalizes the cultural practice of canoeing for Indian Nations and communities throughout the Salish Sea Region. Our region is a stronger region because of its diversity and its rich history. It is important to come together to celebrate not only what we do but who we are and where we've been. In 1989, Emmit Oliver, a Quinault Tribal elder, organized the ``Paddle to Seattle'' as a part of the Washington State Centennial Ceremony. This event celebrated Tribal canoe cultures that once traveled and hunted using dugout canoes. The success of the event inspired the annual Canoe Journey, which officially began in 1995. Since then, Tribal leaders and community members have traveled from along the West Coast each year to continue this celebration of past traditions. Today, I am honored to help Quinault Indian Nation President Fawn Sharp in welcoming the 2013 fleet of canoes into Point Grenville. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to support the effort to revitalize and maintain the cultural practices of Indian Nations. This year, Tribal delegations hailing from the Western United States, Canada, Hawaii, and New Zealand will take part in this historic journey. Upwards of 10,000 people are estimated to await the incoming paddlers and partake in the subsequent ceremonies. The festivities will serve to teach younger generations the skill of canoeing, to strengthen and instill pride, and reinforce cultural knowledge. I applaud all the efforts of members of the Quinault Indian Nation, neighboring Tribes, and the greater Grays Harbor Community who have made this year's Canoe Journey possible. As I close, I can say with certainty that the ``Paddle to Quinault'' has greatly benefited our community and I am pleased to recognize the efforts of all involved during this weeklong celebration, today, in the United States Congress.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the efforts of the Olalla Community Club for their unwavering support of the Olalla community through the continuation of the Olalla Bluegrass & Beyond Festival into its 22nd year. In 1906, the Olalla Hall was built to foster community involvement. It was deeded to the Olalla Community Club in 1937 and served the community for 45 years as a site for socials, dances, and meetings. Unfortunately, the hall closed in the 1980's due to disuse and disrepair. The Olalla Community Club was called to action in 1992 in response to the struggle to save the Banner Forest from residential development. As a result of that victory, the small force of the Olalla Community Club continued its tireless work in an effort to reinvigorate the community by restoring its local hall. The establishment of the Olalla Bluegrass & Beyond Festival in 1992 helped attain this goal. Today, all proceeds from the festival go right back into the Olalla community. This helps to maintain the 107-year old Olalla community hall. Also, the festival supports music programs at South Kitsap and Peninsula High Schools, the Little League, local PTA, two food banks and other local service organizations in the region. The word ``Olalla,'' derived from the native Chinook word ``olallie,'' loosely translates to ``the place with many berries.'' The community celebrates its roots by hosting the legendary berry pie contest alongside family entertainment, such as local and national bluegrass, folk music, and handmade crafts for all festivalgoers to enjoy. I can say with firsthand knowledge that this is a terrific--and tasty--tradition. Mr. Speaker, I would like to close by again applauding the dedication of the Olalla Community Club in their effort to preserve and further enrich the community of Olalla. I am pleased to recognize the work of community members for their ongoing support of the Olalla Bluegrass & Beyond Festival today in the United States Congress.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Chairman, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Heck).

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Chairman, this amendment seeks to protect the continued employment of needed and trusted Department of Defense civilian employees. DOD civilian employees who are critical to our national security mission may be in danger of losing their security clearances and their jobs if financial hardships from being furloughed result in financial delinquencies. Right now, the DOD has issued vague guidance that they will take into account the impact that sequestration is having on servicemembers' financial situation. While I appreciate those efforts, I believe that Congress should strengthen our commitment to our servicemembers by ensuring no funds are used to deny the renewal of security clearances to workers who are only experiencing financial hardship as a result of sequestration. I believe this is a commonsense amendment, and it is my hope that it will receive strong support. I urge my colleagues to support this amendment. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Chairman, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Chairman, I appreciate the remarks on the specific language of the amendment, and I do hope that we will continue to work through the conference process to address any concerns about the language because we can all agree that this is a serious issue. It is extremely important that the DOD continues to grant security clearances to employees who are charged with doing critical and sensitive work. There are many factors that DOD considers when determining if an individual can do these important jobs and to ensure that an employee is trustworthy. Sequestration-related furloughs and any financial hardships that come from sequestration are not an employee's fault. No civilian employee should be denied a security clearance because of Congress' inability to undo sequestration. I urge my colleagues to support this amendment and support DOD civilians and the work they do for our country. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of this amendment. Let me take a second here to say I oppose sequestration, I oppose the furloughs, and I believe Congress should be moving forward on a plan to eliminate sequestration and the process of furloughing workers. But Congress hasn't done that, and now we're forced to deal with an ugly process where we're cutting accounts and cutting workers, not because it makes any sense for the public interest or for our security, but because Congress can't get its act together. This amendment responds to what I believe was an incorrect decision by the Department of Defense to furlough civilian workers who work at entities that were funded through Defense Working Capital accounts. The Working Capital Funds are revolving funds that provide goods and services across the DOD that were established to promote stable pricing and reliable access. They were designed to be self-sustaining. I certainly empathize with the other workers and groups that are facing furloughs, but these workers are not funded through direct appropriation. I believe that these indirectly funded employees are specifically exempted by law from sequestration. Furthermore, I believe that furloughing these employees and, thereby, delaying their work will not save any money, will only increase costs for DOD and hurt taxpayers and jeopardize our military readiness.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Chairman, I rise not only as the Representative of the area that includes Naval Base Kitsap, which is the home port of eight SSBNs and 60 percent of the Navy's SSBN force, but I rise with a nonparochial interest as well. I am in opposition to this amendment because we know the SSBNs, or the Ohio-class subs, have been a pillar of our national defense for over three decades. These subs and their crews act as peacekeepers around the world every single day. They are amongst our most significant assets for a continued forward-presence and are a strategic deterrent around the world. Our country, our Navy, and our sailors cannot afford to delay the recapitalization of this platform. While I thank the gentleman from Oregon for bringing this forward, I urge my colleagues to oppose the amendment.

Mr. KILMER. Madam Chair, I thank the ranking member for yielding. Within this en bloc includes an amendment that highlights a very troubling breakdown within the Department of Defense, how they collect and process their personnel data. Our brave men and women who are deployed overseas rely on the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act to give them assurance that they won't need to worry about a foreclosure on their house, a lease being terminated, or outstanding credit card debt. We ask significant sacrifices from our troops, and this is a needed helping hand at a time when they are rightfully focused on serving their Nation. In order to provide these protections, financial institutions are required by law to consult the Department of Defense's data system to validate servicemembers' deployment. This system is called the Defense Manpower Data Center, or DMDC. I've heard from a number of stakeholders that the DMDC is riddled with inaccuracies because each service feeds their own data into the database, with no standardization between services, and much of it was originally entered by hand, with little-to-no quality assurance. Obviously this creates a significant problem. We need our financial institutions to have accurate data so that troops can get the benefits provided by law. I'm extremely concerned about the reliability of this data for the purposes of SCRA compliance and, for that matter, any other personnel process affected by the DOD. Going forward, I hope we can work together to address this serious data problem within the DOD. My amendment would cut $1 million to the Defense Human Resources Activity Operation and Maintenance, Defense-Wide account, and reinsert that funding into the exact same place, with the intent of encouraging a study on how the Defense Human Resources Activity components and the CIO identify, catalog, process, communicate and rectify mistakes or inconsistencies found when data is uploaded to the DMDC. I want to thank Chairman Young and Ranking Member Visclosky for working with me on this issue, and I urge my colleagues to support this amendment.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Staff Sergeant Clifford M. Wooldridge, an ``Everyday Hero'' as the 2013 Marine of the Year. SSgt. Wooldridge was previously awarded the Navy Cross for heroism in Afghanistan. In 2012 he was awarded the USO Marine of the Year. SSgt. Wooldridge has continued to serve his country both professionally as a Marine and through volunteering. He was selected as the Marine Corps Times Marine of the Year for his volunteerism and bravery in combat. The Marine Corps Times honors servicemembers, like SSgt. Wooldridge, who demonstrate pride, dedication, and courage beyond expectations. He is an instructor with the Marine Corps Security Force Regiment and teaches and mentors junior Marines. He teaches them technical skills they will need in close quarter combat and shares personal stories so they can learn from previous mistakes. Professional duties aside, it is SSgt. Wooldridge's service to his community that has earned him this latest honor. He has spent countless hours assisting disabled and recovering veterans with the Wounded Warrior Project and served as an athlete sponsor and was the host Marine for the Special Olympics in Virginia Beach. He helped a terminally ill young man receive recognition as an honorary Marine. While all his volunteer activities are important to him, SSgt. Wooldridge has a special passion for the Honored American Veterans Afield, which helps combat veterans transition through hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities. SSgt. Wooldridge's outdoor skills were honed in his hometown of Port Angeles, in Washington State, the place where I, too, was born and raised. There he experienced the beautiful and plentiful natural resources found only on the Olympic Peninsula. Graduating from Port Angeles High School in 2006, SSgt. Wooldridge completed training as a diesel mechanic and left his home in the Pacific Northwest for a life as a Marine in service to others. Mr. Speaker, I can say with confidence that our community is a better place thanks to the ongoing, selfless commitment of people like SSgt. Wooldridge. The Port Angeles community applauds SSgt. Wooldridge for his service to country and we honor him today as the 2013 Marine of the Year. On behalf of our thankful nation, thank you.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, as Congress considers two pieces of legislation related to the Affordable Care Act, I rise today to point out the silly exercise we're going through. On days like today, the American public gets to see exactly why Congress' approval rating is at historic lows. Today, we're voting on two bills that would amend provisions of the Affordable Care Act. The first bill before us, H.R. 2667, would delay the so-called employer mandate provision until January 1, 2015. Given that the Administration has already said that they are delaying the employer mandate provision until that time, this bill won't actually do anything. Mr. Speaker, the other bill we're voting on, H.R. 2668, would delay the implementation of the so-called individual mandate for one year. This bill would severely undermine the integrity of the Affordable Care Act. While I wasn't in Congress when the Affordable Care Act was passed into law, it is clear that this provision is needed to help make insurance affordable for all Americans and finally end the ability for insurance companies to deny coverage to those who have pre-existing conditions. By delaying the individual mandate, this bill would raise premiums on working class families and cause significant harm to our efforts to make health insurance accessible to all Americans. I am proud of the work the State of Washington has done, through its state-based exchange and Medicaid expansion efforts, to make health insurance accessible for more than half a million uninsured Washingtonians. This will not only lead to a healthier population, but save Washington State an estimated $280 million by the end of 2015, and add 10,000 new jobs as a result of the coming health care changes. Before today's vote, I reached out to Washington State's Office of the Insurance Commissioner to discuss the individual insurance marketplace and the proposal to delay the individual mandate. I was assured that the marketplace is moving forward, full steam ahead. Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler said in a statement, ``Delaying the mandate would be unwise. It's an issue of personal responsibility. It's unfair for people who can afford coverage to not have it, and to expect the rest of us to cover the cost of their care if they become seriously sick or injured.'' The decision to bring both of these bills to the floor in this manner is not guided by some public policy concern. It is not to put forward credible solutions to legitimate problems. It is nothing more than a cynical attempt to play politics and mock the notion that we should implement the Affordable Care Act in a thoughtful, pragmatic way. Mr. Speaker, I reject this false dichotomy. I support H.R. 2667, the Authority for Mandate Delay Act, not because I believe it solves an urgent problem, but for the same reason that I supported the Administration when they made this decision in the first place: the provisions have been determined to be too complex to implement prior to the existing deadline. I've met with several dozen employers in recent months who have asked for more time and greater certainty. That's what this bill does. On the other hand, I oppose H.R. 2668, the Fairness for American Families Act, because the individual marketplace is moving forward and is in a fundamentally different place. In fact, this bill would severely undermine our ability to provide affordable, comprehensive health insurance to Americans. [From the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commisioner Updates, July 17, 2013] ``Delaying the mandate would be unwise. This is an issue of personal responsibility. It's unfair for people who can afford coverage to not have it, and to expect the rest of us to cover the cost of their care if they become seriously sick or injured. ``A critical part of the Affordable Care Act was the provision requiring that insurers take all applicants. No more screening out people because they have pre-existing medical conditions. But to make that work, you have to have as many people as possible in the insurance pool. ``Without an individual mandate to have coverage, people would likely just buy insurance when they knew they needed it. That's like letting people get homeowners insurance only when their house catches fire.''

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Tacoma Housing Authority for breaking ground on the redevelopment of Hillside Terrace in the Hilltop community. This development will provide comfortable, affordable, and environmentally sound units for families in need. The Tacoma Housing Authority was formed in 1940 in response to the growing need for safe, affordable housing for low-income families in Tacoma. Since then, Tacoma Housing Authority has grown to become the city's largest landlord. They currently serve thousands of families across Tacoma. Phase I of the redevelopment project will take place at the 2500 block of Hillside Terrace. This phase will include a mid-rise building with 54 units, five townhouse style buildings with 16 units, and a large community education facility. Mr. Speaker, The Tacoma Housing Authority has been a national leader in the redevelopment of public housing. In the first part of the twenty-first century, Tacoma Housing Authority gained public attention for the redevelopment of Salishan. Salishan, originally built during World War II, fell into disrepair. Through a multi-phase project, Tacoma Housing Authority rebuilt the entire neighborhood, creating safer, more livable homes for the close, multi-cultural community on the city's east side. Now, Tacoma Housing Authority is engaging in a similar project with Hillside Terrace. Residents will be able to enjoy a sense of community that comes with new, safe homes and a brand new community center. As I close, Mr. Speaker, I can say with confidence that Hillside Terrace will add to the rich diversity of the Hilltop neighborhood, and will continue Tacoma Housing Authority's strong tradition of providing high-quality affordable housing in the City of Destiny.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 75th anniversary of Olympic National Park located on the Olympic Peninsula in the great State of Washington. Seventy-five years ago, on June 29, 1938, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed legislation that established the Olympic National Park. In the intervening years, the Olympic National Park has become one of the most beloved and visited national parks in the country. In establishing Olympic National Park, Congress defined the park's purpose as to: ``. . . preserve for the benefit, use and enjoyment of the people, the finest sample of primeval forests of Sitka spruce, western hemlock, Douglas fir, and western red cedar in the entire United States; to provide suitable winter range and permanent protection for the herds of native Roosevelt elk and other wildlife indigenous to the area; to conserve and render available to the people, for recreational use, this outstanding mountainous country, containing numerous glaciers and perpetual snow fields and a portion of the surrounding verdant forest together with a narrow string along the beautiful Washington coast.'' The park combines three different communities into one--an extensive old-growth rain forest, mountains topped with glaciers, and miles of untarnished Pacific Ocean coast. In recognition of these areas, the World Heritage Convention named Olympic National Park as a World Heritage Site, and the United National Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization heralded the park as an International Biosphere Reserve. Olympic National Park has something that both tourists and scientists alike can marvel at--more than 650 archeological spots detailing 12,000 years of human life. The Olympic National Park stands as a testament to the diverse heritage of America. As it has been for the last 75 years, Olympic National Park will be protected and preserved for generations. Mr. Speaker, our country is a better place because of the special landscapes like Olympic National Park. I commend the work of M. Sarah Creachbaum, the Superintendent of Olympic National Park, park staff, National Park Service, and all fellow citizens who have dedicated time, resources, and energy to protect and preserve this biological and historical treasure. I am pleased today to recognize the Olympic National Park in the United States Congress.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Amy Igloi of Kitsap County for receiving the ``Community Service Award'' from the Association of Washington Business. Ms. Igloi is the General Manager of ``Amy's on the Bay Restaurant and Bar'' in downtown Port Orchard, WA. Amy Igloi has owned and operated her business in Port Orchard for seven years and currently employs 22 local residents. ``Amy's on the Bay'' feeds approximately 70,000 customers annually and is a cornerstone business on the Port Orchard waterfront. ``Amy's on the Bay'' is widely known throughout the Puget Sound region as having some of finest cuisine in the area--especially the crab cakes and burgers. Ms. Igloi and her business have been recognized this year by the Association of Washington Business for their dedication to Port Orchard, Kitsap County, and its residents. Numerous community organizations have directly benefitted from the donations generated by Ms. Igloi and her team, including those that serve the homeless, special needs, and elderly populations. Mr. Speaker, in our economic situation, communities depend on citizens like Amy Igloi to help ensure that vulnerable populations are taken care of in tough times. As I close, Mr. Speaker, I can say with confidence that residents of Port Orchard and Kitsap County have greatly benefitted from the civic and philanthropic contributions of Amy Igloi and her staff. I applaud her recent award and am grateful that she continues to serve wonderful meals and employ citizens in Kitsap County, Washington.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Skookum Contract Services and the AbilityOne Program. AbilityOne partners with over 600 non-profit agencies across the United States to provide services and sell products to the U.S. government. AbilityOne and Skookum empower people with disabilities by providing training and job placement services that help disabled folks in our region achieve gainful employment. Organizations like Skookum employ nearly 40,000 disabled Americans. I applaud the work of these organizations to offer skills training and opportunities for people that are blind or have significant disabilities. By directly matching employers with well-qualified employees with disabilities, AbilityOne is helping employers address their workforce needs and creating opportunities that help people with disabilities become more productive and self-reliant. In Washington State, Skookum partners with the Naval Bremerton Hospital and Jefferson County General Hospital to provide housekeeping services and ensure that hospitals are clean and sanitary for patients, doctors, and health care workers. In addition, they contract with Joint Base Lewis-McChord and Naval Base Kitsap to provide fleet management, janitorial, and grounds maintenance. Last year, I had the opportunity to see firsthand the important work of Skookum and their employees through visiting some of their work sites and can attest to the quality of their work. The agency also provides several other services to the community including warehouse and distribution, sanitation, and recycling services. ``Skookum'' is a Chinook word that means stronger or well-made in a better or unique way. The products that come out of Skookum demonstrate how effectively their employees are able to craft unique, high quality items. Mr. Speaker, our community is a better place because of the work of Skookum employees. I commend the work of Jeff Dolven, the President and CEO of Skookum, and his staff in helping to uplift the disabled community and place them in meaningful employment that brings this region together. I applaud the work of Skookum employees in providing several meaningful services to the people of Washington State. I am pleased today to recognize this extraordinary service today in the United States Congress.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to discuss the damage from Congress' inability to do its job and pass a budget, and the unreasonable lengths that folks have to go to cover for the reckless policy of sequestration. As I said the very first time I spoke in this Chamber, Congress should be doing all it can to replace the across-the-board cuts caused by sequestration with a balanced, bipartisan, long-term budget. Cutting across the board is not a strategy. In fact, it's anti-strategic. Unfortunately, this Congress has been stuck in ``park'' when it comes to working toward a long-term budget. In fact, Congress has only passed 13 bills in 6 months, none of them dealing with jobs, and none of them working to replace these nonstrategic cuts. Congress needs to understand the impacts of its dysfunction. In my district, we see those consequences every day. I'm a member of the House Armed Services Committee, and I'm proud to represent several military installations, including Naval Base Kitsap and Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, and I represent many men and women who work at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. The Navy, in fact, is the largest employer in my district. I'm frequently copied on emails from civilian Navy workers who are resigning because of the disarray caused by Congress, the threat of furloughs, and the loss of cost-of-living adjustments. Workers often choose those jobs, despite lower salaries, because they love their country and they want to protect it. Also, government offers stability that the private industry often can't. But these workers no longer feel valued; and thanks to Congress, working at the shipyard doesn't even offer stability anymore. It's affecting the morale of our workers and the ability of our shipyard to execute its mission. Here's a direct quote from a manager who contacted me. He wrote: We will have problems retaining professionals if this fiscal environment continues. We will have trouble accomplishing our current workload, let alone providing any level of increased engineering support. Mr. Speaker, this will only cost us more in the long run. This dysfunction in Congress is directly responsible for good workers walking away and is threatening the mission of the United States Navy. It also affects the local contractors and small businesses in my district that support these missions. They're already facing sweeping layoffs and tremendous uncertainty. Here's another example: Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, in my district, while mostly spared from furloughs under sequestration, still is limited in its ability to fill jobs made vacant by attrition. The hiring freeze went into effect right as they were planning on adding 600 workers. The shipyard has the work. Our region needs the jobs. They've only recently announced that they can slowly hire to cover for some attrition. Because of these constraints, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard has resorted to asking anyone--upper level staff, anybody who has carried a tool bag or used a wrench--to help deliver three submarines and an aircraft carrier back to the fleet. That's a testament to the lengths people are going to to cover for such an insane policy like sequestration. We have seen the same thing at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, where 10,000 civilian employees have received notice of furloughs. We have seen it affect military training where we've seen rotations to the National Training Center cancelled. General Brown at Joint Base Lewis-McChord told our paper: It's a huge impact on training. Where is the fine line where you go from being the best in the world to second best? It's not right that Congress doesn't have their backs on this. We have got to stop this policy. From my perspective and from the perspective of the folks who have to deal with this damaging policy every day, it doesn't matter who's to blame for the idea of sequestration. All that matters is that both parties work together to stop it. Every day that this Congress doesn't work on coming together on a balanced, long-term budget is another day that folks around the country have to cover for Congress' dysfunction. Democrats and Republicans need to work together on this. This doesn't make sense for the folks in my district who face losing up to 20 percent of their pay or for the folks in my district who can't apply for an open job because of our budget uncertainty. It doesn't make sense for the kids in Head Start programs who are hurt by sequestration. We should stop these across-the-board cuts for them, too. The right solution is for Congress to replace these cuts altogether with a balanced, long-term budget. I am ready to work with both parties to get this done for our national security, for our economy, and for the American people who deserve better.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Tanner Douglas Reed and Dallin Walker Reed, who recently earned the impressive rank of Eagle Scout and have a steadfast commitment to the growth and prosperity of the Olympic Peninsula region of Washington State. It takes great effort, service, and determination to earn the rank of Eagle Scout. It is an honor to congratulate Tanner and Dallin on their awards. Mr. Speaker, Tanner is a 17-year-old cancer survivor and Army ROTC Scholarship recipient who will be attending Brigham Young University this fall. Dallin is a 15-year-old student that attends Peninsula High School and volunteers his time and energy to helping the elderly and children. They are the 2nd and 3rd Eagle Scout recipients in their family. Tanner and Dallin built a wooden trellis system for the Kitsap Helpline Food Bank for their community service project. The system consists of separate lengths of cable strung between three support trellises, creating a structure that allows the tomato vines to grow vertically. In the winter, the structure is able to act as a greenhouse when plastic sheets are draped over the structure. This will be used to support the food bank's annual crop of tomatoes. The Boy Scouts represent the finest qualities in America's youth; the Reeds' accomplishments have helped solidify a strong foundation for their future. I am hopeful that others in our community will follow the Reed's example of leadership. As I close, I can say with confidence that our community is a better place thanks to the ongoing, selfless commitment of people like the Reeds. Their dedicated service to our community has earned them the appreciation and admiration of peers and neighbors in the Olympic Peninsula region. I am pleased to recognize their service today in the United States House of Representatives.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jack Dimmer, a senior at Charles Wright Academy and recipient of the Honorable Fixed NGO award from Harvard National Model United Nations. Founded in 1955, a decade after the United Nations was created; Harvard National Model United Nations is the largest, oldest, and most respected conference of its kind. Every year, it brings over 3,000 students and faculty together from around the world to simulate the United Nations. The program offers a unique opportunity to experience and work through the challenges of international negotiation and diplomacy. Mr. Dimmer attended the Harvard National Model United Nations as a part of Charles Wright Academy's Model United Nations Club. The club requires students to comprehensively research, debate, and diplomatically negotiate a range of foreign policy issues. Mr. Dimmer received the Honorable Fixed NGO Award for his work representing a Seattle non-profit committed to addressing clean water issues around the world. Of the thousands of students in attendance, only one student is annually selected for the award. Mr. Speaker, this is a significant honor for Mr. Dimmer. His dedication and acumen have garnered an invitation to represent the United States this summer in the All-American Model United Nations held in Beijing. There is no doubt that Mr. Dimmer will make our region proud with his proven dedication and skill. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Dimmer's commitment to service, and to his country, extends beyond his involvement with United Nations. The Honorable Norm Dicks nominated Mr. Dimmer to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point and he will begin his studies this fall. I am sure that Mr. Dimmer will continue to excel, achieve, and serve his country with honor and distinction. As I close, I can say with confidence that Mr. Dimmer exemplifies the aspects of our national character for which we should be most proud. His hard work, commitment to service, and diplomatic negotiation and mediation serve as an inspiration to us all. I am pleased to recognize Mr. Dimmer today in the United States Congress.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Reverend Edward Arthur Sterling for his faithful and tireless service as a member of the United States Army and to his community. His work has touched many lives throughout the South Puget Sound Region of Washington State. Fr. Sterling joined the United States Army after he graduated from college in 1942. After 12 years of continuous active duty service, he began his studies at the Episcopal Seminary of the Southwest. Upon completion, Fr. Sterling was ordained June 16, 1958 and served a local Texas Congregation for a number of years. Fr. Sterling returned to the Army and continued his service to God and fellow soldiers. He dedicated an additional 16 years of service to the Army as a chaplain--serving throughout the world, including Germany, Vietnam and Korea. Fr. Sterling provided comfort, spiritual guidance and solace to soldiers in the most trying conditions. After a 28 years of active duty military service, Lieutenant Colonel Sterling retired. Mr. Speaker, Fr. Sterling continued his life of service by dedicating himself to civilian pursuits and civic contributions in Tacoma, Washington. Since his retirement, Fr. Sterling has served in several congregations throughout South Puget Sound. Since 1986, he has been an Associate Priest at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Tacoma; where he is a spiritual counselor, teacher, and friend to many. In 2008, he celebrated the 50th anniversary of his ordination. Surrounded by family, friends, and community members, letters of appreciation from several local and national elected officials were read aloud. The grand occasion included a service led by two Bishops from the Dioceses of Olympia. As I close, I can say with absolute confidence that our community is a better place thank to the selfless service of people like Reverend Edward Arthur Sterling. He has dedicated his life to serve God and country. I am pleased to recognize that extraordinary service today in the United States Congress.

Mr. KILMER

Mr. KILMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of a policy that allows Federal agencies to determine whether it makes sense for certain construction projects to have project labor agreements, PLAs, which are agreements between owners, including Federal agencies, and workers that establish work-site conditions. Federal agencies are currently empowered to consider PLAs as a means of reducing on-the-job conflicts, saving money, speeding up construction, and improving efficiency and worker safety. Unfortunately, this body will soon consider removing this tool from our construction toolbox. While they may not always be the answer on complex projects, PLAs make it more likely that a project will be done right the first time, on time, and on budget. That's why some of the most successful companies in the world, including Boeing, in my State, use a similar model for construction. It's why the Department of Energy uses a PLA at Hanford, and the Department of Energy has a PLA at the Explosives Handling Wharf in Kitsap County in my district. PLAs are open to all companies, union and nonunion, who see the value of this tool. At a time when we're looking to rein in wasteful spending, PLAs can be a successful model in improving and promoting high-quality, cost-efficient construction.