Tom Latham

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Bradley Young on earning an Eagle Scout Award. Bradley is an 11th grade student from South Hardin High School in Eldora, Iowa. The Eagle Scout rank is the highest advancement rank in scouting. Only about 5% of Boy Scouts earn the Eagle Scout Award. The award is a performance based achievement that has maintained similar standards over the years. To earn the Eagle Scout rank, a Boy Scout is obligated to pass specific tests that are organized by requirements and merit badges, as well as completing an Eagle Project to benefit the community. Bradley's project was working on the Good Shepherd Preschool Playground at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Eldora, Iowa. Bradley has been involved in scouting since he was in Tiger Cubs and continues to be an active member of the Eldora Boy Scout Troop 334, today. He has completed over 50 merit badges; 12 of which are required to become an Eagle Scout. While in scouts, Bradley has earned various awards which include: the Bronze Palm, Arrow of Light Award, 50 Miler Award, God and Country Religious Award, World Conservation Award and various others. Bradley is also a Member of Order of the Arrow-- Brotherhood Level and completed the Den Chief Leadership training. The example set by this young man demonstrates the rewards of hard work, dedication and perseverance. I am honored to represent Bradley Young in the United States Congress. I know that all of my colleagues join me in congratulating him on earning an Eagle Scout ranking and wish him continued success in his future education and career.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize Jerry Patterson, a native of Fort Dodge, Iowa, on being inducted into the Iowa High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Jerry, a 70-year-old resident of Fort Dodge has done everything in the game of baseball. He played high school baseball in Fort Dodge, has coached for many years, and has even owned a ball park. Fort Dodge's baseball field, Patterson Field, is named after Jerry. Jerry was recently honored in Cedar Rapids, Iowa in front of a crowd of approximately 1,000 people from across the state. Patterson has been inducted to the Hall of Fame in honor of his passion, dedication, and contributions to the game of baseball and Fort Dodge. Jerry, who has been successfully battling cancer for over 12 years, continues to serve as an inspiration to his community, and his contributions have made a lasting impact across the state. I know that my colleagues in the United States Congress join me in congratulating Jerry Patterson on his induction into the Hall of Fame. I consider it an honor to represent Jerry in Congress, and I wish him and his wife happiness and health in the future.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize Jesse Purvis, a high school student and Boy Scout, from Woodward, Iowa. Jesse, who remembers the tornado that stormed through his town in November 2005, distributed emergency kits throughout Woodward this February. The emergency kits contain information provided by the Red Cross, Dallas County Emergency Management, Iowa One Call, and Iowa Homeland Security including directions on what to do in case of an emergency or disaster, and colored ribbons to be used on homes to help first responders during emergencies. Jesse's concern and sacrifices for his community serve as wonderful examples of the compassionate nature of Iowans. I know that my colleagues in the United States Congress join me in thanking Jesse Purvis for his philanthropy and setting an example as a young leader. I consider it an honor to represent Jesse in Congress, and I wish him the best in his future.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize Dennis Wilcox, Publisher of the Madrid Register News, on being named 2009 Master Editor and Publisher by the Iowa Newspaper Association. The Iowa Newspaper Association nominates publishers and editors for the award, and winners are selected by previous Master Editor-Publisher winners. Dennis was selected on the criteria of working hard, thinking soundly, being influenced unselfishly, and living honorably. I know that my colleagues in the United States Congress join me in congratulating Dennis Wilcox on his accomplishments. It is an honor to represent Dennis in Congress, and I wish him the best in his future.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this resolution to honor our great friend, Jim Leach, by naming the courthouse in Davenport, Iowa, after him. It is a well-deserved honor. Jim Leach is missed around the Capitol because he was a resource of institutional knowledge, he shared his tremendous sense of humor and his insight. I always enjoyed his ability to bring thoughtfulness to the debate. Most importantly, Jim Leach was and remains a great advocate for the State of Iowa. Jim is also a great Iowa Hawkeye supporter because, of course, he had the Hawks in his district. I represent the University of Iowa's state rival, Iowa State University. Obviously, we had a lot to tease each other about throughout the years. Jim Leach will be remembered here in this body for his 30 years of dedicated service and his great intellect. He was a well-rounded member. You could call on him to stop gambling predators over the Internet or, as someone who knew and understood the many facets of foreign affairs; we could seek his counsel during an international crisis. His talent was being able to bring that forth and convey complex subjects in a very kind and thoughtful way. Jim Leach represents the very best of what constituents expect from their Representatives in Congress. His legacy is promoting bipartisanship, protecting the dignity of the House by standing as an example of putting thought before politics and actions over posturing. Jim is someone who I have the greatest personal respect for. I'm pleased that Mr. Loebsack has brought this resolution to the floor of the House, and I urge my colleagues to support this resolution in honor of former Representative James Leach.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Mr. Speaker, today we come to the House chamber to consider a package of the remaining fiscal year 2009 appropriations bills. We are five months late in acting on these bills, and for no good reason. The net effect of this delay is two-fold: One, the delay has prevented a number of Federal programs from making necessary mission changes simply because those programs have been frozen in-place under the CR. Number two, the $410 billion contained in this bill represents annual spending increases for hundreds of programs. These increases are well above necessary levels, especially given that we just passed a stimulus bill that carried $301 billion in new discretionary spending--much of which is for the same programs contained in this omnibus measure, and that we fund every year in the annual process. In short, many of the programs in this package will get a double dose of funding. Unfortunately, this extra dose will be built into future spending, and that's not fair to the American taxpayer--why, because it locks in trillion dollar deficits. Apart from the problems with the spending totals in this package, we are allowing a laundry list of policy issues to pass through Congress without any public scrutiny. A number of these policy issues are troubling to many of us. For example, the omnibus eliminates the ``Reading First'' Program within the Department of Education. I don't remember debating this issue in the stunted '09 process. The ``Reading First'' Program was widely supported for its emphasis on raising reading levels, particularly among low-income children. Just yesterday, I met with an elementary school principal from Iowa who praised the program as one which has made a difference to lots of children in my State. Another policy change, done through a funding reduction, is a de- emphasis on Yucca Mountain. At a time when we need to be looking at all forms of energy, why would we want to halt construction and design work at Yucca since nuclear waste storage is a big issue. At a minimum, we should have had a debate on this subject. In the end, this entire process has been a giant abdication of our responsibilities in this body, representing a shameful performance. Our constituents deserve better than the bill before us represents. I hope that for the FY 2010 funding cycle, the majority will re- discover the value of regular order and transparency. In this way, we can add a little more credibility to the process, and the reputation of this House.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the House Republican standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information in regards to H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2009. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division A--Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Animal Plant Health Inspection Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa State University- Address of Requesting Entity: 1138 Pearson Hall, Ames, IA 50011 Description of Request: The Bio-Safety Institute for Genetically Modified Agriculture Products project receives $259,000. This project utilizes federal funds to provide independent, unbiased and science- based evaluations of the risks and benefits of genetically modified agricultural products. Personnel develop the scientific safeguards and education needed to protect human health and the environment in an age of genetically engineered products and technology necessary for economic development. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division A--Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Cooperative State Research Education & Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa State University- Address of Requesting Entity: 1138 Pearson Hall, Ames, IA 50011 Description of Request: The Human Nutrition project receives $451,000. This project will enhance human health and aims to reduce unnecessary health care expenditures by evaluating the impact of foods, nutrient supplements and diet and exercise strategies promoting wellness. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division A--Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Cooperative State Research Education & Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa State University- Address of Requesting Entity: 1750 Beardshear Hall, Ames, IA 50011 Description of Request: The Animal Science Food Safety Consortium receives $939,000. This project is a continuation of the effort to assess potential threats to food safety as it relates to pork during productions, processing, distribution and consumption. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division A--Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Cooperative State Research Education & Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa State University- Address of Requesting Entity: 1138 Pearson Hall, Ames, IA 50011 Description of Request: The Biotechnology Test Production project receives $322,000. This project will develop plant-based technologies related to production of corn lines and other crop-related lines that generate higher yields. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division A--Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Cooperative State Research Education & Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa State University- Address of Requesting Entity: 1750 Beardshear Hall, Ames, IA 50011 Description of Request: The Center for Agriculture & Rural Development receives $412,000. Project analyzes the impacts of alternative domestic and trade policies on agriculture production. As agriculture continues to globalize, project models will produce a better understanding of trade policy impacts, and therefore better trade policies. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division A--Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Natural Resource Conservation Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa Soybean Association Address of Requesting Entity: 4554 NW 114th St., Urbandale, IA 50322 Description of Request: The Center for Environmental Management Systems for Agriculture receives $288,000. This project continues the implementation of program to help farmers facilitate better environmental management plans through best practices involving fertilizers, pest control and soil management Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division A--Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Cooperative State Research Education & Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa State University Address of Requesting Entity: 1138 Pearson Hall, Ames, IA 50011 Description of Request: The Food and Agriculture Policy Research Institute (FAPRI) receives $1,139,000. FAPRI makes baseline projections of production, consumption and trade flows of major agricultural commodities in the United States and other countries that import or export significant amounts of agricultural products. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division A--Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Cooperative State Research Education & Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa State University- Address of Requesting Entity: 1750 Beardshear Hall, Ames, IA 50011 Description of Request: The Protein Utilization project receives $586,000. This project will develop technologies that enhance bio- refineries using soybeans as feedstock to develop products that replace petro-derived industrial products. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division A--Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Cooperative State Research Education & Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa State University- Address of Requesting Entity: 1138 Pearson Hall, Ames, IA 50011 Description of Request: The Livestock Waste project receives $184,000. This project will fund ongoing emission reductions strategies. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division A--Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Cooperative State Research Education & Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa State University Address of Requesting Entity: 1138 Pearson Hall, Ames, IA 50011 Description of Request: The Midwest Poultry project receives $471,000. The program will address sustainability and efficiency in poultry production. The initiative will provide a structure to facilitate multi-disciplinary research networks that enhance limited state and industry resources and have the scope to attack real-world problems. The project will also develop collaborative approaches in research and technology transfer. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division A--Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Cooperative State Research Education & Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa State University Address of Requesting Entity: 1750 Beardshear Hall, Ames, IA 50011 Description of Request: $282,000 is provided for Iowa State University's New Century Farm. The project seeks development of a sustainable biofuel feedstock production system, a living lab for developing and testing sustainable biomass systems. Project will accelerate the development and evaluation of alternative, `green' biofuels, both short and long-term. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division A--Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Cooperative State Research Education & Extension Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Northeast Iowa Community-based Dairy Foundation Address of Requesting Entity: P.O. Box, Calmar, IA 52132 Description of Request: The Dairy Education program receives $159,000. The project aims to increase the success of dairies by providing education on production technology, environmental stewardship, marketing and competitiveness. The Dairy Education project has goals of retaining, growing and fostering the development of the industry. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division A--Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Natural Resource Conservation Service Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa Soybean Association Address of Requesting Entity: 4554 NW 114th St., Urbandale, IA Description of Request: The On-Farm Management System Evaluation Network receives $167,000. This program will help farmers optimize nutrient efficiency which, in turn, enhances the economic, environmental and agronomic performance of working lands. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: HR 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division B-- Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: OJP--Byrne Grants Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa Central Community College Address of Requesting Entity: 330 Avenue M, Fort Dodge, IA 50501 Description of Request: The project is funded at $450,000. Funds will be used by the Iowa Central Law Enforcement Training Center to carry out a multi-disciplinary training program for law enforcement personnel from across the state. Thus far, almost 24,000 law enforcement personnel have been trained. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: HR 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division B-- Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: OJP--Byrne Grants Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa State University Address of Requesting Entity: 1750 Beardshear Hall, Ames, IA 50011 Description of Request: The project is funded at $3,000,000. Funds will be used for continuation of forensic training and research at the Lab. Numerous & crime labs, at the federal, state and local levels, have benefited from training at the Ames Lab in the areas of forensic evaluation, analysis and crime lab management. The various forensics labs that benefit from the discoveries at the Ames Lab continue to send their personnel to Ames, year after year, to receive updated training. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: HR 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division B-- Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: OJP--Byrne Grants Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa State University Address of Requesting Entity: 1750 Beardshear Hall, Ames, IA 50011 Description of Request: $650,000 is provided to continue a major cyber security defense program, which is a first-of-its kind, dedicated to creating a virtual Internet environment to research and design cyber defense mechanisms. Simulations are played out against real equipment vs. artificially-created attack scenarios. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: HR 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division B-- Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: OJP--Byrne Grants Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Des Moines Area Community College Address of Requesting Entity: 2006 South Ankeny Blvd. Ankeny, IA 50023 Description of Request: The Des Moines Area Community College Electronic Crime Institute is provided with $1,400,000. Funds will be used for equipment and supplies for programs at the Institute. This is a computer/electronic crime training institute that trains law enforcement personnel (at federal, state and local levels) in electronic crime detection and forensics. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: HR 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division B-- Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: OJP--Juvenile Justice Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Central Iowa, Clive, Iowa Address of Requesting Entity: 9051 Swanson Blvd. Clive, IA 50325 Description of Request: $250,000 is provided to support a Big Brothers/Big Sisters training and mentoring program in rural Iowa. It is a prevention program in which the trained mentors work with children, ages 6-17. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: HR 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division B-- Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: COPS Meth Program Legal Name of Requesting Entity: State of Iowa (Office of Drug Control Policy), Des Moines, Iowa Address of Requesting Entity: 401 SW 7th Street, Des Moines, IA 50309 Description of Request: The Partnership for a Drug-Free Iowa is provided with $250,000. The purpose of this project is to provide public-service, anti-drug messages to parents in order to provide family members with an understanding of the problems caused by drugs, and the signs to look for in rooting out drug problems. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: HR 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division B-- Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: OJP--Juvenile Justice Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Parents Anonymous of Iowa Address of Requesting Entity: 2011 Vine Street #2140, Des Moines, IA 50265 Description of Request: The project is funded at $200,000. The purpose of the project goes to the development & maintenance of state- wide programs that serve at-risk families that have child abuse issues. Parents Anonymous of Iowa is a state chapter of a broader, nationwide program. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division C--Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act Account: Corps of Engineers Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Army Corps of Engineers-- Construction- Address of Requesting Entity: Rock Island, IL. Description of Request: $910,000 is provided in Section 206 to complete design and construction related to the Ventura Marsh portion of the Clear Lake Improvement Project, a major water quality initiative involving the Corps of Engineers and the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division C--Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act Account: DOE, Office of Science Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Luther College Address of Requesting Entity: 700 College Dr., Decorah, IA 52101. Description of Request: Provides $951,500 for the renovation of the Valders Hall Science Bldg, a primary element of which is energy conservation modes used in the renovation. The project uses ``green'' approaches and methods in the renovation and expansion of the building. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division C--Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act Account: DOE, Renewable Energy Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa Lakes Community College- Address of Requesting Entity: South 7th Street, Estherville, IA. Description of Request: Provides $475,750 for a sustainable energy education center as a demonstration project involving ``green'' building initiatives and other benefits related to new energy efficient technologies, most prominently, wind energy. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division C--Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act Account: DOE, Renewable Energy Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa Central Community College Address of Requesting Entity: 330 Avenue M, Ft Dodge, IA. Description of Request: Provides $475,750 for laboratory equipment for a nationally certified renewable fuels assurance testing program. The program is of interest to DOE because of its focus on quality control in renewables. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division C--Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act Account: Corps of Engineers--PAS Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Corps of Engineers Address of Requesting Entity: Rock Island, IL. Description of Request: Provides $152,000 for completion of feasibility work regarding restoration of degraded aquatic and wetland habitats on the West Fork of the Des Moines River. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division C--Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act Account: Corps of Engineers--Construction Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Corps of Engineers Address of Requesting Entity: Rock Island, Ill. Description of Request: Provides $3,800,000 to maintain scheduled construction activities on this broad-based river restoration and Flood control effort that is authorized. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division C--Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act Account: Corps of Engineers--Section 205, Flood Control Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Corps of Engineers- Address of Requesting Entity: Rock Island, IL. Description of Request: Provides approx. $200,000 to continue a feasibility study for the Winnebago River flood control project in Mason City, Iowa. This is a major initiative aimed at mitigating perpetual flood hazards in this region of Iowa. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division C--Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act Account: DOE--Energy Delivery & Energy Reliability Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa Association of Municipal Utilities Address of Requesting Entity: 1735 70th Avenue, Ankeny, IL. Description of Request: Provides $1,400,000 for a wind energy storage project in Iowa. The project is carried out in partnership with the Department of Energy, and involves the compressed air storage of wind energy in an underground aquifer. This is a unique project that, at one point, was the only one of its type in the country. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: HR 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division D-- Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act. Account: Small Business Administration--Salaries and Expenses Legal Name of Requesting Entity: North Iowa Area Community College Address of Requesting Entity: 500 College Drive Mason City, IA 50401 Description of Request: $100,000 is provided to support the Regional Economic Development Organization. The goal of this organization is to improve marketing and recruitment of business in rural Iowa and plan for the economic stability of the region. Project Budget Breakout: Salaries $64,910, Benefits $18,165, Equipment $5,000, Supplies $10,925, Marketing $1,000. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: HR 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division D-- Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act. Account: Small Business Administration--Salaries and Expenses Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa Valley Community College Address of Requesting Entity: 3702 South Center Street Marshalltown, IA 50158 Description of Request: A property in downtown Marshalltown is currently leased for use as the Iowa Valley Education and Training Center. In the five years the center has been open, demand for the outreach, education, and workforce development services it provides has outgrown the current space available at the facility. Through this project, the Iowa Valley Community College District will acquire the currently leased property. The facility will then be renovated to improve energy efficiency and effective use of space as well as prepared for expansion of the building. An addition to the facility will then be built to nearly double the available space. Along with the renovation and expansion, furnishings, fixtures, and equipment will be updated and added to improve outreach, education, and workforce development activities. $500,000 is provided for this project. Project Budget Breakout: $350,000 for property acquisition. $100,000 for facility Renovation. $650,000 for a building expansion. $150,000 for furniture, fixtures, and equipment. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: HR 1105, Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division E-- Department of Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: State & Tribal Assistance Grants Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Mason City, Iowa Address of Requesting Entity: 10 1st Street NW, Mason City, IA 50401 Description of Request: $220,000 is provided to aid in the procurement and installation of a self-chlorination system at the Mason City drinking water plant. In turn, this will allow the City to use salt to produce chlorine instead of purchasing chlorine. This protects the City system in the event of a pandemic or other catastrophe in that it guarantees a chlorine supply measured in months versus weeks. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division F--Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Department of Labor--Employment and Training Administration Project Name: Advanced Manufacturing Training Center Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa Central Community College Address of Requesting Entity: 330 Avenue M Fort Dodge, IA 50501. Description of Request: Advanced Manufacturing Training Center works to train workers for the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and industrial/ electrical maintenance sector of the Iowa economy. $333,000 is provided to enable the center to purchase a mobile lab and supplies, and pay for salaries which will assist the center in meeting its goal to provide an important link between Iowa Central Community College and area manufacturing industries. Project Budget Breakout: $1.3 million for formulation, blending, storage tanks, freeze dryer, capper, tablet compression, oven and related equipment. $100,000 for additional manufacturing simulation equipment. $70,000 for a mobile training laboratory. $100,000 for contract training services. $180,000 for staffing at the training center. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division F--Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Department of Education--Higher Education Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Waldorf College Address of Requesting Entity: 106 South 6th Street Forest City, IA 50436. Description of Request: Following a long history as a two-year institution, Waldorf College received accreditation in 2001 as a Baccalaureate college from the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association. One of our challenges as a new Baccalaureate institution is to build library resources needed to support our growing programs. $95,000 is provided to enhance and improve teacher preparation library materials for the Luise V. Hanson Library at Waldorf College. It will increase the collection in theory and classroom practices including methods and best practices for K-12 classroom teachers. In addition children's and juvenile literature in both paper and video formats will be acquired to help students learn and experience the body of literature currently available to ages K-12. Finally, the collection in curriculum in various formats will be enhanced to provide teacher preparation students with materials and examples of learning tools used in K-12 classrooms. Project Budget Breakout: $100,000 Theory and Practice materials $100,000 Children's and Juvenile materials $100,000 Curriculum lab materials Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division F--Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Greene County Medical Center Address of Requesting Entity: 1000 West Lincolnway, Jefferson, IA 50129 Description of Request: Surgical equipment upgrades are required to provide the highest quality care to rural patients in Greene County Iowa, consistent with the HRSA Health Facility Grant program under which this request is made. $325,000 is provided for the purchase of Berchtold Surgical Lights to provide better illumination for surgical procedures, a C-Arm x-ray machine to visualize placement of catheters and the presence of obstructions, a C-Arm compatible operating room table, an electrocautery machine to control bleeding during surgical procedures, and a laparoscopic system for use during laparoscopic procedures, such as removal of gallbladders, repairing hernias, and the emergency removal of an appendix. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division F--Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Gundersen Lutheran Decorah Clinic Address of Requesting Entity: 1830 State Hwy. 9, Decorah, IA 52101 Description of Request: The Gundersen Lutheran Decorah Clinic initiative allows rural citizens to take advantage of recent innovations in fetal monitoring technology that improve neonatal outcomes, through the use of real time fetal monitoring consultation during labor with expert obstetrics/gynecology (OB/GYN) physicians. The decreasing number of specialty health care providers in rural areas has resulted in a growing need for consultations from regional providers. Ensuring the most favorable neonatal outcomes for rural women creates distinct challenges. The technology provided in this program improves access to OB/GYN consultation in rural communities and allows regional family practice physicians to discuss the care of their patients from their local community facilities. $95,000 is provided through the HRSA Health Facility Grant program for hardware and training needed to facilitate the use of this technology. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division F--Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa Dental Foundation Address of Requesting Entity: 5530 West Parkway, Suite 100, Johnston, IA 50131 Description of Request: $381,000 in funding is provided through the HRSA Health Facility Grant program to purchase portable dental equipment that will help establish the Iowa Mission of Mercy (MOM) project to deliver free dental care to underserved populations. The Iowa Department of Public Health will use the operatories throughout the year in public health settings such as Iowa rural clinics, schools and nursing facilities to enhance access to oral health care when the Iowa Dental Foundation is not using them during a MOM project. MOM projects have been used successfully in other states to deliver free dental care given by volunteer dentists and their allied staff to underserved populations. The contribution that these programs can make to Iowa communities is substantial. For example, the Virginia Dental Association estimates that Virginia Mission of Mercy volunteer dental personnel have provided free dental care to more than 24,856 patients valued at more than $11.3 million. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division F--Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa State University Address of Requesting Entity: 1750 Beardshear Hall, Ames, IA 50011 Description of Request: Iowa State University's College of Veterinary Medicine is provided with $666,000 in funding to expand and equip a new, modular Biosafety Level 3 laboratory, in order to develop strategies for safeguarding Iowa's animal agriculture and human populations from highly infectious diseases. Iowa State University's College of Veterinary Medicine long has been preeminent in the field of infectious diseases research in domestic animals. Recently, the College has focused on research that addresses new strategies to prevent and control foreign animal and zoonotic diseases, which are pathogens carried by animals that may be spread to humans. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division F--Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Mercy Medical Center--North Iowa Address of Requesting Entity: 1000 4th Street SW, Mason City, IA 50401 Description of Request: $190,000 is provided through the HRSA Health Facility Grant program for hardware, software and training to implement an automated medical record system in the intensive care unit (ICU) at Mercy Medical Center--North Iowa. This system uses a bedside device to capture and integrate ICU monitor data, and provides a centralized place in the patient's Electronic Health Record to view patient data trends, document patient findings, update physician orders, and receive important notifications. The system allows the information to be viewed by the patient's physician over a secure connection from locations in surrounding rural areas. The result of integrating the automated electronic health record with the ICU unit will be increased patient safety and reduced medical errors. National studies have shown that as many as 16 percent of patients admitted to an ICU experience a human error, and that these errors can add significantly to length of stay, morbidity and costs. The Medical Center employs approximately 100 primary care health providers in very rural settings with the Mason City hospital being the hub of the integrated network, which will contribute to and benefit from this initiative. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division F--Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Des Moines University Address of Requesting Entity: 3200 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50312 Description of Request: This ongoing research project in partnership with the Iowa Farm Bureau is provided with $190,000 through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help determine what chronic disease prevention efforts and early interventions achieve better health outcomes in at-risk individuals aged 55-64. The goal of the project is to determine if long-term taxpayer savings can be achieved by delaying, preventing or better managing chronic disease prior to entering the Medicare program. Specifically, the funding would be used to perform health risk assessments, provide disease management services and assess program results. - Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division F--Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Department of Education--Rehabilitation Services & Disability Research Project Name: Iowa Department of Blind Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa Department of Blind Address of Requesting Entity: 524 4th Street Des Moines, IA 50309 Description of Request: The Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (LBPH) provides important materials to disabled Iowans and is transitioning along with the National Library Service's Digital Talking Book program to a digital format from a cassette based system. These important materials provide current events, information, and leisure reading to those who can no longer read. The LBPH provides many additional local materials which will need to be in the new digital format also. $95,000 is provided to assist in the purchase of new electronic storage space for these digital materials and a new shelving system for the digital talking books. Project Budget Breakout $14,000 Random-shelving system. $4,500 Bar Code Scanners. $2,000 Bar Code Printer. $7,000 Training and New Software. $58,000 Digital Storage Space, Duplication Equipment, and Shipping Containers. $27,500 Web-based Software for Circulation of Digital Talking Books. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division I--Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Surface Transportation Project Name: Highway 169 Corridor Project Environmental Assessment, Preliminary Engineering and Planning Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Humboldt, Iowa Address of Requesting Entity: 29 56 St. S., Humboldt, IA 50548 Description of Request: $760,000 is provided to the State of Iowa to undertake an environmental analysis/justification report, and preliminary engineering for proposed work on the 12 mile corridor. The project would include the addition of left and right turning lanes at intersections, 6 miles of passing lanes, widened and paved shoulders, improved entrances at various locations and a 1.23 mile section of reconstruction to improve the roadway geometrics and blind intersections. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division I--Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Surface Transportation Project Name: Highway 20 Construction Calhoun and Webster Counties Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Iowa Department of Transportation Address of Requesting Entity: 800 Lincoln Way, Ames, IA 50010 Description of Request: $855,000 is provided to the State of Iowa to continue the expansion of Highway 20 from two lanes to four. The completion of the relocated US 20 segment in Webster and Calhoun counties will add another 20 miles of four-lane roadway to the corridor. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division I--Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Surface Transportation Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Mitchell County Conservation Board Address of Requesting Entity: 18793 Highway 9, Osage, Iowa 50461 Description of Request: $570,000 is received for the Wapsi Great Western Line Trail. The Wapsi trail is a planned multi-use trail project that is located in Mitchell and Howard Counties as well as into Mower County in Southern Minnesota. The planned 33 mile trail starts in Elma, Iowa and progresses north through Riceville and McIntire, connecting to the paved Shooting Star Trail at Taopi, Minnesota which will connect to the Root River Trail. The trail will consist of approximately 15.5 miles in Mitchell County, 13.5 miles in Howard County, and 4 miles in Mower County. Four and a half miles of trail through Mitchell County were asphalted and completed in Fall 2007 and two additional phases are planned for asphalting in Fall 2008. The trail in Mitchell county travels over 2 historic bridges and the Wapsi Welcome Center in Riceville is a historic church that is eligible for the National Registry of Historic Buildings. The Welcome Center in Howard County in Elma is a historic rail depot. Upon completion of this phase of the trail, it will be possible to continue southeast to New Hampton, IA. Once the planned trail is connected to the trails in Minnesota, there will be over 100 miles of trail system for residents and visitors to enjoy. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division I--Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Economic Development Initiatives Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Marshalltown, Iowa Address of Requesting Entity: 24 North Center Street, Marshalltown, IA 50158 Description of Request: $570,000 is received for the project to include the redevelopment of property located in a downtown neighborhood. Funding would be used to assist in the acquisition of properties, relocation, and demolition to allow for new housing development. Marshalltown received $140,000 in the FY08 bill which has allowed them to purchase one property in this area. Requesting Member: Congressman Tom Latham Bill Number: H.R. 1105, the Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009, Division I--Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Account: Economic Development Initiatives Legal Name of Requesting Entity: City of Fort Dodge, Iowa Address of Requesting Entity: 819 1st Avenue South, Fort Dodge, IA 50501 Description of Request: $285,000 is provided to assist in the acquisition of properties, relocation, and demolition to allow for new housing development. Phase I of this project was financed in part with federal funds in the past which involved the acquisition, demolition and re-sale of properties along the North 9th Street corridor. Phase II includes 6 properties and provide incentives for the redevelopment and conversion of 5 additional properties to the east of Phase I. This project is a response to the R.A. Smith study, which named improving housing in the community in order to sustain a sufficient workforce. Currently, Webster County and the surrounding areas are experiencing a labor shortage; but before employees can be recruited to area companies, adequate housing must be available.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the goodwill of Elisabeth Bravard, a 19-year-old resident of Boone, Iowa. Elisabeth is traveling to Honduras for 6 months to work in an orphanage. Elisabeth has been to Honduras once before with her church, Boone Open Bible Church. Seven members of the church spent one week working in an orphanage. Since the visit, Elisabeth has wanted to return to the country to continue her work as a philanthropist. Elisabeth, who graduated from The Salon Professional Academy, saved all her tips while working at the Academy and babysitting. She has also asked friends and family to help support her cause. While in Honduras, she will teach English and use her education as a hair stylist to give hair cuts to those who can't afford one. Winston Churchill once said that ``we make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give''. Elisabeth shows great passion in helping those who are less fortunate. I applaud her generosity and am proud to represent her in the United States Congress. I know that my colleagues in Congress join me in thanking Elisabeth Bravard for her generous service and wish her success during her journey.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the retirement of Carol Peterson, a resident of Mason City, Iowa, from her position as CEO of Allied Purchasing. Carol began working at Allied Purchasing in 1963 when males dominated the industry. However, she took the challenge head on, starting at Allied running the press and doing printing jobs. Within 10 years, she was promoted to account manager and received a business degree from North Iowa Area Community College. After receiving an additional promotion to sales manager, she received a graduate degree from Syracuse University in sales and marketing. In 1989, Carol became vice president of sales before becoming the company's third CEO in 1995--a position she held until her recent retirement. I know that my colleagues in the United States Congress join me in congratulating Carol Peterson for her groundbreaking achievements and thanking her for her hard work and dedication to her job and community. I wish Carol the very best in her retirement.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the patronage of Jessica Stakey, a resident of Kamrar, Iowa who was named one of the top two youth volunteers in Iowa for 2009. Jessica was selected to receive the Prudential Spirit of Community Award due to her extraordinary work as a philanthropist. More than 5,000 state youths were reviewed by an independent judging panel to receive the award. The judges made their decisions based on criteria such as personal initiative, creativity, effort, impact and personal growth. This is an extraordinary honor and Jessica will receive a bronze medallion at a local ceremony. I know my colleagues in the United States Congress join me in congratulating the philanthropy and selflessness of Jessica Stakey. I consider it an honor to represent in Congress young people like Jessica who make a difference in Iowa.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the patronage of Nadia Torkzadeh, a resident of Waukee, Iowa who was named one of the top two youth volunteers in Iowa for 2009. Nadia was selected to receive the Prudential Spirit of Community Award due to her extraordinary work as a philanthropist. More than 5,000 state youths were reviewed by an independent judging panel to receive the award. The judges made their decisions based on criteria such as personal initiative, creativity, effort, impact and personal growth. This is an extraordinary honor and Nadia will receive a bronze medallion at a local ceremony. I know my colleagues in the United States Congress join me in congratulating the philanthropy and selflessness of Nadia Torkzadeh. I consider it an honor to represent in Congress young people like Nadia who make a difference in Iowa.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the achievements of Ken Schmitt. Ken is a Farmers National Company Accredited Farm Manager from Carroll, Iowa. Ken has been named Farmers National Company's 2008 Farm Manager of the year. This award is given annually to one of Farmer Nationals 70 professional farm managers for excellence in performing management duties. The applicants were judged by a panel of agribusiness professionals and presented at the Farmers National Company's annual meeting. Ken has worked for Farmers National Company since 1986 and due to his hard work has received many awards over the years. I know that my colleagues in the United States Congress join me in congratulating Ken Schmitt for this great honor. I wish him health and happiness for the future.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the retirement of Pat Gilliland from her position as city clerk of Adel, Iowa. For the past 25 years Pat has served the city of Adel as city clerk. During a city council meeting, Pat was honored for all her years of service. The Mayor also declared December as ``Pat Gilliland Month'' and gave her a key to the city. The City of Adel and the surrounding community will certainly miss Pat's hard work and dedication to her job. I know that my colleagues in the United States Congress join me in congratulating Pat Gilliland for her many years of service to Adel, and I wish her happiness in her retirement.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the retirement of a great personal friend to myself and countless citizens of Iowa and Iowa's law enforcement community, Joe Frisbie, Chief of Police of Sioux City, Iowa. His dedication and commitment to protecting the citizens of his community is appreciated and unparalleled. For the last 41 years, Chief Frisbie has served Sioux City faithfully and honorably. He was appointed as a Police Officer in December 1967, promoted to Sergeant in 1975, promoted to Lieutenant in 1983, promoted to Captain in 1986 and was appointed Chief of Police in 1997. Chief Frisbie has many career accomplishments which include being a founder of the Tri-State Drug Task Force and appointment to the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy Council by the governor of Iowa. He taught Police Administration for 11 years at Bellevue University and taught Criminal Investigation at the University of South Dakota for 23 years. In 1998, I invited Chief Frisbie to be a panelist at the Northern Iowa Communication Conference in Storm Lake, Iowa to discuss the growing methamphetamine problem and various other law enforcement related issues. I also enjoyed working with him on starting up the Tri- State Meth Training Center, now known as the National Training Center. The original idea for this center was to provide training for three states, but its reputation for excellence brought law enforcement, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, from around the nation to its doors. Chief Frisbie's service on the police force has made a lasting impact on the communities he has served, and his services will be missed. While he is known for being the ultimate watchdog for the people in Siouxland, it is his commitment and dedication to his family, including his wife Peggy and daughters Katrina, Ann and Emily, that is most admirable. I commend Chief of Police Joseph C. Frisbie for his many years of loyalty and service to protecting Iowans. It has been an immense honor to represent Chief Frisbie in the United States Congress, and I wish all the best to him as he embarks on his new journey.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the achievements of Joetta Redlin. Joetta is the Winneshiek Medical Center's director of Nutrition Services. She is also a 35 year member and the current association president of the Iowa Dietetic Association. Joetta has received the Annual Medallion Award, the highest achievement award offered by the Iowa Dietetic Association. She has demonstrated leadership above and beyond job requirements, and has made excellent contributions to the dietetic profession. Redlin is also the first renal dietitian specializing in kidney disorders, marking her as an expert. She has mentored hundreds of students through the University of Iowa Dietetic mentoring program and has published numerous articles on renal nutrition. I know that my colleagues in the United States Congress join me in congratulating Joetta Redlin for her outstanding achievements. I consider it an honor to represent Joetta in Congress, and wish her the best in the future.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the accomplishments of Phyllis Muse of Boone, Iowa, who has received the Brown Award for outstanding service at Boone County Hospital. The Brown Award was established by Weldon J. Brown in honor of his parents Everett C. Brown and Eunice D. Brown. Boone County Hospital recognizes the outstanding services and accomplishments of one of its employees each year with the Brown Award. Phyllis was nominated by anonymous co-workers to receive the award. She has worked for Boone County Hospital since 1977 as a nurse and now currently as the Boone County Hospital specialty clinic director. I know that my colleagues in the United States Congress join me in congratulating Phyllis Muse for her outstanding service to Boone County Hospital. It is an honor to represent Phyllis in the U.S. Congress, and I wish her continued success and happiness in serving her community.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize Kyle Jones, a resident of Slater, Iowa. Kyle has been a custom applicator with Heartland Co-op for 22 years and was named Ag-Chem Operator of the Year during this year's Agriculture Retailers Association convention in Austin, Texas. The Ag-Chem Operator of the Year Program was introduced in 2006. The program acknowledges the importance of having great operators and recognizes top professionals in the field. In his position, Kyle covers over 44,000 acres per year, treating every acre with care and professionalism, and his co-workers have stood by his reliability and hard work. I know that my colleagues in the United States Congress join me in congratulating Kyle Jones on becoming Ag-Chem Operator of the Year and for being an outstanding professional in his industry. It is an honor to represent Kyle in Congress, and I wish him future happiness and success.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. I thank the ranking member. I just want folks to step back for just a second here. You know, last year at the end of the year we spent $700 billion on the TARP. Who knows if it has had any effect. No one knows for sure. This Tuesday, the Secretary of the Treasury said we are going to spend another $2 trillion. Today, we are going to spend $890 billion; with interest, well over another $1 trillion. In another couple weeks, we are going to spend another $400 billion on the omnibus bill. Then there is going to be a war supplement. We are talking about over $4 trillion here in less than 3 months. This is the most selfish bill I have ever seen generationally. We are saying to our children and grandchildren: We don't care about you, because we just want self-gratification now. We want to feel better today. We can't take any pain ourselves. Our kids and grandchildren are paying for this, and it is going to limit their opportunities for the future for the next generations.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the excellence in education in the 4th Congressional District of Iowa, and to specifically congratulate Judith Mongin of Ames Community School District, who earned the National Board Certification--the highest level of certification in the teaching profession. National Board Certification is a voluntary assessment program designed to recognize and reward great teachers. National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) have successfully demonstrated advanced teaching knowledge, skills and practices. Certification is achieved through a rigorous, performance-based assessment that typically takes one to three years to complete. Certification is offered in 25 different subjects, covering 97 percent of the subjects taught in K-12 schools. I congratulate Judith Mongin on her well-deserved certification, and I'm certain that she will continue to touch the lives of many youth in her community. It is a great honor to represent Judith in the United States Congress, and I wish her continued success.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the excellence in education in the 4th Congressional District of Iowa, and to specifically congratulate Brigit Storhoff of Decorah Community School District, who earned the National Board Certification--the highest level of certification in the teaching profession. National Board Certification is a voluntary assessment program designed to recognize and reward great teachers. National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) have successfully demonstrated advanced teaching knowledge, skills and practices. Certification is achieved through a rigorous, performance-based assessment that typically takes one to three years to complete. Certification is offered in 25 different subjects, covering 97 percent of the subjects taught in K-12 schools. I congratulate Brigit Storhoff on her well-deserved certification, and I'm certain that she will continue to touch the lives of many youth in her community. It is a great honor to represent Brigit in the United States Congress, and I wish her continued success.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the excellence in education in the 4th Congressional District of Iowa, and to specifically congratulate Dawn Remsburg of Ames Community School District, who earned the National Board Certification--the highest level of certification in the teaching profession. National Board Certification is a voluntary assessment program designed to recognize and reward great teachers. National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) have successfully demonstrated advanced teaching knowledge, skills and practices. Certification is achieved through a rigorous, performance-based assessment that typically takes one to three years to complete. Certification is offered in 25 different subjects, covering 97 percent of the subjects taught in K-12 schools. I congratulate Dawn Remsburg on her well-deserved certification, and I'm certain that she will continue to touch the lives of many youth in her community. It is a great honor to represent Dawn in the United States Congress, and I wish her continued success.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the excellence in education in the 4th Congressional District of Iowa, and to specifically congratulate Jennifer Parsons of Ames Community School District, who earned the National Board Certification--the highest level of certification in the teaching profession. National Board Certification is a voluntary assessment program designed to recognize and reward great teachers. National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) have successfully demonstrated advanced teaching knowledge, skills and practices. Certification is achieved through a rigorous, performance-based assessment that typically takes one to three years to complete. Certification is offered in 25 different subjects, covering 97 percent of the subjects taught in K-12 schools. I congratulate Jennifer Parsons on her well-deserved certification, and I'm certain that she will continue to touch the lives of many youth in her community. It is a great honor to represent Jennifer in the United States Congress, and I wish her continued success.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, like many people, I have had a chance to at least look briefly at this bill. I have grave concerns about what it is going to do. We are spending more than $1 trillion in a hurried-up fashion here with very little oversight and with no hearings. Everything is just rushing forward. Everyone understands that we have got a real problem-- an economic downturn in this country. We've got to do something, and we've got to act quickly to save those jobs, those opportunities for our families. We've got to get the country back on its feet again so it can prosper. We had a proposal brought forth that was totally ignored--the idea of creating over 6 million new jobs at half the cost of what this bill costs--and it has been totally thrown aside. This would have put money immediately into people's pockets. It would have had them spending and getting this economy going and rolling again. That is exactly what we need to do, but we've never had an opportunity to put those into this bill. It's not only what the bill does as far as spending over $1 trillion. Some provisions in here make dramatic changes in the way our government operates. When we look at reversing welfare reform, the one great thing back from the Clinton administration, this is going to turn that on its head and allow people to stay on welfare for as long as they would like. I think it also is very, very serious when we talk about a major change in health care reform in that this is going to put the government in charge of rationing health care, standing between you and your doctor. This is something that at least there should be some debate about. Somebody should have a chance to offer amendments to change these bills, these ideas that make massive changes in the fundamental way that we have welfare reform and the way our health care is delivered in this country. Madam Speaker, to me, this is outrageous. We have got to step back. We have got to think about these things before we just jump into these major changes that are going to do great harm to our economy and to the future of our children and grandchildren.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the excellence in education in the 4th Congressional District of Iowa, and to specifically congratulate Dr. Thomas Greenbowe of Iowa State University, who has been named the 2008 Iowa Professor of the Year by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) and The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. The U.S. Professors of the Year is a prestigious program that honors outstanding college and university instructors across the country. National and state U.S. Professors of the Year Awards are given each year to teachers across the country that have touched and elevated the lives and careers of their students. Dr. Greenbowe has an accomplished history as a Professor of Chemistry at Iowa State which began in 1990. I congratulate Dr. Thomas Greenbowe on his well-deserved Iowa Professor of the Year Award, and I'm certain that he will continue to improve Chemistry and Science education for many years to come. It is a great honor to represent Dr. Greenbowe in the United States Congress, and I wish him continued success.

Mr. LATHAM

Mr. LATHAM. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the excellence in education in the 4th Congressional District of Iowa, and to specifically congratulate Elizabeth Lorentzen of Decorah Community School District, who earned the National Board Certification--the highest level of certification in the teaching profession. National Board Certification is a voluntary assessment program designed to recognize and reward great teachers. National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) have successfully demonstrated advanced teaching knowledge, skills and practices. Certification is achieved through a rigorous, performance-based assessment that typically takes one to three years to complete. Certification is offered in 25 different subjects, covering 97 percent of the subjects taught in K-12 schools. I congratulate Elizabeth Lorentzen on her well-deserved certification, and I'm certain that she will continue to touch the lives of many youth in her community. It is a great honor to represent Elizabeth in the United States Congress, and I wish her continued success.