Jeff Miller

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Honorable William Jeremiah Tolton, Jr., known to his friends as ``Jere,'' who passed away on Friday, January 23, 2009. Judge Tolton's lifetime of service in both the civic and social realm set a precedent of excellence in the Northwest Florida area and he will be greatly missed. Throughout most of his 71 years, Judge Tolton's life was spent bettering the civic and social realm. After earning a B.A. and J.D. from Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Virginia, Judge Tolton moved to Fort Walton Beach, Florida where he began practicing law. The succeeding years were marked with frequent promotions as Judge Tolton became the attorney for the Okaloosa County Commission and the City attorney to the City of Valparaiso, Florida. In 1972, Judge Tolton was elected to the Florida House of Representatives where he served for 4 years before resigning to accept yet another job in public service: Circuit Judge for the First Judicial Circuit of Florida. When he retired on January 1, 2007, at the age of 69, Judge Tolton's 30 years on the bench made him the longest-tenured judge in the history of Florida's First Judicial Circuit. The 30 years encompassed some of the biggest trials in Florida, including the conviction of former Florida Senate President W.D. Childers. Additionally, Judge Tolton served as President of the Blue Ridge Institute for Juvenile and Family Law Judges and was Chairman of the Judicial Ethics Advisory Committee. Judge Tolton is survived by his wife, the former Shari Deason, as well as his children, William Jeremiah Tolton III, Lizabeth Tolton Silk, and Timothy Tolton and his grandchild, Liam Silk. My wife Vicki and I send our most sincere condolences to the family as they grieve the loss of this exceptional father, judge, and civic leader. Judge Tolton's longstanding career in public service will benefit the Northwest Florida community for many years to come. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize the exceptional life of the Honorable William J. Tolton, Jr.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, rollcall vote No. 30 was a suspension vote on agreeing to the resolution H. Res. 31--A resolution expressing support for designation of January 28, 2009, as ``National Data Privacy Day.'' If present, I would have voted rollcall vote No. 30--``yea.'' Rollcall vote no. 31 was a suspension vote on agreeing to the resolution H. Res. 84--A resolution honoring the heroic actions of the pilot, crew, and rescuers of US Airways Flight 1549. If present, I would have voted rollcall vote No. 31--``yea.''

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of a lifetime of service and community involvement from Dr. John B. Webb, who, on January 24, 2009, celebrates his 90th birthday. The past 90 years have seen many changes in Dr. Webb's life, most of which was spent practicing veterinary medicine. After graduating from Auburn University in 1957, Dr. Webb returned to his hometown in Pensacola, Florida, to begin his own practice. When he opened his first clinic, Dr. Webb was the fifth veterinarian to begin practicing in Escambia County, Florida, and the 575th to begin practicing in the state of Florida. Today, Dr. Webb serves as one of the oldest licensed veterinarians in Escambia County. Over the years Dr. Webb has received numerous awards for his ongoing role in the northwest Florida community. He served 15 years on the Escambia County Board of Directors for the Florida Farm Bureau as well as 25 years on the board of trustees for the Langley Bell 4-H Center. He is also a past president of the Escambia County Extension Council as well as the Pensacola Interstate Fair. I have had the pleasure of knowing Dr. Webb for many years now and I am honored to call him a friend. A strong supporter of conservative principles and values, Dr. Webb has always offered his support and friendship to Vicki and me. As he celebrates his 90th birthday, I have much to thank him for from our years of friendship. For many years to come, the northwest Florida community will continue to benefit from the lasting impression made by Dr. Webb, whose involvement in the community has expanded opportunities to the surrounding area. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize Dr. John B. Webb upon his 90th birthday and for his exemplary service in the First District of Florida.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, along with my friend Congressman Adam Putnam, it is a great honor for me to rise today to recognize the retirement of Dr. Jimmy Cheek from the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, IFAS. Since 1975, Dr. Cheek has been instrumental in agricultural education at the University of Florida, where he was a mentor of mine. Jimmy Cheek's career with the University of Florida began as an assistant professor in the Department of Agricultural and Extension Education, and now, over 30 years later, he is retiring as a senior vice president for agriculture and natural resources. Through the course of his career, he served in a number of positions, but all of them were dedicated toward instilling an understanding of the importance of agriculture in his students. Dr. Cheek also received numerous awards and recognition not only for his dedication to teaching but also his vast knowledge of agriculture. His leadership in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, CALS, as well as IFAS, helped expand the programs offered and the student enrollment, making CALS the fourth-largest college at UF. Dr. Cheek took an outstanding program and improved upon it even further as he oversaw the addition of new programs and research opportunities, and he has been recognized for his efforts to this end. Some of the numerous awards bestowed upon him include the University of Florida Faculty Superior Accomplishment Award and the CALS Teacher of the Year. He has also been recognized by Who's Who in America, Who's Who in American Education, Who's Who Among American Teachers, and has received an honorary membership in Alpha Gamma Rho, of which I am a proud member. Madam Speaker, there is no doubt in my mind that Dr. Cheek's legacy will be remembered for generations to come, not just by students at the University of Florida but also throughout the Nation where his work has been recognized. He dedicated his career to educating students not just about agriculture, but also character, and he will be fondly remembered by all who know him. Jimmy Cheek will be missed in the classrooms in Gainesville and around the State, but he leaves behind an institution that will continue to flourish because of his hard work. He and his family are in my thoughts as they move into the next chapter of his life.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Marshall Billingslea, the outgoing Deputy Under Secretary of the U.S. Navy. I am proud to recognize his service to the Nation and thank him for his contributions to our national defense. Marshall entered public service after receiving his master of arts in law and diplomacy from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy in 1995. He served for over 6 years as the Senior Professional Staff Member for National Security Affairs on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. During this period, he was the senior advisor to the chairman and members of the committee on all proliferation, arms control, defense, intelligence, and counter-terrorism issues. These experiences provided an enormous breadth of knowledge and laid the foundation for a career of outstanding public service. Mr. Billingslea later joined the Bush administration as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Negotiations Policy and served as the chief negotiator for all major international agreements. In this capacity, he was the principal Department of Defense representative on numerous U.S. arms control delegations, and the U.S. Head of Delegation for Transparency and Verification negotiations with the Russian Federation in connection with the Moscow Treaty on Strategic Nuclear Reductions. In recognition of his outstanding accomplishments, he was appointed the Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations/Low- Intensity Conflict. As the principal civilian advisor to the U.S. Secretary of Defense on Special Operations Forces and counter-terrorism efforts against al Qaeda and other terrorist groups, he had enormous responsibility to safeguard the American people in supervising all special operations activities in the Department of Defense. Prior to his current position, he served as NATO's assistant Secretary General for Defence Investment. He bolstered the national security of the United States by promoting NATO armaments cooperation policies and programs, and for military common funding. Additionally, he served as Chairman of NATO's Conference of National Armaments Directors (CNAD) and Chairman of the Board of Directors for NATO's Consultation, Command, and Control Organization. As the first Deputy Under Secretary of the Navy in over 7 years, Marshall has been the senior advisor to the Secretary of the Navy on a wide range of policy and intelligence matters. His advice and counsel to the Secretary during a time of war, as well as his leadership in standing up the DUSN organization, has been invaluable to the Secretary and the Department of the Navy as a whole. I am proud to recognize Marshall's achievements and wish him and his wife, Karen, along with their daughters, Morgan Alyssa and Elsa Breanne, well as they pursue new endeavors.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Israel's right to defend itself and to express my desire for a peaceful and lasting resolution to the current conflict. In September of 2005, the Israeli government completed an evacuation of all Israeli citizens from Gaza. This historic evacuation, ordered by then-Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, was not widely popular throughout Israel but Mr. Sharon felt it was an important and necessary step in the quest for a 2-state solution. Soon after the evacuation, in January 2006, Hamas won 2/3 of the parliamentary elections in Gaza and took over as the democratically-elected government of the Palestinian people. Since their election, Hamas has ignored the conciliatory actions of Israel and they have seen their popularity plummet because of this and their steadfast refusal to recognize the existence of Israel. So much was expected of the new Palestinian leadership following the death of Yassir Arafat but the leadership of Hamas has failed its people, and continues to be corrupt. This failed leadership came to a head on December 19th when Hamas ended the six-month cease fire with Israel and fired over 50 rockets into Israel. After continued rocket attacks into heavily populated areas, Israel had no choice but to retaliate with force against Hamas and protect Israeli citizens. Hamas leadership knew Israel would respond, but still may have been surprised by the forcefulness with which the Israelis defended their citizens. Once the Israelis made clear they would not tolerate the rocket attacks, Hamas leaders followed a time-honored terrorist tradition of hiding amongst and under the people they should have been leading and protecting. Following Israel's continued defense of its homeland, some have demanded Israel stop its targeted strikes into Gaza. This would only allow Hamas foot soldiers to continue resupplying their terrorist network and would offer little assurance that Hamas will refrain from targeting Israeli civilians. It is regrettable that Hamas continues firing rockets into Israel and as recently as Wednesday, rockets were fired into Israel from Lebanon. I will continue to support the right of Israel to defend itself and encourage the people of Gaza to demand that their elected leaders cease the unjustified rocket attacks and the conscious choice to act as terrorists. Furthermore, I commend Egypt on its continuing role as an evenhanded facilitator of peace negotiations and urge other Middle Eastern nations to follow suit.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the life of Sergeant Preston Medley, United States Army. Sergeant Medley was killed in action on October 14, 2008 while serving our nation in Qazi Bandeh, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Sergeant Medley was assigned to D Company, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Hood, Texas. A 2003 graduate of Baker High School, Preston played football and was involved in the broadcasting program. ``He was the energetic, joyful kind of person that helped make our program successful,'' one teacher said. After his mother passed away in 2005, Preston decided he wanted to serve this nation and joined the Army. He will now go to his eternal resting place next to his mother in the Pyron Chapel Cemetery in Baker, Florida. While Preston was serving on active duty at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, he met his beautiful wife, Sarah, who was a fellow Soldier. Sarah gave birth to their daughter, Raelynn, in September 2007 and gave birth to their son, Preston Ray Medley Jr. on December 8, 2008. Preston's name, his fighting spirit and his caring soul will continue to live on through Raelynn and Preston, Jr. I am always reminded of the greatness of our country by the patriotism of those like Preston and the dedication of our military families like Sarah and the Medley family. We have an all-volunteer military and continue to ask our sons and daughters to travel to faraway lands to fight for our freedom. Men and women like Preston Medley continue to answer the call. The people of Northwest Florida have reason to be proud of Sergeant Preston Medley for his service and sacrifice for freedom. While his passing is a tremendous loss for our country, his selfless service stands as a pillar of strength for us all. Vicki and I will keep Preston's entire family in our thoughts and prayers. I trust that all the people of Northwest Florida and our nation do the same.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, it is an honor to rise and recognize the service of Leonard Keller, who, after 22 years, will retire from the Naval Supply Center, Gulf Coast Supply Operations. Mr. Keller's dedicated civilian service is a capstone to his brave and dedicated military service in the Vietnam War. Born in Rockford, Illinois, Len was drafted into the United States Army in 1966. He attended basic training at Fort Campbell, Kentucky and Advanced Infantry Training at Fort Polk, Louisiana. He was assigned to the 9th Infantry Division at Base Camp Doung Tam, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. In 1967 while sweeping through an area where an enemy ambush had occurred earlier, then-Sergeant Keller's unit suddenly came under intense automatic weapons and small-arms fire from a number of enemy bunkers and numerous snipers in nearby trees. Disregarding his own safety in the face of intense enemy fire, Sergeant Keller and a fellow soldier assaulted the enemy bunkers. They killed the enemy occupants in numerous bunkers thereby saving countless American lives. After his ammunition was exhausted, he assisted with the evacuation of the wounded. Many Americans who were in the Ap Bac Zone of the Republic of Vietnam on May 2, 1967 owe their lives to the brave actions of Leonard Keller. For his conspicuous gallantry in combat and risking his life above and beyond the call of duty, Leonard Keller was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. In 1986, Len came to Pensacola to work at the Naval Supply Center as an Inventory Management Specialist and has been an integral part of Gulf Coast Supply Operations for over the last 22 years. After retirement, he plans to split his time between Illinois and Florida. He plans to maintain an active role in the Medal of Honor, MOH, as he continues to attend numerous social events and conduct speaking engagements at various schools around the country. He also plans to establish the Leonard B. Keller scholarship fund at his high school in the near future. We honor the distinguished military and government service of Leonard Keller. Vicki and I wish him and his family best wishes for continued success. Our Nation is grateful for Len's dedicated and selfless service to the Nation. His life of courage, selfless service, and patriotism will serve as a shining example to future generations of Americans.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Eugene Elebash, Jr., a veritable northwest Florida community leader who passed away on November 24, 2008. Mr. Elebash spent his entire life serving others, and I am proud to honor his life of dedication and service. Mr. Elebash was born in Pensacola, FL, in May of 1920 and made his home there. He graduated from Pensacola High School in 1938 and from the University of Florida in 1942. Upon graduating college, Mr. Elebash immediately joined the United States Army Air Forces where he served honorably until the end of World War II, achieving the rank of major. He then returned to Pensacola to take over the family business and remained ever since. Mr. Elebash married his high school sweetheart, Jane, his wife of 66 years. After returning to Pensacola, Mr. Elebash began a life of dedicated service to the community. Over the years. he was active in innumerable organizations including the Saint Christopher's Episcopal Church, the City Civil Service Board, the YMCA, and the West Florida Children's Home Society. He was a member of the Downtown Rotary Board for 61 years. Mr. Elebash was elected to three terms as a Pensacola city councilman and served as the mayor of Pensacola from 1971 and 1973. His family continues to play an active role in the community. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the U.S. Congress, I am privileged to honor Mr. Eugene Elebash, Jr. for his life of public service to his country and to northwest Florida. Mr. Elebash will be remembered by all as a loving husband and father, as well as a genuine community leader and a true friend.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the selection of Dr. L. Bruce Simpson for Presidential Rank Award of Meritorious Executive for 2008. Each year, the President recognizes and celebrates no more than 5 percent of career Senior Executives with this award. Recipients of this prestigious award are strong leaders, professionals, and scientists achieving results and consistently demonstrating strength, integrity, industry, and a relentless commitment to excellence in public service to America. Dr. Simpson is Director of the 308th Armament Systems Wing, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida and is a 27-year veteran of the Federal civil service. He leads a wing of over 900 personnel and executes a portfolio of programs valued at more than $46 billion. The wing's programs include the Joint Direct Attack Munition, Small Diameter Bomb, Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile, High-Speed Anti-Radiation Missile Targeting System, Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile, Joint Air-to- Surface Standoff Missile Extended Range, Miniature Air Launched Decoy, Aerial Target Systems, P5 Combat Training System, Sensor Fuzed Weapon, Wind-Corrected Munitions Dispenser and Joint Stand-Off Weapon System. These programs are all key elements in enabling our warfighters to engage high-value targets and are vital weapons in the Global War on Terror. Selected for Senior Executive Service in 2003, Dr. Simpson has served as Deputy Manager of the Armament Product Group, Director of the Air Armament Center Special Projects System Program Office, and Director of the Directed Energy Directorate at the Air Force Research Laboratory. Dr. Simpson has been honored as a Distinguished Fellow at Mississippi State University and received Annual Technical Achievement Awards from the Air Force Research Laboratory and Air Force Systems Command. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to congratulate Dr. L. Bruce Simpson on this most prestigious Presidential Rank Award of Meritorious Executive. America and the United States Air Force depend heavily on the selfless service and leadership he provides. I sincerely wish Dr. Simpson many more years of dedicated public service to this great country.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received in the amendment of the House of Representatives to the amendment of the Senate to H.R. 2638. Name of the requesting Member: Jeff Miller. Bill number: H.R. 2638. Project: Eglin Air Force Base Range Operations Center (ROCC) Initiative. Account: RDT&E, Air Force. Earmark Received: $800,000. Justification for use of taxpayer funding: Considering the effects of BRAC, emerging Joint Test and Training missions, and increased operations tempo, this initiative will address the current Eglin AFB shortfalls in infrastructure to provide safe, efficient, effective control of range resources. Eglin AFB initiated a phased approach (Super ROCC) to address these shortfalls, and this project will initiate the action by addressing movement and control of people and equipment and relevant security issues. This initiative will help the Air Force increase the operations tempo at the Eglin Range by addressing the movement and control of people and equipment as well as relevant security issues. Through this initiative, the Air Force will greatly improve its ability to track all players on the Eglin Range thereby significantly increase its efficiency in an increased ops tempo environment. Driven by BRAC and safety imperatives, this further provides for more effective control which will better optimize range scheduling and increase flexibility in meeting test and training missions. Simply by knowing the locations of all entities on the range, more flexibility in reassigning missions to ground and air space previously underutilized will be achieved. Name of the requesting Member: Jeff Miller. Bill number: H.R. 2638. Project: FPS-16 Radar Mobilization Upgrade. Account: RDT&E, Air Force. Earmark Received: $2,800,000. Justification for use of taxpayer funding: This enhanced, mobile radar tracking capability will provide AAC the flexibility required to support testing of current and emerging weapon systems and platforms. This new capability will attract test programs to the AAC test range that cannot presently be supported, provide expanded instrumentation coverage for the range, reduce encroachment concerns, and provide more comprehensive coverage and support to all test programs. This added instrumentation asset will result in more cost effective and timely test support for the U.S. Air Force and ultimately in fielding systems for the war fighter in a more timely manner. Name of the requesting Member: Jeff Miller. Bill number: H.R. 2638. Project: Moving Target Strike. Account: RDT&E, Air Force. Earmark Received: $2,000,000. Justification for use of taxpayer funding: The ability to extend the capability of GPS guided weapons to moving targets will significantly enhance the effectiveness of weapons platforms that use GPS guided systems. The enemy knows that currently if he keeps moving he is safe from many of our current weapon systems. The ability to strike movers from a variety of platforms with GPS guided weapons will greatly reduce the enemy's ability to avoid our weapons. Name of the requesting Member: Jeff Miller. Bill number: H.R. 2638. Project: Gulf Range Mobile Instrumentation Capability. Account: RDT&E, Defense-Wide. Earmark Received: $800,000. Justification for use of taxpayer funding: By developing a GR-MIC we will be able to integrate the simultaneous employment of many advanced weapons/platforms into a single test or exercise/training events. This effort connects test and evaluation ranges that use many communication and data requirements to interact between geographically separated ranges, making valuable information available to everyone who requires it. The result is ranges becoming interconnected and consequently creating a greater training experience. Name of the requesting Member: Jeff Miller. Bill number: H.R. 2638. Project: Joint Gulf Range Complex Upgrade. Account: RDT&E, Defense-Wide. Earmark Received: $1,200,000. Justification for use of taxpayer funding: The upgrade will result in improved and more accurate testing which will improve training effectiveness and mission readiness. Name of the requesting Member: Jeff Miller. Bill number: H.R. 2638. Project: Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM) for AFSOC AC/MC 130 aircraft. Account: RDT&E, Air Force. Earmark Received: $4,400,000. Justification for use of taxpayer funding: The funding will be used to provide aircraft protection from infrared and small arms threats.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kenneth Owens, who is retiring after almost 40 years of service as a teacher, coach, and administrator in the Northwest Florida school system. His passion and dedication proves that teachers can truly make a difference in the lives of their students, and I am proud to honor such an admirable leader of our community. Mr. Owens began his life as a public servant almost forty years ago. He spent his entire career enriching the lives of young people as both a teacher and a coach. Seventeen years ago, he came to Central High School in Milton, Florida as an assistant principal where he has remained ever since. As principal, Mr. Owens transformed Central High School from a ``C'' school to a ``B'' school under Florida's A+ Plan for Education. This tremendous achievement exemplifies Mr. Owens' commitment to Central's mission statement of providing an environment that encourages students to achieve their fullest potential. He has touched thousands of lives, and his devotion will never be forgotten. Although he is retiring from his position as an educator, Kenny Owens will always be a Central High School Jaguar. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the U.S. Congress, I would like to thank Mr. Owens for his years of public service to the students and community of Northwest Florida. Vicki and I wish him and his family best wishes for continued success.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today in recognition of East Mt. Zion United Methodist Church on its 180th Anniversary. For the past 180 years, East Mt. Zion has continued to inspired people throughout the Northwest Florida area. The church has withstood the societal, geographical, and archeological changes that have occurred over its long history, thus authorizing its member's constant faith and enduring dedication. Opening amidst humble beginnings, East Mt. Zion was initially a rudimentary structure built out of logs. After fire destroyed the building, its members rebuilt the church with whatever materials were available. Logs from a nearby forest were used for the walls and slabs from a local sawmill were made into the pews. In the early twentieth century a more modern church was constructed. Services were held in that location until 1956, when the present church began construction. Since then, the congregation has continued to grow exponentially as worshippers throughout the Northwest Florida area travel to East Mt. Zion. Over the years, East Mt. Zion has served as a great source of inspiration for its members, who have always helped participate in the betterment of the church. Bake sales, quilt sales, and various other fundraisers were held by the members to raise costs for the various construction projects that the church has held over the years. Their enduring dedication serves as testimony to the excellence of East Mt. Zion and this milestone anniversary is evidence of the greatness the church has achieved. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize East Mt. Zion on this outstanding achievement.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Joyce Sanders, who is retiring as Public Relations Manager of EMBARQ Corporation. Ms. Sanders has played a vital role in the community service organizations of Northwest Florida, and I am honored to recognize her achievements. Joyce Sanders moved to Northwest Florida in 1993, and she has been a community leader ever since. Her local leadership includes serving on the Board of Directors of the Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce, the Board of Trustees of the Okaloosa County Economic Development Council, and the Board of Directors of the Walton County Economic Development Council. Ms. Sanders is actively involved with the United Way of Okaloosa County and the March of Dimes WalkAmerica program. She has been a mentor to numerous young women across Northwest Florida by working with the University of West Florida Small Business Development Center. Through EMBARQ, Ms. Sanders provides numerous scholarships to the UWF Women in Business Seminar and to underprivileged students at Northwest Florida State College. Ms. Sanders' commitment to service can be seen through her numerous awards, including her selection in 1998 as Honorary Commander for the Eglin Air Force Base 33 Fighter Wing Program. This award recognizes the value of military and civilian partnerships, a fundamental component of Northwest Florida. Awards alone, however, cannot describe the true value of Ms. Sanders' service to our area. In the aftermath of natural disasters Hurricane Opal and Hurricane Ivan, Ms. Sanders used her position at EMBARQ to place mobile telephone trailers throughout the affected regions so those displaced from their homes could contact their families and friends. Her courage in the face of these disasters exemplifies Ms. Sanders' devotion to the people of our community. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to thank Joyce Sanders for her years of public service to the community of Northwest Florida. Vicki and I wish her and her family best wishes for continued success.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the U.S. Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today to extend congratulations to the Tison family for being selected as the Holms County 2008 Outstanding Farm Family of the Year. Tison Blueberry farm is a bit of an establishment in the Southeast and it is well known that some of the best blueberries can be found there in Bonifay, FL. The entire operation is family run and the picking is done almost entirely by hand. In a time of growing concern over food safety, Tison Blueberry farm offers a unique alternative to the traditional grocery store as its customers enjoy the added comfort of knowing exactly where and how their produce is grown. After retiring from teaching vocational agriculture for 34 years, Jack Tison was searching for something that would employ his extensive knowledge and occupy his time. But it wasn't until visiting a ``u- pick'' operation in Gainesville, FL that he became interested in growing blueberries. In the fall of 1984, Jack and his wife Hazel prepped five acres of land for planting; the subsequent harvest began just 3 years later. Over the years, the production has increased exponentially. The farm now grows muscadine grapes and prepares various jellies, jams, and syrups. Every year, the north Florida Fair Association honors farm families in counties throughout north Florida that display leadership through farming techniques and agricultural production. The Farm Family of the Year award conveys the importance of farm families' contributions to some of society's largest needs including food, clothing, and building supplies. Recognition of their work, as conveyed by this award, encourages others in the community to become involved and support local agriculture. On behalf of all residents of northwest Florida, I hope this family tradition continues for many future generations.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today in recognition of James P. Chitwood upon his retirement as the Executive Director of the College Advancement and Foundation for Northwest Florida State College. As executive director of the College Advancement and Foundation for Northwest Florida State College, an organization that provides educational and charitable aid to the Northwest Florida State College, Mr. Chitwood has greatly expanded the fundraising abilities of the school and has helped it obtain the sixth greatest endowment among community colleges in the United States. Over the past 20 years, the Foundation for Northwest Florida State College, under the direction of Mr. Chitwood, has evolved into an outstanding institution that greatly promotes education. In just 20 years, the foundation's assets grew by over $45 million and created some of the most notable foundations and buildings in the area. The expansion of the Chautauqua Center in DeFuniak Springs was one of the first projects undertaken by the organization. Its success was followed by the construction of the Robert L. F. Sikes Center in Crestview, Florida, and the South Walton Center in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. The foundation also launched the Arts Center Endowment Campaign and, when the college's focus shifted to health programs, the foundation began the Nursing and Health Technology Campaign. For many years to come, the Northwest Florida community will continue to benefit from the lasting impression made by Mr. Chitwood. His inspiring involvement in the community and dedication to expanding education has provided infinite opportunities to the surrounding area. Though retirement will signal the end of Mr. Chitwood's formal career with the Northwest Florida State College, it is merely the beginning of the lasting legacy that he leaves behind. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize James P. Chitwood upon his retirement and for his exemplary service in the First District of Florida.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today in recognition of Pat Hollarn upon her retirement as Okaloosa County Supervisor of Elections. For over twenty years Pat Hollarn has ensured the process of fair and balanced voting. As Supervisor of Elections for Okaloosa, County, Ms. Hollarn has distinguished herself as a champion of increasing voter turnout, voting access, and overall knowledge of the electoral process. With incredible foresight and a keen understanding of the needs of the community, Ms. Hollarn paired advanced technology with the voting booth, serving at the forefront of the Internet voting project. This project has enabled voting access to disabled voters and military personnel serving oversees. Operation Bravo, a program founded by Ms. Hollarn to alleviate the problem of servicemen and women not receiving their absentee ballots while abroad, has made it significantly easier for troops and other Americans living oversees to vote. Additionally, Ms. Hollarn stresses the importance of voter education with programs like ``Kids Voting'' and ``Kids Vote Too'' which relay the practice and privilege of voting to a younger audience. Ms. Hollarn's dedication to the civic realm spans far beyond her current position of supervisor of elections. Ms. Hollarn's resume is clustered with board and committee memberships as well as numerous positions in various organizations. Chambers of Commerce, The Bidgeway Center, and the North Okaloosa American Cancer Society highlight the longstanding career Ms. Hollarn has fashioned out of civic duty and community service. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to honor Pat Hollarn for her enduring allegiance to the voting process and the subsequent benefits such dedication has provided for the First District of Florida.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the service of Major Brian Sitler, United States Air Force. Brian served as the Military Fellow in my office during the second session of the 110th Congress and was an integral part of the staff. He took the lead on 9 important portfolios: Defense/Foreign Policy, FEMA, Homeland Security, Immigration, Postal TRICARE/Military Health Care, Labor/Trade, Resources/Interior/Environment, and Science and Technology. He also served as my subject matter expert for important Air Force issues which included the Air Force Tanker replacement and the BRAC-mandated Joint Strike Fighter beddown at Eglin Air Force Base. Brian's counsel on the strategic as well as tactical implications was extremely valuable. Brian's performance in dealing with constituents and case work should be commended. He effectively negotiated the executive and legislative barriers to solve constituent issues. One case in particular should be highlighted. He received a constituent request from a military retiree whose daughter was diagnosed with autism. Brian took the initiative to investigate this case further and uncovered a significant gap between active duty and retiree TRICARE coverage in the Extended Care Health Option, ECHO, program. After bringing this to my attention, Brian worked with the Congressional Budget Office, Professional Staff Members from the House Armed Services Committee, autism advocacy groups, and offices of other Members of Congress and Senators. As a result of his diligent work, the $231 million bipartisan ``Military Family Autism Equality Act'' was introduced. Without Brian's initiative, hard work, and attention to detail, this act would not have been possible. In addition to the accomplishments already noted, Brian served as a pivotal staffer and organized escorts for two Honor Flight trips. Honor Flight brought 203 World War II heroes to visit Washington, DC's war memorials. He also assisted me in high level meetings with the Ambassadors from the Republic of Korea and Mauritania. He served as an outstanding ambassador of the United States Air Force, and I was proud to have him as an integral part of my staff. Brian excelled in every area and exceeded all fellowship expectations. While I am saddened that he will soon leave my office, I am delighted that Brian was selected for Squadron Command. I have no doubt that he will excel in this role as a Commander, and I will feel comfortable knowing that the lives of our Airmen are in his hands. Vicki and I wish Brian, his wife, Suzanne, and their children, Meagan, Cory, Gabe, and Emily our best wishes for future success and happiness.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the MITRE Corporation on the occasion of its 50th anniversary and upon completion of the modernization of their Eglin-Hurlburt Site. It is my pleasure and privilege to honor MITRE for its dedicated service to the Northwest Florida community and to the United States of America. The MITRE Corporation was founded in 1958 on the premise that the government needed a corporate partner to provide technical expertise in systems engineering and integration. MITRE was born out of the Lincoln Laboratory at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Its founding principle was to produce quality expertise for the government by drawing on the best in both the commercial and public sectors to solve the Nation's most difficult technical problems. Its first project was to provide systems engineering for the Semi-Automatic Ground Environment (SAGE) program, and MITRE chose Eglin Air Force Base as its first site. Over the years, the Eglin-Hurlburt Site has been a vital part of the development and testing of countless critical sensor systems, data link systems, and command and control systems. From its development of telemetry methods in the 1960's to its recent work on the integration and development testing of Joint Tactical Information Distribution Systems (JTIDS), MITRE has spent the last 50 years providing essential services to the defense community of the United States. Today, the MITRE Eglin-Hurlburt Site consists of 18 engineers, scientists, researchers, analysts, and support staff providing a wide range of development and engineering expertise to the United States Air Force Special Operations Command, Air Armament Center, and 505th Command and Control Wing. MITRE has earned an international reputation for technical excellence and innovation. Their local employees devote themselves to serving the public interest as well as contributing incalculable hours of community service throughout the Florida Panhandle. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to honor one of America's true corporate leaders, the MITRE Corporation and its Eglin-Hurlburt Site, for their 50 years of service to the defense community of Northwest Florida and across the United States. I wish everyone at MITRE the best for continued success.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today to recognize Bob Sikes Elementary School on its fiftieth anniversary. Named after Robert L. F. Sikes, the beloved former U.S. Representative of Crestview, Florida, Bob Sikes Elementary School upholds the same values and standards as its namesake. Serving from 1941 until 1962, Congressman Sikes is still remembered for his hard work and dedication to the area. His image continues to live on in the exemplary institutions that adopt both his name and his commitment to excellence. For 5 decades, Bob Sikes Elementary School has influenced the academic success of its students. The school houses an exceptional faculty whose outstanding teaching capabilities have enhanced the learning opportunities for those enrolled. The school's administration is equally impressive as it expertly balances the rigorous demands of running the school. It is the countless hours of service and dedication employed by the faculty and administration that have enabled the students at Bob Sikes Elementary to attain academic excellence. In addition to the active academic environment, Bob Sikes Elementary maintains a strong sense of community and enables each of its students to feel special. Teachers take the time to recognize and reward students' individual talents and help foster a familial feel in the classrooms. After 50 years, multiple generations of Crestview families who have attended Bob Sikes Elementary look back fondly on the school that taught them to read, to be kind to others, to count, and so many other important lessons. It is a testament to the school's academic and administrative strengths that 5 decades of families have continued to send their children to this exemplary school. It is these same strengths that ensure its continued success and the enrollment of children for decades to come. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize Bob Spikes Elementary School on this outstanding achievement and for its exemplary service in the Okaloosa County School District.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, almost 2 weeks ago, Secretary Henry Paulson came to this Congress requesting $700 billion of taxpayer money for his friends and former colleagues on Wall Street. The former chairman of the investment bank of Goldman Sachs also asked this Congress to pass a law ensuring that his actions ``are nonreviewable and committed to agency discretion, and may not be reviewed by any court of law or any administrative agency.'' The Founders of this great Nation set up an ingenious system of government to ensure that power was not disproportionately given to any one individual. The goal was to avoid tyranny, to avoid tyranny at all costs. But Secretary Paulson most likely skipped class that day and was hoping that we had as well. Many wonder how such a poorly constructed piece of legislation could even come to the Congress in the first place. And I wonder how our President approved this as well. By demanding this bailout money, the administration attempted to circumvent the legislative process. Moreover, the administration continues to insist that their way is the only way to avoid an imminent crisis. And perhaps most stunning is that the administration officials that are responsible for protecting American taxpayers and our free-market system were asleep at the switch. Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Chris Cox recently admitted his culpability in this matter and amazingly, the Secretary of the Treasury recently admitted he had seen this crisis coming for almost a year and just now has come to our Congress. Such large-scale government interference in our government ensures that the correction process will take much longer. And what would help toward long-term stability is an injection of private capital, private capital into our economy. We need to lower tax rates on capital gains and corporate income, allowing people to invest more of their money and relieving American companies from one of the highest corporate tax rates in the world. The Democrats didn't care to address the capital gains tax issue. And in fact their response to the administration's bailout plan was just as bad.

Mr. MILLER of Florida. The plan was just as bad. I can tell you that an overwhelming majority of my constituents have called, e-mailed and written to my office stating their outright opposition to any sort of bailout. The American taxpayer deserves better than what we are getting here today. And we must not sacrifice long-term freedom for short-term financial gain.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize Donna S. Adams, who is retiring after 27 years of service to the city of Milton, Florida. Her courage and dedication proves that citizens can truly make a difference in the lives of others, and I am proud to honor such an admirable leader of the Northwest Florida community. Mrs. Adams began her career as a public servant in 1981 as a secretary for the Community Development Block Grant program. She quickly saw how she could transform the City of Milton and began working to improve the city's infrastructure. Her first major project was helping to develop the Milton Riverwalk, a revitalization effort aimed at renewing the downtown property of Milton which lies along the Blackwater River. After her service with the Community Development Grant Block program, Mrs. Adams served in several varying capacities for the City of Milton including the Planning and Development Director and the Special Projects Coordinator. She also twice served as the Interim City Manager. On January 13, 1998, Mrs. Adams was named the Milton City Manager, and she has remained there ever since. As City Manager, Mrs. Adams has overseen significant improvements to the city's community center, warehouse, community parks, and police department, as well as the construction of a new City Hall. Her ten years of service as City Manager has resulted in a tremendous improvement in the quality of life for Milton's citizens, and she will be dearly missed upon her retirement. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to thank Mrs. Adams for her years of service to the Northwest Florida community. Vicki and I wish her and her husband Millard best wishes for continued success.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information for publication in the Congressional Record regarding earmarks I requested in the FY 2009 Duncan D. Hunter National Defense Authorization Act. This is in addition to my comments dated May 20, 2008. Name of the requesting Member: Jeff Miller. Bill number: H.R. 5658. Project. Eglin Air Force Base Child Development Center. Account: MILCON, Air Force. Requesting entity: Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Description: $11 million request for a Child Development Center at Eglin Air Force base. There is an urgent requirement for a new Child Care Development Center for 305 children. The current Child Development Center does not provide sufficient child care capacity to meet the needs of the rapidly growing Eglin AFB community. Name of the requesting Member: Jeff Miller. Bill number: H.R. 5658. Project: Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures, LAIRCM, for AFSOC AC/MC 130 aircraft. Account: RDT&E, Air Force. Requesting entity: L-3 Crestview Aerospace 5486 Fairchild Road Crestview, FL 32539. Description: $9 million request for LAIRCM for AFSOC AC/MC 130 aircraft. The funding would be used to provide aircraft protection from infrared and small arms threats. Name of the requesting Member: Jeff Miller. Bill number: H.R. 5658. Project: Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures, LAIRCM, for AFSOC MC130P. Account: RDT&E, Air Force. Requesting entity: L-3 Crestview Aerospace 5486 Fairchild Road Crestview, FL 32539. Description: $15 million request for LAIRCM for AFSOC MC130P aircraft. The funding would be used to provide aircraft protection from infrared and small arms threats. Operational fire hazard constraints presently preclude the tanker aircrews from employing their sole infrared flare protection while at slow speeds and low altitudes refueling helicopters. Name of the requesting Member: Jeff Miller. Bill number: H.R. 5658. Project: I-1000 Warhead Demonstration. Account: RDT&E, Air Force. Requesting entity: General Dynamics Ordinance and Tactical Systems 4565 Commercial Drive, Suite A, Niceville, FL 32578. Description: $8 million request for I-1000 Warhead Demonstration. The funding would be used to close the ``first night'' capability gap in light of the Air Force's decision to retire the F-117 fleet. Name of the requesting Member: Jeff Miller. Bill number: H.R. 5658. Project: Impact Aid Program. Account: O&M, Defense-Wide. Requesting entity: Department of Defense Education Agency. Description: $50 million request for the Impact Aid Program. The funding would provide assistance to local school districts that educate large numbers of military personnel. An additional $15 million would be used to support those local school districts that will be significantly impacted by BRAC and Global Re-basing.

Mr. MILLER of Florida

Mr. MILLER of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize James C. Binnicker, a man who has dedicated a lifetime of service both to our country and to the families of our military veterans. It is my pleasure and privilege to honor him as a great leader and a great American. Mr. Binnicker's career of service began as a Civil Air Patrol cadet in his hometown of Aiken, South Carolina. He enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1957. Mr. Binnicker served honorably and with distinction for more than thirty years. He reached the pinnacle of achievement in 1986 when he was selected to be the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force. The Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force is a unique non- commissioned rank. As the highest enlisted leader in the Air Force, Chief Master Sergeant Binnicker served as the personal adviser to the Air Force Chief of Staff and the Secretary of the Air Force on all issues regarding the welfare, readiness, morale, and utilization of the enlisted forces. There have only been fifteen Chief Master Sergeants of the Air Force in the history of the U.S. military, and Mr. Binnicker was the ninth. When Mr. Binnicker retired from the Air Force in 1990, he could have rested on the legacy he had created. Instead, he took on another challenge, the leadership and development of the Air Force Enlisted Village, a non-profit charity in Shalimar, Florida that provides a home for the surviving spouses of enlisted airmen. As President and CEO of the Enlisted Village, Mr. Binnicker oversees a $28 million organization with 86 employees who care for more than 500 independent and assisted living residents on two campuses. Mr. Binnicker's accomplishments were recognized in 2008 when the Florida Association of Homes and Services for the Aging selected him as their ``Executive of the Year.'' Considering that caring for the elderly is a second career for Mr. Binnicker, the honor of being recognized by his peers in the state's largest aging-services organization is quite significant. Mr. Binnicker has dedicated his life to helping those in need, we will be eternally grateful for his service. Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to honor one of America's true heroes, James C. Binnicker, for his leadership and service to Northwest Florida and throughout the world.