C. Ruppersberger

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor Mr. John Railey in recognition of his 50 years of dedicated federal service. ``The fun part of accounting is finding the things that went wrong and figuring out how to fix them.'' This statement by John Railey summarizes the attitude that has made him an anchor at the Coast Guard Yard in Baltimore, Maryland, where he has served both on the waterfront and in the Fiscal Department for five decades. A lifelong resident of Baltimore, Mr. Railey began his federal career at the Coast Guard Yard in the Sheet Metal Shop as an apprentice. Upon completion of his apprenticeship program, Mr. Railey excelled as a sheet metal worker. He was selected as the first tradesman at the Yard to be trained to program and operate the first computer-controlled equipment at the Yard. Seeking to become a foreman, Mr. Railey pursued Yard-required management courses at the University of Baltimore. In 1968, Mr. Railey successfully completed his college degree in Business Management. In 1969, Mr. Railey took a position as a Planner/Scheduler in the Industrial Engineering Division. Interested in learning the business- end of the Yard, he took a position as an Accounting Technician in the Fiscal Department in 1974. With his attention to detail and relentless problem solving skills, Mr. Railey was promoted from an Accounting Technician to an Accountant, where he has excelled as the Yard's expert on the financial administration of Yard Project Orders. Mr. Railey has mentored numerous members of the Fiscal Staff and has assisted scores of project managers in the Industrial Staff. Throughout his tenure with the Coast Guard Yard, he has continued to demonstrate remarkable conscientiousness. Mr. Railey's eagerness to troubleshoot accounting anomalies in any project is inspiring to each and every colleague. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor Mr. John Railey for achieving a remarkable milestone in his career. His dedication to the Coast Guard, the Coast Guard Yard, and his fellow employees has made him a valuable asset to all throughout his 50 years of devoted service.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor Dr. Gaynell Simpson, recipient of the 2009 Hartford Faculty Scholar in Geriatric Social Work. Dr. Simpson, Assistant Professor and Gerontology Coordinator at Morgan State University, is one of nine distinguished scholars selected to receive funding to pursue a research project focused on evaluating and improving the field of geriatric social work. Specifically, Dr. Simpson's research project will concentrate on the influence of social resources on health outcomes among African American grandmothers with multiple caregiving roles. Dr. Simpson earned her Bachelor's of Social Work and Master's of Social Work from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 1993 and 1994, respectively. Her research interest in gerontological research evolved from her dissertation, Availability of Social Support Resources among African American Grandmother Caregivers. This novel exposition revealed that most grandmothers provide supplementary care for a dependent elder and/ or disabled adult child. Since the completion of her dissertation in 2002, Dr. Simpson has diligently continued to contribute to the body of gerontological literature through publications including, but not limited to, the Journal of Gerontological Social Work; African American Research Perspectives, and American Journal of Public Health. Not only has Dr. Simpson made significant scholarly achievements, she has also made a profound impact through community-based, participatory activities with the Baltimore City Commission on Aging and Retirement Education on Senior Health Education Forum. Dr. Simpson is an avid leader as she serves as the Gerontology Coordinator and Chair of both the Multidisciplinary Urban Gerontology Advisory Board and the Bi- Annual Gerontology Conference at Morgan State University. Her active participation in three competitive training institutes further attests to her commitment in the geriatric social work field. The Gerontological Society of America administers the Hartford Faculty Scholars Program. The Society is a national organization of professionals in the field of aging and is dedicated to the promotion of scientific study. Dr. Simpson's work is an exemplary display of her dedication to scientific study in geriatrics. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor Dr. Gaynell Simpson on this memorable occasion. Her demonstrated leadership, accomplishments, and continued efforts to enhance her research, has made a positive difference in field of geriatric social work.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor the life of Marine Sergeant Michael Wayne Heede, Jr. who died honorably serving his country in Afghanistan as a part of Operation Enduring Freedom. Sergeant Heede enlisted in the Marine Corps in September of 2005, shortly after his high school graduation. A veteran of the Iraq war and on his third tour of duty, he served as a Combat Engineer. Sergeant Heede was assigned under the 1st Combat Engineer Battalion, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. In July of 2009 at the age of 22, Sergeant Heede was killed in action while supporting combat operations in the Helmand province of southern Afghanistan. During his military career, Sergeant Heede was awarded the Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Unit Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, among others. I commend Sergeant Heede for the dedication and devotion to preserving the freedom of our nation. His commitment and bravery gives his mother, Mrs. Gloria Crothers of Edgewood, Maryland and his widow, Mrs. Brittney Heede of Southport, North Carolina great pride. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor the life of Marine Sergeant Michael Wayne Heede, Jr. The distinguished service Sergeant Heede has shown to our country will forever reverberate in our memories. It gives me great pride to honor one of our nation's fallen heroes.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. I rise in support of H.R. 2410 and thank you for yielding, Mr. Chairman. As chairman of the Technical Tactical Subcommittee of the House Intelligence Committee, I support a provision relative to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations. ITAR is a set of regulations that control the import and export of defense-related technology and services on the U.S. Munitions List. In 1998, all commercial satellite components were added to the list of restricted munitions exports with tougher licensing conditions. Our Intelligence TNT Subcommittee has investigated ITAR's effect on our satellite program, and it has clearly affected it in a negative way. Before the 1998 restrictions went into effect, 73 percent of the world market for commercial satellites went to U.S. companies. By the year 2000, that figure had dropped to 27 percent. There are technologies on this ITAR list that don't need to be, and foreign companies are actually marketing their products as ``ITAR-free.'' Our companies get weaker as theirs get stronger. I approached Chairman Berman, who was also working on this issue with his committee. Section 826 of this bill grants the President the flexibility to remove simple, old, and widely available technology from the new Munitions List. Our most militarily-sensitive technology will remain. I want to thank Chairman Berman and his staff for including this language. Please vote for H.R. 2410.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor the JHPIEGO Group for its continuing efforts in preventing the deaths of women and children around the globe, on its 35th Anniversary. For two and a half decades, the JHPIEGO Group has brought medical innovations into common practice for the worlds most vulnerable populations in order to bring high-quality medical services to these areas. While they began as a group of technical experts in reproductive, maternal, and children's health, they have expanded their purpose by embracing new challenges, including education of HIV/AIDS prevention, malaria, and cervical cancer. In its continuing mission to save lives around the world, the JHPIEGO Group has become an innovator of healthcare treatments, a leader in sustainable healthcare systems, and a voice around the world advocating for the advancement of policies and programs designed to improve healthcare the world over. They have become a model for similar institutions worldwide by providing data, research and training. The JHPIEGO Group provides front-line healthcare workers with effective, low cost, and hands on solutions designed to enhance the delivery of health care services in difficult environments. By partnering with organizations from the local to national level, the JHPIEGO Group has been successful in building sustainable local capacity healthcare reforms through advocacy, policy development, and quality improvement approaches. Over the course of this journey, the JHPIEGO Group has worked in 150 countries and is currently running 60 programs in 40 countries. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor the JHPIEGO Group on this memorable occasion. Their dedication to improving the quality of life of people around the world has provided life saving health care and opportunities for medical advancement that have made a positive difference in the global community.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor Mrs. Carolyn Mroz, recipient of the Humanitarian Award from The Optimist Club of Dundalk, Inc. Carolyn has been selected to receive this award because of her dedication to the Dundalk community over the last several decades. Born in Dundalk, Maryland, Carolyn graduated from Sparrows Point High School but has not lived in the Dundalk Community for 34 years. Moving to Howard County in the 1970s so her husband could be closer to his job, Carolyn has remained active in her home community despite her physical distance from it. Today, Carolyn is the President of Bay-Vanguard Federal Savings Bank, a company her father started in 1959. Her father began his work at the bank working with families from the steel yards and factories, leading him to establish conservative banking principles that Bay-Vanguard still operates by today. Sticking to her father's policies, Carolyn has kept the bank healthy in the current economic crisis, posting a zero percent foreclosure rate on home loans. The Humanitarian of the Year award is presented to individuals who benefit the communities of Dundalk and Edgemere even though they do not reside in the area. In addition to Carolyn's efforts in the banking sector, she has been the president of the North Point Peninsula Community Coordinating Council, where she now serves as secretary. Additionally, she has served as president of the Todd's Inheritance Historic Site, helping to raise over $500,000 for the renovation of the Todd House on North Point Road in Edgemere. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor Mrs. Carolyn Mroz on this memorable occasion. Her dedication to the community of Dundalk is apparent in every aspect of her life despite her not residing there, and the community is truly a better place because of her.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor Mr. Scott Holupka, recipient of the Citizen of the Year Award from The Optimist Club of Dundalk, Inc. Scott has dedicated his time and talents to the constant improvement and revitalization of the Dundalk community. Scott is a life-long resident of Dundalk, Maryland, and a native to the Three Garden Village in southeastern Baltimore County. He went on to attend nearby Dundalk High School. In 1983, he graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a Ph.D. in sociology. Soon after graduating, he returned to Dundalk, where he immediately began working on a project called the ``Greening of Dundalk.'' The recycling effort included in this program was the first of its kind in Baltimore County. Since then, Scott has held positions in many community organizations including president of the Board of the Family Crisis Center, co- creator of the Southeast Neighborhood Development Coalition, member of the Baltimore Citizens Planning and Housing Association, president of the Greater Dundalk Community Council, and cofounder of the Dundalk Renaissance Corporation. These organizations are just a glimpse into the busy, community-oriented lives Scott and his wife, Amy, have led. The Citizen of the Year award is given annually to an individual in the Dundalk community who demonstrates leadership, civic responsibility, and accomplishment. Scott not only possesses all of these qualities, but he goes above and beyond in every community activity in which he is involved. He was recently inducted into the Dundalk High School Alumni Hall of Fame, and will soon receive an award from the Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Press Association. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor Mr. Scott Holupka on this memorable occasion. Scott is admired by others in the community, and deserving of the prestigious Citizen of the Year Award. His dedication to Dundalk is apparent in every aspect of his life, and the community is truly a better place because of him.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor Mrs. Kim Schmidt, recipient of the Harford County Public Schools Teacher of the Year award. Kim is dedicated to motivating her students and ensuring they receive an excellent education. Kim has been an educator for 18 years, 16 of which have been in the Harford County Public School System. While Kim wanted to be a teacher from the time she was a little girl, her dream of teaching temporarily faded while she became interested in physical therapy. However, in college, Kim discovered her love for history and her desire to teach others. Graduating from the University of Delaware in 1991, Kim began her teaching career as a middle school Social Studies teacher at Old Court Middle School in Baltimore. In 1993, she began teaching at Havre de Grace High School and in 1996 she became the History Department Chairperson at Fallston Middle School. From 1997 to 2005, Kim held a variety of positions in the Harford County Public School System before moving back to the classroom at Havre de Grace High School to teach United States History. Throughout her career in Harford County, Kim has served on the School Based Instructional Decision Making Teams, School Improvement Teams, the Maryland Geographic Alliance, and the Maryland State Department of Education reading in the content area task force. In addition to receiving this award, Kim will compete for the title of Maryland Teacher of the Year to represent Maryland's teachers as an education spokesperson. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor Mrs. Kim Schmidt on this memorable occasion. Her dedication to the students of Harford County is showcased by her continuing drive to motivate her students to success, and ensure that they receive the highest quality of education.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor the Maryland Masonic Home on the celebration of its 75th Anniversary as a retirement community for Master Masons and their families. The Maryland Masonic Home has provided exceptional service to its residents since 1934. After purchasing the property called Bonnie Blink, the Masons converted the farm and mansion into the Maryland Masonic Home. It was created as a housing facility for Masons and their families who were either elderly, or of declining health. The Masonic Home has grown over the years from a simple dormitory, to an active community with a wide range of services. From dining rooms and recreational facilities, to health care practices and scheduled activities, that Masonic Home presents opportunities for its residents to maintain a vibrant lifestyle. For the past week, the Maryland Masonic Home has been celebrating this truly remarkable milestone with various events and activities for its residents. Over the last 75 years, they hay lived up to their mission, ``To provide excellent care in a safe, affordable, dignified, quality environment for eligible Masons and their families, in keeping with Masonic Principles, providing for expansion, while maintaining financial viability.'' Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor the Maryland Masonic Home on the celebration of its 75th Anniversary. As a fellow Mason, it is with great pride that I congratulate the entire organization on this incredible accomplishment.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor Daniel C. Gilliam upon his retirement from the position of Deputy Senior Acquisition Executive at the National Security Agency (NSA). In this position Mr. Gilliam has been responsible for all of NSA's acquisitions and management of the Acquisition Directorate's senior leadership. Mr. Gilliam oversees all procurements, liaisons with key industry partners, and directs resources to optimize the organization's effectiveness. Working closely with Acquisition's customers, Mr. Gilliam maintains strategic partnerships with NSA's mission elements to ensure their needs and requirements are met. After earning a Bachelor's degree in Business Management from the University of Maryland, and a Master's degree in Public Administration from the George Washington University in 1979, Mr. Gilliam graduated from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces in 1993. He also attended the Federal Executive Institutes Leadership for a Democratic Society Program in 1996. In 1976, Daniel began his career at NSA as a management support intern. Since then, he has worked on a variety of acquisition and contracting positions to include contracting specialist, contracting officer, and cost/price analyst as well as managing those same disciplines. While participating in NSA's executive development program, Mr. Gilliam worked in the NSA Corporate Policy Office, the NSA Operations Directorate, and served as the Defense Intelligence Agency's Director for Procurement in 1995/1996. From 1997 to 2005, Mr. Gilliam served as the Chief of the Contracting Group, responsible for managing and directing all effort associated with contracting for materials, equipment, and services required to support the missions of the NSA. Certified level III in contracting in accordance with the Defense Acquisition Workforce Improvement Act. Mr. Gilliam graduated from NSA's Senior Cryptologic Executive Development Program in 1996. He received the Defense Intelligence Director's Award in 1996, and he received the Meritorious Executive Presidential Rank Award in 2002. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor Daniel C. Gilliam in his retirement from the position of Deputy Senior Acquisition Executive at the National Security Agency. His legacy as a brilliant and competent specialist will be forever remembered in his service to defending the security of our nation. It is with great pride that I congratulate Dan Gilliam on his exemplary defense career and his outstanding service at the National Security Agency.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, on April 29, 2009 I missed rollcall vote 223, the final passage of H.R. 1913, the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act. If I were present for the vote I would have voted ``aye.'' I missed the vote because I was in an Intelligence Committee hearing.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor Mrs. Mary Barcikowski, recently awarded the 2008 Congressional Volunteer Recognition Award by the 2nd Congressional District of Maryland's Veterans Advisory Council. Mary has been selected to receive this award because of her volunteer service at the VA, based on her outstanding dedication to serving the needs of veterans within her community. Veterans of the United States Armed Forces have dedicated themselves to protecting the lives of every American. Their service to our Nation deserves the highest level of gratitude. It is of the utmost importance that we take the time to recognize the individuals who give of their time and talents to support veterans and ensure their comfort, care, and well-being. Mrs. Barcikowski is the Business Manager of Public and Community Relations at the Baltimore VA Rehabilitation and Extended Care Center (BRECC). Throughout her years of service as an employee of the VA, she has served as the Coordinator of Voluntary Services at the BRECC, and has been employed at Perry Point VA Medical Center. Despite obligations to her family and her ailing father, Mary has given time and money to support veterans on several occasions. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor Mrs. Mary Barcikowski. Her compassion and dedication to veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces has become an inspiration to us all, and is deserving of the utmost gratitude. It is with great pride that I congratulate Mary on her exemplary service as an advocate and a volunteer.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor Mrs. Barbara Swann, recently awarded the 2008 Congressional Volunteer Recognition Award by the 2nd Congressional District of Maryland's Veterans Advisory Council. Barbara has been selected to receive this award because of her volunteer service at the VA, based on her outstanding dedication to serving the needs of veterans within her community. Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces have dedicated themselves to protecting the lives of every American. Their service to our Nation deserves the highest level of gratitude. It is of the utmost importance that we take the time to recognize the individuals who give of their time and talents to support veterans and ensure their comfort, care, and well-being. Mrs. Swann currently serves as the Coordinator of Volunteer Services for the Baltimore Rehabilitation and Extended Care Center. She has been instrumental in an effort to collect non-perishables and other items to send to Marines in Afghanistan. While raising a family, Barbara has worked early mornings and late evenings, giving of her personal time to veterans. She has recruited volunteers and made it a point to ensure their proper training, medical examinations, and understanding of HIPPA leave. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor Mrs. Barbara Swann. Her compassion and dedication to veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces has become an inspiration to us all, and is deserving of the utmost gratitude. It is with great pride that I congratulate Mrs. Swann on her exemplary service as an advocate and a volunteer.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor Mrs. Vanessa Scott, recently awarded the 2008 Congressional Volunteer Recognition Award by the 2nd Congressional District of Maryland's Veterans Advisory Council. Vanessa has been selected to receive this award because of her volunteer service at the VA, based on her outstanding dedication to serving the needs of veterans within her community. Veterans of the United States Armed Forces have dedicated themselves to protecting the lives of every American. Their service to our Nation deserves the highest level of gratitude. It is important that we take the time to recognize the individuals who give of their time and talents to support veterans and ensure their comfort, care, and well- being. Mrs. Scott has been an advocate for veterans for the past 15 years. She has worked at both Fort Howard and the Baltimore VA Rehabilitation and Extended Care Center. While raising a family, Vanessa has given of her time to the sick and lonesome men and women in those VA facilities, such as spending her evenings playing Bingo with patients. Her unwavering dedication has inspired those who serve with her to provide exceptional service and care. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor Mrs. Vanessa Scott. Her compassion and commitment to veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces has become an inspiration to us all, and is deserving of the utmost gratitude. It is with great pride that I congratulate Mrs. Scott on her exemplary service as an advocate and a volunteer.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor Mr. Charles W. Betz, recently awarded the 2008 Congressional Volunteer Recognition Award by the 2nd Congressional District of Maryland's Veterans Advisory Council. Charles has been selected to receive this award because of his volunteer service and based on his outstanding dedication to serving the needs of veterans within his community. Veterans of the United States Armed Forces have dedicated themselves to protecting the lives of every American. Their service to our Nation deserves the highest level of gratitude. It is of the utmost importance that we take the time to recognize the individuals who give of their time and talents to support veterans and ensure their comfort, care, and well-being. Mr. Betz has been a strong advocate for veterans of the Armed Forces through his office as Post Surgeon and Hospital Chairman of the VFW. Not only does he give of his time to prepare and execute visits to the Baltimore VA Rehabilitation and Extended Care Center, but he and his wife also coordinate activities for the residents. Their group sing-a- longs and Bingo games are always received with much appreciation. Despite personal health problems, with both knee and shoulder surgeries, Mr. Betz has continued to volunteer at least 30 hours a month. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor Mr. Charles W. Betz. His compassion and dedication to veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces has become an inspiration to us all, and is deserving of the utmost gratitude. It is with great pride that I congratulate Mr. Betz on his exemplary service as an advocate and a volunteer.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor Mrs. Susan Kern, recently awarded the 2008 Congressional Volunteer Recognition Award by the 2nd Congressional District of Maryland's Veterans Advisory Council. Susan has been selected to receive this award because of her volunteer service at the VA, based on her outstanding dedication to serving the needs of veterans within her community. Veterans of the United States Armed Forces have dedicated themselves to protecting the lives of every American. Their service to our Nation deserves the highest level of gratitude. It is of the utmost importance that we take the time to recognize the individuals who give of their time and talents to support veterans and ensure their comfort, care, and well-being. Mrs. Kern is the Program Manager for Voluntary Services at the Baltimore VA Rehabilitation and Extended Care Center. Throughout her years of service as an employee of the VA, she has consistently gone out of her way to become an advocate for veterans. She has traveled to various events to speak on behalf of veterans, and has arranged extra times for volunteers to get identification badges. Volunteers must go through a certification process including an exam in order to give of their time. Susan has gone out of her way to make sure every volunteer has the opportunity to take the exam at a convenient time. Because of her commitment, more people are able to become volunteers at the VA. Despite having a family and many personal obligations, Mrs. Kern does most of these activities outside of work, on her own time. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor Mrs. Susan Kern. Her compassion and dedication to veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces has become an inspiration to us all, and is deserving of the utmost gratitude. It is with great pride that I congratulate Mrs. Kern on her exemplary service as an advocate and a volunteer.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, on Thursday, March 26, 2009, during the debate on the FLAME ACT, I inadvertently voted ``aye'' on rollcall 161, the Rep. Goodlatte Amendment. I meant to vote ``no.''

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor the life of Mr, Michael H. Davis, a man I was honored to work with for many years serving the people of Baltimore County. A brilliant strategist, respected advisor, trusted friend and esteemed attorney, Mike's intellect and passion made a strong impression on everyone he met. Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, Mike always strived to better himself and the world around him. His mother, a homemaker, and father, a Baltimore police officer, instilled in him a great sense of civic duty and a conviction to never forget about the little guy. Mike was someone who believed in the power of education and discipline. Until his graduation in 1978, he attended The Gilman School on Roland Avenue on scholarship. It was there he met Nick Schloeder, a tough coach and brilliant teacher, who spurred his passion and early interest in the political process. Mike went on to attend Harvard University, a true testament to his academic discipline, graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Economics and Political Science in 1982. From there, he returned to Baltimore to attend the University of Maryland Law School, while simultaneously working on Mayor William Donald Schaefer's reelection campaign. Mike soon began his career as a lawyer with Smith, Sommerville & Case, and then with Venable LLP. His extraordinary work ethic and knack for problem solving soon earned him the position of Partner at Venable. Though he was leading a successful law career, Mike never strayed far from local politics. He worked on three of Senator Paul Sarbanes' successful campaigns in 1988, 1994 and 2000. Shortly after my election to the office of Baltimore County Executive in 1994, Mike became my Executive Officer. Mike was instrumental in countless accomplishments for Baltimore County and was a gifted advisor. One award Baltimore County was especially proud to receive was Governing Magazine's selection of Baltimore County as one of the Top Four Best Managed Counties out of 3,000 counties nationally. He was also responsible for helping Baltimore County secure three Triple A Bond ratings during my term. A strong proponent of education, he was responsible for developing a volunteer program partnering county employees with elementary schools, and the School Resource Officers program. Mike's priorities and values were obvious in his work ethic and his accomplishments. After leaving my office, Mike went back to work for Venable, but remained active in politics, advising and sharing his wisdom. Michael Davis achieved much in his short life but his greatest pride was his family. His wife, Ann, of 24 years was the love of his life and an incredible source of strength. His son, Robert, and daughters, Jessica and Blair, are a tribute to the values he cherished, and the type of father he was. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor the life of Michael H. Davis. His legacy as a brilliant political advisor will be matched only by the memory of his devotion to his friends and family. Even though Mike has passed from this life, the memory of his friendship will remain eternally in the minds and hearts of those he knew and the lives he touched.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor Mr. Richard S. Udoff, the Joint Veterans Committee of Maryland 2009 Veteran of the Year. His years of service and dedication to our Nation and its Veterans are both admirable and inspiring to all. Richard enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in August of 1950, soon after the breakout of the Korean War. Upon completion of basic training, he spent 26 weeks training at the Aircraft and Engine School. After graduation he reported to Germany as a member of the 41st Troop Carrier Squadron of the 317th Troop Carrier Wing as a Flight Engineer on a C- 119 Flying Box Car. As a result of his military service Richard received the following awards and decorations; Army Good Conduct Medal; Army of Occupation Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Air Crew Wings and two Presidential Unit Citations. Richard and his twin sister were born in Medford, Massachusetts, along with another brother and sister. He followed his family to Baltimore in 1948, and graduated from Forest Park High School in 1950 where he played baseball, hockey, basketball and ran track. When the Korean War started Richard decided to enlist and serve his Country. Richard returned home in August 1954 receiving an Honorable Discharge with the rank of Staff Sergeant and soon started civilian life working in the insurance business until 1967. Later in life, Richard began his service organization career with dual membership in the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). He entered VFW Post 521 in Owings Mills, Maryland where his leadership skills were recognized and he was elected as Post Commander. He excelled with an All State Post Commander his first year and received numerous first and second place awards for VFW programs. Richard then became District 7 Commander, a position he held for three years. Because of his leadership skills, he was the Captain of the District Commanders All State Commanders Team for two years. Among other accomplishments, Richard was instrumental in setting up a group of VFW members who met men and women serving in Iraq and Afghanistan as they entered and departed from BWI Airport. In his next role, Richard was the Chief of Staff for VFW State Commander Ron Dickens. He was responsible for heading a committee that provided catered lunches and dinners for the wounded veterans, their families and hospital staff at Bethesda Naval Hospital, Walter Reed Army Hospital and the Malone House. He was appointed a member of the Garrison Forest Veterans Cemetery Advisory Committee and eventually became its Chairman. Richard was the VFW State Junior and Senior Vice Commander and was elected as the VFW State Commander 2007-08 and became an All-American State Commander. He was elected as the Vice Chairman of the JVC and ran a very successful Veteran of the Year Banquet for George Creighton. Richard was elected as the Chairman of the JVC for the 2007-08 term. He received ``The Legion of Honor Bronze Medallion'' presented by the Chapel of Four Chaplains. This past October, he was recently honored and inducted into the ``Maryland Senior Citizens Hall of Fame, Inc. of Baltimore County''. He is a life member of the VFW, the American Legion, Jewish War Veterans, AMVETS, DAV, and a member of the Military Order of the Cooties. Richard has been Captain of the National VFW Honor Guard for the past four years. Richard and his wife of 52 years, Shirley, reside in Owings Mills, Maryland. They have two children and four grandchildren. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to recognize Richard S. Udoff for his dedication and loyalty as a Veteran of the United States Armed Forces, and as an advocate and a leader in the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with several of my colleagues from Maryland to honor Mrs. Christine Sarbanes, and the impact her passing will have on the citizens of our great State of Maryland and on our country. Mrs. Sarbanes is the wife of Senator Paul Sarbanes and the mother of John Sarbanes, who is a Member of the House of Representatives. Christine was the quintessential lady, polished, well-educated and warmhearted. Many times, as lawmakers, our spouses chose to sit on the sidelines, but Christine was very much involved in her husband's career. In fact, political activism brought Senator Sarbanes and Christine together at Oxford in England. A champion for women's rights, she was trying to get women accepted into his all-male debating society. On the occasions when she would represent her husband at events, Christine was very knowledgeable on the issues. She was a hearty campaigner for her husband, but was even more tenacious when her son, John, campaigned for this seat in the House of Representatives. She shared her love of politics and public service with her three children, and they each have taken her example to serve the greater community. She was the true matriarch of a great and distinguished political family. In addition to finding time to raise three children and helping her husband's career, she managed a full-time job teaching Latin, Greek, and French at Goucher College and Gilman High School, all located in Baltimore, where she taught for more than 20 years. In fact, one of my staffers, Walter Gonzalez, had the privilege of studying under her at Gilman. He described her as firm, but effective. She taught his 11th-grade speech class and advised him on his senior class speech. Laughing, he recalled yesterday how she coached him day after day. She would say, ``Speed up, slow down, enunciate your words, too loud, emphasize the points.'' He said Christine was a passionate teacher who communicated her respect for her subjects with grace and humor. A lifelong lover of libraries and art, Christine also found time to serve on several cultural boards and talked the Walters Art Gallery into eliminating their admission fees. She wanted all people, and especially children, to have the ability to experience culture. But she also wanted them to have basic survival needs. She did this through tireless work with the United Nations children's fund. Christine enjoyed high regard from important people. But I will always remember how she treated everyday people who crossed her path with dignity and respect. Maryland has lost a truly admired political presence. And on behalf of the residents of Maryland's Second District and the State of Maryland, I would like to express my sympathies to the Sarbanes family and thank them for sharing a talented and giving woman with our State and our country.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor Michael Weir, Sr., a longtime Maryland legislator and public servant who is celebrating his 85th birthday. Mike Weir, Sr. was born in Baltimore, Maryland, on March 24, 1924. He attended Baltimore County Public Schools and continued his education at Essex Community College and the University of Maryland. After he finished school he worked as a Masonry contractor through his company Mike Weir and Sons. Mike served with the U.S. Army in the South Pacific during World War II, entering World War II in March of 1943 as a member of the U.S. Army with the 124th Infantry 31st Division. He was attached to the Reconnaissance Platoon as a medic and served in the South Pacific in New Guinea, Netherlands East Indies and the Philippines. Mike Weir, Sr. was honorably discharged in December of 1945. Mike Weir Sr. served for 28 years in the Maryland House of Delegates representing communities from Essex in Baltimore County to Fallston in Harford County. He served in the House of Delegates from January 8, 1975 to January 8, 2003, representing first District 7 and then District 6 (Baltimore County & Harford County). He served as the House Chair of the Joint Committee on Chesapeake Bay Critical Areas from 1984-2003, and as a member of the Tort and Insurance Reform Oversight Committee in 1993. He served on the House Environmental Matters Committee from 1975-2003 and as Vice-Chair of the committee from 1995- 2003. During his tenure he served on the agriculture, environment & natural resources, and health subcommittees. Mike also served as a member of the Rules and Executive Nominations Committee from 1995-2003. Mike served as a member of the Chesapeake Bay Commission from 1984- 2003, a member of the Migratory Waterfowl Advisory Committee since 1991, and the Maryland Recycling Advisory Group from 1995-1997. Mike is respected throughout the State of Maryland for his deep commitment to sportsman and environmental issues, especially those that relate to the Chesapeake Bay. In honor of his years of service in the Maryland General Assembly, the Mike Weir, Sr. Scholarship Fund was established at the Community Colleges of Baltimore County to assist local college students. Mike's enjoyment of the political world is evidenced by his memberships in the Fifth District, Fifteenth District, Riverside, Bird River, Norris, Deep Creek and East End Democratic Clubs. Mike is also a member of the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Hawks and the Federation of Independent Business Men. Mike and his wife Clara have six children, many grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Mike Weir, Sr. has dedicated his life to the citizens and environment of the State of Maryland. Therefore, Madame Speaker, it is my pleasure to honor Mike as he celebrates his 85th birthday.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor veteran broadcaster Richard Sher who is retiring from WJZ Television after 33 years. Richard had a remarkable run in television news and worked as a news anchor and reporter in Baltimore. He anchored the popular political talk show ``Square-Off'' and co-hosted the morning talk show ``People Are Talking'' with then up-and-comer Oprah Winfrey. In 2006, he graced the silver screen and played himself in the movie Man of the Year featuring Robin Williams. In his stories, Richard had the ability to capture the true heart of the people and places that make Baltimore so unique. Richard is home grown Baltimore. He went to St. Paul's School and received bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Maryland at College Park. Richard began his broadcasting career as a radio disc jockey for WEAM in Arlington, Virginia. He moved to Baltimore to become a News Director for WCBM and made the move to television news a short time later when he joined WJZ in 1975. Madam Speaker, it is with great pride that I congratulate Richard Sher on his exemplary career as a journalist in Baltimore. I wish him well in his much deserved retirement.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a veteran Baltimore journalist who has reached a very special milestone. John Patti is celebrating 25 years of service at WBAL Radio. From anchoring WBAL's coverage from the Vatican when Archbishop William Keeler was elevated to the College of Cardinals to Cooperstown, New York where Chuck Thompson and Earl Weaver were inducted into the Hall of Fame to local election coverage in Maryland, John's professionalism, talent, and dedication to reporting the news are second to none. In fact, John Patti has spent the past 37 years broadcasting in Baltimore. John's specialty has always been feature reporting. During his career, John earned nine prestigious Edward R. Murrow Awards presented by the Radio-Television News Directors Association. In 2000, John captured the coveted Best of Show Award in the prestigious New York Festival in 2000 for his investigative journalism. As a sports reporter, John won the Eclipse Award, given out by the thoroughbred racing industry for excellence in reporting. I am pleased to report John is home grown Baltimore. He graduated from Mount Saint Joseph High School in 1973 and received his Bachelor's Degree from Towson State University in 1977. He and his wife Stephanie live with their three sons in Howard County. John Patti began at WBAL in February, 1984. . . and he is still there reporting the news 25 years later. For that, he deserves our congratulations.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor David S. Bliden upon his retirement from the position of Executive Director of the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo). Mr. Bliden holds a bachelors degree in economics from the University of Maryland, College Park, and after earning a law degree from the University of Maryland School of Law in 1973, began his career in government as a legal intern at the State's Attorney's office in Prince George's County. By 1974, Dave was an Associate County Attorney, serving as a liaison to the Maryland Association of County Civil Attorneys. Serving as Deputy County Attorney in the Office of Law for Anne Arundel County form 1984-1991, Dave served as the County Executive's liaison to the General Assembly, Governor's staff, and the Maryland Association of Counties. In 1991, Mr. Bliden was appointed Executive Director of the Maryland Association of Counties. As executive director, Dave managed the trade association which represents Maryland's twenty-four political subdivisions. He has served as MACo's primary representative to the Maryland General Assembly, the Governor's office, and the Local Government Insurance Trust. Throughout his tenure, he was a proactive communicator and was always conversant in emerging trends with local issues. Dave's willingness to look at each county in Maryland individually, as well as part of one great state provided the backbone for Maryland's continued success. Although times are tough today in Maryland, they could be considerably worse were it not for the talents, persuasiveness, and dedication of Dave Bliden. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor David S. Bliden in his retirement from the position of Executive Director of the Maryland Association of Counties. His legacy as a brilliant and competent director will be forever remembered in his service to one of Maryland's largest associations. It is with great pride that I congratulate Dave Bliden on his exemplary legal career and his outstanding leadership at MACo.

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER

Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. Madam Speaker, I rise before you today to honor Jessica Long, in celebration of her continued achievements at the 2008 Paralympics in Beijing. Jessica Long was born in Siberia and was adopted from a Russian orphanage at the age of 13 months along with her brother Joshua by Steven and Beth Long of Middle River, Maryland. Because of lower leg anomalies, her legs were amputated when she was 18 months old. She learned to walk with prostheses and has been unstoppable ever since. Long has been involved in many sports including gymnastics, cheerleading, ice skating, biking, trampoline, and, of course, she loves to swim. She began swimming in her grandparent's pool before joining her first competitive team in 2002. The next year, Jessica was selected as Maryland Swimming's 2003 Female Swimmer with a Disability of the Year. Jessica made the international swimming world take notice at the 2004 Paralympic Games, winning three gold medals. Only 12 years old at the time, Jessica was the youngest athlete on the U.S. Paralympic Team. Jessica had a phenomenal year in 2006 with a long list of impressive accomplishments. She set five world records and earned nine gold medals at the 2006 International Paralympic Committee Swimming World Championships in Durban, South Africa in December. In addition to countless other gold medals and awards, Jessica was named U.S. Olympic Committee Paralympian of the Year. In 2007, Jessica set three world records at the GTAC Disability Open in Michigan and three world records at the Spring Can-Am Swimming Championships in Quebec. She also beat out many prominent amateur athletes for the prestigious 77th AAU James E. Sullivan Award. In 2008, Jessica set another world record at the Can-Am Championships in British Columbia and was the recipient of the Juan Antonio Samaranch IOC Disabled Athlete Award. After all of the numerous world records Jessica has set, the awards she has received, and the medals she has won, at the age of 16 Jessica eagerly anticipated the 2008 Paralympics in Beijing. There, Jessica won four gold medals, a silver medal, and a bronze medal. Madam Speaker, I ask that you join with me today to honor Ms. Jessica Long. She is an outstanding and dedicated member of the United States Paralympic Team. In spite of her disability, she has shown a unique and committed work ethic in sports training and competition. Jessica has shown the world that no limitation can prevent an individual from achieving great success. It is with great pride that I congratulate her on bringing six medals home from the 2008 Paralympics in Beijing.