David Reichert

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of an innovative global business headquartered in Washington State named the best company in the world this year by Business Week magazine, Nintendo. A company that employs many of my constituents, Nintendo is an electronics maker behind some of the most innovative and breathtaking technological advancements in the world over the past century, and is thriving in a less-than-adequate economic climate while positioning itself to surpass more challenges in the future. Over the past five years, Nintendo's sales have risen by more than 35 percent annually while its overall value averaged 38 percent growth. Rather than shrinking and simply trying to weather the economic storm it is facing, Nintendo has expanded and used its unique brand of innovation to stay at the top of its game and produce ``must-haves'' such as the Wii console, and we all enjoy the Wii. Like other global companies reliant on its own unique brand of innovation, Nintendo has invested huge sums of capital into its people and commanded a large share of the market. Nintendo is performing at a higher level than any other company in the world in 2009. I am honored to have worked with Nintendo in the past and plan to do the same moving forward. Technological innovation will continue to move this Nation and this world forward and I thank Nintendo for being a visionary leader in that innovation.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of a distinguished constituent and, according to Hispanic Business Magazine, a man considered one of the most influential Hispanic Americans in the entire nation. Dr. Pedro Celis, a celebrated Microsoft engineer and an engaged and informed individual living in my congressional district, was honored earlier this month as one of 100 influential Hispanic Americans. Alongside well known Hispanic Americans such as Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor and Secretary of Interior Ken Salazar, Dr. Celis is one of the most respected Hispanic American trailblazers in our great nation. Born and raised in Monterrey, Mexico, Dr. Celis graduated from Monterrey Institute of Technology and earned his Ph.D. at the University of Waterloo in Canada. Aside from being a vital and innovative part of Microsoft's SQL Server Group, Dr. Celis served on President George W. Bush's Presidential Information Technology Advisory Committee. Further, Dr. Celis has served on a number of civic-minded organizations such as the Washington State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Families Northwest, Hispanic Alliance for Progress and many more. It is no surprise, then, that Dr. Celis has been a trusted advisor on many issues since I was elected to serve in this body. I want to thank Dr. Celis for his spirit of service and innovation, his commitment to community and family and his outstanding representation of Hispanic Americans. I am so proud Dr. Celis has taken his rightful place among the most influential Hispanic Americans in the nation, I encourage him to continue using his intellect and perspective to drive America in the right direction, and on behalf of the House of Representatives, congratulate him on this prestigious recognition.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to join my colleagues this morning in honoring the members of the Army National Guard 81st Brigade Combat Team and Air National Guard of the State of Washington on the completion of their recent deployment to Iraq. These soldiers and their families have shown us the sense of duty, the sense of honor, and the sacrifice that we all aspire to and admire. Many of them know the pain of losing someone, a soldier, a fellow warrior, giving everything to defend the freedoms that we cherish in this country each and every day. And all of them know the perils of deployment, time away from their families, their children, their community, and possibly the ultimate sacrifice, their life. This government comes here and performs its work each and every day. We can debate the issues each day because of the dedication of these soldiers and their families. And today, though it's not enough, we say thank you.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, today I rise in recognition of a brave young girl in my district, Alicia Seidel, and congratulate her for being named an honoree at the 2009 Arthritis Walk happening this Saturday in Bellevue, Washington, and for living her life so bravely while battling her disease. Alicia, a ten-year-old fifth grader from Sammamish, Washington, was diagnosed in 2007 with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Immediately before and for some time following the diagnosis, Alicia struggled to do something as simple as holding a pencil. Thankfully, the wonderful doctors, specialists and staff at Swedish Medical Center and Children's Hospital in Seattle worked to alleviate the pain Alicia was under, which allowed her to act like the vivacious girl she is. My office had the opportunity to meet Alicia and her mom, Cynthia, more than a year ago to discuss Alicia's ailment and a photo from that meeting is proudly displayed in our office; her infectious nature and sweet disposition made a lasting impact. The Arthritis Prevention Control and Cure Act, H.R. 1210, of 2009 is legislation I'm proud to have co-sponsored. At this time, the legislation is in the House Committee on Energy and Commerce and I encourage the entire House to act on it as quickly as possible because it is an important bill. The bill would, among many other things, focus attention on juvenile arthritis research by creating a juvenile arthritis database and provide financial incentives to encourage more health professionals to enter the field of pediatric rheumatology. Additionally, I will continue to work on behalf of young people like Alicia to urge Congress to make a long-term, sustained investment in medical research through the National Institutes of Health because it represents our greatest hope for finding cures and treatments for debilitating conditions like arthritis and freeing Alicia and her family from the constraints of arthritis. On behalf of the House of Representatives, I extend our sincerest congratulations to Alicia, for her courageous spirit and the inspiration provided to 300,000 other young people struggling with this disease today, and our best wishes in the 2009 Arthritis Walk.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a fallen soldier from my district, Specialist Joseph White from Bellevue, Washington. Joseph, recently married in 2009, was killed in action in Afghanistan on September 24. Joe's mom talked about her son's dedication to his country in this way: ``Joe was not happy to be leaving his bride to go to Afghanistan, but he did not complain. Rather, he went with a strong sense of duty and desire to maintain freedom and safety for others.'' This body, this House of Representatives, this government and the people of this country could not exist without the dedication and sacrifice from the soldiers that serve, soldiers like Joe; soldiers who, above all else, want to honor this country and those who have gone before to protect our freedom and the freedom of their families. There is nothing we can say or do that will take away the pain, the suffering, and the sense of loss that the family feels at the loss of their son Joe. But Joe's family must always remember, the memory of Specialist Joe White will remain, we will never forget, and we will continue to honor his sacrifice each day.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, today I'd like to recognize Washington State Trooper John Garden for being named the 2008 District One Trooper of the Year in the State of Washington. As a former law enforcement officer in Washington State, I know the hard work and dedication it takes to earn such an honor, and I thank Trooper Garden for his tireless service and sacrifice for the communities he serves in Pierce and Thurston Counties. I am confident that Trooper Garden will continue to serve the people of Washington State with great respect and continue his record of strong leadership within the law enforcement community. On behalf of the House of Representatives, I extend my deepest gratitude for his service and sacrifice.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, I rise to today in recognition of a true hero, Michael Lakin. Michael, a former student at Cascade Christian high school in Puyallup, Washington, and an Eagle Scout, saved his classmate Allen, a quadriplegic, from choking to death last November. Madam Speaker, because of Allen's condition he was unable to draw attention to himself when he was choking while eating lunch with his mother, Cathy, and his friends at Cascade Christian. Thankfully, Michael noticed something wasn't right and sprang into action. He picked Allen out of his wheelchair and performed the Heimlich maneuver on him successfully, no doubt saving a precious young life. Michael graduated from Cascade Christian this past summer and is now attending classes at a local community college. I thank him for his courageous actions, I thank him for his service and determination as an Eagle Scout and I wish him the best in the future.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, today I want to applaud the Coca-Cola facility, located in Bellevue, Washington, for their remarkable efforts and leadership in sustainability and conservation. In August, I toured this Coca-Cola facility in my district in order to see for myself the extraordinary environmental efforts going on there. In May, the facility was the recipient of the Business Generator Recycler of the Year Award, presented by the Washington State Recycling Association, after finishing 2008 with a recycling rate of 99.7 percent! The tour was impressive, to say the least, and I am so proud to represent such a great example of corporate responsibility and stewardship. I also understand Coca-Cola is celebrating Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability in Action week in Bellevue soon and I hope CEO John Brock and his employees will enjoy their visit to the Eighth District of Washington. I know the Coca-Cola Corporation and their facility in Bellevue will continue to provide sound environmental leadership and I thank them for their earnest investment in sustainability, stewardship and conservation.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of a service organization that has done as much for America's veterans as any other organization or group in our Nation's history, The American Legion. Yesterday, the House of Representatives passed a resolution rightly honoring this organization, proclaiming September 16, ``The American Legion Day.'' The American Legion was founded in 1919 and has proven a formidable organization in the support of veterans of our Armed Forces. I am a proud member of American Legion Post 161 in Redmond, Washington, and appreciate their steadfast and ongoing support of veterans and their families. At a national level, the Legion has been active in supporting veterans through work such as the crafting of the G.I. Bill of Rights, and across the country the Legion is involved and committed in their communities. ``Legionnaires'' are known for and exemplify the spirit of service and this spirit continues to drive their actions long after they take off their uniforms. They create benevolence funds, host barbeques and involve themselves in civic projects. Legionnaires believe in service. They are the voice of our veterans and advocates for our men and women in uniform. I am grateful for the organization's 90 years of service and sacrifice to our country. General George Washington said in a letter to the Provincial Congress, ``When we assumed the soldier we did not lay aside the citizen,'' the American Legion exemplifies this attitude. In this body, we must continue supporting The American Legion and I urge Legionnaires to continue to reach out to lawmakers for our support.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Microsoft Corporation for receiving an award from the Department of Defense for its unending support of employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve. The Microsoft Corporation was presented with the 2009 Employer Support Freedom Award on September 17 along with 14 other employers across the United States. Specifically, Microsoft--among other things-- initiated a Military Reservist Council, acknowledges employee service through different company newsletters and, in 2007, donated $3.7 million to the National Guard Youth Foundation. Microsoft's support for our service members is a model that other employers should follow, and it is the paramount duty of Congress to do its part to help our service members make a seamless transition back to civilian life from active duty. It is a priority that requires both private and public sector support. I was pleased that the House passed legislation I authored last Congress to improve the government's responsiveness to hiring difficulties our service members face upon their return, and I hope that this body can continue to partner with private sector champions like Microsoft to help provide a smooth transition for our service members and veterans between military life and civilian life. Again, I applaud the Microsoft Corporation for supporting their National Guard and Reserve employees and congratulate them on receiving the 2009 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. I know they will continue to provide outstanding support to Washington's service members in the future, and I pledge to continue doing the same serving in this body. We must do all we can to provide for those who have bravely sacrificed so much to defend our freedoms.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, today I rise in recognition of an individual from my district and his efforts to honor the principles of President Abraham Lincoln. Reverend Wayne Perryman from Mercer Island, Washington, and Kasandra Rae Huff, an 18-year-old student from Longview, Washington, created a piece of artwork that was recently accepted into the permanent collection of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. As our Nation confronts challenging times, we must remember and treasure the life and work of President Lincoln as he led this country through an extraordinarily difficult period. I commend Reverend Perryman and Ms. Huff for their artwork and am pleased to submit the text of it on their behalf into the Congressional Record. This portrait of Lincoln is the fine work of Miss Kasandra Rae Huff, an eighteen year old high school student from Longview, Washington. Kasandra sincerely admired our 16th President, who was perhaps the most lonely person that ever occupied the White House. He was a man not known for his good looks, but for his good heart. Many scholars criticize Lincoln for his thoughts regarding what to do with the freed blacks after ending slavery, but few commend him for what he did for blacks by ending slavery. During the past thirty-plus years African Americans have occupied every major cabinet level position in the United States government; two have sat on the United States Supreme Court; several others have run our nation's largest cities, including Detroit, Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, and Atlanta; one headed the Joint Chiefs of Staff; and 145 years after Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address, this nation has elected its first black president. History reveals that Lincoln's appreciation for blacks was an evolving process, as it was for most Americans. The more exposure he had, the more he appreciated and saw African Americans as equals. By the time he reached Gettysburg on that cold November afternoon in 1863, he was at peace with idea of blacks being equal. Using carefully selected words in a cleverly crafted speech that he had worked on all night, he told those who gathered at the cemetery in Gettysburg what he thought about equality when he spoke these words: ``Four score and seven years ago, our fathers brought forth upon this continent, a new nation, conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.'' Even though he wrestled with what to do with the freed slaves after the war, he had grown to appreciate African Americans through his relationship with his black advisor, Frederick Douglass, and his wife's best friend and traveling companion, Ms. Elizabeth Keckley, a black dress designer. (Keckley, a freed black woman, designed dresses for Mary Todd Lincoln and other prominent women of that time.) Evidence of Lincoln's evolving feelings toward blacks was clear to everyone when Democrats pressured Lincoln to sit down with Jefferson Davis to negotiate peace. The president, who once thought that saving the union ``without freeing any slave'' was an option, took that option off the table and stated that ``reunion and the emancipation'' were the only grounds for peace. Democrats tried to embarrass and discredit the president by accusing him of prolonging an unnecessary and unpopular war and by placing cartoons in newspapers depicting Lincoln as a ``Widow Maker'' and the killer of young men. Committed to the cause, Lincoln said, ``If at the end, when I come to lay down the reins of power, I have lost every friend on earth, I shall have at least one friend left, and that friend shall be down inside of me.'' His renewed commitment to the emancipation of blacks was also reflected in the portion of the Gettysburg Address where he said: ``That this nation under God, will have a new birth of freedom and that the government of the people, by the people and for the people shall not perish from this earth.'' Unfortunately, many critics are quick to quote from Lincoln's speeches prior to the Gettysburg Address, but not as quick to quote from his speeches after the Gettysburg address. Through Frederick Douglass, Elizabeth Keckley and the black soldiers who so bravely fought for the Union, Lincoln had gained a greater appreciation than most Americans for blacks. His struggle was not so much over how he would accept the new black citizens, but how his fellow white brothers and sisters who had only a stereotypical view of blacks would accept them. With Jefferson Davis leading the nation of the Confederate States, Lincoln was the only president in our lifetime who was faced with the possibility of a future where there would be two separate nations rather than the one that our founding fathers had established. Winning the war and uniting the country was a tremendous accomplishment and that alone should make Lincoln the greatest president of all time. Had he allowed the South to exist as a separate nation, and had we remained as two smaller countries instead of one we know today, becoming a superpower would have been only a dream and never a reality. As two separate (smaller) nations, we would not have grown to be a superpower and our defense of democracies around the world would have never been a possibility. How different the world be, had he failed. Had he lost the Civil War, what would have happened to blacks? What would have happened to the Republican Party, the Party of Lincoln? Would the defeat of the Union also have meant the destruction of this new fragile political party? Without the Party of Lincoln, would there have been the Thirteenth, Fourteenth and Fifteenth Amendments to the Constitution as well as other subsequent Civil Rights legislation to give blacks freedom, citizenship and the right to vote--all of which paved the way for America to elect its first black president? Even though members of the Party of Lincoln honor Ronald Reagan as a great president, he was no Abraham Lincoln. Reagan gave his service to this country, but Lincoln gave his life for his country. Without Lincoln there is a strong possibility that there would be no Republican Party today. We owe it to ourselves to honor this man by keeping the true Legacy of Lincoln alive. Republicans, African Americans and the world as a whole owe this lonely log-splitting country lawyer much more than we will ever know: perhaps even our lives. Please help us establish and maintain the Legacy of Lincoln through the Legacy of Lincoln Foundation so that future generations will know of his true greatness and his enduring contribution to the entire world.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 623, which requests that the President focus appropriate attention on neighborhood crime prevention and coordinate Federal efforts to participate in National Night Out. Today our suburban communities and neighborhoods throughout the nation are under attack. When our children are no longer free to play outside after school and families no longer feel safe in their suburban communities because gangs, and all the violence and drugs they bring with them, have spread to their communities; and when children are no longer safe in their own homes because thousands of sex offenders are online just waiting for their next prey; when the ``bad guy'' has no face and there are no boundaries thanks to the Internet--our very freedom itself is threatened. National Night Out is an extraordinary opportunity for citizens, law enforcement, businesses, and local officials to come together to raise awareness about these threats and fight crime where we live. Last year, over 37 million people participated in National Night Out. As a former Sheriff, I know how important it is to foster relationships between the community, law enforcement and local businesses and organizations. By coming together we really can create safer places for our children to grow and thrive. I urge all my colleagues to support H. Res. 623 and community policing efforts throughout their communities.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, today I rise in honor of the members of the Washington National Guard, including the 81st Brigade Combat Team that began returning from serving in Iraq on July 29, and thank them for their tireless and brave service in defense of our nation. Coming from all communities, backgrounds and professions of Washington State, members of the Army and Air National Guard of Washington continuously serve this country at home and abroad. The 81st, headquartered in Seattle, mobilized on August 18, 2008 and is composed of 2,478 citizen-soldiers from Washington, helped by an additional 843 soldiers from the California Army National Guard, eighty soldiers from the Texas Army National Guard and twelve soldiers from the Montana Army National Guard. While deployed, the 81st served as convoy security, force protection, and conducted provincial reconstruction and base operations missions. Previously, the 81st served in Iraq from March, 2004 to March, 2005. As the 81st continues its journey home over the next few weeks, I pray for their safety and their transition back to civilian life. The service all the men and women of the Washington Army and Air National Guard provide abroad and at home engenders hope, faith and security in the people of Washington. Therefore, as a representative of the 8th District of Washington and along with the rest of the Washington congressional delegation, I applaud and honor the sacrifice and service of the Washington Army and Air National Guard and wish them Godspeed on their journey back home.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the City of Newcastle, Washington, which was recently ranked seventeenth by Money Magazine on their list of ``America's Best Small Towns.'' I'm proud to represent Newcastle, a city that affords residents a unique opportunity to live near the ``hustle and bustle'' of everyday life while retreating into a rural small town setting. It is fitting that Money Magazine released its rankings the same week that Newcastle held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on a multi-year, multi- phase public works project that shows the city's true colors: leadership, patience and encouragement. Although I couldn't be at the celebration personally, I once again congratulate them on the expansion of the Coal Creek Parkway, to help alleviate the flow of traffic for its businesses and citizens. Newcastle has grown by leaps and bounds, developing and offering new attractions and conveniences for citizens and businesses alike. Officially incorporated in 1994, Newcastle's population at the time was 7,000. 15 years later, Newcastle's population has grown to about 10,000 and the city's amenities continue to grow as well. A new YMCA will open in September, complete with swimming pools, community rooms, and gyms. A new transit center currently under construction will provide new bus shelters and improve the city's main intersection, benefiting commuters, pedestrians and bicyclists. In true Pacific Northwest tradition, Newcastle also boasts a vast array of accessible natural resources and outdoor activities. Lake Boren Park, the city's best known location in its parks and trails system, offers walking trails, tennis and basketball courts, playground equipment for children and is home to special events: the Fourth of July fireworks celebration and Newcastle's summer series of ``Concerts in the Park.'' Of course, I must mention Newcastle's wonderful golf club; perhaps the city's most marketable asset as well as a terrific place for civic engagement and community fundraising. The course is truly beautiful and attracts attendees from all over the Pacific Northwest. Newcastle is a beautiful city filled with a great mix of small town charm, big city access and natural, fantastic neighborhoods and open spaces, and is very well-deserving of this award to of one of America's best small towns in the country. I look forward to continuing to support the goals and ideals of Newcastle residents and its elected leaders.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, as the Representative of the Eighth Congressional District of Washington, it is my privilege to serve a vibrant cross-section of citizens in both rural and urban settings. And in some cases, I represent residents who are making a swift transition between the two. This is especially true of Sammamish, a city of 40,000 that was recently named by Money magazine as the 12th ``best place to live'' in the entire country. I rise today to congratulate Sammamish on this great and well- deserved achievement. Nestled neatly on the eastern shore of Lake Sammamish and surrounded by a mix of urban, rural and beautiful open spaces, Sammamish is as beautiful as it sounds. Some of the qualities noted for their newly-awarded distinction include the excellent schools, safe neighborhoods and beautiful natural setting of the city. Of course, since I often have the opportunity to visit Sammamish, I can definitely attest to that truth. Historically a place of timber and agriculture, Sammamish, barely ten years old, has impressed the entire Pacific Northwest region with its rapid, elegant and responsible development. The quality of life, the political leadership and the energy of its residents make Sammamish a very special place. Perhaps most impressively, Sammamish has invested heavily in infrastructure and an expanding menu of city services without undermining its financial footing. Through careful budgeting and long- term planning, Sammamish is moving ahead without leaving responsible habits behind. As evidence, Sammamish recently received Standard and Poor's highest bond rating--AAA. I am proud to represent such a city in Congress and look forward to continue working with Sammamish residents and elected leaders to continue to make it one of the best places to live long into the future. Working cooperatively, the residents and leaders of Sammamish have created an exceptional place to live and visit in a short period of time. I congratulate Mayor Don Gerend, the city council and staff and residents of Sammamish for creating such a wonderful place to live for long-time residents and newcomers, alike.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, when the House Ways and Means Committee recently considered the health care overhaul proposal, I supported an amendment that said if our constituents must join the government-run public plan, so should Members of Congress. Unfortunately, the Democrats rejected this amendment. Mr. Speaker, I ask today: If the government-run plan is great enough for the American people, why isn't it good enough for the Members of Congress? Americans deserve the freedom to choose their health care. This plan doesn't give them that choice. It will force Americans into a plan that supporters of the bill simply don't want. We need to work together to protect and to strengthen the health care of every American, not take away choice and drive up costs. I urge my colleagues to reject this bill, to work together on a plan that will lower costs, while maintaining the freedoms of Americans to choose their health care. And that is just some straight shooting from the sheriff.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. 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 received as part of the Fiscal Year 2010 Department of Defense Appropriations Act, H.R. 3326. (1) $2,300,000 for the Washington National Guard for the Tactical Operations Center Requesting Entity: Washington State Military Department, Building One, Camp Murray, WA 98430-5000 Agency: NGB/WAARNG, Domestic Operations Account: National Guard Equipment, Army Guard--P-1/Line # 094 Funding Requested by: Rep. Dave Reichert, Rep. Brian Baird, and Rep. Jim McDermott Project Summary: This funding would help develop a rapidly deployable mobile command center, interoperable communications, and a forward domestic response command headquarters capable of providing defense support to civil authorities. This capability is needed to respond to state/interstate/national domestic emergencies, including terrorism and natural hazards like earthquakes, flooding, and fires. It would include tentage, vehicles, power, and communications to relocate support to any community to assist in the event of an emergency and to help in facilitating receipt and control of reinforcing support and supplies necessary to respond to protect citizens' life, property and the economy in the event of an emergency or a disaster. The Washington National Guard is frequently called upon to protect lives and property during state emergencies, however, we do not have any assets dedicated to domestic operations. The federal equipment that they do operate can be (and is) deployed on a regular basis making it unavailable for state emergencies. Acquisition of the Domestic Operations Response Equipment will enable the Military Department to fulfill their mission to the people of the state of Washington. Finance Plan: Cost of Domestic Operations Response Equipment--Finance Plan 1. The Washington Military Department's stated mission is to minimize the impact of emergencies and disasters on people, property, environment, and the economy of Washington State and the region; provide trained and ready forces for state and federal missions; and provide structured alternative education opportunities for at-risk youth. 2. Estimated costs of the equipment are as follows: a. Deployable Field Shelter--$817,493.00 b. Command & Control Vehicle--$325,000.00 c. Truck Mounted Incident Site System--$1,157,500.00 Total--$2,299,993.00 3. The Washington Military Department's mission is to protect lives and property while minimizing the disaster impact on communities, the environment, and the economy of Washington State. They provide a trained and ready force for state and federal missions and offer structured alternative education opportunities for at-risk youth. Acquisition of the Domestic Operations Response Equipment will enable the Military Department to fulfill their mission to the people of the state of Washington. (2) $2,000,000 for B.E. Meyers & Co for Thermal Pointer/Illuminator for Force Protection Requesting Entity: B.E. Meyers & Co., 14540 NE 91st St., Redmond, WA 98052 Agency: Special Operations Forces, U.S. Navy, RDT&E Account: R-1/PE#1160479BB; P-1/Line #243; Special Operations Forces Visual Augmentation Funding Requested by: Rep. Dave Reichert Project Summary: This project would develop a prototype for testing a Long-Range, Day and Night, Covert Thermal Target Designator for ground- based and airborne applications, compatible with thermal imagers presently in use by U.S. Armed Forces. This rapid research and development program would result in the delivery of 50 field ready, hand-held, targeting devices to the Navy Special Warfare community. There is a demonstrated need for a thermal target designator that is compatible with thermal imagers presently in use by U.S. Armed Forces. The Long-Range, Day and Night, Covert Thermal Target Designator would enable rapid and simple target acquisition while remaining invisible to the human eye and night vision goggles and would operate well in adverse environmental conditions such as fog, rain and dust. This target designator could also be easily and rapidly integrated into existing military operations with minimal additional training required. Infrared (IR) pointing lasers are routinely used for targeting in darkness but are ineffective during bright daylight because the IR wavelength is invisible to the naked eye, and night vision goggles are not typically used during the day. The warfighter could benefit from this thermal target designator capability because it will enable pointing, illuminating and targeting when coupled with the thousands of thermal imagers currently employed by the U.S. Military. Finance Plan: The proposed development effort is 12 months in duration at a total cost of $4.15 M. 50 production units will be delivered to the U.S. government at the conclusion of the 12 month effort. Travel is included. The funding plan is as follows: Cost Component Burdened Cost Labor--57.1% Materials--42.7% Travel--0.2% Source of funds is planned as follows: Cost Component Burdened Cost Total Government Funding--75% BE Meyers Funded--25% 3) $1,000,000 for Stellar Photonics, LLC for Dynamic Eye-Safe Imaging Laser (DESIL) Requesting Entity: Stellar Photonics, LLC, 14797 NE 95th Street, Redmond, WA 98052 Agency: U.S. Marine Corps: Joint Non-Lethal Weapons Directorate (JNLWD), RDT&E Account: R-1/PE #0603651M; P-1/Line #21 Funding Requested by: Rep. Dave Reichert Protect Summary: The purpose of funding is to support the existing EYE-SAFE (DESIL, Dynamic Eye-Safe Imaging Laser) laser research program and to improve the capabilities to the non-lethal Plasma Acoustic Shield System (PASS) in terms of making it safer for eyes and increasing the range, higher repetitions and coverage area. The PASS system can be used at check points for riot control and to visually intimidate opponents from entering a restricted area. By operating in the EYE-SAFE laser wavelength and spectrum, the DESIL technology could enable the military to operate their desired laser systems and applications without being in violation of the United Nations' ``Convention on Prohibitions or Restrictions on the Use of Certain Conventional Weapons Which May Be Deemed to Be Excessively Injurious or to Have Indiscriminate Effects'' Protocol IV on Blinding Laser Weapons, Vienna, 13th, October 1995. Finance Plan: ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CY 2010 CY 2011 FY 2010 Total ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Total dollar amount of the proposal:................... 2,027,225.60 1,832,076.83 3,859,302.43 Total Direct Materials................................. 505,545.00 505,545.00 1,011,090.00 Total Estimated Direct Labor........................... 221,050.00 200,375.00 421,425.00 Total Estimated Direct Costs........................... 898,850.83 812,323.89 1,711,174.72 General & Administrative Expenses...................... 1,031,840.21 932,511.19 1,964,351.40 Total Estimated Cost and Fee........................... 2,027,225.60 1,832,076.83 3,859,302.43 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- This office conducted site visits to meet with representatives from all five of the projects listed above. Enclosed with this disclosure are statements from the military demonstrating the need and use for these specific projects. Department of the Navy, Naval Special Warfare Command, San Diego, CA, April 6, 2009. Mr. Bruce Westcoat, Vice President, Business Development, BE Meyers Corporation, Redmond, WA. Dear Mr. Westcoat: The information provided by BE Meyers email of March 31, 2009 has been reviewed. Naval Special Warfare is very interested in a Thermal Pointer. The proliferation of Night Vision on the battlefield has allowed the enemy combatant to track the use of U.S. forces current Infrared lasers. This emerging technology will allow U.S. Special Operations Forces the ability to mark targets while minimizing the ability to be compromised based on enemy forces current NVG technology. Your company's continued interest in developing better products for Naval Special Warfare is greatly appreciated. The product as described in the email is very desirable and appears to be an attainable solution in support of Miniature Day/Night Sight (MDNS), Annex to U.S. Special Operations Command Special Operations Peculiar Modification (SOPMOD), of December 16, 2004. Additionally, the Thermal Pointer may have application to other Special Operation Forces and conventional units. The Thermal Laser Pointer, if developed, would enhance our ability to engage opposing forces, in the prosecution of the Global War on Terrorism. Regrettably, funding is not currently available to fund the development of the Thermal Pointer System. My points of contact for this matter are Mr. Bruce Holmes and Mr. Calvin Hastings. Sincerely, T. H. DeGHETTO, Captain, U.S. Navy.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Last week, I received a note from a constituent about the proposed government takeover of our health care. She said, As a small business owner, we are struggling already. We provide our employees and their families with insurance and cannot afford additional taxes. Please continue to fight this fight, keep up this fight, keep us from rising taxes, keep us from costing small businesses more taxes. That's why I stand here today to give a voice to my constituents who are extremely afraid, frightened, worried about this massive $1.1 trillion proposal and a new 8 percent tax on their small business. The stimulus isn't stimulating the economy. Unemployment continues to rise, and now we want to slap a new tax on job creators. People are hurting in my district and across the Nation. This bill is out of touch with reality, out of touch with the American people.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of H.R. 3293, the Fiscal Year 2010 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education Appropriations Act. (1) $375,000 for the City of Bellevue, WA Wrap-Around Services Program Requesting Entity: City of Bellevue, P.O. Box 90012, Bellevue, WA 98009 Agency: Department of Health and Human Services Account: Administration for Children and Families (ACF)--Social Services Funding Requested by: Rep. Dave Reichert The Wrap-Around Services Program is an innovative partnership between the City of Bellevue, the Bellevue School District and United Way of King County. Working collaboratively, the program coordinates and provides services on-site at Lake Hills Elementary School to meet the educational and developmental needs of the diverse children and youth population served by the school and community. The program encourages local resident and family participation in school life and maximizes the public's investment in local school facilities by making them available for educational and recreational activities. Lake Hills Elementary School serves approximately 500 students in preschool through fifth grade. It is an ethnically diverse school with 59% of students speaking a first language other than English and 60% of students participate in the free or reduced price lunch program. The Wrap-Around Services Program addresses health and wellness in areas including academic growth, school engagement, adult education, mental health counseling, medical and dental care, family support and community building. Services are provided through a broad range of community partnerships with social service agencies, mental health providers, non-profit community groups, faith-based organizations, local businesses and other partners. Wrap-Around Services began as a 3-year pilot project and transitioned into a program in the fall of 2008. In November of 2007, the Wrap- Around Services Evaluation Report was completed by Business Government Community Connections, an independent evaluator. The Evaluation Report showed the project produced student academic improvement, gains in school readiness for entering students and strengthening of parent and family involvement in the school and community. In particular, kindergarten students are coming to school better prepared since the Wrap-Around Project started. Family participation has risen, with 70- 80% of families visiting the school more than once during the school year. Non-profit organizations, like Jubilee REACH Center, have purchased and established a community center to be within walking distance of Lake Hills School. Federal funding will augment partner funding and allow the expansion of the program to three more schools (two elementary and one middle) with similar diverse demographics to Lake Hills Elementary. Finance Plan:

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. On Thursday, July 23, 2009, I intended to vote ``nay'' on rollcall vote No. 616 to enable the resolution to be considered on the House floor.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, under the current health care proposal in the House, the health coverage of 16 million Americans who hold individual market health plans is in jeopardy. We've heard, ``If you like it, you can keep it,'' but this bill breaks that promise, takes away the freedom to choose, and drives up costs. Under this bill, private providers of individual health plans will be prohibited from enrolling even one new member. It's simple economics. Without new enrollees, the existing members will only get older, get sicker. Costs will skyrocket and so will the premiums. Cost will prevent the providers from providing quality coverage. Cost will force 16 million Americans out of their current health care coverage. This is not choice. This is not freedom. Last week, I offered an amendment in the House Ways and Means Committee to stop this. The amendment was rejected. I urge my colleagues to reject this bill so we can discuss solid solutions that will protect and strengthen health care of every American.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, our economy is struggling, and unemployment is near 10 percent. Yet the health care proposal being considered in Congress asks our job creators, the small businesses of America across this country, to pay a new 8 percent tax. Last week, in the Ways and Means Committee, I proposed to exempt small businesses from this penalty tax if it would result in businesses having to lay off workers, cut wages, or reduce jobs. America's businesses are hurting, and we're asking them to pay more taxes? Yet, my amendment was rejected. Requiring small businesses to pay a penalty tax is no way to help them stay in business and create jobs. American workers will be harmed. Workers will bear the new cost through lost jobs and smaller wages. I urge my colleagues to reject this bill. Americans need the confidence that their jobs are not in jeopardy, that we are working to protect and strengthen their health care, while supporting the small businesses that create jobs. And these aren't speaking points. That's just some straight shooting from the sheriff.

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of the Fiscal Year 2010 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. (1) $750,000 for the M Street SE Grade Separation Project Requesting Entity: City of Auburn, 25 West Main Street, Auburn, WA 98001 Agency: Federal Highway Administration Account: Surface Transportation Priorities Funding Requested by: Rep. Dave Reichert Project Summary: This request will allow the City to complete right of way acquisition. Once completed, the grade separation will provide indirect economic benefits to the regional Ports of Seattle and Tacoma, and the BNSF railroad; it will also allow continued growth and increased economic impact, which will proportionally increase the number of jobs in the region. finance plan: ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tracking Anticipated Secured Funding Source (million) (million) (million) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- City of Auburn.................................................. .............. .............. 2.2 FY08 Appropriations............................................. .............. .............. 0.12 City of Auburn--PWTF............................................ $2.00 .............. .............. 2010 Appropriations............................................. 4.60 .............. .............. FMSIB--State Funds.............................................. .............. .............. 6.00 City of Auburn.................................................. .............. $1.20 .............. BNSF............................................................ .............. 1.10 .............. Ports........................................................... .............. 1.50 .............. TIB............................................................. 2.00 .............. .............. Federal STP Grant............................................... 1.70 .............. ..............

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of H.R. 3183, the Fiscal Year 2010 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. (1) $2,600,000 for the King County, WA for Duwamish and Green River Basin Requesting Entity: King County, 516 Third Ave, Rm 1200, Seattle, WA 98104 Agency: Corps of Engineers Account: Construction Funding requested by: Reps. Dave Reichert, Norm Dicks, Jim McDermott, Adam Smith This project supports the restoration of the Duwamish Green watershed by implementing a range of habitat restoration projects for the recovery of ESA listed Chinook in a high priority watershed. The projects are coordinated to the extent possible with flood protection along the lower parts of the river where regional industrial and manufacturing centers are located. The watershed is the second most populous watershed in Puget Sound and encompasses 15 cities, including part of the city of Seattle, the water supply for the City of Tacoma, forest and agricultural production districts, as well as multiple natural resources and public parks and open space. Finance Plan: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Project name Phase Federal share ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Mill Creek........................ Design.............. $250,000 Riverview Park.................... Construction........ 3,000,000 Upper Springbrook Creek........... Construction........ 1,000,000 Levee Bank Maintenance............ Construction........ 2,250,000

Mr. REICHERT

Mr. REICHERT. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the City of Wilkeson, Washington, for reaching its centennial year in 2009. Wilkeson is located on the timber-lined Carbon River at the doorstep of Mount Rainier. This small town of 450 residents has a rich economic history in timber and sandstone mining. In fact, the sandstone used to build the Washington State Capitol came from Wilkeson. Samuel Wilkeson, a railroad pioneer and the City's namesake, called the forests of Mount Rainier and the Cascade Mountains the ``most enchanting forests on the globe.'' Most tellingly, the City's rich history is still visible: five properties in Wilkeson can be found on Washington's historical register. Mayor Janet Kepka should be proud of the City she leads. I am proud to represent such a community and sincerely congratulate the City of Wilkeson on this tremendous achievement.