Bill Shuster

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the accomplishments of the Bishop Guilfoyle High School girls basketball team of Altoona, PA. As the 2009 Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association Class A girls basketball champions, the Lady Marauders have shown the discipline and teamwork required to achieve greatness. The Lady Marauders have a rich history of achievement. Having won two PIAA Class A championships in three seasons, and five overall, the Lady Marauders are no strangers to success. Their season's record of 30-1 is tied for the second most in a single season in Lady Marauder program history. This year's season came to a close on March 21st at University Park, PA, and resulted in a 49-27 defeat of Nativity BMV by Bishop Guilfoyle's Lady Marauders. The hard work and talent of the nineteen players, as well as their five coaches, most certainly led to this rewarding experience. These young women are exemplary athletes and their pride in their performance is an inspiration to all of Blair County. I believe that this championship will be one of many successes in the lives of these talented players and coaches, and I congratulate them for all their efforts.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the accomplishments of Ms. Annette Godissart, the recipient of the Bedford County Rotary Club's 2009 Citizen of the Year Award. As this year's award winner, Annette has shown exemplary service as a citizen of Bedford County. In addition to her duties as a Laboratory and Cardio-Pulmonary Manager at UPMCBedford Hospital, Annette has remained steadfast in her service to the community as a volunteer, with an emphasis on the youth of Bedford County. Whether serving the Bedford County School System as a member of the Athletic or Technology Committee, or acting as umpire for youth softball games, her efforts to aid in the positive development of Bedford County youths have been constant. Annette has been integral to the success of the Bedford County ``Reality Tour'' at the Bedford County Jail. Here, on a monthly basis, she has spent the last five years working to convey the importance of remaining drug-free to hundreds of local teenagers by showing them the stark realities of drug abuse. This type of selfless volunteerism is another way in which Annette seeks to mold the future leaders of Bedford County. The artistic and civic-minded aspects of Annette's community service are shown in her involvement in community theatre as well as the Boy Scouts of America. In the theatre Annette entertains Bedford County residents through her stage talents, appearing in several shows each year with the Bedford County Players, a local non-profit theater group that promotes the involvement of youth in on stage productions. With respect to scouting, after years of service to her two sons, and the Boy Scouts, as a scout leader, Annette remains active as a merit badge counselor, where she helps scouts to earn their Theatre Merit Badges. Through her dedication to community service, and her enduring commitment to the young men and women of Bedford County, Annette Godissart is an exemplary citizen who embraces the Rotary Motto of ``Service above Self.'' She is deserving of this year's Citizen of the Year Award, and I congratulate her for all her efforts.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the accomplishments of Mr. Martin J. Marasco. As this year's recipient of the Penn's Woods Council Boy Scouts of America's Distinguished Citizen Award, Marty has shown exemplary performance as a businessman, a community leader, a philanthropist, and a role model. Through his 39 years affiliation with the Altoona-Blair County Development Corporation, Marty has worked at developing and delivering purposeful and creative programs and services involving all aspects of the economic development process to his community. He is responsible for much of the industrial and commercial economic expansion that has been crucial to Blaire County's growth and development. Marty's experiences in all facets of economic development have enabled him to be successful in his dealings with local, state, and federal agencies as well as commercial and industrial clients. His ability to capitalize on both public and private financing vehicles has led to the creation and preservation of 17,580 jobs, and serves to demonstrate how good business sense and strong work ethic can benefit the individual as well as the community. The diverse background and numerous accomplishments Marty has spent a lifetime working toward have allowed him to be extremely active in his community. He is Past Chair and Member of the Pastoral Council at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, as well as a Member and Vice Chairman of the Executive Roundtable of Blair County. Always supportive of community sports activities, Marty coached instructional level through elementary basketball for 25 years. He also served, for 8 years, as the treasurer and coach for the Altoona Little League baseball program. As a family man, Marty has been a husband to his wife Carol for nearly 42 years; he is a father to eight children, and a grandfather to thirteen grandchildren. Marty's efforts and accomplishments serve to exemplify great service to self, family, and community. For these reasons I commend those who have seen fit to honor Marty with this year's Distinguished Citizen Award, and I too recognize and congratulate Marty Marasco for all he has done.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory and celebrate the life of Bruno DeGol of Gallitzin, Pennsylvania who passed away on May 14th surrounded by his family and friends at the age of 86. It is not an easy task to summarize a life so rich in accomplishment as the one lived by Bruno DeGol. For many of my constituents in Pennsylvania Bruno DeGol was best known as an amazingly successful entrepreneur, a noted philanthropist and as someone who never forgot his roots in the community where he grew up and prospered. I agree with that sentiment and I can say without question Bruno will be missed by all who knew him and knew of him. You don't get to be as successful in life as Bruno DeGol by backing down to a challenge and Bruno never did. In World War II he took part in the D-Day Invasion as a soldier with the Army's 102nd Infantry Division. Bruno left the Army at the end of the war with an honorable service record that included the Bronze Star and numerous medals and commendations for his service. Like so many other returning veterans looking for a start in post-war America, Bruno took a chance and opened his first of many business ventures in 1950. By 1972, his business, a construction materials company, had grown and expanded to four locations in Blair and Cambria Counties in Pennsylvania. Today, through careful expansion by his sons, DeGol Brothers Lumber now serves consumers in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and Florida. Bruno was a consummate entrepreneur with razor sharp business acumen. However, he will be even more fondly remembered for the way he gave back to the people and the community he loved so much. Bruno's philanthropy is most evident in the good work that continues to be done by the Bruno & Lena DeGol Family Foundation as well as his long- standing support of St. Francis University. Bruno built his version of the American Dream through hard work, determination and the support of his loving family. In fact, even though he was successful in so many things, building his family with his wife Lena was Bruno's most significant achievement. His five children; Don, Dave, Gloria, Bruno Jr., and Dennis and his 18 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren have been left a tremendous legacy to build upon. Bruno DeGol will be remembered as a visionary and a humanitarian in business and community service. He will be missed by his family, his friends and by the countless people he touched throughout his long and wonderful life. I send my thoughts and my prayers to the DeGol family in their time of loss and ask the House to join me in honoring Bruno DeGol and celebrating his life.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. SHUSTER. I yield myself such time as I may consume. The ceremonial golden spike hammered at Promontory Summit, Utah, May 10, 1869, marked the completion of the transcontinental railroad, one of the Nation's greatest engineering masterpieces. It also marked the birth of what would become the greatest rail network in the world and 140 years later, we are still reaping the benefits of our ancestors' vision. The United States now has over 140,000 miles of railroads, making up the transportation backbone of this Nation. Our railroads are environmentally friendly, producing significantly less pollution than other modes of transportation. A train can haul one ton of freight 436 miles on one gallon of diesel fuel, and it is three times cleaner than other modes. Trains also help to alleviate the congestion on our crowded highways. One train can actually take 280 trucks off the road. The deregulation law of 1980, the Staggers Act, has been an unparalleled success. We must take great care to protect the regulatory environment that has allowed the railroads to thrive and resist any effort that would undo all of the progress that this industry has made in efficiency and safety. On the passenger rail side, last year President Bush signed into law an Amtrak reauthorization that will take this country into the next generation of passenger rail service. The law makes important reforms to Amtrak and also creates a role for the private sector in the passenger rail industry. The Amtrak reauthorization, the first in a decade, created a framework for a public-private partnership for the construction of true high-speed rail corridors all over this Nation. High-speed rail promises safe, fast, and convenient service--all the while helping to alleviate aviation and highway congestion we face in this country. The continued success of the railroad industry is vital to this country's economy. I would therefore urge passage of H. Res. 367, which would create National Train Day on May 9.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I acknowledge the efforts of the Theodore Burr Covered Bridge Society as they approach their 50th anniversary. The Theodore Burr Covered Bridge Society's mission of promoting interest and active participation in the preservation and restoration of the remaining historical covered bridges in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania serves to ensure that important aspects of our community's rich history remain intact. In doing so future generations will be afforded the opportunity to see first hand the beauty and efficiency that is associated with early Pennsylvania architecture. Named after Theodore Burr, the early American engineer, the Theodore Burr Covered Bridge Society's efforts honor the life and works of Mr. Burr, while simultaneously bettering our community as a whole. For this I congratulate them on their 50th anniversary.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the accomplishments of Boy Scout Troop 127 as it celebrates its 90th anniversary on April 18, 2009. Troop 127 has played a crucial role in developing the character of over 1,000 boys, and continues to do so today with thirty-six Scouts. Troop 127 was founded in 1919 (originally as Troop 7) with the Presbyterian Church of Falling Spring as its sponsoring organization. The Reverend William L. Mudge was the first Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 7, which began with 19 Scouts and grew to 46 by 1925. Troop 127 has a long history of more than 60 years of continued summer camping and service support to Keystone Area Council's Hidden Valley Scout Reservation in Loysville, Pennsylvania. Their outdoor hiking tradition includes extended trips across the country, including, Mt. Katandin, Mt. Washington, and Pisgah National Forest. These outdoor adventures, which span the Eastern United States but also include excursions as far away as Alaska and Florida, serve to educate and develop character amongst participants. Boy Scout Troop 127 is currently led by The Reverend Wayne Lowe, Jr., Charles Q. Smith, and Scoutmaster Donn Schoonover. The leadership of these gentlemen and those that led the Troop in the past has inspired more than 125 youth to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. Troop 127's contribution to the community and to Pennsylvania as a whole is without question. Troop 127's proud tradition of 90 years of Scouting service to the Greater Chambersburg and Franklin County Communities embodies the spirit of Scouting and serves to encourage Pennsylvania's boys to work hard and give back to their community. I congratulate Troop 127 in their celebration of the 90th anniversary of such a wonderful organization, as it has brought a greater appreciation to our area and has surely been an asset to the community.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mrs. Joyce Herncane of Schellsburg for her efforts in preserving the history and heritage of Bedford County and its people. Mrs. Herncane led efforts, on behalf of the Schellsburg Bicentennial Committee, to celebrate the town's 2008 bicentennial. This included the opening of a museum that documented much of Schellsburg's past, and was made free to the public throughout the summer. This exhibit, brimming with memorabilia of the town's beginnings as well as items from throughout Schellsburg's history, contained displays ranging from school and sports history, to a saddlebag belonging to Peter Schell that was carried in the 1908 Centennial Parade. Exhibits paid tribute to author Dean Koontz and songwriter Maribeth Derry as well. The town's bicentennial activities culminated with a Christmas Home Tour of new and historic Schellsburg homes. All these events served to fund the continued restoration and preservation of the Old Log Church and Cemetery in Schellsburg. I congratulate Mrs. Herncane for all her hard work. Her efforts, to preserve and make known the history of her community, will afford future generations the opportunity to benefit from Schellsburg's rich past.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the efforts of Mr. Charles Q. ``C.Q.'' Smith. Mr. Smith has devoted a lifetime to the development and nurturing of young citizens and future leaders, as the scoutmaster of Scout Troop 127. CQ Smith entered the world of Cub Scouting in 1948 at the age of 9, joining Cub Scout Pack 127. At the age of 11, he crossed over to Boy Scouting with Troop 127, and by age 13 he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout with one Eagle Palm. His commitment to attaining this rank in such a short period of time is a tribute to his determined passion to achieve and succeed in life. Following his graduation from Lafayette College in 1961 with the highest honors and a long list of academic and social accomplishments, Mr. Smith completed a graduate degree from the University of Chicago in 1963. This was followed immediately by active military service in Germany where he formed Boy Scout Troop 444, which soon became the largest and most active Scout Troop in the Transatlantic Council. For 55 years of his adult life, Charles, has been an inspiration to hundreds of young men who have come to know and revere him as a caring and motivating mentor. He has instilled in each of them traits of character, citizenship, fitness of mind and body, and a full appreciation for the outdoors. Serving with distinction as Scoutmaster for Troop 127 for 25 of its 90 years, Mr. Smith has led his Troop to all of the high adventure destinations that Scouting has to offer, as well as participating in National and World Jamborees. He has also provided his scouts with experiences in some of the finest natural environments in this region and across the World. Through all of his endeavors, Mr. Smith's accomplishments, be they educational, spiritual, or professional, stand as models for all Scouts and Scouters to admire. For these reasons I congratulate Charles Q ``C.Q.'' Smith for all that he has done to better our community and nation as a whole.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to salute the service of Former Pennsylvania State Representative Bob Bastian of Friedens, Somerset County, whose meritorious service to the Boy Scouts of America has inspired multiple generations to benefit from all that Scouting has to offer. The Bastian family has a long tradition of service to the community through scouting. Bob's father, Fred, his two sons, Scott and Tim and four of his grandchildren are all members of the Boy Scouts. As an enthusiastic contributor to his community, Representative Bastian is active in the Penn Woods Council committee as well as a member of the district committee for the Scouts' Forbes Trail District; and while many of his efforts to better his community have been realized as a product of his tenure as State Representative from 1999 to 2009, his lifetime commitment to excellence through scouting has and will continue to inspire boys throughout Somerset. Currently, Bastian is working to recognize the institution of scouting by chairing the Penn's Woods Council's Centennial Celebration Committee. In looking back nearly one hundred years to the inception of the Boy Scouts of America, I am confident that Mr. Bastian's sixty years of exemplary performance in scouting and in life are proof of what all boys can achieve through scouting.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and report the passing of an American patriot and a neighbor, Colonel Nicholas George ``Nick'' Psaki, Jr., of Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. Colonel Psaki passed away on the afternoon of March 14th at the age of 89. The passing of Colonel Psaki is yet another reminder for all of us that we are losing a generation of great Americans who served their country in the wars that shaped the world we live in today. The lives and the stories of these Americans, the members of the Greatest Generation, must never be forgotten. Colonel Psaki was truly a part of that Greatest Generation. He fought with distinction in three wars, seeing combat in World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam. Colonel Psaki made his mark on the golden age of Army aviation and retired from the Army a veteran pilot with over 5,000 hours in flight time spent in fixed and rotary wing aircraft. Throughout his distinguished military career, Colonel Psaki received numerous medals and commendations for his service to his nation. Among those decorations are the Distinguished Service Medal, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Purple Heart, the Silver Star, the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star with 1st Oak Leaf Cluster, the Combat Infantry Badge Second Award, the Master Army Aviator Wings, as well as numerous campaign ribbons and service merit badges. In addition to his combat service, Colonel Psaki was a graduate of the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, as well as the Armed Forces Staff College at Norfolk, Virginia, and the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Preceding these military degrees, Colonel Psaki attended Kings College in New York and received a bachelor's degree in history from the University of Southern California. He is survived by his wife Cindy, his son Nicholas, daughters Diane, Denise, Regina, and Alexandra, three grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren. Colonel Nick Psaki was a patriot, a family man and an active civic member. For all who came in contact with him, Nicholas Psaki will be remembered as a gentleman who exemplified quiet dignity, thoughtfulness and generosity. Colonel Psaki was a class act in and out of uniform and his absence will be noticeably felt by a grateful nation and by all who knew him. My thoughts and prayers and those of my constituents are with the members of the Psaki family as they grieve over their loss. Colonel Psaki was a great American. He will be missed and he will be remembered.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. I thank the gentlewoman for yielding. With our current economic situation, I think it's vital that we encourage responsibility. Congress is spending all of its time and energy rewarding those who have acted irresponsibly. We must not ignore those who have played by the rules and lived within their means. Responsible homeowners are being left out of the equation, and that must change. We must recognize responsibility. For just that reason, last night I introduced legislation to give responsible homeowners who have paid and continue to pay their mortgages on time a $5,000 tax credit. This isn't another bailout or a taxpayer-backed debt obligation. It's a way for hardworking American families to keep more of the money that they earn so they can keep acting responsibly and help our economy grow. Just because responsible homeowners are paying their mortgages on time does not mean that they don't need help. The administration claims their plan will help one in nine homeowners. My commonsense plan helps the other eight of nine homeowners the administration and the Democrats ignore. Mr. Speaker, this is simple. We cannot continue the policies pursued by the administration and my Democratic colleagues that reward irresponsibility and dependency. To pull ourselves out of this crisis we need real change. We must pursue policies that foster a culture of responsibility. So I urge my colleagues to take a look at my legislation and support it, because my plan does do just that.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I submit for the Record a letter to the Honorable Nancy Pelosi, the Honorable John Olver, and the Honorable Dave Obey from myself and Chairwoman Corrine Brown regarding infrastructure enhancement projects included in the economic stimulus bill and the potential impact on existing utility infrastructure. Washington, DC, February 12, 2009. Hon. Nancy Pelosi, Office of the Speaker, H-232, U.S. Capitol, Washington, DC. Hon. John Olver, Chairman, Trans-HUD Subcommittee, Room 2358-A, Rayburn HOB, Washington, DC. Hon. Dave Obey, Chairman, House Appropriations Committee, H-218, U.S. Capitol, Washington, DC. Dear Colleagues: As the Chairwoman and Ranking Member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials Subcommittee, we wanted to take this opportunity to bring to your attention a serious issue impacting utility infrastructure and ratepayers. The economic stimulus bill that we are debating directs billion of dollars toward infrastructure enhancement projects--with a significant portion allocated for highway construction. As is common with highway projects, their construction may require the relocation of existing utility infrastructure located within the existing public right-of- way or adjacent to the right-of-way, including natural gas distribution pipelines and power lines (both overhead and underground). With the substantial increase in federal funding provided by the stimulus package to states, counties and cities for highway projects, it is our understanding that utilities want to make sure that their customers are not asked to absorb major new and unforeseen costs. As you may know, the current blueprint for how natural gas and electric utilities are reimbursed for these relocation costs is not uniform. Some states have laws or policies that allow for federal highway funds to be used to cover all or a portion of the costs of relocation. However, in many states, utilities are not reimbursed and these costs are ultimately borne by utility ratepayers. These increased costs to ratepayers could potentially negatively impact the goals of the stimulus package by creating a de facto ``economic stimulus bill'' surcharge in their future rates. Additionally, pipeline and power line relocation associated with highway construction are often hampered by a lack of coordination and communication between the highway authorities and utilities. This can result in project delays and interruption of utility service. With the large number of projects that will be funded by the stimulus, there is a need for an effective consultative process under which utility companies and highway project mangers would discuss and can reach agreement on construction scheduling. Such a process would allow all parties to discuss the timing of construction and relocation and secure the availability of labor and material so that the projects funded by the stimulus bill can advance expeditiously. Let's make these taxpayer dollars work effectively by ensuring that highway infrastructure projects not only proceed in a coordinated and efficient manner but also allow utilities to be fairly reimbursed. We appreciate your attention to this important matter and look forward to working with you to advance the economy of our country while protecting the interests of taxpayers and utility rate payers. Sincerely, Bill Shuster, Member of Congress. Corrine Brown, Member of Congress.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, consistent with the Republican Leadership's policy on earmarks, I submit the following: Requesting Member: Congressman Bill Shuster (PA-9). Bill Number: H.R. 1105--FY 2009 Omnibus Appropriations Act. Division B--Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies. Project Name: Operation Our Town. Account: OJP--Bryne Discretionary Grants. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Operation Our Town. Address of Requesting Entity: 5506 6th Avenue Rear, Altoona, PA 16602. Description of Request/Justification of Federal Funding: $300,000 for Operation Our Town. It is my understanding that funding for this project will be used to facilitate partnerships between community and business leaders to fight illegal drug use and crime through proven law enforcement, treatment, and prevention strategies. Operation Our Town focuses on coordinating resources to reduce the threats faced by drugs and related crimes as part of the ongoing national war on drugs and gangs. It is also my understanding that approximately 33 percent of funding would be used for coordination with law enforcement, approximately 17 percent of funding would be used for prevention, approximately 17 percent of funding would be used for treatment, approximately 30 percent of funding would be used for blight eradication, and approximately 3 percent would be used for other expenses. Project Name: Franklin County Emergency Services Alliance-- Interoperable Communications Initiative. Account: COPS Law Enforcement Technology. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Franklin County Emergency Services Alliance. Address of Requesting Entity: 4 North Main Street, Chambersburg, PA 17201. Description of Request/Justification of Federal Funding: $500,000 for Interoperable Communications Initiative. It is my understanding that funding for this project will be used to purchase and upgrade equipment for first responders in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. Improved equipment will increase emergency, disaster assistance, and recovery efforts. Increased interoperability will greatly improve the ability of Franklin County to assist in supporting critical response efforts for nearby major metropolitan areas and federal facilities including Baltimore, MD, Washington, DC, Harrisburg, PA, Letterkenny Army Depot (PA), Camp David (MD), and Fort Detrick (MD). It is also my understanding that funding will be used for the acquisition of emergency services communications units, with approximately 40 percent of funding used to acquire portable units, approximately 40 percent of funding used to acquire base and mobile units, and approximately 20 percent of funding used to acquire pager units. Project Name: Saint Francis University Center for Global Competitiveness. Account: International Trade Administration. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: St. Francis University. Address of Requesting Entity: 117 Evergreen Drive, Loretto, PA 15940. Description of Request/Justification of Federal Funding: $350,000 for Saint Francis University Center for Global Competitiveness. It is my understanding that funding for this project will be used to create jobs and stimulate economic development by assisting local small and medium sized businesses. Specifically, the Saint Francis University Center for Global Competitiveness provides specialized marketing assistance to small and medium sized global businesses in a ten county region helping them to become more competitive in a global economy including international trade and expansion into domestic markets. It is also my understanding that approximately 50 percent of funding will be used for labor costs, approximately 40 percent of funding will be used for coordination with Saint Vincent College, and approximately 10 percent of funding will be used for equipment and other expenses. Division C--Energy and Water Development. Project Name: South Central Pennsylvania Environmental Improvement Program. Account: Corps of Engineers, Construction. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: US Army Corps of Engineers-- Baltimore District. Address of Requesting Entity: 10 South Howard Street, Baltimore, MD 21201. Description of Request/Justification of Federal Funding: $4.5 million for South Central Environmental Infrastructure. It is my understanding that funding for the South Central Pennsylvania Environmental Improvement Program will provide design and construction assistance for water-related environmental infrastructure and resource protection and development projects in South Central Pennsylvania. The program provides the funding necessary for local communities to install basic sewer and water systems and is a key aspect of building and enhancing infrastructure for many rural communities in Pennsylvania. The program was authorized in the Water Resources Development Act of 1992 (P.L. 102-580). It is also my understanding that funding will be administered by the US Army Corps of Engineers as authorized to provide design and construction assistance for water-related environmental infrastructure and resource protection and development projects in South Central Pennsylvania. Project Name: Juniata Hybrid Locomotive. Account: Department of Energy, EERE. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Pennsylvania State University. Address of Requesting Entity: 17 Old Main, University Park, PA 16802. Description of Request/Justification of Federal Funding: $713,625 for Juniata Hybrid Locomotive. It is my understanding that funding for this project will be used to assess and develop technological alternatives to diesel locomotives and to develop a more energy efficient and environmentally friendly locomotive for yard, local, and main line applications. Associated with this research effort is the development of energy management and control technologies required to maximize the energy efficiency of hybrid locomotives. Converting the existing locomotive fleet to new technologies would reduce both emissions and our dependence on foreign oil, reducing impacts on the environment and improving our national and energy security. It is also my understanding that approximately 20 percent of funding would be used for labor costs, approximately 20 percent of funding would be used for engineering consultants, approximately 20 percent of funding would be used for charger components, and approximately 40 percent of funding would be used for locomotive components. Division E--Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies. Project Name: Flight 93 National Memorial. Account: National Park Service, Construction. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: National Park Service. Address of Requesting Entity: 109 West Main Street, Suite 104, Somerset, PA 15501. Description of Request/Justification of Federal Funding: $1.2 million for Flight 93 National Memorial. It is my understanding that funding will used for construction costs at the Flight 93 National Memorial in Somerset County, Pennsylvania. The Flight 93 National Memorial honors the men and women who gave their lives in the first counterattack of the Global War on Terror on September 11, 2001. The Flight 93 National Memorial Act (P.L. 107-226) established the creation of the Flight 93 National Memorial ``to commemorate the passengers and crew of United Flight 93 who, on September 11, 2001, courageously gave their lives thereby thwarting a planned attack on our Nation's Capital.'' It is also my understanding that funding will be used by the National Park Service as authorized for construction and associated costs such as design development and construction management at the Flight 93 National Memorial. Project Name: Historic Mishler Theatre. Account: National Park Service, Save America's Treasures. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Blair County Arts Foundation. Address of Requesting Entity: 1212 Twelfth Avenue, Altoona, PA 16601. Description of Request/Justification of Federal Funding: $150,000 for the Historic Mishler Theatre. It is my understanding that funding for this project will be used for renovations to the Mishler Theatre in Blair County, Pennsylvania. Known for its cultural and architectural significance and listed on the National Register of Historical Places, renovations to the Mishler Theatre are vital to preserving and restoring this vibrant center for the arts. It is also my understanding that funding will be used for the acquisition costs, labor, and construction related to improvements of the facility for performers and patrons. Division F--Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies. Project Name: Altoona Regional Health System, Equipment. Account: Department of Health and Human Services, Health and Human Services Administration (HRSA)--Health Facilities and Services. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Altoona Regional Health System. Address of Requesting Entity: 620 Howard Avenue, Altoona, PA 16601. Description of Request/Justification of Federal Funding: $238,000 for Altoona Regional Health System for facilities and equipment. It is my understanding that funding for this project will be used to purchase digital mammography and radiology equipment in preparation for developing a breast imaging center. This project will ensure improved accessibility for residents in Blair County and surrounding areas to state of the art breast imaging to replace traditional film-based mammography. It is also my understanding that funding will be used for the purchase of digital mammography screening equipment and radiology work station equipment. I also understand that the funding provided is only a piece of the total funding required for this project and anticipated allocations may change. Project Name: Nason Hospital, Equipment. Account: Department of Health and Human Services, Health and Human Services Administration (HRSA)--Health Facilities and Services. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Nason Hospital. Address of Requesting Entity: 105 Nason Drive, Roaring Spring, PA 16673. Description of Request/Justification of Federal Funding: $143,000 for Nason Hospital, Roaring Spring, PA for purchase of equipment. It is my understanding that funding for this project will be used to purchase a high definition camera system for orthopedic arthroscopic procedures. This equipment will increase productivity within the operating room and produce more confident diagnoses, benefiting both patients and physicians. It is also my understanding that approximately 75 percent of funding will be used for equipment and installation and 25 percent of funding will be used for a service agreement. I also understand that the funding provided is only a piece of the total funding required for this project and anticipated allocations may change. Project Name: Somerset Hospital, Equipment. Account: Department of Health and Human Services, Health and Human Services Administration (HRSA)--Health Facilities and Services. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Somerset Hospital. Address of Requesting Entity: 225 South Central Avenue, Somerset, PA 15501. Description of Request/Justification of Federal Funding: $190,000 for Somerset Hospital, Somerset, PA for facilities and equipment. It is my understanding that funding for this project will be used to purchase equipment to increase patient safety, enhance efficiency, and reduce operational costs. These technology upgrades will greatly benefit residents of the Somerset, Pennsylvania area. It is also my understanding that approximately 15 percent of funding would be used for a pharmacy system/bar coding, approximately 60 percent of funding would be used for electronic medical records, and approximately 25 percent of funding would be used for physician order entry system. I also understand that the funding provided is only a piece of the total funding required for this project and anticipated allocations may change. Division I--Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Project Name: AMTRAN Transit System Improvement. Account: Department of Transportation, Buses and Bus Facilities. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: AMTRAN. Address of Requesting Entity: 3301 Fifth Avenue, Altoona, PA 16602. Description of Request/Justification of Federal Funding: $475,000 for Bus Facility, AMTRAN Transit System. It is my understanding that funding for this project will be used by AMTRAN, the local transit system in Altoona, PA, for improvements to their system. Specifically, it is my understanding that these funds will be used for a new bus facility. It is also my understanding that approximately 40 percent of funding will be used for real estate acquisition, approximately 10 percent of funding will be used for environmental mitigation, approximately 10 percent of funding will be used for demolition and site preparation, and approximately 40 percent will be used for building renovation. I also understand that the funding provided is only a piece of the total funding required for this project and anticipated allocations may change. Project Name: Flight 93 National Memorial, Public Lands Transportation Needs. Account: Federal Lands (Public Lands Highways). Legal Name of Requesting Entity: National Park Service. Address of Requesting Entity: 109 West Main Street, Suite 104, Somerset, PA 15501. Description of Request/Justification of Federal Funding: $4.275 million for Flight 93 National Memorial, Public Lands Transportation Needs. It is my understanding that funding for this project will be used by the National Park Service for road, parking, and utility improvements related to the Flight 93 National Memorial. The Flight 93 National Memorial honors the men and women who gave their lives in the first counterattack of the Global War on Terror on September 11, 2001. The Flight 93 National Memorial Act (P.L. 107-226) established the creation of the Flight 93 National Memorial ``to commemorate the passengers and crew of United Flight 93 who, on September 11, 2001, courageously gave their lives thereby thwarting a planned attack on our Nation's Capital.'' It is also my understanding that funding will be used by the National Park Service for construction costs. Project Name: Hollidaysburg Car Shop Redevelopment Project. Account: Department of Housing and Urban Development--Economic Development Initiatives. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Altoona-Blair County Development Corporation. Address of Requesting Entity: 3900 Industrial Park Drive, Altoona, PA 16602. Description of Request/Justification of Federal Funding: $95,000 for transformation of the current facility into one that can be utilized for manufacturing, contributing to economic development and stimulating job creation. It is my understanding that funding for this project will be used to support redevelopment efforts for the former Hollidaysburg Car Shop property based upon a recently completed redevelopment strategy and plan to promote job retention activities and economic development. It is also my understanding that funding will be used for activities related to site preparation, building improvements, and environmental remediation. I also understand that the funding provided is only a piece of the total funding required for this project and anticipated allocations may change. Project Name: Altoona Recreational Facility. Account: Department of Housing and Urban Development--Economic Development Initiatives. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Central Blair Recreation and Park Commission. Address of Requesting Entity: 2101 Fifth Avenue, Altoona, Pennsylvania 16602. Description of Request/Justification of Federal Funding: $71,250 for development of a multi-faceted outdoor park for the local community. It is my understanding that funding for this project will be used for the development of a multi-faceted outdoor park for the local community. The facility will offer a safe and positive environment for young people and provide safe alternatives to the temptations of drug use, gangs, and violence. It is also my understanding that funding will be used for construction and related costs associated with skateboard ramps, playground equipment, trails, pavilions, and restroom facilities. I also understand that the funding provided is only a piece of the total funding required for this project and anticipated allocations may change. Project Name: Indiana County Business and Industrial Park. Account: Department of Housing and Urban Development--Economic Development Initiatives. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Indiana County Commissioners. Address of Requesting Entity: 825 Philadelphia Street, Indiana, PA 15701. Description of Request/Justification of Federal Funding: $190,000 for acquisition and development of a new pad ready business/ industrial park consisting of approximately 150-200 acres. It is my understanding that funding for this project will be used for the development of a new industrial park to help serve the growing economy of the region. The project will assist in the growth of an emerging technology and manufacturing market. I further understand that it is estimated the completion of the new industrial park will create 300 to 500 new jobs. It is also my understanding that funding will be used for all development phases including acquisition, master plan design, engineering, and construction costs. I also understand that the funding provided is only a piece of the total funding required for this project and anticipated allocations may change. Project Name: Community Redevelopment and Restoration, Lower Fairview. Account: Department of Housing and Urban Development--Economic Development Initiatives. Legal Name of Requesting Entity: The Nehemiah Project. Address of Requesting Entity: 800 Valley View Boulevard, Altoona, PA 16602. Description of Request/Justification of Federal Funding: $71,250 for redevelopment of buildings in the downtown Lower Fairview area of Altoona, Pennsylvania. It is my understanding that funding for this project will be used to aid in the redevelopment of buildings in the Lower Fairview area of Altoona, Pennsylvania. Specifically, I understand the project is centered on the rehabilitation of an abandoned and condemned church building that used to serve as a safe haven for those in need. Once restored, the facility will be home to a variety of programs designed to meet the needs of area residents and provide tools to put them in a position to succeed in the future. It is also my understanding that funding will be used for a variety of acquisition and construction needs. I also understand that the funding provided is only a piece of the total funding required for this project and anticipated allocations may change.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. President Obama said that something must be done to stimulate our economy, and I wholeheartedly agree. Unfortunately, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle must have thought President Obama said spend $1 trillion of our children's and grandchildren's money on programs that drive up the national debt and do little to stimulate the economy. The fact is, little of the dollars spent in the Democratic stimulus actually creates jobs. But for every $1 billion we spend on infrastructure, 30,000 jobs are created; however, the Democrat stimulus package has less than 10 percent that they are spending on a proven job creator. Instead of accepting a bill that is long on waste and short on substance, House Republicans have an alternative that provides lasting long-term tax breaks to help hardworking families, home buyers and small businesses through these difficult times. Basic economics teaches us that high Federal spending will dramatically increase inflation. Madam Speaker, the American people do not need Congress to add to their list of economic problems. We must address the true problems at hand and fix our economic crisis, not quench the Democrats' thirst for more big government. The Republican approach will work to pull our economy out of this recession. It's time to put politics aside and put Americans first. It's time to adopt the Republican alternative.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. I yield to the gentlewoman.

Mr. SHUSTER. I certainly will.

Mr. SHUSTER. I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Chairman, how much time do I have left?

Mr. SHUSTER. I thank the chairman for not opposing the amendment. And just to close, I think this puts teeth in the legislation that is going to help this bill and improve this bill some. I think it needs a lot more improvement, but this is one step in the right direction. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. SHUSTER. I appreciate the chairman's clarification. I yield 30 seconds to the gentleman from Iowa (Mr. Latham).

Mr. SHUSTER. My amendment is a very simple amendment, a straightforward amendment. And it states that if a governor is unable to certify Federal funds will not supplant non-Federal funds pursuant to the subsection, then the Federal funds apportioned to that State under this act that will supplant non-Federal funds will be recaptured by the appropriate Federal agency and redistributed to States or agencies that can spend the Federal funds without supplanting non- Federal funds. What this means is that the stimulus moves money out to the States. We want to make certain that there are no games played at the State level with the budgets. For example, if a State budgets $1 billion for highway spending and they are to receive $1 billion from the Federal Government, that they can't move that money around, reduce what they have budgeted for their funding of the highway projects and transportation projects in that State. I think that is important to put in here to put some teeth in the stimulus bill so that those types of things don't happen, so that we get the full effect, the full impact of the stimulus if it moves forward through the House and the Senate and we have a law that, as I said, will have the full impact of those dollars in the transportation arena in those States that will in fact create jobs. That is the basis of this amendment. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. SHUSTER. If I can respond to the gentlelady from Texas, I don't believe this cuts anything. It just makes certain that the States aren't able to cut what they have in their budgets. Because, at the end of the day, the idea in the stimulus is to have a net increase in total spending from all levels of government. And if this moves forward, we want to make sure that the States don't reduce what they spend on their transportation projects and use the Federal funds to offset their budget.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to salute the service of Sergeant Major Curtis B. Green, whose meritorious service to the United States Army has spanned thirty years and culminated with his distinguished service as Sergeant Major of Letterkenny Army Depot. Throughout his career, Sergeant Major Green has been an exceptional leader and has served in numerous positions of great responsibility. Beginning his military career as a rifleman, he spent 9 years in the 82nd Airborne Division followed by assignments in Germany, Aberdeen Proving Ground, and Alaska. In the past 10 years Sergeant Major Green has compiled an exceptional record of achievement at Fort Sill, Camp Casey, and Camp Red Cloud, Fort Hood, and Letterkenny Army Depot. In each position he consistently produced exceptional results. After 4 years as a unit first Sergeant, his exceptional record earned him the rank of Sergeant Major as well as immediate reassignment as the 2nd Infantry Division G4 Maintenance Sergeant Major. Here he led the Division maintenance inspection teams and became Division Readiness NCO. In 2003 he returned to the United States and was assigned as Support Operations Sergeant Major and was directly responsible for the coordination of external and internal support among division battalions and COSCOM support units. And later, when deployed to Iraq--Sergeant Major Green left with an advance party and was responsible for preparing the area for the arrival of the 1st Cav.--his dutiful performance earned him the Bronze Star. In 2005, Sergeant Major Green became the Letterkenny Army Depot Sergeant Major. His logistics background and strong military leadership skills facilitated a quick transition into a predominately civilian organization. Here, he identified with the Letterkenny workforce, and orchestrated rehabilitative transfers that dramatically improved soldier performance. Sergeant Major Green's accomplishments were not limited to improving the depot's mission. He also reached out to the depot community and provided outstanding leadership for Armed Forced Week activities, the depot/community organizational day program, and increased support to the local Scotland School for Veteran's Children. Sergeant Major Green took the initiative to lead depot soldiers and workers to visit local veteran homes, and his work to clean up and repair local cemeteries is also noteworthy. Throughout his career, Sergeant Major Green faithfully discharged his extensive duties at home and abroad. Over the last 30 years he has made great personal sacrifices for the good of the United States military. Sergeant Major Green is a soldier's soldier and a consummate professional. He has demonstrated great concern for our soldiers and their families, and his significant contributions will have a lasting impact upon our Nation. Sergeant Major Green's professional performance reflects great honor and credit upon himself and the United States Army.