Bill Shuster

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Chairman, at this time I have no further speakers, so I will continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Chairman, I reserve my time.

Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Chairman, I continue to reserve my time.

Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Chairman, I do not oppose the amendment, but ask unanimous consent to claim the time in opposition.

Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Chairman, Chairman Oberstar's manager's amendment contains several important provisions. First, it codifies FRA's existing safety advisory on railroad bridges. This provision will help ensure that the recent tragic collapse of the highway bridge in Minneapolis will never be repeated on our Nation's rail system. The manager's amendment also modifies the Swift Act, which requires locomotives to sound whistles at every crossing in the Nation. The amendment will require the FRA to take into account the impact of horn use on local communities. For example, the town of Baldwin, Florida, is only a mile wide, but has a number of rail crossings and heavy train traffic. According to Mayor Godbold of Baldwin, locomotives sound their horns over a thousand times per day in this small town. The amendment will help Baldwin and other towns balance issues of safety and noise pollution. Finally, the manager's amendment makes some technical corrections deleting the preemption and the police provisions which have already been enacted in the 9/11 bill. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Chairman, I rise to claim the time in opposition.

Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Chairman, this amendment deals with STB preemption of laws regarding railroad waste transportation facilities. The Rail Subcommittee has held several hearings on this issue, one last year and another just yesterday. I've a great interest in this issue, as my home State of Pennsylvania is the number one recipient of imported waste from other States, most of it coming from New Jersey and New York City. So, as I said, I've great concern. At yesterday's hearing, we heard many complaints from local communities about illegal railroad, or not even railroads, but people who claim the railroads, that are waste facilities. We also heard from the STB that most local laws are not currently preempted by Federal law. In fact, many entities claiming Federal preemption do not have legitimate claims. I think it's clear that this law has to be clarified to make it easier to stop unscrupulous operators that Mr. Pallone mentioned in his State of New Jersey, but regarding Mr. Pallone's amendment, the STB has told our rail staff that this amendment needs improvement to accomplish that, to accomplish the stated goal of regulating railroad waste facilities. In fact, I quote from a letter from the chairman of STB that says his ``general concern with the Pallone amendment is that it is overbroad and could result in local land use and zoning agencies exerting jurisdiction over legitimate rail transportation projects and impeding interstate commerce.'' In addition, the STB is already in the process of addressing many of these issues, which they need to do. If people were out there operating waste facilities in an illegal or unscrupulous manner, that needs to be addressed. I would like to work with Mr. Pallone on this issue, but I'm going to oppose this amendment on those grounds. We need to encourage States to deal with their trash problem, all of us across this country. We all produce waste. We've got to make sure in our neighborhoods that we're taking care of our own waste and not shipping it to other States, and I'm just concerned that that's what will occur if this amendment is passed. And so I urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, on rollcall No. 958, Final Passage of H.R. 2895, the National Affordable Housing Trust Fund Act of 2007, I was not present. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no.''

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Staff Sergeant Robert J. Flood, a fallen WWII veteran whose remains have finally been returned home to Chambersburg, PA. Robert Flood was killed in Germany in July 1944, when his plane was lost during a bombing raid on an aircraft factory in Bernburg. For 63 years, Robert Flood and his crew were unaccounted for. Flood was only 22 years old at the time of his death. Prior to his service in WWII as a member of the U.S. Army Air Corps, Sgt. Flood was employed at the Letterkenny Army Depot in Chambersburg, Franklin County PA; a facility that remains active today in support of our current war against Al-Qaeda. Sgt. Flood was injured in England in 1944 when his plane crash landed after running out of fuel. After recovering from his injuries he was assigned to another bomber, which was lost during the air raid in Germany. The fate and final resting place of Sgt. Flood and his crew remained unknown until 4 years ago when pieces of his plane and the remains of its crew were discovered in a field in Germany. Thankfully, through DNA testing, the identities of the crew were finally revealed, allowing Sgt. Flood to return home. Robert Flood's name is engraved on the Wall of the Missing at the American Cemetery in Belgium. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart with a Presidential Accolade in 1945. Sgt. Robert Flood is survived by one brother and several nieces and nephews. His return home brings comfort and relief to his family, who went years without information about his death. Madam Speaker, Robert Flood dedicated his life to serving his country. His homecoming is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices our soldiers make in service to our Nation. Our thoughts are with his family, his fellow WWII veterans, and members of his community. Another soldier has been brought home.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Corporal David McConnell of Altoona, Pennsylvania. CPL McConnell is currently serving in Iraq as part of the United States Marine Corps. He has served our country since 2005 when he first enlisted in the Marine Corps. Corporal McConnell was deployed to Iraq on December 31, 2006, initially serving as an Infantryman. He was stationed in Fallujah as part of the Regimental Combat Team 6 Security Platoon, where he acted as convey security. Promoted to corporal in August, McConnell is currently stationed in Fallujah to provide protection services for the team directing leader engagement with Iraqi diplomats. A dedicated and enthusiastic leader, Corporal McConnell is committed to furthering the cause he believes so much in. He is proud of the work of his unit and believes that the contributions and sacrifices they have made are well worth it to be able to assist in expanding freedom in Iraq. I'd like to take this opportunity to thank and recognize David and the rest of our troops for their efforts in serving our military. He and his unit should be very proud of the work they are doing in Iraq and the sacrifices they have made for their country. Their courage and devotion do not go unnoticed, and they are all in our thoughts and prayers for a safe return home.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the winners of the ``Aim Higher'' awards from the HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Altoona, given to encourage and reward personal achievement within its community. For the past 10 years, HealthSouth has presented rehabilitation awards to members of their community who have overcome a great disability or injury. The ``Aim Higher'' awards ceremony will take place this year on October 1. I congratulate this year's winners: Karrie Lee, winner of the ``Live.Life'' Award; and Michael Kiel and William Ricciotti, winners of the ``Aim Higher'' Personal Achievement awards. Karrie Lee is the winner of the HealthSouth ``Live.Life'' Award. Karrie was nominated by her mother for her incredible recovery from a life-threatening car accident. Karrie was hit by a tractor trailer in 2003, halfway through her senior year of high school. She was left in a coma for several days and suffered severe injuries. After undergoing several surgeries Karrie was discharged to the HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital, upon which time she began her recovery. While Karrie's life was completely interrupted by her accident, she worked hard and finished her senior year at home while completing her rehabilitation program. She took classes at St. Francis University and is now studying at the University of Pittsburgh, working toward her goal of becoming a nurse practitioner. Michael Kiel is the recipient of the ``Aim Higher'' Personal Achievement Award. Michael was nominated for this award by his aunt. During his sophomore year of college, Michael was shot at a convenience store by a man he did not know. As a result, Michael suffered a spinal cord injury which left him paralyzed. While some would be defeated by such a tragic experience, Michael persevered, returning to college 4 months later. He earned a bachelor's degree in psychology and continued on to earn a master's in rehab counseling. He has a love for life and gives back to others who have suffered by working as a rehab counselor in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. William Ricciotti is also a recipient of the ``Aim Higher'' Personal Achievement Award. Bill suffered a stroke in 2004 which left him disabled; however he worked through his injuries and gained back much of his mobility. He learned how to walk again and has made tremendous progress in making a nearly complete recovery. Though his left hand was left slightly impaired, he continues to work on improving in therapy. He has continued to enjoy life, participating in activities he has always loved. Bill's visits bring joy to the employees of HealthSouth, as he always exhibits a wonderful attitude. Congratulations to Karrie, Michael and Bill. All of their stories are moving and inspiring, and many others can look up to their examples of personal strength and determination. Their stories will encourage others to never give up, and they may be comforted in knowing that no matter what is thrown their way, they can overcome it and carry on their lives with a positive outlook.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the winner of the distinguished Rehabilitation Advocate award from the HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Altoona, given annually to recognize those who have been a source of encouragement and advocacy for the center and its patients. This year's winner is the Honorable Robert Jubelirer. Senator Jubelirer has made a life out of serving others as a leader, humanitarian, and advocate. He served over thirty years in the State Senate, working tirelessly on behalf of the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Senator served nearly 21 years as President Pro Tempore of the State Senate and served briefly as Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania. He has been instrumental in securing funding for key initiatives for Central Pennsylvania and has truly helped the area and community thrive. Numerous organizations have recognized the Senator over the years, for both his official duties and his work for numerous community causes. For the past 13 years, Senator Jubelirer has taken time out of his hectic schedule to host and present HealthSouth's ``Aim Higher'' awards to members of the HealthSouth community who have overcome great obstacles. He personally recognized each recipient of the ``Aim Higher'' awards with a Commonwealth proclamation and touching personal message. He left the attendees of each ceremony encouraged and inspired. Senator Jubelirer has brought joy and hope to the HealthSouth community. I, along with the staff and patients of HealthSouth would like to thank Senator Jubelirer for his efforts in bringing recognition to those who have overcome great challenges. He joins today's winners as sources of inspiration, bringing encouragement to all who cross their paths. I congratulate Senator Jubelirer and thank him for all he has done in reaching out to others and bettering the community.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. First, I want to express the regrets of the subcommittee ranking member, Mr. Graves from Missouri, who was unable to be here and has asked me to explain the bill. H.R. 3246, as amended, authorizes two existing economic development commissions, the Delta Regional Commission and the Northern Great Plains Regional Commission. The bill also creates three new economic development commissions, the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission, the Southwest Border Regional Commission, and the Northern Border Regional Commission. The Regional Economic and Infrastructure Development Act authorizes these five regional economic development commissions for 5 years, and provides a structure for economic development, decision-making and planning. The bill outlines conditions for financial assistance, authorizes grants to local development districts. In addition, the bill establishes an Inspector General for the commission. Additionally, H.R. 3246 provides a framework for administration and management. The framework is modeled after the Appalachian Regional Commission structure, including membership, voting structure and staffing of the commission. Through the use of this common framework, this bill provides a consistency in distribution of economic development funds. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time

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

Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Berlin Fife and Drum Corps on reaching its 225th year of service. The Berlin Fife and Drum Corps is the oldest continuous Fife and Drum Corps in the nation. Better known to veterans as ``The Frosty Suns of Thunder,'' the Corps is a band from Berlin, Pennsylvania that performs for military support groups and participates in various parades. They play traditional martial music dating back to the Revolutionary War, and more recently have added military medleys to their performances. The Berlin Fife and Drum Corps was founded by George Johnson, who joined the Revolutionary Army in 1777 and served as a fifer for 3 years, and later returned to Berlin, afterwards forming the Corps. The Berlin Fife and Drum Corps were expert musicians who invigorated their audiences and were often greeted with enthusiastic cries of ``Here comes Berlin!'' In addition to performing in parades, the Corps decorated American flags and placed them on the graves of war veterans in the Allegheny region. In 1887 they began the tradition of playing at memorial services at the Mount Lebanon Cemetery and the Berlin I.O.O.F. Cemetery. This tradition is carried on today. Membership in the Berlin Fife and Drum Corps is a long and celebrated tradition in Berlin. Several members have proudly served for over 40 years. The Berlin Fife and Drum Corps is a striking example of patriotism and is a source of pride for the Allegheny region. I, along with members of the Berlin community, would like to thank the Corps for their service and enthusiasm, and congratulate them on continuing this tradition for 225 years.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor CWO Sheldon D. Schultz, a fallen Vietnam veteran whose remains have finally been returned home to Altoona, PA. Schultz was killed in Vietnam in January 1968, when his helicopter was struck by artillery fire. For 39 years, Sheldon Schultz and his crew were unaccounted for. Sheldon was only 18 years old at the time of his death, but those that knew him described him as a role model, one who looked out for the neighborhood kids and was excited to serve his country. He joined the U.S. Army immediately following high school, graduating from helicopter pilot school and arriving in Vietnam in 1967. While he only served a little over a year before his death, Schultz earned many honors, including a Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Army Aviator Wings, and an Expert Marksmanship Badge. In addition, Schultz's name is engraved on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Sheldon Schultz's return home brings comfort and relief to his family, who went years without much information about his death. Madam Speaker, Sheldon Schultz dedicated his life to serving his country. His homecoming is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices our soldiers make in service to our Nation. Our thoughts are with his family, his fellow Vietnam veterans and members of his community. Another soldier has been brought home.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor COL Robert Swenson, who is retiring from his post as Commander at the Letterkenny Army Depot in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania in August. Colonel Swenson has spent two years at Letterkenny, managing the multi-million dollar facility and overseeing the maintenance and base operation missions of the depot. Prior to acting as Commander of Letterkenny Army Depot, Colonel Swenson served in the Army as a platoon leader in Germany, a COSCOM Ammunition Officer during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm and commanded the 498th Corps Support Battalion in Seoul, South Korea. He was later assigned to be Army Secretary for Joint and Defense Affairs in the Office of the Chief of Staff of the Army. He then worked as the Special Assistant to the Commanding General Army Materiel Command prior to taking the post of Commander at Letterkenny. Colonel Swenson has earned numerous awards throughout his career, including the Bronze Star Medal, the Legion of Merit, and the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, just to name a few. During his tenure at Letterkenny, Colonel Swenson demonstrated his leadership through the undertaking of numerous projects, by which he made important improvements to depot operations and efficiency. Colonel Swenson restructured the LEAN team and implemented his LEAN Manufacturing program, which was instrumental in Letterkenny's receipt of Army Environmental Award. Colonel Swenson's accomplishments identify him as an Army officer of the highest caliber and reflect great credit upon himself, the Letterkenny Army Depot, and the U.S. Army. I, along with the employees at Letterkenny, would like to thank COL Robert Swenson for all of his leadership and dedication as Commander.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise in opposition to the rule for the Department of Transportation, HUD and related agencies appropriations. The ranking member of the Transportation Committee, Mr. Mica, has made compelling and passionate remarks regarding the objections shared by many members of the committee on both sides of the aisle. Numerous provisions in the underlying bill constitute legislating on an appropriations bill and fall within the jurisdiction of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. As the ranking member of the Railroad Subcommittee, pipelines and hazardous materials, I would like to voice my opposition waiving points of order under clause 2, rule XXI, which is the rule against authorizing on appropriations bills. In House Resolution 558, I'm especially concerned about the language that places all Amtrak contracts and leases that make them subject to the Washington, D.C., law. This language should be removed from the bill because it is authorizing on an appropriations bill. This provision was apparently intended to help resolve a pending Amtrak negotiation with the State of Maryland. That negotiation involved a dispute of a disputed clause in the MARC commuter railroad operating agreement. Amtrak wants all disputes handled under D.C. law, but Maryland State requires that it's handled under their jurisdiction, which is appropriate. Instead of a narrowly tailored provision, this provision is unlimited in scope and states that all leases and contracts entered into by Amtrak shall be governed by D.C. law. This could be construed to include all D.C. laws, including building codes, environmental permits and security deposits, et cetera, et cetera. In addition, Amtrak trackage agreements with computer railroads such as the New Jersey Transit, Long Island Railroad, Virginia Railway Express and freight carriers would ultimately be placed under D.C. law. This could lead to many unintended consequences such as changing the law on all rail leases, contracts and perhaps rail labor contracts. Again, I voice my opposition for House Resolution 558 and the waiver of the point of order based on clause 2 of rule XXI. Since the Democratic majority has taken over the House, we've seen a chipping away of the authority and the jurisdiction of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. So I would urge the chairmen of the committee to join together in a bipartisan fashion to oppose this rule which continues to erode the jurisdiction of the Transportation Committee and thus, I believe, sets a precedent for all committees in the House, all authorizing committees, to continue to see their authorities and their jurisdictions to erode and given away to the Appropriations Committee. So again, I rise in opposition to this rule and urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to stand for the continuing erosion of our authorities and our jurisdictions to these committees that were given historically to these committees.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the reopening of the Bedford Springs Resort, a historic landmark in Bedford, PA. Founded in 1796 by Dr. John Anderson, the Bedford Springs served the Nation as a place of peace, tranquility and healing until its doors closed in 1990. The resort has been completely restored and will host its grand opening in August. In its prime, the Bedford Springs Resort served many of our Nation's leading citizens, including U.S. Presidents, heads of state, and celebrities. President James Buchanan was a frequent guest of the resort, using it as a summer White House during his presidency. In 1858, President Buchanan received the first Trans-Atlantic cable from Queen Victoria in the resort's lobby. The Bedford Springs Resort is also the only place outside of Washington, DC, that all of the Supreme Court members stayed together. During their visit in 1855 the Justices discussed the Dred Scott case. In addition to its service to national figures, the resort was also utilized by the United States military. During WorId War II, Bedford Springs served as a Naval Communications Training Center, hosting over 7,000 Navy personnel. It was designated a national Historic Landmark in 1984 by the U.S. Department of the Interior. The resort's rich history is matched only by its grandeur, newly restored after a multimillion dollar renovation. The Bedford Springs restoration began in 2005, when developers began combining history with luxury, adding modem day amenities to its original features. The springs will no doubt draw thousands of visitors to the Bedford area, showcasing Pennsylvania's beauty and serenity. The Bedford Springs Resort will provide a soothing atmosphere in which visitors may relax and enjoy the majestic scenery of the countryside and the Allegheny Mountains. I look forward to the grand opening of the Bedford Springs Resort, as it will bring a greater appreciation to our area and will surely be an asset to the community.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the ``Flight 93 Ambassadors,'' a community organization that has dedicated countless hours to the Flight 93 memorial site in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. This organization, created by members of the Somerset community after the tragic events of September 11th, serves both the country and the memory of those aboard Flight 93 by protecting the site and recounting the heroic story of the passengers' brave intervention against the terrorists to the memorial's visitors. The Flight 93 Ambassadors will be honored for their service on July 26th at the Somerset County Chamber of Commerce's Third Annual Summer Barbeque. Somerset County has been trademarked ``America's County'' after two major national events took place there. For the past three years the Chamber of Commerce has used this distinction to recognize American heroes. Previously the Chamber paid tribute to the nine miners who were rescued from the Quecreek Mine accident. This year's recognition of the Flight 93 Ambassadors by ``America's County'' is fitting and appropriate as these volunteers are responsible for maintaining one of the most distinguished symbols of American courage and unity. The Flight 93 Ambassadors contribute much of their time to the preservation of the Flight 93 memorial and serve as a link to the families of the Flight 93 victims. These selfless volunteers plan events and work tirelessly to maintain the integrity of this important site and in doing so, ensure that the heroism of the passengers of Flight 93 is never forgotten. The ambassadors are the epitome of American unity and strength in the wake of tragedy, and their initiative and persistent work with the Flight 93 site is greatly appreciated by the community. I am sure that every American, in addition to the members of the Shanksville community, would join me in thanking the Flight 93 Ambassadors for their selfless dedication and leadership in immortalizing the memory of September 11th and all of the heroes of Flight 93.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I spent the Fourth of July recess traveling to Pakistan and to Iraq. I came away with a couple of observations. First in Pakistan, our allies in the war on terror, the Pakistanis, have great concern about an early withdrawal from Iraq, because they saw first hand, after the defeat of the Soviet Union in Afghanistan, when America left that region, left Afghanistan to uncertainty and chaos, what happened was the rise of the Taliban, an extremist group, that then gave basis to al Qaeda to be able to plan and plot the 9/11 attacks on America. So the Pakistanis are extremely concerned about an early withdrawal. Our allies around the world are concerned. The word of America is at risk. Our allies are watching what we do here in the United States Congress and what America does. Second, traveling to Iraq, I came away with some positive reports, not only from our commanders, but listening to the Iraqi general, who is in charge of the national police. He said that the Shia, the Sunni and the Kurds have come together as Iraqis, standing up a national police force that's fighting to throw out the negative elements that are in Iraq today. They are standing shoulder-to-shoulder, the Shia, Sunni and Kurds. Our folks also told us that they need more time to train the police, the security of the Iraqis. Talking to our soldiers was the most powerful information I came away with. One of the sergeants in our Special Forces told us something very significant. Right about now, he is saddling up, he is getting ready to go out on a dangerous mission in Iraq tonight to either kill al Qaeda to take down a production facility for IEDs. He said to me, he said to the group of us that was there, we cannot leave Iraq prematurely because chaos will ensue, and what we will find is that the terrorists will be in the streets of America. So listening to that powerful statement from somebody who is putting his life on the line, every single night, that's powerful information. Those are powerful words. We have to allow this surge, not just to last for 3 weeks, but to go for 3 months. Let it go. Let us vote down this resolution.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate an establishment that has provided excellent service to the community of Roaring Spring for a century. Built during the early 20th century, the Eldon Inn embodied the visions of industrial pioneers D.M. Bare, A.L. Garver, William Eldon, and Edwin Bobb. Now serving the community as a public library, the Eldon Inn maintains its distinguished reputation as a center of the community. In 1907, the paper industry of Roaring Spring began to thrive and a few businessmen began the construction of a modem hotel aimed at accommodating people from all walks of life, needing a place to stay in the budding community. Shortly thereafter the Inn established itself as a provider of safe and comfortable lodgings for everyone from the traveling businessmen and overnight guests, to long-term tenants awaiting opportunities as permanent residents. The Eldon Inn possessed a unique quality that infused the building into the hearts of the community. The Inn's spacious interior was well suited for Rotary Club gatherings, sales meetings, Scout troops, wedding receptions, school reunions, and even as the town social and business center. For 59 years, the Eldon Inn upheld its fine reputation as a first- rate establishment. In 1966, the Inn served the community in a new way as the Roaring Spring Public Library. The Public Library sought to expand its holdings and felt that the Eldon Inn would be an ideal location to further its mission of providing centers for learning to the community. I would like to take this moment to recognize The Eldon Inn for its 100 years of service to the community, its renowned reputation, and future achievements to come. May the community of Roaring Spring always have such a force of good in its backyard.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to the Hinchey-Wolf amendment. My constituents need electricity in their homes, their businesses and their communities. This amendment will deprive my constituents and the people of Pennsylvania of low-cost energy. In 2005, the Republican-led Congress passed the bipartisan Energy Policy Act, 275-156. In section 1221 of the Energy Policy Act, the Department of Energy was required to identify and report a National Transmission Congestion and Constraint Study. The study identified two areas as inadequate: the Mid-Atlantic region, which encompasses my district, and the southwest-southern California region. With no coincidence, in 2002 these same areas were identified as problem areas. They were identified in two separate studies, 5 years apart, because there is an overwhelming need to build the infrastructure to supply the increasing demand for energy. The lack of necessary infrastructure in these areas imposes billions of dollars on consumers annually and leaves the citizens of the country vulnerable to rolling blackouts. On April 26, 2007, the Department of Energy issued two draft versions for transmission corridors, one traversing my home State and its neighboring regions and the other in southern California. The public comment period remains open for written submissions until July 6. In addition, the Energy Policy Act requires studies every 3 years. This amendment would require a needless, burdensome study, which in effect, would study two previous and congruent studies. At best, with this amendment, we are questioning whether or not to repeal sections of a successful, bipartisan bill, extensively debated and enacted less than 2 years ago, when the process so clearly works, the need is clearly there and the effects of inaction are so clearly dire. Let's allow the process to work. Let us have faith in our positive work in the Energy Policy Act.

Mr. SHUSTER

Mr. SHUSTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of Robert ``Red'' Pensinger, former mayor of Greencastle, PA. Mayor Pensinger passed away in his home on Saturday, June 16. Born in Marion, PA, on February 22, 1933, Mayor Pensinger spent his life in the Greencastle area as a civic leader and successful businessman. ``Red,'' as he was lovingly called, brought great enthusiasm and esteem not only to his office as mayor, but to his many other activities within the community as well. Robert dedicated his life to the betterment of his community, giving his time and energy to various organizations. He influenced and mentored hundreds of young people through his participation in the Boy Scouts of America, of which he was a Scout master, and Kauffman's Little League team, which he managed. Members of the community also looked up to ``Red,'' recognizing and appreciating his devotion to the town, his positive outlook and pleasant demeanor. The former mayor was also a leader in business, establishing a State Farm Insurance Agency in Greencastle in 1965 and leading it to become the largest agency in Pennsylvania and the fifth largest in the Nation. He served in the State Farm President's Club and was a six-time Legion of Honor winner. In addition to operating his insurance agency, Robert served as vice-chairman of the board of directors for Tower Bancorp Inc. and the First National Bank of Greencastle. He served on the Chamber of Commerce, which awarded him with the 1997 James P. Oliver Award for his leadership and community involvement. While I could go on listing the countless organizations and people to whom ``Red'' gave his time and energy, it is safe to say that his contributions to the Greencastle community are endless. Robert touched the lives of thousands and impacted each one of them tremendously. Mayor Pensinger served as a role model for many, and it is my hope that those who were lucky enough to know him will continue his legacy and enthusiasm for bettering the community and the lives of others. Robert's wife, Nancy, and his family and friends are certainly proud and honored by his remarkable work and devotion to improving the lives of others. His community service and achievements are remarkable, and his presence will be sorely missed. Robert Pensinger was a celebrated leader in business and the community, and words cannot express his value to the people of Greencastle or their love and devotion to their late mayor.