Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Colonel Jane Helton, United States Army, who is retiring after thirty-five years of dedicated service to our nation. Colonel Helton currently serves as the Chief of the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office for the Joint Staff of the National Guard Bureau in Arlington, Virginia. She is the principal advisor to the Chief and senior National Guard leaders for all sexual assault prevention matters.

Colonel Helton enlisted in the Army in August, 1974. After departing active duty she served as a Noncommissioned Officer with the 143d Evacuation Hospital in the California National Guard. In 1980 she graduated from Officer's Candidate School and was commissioned as a Medical Service Corps officer. She served as a Health Services officer in the 175th Medical Brigade and commanded the 980th MEDSOM and the 308th Medical Company. Colonel Helton was activated and served in Kuwait during Desert Storm in the 3d Medical Command as a medical logistics officer and as the Director of Medical Redeployment. After returning to the United States she returned to active duty and served as an Operations Officer and Special Events Officer in the Army G3's Office of Military Support to Civilian Authorities. She helped coordinate and provide medical support during several natural disasters, including New York City immediately after the terrorists' attacks on September 11, 2001. Colonel Helton served as the Chief of the Wounded Warrior Program for the 27th Infantry Brigade at Fort Drum, NY where she helped develop the model wounded warrior program for the entire Army. She also served as the Chief of Command Policy and Programs in the Army G1, responsible for Army policies which included Women in Combat, Suicide Prevention, Religious Accommodation, ``Don't Ask, Don't Tell'' and other high profile Army policies.

Colonel Helton's military education includes the AMEDD Officer basic and advanced courses, Medical Logistics Management Course, Contracting Officers Course, Movement Officers Course, Mobilization Officer Planners Course, Military Support to Civil Authorities Course, Command and General Staff College, Army Management Staff College, Risk Communication Course, Georgetown University Congressional Liaison Course, and Advanced Crisis Incident Stress Management Course. She also earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Management from the California Coast University and a Master of Science degree in Quality Systems Management from the National Graduate School.

Madam Speaker, few can match the dedication and professionalism of Colonel Jane Helton. On behalf of Congress and the United States of America, I express our appreciation of Colonel Helton for her tireless service and support of the warfighter. She has been a compassionate leader and professional staff officer whose expertise and sacrifice showcase her patriotism and selfless commitment to our great nation. She is a woman of honor and principle. I would like to thank Colonel Helton for her years of dedicated service, and I wish her, her husband Ray, their children and grandchildren the best wishes for continued success.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today in recognition of the grand opening of the Navy Federal Credit Union Brian L. McDonnell Center at the Heritage Oaks campus in Pensacola, Florida.

Navy Federal was organized in 1933 with only seven initial members. Since its founding, it has evolved into the world's largest credit union, employing over 7,000 employees, and consisting of 3.2 million members. Navy Federal serves as a vital resource for our military and is found all over the world, providing excellent financial service for all of our servicemen and women.

In addition to the outstanding financial counseling and assistance Navy Federal provides, it is a leader in developing higher environmental standards. Driven by the objective to create a workplace focused on the employee, Navy Federal pursued Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for its first building in Pensacola. This was the first commercial LEED building in Florida to receive the U.S. Green Building Council's GOLD rating. The new Brian L. McDonnell Center was constructed with the same standards of excellence.

As Navy Federal expands numerically and evolves environmentally, it continues to escalate the level of quality it provides. The First District of Florida is very fortunate to house a corporation that values the interest of its clients and their community above all else.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize this grand opening and dedication ceremony and look forward to the progress it will undoubtedly create.

Madam Speaker, I rise to honor Deputy Burton Lopez, Okaloosa County Sheriff's Department, who gave his life in the line of duty on April 25, 2009. Deputy Lopez served the Okaloosa Sheriff's Department with honor and distinction, and I am humbled to recognize this American hero.

Deputy Burton ``Burt'' Lopez began his career in the United States Air Force, proudly serving for over twenty years before retiring as a sergeant. His career took him across the world, including Northwest Florida's own Eglin Air Force base. He joined the Okaloosa Sheriff's Department shortly after his retirement, fulfilling a lifelong dream of becoming a police officer. His fellow officers knew him as a dedicated public servant and a true family man who loved serving his community.

Deputy Lopez was killed when he and another patrol deputy went to apprehend a suspect during a domestic violence dispute. The gunman fired at the officers, fatally wounding Deputy Lopez and a fellow officer. These two deaths mark only the second and third Okaloosa Sheriff's deputies to ever be killed in the line of duty, a truly sad, but powerful testament to the quality of the entire Sheriff's Department.

The people of Okaloosa County have many reasons to be proud of Deputy Lopez, and I am honored to be able to represent those people, as well as the memory of this brave police officer. Vicki and I will keep his entire family, especially his wife, Michelle, and children, Jesse, Erik, Madilyn, Jami, and Jake, and grandson, Caleb, in our prayers. May God Bless Deputy Lopez and all of the officers across this great country who courageously protect their citizens and their communities.

Madam Speaker, I rise to honor Deputy Warren York, Okaloosa County Sheriff's Department, who gave his life in the line of duty on April 25, 2009. Deputy York served the Okaloosa Sheriff's Department with honor and distinction, and I am humbled to recognize this American hero.

Deputy Warren ``Skip'' York served his country for over 20 years in the U.S. Air Force. A highly decorated airman, Skip joined the Okaloosa Sheriff's Department upon his retirement from military service and has bravely protected his community as a patrol deputy ever since. He could often be seen riding around northwest Florida on his Harley-Davidson as part of the Blue Knights Motorcycle Club or attending church services at St. Michael's of Eglin Air Force Base. Skip will be remembered by all who knew him for his great attitude and caring personality.

Deputy York was killed when he and another patrol deputy went to apprehend a suspect during a domestic violence dispute. The gunman fired at the officers, fatally wounding Deputy York and a fellow officer. These two deaths mark only the second and third Okaloosa Sheriff's deputies to ever be killed in the line of duty, a truly sad, but powerful testament to the quality of the entire Sheriff's Department.

The people of Okaloosa County have many reasons to be proud of Deputy York, and I am honored to be able to represent those people, as well as the memory of this brave patrolman. Vicki and I will keep his entire family, especially his wife, Janel, and his son, Michael, in our prayers. May God bless Deputy York and all of the officers across this great country who courageously protect their citizens and their communities.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an

honor for me to rise today in recognition of Clain Roberts on his 25th Anniversary as Minister of Music at Immanuel Baptist Church in Pace, Florida.

For the past twenty-five years Clain Roberts has inspired the congregation at Immanuel Baptist Church with music. As the Minister of Music, Mr. Roberts leads all of the church's choirs as well as the orchestra and band. Mr. Roberts has also written many of the choruses in use by Immanuel Baptist including the church's Easter musical.

The choir program has grown dramatically under Mr. Roberts who created ensembles, quartets, the orchestra, and band. But Mr. Roberts is also an integral figure in the church because of his active participation in all other aspects of the church's doings. He takes senior adults on outings and visits congregants in the hospital. Because of the hard work and dedication put forth by Mr. Roberts over the past twenty-five years, he enjoys a special relationship with the members of Immanuel Baptist Church and is greatly loved by the fellowship.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize Clain Roberts for twenty-five years of outstanding achievement and look forward to seeing what the next twenty-five will bring.

Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the memory of Specialist Michael J. Anaya, United States Army. Specialist Anaya gave his life in defense of our Nation and was killed in action on April 12, 2009 in Bayji, Iraq. Specialist Anaya was serving with the 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.

Nick-named the ``Anayalator'' by his Army buddies, Michael loved the Army and wanted to serve in the Infantry. His military skills were obvious to everyone, as he was awarded the Expert Infantryman's Badge along with other military awards. He loved the military and his country. He also loved his family, friends, and fishing. He was a fine young American--an example of the greatness of our Nation.

Michael was buried with full military honors and will go to his eternal rest as an American hero. We remember this patriot--this fine soldier--and thank him for making the ultimate sacrifice for the United States of America. I am always reminded of the greatness of our country when I meet military families like the Anaya's who supported Michael as he volunteered to defend America.

The people of Crestview, Northwest Florida, and our Nation have many reasons to be proud of Specialist Anaya. Vicki and I will keep Michael's entire family, especially his parents, Carmelo Sr. and Cheryl Anaya of Crestview, his brother Carmelo Jr., and his sister, Trista, in our thoughts and prayers. I hope all the people of Northwest Florida and our nation do the same. May God bless Specialist Michael Anaya and all of those who serve in our armed forces and defend our Nation around the globe.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the importance of athletic trainers and all that they do to improve the health and quality of our lives.

As overweight and obesity rates soar, athletic trainers serve as an outstanding opponent to the frightening statistics. Their job widely varies, and they do far more than simply ``work out'' with others. Athletic trainers guide their clients with life-long fitness and exercise skills and push their clients to aerobic excellence. Many also provide nutritional guidance that helps those derailed from healthy eating habits develop better eating tendencies. In doing so, they often provide their clients with a greater sense of self worth.

Their impact on society is incredibly beneficial. Athletic trainers do much to help decrease the increasing population of the obese and overweight. For this, I thank those athletic trainers in the First District of Florida, as well as the rest of the Nation, who constantly make a difference. We are truly grateful.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is with great respect and honor that I rise today to recognize the life and legacy of Northwest Florida's beloved Frank Swanner.

Frank Swanner was a man who lived his life deeply rooted in his strong faith in God and love for his family and community. Born in Tanner, Alabama on January 28, 1921, he began his working career as a farmer, member of the Limestone County School Board, and an active member of the local Baptist Church and Baptist Association, as well as, working at Chemstrand/Monsanto.

When Chemstrand/Monsanto transferred the Swanner family from Decatur to the Pensacola Plant in 1959, Mr. Swanner and his family moved to Milton, Florida, where he continued his active service in the church and community as Deacon and music leader in Ferris Hill Baptist Church, treasurer of the Santa Rosa Baptist Association, a member of the Santa Rosa County Civil Service Board, the Local Democratic Committee, and the Kiwanis Club.

In addition to his love for God and family, Frank had a tremendous love for our country. During World War II, Frank Swanner joined the United States Army, which brought him to Omaha Beach and the shores of Normandy on June 6, 1944. With honor and sacrifice, he and millions of men and women answered the call of duty. They have become known as the ``Greatest Generation,'' and we are eternally grateful for their service.

To some, Frank Swanner will be remembered as a community leader and fellow worshipper, and to others, an avid softball player and bowler. To some he will be remembered as a friend in the Wendy's Lunch Bunch, and to others, a comrade in the United States Army and World War II Veteran. He will long be remembered by his family and friends as a loving and compassionate person full of energy and charisma. Frank Swanner touched a number of lives, and all who knew him are forever blessed for the love and inspiration that has left a lasting impression in our hearts.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to honor one of America's great heroes, Frank Swanner, for his honorable leadership and service to Northwest Florida and to this great Nation.

I thank the gentleman for yielding. Thank you for setting up this time this evening to talk about the Fair Tax, something that a great many of us, in fact 51, have signed on as cosponsors of this particular piece of legislation. I do salute my friend, Mr. Linder of Georgia, for continuing to keep this piece of legislation out in the forefront. It is incumbent upon us as members of the legislative body to do what we can to bring things to the floor for debate. But it is also incumbent on people out there in just good old regular America to call their Members of Congress, to inform them of what they want.

I think of Skip and Loretta Akin back in my district who, every time there is a Fair Tax issue that comes up, they are a part of it. They are wearing their Fair Tax shirts. They have been to the city of Atlanta talking about the issue and bringing the good news forward. But there are just a lot of people that aren't listening. We are in great economic peril now. We all know that. We all have compassion. We want to solve the problems that are out there. But we hear more and more about taxes. We hear class warfare, if you will. And again, my colleague has just talked about the issue of choosing where you spend your money, choosing if you're going to buy something. It even goes beyond that. It is choosing whether you buy something new or whether you buy something existing or used where there won't be a sales tax on it. What is amazing to me is that besides the fact that it does away with all of the other taxes that are embedded out there, it is something that you alluded to, Mr. King, just a little while ago, and that was that it prohibits funding of the IRS after the year 2013. Can you imagine no Internal Revenue Service after the year 2013? Why? Because each and every one of us remits at the cash register at the point of sale. We remit the taxes there. So yes, it has already been alluded to, in the administration, where the Treasury Secretary that our President chose could not figure out how to pay his taxes among the overly complicated Tax Code. I hope that Secretary Geithner will join my colleagues and others in supporting this particular bill.

Lastly, Mr. King, I would like to also remind my colleagues that there are Fair Tax rallies that are being held all across the country. The next one that I'm familiar with is in Jacksonville, in my State of Florida, on the 11th of April. Unfortunately, I will not be able to be there as I will be somewhere overseas visiting with our troops during that time of our break. The people that are keeping this issue forward and in the forefront today are the ones that need to be saluted as well as those that continue to talk about it. I encourage you and will be here every time that you want to bring the Fair Tax issue to the floor.

I thank you again for bringing this to the floor.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Danna Chatwell, recipient of the Hurlburt Air Force Association Chapter 398 Middle School Teacher of the Year Award for the 2008-2009 school year. Her success as an educator is a testament to the power of our country's teachers, and I am proud to honor Ms. Chatwell on this distinguished occasion.

Ms. Chatwell serves as a seventh grade science teacher at Woodlawn Beach Middle School in Gulf Breeze, Florida. In 2007, she earned the Holley-Navarre Intermediate Teacher of the Year, and this recent AFA award highlights her continued achievements. By merging technology and modern trends with proven teaching practices, Ms. Chatwell gives every student the ability to be successful. Her energy and passion for teaching infuse a desire for knowledge in her students that lives on long after they have graduated from her classroom.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to thank Ms. Chatwell for her service to the students of Woodlawn Beach and to the community of Northwest Florida. Vicki and I wish her and her family best wishes for continued success.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today in recognition of Susan Cundiff, the 2008-2009 Hurlburt AFA Chapter High School teacher of the Year.

For many students, the prospect of taking physics and chemistry is daunting. Yet, for those at Gulf Breeze High School in Gulf Breeze, Florida, these advanced subjects become something comprehensible and enjoyable due to the outstanding teaching abilities of Ms. Susan H. Cundiff.

Advanced Placement Physics, Physics I/Honors, Beginning Physics, and Beginning Chemistry are all taught by Ms. Cundiff, who was a cofounder of the Physics Alliance of Northwest Florida (PANF) and served as the organization's president for two years. She has also coached events for the Science Olympiad. In each of her classes, students participate in a Rube Goldberg project in which a particular machine must be built. Previous projects include a letter folding machine, a machine that changes light bulbs, and robots capable of picking up and carrying objects. This learning style promotes an integrated, hands-on approach which helps break down the advanced material and makes it more tangible.

The title of Teacher of the Year is an incredible honor and is evidence of Ms. Cundiff's exceptional capabilities as an educator. Her teaching skills have influenced many and pushed countless students to a higher level of academic achievement. Ms. Cundiff's outstanding accomplishments have distinguished her as one of the great teachers in Northwest Florida, and the First District of Florida is honored to have her as one of their own.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize Susan Cundiff on this outstanding achievement and for her exemplary service in the Santa Rosa School District.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Helene ``De De'' McGlynn, who has received the Hurlburt Air Force Association Chapter 398 Teacher of the Year Award for the 2008-2009 school year. Her passion and dedication show that teachers can truly make a difference in the lives of their students, and I am proud to honor such an admirable leader of our local community.

Ms. McGlynn teaches fifth grade at Florosa Elementary School in Mary Esther, Florida. Her classes span the width of the education spectrum, from a gifted and advanced math class to a science and reading class for lower performing students. She provides a differentiated curriculum to her pupils by integrating math, science, and reading skills to all academic levels. By using hands-on experiments, creative discussions, and real-world problem solving, Ms. McGlynn inspires a passion for learning to all. Her unwavering goal is to instill a thirst for knowledge in her students by crafting a relevant, modern program for classroom success.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I would like to thank Ms. McGlynn for her public service to the students of Northwest Florida. Vicki and I wish her and her family best wishes for continued success.

Madam Speaker, pursuant to the Republican Leadership standards on earmarks, I am submitting the following information regarding earmarks I received as part of the FY 2009 Omnibus.

Requesting Member: Congressman Jeff Miller

Bill Number: H.R. 1105--Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009

Account: FHWA Transportation, Community, and System Preservation (TCSP) program account.

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Santa Rosa County, Florida

Address of Requesting Entity: 6495 Caroline St., Suite M, Milton, FL 32570

Description of Request: $475,000--Four Lane-PD&E Study, State Road 87 in Santa Rosa County, Florida. I requested these funds to expand the Project Development and Environmental (PD&E) study phase for SR 87. The study would include a triangular study area defined by the following three points: 1) north of Clear Creek Bridge on SR 87 near NAS Whiting Field, 2) the intersection of US 90/Glover Lane, and 3) the intersection of US 90/SR 87 South. The justification is fivefold: 1) to complete a 4-lane regional corridor from the Gulf Coast to the Alabama State Line with an ultimate goal to connect to I-65 in Alabama; 2) to provide four lanes of capacity for South Santa Rosa hurricane evacuation and recovery along the only road which is open when the US 98, US 90, I-10, and SR 281 bridges are impassable; 3) to provide for economic development among existing and planned industrial/commercial facilities and tourism attractions that lie along SR 87; 4) to support the Hurlburt Field and Eglin Air Force Base military missions of national significance; and 5) to solve the issue of additional capacity needed through or around the City of Milton which has local and regional implications. In FY 06, this project received $4 million in SAFETEA-LU, High Priority Projects account. Last year, the project received $492,000 in the TSCP Account. I requested funding from the Transportation, Community, and System Preservation (TCSP) program account.

The entity to receive funding for this project is Santa Rosa County, Florida located at 6495 Caroline St, Suite M, Milton, FL 32570. The funding would be used to complete the PD&E study phase and design for the project. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Consistent with the Republican Leadership's policy on earmarks, I hereby certify that this request (1) is not directed to any entity or program named after a sitting Member of Congress; (2) is not intended for a ``front'' or ``pass through'' entity; and (3) meets or exceeds all statutory requirements for matching funds where applicable.

Requesting Member: Congressman Jeff Miller

Bill Number: H.R. 1105--Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009

Account: FHWA Transportation, Community and System Preservation (TCSP) Program

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Okaloosa County, Florida

Address of Requesting Entity: 1804 Lewis Turner Boulevard, Suite 400, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547

Description of Request: $95,000--Okaloosa County Improvements to Fairchild Road and Hare Street, Florida. I requested funding from the FHWA Transportation, Community and System Preservation (TCSP) Program. This funding would help provide for construction and upgrading of these roadways. Both roads serve as an ingress/egress into an industrial airpark/airport/military contractor complex. The roads are in need of paving, drainage improvements, and widening.

The entity to receive funding for this project is Okaloosa County, Florida, located at 1804 Lewis Turner Boulevard, Suite 400, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project.

Consistent with the Republican Leadership's policy on earmarks, I hereby certify that this request (1) is not directed to any entity or program named after a sitting Member of Congress; (2) is not intended for a ``front'' or ``pass through'' entity; and (3) meets or exceeds all statutory requirements for matching funds where applicable.

Requesting Member: Congressman Jeff Miller

Bill Number: H.R. 1105--Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009

Account: FHWA Transportation, Community and System Preservation (TCSP) Program

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Walton County, Florida

Address of Requesting Entity: 117 Montgomery Circle, P.O. Box 1355, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435

Description of Request: $95,000--Choctawhatchee Bay Bridge Widening. I requested funding in the FHWA Transportation, Community and System Preservation (TCSP) Program account FY09. Funding will support additional design, right of way and construction to provide enhancements to the Choctawhatchee Bay Bridge in order to allow for additional capacity for evacuation purposes and regional economic development. The bridge and US Highway 331 are the county's major evacuation route and have a 30 hour evacuation time. The Preliminary Design and Engineering Study was done in 1995 and 60 percent of the design has been completed.

The entity to receive funding for this project is Walton County, Florida, located at 117 Montgomery Circle, P.O. Box 1355, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project.

Consistent with the Republican Leadership's policy on earmarks, I hereby certify that this request (1) is not directed to any entity or program named after a sitting Member of Congress; (2) is not intended for a ``front'' or ``pass

through'' entity; and (3) meets or exceeds all statutory requirements for matching funds where applicable.

Requesting Member: Congressman Jeff Miller

Bill Number: H.R. 1105--Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009

Account: FHWA Transportation, Community and System Preservation (TCSP) Program

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Walton County, Florida

Address of Requesting Entity: 117 Montgomery Circle, P.O. Box 1355, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435

Description of Request: $237,500--Highway 331 Bridge Replacement in Walton County, Florida. I requested funding in the FHWA Transportation, Community and System Preservation (TCSP) Program account FY09. Funding would be used for design and construction purposes in order to expand U.S. 331 to four lanes. The widening would allow an evacuation route for residents and visitors of south Walton to evacuate in a timely manor in case of hurricanes or other natural disasters. Currently, U.S. 331 is the sole evacuation route out of south Walton with a 30 hour evacuation time. It would also allow a safer transportation corridor for workers from north Walton who support the tourism industry in south Walton. Upon completion, this project will link Alabama to the Gulf of Mexico and U.S. Highway 98 in Florida. The total coast of the project is $69,408,000. The Florida DOT has funded the segment from the Choctawhatchee Bay Bridge to State Road 20 at $41,791,000 for right-of- way acquisition. I requested funding for Highway 331 widening in Walton County, Florida in fiscal year 2009. The entity to receive funding for this project is Walton County, Florida, located at 117 Montgomery Circle, P.O. Box 1355, DeFuniak Springs, FL 32435. The funding would be used for design and construction purpose to expand US 331 to four lanes. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project.

Consistent with the Republican Leadership's policy on earmarks, I hereby certify that this request (1) is not directed to any entity or program named after a sitting Member of Congress; (2) is not intended for a ``front'' or ``pass through'' entity; and (3) meets or exceeds all statutory requirements for matching funds where applicable.

Requesting Member: Congressman Jeff Miller

Bill Number: H.R. 1105--Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009

Account: Army Corps of Engineers General Investigations Account.

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Okaloosa County, Florida

Address of Requesting Entity: 302 N. Wilson St., Suite 302, Crestview, FL 32536

Description of Request: $96,000--Shoreline Protection Project, Okaloosa County, Florida. I requested these funds to allow the Army Corps of Engineers to conduct a Reconnaissance Study of the Okaloosa County shoreline. The Florida Department of Environment Protection's Critically Eroded Beaches in Florida report identifies 6.5 miles of county beaches and .8 miles of inlet shoreline as ``critically eroded.'' The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee authorized the project in June 2006 (Docket 2758). I requested funds from the Army Corps of Engineers General Investigations account.

The entity to receive funding for this project is Okaloosa County, Florida located at 302 N. Wilson St, Suite 302, Crestview, FL 32536. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Consistent with the Republican Leadership's policy on earmarks, I hereby certify that this request (1) is not directed to any entity or program named after a sitting Member of Congress; (2) is not intended for a ``front'' or ``pass through'' entity; and (3) meets or exceeds all statutory requirements for matching funds where applicable.

Requesting Member: Congressman Jeff Miller

Bill Number: H.R. 1105--Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009

Account: Department of Justice Law Enforcement Technology

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: Okaloosa County

Address of Requesting Entity: 1804 Lewis Turner Blvd., Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32547

Description of Request: $500,000--Okaloosa County Public Safety Communications Interoperability Project. I requested these funds to be used to purchase new radio equipment and join the established Florida Statewide Law Enforcement Radio System, which is a multi- jurisdictional, multi-interoperable system. The county's current public safety systems are working on outdated technologies and must be replaced in order to be updated to FCC mandates and emergency responder needs. Decreased radio communication coverage maps have also placed emergency responders and property owners at risk. I requested funding for this project in the Department of Justice Law Enforcement Technology account.

The entity to receive this funding is Okaloosa County, located at 1804 Lewis Turner Blvd., Ft. Walton Beach, FL 32547. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Consistent with the Republican Leadership's policy on earmarks, I hereby certify that this request (1) is not directed to any entity or program named after a sitting Member of Congress; (2) is not intended for a ``front'' or ``pass through'' entity; and (3) meets or exceeds all statutory requirements for matching funds where applicable.

Requesting Member: Congressman Jeff Miller

Bill Number: H.R. 1105--Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009

Account: Small Business Administration Office of Disaster Assistance

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: University of West Florida

Address of Requesting Entity: 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, Florida 32504

Description of Request: $100,000--Florida Business Continuity and Risk Management Center, University of West Florida, Pensacola, Florida. I requested funding to provide enhanced statewide services of the Business Continuity and Risk Management Center (BCRMC) program that operates through the existing Florida network of 35 Small Business Development Centers associated with seven universities. Funds provide for permanent staffing to assist the BCRMC to respond to a reliance on contracts with out-of-state companies/subcontractors, keeping dollars and jobs in Florida. This project is of great assistance to a large number of business owners who need technical assistance with business planning, loan application assistance, continuity planning, and assistance in identifying potential insurance risks and assessments in the wake and aftermath of natural disasters. In FY2008 they received $500,000. I requested funds from the Small Business Administration, Office of Disaster Assistance account.

The entity to receive funding for this project is the University of West Florida, located at 11000 University Parkway, Pensacola, Florida 32504. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project.

Consistent with the Republican Leadership's policy on earmarks, I hereby certify that this request (1) is not directed to any entity or program named after a sitting Member of Congress; (2) is not intended for a ``front'' or ``pass through'' entity; and (3) meets or exceeds all statutory requirements for matching funds where applicable.

Requesting Member: Congressman Jeff Miller

Bill Number: H.R. 1105--Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009

Account: Department of Education, Elementary & Secondary Education (includes Funds for the Improvement of Education aka FIE)

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: The National Flight Academy

Address of Requesting Entity: 1750 Radford Blvd. Suite C, NAS Pensacola, FL 32508

Description of Request: $190,000--Distance Learning program for science, technology, engineering and mathematics curriculum. I requested these funds from the Department of Education FIE account for a distance learning program at the National Flight Academy. This program would implement a Distance Learning Program to teach 7th through 12th grade students the relevance of math and science in their daily lives through aviation. It will spur their interest in avionics and help produce a pipeline of qualified STEM students. The National Flight Academy centers on a week-long in-residence school program. The Academy has the potential to reach up to 100 million students and their parents, as well as more than two million math and science teachers in the nation through this program. To date, Florida has provided $1 million in funding. Last year the Academy received $145,000 in federal funds.

The entity to receive funding for this project is The National Flight Academy, located at 1750 Radford Blvd. Suite C, NAS Pensacola, FL 32508. The funding would be used to provide the wiring and hardware components necessary to provide a distance learning capability throughout the National Flight Academy complex. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Consistent with the Republican Leadership's policy on earmarks, I hereby certify that this request (1) is not directed to any entity or program named after a sitting Member of Congress; (2) is not intended for a ``front'' or ``pass through'' entity; and (3) meets or exceeds all statutory requirements for matching funds where applicable.

Requesting Member: Congressman Jeff Miller

Bill Number: H.R. 1105--Omnibus Appropriations Act, 2009

Account: Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (ETA)--Training and Employment Services (TES)

Legal Name of Requesting Entity: The University of West Florida

Address of Requesting Entity: 11000 University Parkway Pensacola, FL 32514

Description of Request: $333,000--Veterans' training and Employment program. I requested these funds from the Department of Labor ETA and TES account for veterans' training and Employment programs. This program assists veterans with necessary job training and employment skill building.

The entity to receive funding for this project is The University of West Florida, located at 11000 University Parkway Pensacola, FL 32514. The funding would be used to provide training and employment counseling to veterans. I certify that neither I nor my spouse has any financial interest in this project. Consistent with the Republican Leadership's policy on earmarks, I hereby certify that this request (1) is not directed to any entity or program named after a sitting Member of Congress; (2) is not intended for a ``front'' or ``pass through'' entity; and (3) meets or exceeds all statutory requirements for matching funds where applicable.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today in recognition of Beth Lees, Santa Rosa County's 2010 Teacher of the Year.

From an early age, Ms. Lees has expressed a passion and talent for teaching. Inspired by the work of her mother, also a teacher, Ms. Lees would work on the blackboard and create curriculum in the imaginary games of ``school'' she played as a child. This early interest blossomed into an enduring devotion to the profession of teaching and to helping children realize their intellectual potential.

Ms. Lees began her teaching career at Troy University, where she earned a B.A. in elementary education and a master's of science in Education. After graduating, she began teaching third grade and spent the next 12 years teaching third, fourth, and fifth grade. Her education and early experiences have resonated in her current teaching style. Ms. Lees is known for her exciting curriculum and students and teachers often remark on her ability to make the material fun and dynamic. Her enthusiasm is contagious and the structure she provides her students, especially in the way of reading comprehension, is vital to their long-term academic success.

The title of Teacher of the Year is an honor and is evidence of Ms. Lees's exceptional capabilities as an educator. Beyond the title lies Ms. Lees's dedication and devotion, to not only her students, but to the entire community. Her teaching skills and affable personality have influenced many and pushed countless students to a higher level of academic achievement. Ms. Lees's outstanding accomplishments have distinguished her as one of the great teachers in northwest Florida, and the First District of Florida is honored to have her as one of their own.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the U.S. Congress, I am proud to recognize Beth Lees on this outstanding achievement and for her exemplary service in the Santa Rosa School District.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, it is an honor for me to rise today in recognition of Michelle Campbell, Walton County's 2009 Support Person of the Year.

There is more to a school than the primary educators and administrators. To be successful, a school relies on the efforts of countless other individuals whose unique skills and contributions enable the rest of the school to function. One such individual is Michelle Campbell, an Exceptional Student Educational Paraprofessional.

For the past fifteen years Ms. Campbell has dedicated herself to helping children in the community realize and reach their full potential. Working with small groups of students, Ms. Campbell provides instructional support to those students with disabilities while also providing much needed assistance for teachers. Through these small groups, Ms. Campbell focuses on strengthening and reinforcing reading and math skills. It is also through this setting that Ms. Campbell has come to form close bonds with her students. Her support and praise brings much needed encouragement and propels her students towards academic success.

In addition to time spent within the class room, Ms. Campbell spends hours tutoring students during after-school hours. She is also an active member of her school's reading carnival and family science night. As highlighted by her work ethic and reinforced by the praise she receives from both teachers and students, Ms. Campbell is a valuable asset to Walton County. The First District of Florida is greatly indebted to her service and is honored to have her as one of its own.

Madam Speaker, on behalf of the United States Congress, I am proud to recognize Ms. Michelle Campbell on this outstanding achievement, the Walton County 2009 Support Person of the Year.