Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember the life of Charles A. Sardo, Sr., a Southeastern Pennsylvania resident who dedicated himself to proudly serving his community, country, church and family.

Before his passing on January 21, 2008, Mr. Sardo served his community for 22 years as chairman of the Planning Board and Zoning Hearing Board in Lower Providence Township, Montgomery County. His service also included holding the posts of Building Inspector, Zoning Officer, Road Master, and Township Manager in Worcester Township, Montgomery County. His most recent post was Borough Manager in Trappe, Montgomery County. During his 22-month tenure, Mr. Sardo secured grants through the Kaboom program, which financed the construction of a playground at Waterworks Park. This playground will always stand as a symbol to Mr. Sardo's tireless commitment to the communities that he served.

In addition to giving his all to enhance communities, Mr. Sardo answered the call to serve his country as a Marine. It was during that service that an injury led to his honorable discharge.

While public service demanded a large portion of his time, Mr. Sardo always had time to faithfully serve his church. He was an active member of Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary for 35 years where he attended mass and hosted an annual roast beef dinner for his congregation. As a member of the Knights of Columbus, he was recognized for great leadership as Knight of the Year and as Grand Knight for the Pope John Paul I Council.

Mr. Sardo's devotion to his family was about the only thing that surpassed his long list of good works in his public life. He was a proud father who was always involved in his children's activities, including Little League Baseball and Cub Scouts. He was a faithful and conscientious father, grandfather, and husband.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in honoring the life of Mr. Charles A. Sardo who was a shining example of what all of us strive to be, a dedicated citizen and loving family man.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor an organization that has been committed for nearly a decade to improving the quality of life in Southeastern Pennsylvania.

The Phoenixville Area Violence Prevention Network has been working with community leaders since 1999 on strategies for strengthening neighborhoods and aiming to rid the Borough of violence. With countless hours of hard work and scores of dedicated volunteers, this organization has brought together schools, church groups and other members of the community to institute a call for peace and zero tolerance for violence.

The network will commemorate its ninth annual Day of Remembrance and Hope on Sunday, September 14 in Reeves Park. The event will remember the victims of violence, promote anti-violence activities and recognize local individuals who exemplify and work to advance peace in the community.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in recognizing the Phoenixville Area Violence Prevention Network and all those who give some of their time and energy in hopes of building better communities.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a dedicated public servant who is retiring after a 21-year career as a letter carrier with the Chester Springs Post Office in Chester County, Pennsylvania.

Pasquale N. Salve was known to those on his daily route as ``Pat.'' Co-workers described Pat as a gregarious individual who would stop to chat with residents and check in on senior citizens while making his rounds.

On Christmas Day, co-workers said Pat would stop by the Chester Springs Post Office to see if any last-minute packages needed to be delivered in time for holiday celebrations. In another example of his selfless dedication to the residents along his route, Pat would often volunteer to deliver parcels on his way home after his regular shift ended.

It often has been said of letter carriers that neither rain, nor heat, nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds. Pat Salve exemplified this work ethic each day while serving the public with pride. Colleagues will acknowledge Pat's contributions to the community during a small celebration on July 31, 2008 at the Chester Springs Post Office.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in praising the outstanding service of Pasquale N. ``Pat'' Salve and all public servants who go beyond what is expected to serve their communities.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a wonderful southeastern Pennsylvania municipality celebrating its 150th anniversary.

Upper Uwchlan Township, Chester County, was created in 1858 on a plain between the North Valley Hills and the Nantmeal Hills. Welsh Quakers first settled the rural area in the late 17th century and dubbed the region Uwchlan, which means ``upland'' or ``land above the valley.''

The Township is blessed with natural beauty, including the scenic waterways of Pickering Creek, Black Horse Run and Marsh Creek Lake. The Little Conestoga Road running through the Township is believed to be the oldest road in Pennsylvania between the Delaware and Susquehanna Rivers. Pioneers in America's westward expansion traveled through Upper Uwchlan on the Conestoga Turnpike, which also served as a major business route for getting goods into Philadelphia. The Township is also home to the Eagle Tavern, which has been serving patrons since approximately 1727.

Residents, businesses and local officials will mark the Township's 150th anniversary on Saturday, July 19, 2008 with a daylong celebration in the village of Eagle. In doing so, they will celebrate the Township's rich history and outstanding quality of life for residents and businesses.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in congratulating the Township on its historic anniversary.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a southeastern Pennsylvania municipality celebrating its 275th anniversary.

Worcester Township, Montgomery County, was established in 1733 by 22 landowners on roughly 10,000 acres originally part of the land grant given to William Penn by King Charles II of England.

English, Dutch, German and Welsh immigrants, many seeking religious freedom, settled the Township, which was a mostly wooded wilderness at its inception. Eventually, the Township was transformed into a farming community that came to be known as a breadbasket for nearby Norristown and Philadelphia.

Worcester also played a role in the founding of our nation. General George Washington's troops camped at the Peter Wentz Farmstead before and after the Battle of Germantown. And the cemetery across from Bethel Hill Church serves as the final resting place for patriots who gave their lives in the pursuit of liberty.

While the population has grown to nearly 8,000 residents today, the Township remains committed to preserving acres of scenic farmlands and open space.

Residents will mark the Township's 275th anniversary on Saturday, July 12, 2008 during a Community Day celebration in Heebner Park.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in congratulating the Worcester Township on its historic anniversary.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to join the residents of Reading, Pennsylvania in celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the City's most recognizable landmark.

The Reading Pagoda has stood on roughly 10 acres on the southern tip of Mount Penn overlooking Reading since 1908. The seven-

story, red brick and tile building is usually the first thing that catches the eyes of visitors as they cross the Penn Street Bridge leading into downtown Reading. At night, the glow of the Pagoda's red lights transform the building into a beacon easily seen for miles.

Most visitors are curious about why a building associated with Japanese culture is in the middle of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. A postcard from the Philippines with a pagoda on it inspired William Abbott Witman Sr. to build one in Reading at a cost of $50,000. In 1911, the City of Reading purchased the Pagoda for $1 after plans to open a luxury resort in the building fell through.

Today, the Pagoda remains a proud symbol of Reading thanks to the dedication and countless hours of work by members of Pagoda Skyline Inc. This group of private citizens uses donations to maintain the building and grounds and organizes events, such as the planting of perennials each spring.

Pagoda Skyline will help the City mark the 100th Anniversary of the Pagoda on Saturday, July 12, 2008 during a car show atop Mount Penn.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in congratulating the City of Reading and Pagoda Skyline Inc. on the historic anniversary of the treasured Pagoda.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and offer congratulations to Macedonia Baptist Church of Norristown, Pennsylvania for celebrating its 85th anniversary this year. They will be acknowledging this great milestone on June 21, 2008 at a banquet luncheon to be held at the Desmond Hotel in Malvern, Pennsylvania. The Macedonia Baptist Church has an uplifting tradition of volunteerism and service to the community and represents a beacon of strength in the Norristown community.

Since its establishment in 1923, Macedonia Baptist Church has constantly kept its vision and goals centered in the principles of the Gospel and service to the community. Macedonia has been a fixture in the Norristown community and continues to grow and serve the community with each passing year.

Macedonia Baptist Church is led by Pastor Byron L. Craig and continues to make a difference every day. Throughout the past 16 years, under the guidance and leadership of Pastor Craig, Macedonia Baptist Church has

experienced both spiritual and personal growth and has maintained a constant presence for community residents. Pastor Craig has been involved with numerous service organizations and has been awarded countless honors for his leadership, notably serving as president of the Norristown Ministerium.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in congratulating the Macedonia Baptist Church on its 85th anniversary. May their continued care, compassion, and commitment to God and the community be an inspiration to us all.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor the Minquas Fire Company No. 2 of Chester County, Pennsylvania as they celebrate their 100th anniversary of service to our community. Organized on April 2, 1908, their countless hours of service and dedication are a testament to the brave men and women who strive each and every day to keep our communities safe.

The Minquas Fire Company No. 2 was initially organized at a meeting at the Downingtown Opera House. Opening a firehouse shortly thereafter in 1909, the Minquas Fire Company No. 2 has been a fixture in the community ever since. In 1923, Minquas expanded to provide EMS service by creating a separate ambulance committee and ambulance fund and this joint company of fire and EMS crews continues to serve the Downingtown area today.

Presently, the Minquas Fire Company No. 2, home to both fire and EMS crews, runs approximately 2,700 calls annually and covers portions of the Borough of Downingtown and East Caln Township. It also serves the surrounding municipalities as needed. Today, the Company is a combined company of mostly volunteers and some paid EMS staff. There are more than 75 active members running emergency calls under the leadership of President and Fire Chief Michael Miller and EMS Captain Joel Swisher. The Minquas Fire Company No. 2 will commemorate this great milestone on Saturday, June 21, 2008 with a day of celebration.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the brave men and women of Minquas Fire Company No. 2 as they celebrate 100 years of protecting our communities. We can never thank our first responders enough for all their dedication and sacrifice to protect the lives and property of their neighbors and the Minquas Fire Company No. 2 is an exemplary example of unselfish service to others.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and recognize National Prevent Home Improvement Fraud Month and to honor the efforts of Mr. Michael McGee of West Chester, Pennsylvania in raising awareness of the importance of this issue in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and across the country.

As the home remodeling industry continues to grow with the aging of the country's housing stock, so to does the opportunity for fraud by unscrupulous contractors who take advantage of vulnerable home owners, particularly the elderly. Recognizing National Prevent Home Improvement Fraud Month allows the remodeling industry and advocacy professionals a platform to educate homeowners, provide them with the resources to make sound decisions with regard to their home improvements, and raise awareness about potentially scandalous practices that could significantly impact homeowners financially.

Buying a house is an important purchase, but turning a house into a home is an incredible investment. Raising awareness and combating home improvement fraud and contractor dishonesty will help homeowners avoid unfinished projects, substandard materials, and an unsafe, unlivable dwelling.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues rise and join me today in honoring National Prevent Home Improvement Fraud Month. May this month continue to bring awareness to issue of home improvement fraud and efforts to prevent these types of scams both locally and nationally.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a dedicated public servant from Chester County, Pennsylvania, who is leaving after a nearly six-year career with the Caln Township Police Department to accept the position of Chief of Police with Paradise Valley, Arizona.

Chief of Police John Bennett joined the Caln Township Police Department as Chief of Police in June 30, 2002, replacing the retiring Chief James Franciscus. Prior to his time as Chief of Police in Caln Township, Chief Bennett served as Deputy Chief of Police of Marple Township in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, and has served in law enforcement for over 36 years in Delaware and Chester Counties.

As Chief of Police, John oversaw a department of 20 officers, with a lieutenant, four sergeants, and two investigators. John's leadership has helped make the Cain Township Police Department a first class law enforcement agency. During his six-year tenure as Chief of Police, Chief Bennett was instrumental in establishing an investigative division, creating a bicycle patrol unit and the Youth Aid Panel. Also during this time, John was responsible for sending two officers to the FBI National Academy.

In addition to his duties as Chief of Police, Chief Bennett also served on several executive boards and committees, notably on the Executive Board of the Chester County Chiefs of Police, the Civil Rights Committee for the International Chiefs of Police, the Legislative Committee for the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police, and as Committee Chair of the Chester County Major Incident Response Team. Chief Bennett's service and accomplishments will be celebrated on Thursday, June 12, 2008 at the Caln Township Municipal Building.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in praising the outstanding service of Chief of Police John Bennett, and all those who take an oath to serve and protect their communities.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor the Phoenixville Community Health Foundation as they celebrate their 10th anniversary of service to the greater Phoenixville community.

The Foundation began as the Phoenixville Health Care Corporation in 1997. After a year of tirelessly working to create a sustainable medical infrastructure and charitable services, the Board of Directors embraced the mission of creating a vision of community health for the Phoenixville region. The Board of Directors decided to change the name of the Phoenixville Health Care Corporation to the Phoenixville Community Health Foundation to reflect their desire to implement a community health approach. Since June of 1998, the Foundation has developed a strong presence in the greater Phoenixville community's health sector. Even as the Foundation expanded its operation, the Board of Directors ensured that the development of the Foundation was in keeping with their original mission and vision.

Currently, the Foundation is increasing its charitable services and working diligently to fulfill the medical needs of the Phoenixville residents. The Foundation has achieved its vision of ``championing the needs of the community'' and establishes new community health programs each year. The exemplary service of the Foundation was formally recognized in 2003 with the honorary distinction of ``Outstanding Foundation in the Delaware Valley.'' The eventual sale of the Phoenixville Hospital added $20.5 million to the Foundation and increased their total funding to $48.5 million. Since 1998 the Foundation has issued over 1,600 grants to non-profit organizations in the Phoenixville community.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the great men and women of The Phoenixville Community Health Foundation as they celebrate 10 years of protecting the health and wellness of Phoenixville area residents. The contributions and hard work of every member of the Foundation have strengthened Phoenixville's community health programs and ensured that the Foundation will be a cherished part of our community culture for many years to come.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and offer congratulations to the Exeter Ambulance Association, located in Exeter Township, Pennsylvania, for celebrating its 40th Anniversary this year. Association members will be acknowledging this great milestone on May 31, 2008 at an event to be held at Association headquarters.

The Exeter Ambulance Association was formed 40 years ago to provide outstanding emergency ambulance service for Exeter Township and St. Lawrence, Pennsylvania. The group was formed as a non-profit organization and started as an all-volunteer service. Over the years, it has grown and expanded its services and now provides Advanced Life Support (ALS), Basic Life Support (BLS), and other emergency and non- emergency ambulance services. In addition, the Exeter Ambulance Association operates a community training center and, in 2007, trained over 2500 people in CPR and put 30 Automatic Defibrillators (AEDs) into service in the community. Today, the Association employs over 50 medical transportation professionals, operates four ambulances, two wheelchair-vans, and responds to over 4,000 calls for help each year.

Its mission is ``to provide quality pre-hospital emergency medical care in both emergency and non-emergency settings, and perform all services related to emergency medical service and emergency management.'' As anyone who has received assistance from the Exeter Ambulance Association will tell you, it has performed its mission in an exemplary fashion and consistently surpasses its own standards.

At the 40th year celebration on May 31, the Association will be joined by representatives of the Exeter Police K-9 unit, Drive 25-Stay Alive program, Reiffton and Stonersville Fire Departments, The PennStar Helicopter and flight team, Berks County Humane Society, American Red Cross and Aquabilities of Birdsboro, PA. In addition, St Joseph's Hospital will provide blood pressure checks, cholesterol screening, and bone density screening and the Reading Phillies mascot ``Screwball'' will make an appearance. It will be a fitting celebration to recognize all of the members' great work.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in praising the courageous work, dedication and service of the men and women that make up the Exeter Ambulance Association. The employees and volunteers continue to protect their community with steadfast determination, and ensure that when one is in trouble, they will be there to help.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor the Kutztown Fire Company No. 1 as they celebrate their 100th anniversary of service to their community. Organized on January 14, 1908 and incorporated on April 1, 1918, the countless hours of service and examples of heroism are a testament to the brave men and women who strive each and every day to keep our communities safe.

The Kutztown Fire Company No. 1 was organized on January 14, 1908, merging what remained of other smaller companies. It was incorporated April 1, 1918, as a completely volunteer fire company, consisting of 10 officers and 10 charter members.

During the early years of the company, funds were raised by sprinkling the streets of the borough, holding band fairs, renting the hall to outside organizations and operating a social quarters.

On October 22, 1931, the company purchased land adjacent to the Fire Dam to build

a swimming pool. The pool has been a source of income and was operated solely by the company until 1963 when the Borough Council had a new swimming pool erected along the Saucony Creek north of the Normal Avenue bridge.

Today, the Kutztown Fire Company runs approximately 450 calls annually and covers 40 square miles, which include residential and rural areas, light industrial section, a university and an interstate highway. The fire company truck crew has about 50 members which operate five pieces, under the leadership of President David J. Reimer Sr. and Fire Chief Troy Arndt. The Company will celebrate this great milestone on Saturday, May 17, 2008 with an Appreciation Banquet.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the brave men and women of Kutztown Fire Company No. 1 as they celebrate 100 years of protecting our communities. We can never thank our first- responders enough for all their dedication and sacrifices to protect the lives and property of their neighbors, and the Kutztown Fire Company No. 1 is a proud part of this great history.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge and honor Mr. Ralph Nealman and Mr. Edward Campbell for their 31 years of dedicated service to the Norriton Fire Engine Company, located in East Norriton Township, Pennsylvania. Mr. Nealman and Mr. Campbell will be honored for their long history of service with the Distinguished Lifetime Achievement Award on May 17, 2008 at the annual Norriton Fire Engine Company banquet.

Before becoming a member of the Norriton Fire Engine Company in 1977, Mr. Nealman served his country for 27 years as a Sergeant First Class in the U.S. Armed Forces. As a member of the Company, he has served as Assistant Chief Engineer and Engineer, and has worked tirelessly on many committees, including the five he now chairs. Mr. Nealman has been a member of the Board of Trustees for 26 years, and he currently holds the position of Chairman of the Board.

In 1997, Mr. Nealman was awarded Life Membership for his committed service to the Company. Additionally, he was a two-time recipient of the President's Award and a recipient of the Firefighter of the Year Award. Mr. Nealman's leadership included his successful efforts to establish the first driver qualification test for the Company and his foresight in creating a radio-funding account, which was essential to the Company's efforts to comply with new duties following the 9/11 tragedy.

Mr. Campbell also became a member of the Norriton Fire Engine Company in 1977, after serving two years in the U.S. Army. Mr. Campbell holds the position of Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees and has served as Assistant Engineer for many years. He has enthusiastically worked on the Building and Insurance Committees, and greatly improved the Company's insurance system. Mr. Campbell increased the Company's disability insurance plan, and helped to establish a joint payment plan designed to encourage youth involvement in the Company.

Mr. Campbell is also the recipient of the President's Award and the Chief Engineer's Award. Additionally, he was awarded Life Membership in 1997 in recognition of his untiring efforts on behalf of the people of East Norriton Township and the surrounding communities.

So I ask, Madam Speaker, that my colleagues join me in honoring Ralph Nealman and Edward Campbell for leading two exemplary lives of service. They have spent 31 years protecting the lives and property of their neighbors throughout East Norriton Township and the surrounding areas. May their service be an inspiration to us all and the next generation of first-responders who dedicate their lives to protecting others.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute and offer congratulations to Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1074, located in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania for celebrating their 75th anniversary this year. They will be acknowledging this great milestone on May 10, 2008 at a banquet to be held at the Spring Mill Firehouse. The Post has a proud tradition of public service and volunteerism and represents all the great works that our Nation's VFWs perform each year.

I am sure each of us in the House of Representatives has had the privilege to meet with constituents who are members of local VFWs, or perhaps fortunate to visit a local Post. The VFW traces its roots back to 1899 when veterans of the Spanish-American and the Philippine Insurrection founded local organizations to secure rights and benefits for their service. Their work soon shifted to not only helping the brave men and women who served their country, but local neighbors and communities who also needed their help.

As their inspiring mission states: ``Honor the dead by helping the living.'' VFWs support countless activities, through veterans' service, community service, national security and a strong national defense.

Today, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, with its Auxiliaries, includes 2.3 million members in approximately 8,400 Posts worldwide.

Post 1074 is led by Post Commander Andrew Duncan, and continues to make a difference in our community, including maintaining the beautiful War Memorial Statue located at Second Avenue and Fayette Street in Conshohocken, PA. The VFW proudly notes that its members and its auxiliary contribute more than 13 million hours of volunteerism in our area each year.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me today in praising the honorable work, dedication and service of the men and women in VFW Post 1074. They continue to improve our local communities through their volunteer efforts, and show why members of the United States armed services are not only the best on the battlefield, but also when they return home.