Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, it is my distinct honor to take this time to remember one of northwest Indiana's most cherished natives, Karl Malden. An extraordinary talent, his memorable on-screen characters and his remarkable ability to connect with his audience have delighted generations of moviegoers. As an actor, Karl Malden brought joy to people in ways that very few people can. Mr. Malden passed away on July 1, 2009, at the age of 97, but his legacy will forever remain in the hearts and spirits of his family and friends, as well as his many loyal fans.

Born Mladen George Sekulovich on March 22, 1912, in Chicago, Karl was raised in Gary, Indiana, a hardworking steel-producing community. The son of a Czech seamstress and a Serbian milkman and steelworker, Karl's early years were much like many of his generation who grew up in northwest Indiana at the time. As a high school student, he was a gifted athlete and student, excelling on both the basketball court and in the classroom. A leader among his peers, Karl was also the senior class president of the Gary Emerson High School class of 1931.

Following his graduation in 1931, Karl briefly considered continuing his athletic career at the collegiate level before returning to Gary, and like his father, began working in a local steel mill. His career in the mills would not last long though as his passion for theater and acting continued to grow. Early on, young Mladen often performed in Serbian plays produced by his father at his church. Undoubtedly, this had an immense impact on his decision to leave the steel mill and begin studying at Chicago's Goodman Theater. From there, Karl would eventually relocate to New York and begin performing on Broadway. Thus, the start of his illustrious career as an entertainer began.

For more than seven decades, Karl Malden brought memorable characters to the stage and screen. With more than fifty film credits and numerous plays and television projects on his resume, not to mention one of the most recognizable commercial characters in history, Karl Malden proved that he is one of the most adored and versatile actors of not only his, but all, generations. From his lesser known roles to his unforgettable, Oscar-winning performance in A Streetcar Named Desire, Karl's determination and passion for his craft were,

without a doubt, an extension of the lessons he learned as a child growing up in Gary, and as a laborer in the steel mills. It is this same passion for his craft that has raised millions of dollars for programs aimed at preserving and researching the history of film.

From his high school years to his golden years, Mr. Malden was always held in high esteem by his peers, so it is no surprise that he served as president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for several years, and in 2004 he was honored with the Screen Actors Guild's Lifetime Achievement Award.

Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in paying tribute to an American treasure, Mr. Karl Malden. A gifted actor whose characters often embodied the hard- working, blue-collar northwest Indiana community from which he emerged, Mr. Malden has been a source of pride for the people of Gary, Indiana, for decades, and I ask that you join me in remembering him today as one of northwest Indiana's most beloved sons.

Madam Speaker, it is with great sincerity and admiration that I offer congratulations to several of Northwest Indiana's most talented, dedicated, and hardworking individuals. On Friday, July 31, 2009, the Lake County Electricians Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) will honor the class of 2009 at their annual Apprentice Completion Banquet, which will be held at the Avalon Manor Banquet Hall in Merrillville, Indiana.

This year, the Lake County Electricians JATC will be recognizing and honoring twenty-nine graduates who have completed the apprentice training. This year's graduates are: Jake Archambault, Jennifer Batka, Bryan Bogacz, Brett Bormann, Steve Brumley, Kelly Carlson, Jonathan Chariton, Noble Dennie, Jake Duttlinger, Andrew Filipowski, Theresa Gibbs, Josh Hardebeck, Nick Hardesty, Matt Marckese, Justin Marcotte, Joe Michaels, Jonathan Moran, Jon Moyado, Mike Nelleman, Ben O'Neall, Jon Orzachowicz, Chris Roark, Kyle Spicer, Jason Tampauskas, Joe Thomas, Nick Trinidad, Andy Vlachos, Arnell Washington, and John Yaksic.

Northwest Indiana has a rich history of excellence in its craftsmanship and loyalty by its tradesmen. These outstanding graduates all exemplify these traits. They have mastered their trade and have demonstrated their loyalty to both the union and the community through their commitment, hard work, and selfless sacrifice.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating these committed, hardworking individuals. Along with the other extraordinary men and women of Northwest Indiana's unions, these individuals have contributed in many ways to the growth and development of the economy in Indiana's First Congressional District, and I am very proud to represent them in Washington, DC.

Madam Speaker, it is with great admiration and enthusiasm that I call attention to Hobart Elks Lodge 1152 in recognition of their 100th anniversary. Having served their Northwest Indiana surroundings with their charitable efforts, Lodge 1152 is to be commended. The always-prospering establishment will be commemorating this magnificent milestone on July 25, 2009. Not only will this small community be celebrating the longstanding history of their lodge, but they will be celebrating the spirit of Elkdom everywhere.

Since its humble beginning in 1909, the Elks of Gary have been an ambitious bunch and have grown considerably since the time of their first establishment. Beginning with the meeting of thirty-four pioneers, the Gary Lodge 1152 was founded under its first Exalted Ruler, William P. Gleason. After hosting their gatherings in the Feuer building for more than a year, the Gary Elks felt it was time to expand and began construction of a building at 610 Washington Street, which would become home to the Lodge's meetings for the next seventeen years.

They remained there until 1928 when a new three story lodge was built at 8th Avenue and Broadway, which was necessary to comfortably accommodate their increasing civic activities. Among the perks of this new location was the WJKS radio station that very quickly became a tenant of the new establishment, based on an agreement that the broadcasting company would air an eleven o'clock toast nationally and nightly. Elks from as far as Alaska would begin gathering around local turrets to pay respect to their Absent Brothers, thankful to the Gary Lodge for its commitment to sustaining the National Elk community. Due to woes of the Great Depression, the Elks of Gary sold their building and relocated to 633 Washington Street until 1942, when they again moved to a more convenient location at 5th and Jefferson. Assisted by some of the Elks' skilled craftsmen and volunteers, the new building was refurbished to reflect the glory of the Gary Elks.

After 60 years in Gary, members of Lodge 1152 were relocated to the City of Hobart. It was there that they claimed their sanctuary on 61st Avenue. After about a year of construction, the first initiation was held on December 4, 1970. As an improved Hobart Lodge 1152, the Elks flourished so dramatically that they grew too large for the walls of their current structure, and henceforth built their latest addition, the Jubilee Room.

As the Elks of Hobart grew in number, so did their charitable contributions to the city. Such support was allocated to Boy Scout troops, Soccer Shoot and Hoop Shoot programs, and scholarship-worthy students throughout the region. This philanthropy was also expressed through contributions to organizations such as the Elks National Foundation, Cancer Fund, and Parade of Nickels. Additionally, the Hobart Elks have been actively involved with the veterans of Northwest Indiana, namely through their annual Flag Day Celebration.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating the Hobart Elks Lodge 1152 on its centennial celebration. Through the years, the establishment's members have graced us with their patriotism and benevolence, and I am truly honored to represent them in Washington, D.C.

Madam Speaker, it is with great honor and pleasure that I stand before you today to recognize Mrs. Betty Morgavan. Betty has served the Croatian community in Northwest Indiana and beyond for many years, and for her efforts she will be honored at a banquet celebrating her 50 years of service to the Croatian Fraternal Union on Sunday, July 19, 2009, at the Croatian Fraternal Lodge 170 in Merrillville, Indiana. Her complete dedication and her endless enthusiasm put forth toward her community and the Croatian Fraternal Union has allowed her the opportunity to enrich the lives of countless people.

Betty was born on June 1, 1930, to George and Vica Chelich. Her parents immigrated to the United States from Croatia early on in their adult life, and they settled in Northwest Indiana. Betty is one of three children. She has one brother, John Chelich, and one sister, Ann Chelich Lieber, who is a Croatian Fraternal Union Lodge 170 board member. As a child, Betty attended Saint Mark's Elementary School and went on to graduate from Lew Wallace High School in Gary, Indiana. On October 7, 1940, Betty married Vince Morgavan, and they had three children, Helen, Ray, and Elizabeth. Betty's husband Vince was her counsel, confidant, and her most staunch ally, and they were married for almost 57 years. The two shared a wonderful marriage as well as a strong desire to help the community.

In 1959, Betty won her first official position within the lodge when she became Club Secretary. It was during those years as Secretary that Betty became inspired by her mentor and President of Lodge 170 at the time, Nicholas Erbesti. Betty's commitment to the Croatian community grew stronger, and she was elected President of Lodge 170 in 1980. During her time as President, Betty initiated the sale of the original hall on 36th Avenue and Broadway because the members decided they needed a larger space for their events and the growing community. During the late 1980s, Betty assembled a team of dedicated members to build the largest Croatian Fraternal Home in the United States and Canada, and to this day there is no lodge in all of the Croatian Fraternal Union that has a building of this size. In 1991, the $1.5 million dollar building opened. It stands as a testament to the hard- working immigrants who inspired their children to build things they themselves could hardly imagine. Under Betty's leadership, Lodge 170 grew to become the third largest membership lodge in the country. Because of her selfless dedication and undying motivation to improve this community and to keep the Croatian culture and traditions alive in Northwest Indiana as well as nationwide, Betty was re-elected by the lodge members for twenty-eight years in a row. She also had the honor of being elected to the Croatian Fraternal

Union National Board for several years. In addition, Betty was also a delegate to many of the union's national conventions.

In 2008, Betty retired from her post as lodge President. Today, Betty enjoys spending time with her six grandchildren. She continues to remain an inspiration to the Croatian Fraternal Union and continues her service as a member. The beloved Croatian community could not have asked for a more devoted and loyal servant, and she is worthy of the highest praise.

Madam speaker, Mrs. Betty Morgavan has always given her time and efforts selflessly and has truly been an inspiration to so many people throughout the years. She continues to be a tremendous source of pride for the Croatian community and for the people of Northwest Indiana. I respectfully ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending Betty on her 50 years of service to the Croatian Fraternal Lodge 170! ``Hvala Za Sve!'' ``Thanks for Everything!''

Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure and sincerity that I take this time to congratulate the individuals who will take their oath of citizenship on July 4, 2009. In true patriotic fashion, on the day of our great Nation's celebration of independence, a naturalization ceremony will take place, welcoming new citizens of the United States of America. This memorable occasion, coordinated by the Hammond Public Library and presided over by Magistrate Judge Andrew Rodovich, will be held at Harrison Park in Hammond, Indiana.

America is a country founded by immigrants. From its beginning, settlers have come from countries around the globe to the United States in search of better lives for themselves and their families. The upcoming oath ceremony will be a shining example of what is so great about the United States of America--that people from all over the world can come together and unite as members of a free, democratic nation. These individuals realize the great things America has to offer. They realize that there is nowhere else in the world that offers a better opportunity for success and a good life than here in America.

On July 4, 2009, the following individuals, representing many countries throughout the world, will take their oath of citizenship in Hammond, Indiana: Daniele Giuseppe Manfre, Ugochi Genevieve Okoro, Ilidoro Natanael Nevarez Rivas, Ravindranath Chigurupatl, Leela Rani Chigurupatl, Tran Quynh Nguyen, Miroslav Tepavac, Du Lin, Rosalia Navarrete, Igor Dmitriy Harris, Lubov Mullens, Rogelio Hernandez Plata, Erika Blacburn, Dhanwant Singh Sidhu, Konstantina Andreas Prokopos, Oluwabusola Anuoluwapo Binutu, Jori Beniaminovitch Tsvik, Nelia Prokophievna Repkina, Abdulla Hussein Ahdelqader, Ikram Sharawi, Juan Montoya Garcia, Jesus Loe Baeza, Humaira Sameer Minhas, Maribel Orozco De Loe, Marilyn Vincoy Morana, Anatoly Fedorovich Kolesnichenko, Inna Veniaminovna Borysova, Vesna Balac, Ruchira Shukla, Jacklyn Luong, Joanna Jadwiga Pierce, Rolee Khurana, Nikoleta Maginas, Yousef Shurri Qarbeit Al Armani, Said Yousef Musleh, Mohammed Ben Wanes, Juan Jose Lopez Moreno, Milena Losic, Alma Laura Nunez, Ramadan Amzai, Jose Antonio Garcia Guzman, Dao Chieu Anh Hui, Yasmeen Mohammd Yaseen ShreeiQun, Kamila Hendzel, Natalia Pelc, Truc Phuong Thi Lai, Katarzyna Jowita Przybyla-Kelly, Tanja Ognenovska, Suwit John Sangkaratana, Chirag Patel.

Though each individual has sought to become a citizen of the United States for his or her own reasons, be it for education, occupation, or to offer their loved ones better lives, each is inspired by the fact that the United States of America is, as Abraham Lincoln described it, a country ``. . .of the people, by the people, and for the people.'' They realize that the United States is truly a free nation. By seeking American citizenship, they have made the decision that they want to live in a place where, as guaranteed by the First Amendment of the Bill of Rights, they can practice religion as they choose, speak their minds without fear of punishment, and assemble in peaceful protest should they choose to do so.

Madam Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating these individuals, who will become citizens of the United States of America on July 4, 2009, the day of our Nation's independence. They, too, will be American citizens, and they, too, will be guaranteed the inalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We, as a free and democratic society, congratulate them and welcome them.

Madam Chair, I seek recognition in opposition.

Before I proceed, just for clarification, if I could ask the gentleman from California a question. Did you indicate that that was an amount of $1 million or $2 million?

I would suggest to the gentleman that it is $1 million and that his statement was not correct.

Madam Chair, the gentleman talked about the preservation of the Good Fellow Lodge that, as he rightfully indicated, became possessed by the National Park Service in 1977, 32 years ago. He also indicated, correctly, the deferred maintenance budget under the General Accountability Office.

But I would point out that the $1 million designated in this bill-- and I appreciate the consideration of the Chair and the ranking member for including it--goes much beyond the issue of preservation. The fact is that it has a lot to do with education.

The installation of the water line and the subsequent restoration of the lodge would allow the Dunes Learning Center at which this lodge is located to expand their current educational program. The learning center provides valuable hands-on experience and inspires environment and environmental stewardship among the citizens of northwest Indiana.

Since its inception in 1998, over 48,000 students have participated in the program, including a record 5,578 last year. For these thousands of learners, the Environmental Education Center, which the Good Fellow Lodge is intended to be part of, is increasing each visitor's enjoyment and understanding of the parks and to allow visitors to care about the parks on their own terms.

This is not just about preservation. It is also about reducing future costs for the National Park Service. The fact is that the project would reduce National Park Service maintenance and operation costs. Internal filtering and chlorination systems for the wells that are currently on site must be maintained at each site with daily and weekly sampling and expensive laboratory testing to satisfy State health standards.

Currently, the park operates and maintains all pumps and water lines. And this project would allow the park staff to focus on other high- priority assets in the park.

And I would also point out that it has something to do with the issue of safety. A municipal water supply line will increase supply in water pressure that will improve fire suppression for the student cabins that are at site and ensure quality of potable water consumed by the children.

So I do think this is very deserving and goes beyond the issue of preservation.

I would be happy to yield.

I appreciate the gentleman's remarks.

I reserve the balance of my time.

I would simply close by making the observation that the gentleman talks about other parks, but we are a society. Taxpayers in northwest Indiana pay for projects that potentially reduce flooding in a city like Dallas, Texas. The taxpayers in the State of Illinois may pay taxes to make an investment at Oak Ridge in the State of Tennessee that, at first blush, may have nothing to do with their interests but enure to the benefits of everyone in the United States. The fact is that this is a national park. It enures to the benefit of every citizen of the United States. And I ask for my colleagues to oppose the amendment.

I yield back the balance of my time.

Madam Speaker, it is my distinct honor to take this time to recognize the Indiana Historic Bureau's unveiling of one of their 500 historical markers to honor the late Pulitzer Prize author, photographer, naturalist, and former Porter County, Indiana, resident, Edwin Way Teale (1899-1980). The historical marker is located at the center of Furnessville, Indiana, where Edwin Way Teale and his family once lived. Furnessville, a community with undefined borders, lies between Pine and Westchester townships, at the north end of Porter County. An unveiling ceremony of the historical marker will take place on Saturday, May 30, 2009, in the center of Furnessville near Musette Lewry, estate of the late American Naturalist, Edwin Way Teale.

Edwin Way Teale put Furnessville on the map with his autobiographical book Dune Boy: The Early Years of a Naturalist. The book was an account of the time he spent as a child on the farm owned by his grandparents, Edwin and Jemina Way, discovering the dunes of Northwest Indiana. In 1915, his grandparents' farm burned down. Next, The Maples, in the center of Furnessville, became home to his

grandparents, and many years later, was the home of Teale's wife, Nellie, and their son, David. Eventually, Musette Lewry was built on this foundation. Trent D. Pendley, who purchased Teale's home in Furnessville, applied for the State Historical Marker, which was approved in October 2007 by the Indiana State Library after undergoing significant study. There are only about 500 of these larger markers throughout the State of Indiana. The criteria for the State Historical Marker is based on the national significance of the site or honoree.

Edwin Way Teale was born on June 2, 1899, in Joliet, Illinois. As a child, his fondest memories were the summer months he spent on the Furnessville farm owned by his grandparents. It was this time spent in Indiana, as a child, that became the backdrop for Teale to discover his love, respect, and wonder of nature. His grandparents gave him the freedom to explore the surrounding landscape, which became the most significant influence on his future career as a writer and naturalist. Teale went on to study English Literature and received a Bachelor of the Arts degree from Earlham College in Richmond, Indiana. During this time, he met his wife, Nellie Donovan, and they were married in 1923. Teale then began his writing career after graduating with a Master of the Arts degree from Columbia University in 1926. Edwin and Nellie had one son, David, who died in battle during World War II. In honor of their son, Edwin and Nellie collaborated on a four-book series detailing natural seasonal changes across the United States. In 1965, Teale won the Pulitzer Prize for Wandering Through Winter, a book that was part of this series, which is an account of the four winter months he and his wife spent traveling through the United States. He also won the John Burroughs Award for nature writing, and went on to publish thirty books in his lifetime. Edwin Way Teale passed away on October 18, 1980.

Madam Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending the Indiana Historic Bureau's unveiling of the State Historical Marker to honor one of Northwest Indiana's finest citizens, Edwin Way Teale. For his notable, and highly respectable literary and environmental influence both nationally and in Northwest Indiana, he is worthy of the highest praise. I respectfully ask you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring Edwin Way Teale and acknowledging the Indiana State Historical Marker in his name as a tremendous source of pride for Northwest Indiana.

Madam Speaker, this Memorial Day Weekend, we remember the brave men and women who have given their lives in battle, and we also honor the veterans who served in prior engagements and the troops currently in uniform. Throughout our history, brave Americans have fought for freedom and democracy around the world, and today we remember them for their noble service. We honor our troops and veterans through our deeds and our words, reaffirming our commitment to support our troops and providing our veterans with the benefits they deserve.

Over the last few years, Congress has made historic gains for America's troops, veterans, and military families. Among these accomplishments include a New GI Bill to restore the promise of a full, four-year college education for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, the largest increase in history for veterans' healthcare and other services, and significant strides in rebuilding the American military and strengthening other benefits for our troops and military families. This Memorial Day I pledge to continue this critical work to put America's troops and veterans first.

I know that more remains to be done. I will never stop fighting to ensure we do right by the men and women who serve our nation and defend our freedom. This Memorial Day, please join me in paying tribute to the brave men and women from Northwest Indiana, and all of America, who gave their lives in defense of freedom and democracy.

I appreciate the gentleman yielding.

Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 2187, the 21st Century Green High-Performing Public Schools Facility Act and commend Representative Chandler as well as the Chair of the full committee, Mr. Miller, and Subcommittee Chair Kildee, for their wonderful work on this measure in ensuring that our students have the most healthy and environmentally friendly schools possible.

Particularly I am most pleased that language is included in this measure that requires the use of American-made iron, steel and manufactured goods. Last year, similar language was included in the legislation as well.

Last year in April the Congressional Steel Caucus held hearings on imported steel and their substandard nature in many instances relative to safety. If we are going to be using steel-related products for schools, we ought to ensure that those schools are safe. This measure does that.

In addition to ensuring American-quality steel is used to make sure that those students have a safe and healthy environment, it provides a second critical stimulus, and that is to help maintain and create jobs in the domestic steel industry that is losing them at an alarming rate. Last week, steel production across this country was at 42 percent, compared to 91 percent just a year ago.

If school construction projects provided under this act are to be truly safe for our children, the steel used should be made in America. If it is to be beneficial to the American economy to create jobs, the steel we use in this bill should be made in America. Again, I particularly thank the Chair and Chair of the subcommittee for their endeavor

to make sure this provision was included.

Madam Speaker, the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee will soon bid farewell to our professional staff member, Teresa Tyborowski, who has been with the Appropriations Committee for five years.

Before joining the Committee staff in 2004, Ms. Tyborowski spent twelve years at the Department of Energy. There, she worked on a wide range of vital energy and environmental policy issues, including nuclear clean-up, natural resource management, nuclear non- proliferation, international fuel cycles, and fissile materials policy implementation. In these areas and others, she evaluated existing policies, made recommendations for essential changes, authored reports to Congress, managed complex programs, and traveled abroad to facilitate international cooperation. Her extensive experience in both foreign and domestic energy issues in a variety of capacities made her a valuable member of the Department and prepared her to make equally meaningful contributions to Congress.

The Appropriations Committee first benefited from Ms. Tyborowski's expertise in 2000, during her detail with the Energy and Water Subcommittee. That year, she assisted in the preparation of the Fiscal Year 2001 Appropriations Bill, giving recommendations on funding levels and reporting requirements from the perspective of a federal agency under our jurisdiction.

With both Departmental insight and familiarity with the appropriations process, Ms. Tyborowski was an obvious choice for a permanent professional position on the Appropriations Committee. Joining the Committee staff in 2004, she spent a year with the Homeland Security Subcommittee working on science, infrastructure, and intelligence issues before returning to the Energy and Water Subcommittee to oversee major Department of Energy accounts. In this capacity, Ms. Tyborowski's in-depth knowledge of energy policy made her a truly invaluable member of the team.

The Energy & Water subcommittee has a history of working close together, but when I became Chairman of the subcommittee I was able to gain a much deeper appreciation for the tremendous contribution Ms. Tyborowski made to the subcommittee. During this transition period, she provided an essential source of consistency and expertise. She quickly became a go-to person for nearly all of the energy-related issues and her work was critical to the subcommittee's success during her four year tenure.

On top of all her professional contributions, Ms. Tyborowski has also been a distinct pleasure to work with. Tenacious and honest, Ms. Tyborowski is universally regarded by her colleagues for the deep commitment and passion she brings to her work. We have each appreciated her wonderful and contagious sense of humor. Her presence will be sorely missed. I must also acknowledge Ms. Tyborowski's family--her husband, Keith, and her son, Eric--for their support as Terry managed the demands of a congressional schedule.

For all the knowledge she has shared and the sacrifices she has made, on behalf of the Energy and Water Subcommittee I would like to extend to her our utmost thanks. We wish her all the best for her return to the Department of Energy. We know that she will continue to do great things.

Madam Speaker, it is my distinct honor to commend seven exceptional teachers from Northwest Indiana who have been recognized as outstanding educators by their peers for the 2008-2009 school year. These individuals are: Robert Backe, Elizabeth Eaton, Wendy Magley, John McCarthy, Nancy McClatchey, Tom Reed, and Donna Scheidt. For their outstanding efforts, these honorees will be presented with the Crystal Bell Award at a reception sponsored by the Indiana State Teachers Association. This prestigious event will take place at the Andorra Restaurant and Banquets in Schererville, Indiana, on Tuesday, May 5, 2009.

Robert Backe, an eighth grade science teacher at Grimmer Middle School, has been in the teaching profession for more than 38 years with the Lake Central School Corporation. Throughout his tenure, Bob has always made a point of bringing fun and enjoyable learning into his labs in order to make sure his students remain interested and actively involved in science. In just one of many examples of his innovative lessons, Bob, an avid Chicago White Sox fan, organized a trip to a game as a means of showing his students how even a baseball game can be integrated into their studies.

Elizabeth Eaton, from the Hanover Community School Corporation, has been a role model and a true inspiration to not only her students but to adults in her community as well. For the past 38 years, Elizabeth has motivated her students to excel inside and outside her classroom. Known for her expertise in gardening, Elizabeth's efforts have led to the creation of an outdoor lab at Lincoln Elementary School. For the past 11 years, she, with the assistance of many of her students, has worked tirelessly to preserve this remarkable example of nature's beauty. For her efforts, Elizabeth Eaton has been named the ``Lake County Conservation Teacher of the Year,'' and her lab has been recognized for being the first of its kind in Lake County.

This year's recipient of the Crystal Bell Award from the Tri-Creek School Corporation is Wendy Magley. Wendy, of Lowell Senior High School, has been in the teaching profession for the past 28 years. The passion Wendy has for teaching and for her students goes far beyond the classroom. In addition to the grueling task of preparing for six English classes, Wendy also coaches basketball, where she instills in her players the same principles of hard work and dedication that she expects of her students. One other example of the immense impact she has had on her school and her students, Wendy spearheaded the creation of the Lowell High School Shakespeare Festival, which has been a memorable experience for hundreds of high school students.

Currently an elementary school teacher at Ernest R. Elliott Elementary School, John McCarthy is this year's recipient from the School Town of Munster. A truly selfless educator, John has made a point of preparing children to not only become better students but to become better people as well. John's desire to accomplish this goal is witnessed through his dedication to the Camp Tecumseh program. As participants in this program, Elliott Elementary's fifth graders partake in activities that promote team-building, positive values, and personal growth. In addition to his personal involvement with the students, John has also served on numerous committees with the School Town of Munster that aim to improve the quality of life and education for the students.

Nancy McClatchey, this year's recipient from the North Newton School Corporation, has had an outstanding teaching career, marked by innovative programs that allow her students the opportunity to experience real-world settings as part of their curriculum. Over the past 19 years, the Family and Consumer Science teacher at North Newton High School has developed a program that is recognized statewide. An educator whose responsibilities seem endless, Nancy's efforts have led to the creation of the ProStart Culinary Arts Program, which aims to make students better prepared for careers in the food service industry, and the Advanced Child Development and Cadet Teaching programs, which allow aspiring future educators the opportunity to gain critical experience in a classroom setting.

This year's recipient of the Crystal Bell Award from the Crown Point School Corporation is Thomas J. Reed. Tom has been nurturing young minds and sharing his passion for music for the past 22 years. Known for his enthusiasm and willingness to put in extra time to work individually with his students, Tom has also had an immense impact on younger educators. Tom has shown true commitment to his students and his community through donating his time and efforts to programs such as the local 4H and the Lake County Fair. He has also made his mark on his community through his musical abilities, where he can often be found performing at weddings, at church, and within the community.

Donna Scheidt, this year's recipient from the School Town of Highland, is known for her ability to engage her students in a way few other teachers can. For the past 13 years, Donna, an eighth grade language arts teacher at Highland Middle School, has constantly devised new ways to bring classic literature into her classroom. It is not uncommon to witness Donna as a character from a classic story to help bring the author's words to life. Donna's ability to reach others is not limited to her students. She has also taken a lead in developing staff and the school's curriculum. In fact, many of her colleagues would tell you they have grown from her guidance just as her students have.

Madam Speaker, I ask you and my distinguished colleagues to join me in commending these outstanding educators on their receipt of the 2009 Crystal Bell Award. Their years of hard work have played a major role in shaping the minds and futures of Northwest Indiana's young people, and each recipient is truly an inspiration to us all.

Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure and honor that I congratulate Geneva Williamson Poole on a momentous milestone, her 100th birthday, which will be on April 16, 2009. Geneva will be celebrating this milestone with family and friends on Saturday, April 18, 2009, at her home in Gary, Indiana. One of Gary's proudest and most adored residents for over 63 years, Geneva Williamson Poole is an inspiration to countless members of her community as well as her beloved family.

Geneva Williamson Poole was born on April 16, 1909, in Augusta, Georgia, to John and Mary Williamson. Geneva was raised with three sisters and two brothers and was brought up on strong Southern values and profound love. In 1936, she moved to Gary, Indiana, making her home with her four children: Justine, Virginia, Jerome, and Berniece, and her husband, Charlie Poole. Through the years, Geneva worked at many local businesses in Northwest Indiana, including: Barnette's Clothing Store, Dave's Fur Store, Westville Hospital, and Kingsbury Ordnance Plant. While she enjoyed the positions she held, Geneva devoted her life to her family and her community. Geneva's belief in strong family values has taught her children and grandchildren the meaning of a strong work ethic, the value of education, and how important it is for family and communities to stick together. Always leading by example, in 1982, Geneva planted a community garden at the end of her block, and she would give the fruits and vegetables to the people of the neighborhood. An extraordinary cook, Geneva was also known for hosting elaborate dinner parties for family and members of the community. As a senior citizen, Geneva adopted two children, Kathy and Vanetta, and helped raise her thirteen grandchildren. In the summers, Geneva has enjoyed opening her home to her grandchildren and teaching them how to sew, cook, garden, and fish. Geneva's passion for family has touched not only those related to her but also many members of the community. For passing along such essential family values, Geneva is worthy of our deepest admiration.

In addition to her remarkable dedication to her family, Geneva continues to serve her community as an active member at Israel Christian Methodist Episcopal Church in Gary, where she participates in many of the church's programs. Geneva has many friends and loved ones within the church who look to her for advice. They share a common respect for her commendable qualities, including her intelligence, wittiness, strength and perseverance. She is truly an inspiration and a role model for us all.

Madam Speaker, Geneva Williamson Poole has always generously given her time and efforts to preserving family values and strengthening the community in Gary, Indiana. She has taught her family, friends, and members of her community the true meaning of selfless devotion. I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in wishing Geneva a very Happy 100th Birthday!

Madam Speaker, the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee will soon bid farewell to our Congressional Fellow, Lauren Minto, who has been with the Subcommittee for over a year. Before her detail with the Committee, Ms. Minto served the United States Army Corps of Engineers as Legal Clerk and Assistant District Counsel at the Corps' Louisville Office of Counsel for over six years. There, she supported the implementation and regulation of Corps projects funded through the appropriations process. Reviewing legislative language, responding to Congressional requests, and evaluating policy compliance, Ms. Minto developed a strong understanding of the relationship between Congressional legislation and on-site execution as well as a unique level of legal expertise required to facilitate the process.

It is no surprise, therefore, that Ms. Minto quickly became an invaluable member of the Committee staff when she joined the team in February 2008. Her in-depth knowledge of the legal implications of bill language and policy compliance, as well as her technical experience with the Corps' civil works projects, made her an indispensible addition to the staff. A remarkably fast learner and tireless worker, Ms. Minto quickly mastered the responsibilities assigned to her. Her refined analytical skills and exceptional attention to detail have been critical to our success in reviewing requests, synthesizing disparate information, and, ultimately, producing the bills and reports for the fiscal year 2009 and American Reinvestment and Recovery Act.

Perhaps her most noteworthy contribution, however, has been to the development of the Energy and Water Subcommittee's Member Request Database. A relatively new system, the database is meant to facilitate the review and processing of requests made to the Subcommittee. Ms. Minto had the unfortunate experience of being one of the first to deal with the system. In her typically tireless way, she not only overcame any of the unforeseen obstacles, but took an active role in updating and reforming the database. Working closely with our IT department, Ms. Minto made targeted suggestions to perfect the system and, because of her work, our jobs, and those of future staff members will be easier. Indeed, Members' offices have expressed their appreciation for the standardized system of authorized projects that are now generated automatically. Ms. Minto's efforts have lead to more reliable, accurate requests and more transparency. This has enabled Members to focus more on the policy behind the earmarks and less on the technical aspects of entering requests.

For these innovations, and for her overall diligence, ingenuity, and consistently positive attitude over the past year, all of us at the Energy and Water Subcommittee would like to thank her. She will be sorely missed. We wish her all the best in her future endeavors, and are confident that she will go on to do great things.

Madam Speaker, it is with deep respect and admiration that I rise to commend five exceptional business leaders from Northwest Indiana who will be honored as the Northwest Indiana Business and Industry Hall of Fame's class of 2009. Created by The Times and BusINess magazine, induction into the Indiana Business and Industry Hall of Fame is determined by a panel of local civic and business leaders. While there were many deserving nominees, the individuals selected as the 2009 Indiana Business and Industry Hall of Fame inductees are: Calvin Bellamy, Don Burrell, Bruce Leetz, Cynthia Powers, and Burton Ruby. For their many contributions to the enhancement of Northwest Indiana, these honorees will be recognized at a ceremony taking place at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza in Merrillville, Indiana, on Thursday, March 12, 2009.

Cal Bellamy is the former president and chief executive officer of the former Bank Calumet, where he worked for an astonishing thirty-one years. Having served as Bank Calumet's CEO for twenty-four of those years, Cal made a lasting impression on the Northwest Indiana community through his immense dedication to many worthwhile causes. Now an attorney with Krieg DeVault LLC, where he specializes in financial planning, Cal has continued to champion the needs of his community. From working to improve schools to working to develop small businesses and affordable housing, Cal has led the charge toward bettering the quality of life in Northwest Indiana.

Don Burrell is the founder and President of Burrell Color Imaging in Crown Point, Indiana. Don, having gotten his start in the business world with a few hundred dollars he obtained from the sale of his car, truly understands what hard work and perseverance can attain. This is why a key aspect of his business strategy is to respect his employees and allow them to advance to their full potential. While his business has been very successful, it is Don's commitment to those most in need that is most commendable. Throughout the years, Don's staunch support for the Burrell Cancer Institute at Saint Anthony's Medical Center and the Saint Jude House women's and children's shelter has been truly remarkable.

Bruce Leetz joined North Coast Distributing in 1963 as a driver. By 1970, he was named president of the family owned business that has grown to become a multi-million-case distributor based out of Valparaiso, Indiana. Bruce's explanation for the success is the company culture, which is based on values that he has always lived by: passion, respect, integrity, commitment, and excelling, which he refers to as the PRICE of success. While other companies throughout Northwest Indiana have surely replicated this structure, it is the exemplary commitment to their community that set Bruce Leetz and North Coast Distributing apart. In 2008 alone, North Coast raised nearly $80,000 for Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital to help find a cure for childhood cancer.

Cynthia Powers is the owner of Century 21 Powers Realty, Inc. Well- respected and well-known for her success as a businesswoman in Northwest Indiana, she may be even more recognizable for her immeasurable contributions to her church and her community. As a cancer survivor, Cynthia truly understands the importance of faith, and her commitment to her church, First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Gary, can be seen in the more than twenty years she has led the youth choir. In the Northwest Indiana community, a more giving person could not be found. To name a few of her contributions, Cynthia has served as chairman and on the board of directors for the Lake Area United Way, and she has served on the board of directors for The Discovery Alliance, Tradewinds, and the Friends of Hospice of the Calumet Area.

Burton ``Bud'' Ruby, chairman of Jamar-Ruby, has spent over seventy years with the company founded by his father over ninety-three years ago. After learning the trade from the shop floor, Bud advanced in the ranks, eventually becoming president and chief executive officer in 1957. Today, at age 89, Bud remains chairman of the company, which now conducts business under the name Trans-Apparel Group. In addition to his success as a businessman, Bud knows a thing or two about serving his community; he is a World War II veteran. Locally, Bud has served the community through his service with several councils and foundations, including: the Duneland Health Council, where he serves as its chairman, and the Purdue University North Central Chancellor's Advisory Board and the Unity Foundation of LaPorte County, where he serves on each of their boards of directors. Additionally, he has been a member of Rotary International since 1939.

Madam Speaker, I ask you and my distinguished colleagues to join me in commending these outstanding leaders on their induction into the Indiana Business and Industry Hall of Fame. These individuals are most deserving of being named the class of 2009, and for their leadership and commitment to the Northwest Indiana community, each of the recipients is worthy of our respect and admiration.

Madam Speaker, it is my distinct honor to take this time to remember one of Northwest Indiana's most talented and most admired citizens, Irene Day-Comer. An extraordinary soloist, Irene's serene vocals touched the hearts and lifted the spirits of countless residents of Northwest Indiana and beyond, and through her remarkable gift, she served her community in a way that very few people can. Unfortunately, Mrs. Day-Comer passed away on Monday, February 2, 2009, at the age of 86, but her music will forever remain in the hearts and spirits of those fortunate enough to have heard her sing.

Born in the rural farming community of Marks, Mississippi, Irene's family, like many African American families at the time, fled the South in search of better opportunities in more industrialized areas of the country. After arriving in Northwest Indiana, Irene's family made their home in East Chicago, Indiana. Born into a family of deep spiritual faith and religious conviction, it was at Antioch Baptist Church in East Chicago where Mrs. Day-Comer's extraordinary gift and love for sacred music would emerge. At Antioch, she was a member of the Junior Red Circle and Baptist Training Circle and was active in various choirs and ensembles. During her younger years, Irene attended Columbus Elementary School and Washington High School, where she was a member of the highly esteemed Paul Robeson Glee Club. Encouraged by her mentor and pastor, the late Dr. Vincent McCutcheon, Mrs. Day-Comer went on to study at the Moody Bible Institute and the American Baptist Theological Seminary Extension in Chicago.

By the age of eight years old, Irene's passion for music and unquestionable talent was already clear to those who heard her pristine voice. This passion would carry on to her adult life, where she would continue to serve her community through her songs of faith, hope, and inspiration. She gained acclaim from the likes of Oprah Winfrey, who heard her sing after speaking at Antioch in 1981. After this, Reverend McCutcheon and a group of local churches were able to raise enough funds for Irene and pianist, Marilyn Hairston, to record her historic debut album, Irene Day--He's Everywhere, in 1982. This outstanding compilation of sacred songs allowed even more people the joyous opportunity to hear her exceptional voice, and after being re-released in 2002 in the wake of the tragedy of September 11, an entirely new generation was introduced to her uplifting spirit.

A woman whose life and talent spread far beyond the borders of Northwest Indiana, Mrs. Day-Comer received many accolades for her artistry and her service to the community. In 1982, Irene was honored by the City of East Chicago for her contributions to the community, and July 8 was proclaimed Irene Day Day. In 1985, she was recipient of the prestigious Monroe-Master Dedication Commission Award bestowed by the African Methodist Episcopal Church for her efforts to aid and inspire others. Irene was also honored nationally in 1982 following the release of her album with commendations from the Congressional Black Caucus, the late Congressman Adam Benjamin, Jr., Senator Richard Lugar, and former Vice President Dan Quayle.

Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring a great American artist and citizen, Mrs. Irene Day-Comer, for sharing her outstanding talents with the people of Indiana's First Congressional District and beyond. Irene Day- Comer's remarkable gift brought joy and hope to all who listened to her songs, and I ask that you join me in remembering her today.