December 10, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1755 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

MICROBEAD-FREE WATERS ACT OF HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ESTHER fifty years to the service of our Western New 2015 ORTIZ CARDENAS York community. Mr. Curley was born and raised in Buffalo, SPEECH OF HON. WILL HURD New York. After graduating from Canisius OF TEXAS High School in 1959, where he was first team HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES all Catholic in tennis, he moved to Boston, where he graduated with an A.B. degree in OF NEW YORK Thursday, December 10, 2015 mathematics from Boston College in 1963. He IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. HURD of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise then returned to Buffalo to pursue an M.S. de- today to recognize the 100th birthday of Es- gree from Canisius College. Monday, December 7, 2015 ther Ortiz Cardenas of Del Rio, Texas. He was an instructor at D’Youville and A beloved mother of 12 children, grand- Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. Canisius Colleges, where he lectured in statis- mother of 29 grandchildren, 48 great-grand- Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the tics, accounting, and business valuation tech- children and 8 great, great grandchildren, Mrs. Microbead-Free Waters Act. niques. Mr. Curley went on to work in banking Cardenas is a woman known for her devout at Marine Midland, before starting his own Microbeads, the small plastic particles con- faith, her hard work and her generous hospi- tained in many face washes and other cleans- business consulting company, St. Lawrence tality. Business Consultants, in 1977. ing products, too often end up in America’s Whether it was cooking from scratch, mak- lakes, rivers, and other water sources. In fact, He remains president of St. Lawrence Busi- ing clothes for the family, tending chickens, ness Consultants today, specializing in training a report last year from New York Attorney creating home-made soap or tending her gar- General Eric Schneiderman found that up to seminars, economic development projects, den to put food on the table, she always mergers and acquisitions, succession plan- 19 tons of microbeads could find their way into worked hard to ensure her family never want- my home state’s wastewater stream each ning, corporate valuations and ESOPs. At St. ed for anything. Lawrence Business Consultants, he became year. These particles accumulate pollutants, Knowing that God would always provide, the Washington liaison to Moog, Inc. He has increasing toxicity of our waters, and pose a Mrs. Cardenas never hesitated to feed the also played a role in statewide economic de- threat to fish and other wildlife that ingest hungry or help others who were in need. velopment, including consulting with New York plastic. When faced with troubled times, she turned to State’s Ownership Transition Services Pro- I commend the many leading companies God, believing in answered prayers. Surrounded by her family and friends, Mrs. gram and helping to retain more than ten- that voluntarily responded to these concerns thousand jobs in the state. by phasing out the use of plastic microbeads Cardenas celebrated 100 years on November 28th of this year. Mrs. Cardenas is without As a thirty year management seminar lead- in their product lines, including L’Oreal, er, Mr. Curley has conducted more than one Unilever, and Avon. question, a Proverbs 31 woman—a blessing to her family and her community. hundred seminars throughout the United I am pleased Congress acted this week to On behalf of the Twenty-Third Congres- States with more than 3,000 participants. act on this important issue, with bipartisan leg- sional District of Texas, congratulations to Es- He has served on the boards of several islation that will ban microbeads in personal ther Ortiz Cardenas on turning 100 years New York and international corporations, and care products beginning in 2017. young and may you celebrate many more. is a member of the Industry Trade Advisory Committee (ITAC) under the auspices of the This legislation builds on the momentum f from ten states that have passed legislation to Department of Commerce. ban microbeads—including nine just in 2015. CONGRATULATING THE CRYSTAL Mr. Curley was a distinguished member of Unlike some proposals that would put in place CITY HIGH SCHOOL HORNETS the board of the New York Power Authority an unrealistic timeline for implementation, or FOR THEIR 2015 MISSOURI CLASS from 2007 to 2012. And he was elected to phase in the restriction years later than H.R. 1 GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY STATE three terms on the Orchard Park Town Board, 1321, this federal legislation will grant all par- CHAMPIONSHIP where he served for 12 years and was re- ties sufficient time to eliminate microbeads, garded as an expert in public finance. He also while ensuring quick action on this growing HON. BLAINE LUETKEMEYER served as chairman of sewer district #3 and concern. The Microbead-Free Waters Act will OF MISSOURI was vice chair of the Southtown Recycling ensure consumers know that the products IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Consortium. they use each day will not pollute our precious Thursday, December 10, 2015 Mr. Curley has served in leadership posi- lakes and rivers. tions for more than two dozen charitable, civic Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise I urge the Senate to act quickly to pass this and philanthropic organizations. He founded today to ask my colleagues to join me in con- the Orchard Park Council of the Arts and was legislation, and congratulate Chairman UPTON gratulating the Crystal City High School Hor- a member of the National Board of Directors and Ranking Member PALLONE for their hard nets for their first place win in the 2015 Class work on this important bill. of the American Heart Association, Mercy 1 Girls Cross Country State Championship. Hospital of Buffalo, and the President’s Coun- This team and their coach should be com- cil of D’Youville College. He served as chair- f mended for all of their hard work throughout man of the Board of Trustees of Erie County this past year and for bringing home the state PERSONAL EXPLANATION Central Police Services, and director and championship to their school and community. chairman of the audit committee of a Western I ask you to join me in recognizing the Crys- New York foundation. The Orchard Park HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN tal City Hornets for a job well done. Chamber of Commerce voted him Man of the f Year, and he received multiple awards for his OF VIRGINIA HONORING D. PATRICK CURLEY service to the American Heart Association. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES For forty-six years, Mr. Curley has been a Thursday, December 10, 2015 HON. BRIAN HIGGINS member of the Orchard Park Volunteer Fire Company becoming a life member in 1987. OF NEW YORK Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I missed a se- During this time he attended 5,147 emergency IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ries of recorded votes on November 30, 2015. and fire calls. Had I been present, I would have voted ‘‘YEA’’ Thursday, December 10, 2015 An avid hockey enthusiast, he served as on roll call vote Number 644 and roll call vote Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in vice chair for the Southtowns YMCA board of Number 645. honor of D. Patrick Curley, who has dedicated managers, where he designed, financed, and

∑ This ‘‘bullet’’ symbol identifies statements or insertions which are not spoken by a Member of the Senate on the floor. Matter set in this typeface indicates words inserted or appended, rather than spoken, by a Member of the House on the floor.

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built an indoor ice rink. He also founded the and Representative SANFORD BISHOP to urge with the 912th Human Resources Company in Southtowns Hockey Officials Association, and our colleagues in Congress to move towards Afghanistan, Krystyl brought a wide range of was a referee for 35 years. the construction and completion of the Na- valuable experiences to Capitol Hill. Mr. Curley is married to Carolyn G. Curley, tional Eisenhower Memorial as a fitting tribute From day one, Krystyl dove right into the the father of Jennifer Curley Reichert, Brendan to the Supreme Commander of the Allied role of a legislative aide and was as meticu- Curley, and Shannon Curley Tower, and the Forces in Europe during World War II and the lous as a seasoned staffer. There was never proud grandfather of eight grandchildren. He is 34th President of the United States. an issue she didn’t care to learn, and her known for his colorful attire and positive atti- As admirers of Dwight D. Eisenhower and fresh perspective was invaluable. Her experi- tude. He is a loyal, a proven consensus build- his impact on history, it has been an honor to ences in the U.S. Army Reserve and Florida er, cohesive team player, and a fair and effec- serve on the Eisenhower Memorial Commis- Department of Law Enforcement were instru- tive leader. He never missed a St. Patrick’s sion. It is our hope that Dwight D. Eisenhower mental in helping me introduce important leg- Day parade in Buffalo or New York City, or a and our country receive a memorial that prop- islation to stop fraud against veterans and in chance to sing ‘‘God Bless America.’’ erly commemorates his roles as General and securing critical funding for service members Mr. Speaker, Pat Curley is a proud Amer- President that helped shape our nation for the and veterans through the appropriations proc- ican and Western New Yorker. I ask my col- better. We believe the current proposed de- ess. leagues to join me in honoring Mr. D. Patrick sign achieves this goal. With energy, optimism, and the unmatched Curley and thanking him for 50 years of com- For over ten years, the Commission has work ethic of a soldier, Krystyl has helped mitment to his community, family, and country. worked to develop a memorial that pays trib- make her year with my office one of my most f ute to Eisenhower’s achievements as both productive yet. More than just helping with leg- General and President. During this process, islation, Krystyl has been an invaluable re- HONORING TONY YOUNG there have been some differences of opinion source for the veterans in Florida’s 17th Con- on how to best honor Eisenhower’s accom- gressional District. Whether assisting with con- HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY plishments. Unfortunately, there has also been gressional inquiries or helping a veteran with OF VIRGINIA a fair amount of misinformation in many news a VA issue, Krystyl was always happy to take IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES stories and reports. a veteran’s phone call and find a way to help. Thursday, December 10, 2015 The Memorial was first authorized by Con- Over the last year, Krystyl was an out- Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today gress in 1999. Within the past few months, all standing legislative aide, earned her master’s to recognize and remember an extraordinary final design and site approvals have been ob- degree in Legislative Affairs from George advocate for individuals with disabilities, Mr. tained under the process required by Con- Washington University, ran the Marine Corps Tony Young. gress from the National Capital Memorial Advi- marathon, and became an irreplaceable mem- Tony dedicated his life to advocating on be- sory Commission, the U.S. Commission of ber of my team. Krystyl will be greatly missed, half of individuals with disabilities and more Fine Arts, and the National Capital Planning but I have no doubt that she will continue to importantly—helping individuals with disabil- Commission. set a standard of excellence in everything that ities advocate on behalf of themselves. He Since its inception, the Commission has she does. was the founder and first executive director of consulted with members of the Eisenhower the ENDependence Center of Northern Vir- family. David Eisenhower was an original f ginia, a community resource and advocacy member of the Commission from 2001 through RECOGNIZING GEORGE T. SAKATO center run by and for persons with disabilities 2011, during which time the architectural firm whose mission is to END dependence by em- and Memorial design were approved by unani- HON. DIANA DeGETTE powering people with disabilities to live inde- mous votes. OF COLORADO pendently. Time is of the essence for our remaining Tony also served as a senior public policy World War II veterans. Funding of construction IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES analyst with United Cerebral Palsy, Inc. He in Fiscal Year 2016 will allow the Memorial to Thursday, December 10, 2015 be completed by the summer of 2019, the worked as the director of Residential Services Ms. DEGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to and Community Supports for the American 75th anniversary of D-Day. Further delays would mean that those who recognize the life and achievements of George Rehabilitation Association in Washington, D.C. T. Sakato. and served as president of Open Access, a fought under Eisenhower’s command would not see its completion and call in to question George Sakato was born in Colton, Cali- consulting firm focusing on the design, devel- fornia in 1921 and grew up in Southern Cali- opment, evaluation and analysis of policies, whether the Memorial will ever be built. Now is the time to move ahead. fornia. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, his programs and services for persons with dis- family moved from California to avoid the f abilities. mass internment of Japanese Americans, and For the past 16 years, Tony has held var- HONORING MAJOR KRYSTYL WAT- his family resettled in Arizona. ious positions at SourceAmerica where he led SON’S CONGRESSIONAL FELLOW- In 1944, at the age of 23, Mr. Sakato volun- strategic and policy initiatives all with the sin- SHIP teered for the U.S. Army and joined the all- gular goal of helping more individuals with dis- Japanese-American 442nd Regimental Com- abilities to join the workforce. bat Team. At 5 feet 4 inches, he was not your Tony was a positive force in the lives of HON. THOMAS J. ROONEY storybook soldier. What he lacked in stature, thousands, if not millions, of people with dis- OF FLORIDA however, he made up for in bravery and devo- abilities across the nation through his advo- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES tion to his brothers in arms. cacy and the positive changes he supported. Thursday, December 10, 2015 In October of 1944, Private Sakato’s unit Tony passed away earlier this week at his Mr. ROONEY of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I was sent on a mission to rescue 281 captured home in the 11th District of Virginia. Although would like to recognize a member of my staff, American soldiers in the Vosges Mountains of he will be greatly missed, his legacy will en- Major Krystyl R. Watson, for her outstanding northeast France. In the firefight, Private dure through those he touched, those he year as an Army Fellow in my Washington, Sakato’s squad leader was killed after his unit helped, and the societal changes he cham- DC office. pushed enemy German combatants from their pioned. Krystyl, a Florida native, joined my staff last defensive positions. f January as part of the Army Congressional With no commanding officer, Private Sakato CONSTRUCT THE NATIONAL Fellowship Program. Her extremely hard work stepped up to lead his squad. He charged the EISENHOWER MEMORIAL and dedication has made her a vital part of my enemy position. Singlehandedly, he killed 12 team that ensured that not a single day of her enemy soldiers and then, with the help of his HON. MAC THORNBERRY year in my office was wasted. unit, took 34 more as prisoners. OF TEXAS Before coming to Washington as a Fellow, For his bravery, Private Sakato received the Krystyl built quite the resume as a law en- Distinguished Service Cross and was rec- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES forcement officer in Florida. From her time as ommended for the Medal of Honor. Yet, like Thursday, December 10, 2015 a Special Agent with the Florida Department so many other Japanese-American soldiers Mr. THORNBERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise of Law Enforcement in Tampa to her year during WWII, he was denied that honor due to today with Representative MIKE THOMPSON spent deployed as a company commander deeply ingrained anti-Japanese racism.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:17 Dec 11, 2015 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K10DE8.017 E10DEPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS December 10, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1757 More than a half century later, on June 21, and intelligence matters. Commander Historic Site of Castroville, Texas, on the com- 2000, Mr. Sakato and 21 other Asian-Amer- Schumacher executed his work as a liaison to pletion of its extensive restoration efforts. The ican veterans were finally given the recogni- the constituents of the First District and the Landmark Inn State Historic Site, which is a tion they had earned for their actions in com- numerous defense installations in the First Texas Historical Commission property, pre- bat and were awarded the Medal of Honor by District with distinction. Furthermore, he pro- serves an important part of Texas’ history. The President Clinton. vided exceptional support to me as my staff li- Landmark Inn not only protects the cultural On Dec. 2nd, 2015, at the age of 94, aison to the House Armed Services Com- and natural value of this area, but also en- George Sakato died in Denver, Colorado. mittee in my role as a Subcommittee Chair- sures that future generations of Texans will be George Sakato was one of the trailblazing man and as the Co-Chair of the Congressional able to enjoy its rich history. men and women whose hands have shaped Shipbuilding Caucus. The Landmark Inn gives unique insight into the United States into the great nation it is Commander Schumacher directly contrib- the lives of Texas’ earliest settlers. The city of today. His example of bravery, humility, and uted to my goal of providing excellent con- Castroville was established on September 3, love for his country is one to admire and emu- stituent service to the people of the First Dis- 1844, by entrepreneur Henri Castro and a late. trict. He was responsible for bringing numer- group of settlers from the Alsace region of My condolences go to his daughter Leslie, ous constituent inquiries to a successful con- France. One of its earliest inhabitants was a and the rest of the Sakato family. clusion and he was able to leverage his per- man named Ce´sar Monod, who was elected f sonal and operational experience to respond Mayor of Castroville in 1852 and built a com- to the most challenging inquiries. bined home and store to serve travelers along RECOGNITION OF KENTUCKY In addition to his efforts on behalf of the the San Antonio-El Paso road. In 1853, a mer- VOLUNTEERS First District, Commander Schumacher took chant named John Vance bought the property on projects with regional, state and national and built living quarters for his visitors onto the implications, demonstrating his ability to view HON. BRETT GUTHRIE existing store, including galleries, a family resi- a challenge from many angles and develop in- OF KENTUCKY dence, and even a multistory bathhouse. This novative solutions often requiring collaboration IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES became the Vance Hotel. Several other entre- across many levels of government. Thursday, December 10, 2015 Commander Schumacher’s work ethic, duty preneurs, including George L. Haass and to mission, and commitment to servant leader- Laurent Quintle, built a dam on the property Mr. GUTHRIE. Mr. Speaker, I would like to that diverted water from the Medina River to recognize two constituents from my district, ship is without equal. I believe that his per- sonal drive to achieve excellence in his work power a gristmill. Finally, in 1925, Jordan T. Thomas Sullivan and Daniel Disselkamp, who Lawler converted the gristmill into Castroville’s spent three weeks in northern Haiti building has and will set a very high standard for his peers. very first electric power plant. It is over a hun- and upgrading powerlines to help communities dred years later in 1981 that the Landmark Inn receive affordable, safe, and reliable elec- I would also like to thank Commander Schumacher for the service and sacrifice he was dedicated as a historically designated tricity. The power linemen from Nolin Electric site. Cooperative were the second group to volun- has made, and continues to make, for our Na- teer their services on this project. tion and our great Navy. His keen sense of The 23rd Congressional District of Texas The project is one to commercialize power honor, impeccable integrity, boundless work stretches from San Antonio to El Paso, along from the Caracol Industrial Park generation ethic, humor and loyal devotion to duty earned over 820 miles of the border, and includes station that is currently serving 8,000 con- him the respect and admiration of my staff and Castroville, a gem that is home to over 2,600 sumers in Caracol and surrounding commu- the First District of Virginia. As an F–18 Hor- residents. The Landmark Inn provides an op- nities with electricity 24 hours a day. When the net pilot with 2000 flight hours and 400 ar- portunity for today’s Texans to deepen their project is complete, a total of 10,000 con- rested landings, Commander Schumacher understanding of Castroville’s early pioneers. sumers will have access to electricity. One of completed multiple deployments in support of Those dedicated to the Landmark Inn’s res- the major factors contributing to ending pov- Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation toration emulate the hard work and values evi- erty and improving the quality of life for people Iraqi Freedom, and served as an instructor at dent in this great city’s founders. The level of around the world is access to affordable and the United States Navy Fighter Weapons excellence shown in preserving the rich history reliable electricity. School (TOPGUN). Commander Schumacher of this site is a reflection of the residents of Only about 13 percent of Haitians currently is headed to the Pentagon where he will work Castroville and their values, and their devotion have access to electricity, so the services pro- in Legislative Affairs for U.S. Northern Com- to tradition serves as a source of pride for the vided by these linemen will have a positive im- mand. I have no doubt that Commander entire city and the 23rd Congressional District pact on thousands of lives. Obtaining elec- Schumacher will continue to serve the Navy of Texas. It is my honor to represent tricity access is an important step toward honorably and with distinction. Castroville, and I wish continued success to achieving improvements in healthcare, edu- I wish him the best of luck as he continues the Landmark Inn in its future endeavors. cation, and economic opportunity. his Naval career. It was an honor and a pleas- That is why today I would like to thank and ure having him serve on my staff. We all can f sleep soundly at night knowing that men and recognize Thomas Sullivan and Daniel CONGRATULATING THE FATIMA Disselkamp for their service. women like Commander Chad Schumacher are members of our all-volunteer force and HIGH SCHOOL COMETS FOR f they stand ready to defend our country and THEIR 2015 MISSOURI CLASS 2 RECOGNIZING COMMANDER CHAD take the fight to our enemies; far away from GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY STATE C. SCHUMACHER their families and the comforts of the United CHAMPIONSHIP States of America. HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN Commander Schumacher, thank you. Best HON. BLAINE LUETKEMEYER wishes to you and God bless you, your family, OF VIRGINIA and all the men and women in uniform. Fair OF MISSOURI IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES winds and following seas.—and GO NAVY IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Thursday, December 10, 2015 BEAT ARMY. Thursday, December 10, 2015 Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to f Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise recognize those men and women who have TRIBUTE TO LANDMARK INN served this great Nation with honor, men such today to ask my colleagues to join me in con- STATE HISTORIC SITE OF gratulating the Fatima High School Comets for as Commander Chad C. Schumacher, United CASTROVILLE, TEXAS States Navy. their first place win in the 2015 Class 2 State For the past year, Commander Girls Cross Country Championship. Schumacher, a proud naval aviator and grad- HON. WILL HURD This team and their coach should be com- OF TEXAS uate of the United States Naval Academy, mended for all of their hard work throughout IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES served on my staff as a Congressional De- this past year and for bringing home the state fense Fellow. During his assignment, he Thursday, December 10, 2015 championship to their school and community. served as a senior member of my staff re- Mr. HURD of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise I ask you to join me in recognizing the Fat- sponsible for defense, veterans, foreign affairs today to recognize the Landmark Inn State ima Comets for a job well done.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:17 Dec 11, 2015 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K10DE8.014 E10DEPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS E1758 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 10, 2015 RECOGNIZING THE DEDICATION OF and essential part of Prince William Public With a radio broadcast and online stream that THE BETTY DEVANE COVINGTON Schools through her commitment to public reaches over 200,000 people per week as well LIBRARY AT DUMFRIES ELE- service for the betterment of our community. as a video channel that reaches 750,000 MENTARY SCHOOL f more, KEXP has provided music lovers with decades of trusted, curated music discovery HONORING THE LIFE OF experiences, and introduced a global audience HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY SERGEANT MICHAEL JOE NAYLOR OF VIRGINIA to new artists from the Pacific Northwest and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES beyond. HON. K. MICHAEL CONAWAY As a public radio station with vibrant com- Thursday, December 10, 2015 OF TEXAS munity support, KEXP empowers its DJs to Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES make bold choices and push themselves cre- to celebrate the dedication of the ‘‘Betty Thursday, December 10, 2015 atively, introducing audiences to new artists, DeVane Covington Library’’ at Dumfries Ele- and putting music in context by sharing sto- mentary School in Dumfries, Virginia. This Mr. CONAWAY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of Sgt. Michael Joe Naylor of ries, connecting musical threads, and juxta- year marks Mrs. Covington’s 54th year in edu- posing today’s emerging artists with the sem- cation and her 53rd year with the Prince Wil- the Midland County Sheriff’s Department. Sadly, Sgt. Naylor was taken from us in the inal artists that inspire them. liam County Schools, having served as a KEXP provides bands from the Pacific classroom teacher, assistant principal, prin- line of duty on October 9, 2014. Sgt. Naylor’s life was dedicated to the serv- Northwest a stage from which they launch cipal, and now School Board member. Mrs. ice of his community and our county. After their music careers. KEXP connects thou- Covington’s tireless work has helped shape graduating from high school, Mike enlisted in sands of artists to millions of music lovers. the minds and hearts of thousands of stu- the United States Air Force, where he served KEXP connects talent to record labels, pro- dents, both young and old. 26 honorable years and earning the rank of moters, and the music industry. The result is Mrs. Covington’s longevity in the community powerful; a thriving population of artists and is noted by many firsts. She served as the Senior Master Sergeant before retiring. After retiring from the military in 1999, Mike bands who have the opportunity to success- principal of the Saunders Kindergarten Center, joined the Midland County Sheriff’s Depart- fully perform and present their art. KEXP is in- the first public kindergarten in Prince William ment. Through the years, Mike rose through vigorating the community by helping arts and County; in 1995, she became the first elected the ranks and served as a leader on the police culture thrive in the Pacific Northwest. School Board member in Dumfries, now Poto- force. He was actively involved in many initia- With the opening of its new home at Seattle mac Magisterial District; and she received the tives within the department, most notably serv- Center, KEXP will be able to serve the com- inaugural Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater ing as Commander of the Midland County munity in exciting new ways. It will host free Washington/Prince William-Manassas, Educa- Sheriff’s Department Honor Guard. In addition live performances, create new educational tor of the Year Award, which was later re- to serving as a Deputy Sheriff, Mike was also partnerships, create public engagement named in her honor. an emergency medical technician. Mike’s spaces, and house cutting-edge broadcast With a career dating back to 1961, Mrs. and production technology. Covington has worked in numerous elemen- noble duty to always protect others is one of the many reasons that made him special to As we tune in and celebrate the first broad- tary schools within the county. Nine of her 11 cast from this state-of-the-art facility, I would years as a classroom teacher were spent at Midland County. Anybody who knew Mike would say that he like to convey my congratulations to KEXP on Dumfries Elementary School. Three years was a compassionate and selfless profes- the opening of its new home as well as the were spent as an assistant principal of Dale sional that went above and beyond to serve growing number of opportunities it will create City Elementary School. During her tenure, the his fellow man. His lifetime of service was re- to bring great music into the lives of those in school participated in a pilot program for year- cently recognized by the state of Texas with the 7th Congressional District and around the round education. From 1974 to 1976, Mrs. the renaming of State Highway 191 as the world. Covington served as principal of the Saunders ‘‘Sergeant Michael Naylor Memorial Highway’’. f Kindergarten Center. She ended her career I had the privilege to be a part of this dedica- after 19 years as principal of Kilby Elementary CONFERENCE REPORT ON H.R. 22, tion ceremony and am grateful for that oppor- School. That same year, she was elected to SURFACE TRANSPORTATION RE- tunity. the Prince William County School Board. Mrs. AUTHORIZATION AND REFORM On December 27th, we will be celebrating Covington served as the Dumfries School ACT OF 2015 Mike’s 48th birthday. Although the wounds of Board member for one year before returning his loss are still fresh in the hearts of many to Dumfries Elementary School as the ap- SPEECH OF back home, we must all come together and re- pointed principal for six years. Upon her final member all of the good that Mike offered to HON. GARRET GRAVES retirement from education administration in the world. We are blessed to have individuals OF LOUISIANA 2005, Mrs. Covington was again elected to the like Mike that serve our communities. His IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Prince William School Board to serve three service exemplifies every aspect of the Amer- consecutive terms. Thursday, December 3, 2015 ican spirit and makes our communities strong- Over the course of her career, Mrs. Cov- Mr. GRAVES of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, er and safer. His life is an example of how ington has been recognized for her commit- while I support the policy merits of this bill, I one’s service can make their home a better ment to educating the students of Prince Wil- have strong concern about some of the fund- place. His legacy will forever be carried on by liam County. She has been nominated for The ing mechanisms used to help pay for it. The his wife Denise, the rest of his immediate fam- Washington Post Distinguished Educational concerns include provisions for drawdown and ily, and his family of first responders. Leadership Award and Prince William County sale of crude oil from the Strategic Petroleum Principal of the Year. Her accolades also in- f Reserve (SPR), selling 66 million barrels of clude receiving the Service Award from the HONORING THE FIRST BROADCAST crude oil from the Strategic Petroleum Re- School Board, Women of the Year from the AND GRAND OPENING OF KEXP’S serve in order to provide $6.2 billion in offsets Soroptimist Club, the Zontas Club, and Com- NEW HOME AT SEATTLE CENTER over 10 years. mission for Women, Minerva Award for Public As is often the case, what we have accom- Service by the Prince William County Alumnae HON. JIM McDERMOTT plished here is nothing more than an unsustainable budget gimmick. As adjusted for Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., OF WASHINGTON and the Human Rights Award from the Prince inflation, the average price per barrel of oil IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES William County Human Rights Commission, to currently stored in the SPR is $74. At a time name just a few. Thursday, December 10, 2015 when the global price of oil hovers at less than Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me Mr. MCDERMOTT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today $40 a barrel, and as OPEC continues to in recognizing Betty Covington for her unwav- to honor the first broadcast from KEXP’s New produce and flood the global market at historic ering dedication to serving the children of Home in Seattle, and to salute the station as rates, with no end in sight, I simply do not see Prince William County, first in the classroom it prepares for the Grand Opening of its new how we can budget the sale of SPR oil at $94 and more recently as a member of the School home for music discovery in April of 2016. per barrel on average over the next 10 years Board representing the Potomac Magisterial Since its founding in 1972, KEXP has al- to total $6.2 billion in revenue. Our SPR was District. Mrs. Covington has been an integral ways been a champion for music discovery. never intended as a budget gimmick, it is

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:17 Dec 11, 2015 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K10DE8.021 E10DEPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS December 10, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1759 about our energy and national security. De- police departments to have complete and un- PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION spite our record domestic production of crude restricted access to military-style training at OF H.R. 2130, RED RIVER PRI- oil, I believe it is irresponsible to use a vital FLETCs. VATE PROPERTY PROTECTION national energy security asset as a budget For example, the Albuquerque Police De- ACT, AND PROVIDING FOR CON- gimmick. partment (APD) has access to every Depart- SIDERATION OF MOTIONS TO Besides the fact that the math simply ment of Energy National Training Center SUSPEND THE RULES doesn’t add up, I philosophically oppose the (NTC) class, which are intended for federal increasing tendency of the federal government law enforcement personnel to protect our na- SPEECH OF to reallocate money intended for one purpose tion’s nuclear materials. APD has completed HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE to then fund unrelated policy initiatives. It is dozens of DOE-instructed classes, including OF TEXAS disingenuous and irresponsible. And in the lessons on ‘‘vehicle ambush,’’ ‘‘tactical leader- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES case of the surface transportation bill funding ship assault executions,’’ and ‘‘how to lead a Wednesday, December 9, 2015 mechanisms, this approach is symptomatic of small element in a combat situation.’’ The U.S. a larger problem. Department of Justice is currently reviewing Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in The Highway Trust Fund was designed to APD’s use of NTC classes, resources, and fa- opposition to the rule for H.R. 2130, the ‘‘Red be funded primarily through a user pays, user cilities. River Private Property Protection Act.’’ benefits model in the form of the federal gas I encourage FLETCs to enact sensible over- The President has announced that this bill tax. The increased fuel efficiency of vehicles, sight mechanisms and restrictions on state will be vetoed in the event it reaches his desk. in conjunction with several policy and regu- and local law enforcement access to FLETC With just one legislative day before the cur- latory factors, has gradually eroded the gas resources and facilities. FLETCs should have rent continuing resolution expires on Decem- tax’s ability to keep pace with investment de- criteria to determine what training topics or ber 11, we should be focusing all of our time mands over time. classes, if any, are appropriate for state and and attention on matters that address the real Mr. Speaker, it is critical that we begin work local law enforcement. FLETCs should also problems and major concerns of the American now to modernize the funding formula for the consider the duty assignments and respon- people. Highway Trust Fund and return to a user pays sibilities of individual officers when determining And right now the American people are very model. The longer we turn a blind eye towards allowing access. In addition, police depart- concerned about the harm and threat posed addressing the user fee model, which has not ments under a Department of Justice consent by ‘‘lone wolf’’ and ‘‘franchise terrorists’’ that been adjusted since 1993, and continue to ig- decree for violating the constitutional rights of we saw in Paris last month and just last week nore the need to build a 21st century funding Americans or departments with a history of ex- in San Bernardino, California. These tragedies follow on the heels of mass mechanism reflective of the technological ad- cessive or unnecessary force, should not re- shootings in Tucson, Aurora, Sandy Hook, vancements at our disposal, the more fearful ceive military-style training provided by Charleston, Chattanooga, Roseburg, Colorado I am of passing a sustainable, long term in- FLETCs. Springs, and now, most recently, in San vestment to address our nation’s ailing infra- I will continue to work with the Administra- Bernardino, California. structure in the future. tion on strengthening the mission of FLETCs These senseless mass shootings remind us I applaud the chamber on its work to pass and on ensuring that state and local law en- of the imperative of ending gun violence in our this 5-year bill, and I look forward to con- forcement have appropriate access. country. tinuing work to ensure the next bill is more fis- f It is past time that we come together united cally responsible, adhering to a paid for meas- VISA WAIVER PROGRAM IMPROVE- by our common humanity and with this simple ure more closely aligned to a user pay, user message: the violence must stop. benefit system. MENT AND TERRORIST TRAVEL PREVENTION ACT OF 2015 And there are actions that can be taken to f reduce gun violence beginning with the enact- FEDERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT SPEECH OF ment of the bipartisan ‘‘Denying Firearms and TRAINING CENTERS REFORM HON. BARBARA LEE Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Public Act AND IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2015 of 2015’’ (H.R. 1076). OF CALIFORNIA This bipartisan legislation, which I am proud SPEECH OF IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to co-sponsor, would close the dangerous Tuesday, December 8, 2015 loophole that allows terrorist suspects to le- HON. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM gally buy deadly weapons. OF NEW MEXICO Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to H.R. 1076 would bar the sale or distribution IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES H.R. 158, the Visa Waiver Program Improve- of firearms to any individual whom the Attor- ment Act. I agree that Congress has a respon- Tuesday, December 8, 2015 ney General has determined to be engaged in sibility to carefully examine the Visa Waiver terrorist activities. Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Program (VWP) and to take appropriate steps Mr. Speaker, if a person is considered by Mexico. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the to improve the program and ensure our na- the federal government too dangerous to Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers tional security. board an airplane or to enter the United Reform and Improvement Act (H.R. 3842). Yet I am concerned that this bill would allow States, he or she surely is too dangerous to This bipartisan bill will codify and reauthorize for the arbitrary discrimination of individuals be permitted to purchase or obtain a firearm. the duties and responsibilities of Federal Law based on their nationality. According to the It is unconscionable that we have not acted Enforcement Training Centers (FLETCs). American Civil Liberties Union, the language to close the loophole in federal law that per- FLETCs improve domestic preparedness, pre- contained in H.R. 158 is written so broadly mits a terrorist lawfully to obtain and carry fire- vention, and response to terrorism by pro- that all nationals of Iraq, Syria, Iran or Sudan arms. viding basic and advanced training to federal would have their VWP revoked, even if they Mr. Speaker, according to a report by the employees involved in federal law enforce- have never resided or traveled to Iraq or Syria Government Accountability Office, since 2004 ment activities or homeland security oper- and only have nationality for those countries more than 2,000 suspects on the FBI’s Ter- ations. I am proud that this important national as a result of their parents. rorist Watchlist have successfully purchased security work occurs in several locations This bill would also terminate VWP travel weapons in the United States. across the country, including in my home state privileges for anyone who has been in Iraq It is simply intolerable that more than 90 of New Mexico. and Syria at any time on or after March 1, percent of all suspected terrorists who at- However, I have concerns about one par- 2011, including those traveling to Iraq and tempted to purchase guns in the last 11 years ticular provision within H.R. 3842: The ability Syria for professional purposes. This includes walked away with the weapon they wanted, for FLETCs to offer state and local law en- anyone from a journalist to a humanitarian aid with just 190 rejected despite their ominous forcement agencies training, which is meant worker. Congress can take steps to improve histories. for federal security personnel. Although I the program and ensure our national security To close this loophole, I call upon Speaker strongly believe that federal security personnel without putting in place blanket provisions that RYAN to bring H.R. 1076 to the floor imme- need to coordinate and work closely with state allow for the discrimination of individuals diately. and local law enforcement agencies to pre- based on their nationality. I look forward to H.R. 1076 grants the Attorney General the pare, prevent, and respond to terrorism, I have working with my colleagues to address these authority to deny a firearms license to individ- grave concerns with the ability of community issues as this legislation moves forward. uals for whom there is a reasonable belief that

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:17 Dec 11, 2015 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A10DE8.001 E10DEPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS E1760 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 10, 2015 the individual may use a firearm or explosive Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, have worked to make the grand opening of in connection with terrorist activity. crashed in Gander, Newfoundland. On that the new Meditation Museum II a reality and in This legislation was originally crafted in day 248 members of the 101st Airborne Divi- wishing them continued success. 2007 and endorsed by President Bush’s Jus- sion, including Sergeant Travis, were killed in f tice Department, has bipartisan support in the the worst air disaster in U.S. military history. House, and is supported by prominent Repub- This year, as we recognize the 30th anni- TRIBUTE TO LARRY AND CAROL licans and counter-terrorism & law enforce- versary of this disaster, family, friends and the ANDRESS ment experts. community will gather at New Hope Baptist H.R. 1076 greatly reduces the likelihood that Church in Niagara Falls to remember Ser- HON. DAVID YOUNG a terrorists can obtain some of the most lethal geant Travis, known to all as a ‘‘giver.’’ He OF IOWA weapons in America. gave help to his community, gave his faith to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Right now a terrorist can buy a firearm in the church, gave his love to his wife and chil- Thursday, December 10, 2015 the parking lot of a gun show, over the inter- dren, and gave himself in service to the mili- net, or through a newspaper ad without need- tary in defense of this country, in the name of Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise ing a background check. peace abroad, and in hopes of giving his fam- today to recognize and congratulate Larry and Mr. Speaker, you cannot be against crimi- ily a better life. Carol Andress of Council Bluffs, Iowa, on the nals, terrorists and the dangerously mentally ill So today, on behalf of a grateful nation, with very special occasion of their 50th wedding getting guns and be against H.R. 1076. a heavy heart we remember Sergeant Theo- anniversary. They were married on September Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1076 will save lives and dore Travis, Sr., who in selfless service to the 25, 1965 at St. Patrick’s Church in Council strengthen the rights of law-abiding gun own- United States of America, gave until he could Bluffs. ers. give no more. Sergeant Travis, his family, and Larry and Carol’s lifelong commitment to It deserves a vote in the House. the others who lost their lives on Flight 1285 each other and their children, Dave, Teresa f will be forever remembered for the great sac- and Deb, along with their grandchildren, truly rifices they have made. embodies our Iowa values. It is families like CONGRATULATING THE FESTUS f the Andress family that make me proud to call HIGH SCHOOL TIGERS FOR myself an Iowan and represent the people of CONGRATULATING THE BRAHMA THEIR 2015 MISSOURI CLASS 3 this great state. I commend this great couple KUMARIS AND SISTER JENNA ON BOYS CROSS COUNTRY STATE on their 50th year together and I wish them THE GRAND OPENING OF THE CHAMPIONSHIP many more. I ask that my colleagues in the MEDITATION MUSEUM II United States House of Representatives join HON. BLAINE LUETKEMEYER HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY me in congratulating them on this momentous OF MISSOURI occasion. OF VIRGINIA f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Thursday, December 10, 2015 Thursday, December 10, 2015 HONORING MAUREEN NICHOLSON FOR HER SERVICE TO THE TOWN Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to con- OF POMFRET, CT today to ask my colleagues to join me in con- gratulate the Brahma Kumaris and Sister gratulating the Festus High School Tigers for Jenna on the grand opening of the Meditation their first place win in the 2015 Class 3 Boys Museum II in Tysons Corner, Virginia. HON. JOE COURTNEY Cross Country State Championship. The Brahma Kumaris is a non-profit organi- OF CONNECTICUT This team and their coach should be com- zation with over 9000 branches in 120 coun- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES mended for all of their hard work throughout tries. Founded in Hyderabad, Sindh in 1936, Thursday, December 10, 2015 this past year and for bringing home the state the Brahma Kumaris seeks to help individuals championship to their school and community. re-discover and strengthen their spirituality Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, today I rise I ask you to join me in recognizing the through self-reflection, meditation, and partici- to salute Maureen Nicholson’s more than thirty Festus Tigers for a job well done. pation in activities of social and humanitarian years of service to the Town of Pomfret, Con- f concerns. necticut. Maureen has served in all corners of Sister Jenna began her spiritual journey with local leadership since she moved to Pomfret HONORING SERGEANT THEODORE the Brahma Kumaris and is the founder and in 1988, most recently as the town’s First Se- TRAVIS, SR. director of both the original Meditation Mu- lectman. seum in Silver Spring, Maryland as well as From her start in Pomfret, Maureen was in- HON. BRIAN HIGGINS this new location in Tysons Corner. Sister volved in the Parent Teacher Organization, OF NEW YORK Jenna and several of her colleagues created Recreation Commission, Democratic Town IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the ‘‘Pause for Peace’’ campaign which has Committee, Planning and Zoning Commission, Board of Finance, and Tree Warden, among Thursday, December 10, 2015 expanded into new programs including the Pause for Peace in the Classroom and Pause many more town and regional organizations. Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I stand before for Peace Spaces. Sister Jenna’s commitment In 2009, she was elected to the Board of Se- you today to pay tribute to Sergeant Theodore and influence have been recognized with nu- lectmen, and in 2012 was elected First Select- Travis, Sr., a man committed to duty and fam- merous awards and proclamations including man. ily, who lost his life in service to this nation. the President’s Lifetime National Community During her years as First Selectman, A Niagara Falls, New York native, Theodore Service Award, the Every Day Hero Award, Maureen secured almost half a million dollars Travis chose active-duty to support his young and the Friendship Archway Award. in grants for the Town of Pomfret. She se- family after serving in the U.S. Army Re- The benefits of meditation are scientifically cured the town’s emergency shelter and serves. He was a member of an elite team, proven. According to Psychology Today, medi- began work to bring large-scale solar power to the 101st Airborne—a Screaming Eagle and tation has been shown to increase immune the town. Maureen saw the potential cost-sav- initially traveled to Fort Campbell, leaving be- function, decrease depression and anxiety and ings in collaborating with neighboring towns to hind his wife, high school sweetheart Cynthia, even positively affect higher-order cognitive share accounting and auditing services, and and two young sons, Theodore Jr. and Stefan. functions in the brain. Perhaps the most pro- launched an innovative initiative with the Town Sergeant Travis left the United States with his found aspects of mediation are those that can- of Brooklyn. It is this enterprising spirit that de- unit on an assignment to aid peace negotia- not be measured scientifically. Self-aware- livered forward thinking policies to Pomfret, tions between Egypt and Israel. ness, inner-peace and tranquility, becoming and the town and region have benefitted. Following their mission, Sergeant Travis and one with your surroundings and your faith, and Maureen also worked to increase aware- his comrades boarded a plane in high spirits true acceptance of and respect for all others ness for residents of Pomfret by founding and and with great anticipation of returning to their regardless of age, race, gender, religion, or editing the Pomfret Times, and redesigning families for Christmas. Tragically they never economic status are but a few immeasurable the town’s website to promote and inform resi- made it home. On December 12th, 1985, and invaluable benefits. dents of the town’s resources and news. Her Arrow Air Flight 1285, carrying homeward Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join other non-governmental achievements include bound members of the 3rd Battalion, 502nd me in congratulating Sister Jenna and all who service on the Day Kimball Hospital Women’s

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:17 Dec 11, 2015 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A10DE8.004 E10DEPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS December 10, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1761 Board, founding of the Pomfret Gardeners, CONGRATULATING THE The 11th District of Virginia is home to al- membership on the Community Regional HERCULANEUM HIGH SCHOOL most 54,000 veterans. More than 70% are vet- YMCA Board, and serving as Director of the BLACK CATS FOR THEIR SECOND erans of the wars in the Persian Gulf. The Performing Arts of Northeastern Connecticut. PLACE FINISH IN THE 2015 MIS- opening of this new center will ensure that SOURI CLASS 2 BOYS CROSS they receive timely access to the benefits they I ask my colleagues to please rise to thank COUNTRY STATE CHAMPIONSHIP have earned. Maureen for her years of steadfast dedication. Although her leadership as First Selectman The opening of this office is yet another will surely be missed, I am confident that her HON. BLAINE LUETKEMEYER step in addressing the needs of our veterans. OF MISSOURI commitment to Pomfret will continue in the While the statistics indicate that overall, vet- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES erans in the 11th District may be more eco- years to come. Thursday, December 10, 2015 nomically or professionally secure, the dedi- cated men and women who have served our f Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise country in uniform are still plagued by the today to ask my colleagues to join me in con- same issues that veterans around the country INTRODUCTION OF THE BANK- gratulating the Herculaneum Black Cats for face including prolonged disability or appeal RUPTCY JUDGESHIP ACT OF 2015 their second place finish in the 2015 Class 2 processing times, difficulty scheduling appoint- State Boys Cross Country Championship. ments with the VA medical centers, and This team and their coach should be com- delays in receiving Post 9–11 GI Bill edu- HON. JOHN CONYERS, JR. mended for all of their hard work throughout cational benefits. We must do more to ensure this past year and for bringing home 2nd place OF MICHIGAN that these issues and others are addressed to their school and community. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES I ask you to join me in recognizing the and resolved. For our community, the statistics Herculaneum Black Cats for a job well done. are encouraging. The percentage of unem- Thursday, December 10, 2015 ployed veterans is 3.3%, two percentage f points better than the national average. The Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, the ‘‘Bank- TRIBUTE TO MARGARET percentage of veterans living below the pov- ruptcy Judgeship Act of 2015,’’ authorizes 6 FLETCHALL erty line is 2.2%, well below the national aver- additional permanent bankruptcy judgeships age of 12.5%. More than 60% of veterans in and converts 16 temporary bankruptcy judge- HON. DAVID YOUNG this district have a bachelor’s degree or high- ships to permanent status, based on rec- er, almost twice the national average. ommendation of the Judicial Conference of the OF IOWA These numbers speak to the character of United States. With respect to the 6 additional IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Thursday, December 10, 2015 these individuals and also to the network of permanent bankruptcy judgeships, they are support services that have emerged in the authorized pursuant to section 3 of the bill as Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise 11th District. We, as a community, are united follows: 2 for the District of Delaware; 2 for the today to recognize and congratulate Margaret in our efforts to provide any and all assistance Eastern District of Michigan; and 2 for the Mid- Fletchall on the celebration of her 102nd birth- and guidance needed. dle District of Florida. With respect to the 16 day. Margaret celebrated her 102nd birthday Mr. Speaker, providing care for our men and conversions, they are authorized pursuant to on October 31, 2015 in Mount Ayr, Iowa. women in uniform after they return home from section 2 of the bill for the following districts: Our world has changed a great deal during the course of Margaret’s life. Since her birth, the battlefield is a sacred obligation. I ask my 5 for the District of Delaware; we have revolutionized air travel and walked colleagues to join me in commending the Vir- 2 for the Southern District of Florida; on the moon. We have invented the television, ginia Department of Veterans Services and its dedicated staff on the opening of this new Vet- 3 for the District of Maryland; cellular phones, and the internet. We have fought in wars overseas, seen the rise and fall erans Benefits Office, and I offer my continued 1 for the Eastern District of Michigan; of Soviet communism, and witnessed the birth support and assistance to these ongoing ef- 1 for the District of Nevada; of new democracies. Margaret has lived forts. 1 for the Eastern District of North Carolina; through seventeen United States Presidents and twenty-four Governors of Iowa. In her life- f 2 for the District of Puerto Rico; time, the population of the United States has 1 for the Western District of Tennessee; and more than tripled. OYSTER CREEK’S STAR TEACHER 1 for the Eastern District of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to represent Margaret in the United States Congress and it This legislation responds to a serious need. is my pleasure to wish her a very happy HON. PETE OLSON Since the last time additional bankruptcy 102nd birthday. I invite my colleagues in the OF TEXAS judgeships were authorized, which was 10 United States House of Representatives to years ago, the 6 districts that would be author- join me in congratulating Margaret for reaching IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ized additional judicial resources by this bill this incredible milestone, and wishing her even Thursday, December 10, 2015 have experienced a 55 percent increase in more health and happiness in the years to weighted filings, according to the Judicial Con- come. Mr. OLSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ference. f congratulate Brittany Mayland for being named a Star in the Classroom by the Houston Tex- All 16 of the temporary bankruptcy judge- CONGRATULATING THE VIRGINIA ans. ships that the bill converts to permanent status DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS are set to lapse as of May 25, 2017. As the SERVICES ON THE OPENING OF Ms. Mayland is a kindergarten teacher at Conference observes, ‘‘These bankruptcy THE FAIRFAX VETERANS BENE- Oyster Creek Elementary School in my home- town of Sugar Land, Texas. Her positive im- courts would face a serious and, in many FITS OFFICE pact and commitment to her students led one cases, debilitating workload crisis if their tem- of her students, Izabelle Paul, to nominate her porary judgeships were to expire.’’ HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY for this award presented by the Houston Tex- The need for these additional judicial re- OF VIRGINIA ans and First Community Credit Union. Her sources is based on a comprehensive analysis IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES dedication to creating a fun and engaging performed by the Judicial Conference based Thursday, December 10, 2015 learning environment shows her star quality in on a formal survey of all judicial circuits con- Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to con- the classroom. The students at Oyster Creek ducted pursuant to section 152(b)(2) of title 28 gratulate the Virginia Secretary of Veterans are lucky to have her. of the United States Code. Criteria considered and Defense Affairs John C. Harvey, Jr. and On behalf of the Twenty-Second Congres- include the workload of each court, case filing Department of Veterans Services Benefits Di- sional District of Texas, congratulations again statistics, and geographic factors, among other rector Tom Herthel on the opening of the new to Ms. Mayland for being named a Star in the matters. Veterans Benefits office in Fairfax City. Classroom.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:17 Dec 11, 2015 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A10DE8.006 E10DEPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS E1762 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 10, 2015 UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON, THE the residents of Agnewville. It was not until fought bravely and did everything to protect AMERICAN ATHLETIC CON- years later when the members of the his brothers in arms. He distinguished himself FERENCE FOOTBALL CHAMPIONS Agnewville Mission Sunday School founded on October 30, 1950, during a nighttime as- Mount Olive Baptist Church. The cornerstone sault on his unit’s position by an overwhelming HON. TED POE for the church was laid on October 15, 1915. Chinese force. Corporal Rubin manned a .30 OF TEXAS Together, Brother George W. Ray, Brother caliber machine gun and fended off the as- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES William Chin, Brother George Thomas, and sault until his ammunition was exhausted. Be- other men from the congregation built the cause of his valiant and selfless actions the Thursday, December 10, 2015 original church edifice on Telegraph Road. Chinese assault was slowed and his unit was Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, over the Since the founding of Mount Olive Baptist able to successfully escape the overwhelming weekend, the University of Houston Cougars Church, six pastors have graced the pulpit enemy force. Corporal Rubin would be se- capped off their thrilling season with a 24–13 leading the congregation in worship, praise, verely wounded and taken as a prisoner of win against the Temple University Owls in the and discipleship. It is my honor to enter into war. He chose to remain a prisoner rather American Athletic Conference Championship the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD the following than taking a Chinese offer to be sent back to Game. Houston won by 11 points and led names of each of the governing pastors of his native Hungary. Corporal Rubin risked tor- from the very start of the game. With this win, Mount Olive Baptist Church since the church’s ture and execution on multiple occasions in the Cougars finished the regular season 12–1. founding in 1915: order to retrieve food and aid for his fellow im- They now face a matchup against the #9 Flor- Reverend William Davis, Reverend William prisoned Soldiers. His horrific experience as a ida State University Seminoles in the Chick- Tyler, Reverend George W. Pratt, Reverend Holocaust survivor gave him the skills nec- Fil-A Peach Bowl. Edward W. Burrell, Reverend Frederick L. essary to remain hopeful and keep himself What is most amazing about the Cougars Ray. Most recently, Reverend Clyde W. Ellis, and his comrades alive in a terrible situation. successful season is the fact that it was engi- Jr. was called to the pulpit on March 3, 2011, Unfortunately, because of an anti-Semitic neered by a rookie head coach: Tom Herman. to lead the congregation. superior, Corporal Rubin’s courageous military Herman is a former national championship Reverend Ellis, the spiritual son of Rev- service would go unrecognized for another 55 winning offensive coordinator at Ohio State erend Ray, became the sixth pastor of Mount years. He would finally be awarded the Medal University and a previous recipient of the Olive Baptist Church. Under Reverend Ellis’ of Honor on September 23, 2005, for his he- Broyles Award for the nation’s top assistant leadership, Mount Olive has both literally and roic actions in the Korean peninsula. coach. He came to the University of Houston figuratively flourished beyond the walls of the Corporal Rubin is survived by his wife, as a first-time head coach this season. This sanctuary on Telegraph Road. With more than Yvonne, and his two children Frank and type of success in a coach’s first season is 400 members, Mount Olive’s weekly worship Rosalyn Rubin. He was a proud American and rare. Herman’s Houston team was led by its is temporarily being held at Freedom High the kind of model citizen we should all strive do-it-all quarterback, Greg Ward, Jr., who fin- School on Neabsco Mills Road until the con- to be. Corporal Rubin, despite everything he ished the season with 2,590 passing yards, 16 struction of the new edifice is complete. went through in life, preserved his optimism touchdowns, and only 5 interceptions. The All- Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join and his terrific sense of humor. His extraor- Conference quarterback also tacked on 1,041 me in celebrating the 100th Anniversary of dinary immigrant story is an inspiration to us rushing yards and 19 touchdown runs for good Mount Olive Baptist Church. Pastor Ellis has all. His passing is a great loss for our country, measure. The excitement of watching this nurtured a thriving congregation that will no but his memory will forever live on. doubt continue to grow and fulfill Mount Ol- team play brought me back to 1989, when f Coach Jack Pardee’s run-and-shoot offense ive’s mission of worship and praise. I would led the Cougars to a 9-win season and quar- like to wish Pastor Ellis and his congregation THE INTRODUCTION OF A BILL TO terback Andre Ware took home the Heisman the very best as they celebrate their heritage REQUIRE THE LIBRARY OF CON- Trophy. and plan for a successful future. GRESS TO INSTALL THE D.C. Mr. Speaker, Tom Herman and the Houston f SEAL IN THE MAIN READING Cougars aren’t finished just yet. After the Cou- ROOM OF THE THOMAS JEFFER- HONORING CORPORAL TIBOR SON BUILDING gars New Year’s Eve duel with perennial pow- RUBIN erhouse Florida State, the team will refocus its sights on coming back strong again next year. HON. LORETTA SANCHEZ HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON With the Cougars locking in Coach Herman to OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA OF CALIFORNIA a contract extension and returning many of its IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES key contributors, this team will be a force next Thursday, December 10, 2015 year and hopefully for years to come. I look Thursday, December 10, 2015 forward to spending December 31st ringing in Ms. LORETTA SANCHEZ of California. Mr. Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, today, I intro- the New Year with friends, family, and another Speaker, on Saturday, December 5, 2015, the duce a bill to require the Library of Congress Cougars victory. Go Cougars! city of Garden Grove lost a genuine American to install the District of Columbia seal in the And that’s just the way it is. hero when, Tibor ‘‘Teddy’’ Rubin, a Holocaust Main Reading Room of the Thomas Jefferson Building of the Library of Congress. The Li- f survivor and recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor, passed away due to natural brary is one of the few buildings in the District RECOGNIZING THE 100TH ANNIVER- causes. He was 86 years old. that remains open to the public on most holi- SARY OF MOUNT OLIVE BAPTIST Corporal Rubin began his extraordinary life days. It provides not only D.C. residents but CHURCH on June 18, 1929, in Pastzo. Hungary. His fa- visitors and researchers from across the na- ther served in the Hungarian Army and was a tion with access to incomparable resources. HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY veteran of the First World War. When Corporal The bill requires the Library to depict the Dis- OF VIRGINIA Rubin was only 14 years old he was sent to trict’s seal on the stained-glass windows in the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the Mauthausen concentration camp in Aus- Main Reading Room, where the seals of all tria. He survived the 14 months of captivity the states and territories that existed when the Thursday, December 10, 2015 until his prison camp was liberated by Amer- building was constructed, except for the Dis- Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today ican forces in May 1945. Tragically, his father, trict, are depicted. D.C.’s seal was readily to recognize the 100th Anniversary of Mount stepmother, and younger sister would perish. available at that time and should have been Olive Baptist Church in Woodbridge, Virginia. Corporal Rubin, immensely thankful for his included. The seals of Hawaii and Alaska are On July 3, 1902, the late William Chin do- liberation by American forces, wished to join not included in the display because they were nated a parcel of land for what would later be- the U.S. Army in order to repay the country not states or territories when the building was come the site of Mount Olive Baptist Church. that he felt he was so indebted to. After failing constructed. The fact that these two states Initially, the site was used for the Agnewville twice to enlist due to poor English, he was fi- were not part of the Union at the time of the Mission Sunday School. Under the leadership nally able to join in 1948 as a rifleman with I creation of the stained-glass windows argues of Sister Florence Chin and Reverend Bras Company, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry for the inclusion of the District, which, after all, Clark, with the support of Neabsco and Ebe- Division. was in fact the nation’s capital at the time. We nezer Baptist Churches, members of the com- Corporal Rubin’s courage is made evident are asking that omission of D.C. be corrected munity established a Sunday school class for by his Medal of Honor citation. Corporal Rubin immediately. This omission was brought to my

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:17 Dec 11, 2015 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A10DE8.010 E10DEPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS December 10, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1763 attention by a District resident, Luis Landau, a TRIBUTE TO EDWIN AND BARBARA EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR H.R. former docent at the Library. BLANK 1076 ‘‘DENYING FIREARMS AND The residents of the District have always EXPLOSIVES TO DANGEROUS had all the obligations of American citizenship, TERRORISTS ACT OF 2015’’ including paying federal taxes and serving in HON. DAVID YOUNG all the nation’s wars, including the War of OF IOWA 1812, during which the Capitol building, which IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE then housed the Library of Congress, was OF TEXAS burned, prompting construction of the current Thursday, December 10, 2015 Library of Congress building with the state and Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES territory seals. It is, therefore, without question today to recognize and congratulate Edwin Thursday, December 10, 2015 that the District and its residents should re- and Barbara Blank of Shenandoah, Iowa, on ceive equal treatment among the stained-glass the very special occasion of their 50th wed- Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, the past windows that portray the history of the United ding anniversary. They were married in 1965. few months have been marked by senseless States. D.C. residents deserve to have their violence across the globe and in our own history and American citizenship recognized. Edwin and Barbara’s lifelong commitment to each other and their family truly embodies our country from Tuscon, Aurora, Sandy Hook, There is existing evidence that the seal of Iowa values. It is families like the Blanks that Charleston, Chattanooga, Roseburg, and now the District should have been depicted. The make me proud to call myself an Iowan and most recently in San Bernardino, California. Members of Congress room in the Jefferson represent the people of our great state. Building, which is not open to the public, has It is past time that we come together united a painted depiction of the D.C. seal, along Mr. Speaker, I commend this great couple by our common humanity and with this simple with state seals, on its ceiling. This precedent on their 50th year together and I wish them message: the violence must stop! The sense- reinforces our request to be represented many more. I ask that my colleagues in the less mass shootings in Paris and San among the stained-glass windows in the Main United States House of Representatives will Bernardino remind us of the imperative of end- Reading Room, which is open to the public. join me in congratulating them on this momen- ing gun violence in our country. And there are There is no reason why the D.C. seal cannot tous occasion. actions that can be taken to reduce gun vio- be added with the planned restoration of the lence beginning with the enactment of the bi- stained-glass. The right time to add the seal of f partisan ‘‘Denying Firearms and Explosives to the District would be during the planned res- Dangerous Terrorists Public Act of 2015’’ toration. HONORING VALARIE MCCALL ON (H.R. 1076). THE OCCASION OF HER APPOINT- Congress already includes the District of MENT TO THE CHAIR OF THE This bipartisan legislation, which I am proud Columbia, or has corrected the omission of AMERICAN PUBLIC TRANSIT AS- to co-sponsor, would close the dangerous the District, when honoring the states. For ex- SOCIATION (APTA) loophole that allows terrorist suspects to le- ample, the District of Columbia War Memorial gally buy deadly weapons. H.R. 1076 would honors District residents who served in World bar the sale or distribution of firearms to any War I, the World War II Memorial includes a HON. JAMES B. RENACCI individual whom the Attorney General has de- column representing the District, the flag of OF OHIO termined to be engaged in terrorist activities. It the District is displayed among the flags of the also would grant the Attorney General the au- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES fifty states in the tunnel connecting the House thority to deny a firearms license to individuals office buildings to the Capitol, and D.C.’s Thursday, December 10, 2015 for whom there is a reasonable belief that the Frederick Douglass statue now sits in the individual may use a firearm or explosive in Mr. RENACCI. Mr. Speaker, I would like to Capitol alongside statues from the 50 states. connection with terrorist activity. The National Defense Authorization Act for congratulate Ms. Valarie McCall on her ap- Fiscal Year 2013 requires the armed services pointment to the Chair of the American Public Mr. Speaker, according to a report by the to display the District flag whenever the flags Transportation Association (APTA). APTA Government Accountability Office, since 2004 of the states are displayed. Legislation was strengthens and improves our public transpor- more than 2,000 suspects on the FBI’s Ter- also enacted to give D.C. a coin after it was tation to ensure that all Americans have ac- rorist Watchlist have successfully purchased omitted from legislation creating coins for the cess to that option in their communities across weapons in the United States. It is simply in- 50 states. We also successfully worked with our nation. Valarie is a great model for all as- tolerable that more than 90 percent of all sus- the U.S. Postal Service to create a D.C. piring public servants across the country, and pected terrorists who attempted to purchase stamp, like the stamps for the 50 states, and is deserving of our recognition and gratitude guns in the last 11 years walked away with worked with the National Park Service to add for this achievement. the weapon they wanted, with just 190 re- the D.C. flag alongside the state flags across Valarie began her distinguished public serv- jected despite their ominous histories. from Union Station. It is long overdue to dis- ice career as the Director of Cleveland’s Em- This legislation was originally crafted in play the D.C. seal, along with the seals of the powerment Zone, where she managed a $200 2007 and endorsed by President Bush’s Jus- states, in the Main Reading Room of the Li- million budget and worked to advance job tice Department, has bipartisan support in the brary of Congress. planning and placement initiatives, as well as House, and is supported by prominent Repub- I urge support of this legislation. providing financing to businesses. She was licans and counter-terrorism & law enforce- also the youngest city clerk for Cleveland’s ment experts. f City Council and served on a countless num- ber of boards benefitting her community. H.R. 1076 greatly reduces the likelihood that PERSONAL EXPLANATION Today, Valarie serves as the Chief of Govern- terrorists can obtain some of the most lethal ment and International Affairs for the City of weapons in America. Right now a terrorist can HON. MICHAEL R. TURNER Cleveland. As the first person to hold this po- buy a firearm in the parking lot of a gun show, sition, she acts as a liaison between the May- over the internet, or through a newspaper ad OF OHIO or’s Office and State and Local Governments, without needing a background check. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Federal Agencies, and international organiza- Mr. Speaker, you cannot be against crimi- Thursday, December 10, 2015 tions. nals, terrorists and the dangerously mentally ill Mr. TURNER. Mr. Speaker, on December 9, With her in-depth public service experience, getting guns and be against H.R. 1076. I 2015, I was unable to vote on roll call votes I have no doubt that APTA will benefit tremen- thank Congressmen PETER KING (R–NY) and 681, 682, and 683. Had I been present I dously from Valarie’s Chairmanship. Her na- MIKE THOMPSON (D–CA) for introducing this bi- would have voted ‘‘yea’’ on consideration of tional appointment makes Ohio proud. partisan legislation (H.R. 1076). the resolution, ‘‘yea’’ on ordering the previous I ask my colleagues in the House to join me Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1076 will save lives and questions, and ‘‘yea’’ on agreeing to the reso- in recognizing her distinguished record of pub- strengthen the rights of law-abiding gun own- lution. lic service. ers. It deserves a vote in the House.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:17 Dec 11, 2015 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A10DE8.012 E10DEPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS E1764 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 10, 2015 RECOGNIZING THE 2015 HONOREES the City of Columbus and Accra, Ghana on system provides equity and excellence for all OF THE FAIRFAX COUNTY November 30, 2015. students, closes the achievement gap, and BRANCH OF THE NAACP This is Columbus’ tenth sister city agree- prepares our students for a 21st century work- ment, but it is momentous because it is the force. HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY city’s first such agreement with a city on the f African continent. I was privileged to attend OF VIRGINIA TRIBUTE TO HAROLD AND LYLA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and participate in the signing ceremony be- tween Columbus Mayor Michael Coleman and MCCURDY Thursday, December 10, 2015 Accra Mayor Alfred Vanderpuije. Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Columbus, a diverse city, is home to nearly HON. DAVID YOUNG to congratulate the 2015 Honorees of the Fair- 10,000 people of Ghanaian descent and this OF IOWA fax County Branch of the National Association partnership reinforces already firmly estab- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES for the Advancement of Colored People lished ties between Columbus and Accra Thursday, December 10, 2015 (NAACP). The Fairfax Branch is recognized as building economic, educational and cultural di- Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise the NAACP’s first rural chapter. In 1915, a few versity between the two municipalities. today to recognize Harold and Lyla McCurdy I am also proud to inform my colleagues brave African American citizens in Falls for their service to the Congregate Meals Pro- that Franklin University and The Ohio State Church, Virginia, fought a proposed ordinance gram of Panora, Iowa. that would have segregated housing. They University are working with educational institu- Lyla got her start at Congregate Meals as a called themselves the Colored Citizens Protec- tions in Ghana to create even greater aca- part-time kitchen worker and bookkeeper. She tive League (CCPL) and the group evolved to demic and cultural exchanges. is now responsible for all of the bookkeeping, become the Fairfax County Branch of the As a City known for the Arts, Columbus’ organization, and set up each day. Her hus- NAACP. Since its inception, the NAACP has King Arts Complex is also working on a formal band Harold now volunteers his time by orga- promoted equal rights and justice for all and agreement to foster a relationship with the nizing the carryout meals and doing what he has shown a spotlight on issues of great im- Ghana National Theatre. can to help in the kitchen. The Congregate portance including civil rights, education, vot- Mr. Speaker, I commend the cities of Co- Meal program was created around 40 years ing rights, desegregation, and prison reform. I lumbus, Ohio and Accra, Ghana for this his- ago in Panora. They now prepare hot and have been honored to work with this organiza- toric agreement and look forward to a long healthy meals each day for the community. tion and pledge my continued support of our and prosperous partnership. Mr. Speaker, Harold and Lyla’s willingness shared goals. f to donate their time and talents to this pro- Each year, the Fairfax County NAACP hon- S. 1177, THE EVERY STUDENT gram is a great testament to the Iowa spirit. I ors several deserving individuals and organi- SUCCEEDS ACT am honored to represent them and Iowans like zations that have shown extraordinary support them in the United States Congress. I ask that of the Branch or the community. I am honored my colleagues in the United States House of to submit the names of the following award HON. BARBARA LEE Representatives join me in congratulating Har- winners: OF CALIFORNIA old and Lyla for their service and wishing them President’s Awardees: IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES nothing but continued success. Cassie Marcotty, Abby Conde, Anna Thursday, December 10, 2015 f Rowan, Lidia Amanuel, and Marley Finley. These high school student leaders formed Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in sup- IN REMEMBRANCE OF GUY LEWIS ‘‘Students of Change,’’ now known as CAALM port of the Conference Report for S. 1177, the (an acronym of their initials), to spearhead the Every Student Succeeds Act, a bill which re- HON. TED POE authorizes the Elementary and Secondary initiative to rename JEB Stuart High School as OF TEXAS Education Act (ESEA) through 2020 and re- Thurgood Marshall High and to remove all IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES places the misguided No Child Left Behind symbols and mascots that honor the Confed- Thursday, December 10, 2015 erate Legacy. (NCLB) policy. The President’s Award will also be pre- This bill makes important changes to ESEA Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Thanks- sented to Virginia House of Delegates mem- by including student and school supports in giving is meant to remind us of all the things ber Scott A. Surovell of the 44th District, for state accountability plans, supporting respon- in our lives we’re grateful for. For many, this his exceptional leadership and support to the sible efforts to reduce over-testing, and requir- year’s Thanksgiving came and went in its communities of Hybla Valley and Gum Springs ing states to provide the public with informa- usual form: spent in the presence of loved in southern Fairfax County. tion on school discipline and expulsion rates, ones and those who are closest to our hearts. Community Service Awardees: which we know disproportionately impacts stu- But for others, this Thanksgiving was spent Debbie Kilpatrick for her exceptional leader- dents of color. S. 1177 also maintains critical under a bittersweet shadow. Early that morn- ship, advocacy, and dedication as President of provisions about overall student performance ing, Houstonians, Cougar alumni, basketball the Fairfax County Council of PTAs. by setting clear goals for achievement and fans, and many others bid farewell to a leg- Celeste Peterson for establishing the Erin graduation rates, targeting funds to at-risk chil- end: Guy Lewis. Peterson Scholarship Fund and her devotion dren such as English Language Learners, and Guy Lewis was more than just a basketball to the Young Men’s Leadership Group at helping states to increase teacher quality by coach. His innovations, both on and off the Westfield High School. providing on-going professional development. court, left ripples in our society that we still Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me Yet I am concerned that this bill shifts the feel today. He was born in a tiny town in East in congratulating the 2015 honorees of the majority of power and oversight from the fed- Texas, where he lived until enlisting in the Fairfax County NAACP and in thanking them eral government to the states and does not do Army during World War II. Following the war, for their tremendous contributions to our youth enough to protect disadvantaged, minority, Lewis enrolled at the University of Houston, and our community. LGBT, low-income, and migrant students. A my alma mater, and joined the basketball strong Federal role is critical to ensuring that f team. He was instantly one of the best players minority and underserved students get the on the team, averaging over 21 points per SISTER CITY AGREEMENT BE- support they need to succeed. And as a mem- game as he led the Cougars to a conference TWEEN COLUMBUS AND ACCRA, ber of the Congressional Asian Pacific Amer- championship. After college he worked as an GHANA ican Caucus, I am concerned that this bill fails assistant coach at UH under then-coach Alden to include a requirement to disaggregate data Pasche. After Pasche’s retirement in 1956, HON. JOYCE BEATTY within groups of Asian American Pacific Is- Lewis was appointed the new head coach of OF OHIO lander (AAPI) students. This is critical to en- the Cougars; and the rest, as they say, is his- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES suring that AAPI students receive the support tory. they need. Moreover, S. 1177 fails to include Under Lewis’ 30-year watch, the Cougars Thursday, December 10, 2015 strong accountability measures to ensure that enjoyed one of the best spells in collegiate Mrs. BEATTY. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to schools address resource equity gaps. basketball history. He led his teams to 27 ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing As Members of Congress, we have a straight winning seasons, 14 NCAA tour- the signing of a sister city agreement between shared obligation to ensure that our education nament appearances, 5 Final Fours, and two

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:17 Dec 11, 2015 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K10DE8.025 E10DEPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS December 10, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1765 NCAA title games. Though he never won a gratulating the Herculaneum Black Cats for operating out of the 346th District Court of El national title, he is still universally recognized their second place finish in the 2015 Class 2 Paso, Texas. I am pleased to recognize the El as one of the greatest coaches in the history State Girls Cross Country Championship. Paso Veterans’ Treatment Court Program as of the game. Despite all of his successes on This team and their coach should be com- an initiative that works hard to ‘‘leave no vet- the court, it was his actions off the court that mended for all of their hard work throughout eran behind and honor their service.’’ many use to define Coach Lewis’ lasting leg- this past year and for bringing home the sec- As the second program of its kind in the acy. ond place win to their school and community. state of Texas, the El Paso Veterans’ Treat- Prior to Guy Lewis, the University of Hous- I ask you to join me in recognizing the ment Court Program has provided resources ton had never had an African-American player Herculaneum Black Cats for a job well done. to numerous Veterans in the criminal justice in its basketball program. According to former f system. Since 2009, the initiative has aided el- All-American, NBA All-Star, and member of igible Veterans and active duty Service Mem- Houston’s first desegregated basketball team, GLENN HALL ON HIS 90TH bers who are charged with misdemeanor Elvin Hayes, Lewis ‘‘put everything on the line BIRTHDAY criminal offenses; in 2012 the program was to step out and integrate his program.’’ It was expanded to include felony criminal offenses. trailblazing like this and his fearless attitude HON. MICHAEL G. FITZPATRICK The participants are diverted from the tradi- that set Coach Lewis apart from the rest. Guy OF PENNSYLVANIA tional criminal justice system and are as- Lewis didn’t care about what people thought, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sessed for substance abuse and mental health but he cared about doing what was right for issues. Upon meeting program entrance re- Thursday, December 10, 2015 his players and his school. He dedicated 40 quirements, participants receive an individual- years to the university as a student and as a Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, heartiest ized treatment plan and attend frequent review coach, from his first day of college in 1946 congratulations to Glenn Hall on the occasion hearings before the program judge. through his last day as a coach in 1986. Even of his 90th birthday and a lifetime of teaching In addition to providing comprehensive sub- after his retirement Lewis was heavily involved and learning. His career in education began in stance abuse and mental health treatment, the with the school and its athletic department. His a one-room schoolhouse in 1954, but he has five phase program also includes officials from dedication to the institution he called home, taught every grade level, including graduate the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to de- the institution he helped evolve for the better, school, since then. While teaching at a Florida termine the Veteran participants’ eligibility for never once wavered. community college, in 1961, he received a further aid. The Veterans Benefits Administra- I remember sitting in the stands of the As- Fulbright grant to teach English and American tion assesses the Veteran for disability com- trodome in 1968 watching the ‘‘Game of the history in the Netherlands. Upon his return, he pensation, education benefits, and vocational Century’’ that Coach Lewis helped organize. heard of the opening of a new community col- rehabilitation qualifications. The Veterans The undefeated UCLA Bruins, led by leg- lege in Bucks County, Pennsylvania and in Health Administration also assesses the Vet- endary coach John Wooden, came into the 1965 was among the first instructors hired. eran to determine eligibility for housing and game riding a 47-game winning streak. This During a 35-year teaching career at Bucks medical services. The program operates on a was the first nationally televised regular sea- County Community College in Newtown Town- personal level as well, in order to address em- son collegiate basketball game in the history ship, he also was Dean of Academic Affairs ployment opportunities and individual needs. of the sport. Over 52,000 fans—myself in- for 14 years. And in 1976 he was among the The El Paso Veterans’ Treatment Court Pro- cluded—went to the game, which set the first group of educators to visit China after the gram provides an alternative route for Vet- record for the largest basketball crowd in his- communist takeover in 1949. As we congratu- erans and active duty Service Members in the tory. I remember that game fondly. I can still late Glenn Hall on this milestone birthday, we criminal justice system. The initiative practices see Coach Lewis on the sideline waving his express our gratitude for his honorable service a holistic approach, providing resources, ad- red, polka-dotted towel that he seemed to al- in the U.S. Navy and his contributions to the dressing treatment concerns and engaging in ways have with him. Led by the previously academic community and especially the stu- judicial monitoring. These necessary tools help mentioned Elvin Hayes, the Houston Cougars dents he inspired. May his future be filled with participants engage in society as law-abiding went on to win 71–69. good health, happiness and new adventures. citizens. The initiative has been widely suc- After coaching the Cougars to back-to-back f cessful in El Paso and recently received the Final Fours in 1967 and ’68, he then guided prestigious Texas Veterans Commission Pa- his team to a trio of Final Fours in 1982, ’83, OUR UNCONSCIONABLE NATIONAL triot Award in recognition of their diligence. I and ’84. Those teams, known simply as ‘‘Phi DEBT am proud that programs such as the El Paso Slama Jama,’’ featured superstars Clyde Veterans’ Treatment Court exist in my district Drexler and Hakeem Olajuwon, two members HON. MIKE COFFMAN and are available to help those who served of both the NCAA and NBA Halls of Fame. OF COLORADO our country. Those teams emphasized a fast-paced, excit- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ing style of play that helped revolutionize the f game forever. Thursday, December 10, 2015 BRINGING FFA GOLD TO When remembering Coach Lewis, we Mr. COFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, on January PEARLAND needn’t just remember the legendary wins or 20, 2009, the day President Obama took of- the legendary players that he coached, but fice, the national debt was HON. PETE OLSON also his integrity and dedication. Whether it $10,626,877,048,913.08. OF TEXAS was his innovative work on the court or off, all Today, it is $18,789,064,366,804.18. We’ve IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of us familiar with the life of Coach Lewis have added $8,162,187,317,891.10 to our debt in 6 Thursday, December 10, 2015 nothing but fond memories of the man. His years. This is over $8 trillion in debt our na- legacy will live on. tion, our economy, and our children could Mr. OLSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to And that’s just the way it is. have avoided with a balanced budget amend- congratulate Evann Wehman of Turner High f ment. School for winning her second state cham- CONGRATULATING THE f pionship at the Texas Future Farmers of HERCULANEUM HIGH SCHOOL America (FFA) Leadership Development HONORING THE EL PASO BLACK CATS FOR THEIR SECOND Events Competition. VETERANS’ TREATMENT COURT PLACE FINISH IN THE 2015 MIS- Evann, who is also her school’s FFA Presi- SOURI CLASS 2 GIRLS CROSS dent, won the state competition last weekend COUNTRY STATE CHAMPIONSHIP HON. BETO O’ROURKE at Sam Houston State University. Her victory OF TEXAS at the state competition earned her a spot at IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the National FFA Convention next October in HON. BLAINE LUETKEMEYER Indianapolis. Evann has a history of success OF MISSOURI Thursday, December 10, 2015 as part of the horse judging team that won the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. O’ROURKE. Mr. Speaker, I am honored first ever state championship by Pearland FFA Thursday, December 10, 2015 to rise today in recognition of the El Paso Vet- students. That team went on to national suc- Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise erans’ Treatment Court Program, presided cess and placed eighth in the nation. Her im- today to ask my colleagues to join me in con- over by the Honorable Angie Juarez Barill and pressive accomplishments reflect her hard

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:17 Dec 11, 2015 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A10DE8.020 E10DEPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS E1766 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 10, 2015 work and will carry her far in her future en- commitment, and leadership in establishing a SERBIA STEPS UP AT A CRITICAL deavors. new arts facility, the Workhouse Arts Center, TIME On behalf of the Twenty-Second Congres- in southern Fairfax County. sional District of Texas, congratulations again Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me HON. TED POE to Evann on her second state FFA champion- in congratulating the recipients of the 2015 OF TEXAS ship. Best of luck in all of your future endeav- Arts Awards and in recognizing and thanking IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ors. the visionaries, leaders, and supporters who Thursday, December 10, 2015 f help to make our Northern Virginia commu- Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Serbia’s re- RECOGNIZING THE ARTS COUNCIL nities rich with cultural opportunities. cent donation of $5.4 million to the Bosnian OF FAIRFAX COUNTY AND THE town of Srebrenica, where thousands of Mus- RECIPIENTS OF THE 2015 ARTS f lims were killed in the Yugoslav Wars, is a AWARDS TRIBUTE TO ED AND LOIS clear sign that the Serbian Government wants FIGGINS to do what they can to improve relationships HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY with countries in the region. Mending these re- OF VIRGINIA lationships is especially important as the Bal- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. DAVID YOUNG kans are on the front lines of the refugee cri- sis. As of the beginning of November, the Thursday, December 10, 2015 OF IOWA same month that President Vucic announced Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to rec- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES this large donation, over 300,000 refugees had ognize the Arts Council of Fairfax County and flowed through the country since the beginning Thursday, December 10, 2015 the recipients of its 2015 Arts Awards. These of the year. Most refugees are fleeing Syria, awards recognize the extraordinary contribu- Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise Iraq and Afghanistan and travelling to Europe tions of artists and arts organizations, as well today to recognize and congratulate Ed and to seek asylum. Serbia is doing their part to as individuals and businesses in Fairfax Coun- Lois Figgins of Atlantic, Iowa, on the very spe- process and protect these people. In October ty, the City of Fairfax, and the City of Falls cial occasion of their 50th wedding alone, 180,307 refugees were processed com- Church, that support the arts in our commu- armiversary. They were married in 1965. pared to 51,048 in September because of Ser- nity. Ed and Lois’ lifelong commitment to each bia’s commitment to improving capacity. Founded in 1964, the Arts Council of Fairfax other and their family truly embodies our Iowa It is critical for countries in the region to County is a non-profit organization designated values. It is families like the Figgins family that work together to process the influx of refugees as Fairfax County’s local arts agency. The make me proud to call myself an Iowan and while ensuring the safety of their own coun- Arts Council operates programs and initiatives represent the people of this great state. tries and the world. The Balkans are a transit that include grants, arts advocacy, education, region making it important for all the countries and professional development opportunities for Mr. Speaker, I commend this great couple to have an open line of communication in artists and arts organizations. In fiscal year 14, on their 50th year together and I wish them order to ensure the ordered, safe, and peace- the Arts Council awarded more than $500,000 many more. I ask that my colleagues in the ful flow of people and is especially important in County, public, and private funds through United States House of Representatives join for bordering countries. competitive grants and awards to arts organi- me in congratulating them on this momentous Serbia’s gesture to Bosnia is hopefully a zations and individual artists. These grants occasion. signal of relationships on the mend at this very helped to fund approximately 13,000 perform- tense time in the world. While the importance ances, which were attended by more than 1 f of Balkan countries working together cannot million people. I also would like to express my be underemphasized, it is also of utmost im- REMEMBERING FRANK HERHOLD appreciation to the Arts Council for its stead- portance for all freedom-loving countries fast support of the 11th District Congressional throughout the world to work together to fight Arts Competition, which has helped make it HON. LOIS FRANKEL ISIS, a big factor in the flow of migrants and one of the largest and most successful in the a threat to our way of life, in which all lives are country. OF FLORIDA cherished. Every country must do their part. The annual Arts Awards honor supporters of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES We must all come together and obliterate this the arts in four categories: the Jinx Hazel Arts scourge on our world. Thursday, December 10, 2015 Award, the Arts Achievement Award, the As co-chair of the Congressional Serbian Emerging Arts Award, and the Arts Philan- Ms. FRANKEL of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I Caucus, I commend the Serbian Government thropy Award. It is my honor to submit the fol- rise today in recognition of a Fort Lauderdale for all that they have done to mend their rela- lowing names of the 2015 Arts Awards Recipi- resident who dedicated his life to serving his tionships in the region and for their leadership ents: family and community: Frank Herhold, who during this incredibly trying time. The 2015 Jinx Hazel Arts Award will be pre- passed away at the age of 76 on Saturday, And that’s just the way it is. sented to Earle C. Williams, the former presi- December 5th. f dent and chief executive officer of BDM Inter- Frank was a devoted family man and promi- CELEBRATING BIRTH OF BLAKELY national, for his outstanding leadership and nent member of the South Florida boating ELIZABETH HERBERT advocacy in the arts and in the Campaign for community. He started his career in the ma- Wolf Trap. rine industry as the owner of the Anchorage The 2015 Arts Achievement Award will be HON. DAN NEWHOUSE Yacht Basin in Melbourne, Florida and later OF WASHINGTON presented to Rebecca Kamen, a contemporary became the executive director of Marine In- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES visual artist, sculptor, and a pioneer of the dustries Association of South Florida (MIASF), STEAM effort to integrate Arts in the tradi- Thursday, December 10, 2015 where he worked until he retired. tional Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mr. NEWHOUSE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Math, or STEM fields, for her outstanding In his retirement, Frank’s passion for boat- to congratulate my Legislative Director, Jason achievements bridging the arts and education ing continued. Prior to his passing, Frank at- Herbert, and his wife, Erin Kathleen Herbert, with chemistry, neuroscience, and astro- tended the 2015 Fort Lauderdale International on the birth of their daughter, Blakely Eliza- physics. Boat Show and served on the city of Fort Lau- beth Herbert. The 2015 Emerging Arts Award will be pre- derdale’s marine advisory board. In 2010, Blakely was born at 2:17 p.m. on Sunday, sented to the Vienna Jammers for providing Frank was the commodore of the Winterfest December 6, 2015. Miss Blakely weighed in at exemplary outreach to area youth and partici- Boat Parade and recognized as ‘‘Citizen of the a perfect 7 pounds and 10 ounces. pating in community building activities in the Year’’ by the city of Fort Lauderdale in 2007. As my Legislative Director, Blakely’s father, Town of Vienna and the Washington, D.C. Frank is survived by many loved ones. I Jason, has been key to my legislative oper- area. offer my condolences to Frank’s wife Mary Jo, ation. Jason’s stalwart attention to details, and The 2015 Arts Philanthropy Award will be his daughter Pam, and all his friends and fam- his remarkable ability to stay alert during long presented to Richard Hausler, co-founder and ily. I know that his legacy will continue to live and late night Rules Committee hearings and CEO of Insight Property Group, for his vision, on and inspire future generations. floor debates will serve him well as a father.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:17 Dec 11, 2015 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A10DE8.024 E10DEPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS December 10, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1767 My entire staff has awaited this good news For months we have heard the same refrain with Charlotte’s father while waiting to attend with eager anticipation of Jason and Erin be- from the White House. They say, ‘‘We will de- and graduate from the Academy. After receiv- coming parents. Blakely is fortunate to have grade and ultimately destroy ISIS.’’ ing his badge as a Texas trooper, Tom and such a loving father and mother. There has been little progress, if any. Top Charlotte settled in Corrigan, Texas, where Congratulations and best wishes to Jason U.S. military officials have confirmed that ISIS they raised three boys of their own and took and Erin and their entire family on this won- is far from contained. in many troubled teenagers in a home full of derful addition. When the President addressed the nation love and operated a family business in addi- f from the Oval Office on Sunday, Americans tion to their full time jobs. needed to hear a real strategy to eradicate After a transfer to Brazoria County, Char- CONGRATULATING THE LUTHERAN ISIS. The speech came just days after an act lotte worked in the Angleton School District HIGH SCHOOL COUGARS FOR of terror here at home. Instead of a plan, our while their boys finished school. Then Tom re- THEIR 2015 MISSOURI CLASS 2 Commander in Chief delivered the same tired and Huntsville won the lottery when this VOLLEYBALL STATE CHAMPION- empty rhetoric. wonderful couple chose to call the town home. SHIP The United States must show our inter- Charlotte and Tom’s impact on Walker national partners that we are committed to de- County has been lasting, after moving to HON. BLAINE LUETKEMEYER feating ISIS. The first step is for the President Huntsville they created the HEARTS Veterans OF MISSOURI to outline a plan to destroy them . . . not de- Museum, a gem for the Texas 8th and con- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES grade them. tinue to this day to be pillars in the community. Until that point, the vacuum of American Thursday, December 10, 2015 Their servant leadership in our Lord’s name leadership will continue to grow, and so will and the love they radiate has set an amazing Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise the influence of ISIS. example for us all. today to ask my colleagues to join me in con- f And I believe their 3 children, 17 grand- gratulating the Lutheran High School Cougars children, a great grandson and the many trou- IN HONOR OF TOM AND CHAR- for their first place win in the 2015 Class 2 bled teens they have cared for would agree. LOTTE OLEINIK’S GOLDEN ANNI- Volleyball State Championship. The U.S. House congratulates you on cele- VERSARY This team and their coach should be com- brating your 50th wedding anniversary. mended for all of their hard work throughout f this past year and for bringing home the state HON. KEVIN BRADY championship to their school and community. OF TEXAS EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR H.R. I ask you to join me in recognizing the Lu- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 1217 ‘‘PUBLIC SAFETY AND SEC- theran High School Cougars for a job well Thursday, December 10, 2015 OND AMENDMENT RIGHTS PRO- done. TECTION ACT OF 2015’’ Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, if there f was a first couple of servant leadership and a TRIBUTE TO CHET ROED model for a successful marriage, it would be HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE OF TEXAS Tom and Charlotte Oleinik of Huntsville, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Texas. Today, I have the pleasure of honoring HON. DAVID YOUNG Thursday, December 10, 2015 OF IOWA them on their Golden Wedding Anniversary IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and sharing just a bit of their half a century Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, the past long love story. few months have been marked by senseless Thursday, December 10, 2015 Tom was born the fifth of 12 children in violence and tragedy across the globe and in Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise Rosholt, Wisconsin, worked on his family’s our own country from Tuscon, Aurora, Sandy today to recognize and congratulate Chet dairy farm and attended a one-room school- Hook, Charleston, Chattanooga, Roseburg, Roed of Mount Ayr, Iowa, for being selected house. He served his country in Korea, at Fort and now most recently in San Bernardino, as a member of the Mount Ayr Community Devins, and Fort Drum, before returning to the California. Hall of Fame. farm and then applying to protect and serve It is past time that we come together united Chet taught industrial arts at the Mount Ayr as a member of the Wisconsin Highway Pa- by our common humanity and with this simple school system for over 30 years. He is cred- trol. message: the violence must stop. ited by many in the community for teaching Native Texan Charlotte Fisher was a Christ- The senseless mass shooting in San them how to take care of their homes, and to mastime gift to her parents, who ran a Goose Bernardino reminds us of the imperative of this day, years after his retirement, Chet re- Creek rice farm where she grew up with her ending gun violence in our country. mains highly respected by his former students two younger siblings. She went to work and And there are actions that can be taken to for the knowledge he imparted onto them. He then college in Florida after graduating from reduce gun violence beginning with the enact- not only contributed to the Mount Ayr commu- high school. That decision to attend Florida ment of the bipartisan ‘‘Public Safety and Sec- nity in the classroom, but also in athletics. For College and to spend a summer in Wisconsin ond Amendment Rights Protection Act of years he led the track and football teams to with her roommate would change the course 2015’’ (H.R. 1217). postseason success. of her life forever. This bipartisan legislation, which I am proud Mr. Speaker, Chad’s efforts embody the That summer Charlotte worked days at to be an original co-sponsor, will help prevent Iowa spirit and I am honored to represent him, American Motors and nights and weekends, guns from falling into the hands of criminals and Iowans like him, in the United States Con- she waitressed at the Timber Ridge Cafe´ and reinforce the Second Amendment rights of gress. I ask that all of my colleagues in the where little did she know then a 50 year love law-abiding gun owners. United States House of Representatives will story was about to begin when a handsome Expanding the existing background check join me in congratulating Chet for his achieve- young state patrolman walked through the system to cover all commercial firearm sales, ments and wishing him nothing but continued door. the Public Safety and Second Amendment success. Tom, being a very smart man, asked the Rights Protection Act of 2015 ensures that f beautiful waitress on a date, but after a few criminals and the dangerously mentally ill can- dates, Charlotte took ill and needed surgery. not slip through background check loopholes DEMANDING A MEANINGFUL While she was hospitalized, a certain man in that endanger the safety and rights of every STRATEGY TO DEFEAT ISIS uniform was a frequent visitor, often arriving American. with flowers. H.R. 1217 greatly reduces the number of HON. KENNY MARCHANT According to Tom it took a lot of pro- places where a criminal can buy a gun. OF TEXAS posing—and a lot of no’s—to get a yes from Right now a criminal can buy a firearm in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES his beloved Charlotte. Charlotte remembers it the parking lot of a gun show, over the inter- a little differently, but after Tom was baptized net, or through a newspaper ad without need- Thursday, December 10, 2015 in 1965, this happy young couple got engaged ing a background check. Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, the Presi- and wed in Kenosha, Wisconsin on December The bill closes these loopholes while ensur- dent has repeatedly underestimated ISIS, and 17, 1965. ing that background checks are conducted in under-responded to the threat they pose. The They went back to Florida College together the same way federally licensed dealers have American people have lost confidence. and then moved to Texas where Tom worked for more than 40 years.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:17 Dec 11, 2015 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A10DE8.028 E10DEPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS E1768 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 10, 2015 The legislation also strengthens the Second excellence in hiring practices, creating sup- Iowa High School Speech Association Hall of Amendment rights of law-abiding gun owners portive work environments, and supporting the Fame. Kennon has been the coach of the by banning the government from creating a mission of MVLE. The 2015 Chairman’s Large Group and Director of Theatre at federal registry and makes the misuse of Award recipients are Ah Love Oil and Em- Clarinda High School for over 30 years. records a felony, punishable by up to 15 years bassy Suites Springfield. The Iowa High School Speech Association in prison. MVLE also presents four Community Hall of Fame was established in 1976 to rec- It provides reasonable exceptions for family Awards in honor of the four components of our ognize distinguished individuals of statewide and friend transfers and allows active military community: Government, Employment, Social reputation for their outstanding accomplish- personnel to buy guns in the state they are Responsibility, and Integration. ments. Inductees are selected for going above stationed. The Government Champion Award is pre- and beyond expectations with their contribu- It lets gun owners use a state concealed sented to Parsons in recognition of its commit- tions, service, dedication, and commitment to carry permit issued within the last five years in ment to the creation of meaningful employ- the Association. It is the highest honor the As- lieu of a background check and permits inter- ment opportunities across government and sociation can confer on an individual. state handgun sales from licensed dealers. business sectors. Mr. Speaker, I applaud and congratulate The bill also improves the National Instant The Employment Partner Award is pre- Kennon for earning this award. He is a shining Criminal Background Check System (NICS) by sented to the Arlington County Equipment Bu- example of how hard work and dedication can incentivizing states to improve reporting of reau in recognition of its efforts in creating positively affect the future of our youth. I ask criminals and the dangerously mentally ill and meaningful community employment opportuni- that my colleagues in the United States House by directing future grant funds toward better ties for individuals with disabilities and military of Representatives join me in congratulating record-sharing systems. veterans. Kennon for his contributions to the speech and H.R. 1217 will also reduce federal funds to The Advocacy Champion Award is being education community in the state of Iowa. I states that do not comply. presented to state Senator Barbara Favola, wish him nothing but continued success. Mr. Speaker, you cannot be against crimi- who represents Virginia’s 31st district. MVLE f nals, terrorists and the dangerously mentally ill presents this award to an outstanding partner getting guns and be against background who advocates for community integration by INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS checks. fostering partnerships across sectors to create DAY: THE CHINESE GOVERN- I thank Congressmen PETER KING (R–NY) new opportunities one person at a time. MENT HARVESTS THE ORGANS and MIKE THOMPSON (D–CA) for introducing There are two recipients of the Social Re- OF THE FALUN GONG this bipartisan legislation (H.R. 1217), which is sponsibility Award: Digital Office Products and the House companion to an identical bipar- Supply World. MVLE presents this award to HON. TED POE tisan bill introduced previously by Senators an outstanding partner who supports MVLE OF TEXAS JOE MANCHIN (D–WV) and PAT TOOMEY (R– and our community through contributions and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PA). volunteer work. Thursday, December 10, 2015 Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1217 is anti-crime, pro- Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me lawful gun owner and pro-Second Amend- in commending MVLE for its success in help- Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today is ment. ing individuals with disabilities achieve inde- the 65th International Human Rights Day. It will save lives and strengthen the rights of pendence and in congratulating the 2015 It is fitting that we remember how the Chi- law-abiding gun owners. MVLE Annual Award recipients. The efforts of nese Government has denied the human It deserves a vote in the House. MVLE, its supporters, community partners, rights of so many of Falun Gong, their family f and clients are an inspiration to all and are members and their friends. RECOGNIZING THE 2015 MVLE truly worthy of our highest praise. The most basic human right is the right to live free. AWARD RECIPIENTS f Today, there are more Falun Gong practi- CONGRATULATING THE NEW tioners in prison in China than any other per- HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY HAVEN HIGH SCHOOL SHAM- secuted group. OF VIRGINIA ROCKS FOR THEIR SECOND The Chinese Government’s top priority is IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PLACE FINISH IN THE 2015 MIS- not to take care of its people; it is to stay in Thursday, December 10, 2015 SOURI CLASS 2 VOLLEYBALL power. It sees Falun Gong rise in popularity in Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to rec- STATE CHAMPIONSHIP the 1990s as a threat. In reality, Falun Gong ognize the 2015 MVLE Annual Award Recipi- just wanted to be left alone. ents. HON. BLAINE LUETKEMEYER To silence this threat, the Chinese Govern- For 44 years, MVLE has provided employ- OF MISSOURI ment murders Falun Gong members, har- vesting their organs to give to others deemed ment opportunities and support services to in- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES dividuals with disabilities and thereby created more worthy. an environment which has allowed its clients Thursday, December 10, 2015 We know this because brave men and to live in dignity and as independently as pos- Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise women have come forward and reported these sible. MVLE has achieved this success by today to ask my colleagues to join me in con- crimes, refusing to be silent. Those who have partnering with local businesses as well as gratulating the New Haven High School Sham- spoken out include the wife of a doctor who with government agencies and other not-for- rocks for their second place finish in the 2015 was forced to perform surgeries to remove the profit organizations to maximize the benefits of Class 2 Volleyball State Championship. organs. A security guard who was ordered to its various programs and services. MVLE, its This team and their coach should be com- stand watch while the surgeries take place staff, and dedicated volunteers and supporters mended for all of their hard work throughout has also spoken out about these practices. can be proud that they are making a positive this past year and for bringing home the sec- The evidence is undeniable of this detestable, difference in someone’s life every day. ond place win to their school and community. inhumane practice by the Chinese Govern- Each year, MVLE honors individual partici- I ask you to join me in recognizing the New ment. pants, as well as business and community Haven Shamrocks for a job well done. The practice is a billion dollar business for partners, who exemplify MVLE’s ideals. I am f the Chinese Government. Organ harvesting is pleased to submit the names of the following the number one source of revenue for Chi- 2015 award recipients: TRIBUTE TO KENNON BALSTER nese medical centers. A medical center is The President’s Award is presented to indi- supposed to save lives, not take lives. Appar- viduals who have shown outstanding progress HON. DAVID YOUNG ently, in China, the lives of the Falun Gong do toward gaining independence and self-suffi- OF IOWA not matter. Reports indicate that more than ciency through participation in employment IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 10,000 have been killed by these barbaric and community services. The 2015 President’s medical procedures; they have been murdered Award recipients are Anis Iqbal, Steven Pen- Thursday, December 10, 2015 for their organs. nington, and Josh Renggli. Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise to The Chinese Government makes a profit The Chairman’s Award is presented to an honor and congratulate Kennon Balster of and silences any group it sees as threatening. outstanding business partner who has shown Blanchard, Iowa, for his induction into the But they can’t silence the Falun Gong nor

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:17 Dec 11, 2015 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A10DE8.032 E10DEPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS December 10, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1769 human rights advocates. We know what they his wife of 60 years, Loreece. Together, they tivals in the fall and the Bastille Day Pe´tanque are up to. We cannot let this continue. came to America and created their own leg- Tournament. She worked tirelessly to ensure The Chinese Government is an enemy of acy, raising six children, 18 grandchildren, and Smith Street thrived, and most recently she human rights. It is the enemy of its own peo- five great-grandchildren. was organizing to create a Business Improve- ple. Although he will be greatly missed, he will ment District on Smith and nearby Court As a former judge in Texas, I know a thing be remembered fondly and remain an icon of Streets. or two about justice. And, justice has not been the 18th District. Her efforts extended well beyond the com- mercial corridors. By starting the South Brook- served to the Falun Gong community. f Over the years, Falun Gong followers have lyn Local Development Corporation and the been imprisoned, tortured, and killed. But, de- TRIBUTE TO DULA AND BETTY Red Hook Chamber of Commerce, she spite Beijing’s abuse, they continue to fight THOMPSON worked steadfastly to defend industrial busi- back. nesses in Red Hook and Gowanus and ex- Today, China must end its persecution of HON. DAVID YOUNG pand opportunity and commerce throughout the Falun Gong. Brooklyn. Bette helped organize Friends of OF IOWA The world leaders have been talking about Greater Gowanus and served on the EPA climate change in Paris. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Gowanus Canal Community Advisory Group, There needs to be a ‘‘climate’’ change in Thursday, December 10, 2015 working on multiple fronts to push to reme- China. The air is polluted with the cries of the diate and restore the Gowanus Canal in a Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise innocents murdered by the government. green, sustainable manner. today to recognize and congratulate Dula and The land is defiled by the acts of torture and Bette created partnerships to connect low- Betty Thompson of Lewis, Iowa, on the very income and public housing residents to busi- organ harvesting. special occasion of their 70th wedding anni- The blood of the Falun Gong is on the nesses and jobs. She created internships for versary. They married on October 11, 1945 in youth and a Culinary Arts Curriculum at the hands of the Chinese officials. Troy, Kansas. I hope that one day soon all Chinese people High School for International Studies on Baltic Dula and Betty’s lifelong commitment to Street. Bette also helped develop adult train- will have the basic human right that the Cre- each other and their children, Marvin, Bill, ator endows to all creation: life. ing programs to better connect people to Lanette, and Ken, along with their grand- good-paying jobs in the trades, industry and The Falun Gong deserves to live free of op- children, great-grandchildren and great-great- with local merchants. For years, Bette served pression and murder. grandchild, truly embodies our Iowa values. It as a member of Community Board 6, ensuring They are courageous men and women. is families like the Thompsons that make me her neighbors’ voices were heard in develop- The Chinese Government, in its zeal to proud to call myself an Iowan and represent ment decisions shaping our area’s physical, keep power, kills its own people. the people of our great state. cultural and economic future. Power, not people, is the quest of the Chi- Mr. Speaker, I commend this great couple Ultimately, South Brooklyn would not be as nese Government. on their 70th year together and I wish them vibrant, diverse and culturally rich without If the Chinese Government was put on trial many more. I ask that my colleagues in the Bette’s hard work and many endeavors. My before the world of free peoples and tried for United States House of Representatives join thoughts and prayers are with her husband, its violations of human rights, it would be me in congratulating them on this momentous Michael, her children and her beloved grand- found guilty of terrorism. Its government offi- occasion. children. cials would be in prison. They would be locked f Mr. Speaker, New York City’s communities up. They would not see the light of the morn- and, indeed, our local neighborhoods through- ing sun. They would be in the cold damp dark- PERSONAL EXPLANATION out the country are only as strong as the local ness of the jailhouse—the place reserved for residents who are willing to put in personal the evil ones who harvest the organs of the HON. BARBARA LEE time and effort to organize and improve the Falun Gong. areas in which we live. Every community OF CALIFORNIA And that’s just the way it is. would be lucky to have a community leader as f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES vocal, engaged, dedicated and personally Thursday, December 10, 2015 warm as Bette. She leaves behind a proud IN MEMORY OF MR. TONY HADDAD legacy, one that we will honor by continuing to OF PEORIA, ILLINOIS Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I was not present for improve our community. I ask all my col- roll call vote 682. Had I been present. I would leagues to join me in honoring her memory. have voted no. HON. DARIN LaHOOD f OF ILLINOIS f CHALLENGER ELEMENTARY IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HONORING BETTE STOLTZ ARTISTS TAKE TOP HONOR Thursday, December 10, 2015 ´ Mr. LAHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I commemorate HON. NYDIA M. VELAZQUEZ HON. PETE OLSON the life of Mr. Tony Haddad, a restauranteur OF NEW YORK OF TEXAS and local icon of Peoria, Illinois, who passed IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES away this past Saturday at the age of 78. Immigrating to Peoria from Lebanon in Thursday, December 10, 2015 Thursday, December 10, 2015 1977, Mr. Haddad and his family arrived in the Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Mr. OLSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to United States with only thirty dollars in his to pay tribute to a friend, neighbor and activist congratulate three talented students from pocket. Although far from home, Haddad who dedicated her life to improving South Challenger Elementary School in Pearland for brought his culture to life through the food he Brooklyn. On November 19, longtime neigh- winning top honors in the Texas Renaissance sold from a pushcart in downtown Peoria for borhood activist Bette Stoltz passed away. Festival’s art contest. almost 35 years, which he later expanded into This Saturday, Brooklynites will come together In the drawing category, Brendon Thai took his own local restaurant. Mr. Haddad was the to celebrate the life of this dedicated advocate home first place and Amanda Yee took home personification of the American dream. and leader. third place. Katherine Tran took home second His empathy and generosity made those Bette made countless contributions to South place in the painting category. Challenger Ele- who visited his food cart and restaurant not Brooklyn, helping bring vitality, energy and en- mentary is lucky to have such talented young only his patrons, but his friends. Tony was al- trepreneurship to the area. She worked to artists and an incredible teacher, Lori Ellis, ways charitable, giving a meal to someone sure-up small businesses at a time of dis- who does a great job of helping her students even if he knew they would not be able to investment. She was instrumental to revital- find their creativity. repay him and, and he made time to listen to izing Smith Street and helping organize the On behalf of the Twenty-Second Congres- his customers’ problems. Merchants Association in the 1980s, which sional District of Texas, congratulations again Alongside his work, the cornerstone to fostered so much cultural life and vibrancy in to Brendon, Amanda, and Katherine for their Haddad’s life was the love and friendship of the area. She organized the Smith Street Fes- award-winning art.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:17 Dec 11, 2015 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A10DE8.034 E10DEPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS E1770 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 10, 2015 TRIBUTE TO LARRY AND GLORIA toring and access to computers and commu- ployees possess cutting edge skills required to SOUTH nity services. succeed in a dynamic economy. The National Mr. Corella’s final day was November 26, Security Agency and the Department of HON. DAVID YOUNG 2015, exactly fifty years to the day he began Homeland Security have designated NOVA as OF IOWA as a library page. a National Center of Academic Excellence in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure and honor to Information Assurance, and representatives recognize the commitment and dedication to from the intelligence community routinely re- Thursday, December 10, 2015 our Southern Arizona community and the li- cruit graduates with an Associate of Applied Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise brary system that Mr. Corella has dem- Science degree in Cybersecurity from NOVA. today to recognize and congratulate Larry and onstrated for well over fifty years. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me Gloria South of Council Bluffs, Iowa, on the f in congratulating NOVA on 50 years of deliv- very special occasion of their 55th wedding ering world-class post-secondary education anniversary. They were married in 1960. RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVER- and workforce development to ensure our re- Larry and Gloria’s lifelong commitment to SARY OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA gion and the Commonwealth of Virginia con- each other, their children, Dee, Tammie, Judy, COMMUNITY COLLEGE tinue to have such a highly-educated popu- Margaret and Alice, their grandchildren, and lation and a globally competitive workforce. great-grandchildren, truly embodies our Iowa HON. GERALD E. CONNOLLY NOVA truly exemplifies the crucial role that values. It is families like the Souths that make OF VIRGINIA publicly-supported higher education plays in me proud to call myself an Iowan and rep- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES our society. I look forward to seeing what resent the people of our great state. Thursday, December 10, 2015 NOVA will accomplish in the next 50 years. Mr. Speaker, I commend this great couple f on their 55th year together and I wish them Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to com- many more. I ask that my colleagues in the memorate the 50th Anniversary of Northern EXPRESSING SUPPORT FOR PRESI- United States House of Representatives join Virginia Community College. Over the past DENT’S PLAN TO DEFEAT ISIS me in congratulating them on this momentous two decades, the National Capital Region, es- occasion. pecially Northern Virginia, has experienced ex- HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE OF TEXAS f plosive growth, becoming one of the most economically vibrant and diverse regions in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES THE OCCASION OF MR. PAT the country. Northern Virginia Community Col- Thursday, December 10, 2015 CORELLA’S RETIREMENT lege has been a major contributing factor to this success. Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, this past HON. RAU´ L M. GRIJALVA Established in 1964 under the name North- Sunday evening, President Obama addressed ern Virginia Technical College, the school the nation and detailed his four-part plan, as OF ARIZONA Commander-in-Chief, to keep the American IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES opened with 761 students in a single building in Bailey’s Crossroads. Renamed in 1966, people safe from terrorist acts committed by Thursday, December 10, 2015 Northern Virginia Community College, known terrorist groups like ISIL and al Qaeda or by Mr. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I wish to rec- locally as NOVA, now serves more than persons abroad or lone wolf ‘‘franchise terror- ognize and congratulate Mr. Pat CoreIla on 100,000 full and part-time students at six cam- ists’’ at home who are inspired by groups that the occasion of his retirement from his post as puses and three satellite educational centers, profane the peaceful religion of Islam. First, the plan calls for our military to con- Deputy Director of the Pima County Library. and through online learning. tinue hunting down terrorist plotters in any Mr. Corella has dedicated over fifty years to NOVA graduates who receive passing country where it is necessary. serving his community with distinction. Born grades in designated courses are guaranteed In Iraq and Syria, American airpower has from humble beginnings, Mr. CoreIla has be- admission to more than 40 area four-year col- been used to great effect, taking out ISIL lead- come a symbol of hard work, perseverance, leges and universities. An in-state student can ers, heavy weapons, oil tankers, and infra- and selflessness. A Tucson native, Mr. CoreIla save approximately $15,000, or 30% of tuition structure. is one of six siblings with strong family ties. and fees, for a baccalaureate degree by at- Second, the plan calls for the United States Since a young age, Mr. CoreIla has borne tending NOVA for two years and then transfer- to take away safe havens for terrorists by con- much responsibility whether helping his family ring to a public four-year institution. High tinuing to provide training and equipment to harvest crops in California during the summers school students can take advantage of this op- the tens of thousands of Iraqi and Syrian to becoming an independent young man. He portunity beginning at age 16. forces fighting ISIL. graduated from Pueblo High School in 1965 It is the largest public educational institution The third part of the plan involves working and soon began his involvement with the Pima in Virginia and the second-largest community with friends and allies to disrupt ISIL’s oper- County Public Library system. As a library college in the United States. It is also one of ations by cutting off access to financing and page, he assisted in shelving, book circulation, the most internationally diverse colleges in the disrupting recruitment efforts. operating equipment and researching. nation, with 20% of the student population Finally, the plan calls for continued Amer- In 1970 after marrying and beginning a fam- consisting of individuals from more than 180 ican leadership, working in conjunction with ily, he enrolled in the University of Arizona as countries. Nearly 4,000 faculty and staff mem- the international community, to establish a a full-time student. In less than four years, Mr. bers serve the students and the broader com- process—and timeline—to pursue ceasefires CoreIla earned his bachelor’s degree in Gov- munity. Nearly 300,000 individuals attend and a political resolution to the Syrian civil ernment and Public Administration. During that community activities on NOVA campuses each war. time, it was his job to drive the ‘‘bookmobile’’ year. Ending the civil war in Syria will allow the to areas in Tucson and Pima County where he NOVA offers a wide variety of programs that Syrian people, our allies, and also Russia, to provided imperative library services to low-in- support academic achievement and personal focus on the common goal of destroying ISIL. come and underrepresented communities. growth, and that promote civic engagement, Critics have every right to disagree with the Mr. Corella was instrumental in the opening leadership development, community involve- President’s approach but they also have an of library branches in Tucson’s barrios and ment, health & wellness, and culture. Dozens obligation to propose realistic and practical al- surrounding rural communities. Due in part to of student-led organizations enrich campus life ternatives to the President’s plan, which, by his leadership, nineteen library branches were and specialized populations such as the dis- the way, has been designed by American mili- opened and sixteen others were either ex- abled or current and former members of the tary commanders and counterterrorism experts panded or remodeled. Mr. Corella has always military receive services tailored to their and supported by the 65 countries that are understood that libraries were educational in- unique circumstances. part of the American-led coalition. stitutions full of opportunity for underserved Our local economy and our nation’s security Our quarrel is not with Islam so I also com- communities. He helped transition these li- have benefitted from NOVA’s innovative work- mend the President’s appeal for calm, unity, brary branches to modern technology and ex- force development programs and cybersecu- and cooperation among all persons of goodwill panded the role of providing more services rity curricula. Employers can rely on new-hires both in the United States and around the and resources beyond books. Today, Pima with credentials from NOVA and can partner world. County branch libraries provide literacy pro- with NOVA to develop customized training so- The terrorist attacks in San Bernardino were grams for adults and children, after-school tu- lutions so that recent graduates or current em- horrific acts on innocent civilians perpetrated

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:17 Dec 11, 2015 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A10DE8.040 E10DEPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS December 10, 2015 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1771 by depraved individuals who pledge allegiance IN HONOR OF THE 80TH BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE TO MARK LARSEN to organizations that misuse the peaceful reli- OF RAYMOND COCHRAN gion of Islam for their own misguided pur- HON. DAVID YOUNG poses. HON. MIKE ROGERS OF ALABAMA OF IOWA Such horrible and heinous acts are the re- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES sponsibility of the perpetrators, and theirs Thursday, December 10, 2015 alone, and for which they can be assured that Thursday, December 10, 2015 they alone will be held accountable. Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I ask for the House’s attention today to recog- Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise This was one of the central messages con- nize Pastor Raymond Cochran on his 80th today to recognize and congratulate Mark Lar- veyed during the Prayer Vigil and Unity Press birthday on December 13th. sen, of Mount Ayr, Iowa for being selected as Conference I led last Sunday afternoon in Raymond was born in Lee County, Alabama a member of the Mount Ayr Community Hall of Houston, the 4th largest and most diverse city in 1935 to John and Lucille Cochran. Fame. in the United States. Mr. Cochran found a passion for religion at Mark was hired as a math teacher and girls’ an early age, having joined the Ebenezer Bap- basketball and track coach at Mount Ayr In addition to the steps laid out by the Presi- tist Church at age seven. He holds Bachelors Schools in 1970. He coached six-on-six, and dent, I also believe there are additional steps and Masters of Bible Theology degrees from later five-on-five basketball, winning 286 the Congress should take, including bringing the International Institute and Seminary in games in total. His girls basketball teams won to the floor for debate and vote to pass H.R. Plymouth, Florida, in addition to a Bachelor of six conference titles and qualified for the state 48, the ‘‘No Fly for Foreign Fighters Act,’’ that Arts degree from Selma University in Selma, tournament in 1998. His girls track teams I introduced earlier this year. Alabama. claimed 15 conference titles and four district He also holds two honorary doctorates, in championships. He also started the girls soft- This legislation would require TSA to check divinity and law, from the Union Theological the Terrorist Screening Database and the ter- ball program in 1972, and on the softball dia- Seminary in Birmingham, Alabama. Mr. Coch- mond his teams amassed over 700 wins. Mark rorist watch list used in determining whether to ran has received numerous awards in recogni- was inducted in to the Iowa Coaches Hall of permit a passenger to board a U.S.-bound or tion of his long service, and is involved in nu- Fame in 1998 and was elected to the Iowa domestic flight and to take appropriate steps merous community groups. He served as the Pastor of seven different High School Athletic Directors Association Hall to ensure that those who pose a threat to of Fame in 2002. aviation safety or national security are in- churches throughout Alabama and Georgia, before joining the Franchise Missionary Baptist Mr. Speaker, Mark’s efforts embody the cluded in the Terrorism Database. in Phenix City, Alabama, where he has been Iowa spirit and I am honored to represent him I ask a moment of silence for the victims the pastor for the past 47 years. Mr. Cochran and Iowans like him in the United States Con- killed and injured in the attacks by franchise and his wife Mary have six daughters, two gress. As a coach, teacher, and athletic direc- terrorists last Wednesday in San Bernardino, sons, nineteen grandchildren and four great- tor, he has had a profound impact on the lives California. grandchildren. of thousands of Iowa’s young people. I ask Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing that all of my colleagues in the United States the life and achievements of Mr. Raymond House of Representatives join me in congratu- Cochran and wishing him a happy 80th birth- lating Mark for his achievements and wish him day! nothing but continued success.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:17 Dec 11, 2015 Jkt 059060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A10DE8.042 E10DEPT1 SSpencer on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with REMARKS