E96 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks February 3, 2021 typically dictate security decisions, essential IN RECOGNITION OF THE DENTON has remained steadfast and composed in en- discussions on the proper balance between RYAN FOOTBALL TEAM suring that the department was trained and national security, individual rights and the free- prepared to tackle various threats at a mo- doms enjoyed in an open society have been HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS ment’s notice. repeatedly deferred. OF TEXAS With Michael’s years of experience as a pa- My bill would ensure that this long overdue IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES trol office, deputy chief, graduate of the FBI’s discussion takes place in a public forum with National Academy, and recipient of the Medal experts drawn from across the spectrum. To Wednesday, February 3, 2021 of Excellence—Michael has been a beacon of date, security planning has been delegated al- Mr. BURGESS. Madam Speaker, I rise wisdom within the department. Michael has most exclusively to security, intelligence and today to recognize the outstanding perform- strived to be a police chief that prioritized the military experts. Although their input is indis- ance of Denton ISD’s Ryan High School Foot- wellbeing and safety of his residents above all pensable, they cannot be expected to accu- ball Team, the Ryan Raiders, during the 2020 else and has gone above and beyond to en- rately consider the externalities that lie outside football season. sure that the department had the resources it of their expertise. To strike a better balance In the past year, the team’s prowess and needed. Michael has served as a role model that gives sufficient importance to our demo- exceptional diligence led them to an for his fellow officers and has truly led by ex- cratic traditions, we need to invite experts from undefeated season, culminating in a victory at ample, and I am certain that his civic dedica- diverse fields to the same table to work to- the Conference 5A Division 1 Championship tion will continue into the next chapter of his gether. Therefore, the commission would be on January 15, 2021. After facing an intense life. composed not only of security, intelligence series of preliminary games, the Ryan Raiders While Michael’s retirement is bittersweet, we and military experts, but also experts from finally secured the state title in their game know that he has groomed only the best to such fields as business, architecture, tech- against Cedar Park at Arlington’s AT&T sta- take his place. Madam Speaker, fellow col- nology, law, city planning, art, engineering, dium. leagues—I ask you to join me in honoring Mi- philosophy, history, sociology and psychology. Led by head coach Dave Henigan, Defen- chael’s 25 years of service to the State of We have used commissions before to deep- sive MVP Ty Marsh, and Offensive MVP Seth Connecticut and our nation, and in wishing ly investigate and address unprecedented Henigan, the team attained its first state him, his wife Kristyn, and their twin boys challenges, such as the National Commission championship victory since 2002. The exem- on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States Jefferey and Luke—a safe and happy future. plary commitment, teamwork, and effort dis- (also known as the 9/11 Commission), the f played by the players, coaches, and coordina- Commission on the Intelligence Capabilities of IN SPECIAL RECOGNITION OF THE the United States Regarding Weapons of tors of the Ryan Raiders earned them the state title. HONORABLE JUDGE PRESTON’S Mass Destruction (also known as the Silber- RETIREMENT man Robb Commission) and the Kerner Com- The coaches and players of the Ryan High mission following riots that swept American cit- School Football Team overcame pressures ies in the 1960s. The commission created by and challenges amidst the COVID–19 pan- HON. ROBERT E. LATTA this bill would seek to avert a crisis in basic demic and successfully achieved the pinnacle OF OHIO freedoms before their infringement becomes of their season. I am privileged to join their IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES entrenched. We cannot allow security proto- community, family and friends in celebrating Wednesday, February 3, 2021 cols to proliferate without informed civilian their achievement and to recognize each and every one of them for their laudable devotion Mr. LATTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to oversight and a thorough analysis of alter- celebrate the career of the Honorable Vernon natives that might better safeguard freedom to their team and their sport. I wish them all the best in their future endeavors. L. Preston, Ohio Third District Court of Ap- and commerce. peals Judge, and recognize the outstanding Furthermore, we have had decades to de- f work he has done for the State of Ohio. On velop strategies and technologies for smarter HONORING THE CAREER AND February 8, 2021, Judge Preston will be retir- security that can fulfill the responsibility of SERVICE OF CHIEF MICHAEL ing after twenty-seven years of distinguished safety without depriving our citizens of access SURPRENANT judicial service. His hard work and continued to institutions and personal liberty. Thus far, we have either relied on imprecise medieval dedication to uphold the law and the Constitu- approaches like crude barriers or on over- HON. JOE COURTNEY tion is an example for all. expansive new technologies that treat privacy OF CONNECTICUT Judge Preston was born and raised in Find- like a privilege instead of a right. We can, and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES lay, Ohio. After attending Findlay High School and the University of Findlay, he proudly must, do better. Wednesday, February 3, 2021 As the home of our federal government, the served on active duty in the United States District of Columbia’s residents have suffered Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker I rise Navy for six years. He retired with the rank of a disproportionate infringement on public today to honor the career of a consummate Captain in 2003 after serving twenty-five addi- spaces, personal rights and freedoms in the public servant—Chief Michael Surprenant of tional years in the U.S. Navy Reserve. name of security. Public spaces that serve as the Plainfield Police Department. A dedicated In 1980, Judge Preston graduated with a the heart of our local communities have be- law enforcement officer, Chief Surprenant has law degree from the University of Toledo. come restricted zones characterized by a served the town of Plainfield and the 2nd Con- Upon graduation from law school, he opened heavy security presence, with individuals liable gressional District for over two decades. His a law practice in Portsmouth, Ohio. As a pri- to be reprimanded for walking on the wrong tenure as Chief began in 2012 replacing Rob- vate practice attorney, he specialized in ad- side of the street or marveling too long at the ert Hoffman, another role model of public serv- ministrative and insurance law representing architecture. Barriers such as walls and fences ice. His character, dedication to the depart- both individuals and business clients. Later, are touted as essential security features while ment, and unwavering professionalism made Judge Preston returned to Findlay where he our citizens are left peering at their democracy him an ideal candidate for the role. served in a series of public service positions from a distance. Over the past nine years, Michael has ush- including Magistrate for the Findlay Municipal Security is not only about reducing lives lost ered in a new era for the department. Not only Court, Assistant Hancock County Prosecutor, and dollars cost. It is also about safeguarding fighting for the safety and wellbeing of so and Assistant Findlay City Prosecutor. Before the institutions, freedoms and values that an- many in his town, but fighting for the better- his appointment to the Third Court of Appeals chor our country, not only for ourselves but for ment of the department, making sure our first in 2007, Judge Preston served on the Findlay future generations. The social compact be- responders, who put their lives on the line Municipal Court Bench for thirteen years. In tween government and the people should not every day, are given the encouragement and addition to his full-time schedule as a judge, be the result of a series of hostage negotia- equipment they are rightfully due. Michael has he was an Adjunct Professor of Equine Law at tions. We must resume reasoned and delib- always put his officers before himself and as the University of Findlay. erative decision-making, beginning with a leader of the force has never had an officer Judge Preston’s work has had a lasting in- high-level commission composed of experts sustain a serious injury or fatality—a record for fluence on our judicial system and a significant from diverse disciplines charged with devel- which he should be truly proud. Working as an impact on his community. The citizens of Fifth oping a new course that will protect both our officer through some of the most perilous mo- District of Ohio join me in congratulating the people and our precious democratic institu- ments in our nation’s history—9/11, Sandy Honorable Vernon Preston for his service to tions and traditions. Hook, and other domestic incidents—Michael Ohio and our nation.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:55 Feb 04, 2021 Jkt 019060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A03FE8.003 E03FEPT1 ctelli on DSK11ZRN23PROD with REMARKS February 3, 2021 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E97 HONORING THE LIFE OF CON- PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION nearly nine months ago, only to languish on GRESSMAN-ELECT LUKE J. OF H.R. 447, NATIONAL APPREN- the Republican Senate Majority Leader’s desk LETLOW TICESHIP ACT OF 2021; PRO- while hundreds of thousands of our fellow VIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF Americans succumbed to the virus and mil- H. CON. RES. 11, CONCURRENT lions of others lost their livelihoods and busi- HON. STEVE SCALISE RESOLUTION ON THE BUDGET nesses, and everyone faced an uncertain fu- FOR FISCAL YEAR 2021; AND FOR ture. OF LOUISIANA OTHER PURPOSES It would send a powerful signal to the Amer- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ican people if our colleagues across the aisle SPEECH OF would join us in this effort because nothing Wednesday, February 3, 2021 HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE would better show them that elected rep- Mr. SCALISE. Madam Speaker, I rise today OF TEXAS resentatives can put partisanship aside and put America first. to honor the life of our friend and colleague, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES And that bipartisan achievement would por- Congressman-elect Luke J. Letlow. I know I Tuesday, February 2, 2021 tend success for similar initiatives in the area speak for all of my colleagues in Congress Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, as a sen- of infrastructure, energy, national and home- and for my family and staff when I express ior member of the Committees on the Judici- land security, and criminal justice and immi- how deeply saddened and heartbroken we ary, on Homeland Security, on the Budget, gration reform, all of which I am ready and were to learn of the passing of Luke on De- and as the Member of Congress for a con- willing to reach across the aisle to find com- cember 30, 2020. We lost him far too early, gressional district that has experienced the mon ground. and our thoughts and prayers are with his worst of COVID–19 as a public health emer- So if our Republican colleagues are ame- wife, Julia, and children, Jeremiah and Jac- gency and economic catastrophe, I rise in nable to reaching an agreement on a legisla- queline. strong support of the rule governing debate on tive response that is commensurate to the H.R. 447, the National Apprenticeship Act of challenge facing Americans, nothing in the Luke’s interest in public service began at a 2021, and H. Con. Res. 11, as well as the un- legislation before will preclude that from hap- young age on a field trip to Washington, D.C. derlying legislation. pening. As a fifth grader visiting Arlington Cemetery, The National Apprenticeship Act has the po- But have no doubt, if they refuse to be part he was chosen to place the wreath on the tential to yield $10.6 billion in net benefits to of the solution, the unified and bicameral tomb of the unknown soldier, and it was that U.S. taxpayers in the form of increased work- Democratic congressional majority, in coordi- moment that stuck with him for years to come. ers productivity and decreased spending on nation with the new Democratic Administra- Understanding the ultimate sacrifices made by public-assistance programs and unemploy- tion, will take the lead and act boldly to ad- our men and women in uniform to protect the ment insurance and which bring America’s in- dress and overcome the present crisis. vestments in apprenticeship more in line with I would urge my Republican colleagues to freedoms we enjoy as Americans inspired countries around the world. heed the words of Republican Governor of Luke. It was this inspiration that motivated him Mr. Speaker, this legislation could not be West Virginia who said colorfully just a few to fight for the principles that make America more timely because during a time of record days ago, ‘‘At this point in time in this nation, great during his time as chairman of the Lou- unemployment, the National Apprenticeship we need to go big. We need to quit counting isiana Tech College Republicans and the Lou- Act of 2021 creates an additional 1 million the egg-sucking legs on the cows and count isiana Federation of College Republicans. His new apprenticeship opportunities and invests the cows and just move. And move forward passion for service continued after college as more than $3.5 billion over 5 years in expand- and move right now.’’ he served on the staffs of Congressman John ing opportunities and access to Registered The same sentiment was expressed more Cooksey and Governor Bobby Jindal. A short Apprenticeships, youth apprenticeships, and eloquently by Abraham Lincoln in 1862 when time later, Luke returned to work in the office pre-apprenticeships. he memorably wrote: I also strongly support H. Con. Res. 11 be- of Congressman Ralph Abraham, where he ‘‘The dogmas of the quiet past are inad- cause it reorders budgetary priorities to pro- equate to the stormy present. The occasion served as Chief of Staff for six years. Known vide $1.9 trillion to allow Congress to take im- is piled high with difficulty, and we must as a servant’s servant, in 2020, Luke made mediate and decisive action to crush the virus rise with the occasion. As our case is new, so the decision to launch a bid to replace his and vaccinate our people, build the economy we must think anew and act anew.’’ boss and represent the people of the Fifth back better, reopen schools, and provide Mr. Speaker, the bipartisan action we took Congressional District of Louisiana. needed support and assistance to state and last December was a step in the right direction After a successful campaign and election, local governments that have been asked to do but only a long-delayed down payment; we Luke was looking forward to serving the peo- too much with too little for far too long. cannot afford any more delays, especially Mr. Speaker, by an overwhelming margin since Republican stalling already caused a ple of Louisiana in Congress, and we were ex- (79 percent), the public wants and is demand- painful lapse in critical unemployment assist- cited to welcome him into our delegation. He ing that we act to provide more economic re- ance last year, and additional unemployment was ready to make an even greater impact on lief to address the damage caused by the co- assistance is set to expire in March. our state and our nation. Luke’s favorite rona virus pandemic. That why this resolution, which creates a phrases were ‘‘win the day’’ and ‘‘go, fight, Nearly two-thirds (65 percent) of Repub- failsafe alternative to debating, voting, and win,’’ which he was fully prepared to do when licans and Republican-leaning independents passing the American Rescue Act, is abso- he was set to be sworn into the United States believe an additional relief package is nec- lutely crucial and the right thing to do, right House of Representatives on January 3, 2021. essary, while more than nine in ten (92 per- now. We are saddened that we could not share that cent) Democrats and Democratic leaners say The American Rescue Plan proposed by day with Luke and his family. more coronavirus aid will be needed. President Biden takes a multiprong approach Even the most conservative Republicans to tackling the public health and economic cri- While I wish I was standing here welcoming favor more relief by a 56 percent–44 percent ses stemming from the COVID–19 pandemic. him to Congress, I rise today to honor all that margin. To beat the virus and safely reopen schools, Luke accomplished in his 41 years of life. He Nearly nine-in-ten of all adults (88 percent) the plan will mount a national vaccination pro- will be remembered in this chamber, in Lou- in lower-income households say an additional gram that includes setting up community vac- isiana, and across the nation for his servant’s package is necessary, while 81 percent of Re- cination sites nationwide and makes the in- heart and the kindness he extended to all that publicans in lower-income households (81 per- vestments necessary to safely reopen schools. had the chance to meet him. As Luke is look- cent) say additional aid is needed now. It will also take complementary measures to ing down at us from Heaven, I ask my col- Let me make clear at the outset, Mr. Speak- combat the virus, including scaling up testing er, that nothing in this resolution precludes the and tracing, addressing shortages of personal leagues to join me in recognizing and hon- reaching of a bipartisan and bicameral agree- protective equipment and other critical sup- oring his life and accomplishments. ment to pass and fund the President’s Amer- plies, investing in high-quality treatments, and ica Rescue Plan, which in nearly all material addressing health care disparities. respects mirrors the Heroes Act passed by the The American Rescue Plan delivers imme- House Democratic majority on May 15, 2020, diate relief to working families bearing the

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