Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the impressive and impactful career of Manchester Police Chief Allen Aldenberg as he retires.

Throughout his life, Chief Aldenberg dedicated his efforts to serving others. In a military career spanning 30 years, he commanded from the company level to the brigade level and deployed in support of key operations to combat terrorism and protect our Nation after 9/11. He was awarded a Bronze Star medal for his service in Iraq from 2009 to 2010.

As a law enforcement officer for 27 years, including 4 years as chief in Manchester, Chief Aldenberg has worked with his officers, department staff, city leadership, and community members to make Manchester safer and stronger.

Madam Speaker, I wish him well in his next endeavor as the new chief military and veterans service officer at Easterseals Military and Veterans Campus. I join all Granite Staters in thanking Chief Aldenberg for his exceptional leadership and commitment to the people of Manchester and the State of New Hampshire.

I congratulate Chief Aldenberg on a job very well done.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of New Hampshire's Deputy Adjutant General, Warren Perry, who is retiring later this year. For nine years, Warren has diligently served New Hampshire's Department of Military Affairs and Veterans Services. In his role, he has played a key part in connecting military officials with the needs of New Hampshire and ensuring our veterans are receiving the support that they need.

Warren served our country for 28 years in the United States Army, and for that we are incredibly thankful. He is a veteran of Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom where he fought to keep the United States safe from foreign threats. In service to his fellow Granite Staters, when he returned home, Warren went on to serve as the State Inspector General for the New Hampshire National Guard.

Beyond national security, Warren has tirelessly served our communities on a local level. As Deputy Adjutant General, Warren has worked to strengthen the New Hampshire Veteran-Friendly Business Program and increase veterans' employment with our local businesses as they return from combat.

As a decorated soldier, Warren has been awarded the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, and many other distinguished honors. As a community leader, Warren has aided our veterans in their employment efforts. And as a proud member of a military family, Warren knows the meaning of service and has always strived to give back to his community. Warren has dedicated his life to the security of our Nation and the betterment of our communities.

On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I thank Deputy Adjutant General Warren Perry for his service and wish him a happy retirement. I wish Warren and his family all the best in the years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of New Hampshire's 2025 Teacher of the Year, Candice DeAngelis. For 18 years, Candice has dedicated her life to being an educator and creating a real impact on the lives of students who come through her classroom. She represents all of what it means to be an amazing teacher: compassionate, friendly, and a lifelong learner.

From the beginning of Candice's career teaching Spanish in Londonderry and Kingston to now at Bedford High School, she has always cared deeply about her students. Her students are always excited to go to her class because she makes learning a new language fun and exciting. She always has a smile on her face and is not only ready to teach her students but is also ready to learn from them.

The care and dedication that Candice has for her students comes down to an individual level. She always makes an effort to get to know them beyond just learning their name. Understanding how each of her students learn is an important step in getting them to understand a new language. Candice also works to create lasting memories with her students that will stick with them long after they leave her class.

On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I congratulate Candice for being named New Hampshire's 2025 Teacher of the Year. I wish Candice, her family, and her students all the best in the years to come as she continues dedicating her life to education.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Hooksett Lions Club Citizen of the Year Richard ``Turk'' Bairam. For over 25 years, Turk has been dedicated to supporting Hooksett in any way he can. He continues to volunteer in his community to make Hooksett an amazing place to live and raise a family.

A lifelong resident of Hooksett, Turk owned and operated his own auto repair shop for 36 years before retiring in 2006. A former member of the Hooksett Police Commission, Turk currently serves as Sewer Commissioner, Chair of the Central Hooksett Water Precinct, as a member of the Town Recycling and Transfer Committee, and on the Zoning Board of Appeals.

In addition to his volunteer work, he has also dedicated his life to his family. Turk and his wife of 62 years, Mary, have raised their children, grandchildren, and now great grandchildren in Hooksett. It is because of the hard work and dedication of community leaders like Turk that the Town of Hooksett continues to thrive.

On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I congratulate Turk for being named the Hooksett Lions Club 2024 Citizen of the Year. I wish Turk and his family all the best in the years to come as they continue to work to make Hooksett a better place.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Tom Raffio on receiving the Walter R. Peterson Award for Education and Public Service. The Walter R. Peterson Award for Education and Public Service is presented to an individual whose contributions best exemplify the late governor's values of public service and dedication to higher education.

As a passionate civic leader, Tom's community leadership spans across numerous New Hampshire organizations that support local education initiatives, youth programs, health causes, and the arts. Tom believes in the importance of access and affordability to quality post-secondary education for all New Hampshire residents.

Under Tom's leadership, the Northeast Delta Dental Foundation is committed to improving oral health care accessibility and education. This Foundation supports oral health programs each year throughout New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine. It also addresses the shortage of dentists in under-served communities by raising funding for medicine scholarships and dental education loan repayment programs. In New Hampshire, one of the dental health education programs serves adult clients with disabilities, many of whom encounter oral health challenges. Further expanding its community impact under Tom's leadership, it has grown to include numerous local community partners to join this philanthropic mission.

On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to extend my gratitude to Tom Raffio for his exceptional commitment to serving New Hampshire. We thank Tom for his leadership and contributions to advance health equity and the overall wellness of our local communities. His work has enriched so many lives and is an inspiration for us all to join together and improve the lives of our community members.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Claire Nash, a longtime resident of Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, who will celebrate her 100th birthday in October. Claire is a beloved member of the Wolfeboro community whose giving heart continues to touch the lives of all who have come to know her. Today, I honor Claire for her steadfast commitment to spreading love and joy throughout her community.

Claire is loved throughout Wolfeboro and the towns surrounding it. Those who know her best would likely agree that it is better to describe her as 100 years young, not old. Everywhere she goes, she brings with her the exuberance and energy of the youngest at heart. As we celebrate Claire's 100th birthday, we recognize her unwavering dedication to her community and her continued contributions to the lives of countless others.

Claire has long been passionate about crochet and other hand crafts, skills she perfected over the years and continues to share with the world. Through the years, Claire has handmade and gifted countless quilts, pillows, and other crafts to the Police Department, Fire Department, Children's Center, veterans and many other local organizations in and around Wolfeboro. In all she does, she inspires us with an enduring legacy of caring, creativity, and selflessness.

On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I wish Claire a happy and healthy 100th birthday. We thank her for bringing so much happiness and caring to her community and for her continued commitment to the people of New Hampshire.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Claire Nash, a longtime resident of Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, who celebrated her 100th birthday in August. Claire is a beloved member of the Wolfeboro community whose giving heart continues to touch the lives of all who have come to know her. Today, I honor Claire for her steadfast commitment to spreading love and joy throughout her community.

Claire is loved throughout Wolfeboro and the towns surrounding it. Those who know her best would likely agree that it is better to describe her as 100 years young, not old. Everywhere she goes, she brings with her the exuberance and energy of the youngest at heart. As we celebrate Claire's 100th birthday, we recognize her unwavering dedication to her community and her continued contributions to the lives of countless others.

Claire has long been passionate about crochet and other hand crafts, skills she perfected over the years and continues to share with the world. Through the years, Claire has handmade and gifted countless quilts, pillows, and other crafts to the Police Department, Fire Department, Children's Center, and many other local organizations in and around Wolfeboro. In all she does, she inspires us with an enduring legacy of caring, creativity, and selflessness.

On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I wish Claire a happy and healthy 100th birthday. We thank her for bringing so much happiness and caring to her community and for her continued commitment to the people of New Hampshire.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Bobby Stephen's Annual Saint Patrick's Day event in Manchester, New Hampshire. Since its inception in 1978, this cherished tradition has brought together the community in a celebration that goes beyond mere festivity. Over the years, Bobby's event has become a cornerstone of charitable giving in our state, raising funds to support educational opportunities for disadvantaged youth throughout New Hampshire.

The origins of this event can be traced back to Bobby's restaurant, the Vault, where a small gathering of friends and patrons first came together to celebrate Saint Patrick's Day. What began as a modest celebration has evolved into a significant fundraiser, drawing hundreds of attendees each year. Through the Bobby Stephen's Fund for Education, the proceeds from this event have provided scholarships to New Hampshire citizens, enabling them to further their career goals through postsecondary education. Bobby's unwavering dedication to this cause has made a tangible difference in the lives of countless students and their families.

As we mark the grand finale of this event in its ``sunset'' year of 2024, it is fitting to reflect on the enduring legacy that Bobby's Saint Patrick's Day celebration has created. Across four decades this event has not only raised over $500,000 in scholarships, it has also fostered a deep sense of community among its participants. The funds raised have empowered students, supported educational advancement, and reinforced the values of generosity and service that Bobby has championed throughout his life.

On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to extend my gratitude to Bobby Stephen for his exceptional commitment to our community. We thank Bobby for his tireless efforts and for creating a tradition that has touched so many lives. As this event comes to a close, its legacy will continue to inspire us all to join together in support of our youth and the future of our community.

Mr. Speaker, on Monday, July 22, 2024, I missed one Roll Call vote. Had I been present, I would have voted YES on Roll Call No. 356.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Freedom's 125th Old Home Week Parade. Freedom has become an example of how small towns and other communities in New Hampshire can grow strongest through shared traditions that bring together a community's past and present.

In 1831, after the community of North Effingham voted to secede from the town of Effingham, they chose the name ``Freedom''

for their new town--a tribute to their residents achieving their goal of self-determination. Freedom's location on the north end of Ossipee Lake has allowed the town to be a gateway between New Hampshire's Lakes Region and the White Mountains.

Old Home Week is a New Hampshire tradition that allows us to celebrate the places we call home. Created by New Hampshire governor Frank W. Rollins in 1899, Old Home Week was inspired as a way to encourage New Hampshire natives to return to their hometown after many younger New Hampshirites had moved west in search of economic opportunities. In the 21st century, globalization and technological advances have reduced social distance throughout the world, but the importance of strong, close-knit communities has remained the same. By proudly continuing the tradition of Old Home Week, Freedom envisions a community where current and former residents alike can be proud of their hometown.

Thank you to the town of Freedom for inviting me to experience their community as a part of the Old Home Week Parade. I admire all of the volunteers who made this experience possible for the 125th straight year. I hope everyone enjoys themselves in celebrating this wonderful town. To understand the importance of small towns building a proud community for their current and former residents, we all need to hear Freedom ring.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Brigadier General John ``Pogo'' Pogorek, who was Commander of the New Hampshire Air National Guard (NHANG). On July 8, 2024, he was the victim of a tragic accident near his home in Rochester, New Hampshire. General Pogorek was a beloved father, husband, son, and brother who dedicated his life to service in both the Air Force and NHANG.

Born in Ware, Massachusetts, General Pogorek received a Bachelor of Science in Human Factors Engineering from the United States Air Force Academy and was commissioned as an officer in 1989. He Joined NHANG in January 1999, serving in numerous leadership roles, including commanding the 157th Maintenance, Operations, and Air Refueling Wing Groups. General Pogorek was promoted to Commander of the NHANG in June 2022 and served as the principal advisor to the Governor of New Hampshire.

General Pogorek made a remarkable impact on New Hampshire and our country throughout his 35 years of service. During his career he logged over 6,000 flight hours piloting T-1, C-130, KC-135, and KC-46 aircraft. He also helped design the KC-46 tail art and helped to bring back military airshows to New Hampshire. For his dedicated service, General Pogorek received accolades such as the Meritorious Service Medal with four oak leaf clusters, the Air Medal Aerial Achievement Medal with four oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster, the AF Outstanding Unit Award, and several others. He was dedicated to the health and safety of everyone that is currently serving at Pease, and those that served there in the past, along with their families.

General Pogorek was deeply devoted to his family, and in 2018, he and his beloved wife Whitney established Red Gate Farm. The family farm quickly grew into a heritage breed meat business, where General Pogorek transitioned his service and dedication from country to community. General Pogorek and his family developed relationships selling their meat to local farmers markets as he adapted to life as a farmer.

General Pogorek's family and friends describe him as a kind, humble, funny, and resilient man. He had a passion for learning and inspired those around him, both within his career of service and outside of it. Those who knew General Pogorek recognized his dedication to his country and family, and admired his loyalty, kindness, and leadership. We are forever grateful for his selfless service and sacrifice.

During this difficult time, my thoughts and condolences are with his wife Whitney, his children, Megan, Jacob, Jenna, Jason, and Jackson, his mother Mary, his siblings, Karen, Donna, Kevin, and Sandra, and all of General Pogorek's loved ones. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I commend General Pogorek for his exemplary service and sacrifice to our Nation. His legacy will endure, and he will be dearly missed.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Paul LeBlanc for his more than two decades of service to Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). An immigrant, a first generation college student, an acclaimed author, and a renowned instructor, Dr. LeBlanc's impact as President and CEO of SNHU cannot be understated. I commend Dr. LeBlanc for his enduring legacy as an educator and an innovator in higher education that will continue to enrich the lives of people across our nation.

After earning his master's degree and PhD, Dr. LeBlanc worked at Houghton Mifflin Publishing Company and transitioned to a career in education. Dr. LeBlanc held the title of President at Marlboro College in Vermont before joining Southern New Hampshire University in 2003.

At the time he took the job, SNHU was a local institution with an enrollment of 2,000 students and was struggling economically. Under Dr. LeBlanc's leadership, SNHU transformed itself and has grown to have a worldwide enrollment of more than 225,000 students. Today SNHU is accessible, equitable, and affordable and is the largest non-profit university in the country. After two decades of Dr. LeBlanc's leadership, SNHU has been named one of the ``World's Fifty Most Innovative Companies'' by Fast Magazine and Dr. LeBlanc himself received numerous accolades, including from Forbes Magazine, Washington Monthly, and the TIAA Institute.

After decades of hard work, including a three month assignment at the Department of Education in 2015, Dr. LeBlanc is stepping aside from his role as President and CEO of SNHU. As a lifelong learner, Dr. LeBlanc hopes to explore and research the development of artificial intelligence during a year-long sabbatical.

On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I offer my sincere appreciation to Dr. Paul LeBlanc. Dr. LeBlanc has revolutionized education across the State of New Hampshire and country, and he has helped thousands achieve goals that they never thought were possible. I look forward to seeing what his next chapter holds and wish him the best in his academic and professional career.

Madam Speaker, I thank the ranking member and the chair for bringing this legislation to the floor. I rise to urge support of this bipartisan bill that would make needed improvements in the way that Federal partners coordinate and collaborate to support entrepreneurs with disabilities.

The ThinkDIFFERENTLY About Disability Employment Act is a bipartisan piece of legislation I was proud to work on alongside Congressman Molinaro, and I thank him for his leadership on these issues.

This legislation would require the SBA and the National Council on Disability to collaborate to help people with disabilities pursue small business ownership and employment opportunities.

Specifically, it would require the SBA to report to Congress on the challenges entrepreneurs with disabilities face, better understand current resources available to them, and recommend ways to address the challenges and needs these entrepreneurs have.

I remain committed to working across the aisle on behalf of our small businesses and continuing to bring the voices of our Main Streets to the Halls of Congress to ensure we are meeting their needs and ensure that we are supporting them moving forward in the challenges that they face.

This bipartisan bill is a commonsense step. It is good for people. It is good for small businesses.

Madam Speaker, I thank Congressman Molinaro, once again, for his leadership, and I urge the House to pass the bill today.

Madam Speaker, I thank the ranking member and Chairman Williams for bringing this piece of legislation to the floor.

I rise in support of bipartisan legislation that works to support our rural small businesses and entrepreneurs. In my State of New Hampshire, small businesses are our big business, and we must advance legislation that meets their needs and supports the economies of our local communities.

I introduced this bill alongside Representative Bean, as well as Representatives Golden and Mann, and I am grateful for their leadership on this issue.

This bipartisan bill would require the SBA to develop specific outreach policies and procedures for rural communities and ensure that rural small businesses have full access to SBA disaster assistance.

It would specifically tailor outreach and marketing plans for the SBA's disaster loan program to address challenges rural communities face in accessing disaster relief. Rural small businesses face unique challenges, and we must ensure that we are taking every step possible to see that they have access to the full spectrum of resources and support, especially with regard to disaster preparedness and relief.

As we continue to see extreme weather events impacting our communities, this legislation couldn't be more important.

Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this bill on the floor today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my bill to name the East Derry post office in honor of Chief Edward B. Garone, who served with distinction as the chief of police in Derry, New Hampshire, for 50 years.

He first answered the call to service as a marine and then as a law enforcement officer, first with the Lebanon Police Department and then in Derry, where, after 8 years, he was named chief of police in 1972.

From that day until 2022, when he retired, the chief worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of citizens in his community and also the officers that he oversaw.

Throughout the years, he has worked on projects focused on building a better, stronger community in Derry. That includes efforts to combat the opioid and addiction epidemic in Derry and throughout the State, as well as spearheading the formation of the Southern New Hampshire Special Operations Unit, the first regional special operations unit in New Hampshire.

He passed away Tuesday, October 11, 2022, at his home in Derry. I am thinking of his friends and family, especially his wife, Blanche, who was always by his side, as well as his children and grandchildren, and all who served with him and knew him.

The naming of this post office is one small way that we can continue to honor his legacy of leadership, professionalism, and excellence in service to the community.

On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First District, it is an honor to introduce this legislation to pay tribute to a man who embodied the very best of law enforcement and of the Granite State.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the chair and the ranking member for working together to bring this bill to the floor today.