Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of 12 New Hampshire individuals

for their recent act of bravery in the Town of Alton. When a man's jet ski began to sink into the frigid November waters of Lake Winnipesaukee, seven New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NHDOT) employees and five Top Notch Tree Service employees stepped in to save the man from drowning. I commend the NHDOT workers and the Top Notch Tree Team, as well as the EMS response crew, for their efforts to rescue the man and provide him with needed care.

While removing an old dock from the Alton shoreline, the team of good samaritans heard screams and cries for help from the water. As soon as the workers discovered that a man on a jet ski was sinking deeper into the lake, they jumped into action. Some rescuers ran to Sandy Point Beach Resort to secure a kayak and canoe to row to the man, others called 911 and urged him to continue swimming. When the kayaker reached the sinking jet ski, the drowning man latched onto the rescuer's kayak and was paddled to shore. Although the man was initially unresponsive when brought to shore, hard-working EMS personnel quickly revived him.

The NHDOT and Top Notch Tree teams' quick and effective response to the situation is a result of their empathy, brilliance, and sound judgment. By acting quickly and delegating responsibilities, the rescuers were able to reach the man and save him before it was too late. I commend these individuals for demonstrating a calculated and successful save in a difficult situation.

On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to thank these selfless and courageous individuals. Let their courage and heroism serve as an example for us all.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Officer Jeffrey Peirce of the Newfields Police Department for his recent act of bravery that earned him the Department's Life Saving Award. When an armed man experiencing a mental health crisis needed assistance, Officer Peirce relied on his training, experience, and sense of duty to effectively de-escalate the situation and help the individual access proper care. I commend Officer Peirce on his courage during a difficult situation and thank him for his decades of service to the Newfields and Rye Police Departments.

In response to calls about a distressed individual in the police department's parking lot, Officer Peirce arrived on the scene ready to assist in the de-escalation of a mental health crisis. Without any backup Peirce engaged with the man, asking him questions and listening to his concerns, empowered by his years of de-escalation training and mental health classes. After removing a gun from the individual's car, Officer Peirce encouraged the man to travel with him to Portsmouth Hospital in order to receive treatment and speak with the staff at the Behavioral Health Unit.

Officer Peirce's ability to de-escalate the situation is a result of his quick thinking and courage, as well as the professional training in mental health affairs he received as a member of the force. By listening to the concerns of the individual, acting quickly to withdraw and empty his gun, and helping him access the care he needed, Officer Peirce demonstrated bravery and empathy, making him truly deserving of the Life Saving Award.

On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I thank Officer Peirce for his bravery and recognize him for his service to the people of New Hampshire. His heroism and sense of duty will serve as a shining example for all Granite State public safety professionals. I wish Officer Peirce all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Elizabeth Duclos on being named New Hampshire's 2024 Teacher of the Year. Elizabeth was chosen among a talented group of educators from across the Granite State because of her leadership, dedication, and proven ability to make students feel valued.

Elizabeth arrived at Pembroke School District in 2010 and is currently a third-grade teacher at Pembroke Hill School. Her strong work ethic and insightful thinking have given her students the tools needed to succeed and receive a well-rounded education. Elizabeth's compassion and ability to foster an effective learning environment are just part of what makes her an exemplary educator.

Noted for her ability to connect with students and make them feel valued, Elizabeth has enriched the lives of all those around her. It is clear that Elizabeth has been an asset to her students and community both in and out of the classroom. As Teacher of the Year, Elizabeth will serve as an ambassador for teachers throughout the state, exemplifying empathetic and impactful learning.

On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to congratulate Elizabeth for her achievement and thank her for her service to our community. Elizabth embodies our state's sense of service and gives us hope for the future of American education. This is a well-deserved honor and I know Elizabeth will continue to inspire Granite State students for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of the life and service of Staff Sgt. Tanner Grone of Gorham, New Hampshire, who tragically died on November 10, 2023. Tanner was a beloved son, who proudly served our country and was one of five soldiers killed in a helicopter crash in the Eastern Mediterranean, and assigned to the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR).

A graduate of Gorham High School, Staff Sgt. Grone enlisted in the Army as a helicopter repairer in 2017. He was later assigned to the 1st Battalion, 160th SOAR, also known as the ``Night Stalkers,'' which is composed of the Army's best qualified soldiers. In 2018, Staff Sgt. Grone deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, supporting Operation Inherent Resolve and Operation Enduring Freedom, respectively. He also deployed on multiple ``no-notice deployments'' supporting our nation's national security and freedom.

Staff Sgt. Grone will be remembered for his leadership, conduct, and selflessness. He was awarded and decorated with the Air Medal with Combat Device, Army Commendation Medal, and Army Achievement Medal with Combat Device. Staff Sgt. Grone will be remembered by his Gorham community for winning the first NHSL D2 Championship for the Mount Washington Valley Soccer Club following an undefeated 10-0 season as well as helping at his family's business, Scoggin's General Store alongside his sister and parents.

During this difficult time, my thoughts and condolences are with the Grone Family, including Staff Sgt. Grone's parents, Steve and Erica, and his sister, Emily. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I commend Staff Sgt. Grone for his service and sacrifice to our nation. His legacy of service and commitment to our country will live on through those who knew and loved him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the acceptance of Portsmouth Orthopedics, LLC into the National Center for the Veteran Institute for Procurement. A veteran-owned small business, Port Ortho has developed a program specifically to address the needs of both veterans and active-duty individuals. Port Ortho prides itself on providing the best care to those that have sacrificed everything for our freedom, and we deeply appreciate their dedication and service to our community.

The Veteran Institute for Procurement is a certification program for veteran-owned businesses aimed to increase their ability to earn government contracts by establishing best business practices. As part of the VIP GROW program, Port Ortho will further hone its business skills and accelerate its success in government contracting, allowing it to have an even greater positive impact on the Granite Staters that it serves. We look forward to seeing how Porth Ortho continues to strengthen its practice and works to extend its reach throughout the community.

On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I commend Portsmouth Orthopedics for its dedication to our nation's heroes. Granite Staters are fortunate to call them members of our community. I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of the life and legacy of Norman G. Sanborn, a World War II veteran and active volunteer who was a friend to many in New Hampshire. A native Granite Stater, Norman lived a life of service from his time in uniform through the last several decades as an advocate for his fellow veterans. Today I want to recognize Norman's clear commitment to his community and his country, and extend my sincere condolences to his family, friends, and large network of loved ones.

Born and raised in Rochester, Norman spent his life in service to our state and nation. In 1945, at the age of 16, Norman left high school to join the Merchant Marines, sailing through dangerous waters on cleanup missions as the War came to a close. Upon returning to New Hampshire, Norman met his wife Ruth and together they raised their three children. For many years Norman was an effective and experienced car salesman, working at a number of dealerships in the region. In his retirement Norman became an advocate for veterans, spending his days educating school children on World War II, visiting veterans in local nursing homes, and hosting his very own television broadcast interviewing fellow servicemembers. As a member of many fraternal and veteran organizations, including the American Legion and the Knights of Columbus, Norman deepened his community ties, cultivating lasting relationships with his neighbors. While we can never fully repay our debt of gratitude to Norman, we recognize his commitment to service and immeasurable impact on our state.

Today as we remember Noman's life, we celebrate his commitment to supporting those around him. I commend Norman for his deep sense of duty to our state and country, and I want to once more offer my sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. I enjoyed our conversations and his sense of humor every time I would visit the New Hampshire Veterans Home in Tilton. Norman's compassion and purpose for which he served, to better the lives of those around him, is an inspiration to all who knew him. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I thank Norman for his unwavering sense of service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Pest End, a New Hampshire small business that was recently nominated to the 2023 America's Top Small Business Summit. For over 40 years Pest End has embodied our state's values of hard work and service, driven to provide quality customer service and innovative solutions. This recent recognition from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is a testament to its strong skills, impact on the local economy, and involvement in the community. The next generation of New Hampshire business leaders will look to Pest End for inspiration.

Pest End is an industry leader and a trusted community partner. Attention to detail, years of experience, and a customer-focused approach define the team at Pest End's hard work in keeping our community pest-free. Additionally, their business is intimately involved with service opportunities addressing local needs through active outreach. The Granite State is thankful for small businesses like Pest End that not only protect our homes from termites and rats, but foster relationships between neighbors and strengthen the local economy.

I look forward to seeing all that the Pest End team accomplishes in the years to come, and I am confident that they will continue to serve as a guide for other business leaders in the state. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I applaud Pest End for its commitment to the values of business innovation and community compassion. I wish Pest End continued success in its future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Robert ``Bob'' J. Sculley's long-standing work for the New Hampshire Motor Transportation Agency (NHMTA), including his 34 years of service as the organization's president, and wish him well as he enters retirement. Bob's dedication to providing Granite Staters with a reliable, efficient, safe, and economical motor transport system through his advocacy before federal, state, and municipal government bodies is nothing but admirable.

Bob's persistent work to uplift the NHMTA began in 1989, when the organization was still in its early stages. Throughout his long tenure, he has helped the organizatIon grow, instituted multiple programs that save members money, and formed ties between the NHMTA and local government agencies such as the NH Department of Safety. Bob's work has helped the economy of the Granite State flourish by creating programs that help small businesses comply with government regulations, thus saving them money and easing administrative burdens.

On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to thank Bob for his decades of service and congratulate him on his well-deserved retirement. Bob's work with NHMTA will continue to benefit Granite Staters for generations to come and I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Hermit Woods Winery and Eatery, a New Hampshire small business that was recently nominated to the 2023 America's Top Small Business Summit. For 13 years Hermit Woods Winery and Eatery has embodied our state's values of determination and innovation, heightened consumer experiences with high-quality, locally-sourced products. This recent recognition by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is a testament to Hermit Woods Winery and Eatery's impact on our local economy and involvement in the community. The next generation of New Hampshire business leaders will look to Hermit Woods for inspiration.

Hermit Woods is an industry leader and a trusted community partner. Its model of brewing with the fruits, flowers, and vegetables grown by local farmers and foragers showcases its culinary creativity and commitment to fostering community connections. Each bottle at the Winery is brewed with the spirit of community that defines the work at Hermit Woods. The Granite State is thankful for these small businesses that provide quality products, build relationships between neighbors, and strengthen the economy.

I look forward to seeing all that Hermit Woods accomplishes in the years to come, and I am confident that it will continue to serve as a guide for other business leaders in the state. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I applaud Hermit Woods for its commitment to the values of business innovation and community compassion. I wish Hermit Woods continued success in its future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today in recognition of Mark Pelletier, a New Hampshire resident who was recently named the 2023 Young Professional of the Year by the Cooperative Credit Union Association. The Cooperative Credit Union Association annual awards recognize individuals across Delaware, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire that make the extra effort to empower their coworkers, company, and community. As the Young Professional of the Year, Mark has been recognized for his experience, enthusiasm, and strong work ethic at St. Mary's Bank in Manchester.

A senior data analyst lead for St. Mary's, Mark was nominated by the credit union's leadership team and employees because of his inclusive leadership style, his skills in devising data-driven solutions, and his extensive volunteer record. For the past two years, Mark has served as Chairperson of St. Mary's Young Professionals Group. In this role, Mark has taken to guiding, influencing, and supporting other young professionals. Mark's time as leader of this Group is a testament to his talent and passion for promoting young business leaders across New Hampshire.

Outside of the office, Mark has committed himself to addressing the needs of his community. In his free time, Mark volunteers with organizations such as Families in Transition and Habitat for Humanity. Dedicated to empowering young leaders and committed to supporting the local community, Mark has enriched the lives of all those around him.

I look forward to seeing all that Mark accomplishes in the years to come, and I am confident that he will continue to serve as a guide for all those looking to make a difference at their workplace and in their community. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I applaud Mark for his commendable leadership and wish him continued success in his future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today in recognition of Senior Master Sergeant (SMSgt.) Kathleen Davis, who passed away earlier this month. An Air Force veteran, a loving wife and mother, and a strong, determined woman, Kathy Davis embodies the values of personal perseverance and pure patriotism. Her selfless dedication to her family, our state, and our nation speaks to the courage and conviction she brought to the uniform and to our community. Today, we honor the life of Kathy Davis, recognizing her spirit of service and sacrifice.

Born and raised in Dover, New Hampshire, Kathy spent her life in service to others. After starting her career at the Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, Kathy made her return to the Granite State, working at Pease Air National Guard Base in Portsmouth. For 30 years, Kathy served as a member of the United States Air Force, continuously challenging herself to improve, encouraging others to work hard, and offering support to members of her own community. After retiring from the military, Kathy and her husband Michael moved down south to the Carolinas. Persistent and hard-working, Kathy used her retirement to go back to school and earn her certificate as a personal trainer. In her final days, Kathy returned home to New Hampshire, spending her time in the Lakes Region of Meredith.

Kathy will be fondly remembered for her strength and support by all those who knew her across the state and around the country. I want to commend Kathy on her legacy of service, and I want to offer my sincere condolences to her husband, children, parents, and the large network of family and loved ones that will continue to uphold her memory. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I thank Kathy for her many years of service to our state and Nation.

Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today in recognition of the life and legacy of Raymond F. Brunelle, a cherished member of the New Hampshire community and a valiant veteran of the Korean War. A New Hampshire native, Raymond lived a life of service from his time in uniform through his years in civilian life, championing the causes of his fellow veterans and prisoners of war (POWs). Although he was too young to enlist on his own, with his mother's blessing Raymond joined the U.S. Army in 1952. Alongside the 40th Infantry Division, Raymond served in Japan and Korea, earning the rank of Private First Class. After the Chinese Army ambushed his unit in North Korea, Raymond was taken captive until he devised a plan to escape. Two months after his escape, Raymond and members of his unit suffered casualties following the explosion of a ground mine. After sustaining debilitating injuries, Raymond was honorably discharged and ordered home. Upon returning to New Hampshire, Raymond continued a life of service to his country. Raymond's strong sense of duty speaks to his patriotism, bravery, and camaraderie, and we thank him for defending our freedoms and supporting others that share in his mission.

After returning to the Granite State, Raymond served as an active member of the local community. Although he began at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Raymond would continue to work into his retirement, eventually becoming an electrician in his own business. As a lifelong member of the American Legion and the VFW, Raymond committed himself to supporting his fellow veterans. As a Pease Greeter, Raymond welcomed troops to the Pease Air National Guard Base before they were deployed on combat missions around the world. In his later years, Raymond continued to advocate for the military as he led support groups for former POWs and joined in Memorial Day and Veterans' Day tributes. Raymond's commitment to supporting the men and women of our armed forces exemplifies his loyalty and respect to the defense of our Nation.

Nearly 60 years passed by before Raymond's time as a POW was formally recognized. Today, as we remember Raymond's life, we recognize his history of service and sacrifice. I commend Raymond for his lifelong dedication to our state and Nation, and I want to extend my sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. Raymond's legacy will continue to live on in the lives of those he influenced. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I thank Raymond for his unwavering sense of service.

Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today in recognition of the life and legacy of Louis F. Williams, a distinguished Navy Veteran who passed away earlier this year. Lou was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, who proudly dedicated his life to serving our country in the United States Navy. During this difficult time, my thoughts and condolences are with the Williams family, including Lou's loving wife, Theresa, his children, Katherine Arsenault, Frederick Williams, and Patricia Berube, his 11 grandchildren, and 5 greatgrandchildren.

Born in Warren, Pennsylvania, Lou enlisted in the Navy the year he graduated high school, selflessly serving as an Aviation structural Mechanic (Hydraulic) Petty Officer 3rd Class. After his honorable discharge, Lou dedicated 35 years as a machinist foreman for the Wakefield Corp. in Wakefield, Massachusetts. Always one to pursue his passions, Lou turned his hobby for maple sugaring during his retirement into a full-fledged product, Williams Bros. Maple Syrup. In their golden years, given the importance of family to the couple, Lou and Theresa moved to Fremont, New Hampshire to be closer to their children and grandchildren. Lou loved to share stories of his cherished childhood memories on the family farm, learning to shoot and fish, and continued this passion throughout his life.

Lou will be fondly remembered by the communities he touched and those he loved for years to come. His legacy of service, connection, and family will continue to inspire others. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I would once again like to extend my condolences to the Williams family and wish them all the very best in this time of grieving.

Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today in recognition of the Chester Historical Society's annual scarecrow celebration in Chester, New Hampshire. Each year, as the weather cools and the leaves fall, hundreds of new faces appear in the town of Chester as residents decorate scarecrows in support of the Chester Historical Society. These stylized scarecrows represent everything from pop culture icons to historical figures and local heroes, but together they tell the story of a small town celebrating community and a beloved tradition.

From scarecrows depicting Paul Revere on horseback to a Star Trek- inspired Taylor Swift, each scarecrow is a unique expression of the creativity of Chester residents. For 14 years, this celebration has served as an opportunity for residents to showcase their artistic skills with money raised from the sale of scarecrow kits supporting the efforts by the Historical Society to promote the history of the town and continuous education about local culture. Along Routes 102 and 121, hundreds of scarecrows line the street demonstrating that the Chester Historical Society succeeds in spreading history and happiness across town.

On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to congratulate the Chester Historical Society for preserving this cherished tradition and to commend them on the work they have done to educate town residents on local culture. I look forward to a continued partnership with the town of Chester, and I cannot wait to see the creativity displayed in this year's crop of scarecrows.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Pancretan Association of America (PAA) on the ribbon cutting ceremony of their first ever National Headquarters in the greater Washington, D.C. region in Bethesda, Maryland. As a proud Greek American and Co-Chair of the Congressional Hellenic Caucus, it is an honor to acknowledge the PAA's work in recognizing and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the island of Crete around the world.

Founded by descendants from Crete, for over 90 years the Pancretan Association of America has been a cornerstone of the Greek-American community, striving to promote the historical significance of Crete, while honoring the cultural and historically Greek values of philoxenia and philotimo. Through its wide array of programs, the PAA promotes the longstanding Hellenic values of education, philanthropy, civil responsibility, and individual excellence. The PAA reaches out to Cretans of all ages and offers programs that strengthen their understanding and recognition of their culture, allows them to enjoy and preserve their heritage, and share it with others. These programs include many social, cultural, and educational activities that encompass Cretan culture, and scholarships that empower Cretan students to continue their education and become effective and responsible citizens.

The Pancretan Association of America's mission to celebrate Crete's historical place in the Hellenic world is critical now more than ever with the ever-expanding relationship between the United States and Greece. I know that I would not be who I am or where I am today without my upbringing in a Greek family, which was so focused on serving others. Through hard work, determination, and the support of the Greek- American community supporting him, my great-grandfather founded what would become our family restaurant, the Puritan Backroom. 106 years later it remains in our family, and the values that my great- grandfather lived by still guide us today. These shared values bind our two nations and our communities together, and I applaud PAA's role in highlighting and furthering those values for generations to come.

I congratulate the Pancretan Association of America on the opening of their first ever National Headquarters. This event marks a significant milestone in their history and is an important step towards the cultural preservation of Crete's heritage, strengthening the ties between our communities, and further solidifying the relationship between the United States and Greece.