Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask the House of Representatives to join me in honoring Pastor Doug and Joan Brunell, owners of Uptown Brick & Bell Cafe in Creston, Iowa, as our Iowans of the Week.

Last year, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Pastor Doug and his wife, Joan, were driving through some Iowa towns and couldn't help but notice the number of boarded up churches that they were seeing. They saw one in Creston, Iowa, just a few blocks from downtown, and Pastor Doug was interested. When they were able to get a full tour of the property, Pastor Doug was touched. This church needed a purpose, and the folks in Creston were the perfect fit to fill that purpose.

On the Fourth of July, 2021, Pastor Doug and Joan opened the Uptown Brick & Bell Cafe in the basement of the old church. They started with a coffee and espresso machine, while also serving various assortments of ice cream. With the cafe being in the basement of the old church, there is plenty of space for customers and community members to meet for coffee or ice cream.

The basement consists of a large main room, filled with tables, chairs, and even bean bags for customers to enjoy and relax. At the front of the room, you'll see the main counter where customers can order their favorite coffee or espresso drinks or try out the different flavors and styles of ice cream. The space even has an attached kitchen, which has come in handy lately as Pastor Doug and Joan have been expanding the menu of what they are offering their customers. Not only can you stop by for a pick-me-up or a sweet treat, but folks can also stop by for bagels and sandwiches if they are looking for a quick bite.

The cafe also serves the Creston community in other ways. The main sanctuary of the old church is still as functional and beautiful as ever, and it is rented out for services every Sunday. Pastor Doug and Joan also plan to host other community events and organizations, such as CAT (Creston Area Theatre), Iowa Realty Association meetings, arts and craft sessions, and even auctions, among other events.

In a matter of just a few months, Pastor Doug and Joan were able to bring the old church back to life, cultivating an infectious sense of community, togetherness, and support. It's folks like Pastor Doug and Joan who make communities more connected and make towns like Creston a better place to live. Madam Speaker, because of Pastor Doug and Joan's dedication to faith, service, and community, I am so honored to recognize them as this week's Iowans of the Week.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask the House of Representatives to join me in recognizing Tim Krueger as Iowan of the Week. Tim leads Harvest Academy, a 24-month life skills academy for those with criminal backgrounds, substance abuse challenges, or who have experienced homelessness.

Tim's passion is changing the lives of Iowans by focusing on behaviors that cause individuals to hit rock bottom. After teaching weekly classes for at-risk teens in Peoria, Illinois, Tim discovered his true calling was helping individuals who wanted to better their lives and didn't know where to turn. He recognized his once-a-week classes were not enough to help make real change for at-risk individuals. After a conversation with his family, Jim decided to leave his role in the private sector and find a way to make change in his community.

Tim visited several therapeutic model communities across the country to learn more about the structure of the programs. He became a program observer for The Other Side Academy in Salt Lake City before taking what he learned and bringing it to central Iowa. Tim established Harvest Academy in Indianola in 2019.

Harvest Academy follows a participative, group-based approach to anti-social behavior, criminal activity, and drug addiction through a two-year therapeutic program. Students apply voluntarily and must be accepted into the program. The program is completely free for students.

The community therapeutic model allows students to enhance their skills, solve problems together, and hold one another accountable. Students have the opportunity to earn leadership positions and take on new duties to serve as role models for newer students in the community. Students also participate in skills-based training to help them enter the workforce. Harvest Academy assists students with aspects of the job search and provides training in corporate development, culinary arts, landscaping, and facility management. Harvest Academy operates a local moving company that helps the program remain self-sustainable.

Tim is a fantastic role model and leader at Harvest Academy. He advocates for those who want to change their lives and provides a safe living space for individuals to change their lives. I am proud to honor Tim Krueger as Iowan of the Week.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask the House of Representatives to join me in recognizing Dr. Anuj Bhargava as Iowan of the Week. November is diabetes awareness month, and Dr. Bhargava has done more than bring awareness to diabetes, he has dedicated his life to finding a cure and fighting for those that have been impacted by diabetes.

Dr. Bhargava is the founder of Iowa Diabetes, an organization that has now been around for more than 14 years. Within the first few years, their research center started over 50 studies and became a leading diabetes research center in Iowa. As they started more trials and hired more staff members, it was clear that more office and patient care space was needed. As of today, they have started more than 100 diabetes studies and served more than 1,600 patients in Central Iowa. Dr. Bhargava believes that a comprehensive approach is required to change diabetes and that technology, education, and research should play a role in this change. Additionally, in 2017 Iowa Diabetes launched Iowa Diabetes Portal, which is a free tool they provide patients to help them easily manage sugars, meds, labs, activity, and more. In 2019, they launched Iowa Diabetes Care. a non-traditional care management system.

More than 300,000 Iowans have diabetes, and that number is only expected to grow. At Iowa Diabetes, it is Dr. Bhargava's goal to improve the lives of Iowans affected by diabetes through the services provided by their organization. Dr. Bhargava is hopeful that Iowa Diabetes and all that it offers can make an impact on the hundreds of thousands of people with diabetes in Iowa.

I will always fight for organizations like Iowa Diabetes and leaders like Dr. Bhargava and continue to support them in Congress by promoting legislation that will support our communities that need it the most. It is my pleasure to recognize Dr. Anuj Bhargava as Iowan of the Week.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask the House of Representatives to join me in recognizing Laborers Local 177 Journeyman Ricardo Perry as Iowan of the Week. I am especially proud to recognize Ricardo, a recent graduate of the Iowa Laborers' Education and Training Fund Registered Apprenticeship Program, during the 2021 National Apprenticeship Week.

This annual observance offers Americans an opportunity to reflect on how Registered Apprenticeship Programs are critical for creating jobs, bolstering the economy, addressing workforce challenges, supporting communities, and providing equitable opportunities for men and women to succeed. Folks from different backgrounds and at different stages in their careers can engage in these programs to gain skills, make a career change, or get a competitive edge in their industry. Registered Apprenticeship Programs, in Iowa play a key role not only in filling our states talent pipeline, but also in helping keep families here as they establish roots in the areas where apprentices are working and learning their trade.

Ricardo Perry is a wonderful example of how a Registered Apprenticeship Program can benefit an individual, their industry, and the community where they settle. Ricardo recently graduated from the Iowa Laborers' Education and Training Fund Registered Apprenticeship Program to become a Journeyman. He went through a three-year journey of on-the-job work, training hours, and mentorship to become a Construction Craft Laborer.

The pathway for an apprentice can be grueling; no two days are the same, you're constantly presented with challenges, and standards and technology are ever-evolving. While the journey was difficult, Ricardo quickly earned a reputation as an extremely hard worker, skilled laborer, and uniquely positive presence. His colleagues knew him to excel in training and could always rely on him to look at the bright side of any challenge. Their respect and admiration for Ricardo is immediately apparent, and his work ethic, skill set, and strong Iowa values will no doubt benefit the greater Des Moines area for years to come.

There are many reasons I was proud to vote for the historic Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) earlier this month, one among them being the huge opportunity the bill provides for states like Iowa to train the workforces required to undertake initiatives like building out broadband infrastructure, repairing our roads and bridges, and much more. We're going to need more skilled workers than ever before, and robust Registered Apprenticeship Programs to adequately prepare them for the work at hand.

That's why I was grateful for the opportunity to host United States Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh in Iowa earlier this year. During his visit we met with brothers and sisters in labor, many of whom graduated from Registered Apprenticeship Programs, to hear about filling the jobs pipeline in our state. I was proud to show him the massive, new training facility for the Missouri Valley Line Constructors Apprenticeship and Training Program in Indianola: a shining example of a multi-year, in-depth training program turning out quality lineman across the nation. These conversations helped elevate the amazing work organizations in Iowa are doing to train skilled workers through apprenticeship programs and help those individuals establish prosperous lives in our communities.

Madam Speaker, it is programs like the Iowa Laborers' Education & Training Fund Registered Apprenticeship Program and the efforts of Journeymen like Ricardo Perry that are going to help carry our state into the future. These trained professionals who have the knowledge and skills to safely, effectively improve upon and further build out Iowa's infrastructure will bring additional opportunities to our communities. I am grateful Ricardo has chosen to live and work in my district, and for his contributions to keep Iowa growing. It is my pleasure to name him, during this National Apprenticeship Week, Iowan of the Week.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the co-founder of RAGBRAI John Karras as Iowan of the Week. RAGBRAI is the world's oldest, largest, and longest recreational bicycling tour event, and it is a beloved Iowa tradition. John, who was a feature writer for the Des Moines Register, took his first ride across Iowa with some friends in 1973. They chronicled their journey, and that trip sparked the inspiration for what is now known as RAGBRAI--an acronym for the Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa.

John died on November 10, 2021, but the bicycle ride he helped create will continue in Iowa in 2022 and for many more years. RAGBRAI attracts 15,000 people to Iowa every summer, and allows visitors to see the state's beautiful cities, towns, counties, and countryside while riding their bikes an average of 468 miles between the Missouri and Mississippi rivers.

RAGBRAI generates more than $364.8 million annually for the State of Iowa. The week-long event also brings in nearly $25 million in direct spending, which means towns that are lucky enough to have RAGBRAI ride through see upwards of $3 million a day in tourism spending. That money means so much to the Iowa towns that host RAGBRAI each year, and to the vendors that help support the bicycle ride.

The ride does more than raise money for our great state. It brings bicyclists from all over Iowa, the nation, and the world together to share their love of their favorite sport and pastime. It has created friendly rivalries between news organizations as they compete to see who can eat pies the fastest, and good laughs for everyone as the bicyclists have come up with some memorably humorous team names throughout the years.

I've had the pleasure of riding RAGBRAI and can honestly say there's no experience quite like it. I loved spending time in rural areas along the route, meeting Iowans and out-of-state riders to hear their stories, and the physical challenge of a cross-state ride. You have to push yourself through the unpredictable weather of an Iowa summer and the hilly landscape, but you're rewarded with seeing and experiencing the state's beauty from a unique perspective. RAGBRAI is a great way to connect with family, friends, and strangers alike while making memories that last a lifetime. John leaves a lasting legacy through the creation of this iconic event.

John certainly didn't know what RAGBRAI would grow into when he took his first bicycle ride across the state, but I am so thankful he went out anyway and tried something new. Iowa summers would not be the same without this phenomenal tradition and John will be missed by everyone who knows and loves RAGBRAI. It is my pleasure to honor John Karras as Iowan of the Week.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask the House of Representatives to join me in recognizing Sonia Parras Konrad, an attorney, visionary, and co-founder of various non-profits, as Iowan of the Week.

For someone who never intended to become a lawyer and advocate, Sonia Parras Konrad exceeded her personal expectations and became an influential member of the Latina community in Iowa. While attending college in Spain, Sonia had the chance to study at Central College for a year in 1993 through 1994. After her first year in Iowa, Sonia firmly believed that Iowa chose her and felt as though many factors kept her coming back. As soon as she started to work with the Latina community, she saw the immense need for advocacy in support of its members. Furthermore, she feels honored to be a part of the road to change in Iowa and more specifically, her ability to work to change policies that affect a vulnerable population. Within Iowa, she found a lot of mainstream support and allies, which pushed her to continue her work.

As Sonia's passion for activism progressed, she went on to become a co-founder of multiple non-profits such as Latinas Unidas por un Nuevo Amanecer (LUNA), MUNA Legal Clinic, Latina Leadership of Greater Des Moines (LLI), and the ALMAS Pro Bono Legal Clinic. In addition to her work in the non-profit sector, Sonia is well-versed in international consulting throughout Latin America in which she serves as a consultant to both the Department of State and the Mexican Government. As a result of all of her extraordinary work, Sonia has received many prestigious awards and honors from various organizations. In 2021 only, Sonia has received both the Pro Bono Award from the Iowa-Nebraska Chapter of American Immigration Lawyers and the Businesswoman of the Year 2021 from the Business Record. In all, Sonia's goals are to always do more, continue to grow, and open roads for women and immigrants in Iowa.

Sonia has dedicated her life to helping the Latina community in Iowa through her leadership and legal prowess. Her optimistic and humble mindset has propelled her to success and makes her truly worthy of being nominated for this award. Sonia serves as an inspiration and role model to all, and it is my honor to name her Iowan of the Week.

Madam Speaker, I was unable to vote on H.R. 3193--E-BRIDGE Act. Had I been able, would have voted YEA on this legislation. This is a strong bipartisan bill that I am proud to support, which will help bring needed Economic Development Administration grants to rural communities--helping complete that ``last mile''. As a member of the Rural Broadband Task Force, I am always working to see Congress pass legislation that will help connect more of our rural communities with the internet.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask the House of Representatives to join me in recognizing Aireen Snyder, a community leader and President of the Filipino American Association of Iowa, as Iowan of the Week.

Diversity is one of the greatest strengths of our state, with people from all different backgrounds coming together to form an incredible community in Iowa. There is no better way to celebrate this diversity than with Filipino Heritage Month and Aireen Snyder, who has worked tirelessly to promote the values of community and diversity throughout our state.

Arriving in Iowa from the Philippines in 2008, Aireen quickly became involved with the thriving Filipino community. She has played an active role in the Filipino American Association, chairing several committees, editing the newsletter and now is President. Perhaps most impressive was her leadership in creating a Filipino Language class. With language being such a valuable aspect of culture, Aireen developed an entire curriculum and worked with Des Moines Area Community College to host a course that was very well attended.

Aireen holds a great amount of pride for the history and legacy of the Filipino American Association of Iowa. The association formed in 1975 with the goal of promoting and enhancing cultural and heritage awareness of the Philippines among Iowans. This important mission is carried out through a variety of events and initiatives. For example, as President, Aireen has overseen the humanitarian and charitable aid that the association offers to its community, including legal assistance and college scholarships. Most notably, the organization raised $14,000 following the ``super typhoon'' in the Philippines. The funds were used to support a variety of non-profit organizations in the country, including the Filipino Red Cross.

Community events are also an important aspect of the Filipino American Association of Iowa and Aireen's work as president. Events range from Christmas parties, parol lantern making, and most recently the Des Moines ``Celebrasian'' hosted by the Iowa Asian Alliance. The association proudly hosted three booths featuring Filipino food, clothing and traditions.

With nearly 5,000 Filipino Americans residing in Iowa, it is only fitting that we honor such an impactful leader and community builder, Aireen Snyder, for Filipino Heritage month. Her commitment to her culture and home country is a testament to the beautiful diversity in Iowa that makes our state stronger. I am humbled and inspired by Aireen's work for the Filipino community of Iowa. It is my honor to name her Iowan of the Week.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Jennifer Redmond, the state executive director of Nebraska and Iowa for Susan G. Komen. Their mission is to save lives by meeting the most critical needs of their communities and investing in breakthrough research to prevent and cure breast cancer.

Susan G. Komen has invested in more than $1.1 billion collectively in lifesaving breast cancer research since 1982. More than 1,200 Iowans seek help and information from Susan. G. Komen every week, and all 99 counties in Iowa are served by Susan G. Komen breast cancer services.

All Iowans can get involved with Susan G. Komen through events and activities organized throughout the state, by becoming an individual advocate or by registering their workplace for volunteer programs, fundraising campaigns, and access to world-class breast cancer content. There are currently 1,786 people in Iowa who advocate for breast cancer rights with Susan G. Komen.

Jennifer and the team at Susan G. Komen also ensure everyone has access to quality screening, diagnosis, and treatment for breast cancer. Anyone who reaches out, no matter where they are in their breast cancer journey is welcome at Susan G. Komen.

Jennifer and her staff spend every day supporting organizations that provide vital services and research to Iowans and it is my pleasure to honor Jennifer Redmond as Iowan of the Week.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Kay Vanags as Iowan of the week. Kay has provided valuable services to constituents in Iowa's 3rd Congressional District for over 20 years through her work as LifeLong Links Director at Aging Resources of Central Iowa. The organization provides services to individuals in Dallas, Madison, Warren, and Polk counties in our district, as well as Boone, Story, Jasper, and Marion counties in Iowa. Kay's work has had a widespread impact on Iowa's senior community and their family caretakers.

Kay has a background in teaching, but she was led to a career in social service following her experience as a caretaker for in-laws who had memory and physical issues requiring attentive care. Her experience motivated her to advocate for family caregivers and the elderly who are experiencing similar situations.

Kay's service to family caregivers ensures that they have the information and resources they need to properly care for their loved ones. She advises and connects folks with housing, transportation, and health insurance issues--which are often difficult areas for people to navigate on their own without the institutional knowledge Kay can share. Kay also provides counseling, as the change in roles and relationships between a caregiver and their loved ones often provides a unique challenge for families to navigate. Based on her own experience as well as additional training, Kay also provides education to caregivers about care strategies--particularly to those caregivers who have loved ones with memory issues--and those who struggle with the stresses of work/life balance.

Kay enjoys advocating for folks as they navigate some of the most difficult and personal situations and having the opportunity to share information and guidance for those in need. Aging Resources of Central Iowa receives approximately 1,000 calls per month, and about half of those are from family caregivers. Kay continues to engage with community health provider groups, which build relationships and important partnerships that benefit the entire community. Particularly throughout the COVID pandemic, as calls increased, Kay and her team successfully shifted their operations so they could continue to provide direct assistance to those in need. It is important to highlight Kay and the team at Aging Resources of Central Iowa for their continued service to our district and the people of Iowa.

I am proud to honor Kay Vanags as Iowan of the Week.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to ask the House of Representatives to join me in honoring Barb Fuller of Corning, Iowa, as Iowan of the Week.

This week we recognize National 4-H Week. As a former 4-H'er myself, I have the utmost respect and gratitude for the individuals who devote their time and expertise to helping kids around our country grow and realize their own potential. In Iowa, 4-H has a deeply rooted commitment to the growth and development of kids across our great State. For decades, Barb Fuller has dedicated her time and passions to the Adams County 4-H.

Barb has been involved with 4-H for practically her entire life. She participated in the organization when she was a kid with the Colfax Cloverettes of Boone County, and the organization's impact on her inspired her to take on more expansive roles within 4-H, especially after her daughter started participating in the organization. Barb became a leader in the Adams County 4-H for roughly 15 years after her daughter joined, leading her daughter's 4-H group, the Jasper Specialists.

Barb has impacted many of the 4-H'ers during her time with the organization, always making sure anyone who wanted to participate was able to have the opportunity to do so. Barb has been dedicated to helping kids in her community grow, and she thoroughly enjoys having the opportunity to guide kids through different projects and tasks. What has impacted Barb the most throughout her time with 4-H has always been the ability to watch kids learn, grow, and gain more self- confidence through the projects and activities they're able

to get involved with. One of the activities that Barb coordinated was the Adams County 4-H Shooting Sports, where she acted as a rifle instructor with her husband, Dave. The couple taught those involved in the program how to handle firearms safely and securely, and they watched 4-H'ers compete at different events at various levels.

Recently, Barb was inducted into the Adams County 4-H Hall of Fame for her decades of service with the organization. Barb's passion for 4- H, along with her years of instruction, has left a mark on generations of 4-H'ers, and it reminds me of the wonderful memories I have of interacting with my leaders and instructors when I was a 4-H'er. Barb's service to her community is commendable, and it's why I am honored to name Barb Fuller as our Iowan of the Week.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Isabel Martinez Santos as Iowan of the Week. Isabel immigrated to the United States and has lived in Iowa for 28 years. Isabel has become a staple of advocacy within her community. Isabel has committed herself to addressing the conflict that exists in our world through her position with the Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence and with Nuestras Danzas sin Fronteras, a community-focused dance group she founded.

Isabel started her very accomplished career as a member of a community group that worked directly with women who faced violence in different aspects of their lives. Through this, and the values that were instilled in her from her parents, Isabel began to amplify the voices of those in need. This year, Isabel was promoted as the co- director of Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence's Legal Clinic as the Bi-Lingual DOJ Accredited Representative. She provides legal services, consultations, resources, and support to survivors of partner violence. She also offers technical assistance, mentorship to Spanish- speaking bi-cultural advocates, and training. Her commitment to advocacy on behalf of survivors is evident in her extensive track record of 22 years in the victim services field.

In addition to her role with the Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Isabel found another way to give back to her community. Isabel founded Nuestras Danzas sin Fronteras almost six years ago hoping to create a place for self-care for other advocates. Since its opening, Isabel has welcomed a broader spectrum of members of her community to highlight individual cultures, have fun, and overcome the barriers of trauma. Through her group, Isabel strives to provide change that will last for generations.

Not only has Isabel been an incredible advocate for the women of Iowa, but Isabel is also the 2021 recipient of the Diane Reese Excellence in Advocacy in the Movement (DREAM) Award from the National Network to end Domestic Violence. This national award is granted to individuals who incorporate and demonstrate the spirit and promise of true advocacy in all aspects of their life--one who emulates Ms. Reese's commitment to clear and ethical communication, her eagerness to collaborate in the spirit of true partnership, and her deep respect for the dignity, worth and humanity in each one of us.

Isabel hopes to be a role model and leave a legacy for her three children, her community, and immigrant women around the world by continuing to actively work to end the violence that exists in our world. It is my pleasure to name Isabel Martinez Santos Iowan of the Week.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize two dedicated leaders for mental health and suicide prevention in our community--Joni Thornton and Nicole Mortenson. Joni and Nicole are co-chairs of the Out of the Darkness Central Iowa Walk. The annual walk is part of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in Iowa and helps raise awareness for suicide prevention and mental health in the community.

Joni and Nicole led a very successful walk in Ankeny on September 19. Hundreds of Iowans gathered at the DMACC campus to share hope for families affected by suicide. The event also featured a virtual memorial wall on Facebook to honor the lives lost to suicide in the past year.

The co-chairs aim to make the walk family-friendly year after year, because suicide and mental health do not just impact adults. There has been an increase in pediatric mental health issues in recent years, and mental health affects the whole family. The co-chairs have included events for the whole family in the walk, from face painting and bracelet making to live music and therapy dogs.

Although the walk takes place on one day, Joni, Nicole, and their team begin preparing for the event months in advance. They start planning in January and meet often to organize sponsors, vendors, and volunteers. This year, the walk had 15 sponsors supporting the event. 80 percent of every dollar from sponsorships goes to suicide prevention and mental health research tight here in Iowa.

Joni and Nicole are tireless advocates for mental health, and their dedication to raising awareness in the community is remarkable. Joni has worked with the American Suicide Prevention Foundation for 12 years and Nicole has served the organization since 2015. Both women coordinate an amazing walk that provides a space for families of those lost to suicide to feel understood and to meet other families affected by suicide.

The American Suicide Prevention Foundation offers free resources for individuals and families across the region. The organization has monthly support groups, community-based presentations, and programs to help Iowans become more aware of mental health.

Joni and Nicole's advocacy for suicide prevention and mental health awareness have changed lives and provided hope for countless Iowans. It is my pleasure to honor Joni Thornton and Nicole Mortenson as Iowans of the Week.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a tireless advocate for the Hispanic/Latino community--Joe Gonzalez. Joe immigrated to Iowa in 1957 when he was 5, along with his mother and two younger brothers. Like many Iowa immigrant stories of the time, his family followed his father who came to work on the railroad. Joe is a retired member of the Des Moines Police Department where

he worked for 42-years and he remains a vital liaison in the department's outreach to the Hispanic/Latino community. Gonzalez was a longtime volunteer for Iowa's Latino Heritage Festival. He took over the reins of the festival as the executive director of Latino Resources Inc. in 2015, and has shaped the festival to what it is today.

In 1968, President Lyndon B. Johnson proclaimed a week in September as National Hispanic Heritage Week. The observance was expanded in 1988 to a month-long celebration (Sept. 15 to Oct. 15). During this month, America celebrates the culture and traditions of U.S. residents who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico and the Spanish-speaking nations of Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. September 15 was chosen as the starting point for the celebration because it is the anniversary of the independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, respectively. There are 22 countries from Latin origin represented in Iowa.

The Latino/Hispanic community brings so much value to our state, and Joe's work with the Latino Heritage Festival is a great way to highlight that value. The festival provides the public with a family- oriented event filled with learning through music, dance, food, children's activities, arts, and cultural exhibits from various Central and South American countries. It also emphasizes the uniqueness of the culture by demonstrating the diversity within the Latino community. Lastly, it creates a venue to showcase Iowa-based performers, artisans, cultural craftsmen, and artifact producers.

Through distinct activities and exhibits, this event educates the youth and gives them a better understanding of the Latino culture, while teaching them tolerance and appreciation of diversity. Part of the mission for Iowa's Latino Heritage Festival is to give back to the community through academic scholarships to Iowa high school and college students. The festival last year presented nine $1,000 scholarships to students.

Joe's hard work and dedication to uplifting the Latino/Hispanic community in Des Moines has changed the lives of countless young people in the area. He has helped folks understand why it is important to have a diverse community in Des Moines, and he puts a spotlight on all of the wonderful the Latino community has brought to the metro area. It is my pleasure to honor Joe Gonzalez as Iowan of the Week.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor John and Tasha Holben, letter carriers for the United States Postal Service and proud union members, as Iowans of the Week. John has faced the rain, wind, heat, and snow for 37 years to ensure the residents of Council Bluffs receive their mail in a timely manner. His wife, Tasha, has done the same for 17 years. I am proud to honor their dedication and years of service.

Working families like John and Tasha's keep Iowa's communities strong. They put in the hours every week to get the job done, serving their neighbors and advocating for fellow workers along the way. As letter carriers in southwest Iowa--where so many families rely heavily on the mail for critical needs like prescription drugs, income, and supplies for their small business--the impact of their efforts is amplified.

John and Tasha are long-time members of the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC). John has been a member of the union his entire career, serving in various leadership roles for NALC Branch 314 such as president, officer, Sergeant at Arms, and now trustee. Tasha has also been an active member of Branch 314 and has served in several officer roles. As active union leaders, they've helped bargain collectively for decent wages

and benefits, safe working conditions, and a fair shake not only for themselves but also on behalf of their union brothers and sisters' families.

The Holben's drive to serve their community goes beyond their day-to- day duties. John and Tasha enjoy volunteering at the NALC's national food drive, which is held the second Saturday of May. Union members volunteer to pick up food and then transport it to local food pantries. Food pantries are always happy to see the influx of food in May, because oftentimes they see a slump in donations following winter holidays.

John additionally serves as a pastor at the Community of Christ Church in Council Bluffs, where he, Tasha, and the congregation help clean up their neighborhood every Earth Day. Instead of hosting a normal church service on the Sunday closest to Earth Day, members of the church walk around and pick up litter. They're usually able to fill up several garbage bags as they clean up yards, streets, and sidewalks.

As we celebrate Labor Day this week, I'm especially appreciative of John and Tasha, who have fought long and hard to maintain their union and ensure safe and reliable delivery of the mail to their neighbors. Through their activism and volunteer work, John and Tasha have made Council Bluffs a better place to live and work. Please join me in honoring John and Tasha as our Iowans of the Week.