Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Luke Jennings.

Luke is from Felicity, Ohio, and was elected to serve as the national secretary of the Future Farmers of America.

Farming is in Luke's blood, as he has raised livestock, shown pigs and cattle, and his family owns and operates Windy Ridge Acres, a beef cow operation. As the Representative of an agriculture-focused district, I understand how important family farms are. It is my honor to advocate on their behalf in Congress.

The FFA plays a critical role in equipping our young people with the tools they need to successfully lead the next generation of American farming. Farmers across the United States and my district have benefited from the FFA's commitment to advancing agriculture education through their comprehensive learning model.

Luke earned his national secretary position after serving as the Felicity-Franklin chapter officer and Ohio State officer for 2 years.

In addition to his service in the FFA, Luke is currently pursuing a degree in agriscience education at the Ohio State University.

I would also like to recognize Luke's mom, Holly, who is a longtime FFA adviser.

Luke, the whole Jennings family, and the farmers across America represent the best of this country. I congratulate and thank Luke for all he does.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the selfless acts of service done by Diana Lawrence and the Troop Box Ministry to bless our Nation's servicemembers.

It all began nearly a quarter century ago in the garage of the Lawrences' residence in Hamersville, Ohio. One of Diana's family members was serving faithfully in the military in Afghanistan, and she sent a care package overseas to show support.

An idea was born, and soon, students from Milford Schools and volunteers from all over town joined Diana's mission. Her operation expanded to two sheds in her backyard, where volunteers collected the names and addresses of troops, assembled donated items in the care packages, and sent them on their way overseas. Each box included a Gideon Bible, a deck of cards, as well as toothbrushes, shampoo, personal hygiene tools, and snacks.

Troop Box Ministry started receiving special requests from soldiers, and soon, they were knitting wool helmet liners and collecting cans of spray for the bottoms of combat boots to give servicemembers a better grip on slippery terrain.

Over the next 23 years, Diana and her volunteers sent an estimated 10,000 packages to American troops serving all over the Middle East and beyond. As a result, Diana and her family-style operation found their way into southern Ohio's history books as service leaders with a purpose.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Garrett Stanfield.

Garrett is from Manchester, Ohio, and won the Young Cattleman of the Year Award at the Ohio Cattlemen's Association annual meeting and awards banquet this past February. This award recognizes individuals or couples who show leadership and have been successful in the beef operation industry.

Garrett has demonstrated this through his graduation from the Ohio State University's animal science program and his work to effectively use genetic and reproductive science on the farm. Garrett is a lifelong cattleman. He was raised on Stanfield Farms, which has been operated for generations by the Stanfield family in southern Ohio.

America's cattlemen, farmers, and ranchers are the backbone of our country. It is a great honor to advocate for them in Congress, and it is my sincere hope that we can pass a full farm bill on their behalf.

Currently working with Trans Ova Genetics on innovative breeding processes, Garrett will participate in the

upcoming National Cattlemen's Beef Association's Young Cattlemen's Conference as the representative from Ohio Cattlemen's Association.

Madam Speaker, Ohio is so proud of Garrett and thankful for all that he does and that his fellow farmers do for America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Carter Bisig.

Carter is a junior at Wilmington High School in Wilmington, Ohio, and has earned the Eagle Scout Award, the highest possible achievement in the Boy Scout community.

To earn an Eagle Scout Award, Carter had to obtain 21 merit badges showcasing the skills he learned as a Scout and his commitment to the community. Thanks to the invaluable lessons taught to Scouts, Carter has become an expert in first aid, camping, fitness, communication, and citizenship.

Throughout our Nation's history, the Boy Scouts have played an invaluable role in teaching young people hands-on skills that make them better citizens and stewards of their communities. America is blessed to have an organization dedicated to helping our children become the best versions of themselves.

Southern Ohio is so proud of Carter's accomplishment and happy to call him one of our own. Since the Eagle Scout Award was first introduced in 1912, only about 4 percent of Boy Scouts have earned the award, making this achievement nothing short of extraordinary.

I look forward to seeing how Carter can continue to create positive change in Ohio's Second Congressional District.

I would also like to recognize Carter's parents and Scout leaders for their role in this process. Without them, this achievement would not have been possible.

I congratulate Carter.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Girl Scouts of Western Ohio. These hardworking and dedicated Scouts are agents for positive change in their communities and work every day to create a better world.

In 2024, 44 Senior and Ambassador Girl Scouts from the Girl Scouts of Western Ohio earned the prestigious Gold Award.

In pursuit of this distinction, each Scout identified a specific issue close to their hearts and utilized teamwork and collaboration to effect positive change in their community, leaving a lasting impact.

Carolyn Koch, a graduate of Blanchester High School, created a Build Community Through Theater program to engage youth and help them develop confidence. Promoting drama education in her community, Carolyn invested her time and energy in creating a middle school drama camp, free of charge, for fifth to eighth grade students in the Blanchester Local School District.

The Girl Scouts Promise reads: ``On my honor, I will try to serve God and my country, to help people at all times, and to live by the Girl Scout Law.'' Carolyn and each of the other recipients of the Girl Scout Gold Award are the embodiment of this promise.

I also recognize the parents and Scout leaders who supported each Girl Scout on their path to this milestone. Their support made all the difference.

I congratulate the Girl Scouts, especially Carolyn. Her investment in our community is appreciated, and Ohio can't wait to see what is in store for her next.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on the birthday of my wonderful wife, Charity, to recognize Ms. Joanna Sheaf, who celebrated her 100th birthday on March 19, 2025.

Born during the Great Depression, Joanna grew up in southern Ohio and lived with her grandmother as her father traveled, looking for work. Joanna raised seven sons and one daughter as a hardworking and devoted single mother, working two jobs to support them and provide for their needs. With a creative mind and a skill for writing, Joanna authored multiple poems that were published in the Columbus Dispatch and the Citizen Journal.

Throughout her life, Joanna has exemplified resilience, grace, and an unwavering dedication to her family, friends, and community. Her legacy of kindness, dedication to her family, and wisdom have touched the lives of many, leaving an enduring impact on all who have had the privilege of knowing her.

Her example of love, service, and vitality is truly inspiring, and her community is lucky to call her their own.

I congratulate Joanna on this extraordinary milestone and wish her a happy 100th birthday.

Congratulating Makennah Craft on Fourth Ohio State Wrestling Title

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the undefeated wrestling record of Ms. Makennah Craft of Jackson High School. Makennah claimed her fourth and final State title on March 8 in the 2025 State Wrestling Tournament, securing her win by more than 15 points over her opponent. Makennah has distinguished herself as only the fifth female wrestler to ever accomplish this feat in Ohio high school wrestling history.

Jumping into the sport at just 4 years old, Makennah's passion for wrestling grew over the years. She learned to persevere and overcome any roadblocks or plateaus she hit during training. Makennah has said that wrestling made her a tougher person, realizing that the harder she pushed herself, the more she grew.

Having worked with Makennah since middle school, Coach Brandon Oliver views her as a shining role model for their school's wrestling program. He commends her on maintaining a 4.0 grade point average on top of completing multiple workouts every day.

Southern Ohio looks forward to seeing how Makennah's winning mindset will continue to serve her as she completes her senior year of high school and goes on to tackle new challenges.

I congratulate Makennah on her fourth State title. I wish her the best in her very bright future.

Congratulating Portsmouth High School Girls' Basketball Team on Ohio

Division V State Title

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Portsmouth High School girls' basketball team on winning their school's first-ever Ohio Division V basketball State championship.

Having dreamt of securing this title since they were in the fifth grade, the nine athletes on Portsmouth's team navigated their season with consistency, discipline, and a clear vision. In the championship game, junior Sienna Allen led all players with 17 points, contributing to Portsmouth's victory by a score of 53-38 over Creston Norwayne.

With this win, the Trojans became the first Scioto County program to ever secure the girls' basketball State championship trophy. Head coach Amy Hughes led the team throughout the season, investing in each player as they honed their teamwork and athletic skills.

These players' hard work and commitment to excellence is a shining example to students across Ohio that achieving your dreams is possible if you put in the hard work and never stop improving.

I am pleased to recognize each hardworking player, supportive parent, and committed coach who helped make this victory possible. I congratulate Portsmouth High School as they celebrate this historic achievement. As always, Go Trojans.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Ironton Fighting Tigers for winning their first football State championship in 35 years.

With an incredibly strong work ethic and a commitment to excellence, the Ironton High School football team spent all season training and working together with one goal in mind: the State title.

In the championship game, senior Shaun Terry led his team to victory with 300 all-purpose yards, including 148 receiving yards and three touchdowns. This championship win is evidence of a season full of hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence.

Since the school's last title in 1989, the Ironton Fighting Tigers have appeared in six State title games in pursuit of a win, which made bringing home this year's trophy even sweeter.

Head Coach Trevon Pendleton and his staff poured their knowledge and experience into eager players all season long, guiding them and pushing them toward excellence on and off the field.

I also recognize each parent who supported their players and encouraged them to work hard. I congratulate each player for their hard-earned victory and new State title.

Congratulations. Go Fighting Tigers.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the life of Larry Gerstner, an outstanding businessman who was well loved by his community and spent his life in service to it.

Larry was born in Columbus, Ohio, and grew up on a small farm in Hilliard. Earning a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from the University of Cincinnati, Larry joined the Peace Corps in 1971 and spent 3 years in Tonga constructing the main island's road and country's first jet field.

Upon returning to the States, Larry was elected Hocking County Engineer in 1976 and later served as a board member for the Hocking Hills Tourism Association.

Larry created numerous businesses that grew Hocking County's tourism industry, most known for the Columbus Washboard Company, the very last maker of washboards in the United States. One of his incredible washboards is displayed in my office for Ohioans to enjoy, similar to this one that I hold in my hand today.

After an 18-year fight with cancer, with his devoted wife, Joyce, by his side, Larry passed away in February of 2025. Larry will be dearly missed in Hocking County and across Ohio, but the legacy of his life of service will continue.