Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and show my utmost gratitude to a deeply valued member of my staff, Mrs. Pearl Seidman. On Friday, December 21, 2018, Pearl will bid her final farewell after a year as my Brookings Legislative Fellow to continue her career at the National Security Agency. Since her first day on the job in January, Pearl has overseen a legislative portfolio that includes: healthcare, energy, environment, natural resources, labor, pensions, social security, and postal issues, some of the most critical issues facing my constituents. Over the past year, Pearl has dedicated her time to serving the people of the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri with nothing short of unconditional integrity and drive. Now, I would like to take this opportunity to give thanks on behalf of myself and the constituents she has served so honorably.

Pearl was born in Newark, New Jersey, however, she spent the majority of her upbringing split between Philadelphia and Baltimore, respectively. Following her graduation from high school, Pearl would embark on a lifelong commitment to learning and serving others. Pearl would go on to receive her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Maryland, a Masters in Applied Behavioral

Science from Johns Hopkins University, a masters in human and Organizational Systems from Fielding Graduate University, and a Doctorate in Human and Organizational Systems from Fielding Graduate University. That passion for knowledge has continued with her time in my office, as she regularly attends briefings, seminars, and classes. Now you can see why I was so pleased to have her join my staff.

Professionally, Pearl has spent 37 years working for the National Security Agency, doing various jobs for a critical agency in the federal government. Born to two Holocaust survivors, Pearl has always had a passion for helping others. At the NSA she primarily served in roles that pertained to workforce development, working to evolve and advance the skills of future leaders of America. Over the year she has worked on my staff, I can say I have seen personally her passion and talent for developing young minds. The way she has worked with congressional interns and junior staffers to not only help them serve my congressional district, but to cultivate abilities that will serve them down the road has been remarkable to watch.

Personally, Pearl has spent the past 42 years married to Alan Seidman. She has two very fortunate children, Lee and Ross, who are impressive men in their own right. Having the curious mind that she does, Pearl loves to spend her time traveling, going to museums, trying new activities, and, of course, sharing all of her experiences with those who ``just need to try it!'' A perfect example of her love for expanding her horizon is her decision to move to England, where she wound up living for nine years, until home came calling. For the sake of myself and my constituents, I'm certainly glad she did return.

Having known Pearl for a year now, I can say she is one of the most kind-hearted, passionate, and curious individuals I have ever had the pleasure of having on staff. Her perpetual upbeat attitude and friendly nature have been a tremendous asset to the office, and something that we will all work to carry on as a legacy to her impact on me and my staff. We are sad to see her move on to other endeavors, but so thankful for the opportunity to have worked with her for the past year. Mr. Speaker, please join me in showing our appreciation for the fantastic work Pearl Seidman has provided, not only to the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri, but to the nation as a whole.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of a dedicated community leader and public servant of Missouri's Fifth Congressional District. In life, Mr. Richard L. Clemens demonstrated tremendous compassion, bravery, and selflessness through his commitment to family and civil service.

Mr. Clemens was born to Ruby Weber Clemens and John R. ``Jack'' Clemens on April 4, 1945 in Marshall, Missouri. A former graduate of Marshall High School, Mr. Clemens would go on to receive a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Missouri Valley College in 1967. Through his newly acquired degree, he would go on to serve as an auditor for the United States Department of Agriculture Inspector General, where shortly thereafter he would meet his wife and lifelong partner, Nellie. Born and raised in Marshall, Mr. Clemens was well-known to the people of his hometown as many were his friends, neighbors, and members of his congregation.

When called upon, Mr. Clemens stood tall and proud to serve his country during the Vietnam War in 1968, and again in 1969. His service to our country didn't end there, as he continued to show pride and dedication to assisting his brothers in arms by serving as a member and officer of the American Legion Post No. 191 and as the Senior Vice- Commander of the V.F.W. Post No. 2646.

Mr. Clemens had many goals in life apart from serving our country and the people as an auditor. From 1975 to his retirement, he owned and operated Clemens Circle C Farm while holding various organizational and local governmental positions. His interests and determination led him to hold many positions such as Chairman of the Saline County Republican Central Committee, President of the Saline County Fair Board, and the Saline County Extension Council. Furthermore, his dream of serving his community in an elected position was fulfilled in 2016, when he was elected the Saline County Northern District Commissioner. These notable positions are only a few of the many roles Mr. Clemens has held within the community, yet they illustrate his unremitting passion and devotion for the people and community he represented.

He is preceded in death by his parents and the love of his life, Nellie. He is survived by his two daughters, Anna Clemens Gass and Rebecca Clemens; his four grandchildren, Abigail, Vivian, Simeon, and Lilian; his brother, George Clemens; and his nieces, nephews, and cousins. Though he is dearly missed, his legacy of love, respect, and high esteem by his family, peers, and community remain. Mr. Clemens is revered for his impressive leadership, his lively personality, and commitment to his community.

Mr. Speaker, please join me and all of Missouri's Fifth Congressional District in honoring the memory and life of Mr. Richard L. Clemens. His upstanding contributions and service to the Marshall community and our country are beyond worthy of this commemoration. It is with great respect that I urge all my colleagues and fellow citizens across the country to join me in showing our appreciation to Mr. Clemens and sending our deepest condolences for his family, friends, and community.

Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise today to recognize the 30th anniversary memorial service honoring six Kansas City firefighters who tragically lost their lives serving the community.

On November 29, 1988, just before 4:00 in the morning, the Kansas City Fire Department (KCFD) responded to a call at a construction site in the south end of the city. What started as a routine emergency response rapidly turned into tragedy and destruction. The fire escalated to a massive explosion, ultimately killing six firefighters. Fire Captain Gerald Halloran, Fire Captain James Kilventon, fireman Thomas Fry, fireman Luther Hurd, fireman Robert McKarnin, and fireman Michael Oldham gave their lives in service to the community. While their legacy of courage, heroism, and dedication to the public is forever preserved, what remains is the absence of six men who were loved by many.

As Mayor pro tempore at the time, I remember arriving to a scene of grief and heartache. I can still recall the overwhelming wave of sorrow and despair that overcame me as I looked down from the helicopter at the devastation. It is a morning that I will never forget.

For a century and a half, the Kansas City Fire Department has served the people of Kansas City, guided by the mission ``to protect and serve the community with commitment and dedication to excellence.'' The profound legacies that Gerald Halloran, James Kilventon, Thomas Fry, Luther Hurd, Robert McKarnin, and Michael Oldham leave behind embody the department's mission to serve the community today. This tragic event changed the firefighting profession, prompting new advancements in safety protocols that protect first responders today.

Thirty years later, on the anniversary of the 1988 explosion, the community will come together to reflect and honor these six men who gave their lives doing what they loved, what they wholeheartedly believed was their mission in life--to serve and protect the people of our city.

As I stand here today to honor these six men and reflect on the solemn event which took their lives, I also want to acknowledge the brave women and men in our community who fight fires. In 2015, a three- alarm fire in the heart of Kansas City's Northeast neighborhood took the lives of two firemen, Larry Leggio and John Mesh. And like the 1988 explosion, the Kansas City community rallied and unified to seek justice for the firefighters that dedicated their lives to saving those in danger.

Mr. Speaker, please join me and all of Missouri's Fifth Congressional District in remembering and honoring the lives of the six firefighters who selflessly dedicated themselves to public service. The legacy they leave behind is a perpetual reminder of the sacrifices of the Kansas City Fire Department and firefighters across the nation. Let us join together in recognizing these six men who nobly served their communities and their families.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Jack Cannon's service to the United States during World War II. It is an honor to acknowledge and commemorate his immense courage and laudable character with this Congressional Record.

Mr. Cannon was born on February 22, 1924 in St. Joseph, Missouri. He was called to serve in World War II in 1942, where he left his home state for the first time in his life. He studied basic air supply and aircraft construction in Florida and went on to receive specialized training on the B-29 Superfortress, which contained a remote-control turret and gunner. During a raid on Tokyo in March 1945, he began serving as a Technical Sargent and gunner on the Salvo Sally B-29. On April 28, 1945, Salvo Sally was shot down in Southern Japan into the Pacific Ocean with twelve men aboard. Mr. Cannon was the only survivor.

Adrift in enemy territory, with only a ``Mae West'' life jacket, Mr. Cannon persevered until rescuers were deployed. After two days, The USS Gato submarine surfaced, and Mr. Cannon heard an American voice: ``Is anyone there?'' He ran across the submarine to the hatch where they pulled him to safety.

Moreover, Mr. Cannon and ten other individuals from separate missions were rescued by the USS Gato where they lived for a month-long trek to Saipan. He returned to United States soil on or around July 4, 1945 to his wife, Murrie, and four-month-old daughter, Julie, whom he had yet to meet.

Nearly 72 years later, Mr. Cannon was contacted by the son of the engineer behind Salvo Sally, Fred McDonald, as well as Don Langford, who were researching the bomber's story. During their research; Mr. McDonald and Mr. Langford contacted officials in Japan who forwarded their inquiry and sent reporters to St. Louis to Mr. Cannon's home to interview him.

As a result, Japan invited Mr. Cannon to Myazaki, Japan in May of 2018 for a ceremony honoring the crew of Salvo Sally. Mr. Cannon, his current wife, Imelda, Don Langford, Fred McDonald, and Judy Linquist attended the ceremony. There, Mr. Cannon was honored for his service and peacemaking efforts by officials in Japan. Not only was his experience honored, it was portrayed and preserved in a documentary that Japan made about Salvo Sally and the only survivor, Mr. Jack Cannon.

It is a privilege to stand today and honor Mr. Jack Cannon's bravery and service to the country. Mr. Speaker, please join me in thanking and honoring Mr. Jack Cannon.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. George Guastello's 10-year anniversary as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Union Station Kansas City and to celebrate his countless contributions to Kansas City's rich history and vibrant culture. It is an honor to commemorate his profound career with this Congressional Record.

As a lifetime Kansas City resident, George Guastello keeps close ties to his neighborhood and continues to be a pillar of the community through his role as President and CEO of Union Station Kansas City. Although Mr. Guastello has fulfilled the duties of his role for a decade, his devotion to the Kansas City area far exceeds this single role. Mr. Guastello has an unremitting dedication to the revitalization of the city and continues to serve as an agent of change in its growth.

Mr. Guastello spearheaded the reopening of Union Station Kansas City in 1999, following years of neglect. Once dormant, Union Station is now one of the city's most beloved and well-known landmarks. Union Station has become a crown jewel of our great city, visited not only by locals, but by tourists from all over the world. Mr. Guastello's hard work to highlight the historic fabric of Kansas City through the preservation of Union Station continues to unite Kansas Citians and visitors beyond city limits. It connects individuals from across the country with innovative exhibits, significant historical background, and engaging educational experiences. As we navigate through an everchanging society, the importance of preserving aspects of our history becomes increasingly more relevant and vital to ensuring the generations to come have an opportunity to reflect on history while shaping their own. The grand reopening of Union Station Kansas City ensured that a significant piece of Kansas City's history would not become a faint memory, but, instead, would transcend time for generations to come.

Moreover, Mr. Guastello's work regarding Union Station is but one of many achievements he has championed. Mr. Guastello's role as President and CEO for the American Royal Association highlighted our region's lush agricultural heritage. In addition, as the Vice President of Marketing and Business Strategy for Starlight Theater, Mr. Guastello shined a spotlight on innovation and helped the company achieve an all- time high season attendance of over a quarter million people. While these are only a few of Mr. Guastello's many accomplishments, they speak volumes to not only the commitment Mr. Guastello makes to the greater Kansas City community, but also to his meritorious character.

IT is a privilege to stand today and recognize the work of Mr. Guastello. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Mr. George Guastello's remarkable career and service to the people of the greater Kansas City area. I look forward to seeing the work and contributions of Mr. Guastello continue to shape and advance the greater Kansas City Community.

Mr. Speaker, I proudly rise today to recognize and celebrate Mr. Mark McHenry's 44-year career with the Kansas City Parks and Recreation Department. For over four decades, Mr. McHenry dutifully served the people of Kansas City, fulfilling numerous roles and bringing about countless improvements to public space in the greater Kansas City area. Mr. McHenry began his distinguished career with the Kansas City Parks and Recreation Department removing snow from roadways and sidewalks following snowfall; a sometimes daunting, but necessary job during the winter months throughout the Midwest. The same hard work and dedication Mr. McHenry displayed at the start of his time with the department, he has continuously and unremittingly matched and exceeded in the time since. Mr. McHenry's notable career has warranted many accolades and has contributed to the lives of not only the people of Kansas City, but also to the people of Missouri's Fifth Congressional District and beyond.

Most recently, as the Director, Kansas City Parks and Recreation was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Included in his many achievements, McHenry's tenure oversaw the creation of the world War I Museum, the restoration and expansion of the Liberty Memorial and the expansion of the Kansas City Zoo. McHenry rose to the position of Director in 2003, after nearly three decades of dedicated service to the Parks and Recreation Department. His remarkable career as the Director reveals his lifelong commitment to the department's mission: to improve the quality of life, health, and wellness of the community by providing socially equitable, community-driven programming, and environmentally sound natural resource management. He has worked relentlessly to uphold the organization's mission of providing recreational programs and opportunities for the community while also contributing to an aesthetically pleasing environment and enhanced quality of life.

Moreover, the presence of safe spaces for communities to connect, integrate, and share experiences is at the core of any thriving community. Mr. McHenry's efforts exemplified this. He oversaw the creation of several community centers that serve as indispensable spaces for Kansas City communities to gather and enrich their bodies and minds while enjoying nature and forging stronger communal relationships.

It is my personal belief that Mark's unwavering dedication and steadfast vision has made a profound impact on the Kansas City community. Therefore, it is with a sense of bittersweet pride that the community must now congratulate Mark on his retirement. I speak on behalf of the entire city when I say thank you, Mr. Mark McHenry.

Mr. Speaker, please join me and all of Missouri's Fifth Congressional District in expressing our sincerest congratulations to Mark McHenry for his monumental achievements in the community and his tireless efforts in promoting environmental conservation, innovation, and preservation of parks and recreational sites, not only in his city limits, but throughout the state. I urge all my colleagues to join me and Missouri's 5th District in showing our appreciation to Mr. Mark McHenry for his accomplishments and service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a civil rights hero in the greater Kansas City area for her dedication and determination to ensuring the success of the African American community through equality and opportunity. Since the mid-twentieth century, Ms. Irene Whitley Marcus has worked feverishly to demolish anti-Black sentiments and discriminatory policies, in order to create accessible housing in the Kansas City community. During a time when segregation laws disproportionately afflicted Black Americans and civil unrest persisted, Ms. Marcus held firm to her belief that all of America's children were deserving of the liberties and rights guaranteed under the constitution, regardless of their skin tone.

Through her memories and experiences, the history of the Black community in Kansas City is preserved and respected. World War II provided many Black families an opportunity for upward social mobility in the workforce and created the opportunity for minorities to purchase homes. Ms. Marcus tells of a time when Black businesses were rare and social life existed only in Black American homes due to

segregation laws that prohibited Blacks from eating at restaurants, attending clubs, and seeing movies in theatres.

In an era when Black Americans worked twice as hard for subpar housing and employment, Ms. Marcus never gave up the fight for equality and opportunity. After a long day of work in 1958, she could be found amongst protesters, picketing the racist segregation policies that were commonplace during the time. For two months, she continued to challenge the current system as a member of the Twin Citians Social Club alongside the Community Committee for Social Action, until three establishments caved into their demands and banned segregation. The butterfly effect of this united front had begun. Many more establishments followed suit to remove such policies, and in 1963 Black activists in the city pushed to pass an ordinance effectively banning discrimination practices in all establishments available to the public.

Ms. Marcus's vigilance opened doors for job-seeking Black Americans and allowed her to build the home she still lives in to this day. The Kansas City ordinance banning discrimination predated the Civil Rights Act, though it was not until the Act was passed that hundreds of Black Americans truly began to exercise their newly granted rights.

She has seen her neighborhood, community, and city progress and continues to provide first-hand knowledge of the hardships many Black Americans endured and continue to face. Currently, Ms. Marcus is in possession of the largest photo collection of historic Black Kansas City. Her noteworthy contributions to establishments such as The Black Archives of Mid-America, the Kansas City Star, and the State Historical Society of Missouri have immortalized the hard work of countless Black civil rights activists. The entire district, myself included, is grateful to have such a devoted and determined social justice advocate in our community.

Mr. Speaker, please join me and all of Missouri's Fifth Congressional District in honoring Ms. Irene Whitley Marcus for her commitment to social justice and her historic contributions to the Black community both in Kansas City and nationwide. It is with great respect that I urge all my colleagues and fellow citizens across the country to join me in showing our appreciation to Ms. Marcus for her unwavering dedication to protect Black history and civil rights.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the United Way of Greater Kansas City, a leader and innovator of public health and wellness in the Greater Kansas City community, for their one hundred years of service. In 1887, the first ``United Way,'' formerly known as the ``Charity Organizations Society,'' was founded in Denver to plan, coordinate, and fundraise for twenty-two local

nonprofit agencies. Focused on providing war relief and support for the military during World War I, the United Way of Greater Kansas City began in 1918 as a nonprofit in Missouri's Fifth Congressional District. One hundred years later, it is now one of the largest organizations in Kansas City. It has a service area spanning five locations, and all are dedicated to providing services that benefit disadvantaged families and individuals throughout the Kansas City area.

For one hundred years, United Way of Greater Kansas City has demonstrated a desire to help individuals by uniting companies, local business owners, and neighborhood leaders to address the needs of a continuously growing population. Currently, United Way is focused on raising funds for programs and organizations driven to help individuals and families in need. The funds raised by United Way ensure that local agencies and organizations can help individuals meet their full potential academically, socially, and financially by participating in training and classes designed to help them acquire new skills and support networks. Community projects funded by the organization helped introduce literacy programs such as the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which sends books to children of all ages at no cost. Other partnerships and contributions by United Way include Project Rise, which offers paid internships to young students, free tax services with H&R Block, and support for HIV/AIDS agencies.

In 1926, United Way of Greater Kansas City raised over one million dollars in donations for the first time in the organization's history. Since then, they have continued to host donation and volunteer campaigns to raise additional funds for an array of causes. These funds are distributed to support organizations and agencies providing aid to the people of Kansas City in times of hardship. Primary examples include assisting local agencies during the Great Depression and after the devastating ``Plaza Flood'' of 1977. Moreover, the organization is now focused on improving human capital and cultivating economic innovation through education and enrichment programs. United Way of Greater Kansas City has established themselves as a pillar in our community.

It is my steadfast belief that the philanthropy of this organization has benefitted my constituents tremendously. Their noteworthy contributions to the city reveal an organization founded on empathy. United Way of Greater Kansas City guides individuals to the right person, program, or place when assistance is required. The people of Kansas City, myself included, are grateful to have such a dedicated organization in our neighborhood, focused on addressing community needs.

Mr. Speaker, please join me and all of Missouri's Fifth Congressional District in honoring United Way of Greater Kansas City for their monumental achievement of 100 years of service in the community and their indelible mark on society. I urge all my colleagues and fellow citizens across the country to join me in showing our appreciation to United Way of Greater Kansas City for their dedication to humanitarian service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate Dr. Randall L. O'Donnell as a champion of pediatric health and wellness in the greater Kansas City community for his work in improving the quality of care for children both in the Kansas City region and beyond. In 1897 two sisters, Dr. Alice Berry Graham and Dr. Katharine Berry Richardson, began treating children at no cost to families and without public assistance or donations. What began with the treatment of one little girl soon grew to a dozen children and then to hundreds more. Over 120 years later, Children's Mercy Hospital is a pillar in Missouri's Fifth Congressional District, treating 500,000 children annually and offering exceptional family and childcare services.

In 1993, Dr. O'Donnell became the Chief Executive Officer of Children's Mercy, the region's only pediatric hospital, marking the beginning of a long streak of innovative leadership and remarkable pediatric healthcare services. His desire to help children has significantly contributed to the expansion of the hospital's scope of services. In the last twenty-five years since its inception, Children's Mercy has extended their facilities to Overland Park, nearly doubled the size of their available beds, and expanded the downtown branch.

Throughout his tenure with Children's Mercy, Dr. O'Donnell has been an advocate for research and education. Under his leadership, the nonprofit secured necessary donations to launch the construction of a new nine-story research tower to further study pediatric medicine. It is no surprise that the hospital is recognized as one of the largest employers in the Fifth Congressional District and has become a renowned teaching hospital for students. Moreover, the hospital has earned countless honors and top-rankings such as the 2012, 2013, and 2015 Healthiest Employers Program and fifth in the Top Area Acute-Care General Hospital List. Most importantly, the hospital has a standing reputation locally and nationally for putting children first. Sticking to his personal mantra that ``Children aren't little adults,'' Dr. O'Donnell spearheaded a complete remodel of the hospital's interior design to create a fun, colorful, and welcoming environment for children. Unsurprisingly, from 2014 to 2017, Dr. O'Donnell was named one of the most influential people in the Kansas City community by the Kansas City Business Journal's Power 100.

Furthermore, it is my belief that the dedication and altruism Dr. O'Donnell has given the children and the Kansas City community is worthy of appreciation. His outstanding direction to lead Children's Mercy has solidified the preparedness of the nonprofit for future medical care. His devotion, passion, and hard work are demonstrative of the legacy the Berry sisters had when they founded the hospital. The entire district, myself included, is grateful to have such a distinguished doctor assisting the needs of children and families.

Mr. Speaker, please join me and all of Missouri's Fifth Congressional District in honoring Dr. Randall O'Donnell for twenty-five years of remarkable service as a leader of pediatric medical care. I encourage my fellow citizens across the country and my colleagues in this chamber to join me in showing appreciation to the service Dr. O'Donnell has given our children.

Mr. Speaker, recently, I spent time listening to farmers, large manufacturers, and leaders of smaller companies in my district express their frustrations on how tariffs are affecting their bottom line.

I visited a steel fabrication company, an architectural aluminum design company, and a brewery. Although these companies vary in product, they all shared one common fear: wondering what would be their fate in the presence of these ill-advised tariffs.

I listened to farmers offer feedback on how they are affected. Agriculture is one of Missouri's top industries, bringing in about $88 billion a year. Most farmers tell me that the recently announced USDA payments are helpful, but that, ultimately, in their words, ``we want trade, not aid.''

I met with local chambers of commerce and business councils, and, for those I didn't even have a chance to visit, I created a survey on my website. What I learned is this: These tariffs are deeply damaging to these businesses in ways that those who promoted them perhaps never even contemplated.

Hundreds of thousands of jobs may be in jeopardy because of these tariffs. For example, Harley-Davidson, a company that I was able to bring to Kansas City during my term as mayor, suddenly announced that they were closing the plant and moving overseas. They left nearly 1,000 workers unemployed overnight. Now, just imagine, if you multiply that around the country, what kind of instability has been created.

Mr. Speaker, I hope that this administration will recognize that these tariffs are unstable to the community and then move to end this trade war today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend the Bluford Healthcare Leadership Institute (BHLI) for its remarkable work in training the next generation of health care leaders.

The BHLI is a non-profit professional development program based in Kansas City, Missouri. Currently in its sixth year, BHLI is led by its founder, John W. Bluford, III, President Emeritus of Truman Medical Centers and former Chairman of the American Hospital Association and the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce. The BHLI is developing a pipeline of talented minority leaders that will diversify the ranks of health care leadership and work toward eradicating health care disparities. To date, 87 scholars--as participating students are called--have completed the program; 42 have received their undergraduate degrees, and 37 are working in the health care field.

The BHLI is uniquely tailored for undergraduates primarily from Historically Black Colleges and Universities who aspire to lead health care organizations. The first phase of the program lasts for two weeks and provides the scholars with experiential and didactic training in Kansas City, featuring a cadre of nationally-recognized health care practitioners and policy experts. After successful completion of Phase I, the scholars are placed in paid internships across the nation where they delve more deeply into health care operations and policy.

This summer, 14 Scholars successfully completed Phase I of the program: Chayse Bryant, Jasmine Thomas, and Jehnae Thomas of Florida A&M University; Elijah Evans, Nassir Holden, Alexandria Stanton, and Sikilae White of North Carolina A&T State University; Myles Harris of Fisk University; Antonio Zamudio-Moore of Rockhurst University; Miranda Merritt and Joy Milner of Spelman College and Camila Aponte, Dominique Paje, and Kyle Liggins of the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Two scholars have just completed Phase II--internships here in Washington, D.C. Madison Blagrove of Florida A&M University interned at the Polsinelli law firm's Public Policy division. Madison is a pharmacy major who plans to practice clinical pharmacy upon the completion of her doctoral degree. Vanessa Mendoza of the University of Missouri- Kansas City interned at America's Essential Hospitals (AEH). Vanessa is a Health Sciences major who plans to pursue a master's degree in health policy and law, and then advocate for increased access to health care coverage and preventive services for underserved communities.

Mr. Speaker, I wish to congratulate all the scholars for their hard work this summer and to commend Mr. Bluford for his strong commitment to developing and nurturing the nation's future health care leaders.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and give thanks to a lifelong public servant and deeply valued member of my staff, Mr. John H. Jones. On Friday, September 28, 2018, John will bid his final farewell as my Chief of Staff to pursue opportunities presented through his years-long public service as a congressional staffer. Since his first day on the job in February of 2014, John has overseen operations in my legislative office in Washington, D.C., as well as my district offices in Kansas City, Independence, and Higginsville, Missouri. Over the past four and a half years, John has dedicated his time to serving the people of the Fifth Congressional District of Missouri with the utmost integrity and class. Now is my opportunity to give thanks on behalf of myself and the constituents he has so honorably served.

John was born and raised in northern New Jersey. Following his graduation from high school, John attended Clark Atlanta University, a historically black university, in Atlanta, Georgia. At CAU, John received a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, graduating with honors and Cum Laude. He then attained his Master of Arts in Diplomacy and International Relations as well as Master of Arts in Corporate and Public Communications at Seton Hall University's School of Diplomacy and International Relations. But John's pursuit of higher learning wasn't finished there. Just last year, while serving as my Chief of Staff, John earned his Master of Business Administration from the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management. If ever there was an example of education leading to success, look no further than John Jones.

Professionally, John's first post-grad opportunity came from the distinguished Congressional Black Caucus Foundation as a Legislative Fellow. After his year-long fellowship, John moved to Copenhagen, Denmark to work for the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe as an International Research Fellow. Following two years of working internationally, public service and home came calling.

In 2006, John began his steady climb up the ranks on Capitol Hill, beginning as a Senior Legislative Assistant for my good friend, Congressman Al Green. After a three-year stint focusing on homeland security and energy issues in the House of Representatives, John decided it was time for a move to the upper-chamber, landing a job in 2009 as Director of National Security Policy for current Minority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York. For the next six years, John would focus on a legislative portfolio that included foreign affairs, national security, energy, and homeland security, while also serving as the lead Banking Committee staffer on issues pertaining to economic sanctions along with terrorism and financial intelligence--all the while managing a group of Legislative Aides, Legislative Correspondents, and a Military Fellow to achieve excellence on behalf of Senator Schumer.

Although his portfolio has contained a wide array of issue areas, John is one of a very limited number of people with policy expertise in the intersection between financial services and technology industries. That, along with his litany of accomplishments--both professionally and academically--left me no choice but to make him my Chief of Staff when an opening arose in 2014.

John's first year as my Chief of Staff was a busy one. Following the tragic death of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri in August of 2014-- in an effort to increase transparency of police tactics--I wrote a letter to President Obama, urging the President to secure funding for body cameras and community policing. On February 2, 2015, I announced, and am proud to say, that the President included $22.5 million of funding for body cameras in his FY2016 budget. Over the next four months, John played an integral role in helping me push H. Res. 295-- sponsored by myself and Congressman Al Green--through the House of Representatives. This bill, highlighting a report by the U.S. Department of Justice entitled ``Police Officer Body-Worn Cameras,'' called for support of local law enforcement agencies' use of body-worn cameras, and I'm proud to say it was approved by the House on June 10, 2015.

That same year, I led an effort to close the digital divide within different neighborhoods of Kansas City. The digital divide, at its heart, is an issue that only perpetuates existing social and economic inequality. Again, John played a critical role in urging then-Secretary of the U.S. Department of Urban Housing and Development (HUD) Julian Castro to select Kansas City as one of the demonstration cities for their new ConnectHome digital inclusion program. Yet again, I am proud that Kansas City was chosen to participate and has reaped extensive rewards from its inclusion in the program.

As many of you are aware, I've dedicated much of my time in Congress to promoting social and economic equality while fighting for an end to discrimination on several fronts. In 2016, there were reports of discrimination against African Americans and other minorities who attempted to book rooms on the room-rental company ``Airbnb, Inc.'' John served as the staff-lead in my successful campaign to convince Airbnb to conduct a comprehensive review of discriminatory practices employed by some of its users. In a letter to the company, I urged Airbnb to conduct a review of the accusations, pinpoint how the issue was occurring and put an end to such practices. The CEO, Brian Chesky, responded by hiring former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder to help conduct a thorough review of discrimination within the Airbnb platform. By January

2017, Airbnb had implemented non-discrimination policy changes that made great strides to ensure all consumers are treated equally when using Airbnb services.

Among other efforts to root out racism and discrimination, particularly in the wake of the Unite the Right white supremacist rally in Charlottesville, Virginia in 2017, which was organized on social media, I sent a letter to social media giants Twitter and Facebook, raising questions about diversity issues related to social media platforms. John assisted in leading the congressional effort to convince Facebook to implement standards to curb abusive and hateful on-line content. While there is still much work to be done in eliminating racism and discrimination on social media platforms, I'm happy to say that progress is being made.

I have also consistently supported and fought for the inclusion of minorities in positions of leadership. Last year, with John spearheading my initiative, we were able to persuade the Internet Association--a prominent technology group that represents the interests of some of Silicon Valley's largest companies--to announce a new Diversity and Inclusion Initiative and Director Position aimed at conducting inclusion efforts and confronting the potential challenges of artificial intelligence and algorithms in technology, including financial technology.

During my time in Washington, I have worked diligently to protect American consumers from fraudulent or discriminatory lending practices, and John has played a pivotal role in many of these efforts. Over the past year, John has worked tirelessly to help me provide a report on the lending practices of financial technology companies, otherwise known as FinTech companies. Thanks to his tireless research and outreach to numerous FinTech entities, I was able to release a detailed and revealing report on the small-business lending practices of the rapidly-expanding field of FinTech. Although there is more work to be done, this report was an important step in the right direction to ensuring these relatively new companies are promoting fair lending practices.

The last, but maybe most important, accomplishment I would like to note came in 2015 when I co-authored H.R. 3700, the Housing Opportunities Through Modernization Act. This legislation was a comprehensive housing bill that made long-needed changes to public housing and the Section 8 rental assistance programs, as well as programs within the Federal Housing Authority and Rural Housing Services. With John's help implementing a legislative strategy to manage the bill through the House, I am proud to say it passed with unanimous bipartisan support and was signed into law by President Obama. It was the largest public housing overhaul in three decades, and I could not be more appreciative of John's leadership in shepherding it through the House with unanimous support, something almost unheard of for a bill as extensive and impactful as H.R. 3700.

These are but a drop in the bucket of the various projects, events, and initiatives that John successfully managed while overseeing my congressional office. Since 2014, John has helped me manage everything from navigating legislation through the arduous process of becoming law to implementing communications strategies to investigating and addressing constituent concerns back home. As everyone in this chamber understands, a Member of Congress is only as good as the staff they surround themselves with. I can say, without a doubt in my mind, there is not a single member in this esteemed chamber that wouldn't be extremely fortunate to have John Jones running their office.

Having known John for years now, I can say he is a patriotic, intelligent, and compassionate individual. He's a loving father and as hard-working and caring as they come. As he leaves the halls of Congress for other opportunities, Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing John Jones for his dedication to public service and for all he has accomplished for our great nation. On behalf of the Fifth District of Missouri, thank you.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the University of Central Missouri Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Fighting Mules Battalion's 50th Anniversary. Since its creation in 1968, over 800 cadets have graduated and obtained the rank of second lieutenant. Also known as the University of Central Missouri's Military Science and Leadership Department, the program combines scholarly learning with military training to prepare students from across the country to become officers in the U.S. military.

Through the ROTC program, cadets get hands-on experience with platoon movement and tactical training. They help support local High School Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) and assist with recruiting events. Not only will these cadets be graduating with a commission in the U.S. Army, but they will also leave this program with a sense of honor and pride.

Across the nation the battalion has performed with distinction at events including the Ranger Challenge, Ranger Buddy, and Bataan Memorial Death March. Additionally, the Fighting Mules will be traveling for the first time to Washington, D.C. for the second largest 10-mile race, the Army Ten-Miler in October. Our community takes great pride in the work of the Battalion and cadets like Da'Vontae Hair. Da'Vontae is a constituent, previous intern, and graduate from the historic Truman High School in Independence. Da'Vontae and his fellow cadets raised funds to help the local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2513 in Warrensburg, MO by creating the Annual Patriot 5k Run/Walk.

This program is responsible for the commission of hundreds of distinguished military graduates and is recognized both locally and nationally as a top ROTC Battalion. The Fighting Mules Battalion has produced seven general staff officers. Those who hold this rank represent the top one percent of those who serve in our nation's Armed Forces.

For the past 50 years, the mission of the ``Fighting Mules'' ROTC Battalion has been to select, train, and commission future leaders for the U.S. Army. With over 275 ROTC programs in the United States, I am honored to note that the University of Central Missouri Fighting Mules Battalion is now ranked seventh in the nation. After being ranked 230 just four years ago, this tremendous accomplishment is a great example of the type of transformational leadership provided by Lieutenant Colonel Jason C. Christenson and his cadre team.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in celebrating and recognizing the 50th Anniversary of the Fighting Mules Battalion at the University of Central Missouri. I urge all my colleagues and fellow citizens across the country to join me in showing our appreciation of the Battalion's accomplishments and service.

Mr. Speaker, I regrettably missed votes on Thursday, September 13, 2018. I had intended to vote ``yes'' on rollcall vote 399.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of an event taking place in my district, the Fifth District of Missouri, at the National World War I Museum and Memorial in Kansas City, Missouri. On September 13, 2018, the Concert to Commemorate Sacrifice will take place in remembrance of the immense sacrifice of the Czech, Slovak, and Croatian peoples, as well as the centennial of their independence and an end to the Great War. This concert is provided by a global partnership between the National World War I Museum and Memorial, the Czech and Slovak Club of Greater Kansas City, University of Missouri-- Kansas City Conservatory of Music and Dance, Embassies of the Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, the Republic of Croatia, and the honorary consuls of the Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, and Republic of Croatia in Kansas City, MO and Kansas City, KS.

A plethora of works from the Czech, Slovak, and Croatian lands will be performed under the direction of William A. Everett, the Curators' Distinguished Professor of Musicology at UMKC; guest conductor and pianist, Ivan Pernicki of Zagreb, Croatia; and Music Director, Rick Mikesic. The concert will prominently feature the national anthems of the United States of America and of the Republics of Czech, Slovak, and Croatia, along with works by famed Czech, Slovak, and Croatian composers such as: Fratisek Drdla, Rudolf Friml, Dora Pjacevic, Josip Stolcer-Slavenski, Jan Levoslav Bella, Franjo Markovic, Ivan Zajc and Ludwig van Beethoven.

Furthermore, it is important to note that the valiant service and sacrifice of the Czechoslovak Legion contributed to the formation of a sovereign Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, and Republic of Croatia. The Czechoslovak Legionnaires were an entirely voluntary force of 100,000 strong and their contribution to the war effort spanned many conflicts among every front of the war. I cannot think of a more fitting way to honor the sacrifice of these individuals than by a performance of their adopted battle cry, the ``U boj'', at a concert in their honor, held at a memorial dedicated to all lives lost in World War I.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in commemorating the centennial of the end of World War I and the many military and civilian lives lost in that conflict and recognizing those who have come together for the Concert to Commemorate Sacrifice.