Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate 50 years of Penn State's Ag Progress Days.

As one of the top agricultural events in the Commonwealth, this event reflects Pennsylvania's deep agricultural roots and commitment to innovation.

What began as traveling field days in the late 1800s, this event has evolved into one of Pennsylvania's largest agricultural expositions. Each summer, farmers, researchers, students, businesses, and families gather to witness the cutting-edge innovation driving the industry forward.

In Pennsylvania, agriculture is not just an industry, but a way of life, and Ag Progress Days represents the very best of this industry. Every year, the hard work of our producers is highlighted through more than 800 exhibits, ensuring the next generation has the tools to keep Pennsylvania agriculture thriving.

As we celebrate this anniversary, we honor the people whose dedication has shaped Ag Progress Days and made it a lasting tradition.

Congratulations on 50 years of progress supporting rural communities and growing Pennsylvania's future.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ambassador Cindy McCain who retired earlier this month as Executive Director of the World Food Programme.

Since 2023, Ambassador McCain has guided the World Food Programme through periods of international need and provided support to countless men, women, and children.

During her three years at the helm of the U.N. Agency, she helped strengthen the organization's ability to respond to global crises and ensure life-saving assistance reached our most vulnerable communities.

Ambassador McCain reinforced the program's role as one of the front- runners in humanitarian food assistance.

As we recognize the extraordinary contributions of the World Food Programme, it is important to underscore that its work is not only vital to global food security but has helped support American agriculture.

The World Food Programme's mission and American agriculture have had a longstanding partnership. Ambassador McCain understood the importance of this relationship and strengthened that connection, ensuring global humanitarian efforts remain closely linked to our Nation's agriculture industry. American farmers and producers play a vital role in helping feed the world, and food assistance programs supported by the World Food Programme help deliver American-grown commodities to communities facing hunger and instability.

Through programs like Food for Peace, American-grown commodities such as wheat, rice, beans, and vegetable oil are purchased from U.S. producers and delivered to those in need.

This partnership not only sustains lives abroad but also supports rural economies here at home. This collaboration between the World Food Programme and American farmers provides a reliable and consistent market for our Nation's producers, helping stabilize commodity prices and support livelihoods across the country. In doing so, it strengthens individual farm operations as well as the broader rural economies that depend on agriculture.

Beyond food assistance relief, these efforts build global relationships and open international markets. Our farmers who deliver high-quality American products to communities worldwide, help lay the foundation for future trade, establishing economic partnerships that will benefit U.S. agriculture for years to come.

In partnership with the World Food Programme, American farmers work tirelessly to feed not only their neighbors but those in need across the world. Our farmers strengthen our economy while helping others.

Mr. Speaker, I applaud Ambassador McCain for her commitment to addressing global hunger and helping support American farmers. On behalf of a grateful Nation, I thank Ambassador McCain for her leadership. May God Bless her and may God bless the United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the State College Farmers' Market which celebrates 50 years of service this year.

Since the mid-1970s, the farmers' market has been a State College staple, bringing together local businesses, families, and Penn State students.

Started by a dozen local farmers, the market has stayed true to its original mission: to provide people with fresh, local foods while supporting Pennsylvania farmers.

For five decades, the market evolved to offer a variety of products, influenced by Centre County's growing population and Penn State's large student body.

Vendors have continued bringing old-time favorites like maple syrup and pies, while introducing new goods like cider doughnuts. A handful of vendors have been selling local favorites since the market's earliest years, showing up every weekend to sell their goods.

Mr. Speaker, the State College Farmers' Market exemplifies the importance of Pennsylvania farms, the value of small businesses, and the influence of community.

As we celebrate this milestone, let us look ahead to the next 50 years and keep this community tradition thriving.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ed Sheehan, president and CEO of Concurrent Technologies Corporation. Ed will retire this week, leaving a position he has committed many years to.

For more than three decades, Ed's commitment to excellence has helped CTC become a leader in applied scientific research and development. In his position, he has helped foster a culture of innovation and collaboration, strengthening the company and its workforce.

Ed's leadership extends well beyond CTC, having served as chair and on the board of directors of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, the United Way of Pennsylvania, and president of the Pennsylvania Society.

Ed also served as a member of the Pennsylvania State Board of Education for 5 years. Mr. Speaker, I applaud Ed for his role in supporting the Commonwealth's students and teachers.

It has been a privilege to get to know Ed and his wife, Julie, over the years. He is a great community leader and an even better friend. I congratulate Ed on his retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the bicentennial of the Rogers Family Farm in Menard County, Illinois.

Founded in 1826, this farm is still operated by the Rogers family, making seven generations of stewardship. This family heritage includes Samuel Rogers, who serves on my staff as counsel for the House Agriculture Committee.

The Rogers family settled around New Salem, Illinois, the community that helped shape President Abraham Lincoln's early life. The family's founding patriarch cast his votes for Lincoln. In one extraordinary surviving affidavit, Lincoln himself signed Samuel Rogers' name, an enduring testament to the civic trust that bound citizens together.

Frontier families like the Rogers family didn't just build farms. They built schools, townships, church communities, and civic networks that helped form the ground for Lincoln's political identity and the principles of the modern Republican Party,

That same spirit lives on today in their descendants, including Samuel and his brother, Benjamin, a current University of Illinois veterinary medical student.

Mr. Speaker, today, we honor the Rogers family and, through them, the enduring strength of the American community. I congratulate the Rogers family on this milestone.

Mr. Speaker, due to an unforeseen absence on account of illness, I was unable to vote yesterday, June 23, 2026. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 223, and YEA on Roll Call No. 224.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Darrell Owens, who will serve as U.S. representative to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe.

Ambassador Owens, a proud Erie, Pennsylvania, native, began working on Capitol Hill in the early 2000s and joined my office during my first term. As my military legislative assistant, Ambassador Owens put his head down and got to work on day one, advancing our legislative priorities and making sure that we met the needs of our constituents and servicemembers.

Ambassador Owens knows what servicemembers need because he stood with them. Along with his time in Washington, D.C., he served as a commissioned officer in the United States Army Reserve. He knows what it means to meet people right where they are.

Prior to his nomination, he served as a Senior Adviser in the Office of Congressional and Legislative Affairs at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Ambassador Owens has remained grounded in his commitment to service and his love for country.

Mr. Speaker, Ambassador Owens is exactly the type of person we want representing the United States overseas. May God bless him, and I wish him the very best.

Speaker, I rise today to highlight National Forest Week celebrated earlier this month. This week is an opportunity for us to celebrate the beauty of our national forests.

I am proud to represent the Allegheny National Forest, the only national forest in Pennsylvania.

Whether it is forestry, energy production, timber harvesting, or an abundance of outdoor activities, the Allegheny National Forest has it all.

For generations, the Allegheny National Forest has brought economic prosperity to the region.

This month I was proud to introduce the Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act with Representative Andrea Salinas of Oregon. This bipartisan legislation provides incentives for the use of mass timber building materials in Federal contracting, giving timber and other forest products companies the ability to compete for construction, renovation, or acquisition of public buildings, and for military construction.

The Mass Timber Federal Buildings Act is a clear step in the right step. It ensures we continue to support the Allegheny National Forest, rural communities, and businessowners.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan legislation and support our Nation's timber industry and forests.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight the 56th Annual Pennsylvania Special Olympics Games and the incredible athletes and volunteers who help make this event so special.

Established in 1970, the Pennsylvania Special Olympics provides children and adults with intellectual disabilities with the opportunity to compete in sports.

Since its founding, the competition has grown every year. This year, more than 1,000 volunteers made the event possible.

Last week, 1,400 athletes from across the Commonwealth competed in various events, such as tennis, swimming, and basketball. Top athletes from last weekend's events will be invited to Minnesota later in the month, representing Pennsylvania in the National Special Olympics.

The competition kicked off Thursday evening at Medlar Park when the Special Olympics torch was lit. These games are not just about sports but help participants build existing skills, develop confidence, and foster friendships that last a lifetime.

This annual event brings thousands of spectators to Centre County each year, demonstrating Pennsylvania's strong communities.

Mr. Speaker, I commend every athlete, coach, family member, and volunteer whose dedication made this fantastic event possible.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 82nd anniversary of the Allied D-day invasion of France.

On June 6, 1944, thousands of American soldiers stormed the beaches of Normandy to defend the freedoms and liberties that we hold dear. As General Dwight Eisenhower said: ``The eyes of the world are upon you.''

D-day reflects the courage of the brave men who landed in France and their sense of duty to protect our country. This past Saturday was a solemn reminder of the more than 6,000 U.S. soldiers we lost. Their sacrifice reshaped the course of history.

In 2018, I had the honor of attending the wreath-laying ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery in France. Standing upon those hallowed grounds was a reminder that freedom is never free.

Mr. Speaker, let us take this moment to remember and honor those who sacrificed so much for so many. May we honor the selflessness and commitment to country. Their impact has been felt for generations and will always be remembered.

God bless our troops and this Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for sponsoring this Special Order hour, recognizing my dear friend, Bill Posey. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for this opportunity.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to share a few words about my dear friend, former Congressman Bill Posey.

Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a friend to many. He dedicated more than 20 years to public service in this Chamber and as a Florida State legislator.

Bill's reputation as a Florida legislator was one of a changemaker. As the Florida Governor noted: Bill Posey earned a reputation in the Florida legislature as a principled conservative, a problem-solver, and a pioneer in government transparency and accountability, serving in both the Florida House from 1992 to the year 2000, and in the Florida Senate from 2000 to 2008. He was widely respected for constituent service and principled leadership.

Bill and I were first elected to Congress in 2009. It was really during the November orientation after the election that I found my friend, when we were sitting in new Congress Member school, basically. That was also the same time that my wife, Penny, and Katie started a relationship as dear friends that continues to this day. They both quickly became dear friends.

Bill was a mentor, helping me to find my legislative feet, as someone who had never served in the State legislature. He and his wife, Katie, helped Penny and I navigate life in Washington, D.C. He truly was an esteemed colleague who was unwavering in his commitment to American values.

Bill's love for Katie was undeniable. Katie and my wife Penny continue to be the closest of friends.

Bill served on the Committee on Financial Services and the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, fitting for a man who represented Florida's Space Coast and one who spent part of his career working at the Kennedy Space Center.

I remember fondly his personal tour of Cape Canaveral and his pride in sharing the behind-the-scenes tour of the industry, from the launchpad to the rubber room.

During a personal visit to Florida, Penny and I spent time with Bill and Katie at their church camp for a couple's faith retreat. The messages were inspiring, and the fellowship was outstanding.

I was troubled by the fact that they actually swam and canoed in water shared by alligators. I guess that is a Florida thing, definitely not a Pennsylvania thing.

I had the opportunity to experience firsthand Bill's passion for racing, a.k.a., driving fast. I rode with Bill in his muscle car to a local car show, and that is a ride I will not soon forget.

Bill poured his heart into all he did. He served with dignity and humility. His character and his wisdom will be sorely missed. He was a patriot. He was a conservative. He was a family man. He was a man of faith, and he was my friend.

I find comfort in knowing that he was welcomed into the arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Penny and I will be attending a memorial and celebrating Bill's life this coming Saturday in Florida.

Mr. Speaker, may God bless Bill's loved ones. I thank the gentleman from Florida.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember retired Centre County Judge David Grine, who passed away in May at the age of 81.

From an early age, David dedicated his life to public service, enlisting in the Army following his graduation from State College Area High School, and he later served as a police officer.

A proud Penn State alumnus, David earned a bachelor's degree and later graduated from the Dickinson Law School.

In the late seventies, he served as Centre County District Attorney and was a judge of the Centre County Court of Common Pleas. From 2008 to 2012, he served as president judge and was appointed senior judge status in 2021.

In his final retention vote in 2011, more than 85 percent of Centre County

voters said he deserved another 10-year term.

David is survived by Karen Grine, his wife of 55 years; his two children; and his four grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, David was a mentor to generations of aspiring attorneys and judges and leaves behind an enduring legacy of public service in Centre County. God bless David and his family.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Melissa Kunes, who is retiring from Penn State after 40 years of steadfast service.

Melissa's journey at Penn State began in the early 1990s when she started working in the University's agricultural sciences extension office.

After earning her master's degree in counselor education in 1993, Melissa worked in the Office of Student Aid. Throughout her tenure, she served the university in various capacities before becoming the assistant vice president and executive director for student aid in 2018.

In this role, Melissa has advocated for financial aid funding; implemented LionPATH, the University's student information system; and collaborated with multiple State organizations, like the Pennsylvania Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators.

Melissa and her colleagues have been responsible for administering more than $1.5 billion in financial aid. Over the years, she has helped countless Penn State students attend the university, creating future opportunities in an array of careers.

Madam Speaker, I applaud Melissa for her constant support at Penn State. I congratulate Melissa on this milestone.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the Bellefonte High School and Middle School majorette teams, which both secured multiple State titles at the Pennsylvania State Baton Twirling Championships.

At the competition, both the high school and middle school teams were named the 2026 Pennsylvania Open and State Halftime Show Twirl Team winners.

Both programs have a history of winning area and State championships, and their recent success is a direct reflection of their dedication and hard work over the past year.

Mr. Speaker, I commend Bellefonte High School majorette captain Breanna Dickey, who has been selected as the next featured twirler at Indiana

University. This upcoming football season, Breanna will lead the university's marching band on the field.

She first picked up a baton at age 4 and has won multiple State and national twirling titles and has competed internationally.

I congratulate Breanna.

Mr. Speaker, I applaud the high school and middle school majorettes for their great achievement. I thank them for representing Bellefonte and the local community so well.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Cindy Hahn, executive director of C-NET Centre County.

C-NET, a local not-for-profit television and media organization, broadcasts more than 500 government and educational programs annually.

After 20 years of service, Cindy will retire on May 31. She has been fundamental in connecting community members with public information.

Cindy joined C-NET in 2006 and quickly expanded their media offerings, increasing broadcasting capabilities to Bellefonte, State College, and the surrounding townships.

Over the years, she has seen C-NET's internal infrastructure develop. From VHS to live streaming, the group continues to be a resource for thousands of residents.

As C-NET's longest standing employee, Cindy has kept residents informed and provided transparency to the region's current affairs.

Mr. Speaker, I applaud Cindy's commitment to connecting the public with local officials.

She is a mentor to so many, including various Penn State communications students who have interned at C-NET.

I congratulate Cindy on this milestone and thank her for her years of service.