Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the many accomplishments of Mr. Chris Moore. The Fort Wayne Mayor recently proclaimed February 22, 2019, as Chris Moore Day in honor of his more than thirty years of distinguished service to the community.

Since 1989, Chris Moore has worked tirelessly to help his clients reach their financial goals and lead fiscally responsible lives. Chris is regarded as someone who builds a relationship of trust with each of his clients. This is shown in Moore & Associates Mission Statement which states, ``our mission is to build a long-term relationship that is the result of those things money cannot buy: trust, purpose and accomplishment; to become and remain our client's most trusted team of advisors and staff.''

Chris Moore has been a strong advocate and supporter of local charities. He donates his time and resources to ensuring that some of the most vulnerable members in our communities are taken care of. He supports local charities such as Hope House, Shepherd's House, Riley Children's Hospital, and Mad Anthony. He has been a proud sponsor of the Mad Anthony's Children's Foundation since 1995, often a participant in their Pro-Am charity golf outing. He is also a long-term fan, ticket holder, and supporter of local sports including the Fort Wayne Komets, Tincaps, and Mad Ants.

I would like to thank Chris Moore for making our community a better place and congratulate him on this distinguished honor.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the amazing life of Paul Ripley. On February 8, 2019, Mr. Ripley will receive the highest French order of merit for military and civil excellence, the French Legion of Honour. The Legion of Honour was founded by Napoleon Bonaparte as an order of merit for those who serve France and its people with honor.

At the age of 95, Paul Ripley has lived a distinguished life. He was born in Smithton, Missouri, on February 28, 1923, and attended Smithton High School before going to work for a pipe company in Sedalia, Missouri. Paul answered the call to serve his nation during World War II. Upon entering the Army on April 6, 1943, he underwent basic training at Camp Blanding and was later deployed to France with the Ninth United States Army.

Stationed at Army Headquarters near Rennes, Mr. Ripley was assigned to the Graves Registration Division, assisting with the identification and burial of his fallen brethren. He served honorably, ensuring that American servicemembers were buried with dignity and respect. Technician 5th grade Paul Ripley was honorably discharged on November 14, 1945.

After returning home Mr. Ripley attended the University of Tulsa under the G.I. Bill and then entered the nursery products industry, becoming the first entrepreneur to sell products directly to large department stores such as Ames, Target and Sears. This innovation led to the creation of the modern gardening department at many national retailers. He moved his family to Fort Wayne, Indiana, so that he could expand his business and better connect with his clients. Throughout his career, Mr. Ripley received many awards and accolades for his ingenuity and ethics.

I would like to congratulate Paul Ripley and his family on this distinguished honor.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Mr. John Elliott on retiring from his position as Vice President and Senior Trust Officer of 1st Source Bank in Warsaw, Indiana. For nearly fifty years, John has served the northeast Indiana community with distinction as an engaged citizen, cherished friend, and valued trust officer.

John graduated with a business degree from The Ohio State University in 1966, and immediately began his storied career as a trust officer at First National Bank of Warsaw. To further his education, John enrolled at the ABA Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin, as well as the National Graduate Trust School at Northwestern University. John also spent countless hours consuming information at the Warsaw Public Library, with the ultimate goal of providing the best customer service possible.

Using his foundation in academia, John Elliott devoted himself to his clients, ensuring they made sound decisions that would provide future financial security. John built a reputation for honesty, integrity and service. He was known as someone who could be counted on, day or night, to provide exceptional support. When First National Bank was purchased by National City Bank, John partnered with Steve Wessell to open a 1st Source Personal Trust Office where he continued to serve clients with honesty and integrity.

John has held numerous board positions and is a longtime member of the Warsaw Educational Foundation, Right to Life Advisory Board, and the Warsaw Plan Commission. In 2008, John Elliott was awarded the Earnestine M. Raclin Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Warsaw/ Kosciusko County Man of the Year for his service to the community. In 2018, he was awarded Optimist of the Year by the Warsaw Optimist Club.

I wish John, his wife Elaine, and their family all the best in this new chapter of life. Warsaw, Indiana thanks him for over 50 years of dedication and service.

Madam Speaker, I rise today because I believe there is a purpose and a God-given right to every life.

It has been nearly 46 years since the tragic Supreme Court decision of Roe v. Wade, a decision that has denied the inalienable right to life to over 61 million innocent children.

While we mourn the loss of millions of innocent lives, we reflect on the work left to be done. We gather together this week for the March for Life to celebrate the progress of the last 2 years. From the continuation of President Trump's expanded Mexico City policy to the landmark Protect Life Rule, the pro-life movement is making major strides promoting a culture of life in America.

Friday, I will march alongside hundreds of thousands of Americans from all corners of this country in honor of those who never had a chance to march for themselves, but leading the march will be students from Bishop Dwenger High School in my district in Fort Wayne, Indiana, who will be joining us there that day. I can't wait to join them tomorrow as they carry out this honor on The National Mall, and I ask my colleagues to join me as we reaffirm the sacred nature of all life.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Judge Paul R. Cherry on retiring from his position as Magistrate Judge of the United States District Court of the Northern District of Indiana. Judge Cherry graduated from Huntington University in 1973 and obtained his J.D. from Ohio Northern University School of Law in 1977. He began his distinguished legal career in private practice from 1978-1988 and was elected as the DeKalb County Prosecuting Attorney three years later. Judge Cherry went on to become a DeKalb County Circuit Court Judge and on October 1, 2003, he was appointed to the United States Court of the Northern District of Indiana as a Magistrate Judge.

Judge Cherry has had a distinguished career on the bench and has helped to keep our community safe. He has tried two capital cases, numerous drug related cases, and conducted his hearings in a fair and professional manner. In his spare time Judge Cherry is a member of several bar associations and has served as an adjunct faculty member at Huntington University, Calumet College, and Valparaiso Law School.

I applaud Judge Cherry on all his accomplishments and thank him for a lifetime of service to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (S. 3530) to reauthorize the Museum and Library Services Act.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on S. 3530.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of S. 3530, the Museum and Library Services Act of 2018.

The Institute of Museum and Library Services was first established through the Museum and Library Services Act of 1996 to coordinate our Federal museum and library programs.

The majority of the funding that the IMLS receives supports the Library Grants to States Program. This specific program provides population-based formula grants to improve library services according to each State's 5-year plan. It also provides funding for library and museum services and professional development for library and museum professionals and aspiring professionals through competitive grants.

The Museum and Library Services Act of 2018 reauthorizes the IMLS and the programs under the law through fiscal year 2025 and authorizes level funding for 6 years equal to the amounts in current law.

The legislation also provides key reforms to the IMLS and its programs. S. 3530 updates provisions of the law to reflect the evolving role of libraries and museums in our society. It recognizes libraries as community hubs equipped to serve community needs, and the legislation highlights the unique educational role that museums play.

The bill increases the set-asides for services for Native Americans and codifies a museum professional development program in a way that mirrors the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program.

Lastly, the legislation puts an emphasis on the needs of rural communities and funds activities that will serve geographically diverse areas.

This is commonsense reauthorization legislation that affirms the important role that libraries and museums play in our communities.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from North Carolina (Ms. Foxx).

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, this bill is commonsense reauthorization legislation. I urge my colleagues to support S. 3530 and affirm the important role that libraries and museums play in our communities.

I yield back the balance of my time

Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mayor Norm Yoder of Auburn, Indiana who announced his intent to retire next year. A native of DeKalb County, Mayor Yoder graduated from DeKalb High School in 1967 and received a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from Purdue University in 1972. Mayor Yoder then returned to his beloved DeKalb County and started several businesses, including Yoder & Yoder Concrete & Construction and Auburn Skatin' Station. He joined the Auburn Board of Public Works in 1990 and served on the Eckhart Public Library Board from 1992 to 1999.

In 2000, Norm Yoder was elected by the people of Auburn to serve as mayor and has since been reelected five times. During his time in office, Mayor Yoder enacted several policies that positively impacted his fellow citizens. He led the revitalization of downtown into a thriving small-town commerce center and oversaw the development of Rieke Park. Mayor Yoder created Auburn Essential Services, a local provider of telecommunication services, so that the citizens of Auburn could join the information revolution. Mayor Yoder will leave Auburn a more prosperous community, and his leadership will long be remembered.

I wish Mayor Yoder, his wife Peg and his family the very best as he moves on to the next chapter of his life. Our community will miss his leadership and dedication.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Brooks Construction Company of Fort Wayne, Indiana. Brooks Construction recently received the HIRE Vets Medallion Program award. The HIRE Vets program, administered by the Department of Labor, recognizes businesses for their commitment to recruiting, employing and retaining veterans. Brooks Construction was recently awarded a gold medal in the medium employer category.

Brooks Construction Company was founded in 1909 by John Foster Brooks and has served our community well for over a century. Today, Brooks Construction is a leader in road construction and repair in northeast Indiana. In addition to its commitment to our veterans, Brooks Construction has supported many local charities and organizations in the greater Fort Wayne area.

I applaud Brooks Construction Company for its commitment to our veterans. As a member of the House Veterans Affairs committee and a veteran myself, I am pleased to see northeast Indiana embracing the unique skills that our veterans bring to the workforce. I applaud the efforts of companies like Brooks Construction to hire the men and women that have given so much to serve our nation. Congratulations to Brooks Construction Company and I thank them for their commitment to our veterans and our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Koesters Body & Frame Shop of Fort Wayne, Indiana. Koesters Body & Frame Shop recently received the HIRE Vets Medallion Program award. The HIRE Vets program, administered by the Department of Labor, recognizes businesses for their commitment to recruiting, employing and retaining veterans. Koesters Body & Frame Shop was recently awarded a gold medal in the small employer category.

Koesters Body & Frame Shop was founded in 1970 by Steve Koester and has grown into a thriving body and frame business. Today, Koesters is a leader in automotive repair and body work in northeast Indiana, with over 50 employees and a state of the art facility.

I applaud Koesters Body & Frame Shop for its commitment to our veterans. As a member of the House Veterans Affairs committee and a veteran myself, I am pleased to see northeast Indiana embracing the unique skills that our veterans bring to the workforce. I applaud the efforts of companies like Koesters to hire the men and women who have given so much to serve our nation. Congratulations to Koesters Body & Frame Shop, and I thank them for their commitment to our veterans and our community.

Mr. Speaker, congratulations to Paul and Mary Kate Mullin on the birth of their daughter, Kathryn Esther Mullin, on September 30, 2018 at 9:30 p.m. in Indianapolis, Indiana. The newest addition to a long line of Hoosiers, her maternal grandparents are Patrick Mulligan, a farmer, and Marilyn Marra, a retired school principal. Marilyn now resides in Fishers, Indiana with her husband Ronan. Patrick still resides in Kentland with his wife Tansey Mulligan. Kathryn's father, Paul Owen Mullin, is a partner at the venerable litigation-boutique firm

Lewis And Wilkins in Indianapolis. Indianapolis Monthly characterized Paul last month as a long-time supporter of the city's art community. Kathryn's paternal grandparents are Pat and Val Mullin, retired, and residents of Nashville, Indiana. Pat had a career in sales and Val was a high school English teacher. Kathryn's maternal great-grandfather, Charles Richard Paul, 96 years old, originally from Evansville, is still an active stockbroker and will be teaching Kathryn the importance of trading with puts and calls starting in a few years. Although she does not realize it yet, Kathryn's best friend is Noor, the family dog. I congratulate the entire Mullin family on the birth of Kathryn and wish her a long, happy life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 107th National Day of the Republic of China. National Day, known as 10- 10, commemorates the Wuchang Uprising of 1911 and the revolution that followed. The Wuchang Uprising was the first event in a monumental revolution that reshaped China. Dr. Sun Yatsen led the Chinese nationalists to victory and went on to create a republic grounded in the same principles as our own.

Today, the National Day of the Republic of China is the celebration of a free and democratic Republic of China. Taiwan is a global leader in commerce, technology and innovation and has helped power the technological revolution of the 21st century. Over the last 107 years, the United States has developed deep connections with the Republic of China. The Republic of China has been a steadfast ally of the United States, assisting operations in World War II and Vietnam. At a time of increasing strategic competition, the FY 19 NDAA passed by this Congress seeks to increase our strong ties with Taiwan by increasing security cooperation. Trade is an additional area of cooperation between the United States and the Republic of China. In fact, Taiwan is one of the largest markets for soybeans grown in northeast Indiana.

I wish the people of the Republic of China a happy 107th National Day, and I know that the bonds of friendship between us will continue to flourish.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Hana Stith. Hana was a fixture in the greater Fort Wayne area and played an integral role in unifying our community.

A truly dedicated citizen of Fort Wayne, Hana devoted her life to the service of others and to the preservation of history. As one of the first African American teachers hired by Fort Wayne Community Schools, Hana was a trailblazer. She took it upon herself to ensure a brighter future for those who would follow her. She refused to leave any child behind and took the time to give attention to students struggling with reading and math.

In addition to preparing children for the future, she worked to help ensure that her community did not forget the past. As a co-founder of the African/African American Historical Society of Allen County, she worked tirelessly to preserve the heritage of all citizens in the greater Fort Wayne community.

Her pioneering efforts with the Fair Housing Group, the Panel of American Women, and the Fort Wayne Board of Safety, reminds us all that one individual truly can make a difference in the lives of those around them. Throughout her entire life, she remained steadfast in her faith as a member of the Turner Chapel A.M.E. Church, director of the Commission on Christian Education, and a longtime Sunday School instructor.

Hana Stith spent her life aiding, educating, and inspiring others. Her impact on Fort Wayne will continue to be felt for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of northeast Indiana broadcasting icon, Charly Butcher.

For decades, thousands of northeast Indiana residents would start their mornings with Charly, a beloved radio anchor on WOWO's morning news program.

His talent and ability to speak directly through the radio and into the home or car of each listener was unparalleled. Though he could have become a radio fixture anywhere in the country, Charly chose to stay in Fort Wayne and broadcast locally for more than 30 years.

I was fortunate to get to know Charly both on and off the air, but our off-the-air conversations are what I will cherish the most. He was passionate about education, as his wife Sarah is an elementary schoolteacher, and we would often discuss my work on the House Education and the Workforce Committee.

While our entire region mourns his loss, his irreplaceable voice will live on for generations to come. I offer my deepest condolences to his wife Sarah, three children, and colleagues at WOWO.

Mr. Speaker, I thank you for allowing me time to remember Charly and to honor his legacy.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Whitley County Councilman Glen Larue. For 20 years, Councilman Larue has represented Columbia Township. Additionally, Glen has served as dispatcher for the Whitley County Sheriff's Department and as a Columbia City volunteer fireman. I had the honor of serving with Councilman Larue in 2009 and 2010 and I saw firsthand his dedication and commitment to public service. I wish him the best as he begins the next chapter of his life. Whitley County and Columbia Township will miss his leadership and commitment to public service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Bluffton Mayor Ted Ellis who recently announced his retirement after more than two decades of distinguished service. A native of Bluffton, Mayor Ellis has been a fixture in his community for many years. He served nine years on the Wells County Council before being elected Mayor in 1995.

Mayor Ellis is one of the longest serving mayors in Indiana history and is known for his commitment to his community and the Hoosier state. In fact, the Governor of Indiana recognized Mayor Ellis' contributions by naming him a ``Sagamore of the Wabash,'' Indiana's highest civilian honor. Mayor Ellis also was honored by the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns with the Russell Lloyd Award for his ``outstanding contributions to local government.''

I want to congratulate Mayor Ellis, his wife Marge, and his family on an exceptional career and I wish him an enjoyable retirement.