Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Dr. David J. Skorton, who has announced his retirement as President and CEO of the Association of American Medical Colleges effective in June 2027.

Since his appointment in 2019, Dr. Skorton's leadership at the AAMC has been marked by a deep commitment to advancing academic medicine, strengthening the physician workforce, training the next generation of caregivers, and improving the health of patients and communities across the country.

Dr. Skorton believes that the best path forward for medical practitioners is to possess a clear-eyed view of existing challenges and recognize that more must be done to improve the health of people everywhere.

Early during his tenure, Dr. Skorton guided AAMC through the COVID-19 pandemic, helping to bring attention to shortages of personal protective equipment in hospitals and testing shortages in academic laboratories.

Prior to joining AAMC, Dr. Skorton was the 13th Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution and president of both Cornell University and the University of Iowa. As Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, Dr. Skorton oversaw 19 museums, 21 libraries, the National Zoo, numerous research centers, and several education units and centers.

Dr. Skorton's background as a physician and researcher provided the foundation for his career as an academician and university administrator. As a leader in higher education, Dr. Skorton set a tone of accessibility, consultation, and compassion.

An avid musician who plays the flute and saxophone, Dr. Skorton is an ardent and nationally recognized supporter of the arts and humanities.

On behalf of constituents throughout the 13th Congressional District, I express gratitude to Dr. Skorton for his distinguished and impactful contributions to society and extend to him best wishes for a wonderful retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ostomy Awareness Day, which will be observed on Saturday, October 3, 2026.

An ostomy can be a difficult and deeply personal journey, but for many, it is also a second chance at life. Ostomy surgery can provide a path forward for individuals facing serious illnesses and conditions, including colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, traumatic injuries, and other medical challenges. These procedures can be lifesaving and allow individuals to return to their families, workplaces, communities, and the activities they love.

Yet too often, people living with an ostomy face misunderstanding, stigma, and unnecessary barriers. Ostomy Awareness Day provides an opportunity to educate the public, dispel misconceptions, and remind us that an ostomy does not define a person or diminish their quality of life.

In Pennsylvania, approximately 32,500 people are living with an ostomy. Their stories demonstrate the strength of those who continue to live full and meaningful lives after significant medical challenges.

Families, caregivers, physicians, nurses, certified ostomy nurse specialists, and other health care professionals also deserve recognition for the care and support they provide to those living with an ostomy.

On Ostomy Awareness Day, we celebrate the resilience of the ostomy community and recognize the medical advances and dedicated professionals who make these life-saving surgeries possible.

On behalf of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing October 3, 2026, as Ostomy Awareness Day.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Jeff Long for his selection as the recipient of the Kiwanis Club of Altoona's Distinguished Citizen Award.

The award is given in recognition of major contributions to the betterment of society and advancement of the Altoona area.

With nearly 50 years of achievement in the construction industry, including development of the popular Graystone properties, Jeff has generously supported numerous charitable and nonprofit organizations throughout the communities where he lives and works.

Impressively, Jeff measures success by the people he has helped, the communities that he has built and strengthened, and the opportunities that he has created for so many others.

As a businessman and community volunteer, Jeff has truly devoted his life to investing in Central Pennsylvania.

On behalf of constituents throughout Blair County and the entire 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Jeff Long on this prestigious award and thank him for his contributions to the community.

Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize Donna Mills of Hesston on her election as the national president of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary.

A life member of the Standing Stone VFW Post 1754 in Huntingdon, Donna has served the VFW Auxiliary in numerous roles, including auxiliary, district, and department president.

Donna joined the organization at the age of 16 on the eligibility of her grandfather, who had served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Her commitment to the VFW Auxiliary is exemplary.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of constituents throughout Huntingdon County and the entire 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Donna on her election to this impactful leadership position.

Honoring Judge Patrick Jones

Mr. Speaker, it is with sorrow that I rise to honor the life and public service of Pat Jones, who recently passed away at his farm in Logan Township.

Pat served as a magisterial district judge for 39 years in Blair County. Most recently, he was elected to his first term as the Logan Township supervisor in 2019.

A United States Marine Corps veteran, Pat has been described as a proud public servant who worked hard to ensure that the justice system continued meeting aspirational goals.

Mr. Speaker, as we pause to remember Pat's legacy of leadership and service, we also remember his family and keep them in our prayers. Join me in honoring the memory of Judge Pat Jones.

Recognizing Newry Lutheran Church of Blair County

Mr. Speaker, with appreciation I rise to recognize Newry Lutheran Church of Blair County on the 225th anniversary of its founding.

This milestone commemorates more than two centuries of faithful worship, Christian service, and ministry within the Newry community and beyond.

Founded in 1801, Newry Lutheran Church has served generations of individuals and families through worship, education, outreach, and compassionate care.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of everyone in the 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Reverend Marty Jo Irvin-Stellabotte and the entire Newry Lutheran congregation on their 225th anniversary milestone and express my gratitude for the many ways that the church serves the community.

Recognizing Elizabeth Schlusser

Mr. Speaker, with respect and admiration, I rise to recognize Elizabeth Schlusser of Newville for her induction into the Pennsylvania Voter Hall of Fame.

Induction into the Hall of Fame acknowledges and honors individuals who have voted in at least 50 consecutive November elections. The Voter Hall of Fame was established in 1986 and includes more than 25,000 voters statewide who were inducted over the last four decades.

As America continues to celebrate our semiquincentennial of our founding as a free and independent Republic, we take collective pride in our Nation's role as a global defender of democratic ideals, including the rights of citizens to vote in free and fair elections.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the constituents throughout the 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Elizabeth on this remarkable patriotic distinction and thank her for a level of civic engagement that is a true inspiration to all Pennsylvanians.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize high school students Jesi Jetnarayan and Will Davis of Franklin County for achieving a special distinction during their successful trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

By reaching the over 19,000-foot summit of Mount Kilimanjaro on August 1, Jesi and Will are believed to be the youngest high school students in the history of Franklin County to achieve this remarkable feat.

Both seniors this year at Shalom Christian Academy, this achievement is a testament to Jesi and Will's spirit of adventure, personal endurance, and will to succeed.

The team of hikers that accompanied Jesi and Will on their climb were their fathers, Vishal Jetnarayan and Ben Davis.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the constituents throughout Franklin County and the entire 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Jesi and Will on this outstanding achievement and express best wishes as they climb future mountains.

Recognizing Morrisons Cove Rotary Club

Mr. Speaker, it is with respect and admiration I rise today to recognize the Morrisons Cove Rotary Club for 100 years of service to the community.

Founded in 1926, the organization is part of an international network of clubs that is dedicated to humanitarian service and community support.

Over the years, support from the Morrisons Cove Rotary Club has benefited numerous community organizations as well as local school districts.

It has been estimated that the club has contributed more than $1.5 million to community projects.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of everyone in Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I express gratitude to all former and current members of the Morrisons Cove Rotary Club.

Recognizing Lisa Kozorosky

Mr. Speaker, it is with gratitude that I rise to recognize the public service of Lisa Kozorosky, who recently retired as Cambria County treasurer.

Lisa was employed by the county for 26 years, including the past 14 in the elected position of treasurer. She also served as a member of the Cambria County Retirement Board.

While acknowledging her vital role in county government, colleagues have praised Lisa for her outstanding work ethic and her dedication.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of constituents throughout the 13th Congressional District, I thank Lisa for her faithful public service for the residents of Cambria County and express best wishes for a wonderful retirement.

Recognizing William Swartzwelder

Mr. Speaker, it is with deep appreciation that I rise to recognize William Swartzwelder of Breezewood for an extraordinary record of public service that spans over seven decades.

As a volunteer firefighter, Bill followed the example of his parents and joined the Breezewood Volunteer Fire Company in 1956. He has filled a variety of leadership roles over the years.

A regular participant in Monday night work sessions, fundraising activities, and other fire company-related functions, Bill, actually to this date, continues to attend monthly meetings, where he serves on various committees.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the constituents throughout Bedford County and the entire 13th Congressional District, I personally thank Bill for his outstanding commitment to the Breezewood Volunteer Fire Company and congratulate him on this remarkable milestone of public service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to mourn the loss of Michael ``Mouse'' Malligan, and celebrate his impactful life, which touched so many.

Michael was a proud Penn State employee for 35 years. He was also a devoted fan of Penn State and Pittsburgh sports, and never missed a chance to follow local teams.

Michael's greatest impact on the community came through coaching. As early as age 19, Michael demonstrated a passion for coaching. The desire to mentor and impart his knowledge of sport carried through the playing years of his three sons.

Over the years, Michael touched the lives of countless young athletes as a coach in parochial league basketball, Little League, and Federation baseball. Like so many others in our community, I was fortunate to have ``Mouse'' as both a coach and a mentor during my youth.

As a husband, father, grandfather, coach, and friend, Michael will be remembered for the love and dedication that he poured into everyone around him.

As we pause to remember Michael's immeasurable impact and influence, we also keep his wife of 47 years, Mary, and all his family in our prayers.

Please join me in honoring the life of Michael, lovingly known as Mouse. While we will miss him, our lives are better for having known him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Tommy Nagle of Patton, Cambria County, as the new President of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau.

The 10th president in the history of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, Tommy owns and operates an incredible farm that includes Angus beef cattle and acres dedicated to corn and soybeans.

Tommy has held several leadership positions within the Farm Bureau over the past decade. He served on the Cambria County Farm Bureau Board of Directors, including a stint as county president, and later spent three years on the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau State Board before being elected vice president.

Tommy possesses a wealth of knowledge, professional experience, and public service leadership that will enhance his impact as a passionate advocate and vital resource for agricultural producers throughout Pennsylvania.

On behalf of constituents throughout Cambria County and the entire 13th Congressional District, I express best wishes to Tommy for success in fulfilling his strategic vision for the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau and thank him for his leadership and service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Gerald Culbertson of Newburg, Franklin County, for his remarkable public display of patriotism, love of country, and support for Veterans.

In celebration of America's 250th anniversary, Gerald created what he believes to be one of the largest painted American flags in the country. The flag spans 190,000 square feet across a hillside along Burnt Mill Road.

Employed at Letterkenny Army Depot, Gerald said that his late father Wayne Culbertson was a primary source of inspiration for the project. Gerald stated, ``My father was always patriotic. He loved the Fourth of July, and I wanted to do something special.''

To complete the project, Gerald used more than 415 gallons of paint. He relied exclusively on hand measurements, foregoing GPS equipment, lasers, and computerized guidance. The flag's stripes are 23 feet wide, and the stars are 18 feet in length.

After nearly three months of field preparation and maintenance, Gerald devoted nearly four and a half days to painting the field. He received assistance from several family members.

Gerald was hopeful that President Trump would have an opportunity to view the flag as he flew to Carlisle for the Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit.

On behalf of constituents throughout Franklin County and the entire 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Gerald on the fulfillment of his vision for the project and thank him for becoming a source of inspiration in his own right.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Harry Mullins of Williamsburg, Pennsylvania, for his selection as the recipient of the Norma Jean Shanholtz Community Service Award presented by the Williamsburg Civic Club.

The award honors individuals who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to Williamsburg Borough through dedicated community service.

Harry has held leadership positions in the Lions Club, Williamsburg Municipal Authority, Williamsburg Fire Commission, and Williamsburg Fire Police. His service has also benefited the Williamsburg Community Farm Show and Williamsburg Food Bank.

As noted by another community leader, Harry is always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. His servant's heart, generosity, and unwavering commitment have made him a true pillar of the Williamsburg community.

On behalf of constituents throughout Williamsburg Borough and the entire 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Harry Mullins on this well-deserved award and thank him for striving each day to make the world around him a better place.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my legislation, H.R. 1703, the Choices for Increased Mobility Act.

This important piece of legislation clarifies the payment rules for manual wheelchairs under Medicare part B.

The bill allows Medicare patients the choice to decide whether a titanium or a carbon-fiber wheelchair is right for them, giving patients the option to pay out of pocket for wheelchair upgrades if that is their choice.

To restore this choice for Medicare patients, this bill creates two new wheelchair codes and enables upgrades within existing codes. Importantly, this will remove barriers to patients, allowing the patient to access the upgraded benefit at no additional cost to CMS.

We must remove obstacles that prevent patients from taking full advantage of their Medicare benefits and give them the freedom to choose the equipment that is right for the patient, a decision that has profound impacts on their individual lives.

This bipartisan legislation will remove the barrier that has impeded access to lightweight wheelchair options for individuals with mobility impairments since 2016.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to see this important bill come to the House floor today, and I urge my colleagues to support it.

Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise to honor the life and the career of Don Detwiler, who passed away in Blair County.

Our community mourns the loss of a business leader, husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. On a personal level, I knew Don as a neighbor, a patient of mine, and a friend. Each life that he touched grew stronger and brighter because of Don Detwiler.

From a young age, Don worked in the family business, New Enterprise Stone & Lime. He retired from the company in 2020 as president and CEO and continued to serve as a consultant.

Don held leadership positions in numerous professional and community organizations. In his very distinct, quiet way, he created a distinguished legacy.

As we pause to remember his immeasurable impact, we also keep in mind his wonderful wife, Judy, and his entire family.

Please join me in honoring the life of Don Detwiler, who was truly one of Blair County's most esteemed figures.

Honoring Williamsburg Volunteer Fire Department on 100 Years of Service

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Williamsburg Volunteer Fire Department for 100 years of service.

Founded in 1926, the volunteer fire department has evolved into a professionally trained emergency response team that averages more than 300 calls per year.

In addition to its responsibilities within the borough, the fire department also provides mutual aid to several companies throughout Blair and Huntingdon Counties.

The fire department proudly notes that 16 of its members are lifetime members who have served the department for 25 years or longer.

On behalf of everyone in the 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Fire Chief Travis Prough and all members of the Williamsburg Volunteer Fire Department on 100 years of distinguished service.

Congratulating Bermudian Springs High School Baseball Team

Mr. Speaker, it is with pride that I rise to honor the Bermudian Springs High School baseball team of Adams County for winning the PIAA 3A State Championship in a thrilling 1-0 victory over South Park.

This marks the second State title for the Bermudian Springs baseball team. The first was a 2A State title.

Bermudian Springs finished this championship season with an outstanding 24-4 record.

On behalf of everyone in Adams County and throughout Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I congratulate the players, Head Coach Jeff Carpenter, and members of his staff on this memorable achievement.

Honoring Smithfield Volunteer Fire Company on 100 Years of Service

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the Smithfield Volunteer Fire Company of Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, for 100 years of service.

Since its incorporation in 1926, Smithfield's century of service has been distinguished by steadfast support and a proud local tradition.

History records the fire company's founders mortgaged their own properties to construct the first fire hall. Despite changing times, the community has remained the heart of this organization.

Longtime member and fire company president, Jeffrey Shaffer, has noted that his father was the company's second fire chief, and his mother was a charter member of the Ladies Auxiliary.

Congratulations to the Smithfield Volunteer Fire Company.

Congratulating Greencastle-Antrim High School Baseball Team

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the Greencastle-Antrim High School baseball team for winning the PIAA 5A State championship.

During a 5-hour contest, the longest championship game in PIAA history, Greencastle-Antrim defeated DuBois 6-

5 in 14 arduous innings. Most certainly, Greencastle-Antrim's first State baseball championship title was secured in an incredible fashion.

Relying on superior talent, resilience, and team chemistry, they finished the season with a 24-3 record. The team will forever be a source of pride for the community.

I congratulate the players, Head Coach Eric Shaner, and the members of his staff of Greencastle-Antrim for this historic achievement.

Mr. Speaker, it is with pride that I rise to recognize Cameron Smith of Westmont, Pennsylvania, for earning the rank of cadet captain in the Civil Air Patrol.

Cameron is a 2026 graduate of Bishop McCort High School. He is a member of the Cambria County Composite Squadron, which is a branch of the Pennsylvania Wing of the Civil Air Patrol. He earned the Amelia Earhart Award and received promotion to cadet captain by completing Phase III of the Civil Air Patrol Cadet Program.

Cameron is the son of Matt and Tori Smith. His plans in the immediate future include sitting for the Federal Aviation Administration final exam to obtain his private pilot license.

I congratulate Cameron and his parents on this notable achievement through the cadet program and extend to him best wishes for success throughout his aviation career.

Recognizing Alan Gift

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Alan Gift on his selection as the 2026 Franklin County Conservation District Farmer of the Year.

In partnership with the conservation district, Alan has demonstrated a strong commitment to agricultural stewardship and environmental conservation.

Also, through the Agricultural Conservation Assistance Program, Alan has initiated a comprehensive project that reduces runoff. At the age of just 30 years, Alan has distinguished himself as a leader in the agricultural industry and a role model for aspiring farmowners.

I join with the Franklin County Conservation District in congratulating Alan Gift for his outstanding agricultural efforts.

Commemorating Anniversary of Franklin County Area Development

Corporation

Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Franklin County Area Development Corporation. Since its founding in 1986, the organization has facilitated more than 1,000 projects in Franklin County.

This milestone anniversary presents a valuable opportunity to celebrate the development corporation's enduring impact on Franklin County. The success and the priorities of the Franklin County Area Development Corporation foster prosperity and achievement throughout Franklin County.

On behalf of constituents in Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I personally congratulate President Mike Ross, his staff, and his board of directors on this milestone, and I express my personal gratitude for their continued leadership.

Recognizing Leah Ritchey

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the gifted artists from Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District who participated in this year's Congressional Art Competition. Several students from Cambria, Huntingdon, Blair, and Franklin Counties participated.

The 2026 winner is Leah Ritchey, who is a freshman at Cumberland Valley Christian School. Through her acrylic painting, Blazing Liberty, Leah captures the traditions of America by drawing inspiration from our Statue of Liberty, a timeless symbol of patriotism, and the fireworks that bring us together. Leah's work serves as a beautiful tribute to our Nation's semiquincentennial.

I extend appreciation to Leah's art teacher, Lisa Fisler, and her mom, Jesse Walizer, for supporting Leah's incredible artistic talents.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to join with the family and friends of Walt and Rita Tuchalski in expressing congratulations to this remarkable couple on their 50th wedding anniversary.

Married on June 19, 1976, Walt and Rita have enjoyed notable professional success in their respective careers throughout their years as residents of southcentral Pennsylvania.

Walt has entered his 28th year as a radio and digital marketing consultant in Gettysburg. He is also a proud U.S. Army Veteran. Rita made her mark in sales, advertising, promotions, and special events.

On behalf of everyone in Adams County and the entire 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Walt and Rita on this significant milestone, and thank Walt for his military service to our country.

May their 50th wedding anniversary kindle fond memories of all the people, places, and experiences that are especially meaningful to them.

Mr. Speaker, it is with gratitude and respect that I rise to recognize Jenny Mearkle, a valued colleague and friend, who will be retiring at the end of June after more than 21 years of service to constituents throughout Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District.

Jenny's work in constituent services has been characterized by efficiency and empathy. The foundation of Jenny's success as manager of the Altoona district office is her heartfelt desire to help people. When it comes to resolving an issue for a constituent, Jenny is never confined by space or by the time that is needed.

Wherever she might be--during or outside the boundaries of a traditional workday--Jenny makes every effort to respond to constituent casework inquiries, not only because it is the professional thing to do, but because Jenny genuinely cares.

As a builder of relationships throughout the 13th Congressional District, Jenny has achieved unparalleled success while earning the admiration of her constituents.

I thank Jenny Mearkle. I thank her for her distinguished legacy of dedicated service to the constituents of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, and I wish her much happiness in all the years to come.

Recognizing Sam Worley

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Sam Worley as the recipient of the Franklin County Conservation District's Lifetime Achievement Award.

Sam, who will be celebrating his 105th birthday on June 13, is a proud U.S. Army Air Corps veteran of World War II. Notably, he has lived a life in distinguished service to his community and to his country.

The award presented to Sam by the Franklin County Conservation District pays tribute to his decades of leadership and enduring impact on the conservation of natural resources in Franklin County.

Sam accepted the appointment as the director with the Franklin County Conservation District in 1992. Now, more than three decades later, Sam continues to serve the district in his role as associate director.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Sam on this prestigious award. He truly embodies what it means to a member of the Greatest Generation.

Recognizing Cheryl Johns

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a dedicated public servant, Cheryl Johns, who is retiring as the executive director of the Altoona Housing Authority with over 26 years of service.

Cheryl is admired and respected for her commitment to maintaining the highest standard of administrative excellence. She has been a trusted and dependable public servant. She works for families and individuals who seek affordable and reliable housing in the city of Altoona.

As a housing administrator for the last 33 years, Cheryl has created a legacy of service based on the belief that a healthy and productive society is founded on safe and stable housing.

On behalf of the constituents throughout Altoona and the entire 13th Congressional District, I personally thank Cheryl Johns for her commitment to her profession and extend best wishes for a wonderful retirement.

Celebrating 50th Anniversary of Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 50th anniversary of the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art, known in Pennsylvania as SAMA.

Incorporated in 1975, SAMA opened its first gallery in June 1976 in Altoona. Galleries were subsequently opened in Johnstown, Ligonier, and Bedford.

Today, SAMA successfully operates the Nation's longest-running museum satellite program. The museum maintains a permanent collection of more than 7,500 works.

SAMA is a dynamic cultural leader, enriching lives through exhibitions and programs that advance the appreciation of art. The museum itself serves as a vibrant hub of education and community engagement.

As the celebration of SAMA's golden anniversary continues throughout this

year, I personally express my gratitude to the museum's president, Barry Newborn; to the vice president, Ehrin Ward; the board of trustees; and the entire staff of SAMA for their commitment to sharing the absolute beauty of art.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 82nd anniversary of D-day and the Battle of Normandy.

On June 6, 1944, more than 150,000 Allied troops, nearly half of them Americans, stormed the beaches of Normandy in one of the most consequential military operations that has ever been undertaken.

Their actions not only changed the course of World War II but also left an enduring legacy of courage that continues to this day to inspire.

Recently, I had the honor of visiting the Normandy American Cemetery, where I visited the grave of Harry Snyder of Pennsylvania. Harry gave his life for our Nation. During my visit, I had the privilege of reading a letter written posthumously by Anne Snyder, Harry's daughter.

In the letter she wrote: ``Dad, although your legacy is occasionally dimmed, it always emerges triumphant in the hearts and minds of the young and not so young. Rest well until the day that we meet again.''

Standing among the graves of those who gave their lives for freedom serves as a powerful reminder of the immense cost of liberty and our enduring obligation to preserve that liberty.

Mr. Speaker, may we never forget their heroic actions. May we never forget their service. May we never forget the profound debt of gratitude that we owe each and every one of them.

Honoring Richland School District

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the Richland School District on its selection as a Great Pennsylvania School.

Presented by the Pennsylvania School Boards Association, the designation recognizes school districts across Pennsylvania for academic excellence.

As Superintendent Arnold Nadonley stated, this recognition speaks volumes about the entire school district.

Mr. Speaker, I join with constituents throughout Cambria County in congratulating the Richland School District, Superintendent Nadonley, and the school board of directors on this incredible designation as one of the great Pennsylvania schools.

Congratulating Jaffa Shriners of Blair County

Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the Jaffa Shriners of Blair County on the Jaffa Shrine being placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Jaffa Shrine has been a venerable resource for the greater Altoona community since it opened in 1930.

A cultural landmark on Broad Avenue, the Jaffa Shrine has brought people of all backgrounds together for multiple special events. The selection of the Jaffa Shrine for the National Register of Historic Places is a testament to the National Park Service's vital mission to identify America's historic landmarks.

With a distinguished legacy of community enrichment and historic importance, the Jaffa Shrine has merited this profound recognition.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate all Jaffa Shriners for this designation.

Recognizing Joe Diamond

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the dedicated public service of Joe Diamond of Bellwood, Pennsylvania.

Joe has provided outstanding leadership as the Region 4 director at the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau for 32 years. Region 4's service area spans across a large portion of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District.

Joe, described as an expert in agriculture and farming, is the second-longest tenured staff member in the entire Pennsylvania Farm Bureau.

Raised on his family's dairy farm, Joe is fulfilling a lifelong passion with his career in agriculture.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of all the constituents in Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I personally thank Joe Diamond for his distinguished legacy of advocacy on behalf of farmers and his significant impact on agriculture throughout the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.