Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Jim Meek for 50 years of dedicated service as a volunteer with the Blue Ridge Fire and Rescue Company in Blue Ridge Summit, Pennsylvania.

Over the years, Chief Meek has served the fire department in multiple active service and administrative roles, including fire chief for 25 years.

Chief Meek has been praised as a significant role model and mentor for the department's first responders.

His 50-year commitment to public safety and the protection of property is an inspiration to constituents throughout the 13th Congressional District.

For his bravery and selfless service, I express gratitude to Chief Meek for his enduring commitment to protecting communities, and I extend my best wishes to him in all future endeavors.

Recognizing Blair County Conservation District

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Blair County Conservation District for 60 years of service as an advocate for natural resources and the county's agricultural community.

Established in 1966, the Conservation District focuses on the protection and the preservation of Blair County's natural resources.

With pride, I join in a yearlong commemoration of the Conservation District's milestone anniversary. For six decades, the district has played an essential role in supporting our communities through conservation programs that help to preserve Blair County's rich natural heritage for future generations.

Mr. Speaker, I express gratitude to Conservation District Manager Donna Fisher, her board of directors, and the professional staff for expanding upon their distinguished legacy.

Recognizing Brechbill & Helman Construction Company

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Brechbill & Helman Construction Company of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, for 60 years of success as an industry leader.

Founded in 1966 by Darrell Brechbill and John Helman, the company originated with three employees but possessed a vision that transformed them into a thriving construction business.

Over the past six decades, the company has expanded its expertise across a wide range of projects.

Brechbill & Helman have created a legacy of spaces that are created to strengthen the community and support businesses. Join me in congratulating company founders Darrell Brechbill and John Helman, Barb Runyon, and Matt Dice on this milestone anniversary.

Honoring the Life and Public Service of Joseph Metzgar

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and public service of Joe Metzgar, who recently passed away in Altoona, Pennsylvania.

For over 20 years, Joe served as Logan Township supervisor. Many have noted that Joe could put a smile on your face even during intense discussions at meetings.

A proud United States Air Force veteran, Joe has been described as an honest and fair supervisor who took a commonsense approach to all issues.

In addition, Joe was a field auditor for the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare.

Mr. Speaker, as we pause to remember Joe's legacy of service, we also keep his entire family in our prayers. Join me in honoring the life of Joe Metzgar, a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather, who always had the best interests of Logan Township in his heart.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor renowned nutrition expert Geeta Sikand for her enduring professional commitment to improve public health in our Nation through an emphasis on nutrition as a preventative measure to combat rising chronic illnesses.

An Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine in the Division of Cardiology at the University of California, Irvine, Geeta is a leading voice in advancing clinical nutrition strategies to prevent and manage dyslipidemia and cardiometabolic diseases, particularly in high-risk populations.

Geeta's work has been widely recognized for demonstrating the economic and clinical value of medical nutrition therapy in patient care. She is currently involved in advocacy efforts supporting the Expanded Medical Nutrition Therapy Act, legislation that seeks to expand Medicare coverage for nutrition therapy. Beyond research and policy work, Geeta has focused on educating health care providers and the public about how nutrition counseling can improve health outcomes.

Recently, Geeta was named one of the Nation's leading dieticians by the magazine Today's Dietician. The honor highlights professionals who are shaping the future of nutrition

science and patient care through research, advocacy, and clinical practice.

On behalf of constituents throughout Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I wish to thank Geeta Sikand and medical professionals like her who strive to reshape how we approach and view personal health care in America through our food consumption. I also applaud Geeta for her inspiring and enthusiastic approach to this very important issue.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate National Police Week.

As we honor the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication of our Nation's law enforcement officers, we pay special tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Their selfless service and devotion to protecting our communities will never be forgotten.

As a Representative from Pennsylvania, I am especially honored to recognize the 19 fallen officers from our Commonwealth whose names were added this year to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Wall. Their commitment to serve and protect stood above all personal interest, reflecting the very best of our Nation.

In my district, we are fortunate to be served by exceptional law enforcement professionals. Recently, I had the opportunity to meet with Blair County Sheriff Jim Ott, whose leadership in coordinating Pennsylvania's annual law enforcement memorial service in Hollidaysburg demonstrates the deep respect owed to those who have fallen in the line of duty. His example reminds us that honoring these heroes is not simply a responsibility--it is a solemn privilege.

I offer my enduring gratitude and appreciation--this week and every week--for every man and woman who wears the badge.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor retiring WellSpan Health President and CEO Roxanna Gapstur for her distinguished legacy of career achievement in the healthcare industry.

Roxanna was appointed to her executive leadership role at WellSpan in 2019. During her tenure, WellSpan has grown from a $2.5 billion to a $4.7 billion system, expanded from eight to 12 hospitals, and extended its reach from five to 12 counties.

WellSpan's Medical Group has grown from 1,500 to more than 2,700 providers, and the system's patient base has expanded from approximately 630,000 to more than one million, reflecting increased access and community trust.

Also under Roxanna's direction, the health system has emerged as a leader in clinical artificial intelligence, supporting more than three million patient conversations to enhance access, experience, and care delivery. Roxanna's leadership philosophy is service-oriented. Notably, she said, ``The work we do at WellSpan has always been about people-- our patients, our team members and the communities who trust us with their care.''

I congratulate Roxanna Gapstur on successfully instituting her vision of a human-centered approach to leadership in an increasingly complex healthcare environment and extend best wishes for limitless joy and contentment in all future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mary Anne Mullany of Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, who passed away recently at the age of 94.

A graduate of the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, she went on to receive her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Neumann University before beginning her more than 40-year career as a Registered Nurse, including 20 years in the Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.

Throughout her time at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Mary worked to care for the most vulnerable. She spent long nights on her feet monitoring vital signs, carrying out life- saving procedures, holding children during their first and most fragile days, and comforting families as they navigated the challenges of caring for a child born prematurely.

Mary cherished her six children, eight grandchildren, and two great- grandchildren, and dedicated her life to caring for others.

She was a lifelong learner. Her passion for history and travel took her from Israel and Spain to the National Parks of the American West, always by the side of those she loved. She enjoyed attending the Opera, going to Phillies games, and solving New York Times crossword puzzles while sitting in her garden alongside her daughter, Mary.

Today, please join me in remembering Mary Anne Mullany--a nurse, a mother, and a friend to all she knew.

Mr. Speaker, with pride and admiration, I rise to congratulate Zach and Tesa Stinson of Chambersburg on their impressive performances in the 130th Boston Marathon.

Zach dominated the handcycle division to win his fourth Boston Marathon title, and Tesa finished her first-ever Boston Marathon.

Zach, a previous champion in 2021, 2023, and 2024, covered the 26.2- mile course in just over an hour.

A United States Marine Corps veteran, Zach lost his legs after stepping on an IED while serving in Afghanistan in 2010. He began competing in marathons in 2012 and has made eight appearances in Boston.

The day before the marathon, both Zach and Tesa threw out the ceremonial first pitches at Fenway Park.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate both Zach and Tesa for their achievements that reflect athletic ability, endurance, and personal strength.

Honoring McCartney's of Altoona

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor McCartney's of Altoona as they commemorate two milestones of success--100 years of family ownership in 2026 and 140 years of operation in 2027.

McCartney's was founded in 1887 by Thomas McCartney. In 1926, the business was purchased by John Tracey. Today, McCartney's is owned by Randy Green, who is John Tracey's great-grandson.

As workplaces adapted to changing needs over the years, the product lines at McCartney's have also expanded.

Defined by a commitment to personal service, McCartney's has cultivated a loyal customer base throughout Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Randy Green and his entire team at McCartney's on these milestones. I express my personal gratitude for his enduring contributions to economic development as a valued family- owned business.

Supporting Dairy Products

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in favor of a bipartisan bill that I reintroduced last week known as the DAIRY PRIDE Act. This legislation will restore honesty in how we label the foods that Americans rely on every day.

As a doctor, I have seen firsthand how proper nutrition shapes long- term health. Dairy products provide essential nutrients that support strong bones, brain function, and muscle health.

Today, consumers are increasingly faced with products labeled as milk, cheese, or yogurt that do not meet the same nutritional standards.

This is not just a labeling issue. It is a public health issue. When families are misled at the grocery store, they cannot make fully informed decisions about their nutrition.

The DAIRY PRIDE Act both supports our hardworking dairy farmers and protects the American consumer.

Mr. Speaker, as this enters the legislative process, I urge all of my colleagues to support this commonsense reform.

Improving Medicare Advantage

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce the Medicare Advantage Improvement Act, a bipartisan, commonsense effort to strengthen a program that millions of seniors rely on.

Medicare Advantage has grown rapidly, but with that growth, serious concerns have arisen. Across our country, seniors are facing unnecessary delays, burdensome prior authorization requirements, and inappropriate denials of care.

These hurdles are harmful. They take away time from the doctor- patient relationship, and in some cases, they actually delay critical treatment.

This legislation is about ensuring that when a doctor and patient determine that a patient needs a specific care, that care is delivered without interference from unnecessary red tape.

Medicare is a promise to our seniors, and we, in Congress, have a responsibility to uphold that promise.

This legislation would protect our seniors, strengthen accountability, and ensure that Medicare Advantage works in the way that it was intended.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor longtime Adams County, Pennsylvania, Volunteer First Responder Kevin Brehm. Kevin passed away while on duty as an emergency medical technician on April 9 of 2026.

From his teenage years, Kevin devoted his life to public service.

A lifelong resident of East Berlin, Pennsylvania, he was a life member of the Northeast Adams Fire & EMS, where he had served as a deputy chief and mentor to so many aspiring first responders.

Throughout 42 years of being a first responder, Kevin amassed thousands of hours of training through his fire, rescue, and EMS disciplines.

Most certainly, Kevin impacted the lives of countless individuals with his professional expertise and his kind and thoughtful nature.

On behalf of the entire 13th Congressional District, I offer prayers and condolences to Kevin's family and to his fellow first responders throughout Adams and York Counties, Pennsylvania.

Recognizing John Franco

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the career of my friend, Coach John Franco, an educator and a football coach, who positively impacted the lives of high school students at four schools over the last 39 years.

A native of Blair County, Pennsylvania, John Franco recently announced his retirement from coaching. Most recently, he was head coach of the Tyrone Area High School football team.

During his two stints at Tyrone, which spanned over 25 years, Coach Franco led the football team to a combined record of 230-71 and three-- yes, three--appearances in the State title game. His 1999 team won the PIAA Class 2A championship.

With an overall career record of 291-154-2, Coach Franco ranks 25th in PIAA victories.

Coach Franco has stated that the highlight of his entire career was coaching his two sons, Johnny and Steve. Both sons earned all-State recognition.

Coach Franco was a standout football star in his own right at Bishop Guilfoyle High School where he later served on that coaching staff.

On behalf of everyone in the 13th Congressional District, I express my gratitude to Coach Franco for his commitment to the development of young people and offer best wishes for success in all of his future endeavors.

Acknowledging Behavioral Health Pod at UPMC Altoona

Mr. Speaker, with great pride, I rise today to acknowledge the successful and effective implementation of the behavioral health pod in the emergency department at UPMC Altoona.

Supported in part with Federal funding that I was honored to facilitate, this innovative space provides patients seeking emergency treatment for behavioral health conditions with a dedicated, safe, and therapeutic environment separated from the traditional emergency department.

As the first anniversary of the pod's opening at UPMC Altoona approaches, approximately 500 patients have already benefited from this novel treatment approach. Across Pennsylvania, fewer than five behavioral health pods are operational.

Within the health pod, trained professionals focus on recovery- centered care support, offering individuals who need that mental health or substance use expertise in times of crisis.

Clinicians have emphasized that this approach provides patients with a better experience in a private and less stimulating environment to begin their healing process.

On behalf of all the constituents in the 13th Congressional District, I congratulate UPMC on this successful implementation.

Recognizing National Library Week

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Library Week and the critical role that libraries play in communities across Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District.

Libraries are so much more than just a place to borrow books. They offer lifelong opportunities in learning through reading.

Through my work in Washington, I have had the privilege of bringing books from the Library of Congress to many libraries across Pennsylvania's 13th District.

But many libraries are facing real challenges in simply keeping their lights on. That is exactly why I introduced the Community Passport Services Access Act.

This legislation takes a practical, commonsense step to help libraries remain viable community hubs by allowing the libraries to continue offering passport services, bringing in needed revenue, expanding services for residents, and reinforcing their role as a one- stop resource for the public.

This bill is about keeping library doors open.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Alabama for yielding. I rise today in support of my legislation, the RED Tape Act.

The RED Tape Act removes an unnecessary and duplicative environmental review that the EPA currently conducts under the Clean Air Act.

As it stands, the relevant department or agency prepares an environmental impact statement as part of the permitting of a new Federal project, a process in which the EPA is often already involved. After completion of that review, EPA is then asked to go back and provide additional comments on those same findings; hence, the redundant and duplicative nature of the process.

This secondary review of an already-completed environmental impact statement only serves to slow down the critical projects, especially projects in the energy industry.

This bill is about getting projects permitted and getting projects completed, projects that will help us compete with our adversaries in industries like AI and advanced manufacturing.

This bill is not, as has been alleged, an attempt to undermine environmental review. The environmental impact statement must still be completed by the primary agency. This is a process that agencies already have the necessary expertise and capacity to carry out efficiently. In many cases, EPA will still have the opportunity to comment during the initial process as a cooperating agency.

As the name implies, the RED Tape Act simply removes bureaucratic, redundant red tape. Projects will still need to comply with all applicable environmental laws. This is in no way giving a pass to polluters. It is ensuring that economic growth is not stifled by overly burdensome Federal regulations.

Understand what this legislation will do. This is a commonsense bill that leaves basic environmental protections in place while eliminating artificial barriers. I urge all of my colleagues to support its passage on the floor later this week.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to join in the commemoration of the recent Blessing of the Fleet, which was conducted on April 11, 2026 at the U.S. Navy Memorial in Washington, D.C.

Passed down through generations of sailors, fishermen, merchant mariners, and navies around the world, the centuries-old Blessing of the Fleet ceremony is intended to safeguard crews and their ships. It is said to protect them from the danger of the seas through a traditional blessing given by a clergyman at the water's edge.

As a tribute to our Nation's rich maritime heritage and the men and women who have contributed to its growth and success, the United States Navy Memorial hosts its annual Blessing of the Fleet ceremony each spring.

During the ceremony, sailors from the U.S. Navy's Ceremonial Guard proceed across the Granite Sea on Navy Memorial Plaza to pour water from the Seven Seas and Great Lakes into the surrounding fountains. This element of the ceremony charges the fountains with life, as they usher in the spring season.

On behalf of constituents throughout the 13th Congressional District, I express gratitude to the men and women of the Seas Services--past and present--for their devotion to duty and defense of liberty. May their service be forever remembered.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Chris Ardinger of Mercersburg, Pennsylvania, for his selection as the recipient of the Spirit of Community Award.

The award honors individuals who demonstrate an exceptional commitment to improving the quality of Franklin County life, where Chris serves as the administrator of Antrim Township.

Known for his transparent leadership and reliability, Chris has made significant contributions to enhancing the quality of life in the Cumberland Valley.

Most certainly, Chris Ardinger has devoted his life to professional and volunteer community activities.

A former executive director of the Tuscarora Area Chamber of Congress, Chris was elected to the Tuscarora School District Board of Directors at the age of 19. He served 8 years, including 2 as the board president.

On behalf of the constituents throughout Franklin County and the entire 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Chris Ardinger on this prestigious award, and I thank him for his contributions to our great communities.

Honoring Don Bailey

Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise to honor the life and the career of Don Bailey, an educator, an administrator, and football coach, who passed away recently in his hometown of Johnstown, Pennsylvania.

A graduate of Forest Hills High School, Coach Bailey dedicated his entire professional life to the school district, serving as a teacher, a principal, and an administrator.

As head football coach at Forest Hills, Coach Bailey became a legend over his 45 years. His success includes 375 wins, 11 Laurel Highlands Conference championships, and 10 District 6 championships.

Over the years, Coach Bailey was honored with induction into the Pennsylvania Football Coaches Hall of Fame and the Cambria County Sports Hall of Fame. He was also selected for the Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Football Foundation.

As we pause to remember his legacy, we also keep his wife, Diane, and all of his family in our prayers.

Please join me in honoring the life of Coach Don Bailey, who was truly a Cambria County football legend.

Honoring Mark Taylor

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor former Saxton Fire Chief Mark Taylor, who stepped down from his position in November, after 40 years of dedicated service.

During the Saxton Volunteer Fire Company's recent annual banquet, Chief Taylor was presented with an award that recognizes his unwavering dedication.

Chief Taylor joined the fire company as a volunteer 50 years ago. He has been described by colleagues as a beacon of leadership to ensure the safety of his entire community.

Chief Taylor's legacy includes mentorship of countless firefighters and a strategic vision that positioned teamwork at its core.

I thank Chief Taylor for his profound impact on municipalities served by the Saxton Volunteer Fire Company and for his vital role in inspiring firefighters throughout his years of service.

Congratulating Richard Fertig, Jr.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Richard Fertig, Jr., of Smith Transportation on selection of Professional Driver of the Year.

This award is the profession's highest honor, recognizing safety, leadership, and community impact of professional drivers.

Richard Fertig, Jr., has been driving trucks for Smith Transport for more than 20 years. Since joining Smith Transport, he has accumulated more than 2 million miles driving safely, which is a testament to his commitment to precision, to discipline, and to safety.

As a veteran, Richard's truck is wrapped in a powerful tribute to Vietnam veterans, and it has become a symbol of respect everywhere he drives.

Like many others, Mr. Fertig considers Smith Transport founder, Barry Smith, to be his role model and his mentor.

On behalf of constituents throughout Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, best wishes for continued success, continued safety, and continued achievement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize March as National Athletic Training Month and to honor the dedicated athletic trainers who serve our communities.

Athletic trainers play a vital role in keeping athletes and active individuals safe, healthy, and performing at their best. From preventing injuries to providing life-saving care in critical moments, these highly trained professionals are often the first line of defense in sports and physical activity settings.

In Pennsylvania alone, there are approximately 4,345 certified athletic trainers, each making a meaningful impact in schools, clinics, and communities across the Commonwealth. In Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I am proud to represent 146 members of the National Athletic Trainers Association, whose commitment to patient care strengthens our community every day.

During National Athletic Training Month, let us recognize and thank athletic trainers for their expertise, dedication, and service. Their work truly makes a difference.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Penn State wrestler Levi Haines of Adams County, Pennsylvania, a two-time NCAA champion, a four-time All-American, and a four-time Big Ten Conference champ.

At the NCAA championships this weekend, Levi captured his second title in his final collegiate match with a score of 2-1. The victory capped an undefeated 26-0 season for Levi.

As the number one seed in the 174-pound class at the NCAA championships, Levi won five consecutive matches. He concluded his collegiate career with a record of 99-4.

Levi's achievements were integral to Penn State's fifth--yes, I said fifth--consecutive NCAA championship for 13 of the past 16 years.

A graduate of Biglerville High School, Levi is the son of Ken and Aimee Haines.

On behalf of the constituents throughout Adams County and the entire 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Levi. I congratulate his parents, Ken and Aimee, and his wife, Madelin, on his remarkable collegiate wrestling career and offer him best wishes for continued success.

Recognizing Mary Jo Casalena

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mary Jo Casalena as the recipient of the Wayne Bailey Lifetime Achievement Award that was presented at the annual convention of the National Wild Turkey Federation.

This award recognizes a wildlife biologist, trapper, or wildlife manager who has devoted their career to the wild turkey and played a major role in the turkey's restoration and management.

Mary Jo officially retired last October after working 33 years for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, including 32 years for the Pennsylvania Game Commission. She was Pennsylvania's wild turkey expert for 26 years.

Mary Jo has noted that she wanted to speak up for wildlife since she was in the seventh grade. She has dedicated her career to working on the management and research of wild turkeys. She has been described as one of the most accomplished wild turkey managers of our time.

I congratulate Mary Jo on this prestigious award, and I offer best wishes for joy and contentment in her retirement.

Honoring Lehman's Feed & Home Center

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Lehman's Feed & Home Center of York Springs, Pennsylvania, for 90 years of success as a source of home and agricultural products for customers throughout Adams County and the surrounding area.

Founded as Lehman's Feed Store in 1936 by J. Paul Lehman, the business originally focused on meeting the needs of the rural agricultural community through its feed mill and farm supplies. Lehman's also served as the local Purina dealer, supplying dairy and livestock feed to area farmers.

J. Paul Lehman and two of his sons owned the business for 60 years before selling it to Allen Hartzell. By expanding the inventory and range of services, Allen transitioned the operation to a one-stop destination for rural and household products.

I congratulate Allen Hartzell on this milestone anniversary and thank him for his continued efforts to support the agricultural industry in Adams County and beyond.

Honoring David Burket, Sr.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and agricultural legacy of David Burket, Sr., of East Freedom, Pennsylvania, who passed away earlier this month at his home on the family farm, where he was born.

Married to his late wife, Betty, for 72 years, David dedicated his professional life to establishing and successfully operating Burket Falls Farm with Betty and their family.

Over the years, thousands of visitors from over 40 different countries on six different continents were welcomed to the farm by the Burket family. The farm was recognized as one of the top 25 influential breeders in the world by Holstein International. David was recognized with numerous honors and awards.

As we pause to remember David, we also keep his loved ones in our prayers. Please join with me in remembering the life and the professional achievements of David Burket, Sr.

Mr. Speaker, with heavy hearts, alongside my colleagues from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, I rise today to honor the life and the service of Specialist Krystofer Lopez, who passed away on Thursday, March 12, following a training exercise at Letterkenny Army Depot in Franklin County, Pennsylvania.

Specialist Lopez answered the call to serve by enlisting during his junior year of high school at Biglerville High. He was driven by a deep love of his country and a sense of duty that truly defined his life.

He served as a military police officer and as a Personnel Force Innovation member of the 947th Quartermaster Company.

In the words of Abraham Lincoln in the Gettysburg Address, Specialist Lopez gave his last full measure of devotion. For that, we as a Commonwealth from Pennsylvania, we as a country, and we as a community are forever grateful.

It has been said that our flag does not fly because the wind moves it but with the last breath of those who defend it. Specialist Krystofer Lopez now rests among those heroes. Now and forever, this brave soldier will be a source of inspiration throughout his enduring devotion to duty and call to service.

Please join us, the Members of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania delegation in the United States House of Representatives, in a moment of silence to honor the life of Specialist Krystofer Lopez.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and military service of Specialist Krystofer Lopez of Biglerville, Pennsylvania, who died following a training exercise at Letterkenny Army Depot in Franklin County on March 12.

Specialist Lopez served as a military police officer for the Letterkenny Directorate of Emergency Services Law Enforcement Division and was a Personnel Force Innovation member assigned to the 947th Quartermaster Company, which is based out of Letterkenny.

Specialist Lopez is remembered for his love of this great country and his commitment to the United States Armed Forces. Specialist Lopez was described by his twin sister, Kiki Lopez, as a man who always went above and beyond. Kiki noted that her brother always made sure to put his family before himself.

Specialist Lopez enlisted in the Army during his junior year of high school and wrestled for Biglerville High School. As a tribute to Specialist Lopez, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania flags over all State facilities, public buildings, and grounds are lowered to half-staff. In recognition of his dedicated service and his sacrifice, Specialist Lopez was posthumously promoted to the rank of Specialist.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the entire 13th Congressional District and a grateful nation, I offer prayers and condolences to Specialist Lopez' family, his friends, his fellow soldiers at Letterkenny Army Depot, and to the entire Biglerville community.

Recognizing Phil Riccio

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Phil Riccio of Altoona, Pennsylvania, as a recipient of the Outstanding Service Award for Pennsylvania as presented by the National Federation of State High School Associations.

Throughout his nearly 30-year career as an educator, athletic director, and head coach of the Altoona Area High School football team, Coach Riccio has been an inspirational leader and advocate for high school sports.

To the spirit of the Outstanding Service Award and the mission of the national organization that bestowed it, Coach Riccio is devoted. He is devoted to ensuring that all students have an opportunity to enjoy healthy participation, achievement, and good sportsmanship in any education-based activity.

Mr. Speaker, it is with pride that I join everyone in the Altoona Area School District and the entire community in congratulating Coach Riccio on his selection for this prestigious award. I thank Coach Riccio for his enduring impact on the development of the district's students.

Recognizing Jesse Shriner

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Jesse Shriner for 50 years of dedicated service as a member of the Alexandria Volunteer Fire Company in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania.

Jesse was recently honored by the fire company with three prestigious awards: the President's Award, the Chief's Award, and the Firefighter of the Year Award. Collectively, this trifecta of awards pays tribute to Jesse for his enduring dedication.

Over the years, Jesse has served the fire company as a trustee, as a chaplain, and a fire police officer.

Jesse's community impact also includes his past leadership as president of the Juniata Valley Lions Club.

His 50-year commitment to public safety and the protection of property is an inspiration.

Mr. Speaker, I express gratitude to Jesse for the many ways that he has contributed to the Alexandria Volunteer Fire Company's legacy of service and extend him best wishes.

Recognizing Dr. Wayne Myers

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Wayne Myers on his selection as Pharmacist of the Year by the Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association.

The selection of Dr. Myers honors his longstanding commitment to advancing independent community pharmacies.

Dr. Myers is owner of Norland Avenue Pharmacy in Chambersburg and Carl's Drug Store in Greencastle.

Dr. Myers has enrolled Norland Avenue Pharmacy as a Long-Term Care at Home Pharmacy, thereby increasing medication packaging and delivery services to improve the safety, adherence, and access for vulnerable patients.

Mr. Speaker, I extend congratulations to Dr. Myers on his selection as Pharmacist of the Year and express my personal gratitude for his enduring commitment to the core values of independent pharmacies, that is service, integrity, innovation, and ultimately community care.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my deep concern over the lapse in funding for the Department of Homeland Security. Every single day that we fail to provide DHS with the necessary resources, the risks facing the American people dramatically increase.

The security of our homeland should never be a bargaining chip. Instead of prioritizing the safety of the American people, Democrats have chosen to weaponize the appropriations process for political leverage. This is not how our Democracy was founded to operate. Americans continue to bear the consequences of Democrats engaging in political theater.

As we return to the floor for a vote, Members of Congress must set aside partisan agendas and personal politics. Our first duty is to protect the citizens that we serve.

With the war in Iran, we have reached an increase in global instability. In moments like this, we should be strengthening our Homeland Security posture and not allowing it to lapse.

An unfunded Department of Homeland Security sends the wrong message to our adversaries and leaves our homeland vulnerable. It is neither a safe nor responsible act. It is a failure of Congress not to have met one of its most fundamental obligations.

Mr. Speaker, the American people deserve better. The American people deserve leadership that puts their safety first. It is time to end the theatrics. It is time to fund DHS. It is time to fulfill and protect this Nation.

recognizing jordan ott

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a native of McConnellsburg, Pennsylvania, Jordan Ott, who is the head coach of the Phoenix Suns.

As a three-sport athlete at McConnellsburg High School, Coach Ott has always dreamed of working for a professional sports team. That goal was recognized in 2013 when he joined the Atlanta Hawks as a video coordinator.

Coach Ott went on to serve as an assistant coach with three NBA teams. Last June, he was hired as the head coach of the Suns, where he was named NBA's Western Conference Coach of the Month for January.

A former high school teammate described Coach Ott as someone who will accomplish everything and take credit for nothing. What a coach.

That is a character trait worth emulating by individuals throughout all of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District. In fact, it is worth emulating throughout all of America.

Mr. Speaker, I offer best wishes to Coach Ott for continued success that exceeds his incredible expectations that will continue to rise throughout the NBA.

Honoring Snider Family of Bedford County, Pennsylvania

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the Snider family of Bedford County, Pennsylvania, on the selection of their operation as a recipient of the National Beef Quality Assurance Award.

Singing Brook Farm is a third-generation farm currently managed by Ross Snider and his sister Greta Halahan.

Founded by Obie and Mary Ann Snider in 1951, Singing Brook Farms was later operated by their son, Bruce. Notably, Singing Brook Farms is an established leader in education and advocacy.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Snider family on receiving the National Beef Quality Assurance Award. Their commitment to agriculture continues to benefit all of the constituents of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District.

Honoring Claysburg-Kimmel Elementary FIRST LEGO League Team

Mr. Speaker, it is with pride that I rise to honor the Claysburg-Kimmel Elementary FIRST LEGO League Team that captured the championship in the Best Robot Design category during regional competition.

What is most impressive about the achievement of these fifth and sixth graders is that they were the first LEGO Club at Claysburg-Kimmel Elementary that only formed last fall.

During the competition, students demonstrated their robot creations and offered presentations on how their robots would function in real- world settings.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate this team from Claysburg-Kimmel, their teachers and coaches Suzanne Wicker and Brandon Ickes, as well as elementary school principal Kevin Edmondson and Superintendent Darren McLaurin on this incredible achievement. Best wishes for continued success.