Kelly Morrison

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my friend Gordy Aamoth, Jr.

Gordy was the definition of fun. He was the life of the party. He lit up every room he entered, and he could make anyone laugh. He was also a great athlete and an incredible friend to so many.

He had really just started his life, living his dream of working in New York City, when it was cruelly cut short in the September 11 terror attacks.

As we reflect on this tragic milestone, I rise to honor Gordy; his parents, Mary and Gordy; his brothers, Peter and Erik; his sister-in- law, Tracey; and the enormous community of people who loved him.

We continue to grieve his loss every day. We remember Gordy and each of the thousands of lives who were taken from us 25 years ago. May their memories always be a blessing.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of Minnesotans who continue to be forced to pay for the President's failing economic policies.

President Trump's tariffs have cost Minnesotans alone $4.8 billion, and for what? For a debunked policy that is raising costs, damaging our economy, and alienating our allies? For taking the American people's money during a cost-of-living crisis to bankroll his corrupt, inexplicable war? Now he is escalating with Canada, of all places, one of our Nation's strongest allies and Minnesota's number one trade partner.

Why would we ever pick a fight with Canada? This will be a disaster for our small businesses, farmers, and every Minnesotan who is going to have to pay higher prices because of tariffs on everything from steel to kitchen appliances to hockey sticks.

We are not powerless, and it begs the question yet again: When will the Republican majority stand up to this President and represent the American people? If Trump won't end this trade war, Congress has to.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today, alongside my colleague Representative Angie Craig, to recognize the 50th anniversary of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge--an extraordinary conservation achievement in the heart of Minnesota. Established in 1976, the refuge has become a national model for habitat restoration, wildlife protection, and community engagement.

As noted in the Record ten years ago, the refuge ``provides vital habitat for migratory waterfowl, fish, and other species,'' and remains ``a wonderful example of Minnesota's commitment to conservation and the environment.'' Those words continue to ring true.

Today the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge spans nearly 15,000 acres and stretches more than 70 miles along the Minnesota River from Bloomington to Henderson, Minnesota. Its wetlands, floodplain forests, prairies, and restored oak savannas support hundreds of species of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and pollinators. The refuge also manages more than 8,000 acres of Waterfowl Production Areas, providing a fertile nesting habitat for waterfowl and offering Minnesotans abundant hunting and fishing opportunities.

The refuge welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year for wildlife observation, photography, hunting, fishing, environmental education, and interpretation. Its visitor centers in Bloomington and Carver serve as gateways to nature for families, community groups, and first-time public-lands users. The refuge also provides outdoor learning experiences for thousands of students annually, offering hands-on environmental education that connects young people to Minnesota's natural heritage.

Conservation work at the refuge has expanded significantly over the past five decades. Staff use prescribed fire, invasive species control, biological monitoring, and large-scale habitat restoration to maintain and improve ecological health. They collaborate closely with private landowners, watershed districts, local governments, and state agencies, strengthening habitat across the entire Minnesota River Valley.

Equally essential are the refuge's volunteers, who contribute tens of thousands of hours each year to habitat restoration, visitor services, trail work, wildlife surveys, and education programs. Their dedication reflects the deep stewardship ethic that defines Minnesota's relationship with its natural resources.

Mr. Speaker, the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge stands as a testament to what federal, state, and local partners--working alongside committed volunteers--can accomplish together. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring 50 years of service by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the many community members who ensure that this remarkable refuge will continue to inspire future generations.