Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Warrant Officer Matthew D. Zammit for his distinguished service in the United States Marine Corps and his continued dedication to his family and community. It is my privilege to honor him as our August 2026 Veteran of the Month.

Warrant Officer Zammit enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1983. After graduating from recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, he completed Infantry Weapons Repair School in Aberdeen, Maryland, beginning a remarkable 22-year military career.

Throughout his service, Warrant Officer Zammit held assignments in California, Hawaii, Spain, Morocco, Ecuador, Japan, and North Carolina. He served as a Maine Security Guard protecting American embassies overseas before becoming an Ordnance Inspector with the 2nd Marine Division. In 1999, he was promoted to Warrant Officer and reassigned as the Lead G-4 Inspection Team Officer for small arms and artillery for the 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership and technical expertise.

His outstanding service was recognized with numerous honors, including three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, six Good Conduct Medals, two National Defense Service Medals, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendations, and multiple expert marksmanship awards.

Following his retirement from the Marine Corps in 2005, Warrant Officer Zammit continued serving our Nation in civilian roles supporting the United States Army. Over the next two decades, he supported military operations at Fort Bragg, Detroit Arsenal, and Fort Hood, while deploying to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kuwait. His continued service earned additional recognition, including the NATO Medal, Superior Civilian Award, and a Two-Star Letter of Appreciation.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Warrant Officer Zammit has remained committed to serving his community. He earned a bachelor's degree in psychology and two master's degrees in organizational management, supply chain, and life coaching. He later shared his passion for mentorship by coaching high school cross-country and track and field athletes.

Together with his wife, Captain Marisol Zammit, a fellow United States Marine Corps veteran, he has raised four children while continuing to exemplify the values of service, faith, and leadership. Today, Warrant Officer Zammit and his family reside in China Township, where they remain active in their church and community.

Mr. Speaker, Warrant Officer Matthew D. Zammit has dedicated his life to serving our Nation and his community. Through his military service and continued commitment to others, he exemplifies the values of honor, courage, and commitment. It is my great honor to recognize his service and accomplishments by naming him our August 2026 Veteran of the Month.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Ray Township Fire Department as it celebrates the commissioning of its new Fire Engine No. 1 and the ribbon cutting of its new fire station.

Since its establishment in 1975, the Ray Township Fire Department has proudly served the community. For more than five decades, its dedicated firefighters have answered every call with courage, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and property of the residents of Ray Township. Their selfless service and willingness to respond at a moment's notice exemplify the very best of public service.

The opening of this new fire station marks a significant investment in the safety and future of the community. Replacing the department's original station built in the 1970s, the modern facility features expanded vehicle bays, administrative offices, firefighter living quarters, a fitness area, and a dedicated training room. These improvements will enhance the department's readiness, strengthen emergency response capabilities, and ensure firefighters have the resources they need to protect the community for generations to come.

The commissioning of the department's new Fire Engine No. 1 further reflects Ray Township's commitment to maintaining a well-equipped fire service. This new fire engine will help ensure firefighters can continue responding quickly and effectively to emergencies while meeting the evolving needs of a growing community.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Ray Township Fire Department on this remarkable milestone. On behalf of Michigan's 9th Congressional District, I extend my sincere to gratitude to the firefighters, officers, and all those whose vision and dedication made this achievement possible. I wish the Ray Township Fire Department continued success as it faithfully serves and protects the residents of Ray Township for many years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Roger Caster on the remarkable occasion of his 60 years of dedicated service to the North Oakland County Fire Authority. His extraordinary commitment to public safety and selfless service exemplifies the core values of firefighters.

Throughout six decades of service, Roger has demonstrated leadership and dedication as a firefighter and Fire Chief. His career has left an enduring mark and earned the respect of his fellow firefighters and the citizens he faithfully protected.

Roger's legacy is part of a proud family tradition that began with his father, Ward Caster. That commitment continued through his brother, who followed him into the fire service, and his daughter, who proudly served the department. Roger's career has contributed to a family legacy that has proudly and continuously served the community.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Roger Caster as we celebrate a lifetime devoted to protecting others and answering the call to serve. We recognize this remarkable milestone and thank him for 60 years of dedication to the people of northern Oakland County.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Captain Marisol Cantu Zammit for her honorable service in the United States Marine Corps and her continued dedication to her family and community. It is my privilege to honor her as our July 2026 Veteran of the Month.

Captain Zammit was born at Camp Pendleton, California, and later moved to Texas following her father's retirement from the United States Marine Corps. In 1999, Captain Zammit was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps after successfully completing the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps program at Rice University. She attended The Basic School in

Quantico, Virginia, before completing her training as a Public Affairs Officer at the Defense Information School in Fort Meade, Maryland.

Captain Zammit began her military career as a Public Affairs Officer with the 2nd Marine Division. During her service, she deployed to Camp Fuji, Japan, where she covered Marine Corps training exercises throughout the region. In 2003, she deployed with the 2nd Service Support Group to Camp Fox, Kuwait, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The following year, she deployed to Cartagena, Colombia, in support of the Commandant's Conference of the Americas.

Throughout her military service, Captain Zammit demonstrated professionalism, leadership, and dedication to the mission. Her service was recognized with the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, and a Letter of Appreciation.

Captain Zammit concluded her active-duty military service in 2005 and transitioned her spirit of service from the Marine Corps to her family and community. Using her Post-9/11 GI Bill, she earned a Master of Arts in Management while dedicating herself to raising her four children alongside her husband. As her children grew, Captain Zammit became a constant presence in their schools, volunteering with elementary, middle, and high school cross-country and track teams. She also serves as a lector at Our Lady on the River Catholic Church. Whether cheering on student-athletes, supporting school activities, or serving her parish, she has continued to demonstrate the same dedication to others that defined her military service.

Today, Captain Zammit and her family live in China Township, where they enjoy kayaking, hiking, running, volunteering, exploring the outdoors, and hosting local cross-country and track teams in their home. Her unwavering commitment to family, faith, and service continues to exemplify the values she upheld throughout her military career.

Mr. Speaker, Captain Zammit's commitment to service has remained steadfast long after her military career. Through her dedication to her Nation, family, faith, and community, she continues to exemplify the values of leadership, selflessness, and service. It is my great honor to recognize her service and accomplishments by naming her our July 2026 Veteran of the Month.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 100th anniversary of Olejnik Farms and Greenhouses. Reaching a century of operation is a truly remarkable milestone that reflects a hundred years of dedication to Michigan agriculture.

For five generations, the Olejnik family has demonstrated unwavering commitment to hard work, quality, and service. As the industry has evolved and new generations have taken over, these core values have remained constant.

Over the past century, Olejnik Farms and Greenhouses has not only sustained a proud agricultural tradition but has also played an important role in strengthening the local community.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Olejnik Farms and Greenhouses on this historic anniversary and in wishing the Olejnik family continued success for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Hill for his help on this.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3074, the Common Cents Act. This is a straightforward bill that accomplishes one commonsense goal. It stops the Federal Government from losing money on a coin that almost no one uses.

Here is the problem: Every penny we mint costs the taxpayers nearly 4 cents. Think about that. We are spending 4 cents to make 1 cent. Last year alone, that absurd math cost the American taxpayers more than $85 million. I think we can be a better steward of the taxpayers' money than that.

As a businesswoman, I can assure you that no businessowner in my district or myself would ever spend four times as much to make $1. Yet, that is exactly how Washington has managed the penny year after year. Quite frankly, that does not make sense.

The Common Cents Act fixes it. It directs the Treasury to stop minting the penny for general circulation, and quite frankly, that is it.

It does not take away a single penny that somebody already owns. Every penny in your pocket, every penny in your piggy bank, and every penny in that jar on your counter stays as legal tender if it is unused.

This is not a radical idea. President Trump called for it. It is his commonsense idea, and it should become law.

I introduced this bill with Congressman Robert Garcia, and it cleared the Committee on Financial Services with strong bipartisan support.

Republicans and Democrats don't agree on much in this town, but we do agree on this: We shouldn't be wasting $85 million a year to keep minting pennies.

Not only do we agree, but, Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record letters of support from local industry leaders who also support this commonsense piece of legislation.

America's Credit Unions,

Washington, DC, July 13, 2026.

Re Credit Union Support for H.R. 3074, the Common Cents Act.

Hon. Mike Johnson,

Speaker, House of Representatives,

Washington, DC.

Hon. Hakeem Jeffries,

House Minority Leader, House of Representatives, Washington,

Mr. Speaker, it is time to modernize our currency policy and bring some commonsense back to Washington. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this legislation and vote ``yes.''

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Blue Water Area Transit on its 50th anniversary. Since beginning public transit operations in 1976, Blue Water Area Transit has played a vital role in connecting communities, supporting economic development, and providing accessible transportation for passengers.

Over the past 50 years, Blue Water Area Transit has provided more than 37 million passenger trips. Today, its fleet serves the communities of the City of Port Huron, Fort Gratiot Township, Port Huron Township, Burtchville Township, and the City of Marysville.

I want to thank the dedicated employees of Blue Water Area Transit, whose hard work and commitment have provided reliable service to the community, and recognize the leadership behind its continued success.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Blue Water Area Transit on its 50th anniversary for its outstanding service to the people of St. Clair County. I congratulate Blue Water Area Transit on this remarkable milestone, and best wishes for many more years of success in serving the region's transportation needs.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Benjamin Welser of Marysville, Michigan, a courageous 12-year-old whose love for law enforcement and enduring spirit have touched our Community and our Nation.

Benjamin has faced significant medical challenges throughout his life. Despite this, he has never wavered in his admiration for the men and women who serve and protect our communities, and he has long dreamed of one day becoming a police officer himself.

What began as a simple request from Benjamin's family for cards and patches from law enforcement agencies across the country grew into an extraordinary outpouring of support. Personnel from U.S. Customs and Border Protection and members of the Michigan State Police came together to give Benjamin a full day featuring a meet-and-greet with the K-9 unit, a BearCat tactical vehicle demonstration, and a helicopter flyover.

This remarkable display of compassion is a powerful reminder of the bond between our law enforcement community and the people they serve, and it shows the difference that such an act of kindness can make in someone's life.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Benjamin Welser for his courage and resilience, and in thanking the many law enforcement officers and agencies whose compassion brought so much joy to Benjamin and his family.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Lake Orion Lions Club Jubilee and the lasting tradition it represents for the Village of Lake Orion. This beloved celebration is a testament to the strong community spirit and pride that have brought residents together for the last 50 years.

Starting in 1976, the Lake Orion Lions Club created the Jubilee as part of the community's celebration of the Nation's Bicentennial. What began as a special commemorative event has grown into one of the Lions Club's largest fundraisers and a cherished annual summer tradition for the Lake Orion community.

As our Nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, the Jubilee serves as an example of how communities across America continue to honor their history while building traditions that bring people together.

For generations, the Jubilee has served as a gathering place where families, friends, and neighbors come together to celebrate the community they call home. The Jubilee remains a cherished tradition that brings the Lake Orion community together each year in celebration of its shared history and strong sense of community.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Lake Orion Jubilee and congratulating the Lake Orion Lions Club, volunteers, and residents for sustaining this remarkable community tradition.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Second Class Petty Officer Eric William Toth for his honorable service in the United States Navy and his continued dedication to supporting veterans in our community. It is my privilege to honor him as our June 2026 Veteran of the Month.

Petty Officer Toth enlisted in the United States Navy in 1974, becoming the fourth generation of his family to serve in the Navy. Born on a Navy base in Virginia, he followed a proud family tradition of military service. After completing boot camp in California, Petty Officer Toth attended A School for Culinary Arts in San Diego, where he trained as a cook. Following graduation, he and his class were sent to Camp Pendleton, California, where they prepared meals for 25,000 Vietnamese refugees.

Shortly thereafter, he was assigned to the USS Independence, where he served for four years. During his service aboard the Independence, Petty Officer Toth worked in every phase of the ship's food service operation, gaining extensive experience in leadership, logistics, and operations. He also crossed the Equator multiple times, earning Shellback status, and crossed the Arctic Circle twice, earning the distinction of Blue Nose.

Following his honorable military service, Petty Officer Toth built a successful career in the private sector, where he established himself as a respected business professional. In retirement, encouraged by his wife of thirty years, ConnieSue, he dedicated himself to supporting fellow veterans. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Holly Area Veterans Resource Center and as Second Vice Commander of American Legion Post 149 in Holly, continuing his lifelong commitment to service.

In addition, Petty Officer Toth volunteers with the Holly American Legion and VFW Joint Honor Guard, performing military honors at Great Lakes National Cemetery and at local funeral homes and cemeteries. His dedication to honoring those who served reflects his deep respect for veterans and their families.

Mr. Speaker, Second Class Petty Officer Eric William Toth's distinguished service in the United States Navy, his entrepreneurial achievements, and his unwavering commitment to supporting veterans and honoring their sacrifices reflect great credit upon himself, his family, and our community. It is my great honor to recognize his service and accomplishments by naming him our June 2026 Veteran of the Month.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Master Sergeant Raymond Stier for his dedication to public service and his continued commitment to serving our Nation.

Raymond Stier, a member of the Richmond Board of Education and a veteran with decades of military experience, has faithfully served both his community and his country. Beginning his term on the Board of Education in 2025, Raymond worked to fulfill his responsibilities while deployed overseas with the United States Air Force, participating in meetings remotely whenever possible.

Even while serving in a combat zone, Raymond remained committed to the students, families, and educators of his district. His willingness to answer the call of duty while continuing to support his community reflects the highest ideals of public service, sacrifice, and patriotism.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing and congratulating Raymond Stier for his dedication, sacrifice, and service to our Nation. We are grateful for his steadfast commitment and thank him for his contributions to our country.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a truly remarkable milestone, the 100th anniversary of the Orion Township Public Library. For a century, this institution has stood as a cornerstone of learning, connection, and civic life in Orion Township, serving generations of residents with distinction, care, and an unwavering commitment to the public good.

Since its founding, the Orion Township Public Library has evolved alongside its community, adapting to changing times while remaining steadfast in its core mission: to provide open access to knowledge, foster lifelong learning, and serve as a welcoming space for all. What began as a modest local resource has grown into a vibrant hub of education, technology, and community engagement, reflecting both the history and the future of Orion Township.

Throughout its 100 years of service, the library has offered far more than books. It has provided early literacy programs for children taking their first steps into reading, research resources for students pursuing academic success, and enrichment opportunities for adults seeking new skills and perspectives. From story times and summer reading programs to job search assistance and digital literacy training, the library has consistently met the evolving needs of its patrons with innovation and dedication.

As it celebrates this centennial year, the library stands not only as a testament to its past, but as a promise to the future. Its legacy is built upon the countless librarians, staff members, volunteers, and community supporters who have dedicated themselves to its mission over the decades.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Orion Township Public Library on its 100th anniversary. May its next 100 years be filled with continued growth, impact, and inspiration for generations yet to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Chief Master Sergeant Michael R. VanDriessche for his distinguished military service and continued dedication to supporting our Nation's warfighters. It is my honor to recognize his decades of leadership and service by naming him our April 2026 Veteran of the Month.

Chief Master Sergeant VanDriessche enlisted in the United States Air Force in 1991, beginning his career working with aircraft weapons systems. He quickly demonstrated strong dedication and leadership, earning an accelerated promotion early in his service. In 2001, he continued his service with the Michigan Air National Guard, where, following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, he volunteered to support homeland defense efforts. In this role, he became a trusted trainer and mentor while helping ensure aircraft were mission-ready.

Throughout his career, Chief Master Sergeant VanDriessche held multiple operational and leadership roles focused on aircraft maintenance and mission readiness, including several overseas deployments in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, where he earned recognition for his service. In 2008, he was selected as a First Sergeant, advising commanders and supporting Airmen and their families. He later served in senior leadership roles, including a deployment to Kuwait, and in 2017 was appointed Group Superintendent, where he played a key role in guiding the organization and mentoring the next generation of Airmen.

Among his many honors, Chief Master Sergeant VanDriessche received two Meritorious Service Medals, three Air Force Commendation Medals, and three Air Force Achievement Medals. He was also selected as Weapons Technician of the Year twice, in 2006 and 2007.

Chief Master Sergeant VanDriessche concluded his distinguished military career in 2022, after more than three decades of service. He continues to support the warfighter today as a civilian employee working on behalf of the Department of War in Warren, Michigan. Chief Master Sergeant VanDriessche is married and the proud father of two children. He remains deeply involved in his community, coaching youth football and enjoying teaching, sports, physical fitness, hunting, and community service.

Mr. Speaker, Chief Master Sergeant Michael VanDriessche's career is a powerful example of dedication, leadership, and service to our Nation. It is my great privilege to recognize his many contributions and to honor his remarkable commitment to our country and community as our April 2026 Veteran of the Month.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sawyer Ross, recipient of the Cass City 2026 Junior Citizen of the Year Award, whose leadership, dedication, and commitment to excellence have made a lasting impact on his school and community.

Sawyer has distinguished himself as a well-rounded student and accomplished athlete, participating in track and field, cross country, swimming, and soccer. His discipline and perseverance have led to significant success in track and field, where he has earned numerous medals. As a team captain for both track and field and cross country, he leads by example, demonstrating a strong work ethic and a consistently positive attitude.

In addition to his athletic achievements, Sawyer excels academically and is a member of the National Honor Society. His academic accomplishments include earning an economics academic pin, a GPA-based academic letter, and a Spanish I Certificate of Excellence.

Sawyer's involvement extends beyond the classroom and athletic field. He is an active member of the Saginaw Striders Track Club, American Marriage Ministries, and Youth for Christ Bible Study, where he also serves on the leadership committee team. He has further demonstrated his commitment to leadership through his work at Bay Shore Camp, where he served as a group leader and was recently promoted to activities coordinator, earning recognition for his contributions and being honored with the Best Cabin Leader Award.

Through his participation in school and community activities, Sawyer has shown a strong sense of community spirit and engagement. His character, work ethic, and willingness to serve others truly set him apart as a role model among his peers.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Sawyer Ross for his outstanding accomplishments and for the leadership he has demonstrated as a representative of the Cass City community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an extraordinary member of the Cass City community, Phil Nichols, as the recipient of the Cass City 2026 Citizen of the Year Award. His leadership, dedication, and lifelong commitment to service have made a profound and lasting impact on our community.

Phil has devoted much of his life to mentoring and supporting the youth of Cass City, encouraging their growth, achievements, and involvement in community service. Through his guidance and example, he has inspired young people to reach their potential and contribute meaningfully to the community around them.

In addition to his work with youth, Phil has been actively involved in numerous community and service organizations, helping strengthen these institutions through his reliability, leadership, and selfless dedication.

Phil's character has also been shaped by a lifetime of service, including honorable military duty beginning in 1968. During nineteen months of service, he demonstrated extraordinary courage and patriotism, earning distinguished honors such as the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. Even beyond his military service, Phil has continued to serve his community through volunteerism, mentorship, and leadership, embodying the spirit of servant leadership.

Above all, Phil's contributions reflect a life devoted to helping others, strengthening Cass City, and setting an example of integrity, generosity, and commitment.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Phil Nichols for his exceptional contributions to the Cass City community. His leadership, character, and dedication set a standard for all, and his legacy of service will continue to inspire generatIons to come.