Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize and congratulate Chief Richard Mendez on his retirement as Chief of the Lancaster City Bureau of Police Chief, and I thank him for his 25 years of dedicated service to the Lancaster community.

A native of the City of Lancaster and a graduate of McCaskey High School, Chief Mendez joined his hometown police department in 2000. Over the course of his distinguished career, he served as a patrol officer, K-9 officer, member of the Selective Enforcement Unit, member of the Lancaster County Special Emergency Response Team, and platoon leader. Demonstrating an unparalleled work ethic, he rose through the ranks, and in 2021, was appointed Captain of Patrol, the largest division of the Lancaster City Bureau of Police.

In July 2022, Chief Mendez was sworn in as Chief of Police, becoming the first Hispanic police chief in the bureau's history. During his tenure, the bureau achieved accreditation from the Pennsylvania Chiefs of Police Association and implemented significant improvements to its recruitment process. Chief Mendez helped to advance community-focused initiatives such as the Police Social Worker Program, the Office of Community Engagement, and expanded bike patrols, all of which strengthened trust and collaboration between law enforcement and residents.

Chief Mendez has devoted the past 25 years to keeping Lancaster safe. I am extremely grateful for the positive impact he has had on the community. I wish him the best in his well-earned retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize and congratulate The Market at Oregon Dairy for 50 years in business.

Earl and Mary Hurst bought the Oregon Dairy Farm, located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania in 1952. By 1975, the Hursts had opened a small store that offered fresh milk, eggs, and produce. The family- run store transformed rapidly in the following decades. The current market was built in 1979 and a cafeteria, which would later become a family restaurant, was opened in 1986.

Since its founding, the Market at Oregon Dairy has been a staple in the local community. Their supermarket provides fresh, locally sourced products, some of which are grown on their own farm, as well as an award-winning bakery. The success of the market has transformed the Oregon Dairy farm into a hub that includes not only a restaurant, but a creamery, a gift shoppe, frequent events, and farm tours.

The Market at Oregon Dairy is now proudly operated by the third and fourth generations of the Hurst family. Their dedication exemplifies the strength of Pennsylvania's 11th Congressional District, which is rooted in agriculture and sustained by successful family-owned businesses. I congratulate the Hurst family on reaching this remarkable 50-year milestone for the Market at Oregon Dairy and wish them continued success in the years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize and congratulate Kyle Welk of Peach Bottom, Pennsylvania, on being named the 2025 Merle Howard Award winner at the 58th World Dairy Expo in Wisconsin.

Having grown up on a dairy farm, Kyle has dedicated his life to the dairy industry from a young age. On October 3, 2025, he received the Merle Howard Award, which is one of the highest honors a young person can achieve in the dairy industry.

Kyle's work ethic is demonstrated by his steady determination and pursuit of excellence. He began by showing cattle at local shows and progressed to state, regional, and national competitions. His commitment took him from working on a prestigious farm in Lancaster County to traveling across the United States and even to New Zealand. Kyle also won numerous state awards for his homebred cattle and swept the fitting contest at the 2024 World Dairy Expo.

Dairy farming is not an easy profession, but Kyle approached every task--from washing animals to packing their bedding--with passion, drive, and humility. These same qualities have made him stand out as one of the very best in fitting, raising, and breeding cattle.

Agriculture is the backbone of Pennsylvania's 11th District, and we are fortunate to have a strong dairy industry. The grit and perseverance of individuals like Kyle Welk make this possible. His character and grit have earned him well-deserved recognition as the 2025 Merle Howard Award winner.

Through his achievements, Kyle sets an excellent example for young people in Pennsylvania's 11th District and beyond who aspire to careers in dairy and agriculture. I congratulate him and look forward to seeing all that his bright future holds.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to congratulate and recognize the Manheim Lions Club for their 100th anniversary.

Located in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, the Manheim Lions Club is a dedicated community partner, exemplifying the Lions International motto of ``We Serve'' since their chartering in 1925. The club is heavily involved in youth activities, sponsoring a 14U baseball team and the Cub Scouts, and presenting educational awards to local students. It also runs programs that support vision care, such as an eyeglasses drive, and engages in a variety of community service and humanitarian relief efforts.

These efforts are supported through Easter egg hunts, 5K races, broom sales, and food stands at the Manheim Farm Show. This does not include past traditions like car shows at the football field and plastic boat races on the creek. Ultimately, the money raised within the community is reinvested back into the community.

The Manheim Lions are currently led by Club President Aaron Henderson. They are one of 49,000 Lions clubs across 200 countries and regions, and Lions Club International boasts 1.4 million members worldwide.

As the Manheim Lions Club celebrates 100 years of community service, I would like to thank the club and its members for their long-standing record of selflessness. Their efforts have made Pennsylvania's 11th Congressional District a better place, and I wish them another century of positive impact.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to honor and congratulate Mr. Dennis Steiner on his retirement as President and CEO of VisionCorps.

VisionCorps is a non-profit organization that provides rehabilitative, preventative, educational, and employment services to the blind and vision impaired. Mr. Steiner's history with the company stretches back 41 years when he joined the agency in 1984 as a case manager. In 2008, he became President and CEO of the agency.

A strong advocate for the blind and visually impaired, Mr. Steiner shifted the focus of VisionCorps toward independence and autonomy. He introduced summer youth programming, implemented free rehabilitative services to clients, and utilized new technology such as smart glasses and magnifiers. He also oversaw the expansion of VisionCorps from one facility in Lancaster to rehabilitation and employment sites in Adams, Chester, Lebanon, and York Counties, as well as in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Additionally, Mr. Steiner serves as the North America/Caribbean World Blind Union representative for the National Industries for the Blind. He is a board member for VisionServe Alliance, the Pennsylvania Association for the Blind, UniqueSource, and the National Association for the Employment of People Who Are Blind, the last of which he served as the president from 2014 to 2016.

Under Mr. Dennis Steiner's leadership, VisionCorps has helped thousands of individuals lead independent and successful lives. Pennsylvania's 11th Congressional District is grateful for Mr. Steiner's impact, and I wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to congratulate and recognize United Way of Lancaster County on their 100th anniversary.

United Way of Lancaster County, then called the Welfare Federation of Lancaster, was formed in the fall of 1925 with the goal of coordinating and maintaining social service agencies throughout the county. Over the decades, the organization has evolved to meet the changing needs of Lancaster County's residents.

United Way's original goal of coordinating social service agencies has grown and flourished over the past century. Beginning in 1959, United Way of Lancaster County has regularly conducted million-dollar fundraising campaigns to help the community. In 2007, they launched their Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which offers free tax services to low to moderate-income working families. In 2011, they became a part of the Pennsylvania 211 collaborative, the statewide hotline for essential community services.

Today, United Way of Lancaster County assists the community--through funding nonprofits with millions of dollars in grants, partnering with over 100 social service organizations in the county, and mobilizing volunteers to meet critical needs. I am proud that Pennsylvania's 11th District embodies a spirit of generosity, and the United Way of Lancaster County stands as a shining example of that commitment.

Congratulations to the United Way of Lancaster County on 100 years of making a difference.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize the congregation of Salem Heller's Evangelical Reformed Church for their 300th anniversary.

Over the past year, the congregation of Salem Heller's Evangelical Reformed Church has commemorated three centuries of faith and service. The church's humble beginnings date back to a time before the founding of both Lancaster County and the United States. Today, Salem Heller's stands as a testament to the strength and perseverance of a faith-based community that has flourished for generations.

Salem Hellers was founded in 1725 by Palatine German immigrants to the Conestoga Valley and claims to be one of the oldest Reformed congregations in Lancaster County. Initially, parishioners gathered for worship in homes and barns before constructing a log cabin that served as their first permanent site of worship, a structure that stood until 1860.

Throughout its history, the congregation of Salem Heller's has been home to true patriots and community leaders. At least 144 of its members have served our Nation in conflicts dating back to the American Revolution. One of the church's first ministers, John Philip Boehm, is recognized by many as the founder of the German Reformed Church in the United States. Today, the cemetery at Salem Heller's is the final resting place of more than 2,700 individuals, each one a contributor to the thriving and faithful community that continues to embody the spirit of Lancaster County.

As the congregation concludes this year of celebration, it is fitting to honor its storied past and its promising future. For 300 years, Salem Heller's Evangelical Reformed Church has served as a bastion of faith and community for the people of Lancaster County. As generations continue to worship in this historic church, I know the congregation will continue to serve its mission to both the community and its faith.

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the congregation of Salem Heller's Evangelical Reformed Church and wish them continued blessings as they celebrate their 300th anniversary.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize Ashley Miller, who placed 2nd in 3M's 2025 Clash of the Grinders, a national welding and fabrication competition.

The Clash of the Grinders competition is an annual event hosted by 3M's Abrasive Solutions division at FABTECH, North America's largest metalworking trade show. This metalworking competition challenges the skill and speed of welding school students across various applications in welding and grinding. It serves as an inspiration for young individuals to pursue careers in skilled trades. This year, only six applicants from across the Nation were invited to compete in the competition to showcase their skills.

Ashley is from Hanover, Pennsylvania and was inspired to pursue welding by her father. Although she didn't know any welders personally, a high school welding course sparked her interest, leading her to enroll in the fabrication and welding program at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. At Thaddeus Stevens, Ashley has advanced her skills in Shielded Metal Welding, Gas Metal Arc Welding, also known as Metal Inert Gas welding, Gas Tungsten Arc Welding, commonly called Tungsten Inert Gas welding, and oxyacetylene welding.

Ashley placed 2nd at this year's Clash of the Grinders competition, an amazing achievement. For her great work, she was awarded a $9,000 cash prize. Outside of welding, Ashley enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and dogs, cherishing the joy and memories they bring. Upon completing her program at Thaddeus Stevens, Ashley plans to start her career in a shop or field setting to build her skills and has an interest in Non-Destructive Testing.

I commend Ashley for her amazing work and her interest in pursuing a career in the trades. It is thanks to young people like Ashley, who will drive our Nation's economy for decades to come. It is important that we recognize and encourage young people to participate in the skilled trades and competitions like the Clash of the Grinders are crucial to increasing visibility for these in-demand industries.

I congratulate Ashley on her 2nd place finish. I wish her the best in all her future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to congratulate and recognize Goodhart Sons Inc. on their 90th anniversary. Goodhart Sons Inc. is a steel fabricator and installer based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Their history began in 1935 when Frank G. Goodhart purchased the two-man sheet metal shop that he was once an apprentice at. In the 90 years since Goodhart's founding, Frank and successive generations of family leadership have tapped into new markets, both in their customer base and the regions they serve. The projects they have worked on vary, ranging from food and beverage equipment to ductwork and even hovercraft. Goodhart Sons moved to their current facility in 1971, which has continued to expand with each generation.

Today, Goodhart Sons Inc. is under fourth-generation leadership and employs over one hundred people. Goodhart Sons has built a reputation for large industrial work, and their installation team has worked across the United States and other countries. Goodhart Sons is also committed to the local community, best shown through their charitable donations and workforce development investments.

For 90 eventful years, Goodhart Sons Inc. has been a business and community leader in Pennsylvania's 11th District. I am grateful for the Goodhart family for their positive impact and wish them many more years of success.

Mr. Speaker, on Wednesday, September 17, in York County, our community suffered an unimaginable tragedy. Members of the Northern York County Regional Police Department and the York County Sheriff's Office were fired upon as they entered a home while attempting to serve a warrant relative to a stalking incident in North Codorus Township.

Three officers--Sergeant Cody Becker, Detective Mark Baker, and Detective Isaiah Emenheiser--were killed in the line of duty. Two other officers, one from the Northern York County Regional Police Department and one York County Deputy Sheriff were wounded and remain in the hospital. We pray for their swift and complete recovery.

Mr. Speaker, this horrific and senseless act of violence has devastated the York County community. Hearts are broken. Three brave public servants who answered the call to protect and defend did not return home to their loved ones at the end of their shift.

Mr. Speaker, to the families, loved ones, friends, and colleagues of these fallen heroes, we extend our deepest, deepest sympathy. We grieve with them, and the entire community shares in their grief.

May we all keep the families of the fallen officers, of the department, the York County Sheriff's Office, and all law enforcement officers in our hearts and in our prayers.

Mr. Speaker, I yield to Congressman Perry.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for his words.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that everyone rise and that the House observe a moment of silence to honor the memory of Sergeant Cody Becker, Detective Mark Baker, and Detective Isaiah Emenheiser.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to welcome His All-Holiness Bartholomew, the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, to Washington, D.C. As spiritual leader of more than 300 million Orthodox Christians, he is revered worldwide as ``First Among Equals'' among the Primates of Orthodoxy.

Throughout his three decades of service, Patriarch Bartholomew has been a champion of religious freedom and the dignity of all people. His advocacy for the environment has earned him the title ``Green Patriarch,'' underscoring his vision that faith and stewardship of creation must walk hand in hand.

This month, His All-Holiness visits our capital and later will receive the Templeton Prize, recognizing his lifelong witness to faith. Equally deserving of praise is his efforts to spur interfaith dialogue. In a world where we are too often divided by that which makes us different, constructive dialogue that fosters relationships and creates mutual respect is critical.

From his first historic visit in 1997, when he was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, to today, his presence has inspired bipartisan respect and admiration.

We welcome him with gratitude and honor his commitment to peace, liberty, and reconciliation.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kreider Farms of Lancaster County on 90 years in business.

Kreider Farms began in 1935 when Noah Kreider and his wife, Mary Hershey, bought the Hershey farm from Mary's father. Starting with 50 chickens and a dozen cows, the following decades saw the Penn Township farm expand on their dairy and egg production.

In 1972, Kreider Farms built their own processing plant and retail store for their milk and ice cream.

Madam Speaker, 90 years later, Kreider Farms is the last full-scale egg and dairy farm in the United States. The fourth-generation business employs 475 people and encompasses 3,000 acres.

They are the largest egg producer in Pennsylvania and help make Pennsylvania's 11th Congressional District the second-ranked egg- producing district in the Nation.

Kreider Farms' business practices are also noteworthy. Their focus on environmental responsibility and sustainability has won them numerous awards, and they are the first farm in the Northeast to be American Humane Certified.

Kreider Farms has brought joy and nutrition to countless families across Pennsylvania's 11th Congressional District and the Nation for an astounding 90 years.

Madam Speaker, I congratulate Chairman Ron Kreider and Kreider Farms for their hard work and continuation of Pennsylvania's rich agricultural legacy. I wish them many more years of continued success.

Congratulating Shady Maple Smorgasbord on 40 Years

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Shady Maple Smorgasbord on 40 years in business.

In July 1985, Marv and Miriam Weaver added on to their Shady Maple Farm Market and cafeteria with a new business venture, the Shady Maple Smorgasbord.

Since then, Shady Maple has become the largest and one of the most highly rated buffets in the country. The restaurant covers 161,000 square feet, seats nearly 1,200 customers, and employs hundreds of people. Specializing in authentic Pennsylvania Dutch food, the buffet features hundreds of food options as well as a from-scratch bakery and in-house smoked meats.

Shady Maple Smorgasbord is just one part of the larger Shady Maple enterprise, which includes the farm market, a gift shop, and RV sales. The company has remained in family hands under Marv and Miriam's sons, CEO Lin Weaver and President Phil Weaver. The farm market and smorgasbord complex employ 750 people and attracts over a million customers a year.

Madam Speaker, as Shady Maple celebrates 40 years in business, I commend the Weavers for their hard work on transforming a small cafeteria into a culinary destination that draws people from around the globe. May their success continue for the next 40 years and beyond.

Recognizing Star Rock Farms in York County

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the York County Agricultural Land Preservation Board for conserving the 50,000th acre of farmland in York County, which occurred at Star Rock Farms.

Since its founding in 1990, the board has worked tirelessly to safeguard York County's rich agricultural heritage. Over the years, York County's farmland preservation program has become a model for protecting farmland from development and ensuring its availability for future generations.

On August 20, 2025, the board celebrated this historic milestone with the preservation of Star Rock Farms in Brogue, Pennsylvania, a family- owned, third-generation operation led by cousins Rob Barley, Abe Barley, Jr., and Tom Barley.

Star Rock Farms was founded in 1932 by Abram M. Barley with the purchase of 12 acres in Manor Township in Lancaster County.

Star Rock Farms has been a model operation and now raises dairy, beef, and swine in addition to growing crops in a sustainable manner.

To date, 354 farms have been permanently preserved across York County, ensuring that our region's farming tradition continues to thrive.

York County has shown how strong partnerships between government and landowners are necessary to protecting our Nation's farms. York County ranks third in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and ninth in the Nation in preserved farmland acreage. Together with Lancaster County, both located in Pennsylvania's 11th Congressional District, our region proudly stands as a national leader in farmland preservation.

Madam Speaker, I commend the York County Agricultural Land Preservation Board not only for protecting farmland but for preserving a way of life that sustains families, communities, and our Nation. I also thank Star Rock Farms for continuing to lead the way for agriculture in Pennsylvania's 11th District and for their efforts to support farmland preservation.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to congratulate and recognize the Lancaster County Conservation District (LCCD) on their 75th anniversary.

In 1950, the Lancaster County Conservation District, then called the Soil Conservation District, was officially incorporated by the county. Though the Conservation District had officially been organized since 1938, it only covered the southern part of Lancaster County. The new organization was wholly operated by its volunteer board until they hired their first employee in 1965.

The Lancaster County Conservation District raises awareness of environmental challenges and helps individuals and organizations with navigating them. Three quarters of a century since its founding, the LCCD has moved beyond its original scope of soil conservation. New programs include an erosion and sedimentation program, which helps to protect water quality, educational programs such as the Youth Conservation School and the Envirothon, their own Chesapeake Bay and watershed programs, an annual tree sale, and much more.

Just as important is the LCCD's collaboration with farmers and the local community, which makes everything they do possible. Farmers work with the LCCD because better agronomics and better environmental practices are intertwined. The LCCD also builds inroads with farmers to increase environmental awareness. An example of this is their Plain Sect program, which provides outreach to the local Amish and Mennonite communities, which comprise a significant portion of the farms in the district.

With the dedication of 40 employees, the LCCD leads the way in soil conservation and water quality. We owe our beautiful scenery and quality of life in part to the LCCD, which is why I am grateful for their work in Pennsylvania's 11th Congressional District. Congratulations to the Lancaster County Conservation District on 75 years, and I wish them many more years of success.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Lisa K. Colon of Lancaster City, who passed away on August 21, 2025, at the age of 51.

Lisa will be deeply missed by all who knew her, especially her family. She was a devoted wife to Reali Colon; loving mother to Isreali, Victoria, and Realina; and proud grandmother to three granddaughters. She was also a faithful sister and daughter.

Lisa represented, in many ways, what makes our community so great: a dedication to public service; a spirit of volunteering; a strong work ethic; and a deep love for God, family, and country.

Born in Asheville, North Carolina, Lisa moved to Lancaster County in 1987 along with her family when her father transferred to the Pennsylvania Army National Guard.

In the 2000s, Lisa furthered her education, graduating from Harrisburg Area Community College and then Penn State University with a bachelor's degree in accounting.

She worked as a records officer at Lancaster County Prison, and then she moved to the controller's office as senior accountant and assistant manager before being elected by the voters of Lancaster County to serve as county controller in 2021, a position she held until her passing.

Lisa was the first woman elected controller in Lancaster County, but her impact as a trailblazer and her contributions to her community extends far beyond her service as a public official.

Lisa had a heart for giving back to the community, volunteering for the Lancaster City Parks Department, Adopt-a-Block, and homeless shelters in the city. She was president of the local Blue Star Mothers of America chapter, which assists Active-Duty military personnel, their families, and veterans.

Lisa also served as chair of the Lancaster City Republican Committee and the assistant treasurer for the Republican Committee of Lancaster County.

For her many professional and community achievements, Lisa was honored as a Woman of Influence by the Central Penn Business Journal just last year. It was a fitting recognition for the positive impact that Lisa has made on our community.

Even while battling cancer, Lisa Colon continued her duties as controller and did missionary work in Cambodia, as well. Lisa left behind an incredible impact on both the community and those who she met, and I am glad to have known her and to have called her a friend for many years.

As we mourn the passing and celebrate the life of Lisa Colon, we offer our prayers of comfort to her family and to those who grieve. May they have peace, and may Lisa's memory and her lasting impact on our community continue to inspire others.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to congratulate and recognize Cole McAnany from the Ephrata Area School District for achieving a perfect score in the prestigious Mathematical Olympiads for Elementary and Middle Schools.

A middle school student in the 11th Congressional District, Cole's accomplishment embodies the educational excellence found in Lancaster County. After competing in the Math Olympiad since he was in 5th grade, Cole was confident in his ability to score big. His hard work in and out of the classroom paid off, placing him among an elite group of just 201 students who also achieved a perfect score. He is in the top two percent of his peers.

Cole represents the high caliber of students in Pennsylvania's 11th Congressional District. His dedication and remarkable abilities reflect his willingness to strive for excellence in everything he does. I congratulate him on this impressive achievement and wish him the best in his future endeavors.