Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the success of Leona Ave Middle School in Shadyside, Ohio, as they were recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School for 2024. I thank the Shadyside Local School District and their determined, compassionate, and caring staff for guiding students to success.

I am proud to be able to honor Leona Ave Middle School for their exceptional work as upstanding academic leaders in the community.

The teachers and faculty not only strive for students to achieve their academic goals but are also invested in the well-being of each student. The educators of this district devote excessive amounts of their time and energy to the success of their learners because they understand the great impact it will have on the students' lives and the advancement of their region.

I want to acknowledge and thank the Shadyside Local School District's gifted teachers and staff for their dedication to the prosperity of Ohio's youth.

I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in recognizing these honorable leaders, pillars of Leona Ave Middle School in Shadyside, Ohio, as we congratulate them on their accomplishments and their contributions to the community. These admirable citizens illustrate the preeminent standard of the Ohio educators I am proud to represent. May their work continue to be a blessing to our industrious Nation.

Mr. Speaker, due to an issue with my staff getting me my vote card, I was unavailable for Roll Call No. 401. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 401.

Mr. Speaker, having worked in a family-run small business my whole life, I understand both the challenges and importance of running a successful small business venture. As you know, U.S. small businesses make up about 99.9 percent of all businesses and create more than 60 percent of all new jobs. Accordingly, I would like to take a moment to recognize the 2024 award recipients for the Youngstown Warren Regional Chamber's annual Salute to Business. I am proud to be able to honor these recipients for their work as upstanding business leaders in the community.

Mr. Greg Toporcer, owner of Top Property Holdings, will be presented with the Business Professional of the Year.

Ms. Kristen Olmi, chief executive officer of KO Consulting, Inc., will be presented with the Business Advocate of the Year.

Ms. Dionne Dowdy, executive director of United Returning Citizens, will be presented with the Non-Profit Professional of the Year award.

Mr. Ronnell Elkins, president of YOGO Bikeshare, will be presented with the Entrepreneur of the Year award.

Ms. Melissa Poland, owner of Sweet Melissa's Good Eats, will be presented with the Small Business Professional of the Year award.

Mr. Antonio Di Tommaso, Jr., of Carpenters Local 171, will be presented with the Salute to Labor Achievement Award.

Finally, Ms. Sarah O'Brien, owner of a chain of Little Tart Bakeshop locations in Atlanta, will be presented with the Valley Champion Award.

I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in recognizing these honorable leaders, pillars of the Youngstown Warren community, as we congratulate them on their accomplishments and their contributions to the community. These admirable citizens illustrate the thriving Ohio business community I am proud to represent, and may their work continue to be a blessing to our industrious Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Ms. Gertha Lee Stewart on her 100th birthday.

Gertha Lee Stewart is a venerable matriarch who has become the heart and soul of her large family, consisting of 250 members. Her wisdom and love have prospered generations, making her a cherished figure in their lives. Known for her incredible life story, Gertha Lee has been a beacon of strength and resilience.

A devout Christian, Gertha Lee's faith has been the cornerstone of her existence. She has spent countless hours in prayer and service, always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. Her deep spirituality and unwavering commitment to her beliefs have inspired many in her community to find their own paths of faith and devotion.

Beyond her family, Gertha Lee is recognized as a pillar of her community. Her charitable acts, wisdom, and leadership have earned her the respect and admiration of all who know her. Whether organizing community events, supporting local charities, or simply offering sage advice, Gertha Lee Stewart embodies the spirit of kindness and community service, leaving an indelible mark in her wake.

I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in recognizing Ms. Gertha Lee Stewart and her family as we congratulate her on 100 years of life. May she continually be a blessing and light to all who know her.