Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the tradition of Breakfast on the Farm in Oconto County.

Breakfast on the Farm is an iconic Wisconsin tradition that provides the community an opportunity to see first-hand how a dairy farm operates and learn about the significant role the dairy industry plays in Wisconsin's economy. Community members meet dairy farmers, explore the barns and equipment, and enjoy a delicious meal prepared on the farm.

The Oconto County Breakfast on the Farm Committee has been organizing the breakfast since 2010, recruiting host farms, sponsors, and volunteers to support this terrific event. In addition, the Committee offers scholarships to graduating high school seniors to further promote the strong agriculture industry in the community.

I am grateful to Peterson's Dairy for hosting the 2019 Oconto County Breakfast on the

Farm. Peterson's Dairy was established in 1973 when Arne and Judy Peterson purchased farmland in Lena, Wisconsin. In 2002, the family formed Peterson's Dairy LLC when their son, John, joined the operation as part owner. Peterson's Dairy LLC milks more than 1,000 registered Holsteins and farms about 1800 acres. Their philosophy to produce quality milk in a sustainable manner in a positive environment for both the animal's and farmer's welfare is one to be admired throughout the industry.

Madam Speaker, I urge all members of this body to join me in commending the efforts of Breakfast on the Farm to educate the community through this time-honored tradition. Thank you to the Petersons, the Oconto County Breakfast on the Farm Committee, and the countless sponsors and volunteers for their continued support of Wisconsin's dairy industry.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life, legacy, and service of Master Sergeant Donald Charles Bettine.

MSG Bettine passed away on Monday, April 29, 2019 at the age of 89. He was born in Green Bay on August 12, 1929 to Charles and Elva Bettine.

After graduating from Central Catholic High School in 1947, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. Upon completion of basic training, MSG Bettine went to Japan where he was an instructor in the Eight Army Ordinance School. After a brief return to the U.S., he was deployed to Korea to serve in the Korean War. As a part of the 3rd Infantry, he participated in the evacuation of Hungnam in 1950. MSG Bettine charged enemy snipers in a frontal attack, allowing his platoon to advance forward. For this display of bravery, he earned his Bronze Star with the ``V'' for Valor. Dubbed the ``Christmas Miracle,'' the incredible evacuation resulted in the rescue of nearly 200,000 troops and civilian refugees.

After his service in the Korean War, MSG Bettine was stationed near Moscow, Idaho where he met the love of his life, Evelyn Sumner. They were married on December 19, 1953, and shortly after relocated to Germany, where he was stationed for 4 years. Following his time in Germany, he was stationed in several places across the U.S., and was later sent to Korea for a second time where he was stationed in Seoul. During his time in Seoul, MSG Bettine became heavily involved in one of the local orphanages, dedicating his time to the children there. Upon his return to the states, MSG Bettine was assigned to Fort McCoy. He retired from active duty in 1968.

Following his retirement from active duty, MSG Bettine continued his service to others as the JrROTC instructor at Premontre High School in Green Bay, WI where he taught for over 20 years. Affectionately known as ``Sarge,'' MSG Bettine strived to instill the values and lessons he learned during his time in the military to his students. MSG Bettine took an active interest in his students' futures, and often followed their careers through the Armed Forces. It was not unusual for him and his students to stay in touch years after their graduation.

MSG Bettine joined the Knights of Columbus in his late 20s, and he was ultimately honored for over 60 years of service. In line with his character and values, he joined the Knights of Columbus to serve his community beyond his service in the military. He was a Fourth Degree Knight and served as District Deputy, Programs Coordinator, and District Marshall.

Words cannot justly thank MSG Bettine for his many years of service to our country. My sincerest condolences go to his family.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the tradition of Breakfast on the Farm in Brown County.

Breakfast on the Farm is an iconic Wisconsin tradition that provides the community an opportunity to see first-hand how a dairy farm operates, and to learn about the significant role the dairy industry plays in Wisconsin's economy. Community members meet dairy farmers, explore the barns and equipment, and enjoy a delicious meal prepared on the farm.

In 1997, Dennis and Mary Zirbel moved from Collins, WI, to establish DenMar Acres, their dairy farm in Greenleaf, WI. Their sons Jeremy, Jeff, and Jesse are partners on the farm where the family milks 950 cows and manages 1,900 acres. Always pursuing innovative practices, DenMar Acres implements advanced technologies such as the Juno robot Feed Pushers, to help increase yields and improve efficiency on their farm. I am grateful to DenMar Acres for hosting the 2019 Brown County Breakfast on the Farm.

Brown County Dairy Promotion has been organizing Breakfast on the Farm since 2001, recruiting farm hosts, sponsors, and volunteers to support this terrific event. To continue the promotion of agriculture throughout the year, all proceeds of Breakfast on the Farm are donated to provide free educational programs to students studying agriculture in Brown County.

Madam Speaker, I urge all members of this body to join me in commending the efforts of Breakfast on the Farm to educate the community through this time-honored tradition. Thank you to the Zirbels, Brown County Dairy Promotion, and the countless sponsors and volunteers for their continued support of Wisconsin's dairy industry.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life, service, and sacrifice of Appleton firefighter Mitchell Lundgaard.

Mr. Lundgaard began his career with the Appleton Fire Department in March of 2005 and spent the next 14 years serving and protecting his community. Through his dedication and hard work, Mr. Lundgaard achieved the rank of firefighter inspector.

On Wednesday, May 15, 2019, Mr. Lundgaard tragically lost his life while on active duty. His heroism and bravery in response to a medical call will forever be remembered. He was a true leader in the Appleton community, and his absence will be felt across all of Northeast Wisconsin.

Mr. Lundgaard's years of service to our community and his commitment to ensuring the safety of others set the highest example of citizenship that we must all strive for. Mr. Lundgaard's death is a tragedy for our community, and my deepest condolences go out to his wife, three daughters, and the rest of their family.

Madam Speaker, I ask that the members of this chamber rise in honor of Mr. Lundgaard's life, and that we keep him and his family in our thoughts and prayers.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bill H.R. 2066, the DHS Intelligence Rotational Assignment Program Act of 2019.

Having spent nearly a decade working on intelligence issues for the military and the Intelligence Community, I know first-hand the importance of collaboration between different intelligence offices. Understanding the mission sets and key intelligence questions of partner agencies not only makes the entire Intelligence Community better, but keeps our nation safer. We must do all we can to strengthen participation in programs that seek to encourage this type of cross pollination.

The Intelligence Rotational Assignment Program, or TRAP, was established to provide the Department's intelligence analysts with the opportunity to gain experience in the different mission areas across the DHS intelligence enterprise.

While the establishment of IRAP was an important step for improving intra-agency communication, the program has seen low levels of participation due to the fact that most DHS intelligence offices are unaware of the program's existence, and there are no incentives for analysts to partake.

H.R. 2066 seeks to reverse this trend by authorizing IRAP within the larger ``Homeland Security Rotation Program,'' or HSRP. Operated by the Under Secretary of Management, the HSRP encourages rotations for senior level employees throughout the Department to broaden their knowledge of various component operations.

Establishing a specific intelligence rotation program through this framework will raise the program's profile within the Department and encourage new incentives. Further, by creating a more robust and transparent rotation program, this bill encourages DHS intelligence analysts to gain the skills and competencies that elevate the Department's Intelligence Enterprise above its individual program missions while ensuring the program's existence in the future.

I want to thank Chairman Thompson and Ranking Member Rogers for bringing this bill to the Floor, and my colleagues for supporting its passage. I urge the Senate to swiftly adopt this important legislation, and yield back the balance of my time.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize the St. Francis Xavier High School Class of 1969.

Fifty years ago, 287 students graduated from St. Francis Xavier Catholic High School in Appleton, Wisconsin. Members of the class have gone on to be leaders in the community and emulate the school's central principles of faith, hope, justice, and charity. Many now serve as role models for young men and women in their own communities nationwide.

The May 25, 1969 graduates include:

Stephen Abitz, Kathleen Ann Arens, Catherine Babb, Kathy Bachman, Daniel J. Balliet, Richard M. Balza, Robert James Balza, Joyce A. Barkholtz, Michael J. Barras, Tim J. Bartelt, Edward A. Baum, Marilyn Baum, Barbara M. Bayer, Patricia Bayer, Suzanne C. Beaudoin, Susan Becker, Karen L. Besch, Marcelline F. Beschta, Eugene Michael Bissing, James T. Black, Marilyn J. Blick, Barbara Anne Bobber, Betty Lou Bock, Susan M. Bonner, Joanne Elizabeth Booth, Nancy Bowers, Loretta H. Brandt, Barbara Jeanne Brayton, Sue E. Breitenbach, Thomas R. Brinsko, Jeffrey L. Brum, Robert L. Burch, David T. Burke, Mark Edward Calmes, Lynn A. Carew, Kathrynn Ann Carpenter, Mary Lou Cassidy, Mary F. Christianson, Michael Clark, Mary A. Connolly, Joyce Mary Crawford, Kathleen Damon, Patricia Ann Day, Jane E. Deckers, Patricia Ann DeGroot, Charles J. Deibele, Michael Dengel, Patricia A. De Noble, Donna Dexheimer, Jean Ann De Young, Richard E. Diedrick, Margaret Dietz, Doris Dietzen, Robert J. Doherty, Linda Dorzweiler, Cynthia A. Dougherty, Janis E. Driscoll, Patricia M. Early, James E. Eisner, Patricia Ellenbecker, Jeanne M. Erchul, Nancy J. Escamilla, Robert Femal, Christine M. Ferron, Michael E. Ferron, Shirley M. Feuerstein, Richard J. Fischer, Kathleen Flanagan, Barbara A. Flood, William F. Floodstrand, Jacinta Mary Fralun, Robert H. Fullarton, David Francis Gage, Anna Garvey, Jennifer A. Garvey, Sharon Gass, Sue Ann Gatz, William P. Gedemer, Cynthia M. Geurts, Jane Ann Gilbert, John R. Gloudemans, James J. Gloudemans, Brad J. Graff, Douglas P. Green, Virginia M. Green, Barbara Gregorius, Ellen P. Gregorius, Gregory Michael Griesbach, Lynn Ellen Griesbach, Robert J. Griesbach, Richard M. Grossman.

James R. Gruentzel, Mary Jo Guckenberg, Kay Gutschow, Guy Guyon, Peter James Hahn, Sharon Hando, Steven A. Hardy, Richard G. Hayes, Dennis Heigl, Gary F. Heimerman, Edith Hein, Ellen Mary Heinemann, Marie C. Heinritz, Micheline R. Heinritz, Joan Heiss, Dianne Mary Herwig, Victoria Hildebrandt, Angela May Hughes, Thomas O. Hurley, Suzette Ann Hurst, Arthur F. Jaehnke, Cynthia Ann Jandourek, Mark Douglas Jankowski, Judith Mae Jansen, Mary Dianne Janssen, Veronica Mary Jentz, Mary Lou Jochman, Shirley Ann Jochman, Charles M. Johnson, Garry C. Kausch, Robert L. Keller, Cynthia Doris Kells, Rosemary Frances Kemkes, Nancy Marie Kennedy, Ralph Charles Kessler, Karen Kay Kester, Carol Kettenhoven, William R. Kettenhofen, Lawrence Keuler, Katherine Jane Kewley, Robert C. Klemp, Curtis J. Knight, Patricia Knight, Robert W. Knoll, Louise Ann Koll, Richard Eugene Koller, Kathryn Kolosso, Frederick Kranzusch, Sandra J. Kraus, Jane Krejcha, Jeffrey George Krueger, Carol A. Krupka, Mary Jo Kurth, Karla G. Kwitek, Kevin K. Lally, Charles Joseph Lang, Daniel John Laux, Charles Joseph LaViolette, John Edward Le Capitaine, Timothy H. Leopold, Debra Liethen, Eugene F. Lillge, Ann Loerke, Kathryn Ann Lorenz, James Losselyong, Catherine Lund, Mary Ann Luedeke, Deborah Susan Lux, Charles E. Maass, Mark R. Malchow, Philip John Mannebach, Elizabeth Martin, Francesca Jean Martin, Michael A. Marx, Mary Lynn Mauthe, Robert R. McCann, Margaret Mary Catherine McCanna, Margery W. McClenahan, Christopher B. McDermott, Richard M. McKenny, Elizabeth L. Meiers, Stephen C. Mendleski, Lynn Mary Motelewski, Cheryl Mueller, Michael James Murphy, Michael John Murphy, Patrice Michelle Murphy, Thomas L. Neilitz, Richard E. Neubauer, Richard E. Noe, Stephen C. Noffke, Margaret K. Nyman, Pamela Ann O'Leary, John Paltzer, Michael Richard Pankratz, Carol Ann Pastorelli, Stephen Mark Patenaude, Denise Paulie, James P. Peerenboom.

Jay F. Peerenboom, Mary Pendergast, Kathleen Ann Peterson, Jean Pfankuch, William Richard Pfefferle, Mary Melanie Piette, Larry J. Plamann, Mary Therese Ponschock, Thomas Putzer, Kathleen Quigley, Mary Louise Rathsack, Jenny Rechner, Barbara Reis, John M. Resch, Judy K. Rieden, Mary T. Roberts, David Joseph Roche, Stephen L. Roder, Paul M. Rubsani, Peter A. Rubsam, Christine Ruppel, Michael Samsa, Donald J. Schaefer, Robert Norton Schmieder, Mary Theresa Schuldes, Jean Ann Schumacher, Joseph Schwaller, Patricia Ann Schweitzer, Christopher L. Seghers, Mark Sherman, Ronald Shilt, Barbara J. Smith, Marsha Mary Snow, Joan Marie Sommers, Ann Marie Springer, Kathleen B. Springer, Margaret Ann Stack, Thomas J. Stadler, Sally Joan Stevens, William George Michael Stoeger, Roger Raymond Stoffel, Debra A. Streck, Elizabeth J. Strutz, Robert John Sturm, Carey Sullivan, Patricia Ann Sullivan, Rodger J. Suprise, Robert Tews, Mary F. Theabo, Jeffrey Theisen, Mary Jill Thiel, Charles A. Thompson, Thomas Lee Thomson, Joan Marie Tillman, Susan C. Tomazevic, Marjorie H. Ulman, Anthony J. Utschig, Nancy D. Vandenberg, Thomas E. Vandenberg, Thomas Vanden Elsen, Vickie E. Vanderpool, Victoria G. Van Dinter, Gary G. Van Eperen, Michael E. Van Groll, Christine Ann Van Handel, Michael N. Van Handel, Richard Van Handel, Pamela J. Van Rooy, Mark Van Ryzin, Mary K. Van Sistine, Frieda Ann Van Sleuwen, Marsha Claire Voissem, Michael Louis Voster, Kenneth P. Wagner, Mary Pat Wallace, Daniel I. Waller, Gail Mary Warne, Gary L. Wassmann, Carl J. Weber, Wayne Weckwerth, Dianne Marie Weggel, Susan Mary Weiland, Linda K. Weiss, Jane E. Welhouse, Charlene Ann Werner, Roger E. West, Joseph R. Wettengel, Thomas Whalen, Ellen J. White, Paul Whitehead, Lawrence Wilson, John F. Witmer, Mary Rae Witter, Judith A. Wolfe, Lisa Ann Young, Gregory T. Zak, Mary Lee Zwicker.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to congratulate the Class of 1969 in celebrating their golden reunion. I wish them the best during this time of joy in seeing old friends and remembering good times.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th anniversary of Green Bay Broadway, a factory that is owned and operated by Georgia-Pacific in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

In Wisconsin, we're best known for our cheese. But we also produce several other world class products. In the Eighth District, this includes paper.

For many years, the paper industry has been a leading industry in our state, where trees and energy are abundant. Even today, Wisconsin produces more paper than any other state.

In 1919, a man by the name of A.E. Cofrin founded Fort Howard Paper Company along the Fox River in Green Bay. While Fort Howard Paper Company has changed hands three times since its founding, the factory, now called Green Bay Broadway, has always kept its machines running.

As the plant changed hands, it has also modernized its operations. Throughout its changes in ownership, however, this mill, along with its workers, maintained its founding values of producing ``elegant yet affordable'' products.

In 2000, Georgia-Pacific purchased the mill with the goal of keeping that mission in mind. And as of today, this factory will be celebrating its 100th year of operation. This is a milestone achievement for any business, and particularly commendable given the changes this factory has undergone.

So, on behalf of the Eighth District of Wisconsin, I want to say congratulations to the generations of families who have worked at 1919 South Broadway Street in Green Bay, and to Georgia-Pacific for maintaining this factory's operations into its 100th anniversary.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chief James Beggs' 44 years of service in law enforcement.

Chief James Beggs began working for the Clintonville Police Department as a full-time Patrol Officer in September of 1975. Through hard work and dedication, he rose up in the ranks of the department from Patrol Lieutenant to Police Patrol Captain, a position he held for 22 years. In 2016, Beggs was promoted to Police Chief, a position he served in for three years.

Throughout his career, Chief Beggs served his community in capacities that went far beyond his role as Police Chief. During his 44 years of service with the Clintonville Police Department, Chief Beggs served as a firearms instructor for the Clintonville Police Department, served 13 years with the Clintonville Area Ambulance Service, and 14 years on the Waupaca County SWAT Team. Outside of his work with the Clintonville Police Department, Chief Beggs achieved a number of academic successes, including an Associates Degree in Police Science. He also attended the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development School where he was trained in emergency management, crisis negotiations, internal affairs, and first level leadership, as well as Homeland Security-Weapons of Mass Destruction.

During Chief James Beggs' 44-year career with the Clintonville Police Department, he went above and beyond to serve and protect his community. His dedication to and his leadership in Northeast Wisconsin stands as a

model for all police officers and citizens who strive to make a positive contribution to their community.

Chief Beggs leaves large shoes to fill and the impact that he has had on his community will not soon be forgotten. There is no doubt that Chief Beggs will be missed by the officers he worked with and by the community to which he dedicated his career. As Chief Beggs steps down to pursue other interests, I have no doubt he will continue to serve as a leader for Clintonville and the surrounding area.

Madam Speaker, I urge all members of this body to join me in commending Chief Beggs for his 44 years of service with the Clintonville Police Department

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the City of Oconto's sesquicentennial.

Nestled on the coast of Green Bay, the City of Oconto is the home to thousands of Wisconsinites. The city hosts thirty-three sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places and in its 150 years, it has seen tremendous growth and prosperity.

First settled by the Copper Culture People over 6,000 years ago, Oconto is rich with history and culture. The Copper Culture People, rightfully named for their role as some of the earliest copper workers in the Americas, made a variety of tools and ornaments, many of which can still be found today in Oconto at the Copper Culture State Park. When Jesuit missionaries arrived in Oconto in the mid-1600s, Oconto became vital in building the trade relationships that helped so-called ``New France'' to prosper. The Copper Culture People, along with ancestors of the Menominee who had settled there, traded beaver and other furs for various goods and tools with the European settlers.

Oconto experienced a population boom during the 19th and 20th centuries. Located directly on the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad, Oconto became a hub for the growing commercial lumber and fishing industries. Americans were in search of a beautiful place to earn a living and raise a family, and this wonderful city in Northeast Wisconsin offered them just that.

Today, several industries have expanded and are expected to continue to grow, creating new jobs and boosting the local economy. Oconto's small-town fishing lifestyle has continued to play a crucial role in the economy, attracting anglers from across the United States fishing for walleye at its Breakwater Park on the Bay.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to congratulate the City of Oconto on 150 years of community, industry, and success. As citizens committed to preserving the vibrant history of their home and watching it grow and prosper, the people of Oconto truly embody what it means to be a Wisconsinite: to strive forward. I wish them another 150 years of prosperity.

Madam Speaker, today I rise in honor of the outstanding achievement of Appleton, Wisconsin, resident, Mr. Henry Anderson. I rise to recognize Henry for representing the United States Natural Track Luge Team in upcoming World Cup events. To be selected to represent the United States on a worldwide stage is a significant honor. This is not only an incredible opportunity but also an outstanding accomplishment for a young man merely 14 years old. I wish Henry and his teammate, Torrey Cookman of the Honorable Mr. Bergman's District, all the best in their preparation and competition.

Henry and Torrey departed on Christmas Day 2018 for Austria to begin preparation for the World Championship series, which is held at different venues across Europe, including Austria, Italy, and Germany in January and February. They are competing with world-class competition and representing Northeast Wisconsin and the United States with pride and dignity both on and off the track.

As Henry continues his travels in Europe to prepare for the World Cup Championship Series, I wish him the best of luck, the best memories and life experiences that I hope he will reflect on as he grows older. The team's travels will allow its members to showcase some of the great talent that the United States and Northeast Wisconsin has to offer. While this is Henry's first time competing for Team USA, I am certain it will not be his last.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Henry Anderson for his participation in the Natural Luge World Championship as a member of the United States Natural Track Luge Team. Wisconsinites can take great pride in knowing the Eighth District is home to such a talented and dedicated individual. On behalf of my constituents, I wish Henry all the best in his future endeavors.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the 100- year anniversary of Thiel family auctioneers. Started in 1919, the Thiel Real Estate and Auction business still operates today in Northeast Wisconsin.

100 years ago, Andrew Thiel started his family auction business out of his home in Chilton, Wisconsin. Continuing his father's legacy, Andrew's son Randolph took over the company until he retired at the age of 81. Following his retirement, Andrew's son Jerry took over and continued to expand the business from auctions to also include the real estate and appraisal businesses. Jerry joined the Wisconsin Realtors Association and the Calumet County Board of Realtors, where he served as a board member and president for many years. In 1988, Jerry Thiel was named Calumet County Realtor of the Year, and is currently a member of the Wisconsin Realtor Honor Society.

The Thiel Real Estate and Auctions business is the oldest family- owned business and the largest appraisal business in Calumet County. And, the family tradition continues today. Fourth and fifth generation Thiel family members, including Jerry's four children and many grandchildren, are actively involved in the business.

This 100-year accomplishment is significant and inspirational. The Thiel family exemplifies the best qualities of Northeast Wisconsin and I am proud to represent such a dedicated, innovative, and hardworking family.

Madam Speaker, I ask that the Members of the House of Representatives join me in congratulating the Thiel family for their 100 years of success in Northeast Wisconsin.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Bradly A. Hardel's thirty years of service in law enforcement, and the successful legacy he leaves as Waupaca County's top law enforcement officer. Sheriff Hardel's outstanding career consists of many professional accomplishments that reflect the caliber of his leadership and service.

Sheriff Hardel began working for the Waupaca County Sheriff's Department in 1988 as a dispatch officer. His work ethic and diligence allowed him to climb the ranks of the department from dispatcher to patrol officer, patrol sergeant, and finally Sheriff. In 2007 he was elected Waupaca County Sheriff, a true testament to his dedication to Waupaca and his leadership abilities. From dispatch officer to Sheriff, Mr. Hardel has earned the respect of his peers and community not only in Waupaca County, but across the entire state of Wisconsin.

During Sheriff Hardel's tenure, the county experienced incredible growth and improvements, including the establishment of a K-9 unit and rescue SWAT vehicle. Sheriff Hardel has provided steadfast and unfailing leadership during times of change, while supporting his department and protecting our communities. Sheriff Hardel's concern for all officers has been instrumental in promoting a positive, healthy atmosphere.

Mr. Hardel leaves large shoes to fill in the Sheriff's office, and his legacy and impact will not soon be forgotten. There is no doubt that Sheriff Hardel will be missed by the officers who worked and served with him, the county officials who depended upon him, and the members of the communities he helped keep safe. As Sheriff Hardel steps down to pursue other interests, I have no doubt he will continue to serve as a leader in Waupaca County and beyond.

Mr. Speaker, I urge all members of this body to join me in commending Mr. Hardel for his service as Sheriff and thank him for his long career protecting the great state of Wisconsin.

Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the opportunity to speak on this bipartisan legislation spearheaded by my distinguished colleague from Wisconsin.

As a Gallagher in good standing, I am glad this bill will strengthen our Nation's ties with Ireland. But just as importantly, I take a minute to recognize the value of the underlying E-3 visa program to the U.S.-Australia alliance.

The E-3 visa program was negotiated in 2005 following the conclusion of the U.S.-Australia Free Trade Agreement. The visa is designed to give highly skilled and professional Australians access to U.S. employment in fields and trades that require specialized education and training.

It is good for both the United States and Australia. About 82,000 Americans are employed by Australian businesses in the United States, for example, with an average salary of $98,000.

In just one example, the very first employee of the Movember Foundation in the United States was an Australian who came over on an E-3 visa. Movember is now one of the largest nongovernment investors in prostate cancer research and services in the world, growing its footprint here in the United States as it has created jobs while doing good.

This program is a tangible recognition of the close and enduring partnership, or mateship, as we say, between the United States and Australia, which we are celebrating the 100-year anniversary of this year.

Our alliance remains one that not only drives our prosperity but our security as well. As a pillar of a free and open Indo-Pacific, Australia is an indispensable ally in an increasingly contested region, and we would be wise to continue exploring new avenues to further strengthen our relationship.

This legislation is an important opportunity to expand our partnership with Ireland, while preserving the original intent of the E-3 visa program with Australia, and I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Brad Gehring's thirty-five years of service in law enforcement, including twenty-eight years as Outagamie County Sheriff and the successful legacy he leaves as Outagamie County's top law enforcement officer. Sheriff Gehring's outstanding career consists of many professional accomplishments that reflect the caliber of his leadership and service.

Sheriff Gehring began working for the Outagamie County Sheriff's Department in 1983 as a corrections officer. His work ethic and diligence advanced him from corrections officer to deputy to investigator. In 1990 he was elected Outagamie County Sheriff, just seven years after beginning his career, a true testament to his leadership abilities. From corrections officer to Sheriff, Mr. Gehring has earned the respect of his peers and community not only in Outagamie County, but across the entire state of Wisconsin. It isn't often that a law enforcement officer serves the same county for nearly four decades.

During Sheriff Gehring's tenure, the county experienced incredible growth and improvements, including the construction of the Outagamie County Justice Center. Sheriff Gehring provided steadfast and unfailing leadership during times of change, while supporting his department and protecting our communities.

Mr. Gehring leaves large shoes to fill in the Sheriff's office, and his legacy and impact will not soon be forgotten. There is no doubt that Sheriff Gehring will be missed by the officers who worked and served with him, the county officials who depended upon him, and the members of the communities he helped keep safe. As Sheriff Gehring steps down to pursue other interests, I have no doubt he will continue to serve as a leader in Outagamie County and beyond.

Mr. Speaker, I urge all members of this body to join me in commending Mr. Gehring for his service as Sheriff and thank him for his long career protecting the great state of Wisconsin.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my colleague from Wisconsin, Representative Sean Duffy, and his bill, the Manage Our Wolves Act. This piece of legislation is critically important to my district and its farmers.

You see, farming is the lifeblood of northeast Wisconsin. Not only do our agricultural products support thousands of local jobs, they also feed millions of mouths across the world. This is why so many of my constituents are concerned by the threat of the gray wolf population to our farms. Already, the gray wolf's predatory behavior has cost Wisconsin farmers millions of dollars in damage.

This is why we must pass the Manage Our Wolves Act to delist the gray wolf from the Endangered Species Act and return control of population back to the States where it belongs. By doing so, farmers will finally be able to focus on actual farming, instead of having to spend extra time and money on keeping their livestock out of danger.

I urge all of my colleagues to join me in supporting this important piece of legislation. Our farmers are depending on it.