Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, today I rise to congratulate the American Legion Post 283 Harold C. Anderson on its 100th Anniversary.

Post 283 was founded on January 24, 1922, when 15 founding members came together to sign the Legion constitution forming the Suring American Legion Post. For 100 years, the Suring American Legion Post 283 has upheld the vision of legions across the country to the highest degree. Post 283 proudly carries the name of Maple Valley native and World War One veteran, Private Harold Christian Anderson, Private Anderson enlisted in the armed forces in 1917, joining the 32nd Infantry Division in Waco, Texas before quickly being shipped to France. Private Anderson was wounded in action in France on October 7, 1917, and succumbed to his wounds 6 days later just weeks before his 22nd birthday. He was buried in France until he was exhumed and returned home to Oconto County.

The legion carries on the memory, service, and sacrifice of Private Anderson through their vision of strengthening America by improving the lives of veterans, the military, and their families.

Post 283 has continued to grow from their beginnings of 15 founding members 100 years ago. Post 283 now has over 80 members located across the United States, who work together to teach future generations about the importance of service. The members of Post 283 are a true inspiration and example for all Americans. The continued service and dedication that the members of Post 283 have shown to not only the Suring community, but to the United States of America is deserving of the highest degree of recognition. As we celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Post 283, we must recognize the outstanding services that they have and continue to provide to Suring and surrounding communities. Post 283 enjoys supporting the local Suring High School and other organizations in countless ways.

Post 283 has been a voice for the men and women who have served our country. At Post 283 every day they put country before self, just as they did the day they joined the service. American Legion Post 283 Harold C. Anderson is a true credit to Northeast Wisconsin.

Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring the Suring American Legion Post 283 Harold C. Anderson as they come together to celebrate their 100th Anniversary.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of a remarkable man: Arnold ``Arnie'' Nettekoven. A military veteran, retired Patrolman, and the first-ever historian at the Appleton Police Department, Arnie has dedicated his life to serving his nation and community.

Born and raised in Black Creek, Wisconsin, Arnie grew up working on his family farm before enlisting in the Marine Corps and serving in the Korean War. After returning home to Northeast Wisconsin, Arnie was sworn in as a Patrolman at the Appleton Police Department on April 1st, 1960. After 30 years of service to the Appleton Police Department, Arnie continued to serve his community in several capacities including becoming the first Special Investigator in the Outagamie County District Attorney's Office. Through his many roles, Arnie's commitment and love for his community never wavered.

Arnie continued his contribution to the Appleton Police Department after retirement as the first-ever Department Historian. During his time as the historian, Arnie authored over 700 pages detailing the outstanding history of the Appleton Police Department and the Fox Valley. Arnie's commitment and dedication to his role led to the Appleton Police Department Military Tribute Wall and Appleton Police Benevolent Association Police Museum. Arnie's hard work did not go unnoticed as he received recognition as ``Volunteer of the Year'' for his efforts to document the remarkable history of the Appleton Police Department in 2018. Arnie's thoughtfulness and generosity will certainly be missed by many. However, the impact he has left through his work will carry on for many generations to come.

Madam Speaker, today the people of Northeast Wisconsin thank Amie for his extraordinary commitment and service to his community. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and to all of the lives he touched.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize the 100th anniversary of Eddie Whipp's Dining and Banquet Hall. Over the past 100 years, the Whipp Family has provided exceptional service to the people of Green Bay and throughout the State of Wisconsin.

What was once known as a church and horse stable in the 1800s, is now known as the incredibly successful Whipp's Dining and Banquet Hall. Established in 1922, Joe (Wypizinski) Whipp began operating a saloon where many men, mostly farmers from throughout Northeast Wisconsin, would stop on their way home from a hard day's work. Joe Whipp would run the tavern for nearly 18 years until his eldest son, Eddie, took over. In 1944, Eddie married his wife Dorothy and they would continue to build their team and serve their customers seven days a week, from 8:00 am to 2:00 am. I commend the hard work and dedication that has resulted in the lasting growth and success for Whipp's Dining Hall over 100 years.

As the years passed by, Eddie Whipp's remained one of the most popular venues in the Green Bay area. In 1947, the first wedding reception was held in the basement and the dance hall would soon become home to regular polka bands in the 1950s. One of Whipp's most popular menu items today, the Friday Fish Fry, was prepared by Dorothy Whipp in her home kitchen attached to the business in 1947. I applaud The Whipp Family's focus on high-quality service and innovation that has led to consistent customer satisfaction since 1922.

Today, Eddie Whipp's Dining and Banquet Hall continues to operate as a family business and that family has grown exponentially. In the small community of Poland, regulars have said that Whipp's is more than just a supper club, it is a staple in the community. Some of Whipp's regulars have been frequenting the establishment for over 50 years. Now in 2022, the fourth generation of the Whipp Family is running restaurant operations. Bridget Peters is the great-granddaughter of the original founder of the business and, Joe Whipp, who has carried on the mission of providing quality services and products to customers that began 100 years ago in 1922. For the past 100 years, Whipp's has become known for their Friday Night Fish Fry's, homemade Chicken Dinners on Sunday and Wednesday nights, and their reception hall for weddings and other special events.

I invite all members of this body to join me in celebrating the 100th Anniversary of Eddie Whipp's Dining and Banquet Hall. I extend my sincere congratulations to the Whipp family and team for this outstanding milestone and wish them success for years to come.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the career of retiring United States Marine Corps Master Sergeant Hunter Sorrells.

During his time as a Marine Corps fellow in my office, Master Sergeant Sorrells served our men and women in uniform, along with the veteran community of Northeast Wisconsin, with the utmost dedication and professionalism. His intelligence, tenacity, and devotion to helping others made him a beloved and invaluable member of my team. His relentless advocacy on behalf of Northeast Wisconsin veterans changed the lives of multiple individuals in my district and delivered for them the benefits they earned in service of our Nation.

There is no better example of Master Sergeant Sorrells' dedication to his fellow men and women in uniform--particularly Marines--than his efforts to recover the Camp Reasoner base sign from Vietnam. After being informed of the issue, he dove into action and not only gathered bipartisan support, but expertly worked through the logistics that would be required to bring the sign home to American soil. Thanks to his perseverance, all Marines then serving in the House of Representatives signed onto a letter bringing the issue to the attention of Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Throughout his time in my office, Master Sergeant Sorrells exemplified the highest standards and values of the United States Marine Corps. I am privileged to have had the opportunity to work alongside this great American.

Madam Speaker, please join me in recognizing Master Sergeant Hunter Sorrells' exemplary career in the Marine Corps and wishing him all the best in retirement. Our Nation is safer, and the Northeast Wisconsin community is better, because of his service.

Mr. Speaker, I hereby remove my name as cosponsor of

Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Pecard Leather Care Company as they celebrate their 120th anniversary.

The company came from humble beginnings when Phil Pecard, resident of Lena, WI, began to experiment with formulas to protect, restore, and seal leather goods in 1902. Mr. Pecard's mission was to provide the lumbermen of Wisconsin with the resources they needed to protect their expensive leather boots in the cold and wet environment that was the north woods.

The business continued to grow and shortly after World War Two, Mr. Pecard constructed a small factory in the Green Bay area and later sold his business to a local businessman, Arthur Wadzinski. Over the next 20 years, the business continued to grow as original formulas were refined and legally patented. The company was formally incorporated in 1964 and a new manufacturing plant was built in 1975 to accommodate their rapid growth and overwhelming success. I commend the Pecard Leather Care Company for its service and dedication to the craft.

120 years later, it is more than fitting to take time to recognize the company's pledge in continuing the authentic craftsmanship and high-quality traditions that began with Mr. Pecard. A small idea that began in Lena, WI, has grown to serve customers worldwide for over a century. I applaud the Pecard Leather Care Company for its exceptional work, continued growth, and success for the past 120 years.

I invite all Members of this body to join me in celebrating the 120th anniversary of Pecard Leather Care Company. I extend my sincerest congratulations to the Pecard Leather team on this remarkable milestone and wish them success for many more years to follow.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Red Arrow Snowmobile-ATV Club for receiving the prestigious National Snowmobile Club of the Year award.

Since 1968, the Red Arrow Snowmobile Club has served as a place for its members to gather and enjoy the more than 60 miles of trails that it maintains. Over the years, the Red Arrow Snowmobile-ATV Club has grown to have over 500 members, from Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, Illinois, and even Tennessee. Throughout the years, the hard work and dedication of past and present board leaders, members, and community volunteers has resulted in Red Arrow being honored by the American Council of Snowmobile Associations as the 2021 Snowmobile Club of the Year. I commend the close relationship between the Club and the Townsend Community that has contributed to their overwhelming and lasting success.

In the Red Arrow Snowmobile-ATV Club, each member plays a vital role in its success. Specifically, the dedicated maintenance crews that spend multiple hours and late nights to ensure that their trails are of the highest quality. This crew enables individuals to travel across the State of Wisconsin and into Townsend, where they enjoy local restaurants, motels, and gas stations, resulting in a flourishing economy. The Club has shown that they will continue to live by the idea of keeping the club's future success as a top priority. The Red Arrow Club has consistently shown its commitment to not only to the snowmobiling community but to the Townsend Community. The Red Arrow Snowmobile-ATV Club is a true credit to Northeast Wisconsin.

Madam Speaker, please join me in congratulating the Red Arrow Snowmobile Club for being recognized as the 2021 Snowmobile Club of the Year. The Red Arrow Snowmobile Club is an outstanding organization and is deserving of the highest degree of recognition.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the distinguished career of retiring Luxemburg-Casco Superintendent, Glenn Schlender.

During his 37-and-a-half year career in education, Mr. Schlender has held numerous leadership roles in our education system. He has undoubtedly made a lasting impact at each stop during his distinguished career. Mr. Schlender began his career in 1985 as a science teacher in the Green Bay School District, which was followed by taking the role of assistant principal at Green Bay Preble High School. He then joined the Pulaski School District as the principal at Pulaski High School for 7 years before moving to the Palmyra-Eagle Area School District and assuming the role of

superintendent in 2009. In 2014, Mr. Schlender moved to his final stop at the Luxemburg-Casco School District.

During his time at Luxemburg-Casco, Mr. Schlender added to his already lengthy list of accomplishments from his time in education. Mr. Schlender's leadership and knowledge lead to the expansion and implementation of not only the physical spaces within the Luxemburg- Casco School District but also countless learning opportunities for students. Since assuming his role at Luxemburg-Casco, the school district has been recognized as a top 10 high school academically within the Green Bay metro area. Mr. Schlender's commitment and dedication to the Luxemburg-Casco school district is truly remarkable.

In addition to academics, Ms. Schlender played a critical role in developing partnerships with community members and local businesses such as Bellin Health, D&S Machine Service, and the Northeast Wisconsin Manufacturing Alliance. These partnerships lead to the institution of career-readiness programs, including the Ahnapee Regional Youth Apprenticeship Program, which has offered students the opportunity to gain on-the-job work experience in the classroom. Mr. Schlender spent his entire career ensuring that students throughout Northeast Wisconsin have the resources they needed to succeed. Mr. Schlender's expertise and knowledge will surely be missed by his peers and the entire Luxemburg-Casco community.

Mr. Schlender is leaving behind a notable legacy that will be admired by educators for years to come. After retirement, Mr. Schlender and his wife plan to stay in the Luxemburg-Casco community and I am confident that he will continue to be a valuable member to the Northeast Wisconsin community. Mr. Schlender's distinguished career is deserving of the highest degree of recognition.

Madam Speaker, today I rise in honor of the career and service of retiring University of Wisconsin System President, Tommy Thompson.

Throughout Mr. Thompson's long and esteemed career, he has been admired by his peers for his incredible dedication to public service. From being born and raised in Elroy, Wisconsin, to enlisting in the United States Army National Guard, to becoming the longest-serving governor in Wisconsin history, Mr. Thompson's commitment to the State of Wisconsin and our Nation never waivered. I commend Mr. Thompson's service and thank him for the enormous contributions that he has made to the State of Wisconsin and to the United States.

Mr. Thompson's successful tenure as governor was spearheaded by major initiatives like the nation's first school-choice program that Wisconsinites continue to benefit from today. His push for the parental school-choice program created unparalleled educational opportunities for students and witnessed record participation. Governor Thompson led the way on education, healthcare, and welfare reform setting the stage for decades of prosperity in Wisconsin. Given the success of his governorship, Mr. Thompson was appointed by then President George W. Bush to serve as the Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary from 2001 to 2005. During his time as HHS Secretary, Mr. Thompson played a key role in projects and initiatives that resulted in greater transparency and efficiency throughout the agency.

During his almost 60-year career, Mr. Thompson has proven himself to be one of the most successful public servants in Wisconsin history. In 2019, Mr. Thompson yet again answered the call to service as he was named President of the University of Wisconsin System. Under his leadership, the UW System prioritized developing, attracting, and retaining students and educators that will benefit from the world-class education that the UW system has to offer. As President, Mr. Thompson also helped the UW System navigate the incredible challenges of a once- in-a-lifetime pandemic. The State of Wisconsin is grateful for Mr. Thompson's lifetime of service and dedication to our great state.

As we look back on Mr. Thompson's career, there is no doubt that he has dedicated his life to making the world around him a better place. Mr. Thompson's continued service to both the State of Wisconsin and the United States is worthy of our highest degree of recognition. I urge all of my colleagues in this body to join me in congratulating Mr. Thompson on another successful tenure in public service and on his retirement from the UW System. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Madam Speaker, I was attending a funeral and was unable to participate in Roll Call numbers 46, 47, 48, 49, and 50. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 46, YEA on Roll Call No. 47, NAY on Roll Call No. 48, NAY on Roll Call No. 49 and NAY on Roll Call No. 50.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize the 100th Anniversary of the Appleton Noon Lions Club.

The Appleton Noon Lions Club was chartered on March 1, 1922, when 25 Appleton business leaders came together with a mission to serve their community. As the Appleton Noon Lions Club celebrates this milestone, we must look back on the club's numerous achievements in the City of Appleton, the State of Wisconsin, and around the world.

The Appleton Noon Lions Club has consistently upheld and honored the mission of all Lions Clubs which is to serve. Over 1.4 million men and women who are members of Lions Clubs throughout the world are dedicated to serving their communities in times of need and the Appleton Noon Lions Club is no exception. From the beginning, the club has offered aid to the local Appleton Schools through supporting countless educational and recreational initiatives, from musical instruments to playground equipment.

Throughout the years, the Lions have dedicated their time to ensuring that their communities are equipped with the resources they deserve. I commend the outstanding and unwavering support that the Appleton Noon Lions Club has shown to Northeast Wisconsin.

One of the many worldwide missions for the Lions is to prevent avoidable blindness and improve the quality for individuals who are visually impaired. With a focus to carry out this mission, the Appleton Noon Lions Club has completed over 70,000 vision screenings of students in Appleton and Menasha schools and collected over 8,000 used eyeglasses and 500 hearing aids for the Lions Eye Glass Recycling Center. Not only do the Lions support the visually impaired, but they also support other organizations that give back to the community.

For 25 years, the Lions have offered tools and resources to assist older adults at their Senior Expo where they raised $250,000 for local charitable organizations. Through these initiatives and their 100 years of service, the Appleton Noon Lions Club is a true credit to their community and to Northeast Wisconsin.

I invite all Members of this body to join me in celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Appleton Noon Lions Club. The Appleton Noon Lions Club is a wonderful organization and is deserving of the highest degree of recognition.

Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize World War Two veteran Richard Jenkins for his incredible role in liberating Czechoslovakia in May 1945. Today the Czech Republic will present him with an Honorary Commemorative Medal of Merit in Liberating Czechoslovakia during World War Two. Shortly after the attacks on Pearl Harbor, Mr. Jenkins and his brothers enlisted in the United States Military, leaving their home in Michigan. After training in Louisiana, Mr. Jenkins was assigned to be a member of the 8th Armored Division, 130th Ordnance Maintenance Battalion of the United States Army. He was then deployed to England in January 1945 for further training. After reaching Europe, the 8th Armored Division attempted to quickly push through the Hurtgen Forest on the border of Belgium and Germany. Mr. Jenkins provided crucial support to ensure the United States' success in the Battle of the Bulge. Mr. Jenkins and his ordnance provided the support needed by the 8th Armored Division as they successfully pushed back the German Army. Refueling and mechanical assistance were some of Mr. Jenkins' many roles in the 130th Ordnance, without this support the 8th Division may not have been able to traverse the thick Hurtgen forest. After success at the Battle of the Bulge, the 8th Armored Division transitioned toward Czechoslovakia. On May 8, 1945, Nazi Germany surrendered to the Allies, bringing an end to World War Two in the European Theater. Then, in late May, the 8th Armored Division was ordered to Czechoslovakia to assist in the processing of prisoners of war, operating displaced person camps, and guarding vital installations. The assistance of Mr. Jenkins and the 8th Armored Division was integral to the liberation of Czechoslovakia. The successful liberation of Czechoslovakia as a result of the impressive effort of U.S. troops and the citizens of Pilsen is still celebrated today. The Pilsen Festival in The Czech Republic celebrates the key assistance the United States and our troops played in liberating the country from Nazi rule. Without heroes like Mr. Jenkins, we may not be able to celebrate these freedoms.

Madam Speaker, I once again thank Richard Jenkins for his service to the United States and the assistance he provided in the Liberation of Czechoslovakia. Northeast Wisconsin can be proud that a hero like Mr. Jenkins is being honored by the Czech Republic for his service and sacrifice. I urge all colleagues to join me in recognizing these outstanding men and women.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to extend my sincere appreciation to the Bay Link Manufacturing team at Green Bay West High School for constructing an American Flag pull-up bar for display.

Bay Link Manufacturing is a manufacturing learning lab located in West High School that is used to immerse students in real-world experiences through completing projects for local companies in the areas of welding, machine fabrication, and metals. Bay Link Manufacturing began when the Green Bay Area Public School District recognized that our future depends on creating a highly-skilled workforce to sustain our communities. In 2014, the Green Bay Area Public School District partnered with Northeast Wisconsin Technical College and the NEW Manufacturing Alliance to create Bay Link Manufacturing.

This outstanding program is available to .Juniors and Seniors enrolled throughout the Green Bay Area Public School District and prepares students to attend a two- or four-year college or those who enter the workforce in the field of manufacturing and engineering. Since 2014, the Bay Link students have produced a lengthy portfolio that recognizes their hard work and dedication to their craft. The Bay Link program has completed projects for companies including Georgia- Pacific, Green Bay Police Department S.W.A.T. team, Kl, and ACE Marine. I commend the Bay Link Team for the outstanding services that they have provided to the students at the Green Bay School District and to businesses throughout Northeast Wisconsin.

The Bay Link Manufacturing program provides local employers throughout Northeast Wisconsin with the opportunity to train future employees to ensure that the manufacturing sector continues to grow. The Bay Link Manufacturing program at West High School is a true credit to Northeast Wisconsin. The American Flag pull-up bar they have displayed in my District Office is one step closer to fulfilling my dream of having a pull-up bar in every airport and I want to extend my sincere thanks to the Bay Link Manufacturing students for making that a reality.

Madam Speaker, please join me in extending my sincere thanks and appreciation to the Bay Link Manufacturing team at West High School for their work on the American Flag pull-up bar and all they do for Northeast Wisconsin.

Madam Speaker, today I rise in recognition of the centennial celebration of the Village of Lena. As the Village of Lena celebrates this milestone, we look back on the outstanding history that has shaped the community. Shortly after the Civil War, the small settlement once known as Maple Valley began to grow and flourish into what is now known as the Village of Lena. In 1882, the population center moved to the present location to focus life and growth around the railroad depot. The booming development welcomed new homes, small businesses, churches, a school, a small hospital, several hotels, and social establishments. Within just three decades, on December 6, 1921, the bustling settlement became the incorporated Village of Lena under the direction of then village president, Dr. Joseph Rose.

Over the last 100 years, the Village of Lena has retained a strong identity as a dairy-farming and cheeseproducing community and a vibrant small-town with a family-friendly culture. The Village has continued to pay homage to the first settlers of the area and the rich farming history of the region by celebrating the annual Dairyfest each September. It has partnered with businesses throughout the area to host several family-friendly events including the Taste of Fall and Village of Lights which draws Wisconsinites from all over the state to experience all that the Village of Lena has to offer.

The residents of the Village of Lena are blessed to live in such a special place located in Northeast Wisconsin. With 564 residents and growing, the Village of Lena takes great pride in calling this place home for the last 100 years. The Village of Lena has continued to grow and foster a business-friendly environment for the last century. From a small settlement town to hosting Oconto County's largest employer, Saputo Cheese USA, Lena has simply continued to foster growth. I commend the close relationship between the Village and local businesses that have contributed to the success of the village and Northeast Wisconsin as a whole.

It is my honor to commemorate this historic milestone for the Village of Lena. I invite all members of this body to join me in celebrating the centennial of the Village of Lena. The Village of Lena is a true credit to Northeast Wisconsin and is deserving of the highest degree of recognition.

Madam Speaker, I stand before you today in strong support of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022.

This year's NDAA includes a top-line budget that restores funding for shipbuilding, procurement, missile defense, and a number of other priorities that will help ensure the national defense of our great Nation.

The NDAA continues to support and improve the lives of those who sacrifice for our country on a daily basis by authorizing a military basic pay raise of 2.7 percent. The bill reinforces the committee's longstanding commitment to the military family by requiring DOD to increase parental leave, expand the in-home childcare pilot program, it improves support available to military families with special needs children, and provides comprehensive reform of DOD's family violence prevention and response program.

It also requires the Department to standardize the definition of professional military education across the joint force. It requires DOD to report to Congress on the number of military personnel infected with COVID-19 at the 2019 World Military Games in Wuhan, China. It increases funding for COVID-19 vaccine research, while providing $35 million for research and treatment of Havana syndrome.

Madam Speaker, this is an outstanding NDAA. I want to thank the chairman and ranking member for their tireless efforts in working together to preserve the bipartisan spirit of this committee. I also want to thank the chairwoman of the Military Personnel Subcommittee that I work with, Ms. Speier.

Madam Speaker, this is a bill we can all be proud of.