Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I stand before you today to recognize Laborers' Local 81 upon the dedication of their new Union Hall in Valparaiso. Union members and leaders commemorated the event with a building dedication ceremony that was held on Saturday, May 17, 2014, at Laborers' Local 81 Union Hall in Valparaiso.

In 1918, Laborers' Local 81 was chartered by what is now known as Laborers' International Union of North America (LIUNA). Local 81 was located in Gary until 1977, at which time it was relocated to Valparaiso. The skilled members of Local 81 have for many years excelled in their work on heavy highway, utilities, commercial building construction, tunnel construction, hazardous materials handling, asbestos removal, and much more. They place concrete for highways and install and repair sewer, water, and natural gas lines within Lake, Porter, LaPorte, and Starke counties. These outstanding laborers have played a major role in the development of communities throughout Northwest Indiana for more than 95 years and are fine examples the region's rich history of excellence in its craftsmanship and loyalty by its tradesmen. Local 81 members and leaders have demonstrated their loyalty to both the union and the community through their hard work and self-sacrifice.

Due to the steadfast determination and extraordinary efforts of Business Manager and Delegate to the District Council, Mike Campbell, Local 81 is able to open its new Union Hall, which will house administrative offices, meeting areas, and a training center in Valparaiso. Mr. Campbell's enthusiasm and constant support to Local 81 and to the community of Northwest Indiana is truly outstanding, and for this, he is worthy of the utmost praise.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring Laborers' Local 81 members and leaders as they celebrate the opening of their new Union

Hall in Valparaiso. I want to congratulate these dedicated union members, as well as all of the hardworking union men and women throughout America for committing themselves to making a significant contribution to the growth and development in Northwest Indiana and beyond.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I stand before you to recognize the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association (AHEPA) as members come together for the annual AHEPA/ Daughters of Penelope District #12 and #13 Convention, which will take place at Dynasty Banquets in Hammond, Indiana, from Friday, May 30 to Sunday, June 1, 2014.

The Order of AHEPA was founded on July 26, 1922, in Atlanta, Georgia, joining the NAACP and B'nai B'rith in a joint effort to end racism, bigotry and discrimination against all immigrants. AHEPA's mission is in accordance with the principles of ancient Greece, to promote civic responsibility, education, philanthropy, family, and individual excellence through community service. AHEPA is the largest American-based Greek heritage organization and is made up of over 500 chapters throughout North America.

The AHEPA organization has continuously and passionately supported many charitable organizations throughout the region and abroad. AHEPA has raised thousands of dollars for Greek relief programs, feeding hundreds of families and children in Greece. They support national efforts, including the Saint Baldrick's Foundation for children's cancer research, the National Hellenic Foundation, and the National Hellenic Museum, among many others. Through each chapter, AHEPA serves as an inspiration to local communities.

As a proud member of AHEPA Chapter 78, based in Merrillville, Indiana, I can attest to the tireless efforts our local chapters, which serve more people and raise more funding for charitable organizations than ever before. The many organizations throughout the region that have been assisted by the extraordinary generosity of local AHEPA chapters include the Ross Township Food Pantry, Boys and Girls Club, American Red Cross, Salvation Army, Meals on Wheels, Veterans Life Changing Services, and Rebuilding Together, among many others. One example of the tremendous contributions of AHEPA Chapter 78 is the completion of six apartment complexes in Merrillville, which provide accessible housing for senior citizens. Chapter members also give unselfishly of their time through volunteer efforts, delivering meals to the elderly and serving in local soup kitchens. For enthusiastically helping so many families, children, veterans, elderly, and those in need, the members of AHEPA are worthy of the highest praise.

I would also like to recognize my dear friend Sam Benjamin for his continued commitment to advancing AHEPA's mission as he assumes the role of District 12 Governor. Sam's exceptional leadership and dedication to philanthropic efforts will prove invaluable to chapters throughout the district. In addition, I congratulate Matthew Kochevar who is completing his term as District 12 Governor. Matthew has dedicated his time and efforts to AHEPA. He is an outstanding public servant and has had a tremendous impact on many lives through his work with the organization.

Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring the American Hellenic Educational Progressive Association. For their remarkable leadership and commitment, as demonstrated through their service to so many in need throughout Northwest Indiana and across the nation, AHEPA's members are an inspiration to us all, and the organization, one to be emulated and admired.

Mr. Speaker, it is with profound respect and admiration that I pay tribute to the remarkable career of William ``Bill'' Nangle, longtime journalist and executive editor of The Times Media Company. Mr. Nangle will be retiring from his position after an extraordinary and distinguished fifty years in journalism. In recognition of his outstanding career, Bill will be honored with a reception on Thursday, May 29, 2014, at Briar Ridge Country Club in Schererville, Indiana.

Bill Nangle's career as a journalist spans five decades. After beginning his career as a correspondent in his hometown of Wabash, Indiana, Bill went on to become an editor in Kokomo and Franklin, Indiana, as well as Bristol, Virginia. In 1970, he joined The Times, then known as The Hammond Times, and was instrumental in its success, as it has become Northwest Indiana's leading media company.

Throughout his career, Mr. Nangle has been known as a leader for good government and open access laws, fighting for the public's right to know what its elected representatives are doing. In 1989, he urged Indiana lawmakers and then Governor Evan Bayh to enact a state law in order to reverse a court decision that closed county coroner records to the public. Nearly a decade later, Bill's passion for open government flourished when he coordinated with seven of the state's largest newspapers for a project that changed the way Indiana officials deal with requests for information. He pioneered an experiment that had reporters test each of the state's 92 counties for open access to government records. The findings were presented in a groundbreaking collaboration of all seven newspapers on one Sunday, known as the State of Secrecy. The project was so successful that then Governor Frank O'Bannon formed a blue-ribbon panel, which included Mr. Nangle, to investigate the situation. As a result, the State of Secrecy became a national model for testing access to public records and has since been replicated in 32 states.

With a diverse population in Lake and Porter Counties in Indiana, as well as Illinois, Bill Nangle successfully managed a focus on regional journalism, while maintaining coverage of state and national issues. Under his direction, The Times, which publishes four zone specific issues, has been emulated and this approach termed the ``Munster model.''

During Mr. Nangle's tenure, The Times has made its mark as the most decorated Indiana newspaper of its size, winning the Hoosier State Press Association competition for Blue Ribbon daily newspaper of the year in 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 2000, and 2003. Throughout his career, Bill, too, has received his fair share of accolades, including distinguished service awards from both the Hoosier State Press Association and the Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce. He is also a recipient of Ball State University's Indiana Journalism Award and has been inducted into the Indiana Journalism Hall of Fame. For his outstanding contributions to Hoosier heritage, Bill is also a recipient of the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash, presented to him by the late Governor Frank O'Bannon.

William Nangle is also committed to his community in a very personal and selfless way. This is shown through the numerous organizations to which he is active in, including the Crisis Center of Gary, the Northwest Indiana Forum, and the Northwest Indiana Chapter of the American Red Cross, to name just a few. The consummate newsman, Bill also serves on the strategic planning committee of the Northwest Indiana Regional Planning Commission.

Mr. Speaker, I respectfully ask that you and my other colleagues join me in honoring Bill Nangle for his distinguished career in journalism. His commitment to his community and his excellence in leadership with The Times Media Company are unparalleled, and I wish him and his wife, Rita, and their family, the best in the years to come.

Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to congratulate several of Northwest Indiana's finest citizens. The Northwest Indiana Federation of Labor, American Federation of Labor-Congress of Industrial Organizations, recognized several individuals for their dedication and service during the 39th Annual Labor and Community Awards Reception, which was held at Wicker Park in Highland, Indiana, on Thursday, April 24, 2014. These individuals, in addition to all Northwest Indiana Federation of Labor members who have served Northwest Indiana so diligently for such a long period of time, are the epitome of the ideal American worker: loyal, dedicated, and hardworking.

At this year's event, several individuals and organizations received special recognition. The Joseph A. Beirne Community Service Award is presented each year to local and national labor leaders for their volunteer service to United Way. This year, Jim Stemmler, retired Business Manager for Ironworkers Local 395, was the recipient of this prestigious honor for his outstanding dedication and noteworthy service to the United Way movement.

Dave Fagan, Financial Secretary, International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150, is this year's recipient of the President's Award. Mr. Fagan was honored for enhancing the well-being of workers throughout Northwest Indiana through countless contributions to further the philosophy of the Labor Movement.

The Union Label Award was presented to Lake County Sheriff John Buncich for his unselfish devotion to the Labor Movement through its promotion in all areas of endeavor: social, civic, educational, and political.

Larry Regan, Vice President, Teamsters Local 142, was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his many years of Labor activism and his commitment to his community. For the exceptional service he has provided to the people of Northwest Indiana, he is worthy of our admiration and respect.

Dr. Debra Dudek, Director of Title and Special Student Services for the Portage School District, was honored with the Community Services Award for her exemplary service to her community and to the enhancement of the quality of life for the people of Northwest Indiana.

The Industrial Sector Award was presented to Dave McCall, Director, District 1, United Steelworkers, for his leadership and support of working families throughout Northwest Indiana.

David Tharp, Midwest District Vice President, Carpenters Local 1005, was the recipient of the Building Trades Sector Award, which was bestowed upon him for his many years of service to the Labor Movement and his outstanding dedication to his fellow union members.

Tim Murray, of the Ceramic Tile, Terrazzo and Granite Cutters Union Local 21, and Michael Larson, of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 697, received the George Meany Award for their significant contributions to the youth of their communities through their involvement with the Boy Scouts of America.

Northwest Indiana has a rich history of excellence in its craftsmanship and loyalty by its tradesmen. These honorees are all outstanding examples of these qualities. They have demonstrated their loyalty to their unions and the Northwest Indiana community through their hard work and tireless service.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating these dedicated, honorable, and exemplary citizens, as well as all of the hardworking union men and women throughout America. They have shown commitment and courage toward their pursuits, and I am proud to represent them in Washington, DC.

Mr. Speaker, on March 24, 2014, I was absent from the House and missed rollcall Vote 136 and rollcall Vote 137.

Had I been present for rollcall Vote 136, on the motion to suspend the rules and pass H.R. 3060, I would have voted ``yes.''

Had I been present for rollcall Vote 137, on the motion to suspend the rules and pass, as amended, H.R. 1813, I would have voted ``yes.''

Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and sincere admiration that I rise today to celebrate Black History Month and its 2014 theme--Civil Rights in America, focusing on the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This year's theme reflects on the many courageous individuals who fought for an end to discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Through the passage of the Civil Rights Act, discrimination was outlawed in public facilities including restaurants and hotels, ending the era of legal segregation in such establishments.

Leading up to the passage of the Civil Rights Act, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. led the Civil Rights March on Washington fighting for, amongst other ideals, meaningful civil rights legislation, including better employment opportunities and an end to segregation. This historic event led to the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which paved the way for future anti-discrimination legislation, including the Voting Rights Act of 1965. While there is more work to be done, we must follow in the footsteps of the great leaders of the Civil Rights Movement in order to ensure that every American is afforded equal opportunity and justice.

This month and always, it is important that we honor and celebrate America's greatest advocates for equal rights and civil liberties, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Frederick Douglass, W.E.B. Dubois, and Thurgood Marshall, and to remember the extraordinary contributions of organizations including the NAACP, the National Urban League, and the Congress for Racial Equality, as well as many others which have played such a critical role in changing the landscape of American society for the better. As we pay tribute to these heroes of African American history, let us remember their profound perseverance, sacrifice, and struggle in the fight for freedom and equality which has shaped our great nation.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my distinguished colleagues join me in celebrating Black History Month and honoring those who fought, and those who continue to fight, for civil rights and justice. Through the efforts of these honorable individuals, we are reminded how far we have come as a nation, while realizing there is still progress to be made.

Mr. Speaker, it is with sincere appreciation and deep respect that I rise today to recognize the contributions of the United States Navy Airborne Early Warning Squadron One, designated VW-1. For their courage while facing danger head on and their willingness to defend our nation's military, these brave individuals are to be commended.

In 1944, recognizing the need for early warning radar and aircraft to assist in protecting the United States Naval Fleet from attack by identifying ships and low flying aircraft, the United States Navy launched its first program to help minimize the impact on service members and operations. The initial program would evolve, and in June 1952, led to the establishment of Airborne Early Warning Squadron One, designated VW-1, first located at Naval Air Station Barbers Point, in the then Territory of Hawaii. Soon after, a permanent detachment of VW- 1 was established in the Western Pacific, where it provided heavy airborne early warning coverage and participated in the Korean War. Following its relocation to the Naval Air Station Agana, Guam, Mariana Islands, in 1957, VW-1 began to take on additional responsibilities, and in 1961, was tasked with weather reconnaissance. This increased focus on identifying hazardous weather conditions included the addition of six meteorologists and eighteen aerographers, as well as new technological equipment. During 1961 alone, VW-1 flew more than 1,000 hours of weather reconnaissance, thus identifying the squadron as the ``Typhoon Trackers.''

Through their valiant efforts, VW-1 provided airborne early warning support and protection for the U.S. Seventh Fleet during the Vietnam War, from 1964 through 1971. Their mission was to fly north of the DMZ in the Gulf of Tonkin, providing airborne protection for the Seventh Fleet, which was operating below the DMZ. They were tasked with warning the Seventh Fleet against enemy attacks and dangerous storms, in addition to providing radar surveillance for air strikes over North Vietnam. From 1964 through 1967, VW-1 operated out of bases in the Republic of the Philippines for an extended airborne mission time of eighteen hours. Often times these missions were extended beyond the aircraft's fuel range, requiring them to refuel at Da Nang Air Base in the Republic of Vietnam before returning to their base in the Philippines. In late 1967, a detachment was established at Chu Lai in the Republic of Vietnam but later moved to Da Nang Air Base in an effort to shorten the mission time to twelve hours.

From its establishment in June 1952 until July 1971, when the unit was absorbed into

VQ-1, VW-1 completed its mission with an astonishing nineteen years of accident-free flight, totaling more than 160,000 flight hours. For its efforts, VW-1 was twice awarded the Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation. Individual aircrew members have received more than 1,200 Air Medals, and the unit also includes two Purple Heart recipients, whose injuries were sustained in Southeast Asia.

Mr. Speaker, at this time I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring the brave men of Airborne Early Warning Squadron One, designated VW-1. The squadron represented an important part of the United States Military, and its gallant members are a true example of unwavering patriotism. Let us never forget their service and the sacrifices they made in defense or our nation and their fellow service members.

Madam Speaker, I thank the ranking member for yielding time.

I want to begin my remarks by expressing my great appreciation to Chairman Rogers and Ranking Member Lowey. The fact that we are standing here today, on the verge of passing a 12-bill omnibus measure, is a testament to their acumen as legislators.

Further, I would be remiss if I did not thank every staff member of the Appropriations Committee for their dedication, hard work, and sound judgment in helping develop this package.

With regard to the defense portion of the bill, it was a pleasure to work with Chairman Frelinghuysen in crafting a bipartisan and collaborative piece of legislation. He and his staff have assured that the Defense Subcommittee continues its longstanding tradition of collegiality.

The agreement that we are here for today implements the Bipartisan Budget Act. As a result, substantial reductions were made to the Department of Defense programs. In total, overall spending in the defense portion of this bill, including base funding and the Overseas Contingency Operation account, is $572.6 billion, which is $61.11 billion below fiscal year 2012 level.

While the agreement makes substantial reductions, it does protect the readiness of U.S. forces, provides for personnel and their families, and supports national programs that reflect bipartisan congressional priorities.

Overseas Contingency Operations, a funding total of $85.2 billion, an increase of $4.5 billion. The increase is essential to ensure the readiness of U.S. forces. It provides for orderly retrograde and reset of equipment from theater, and supports deployed forces still serving in Afghanistan.

The agreement also includes $25 million above the request to implement a sexual assault special victims program.

The agreement also includes language which prevents the use of funds in contravention of more severe language and penalties in the fiscal year 2014 National Defense Authorization Act.

Finally, the bill protects the technological edge for U.S. forces. It includes $175 million above the request for the Defense Rapid Innovation Program to incorporate small business development.

I ask my colleagues to please support this bill.

Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate the birth of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and reflect on his life and work, we are reminded of the challenges that democracy poses to us and the delicate nature of liberty. Dr. King's life, and, unfortunately, his untimely death, reminds us that we must continually work to secure and protect our freedoms. Dr. King, in his courage to act, his willingness to meet challenges, and his ability to achieve, embodied all that is good and true in the battle for liberty.

The spirit of Dr. King lives on in the citizens of communities throughout our nation. It lives on in the people whose actions reflect the spirit of resolve and achievement that will help move our country into the future. I am honored to rise today to recognize several individuals from Indiana's First Congressional District, who will be recognized during the 35th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Breakfast on Saturday, January 18, 2014, at the Genesis Convention Center in Gary, Indiana. The Gary Frontiers Service Club, which was founded in 1952, sponsors this annual breakfast.

This year, the Gary Frontiers Service Club will pay tribute to local individuals who have for decades unselfishly contributed to improving the quality of life for the people of Gary. Notably, Judge Calvin Hawkins will be honored with the prestigious Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drum Major Award for 2014. Additionally, several individuals will be recognized as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Marchers at this year's breakfast, including Bishop Dr. Dale Cudjoe, Master Alex Dunlap, Stephen Mays, Dr. Deborah McCullough, MD, and Sadie Newby-Ethridge. Finally, Linnal Ford was selected as the 2013 Yokefellow of the Year.

Though very different in nature, the achievements of each of these individuals reflect many of the same attributes that Dr. King possessed, as well as the values he advocated. Like Dr. King, these individuals saw challenges and faced them with unwavering strength and determination. Each one of the honored guests' greatness has been found in their willingness to serve with ``a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love.'' They set goals and work selflessly to make them a reality.

Mr. Speaker, I urge you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in commending these honorees, as well as the Gary Frontiers Service Club officers, President Oliver J. Gilliam, Vice President Sean Jones, 1st Vice President James Piggee, Recording Secretary Linnal Ford, Financial Secretary Sam Frazier, Corresponding Secretary Ferba R. Hines, and Treasurer/Seventh District Director Floyd Donaldson, as well as Clorius L. Lay, who has served as Breakfast Chairman for the last twelve years, in addition to all other members of the service club for their initiative, determination, and dedication to serving the people of Northwest Indiana.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great sincerity and admiration that I offer congratulations to Ivy Tech Community College Northwest and its regional partners, who recently celebrated their 9th Annual Northwest Indiana Innovation Induction Ceremony. At the ceremony that reflects the ``Spirit of Innovation'' in Indiana, thirty-one individuals and teams were inducted as members of the 2013-2014 Class of the Society of Innovators of Northwest Indiana. Of these individuals, several members were inducted as Society Fellows for their exceptional efforts in innovation, including Julie Bombacino, Mike Falk, Nina Fonstein, Ph.D., Lisa Hopp, Ph.D., RN, and Don Keller. Additionally, Stewart McMillan was honored as the Gerald I. Lamkin Fellow for Innovation and Service, a special recognition named for the President Emeritus of Ivy Tech College of Indiana. Also honored were the Chanute Prize team recipients, the Kemin/Lambert Spearmint team, North Judson and the Tuskegee Airmen EAA Young Eagles Program team at the Gary/Chicago International Airport. For their truly remarkable contributions to the community of Northwest Indiana and their continuous efforts to cultivate a culture of innovation, these honorees were inducted during a prestigious event that took place at Horseshoe Casino in Hammond, Indiana, on October 17, 2013.

The Society of Innovators of Northwest Indiana was created by Ivy Tech Northwest with the goal of highlighting and encouraging innovative individuals and groups within the not-for-profit, public, and private sectors, as well as building a ``culture of innovation'' in Northwest Indiana. The importance of innovation in Northwest Indiana, as well as globally, is crucial in today's ever-changing economy.

Our 9th Annual Innovators Awards Ceremony inducted some of the most innovative thinkers, doers and innovators across Northwest Indiana, said Thomas Coley, Ph.D., Chancellor, Ivy Tech Community College Northwest and North Central. The five Fellows selected by the Society of Innovators were chosen for their extraordinary innovative leadership and the impact of their accomplishments throughout the community of Northwest Indiana and the world. Julie Bombacino, president of Just Blend Foods, Chesterton, developed a line of ``blended real food meals'' for adults and children who need to use feeding tubes. This is the first product that delivers real food meal options for tube-fed individuals who have, in the past, have had to rely on a formula that is typically made of 50% corn syrup. Mike Falk, chief executive officer and president of Falk-PLI Engineering and Surveying, Portage, is the first to introduce highly developed surveying instruments called laser trackers and laser scanners in the steel industry in Northwest Indiana and beyond. Nina Fonstein, Ph.D., retired scientist and present day consultant, is a world- renowned specialist in the development of stronger, lighter and environmentally friendly ``new steels'' for the ArcelorMittal Global Research and Development Center in East Chicago. Lisa Hopp, PhD., RN, is the founding director of the Indiana Center for Evidence-Based Nursing Practice (ICEBNP). The center, located at Purdue University Calumet's College of Nursing, is the first of its kind in the Midwest and is part of a global effort to ``expand the understanding and use of research-based evidence to produce the best patient outcomes.'' Don Keller is the president and chief executive officer of Tri-State Industries in Hammond. Don launched an integrated system of industrial robotic technology that allows factories to keep their costs down while increasing productivity. Tri-State is a leader in this industry and the first of its kind in Northwest Indiana and the Chicagoland area.

I am also honored to acknowledge Stewart McMillan, who was recognized as the Gerald I. Lamkin Fellow for Innovation and Service. Stewart is the president and chief executive officer of Task Force Tips in Valparaiso. Task Force Tips is a world-wide leader in the manufacturing and distribution of firefighting nozzles and equipment with the goal of making firefighting safer and more effective. Stewart is a true innovative leader who focuses on the importance of the entire organization rather than relying upon a small group of people within the organization for ideas. Under Stewart's direction, Task Force Tips is an innovative leader in its industry in the global economy.

Finally, the recipients of the Chanute Prize for Team Innovation should be commended for their contributions. The Kemin/Lambert Spearmint team, North Judson, have patented growing and post-harvest processes for spearmint plants, which produces an all-natural extract that contains antioxidant properties and is effective in delaying lipid oxidation, color loss, and deterioration in human food, animal food, and other products for global markets. The Tuskegee Airmen EEA Young Eagles Program team at the Gary/Chicago International Airport provides the first and only monthly Young Eagles Aviation Program in the United States. Over 14,000 youth have participated in the program since its launch in 1994. The program is in affiliation with the Experimental Aviation Association and includes free flights in honor of the Tuskegee Airmen.

Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my distinguished colleagues to join me in commending these outstanding innovators. The contributions they have made to society here in Northwest Indiana and worldwide are immeasurable and lifelong. For their truly brilliant innovative ideas, projects, and leadership, each recipient is worthy of the highest commendation.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness but profound respect that I take this time to remember one of Northwest Indiana's finest citizens, and a true champion of workers' rights, Wallace ``Wally'' Evans, Jr. Wally dedicated his life to serving the needs of members of the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW), and he was tremendously successful in his efforts to improve the quality of life for workers in Northwest Indiana and across the nation. Mr. Evans passed away on Friday, November 29, 2013, but his legacy will forever be remembered in the hearts and minds of the many people whose lives he touched.

Wally began his career in 1961 as a frozen foods manager at Burger's Supermarket in Munster, Indiana. In 1974, he became a full-time organizer and business representative for Local 1460 of the Retail Clerks Union, Lake County. Throughout the years, the UFCW began to grow and merge with other locals. Wally held numerous positions within the UFCW, including president of Local 1460, secretary/treasurer of Local 1550, and executive vice president and director of collective bargaining of Local 881. He also served as a union trustee for the UFCW Calumet Insurance Fund as well as the Chicago Midwest Pension and Health Funds, and as vice president of the Northwest Indiana Federation of Labor AFL-CIO.

Mr. Evans also dedicated much of his time to many organizations and committees throughout his lifetime. Wally served as a Democratic precinct committeeman in Highland, was a member of various boards for the state of Indiana, served as a youth commissioner in Lansing, Illinois, and was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Lansing.

Wally leaves behind a loving family. He is survived by his wife, Sheila, his adoring sons, Steven and Jason, and their wives, Rachel and Andrea. Wally was also blessed with nine beloved grandchildren. He also leaves to cherish his memory many other dear friends and family members, as well as a saddened but grateful community.

Mr. Speaker, I respectfully ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in remembering the great life of Mr. Wally Evans. His remarkable contributions to the Labor Movement, both locally and across the nation, are worthy of our deepest admiration. His life of service is to be commended, and his legacy serves as an inspiration to us all.

Mr. Speaker, on November 20, 2013, I was absent from the House and missed rollcall vote 597.

Had I been present for rollcall vote 597, on agreeing to the Amendment offered by Representative Polis to H.R. 1965, I would have voted ``yes.''

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I recognize the Gary Chamber of Commerce as the organization celebrates the 6th annual Lakeshore Classic basketball tournament. In honor of this historic event, the Gary Chamber of Commerce is hosting a celebratory event and basketball tournament on Friday, November 29 and Saturday, November 30 at the Genesis Convention Center in Gary, Indiana.

The Lakeshore Classic will not only recall a remarkable moment in basketball history but will also remind us of the profound effect it had on society for generations to come. In 1955, the Indianapolis Crispus Attucks High School and the Gary Roosevelt High School basketball teams faced off in an astonishing game that left the sport of basketball changed forever. It was the first time in the history of our nation that two African American high

school teams would compete for a state championship. The game was historic and extraordinary, setting records that would remain for decades. The final score, 97 to 74, would make history as the most collective points ever scored in a championship game.

At the time, the impassioned players who participated in this game may have been thought of as the ``forgotten Hoosiers'' but are today honored with great prestige and have left an indelible mark on the game of basketball. I would like to take this time to recognize the members of the historic 1955 Gary Roosevelt team that have inspired the Lakeshore Classic. Those deceased, Maurice Everett, Arthester McCruiston, Johnnie Ford, Charles Ford, James Guyden, Vann Ligon, James Eubanks and Coach John D. Smith have since passed on, but their contributions will never be forgotten. Surviving members include Wilson ``Jake'' Eison, Jerome Morgan, Randolph Williams, Jerome Ward and Dr. Dick Barnett.

Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in recognizing the Gary Chamber of Commerce, the organizers and sponsors of the 6th annual Lakeshore Classic, and the players who inspired the event. Their noteworthy commitment, leadership, and contributions have inspired generations to come. For enriching the quality of life in Northwest Indiana and throughout the country, they are to be commended.

Mr. Speaker, it is with sincere admiration that I recognize the Asian American Medical Association, which hosted its 37th Annual Gala on Saturday, November 9, 2013, at Avalon Manor in Merrillville, Indiana. Each year, the Asian American Medical Association pays tribute to prominent, outstanding citizens and organizations for their contributions to the community. In recognition of their efforts, these honorees are awarded the prestigious Crystal Globe Award at this annual banquet.

The Asian American Medical Association has always been a great asset to Northwest Indiana. Its members have selflessly dedicated themselves to providing quality medical services to the residents of Northwest Indiana and have always demonstrated exemplary service through their many cultural, scholastic, and charitable endeavors.

At this year's Annual Gala, the Asian American Medical Association presented the Crystal Globe Award to one of Northwest Indiana's finest citizens, Theresa Ann Mayerik. For her outstanding contributions to her community, she is to be commended.

In 1976, Theresa Mayerik graduated from the University of Saint Francis in Fort Wayne with a bachelor's degree in Spanish and Physical Education. She began her teaching career with the Centerville School Corporation in central Indiana. While working in Centerville, Theresa started the school's first women's basketball program. After two years, Theresa returned to her hometown of La Porte, where she spent seven years teaching in the La Porte Community School System. During this time, Theresa pursued a master's degree in Education from Indiana University in South Bend and also completed coursework for an administrative license in Education. In 1986, Mrs. Mayerik became the assistant principal of Morton High School in Hammond, and after three years in this position, she was named the school's principal, a title she would hold for the next eighteen years. During her time at Morton, Theresa was able to implement the Advanced Placement and the Project Lead the Way curricula, increase parental involvement, and develop the Freshman Academy. In 2007, she was named Director of Secondary Education for the School City of Hammond, and three years later, she became Chief Administrator for Academic Services and Secondary Education. Among her many accomplishments during her tenure, Theresa implemented the Project Lead the Way Pre-Engineering Curriculum in all of Hammond's middle and high

schools and assisted with the development of the Hammond Academy for the Performing Arts at Morton High School, as well as the Multimedia Broadcast Academy at the Hammond Area Career Center, and the Early College Program. In 2010, Theresa authored the Chinese Guest Teachers Grant, which assists with the salaries and recruitment of teachers for Mandarin Chinese programs in schools in the United States. This program has been a success and provides four teachers each year the opportunity to teach middle and high school students the Chinese language and culture.

Additionally, Theresa has selflessly given her time to various organizations and civic activities, including the Hammond Woodmar Kiwanis, the Hammond Education Foundation, and the Hammond YMCA.

Theresa's excellence in her field and commitment to charitable endeavors throughout the community is exceeded only by her devotion to her amazing family. Theresa and her husband, Daniel, have two adoring children and two beloved grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending the members of the Asian American Medical Association, as well as this year's Crystal Globe Award recipient, Theresa Ann Mayerik, for their outstanding contributions to the community and beyond. Their unwavering commitment to improving the quality of life for the people of Northwest Indiana and throughout the United States is truly inspirational, and I am proud to serve as their representative in Washington, D.C.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and profound respect that I recognize First United Methodist Church of Crown Point as its congregation and church leaders join together in celebration of its 175th anniversary. Bishop Michael Coyner, Reverend Mark Wilkins, Senior Pastor, Reverend Tom Shanahan, Associate Pastor, and the congregation will be commemorating this momentous milestone with a celebratory church service and reception on Sunday, October 13, 2013.

First United Methodist Church of Crown Point was founded in 1938 by Isaac Stagg. The first church services were held in log cabin homes. In 1887, the first church building was completed in Crown Point and became the place of worship for parishioners for many years. By 1957, a new church building was completed and remains the home of First United Methodist Church of Crown Point today. Throughout the years, more than seventy ministers have served as leaders of the church, and the devoted congregation has grown to over 800 members. With the increase in membership, the church has been able to organize numerous programs that have played a major role in the church's success. These remarkable programs include the United Methodist Women's Group, the Epworth League, a teen-age youth group, Methodist Men, Caring Cooks and the Older Adult Ministry.

The leaders and parishioners of First United Methodist Church of Crown Point touch the lives of countless individuals through their compassionate service, especially to those most in need. Over the years, they have come to the aid of many through their selfless support to various charitable organizations, including Meals On Wheels, Saint Jude Home, Adopt a Family at Christmas, and Adopt a Highway. The church has also supported missionaries both nationally and abroad, and is currently raising funds to help build a church in Roatan, Honduras.

Mr. Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring the church leaders and congregation of First United Methodist Church of Crown Point for their exceptional community service and congratulating the church on its 175th anniversary. The outstanding work of this truly admirable congregation continues to touch lives in Northwest Indiana and far beyond, and for their selfless service, the leadership and members at First United Methodist Church of Crown Point are worthy of the highest praise.