Rod Blum

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor musician Hannah Duncan of Belle Plaine, Iowa. She was selected to participate as a violinist in the 2018 National Youth Orchestra of the United States of America (NYO-USA).

The National Youth Orchestra is organized by Carnegie Hall in New York for young musicians aged 16 to 19 years old. Hannah will travel and train with the world's leading conductors and musicians. Hannah competed with 1,000 applicants to attain one of the approximately 120 positions available in this orchestra. While training, the orchestra will travel to east Asia where they will play five concerts in a two- week span performing in Taipei, Beijing, Shanghai, Seoul, and Daejeon.

Aside from sharpening their musical talents, the intent of the National Youth Orchestra is to reach an intercultural dialogue, mutual understanding, and peaceful relations with young artists in the host countries through music. I have full faith that Hannah will represent herself and the First District of Iowa with honor.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Andrew Schneider who attained the Eagle Scout Award. Becoming an Eagle Scout, the highest rank in the Boy Scouts, has only been accomplished by approximately four percent of all Boy Scouts. The process requires earning at least 21 merit badges which takes years to fulfill.

Receiving his Eagle Scout rank demonstrates that he is a strong, dedicated, and proven leader. With this accomplishment, it is my hope he will continue to serve as a role model for younger boy scouts. Thank you to Mr. Schneider for making a positive impact in northeast Iowa.

Mr. Speaker, I was unable to vote on July 11, 2018 due to the Vice President's visit to the First District of Iowa. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 320 and YEA on Roll Call No. 321.