Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to remember the life of Dr. Humphrey Don Germaniuk, 64, who passed away on Friday, April 20, 2018.

Humphrey was born on February 4, 1954 on Staten Island, New York City to Ukrainian immigrants Onufriji and Neonila Germaniuk. Growing up, Humphrey played in a rock and roll band that performed all throughout New York City. His band, Timeless, had gained such a large, dedicated following that they captured the attention of Capitol Records, and began recording with the label. At the age of 19, Humphrey took his first steps toward what would become a distinguished career in forensic medicine by volunteering with the Manhattan Medical Examiner's Office under the guidance of renowned physician Dr. Milton Helpern.

Humphrey studied Biology at Wagner College on Staten Island, and graduated in 1975. After graduation, he had the amazing opportunity to travel to Italy and obtain a dual Ph.D. and M.D. from the University of Rome. In 1984, he returned to the United States with a deep affection and appreciation for his Italian hosts and their Italian culture. Upon his return; Humphrey began his professional medical career at The Ohio State University, where he completed a residency in pathology in 1988. Following his residency, he held a Fellowship in Forensic Medicine at the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner's Office in Florida and became certified as a Forensic Pathologist. After his certification, he served as an associate Medical Examiner for Onondaga County, New York for five years. Then in 1994, Humphrey was selected to serve as Deputy Chief

of the Washington, D.C. Medical Examiner's Office.

While in Washington, Humphrey built a national reputation as an authority in forensic medicine; honing his craft by performing thousands of autopsies and testifying in hundreds of capital trials, both in District and Federal Court. At the same time, Humphrey was able to keep his academic career alive by writing numerous articles on forensics, and also lecturing on various medical and legal aspects of death investigations as an adjunct professor at Georgetown and George Washington Schools of Law. By 1998, Humphrey was serving as Chief Medical Examiner of the Nation's Capital.

Despite receiving many accolades for his management of the Washington, D.C. Medical Examiner's Office, the professional demands of his position took a toll on him. Humphrey chose to return to Ohio after his time in Washington, and accepted a position as Assistant Coroner to Trumbull County. Humphrey described the change of scenery as a ``priceless opportunity'' to reconnect with what mattered most in his life, and he became the first certified Forensic Pathologist to serve the county.

In 2008, Humphrey found himself in politics for the first time as he successfully ran for his first term as Trumbull County Coroner. Over the next 10 years, until his death, Humphrey helped build the office into an extremely well respected one. As Trumbull County Coroner he fought to recoup taxpayer money lost in professional time spent testifying in private civil litigation. He also regularly advocated for legislation addressing reimbursement to counties, and conducted training seminars for police departments regarding death investigation.

During his long career, Humphrey had a distinguished record of national, state, and local community service. He was a delegate to the National Association of Medical Examiners and College of American Pathologists, governor of the Ohio Society of Pathology, and member of the American Society of Clinical Pathologists. He was also a member of the Ohio State Medical Association; the Ohio State Coroner's Association, and, perhaps most fondly for his colleagues and peers from Trumbull Memorial Hospital, as past president of the Trumbull County Medical Society.

In 2010, Humphrey was invited by Pakistan to participate in a series of lectures on the best practices for competent death investigation alongside representatives from the Punjab Forensic Science Agency, the Pakistani Supreme Court, and the Punjab Institute of Language, Art and Culture. The trip was conducted under the sponsorship of the U.S. State Department and hosted in the ancient city of Lahore as part of an ongoing diplomatic effort to strengthen ties between the two countries as part of the Global War on Terrorism. Humphrey considered the trip a great opportunity, and a defining moment in his career.

Alongside his impressive professional career, Humphrey was also an avid outdoorsman. He and his family enjoyed sailing on Lake Erie and Mosquito Lake, and hiking and hunting on the family's property in Western Pennsylvania. Humphrey was a member of the Vienna Fish and Game Club where he taught hunter safety education. He also belonged to the Trumbull County Antique Tractor Club, and actively participated in the County's Democratic Party.

He loved his family so much, and will be deeply missed by his wife of 36 years, Genevieve Marie Germaniuk; son and daughter-in-law Zachariah Shevchenko and Suzanne Elizabeth (nee Schoen) Germaniuk; sister and niece Nina Irene (nee Germaniuk) and Nila Skye Cooper of Stillwater, Minnesota; step-niece Oksana (Sergie) Popova and grandnieces Ulyana Popova of New York, N.Y., and Drs. Vera (Richard) Salvatore, DDS (nee Popova) of Schenectady, New York.

I extend my sincerest condolences to his family and friends.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service and character of a great American on the occasion of his retirement from active duty military service with the United States Navy. Commander Derek P. Hotchkiss, or simply Derek as he is known to all, has devoted his young adult life to the service of his family and country. He has set a towering example to all of us fortunate to know him. As Derek completes his tour of duty on the Joint Staff and hangs up his military uniform, we all know that his influence has reached far beyond the strict confines of his rank and previous job titles.

Derek's military career began at the Naval Academy Preparatory School in Newport, Rhode Island in 1994. Derek then attended the United States Naval Academy where he was a member of the football team. He graduated with the great Class of 1999 and commissioned as an Ensign into the United States Navy. Derek served honorably in uniform for two decades with tours of duty across the United States and deployments around the world. He served as the Supply Officer for the Navy's Flight Demonstration Squadron--the Blue Angels. He served as the Supply Officer aboard the frigate USS Samuel B. Roberts (FFG 58) in Mayport, Florida; and Assistant Supply Officer on the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74) in Bremerton, Washington. He represented the U.S. Navy as a Fellow with the Starbucks Coffee Company as part of the Supply Corp's Training With Industry Program. He led sailors and mentored young officers and NCOs. Along the way, he earned qualifications as a Supply Corps Aviation and Surface Warfare Officer and membership to the Acquisition Professional Community. Also, Derek earned a Master's Degree in Business Administration from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business in Durham, North Carolina. He also graduated from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Executive Program, Seminar XXI. Most recently, Derek was hand selected to serve as the Executive Officer to the Director for Logistics (J-4), Office of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Derek has been a tireless advocate of the broader military objectives. His service has played a vital role in countless missions, all of which were crucial in advancing our national security interests. Throughout his career, Derek has been a role model for the men and women who have been lucky enough to serve with him. He has represented his faith, family, and his hometown of Bath, Ohio with great esteem.

In honor of his service, I would like to express my gratitude for Derek P. Hotchkiss' dedication to this country and our community. I wish him all the best. I am sure that he is looking forward to continuing his passion for the outdoors, and spending time with his loving family. Lastly, I recognize that alongside every strong Sailor stands an even stronger family. I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to his wife, Jennifer; daughters, Clare and Grace; and son, Will, for supporting this American hero during his time of service to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize and honor the retirement of Father Thomas C. Eisweirth as the pastor of Blessed Sacrament Parish in Warren, Ohio.

Fr. Eisweirth was ordained a priest in 1974 by Bishop James Malone. He grew up at St. Mary Parish in Conneaut, Ohio in Ashtabula County. Over the course of his ministry, he has served in five other parishes in the Diocese of Youngstown and in other parishes throughout the region including Trumbull, Portage, Columbiana, and Mahoning Counties. In 2010, Bishop George Murry S.J. appointed Fr. Eisweirth as pastor of this parish. Now, after forty-four years in active ministry, he is retiring.

Fr. Eisweirth always gives the most touching sermons. He has a way of connecting deep spiritual principles to our everyday lives. He truly embodies the mission of the parish to be a Blessed Sacrament for the people of Warren, Howland, and the entire world. He is an excellent priest and a phenomenal pastor. I will miss his immense wisdom, and I will keep him in my prayers. I wish him every blessing as he begins a new journey in retirement.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the retirement of Mrs. Diana Muccio as a teacher at John F. Kennedy Catholic School Lower Campus in Warren, Ohio.

Mrs. Muccio was born and raised in Warren, Ohio. She attended St. Mary School, grades K-8, later graduating from John F. Kennedy. She continued her education at Youngstown State University, earning a Bachelor's of Science in Elementary Education and Master's of Science in Early Childhood Education. Additionally, she completed post graduate work at Walsh University. Mrs. Muccio has been an educator for 43 years, devoting her career to advancing Catholic education. She has taught at many Catholic schools including Mount Carmel, St. James, St. Plus, and John F. Kennedy Catholic School Lower Campus. Her dedication to teaching has not gone unnoticed. She was awarded the Golden Apple Award which is given to exceptional Diocesan administrators and educators, a two-time recipient of the Tribune A+ Award, and the WFMJ Dunkin Donut Class Act Award.

Mrs. Muccio has left a lasting impression on my life. I will forever remember how Mrs. Muccio made learning fun. One of my favorite memories was when the weather broke in the spring, she would take us outside to sing and drink lemonade. She had a way of making every student feel special. She has lived a life of service to her family, her students and her church.

Congratulations on your retirement Mrs. Muccio. May God Bless you and your family for many years to come.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to remember the life of Mary Ann Rogusky Regula who died at her family's farm in Navarre, Ohio on April 5, 2018.

Mary Regula was born in Girard, Ohio on November 29, 1926 to the late Mr. and Mrs. Rogusky. In 1949, Mary graduated from Mount Union College and it is there where she met her future husband Ralph Regula. She was an active member of the community, serving as an educator, historian, and aide in her husband's Congressional office as he represented the 16th Congressional District of Ohio.

In 1994, Mary began laying the foundation for a museum devoted to the first ladies. She told the Washington Post that it wasn't until the 1970s that we decided women had any part in this nation's history. She wanted to help close history's gaping hole by honoring the accomplishments of women. In 1998, former first lady Rosalynn Carter cut the ribbon at the formal opening of the National First Ladies' Library in Canton, Ohio. Mary hoped the museum would serve as a way to document the lives of first ladies and as a resource for scholars and students. The museum was designated a historic site in 2000, expanding to include an education and research center that has now grown to partner with Ohio schools to provide educational programming about these important figures in American history.

She is dearly missed by her three children Richard Regula (Sherry), David Regula (Jaqueline), and Martha Regula and her four grandchildren, Thomas, Garrett, Olivia and Marissa. She was preceded in death by her parents and her loving husband.

Mary was a wonderful woman, and I am grateful to have had both her and Ralph as friends. She was a valued member of the community and her legacy leaves a lasting impact. I extend my sincerest condolences to all of her family and friends.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to remember the life of Edwin ``David'' Colwell, 87, who passed away on Sunday, April 15, 2018.

David was born on March 14, 1931 in Vinton, Ohio to the late Everett and Grace Colwell, nee Kincaid. He was a proud OSU grad, and the first college grad in his family. He was in ROTC/Air Force and after graduation served as a pilot flying over the Sea of Japan to bring food to our armed forces in Korea after the end of the Korean War.

After his honorable discharge as a Captain, David returned to Ohio and married his first wife Janice Fike in Ashland, Ohio. They had 2 dear daughters, Cappi and Camilla. After 22 years of marriage, Janice passed in 1983. Professionally, David began his career with The Kroger Company, first in the bakery, then through the ranks until he headed up the ``Cookies, Crackers and Snacks Division'', which was very popular with the kids in the neighborhood. It was during this time, during the early '70s that David began developing his real estate business, focusing on housing for Ohio State students. E. David's Properties continues to house students annually. It has housed thousands over almost 40 years. David was a very popular landlord, receiving Valentine's Day cards and invitations to his renters' graduation parties. He loved the students and was so proud of their accomplishments!

David enjoyed travelling the world with his wife Jolene, knowing no stranger, relishing different cultures and traditions, and always ready to plan the next trip. They loved Europe, particularly Poland and the Czech Republic, and their 30 years of beach vacations in Mexico where they had so many loving friends. There was no more passionate an OSU sports fan than David. He held season tickets for football and basketball. He and his best bud, Harvey, were always sure that their coaching expertise could help the Bucks win!

For 30 years, David has been married to Jolene Moritz Molitoris who is a friend of mine and long-time public servant and transportation leader. Jolene was an official at the Ohio Department of Transportation when President Clinton appointed her as the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration and later she served as Director of the Ohio Department of Transportation.

There was no more passionate a family man than David. He was so proud of all the family accomplishments. He so loved his family. He will be missed beyond imagining by his wife Jolene; and his children, Cappi, Camilla, spouse, Harold, Jill, Jay, spouse, Catherine; grandchildren, Calina, Devin and Ellis; and his sister, Catherine; and his beloved dogs, Choo Choo and Teddy.

I extend my sincerest condolences to his family and friends.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to remember the life of Kathryn Lieberth Lytton who passed away on April 1, 2018, age 37.

Born Kathryn Moffat Lieberth, Kate Lytton died two weeks shy of her 38th birthday following a year-long battle with breast cancer, a fight that she waged until the very last hour with her unyielding wit and incomparable stoicism.

Kate was an accomplished young teacher of classical and modern ballet. She first started dancing at the age of three after seeing a Summer Festival performance of Ohio Ballet in Forest Lodge Park. She began her study at the University of Akron Dance Institute under Gina Carroll. She continued her pre-professional training under Nan Klinger, performing for eight seasons with the Cuyahoga Valley Youth Ballet. She also danced in the 1992 International Children's Festival in Taiwan. After graduating with honors from Our Lady of the Elms, Kate continued her education at the University of Utah where she was a member of the Utah Ballet and a trainee with Ballet West. Feeling that she was ``getting old,'' she left college to become an apprentice at Richmond (Virginia) Ballet. For the next 12 years, she performed with various ballets including Ballet Memphis, Oakland Ballet, and Company C Contemporary Ballet.

Kate later returned to school to further her education in anatomy and kinesiology through multiple dance and fitness certification programs. In 2011, Kate became the Dance Program Manager at Google Headquarters in Mountain View, CA. She grew the employee dance program from a few social dance classes a week to a comprehensive dance training program across multiple disciplines, eventually overseeing programming at 50 Google offices globally, and supervising 200 dance instructors worldwide.

Kate returned to Akron in 2014 to raise a family with her husband Alec. She joined the faculties of the University of Akron Dance Institute, the Excellence in Dance studio in Cuyahoga Falls, and the 8- count dance studio in Green. She also served as the administrator for Ballet Excel Ohio's Reach Out and Dance program that gave many students in the Akron Public Schools their first exposure to dance, and she especially loved working with students with disabilities. Kate also taught many barre classes throughout the community. Kate is the daughter of David Lieberth, one of Akron's prominent community leaders who served as Deputy Mayor.

She is survived by her husband, Alec Lytton, a fellow dancer and teacher of dance at the University of Akron; by her daughters, Genevieve, 3, and Paige, 2; by her parents Lynne and Dave Lieberth; by her sister, Emma Lieberth and brother-in-law, Nathaniel Osborn; her mother-in-law, Joy Lord of Houston; and uncle, Joseph Lieberth of Barberton.

I know Kate is dearly missed by her family, her friends, and all her students. I extend my deepest and sincerest condolences.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to remember the life of Athanasios ``Tom'' P. Vouvounas, 101, who passed away peacefully on Friday, March 30, 2018 at the Humility House in Austintown, Ohio with his family by his side.

I will never forget Tom as long as I live. He was almost 90 years old when he came to Washington, DC., and we visited the World War II Memorial. Tom arrived wearing the same uniform he wore in France which still fit him like the day he first put it on. We rode together on the Metro and sat down across from another man around Tom's age who was dressed as a civilian. The man immediately recognized Tom's uniform and started to talk with him. As it turned out, both of these men had served in the same unit those many years ago. I remember it as a wonderful day when two heroes were reunited.

Tom was born on May 27, 1916 in Nenedes Samos, Greece, to Prodomos Vouvounas and Angeliki Safoulis Vouvounas. Tom came to the United States in 1933 to Youngstown, Ohio and moved to Warren, Ohio in 1945. He bravely served in the U.S. Army and fought in World War II at Normandy, France and in the Battle of the Bulge.

After serving in the Army, Tom returned home to serve the state of Ohio and his community in Warren. He was the co-owner of Liberty Restaurant on Main Street, with his wife, and he worked for the Ohio Department of Liquor Control as a manager of State Liquor Store on Main Street. Tom also worked as a Warren Transit bus driver. Tom was also an active member at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Warren. He was involved as an altar server, American Hellenic Education Progressive Association (AHEPA), senior group, Yasou Club, past President of the Church 50 Club, and an active participant with the church festival. In his free time, Tom enjoyed going to the track, gardening, and planting flowers.

He is survived by his nine children, Perry Vouvounas of Cortland, Pete (Jacquline) Vouvounas of Howland, Angela (Christopher) Kalafatis of Dallas, Parisa (Frank) Gombarcik of Howland, Demetra Vouvounas and Christos Vouvounas, both of Houston, Nick Vouvounas of Bayshore, Long Island, N.Y., Maria (Curtis) Elder of Warren and Joanna (Edward) Colucci of Girard; 13 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Helen T. Vouvounas; a brother, Andreas Vouvounas; and a sister- in-law, Helen A. Vouvounas.

Tom was a valued member of the community, and I know he is dearly missed. I am thankful for the memories I have with him, and I extend my sincerest condolences to his family and friends.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to note that while there is record turnover in high level federal government positions, the opposite is true in Barberton, Ohio.

For 70 years, the Barberton Finance Director position has been held by only two men, a father and his son. Raymond E. Flickinger Sr. and Raymond E. Flickinger Jr. have held the purse strings in Barberton all that time.

Ray Sr. took office in 1948. In 1978, Ray Jr. became the assistant city finance director. Ray Sr. retired in 1980 and Ray Jr. took over as Director. On March 31, Ray Jr. stepped down from his position.

Mayor William Judge whose father also served as Mayor noted that Ray has ``weathered storms and kept on top of them.'' I want to congratulate and thank the Flickingers for two lifetimes of public service. I am inspired by these two dedicated officials who did their duty day after day and met the challenges of service for so many years. All the best to Ray Flickinger Jr. in retirement.

I include in the Record an article that appeared in the The Akron Beacon Journal on March 26.

Father and Son Guided Barberton City Finances for 70 Years; Era Will

End This Month

(By Paula Schleis)

Barberton--For 70 years, the man in charge of the city's

purse strings has answered to the name Raymond E. Flickinger.

First dad, then son, in a tenure so taken for granted that

no one has bothered to challenge either at the ballot since

1968.

The era will end on March 31 when Barberton Finance

Director Raymond E. Flickinger--the younger--retires and

hands the city's ledger over to someone with a different

name.

``It's time,'' Flickinger said, a smile suggesting that

he's already counting down the hours.

While the elder and the younger both held the same post,

their jobs were wildly different, covering dramatically

different eras as this blue-collar city rose, fell and then

embarked on some modern soul-searching.

The elder Raymond E. Flickinger was born in 1910--less than

two decades after the town was founded--and grew up in the

family's grocery business. Flickinger's, the store, was once

an icon in downtown Barberton.

Ray Sr. took his turn on the European front during World

War II, participating in the invasion of Normandy.

Two years after the war ended, the local Democratic Party

asked if he'd run for the open seat of city auditor a post

that would later evolve into finance director.

He won, took office in 1948 and started on-the-job

training.

``Things were a lot simpler then,'' the younger Flickinger

said of his dad's era. There were payrolls to make and

budgets to balance, but ``you didn't have accounting

standards back then.''

Simpler budget

Seated in his office, Flickinger pulled an old booklet from

a shelf of documents. It was the city budget from 1954, a 28-

page pamphlet itemizing $757,000 in income and expenditures.

Flickinger compares it to this year's city budget. Almost $18

million. It takes a nearly 200-page booklet to explain it.

Flickinger, the younger, started doing some light

bookkeeping for his dad when he was still in high school.

``He paid me out of his own pocket to do things for him,''

Flickinger said.

He never expected it to be his career.

``We didn't have a plan for me to take over,'' he said.

Yet by 1975, wouldn't you know it, that's exactly the

course he found himself on. The city hired him as a full-time

accountant. By 1978, he was the city's assistant finance

director, his dad's second in command.

``Nepotism wasn't an issue back in the day,'' he chuckled.

City Council approved the promotion. No one batted an eye. It

was universally accepted that Flickinger, the elder, would

groom his son to take over after his own upcoming retirement.

In 1980, after 32 years, the elder stepped down, the

younger stepped up. No need to change the name on the office

door.

Ray Sr. was 72 when he retired. He hadn't been in a hurry.

``He loved working,'' his son said. ``It was pretty much

his life. He was one of those people who could have just

worked till he died.'' But he didn't. He died in 1998.

Barberton was a very different city when Ray Jr. took over.

When his father first became auditor, Barberton was a

manufacturing powerhouse. Its founding was unique in Ohio, an

industrial community planned by industrialist Ohio Columbus

Barber, who set up half a dozen of his own factories and

populated them with tens of thousands of immigrants and

Appalachian transplants.

But by 1980, the place nicknamed the ``Magic City'' because

of its overnight rise had become a poster child for the Rust

Belt.

The younger Flickinger helped navigate Barberton through a

recession, a period when many cities were going into default.

``It was thought that cities should start following the

same accounting standards as private industry,'' he said.

What followed were challenging, time-consuming and often

mind-numbing rules and regulations. Flickinger rolled with

the punches, supported by a talented staff that helped his

office evolve into a department that needed to know as much

law as finance.

That's also about the time that Flickinger decided on a new

administrative style: Avoid the limelight at all costs.

National news

Barberton's waning fortunes made national news, and

Flickinger found himself quoted in a New York Times story

about the town's struggle. The very next day, a

representative from a bond rating firm called Flickinger to

announce the city was being downgraded because of the story.

Flickinger snorted: ``I decided I was better off staying in

the background. I'm honest and I'll tell people like it is.

But I don't need to hear myself talk.''

That's a trait that came to Mayor Bill Judge's mind

immediately when asked to describe his finance director.

``He does a great job of explaining things, and he's always

been the go-to guy, and for that he should have an ego, a big

one,'' Judge said. ``But he doesn't have an ego.''

Barberton gradually started to recover in the 1990s.

``But the more you collect, the more you spend,''

Flickinger said. Road programs expanded. Health care costs

rose. EPA standards added to the cost of maintaining a city

water and sewer department. Salaries ballooned.

In 1954, that little budget pamphlet said $263,000 was

spent on the city's safety forces. In 2018, police and fire

will cost residents $11.2 million.

The street maintenance budget of $69,000 in 1954 has grown

to $1.5 million this year.

Flickinger said one thing he's proud of is talking City

Council into approving a policy that set a minimum fund

balance of 10 percent. It was passed in 2008. That means

while the city has a nearly $18 million budget this year, it

won't touch almost $1.8 million of that. It's a sort of

built-in rainy day cushion.

``They didn't have to do that,'' he said of council's

action.

Fred Maurer has known Flickinger most of his life. They

were both born in 1952, a few days apart. They attended St.

Augustine's school together.

Maurer spent more than 21 years as a city councilman.

``Ray is very methodical, very thorough, very capable,'' he

said. ``He doesn't care to get into the politics [of his

elected office], he's more nuts and bolts. He's one of these

people who just stays focused on what needs to be done.''

Votes needed

While Flickinger, a Democrat, never faced Republican

opposition in the 10 times he had to seek re-election, Maurer

laughed that there was one year Flickinger had to work at

getting votes. In the 1980s, voters passed a charter

amendment requiring the city finance director have a degree

in municipal financing and a number of years experience in

the field.

Maurer swears that ``and'' was supposed to be an ``or.''

Flickinger did not have a municipal financing degree. He'd

spent about 10 years or so, while in office, working on his

bachelor's degree in accounting from Kent State University.

But the ballot authors had intended to honor his experience.

With Flickinger's job hanging in the balance, an amended

amendment had to be put on the very next ballot.

``I think that's the one and only time Ray actually had to

campaign,'' Maurer said. The issue passed.

Hitting the road

When Flickinger retires at the end of this month, his

assistant, Jeremy Flaker, will take over. He'll have to run

in 2019 if he wants to keep the job. Judge said Barberton

will face new financial challenges ahead, and he'll miss the

``level of comfort'' that comes from having Flickinger at his

side.

``He's lived through tough times before. He's weathered

storms and kept on top of them,'' Judge said. ``And he has a

lot of institutional knowledge. I'm going to miss his

insightfulness, his ideas.''

``But I told him I've got his number and I know where he

lives,'' Judge quipped.

That information might not do the mayor a lot of good.

Flickinger and his longtime girlfriend plan to sell their

home and hit the road in a motor home, starting with a stay

in Colorado to visit his son, Eric.

He'll be back here from time to time to visit his two

daughters--Amy in Wadsworth and Emily in Grafton--but he's

not planning on any permanent residence for the foreseeable

future.

``We're going to be nomads. I can honestly say I don't know

where I'll be living, but Barberton will always be home,'' he

said.

Like his father before him, he loves boating and fishing.

But unlike his father, he's getting out at the age of 65,

with plenty of time to do more of both.

``Like I said,'' he repeated, ``it's just time.''

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to remember the life of Nancy Ann Kunovich, age 82, who passed away peacefully on March 11, 2018.

Nancy was born on September 25, 1935 in Youngstown, Ohio. Nancy was married to Charles Kunovich and together they raised 5 children. In addition to being a mom, Nancy worked for the Austintown School District for over 30 years as one of the pioneers behind the ``I Can'' Program. Nancy's compassion and devotion throughout the program inspired countless young people to turn their lives around.

After retiring in 2005, Nancy moved to Manchaca, Texas. She enjoyed spending her retired life gardening, reading, cooking, and so much more. Her greatest pride and joy came in spending time with her family and friends. Her step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren lovingly referred to her as Grandma Nancy.

Nancy was preceded in death by her husband Charles, her daughter Elizabeth Blockinger, her parents Hannah and William Richards, and her brother William Richards, Jr. Nancy is survived by her children Glenn Johnson and wife Norma, daughter Lynda Self and husband Carl, daughter Christine Johnson; son, Eric Johnson and grandchildren Eric Betts, Kate Kam, and Hannah Blockinger. Nancy also leaves five step-children behind; Kathy Joyce and husband David, Michelle Chance and husband Joe, Charles Kunovich Jr., Mary Jo Cusack and husband Jim, Michael Kunovich and wife Michelle.

I had the pleasure of knowing Nancy's son Glenn. She was a beloved mother and grandmother, and I know she is dearly missed. I extend my deepest condolences to Glenn and his family.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize and honor the recent retirement of Colonel James Dignan from the United States Air Force and to congratulate him on his new role as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber in Ohio. Colonel Dignan concluded his service in the Air Force working in the office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for force readiness.

Colonel Dignan received his commission through the Naval Aviation Cadet (NAVCAD) program at the Aviation Officer Candidate School at NAS Pensacola, Florida, and he received his ``Wings of Gold'' at NAS Corpus Christi, Texas. He has served as an officer and pilot in the United States Navy, Air National Guard, and Air Force Reserve. Colonel Dignan was a command pilot with more than 6,500 hours in trainer, patrol, reconnaissance, and airlift aircraft. He has flown more than 100 hurricane penetration missions in the WC-130 and has flown combat- support missions throughout the Balkans, the Horn of Africa, and Southwest Asia. Colonel Dignan was also the commander of the 910th Airlift Wing at the Youngstown Air Reserve Station in Youngstown, Ohio. Under his leadership, he oversaw more than 1,300 personnel and was in charge of operations which provided support for nearly 2,000 Air Force, Navy, and Marine Reservists.

Now, Dignan will begin his new role as President and CEO of the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber. He wanted to remain in Youngstown, Ohio with his wife and three daughters who also desired to stay in the Youngstown area. His new role will allow him to continue serving the Mahoning Valley region alongside the people he loves. Dignan's managerial skills along with his past association as a Chamber board member demonstrated his ability to hit the ground running. He will be an influential voice and leader within the community, and I am enthused to work with him in his new role.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to remember the life of Charles Edward Wern, Jr., 85, who passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Feb. 13, 2018, at home with his family by his side.

Charles was born on November 11, 1932 to Charles E. Wern, Sr. and Mary Lyke Wern. After graduating from Vienna High School in 1950, he completed his undergraduate degree at Duke University where he played both basketball and baseball. Upon graduation, Chuck served in the U.S. Army for two years and played professional basketball and baseball in Europe after his time in the Army. Chuck later returned to the United States and graduated from Ohio Northern law school in 1959. Chuck practiced law in the Warren, Ohio area for over 57 years.

Chuck married the love of his life, Maureen Ann McGlone on November 14, 1990. They shared a long and happy marriage filled with love, respect, and laughter. Together, they had three children. Nothing brought him more pride and joy than being a part of their lives. All three children followed in his footsteps and began practicing law.

Chuck's passion for sports and competition never faded. He coached JFK baseball and golf, he was an avid golfer winning several area events including the Trumbull Country Club Championship. He was the co- chair for two of the LPGA tournaments when the tour was coming to the Valley. He crossed off a big ``Bucket List Item'' when he became a minority owner of the Mahoning Valley Scrappers. For the past 18 seasons, Chuck and Maureen enjoyed hosting over 50 Scrapper players.

Chuck always believed you have an obligation to support your community whenever the opportunity presents itself. He lived that philosophy, serving on numerous committees throughout his life in the Mahoning Valley. Specifically, he served over a span of 20 years on the Mahoning Valley Economic Development Corporation, serving as its Chairman for three different terms. He served as both past and present Chairman of the Warren Commerce Industrial Park. He was a Trustee of Warren General Hospital for several years, Chair of the Blessed Sacrament Building Fund Drive, Chairman and Trustee of the Warren Philharmonic Orchestra Association, Trustee of the Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley and most recently served on the Board of Directors of the American Red Cross. He was also a recipient of the American Heart Association's ``Heart of The Community'' award honoring heart patients who give of their time and talent to the community.

He will be deeply missed by his wife, Maureen; three children and eight grandchildren, Atty. Happy (Atty. Giovanni) DiCenso and Luca, Rocco and Valentina of Pepper Pike, Atty. Charles E. (Melissa) Wern, III and Chase, Cole and Clay of Denver and Atty. Theodore ``Ted'' (Georgia) Wern and Evan and Owen of Chicago; his sister, Marjorie Turner of Gillette, Wyo.; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, James McGlone of Struthers, Kitty (William) Brown of Canfield, John (Sally) McGlone of Jamestown, Pa., Michael (Lori) McGlone of Boardman, Matthew (Judi) McGlone of Canfield and Lorraine McGlone of Hudson; and several nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Peg and Joe McGlone; his brother-in-law, Joseph McGlone; his niece, Jaqueline Turner; his nephew, Chet Turner; and several aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Chuck was a valued member of the community, and I know he is dearly missed. I extend my sincerest condolences to his family and friends.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor our colleague from Ohio, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur, who has become the longest serving woman in the United States House of Representatives. She is from Toledo, Ohio.

I want to rise today to recognize being able to see someone of her caliber for so many years contribute so greatly. The World War II monument on The Mall here in Washington, D.C., was a long-term project that she started and she finished.

Those of us who represent working class people in Ohio know Marcy, respect Marcy. She is tough, she is smart, and she has one of the biggest hearts in this Chamber.

This is what I love about her: she is not afraid to say the word ``union'' and to recognize the power of working people coming together to bring economic justice to our society.

Mr. Speaker, we salute Ms. Kaptur's service and look forward to many, many more years ahead working on behalf and for those working class families in Ohio.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to remember the life of Jim DeGood who passed away peacefully on January 22, 2018 in Niles, Ohio. I can't really speak of Jim without speaking of Nancy in the same breath. They were partners in every sense of the word. And they were a force for me when I first started running for political office. I am forever indebted to them for helping launch my career.

Jim was born on May 7, 1935 in Marysville, Ohio to Max and Marjory Schoenleb DeGood. He was the oldest of four children. Jim was a 1953 graduate of Marysville High School where he was an honors student, president of student council, and recipient of nine varsity letters in three different sports. He continued his education at The Ohio State University earning a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Business Administration in 1953.

He began his career with the underwriting division of the Glens Falls Insurance Company at their Columbus office later becoming the manager of that department. In 1967, he moved to Warren, Ohio and joined the Gamble Insurance Agency. Some years later, Jim and his partners purchased The Gamble Agency. It continued to operate in Howland as the Gibson-DeGood Insurance Agency until Jim retired. Jim was also a member of the Independent Insurance Agents Association of Trumbull County being the treasurer of that organization for over 25 years.

Outside of work, Jim was a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Niles, Ohio. Additionally, he was an active participant in various business and social organization in the community, including The Chamber, Kiwanis, YMCA, TAG, Butler Art, The Buckeye Club, Trumbull County Club, Ohio State Faculty Club, and the Ohio State Alumni Association. Jim also enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed traveling, cooking, and taking care of his home. Above all, he was an avid sports fan of the Indians, the Browns, and the Cavs. One of the highlights of his life was a visit to Augusta National Golf Course to witness the play of the Masters Golf Tournament. He especially enjoyed watching Ohio State Football games. He was a season ticket holder for 48 years, following the Buckeyes to several bowl games across the country.

He will be truly missed by his wife Nancy Vennitti DeGood, the love of his life; his son, Douglas DeGood of Charleston, South Carolina; his daughter Terri Pytlik of Warren; his brother Jerry DeGood and his wife Mary of Brookville, Florida; and by so many others who had the pleasure of knowing Jim. I extend my deepest and sincerest condolences

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to remember the life of Stephen Michael Bistarkey, Sr. who passed away on January 7, 2018. He was 45 years old.

Stephen was born in Youngstown, Ohio on November 10, 1972 to Andrew E. and Darlene S. (Anderson) Bistarkey. He was a 1991 graduate of Howland High School and attended the Apostolic Bible Church. He worked in the Trumbull County maintenance department.

Stephen was known for being an avid fan of the Ohio State Buckeyes, the Cleveland Indians, and the Oakland Raiders. In his free time, he enjoyed camping and fishing. Above all, he cherished his time with his son Stephen.

He is survived by a son, Stephen Michael Bistarkey, Jr. of Niles, Ohio; mother Darlene S. (Frank) Fuda of Niles; two brothers, Andrew E. (Connie) Bistarkey, Jr. of Niles and Kenneth J. Bistarkey of Niles; stepsister, Tonya (Donald) Swauger of Mineral Ridge; two stepbrothers, Frank ``Buddy'' (fiancee Mandy) Fuda of Rowlett, Texas and Tony (Devon) Fuda of Niles and several nieces and nephews.

I extend my deepest condolences to Stephen's family and friends. I know he is deeply missed by his son and all who had the pleasure of knowing him