Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Jacob Edward Burns. Jacob, 35, passed away Saturday, April 3, 2021 as the result of an automobile accident. He was born August 26, 1985 in Zanesville to David and Bonnie Burns.

Jacob was a Philo graduate and retired as a Staff Sergeant from the United States Air Force on November 27, 2019. He had a strong relationship with his military brothers, while serving he was a Combat Arms Instructor and was known around the world for his knowledge. Jacob was a remarkable husband and father. I mourn with his family and I am thankful for his service.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a lifelong Ohioan who made a profound impact on not only me but so many in the Zanesville area, my hometown, Betty Wiechert.

I first came to know Betty when I was just a young boy, when she became my first Sunday school teacher. All these years later, Betty and I still attended the same church together each Sunday.

Just a few weeks ago, Betty even surprised me by asking a question on a telephone townhall. She lived an incredibly full life until the very end.

Born in Newark and raised in Zanesville, Betty gave her entire life to her family and this community, teaching not only Sunday school but also third and fifth grades.

Her passing was preceded by her parents, her husband of nearly 62 years, Rudy, two grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, one great- great-grandchild, a brother-in-law, and her father-in-law and mother- in-law.

She is survived by six children, 16 grandchildren, 46 great- grandchildren, 42 great-great-grandchildren, with three more nephews, and extended family and friends.

Her faith and her positivity were Betty's trademarks and are all the things fellow Ohioans remember most about her.

I will miss seeing her each Sunday at church and will always admire her dedication to bettering the lives of those around her each day. We will miss her dearly.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 446, legislation aimed that at protecting older Americans from falling victim to scammers.

Throughout the pandemic, uncertainty has led to many Americans falling victim to scam callers, especially vulnerable populations like seniors. We have a responsibility to stop bad actors like these scam artists in their tracks. That starts with empowering the American people with information to better protect themselves and their loved ones from falling victim.

H.R. 446 would direct the Federal Trade Commission to identify scammers and make such information publicly available. This legislation also equips the FTC to more proactively alert the public about known scams, specifically in their region.

Mr. Speaker, our seniors have suffered enough. It is time to better supply them and their loved ones with the information needed to protect themselves against scammers who shamelessly prey on the most vulnerable. That is why I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 446, the Protecting Seniors from Emergency Scams Act.

Mr. Speaker, due to a family emergency, I was not present to vote. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall No. 74, ``nay'' on rollcall No. 75, ``yea'' on rollcall No. 76, and ``nay'' on rollcall No. 77.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2331, the SBA Cyber Awareness Act of 2019. This bill has had my full support since its introduction and I am happy to support its passage today.

I want to first thank my good friend, the gentleman from Colorado, for his leadership on this effort. It is nice to see Congress attempt to solve problems not only in a bipartisan manner, but also proactively before problems occur, rather than waiting until something goes wrong.

This bill addresses a potential weakness within the Small Business Administration's cybersecurity infrastructure. By passing this bill, we will proactively guard against harmful and widespread cyberattacks by bringing the Small Business Administration's cybersecurity defenses into the 21st Century. This bill will protect the sensitive business and personal information of millions of small business owners across the country.

In a rapidly-developing digital age, strong cybersecurity protections and reinforcements are of the utmost importance. Many small businesses don't have the defensive infrastructure to deal with cyberattacks, A threat to cybersecurity is a threat to small businesses' vitality. that's why this bill is so important.

We, as Congress, must lift up the small businesses of America and ensure they have the support they need to address this ever-changing online environment. And this bill is a bipartisan example of that.

Once again, I thank my colleague from Colorado for his proactive leadership, and I urge the passage of H.R. 2331.

Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to take from the Speaker's table H.R. 3401, with the Senate amendment thereto, and concur in the Senate amendment. This bipartisan bill passed the Senate with 84 votes and could be sent to the President's desk for his signature today.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the professional achievements of a fellow Zanesville High School graduate, Vice Admiral Albert (Bert) Calland, III.

Vice Admiral Calland is being commemorated in our hometown for his tremendous career, which has spanned many decades, and forms the model life of a selfless calling to public service in defense of this country. From the United States Navy to SEAL Team ONE, from the Central Intelligence Agency and the National Counterterrorism Center to CACI International, Inc., Admiral Calland has always displayed the dedication of a consummate man of service.

After graduating from the United States Naval Academy in 1974, Admiral Calland distinguished himself in the ranks of the U.S. Navy and Special Operations Command, gaining the respect of juniors, peers, and superior officers alike. His impressive qualities of hard work and strategic problem-solving helped Admiral Calland advance in his field. By the time of the terrorist attacks that devastated our nation on September 11, 2001, Admiral Calland was a key guiding force in the United States' fight against those who seek to do us harm.

As our hometown gathers to recognize this ardent patriot, I salute him for his ongoing service above self. Admiral Calland can take great pride in all he has accomplished and in the impact his legacy will leave. I thank Vice Admiral Calland for bringing honor to Zanesville, Ohio, and in turn, I honor him for his incredible record of achievement.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the career of David Blom, who is retiring from his service as president and CEO of OhioHealth this July.

Under David's watch, OhioHealth has grown leaps and bounds into central Ohio's largest healthcare system. In 17 years at the helm, Dave built OhioHealth into a top employer and economic driver in Ohio.

When his tenure began, OhioHealth employed 14,000 associates and caregivers. That number has more than doubled to more than 30,000 OhioHealth associates and caregivers today.

What is more, OhioHealth was just named to the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For in 2019 for the 19th straight year, fostered by Dave's leadership.

Moreover, when Dave took the reins in 2002, not a single OhioHealth hospital existed in what is now my congressional district. Today, OhioHealth Mansfield Hospital, Grady Memorial Hospital, Dublin Methodist Hospital, and Westerville Medical Campus all lie in the 12th Congressional District.

Throughout this rapid development, Dave has kept an unwavering commitment to keeping care local for patients across Ohio's communities.

Keeping care local isn't merely a slogan for Dave. Rather, it represents a cultural focus on serving each community, creating access to care, and establishing standard practices and procedures around medicine and patient care, all so Ohioans can receive the healthcare services they need close to home.

Dave has been gracious in sharing his leadership with the central Ohio region. During his tenure as chairman of the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, the chamber elevated its mission and made a profound impact on regional growth.

Dave also serves on the Columbus Partnership executive committee, a nonprofit organization of more than 70 CEOs of Columbus' leading businesses and institutions.

Dave has positively impacted so many lives by making care accessible for Ohioans--for urban, suburban, and rural areas alike--and by growing OhioHealth into a robust employer in the region I call home. I thank him very much for his service.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize my dear friend Gary Walters. On May 18, 2019, Coach Walters will be inducted into the Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame in recognition of his tremendous career as the head basketball coach at Newark High School in Licking County, Ohio.

Over the course of his twenty-seven years coaching the Newark Wildcats, Gary and his athletes racked up a 477-199 record, winning twelve league championships, 17 sectional championships, seven district championships and 1 regional championship. As a result of his efforts, Gary was elected Ohio Coach of the year in both 1992 and 1999.

Gary's results on the court were only possible through his dedication to his players off the court. He set high standards and helped generations of young men achieve them. Having grown up as a multi-sport athlete himself, Gary knew all too well the special impact a good coach can have on those under his charge. By investing in their character, studies, and personal wellbeing, Gary set himself apart as a model coach and mentor.

Over the years I've known Coach, he has reflected the highest virtues we admire in public service. In addition to his years as an educator and coach, Gary continues to serve his

community--now in his fifth elected term as the Clerk of Courts for his home county. His dedication and perseverance can serve as an inspiration to us all.

I'm proud to join in recognizing Coach Walters as he receives this fitting tribute to his legacy of achievement and service. Congratulations to my friend on being inducted into the 2019 class of the Ohio Basketball Hall of Fame.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and achievements of James ``Jim'' Gorman, in honor of his retirement from the Gorman-Rupp Company in Mansfield, Ohio.

Since its founding in 1933, the Gorman-Rupp Company has been known worldwide for its quality pumps and pump systems. When Jim first joined the board of directors in 1946, he began a journey spanning more than seven decades. For 73 years, Jim has worked tirelessly to uphold the renowned Gorman-Rupp Company reputation and build its global success.

Jim's service didn't begin in the private sector, however. In 1942, amidst the height of World War II, Jim answered his nation's call and joined the United States Army as a C-47 cargo plane pilot, where he risked life and limb to defend the principle of freedom. His lifelong dedication to service for his country and community didn't end there. After World War II, Jim served in the Air Force Reserves until the Guard unit was opened in June 1948, where he served until 1956.

After his time in the military, Jim returned home to Mansfield, Ohio to devote himself to the eponymous company his father co-founded. As a salesman, Jim traveled the country selling the pumps and pump systems the Gorman-Rupp Company designs and manufactures. It didn't take long for Jim's staunch work ethic to earn him the respect and admiration of his colleagues.

As far back as 1948, Jim has repeatedly been quoted as saying he believes in treating his employees as he would like to be treated. This unwavering commitment to his employees remains through this very day and sets an example for job creators everywhere.

Jim's life and career are marked by decades of profound, yet humbly- and dutifully-carried-out service to others. I'm confident that's Jim's impact will be an enduring one, and that his work will be cherished by generations to come.

I thank James ``Jim'' Gorman for bringing honor to Mansfield, Ohio, and in turn I honor him for his incredible record of achievements.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an incredible feat by a remarkable young athlete from Licking County, Ohio.

Garrett Ford, of Pataskala, began lifting weights just a few years ago, and it didn't take long for his family and friends to notice his affinity for the sport. As time went on, Garrett continued to work at the sport, lifting heavier and heavier weights, all the while bulking up and fine-tuning his skills.

His passion for lifting took him outside the CrossFit gym last July, when he competed in the Ohio Special Olympics 2018 Summer Games, then was flown to Seattle to compete in the Special Olympics 2018 USA Games. After accumulating medals and victories along the way, Garrett flew halfway around the world last month to represent Licking County in the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Abu Dhabi. There, he won four gold medals for his performance, sweeping in his weight class in four powerlifting categories: deadlift, squat, bench, and combined.

With his victories, Garrett, who was diagnosed with autism as a child, has achieved something extraordinary. I know I speak for everyone in Licking County when I say we are honored that he represented us in the World Summer Games--the first person to ever represent our county in such.

Garrett's story sets an example for all of us--one of courage, determination, and believing in oneself. You see, he'll be the first person to tell you exactly how he wants to improve his performance. He constantly pushes himself to be better, never settling for less-than. At the same time, he doesn't get nervous. He doesn't take pity for what others may perceive as a disability. His steady perseverance and internal drive have pushed Garrett to extraordinary, global heights, and I'm confident that this won't be the last we're hearing of him.

I thank Garrett Ford for bringing honor to Licking County, Ohio, and in turn I honor him for his incredible record of achievements.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a matter that is very near and dear to my heart--the marriage of my son, William Joshua Balderson to Chelsea Alise Gallaugher this coming Saturday, April 6, 2019.

As a parent, I know that one of life's greatest joys is witnessing the marriage of one of your children, and the blending of two families into one. As parents, we can only try to raise our children with honor, teach them well, and send them out into the world as respectable adults who are prepared to face life's challenges. Everything else--successful careers, love, marriage, and building families of their own--those are bonuses.

What a blessing it is for Joshua and Chelsea to have found each other, and to share such love for one another. I know I don't speak for only myself when I say how excited and honored we are to welcome Chelsea into the Balderson family this weekend. I thank Chelsea's parents, Bill and Karen Gallaugher, for sharing their beautiful daughter with our family. I feel blessed to have Chelsea as my soon-to- be daughter-in-law. I wish my wonderful son, Joshua, and his bride a lifetime of health and happiness with one another. May this be the first of many blessings to come.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of David Elder, a committed public servant, loving husband, and devoted father and grandfather. David passed away on February 23, 2019 at the age of 70. He was a dedicated public servant to Worthington, Ohio, for 36 years.

David's admirable career of service to Worthington began when he interned while completing his master's degree at The Ohio State University. Skillfully demonstrating his capabilities as an intern, he was hired in 1971 to serve as an administrative assistant. Over the course of the following decade, David proved he possessed a dedicated work ethic, which helped him advance in his career. He was appointed as Worthington City Manager in 1981, a title he held for 26 years. Though he left office in 2007, his legacy is not forgotten. His strong ethical character, enthusiastic compassion, and devoted service to his home town made him the consummate example of a public servant.

Though he will be missed dearly, I am confident that his memory will live on through his exemplary life's work and will continue to serve as an inspiration for individuals considering a path in public service. Please keep his beloved wife, Ann, daughters Stephanie and Lauren, and numerous grandchildren in your prayers as they celebrate David's life in the coming days.

Speaker Ryan, Representative Kaptur, Chairman Chabot, and my new colleagues, thank you for that very warm welcome. To the people of the 12th District of Ohio, thank you for this remarkable opportunity to serve you. It is an honor to stand in this Chamber and take the oath of office.

Joining me today in the gallery are a number of my great friends, including my son, Joshua, and my girlfriend, Melanie. Thank you both for your love and support and for being here by my side today.

My parents, Bill and Kathie, could not be here with me today, but they are watching back home in Zanesville. I also want to thank them for their love and support. I would not be here without them.

Most importantly, I would also like to thank the good Lord for getting me here today.

I am humbled to serve in the people's House and look forward to fulfilling my duties representing the 12th District of Ohio.

God bless you all. Thank you very much.

Announcement by the Speaker