Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, today, I rise to recognize Frisco Assistant Police Chief Greg Ward on his distinguished twenty-nine year career in law enforcement upon his well-deserved retirement.

In 1985, Ward graduated from Southwest Texas State University with a degree in Criminal Justice. He would later go on to attend the FBI National Academy, the Senior Management Institute for Police, and would obtain a State of Texas Master Peace Officer License.

Since joining the Frisco Police Department in 1999, Chief Ward has supervised numerous departments including patrol, special operations, school resource officer programs, community services, and communications. Chief Ward was also responsible for the Investigations and Services Bureaus as well as the department's firearms program.

Given his extensive experience and active involvement, it comes as no surprise that in 2019 Chief Ward was selected to serve as the interim Chief of Police for the City of Frisco following the departure of Chief John Bruce.

A true public servant, he could often be found around Frisco engaging with residents and participating in events such as Safety Palooza, which sought to bring members of the community face to face with police and fire personnel.

During his twenty-two years of service with the City of Frisco, Chief Ward's versatile skillset made him a valuable asset to both the Department and the community. Due to his approachable nature and willingness to serve as a source of wisdom amongst his fellow officers, Chief Ward was highly regarded not only as a colleague, but also as a friend.

Chief Greg Ward made a lasting impact on the Frisco community during a pivotal time in the city's growth, and his absence will certainly be felt among many. Now upon his retirement, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in thanking Chief Greg Ward for his dedicated career in law enforcement and wish him the best as he prepares to begin a new chapter of his life.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize Sara Egelston Akers for a lifetime of service dedicated to fostering a love for the performing arts among the youth in our community.

In 1991, what began as a single production of ``The Wizard of Oz'' at a local church, would go on to become the profoundly impactful Plano Children's Theatre (PCT), one of the first youth theaters dedicated to providing children from all backgrounds the opportunity to be on stage. Due to Sara's efforts as the Theatre's Founder and Executive Director, in time multiple performance theatres and rehearsal studios would be established across North Texas.

Among her most notable achievements during her tenue with PCT, Sara pioneered the use of drama as a means of therapy, paving the way for the widespread implementation of adaptive performing arts programs for students with disabilities.

Over the past three decades, Sara has been a vital contributor to Plano's performing arts landscape. Following her executive role with PTC, Sarah went on to a serve as the Vice President of Community Outreach for North Texas Performing Arts (NTPA), where she oversaw fundraising, community outreach, and diversity efforts. Under her leadership, NTPA has become the largest youth theatre in the country impacting thousands of families.

For her many contributions within our community, Sara was recognized by the Plano Chamber of Commerce with the prestigious Athena Award, and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Art Centre of Plano. In honor, NTPA has likewise established a ``Sara Egelston Akers Legacy Fund'' which will provide support for the organization's scholarship initiatives.

Following her retirement this May, Sara will continue to serve as a teacher and director maintaining an active role in the NTPA's Arts Advisory Council, Governing Board of Director's, and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force.

Ms. Sara Egelston Akers, a gifted educator, artist, and leader, has undoubtedly made a lasting impact on the North Texas community, and though she will be missed, her future is sure to be filled with many wonderful new opportunities.

As she prepares to embark on this next chapter of her life, I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in honoring Sara Egelston Akers for her successful career devoted to promoting accessibility among youth in the performing arts.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize Ray Smith as he prepares to depart his longtime service as the steadfast Mayor of Prosper, Texas.

A 1981 graduate of Baylor University, Ray earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing and Real Estate. During his time at Baylor, Ray, the son of a former Dallas Cowboy, would passionately pursue football as a member of the renowned 1980 Southwest Conference Champion Football Team.

Smith began his career in public service in Frisco, Texas where he served as a member of the City Council, Economic Development Corporation, Community Development Corporation, Planning & Zoning Board, Frisco Education Foundation, and as a volunteer firefighter during a period of unprecedented growth.

In 2004, Ray was appointed the President of the Prosper Economic Development Corporation where he continues to serve as council liaison. In 2005, Ray and his family would relocate to the Town of Prosper where he would plant deep roots and play an integral role in the town's early development. Following his service on Town Council, Ray was elected Mayor in 2010.

Over the past twelve years, Mayor Smith's leadership has helped cultivate the town's rapid but intentional growth. By managing the town in a manner that focuses on the long-term wellbeing of its residents, Smith has worked to implement needed structural improvements while preserving neighborhood greenspace. During his tenue, the community has tripled in growth, and new residents are frequently known to receive Smith's personally signed welcome letter--a trademark of the affable leader.

In addition to his many leadership roles on numerous boards, councils, and committees, in 2016 Ray was elected to serve on the North Central Texas Council of Governments Executive Board and was elected President of the Board in 2020. He is currently the Chair of the Collin College Foundation Board of Directors, a member of the Meals on Wheels of Collin County Advisory Board, and an Alternate Member of the Regional Transportation Council.

While Ray's many efforts have undoubtedly made a lasting impact on the region, his greatest achievement is his family. Ray and his wife of 31 years, Lena, were blessed with three sons and two grandsons, Jacob and Jackson, whom they are helping to raise.

Ray Smith has undoubtedly made a lasting impact on the Prosper community, and while his tenure as Mayor is coming to a close, he will certainly continue to forge a tremendous legacy. As he prepares to begin a new chapter of his life, I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in recognizing Ray Smith for his selfless and dedicated service.

Madam Speaker, today, I rise to recognize national talk radio program, Point of View, as they celebrate 50 years of media ministry committed to providing listeners with biblical clarity and truth.

Since launching in 1972, under talk radio pioneer, Marlin Maddoux, Point of View has offered listeners authentic insight on a full spectrum of subject matter and current events affecting our nation's families, constitutional freedoms, and faith. In recognition of his efforts, Maddoux received the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) Award of Merit and was

later inducted into the NRB Hall of Fame. In 1994, Christian Today Magazine recognized the program as America's most popular live Christian call-in show.

Much of the longtime success of this program can be attributed to current host, Kerby Anderson, whose impressive background includes serving as the President of Probe Ministries and as the author of more than 25 books ranging from topics focused on media and technology, to economics and intelligent design. Cohost Penna Dexter shares the same devotion to God's truth as she provides listeners with weekly commentary focused on Christian conservative politics and prominent cultural issues affecting the family. Throughout it all, the Point of View team has remained steadfast in their commitment to sharing the truth of God to restore a Christian worldview and provide biblical wisdom in today's culture.

For 50 years, Point of View has brought needed attention to prominent issues while serving as a source of wisdom rooted in God's word. I offer my heartfelt congratulations to the Point of View team on this milestone anniversary and ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join me in recognizing their devoted service to truth and keeping God's word at the center of their message as they seek to enlighten the people of this Nation.

Madam Speaker, today, I rise to recognize Mr. Dan Johnson, a respected servant leader whose dedicated forty-five year career in municipal government has led to the direct enrichment of numerous communities in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

Mr. Johnson earned his bachelor's degree in Political Science from Austin College and his master's degree in Public Administration from the University of North Texas where he was later named the recipient of the 1995 Distinguished Alumni award. Additionally, Dan is a graduate of the prestigious Public Executive Institute of the LBJ School of Public Affairs.

For several years, Johnson held a variety of municipal government positions throughout North Texas, including past service as the City Manager and Deputy City Manager for the City of Carrollton, as the Director of Regional Services at the North Central Texas Council of

Governments, and as a Budget Officer for the City of Sherman.

In 1996, Dan began his impressive 25-year career with the City of Richardson serving as the Deputy City Manager and Chief Operating Officer from 1996 until he was appointed City Manager in 2012. His active role in economic development initiatives would be instrumental in fostering the prosperity of communities throughout Collin County.

As a testament to the admiration Johnson has garnered in the community, his past leadership roles include serving as the President of several organizations including the Urban Management Assistants of North Texas, and the Texas City Management Association. Other notable positions include his current service on the Methodist Richardson Medical Center Advisory Board, the University of Texas at Dallas Development Board, the Advisory Council for the UT Dallas School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences, and as the Treasurer and Board Executive Committee Member of the North Texas Commission.

Now as Dan Johnson prepares to begin a new season of life following his illustrious career, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in recognizing him for his dedication and many contributions to the betterment of the North Texas region.

Madam Speaker, today, I rise to honor and celebrate the life of Dixie Carolyn Clem.

The youngest of four children, Dixie was born on October 30, 1930, in Booneville, Arkansas. In 1948, she would many Emmitt Mason Clem, and they would remain firmly united in marriage for 53 years until his passing in 2001.

In 1955, Dixie relocated to Plano, Texas after her husband was appointed the Band Director for Plano High School. Upon settling in the area, Dixie began a lifelong involvement in her beloved Plano community including her membership at First United Methodist Church in Plano, the Plano Chapter Order of Easter Star, Mother Advisor of Plano Rainbow Chamber, Plano Good Sam Travel Club, Past President of Plano Business and Professional Women, and as the first woman to serve on the Plano Planning and Zoning Commission. Dixie also maintained employment with the Plano Star Courier.

Always invested in her community, Mrs. Clem maintained a deep commitment to the Girl Scouts and could oftentimes be seen supporting her husband from the stands at band marching contests and football games. Dixie and Emmitt maintained a passion for travel and were known to spend summers journeying

in their RV to Colorado. A beloved fixture in her family, Dixie was particularly known for creating treasured memories with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Dixie is often considered a pioneer in helping to establish the Collin County Republican Party. For 55 years she focused her efforts on mentoring others to work towards bettering their communities and to become politically active at all levels of government. Greatly admired by those around her and as a testament to her efforts to train up the next generation of leaders, she received several notable recognitions including the Texas Federation of Republican Women's ``Ten Outstanding Women Award'' and ``The Legacy Leadership Award.''

While we mourn the loss of this respected matriarch of Collin County conservatism, we celebrate her many contributions to shaping the political landscape. Likewise, we rest in the knowledge her legacy will continue on as the award that bears her name--the highest honor bestowed upon a member of the Collin County GOP--will continue to be presented to those who embody next generation ideals of servant leadership.

While many in Collin County will miss her gumption and steadfast presence, together we recognize a life well lived. Now as we honor the life of Mrs. Dixie Clem, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in celebrating her rich legacy.

Madam Speaker, today, I rise to recognize Mrs. Charmaine Solomon for her nearly fourteen years of dedicated service and leadership as the Founder and Chairman of the Board of My Possibilities, a first-of-its-kind organization serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

As the mother of a special needs son, Charmaine envisioned a future where her son had access to opportunities following high school that would allow him to grow and discover his full potential. Determined to make her dream a reality, she partnered with two other mothers who shared her same vision--creating an organization whose services would improve not only their children's future, but would also impact the lives of countless North Texans.

Founded in 2008, My Possibilities served as the first full-day, full- year continuing educational program for adults with developmental disabilities in Collin County. Under her steadfast leadership, the organization has worked with over 600 HIPster's--Hugely Important People--equipping them with the tools needed to develop employable skills and live full and independent lives. The college-style campus offers students educational, socialization, and residential opportunities as well as job placement programs in the community.

Throughout Charmaine's tenure, she could regularly be found roaming the halls of the campus, interacting with students, and giving them high-fives and hugs. As a testament to her many efforts and in honor of her dedication, in 2019 the Plano Independent School District named their Adult Transition Center after Charmaine.

In addition to her service with My Possibilities, Mrs. Solomon is a Licensed Professional Counselor, devoted wife, and loving mother of four. She has been an active member of CASA of Collin County for more than eight years and has also volunteered her time working with at-risk youth at CITY House.

Madam Speaker, as Charmaine Solomon begins a new chapter of her life following her final meeting as the longtime Chairman of My Possibilities, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me today in honoring her incredible impact in North Texas and the Third Congressional District.

Madam Speaker, today, I rise to stand in solidarity with the many Americans, including my constituents from Texas' Third Congressional District, who are here at our Nation's Capital to march for the right to life.

As a father of three wonderful daughters, I know how precious each life is and I strongly believe it should be protected at every stage.

Every year, I am awed by the outpouring of love and passion so many Texans show by traveling to Washington and voicing their support for sanctity of life. Even more travel to our state Capitol in Austin or advance the cause in our local communities.

Your engagement is humbling and gives me faith that we can become the pro-life generation.

I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing the pro-life and faith leaders here at our Nation's Capital and join us in the fight to protect innocent human life.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to stand in solidarity with the many Americans, including my own constituents from Texas' Third Congressional District, who are here at our Nation's Capital to march for the right to life.

As a father of three wonderful daughters, I know how precious every stage of life is, and I believe it should be protected at every stage.

Every year, I am awed by the outpouring of love and passion so many Texans show by traveling to Washington and voicing their support for sanctity of life. Even more travel to our state capital in Austin to advance the cause in our local communities.

Your engagement is humbling, and it gives me faith that we can become the pro-life generation.

I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing the pro-life and faith leaders here in our Nation's Capital and join in fighting to protect innocent human life.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and salute Mr. Gregory Rushin, a steadfast leader who has dedicated nearly forty years of distinguished public service at various levels of government.

Mr. Rushin's career began in 1979, where he served the town of Lewiston, lllinois, as a Deputy Sheriff. Prior to assuming this position, Greg completed his Bachelor's Degree in Law Enforcement Administration at Western Illinois University and his Master of Science Degree in Human Relations and Business at Amber University.

In an effort to further expand his knowledge, Mr. Rushin sought additional training and educational opportunities that allowed him to develop skills essential to being an effective leader in law enforcement. In doing so, he graduated from the FBI Academy, the FBI National Academy, the FBI Law Enforcement Executive Development Program, and Harvard's Senior Management Institute for Police. Additionally, for three years he would reside in the Washington, D.C., area where he gained invaluable experience serving as a Special Agent with the FBI.

In June of 1982, Greg began his nearly 34-year career with the Plano Police Department, the latter 18 years of which he assumed the position of Chief of Police. As a result of his leadership, Chief Rushin was selected to serve as Plano's Deputy City Manager where he is responsible for overseeing the City's Public Safety Departments encompassing services including Animal Services, Fire and Rescue, Police, and Emergency Management.

Mr. Rushin's commitment to our community has been evidenced by his membership and past leadership positions within several organizations including as the President of the Texas Police Chief's Association as well as on multiple boards of directors, including the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the Collin County Child Advocacy Board, the Plano Youth Leadership Board, the Medical City Plano Citizen Advisory Board, and the Brett Adkins Foundation Board. Due to his dedication and contributions to the Plano community, it is no surprise that Greg was recognized as one of the 21 for the 21st Century by Inside Collin County Business.

While Greg has created a tremendous legacy of servant leadership, it is evident that respect for his efforts run deep among all who have had the pleasure of working with him. Now, as Mr. Greg Rushin prepares to begin a new season of life, it is with a deep sense of gratitude I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in recognizing his exemplary contributions throughout his career in public service while wishing him and his family all the best in this next chapter.

Madam Speaker, I rise along with my colleague, Rep. Colin Allred, to recognize the Archer Center at The University of Texas System and The University of Texas at Dallas on the occasion of its 20th anniversary.

In 2001, Bill Archer of Houston, Texas, retired from the United States House of Representatives (TX-07) where he had served for 30 years, including a six-year tenure as Chairman of the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee. Immediately upon his retirement, Congressman Archer and his long-time chief of staff, Don Carlson, established the Archer Center and the Bill Archer Fellowship Program. The University of Texas at Dallas, which is in our congressional districts, is the academic home for the Archer Center.

As the Washington, D.C., campus of The University of Texas System, the Archer Center provides talented undergraduate, graduate, and medical students from across the U.T. System's thirteen academic and health institutions with the opportunity to live, learn, and intern in the nation's capital.

The Archer Fellowship Program is a unique academic and experiential learning program that introduces highly accomplished students from the State of Texas to the federal policymaking process. Archer Fellows spend a transformative semester interning for a variety of public and private organizations including the White House, Congress, and the U.S. Supreme Court. More than 1,500 students have participated in the Archer Center's semester-long and summer programs in the past two decades. Over the years and at present, we have each hosted Archer Fellows in our offices. We have even hired Archer Fellow alumni to join our official staffs.

The Archer Fellowship continues to elevate the reputation of the U.T. System and its students. It has served as a springboard for graduate and professional careers at prestigious universities and medical centers such as Harvard University, Yale University, and the University of Oxford, as well as virtually every U.T. institution. The program has also enabled students to enter high-impact careers in the public and private sector. Archer Fellows have been awarded many distinguished scholarships, including the Harry S. Truman Scholarship, the Marshall Scholarship, the Rhodes Scholarship, the Schwarzman Scholarship, and the Fulbright Scholarship.

Today, Archer Fellow alumni continue Congressman Archer's legacy of public service by working in all branches of state, federal, and local government, and by serving in the military. These young people represent the very best of North Texas and there is no doubt some future members of Congress among them.

As the Archer Center celebrates its twentieth anniversary, we wish to express our gratitude to Congressman Archer and Don Carlson for their vision and enduring support for Texas students. The Center's growth and continued success is fueled by the dedication of the U.T. System leadership, including Chancellor J.B. Milliken, the Board of Regents, and U.T. Dallas President Richard Benson, and steadfast supporters and alumni of the Archer Center.

We send our best wishes to the Arther Center on this important milestone.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize and celebrate the Texas Scottish Rite for Children on their 100 years of pediatric orthopedic excellence.

Founded by a group of Texas Masons, Scottish Rite for Children first opened its doors on October 10, 1921, with the mission of providing free medical care to children with polio.

The success of the hospital would not have been possible without the help of volunteers, staff members, friends, and others who have a shared commitment to improving the lives of the children they serve.

Consistently recognized as a top-performing children's hospital, it is no surprise Scottish Rite has been consistently ranked among the top orthopedic programs in the Nation.

Now as we recognize Scottish Rite for Children on this milestone occasion, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in honoring 100 years of exemplary care and innovation.

Madam Speaker, as we gather this Veterans Day, we pay tribute to the valiant men and women who dedicated their lives to preserving our freedoms through service to our great nation.

What was proclaimed as Armistice Day on November 11, 1919 in commemoration of the end of the first World War, is now a day to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve in times of peace and war. By remembering the service and sacrifice of those who have borne the battle, we acknowledge their courageous efforts and work towards preserving peace for future generations.

Today, I recognize Keith Colley, founder of the WWI Mobile Museum, who provides an invaluable opportunity for all generations to honor the rich history of the Great War through the display of the various artifacts ranging from trench warfare, to photographic and cinematic treatment of the war. Appropriately named the ``Lest We Forget'' exhibit, stemming from President Woodrow Wilson's speech following the war, keeping the memory of WWI alive is a show of respect for the men and women who served and who ultimately perished during the conflict.

In his time as a bereavement counselor in hospice care, Mr. Colley found by sharing his own experience visiting the National WWI Museum and Memorial, he was able to tap into patient memories that were previously not accessible. Mr. Colley's initial collection of artifacts and photographs fully immersed his patients in their own memories, providing a meaningful experience that extended beyond traditional care.

In partnership with the WWI Centennial Commission, the WWI Mobile Museum began touring around the country in 2015, making stops at multiple sites including schools, senior living communities, and historical museums. The museum has since provided citizens of all ages and stages with an opportunity to learn and reflect on the significance of WWI through its display of artifacts from what was one of the deadliest conflicts in history.

Now, as we recognize the contributions of the WWI Mobile Museum in preserving these historical artifacts as a learning tool for future generations, I ask that you join me in honoring efforts to help others to remember the past by preserving our culture.

Madam Speaker, today, I rise to recognize Dr. Kenneth H. Cooper, recognized as the ``Father of Aerobics.'' Born on March 4, 1931 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, his desire to practice preventative medicine was fostered by his father, who specialized in preventative dentistry. He would go on to receive his Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine Degree from the University of Oklahoma and a Master of Public Health from Harvard University School of Public Health.

Prior to dedicating his life's work to fitness, Dr. Cooper served as a member of the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force as a flight surgeon and Director of the Aerospace Medical Laboratory in San Antonio. During his 13 years of military service, he developed the Aerobic Point System as well as the 12-minute and 1.5-mile fitness tests used by military organizations, law enforcement agencies, and thousands of public schools and universities today. In partnership with NASA, he was likewise an integral part of creating the conditioning programs used to prepare astronauts for space.

After retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel, Dr. Cooper devoted his time to researching cardiovascular fitness and longevity. In 1970, he founded the Cooper Athletic Center in Dallas, Texas where he merged research with practice, revolutionizing health and fitness. The Cooper Institute has long been recognized as a leader in the fight against childhood obesity, partnering with several organizations to establish fitness programs in schools across the world.

A man of many accolades with years of knowledge, it is of little surprise his training helped lead the 1970 Brazilian Soccer team to victory in the World Cup.

As a pioneer in preventative medicine, Dr. Cooper has received more than 70 awards and honors. He has authored 19 books and is responsible for the addition of the word ``Aerobics'' in the Oxford English Dictionary.

While Dr. Cooper's professional and academic career has been filled with great achievements, it is his family that most inspires him. Dr. Cooper and his wife, Millie, were blessed with a daughter, Berkley, and a son, Tyler. Dr. Cooper and his family set an example by actively practicing what they preach and working to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Cooper himself successfully completed his first marathon in 1962 and has since logged more than 38,000 miles running.

Now as we recognize Dr. Kenneth Cooper, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in honoring his rich life and legacy.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize WWII Veteran, Dean McKinley.

Born in 1920, McKinley would lose his father as an infant. Determined to succeed at a young age, Dean took a typing and shorthand course, which would set the stage for his future career.

Following his graduation from high school in 1937, Dean would make the decision to sign up for the Selected Service. However, due to asthma, Dean was unable to pass the physical exam, excluding him from the draft. Yet, his condition did not deter him from serving his country. After undergoing chiropractic treatments, Dean's asthma was alleviated, allowing him to apply for the Marine Corps in December of 1942--the day after the attack on Pearl Harbor.

While stationed in San Diego prior to his unit shipping out to Japan, Dean would take on the role of court reporter for the Board of Inquiry after the tragic suicide of a fellow Marine Officer. The typing and shorthand course taken in his youth unexpectedly proved to be useful as Dean was the only one in his unit able to write shorthand. When presented with Dean's work, the General promoted him on the spot. In as little as two years, Dean would earn promotions to the ranks of Senior Tech, Master Sergeant, and Aviation West Coast which was an unheard of upward-mobility. Impressively, Dean would go on to serve as the General's Stenographer and Secretary.

After contracting malaria while stationed in New Zealand, Dean was discharged from the Marines and returned to the States where he would many his wife, Marvel. Dean and Marvel have been married for over 77 years and can still be found playing bridge together every week.

Following his time in the military, Dean would begin his career as a chiropractor, devoting 43 years of his life to the very practice that provided him the opportunity to serve his country.

Now as we recognize Dean McKinley, I ask my colleagues in the House of Representatives to join me in honoring his sacrifice and service.