granule_id,date,congress,session,volume,issue,title,chamber,granule_class,sub_granule_class,page_start,page_end,speakers,bills,citation,full_text CREC-2026-03-02-pt1-PgE171-2,2026-03-02,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING THE RETIREMENT OF PAULA McKINNEY-RAINEY,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E171,E171,"[{""name"": ""Brendan F. Boyle"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E171,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 39 (Monday, March 2, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 39 (Monday, March 2, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E171] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING THE RETIREMENT OF PAULA McKINNEY-RAINEY ______ HON. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of pennsylvania in the house of representatives Monday, March 2, 2026 Mr. BOYLE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Paula McKinney-Rainey, both a constituent of mine and a valued member of my staff, as she retires from the House of Representatives next month. Paula is a proud Philadelphian and is an alumnus of Penn State University, as well as an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha. Prior to joining my office in 2015, she had extensive experience working in state and local governments as well as the nonprofit sector in a variety of capacities. Paula was a Management Analyst in the County of Los Angeles Chief Administration Office before spending several years serving Pennsylvanians in roles with the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and the Governor's Office of Housing and Community Revitalization. Through Paula's almost eleven years of service in my office, she has helped thousands of constituents with a variety of issues. Through her extraordinary efforts, Paula has demonstrated outstanding care and empathy for those she serves. Over the years, she has also been an indispensable community representative on my behalf, providing countless constituents and stakeholders with information on how our office and their government can help them in their moment of need. In addition to her role in my office, Paula is also a longtime dedicated community leader. For more than twenty years, she has served as a Philadelphia Committeeperson in the city's 61st Ward, working thirteen hour days at polling stations every Election Day to help educate voters. Mr. Speaker, I hope all my colleagues will join me to congratulate Paula on her retirement, thank her for her exceptional career as a civil servant, and commend her on her unwavering commitment to not just the City of Philadelphia, but to our entire Nation. ____________________" CREC-2026-03-02-pt1-PgE171-3,2026-03-02,119,2,,,PERSONAL EXPLANATION,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,PERSONALEXPLAIN,E171,E171,"[{""name"": ""Seth Magaziner"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]","[{""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""2503""}]",172 Cong. Rec. E171,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 39 (Monday, March 2, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 39 (Monday, March 2, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E171] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] PERSONAL EXPLANATION ______ HON. SETH MAGAZINER of rhode island in the house of representatives Monday, March 2, 2026 Mr. MAGAZINER. Mr. Speaker, on February 24, 2026, a historic blizzard and flight cancellations prevented me from making it to Washington, D.C. in time to vote in support of the ROTOR Act. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 72, S. 2503--ROTOR Act. ____________________" CREC-2026-03-02-pt1-PgE171-4,2026-03-02,119,2,,,CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF HUB'S RESTAURANT,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,CELEBRATING,E171,E171,"[{""name"": ""Janice D. Schakowsky"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E171,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 39 (Monday, March 2, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 39 (Monday, March 2, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E171] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF HUB'S RESTAURANT ______ HON. JANICE D. SCHAKOWSKY of illinois in the house of representatives Monday, March 2, 2026 Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 50th anniversary of Hub's Restaurant in Skokie, a family-owned establishment whose history began on March 1, 1976, when brothers Tony and John Thanoukos purchased the restaurant and began building what would become a lasting institution. From the outset, Tony and John worked together to grow the business, providing high-quality Greek and American food and establishing a reputation for consistency, value, and welcoming service. Their partnership laid the foundation for a family legacy that has now spanned five decades. In the mid-1990s, the brothers divided the business, with Tony leading operations in Skokie and John leading operations in Chicago. While the locations went their separate ways, the shared family history dating back to 1976 reflects the joint effort that built the Hub's name. For 50 years, Hub's in Skokie has provided jobs, supported community events, catered gatherings large and small, and served as a place where neighbors and families come together. Its longevity reflects the dedication of the Thanoukos family and the loyalty of the community it has served. Reaching a 50-year milestone is a momentous achievement for any business. The Thanoukos family and the entire Hub's team should take great pride in this accomplishment. On behalf of the residents of Illinois' 9th Congressional District, I congratulate the Thanoukos family and the entire Hub's team on this anniversary. I wish them continued success in the years ahead. ____________________" CREC-2026-03-02-pt1-PgE171-5,2026-03-02,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E171,E171,"[{""name"": ""Brendan F. Boyle"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E171,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 39 (Monday, March 2, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 39 (Monday, March 2, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E171] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF PHILADELPHIA GAY NEWS ______ HON. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of pennsylvania in the house of representatives Monday, March 2, 2026 Mr. BOYLE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate and celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of Philadelphia Gay News (PGN), the second-longest continuously publishing LGBTQ newspaper in the Nation, and a pillar of the Philadelphia journalistic community. Under the extraordinary leadership of founder Mark Segal, PGN has remained the preeminent voice for Philadelphia's LGBTQ community for decades and has been a source of some of our region's finest journalism. From being the forum of the first ever op-ed from a major- party presidential candidate published in an LGBTQ newspaper, to being recognized with an historical marker by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, PGN has been a trailblazing publication since its founding in 1976. PGN could not have had the tremendous success that it has had over the last half-century if not for the vision and exceptional leadership of Mark Segal. Mark's role as both a longtime civic leader in Philadelphia and as an icon of our Nation's LGBTQ community cannot be overstated. He founded Gay Youth in 1970 and was a founding member of the Gay Liberation Front in 1969. Mark also partnered with the Obama Administration in 2012 to create the John C. Anderson Apartments in Philadelphia, the Nation's first LGBTQ-friendly senior affordable housing facility. The same tireless work ethic that helped him build PGN continues to influence his various civic efforts, for which our city and country are immeasurably better off and for which we are all grateful. Mr. Speaker, I hope my colleagues will join me in recognizing and congratulating Mark and the entire Philadelphia Gay News team as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of this extraordinary journalistic institution. ____________________" CREC-2026-03-02-pt1-PgE171-6,2026-03-02,119,2,,,SENATE COMMITTEE MEETINGS,SENATE,EXTENSIONS,ESENATECOMMITTEE,E171,E172,,"[{""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""SRES"", ""number"": ""4""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""SRES"", ""number"": ""4""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""HR"", ""number"": ""204""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""601""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""815""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""933""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""HR"", ""number"": ""952""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""953""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""1135""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""HR"", ""number"": ""1276""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""HR"", ""number"": ""1829""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""1981""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""2102""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""2787""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""3004""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""3493""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""3527""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""3798""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""3923""}]",172 Cong. Rec. E171,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 39 (Monday, March 2, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 39 (Monday, March 2, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E171-E172] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] SENATE COMMITTEE MEETINGS Title IV of Senate Resolution 4, agreed to by the Senate of February 4, 1977, calls for establishment of a system for a computerized schedule of all meetings and hearings of Senate committees, subcommittees, joint committees, and committees of conference. This title requires all such committees to notify the Office of the Senate Daily Digest--designated by the Rules Committee--of the time, place and purpose of the meetings, when scheduled and any cancellations or changes in the meetings as they occur. As an additional procedure along with the computerization of this information, the Office of the Senate Daily Digest will prepare this information for printing in the Extensions of Remarks section of the Congressional Record on Monday and Wednesday of each week. Meetings scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 2026 may be found in the Daily Digest of today's Record. MEETINGS SCHEDULED MARCH 4 9:30 a.m. Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Business meeting to consider S. 601 and H.R. 1276, bills to remove restrictions from a parcel of land in Paducah, Kentucky, S. 815, to designate the outdoor amphitheater at the Blue Ridge Music Center in Galax, Virginia, as the ``Rick Boucher Amphitheater'', S. 1135, to amend the National Trails System Act [[Page E172]] to direct the Secretary of the Interior to conduct a study on the feasibility of designating the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, S. 1981, to require the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior to utilize grazing for wildfire risk reduction, S. 2102, to establish the Ralph David Abernathy, Sr., National Historic Site, S. 2787, to amend the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 to ensure that ranchers who have grazing agreements on national grasslands are treated the same as permittees on other Federal land, S. 3004, to direct the Secretary of the Interior to convey certain Bureau of Land Management land to the city of Price, Utah, S. 3493, to provide for the conveyance of certain Federal land in Carson City, Nevada, S. 3527, to release from wilderness study area designation certain land in the State of Montana, to improve the management of that land, H.R. 204, to require that the Secretary of Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior submit accurate reports regarding hazardous fuels reduction activities, H.R. 952, to convey the reversionary interest of the United States in certain land in Sacramento, California, H.R. 1829, to require the Secretary of Agriculture to convey certain lands within the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, and the nominations of Stevan Pearce, of New Mexico, to be Director of the Bureau of Land Management, David LaCerte, of Louisiana, to be a Member of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, and Kyle Haustveit, of North Dakota, to be Under Secretary of Energy. SD-366 9:45 a.m. Committee on Veterans' Affairs To hold a joint hearing with the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs to examine the legislative presentation of the American Legion and multi VSOs. SD-G50 10 a.m. Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation Business meeting to consider S. 933, to authorize programs for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for fiscal year 2025, S. 3923, to improve the weather research of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, support improvements in weather forecasting and prediction, and expand commercial opportunities for the provision of weather data, and certain coast guard promotions. SR-253 Committee on Environment and Public Works Business meeting to consider the nomination of the nomination of Douglas Weaver, of Maryland, to be a Member of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission; to be immediately followed by a hearing to examine a discussion draft of an original bill entitled, ``the Toxic Substances Control Act Fee Reauthorization and Improvement Act of 2026.''. SD-562 2:30 p.m. Committee on Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support To hold hearings to examine the current readiness of the Joint Force. SH-216 Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe To hold hearings to examine responding to China's infiltration and coercion in Europe. RHOB-2247 3 p.m. Select Committee on Intelligence To receive a closed briefing on certain intelligence matters. SH-219 MARCH 5 9:30 a.m. Committee on Armed Services To hold hearings to examine the American small drone industrial base. SD-G50 10 a.m. Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation To hold hearings to examine the nominations of Arvind Raman, of Indiana, to be Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology, and Matthew Anderson, of Colorado, to be Deputy Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. SR-253 Committee on Foreign Relations To hold hearings to examine the nomination of Frank Garcia, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs. SD-419 Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions To hold hearings to examine transforming health care with data, focusing on improving patient outcomes through next-generation care. SD-430 10:15 a.m. Committee on the Judiciary Business meeting to consider S. 3798, to amend title 18, United States Code, to establish criminal offenses with respect to violations involving ATMs, regardless of whether the ATM is located on the physical premises of a financial institution, and the nominations of Robert Cekada, of Florida, to be Director, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Andrew B. Davis, and Christopher R. Wolfe, both to be a United States District Judge for the Western District of Texas, Anna St. John, to be United States District Judge for the Eastern District of Louisiana, John Thomas Shepherd, to be United States District Judge for the Western District of Arkansas, Robert Rotter, to be United States Marshal for the Northern District of Iowa, Daniel Satterlee, to be United States Marshal for the District of South Dakota, and David St. Pierre, to be United States Marshal for the District of Maine, all of the Department of Justice. SH-216 MARCH 11 2:30 p.m. Committee on Indian Affairs To hold oversight hearings to examine Federal policies governing Indian water rights settlements, including S. 953, to provide for the settlement of the water rights claims of the Navajo Nation, the Hopi Tribe, and the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe. SD-628 CANCELLATIONS MARCH 4 2:30 p.m. Committee on the Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights To hold hearings to examine competition and monopsony in the proposed Netflix-Warner Brothers transaction. SD-226 POSTPONEMENTS MARCH 4 10:30 a.m. Joint Economic Committee To hold hearings to examine evaluating the U.S. competitiveness and investment advantages of a Destination-Based Cash Flow Tax (DBCFT). SH-216" CREC-2026-02-26-pt1-PgE169-2,2026-02-26,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING THE BLACK HERITAGE TRAIL OF NEW HAMPSHIRE FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E169,E169,"[{""name"": ""Chris Pappas"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E169,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 38 (Thursday, February 26, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 38 (Thursday, February 26, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E169] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING THE BLACK HERITAGE TRAIL OF NEW HAMPSHIRE FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH ______ HON. CHRIS PAPPAS of new hampshire in the house of representatives Thursday, February 26, 2026 Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire, in celebration of Black History Month. Originally founded in 1994, the Portsmouth Black Heritage Trail, which has since grown into the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire, has fought to uncover and honor the often-overlooked Black history in the Granite State and southern Maine for more than 30 years. The mission of the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire is to promote awareness and appreciation of African American history and life in order to build more inclusive communities today. The Trail shares stories of prominent African American figures from New Hampshire and southern Maine, and since becoming a statewide organization in 2016, has expanded its outreach efforts through tours, educational public programs, partnerships with schools, and markers in more than seventeen cities and towns. More recently, the Trail has begun enhancing its efforts to foster more inclusive and informed communities through augmented experiences, the first of which was unveiled at the African Burying Ground Memorial Park in Portsmouth in 2025. This information will soon turn sites across the state into a veritable outdoor museum of African American history. Through events, discussions, conferences, publications, tours, and an ever-growing network of historical markers, the Trail provides opportunities for everyone in our state to learn these stories of encouragement and achievement. These experiences create a lasting impact as they highlight the critical role that African Americans have had in shaping our country. They help all of us to understand, confront, and overcome the challenges that we still face today in realizing the promise of our founding documents. As we recognize the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire, I also want to highlight the organization's Executive Director, JerriAnne Boggis. Taking up the mantle of Portsmouth Black Heritage Trail founder Valerie Cunningham, Ms. Boggis has worked not only to preserve NH's African American history but has relentlessly advocated for its central place in American history. In doing so, she is helping to shape a better future for all of us. The Black Heritage Trail helps confront the systemic racism, bias, and injustice that have festered in our country for too long. On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's 1st Congressional District, I thank Ms. JerriAnne Boggis, her staff, and the tour guides, volunteers, board members, sponsors, and supporters of the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire for their commitment to bringing Black history to light and ensuring that these stories are never forgotten. I thank the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire for helping us learn about our history and working to create a stronger future for everyone. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-26-pt1-PgE169-3,2026-02-26,119,2,,,PRESIDENT TRUMAN'S WORDS STILL RING TRUE TODAY; THE FAILINGS OF THE STATE OF THE UNION,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,ALLOTHER,E169,E169,"[{""name"": ""Marcy Kaptur"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E169,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 38 (Thursday, February 26, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 38 (Thursday, February 26, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E169] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] PRESIDENT TRUMAN'S WORDS STILL RING TRUE TODAY; THE FAILINGS OF THE STATE OF THE UNION ______ HON. MARCY KAPTUR of ohio in the house of representatives Thursday, February 26, 2026 Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today and include in the Record a portion of President Harry S. Truman's Address in St. Paul at the Municipal Auditorium on October 13, 1948. While this speech is over 50 years old, the sentiments still remain today, as highlighted by the President's recent State of the Union. Millions have lost access to much needed food assistance, while prices at the grocery store continue to rise. Daycare centers and rural hospitals are closing. Ill- considered tariffs have cost every hardworking family more than $1,750 and caused untold inflation which is making everyday life unaffordable. We cannot pretend all is well when many of our fellow citizens know it simply is not. I hope that my colleagues across the aisle will join me in this pursuit, because all the people we represent surely need it. Well, I have been studying the Republican Party for over 12 years at close hand in the Capital of the United States. And by this time, I have discovered where the Republicans stand on most of the major issues. Since they won't tell you themselves, I am going to tell you. They approve of the American farmer--but they are willing to help him go broke. They stand four-square for the American home--but not for housing. They are strong for labor--but they are stronger for restricting labor's rights. They favor a minimum wage--the smaller the minimum the better. They indorse educational opportunity for all--but they won't spend money for teachers or for schools. They think modern medical care and hospitals are fine--for people who can afford them. They approve of social security benefits--so much so that they took them away from almost a million people. They believe in international trade--so much so that they crippled our reciprocal trade program, and killed our International Wheat Agreement. They favor the admission of displaced persons--but only within shameful racial and religious limitations. They consider electric power a great blessing--but only when the private power companies get their rake-off. They say TVA is wonderful--but we ought never to try it again. They condemn ``cruelly high prices''--but fight to the death every effort to bring them down. They think the American standard of living is a fine thing--so long as it doesn't spread to all the people. And they admire the Government of the United States so much that they would like to buy it. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-26-pt1-PgE169-4,2026-02-26,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING EARL BRIGHAM,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E169,E169,"[{""name"": ""Daniel Webster"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E169,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 38 (Thursday, February 26, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 38 (Thursday, February 26, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E169] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING EARL BRIGHAM ______ HON. DANIEL WEBSTER of florida in the house of representatives Thursday, February 26, 2026 Mr. WEBSTER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize my friend, Earl Brigham, as he celebrates 50 years of dedicated service as a barber in Downtown Winter Garden Earl lost his hearing at around two years of age. When he was ten, his parents enrolled him in the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind in St. Augustine. There, he mastered American Sign Language, excelled in sports, and graduated in 1966. Following graduation, he was encouraged to learn a trade and immediately entered barber school, beginning a career that would span decades and impact generations. For 50 years, Earl has faithfully served customers at his barber shop on Plant Street in Winter Garden. What started as a profession quickly became a ministry of connection. His shop is more than a place for haircuts, it is a place of laughter, friendship, and community. Along the way, Earl built a beautiful family. He and his wife, Robin, raised seven children and are now proud grandparents of nineteen grandchildren. They raised their children to be bilingual, fluent in both English and American Sign Language, reflecting Earl's lifelong role as a bridge between the deaf and hearing worlds. In addition to his work as a barber, Earl has faithfully served the Lord. For more than 35 years, he has served as a pastor to the deaf community, including the past 17 years at West Orlando Baptist Church. Through both his ministry and profession, he has strengthened families, encouraged faith, and brought people together. I join his family, friends, the City of Winter Garden, and his many local customers in celebrating 50 years of faithful service. Earl's steadfast faith, joyful spirit, and commitment to others make him a true pillar of our community. I am grateful to call him my barber and even more grateful to call him my friend. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-26-pt1-PgE169-5,2026-02-26,119,2,,,PERSONAL EXPLANATION,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,PERSONALEXPLAIN,E169,E170,"[{""name"": ""Daniel Meuser"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E169,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 38 (Thursday, February 26, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 38 (Thursday, February 26, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E169-E170] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] PERSONAL EXPLANATION ______ HON. DANIEL MEUSER of pennsylvania in the house of representatives Thursday, February 26, 2026 Mr. MEUSER. Mr. Speaker, on Roll Call No. 72, I mistakenly voted Yes when I intended to vote No. [[Page E170]] ____________________" CREC-2026-02-26-pt1-PgE170-2,2026-02-26,119,2,,,HONORING DR. BRENDA KAYS,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E170,E170,"[{""name"": ""Nathaniel Moran"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E170,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 38 (Thursday, February 26, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 38 (Thursday, February 26, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E170] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING DR. BRENDA KAYS ______ HON. NATHANIEL MORAN of texas in the house of representatives Thursday, February 26, 2026 Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Brenda Kays. Since 2016, Dr. Kays has steadfastly served as President of Kilgore College. She brought more than three decades of experience in community college education to Kilgore. Dr. Kays has always led with heart for students and a vision for the future of education in East Texas. Dr. Kays served as the first female president in Kilgore College's history. In this role she worked to bring students' dreams to life. Under her leadership, our community saw innovative programs launched, new facilities built, partnerships strengthened, and enrollment reach record numbers. At the heart of her work is the people. Dr. Kays worked tirelessly to help students discover their potential, assist faculty members to find new ways to inspire, and support the staff who made all of the details come to life. For nearly a decade, she has led with integrity, vision, and an unwavering commitment to student success. I am grateful for Dr. Kays' leadership, her dedication, and her forty-plus years of service to community college students. And, especially these last few extraordinary years with us. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-26-pt1-PgE170-3,2026-02-26,119,2,,,PERSONAL EXPLANATION,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,PERSONALEXPLAIN,E170,E170,"[{""name"": ""James R. Baird"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E170,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 38 (Thursday, February 26, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 38 (Thursday, February 26, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E170] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] PERSONAL EXPLANATION ______ HON. JAMES R. BAIRD of indiana in the house of representatives Thursday, February 26, 2026 Mr. BAIRD. Mr. Speaker, on February 24, 2026, I was unable to make it to the floor for three votes. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 71, On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 6329; NAY on Roll Call No. 72, On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass S. 2503; and YEA on Roll Call No. 73, On Ordering the Previous Question." CREC-2026-02-26-pt1-PgE170,2026-02-26,119,2,,,CELEBRATING THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SAIGON BROADCASTING TELEVISION NETWORK,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,CELEBRATING,E170,E170,"[{""name"": ""Derek Tran"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E170,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 38 (Thursday, February 26, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 38 (Thursday, February 26, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E170] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] CELEBRATING THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SAIGON BROADCASTING TELEVISION NETWORK ______ HON. DEREK TRAN of california in the house of representatives Thursday, February 26, 2026 Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Saigon Broadcasting Television Network, otherwise known as SBTN. SBTN, the first 24-hour Vietnamese-language television channel specifically for overseas audiences, provides premier news coverage and entertainment programs to millions of Vietnamese people abroad. For 25 years, SBTN has served as an example of the importance of a free press and the strength of the Vietnamese diaspora community. Headquartered in Garden Grove, California, SBTN was founded in 2001 by Truc Ho4, a Vietnamese American musician, producer, and human-rights advocate. The network provided programming for the rapidly growing Vietnamese community in the United States, and it soon established itself in Southern California before spreading to cities such as Boston, Dallas, and Washington, D.C. This growth eventually led SBTN to expand internationally, becoming one of the primary television networks for Vietnamese audiences living outside Vietnam. Today, SBTN offers both original programming and acquired content, including news, dramas, movies, documentaries, variety shows, music, talk shows, kids' programming, and more. What sets SBTN apart is its staunch support for free expression and democratic values. Since the network's founding, it has stood as a counter-narrative to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam's state-run media, refusing to air programs produced under the communist government's control. Rather than allow Vietnamese media to be dominated by an oppressive regime, SBTN has reported on human rights abuses and political dissent, providing critical coverage to millions of its international Vietnamese viewers. The network's belief system is deeply rooted in the experiences of the Vietnamese diaspora, as much of its original audience and leadership fled persecution from communist Vietnam in search of freedom and democracy. Amid ongoing repression and censorship by the Communist Party of Vietnam, SBTN remains essential in delivering trusted, independent reporting to Vietnamese-speaking audiences around the world. I am thrilled to represent such an exemplary television network in my district, especially one whose accomplishments are so dear to my family's own experiences. The network's commitment to providing dependable news, preserving the Vietnamese language and culture, and enriching the lives and experiences of the Vietnamese community is commendable. I congratulate SBTN on its 25th anniversary and continue to be grateful for its invaluable service to our Nation. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-25-pt1-PgE163-2,2026-02-25,119,2,,,CONGRATULATING THE TRINITY VALLEY GIRLS' SOCCER TEAM ON THEIR FOURTH CONSECUTIVE 3A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,CONGRATULATIONS,E163,E163,"[{""name"": ""Craig A. Goldman"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E163,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E163] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] CONGRATULATING THE TRINITY VALLEY GIRLS' SOCCER TEAM ON THEIR FOURTH CONSECUTIVE 3A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP _____ HON. CRAIG A. GOLDMAN of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Mr. GOLDMAN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to proudly recognize the Fort Worth Trinity Valley School girls' soccer team for capturing their fourth consecutive Southwest Preparatory Conference Class 3A state championship--an outstanding achievement that reflects sustained excellence and dedication. The Trinity Valley Trojans secured the title with a commanding 6-0 victory over the Episcopal School of Dallas at Jones Field, completing an impressive 12-2 season. Freshman Paige Zavaleta and senior Alli Zavaleta each recorded two goals in the championship match, while senior Charlotte Goldman opened the scoring and senior Audrey Deem added the final goal. Goldman, along with seniors Sydney Fewins, Isabel Gonzalez, and Brown University signee Claire McKnight, were members of all four championship teams, a truly remarkable accomplishment. The Trojans were equally dominant on the defensive end, with goalkeeper Blake Corder posting shutouts in both postseason matches and anchoring a disciplined and resilient defense throughout the playoffs. This sustained success is a testament to the leadership of Head Coach Claire Pearce, a Trinity Valley alum who has guided both the girls' soccer and field hockey programs to multiple conference championships. Under her leadership, the program has fostered a culture grounded in teamwork, accountability, and high character. The Trinity Valley School's girls' soccer team exemplifies the very best of high school athletics and brings great pride to their school and the Fort Worth community. I commend the student-athletes, coaches, and families for an outstanding season and for upholding a distinguished tradition of excellence. On behalf of the 12th Congressional District of Texas, I am proud to congratulate the Trinity Valley School girls' soccer team on this incredible state championship victory. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-25-pt1-PgE163-3,2026-02-25,119,2,,,"HONORING DR. FREDERIC ""FRITZ"" A. REID",HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E163,E163,"[{""name"": ""Mike Thompson"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E163,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E163] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING DR. FREDERIC ``FRITZ'' A. REID _____ HON. MIKE THOMPSON of california in the house of representatives Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Frederic ``Fritz'' A. Reid, a new California Waterfowlers Hall of Fame Inductee, who is being recognized for more than 45 years of extraordinary contributions to the preservation of waterfowl and their habitats. Dr. Reid grew up in Edina, Minnesota, where he developed a lifelong passion for waterfowl hunting alongside his grandfather. In 1978, he earned an A.B. in Biology from Hamilton College in Clinton, New York. He later attended the University of Missouri--Columbia, where he received a Master of Science in 1983 and a Doctorate in 1989, both in Fisheries and Wildlife Ecology. For decades, Dr. Reid has played a central leadership role in wetland conservation efforts at the local, state, national, and international levels. He joined Ducks Unlimited in 1990, where he served in multiple roles, including analyst, biologist, and ultimately Director of Boreal and Arctic Conservation. In these roles, Dr. Reid worked closely with public agency conservation partners, private land managers, and nonprofit organizations, conducting more than 100 workshops and co- authoring over 90 peer-reviewed conservation manuscripts. Dr. Reid is widely recognized for his groundbreaking research and leadership within Ducks Unlimited, helping to establish and strengthen wetland complexes throughout California's Central Valley and San Francisco Bay. He also helped map more than 150 million acres of wetlands across Alaska and played a key role in raising more than $200 million for conservation efforts through the Boreal Conservation Program. Additionally, he has provided leadership to the Central Valley Joint Venture, San Francisco Bay Joint Venture, International Sea Duck Joint Venture, and Arctic Goose Joint Venture, and has served as Chair of the Central Valley Joint Venture. Dr. Reid's contributions have earned him prestigious awards, including the J. Martin Winton Conservation Award, the Holly Andre Award, and the International Canvasback Award. Dr. Reid is beloved by volunteers, respected by colleagues, and widely regarded as a national treasure in the field of conservation. Dr. Reid's induction into the Waterfowlers Hall of Fame is a well- deserved honor. Established in 2006, the Waterfowlers Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to enhancing waterfowl populations and their habitats in California. Inductees have played a critical role in conserving waterfowl by preserving, restoring, and enhancing natural habitats; managing agricultural lands with wildlife in mind; advocating for conservation-focused policies; and implementing land-use practices designed to benefit nesting and wintering waterfowl populations. Outside of his professional work, Dr. Reid enjoys traveling and spending time with his partner, Kim Forrest; her son, Forrest Hansen; and his Labrador retriever, Taiga. Mr. Speaker, Dr. Frederic ``Fritz'' Reid is most deserving of recognition and appreciation for his decades of dedication to conservation and stewardship of our natural resources. His work has left an enduring legacy that will benefit waterfowl and wetlands for generations to come. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor Fritz here today. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-25-pt1-PgE163-4,2026-02-25,119,2,,,HONORING STEPHEN R. WILKINS,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E163,E163,"[{""name"": ""Richard Hudson"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E163,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E163] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING STEPHEN R. WILKINS _____ HON. RICHARD HUDSON of north carolina in the house of representatives Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Stephen R. Wilkins upon his retirement after more than 43 years of exemplary service to our Nation. His career spans over three decades in the United States Air Force and Air National Guard and more than 16 years with the Department of Veterans Affairs in Veterans Integrated Service Network 6 (VISN 6). Throughout his time at the VA, Mr. Wilkins played an integral role in shaping how the network communicates, collaborates, and serves. As Deputy Director and Congressional Liaison for VISN 6 Strategic Communications, he helped guide complex initiatives across the region while strengthening coordination between federal, state, and community partners. His steady leadership and commitment to service ensured that veterans and their families remained at the center of every effort. In fact, he was often the first call my staff would make when helping constituents navigate the VA bureaucracy, and each time, he helped us deliver results for the people of North Carolina. Renee and I extend our heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Wilkins for his years of dedicated service to our country and to VISN 6. I know I speak for our entire community in wishing him continued success and happiness as he embarks on his next chapter. Mr. Speaker, please join me today in honoring Mr. Stephen R. Wilkins on his retirement and thanking him for his distinguished service to our Nation. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-25-pt1-PgE163-5,2026-02-25,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING M.L. LEDDY'S ON BEING INCLUDED IN THE NEW YORK TIMES LIST OF THE TOP 50 CLOTHING STORES IN THE UNITED STATES,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E163,E164,"[{""name"": ""Craig A. Goldman"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E163,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E163-E164] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING M.L. LEDDY'S ON BEING INCLUDED IN THE NEW YORK TIMES LIST OF THE TOP 50 CLOTHING STORES IN THE UNITED STATES _____ HON. CRAIG A. GOLDMAN of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Mr. GOLDMAN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize M.L. Leddy's boot shop for being included in the New York Times list of the Top 50 Clothing Stores in the United States. This distinguished honor reflects the dedication and commitment to tradition that has defined M.L. Leddy's legacy for generations. Since 1922, M.L. Leddy's has stood as a symbol of Texas craftsmanship and authenticity. Situated in the heart of the Fort Worth Stockyards, the shop stands as a lasting symbol of the area's Western heritage and strong sense of community. While it's known for its unrivaled custom boots and saddles, M.L. Leddy's also offers western clothing, hats, [[Page E164]] buckles, and accessories. Each piece is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, a time-honored technique inspired by the store's namesake. When M.L. Leddy's first began crafting handmade boots and saddles, he did so with the passion and drive of a young Texan in the 1920s. He and his brothers set out to make the highest quality products while maintaining a deep commitment to customer service. This milestone is a testament to the success of their endeavor. As a forth-generation family business, Leddy's iconic storefront in the Fort Worth Stockyards is much more than a preferred store, but rather shines as a living landmark of Fort Worth History. On behalf of the 12th Congressional District of Texas, I extend my congratulations to M.L. Leddy's on their outstanding achievement and wish them continued success in their future endeavors. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-25-pt1-PgE164-2,2026-02-25,119,2,,,CELEBRATING THE GRAND OPENING OF THE ALEDO MUNICIPAL COMPLEX,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,CELEBRATING,E164,E164,"[{""name"": ""Craig A. Goldman"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E164,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E164] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] CELEBRATING THE GRAND OPENING OF THE ALEDO MUNICIPAL COMPLEX ______ HON. CRAIG A. GOLDMAN of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Mr. GOLDMAN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the grand opening of the Aledo Municipal Complex in Aledo, Texas on January 10, 2026. Aledo, the oldest city in Parker County, began as a farming settlement and was later incorporated in 1963. This new facility represents an important milestone in the city's continued growth and development. The Aledo Municipal Complex brings essential city services together under one roof, thoughtfully combining accessibility with contemporary design. The use of carefully selected materials pays tribute to Aledo's rural roots and reflects the city's motto, Rich Heritage, Dynamic Future. As Aledo continues to grow, this new building stands as a symbol of the community's commitment to progress while remaining firmly grounded in the values and spirit that define it. On behalf of the 12th Congressional District of Texas, I am proud to congratulate the City of Aledo as it enters a new chapter of service. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-25-pt1-PgE164-3,2026-02-25,119,2,,,HONORING BILLIE JO MEDDERS,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E164,E164,"[{""name"": ""Vince Fong"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E164,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E164] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING BILLIE JO MEDDERS ______ HON. VINCE FONG of california in the house of representatives Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Mr. FONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 95th birthday of Billie Jo Medders and to recognize her lifetime of steadfast service to the Bakersfield community. Born on March 8, 1931, in Indianola, Mississippi, Billie Jo graduated from Indianola High School, where her interest in civic life first took shape. As a senior, she was selected as a delegate to Mississippi Girls' State and was elected lieutenant governor, an experience sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary that foreshadowed a lifetime of engagement in public affairs. She went on to attend Delta State University in Cleveland, where she met her husband, Clarence Medders, and began a lifelong partnership rooted in service. In 1956, Billie Jo and Clarence relocated to Bakersfield, joining the Bakersfield City School District and making our community their permanent home. Together, they raised their daughters, Emily and Pamela, while investing deeply in the civic and educational life of Kern County. Clarence devoted 44 years to education as a teacher, counselor, and principal. Billie Jo also served the district for 13 years as a school secretary. As Billie Jo's family took root in Bakersfield, so too did her public service. She joined Assemblyman Thomas's staff as a part-time aide and, following his election to Congress, continued in his Bakersfield office as a caseworker and eventually director of constituent services. Over the course of 29 years, she assisted countless constituents in navigating complex federal agencies, exemplifying the vital role district offices play in responsive government. I worked directly with Billie Jo for many years as a field representative in the district I now have the honor of representing in Congress. During that time, she demonstrated that constituent services is about serving people with diligence, integrity, and respect. She made clear that every issue--from veterans' benefits to immigration casework to small business assistance--deserved urgency, careful attention, and professionalism. That standard continues to guide how I approach the responsibilities of this office and how I serve California's 20th Congressional District today. In addition to her government service, Billie Jo remained engaged in the broader nonprofit and civic community. Her decades of involvement have strengthened local institutions and reflected her enduring commitment to Bakersfield's families and seniors. In recognition of that commitment, she was recently honored by Family-to-Family Mentoring, a division of Garden Pathways, Inc., with the ``Heart for Bakersfield'' award--an apt description of her life's work. Today, she enjoys time with her seven grandchildren, along with traveling, reading, gathering with friends, and adding to her well-known elephant collection. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Billie Jo Medders for her decades of service and for the example she continues to set in our community. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-25-pt1-PgE164-4,2026-02-25,119,2,,,HONORING COACH GARY PATTERSON'S DISTINGUISHED CAREER AND INDUCTION INTO THE COLLEGE FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E164,E164,"[{""name"": ""Craig A. Goldman"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E164,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E164] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING COACH GARY PATTERSON'S DISTINGUISHED CAREER AND INDUCTION INTO THE COLLEGE FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME _____ HON. CRAIG A. GOLDMAN of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Mr. GOLDMAN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Mr. Gary Patterson on his induction into the National Football Foundation College Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. This honor reflects more than four decades of excellence, leadership, and service to the college football. Coach Patterson's 43-year coaching career, including 24 years leading Texas Christian University, culminated in his distinction as the winningest coach in TCU history. A transformational leader both on and off the football field, he guided the Horned Frogs through an era of sustained excellence and national prominence while navigating many transitions and challenges. Over the course of 260 total games, Coach Patterson earned 181 victories, led his teams to 18 bowl appearances with 11 bowl victories, and coached five defensive units that ranked number one nationally. Widely regarded as one of the Nation's preeminent defensive coaches, his success was recognized across college football, including being named National Coach of the Year a total of 22 times. He was inducted into the TCU Athletics Hall of Fame as a member of the class of 2025 and is set to receive the Davey O'Brien Legends Award in February. His leadership extends well beyond wins and championships. He has mentored generations of student-athletes, many of whom went on to professional careers, academic distinction, and leadership roles of their own. Coach Patterson also co-founded The Big Good Foundation, earned the National Football Foundation Gridiron Club of Dallas' Distinguished Texan Award, and served as president of the American Football Coaches Association. On behalf of the 12th Congressional District of Texas, I join the people of Texas, the TCU community, and college football fans across the Nation in congratulating Gary Patterson and all those who shared in this journey on this well-deserved and historic honor. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-25-pt1-PgE164-5,2026-02-25,119,2,,,PERSONAL EXPLANATION,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,PERSONALEXPLAIN,E164,E164,"[{""name"": ""Herbert C. Conaway, Jr."", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E164,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E164] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] PERSONAL EXPLANATION _____ HON. HERBERT C. CONAWAY, JR. of new jersey in the house of representatives Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Mr. CONAWAY. Mr. Speaker, I was not present for the first vote series on February 24, 2026. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 74; NAY on Roll Call No. 73; YEA on Roll Call No. 72; and YEA on Roll Call No. 71. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-25-pt1-PgE164-6,2026-02-25,119,2,,,CELEBRATING THE RETIREMENT OF BOB JAMESON AFTER 13 YEARS WITH VISIT FORT WORTH,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,CELEBRATING,E164,E165,"[{""name"": ""Craig A. Goldman"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E164,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E164-E165] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] CELEBRATING THE RETIREMENT OF BOB JAMESON AFTER 13 YEARS WITH VISIT FORT WORTH _____ HON. CRAIG A. GOLDMAN of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Mr. GOLDMAN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the career and public service of a distinguished leader in Fort Worth's tourism and economic development community. After 13 years of service, Bob Jameson will retire this April from his role as President and Chief Executive Officer of Visit Fort Worth. [[Page E165]] For more than a decade, Mr. Jameson guided the city's official destination marketing organization through a period of remarkable growth and increasing national recognition. Under his leadership, Fort Worth's tourism economy expanded significantly, with gains in economic activity, visitation, employment, and tax revenue reaching unprecedented levels. These achievements supported thousands of local jobs and elevated Fort Worth's standing as a premier destination for travel, sports, arts, culture, and conventions. Local leaders have noted that his tenure established a durable framework for continued success. During his time at Visit Fort Worth, Mr. Jameson helped position the city as one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the Nation. Annual visitation grew to more than 11 million visitors each year, generating an estimated $3.5 billion in annual economic impact. His leadership raised the profile of Visit Fort Worth and transformed its annual meeting into a major citywide event. Through the creation of the Fort Worth Sports Commission, the Hear Fort Worth music office, the Fort Worth Film Commission, and the Fort Worth Tourism Public Improvement District, his influence can be seen across numerous sectors of the local economy. This has reinforced sustainable growth, enhanced collaboration across public and private sectors, and solidified Fort Worth's commitment to cultural vitality and economic opportunity. Beyond his executive role, Mr. Jameson has been an instrumental civic leader in Fort Worth, serving on the boards of Arts Fort Worth; the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce; the Fort Worth Metropolitan Black Chamber of Commerce; the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; Near Southside; Fort Worth Opera; the Cliburn; the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra; Fort Worth Sister Cities International; and Downtown Fort Worth Inc. His service reflects the dedication, leadership, and pride that define Fort Worth as a community. On behalf of the 12th Congressional District of Texas, I am proud to congratulate Bob Jameson on his retirement and to extend my sincere best wishes as he begins the next chapter of his life. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-25-pt1-PgE164,2026-02-25,119,2,,,PERSONAL EXPLANATION,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,PERSONALEXPLAIN,E164,E164,"[{""name"": ""Jake Auchincloss"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E164,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E164] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] PERSONAL EXPLANATION _____ HON. JAKE AUCHINCLOSS of massachusetts in the house of representatives Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Mr. AUCHINCLOSS. Mr. Speaker, I was necessarily absent from votes. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 71; YEA on Roll Call No. 72; NAY on Roll Call No. 73; and NAY on Roll Call No. 74. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-25-pt1-PgE165-2,2026-02-25,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING THE ALL SAINTS FOOTBALL TEAM,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E165,E165,"[{""name"": ""Craig A. Goldman"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E165,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E165] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING THE ALL SAINTS FOOTBALL TEAM _____ HON. CRAIG A. GOLDMAN of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Mr. GOLDMAN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize All Saints Episcopal School on their state championship win in the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools Division II Football Championship. This exceptional achievement is a testament to the discipline, perseverance, and balance these students maintain in their athletic and academic pursuits. Throughout the season, the All-Saints football program exemplified determination, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to success. Under the leadership of dedicated coaches and with the steadfast support of their community, these student athletes secured a historic record- breaking season. Their championship win marked an impressive 28th consecutive victory, a milestone that reflects strength and consistency within the program. All Saints players successfully defended their 2024 state championship title, further cementing their legacy of excellence. I am honored to represent these exceptional students and commend them for their achievements both academically and athletically. On behalf of the 12th Congressional District of Texas, I congratulate the Fort Worth All Saints football team and wish them continued success in all their future endeavors. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-25-pt1-PgE165-3,2026-02-25,119,2,,,"HONORING THE LIFE, LEGACY AND EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE OF THELMA PETTIS",HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E165,E165,"[{""name"": ""Jennifer L. McClellan"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E165,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E165] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE LIFE, LEGACY AND EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE OF THELMA PETTIS ______ HON. JENNIFER L. McCLELLAN of virginia in the house of representatives Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Ms. McCLELLAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life, legacy, and extraordinary service of Thelma Pettis, a distinguished leader of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, whose passing is deeply felt across the Commonwealth of Virginia and throughout the South Atlantic Region. Soror Pettis devoted more than eight decades of faithful service to Delta Sigma Theta, exemplifying the sorority's highest ideals of sisterhood, scholarship, service, and social action. Just recently, she was lovingly celebrated by the Richmond Alumnae Chapter for her remarkable 80 years of membership and was honored as a panelist during ``Delta Days'' in the Virginia General Assembly, continuing her commitment to civic engagement and public service until her final days. From 1986 to 1989, Soror Pettis served as the ninth South Atlantic Regional Director, leading with wisdom, grace, and an unwavering dedication to strengthening chapters, developing leaders, and advancing the sorority's mission. Her tenure left an indelible mark on the Region, and her leadership continues to inspire generations of Delta women. At the local level, Soror Pettis twice served as President of the Richmond Alumnae Chapter, where under her leadership, she deepened the chapter's impact and reinforced its role as a pillar of service in the community. She also played a pivotal role in helping to charter the Rho Rho Chapter at University of Richmond, extending the reach of Delta Sigma Theta's mission to a new generation of student leaders and ensuring the sorority's legacy of excellence and service would endure on campus and beyond. As a charter member of Rho Rho, I benefited greatly from her leadership and kindness. Soror Thelma Pettis lived a life of purpose and principle. Her legacy is one of service rendered with humility, leadership exercised with compassion, and commitment sustained across a lifetime. She will be deeply missed by her sorors, her community, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. I extend my heartfelt condolences to her daughter, Soror Karen Pettis Walden, her family, loved ones, and the members of the Richmond Alumnae Chapter. May they find comfort in knowing that Soror Pettis' life had a profound impact, and that her legacy will continue to guide and uplift generations to come. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-25-pt1-PgE165-4,2026-02-25,119,2,,,CELEBRATING THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PARKER COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,CELEBRATING,E165,E166,"[{""name"": ""Craig A. Goldman"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E165,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E165-E166] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] CELEBRATING THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PARKER COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ______ HON. CRAIG A. GOLDMAN of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Mr. GOLDMAN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate the Parker County Chamber of Commerce on the occasion of its 30th anniversary. The Chamber [[Page E166]] was founded with the purpose of promoting business development and economic growth within a budding region of our state. Over the past three decades, it has grown into a thriving organization that exemplifies community leadership, advocacy, and economic expansion. This significant milestone reflects the dedication, perseverance, and service of countless local business owners, leaders, and volunteers who have contributed to the Chamber's enduring success. The Parker County Chamber of Commerce was established through the vision and leadership of Mr. Randy Keck, along with Judge Graham Quisenberry and Mr. Roy Ray. From its humble beginnings--holding potluck meetings in an RV park, acquiring two small-town chamber charters, and building a foundation grounded in a clear understanding of the needs of local businesses--the Chamber experienced immediate and sustained growth. Today, its culture reflects the spirit of Parker County and encourages participation from more than 600 members. This distinctive and inclusive structure draws business owners together and fosters continued engagement throughout the year. Through networking opportunities, civic involvement, ribbon cuttings, and community festivals, the Parker County Chamber of Commerce consistently strengthens both its members and the community it serves. As the Parker County Chamber of Commerce marks this 30-year anniversary, I commend its leadership and members for their lasting contributions to the economic vitality and civic life of Parker County. On behalf of the 12th Congressional District of Texas, I am proud to extend my congratulations to the Parker County Chamber of Commerce on the momentous occasion of its 30th anniversary and offer best wishes for many continued years of success in the Chamber's future. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-25-pt1-PgE165,2026-02-25,119,2,,,HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF ETHEL L. CUFF BLACK,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E165,E165,"[{""name"": ""Gregory W. Meeks"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E165,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E165] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF ETHEL L. CUFF BLACK _____ HON. GREGORY W. MEEKS of new york in the house of representatives Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Mr. MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Ethel L. Cuff Black, a trailblazing educator and one of the 22 visionary founders of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Born on October 17, 1890, in Wilmington, Delaware, Mrs. Cuff Black was raised with a commitment to excellence and service that guided her life. She pursued her studies at Howard University, where she became one of the 22 young women who boldly established Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., on January 13, 1913. The sorority was founded on principles of scholarship, sisterhood, and service; values that Mrs. Cuff Black carried into every facet of her life. In one of their first acts of service, Mrs. Cuff Black joined her sorority sisters in the historic 1913 March down Pennsylvania Avenue, standing at the forefront of the struggle for equality and representation. Her courage and vision laid the groundwork for one of the Nation's most influential Black women's organization, which continues to uplift communities more than a century later. After graduating, Mrs. Cuff Black dedicated herself to education, serving as a teacher in Missouri, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Later in New York, she became the first Black teacher in Richmond Hills, Queens. Mrs. Cuff Black joined 10 other dedicated women in chartering the Queens Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Together, they worked hand in hand with the community to advance educational opportunities, promote civic engagement, and uplift families across Queens. This act of leadership and service ensured that the sorority's mission remained deeply rooted in community partnership for decades to come. Since 1952, the Queens Alumnae chapter has awarded over $400,000 in scholarship to students in the Queens community. Mrs. Cuff Black is most honorably remembered for her unwavering devotion to education, community, advancing opportunities for Black Americans, and her pioneering spirit in the fight for social justice. She is survived by the enduring legacy of her students and the hundreds of thousands of Delta women who follow in her footsteps across four continents. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-25-pt1-PgE166-2,2026-02-25,119,2,,,HONORING THE TEXAS CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY WOMEN'S SOCCER TEAM ON THEIR HISTORIC SEASON,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E166,E166,"[{""name"": ""Craig A. Goldman"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E166,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E166] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE TEXAS CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY WOMEN'S SOCCER TEAM ON THEIR HISTORIC SEASON ______ HON. CRAIG A. GOLDMAN of texas in the house of representatives Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Mr. GOLDMAN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend the Texas Christian University Women's Soccer Team for an extraordinary and historic season that has brought distinction to TCU and the State of Texas. For the first time in program history, the Horned Frogs advanced to the NCAA College Cup Final Four following a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Vanderbilt University. This milestone win marked the team's nineteenth victory of the season and confirmed its inaugural appearance in the NCAA College Cup. Throughout the season, the team demonstrated consistent excellence, compiling an outstanding record, outscoring opponents by an incredible average of 54-22 and excelling against nationally ranked Top 25 competitors. The team's collective success was matched by exceptional individual achievements. Seven Castain earned recognition as an NCAA Elite 90 Scholar-Athlete and Honda Sport Award finalist. Morgan Brown, Seven Castain, Kamdyn Fuller, Cameron Patton, and Sydney Becerra were named to the United Soccer Coaches All-Midwest Team, with Brown and Castain also receiving United Soccer Coaches All-American honors. Kamdyn Fuller and Emma Yolinsky earned All-Freshman Team recognition, while Head Coach Eric Bell was named National Coach of the Year by Top Drawer Soccer. The Texas Christian University Women's Soccer Team exemplifies dedication, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Their composure under pressure and commitment to excellence have earned the admiration of the TCU community and residents throughout Tarrant County and beyond. Their success serves as an inspiration to student-athletes across our state and a testament to what can be accomplished through teamwork, discipline, and unwavering determination. On behalf of the 12th Congressional District of Texas, I, along with the people of Texas and the TCU community, congratulate the Texas Christian University Women's Soccer Team and all those who contribute to this historic and well-deserved honor. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-25-pt1-PgE166-3,2026-02-25,119,2,,,SENATE COMMITTEE MEETINGS,SENATE,EXTENSIONS,ESENATECOMMITTEE,E166,E167,,"[{""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""SRES"", ""number"": ""4""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""SRES"", ""number"": ""4""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""933""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""953""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""3923""}]",172 Cong. Rec. E166,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E166-E167] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] SENATE COMMITTEE MEETINGS Title IV of Senate Resolution 4, agreed to by the Senate of February 4, 1977, calls for establishment of a system for a computerized schedule of all meetings and hearings of Senate committees, subcommittees, joint committees, and committees of conference. This title requires all such committees to notify the Office of the Senate Daily Digest--designated by the Rules Committee--of the time, place and purpose of the meetings, when scheduled and any cancellations or changes in the meetings as they occur. As an additional procedure along with the computerization of this information, the Office of the Senate Daily Digest will prepare this information for printing in the Extensions of Remarks section of the Congressional Record on Monday and Wednesday of each week. Meetings scheduled for Thursday, February 26, 2026 may be found in the Daily Digest of today's Record. MEETINGS SCHEDULED MARCH 3 9 a.m. Committee on the Judiciary To hold oversight hearings to examine the Department of Homeland Security. SD-106 9:30 a.m. Committee on Armed Services To hold hearings to examine an update on the National Defense Strategy; to be immediately followed by a closed session in SVC-217. SH-216 10 a.m. Committee on Veterans' Affairs To hold a joint hearing with the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs to examine the legislative presentation of Veterans of Foreign Wars and multi VSOs. SD-G50 10:15 a.m. Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation Subcommittee on Science, Manufacturing, and Competitiveness To hold hearings to examine AI that improves safety, productivity, and care. SR-253 [[Page E167]] 2:30 p.m. Committee on the Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism To hold hearings to examine confronting child trafficking and the failure to protect America's most vulnerable. SD-226 MARCH 4 10 a.m. Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation Business meeting to consider S. 933, to authorize programs for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for fiscal year 2025, S. 3923, to improve the weather research of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, support improvements in weather forecasting and prediction, and expand commercial opportunities for the provision of weather data, and certain coast guard promotions. SR-253 Committee on Environment and Public Works To hold hearings to examine a discussion draft of an original bill entitled, ``the Toxic Substances Control Act Fee Reauthorization and Improvement Act of 2026.''. SD-562 Committee on Veterans' Affairs To hold a joint hearing with the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs to examine the legislative presentation of the American Legion and multi VSOs. SD-G50 10:30 a.m. Joint Economic Committee To hold hearings to examine evaluating the U.S. competitiveness and investment advantages of a Destination-Based Cash Flow Tax (DBCFT). SH-216 2:30 p.m. Committee on Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness and Management Support To hold hearings to examine the current readiness of the Joint Force. SH-216 Committee on the Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights To hold hearings to examine competition and monopsony in the proposed Netflix-Warner Brothers transaction. SD-226 Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe To hold hearings to examine responding to China's infiltration and coercion in Europe. RHOB-2247 MARCH 11 2:30 p.m. Committee on Indian Affairs To hold oversight hearings to examine Federal policies governing Indian water rights settlements, including S. 953, to provide for the settlement of the water rights claims of the Navajo Nation, the Hopi Tribe, and the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe. SD-628" CREC-2026-02-25-pt1-PgE166,2026-02-25,119,2,,,HONORING MICHEAL A. PASSAGLIA,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E166,E166,"[{""name"": ""Mike Thompson"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E166,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 37 (Wednesday, February 25, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E166] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING MICHEAL A. PASSAGLIA ______ HON. MIKE THOMPSON of california in the house of representatives Wednesday, February 25, 2026 Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Micheal A. Passaglia, a new California Waterfowlers Hall of Fame Inductee, who is being recognized for his lifelong commitment to the preservation of waterfowl and their habitats throughout California. Dr. Passaglia and his wife, Coral, reside in Yuba City and are the proud parents of four children: Michael, Jr.; Teal; Patricia; and Nicholas. He honorabjy served in the United States Navy before pursuing higher education, earning an associate degree from Chabot Junior College, followed by a Bachelor of Science from the University of California, Berkeley. He later attended the University of the Pacific School of Dentistry, where he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery. Throughout his life, Dr. Passaglia has been a steadfast leader in wetland conservation and a respected advocate within the waterfowler community. He co-founded the C and P Duck Company, which at its height managed more than 3,500 acres of wetlands, provided individuals with access to responsibly managed hunting lands, and helped promote long- term participation in waterfowling. Dr. Passaglia has been recognized by the California Fish and Game Commission for his leadership and experience with the Live Oak Gun Club, where he implemented forward-looking wetland habitat management practices that significantly increased local waterfowl populations. He has also been recognized for multiple years by the Butte Sink Landowners Association for his contributions to improving waterfowl habitat in the region. In addition, he has served as a Board Director of the California Waterfowl Association, remains an active member, and is also a member of Ducks Unlimited. His philanthropic support includes donating more than $100,000 to the California Waterfowl Association. Dr. Passaglia's induction into the Waterfowlers Hall of Fame is a well-deserved honor. Established in 2006, the Waterfowlers Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to enhancing waterfowl populations and habitats in California. Inductees have played a critical role in conserving waterfowl by preserving, restoring, and enhancing natural habitats; managing agricultural lands with wildlife in mind; advocating for sound conservation policy; and implementing land-use practices specifically designed to benefit nesting and wintering waterfowl populations. Mr. Speaker, I thank Dr. Michael Passaglia for his persistence, generosity, and decades of service to conservation, our environment, and the broader community. His legacy will benefit California's wetlands and waterfowl for generations to come. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-24-pt1-PgE157-2,2026-02-24,119,2,,,HONORING THE SERVICE AND SACRIFICE OF OFFICER ELIJAH MONROE GARRETSON,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E157,E157,"[{""name"": ""John R. Carter"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E157,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E157] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE SERVICE AND SACRIFICE OF OFFICER ELIJAH MONROE GARRETSON ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the life, service, and ultimate sacrifice of Officer Elijah Monroe Garretson, a devoted public servant whose courage and commitment left a lasting legacy on the Copperas Cove community and Central Texas. Officer Garretson lived a life defined by service. He first answered the call to protect others through honorable service in the United States Army, serving from 2017 to 2024 and attaining the rank of Sergeant. His military career reflected discipline, leadership, and an unwavering sense of duty that guided him both in and out of uniform. Following his military service, Officer Garretson continued his commitment to public service by joining the Copperas Cove Police Department in January 2025. The department sponsored him through the Central Texas College Basic Peace Officer Academy, where he distinguished himself as a top student, graduating with the highest GPA in his class in 2025. He was sworn in as a police officer on June 27, 2025, successfully completed field training, and served on Gold Team Nights with professionalism, integrity, and compassion. On January 10, 2026, Officer Garretson made the ultimate sacrifice, losing his life in the line of duty while protecting the community he served with honor. Beyond the uniform, Elijah Garretson was a devoted husband, father, son, and brother. He married his wife, Alexis, in July 2025 and was a loving father to his five-year-daughter, Elliana. He was also pursuing college studies in social work, driven by a deep passion for mental health and helping others. Though his time with the department was far too brief, Officer Garretson's legacy of service, courage, and compassion will endure. We honor his life, grieve his loss, and remain forever grateful for his sacrifice. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-24-pt1-PgE157-3,2026-02-24,119,2,,,"HONORING THE LIFE OF MARGARET ""MIDGE"" THOMAS",HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E157,E157,"[{""name"": ""Joseph D. Morelle"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E157,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E157] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE LIFE OF MARGARET ``MIDGE'' THOMAS ______ HON. JOSEPH D. MORELLE of new york in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Margaret ``Midge'' Thomas, a lifelong Rochesterian whose passing is deeply felt throughout our community. Ms. Thomas lived a life defined by service and a steadfast commitment to equality. For over fifty years, she served Rochester as a leader, educator, philanthropist, and advocate, leaving an indelible mark on our city. Ms. Thomas devoted her life to uplifting others, particularly members of Rochester's Black community. Alongside her husband, Dr. Freddie Thomas, a respected inventor and geneticist at Eastman Kodak Company and the University of Rochester, she mentored countless young people and emerging leaders. Together, they opened their home to students, scientists, historians, and neighbors, creating a welcoming space for learning and connection. Ms. Thomas was a co-founder of Rochester's chapter of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women's Clubs, an organization dedicated to advancing leadership and economic opportunity through community service and advocacy. As a founding member of the chapter, she played a pivotal role in helping women in Rochester start businesses and advance professionally. Following the passing of her husband, Ms. Thomas established the Freddie L. Thomas Foundation in his honor, continuing her lifelong commitment to service. Through the foundation, she supported numerous local organizations and initiatives, including its most well-known annual Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners that brought hundreds of Rochester residents together for warm meals and a sense of community during the holiday season. Mr. Speaker, I extend my sincere condolences to the family of Midge Thomas and to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Through her generosity, leadership, and devotion to her community, she helped shape a stronger Rochester, and her legacy of service will endure as a lasting source of inspiration. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-24-pt1-PgE157-4,2026-02-24,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF VAN HIPP,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E157,E157,"[{""name"": ""Joe Wilson"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E157,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E157] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF VAN HIPP ______ HON. JOE WILSON of south carolina in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the life of Van Hipp of Walterboro whose public service embodies an American Patriot. South Carolinians are grateful to express appreciation for him. I include in the Record the following obituary that has been provided by Parker-Rhoden Funeral Home: VAN HIPP Surrounded by his devoted family, Van Darrel Hipp, 87 of Walterboro, South Carolina, went home to be with the Lord on Monday, February 16, 2026. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather, Van's legacy of service-- to his community, country, family and faith--remains as a lasting testament to his character. His keen sense of humor and dry wit will surely induce smiles and laughter among those who knew him best for years to come. Van was a member of First Baptist Church of Walterboro, and more recently worshiped online at the St. George Methodist Church. A graveside service officiated by Rev. Joey McDonald of St. George Methodist Church was held at 10am on Saturday, February 21 at Green Lawn Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Parker- Rhoden Funeral Home of Walterboro is managing arrangements. Van was born on July 20, 1938, in Hogansville, Georgia to the late Vann Ferell and Fay Jackson Hipp. He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Sandra Combs Hipp of Walterboro; an elder son, Van (Jane) Hipp, Jr. of Alexandria, VA; a daughter, Laynie (Hugh) Chinners of St. George, SC; and a younger son, Duke (Bethany) Hipp of Singapore; nine grandchildren, Trey Hipp, Sarah Camille (Will) Godfrey, Jackson Hipp, Aubrey Chinners, Nicholas (Chelsea) Chinners, William Hipp, George Hipp, Charlotte Hipp, and Amelia Hipp; and four great-grandchildren, Liam Godfrey, Philip Godfrey, James Godfrey, and Maddie Chinners. He is also preceded in death by a 10th grandchild, Hugh Chinners III. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-24-pt1-PgE157-5,2026-02-24,119,2,,,"HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF THE REVEREND JESSE LOUIS JACKSON, SR.",HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E157,E158,"[{""name"": ""Andre Carson"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E157,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E157-E158] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF THE REVEREND JESSE LOUIS JACKSON, SR. ______ HON. ANDRE CARSON of indiana in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. CARSON. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and legacy of the Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson, Sr.--a moral giant of the civil rights movement, a champion for the poor and dispossessed, and one of the most gifted communicators in American history. I also want to express my love and support to Reverend Jackson's family as they grieve such a deeply personal loss, including our colleague Congressman Jonathan Jackson, our former colleague Jesse Jackson, Jr. and all the Jackson family members and friends. Reverend Jackson was born during height of the Jim Crow segregation in Greenville, South Carolina, yet he rose from humble beginnings to become a global voice for justice, equality, and human dignity. He first came to national prominence in the 1960s as a young advocate in the struggle for civil rights and an aide to Dr. King, who appointed him to lead the Southern Christian Leadership Conference's Operation Breadbasket in Chicago and eventually, it's national director. Following Dr. King's assassination in 1968, Reverend Jackson helped sustain and lead the movement's moral urgency, shaping a new era of activism grounded in nonviolence, direct action, and an unshakable faith in the power of love. In 1971, he founded Operation PUSH--``People United to Save Humanity'', building an inclusive advocacy movement united in the pursuit of economic and social justice. Reverend Jackson led boycotts against corporations that had poor records in hiring Black employees or contracting with Black businesses. In 1984, he organized the National Rainbow Coalition, bringing to life an organization of voters from a broad spectrum of races and creeds. This helped him launch his historic presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988, [[Page E158]] when he first won five primaries, and subsequently garnered 6.9 million votes. This transformed American politics, inspiring discouraged Americans to believe in the possibility of a multiracial democracy and helping to expand participation within the Democratic Party. His call to ``Keep Hope Alive!'' was more than a slogan--it was a moral charge to the Nation and a testament to his belief that love and collective action can bend the arc of history toward justice. For more than six decades, Reverend Jackson served as both bridge and trailblazer, connecting the civil rights movement of the 1960s to the ongoing struggle for a more inclusive democracy in the 21st century. He marched, organized, led boycotts, negotiated, and preached on behalf of those too often marginalized or ignored, always affirming, ``I am somebody.'' He mentored and was a friend to many, including me. Mr. Speaker, Reverend Jesse Jackson was a fearless advocate for love and justice whose voice stirred our conscience and challenged our Nation to live up to its highest ideals. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring his extraordinary life and legacy, and in recommitting ourselves to the future of a Beloved Community that he so faithfully envisioned. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-24-pt1-PgE158-2,2026-02-24,119,2,,,"HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF OFFICER JOSEPH ADRAGNA, III",HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E158,E158,"[{""name"": ""Craig A. Goldman"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E158,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E158] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF OFFICER JOSEPH ADRAGNA, III ______ HON. CRAIG A. GOLDMAN of texas in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. GOLDMAN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Officer Joseph Adragna, III, who passed away on January 31, 2026, while serving on duty as an officer with the Westover Hills Police Department. Officer Adragna was a devoted husband, loving father, proud veteran, and steadfast public servant. His life reflected the highest ideals of duty, honor, and sacrifice. Joseph Adragna was a patriot who answered the call to serve his Nation by entering the United States Air Force in 1999. Later, he was honorably discharged as a decorated Aircrew Life Support Journeyman and was recognized as the 2000 Air Mobility Command Outstanding Aircrew Life Support Airman of the Year--an achievement that spoke to his professionalism, discipline, and commitment to excellence. Following his military service, Adragna continued his dedication to public safety with the Los Angeles Police Department, graduating with the Sworn Officer Class of 2003. Over the course of 22 years, he served with distinction in patrol, vice, undercover operations, and traffic collision investigation. He pursued advanced training, including United States Secret Service Counterterrorism certification and the Jimmy Ryce Law Enforcement Training through the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. Even after completing a distinguished career with the Los Angeles Police Department, Adragna chose to continue serving his community as a member of the Westover Hills Police Department. Though his tenure in Fort Worth was brief, his experience, integrity, and leadership left an enduring impression on his fellow officers and the community. Beyond his uniform, Adragna was a man of deep faith, strong character, and abiding love for his family. I extend my deepest condolences to his devoted wife, Tara Adragna, and his beloved daughter, Marissa Adragna. On behalf of the 12th Congressional District of Texas, I wish to honor the life and service of Joseph Adragna, III. His life stands as a testament to courage, conviction, and selfless dedication. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-24-pt1-PgE158-3,2026-02-24,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING DEBBIE LeCROY,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E158,E158,"[{""name"": ""Chuck Edwards"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E158,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E158] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING DEBBIE LeCROY ______ HON. CHUCK EDWARDS of north carolina in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. EDWARDS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Officer Debbie LeCroy upon her retirement from the Asheville Police Department, following twenty years of distinguished, honorable service to the people of Western North Carolina. Officer LeCroy began her career in law enforcement with the APD, answering the call to protect and serve her community with integrity and courage. She later continued her service with the Buncombe County Sheriff's Office before returning to Asheville to complete her career where it first began. Showing testament to her deep-rooted commitment to her hometown and the people she proudly served. Throughout her career, Officer LeCroy distinguished herself in a wide array of critical roles, including Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, Detective, Forensics Investigator, and Community Resource Officer. She also served as a member of the Peer Support Team, Crisis Negotiation Team, and Long-Term Drug Investigations Unit. In each assignment, Officer LeCroy demonstrated exceptional professionalism, steady leadership, and an unwavering dedication to justice and public safety. Her versatility and willingness to serve reflects a career defined by excellence and selflessness. Officer LeCroy is perhaps best known throughout the community as the handler of therapy K-9 Kora. Together, they provided comfort and reassurance to citizens during times of crisis, tragedy, and hardship. Through their work in schools and community events, Officer LeCroy and Kora strengthened trust between law enforcement and the public, offering compassion in moments when it was needed most. Their partnership stands as a powerful example of how service and empathy can foster relationships and healing. Over the course two decades, Officer LeCroy has mentored fellow officers, supported colleagues through challenging circumstances, and helped shape programs that will continue to benefit the community for years to come. Her legacy is one of dedication, integrity, and service above self. Today, we honor Officer Debbie LeCroy not only for her years of faithful service, but for the lasting impact she has made on the lives of countless individuals across Western North Carolina. On behalf of the United States House of Representatives, I extend my deepest gratitude to and I congratulate Officer LeCroy and wish her every success and fulfillment in the years ahead. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-24-pt1-PgE158-4,2026-02-24,119,2,,,"RECOGNIZING THE WORLD MUSEUM OF MINING IN BUTTE, MONTANA IN CELEBRATION OF AMERICA'S 250TH",HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E158,E159,"[{""name"": ""Ryan K. Zinke"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E158,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E158-E159] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING THE WORLD MUSEUM OF MINING IN BUTTE, MONTANA IN CELEBRATION OF AMERICA'S 250TH ______ HON. RYAN K. ZINKE of montana in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. ZINKE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 250th year since our Nation's founding by recognizing the legacy of the World Museum of Mining in Butte, Montana. The World Museum of Mining has been in operation since 1956 and is one of the world's only museums that sits on a former mine. For seven decades, it has preserved and shared the remarkable story of Butte's mining heritage, offering visitors an immersive experience into the lives of the men and women who shaped the American West. The museum brings history to life with exhibits that put visitors in the shoes of miners during the late 19th and early 20th-century mining boom. This includes exploring ``Hell Roarin' Gulch,'' a replica town from the 1890s when Butte was known as the ``richest hill on earth.'' Guests can step into shops and saloons of the era before heading underground to experience the realities of a miner's daily work. [[Page E159]] On the underground tour, you descend 100 feet into the Orphan Girl Mine, a cornerstone of Butte's mining legacy. Established in 1875, the mine eventually reached 3,200 feet and produced silver, lead, and zinc that powered America's industrial rise. During the Copper Boom, Butte became the largest city between Chicago and San Francisco and one of the world's most important mining centers, representing half of all copper mined in America and a quarter of the world's copper. That copper wired cities, energized factories, and connected the Nation through telegraph and telephone lines. Decades of mining fueled the U.S. war effort in both World Wars, supplying the munitions, equipment, and power that helped secure victory from tyranny and fascism. Walking through the tunnels, it is impossible not to reflect on the generations of workers who built this backbone of industry and defense. Like the town it belongs to, the World Museum of Mining has a long and rich history. In 2024, the museum became the official home of the Montana Mining Hall of Fame, further cementing its role in honoring the industry's legacy and protecting the artifacts and structures of an area that featured nearly 10,000 miles of tunnels. Mr. Speaker, on the 250th anniversary of the United States, it is important to look back at our country's history and the people who built it. The World Museum of Mining has preserved the stories of America's biggest strength: hardworking people willing to risk everything in the pursuit of opportunity and freedom. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-24-pt1-PgE158,2026-02-24,119,2,,,HONORING THE 2025 U.S. PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS FROM PUERTO RICO,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E158,E158,"[{""name"": ""Pablo Jose Hernandez"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E158,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E158] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE 2025 U.S. PRESIDENTIAL SCHOLARS FROM PUERTO RICO ______ HON. PABLO JOSE HERNANDEZ of puerto rico in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend the outstanding achievements of three students from Puerto Rico who have been selected as 2025 U.S. Presidential Scholars. This prestigious honor, announced on September 26, 2025, by U.S. Secretary of Education, Linda McMahon, recognizes only 161 high school seniors nationwide for their accomplishments in academics, the arts, and career and technical education, It is with great pride that I acknowledge and include in the Record the following Presidential Scholars from Puerto Rico: Lucas J. Mendoza, Dorado--Tasis School in Dorado Anna Cristina Sgroi Morillo, Carolina--Robinson School Nicolas Antonio Unanue, San Juan--St. John's School These students exemplify the highest standards of scholarship, leadership, and service. Their recognition as Presidential Scholars is not only a testament to their academic excellence but also a reflection of their dedication, resilience, and the support of their families, teachers, and communities. The future of Puerto Rico and of our Nation is strengthened by the promise of young leaders such as Lucas, Anna Cristina, and Nicolas. I am proud to honor their achievements and may their success serve as an inspiration to others. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-24-pt1-PgE159-2,2026-02-24,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING THE 35TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE GULF WAR AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E159,E159,"[{""name"": ""Juan Ciscomani"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E159,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E159] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING THE 35TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE GULF WAR AND LIBERATION OF KUWAIT ______ HON. JUAN CISCOMANI of arizona in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and recognize the 35th anniversary of the Gulf War and liberation of Kuwait. Each year, a ceremony to commemorate this anniversary is held at the Arizona Heroes Memorial in Oro Valley. While I cannot join in person this year, I would like to take this time to honor those who served in our armed forces in the Gulf War and fought to bring peace to the nation of Kuwait. I thank each veteran who served in these operations. Their dedication to our Nation and the fight for peace is remembered every day and will never be taken for granted. It is because of men and women like themselves that we are able to live in a free country. We know that freedom is not free. Our freedom has been fought for by countless men and women who have answered the call. I thank every veteran who served in the Gulf War, including Desert Storm, or the liberation of Kuwait for their fearless and selfless decision to fight so that freedom may reign. I thank each man and woman who lost their life fighting in these operations for their love of country and willingness to lay it all on the line to keep our Nation safe. They paid the ultimate price, and their sacrifice will not be forgotten. Saying ``thank you'' is nowhere near sufficient, but these two words are our best attempt at expressing our utmost gratitude for their heroic acts in service to our Nation. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-24-pt1-PgE159-3,2026-02-24,119,2,,,HONORING MRS. TERRY LEIN FOR ALMOST 30 YEARS OF SERVICE,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E159,E160,"[{""name"": ""Eugene Simon Vindman"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E159,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E159-E160] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING MRS. TERRY LEIN FOR ALMOST 30 YEARS OF SERVICE ______ HON. EUGENE SIMON VINDMAN of virginia in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize Mrs. Terry Lein, a proud constituent of Woodbridge, Virginia, as she retires from the United States Navy after 29 years of extraordinary service in the Navy Nurse Corps. Mrs. Lein built a remarkable career rooted in both compassion and dedication. She earned a bachelor's degree in Zoology/Animal Biology, followed by master's degrees in nursing and business administration, an academic foundation that would prepare her to lead and care for our communities. Her commitment to service was inspired early on by her father, who served in the Navy during the Korean War. In 1996, she began serving as an Operating Room nurse, where she managed patient care in support of combat operations, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief efforts. Throughout her nearly three decades of service, Mrs. Lein was stationed across the world, including assignments in Italy, Iceland, Japan, and Alaska. When Hurricane Katrina hit, she was the Nurse Officer in charge, leading a unit of nurses during one of our Nation's most challenging moments, making sure patients received the consistent care they needed and deserved. Recognized for her exemplary service, she earned the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (NMCCOM) and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement (NMCAM), both of which are a testament to her superior performance and meritorious service. Although she has retired from the line of duty, Mrs. Lein's service to others continues. She now serves as Nurse Manager at the Bitar Cosmetic Surgery Institute, where she oversees clinical operations, supports nursing staff, and ensures patients receive the highest standard of safe, quality care. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mrs. Lein on her well-earned retirement and thanking her for almost three decades of service to our Nation. [[Page E160]] ____________________" CREC-2026-02-24-pt1-PgE159,2026-02-24,119,2,,,TRIBUTE TO REBECCA DELGADILLO EVANS,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,TRIBUTETO,E159,E159,"[{""name"": ""Ken Calvert"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E159,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E159] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] TRIBUTE TO REBECCA DELGADILLO EVANS ______ HON. KEN CALVERT of california in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend Rebecca Delgadillo Evans, a remarkable public servant whose distinguished career reflects the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and dedication to the administration of justice in the United States. For more than sixteen years, Rebecca Evans served with distinction at the United States Attorney's Office in Riverside, California, where she became a cornerstone of the office's daily operations and long-term success. Her work as a Senior Legal Assistant and Grand Jury Coordinator exemplifies quiet excellence--service rendered not for recognition, but for the betterment of our institutions and the communities they serve. Throughout her career, Rebecca earned the trust and respect of Assistant United States Attorneys, judges, law enforcement partners, and colleagues alike. She was known for her precision, discretion, and unwavering commitment to accuracy in the most demanding and high-stakes federal litigation matters. Her expertise in federal court filings, sealed pleadings, trial preparation, and discovery management ensured that justice was not only pursued, but pursued correctly. Rebecca's role as Grand Jury Coordinator was especially vital. She oversaw all grand jury proceedings with professionalism and calm authority, maintaining complex schedules, coordinating witnesses and jurors, and ensuring that each proceeding was conducted efficiently and lawfully. Her ability to manage sensitive information with care and integrity made her indispensable to the administration of justice in the Central District of California. Beyond her technical expertise, Rebecca was a leader. She mentored newly hired legal assistants, filled supervisory roles when needed, and consistently stepped forward to ensure continuity of operations during times of transition. Her steady presence brought confidence to those around her and stability to an office charged with weighty responsibility. What sets Rebecca apart is not only what she did, but how she did it--with grace, humility, and a genuine commitment to public service. She understood that the work of the U.S. Attorney's Office is not merely procedural, but foundational to the rule of law and the protection of our democratic Institutions. Her career is a testament to the often-unseen professionals whose diligence ensures that our justice system functions honorably and effectively. Outside of her professional duties, Rebecca has remained deeply committed to her community, volunteering with the City of Corona and exemplifying the spirit of service that has defined her life's work. She is a proud graduate of Eastern Michigan University, where she laid the academic foundation for a career marked by excellence and purpose. Mr. Speaker, it has been my privilege to know Rebecca Evans not only as a public servant, but as a person of character, kindness, and unwavering dedication. Her legacy is one of service well rendered and standards faithfully upheld. As she concludes this chapter of her professional journey, our community, our courts, and our country are better because of her contributions. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing and thanking Rebecca Delgadillo Evans for her extraordinary service to the United States and to the cause of justice. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-24-pt1-PgE160-2,2026-02-24,119,2,,,HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF CONGRESSMAN LEE H. HAMILTON,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E160,E160,"[{""name"": ""Andre Carson"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E160,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E160] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF CONGRESSMAN LEE H. HAMILTON ______ HON. ANDRE CARSON of indiana in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. CARSON. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and legacy of Congressman Lee H. Hamilton, a devoted public servant, a champion of bipartisanship, and a true Hoosier icon. For 34 years, Congressman Hamilton represented Indiana in the United States House of Representatives with integrity, civility, and unwavering dedication to his constituents. Throughout his tenure, he earned national respect for his thoughtful leadership on foreign affairs, intelligence, and national security matters, serving as Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and playing a pivotal role in the Iran-Contra investigation. Later, as Vice Chairman of the 9/11 Commission, he helped guide our Nation through one of the most consequential inquiries in modern American history. Congressman Hamilton believed deeply in representative democracy and the responsibility of elected officials to work across party lines. He forged lasting bipartisan partnerships, including with Senator Richard Lugar, demonstrating that principled collaboration strengthens Indiana and our Nation. His commitment to civil discourse and institutional integrity set a standard for all public servants. After retiring from Congress, Congressman Hamilton continued to serve our community through scholarship and civic education at Indiana University. Through the Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies and the Center on Congress, he helped prepare future generations to understand and engage in public life with seriousness and respect. A son of Evansville, a proud graduate of DePauw University and Indiana University, and a member of the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame, Lee Hamilton never lost sight of his Hoosier roots. His life embodied service to his district, to Indiana, and to America. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Congressman Lee Hamilton's extraordinary legacy. May we follow his example of integrity, bipartisanship, and devotion to democratic ideals. May his children, grandchildren, and all who mourn his passing be comforted by the knowledge that we honor his legacy here in Congress, and treasure the incredible leadership he shared with us. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-24-pt1-PgE160-3,2026-02-24,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING TRUMP PEACE BETWEEN ALGERIA AND MOROCCO,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E160,E160,"[{""name"": ""Joe Wilson"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E160,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E160] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING TRUMP PEACE BETWEEN ALGERIA AND MOROCCO ______ HON. JOE WILSON of south carolina in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, this month, Massad Boulous, the Senior Advisor to President Donald Trump, sponsored peace talks in Spain encouraging peace between Morocco and Algeria. A breakthrough could help push war criminal Putin out of North Africa. Algeria and Putin in the past have had a strategic partnership, as Russia is the main arms supplier to Algeria. Peace between Morocco and Algeria can move Algeria into a better relationship with America which can bring benefits for all North Africa including Tunisia, where Algeria is the key sponsor for tyrant President Saied. The people of Tunisia are recognized as revolutionaries for freedom. The future of Algeria lies in moving past support for the Polisario and backing a realistic autonomy solution for the Sahrawi people, rather than prolonging a conflict that destabilizes the region. Creating a country run by a Marxist cult in the middle of the Sahara Desert is not in the best interest of innocent Sahrawis, as Marxism always fails. Stable, peaceful, and prosperous North Africa can be achieved with the visionary encouragement of President Donald Trump facilitated by courageous Massad Boulous. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-24-pt1-PgE160-4,2026-02-24,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING NATIONAL CANCER PREVENTION MONTH,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E160,E160,"[{""name"": ""Joseph D. Morelle"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E160,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E160] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING NATIONAL CANCER PREVENTION MONTH ______ HON. JOSEPH D. MORELLE of new york in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize February as National Cancer Prevention Month and to reaffirm our unwavering commitment to reducing the burden of cancer in communities across our Nation. Cancer is a devastating disease that has touched far too many families in my district and across the country. Nearly every one of us knows a parent, child, sibling, or friend whose life has been altered by a diagnosis. The grief that follows the loss of a loved one to cancer is profound, and it strengthens our resolve to do everything in our power to prevent this disease wherever possible. This month reminds us that while cancer has affected so many lives, there are meaningful steps we can take to reduce its impact. Research shows that a significant share of cancer cases may be preventable through practical, evidence-based measures. Simple but important actions, such as staying physically active, maintaining a healthy diet, protecting our skin from excessive sun exposure, and keeping up with recommended screenings, can make a real difference in reducing risk. At the same time, prevention must extend beyond individual choices. Too many families face obstacles to early detection and timely care. Access to screenings such as mammograms and colonoscopies can mean the difference between early treatment and a far more difficult journey. We must also confront the persistent disparities in cancer outcomes, as rural communities and communities of color too often face greater barriers to prevention, screening, and care. National Cancer Prevention Month serves as a solemn reminder of both the progress we have made and the work that remains. By strengthening prevention efforts, expanding access to lifesaving screenings, and working to close gaps in care, we can honor those we have lost and help spare other families from the hardship of a cancer diagnosis. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-24-pt1-PgE160-5,2026-02-24,119,2,,,CELEBRATING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF NANCY PATTERSON,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,CELEBRATING,E160,E161,"[{""name"": ""John R. Carter"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E160,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E160-E161] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] CELEBRATING THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF NANCY PATTERSON ______ HON. JOHN R. CARTER of texas in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Nancy Patterson, a U.S. Army veteran and accomplished leader in public education, workforce development, and cross-sector collaboration. With more than two decades of experience, Ms. Patterson has focused on advancing College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) for students across Texas and the Nation. She has held executive leadership roles in a public school system that serves over 40,000 students, leading systemwide improvements that enhanced accountability outcomes and student readiness. She is recognized for supervising and coaching school leaders, [[Page E161]] strengthening leadership pipelines, and aligning people, processes, and performance during times of organizational transition. Ms. Patterson's work bridges education, workforce, military, and higher education systems to align pathways with labor market needs, expand postsecondary opportunities, and improve long-term economic mobility for students and communities. She has served in advisory and leadership roles for the Texas Education Agency, testified before the Texas House Committee on Public Education, and contributed to boards supporting military-connected students and workforce development. She also served on the Texas State Advisory Council for Educational Opportunities for Military-Connected Children. Nationally, Ms. Patterson participated in the 2023 National Security Seminar at the United States Army War College and was appointed advisor to the Women's Leadership Program at Texas A&M University--Texarkana in 2024. In 2025, she was named one of the Top 10 School Executive Directors by Education Insider. She holds a master's degree in curriculum and instruction, completed post-master's coursework in educational administration, and holds Texas principal certification. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Nancy Patterson for her dedicated service to strengthening education, workforce readiness, and opportunities for military-connected students and families." CREC-2026-02-24-pt1-PgE160,2026-02-24,119,2,,,"HONORING DR. NATALIA GIRALDO-SANTIAGO, 2025 NATIONAL TRIO ACHIEVER",HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E160,E160,"[{""name"": ""Pablo Jose Hernandez"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E160,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 36 (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E160] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING DR. NATALIA GIRALDO-SANTIAGO, 2025 NATIONAL TRIO ACHIEVER ______ HON. PABLO JOSE HERNANDEZ of puerto rico in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 24, 2026 Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Natalia Giraldo-Santiago, an extraordinary Puerto Rican scholar and clinician whose journey exemplifies the transformative power of the federal TRIO programs. Dr. Giraldo-Santiago is a proud alumna of the TRIO Upward Bound program at the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras. With the support and mentorship she received through TRIO, she overcame early academic and personal challenges to pursue a career defined by excellence in research, clinical care, and teaching. Today, she serves as an instructor at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, as well as a research fellow at the Massachusetts Center for Alzheimer and Dementia Behavioral Research in Minority Aging. Her groundbreaking work in health equity, mental health, and chronic pain management for underserved Latino and Spanish-speaking populations has earned support from the National Institutes of Health and recognition from her peers, including the 2024 Diversity Award from the Society of Behavioral Medicine. On September 9, 2025, the Council for Opportunity in Education honored Dr. Giraldo-Santiago at their Educational Opportunity Dinner as one of the 2025 National TRIO Achievers. The 2025 National TRIO Achievers remind us why TRIO programs are not just necessary but transformational. These exemplary leaders embody resilience, purpose, and commitment to giving back. They represent what is possible when we give students from low-income and first-generation backgrounds a real opportunity to thrive. As the Congressional Representative of Puerto Rico and a member of the TRIO Caucus, I am proud to celebrate Dr. Giraldo-Santiago's accomplishments and reaffirm my commitment to ensuring that these life- changing programs remain a strong federal priority. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE151-2,2026-02-23,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING THE 170TH ANNIVERSARY OF TALLADEGA INSURANCE COMPANY,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E151,E151,"[{""name"": ""Mike Rogers"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E151,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E151] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING THE 170TH ANNIVERSARY OF TALLADEGA INSURANCE COMPANY _____ HON. MIKE ROGERS of alabama in the house of representatives Monday, February 23, 2026 Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 170th anniversary of Talladega Insurance Agency in Talladega, Alabama. Talladega Insurance is currently under the leadership of Boyd McGehee. Talladega Insurance Company was incorporated in 1856 making it the oldest insurance agency in the State of Alabama and the second oldest in the United States. The company attributes its longevity to its superior staffing. The Talladega Insurance Agency is built on family, as it is a family-owned and operated business and has had four generations leading the way. In the 1920s, Turner Joel Jones acquired the Talladega Insurance Company renaming it Talladega Insurance Agency and his brother, George, soon joined him in the business. In 1950, William Boyd McGehee, Jr. (Billy) left his family's pharmacy in Montgomery, Alabama, seeking new directions. He and his wife moved to Talladega to join her father in the insurance business. In 1974, Billy's son, William Boyd McGehee, III (Bill), returned with his wife, Evelyn, to Talladega to work at Talladega Insurance after leaving Atlanta, where he worked for the Great American Insurance Company. In 2004, Bill's son, Boyd, joined the agency. Today, Boyd runs the agency. He is an alumnus of The University of Alabama and The National Alliance's Producer School. In 2008, he was named Alabama's Young Agent of the Year by the Alabama Independent Insurance Agent Association. Boyd has carried on the family tradition and has made Talladega Insurance Agency not only successful in business, but a community partner as he continues to invest in the City of Talladega. Mr. Speaker, please join me in wishing my friend, Boyd, and his team at Talladega Insurance Agency a happy 170th anniversary. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE151-3,2026-02-23,119,2,,,HONORING SIMONE JONES,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E151,E151,"[{""name"": ""Ritchie Torres"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E151,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E151] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING SIMONE JONES _____ HON. RITCHIE TORRES of new york in the house of representatives Monday, February 23, 2026 Mr. TORRES of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Simone A. Jones, a public servant whose leadership exemplifies excellence, equity, and results. Simone has been appointed Deputy Chief of Staff and Chief Equity Officer to New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin-- an appointment that reflects both her extraordinary talent and her unwavering commitment to good governance. For years, Simone has been a driving force in the Bronx and across New York City. As Chief of Staff to Council Member Kevin C. Riley, she helped architect policies that empowered communities, strengthened City Council operations, and delivered meaningful change. Her leadership style is rooted in elevating people--building teams, forging partnerships, and turning vision into action. From her work alongside Speaker Carl Heastie to her leadership in organizations advancing Black women in politics, she has opened doors for others while holding herself to the highest standard of service. A mentor, a strategist, a community leader and a devoted mother, Simone Jones represents the very best of public service. New York City is stronger because of her leadership, and I look forward to seeing her continued success. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE151-4,2026-02-23,119,2,,,HONORING DAVID NELSON,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E151,E151,"[{""name"": ""Eleanor Holmes Norton"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E151,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E151] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING DAVID NELSON _____ HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON of the district of columbia in the house of representatives Monday, February 23, 2026 Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend David Nelson for his service at Amtrak. After 35 years of service at Amtrak, David will be retiring on March 2, 2026. David started his career as a computer systems manager for former House Majority Whip Tony Coelho. During that time, Congress passed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). After working in Congress, David began working at Amtrak. During his time at Amtrak, he has taught numerous employees and executives throughout the organization about the ADA. He was a catalyst for Amtrak's march toward accessibility when he started in 1990, and he has not stopped since. A tireless advocate for people with disabilities in transportation, David was an active member of the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) and received its Frederick C. Schrieber Distinguished Service Award in 2004, as well as the RIT 2015 Distinguished Alumni Award for the National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID). He represented NAD on numerous business and association accessibility councils, including at Amtrak, Northwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Greyhound Lines, Open Doors Organization and NTID Advisory Group. In his spare time, David served as president of the District of Columbia Association of the Deaf and the Florida School for the Deaf Alumni Association. While he is a proud alumnus of the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind, elementary and middle school were difficult years for David. He was mainstreamed in the local schools, where students were not permitted to use American Sign Language and were physically reprimanded for doing so. David's grandmother supported his transfer to the Florida School for the Deaf for high school, which set him on a path toward college and a career. David holds a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Systems from the Rochester Institute of Technology as well as an Associate's Degree in Data Processing from NTID. He has resided in the District of Columbia for approximately 40 years. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in thanking David Nelson for his contributions to Amtrak and our Nation. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE151-5,2026-02-23,119,2,,,"HONORING COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR CHARLES ""DOUG"" WALKER",HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E151,E152,,,172 Cong. Rec. E151,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E151-E152] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR CHARLES ``DOUG'' WALKER _____ HON. MATT VAN EPPS of tennessee in the house of representatives Monday, February 23, 2026 Mr. VAN EPPS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Command Sergeant Major Charles ``Doug'' Walker for his extraordinary service and steadfast dedication to the United States Army and to our Nation. Command Sergeant Major Walker joined the United States Army in 1998 as an Infantryman and immediately assessed into the elite 75th Ranger Regiment, where he spent his formative years as both a Soldier and a Non-Commissioned Officer. From the outset of his career, Command Sergeant Major Walker distinguished himself through discipline, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to mission and soldiers. Over the course of his 27-year career, Command Sergeant Major Walker has served in a wide range of critical assignments across United States Army Special Operations Command and XVIII Airborne Corps. His service includes assignments with the 75th Ranger Regiment, the 101st Airborne Division Air Assault, the 3rd Infantry Division, and the Asymmetric Warfare Group. Throughout these assignments, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, ultimately serving in every enlisted leadership position from Fire Team Leader to Division Command Sergeant Major. Command Sergeant Major Walker has deployed numerous times in support of the Global War on Terror, as well as on multiple worldwide deployments, answering the Nation's call whenever and wherever needed. His operational experience and battlefield leadership have left a lasting impact on the soldiers he led and the units he served. A lifelong professional, Command Sergeant Major Walker has completed all levels of the U.S. Army's Non-Commissioned Officer Education System. He is a graduate of Ranger School and has earned Airborne, Air Assault, Pathfinder, and Jumpmaster qualifications. In addition to his extensive military education, he holds a bachelor's degree in Organizational Leadership from the University of Oklahoma, reflecting his continued commitment to personal and professional development. Throughout his distinguished career, Command Sergeant Major Walker's service has been recognized with numerous awards and decorations, including, but not limited to, the Legion of Merit, three Bronze Star Medals, four Meritorious Service Medals, and the Valorous Unit Award, among many others. He [[Page E152]] has earned the Ranger Tab, Master Combat Infantryman's Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, and Air Assault Badge, symbolizing a career defined by excellence, sacrifice, and mastery of his profession. He is also a proud member of the Order of St. Maurice, the Order of St. Barbara, and the Order of Saint Michael--Airborne, and an honorary member of the Sergeant Audie Murphy Association. Without question, Command Sergeant Major Charles ``Doug'' Walker represents the very best of the Non-Commissioned Officer Corps. His leadership, professionalism, and devotion to soldiers have strengthened every formation he has served and have left an enduring legacy within the United States Army. I ask my colleagues to join me in expressing our deepest gratitude to Command Sergeant Major Walker for his exemplary service and for his unwavering commitment to the defense of our Nation. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE152-2,2026-02-23,119,2,,,PERSONAL EXPLANATION,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,PERSONALEXPLAIN,E152,E152,"[{""name"": ""Donald Norcross"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]","[{""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""HR"", ""number"": ""2189""}]",172 Cong. Rec. E152,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E152] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] PERSONAL EXPLANATION _____ HON. DONALD NORCROSS of new jersey in the house of representatives Monday, February 23, 2026 Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, during Roll Call vote No. 70 on H.R. 2189, I mistakenly recorded my vote as YEA when I should have voted NAY. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE152-3,2026-02-23,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E152,E152,"[{""name"": ""Lloyd Doggett"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E152,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E152] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE _____ HON. LLOYD DOGGETT of texas in the house of representatives Monday, February 23, 2026 Mr. DOGGETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a critical national resource that for 30 years has served as a lifeline for victims and survivors of domestic violence and relationship abuse across our country: the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Based in Austin, Texas, in my Congressional district, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is the only national hotline that operates 24/7, responding to all those in the U.S., its territories and military bases across the globe via phone, chat and text. These services are free and confidential. Authorized by the Violence Against Women Act of 1994 and funded through the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act, the National Domestic Violence Hotline was created to ensure that anyone experiencing relationship abuse would have a safe, confidential place to turn for help. On February 21, 1996, the National Domestic Violence Hotline answered its very first call--marking the beginning of a national commitment to listening to survivors, offering support without judgment, and helping people see pathways to safety and healing. Since that first call, The Hotline has served more than 7.8 million people through phone, chat and text--each contact representing courage, resilience and hope. Its highly trained advocates provide compassionate support, personalized safety planning, and connections to local resources, responding to thousands of contacts each day as the demand for services continues to grow. Thirty years later, The Hotline continues to experience incredibly high demand for its services. Every day, The Hotline receives nearly 3,000 calls from those needing crisis support and a path to safety--demand for services has more than doubled during the past decade. As the needs of survivors have evolved, The Hotline has implemented responsible, survivor-centered technology innovations--including expanded chat and text services and improved resource navigation to increase access, reduce barriers, and better meet demand nationwide. This 30-year milestone is not a celebration of the continued prevalence of domestic violence. The ongoing need for a national hotline is a sobering reminder that relationship abuse affects millions of people across every community, demographic, and geography. Survivors, particularly those from marginalized communities, often face compounded barriers to safety and support, and too many endure abuse in silence. But the courage of survivors is something worthy of recognition. Every day, individuals reach out to The Hotline, often for the first time, taking a brave step toward safety, healing, and freedom. The Hotline bears witness to that courage by offering hope, validation and practical support in moments of crisis. In addition to its core hotline services, The Hotline operates the National Dating Abuse Helpline, which provides 24/7/365 chat, text and phone support to help teens and young adults experiencing abuse or unhealthy dating situations. The Hotline also runs love is respect, a program dedicated to engaging, educating and empowering young people facing abusive or unhealthy relationships. I also wish to recognize the dedicated advocates who staff the National Domestic Violence Hotline and its programs. Their work requires extraordinary compassion, resilience, and skill, as they respond to heart-wrenching calls and messages with care and professionalism. Their commitment saves lives and strengthens families and communities across our Nation. For 30 years, the National Domestic Violence Hotline has stood as a beacon of hope--answering the call when it matters most. As we mark this 30th anniversary, we honor the survivors who inspire this work, the advocates who make it possible, and the enduring mission to ensure that everyone can live a life free from violence. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE152-4,2026-02-23,119,2,,,HONORING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ORDINATION OF REVEREND GEOFFREY B. CURTISS,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E152,E153,"[{""name"": ""Frank Pallone, Jr."", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E152,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E152-E153] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ORDINATION OF REVEREND GEOFFREY B. CURTISS _____ HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR. of new jersey in the house of representatives Monday, February 23, 2026 Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 50th anniversary of the ordination of Reverend Geoffrey B. Curtiss. Please join me and his parish, Trinity Church in Asbury Park, New Jersey, in celebrating this milestone of devotion and service of Reverend Curtiss in his priesthood. To Reverend Curtiss, priesthood is an opportunity to connect, teach, and empower his congregants for the better. For a significant period, Reverend Curtiss served at the All Saints Episcopal Parish in Hoboken, New Jersey. Admirably, Reverend Curtiss oversaw the consolidation of three local Episcopal churches and facilitated the bridging of communities complete with benevolent initiatives and ministries. In these spaces, Hudson County low-income youth were provided after-school resources, summer programing, and a partnership to the Jubilee Family Life Center. In 1982, as president of the Hoboken Clergy Coalition, Reverend Curtiss advocated and established the Hoboken Shelter for the Homeless. Throughout his tenure, Reverend Curtiss has taken to activism in numerous good-faith organizations for causes such as housing access, youth enrichment, racism, and urban renewal. These organizations have included the [[Page E153]] Hoboken North Hudson YMCA, Hoboken Rotary Club, Diocesan Council, Episcopal Urban Caucus, Department of Missions Board, the Commission to Dismantle Racism, and the Union City Renaissance Urban Renewal Associates. Today, Reverend Curtiss and his wife, Linda, retired to Bradley Beach, having owned their house here since 1985. Reverend Curtiss serves as an Assisting Priest at Trinity Church Episcopal Parish in Asbury Park. He is a volunteer at the Monmouth County New Jersey Reentry Corporation and the Monmouth Affordable Housing Coalition. He is also a board member of the human rights organization, Cristosal, where he continues his lifelong mission to support the dignity of every human being. Mr. Speaker, I sincerely hope that my colleagues will join me in honoring Reverend Geoffrey B. Curtiss for his lifetime dedication to his faith, advocacy, and community. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE152,2026-02-23,119,2,,,"HONORING WATCH COMMANDER RUBEN GARCIA, JR.",HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E152,E152,"[{""name"": ""Vicente Gonzalez"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E152,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E152] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING WATCH COMMANDER RUBEN GARCIA, JR. _____ HON. VICENTE GONZALEZ of texas in the house of representatives Monday, February 23, 2026 Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Watch Commander Ruben Garcia, Jr. for his distinguished 25 years of service with the United States Border Patrol. Watch Commander Garcia currently serves at the Harlingen Border Patrol Station, a role which he assumed on April 21, 2024. He previously served as Watch Commander at the Hebbronville Station beginning May 22, 2022. Since joining the U.S. Border Patrol on August 21, 2000, as a member of Class 448, he has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the mission and the men and women he leads. Promoted to Supervisory Border Patrol Agent in December 2008 at the McAllen Station, Mr. Garcia managed the Border Community Liaison program, served as an Intelligence Officer, and contributed to the Station and Sector Confined Space Entry Team. In addition to his many roles, he also established the first Border Patrol Explorer Post at the McAllen Station, reflecting his commitment to mentorship and community engagement. In 2016, he was selected to serve as a Special Operations Supervisor, overseeing the Rio Grande Valley Horse Patrol Unit and later coordinated the unit's participation in the 2017 Presidential Inauguration Parade in Washington, D.C. Throughout his career, Mr. Garcia has served in multiple leadership capacities, including Acting Deputy Patrol Agent in Charge at McAllen and Acting Assistant Chief at Headquarters over Specialty Programs. In this role, he coordinated the National Horse Patrol Program and earned a Commendation Medal for Meritorious Achievement. Mr. Garcia holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice with a minor in English from the University of Texas--Pan American and served eight years in the United States Army Reserves. Mr. Speaker, Watch Commander Ruben Garcia, Jr.'s career reflects integrity, professionalism, and a steadfast commitment to public service. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring his strong leadership and his enduring contributions to South Texas and our Nation. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE153-2,2026-02-23,119,2,,,HONORING RANDI MARTOS,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E153,E153,"[{""name"": ""Ritchie Torres"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E153,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E153] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING RANDI MARTOS _____ HON. RITCHIE TORRES of new york in the house of representatives Monday, February 23, 2026 Mr. TORRES of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable Bronxite and an extraordinary public servant, Randi Martos. Randi is a lifelong resident of Riverdale, a proud product of our public schools, PS 24, MS 141, and the Bronx High School of Science. Her love for community was born and raised in the Bronx, and deepened as she raised her son, determined to ensure that he and every child would have access to the very best our borough has to offer. Today, of all her titles, the one she cherishes most is Grandma. For more than 25 years, Randi has been a force for good in our borough. As Democratic District Leader for the 81st Assembly District, she served with distinction. As Chief of Staff to Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, she helped lead both district and Albany operations with skill and integrity. But perhaps her greatest legacy lies in our public schools. When parents demanded a local high school option, Randi led the charge to transform MS 141 into what is now the Riverdale Kingsbridge Academy, changing the lives of future generations. She went on to become the longest-serving Parents Association President in the Academy's history. From her leadership in local co-ops to her tireless community activism and her unwavering loyalty to the Bronx Bombers, Randi Martos embodies the very best of the Bronx and we are better because of her service. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE153-3,2026-02-23,119,2,,,HONORING PHYLLIS JOHNSON,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E153,E153,"[{""name"": ""Doris O. Matsui"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E153,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E153] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING PHYLLIS JOHNSON _____ HON. DORIS O. MATSUI of california in the house of representatives Monday, February 23, 2026 Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise today to honor the life of Phyllis Johnson, who passed away on January 13, 2026. Phyllis was a pillar of our community, and her life was marked by unwavering dedication and service to others. Ms. Johnson worked with California State Retirees, Chapter 2, in Sacramento. As a devoted member, she generously gave her time and energy in numerous leadership roles, serving as both President and Vice President, and contributing her talents on the Membership Committee. Phyllis had a deep passion for supporting fellow members and strengthening the organization she cared so deeply about. She was known for her steady leadership, her willingness to lend a helping hand, and her genuine concern for the well-being of others. In addition, Phyllis worked with SEIU Local 1000 as DLC 762 President and with the Sacramento Central Labor Council, where she was a tireless advocate. She also served as a member of the City of Galt Commission on Aging. Phyllis represented state workers, state retirees, working families, and seniors. Mr. Speaker, as family, friends, and the community gather to celebrate the life of Phyllis Johnson, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring her remarkable legacy of service and compassion. She will be deeply missed by all whose lives she touched. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE153-4,2026-02-23,119,2,,,HONORING JUDGE KEVIN KANE,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E153,E153,"[{""name"": ""Greg Stanton"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E153,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E153] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING JUDGE KEVIN KANE _____ HON. GREG STANTON of arizona in the house of representatives Monday, February 23, 2026 Mr. STANTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Judge Kevin Kane upon his retirement after more than four decades of distinguished service to the courts and to the people of Arizona. Over his 44-year legal career, Judge Kane earned a reputation as a fair, thoughtful, and compassionate jurist who understood that the justice system works best when it is both principled and humane. Judge Kane has a deep commitment to public service and to improving how courts serve their communities. His career spanned roles as a state supreme court law clerk, public defender, and municipal judge, including service on the bench in Utah, Phoenix, and Tempe. He was appointed to the Phoenix Municipal Court in 2006 and became the first openly gay judge to serve on that bench, following more than a decade of prior service as a staff attorney for the court. In 2016, he was appointed Presiding Judge of the Tempe Municipal Court, a role he has carried out with distinction for the past decade. Under Judge Kane's leadership, the Tempe Municipal Court became more efficient and accessible. He made it easier for people to navigate the legal system, including expanding remote court access and creating partnerships to connect individuals with vital city services. Judge Kane continued to carry a full judicial caseload while making these reforms, demonstrating his commitment to both effective leadership and fair administration of justice. Judge Kane is especially recognized for his work advancing ideas that help people solve problems instead of getting stuck in the justice system. He served as Presiding Judge of the Maricopa County Regional Homeless Court and currently chairs the East Valley Regional Veterans' Court, which brings together legal and treatment professionals to support veterans facing challenges such as post-traumatic stress. He also presided over Tempe's Mental Health Court, which helps individuals with mental illness or developmental disabilities receive the care and support they need. Judge Kane's impact on Arizona's justice system is lasting. He leaves behind stronger institutions and countless lives positively affected through his commitment to service with compassion. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Judge Kevin Kane on his retirement and in thanking him for a lifetime of service to Arizona and to the rule of law. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE153-5,2026-02-23,119,2,,,HONORING THE HEROIC MILITARY SERVICE OF SPECIALIST-5 MANUEL LEE CAMPBELL,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E153,E154,"[{""name"": ""Diana Harshbarger"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E153,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E153-E154] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE HEROIC MILITARY SERVICE OF SPECIALIST-5 MANUEL LEE CAMPBELL _____ HON. DIANA HARSHBARGER of tennessee in the house of representatives Monday, February 23, 2026 Mrs. HARSHBARGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the valiant military service of Manuel Lee Campbell of Johnson City in Washington County, Tennessee, or simply ``Lee'' for those who know him best. As a partner of the 50th Anniversary Vietnam War Commemoration, I had the honor of recognizing Lee in-person at one of our local ceremonies last year. SP-5 Campbell was drafted by the U.S. Army in September 1966, where he completed Basic Training and Advanced Infantry Training at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, and soon received orders to report to Oakland Army Base, [[Page E154]] California for deployment to Vietnam. He arrived at Bien Hoa Airbase, Vietnam and was transported to the 90th Replacement Battalion and then to the 199th Light Infantry Brigade Main Base in March 1967. He served as a Combat Infantry Radio Telephone Operator in Charlie Company, 4th Battalion, 12th Infantry. The company would deploy from base camp to ``the field'' on Eagle Flights by ``Huey'' helicopters and would then set up a Command Post, with most combat missions conducted at the platoon level. SP-5 Campbell has described his duties as endless Search & Destroy patrols through jungles and rice paddies during the day and setting up ambush defensive perimeters with 3-man positions at night. Despite the daunting challenges of the mission, which required contacting the elusive enemy, the Viet Cong (VC) Guerrilla forces, and surviving the ensuing firefights, SP-5 Campbell and the Charlie Company succeeded in gathering vital operations intelligence for the U.S. Army. On July 2, 1967, PFC Campbell was Wounded in Action in a firefight with the VC on a Search & Destroy patrol. For his bravery and sacrifice to our country, PFC Campbell received the Purple Heart. Despite his injury, PFC Campbell remained in Vietnam in service to our great Nation. While assigned to Headquarters Company at the 199th Infantry Brigade Main Base, shortly after midnight on January 30, 1968, SP-4 Campbell witnessed the infamous Tet Offensive begin, where the North Vietnamese Army and the Viet Cong launched a series of well-coordinated attacks on cities, towns, and large military bases all over South Vietnam. SP-4 Campbell courageously served as part of the last line of defense for Brigade Headquarters, and we thank him and his comrades for ensuring our enemy never broke through the Brigade's perimeter defenses. Finally in March 1968, SP-5 Campbell returned to the 90th Replacement Battalion and back to the Bien Hoa Airbase for the flight home. Please stand with me to honor SP-5 Campbell for his bravery and dedication, which will always be treasured by our Nation, our community in East Tennessee, and everyone who knows him. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE153,2026-02-23,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING ROHRER SEEDS FOR THEIR CENTURY OF SERVICE,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E153,E153,"[{""name"": ""Lloyd Smucker"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E153,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E153] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING ROHRER SEEDS FOR THEIR CENTURY OF SERVICE _____ HON. LLOYD SMUCKER of pennsylvania in the house of representatives Monday, February 23, 2026 Mr. SMUCKER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and congratulate Rohrer Seeds, of Smoketown in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, for over a century in business. Rohrer Seeds began in 1919 when P.L. Rohrer bought the business he worked for and introduced a mail-order seed catalog. Four years later, P.L. Rohrer built the company's retail store and headquarters in Smoketown, where it remains to this day. What began as a small seed store has since adapted to the changes in both the market and in Lancaster County. While the customer base was once mostly agricultural, Rohrer Seeds shifted and found success in gardening and lawncare. Today, Rohrer Seeds sells hundreds of different kinds of seeds, alongside gardening and lawn supplies, to customers and other businesses. Their original service, the mail order catalogue, is still released annually and attracts customers from across the region. Rohrer Seeds continues to be family-owned and is led by P.L. Rohrer's great-grandson, Doug Rohrer. Few businesses can say they have lasted a century, and even fewer can say that they have remained family owned during that time. I congratulate Rohrer Seeds for their longevity, and I appreciate the services that they have provided to generations of constituents. I wish them another century of success. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE154-2,2026-02-23,119,2,,,HONORING THE 37TH ANNUAL HANDS ACROSS THE BORDER CEREMONY,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E154,E154,"[{""name"": ""Vicente Gonzalez"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E154,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E154] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE 37TH ANNUAL HANDS ACROSS THE BORDER CEREMONY _____ HON. VICENTE GONZALEZ of texas in the house of representatives Monday, February 23, 2026 Mr. VICENTE GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 37th annual Hands Across the Border ceremony, a cherished tradition that honors the deep friendship and shared cultural heritage between Brownsville, Texas, and Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico. Each year, community leaders from both cities gather at the Gateway International Bridge, transforming a point of separation into a powerful symbol of unity. The ceremony includes the release of doves, the exchange of gifts between children, and the recognition of distinguished members of the community. This event coincides with Brownsville's Charro Days Fiesta, Sombrero Festival, and Fiestas Mexicanas, which commemorate our community's ties to Mexican culture. These cultural festivals were established by the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce in 1964 to strengthen cross-border relations. This shortly followed the creation of the Mr. Amigo Association to honor distinguished Mexican citizens who foster goodwill and friendship with the United States. Since 1969, when Lic. Jorge Perez y Bouras was recognized as the first Mr. Amigo honoree, many notable individuals, including Juan Gabriel, Vicente Fernandez, and Lola Beltran, have been celebrated for their cultural diplomacy and binational goodwill. These events are integral to the continuity of the relationship between Matamoros and Brownsville. Mr. Speaker, the Hands Across the Border celebration stands as an enduring symbols of unity, heritage, and cooperation between Brownsville and Matamoros. These events are integral to preserving the strong cultural and economic bonds that define the Rio Grande Valley and our relationship with Mexico. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE154-3,2026-02-23,119,2,,,HONORING MIGUELINA CAMILO,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E154,E155,"[{""name"": ""Ritchie Torres"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E154,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E154-E155] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING MIGUELINA CAMILO _____ HON. RITCHIE TORRES of new york in the house of representatives Monday, February 23, 2026 Mr. TORRES of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Miguelina Camilo on her historic appointment as Chief of Staff in the New York City Council Speaker's Office. This is not only a personal achievement, but a milestone for the Bronx, for New York City, and for the Dominican-American community that helped shape her journey. Most recently, Miguelina served as Counsel to Speaker Heastie of the New York State Assembly, where she played critical roles in overseeing legislative initiatives, coordinating across agencies, and engaging with community members. She was key in leading discussions with the Executive on funding much needed discovery reform. Her work strengthened our justice system and delivered real results for New Yorkers. Before that, Miguelina was a transformative leader in the nonprofit and legal community--serving as President of the Bronx Chapter of 100 Hispanic Women, the Bronx Women's Bar Association, and the Dominican Bar Association. She mentored young people, elevated legal professionals, and set a standard of excellence grounded in integrity and service. Miguelina Camilo has spent a lifetime serving her city. I have no doubt she will bring the same dedication and rigor to the Speaker's Office. New York City is better for it. [[Page E155]] ____________________" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE154,2026-02-23,119,2,,,TRIBUTE TO BRUNO MAESTRI,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,TRIBUTETO,E154,E154,"[{""name"": ""James E. Clyburn"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E154,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E154] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] TRIBUTE TO BRUNO MAESTRI _____ HON. JAMES E. CLYBURN of south carolina in the house of representatives Monday, February 23, 2026 Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor a dedicated public servant and steadfast champion of America's transportation system, Mr. Bruno Maestri, on his retirement from Amtrak on January 30, 2026. After decades of distinguished service in the railroad industry and in the halls of government, Bruno Maestri leaves behind a legacy defined by integrity, bipartisanship, and an unwavering commitment to strengthening our Nation's passenger network. I have known Bruno for many years, and I can say without hesitation that he is a gentleman in a town where that is not always a common or easy attribute. His professionalism, humility, and steady demeanor have earned him the respect of colleagues on both sides of the aisle and throughout the transportation community. Since joining Amtrak in 2019 as Vice President for Government Affairs and Corporate Communications, Bruno has led the company's federal, state, and community outreach with exceptional skill and integrity. He strengthened relationships with key stakeholders, including the freight railroads over which many of Amtrak's routes operate, and ensured that the voice of America's Railroad was heard clearly and constructively across all levels of government. His thoughtful engagement elevated Amtrak's national reputation and reinforced its public service mission. Bruno has been instrumental in representing Amtrak before both the legislative and executive branches. His ability to build trusted, bipartisan relationships has been essential to advancing the company's priorities. During his tenure, Amtrak secured historic levels of public investment--resources now modernizing infrastructure, expanding service, and improving safety and reliability for millions of passengers nationwide. These achievements will strengthen passenger rail for decades to come. He also played a pivotal role in raising the visibility of passenger rail as a vital component of America's transportation network. Working closely with policymakers and community leaders, Bruno championed efforts to expand and enhance service so that Americans in both urban and rural communities could benefit from a more modern and connected rail system. During the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bruno's steady leadership proved indispensable. In a time of uncertainty, he ensured clear and consistent communication with employees, customers, policymakers, and partners. His work helped guide Amtrak through one of the most difficult periods in the history of the transportation industry and positioned the company for recovery. Prior to joining Amtrak, Bruno served for 24 years in senior leadership roles at Norfolk Southern Corporation, overseeing federal and state government affairs and coordinating regulatory engagement with key agencies. His deep expertise and professionalism have long been recognized throughout the rail industry. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our colleagues join me in honoring Bruno Maestri as he embarks on his well-earned retirement. As Bruno begins this next chapter--spending more time with his family in Chincoteague and cheering on his beloved Washington Nationals--we thank him for a career marked by service, partnership, and perseverance. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE155-2,2026-02-23,119,2,,,SENATE COMMITTEE MEETINGS,SENATE,EXTENSIONS,ESENATECOMMITTEE,E155,E155,,"[{""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""SRES"", ""number"": ""4""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""SRES"", ""number"": ""4""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""1552""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""1558""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""1602""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""1782""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""3315""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""3394""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""3397""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""3398""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""3747""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""S"", ""number"": ""3798""}, {""congress"": ""119"", ""type"": ""HR"", ""number"": ""6719""}]",172 Cong. Rec. E155,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E155] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] SENATE COMMITTEE MEETINGS Title IV of Senate Resolution 4, agreed to by the Senate of February 4, 1977, calls for establishment of a system for a computerized schedule of all meetings and hearings of Senate committees, subcommittees, joint committees, and committees of conference. This title requires all such committees to notify the Office of the Senate Daily Digest--designated by the Rules Committee--of the time, place and purpose of the meetings, when scheduled and any cancellations or changes in the meetings as they occur. As an additional procedure along with the computerization of this information, the Office of the Senate Daily Digest will prepare this information for printing in the Extensions of Remarks section of the Congressional Record on Monday and Wednesday of each week. Meetings scheduled for Tuesday, February 24, 2026 may be found in the Daily Digest of today's Record. MEETINGS SCHEDULED FEBRUARY 25 9:30 a.m. Committee on Energy and Natural Resources To hold hearings to examine the nominations of Stevan Pearce, of New Mexico, to be Director of the Bureau of Land Management, Kyle Haustveit, of North Dakota, to be Under Secretary of Energy, and David LaCerte, of Louisiana, to be a Member of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. SD-366 10 a.m. Committee on Environment and Public Works To hold hearings to examine Water Resources Development Act of 2026, focusing on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects, programs, and priorities. SD-562 Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions To hold hearings to examine the nomination of Casey Means, of California, to be Medical Director in the Regular Corps of the Public Health Service, subject to qualifications therefor as provided by law and regulations, and to be Surgeon General of the Public Health Service for a term of four years. SD-430 10:15 a.m. Committee on the Judiciary To hold hearings to examine certain pending nominations. SD-G50 2:30 p.m. Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship To hold hearings to examine from fraud to recovery, focusing on restoring integrity in small business programs. SR-428A 3 p.m. Select Committee on Intelligence To receive a closed briefing on certain intelligence matters. SH-219 FEBRUARY 26 9:30 a.m. Committee on Armed Services To hold hearings to examine the nominations of Mark Ditlevson, of Minnesota, and Brian Birdwell, of Texas, both to be an Assistant Secretary of Defense. SD-G50 Special Committee on Aging To hold hearings to examine FDA bureaucracy, focusing on regulator to roadblock. SH-216 10 a.m. Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs To hold hearings to examine an update from the Prudential regulators, focusing on rightsizing regulation to promote American opportunity. SD-538 Committee on Foreign Relations To receive a closed briefing on tech competition, critical minerals, and supply chain security. SVC-217 Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Business meeting to consider S. 1602, to coordinate Federal research and development efforts focused on modernizing mathematics in STEM education through mathematical and statistical modeling, including data- driven and computational thinking, problem, project, and performance-based learning and assessment, interdisciplinary exploration, and career connections, S. 1558, to require a standard financial aid offer form, S. 3747, to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to recognize students who have completed secondary school education in a home school setting as high school graduates, S. 1782, to prohibit discrimination on the basis of mental or physical disability in cases of organ transplants, S. 1552, to promote and protect from discrimination living organ donors, S. 3315, to require the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency to coordinate to improve cybersecurity in the health care and public health sectors, and other pending business. SD-430 10:15 a.m. Committee on the Judiciary Business meeting to consider H.R. 6719, to prohibit threats to a minor, S. 3398, to amend title 18, United States Code, to criminalize intentional threats to distribute child sexual abuse material, and to provide appropriate penalties for the use of child sexual abuse material to extort or coerce victims, S. 3397, to make coercion of children to commit harm a criminal offense, S. 3394, to direct the United States Sentencing Commission to amend the sentencing guideline relating to child sexual abuse material, S. 3798, to amend title 18, United States Code, to establish criminal offenses with respect to violations involving ATMs, regardless of whether the ATM is located on the physical premises of a financial institution, and the nomination of Gregory Gilmore, to be United States Attorney for the Central District of Illinois. SD-106 MARCH 3 10 a.m. Committee on Veterans' Affairs To hold a joint hearing with the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs to examine the legislative presentation of Veterans of Foreign Wars and multi VSOs. SD-G50 MARCH 4 10 a.m. Committee on Veterans' Affairs To hold a joint hearing with the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs to examine the legislative presentation of the American Legion and multi VSOs. SD-G50" CREC-2026-02-23-pt1-PgE155,2026-02-23,119,2,,,INTRODUCTION OF THE McINTIRE-STENNIS ACT DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA EQUALITY ACT,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,ALLOTHER,E155,E155,"[{""name"": ""Eleanor Holmes Norton"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E155,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E155] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] INTRODUCTION OF THE McINTIRE-STENNIS ACT DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA EQUALITY ACT _____ HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON of the district of columbia in the house of representatives Monday, February 23, 2026 Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, today, I introduce the McIntire-Stennis Act District of Columbia Equality Act, which would make the District of Columbia eligible for funding under the McIntire-Stennis Cooperative Forestry Act (Act) in the same manner as states. The Act provides funding to states and certain territories for forestry research programs. The funding assists states and territories in carrying out forestry research programs at state forestry schools and colleges and developing a trained pool of forest scientists capable of conducting forestry research. D.C. residents pay the same federal taxes as residents of states and therefore D.C. is almost always treated as a state under federal programs. The Act defines ``State'' to include Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and Guam, whose residents do not pay full federal taxes. D.C.'s exclusion from the Act makes it ineligible for funding that would support research at D.C.'s public university, the University of the District of Columbia (UDC). The College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability and Environmental Sciences at UDC, the Nation's only urban land-grant university, offers programs that complement D.C.'s ongoing forestry efforts and serve individuals in D.C. and beyond. Rectifying D.C.'s exclusion from the Act would ensure equal treatment for D.C. and provide UDC a fair share of resources. I urge my colleagues to support this bill. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE143-2,2026-02-20,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING MEMBERS OF THE CHRISCOE FAMILY,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E143,E143,"[{""name"": ""Virginia Foxx"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E143,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E143] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING MEMBERS OF THE CHRISCOE FAMILY ______ HON. VIRGINIA FOXX of north carolina in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to take the opportunity today to recognize members of the Chriscoe family for their outstanding generosity, service, and dedication to their faith. I had the pleasure of meeting the Chriscoes during their visit from Summerfield to the Capitol and was amazed by their commitment to using their gifts to celebrate and share the message of the Lord through their work in the Only God Choir and Ministries. Music has been a touchstone of faith for the Chriscoe family through generations, and daughters Laura and Claire have sung in the Only God Choir for years, sharing God's message through beautiful music that has touched listeners across the country and the world. Mr. and Mrs. Chriscoe, Ajay and Trish, have blessed countless students by opening their home and their hearts, offering their talents to provide the crucial support that makes the vision of ministry a reality. With tens of thousands of miles of travel and countless hours of service behind them, the Chriscoe family has helped the message of the Only God Choir and Ministries reach over 2 million people. As they are closing this chapter of their service with the Only God Choir and Ministries, I am confident that they will remain a living testament to the value of heeding the command to store our treasures not on earth, but in heaven. I wish them the best in all their future endeavors. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE143-3,2026-02-20,119,2,,,HONORING THE BERA FAMILY,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E143,E143,"[{""name"": ""J. Luis Correa"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E143,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E143] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE BERA FAMILY ______ HON. J. LUIS CORREA of california in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the work of the Bera Family and their multigenerational commitment to service, education, and community. This family legacy began with Kanta and Babulal Bera, who immigrated to the United States from Gujarat, India in the 1950s. Kanta and Babulal believed that education is the path to opportunity. They worked multiple jobs while pursuing graduate degrees and raising three sons, Raja, Dr. Rimal Bera (Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the University of California, Irvine Department of Psychiatry), and Congressman Ami Bera. The Beras' dedication to global health has spanned a variety of impactful projects not only in Orange County, but to the other side of the world in India. From starting an all-girls school in India that has graduated more than 7,000 students to supporting health and housing efforts throughout southern California, the Beras have expanded opportunities for countless communities. Two generations of the Beras have attended the UCI School of Medicine, and UCI is now the foundation of the family's key accomplishment--to support future physicians. In 2020, the Beras donated $100,000 to the UCI School of Medicine to permanently support medical students traveling to Rajkot, India. These aspiring physicians are not only able to experience a global clinical environment, but they are also able to work in underserved communities, collaborate with local medical providers, and extend the reach of medicine beyond individual patient care. The personal history of the Bera Family and their inspiring legacy is a reminder that we all have a responsibility to dedicate ourselves to building a stronger, kinder, and better community. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE143-4,2026-02-20,119,2,,,"HONORING DELLA HAMMOND, LAPEER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CITIZEN OF THE YEAR",HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E143,E143,"[{""name"": ""Lisa C. McClain"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E143,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E143] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING DELLA HAMMOND, LAPEER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CITIZEN OF THE YEAR ______ HON. LISA C. McCLAIN of michigan in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Della Hammond, the 2026 Lapeer Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year, and to commend her for decades of dedicated service and leadership in her community. For more than 20 years, Ms. Hammond served on the board of directors of the Human Development Commission, where she helped advance programs supporting vulnerable families, including Early Head Start, senior nutrition services, emergency sheltering, and winterization assistance. She also played an active role in fundraising efforts such as Walk for Warmth, helping families facing Michigan's harsh winters. An active member of Grace Episcopal Church, Ms. Hammond volunteers in the soup kitchen, supports charitable outreach during Lapeer Days, and leads her church's participation in Holiday Depot to ensure families in need experience the joy of the Christmas season. A founding member of the Lapeer County Community Foundation, she helped establish a lasting legacy of scholarships and community grants, including the creation of the Women's Fund to support women and children. Her service also includes involvement with Love INC, the Business and Professional Women's Club of Lapeer, and leadership within her church's women's organization, supporting causes such as The Refuge, Stone Soup Food Bank, and the Lapeer City Police Officers Charitable Fund. Della Hammond exemplifies the very best of citizenship. Her compassion, leadership, and lifelong commitment to service have made Lapeer County stronger. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Della Hammond on this well-deserved honor. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE143-5,2026-02-20,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING THE CITY OF BROOKSVILLE,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E143,E143,"[{""name"": ""Gus M. Bilirakis"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E143,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E143] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING THE CITY OF BROOKSVILLE ______ HON. GUS M. BILIRAKIS of florida in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the City of Brooksville as it commemorates the 170th anniversary of its founding. This significant milestone offers an opportunity to reflect upon the city's rich history, enduring spirit, and the generations of citizens who have shaped Brooksville into the vibrant community it is today. For 170 years, Brooksville has stood as a testament to resilience, civic pride, and a deep respect for tradition, while continually embracing progress and growth. From its earliest days to the present, the city has served as a place where neighbors support one another, local institutions thrive, and a strong sense of community binds residents together. Brooksville's history is reflected not only in its historic landmarks and longstanding neighborhoods, but also in the character of its people--those who have worked to build local businesses, serve in public office, educate future generations, and contribute to the cultural and economic vitality of the region. The city's commitment to preserving its heritage while preparing for the future is a model of responsible and thoughtful community development. As Brooksville celebrates its 170th anniversary, it is fitting to recognize the contributions of its past and present residents, civic leaders, educators, first responders, and volunteers whose dedication has ensured the city's continued success. Their collective efforts have strengthened Brooksville and positioned it for continued prosperity in the years ahead. I extend my sincere congratulations to the City of Brooksville and its residents on this historic occasion. I commend them for 170 years of achievement and wish them continued growth, unity, and success for generations to come. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE143-6,2026-02-20,119,2,,,CELEBRATING THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HARP PROGRAM,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,CELEBRATING,E143,E144,"[{""name"": ""Robert J. Wittman"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E143,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E143-E144] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] CELEBRATING THE 10TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HARP PROGRAM ______ HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN of virginia in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 10-year anniversary of the Helping Addicts Recover Progressively (HARP) Program in Chesterfield County, Virginia. Launched in 2016, Sheriff Karl Leonard initiated the program after recognizing the alarming rate of overdose deaths in his own county. HARP is a transformative initiative that is making a real difference in the lives of individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Since the program's establishment, HARP has instituted a multi- faceted approach to behavioral modification. Their approach is based [[Page E144]] on a unique combination of tools and techniques that are peer driven, professionally guided, and spiritually based. As news spread of HARP's devotion to both those incarcerated and former program participants, incarcerated individuals from other jail systems began to request transfers to Chesterfield specifically to join the program. HARP's commitment to compassion, innovation, and excellence has strengthened Virginia's First District and improved the lives of countless individuals and families. They place a large emphasis on former participants as well, helping them gain access to recovery housing and allowing them to return to therapy sessions and group meetings. HARP offers a hopeful alternative to tragedy for families affected by addiction. They represent a proactive partnership between local government, health professionals, and community stakeholders dedicated to reducing the devastating impact of substance use disorders. I am proud of the work being done by Sheriff Karl Leonard and all those involved in HARP's implementation. Their efforts are a reminder that compassionate, evidence-based approaches can save lives and build stronger communities. Mr. Speaker, I ask you and my colleagues to join me in honoring the 10-year anniversary of the Chesterfield County HARP Program as it continues to address critical social and spiritual needs, and strive to help treat not just symptoms, but the root causes of addiction. I wish Sheriff Karl Leonard, along with the entire HARP team, all the best as they continue to serve the community. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE144-2,2026-02-20,119,2,,,CELEBRATING THE GARDENING GAYS FARM'S COMMUNITY IMPACT,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,CELEBRATING,E144,E144,"[{""name"": ""Eugene Simon Vindman"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E144,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E144] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] CELEBRATING THE GARDENING GAYS FARM'S COMMUNITY IMPACT ______ HON. EUGENE SIMON VINDMAN of virginia in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. VINDMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Gardening Gays Farm of King George County, Virginia, on earning multiple honors in the 2026 King George ``KG Best of the Best'' Awards, a community- driven recognition of outstanding local businesses. Through the votes of their neighbors and customers, Gardening Gays Farm was recognized in several categories, including best customer service, best family-owned business, best small business, best agriculture or farm business, best grocery or convenience store. This recognition reflects their outstanding service, quality, and community engagement. Their success is a testament to the dedication, innovation, and integrity that define this family-owned farm. I had the pleasure of visiting Gardening Gays Farm and witnessed firsthand the passion and hard work that have made it such a beloved local institution. From their commitment to sustainable farming practices to the welcoming atmosphere that they create for families across the region, it is clear why so many in King George County hold them in such high regard. Small businesses like Gardening Gays Farm are the backbone of our rural communities and an essential part of Virginia's proud agricultural heritage. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the owners and team at Gardening Gays Farm on these well-deserved honors and wishing them continued success in the years ahead. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE144-3,2026-02-20,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING PATRICK KELIHER,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E144,E144,"[{""name"": ""Chellie Pingree"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E144,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E144] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING PATRICK KELIHER ______ HON. CHELLIE PINGREE of maine in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Ms. PINGREE. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to recognize Patrick Keliher as the 2025 recipient of the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission's Captain David H. Hart Award. This recognition honors Pat's remarkable leadership and contributions toward improving Atlantic Coast marine fisheries. As former Commissioner of the Maine Department of Marine Resources, Pat spearheaded countless initiatives--from restoring passage for sea- run fish species like Atlantic salmon to rebuilding working waterfront properties after historic storms ravaged our coast. His efforts have strengthened our environment, commercial fisheries, and coastal communities. While Commissioner, Pat engaged stakeholders on some of the toughest issues facing our state. He worked diligently to understand the concerns of Maine's fishing communities and translate those concerns and recommendations into public policy. He skillfully facilitated a pause on federal whale regulations and continuously explored opportunities to protect Maine's heritage lobster industry, while securing funding for broader fisheries and marine mammal research. Further, he helped steer Maine's fisheries and marine economy through crisis during the pandemic. Pat embodies transformative public service. His tireless work ethic, commitment to the health of our coast and coastal economy, and collaboration across industries have made our state a better place in innumerable ways. I could not imagine a more deserving recipient of this honor. I commend Pat for his unparalleled career of service and congratulate him on this award. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE144-4,2026-02-20,119,2,,,"HONORING LUIS FRANCISCO RAMOS RAMIREZ, BREVARD COUNTY'S JANUARY VETERAN OF THE MONTH",HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E144,E145,"[{""name"": ""Mike Haridopolos"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E144,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E144-E145] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING LUIS FRANCISCO RAMOS RAMIREZ, BREVARD COUNTY'S JANUARY VETERAN OF THE MONTH ______ HON. MIKE HARIDOPOLOS of florida in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. HARIDOPOLOS. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor Luis Francisco Ramos Ramirez, who has been selected as January's Brevard County Veteran of the Month. Mr. Ramos Ramirez proudly served our Nation in the United States Army, answering the call to duty during a critical moment in our history. He served for three years, including time in Vietnam, where he conducted reconnaissance missions--some of the most dangerous and demanding assignments in combat. Not only did he serve honorably, but he also volunteered to remain in Vietnam for additional time, demonstrating extraordinary courage and selflessness. For his service, Mr. Ramos Ramirez earned the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal--decorations that reflect both valor and sacrifice. [[Page E145]] Like so many of our veterans, his legacy extends beyond the uniform. His commitment to protecting our freedoms reminds us that the liberties we enjoy today were secured by Americans willing to put country before self. On behalf of Florida's Space Coast and a grateful Nation, we thank Luis Francisco Ramos Ramirez for his service, his sacrifice, and his example. It is an honor to recognize him here today. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE144,2026-02-20,119,2,,,HONORING KOREAN WAR ARMY VETERAN EARL SEELOW,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E144,E144,"[{""name"": ""Elise M. Stefanik"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E144,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E144] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING KOREAN WAR ARMY VETERAN EARL SEELOW ______ HON. ELISE M. STEFANIK of new york in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor United States Army Veteran Earl Seelow. Earl Seelow was born on October 20, 1932, in Edinburg, New York, to his parents, Edwin and Flora Seelow. He was raised in the same close- knit community that he would continue to serve throughout his life. Earl entered the United States Army on November 13, 1952. He trained as an Infantryman and was deployed to Korea as a replacement soldier. He was assigned to Company E, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, where he served for the duration of the Korean War. During his service, Earl fought in two of the most intense engagements of the conflict in the fierce Third Korean Winter campaign, including the Battles of Pork Chop Hill and Old Baldy. Earl was honorably discharged on November 12, 1954, at the rank of Technical Sergeant. For his courageous service, he was awarded the Korean Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, two Overseas Bars, the United Nations Service Medal, the Combat Infantry Badge, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Emblem. Following his military service, Earl married the love of his life, Valerie, on April 21, 1956. They shared 67 years of marriage and raised four sons together. Earl built a long and steady career at the International Paper Company in Corinth, where he worked for nearly 37 years before retiring in 1994. During that time, he served as a UPIU Union Officer for 22 years. After serving our country, Earl returned home to serve his community. He served with the Edinburg Fire Department as the Assistant Fire Chief, managed the Community Bowling Center, served as Corinth Town Assessor for five years, worked as a crossing guard for the Corinth School, and later worked alongside his son Jim at the Olde Saratoga Brewing Company for 12 years. Earl dedicated more than 52 years to Corinth Little League as a coach, umpire, and Executive Board member. He was a member of Free and Accepted Masons Lodge 22, Shriners Valley of Albany, Oriental Temple of Troy, American Legion Post 533, and the New York State Assessors' Association. His life reflected steady leadership, service, and commitment to others. On behalf of New York, I am honored to recognize Korean War Army Veteran Technical Sergeant Earl Seelow. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE145-2,2026-02-20,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING UNITED STATES NAVY PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS KATRINA GRAMER,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E145,E145,"[{""name"": ""Lisa C. McClain"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E145,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E145] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING UNITED STATES NAVY PETTY OFFICER SECOND CLASS KATRINA GRAMER ______ HON. LISA C. McCLAIN of michigan in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Petty Officer Second Class Katrina Gramer for her honorable service to the United States Navy and her unwavering dedication to supporting our veteran community. Her service in uniform and her continued dedication to fellow veterans represents the very best of our service members and the values they uphold. It is my privilege to recognize her as our February 2026 Veteran of the Month. A native of Port Huron, Michigan, Petty Officer Gramer enlisted in the United States Navy in 1999. She completed basic training at Great Lakes, Illinois, and went on to attend Anti-Submarine Warfare Training School in San Diego, California, where she trained as a Sonar Technician. Her first duty station was in Yokosuka, Japan. While her ship was operating in the Middle East, the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, occurred. In the days that followed, her ship launched some of the first Tomahawk cruise missiles into Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, answering our Nation's call during a defining moment in American history. She later served in California, continuing her dedicated service. Throughout her time in uniform, Petty Officer Gramer earned numerous military honors, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy Unit Commendation, National Defense Service Medal, and Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. These awards recognize her hard work and the strong performance of the units she served with. Following her honorable discharge in 2005, Mrs. Gramer continued to pursue excellence. She earned two degrees: one in Early Childhood Development and another in Business Administration. She successfully operated a home childcare business while raising her three children. Once her children reached school age, she discovered a new calling: serving those who have served. Mrs. Gramer has devoted herself to supporting veterans and their families. She has held leadership positions within her local Veterans of Foreign Wars Post, maintains membership in her local American Legion Post, and has served as both Co-Director and Vice President of a local veterans' resource center. She is an active member of her local honor guard, where she performs live taps at services and provides honors at football games, ceremonies, and parades, ensuring that the sacrifices of our service members are remembered with dignity and respect. Today, she serves as a Veteran Service Officer for the Vietnam Veterans of America Michigan State Council. In this role, she assists veterans, their families, surviving spouses, and caregivers in navigating the VA benefits system. She takes great pride in ensuring that those who served our Nation receive the benefits and recognition they have earned. Mrs. Gramer currently resides in Holly, Michigan with her husband, their three children, and their beloved pets, including her trained service dog, Tinkerbell. She is a proud Navy mother, as her oldest child currently serves on active duty, carrying forward the family's strong tradition of military service. Together, their family enjoys camping, kayaking, bonfires, and sharing meals with one another. Mr. Speaker, Petty Officer Second Class Katrina Gramer's commitment to service extends far beyond her time in uniform. Through her leadership, advocacy, and tireless work on behalf of veterans and their families, she continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served our nation. It is my great privilege to recognize her dedication and to honor her as our February 2026 Veteran of the Month. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE145-3,2026-02-20,119,2,,,HONORING MAYOR CHARLES HARVEY,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E145,E146,"[{""name"": ""Bennie G. Thompson"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E145,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E145-E146] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING MAYOR CHARLES HARVEY ______ HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON of mississippi in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mayor Charles Harvey for his dedication to his community, Bolivar County and surrounding areas. Charles Harvey served as Mayor of Duncan, Mississippi, for over 30 years, making him one of the longest-serving municipal leaders in the region. His decades of service reflect sustained trust from the community and a deep commitment to the town's well-being. Under Mayor Harvey's leadership, the Town of Duncan was recognized as a ``Healthy Hometown'' through a statewide program, showcasing the town's efforts to improve health and wellness for residents. The initiative included developing a walking trail along a former railroad bed, promoting outdoor activity and healthy living among all ages. This work was supported by grants and community engagement and involved events like walking clubs and ``Walk to School Day,'' making health a priority in local policy. Duncan received a Healthy Hometown award, reflecting ongoing efforts to create spaces and programs that encourage physical activity and general wellness. Though detailed public records of specific housing projects in Duncan are limited due to the town's small size, Mayor Harvey has consistently voiced concerns about housing and worked to address community needs. His long tenure suggests ongoing engagement with issues like property conditions, residential opportunities, and community stability common priorities in small rural towns where housing quality and availability directly affect residents retention and quality of life. Mayor Harvey's longstanding service has also been characterized by his role as a community advocate and organizer--bringing residents together for initiatives that improve quality of life and supporting and partnerships for health and housing-related projects. His involvement in statewide wellness programs brought recognition and resources to Duncan that might otherwise not have been accessible. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mayor Charles Harvey for his unwavering dedication to the people of his community, this great state, and our Nation. [[Page E146]] ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE145,2026-02-20,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING MADELINE BROBST RECEIVING A PERFECT SCORE ON THE ACT,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E145,E145,"[{""name"": ""Robert J. Wittman"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E145,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E145] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING MADELINE BROBST RECEIVING A PERFECT SCORE ON THE ACT ______ HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN of virginia in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to formally recognize an exceptional young student, Madeline Brobst, a senior at Franklin Christian Academy who has received a perfect composite score of 36 on the ACT exam. Through disciplined study, steady composure during examinations, and unwavering commitment of time and talent, Ms. Brobst has achieved academic success and joined the ranks of the best and brightest students in Tennessee and our country. In addition to her intellectual capability, Ms. Brobst serves as a mentor to eighth grade students at Franklin Christian Academy; she is a member of the Student Leadership Team, National Honor Society, and the worship team during school chapel services. During her time at Franklin Christian Academy, Ms. Brobst has participated in numerous theatrical and musical productions. It is with great distinction and pride that I honor Madeline for achieving a perfect ACT score, a remarkable feat accomplished by only a very small percentage of students nationwide. This achievement places her among the most academically accomplished students in our country and reflects a level of brilliance that is truly commendable. Earning a perfect score on the ACT is a testament to remarkable intellectual ability, diligent preparation, and an unparalleled commitment to academic excellence. It demonstrates not only mastery across English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science, but also the persistence, focus, and determination required to perform at the highest level under rigorous testing conditions. Madeline's dedication to learning and pursuing the highest standards of performance speaks to both her exceptional aptitude and her strong character. Achievements of this caliber do not occur by chance; they are the result of sustained hard work, personal sacrifice, and a devoted commitment to excellence. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Madeline Brobst on this milestone of academic distinction. We commend her for this outstanding accomplishment and look forward with confidence to the many successes that will undoubtedly follow in her academic and professional journey. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE146-2,2026-02-20,119,2,,,CONGRATULATING THE LATINO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF PUEBLO DINNER DANCE AWARDEES,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,CONGRATULATIONS,E146,E146,"[{""name"": ""Jeff Hurd"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E146,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E146] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] CONGRATULATING THE LATINO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF PUEBLO DINNER DANCE AWARDEES ______ HON. JEFF HURD of colorado in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. HURD of Colorado. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 47th Annual Latino Chamber of Commerce of Pueblo Dinner Dance Awardees for 2025. Over the past 47 years, the Latino Chamber of Commerce of Pueblo has grown into a well-respected and accomplished organization that continues to support and strengthen small businesses in the Pueblo community. I congratulate this year's awardees: Caitlin Alcon, for the Victor Navarro Outstanding Board Member of the Year; Dr. Chato Hazelbaker for the Gil Sanchez Outstanding Professional of the Year; Pueblo City- County Library District, for the Lorraine K. Salas Outstanding Community Partner of the Year; Vectra Bank Colorado, Outstanding Corporate Member of the Year; Rebecca Gomez, Gil Padilla Outstanding Ambassador of the Year; El Pomar Foundation, Outstanding Non-Profit Member of the Year; and Freddie Martinez Agency, for the Joseph P. Roybal Outstanding Small Business of the Year. I congratulate all the awardees and to the Chamber for their tireless efforts in the Pueblo community. It is Coloradans like these awardees who make Southern Colorado so special and inspire those around them. Please join me in celebrating them once more. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE146-3,2026-02-20,119,2,,,"HONORING CAPTAIN DEBBY MOONE, BREVARD COUNTY'S NOVEMBER VETERAN OF THE MONTH",HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E146,E146,"[{""name"": ""Mike Haridopolos"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E146,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E146] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING CAPTAIN DEBBY MOONE, BREVARD COUNTY'S NOVEMBER VETERAN OF THE MONTH ______ HON. MIKE HARIDOPOLOS of florida in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. HARIDOPOLOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary Floridian and patriot, Captain Debby Moone, who was named Brevard County's November Veteran of the Month. Captain Moone dedicated 32 years of her life to serving our Nation in uniform, answering the call in both the United States Air Force and the United States Army. After serving 22 years in the Air Force and rising to the rank of Senior Master Sergeant, she continued her service by becoming a commissioned Army officer, ultimately retiring as a Captain in the Medical Service Corps. Throughout her distinguished career, Captain Moone deployed in Operation Desert Storm, served overseas in Korea, and led soldiers as a medical company commander, ensuring that those who served had the care they needed when it mattered most. Her service has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, among many others. Mr. Speaker, Captain Moone represents the very best of the Space Coast--selfless, resilient, and devoted to something greater than herself. Our Nation is stronger because of her service, and Brevard County is proud to call her one of its own. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE146-4,2026-02-20,119,2,,,HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF NANCY NORDHOFF,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E146,E147,"[{""name"": ""Pramila Jayapal"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E146,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E146-E147] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF NANCY NORDHOFF ______ HON. PRAMILA JAYAPAL of washington in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Ms. JAYAPAL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Nancy Nordhoff. Nancy passed away peacefully on January 7 at the age of 93 at her home on Whidbey Island, surrounded by her family. She fiercely and steadfastly championed women's rights, literary prowess and environmental causes for over five decades. Nancy was a beloved Pacific Northwest philanthropist, a giant among giants who used her resources and her time to make change that supported and lifted up the voices and the needs of those who are too often left behind. Throughout her lifetime, she generously founded and supported groundbreaking nonprofits and her local community. Everywhere she turned, she made people's lives better--not only in Washington State but across the United States and the broader global community. A proud graduate of Mount Holyoke College, Nancy's feminism, charitable giving and activism were the foundation of her life's work--seeing a need, coming up with a solution and taking action to make people's lives better. In 1988, Nancy founded Hedgebrook, a world-renowned nonprofit on Whidbey Island that supports female-identified writers with residencies and radical hospitality, on land that allowed for rest, rejuvenation, creativity and a reconnection to nature. Hedgebrook has established hundreds of new and known writers who came to bravely define their own lives, communities, and creative and political paths. But it wasn't just the place: it was Nancy herself, who never stepped away from the work. She was there, meeting writers, listening to their ideas, educating herself and often becoming the wind in their sails. Over 38 years, Hedgebrook has supported a growing and influential alumnae community of women authoring change--now over 2,000 writers strong-- that has reached millions of people of all ages. Hedgebrook's ripple effect is truly remarkable, and I was fortunate to meet Nancy through my own residency and then later to serve on the Board as Hedgebrook grew, and then on the Creative Advisory Board with luminaries like Gloria Steinem. Nancy's philanthropy and environmental advocacy also profoundly shaped her local community's physical and civic landscape. She founded Goosefoot Community Fund to support essential needs, help local businesses grow, preserve historic places and rural landscapes, and connect neighbors. She was instrumental in supporting Whidbey Camano Land Trust acquisitions, restoring salmon habitats and protecting wetlands. Many organizations benefited from Nancy's hands-on support and largess. She literally got her hands dirty every day and was always the last to fold up tables at the end of countless social justice and book events she made happen. Her humility, grace and compassion were just some of the many qualities that set her apart and made her so beloved. Nancy was also known to support families and individuals in a time of need. She mentored many women in nonprofit leadership and philanthropy while championing their creative projects and careers. I was one of those very fortunate ones to have called Nancy a true friend, such a remarkable and constant presence in my life as mentor and supporter in every endeavor I undertook--from my early work on immigrant rights to my transition into politics. Nancy never wanted acknowledgement, even though she received numerous honors and awards for her life's work, including being designated a Women's History [[Page E147]] Month Honoree by the National Women's History Project and a National Philanthropy Day ``Outstanding Philanthropist.'' It is not an exaggeration to say that millions of people who will never know her name have and will continue to benefit from her extraordinary life and legacy. Nancy is survived by her wife Lynn Hays, her children: Grace Nordhoff, Charles ``Chuck'' Nordhoff, Carolyn Nordhoff Reid and their spouses; and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. We extend our gratitude to them for sharing her with the world. Nancy's legacy of generosity and kindness will live on for generations to come. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE146,2026-02-20,119,2,,,CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,CELEBRATING,E146,E146,"[{""name"": ""Teresa Leger Fernandez"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E146,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E146] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH ______ HON. TERESA LEGER FERNANDEZ of new mexico in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Ms. LEGER FERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, Black History is New Mexico History. From Estevanico, an enslaved man who was the first, that we know of, non-Indigenous person to step foot in New Mexico after an adventure through the Americas that should be legend, to the Buffalo Soldiers who stood watch across this territory, and to the families who built Blackdom out of dust and determination. While the Black community in New Mexico may be small in number, it has never been small in impact. Our state's story cannot be told without them. Before statehood, before the railroads, and before the border crossed us, Black history here has been a story of people who kept showing up. They showed up when there were only 22 Black residents counted in the territory. They showed up when hotels were segregated and yearbooks placed Black students in the back pages. They showed up when banks would not lend and schools would not welcome them. Now, we are all showing up together. There are forces right now that want to erase this history, to whitewash it and ban it from schools, and to call conversations about race ``divisive.'' They have even posted racist videos attacking the Black excellence of a former President and First Lady. They attack Black culture, immigrant culture, and Native culture--as if the richness of our heritage is something to be feared. It may feel like they are winning. But in New Mexico, we know our cultures are not threats. They are treasures. We will not stand by while anyone tries to diminish them. As John Lewis reminded us: ``The vote is precious. It is almost sacred. It is the most powerful nonviolent tool we have in a democratic society.'' He also reminded us that ``democracy is not a state. It is an act.'' We believe democracy works best when everyone participates. We come from builders. They built culture. Culture is power. Culture is how people survive what was meant to break them. Black culture will survive this. We will organize. When they try to intimidate voters, we will mobilize. When they try to erase history, we will teach it louder. When they try to tear down our cultures, we will build them up. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE147-2,2026-02-20,119,2,,,INTRODUCTION OF THE PITTMAN-ROBERTSON WILDLIFE RESTORATION ACT AND DINGELL-JOHNSON SPORT FISH RESTORATION ACT DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA EQUALITY ACT,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,ALLOTHER,E147,E147,"[{""name"": ""Eleanor Holmes Norton"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E147,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E147] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] INTRODUCTION OF THE PITTMAN-ROBERTSON WILDLIFE RESTORATION ACT AND DINGELL-JOHNSON SPORT FISH RESTORATION ACT DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA EQUALITY ACT ______ HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON of the district of columbia in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, today, I introduce the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act and Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act District of Columbia Equality Act. This bill would make the District of Columbia eligible for federal funding under the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act and the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act in the same manner as states. D.C. residents pay the same federal taxes as residents of the states and, therefore, D.C. should be treated as a state under federal programs. D.C. has roughly 7,800 acres of parkland, covering nearly a quarter of the city. The Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act provides funding to states for five distinct purposes: program administration, wildlife restoration, basic hunter education and safety, enhanced hunter education and safety grants and multistate conservation grants. In general, D.C. is not eligible for funding under this Act. The Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act provides funding for sport fish restoration, aquatic education, wetlands restoration and boat-related activities. Under this Act, each state receives a minimum of one percent of the total amount apportioned, while D.C. is capped at one-third of one percent. I urge my colleagues to support this bill. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE147-3,2026-02-20,119,2,,,COMMEMORATING THE `GETTYSBURG OF KOREA',HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,COMMEMORATING,E147,E148,"[{""name"": ""Joe Wilson"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E147,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E147-E148] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] COMMEMORATING THE `GETTYSBURG OF KOREA' ______ HON. JOE WILSON of south carolina in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate the 75 years, as of this month, since the Battle of Chipyong-ni, often called the ``Gettysburg of the Korean War.'' In February 1951, the Chinese People's Liberation Army and North Korean People's Army launched a major offensive against American and South Korean lines near Chipyong-ni. American forces, along with the support of French allies, held their ground against relentless attacks until February 15th when troops from the American 1st Calvary Division broke through enemy lines, reversing a monthslong tide of defeats. This victory marked a major turning point in the war effectively breaking the last major Chinese offensive and restoring momentum to the United Nations forces. I include in the Record the following summary of this battle from the February 12, 2026, edition of The Washington Times: Tide-turning `Gettysburg of Korea' Battle Commemorated 75 Years Later CHIPYONG-NI, South Korea--Chipyong-ni is today a modest, rural village, but 75 years ago it briefly commanded the attention of the free world. For millennial Koreans, the village--now spelled `Jipyeong-ri'--is famed for the excellence of its makgeolli, a white rice brew. For military historians, Chipyong-ni is famed for the three-day `Gettysburg of the Korean War' that began Feb. 13, 1951. Forty miles southeast of Seoul, U.S. forces, fighting alongside French allies, reversed a monthslong tide of defeats, proving Chinese forces could be beaten. The battle's 75th anniversary was commemorated Wednesday by local VIPs and troop contingents from France, South Korea and the U.S. But as the war generation fades, this year's commemorations were the first in living memory without veterans. And while trans-Atlantic tensions strain NATO's sinews, inter-Allied frictions became obvious during the commemorations. Looking Back In 1951, the battle was fought under snow. In 2026, the rice fields were frozen and the weather chill, but snow had stayed off the gray-brown landscape. Gunfire no longer clatters; artillery no longer thunders. Today's standout sound is the hiss of KTX bullet trains passing along through the little station. Commemorations took place at a raised memorial overlooking Chipyong-ri's museum--complete with a tank outside. The makegolli brewery that was the American command post still stands, beautifully restored. Uniforms included Korean Army dark greens, U.S. Army browns and tans and the jaunty scarlet and blue of the most distinctive contingent--cadets from the French military academy, St. Cyr, `This battle was a linchpin,' Brig. Gen. Scott Woodward, deputy commander of the 2nd Infantry Division, or `21D,' the key U.S. ground force in Korea today. `It turned the tide of the war.' In 1951, 21D's 23rd Infantry Regiment, fighting under the U.N. Command banner with the French U.N. Battalion attached, defended Chipyong-ri. From the memorial, the most striking thing about the battlefield is its size. Four battalions of infantry, plus artillery and over 100 vehicles were compressed by the surrounding Chinese forces into a perimeter a mile deep and a mile-and-a-half wide. `It's humbling to see the challenges the soldiers faced,' said U.S. Command Sgt. Maj. Larry Milner. `The terrain forced them to get in close.' `It must have been intimidating to fight here: You could see the enemy's eyes,' said 2nd Lt. Nicolas, a St. Cyr cadet who, citing academy policy. declined to offer his surname. `The enemy had the high ground, and much more manpower.' Holding the `Human Wave' U.S. Col. Paul Freeman, commanding the 23rd, deployed his units shoulder-to-shoulder to prevent infiltration in an all- around defense. Inside the perimeter, his engineers [[Page E148]] built a crude runway, cutting reliance on road transport. These preparations were designed to confront a Chinese tactic that had, so far, been triumphant in the Korean War. In `human wave' attacks, Chinese units massed in front of U.N. positions and assaulted frontally. At the same time, other units infiltrated around the flanks, establishing roadblocks and ambush sites deep in the rear. Like water, the Chinese forces aimed to roll over, around and behind U.N. units. The tactic had driven all before it. In December 1950, U.N. forces had retreated from North Korea. A month later, Seoul fell. By February 1951, the war hung in the balance. Chipyong-ri commanded a key road-rail transport junction. Freeman was ordered to hold firm. Overlooking him, Chinese officers massed three regiments against the 23rd. What happened next passed into legend. Chinese troops crawled through mines, under wire, up to fighting positions, initiating combat of the most traumatic kind: Extreme close range. Massive 8-inch howitzers were depressed, shooting directly into the assault waves. U.S. aircraft dropped lines of flares for illumination, napalm incendiaries for effect. French troops used a hand-cranked siren to overwhelm the bugles the Chinese used as signaling devices, then unleashed bayonet counterattacks. The perimeter held the first night. On the second, Chinese penetrated the south. The battle raged all day as more Chinese troops were fed into the breach, swarming inside the perimeter. Just as darkness fell on Feb. 16, U.S. tanks appeared through a pass in the southern ridge: A relief force from 1st Cavalry Division. Caught on flat ground without cover, Chinese soldiers were mowed down by tank fire. They fled. Freeman and his men had held. Chipyong-ni was likened to Gettysburg, though smaller in scale than the Civil War epic. Chinese after-action reports indicated shock. Per precedent, they had expected the Americans to retreat, and had been stunned by the armored intervention. All units--French included--earned U.S. Army Distinguished Unit Citations. Passing generation, new animosity Absent from the 2026 commemorations were the veterans, With the Korean War ending in 1953 living memories are evaporating--making commemorations doubly important. `Telling stories, getting the soldiers to learn their history, builds cohesion,' Gen. Woodward said. Though drones, long-range fires and satellite communications have changed combat, the core lessons of Chipyong-ri endure. `The character of war has changed, the nature of war has not,' he continued. `Whether it's with axes or drones, soldiers have got to have guts and determination, and leaders have got to inspire.' Unlike World War II and the Vietnam War, the Korean War, dubbed `The Forgotten War' hasn't resonated in popular culture. A bare handful of Korean actions caught Hollywood's attention, notably the Incheon amphibious landing, and the breakout from Chosin Reservoir. Chipyong-ri does not make the list, Retired U.S. Army Lt. Coil. Steve Tharp, who conducts Korean War tours and calls himself passionate about the battle, bemoaned that. The Marine Corps, which fought at Incheon and Chosin, outsmarts the Army in public relations, he sniffed. Chipyong-ri, he said, is custom-built for film, with the dramatic armored intervention being `like the cavalry arriving in a Western.' In 2026, it was America's allies who felt overlooked. French diplomats, officers and cadets attended the U.S. ceremony. In a subsequent commemoration, at the nearby French memorial, no U.S. troops or officials appeared. `I am a little perplexed about what they were thinking,' said retired Col. Alain Nass, a former defense attache at Seoul's French Embassy. `They were not here with us today. Why?' He noted that 2ID was originally activated in France, during World War I. Every year, it is commemorated by French officialdom there. `We have the U.S. flag here,' he said, pointing to the Stars and Stripes engraved alongside the Tricolor on the French battle memorial. `It's important we keep this relationship alive: It's about comradeship.' ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE147,2026-02-20,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING GENE FISHER AND HIS DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE COUNTY OF VENTURA,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E147,E147,"[{""name"": ""Julia Brownley"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E147,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E147] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING GENE FISHER AND HIS DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE COUNTY OF VENTURA ______ HON. JULIA BROWNLEY of california in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Ms. BROWNLEY. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Gene Fisher, whose exceptional leadership and tireless advocacy as Co-Chair and Executive Director of the Regional Defense Partnership have strengthened Ventura County's defense community, bolstered our regional economy, and ensured that our military installations remain resilient and mission-ready. Under Gene's leadership, the Regional Defense Partnership has served as Ventura County's community-based organization supporting our military installations and commands as essential assets to our national security and key contributors to our local economy. During periods of uncertainty and significant challenges, including threats of base realignment, downsizing, and evolving defense priorities, Gene was a steady and trusted leader who helped ensure that Naval Base Ventura County continued to thrive as the county's largest employer, generating an estimated $4.6 billion annually and supporting more than 24,000 military, civilian, and contractor jobs. Throughout his tenure, Gene represented the interests of Naval Base Ventura County with distinction, communicating its needs and priorities to local government leaders, educational institutions, and business partners, while building enduring partnerships among military commands, public agencies, and the private sector. His deep commitment to both the base and our community is evident in his work to ensure that Ventura County's infrastructure, workforce, and expertise continue to meet the evolving demands of 21st century national defense. Among his many accomplishments, Gene led the Regional Defense Partnership's efforts to expand Naval Base Ventura County from approximately 70 to 110 commands, helped secure funding and legislative support to enhance critical capabilities such as the Center for Maritime Directed Energy Testing, and worked to ensure that Ventura County remains at the forefront of advanced defense innovation and collaboration. Of particular importance to me is Gene's genuine passion for fostering cooperation and partnership. In addition to his many other community-focused initiatives, he convened monthly joint military-- community meetings, creating an essential forum for dialogue, coordination, and mutual support among base leadership, local stakeholders, and elected officials. As he steps down from this role, I am proud to join our community in recognizing Gene's 27 years of dedicated public service and his extraordinary contributions to preserving the defense, economic, and technological vitality of the County of Ventura. Mr. Speaker, it is with great admiration and respect that I recognize Gene Fisher for his steadfast leadership and for the lasting impact he has had on our community. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE148-2,2026-02-20,119,2,,,HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF COLONEL GIL CORONADO,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E148,E148,"[{""name"": ""Joaquin Castro"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E148,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E148] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF COLONEL GIL CORONADO ______ HON. JOAQUIN CASTRO of texas in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. CASTRO of Texas. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and legacy of Retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Gil Coronado, who passed away on Saturday, February 7, 2026. Known as the ``Padrino'' of Hispanic Heritage Month, Colonel Coronado was a champion for our Nation's Hispanic communities. He is survived by his wife, Mary Helen, his four children Elaine, Todd, Troy and Troup, three granddaughters and three great-grandchildren. Born in Corpus Christi, Texas and raised in the Westside barrios of San Antonio, Colonel Coronado's early life was marked by adversity. However, Colonel Coronado was determined to overcome every obstacle he encountered. After dropping out of Lanier High School, Colonel Coronado decided to enlist in the United States Air Force at the age of 16. Colonel Coronado served our Nation with immeasurable bravery and honor as he rose through the ranks. He served in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War and completed tours of duty in Germany, Spain and Panama. For his service, he was awarded a Bronze Star, the Legion of Merit and many other commendations. In 1958, Colonel Coronado married his wife Mary Helen at Sacred Heart Church in San Antonio. Colonel Coronado and Mrs. Coronado shared a remarkable 67 years of marriage together. In 1985, Colonel Coronado was assigned to the Inter-American Defense Board. It was here that he began to work closely with Members of Congress to advocate for the expansion of efforts to honor and celebrate the Hispanic contributions to American history. In 1988, his efforts proved successful, when Congress passed legislation that turned National Hispanic Week into Hispanic Heritage Month. Now, every year, because of his tireless advocacy, the United States recognizes and dedicates an entire month to celebrate the rich culture and incredible contributions of the Hispanic community. In 1994, he was appointed by President Bill Clinton as the first Hispanic Director of the Selective Service System. He retired from the position in 2001 and returned to San Antonio where he continued to serve and lead the community. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing the incredible life and legacy of Colonel Gil Coronado. He served our Nation with the utmost dignity and respect and was a champion for our Hispanic Heritage. He will be greatly missed. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE148-3,2026-02-20,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING JOE SCHUMACHER'S 25 YEARS OF DEDICATED PUBLIC SERVICE,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E148,E149,"[{""name"": ""Robert J. Wittman"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E148,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E148-E149] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING JOE SCHUMACHER'S 25 YEARS OF DEDICATED PUBLIC SERVICE ______ HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN of virginia in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Joe Schumacher in honor of his 25 years of dedicated public service to Virginia's 1st Congressional District. Joe has had a profound impact on my work in Congress, and he is truly one of the finest leaders I know. Mr. Schumacher served as Chief of Staff and District Director for my predecessor, Congresswoman Jo Ann Davis. I am grateful that Joe brought his past public service expertise when he began serving as my District Director in 2007. Joe is a native Virginian, an Air Force veteran, and a graduate of the University of Virginia. In his 25 years of service, Joe has proven to be an indispensable member of my team. His pride for the 1st District extends into everything he does. Not only is Joe passionate about his work, his commitment to bettering [[Page E149]] the lives of Virginians and Americans alike is unparalleled. Joe is unwavering in his effort to go above and beyond to serve constituents and support his fellow staff. For example, his work as the Academy Coordinator has inspired countless young applicants as they begin their careers in service to this Nation. Joe's leadership is an outstanding example of what other District Directors should strive to be and truly embodies what it means to be a servant leader. I am deeply grateful to Joe for his years of service, his expertise, and his countless contributions. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join me to recognize Joe Schumacher for his 25 years of selfless dedication to Virginia's 1st District. Joe is a crucial member of our team, and I am forever grateful for his service to our office and to Virginia's 1st District. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE148,2026-02-20,119,2,,,"HONORING RYAN WILSON, LAPEER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CITIZEN OF THE YEAR",HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E148,E148,"[{""name"": ""Lisa C. McClain"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E148,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E148] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING RYAN WILSON, LAPEER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CITIZEN OF THE YEAR ______ HON. LISA C. McCLAIN of michigan in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mrs. McCLAIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ryan Wilson, recipient of the Lapeer Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year Award, whose generosity and dedication to service have strengthened families, schools, and community organizations throughout Lapeer County. Ryan has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to local students and families by helping pay down school lunch debt in the North Branch, Almont, and Imlay City School Districts. He actively supports school and community fundraisers by selling tickets, hosting bottle drives, and donating gift cards, food, and meat to organizations such as The Refuge and numerous school programs. Ryan maintains a shelf stocked with free, nonperishable food items available to anyone in need--no questions asked. He sponsors youth and adult baseball teams, matches donations to Project Graduation up to $1,000, prepares and donates meals for marching band students, and supports local farmers by offering space to sell their produce at no cost. In addition, he regularly volunteers at school events across Lapeer County. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ryan Wilson for his outstanding service and unwavering commitment to the Lapeer community. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE149-2,2026-02-20,119,2,,,HONORING THE 130TH ANNIVERSARY OF PHILLIPS 66 RODEO RENEWABLE ENERGY COMPLEX,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E149,E149,"[{""name"": ""John Garamendi"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E149,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E149] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE 130TH ANNIVERSARY OF PHILLIPS 66 RODEO RENEWABLE ENERGY COMPLEX ______ HON. JOHN GARAMENDI of california in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commemorate the 130th anniversary of the Phillips 66 Rodeo Renewable Energy Complex, located in California's 8th Congressional District in Contra Costa County. Founded in February 1896, the Rodeo facility celebrates 130 years of continuous operation in 2026, making it among the longest-operating refinery sites on the West Coast. For more than a century, the site has played an integral role in the economic and industrial life of Contra Costa County and in California's broader energy landscape. Generations of workers and families have relied upon its operations, and its presence has supported local businesses, community institutions, and regional economic development. Throughout its history, the Rodeo site has demonstrated an ability to adapt to meet the evolving energy needs of our state and Nation. From its early days as a petroleum refinery to its modern transformation, the facility has continually embraced technological advancement and operational innovation. In 2024, the facility completed its Rodeo Renewed transformation, transitioning from a traditional petroleum refinery into a renewable energy complex capable of producing approximately 800 million gallons of renewable diesel annually. This significant shift supports lower- carbon transportation fuels and contributes to both national and state climate goals. The complex has also expanded into the production of sustainable aviation fuel, generating approximately 10,000 gallons per day of neat SAF blendstock into approximately 20,000 gallons per day of finished SAF, which helps address emissions in the aviation sector. Further strengthening its clean energy portfolio, the facility completed an 88-acre on-site solar field in 2025, reducing its environmental footprint while diversifying its energy sources. These advancements reflect a sustained commitment to innovation, environmental stewardship, and the preservation of good-paying jobs in Contra Costa County and throughout California. The Rodeo Renewable Energy Complex continues to operate under the core values of safety, honor, and commitment. These principles resonate deeply with the ideals of public service and community partnership. On behalf of the constituents of California's 8th District, I commend Phillips 66 Rodeo Renewable Energy Complex AC Transit for their long- standing contributions to the energy sector, the workforce, and the surrounding community, and I congratulate them on 130 years of continuous operation." CREC-2026-02-20-pt1-PgE149,2026-02-20,119,2,,,HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MAJOR GENERAL (RET.) FELIX A. SANTONI,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E149,E149,"[{""name"": ""Pablo Jose Hernandez"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E149,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 34 (Friday, February 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E149] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF MAJOR GENERAL (RET.) FELIX A. SANTONI ______ HON. PABLO JOSE HERNANDEZ of puerto rico in the house of representatives Friday, February 20, 2026 Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Major General (Ret.) Felix A. Santoni, whose passing marks the loss of a distinguished military leader and devoted public servant. His career and continued service reflect a deep and enduring commitment to the United States, to Puerto Rico, and to the men and women who serve in uniform. A native of Arecibo, Puerto Rico, Major General Santoni entered military service in 1955 and served with distinction for decades across Active Duty, the National Guard, and the Army Reserve. Throughout his career, he held positions of significant responsibility, including Commander of U.S. Army Forces Puerto Rico and Chief for Mobilization and Reserve Affairs at U.S. Southern Command. In these roles, he worked to strengthen force readiness and to advance the full integration of Puerto Rican Soldiers into the Total Force. Major General Santoni was widely respected as a tireless advocate for Soldiers and their families. He consistently emphasized the importance of ensuring access to the resources, facilities, and support necessary for soldiers to successfully accomplish their mission. Following his retirement from military service in 1995, Major General Santoni continued his lifelong commitment to public service as Senior Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army for Puerto Rico. In this capacity, he strengthened civil-military partnerships. Major General Santoni's life reflects the long and proud tradition of Puerto Rican service members who have strengthened the Armed Forces and defended our Nation with distinction. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones and honor the memory of a soldier and public servant whose life exemplified duty, integrity, and service to country. Major General Santoni's legacy of leadership, integrity, and devotion to duty will endure for generations, reflecting the highest ideals of military and public service. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-17-pt1-PgE139-2,2026-02-17,119,2,,,CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF THE GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER MUSEUM AND CULTURAL CENTER,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,CELEBRATING,E139,E139,"[{""name"": ""Greg Stanton"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E139,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E139] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] CELEBRATING 100 YEARS OF THE GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER MUSEUM AND CULTURAL CENTER ______ HON. GREG STANTON of arizona in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 17, 2026 Mr. STANTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center in Phoenix. The museum is a truly historic site with real significance for Black history in Arizona and the United States. The building that houses the museum, known today as ``The Carver,'' is itself a storied symbol of both injustice and perseverance. It first opened in 1926 as the Phoenix Union Colored High School, the only Arizona high school built exclusively to serve Black students during the era of segregation. That difficult history is inseparable from the Carver's legacy. Today, the site stands as a place dedicated to preserving and retelling Black history. Any account of Black history in Arizona is incomplete without the Carver. Despite school segregation, the Carver produced graduates who went on to become leaders, public servants, artists, educators, and civil rights advocates. The building is standing proof that talent and hard work are rewarded, even when the opportunity for success was difficult, if not impossible, to come by in a racially segregated world. The school closed in the 1950s following the desegregation of Phoenix high schools, but the future of the building was uncertain. Alumni and community leaders recognized its historical and cultural importance and mobilized to save it from demolition. In 1996, the site was reborn as the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center, ensuring that the legacy of those who studied, taught, and organized there would not be lost. The Carver Museum today preserves and shares formative chapters of Black history in Arizona through exhibitions, archives, educational programming, and community events. Exhibits share the experiences and contributions of African Americans who helped shape Phoenix and Arizona history. The importance of the Carver goes beyond historical preservation. The museum is a community gathering place. It is a space for learning and bringing people from different backgrounds and generations together. It is a resource for educators and researchers, a powerful reminder that Black history is not distant or abstract. It is local and lived. The Carver is foundational to the story of Black history in Phoenix and our state. By preserving the past, the museum helps current and future generations of Arizonans become well-rounded, and well-informed civic leaders who are ready to serve our community and make a real difference. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the George Washington Carver Museum and Cultural Center on its 100th anniversary. May it continue to educate, inspire, and remind us that honoring history is essential to building justice and opportunity for all. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-17-pt1-PgE139-3,2026-02-17,119,2,,,"HONORING ARLENE BLAKE, PMP, AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH",HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E139,E139,"[{""name"": ""Darren Soto"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E139,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E139] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING ARLENE BLAKE, PMP, AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH ______ HON. DARREN SOTO of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 17, 2026 Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Arlene Blake, PMP, a community visionary, workforce development advocate, and champion for women's economic advancement in Central Florida. She is the founder of Women on the Rise International, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to building economic mobility for women through financial literacy, career development, entrepreneurship, and personal wellness. Over the past decade, she has transformed Women on the Rise into a career and leadership hub serving hundreds of women across the region. Arlene's work focuses on addressing barriers that prevent women from thriving, including childcare, technology gaps, lack of mentorship, and limited access to culturally aligned support networks. In 2024, she secured the organization's largest program investment to date, expanding a career development initiative that has helped women increase earnings, secure higher-paying jobs, launch small businesses, and gain the financial confidence needed to build long-term stability for themselves and their families. Her contributions to the community have been recognized widely. Arlene has been featured in the Girl Scouts of Citrus Council's Legacy of Excellence Exhibit as a Phenomenal Black Woman in Central Florida, named a Rising Star by the Citrus Club, and honored with the Noble Knight Award from the University of Central Florida College of Community and Innovation. She has been recognized by the Orlando Business Journal as both a Woman Who Means Business and one of the Most Influential People in Orlando, and was named Woman of the Year by Orange Appeal Magazine. Beyond her nonprofit leadership, Arlene is the founder of Just Start It, LLC, where she supports organizations and professionals in improving systems, strengthening performance, and expanding community impact. She remains committed to advancing women's economic well-being, strengthening families, and ensuring Central Florida remains a region where women can rise, lead, and build lasting legacies. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-17-pt1-PgE139-4,2026-02-17,119,2,,,HONORING BIANCA BELABRE AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E139,E140,"[{""name"": ""Darren Soto"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E139,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E139-E140] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING BIANCA BELABRE AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH ______ HON. DARREN SOTO of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 17, 2026 Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Bianca Belabre, a marketer, strategist, and community advocate whose work advances creativity, education, and economic opportunity in Osceola County. Raised in a Haitian household and influenced by her parents, Gilna Charles and Jean Robert Belabre, Ms. Belabre grew up shaped by immigrants' pursuit of the American dream, instilling values of resilience and education. From Brooklyn, New York, Ms. Belabre relocated to Osceola County at the age of 13. She attended the Osceola School for the Arts as a vocalist, where she developed an appreciation for creativity and storytelling. Ms. Belabre is a graduate of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Health Science as a Bright Futures Scholarship recipient, followed by a Master of Public Health. She serves on the board of the Osceola Chamber of Commerce, chairs the Poinciana Area Council, and is on the board of the Black Empowerment Community Council. Through these roles, she supports community events and business education, and helps fund scholarships for students in Poinciana, awarding $6,000 in 2025. She also delivers educational presentations for local business groups and nonprofit organizations. In 2019, Ms. Belabre launched A Creative Station, a marketing agency specializing in digital marketing, strategic planning, and content creation. She supports business owners through training and marketing management. She was contracted by the Early Learning Coalition of Osceola County to launch the Early LearnHub brand and lead the design of an immersive educational mural at the Hart Memorial Library in Kissimmee. Ms. Belabre is also the co-founder of The Boss Collective and The Modern Boss Podcast, supporting more than 100 women entrepreneurs in the surrounding area. Her leadership has been recognized with the Vanguard Award from the Black Empowerment Community Council and the Tomorrow's Leaders Today Award from the Osceola Chamber of Commerce. [[Page E140]] ____________________" CREC-2026-02-17-pt1-PgE140-2,2026-02-17,119,2,,,HONORING DENIELLE BARNHARDT AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E140,E140,"[{""name"": ""Darren Soto"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E140,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E140] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING DENIELLE BARNHARDT AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH ______ HON. DARREN SOTO of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 17, 2026 Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Denielle Barnhardt, a pastor, educator, and arts advocate whose work has significantly impacted families and students throughout Osceola County and Florida's 9th Congressional District. She is the co-founder and senior pastor of The Way Worship Church, where she leads alongside her husband, Jaquan, with a family-centered pastoral model that views the family as the prototype for the church and community life. Together, they are raising four beautiful children. In 2013, Barnhardt founded Mrs. B's Music and Performing Arts Training, and since 2017, she has worked intentionally to expand access to high-quality arts education across Osceola and Orange Counties. Through seasons of growth and challenge, including the COVID-19 pandemic, she used the arts to keep families connected, students engaged, and communities resilient. Her efforts have led to the establishment of musical theater programs in schools and community settings, as well as strategic partnerships that connect children to quality arts programs and educational pathways through preparation and mentorship. Barnhardt has also served as a startup consultant, strategist, and curriculum developer for multiple private and micro-schools in Osceola County, helping to launch and strengthen innovative educational models rooted in excellence and community need. She currently serves as a PAX coordinator, facilitating and overseeing cultural exchange initiatives that promote global understanding among students in the United States and abroad. She recently launched The Hall Institute, a Bible college focused on theological education and leadership formation. With a background in the arts, Barnhardt received arts education from primary school through high school and has performed on world-renowned stages, including Radio City Music Hall, Broadway, and other major venues. Combined with her foundation in general education and a Master of Divinity in Church History, she bridges creative formation, historical theology, and pastoral leadership with rare interdisciplinary depth. She will soon step into the Navy Reserve Chaplaincy, expanding her service to support service members and their families, and continuing her commitment to faith, education, and community leadership in Central Florida. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-17-pt1-PgE140-3,2026-02-17,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING REBECCA SAWYER SMITH,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E140,E140,"[{""name"": ""Brittany Pettersen"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E140,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E140] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING REBECCA SAWYER SMITH ______ HON. BRITTANY PETTERSEN of colorado in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 17, 2026 Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Rebecca Sawyer Smith of Lakewood, Colorado for her 38 years of service within the Department of Veterans Affairs and congratulate her on her retirement. Rebecca began her federal government career as a graduate student at The George Washington University in Washington, D.C., when she joined the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Over the course of nearly four decades, she served in a variety of roles within the VA, including Public Affairs Officer, Coach, and member of the Public Contact Team. Her career took her to communities on both coasts and throughout the central United States before concluding in Lakewood, Colorado, where she retired at the end of 2025. Throughout her distinguished career, Rebecca dedicated herself to serving those who have served our country. She worked tirelessly to ensure veterans received the benefits and services they earned, providing both in-person and virtual benefits counseling. She also partnered closely with veteran service organizations and nonprofit groups to help veterans navigate and access the support available to them. Even in retirement, Rebecca continues her commitment to veterans in her community by volunteering with arts organizations that offer programs for veterans, further demonstrating her lifelong devotion to public service. On behalf of the people of Colorado's 7th Congressional District, it is my honor to thank Rebecca Sawyer Smith for her 38 years of service with the VA and to congratulate her on her retirement. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-17-pt1-PgE140-4,2026-02-17,119,2,,,HONORING DR. CHUNDRA L. EVENS AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E140,E141,"[{""name"": ""Darren Soto"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E140,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E140-E141] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING DR. CHUNDRA L. EVENS AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH ______ HON. DARREN SOTO of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 17, 2026 Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Dr. Chundra L. Evens, a distinguished educational leader, pastor, and community advocate whose career reflects a deep commitment to excellence, service, and transformative leadership. After serving five years as the principal of Osceola County School for the Arts, she made history in March 2020 as the first African American appointed to the position of Assistant Superintendent in the High School Division of the School District of Osceola County in Kissimmee, Florida. A highly credentialed educator, Dr. Evens is certified in K-12 and holds specialized certifications in Exceptional Student Education, ESOL, Reading, Educational Leadership, and School Principal. Her professional journey is enriched by earlier experience in correctional probation and the performing arts. She attended Florida A&M University as a member of the Marching 100 and later earned a bachelor's in political science from the University of Central Florida. She completed both her master's and Doctor of Education in educational leadership at National Louis University. Dr. Evens has received numerous prestigious recognitions, including the Harvard University Extension School Strategic Leadership Program and the National Institute for School Leadership Executive Development Program. Her honors include the Florida Department of Education Outstanding Assistant Principal Achievement Award; Secondary Literacy Administrator of the Year; Distinguished Minority Educator of the Year at both St. Cloud Middle and Zenith High; New Beginnings Education Center Teacher of the Year and SAC Distinguished Service Award; Council for Exceptional Children Middle School Teacher of the Year and Outstanding Rookie Teacher of the Year; and the district's Distinguished Minority Runner-Up Educator of the Year. She was also the first principal in the district to achieve Best and Brightest recognition and was named the 2019 Principal of the Year by Osceola Visionaries, Inc. Guided by her faith and inspired by Nelson Mandela's belief in education as a powerful [[Page E141]] tool for change, Dr. Evens actively serves her community as a Girl Scouts troop leader, volunteer with Give Kids the World, member of Tau Beta Sigma, and member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. A lifelong servant-leader within the church, she was ordained in December 2023 and now serves as senior co-pastor of Trinity Church Sebring Campus alongside her husband of nearly 30 years, Pastor Roderick L. Evens. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-17-pt1-PgE140,2026-02-17,119,2,,,HONORING CRAIG MOORE AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E140,E140,"[{""name"": ""Darren Soto"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E140,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E140] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING CRAIG MOORE AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH ______ HON. DARREN SOTO of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 17, 2026 Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Craig Moore. He serves as Chief Executive Officer of AdventHealth Kissimmee, providing executive leadership for one of Osceola County's largest and most vital health care campuses serving residents across Florida's 9th Congressional District. Guided by AdventHealth's faith-based mission to extend the healing ministry of Christ, Moore is committed to ensuring access to compassionate, high-quality, whole-person care for the communities he serves. Moore brings more than 30 years of experience within AdventHealth, a nonprofit health care system dedicated to caring for the whole person-- body, mind, and spirit. He began his career with the organization while still in high school and has since served in a wide range of clinical and operational leadership roles across acute care, home health, outpatient, and hospital operations. Prior to becoming CEO, he served as Chief Operating Officer at AdventHealth Kissimmee, guiding the campus through a period of growth and transformation. Under Moore's leadership, the campus undertook a multiyear expansion totaling more than $100 million in investment to enhance access and readiness for patients across Osceola County. In addition, these efforts expanded specialty services, enhanced facilities, and added off-site emergency care, while also creating new jobs for local residents. Together, these initiatives contributed to improving patient safety, quality outcomes, and a stronger care experience for families across the county. Beyond the hospital campus, Moore is actively engaged in the Osceola County community. He serves on the board of the Osceola Council on Aging, supporting programs that promote independence, dignity, and access to services for older adults. He is known for a listening-first leadership approach guided by the principle, ``Seek first to understand, then to be understood,'' emphasizing collaboration with caregivers, physicians, and community partners. Moore holds bachelor's and master's degrees in physical therapy from Andrews University and an MBA from the University of Central Florida. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-17-pt1-PgE141-2,2026-02-17,119,2,,,HONORING MR. LADARA ROYAL AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E141,E141,"[{""name"": ""Darren Soto"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E141,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E141] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING MR. LADARA ROYAL AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH ______ HON. DARREN SOTO of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 17, 2026 Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Mr. Ladara Royal, a proven, zealous leader and an accomplished urban educator, facilitator, and clinician. He is committed to driving transformative, innovative change that advances educators and students of color through equitable public- school policies and practices. Royal's work centers on urban education, educator activism, and expanding opportunities for underserved and under-resourced students. His impact is evidenced by a consistent record of increasing the number of students from these communities who matriculate into the Nation's most competitive colleges and universities. A dedicated advocate for educational equity, Royal has demonstrated his leadership and community commitment by speaking before the Florida State Senate and House of Representatives on multiple occasions to champion improvements in public education. Royal also serves as secretary of the Orange County Classroom Teachers Association--the official educators' union representing teachers across Orange County, Florida--and as chairman of the OCCTA Fund for Children and Public Education. In these roles, he works tirelessly to support and help advance the appointment of public officials who are committed to strengthening and protecting public education. His expertise and advocacy have been recognized across numerous media platforms, including local news and radio, Bloomberg, CNN, ABC World News, TIME, and the Guardian. He has served as a guest panelist for the Florida State NAACP Freedom to Read Town Hall and the Transformative Justice Coalition, and as a featured panelist at the 52nd Annual Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Legislative Conference for the session entitled ``The Courage to Teach.'' This event was presented in collaboration with the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity for Black Americans, the American Federation of Teachers, and the National Education Association. In 2025, Royal was also honored as a recipient of the FOX 35 Care Force recognition, celebrating his exceptional work as a high school, college, and career specialist, as well as the profound impact he continues to make on the lives of his students. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-17-pt1-PgE141-3,2026-02-17,119,2,,,HONORING DR. NYKOWANNA HARRIS SLOAN AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E141,E141,"[{""name"": ""Darren Soto"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E141,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E141] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING DR. NYKOWANNA HARRIS SLOAN AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH ______ HON. DARREN SOTO of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 17, 2026 Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Dr. Nykowanna Harris Sloan. With nearly three decades of dedicated service in education, Dr. Nykowanna Harris Sloan is a steadfast advocate for equity, empowerment, and excellence. Her professional journey reflects an enduring commitment to student achievement, youth development, and dismantling systemic barriers that disproportionately affect underserved and historically marginalized Central Florida communities. A recognized champion of restorative practices and culturally responsive education, Dr. Sloan's leadership has transformed school cultures and expanded opportunities for countless students. Beyond the classroom, Dr. Sloan is a devoted servant leader with decades of consistent community engagement focused on uplifting and empowering the African American community. She holds active leadership roles in numerous civic and service organizations and has received multiple awards and accolades. Her memberships range from her beloved Orange County, Florida, Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, to several national and local organizations. In each capacity, she serves not merely as a member but as a strategist, organizer, and advocate for meaningful progress. As a licensed and ordained minister with over 25 years of experience, Dr. Sloan is deeply committed to spiritual growth and holistic development. Her ministry bridges faith and lived experience, offering guidance marked by humility, conviction, and grace. Through preaching, teaching, and pastoral care, she has led many toward healing, purpose, and renewed faith. At the heart of Dr. Sloan's life is her family. A devoted mother and grandmother, she views her children and grandchildren as both her greatest joy and her sacred responsibility in building a better tomorrow. Guided by a generational vision, she leads with love, intention, and unwavering purpose. Across education, ministry, and civic leadership, Dr. Sloan remains anchored in the belief that service is not merely an act, but a calling--one she continues to fulfill with integrity, influence, and lasting impact. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-17-pt1-PgE141-4,2026-02-17,119,2,,,HONORING PASTOR JOHNNY M. McKINNIE AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E141,E142,"[{""name"": ""Darren Soto"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E141,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E141-E142] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING PASTOR JOHNNY M. McKINNIE AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH ______ HON. DARREN SOTO of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 17, 2026 Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Pastor Johnny M. McKinnie, a quiet and devoted servant of God with a deep love for the Lord and a strong commitment to preaching, teaching, and community service. He is married to Lady Earline C. McKinnie, and together they are blessed with four children who serve in ministry. His background reflects a lifelong dedication to faith and leadership. Pastor McKinnie earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Bethune-Cookman University, a Master of Arts in Christian Education from North Florida Baptist Theological Seminary, and a Certificate in Expository Preaching from E.K. Bailey Ministries. He honorably served in the United States Army as a flight control specialist and later spent 23 years in the telecommunications industry before entering full-time pastoral ministry. [[Page E142]] He served three years as pastor of Sweet Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Live Oak, Florida, eight years at Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church in Jacksonville, and has faithfully led St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church in Kissimmee, Florida, for more than 24 years. At St. Luke, Pastor McKinnie strengthened Christian education by restructuring the Sunday School and Youth Ministries, establishing a weekly Sunday School Forum, New Members Orientation, leadership training for Deacons and Deaconesses, and expanding the Women's Ministry. He also introduced youth evangelism training to promote leadership, social engagement, and spiritual growth among young people. Under his leadership, the church expanded its infrastructure and acquired seven duplexes to provide housing for low-income families. He further expanded community outreach by collaborating with the Council on Aging in Kissimmee, Florida, to support social, educational, and advocacy initiatives for seniors. Pastor McKinnie has served in leadership roles within multiple Baptist associations, including 10 years as third vice-moderator of the First South Florida Baptist Association, served as the Chaplain for Osceola County School Board, is a lifetime member of the NAACP, received many prestigious awards, and is the son of Mr. S. H. McKinnie and the late Mrs. Chelcie McKinnie of Campbellton, Florida." CREC-2026-02-17-pt1-PgE141,2026-02-17,119,2,,,HONORING JUSTIN CLOUD AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E141,E141,"[{""name"": ""Darren Soto"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E141,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 32 (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E141] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING JUSTIN CLOUD AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH ______ HON. DARREN SOTO of florida in the house of representatives Tuesday, February 17, 2026 Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Justin Cloud, a distinguished community leader, chief engineer, and nonprofit executive whose work has significantly advanced education, workforce development, and youth empowerment across Central Florida. He currently serves as the executive director and founder of The Cloud Family Foundation, a Florida-based nonprofit organization dedicated to preparing students for successful careers through academic enrichment, mentorship, and exposure to STEM and professional pathways. Under his leadership, the foundation has launched and expanded several impactful initiatives, including the Level-Up Brother Program, an immersive cohort-based experience designed to equip high school young men with life skills, career readiness training, mentorship, and college exposure. What began as a single-day event in Central Florida has grown into a multi-week program serving students across multiple Florida counties. The foundation also administers annual scholarships, teacher grants, and community-based educational programs that directly support Florida students and educators. In addition to his philanthropic work, Mr. Cloud serves as a chief engineer, bringing extensive experience supporting advanced technology and national defense programs while remaining deeply committed to community service within Florida. He actively leverages his professional expertise to build bridges between industry, education, and community organizations throughout the state. Mr. Cloud is also the president of a Florida-based alumni chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., where he has led initiatives focused on scholarship fundraising, civic engagement, and service projects benefiting underserved communities across Florida. Through his leadership, service, and dedication, Justin E. Cloud continues to make a lasting impact on Florida's communities by empowering the next generation and expanding access to opportunity. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-13-pt1-PgE137-2,2026-02-13,119,2,,,RECOGNIZING JAXSON'S ICE CREAM PARLOR ON ITS 70TH ANNIVERSARY,HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,RECOGNIZING,E137,E137,"[{""name"": ""Debbie Wasserman Schultz"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E137,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 31 (Friday, February 13, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 31 (Friday, February 13, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E137] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] RECOGNIZING JAXSON'S ICE CREAM PARLOR ON ITS 70TH ANNIVERSARY _____ HON. DEBBIE WASSERMAN SCHULTZ of florida in the house of representatives Friday, February 13, 2026 Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the legendary Jaxson's Ice Cream Parlor in Dania Beach, Florida on its 70th Anniversary. Founded in 1956 by Monroe Udell, Jaxson's began with a simple but powerful vision: to create the best homemade ice cream using Monroe's proprietary recipes, serve high-quality American classics, and build a place where families could gather to make lasting memories. Seventy years later, that vision continues forward under the leadership of Monroe's daughter, Linda Udell Zakheim. One of South Florida's most iconic, long-standing family restaurants and multigenerational businesses, Jaxson's is known for oversized sundaes--especially its ``Kitchen Sink''--classic American fare, and nostalgic charm, including one of the largest collections of license plates, which adorn its walls. The restaurant has been featured nationally on CNN, Good Morning America, the Food Network, and various local media. Monroe and Linda always considered their staff to be family and have improved the standard of living for their employees. On February 24, 2014--the day of Monroe's 86th birthday--Jaxson's voluntarily raised their hourly wage from $7.93 to $10.10, which was later recognized by President Barack Obama. Additionally, their iconic ``Kitchen Sink'' holds a permanent place at History Fort Lauderdale Museum as part of their ``Roots of Resilience: The Journey of Black Broward'' exhibit, honoring Monroe Udell's commitment to hiring Black employees during the Jim Crow era. Among them was George Hadley who worked at Jaxson's for 38 years. As a long-time customer and fan, I can attest to Jaxson's dedication not only to their customers, but to our community. Linda Udell Zakheim and the Jaxson's family set a remarkable example for all Floridians. I congratulate them on 70 incredible years of serving up scoops, smiles, and sweet memories. ____________________" CREC-2026-02-13-pt1-PgE137-3,2026-02-13,119,2,,,"HONORING YARBROUGH WILLIAMS, JR.",HOUSE,EXTENSIONS,HONORING,E137,E138,"[{""name"": ""Donald G. Davis"", ""role"": ""speaking""}]",,172 Cong. Rec. E137,"Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 31 (Friday, February 13, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 31 (Friday, February 13, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E137-E138] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING YARBROUGH WILLIAMS, JR. _____ HON. DONALD G. DAVIS of north carolina in the house of representatives Friday, February 13, 2026 Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Yarbrough Williams, Jr., who was born on March 24, 1950, in Warren County, North Carolina to the late Yarbrough Williams, Sr. and Mildred R. Fields. He was called by God to eternal rest on January 13, 2026, at the age of 75, following a brief illness at Duke University Hospital in Durham, North Carolina. Yarbrough was the oldest of eight children and proudly lived in Warrenton his whole life. He graduated from John R. Hawkins High School in 1968. Yarbrough started building his own house at the age of 19, despite resistance from bankers and others who told him he was too young. While building the house, he took courses at Vance Granville Community College. He went on to attend North Carolina State University and became certified to teach Vocational Education. He then received further education at North Carolina A&T State University, Appalachian State University, and South Carolina State University. After helping his family in the tobacco and cucumber fields, the decision to work in masonry was an easy one. Yarbrough became known as one of ``Exum's Boys'', having learned the skilled, specialized trade of bricklaying from Wilford Exum in high school. Back then, Warren County was the capital of bricklaying. Yarbrough worked as a mason by day and went to school at night. He was a foreman for a construction company. In 1970, he was offered a teaching job to help integrate the Franklin County Schools. After much prayer and thought, as well as a sizable reduction in pay, Yarbrough went to work at Franklinton High School, where he started the brick- laying program teaching masonry, blueprint reading and drafting. Teaching was his calling, but he taught much more than bricklaying. He instilled in his students respect, self-discipline, and common sense, giving them life lessons in every way possible. He felt strongly that being a father figure and advocate meant setting up his students for success, often ensuring that they had jobs before graduating from high school. Yarbrough's students scored in the top of their region and district for 25 years. They won three state championships, many regional, district, and national championships and several other masonry awards. In the early years, he visited students' homes to learn more about them and sometimes even helped them get to school. He supervised school clubs, led fundraising drives to take students on field trips across the country; he also took his own children and frequently his mom. In 33 years as a school teacher, Yarbrough Williams loved his students and they loved him back. He was that beloved teacher who encouraged and organized both parents and teachers when the need arose. The masonry program started with only seven students, but it grew so much that new facilities were needed to meet the demand. An entrepreneur from an early age, he was the first Black business owner that his students encountered. Many followed his lead working for themselves. While teaching school, Yarbrough also built and ran a 3,000 head hog farm, a trucking company and a construction company. He retired in Yarbrough touched and taught thousands of students, reaching future generations. Even after his retirement, Yarbrough continued encouraging former students, giving advice when requested. Throughout his life, starting as a young man, Yarbrough became involved and active in his church and community. In church, Yarbrough had many roles from deacon and trustee to Bible Study teacher at both Shocco Chapel Baptist Church and Coley Springs Missionary Baptist Church. It was his strong faith that propelled him into community and political organizing. In those early years, he caught the attention of many of the African American men who were pioneers and giants in Warren County, learning all he could from them. Politics became a passion. Yarbrough served on the PTA, Board of Education, helped start and served as chair of the Warren County Political Action Council. He was instrumental in getting Black men and women elected to office to represent the majority of the population. He was named Teacher of the Year, Citizen of the Year, and received numerous other awards and honors throughout his life, including being listed in Who's Who Among Black Americans for a decade. Yarbrough worked to get people registered to vote, and for 10 years was Chair of the Warren County Democratic Party. In 2008, Yarbrough joined the Board of Trustees of the Warren County Community Center. Taking a lesson from his years as a teacher, Yarbrough paved the way to start Race to the Top A's Fund Program, a way to encourage high school students to get better grades. He also supervised the total building rehabilitation of the historic Warren County Community Center. His love for the land led him to purchase property and create two farms, places that brought him peace, purpose and pride throughout his life. With his commanding presence, warm smile and gift of gab, Yarbrough never met a stranger. He loved fishing, deer hunting, traveling and spending time with his family. He always had an encouraging word, never tolerated foolishness or laziness. His tireless work and dedication to the students and citizens of Warren and Franklin Counties leave an indelible mark not to be soon forgotten. Brick by brick, he built a legacy of enduring love to be cherished for generations to come. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two younger brothers Carl Erskin and Roscoe Williams and his wife the mother of his three oldest children Carolyn M. Williams. Yarbrough leaves to cherish his memories his wife: Shauna Singletary Alami Williams; five children, Consherto Vernette Williams, Yarbrough Williams, III aka ``Champ'' (LaSandra), Juarod Williams, Jamal Alami (Leah), and Aisha Alami Georges Jacques); seven grandsons, Adonis, Jaelen, Juarod Williams, Jr., Jeremiah, Josiah, Aiden Georges, Phoenix Alami; five granddaughters, Tiara A. London, Aleyah and Rakaya Williams, Jada and Ava Shauna Georges; three great grandchildren, Ashtyn Williams, Brayden McNeal, [[Page E138]] Inara Ella Cornelius; three sisters, lvoria Terry (Robert), Carrie Windbush (Sylvester), Fannie Williams Bacon; two brothers, Morgan (Minda) and Don Williams; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. ____________________"