Monday, September 21, 2026

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Noonday Baptist Church and its pastor, Scott Gorbett, as the congregation celebrates its 150th anniversary of faithful service to the Noonday community. The congregation's roots trace back to 1866, when settlers in the Neches River area organized the Seven League Baptist Church in Christ. In 1876, several members withdrew to form a new congregation at the crossroads of the Seven League area, naming both the community and the church Noonday. On October 10, 1876, the Cherokee Baptist Association formally received Noonday Baptist Church into its membership--the beginning of a legacy that continues to this day. In 1888, the congregation purchased the land on which the church still stands, and the original building was constructed soon after. Since 1912, the church has been remodeled and expanded many times over, reflecting the growth and resilience of a congregation deeply rooted in its community. For a century and a half, Noonday Baptist Church has remained a steadfast presence in the lives of its members and neighbors offering Bible study, worship, and fellowship for children, youth, and adults alike. Under the leadership of Pastor Scott Gorbett, the church continues to embody its founding philosophy: that faith is more than what happens on Sunday mornings, but a part of who its members are, inside and out. Noonday Baptist Church has faithfully shared the gospel, served its community, and welcomed all who walk through its doors for 150 years.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today, as Chair of the U.S. Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys, on the occasion of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference, where we gathered to officially cut the ribbon for the Commission and to honor the memory of young Black boys who were murdered, and the parents who continue to carry their sons' legacies forward. It is in that spirit that I pay tribute to my colleague, Congresswoman Lucy McBath of Georgia's 6th district whose journey from a grieving mother to one of this Nation's most persistent voices against gun violence continues to shape the work we do in this Congress. In 2012, Lucy's son, Jordan Davis, was shot and killed at a Jacksonville gas station after an argument over the volume of his music. He was seventeen years old. In the years that followed, Lucy refused to let his death become another statistic. She became the national spokeswoman for Everytown for Gun Safety and Moms Demand Action, carrying Jordan's story into communities and statehouses across the country, and in 2018 she carried it all the way to the floor of this House. Since coming to Congress, Lucy has turned personal loss into legislative action. She has been instrumental in passing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Law, helped secure funding to study gun violence as the public health crisis it is, after decades in which that research had gone unfunded, and now serves as Vice Chair of the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. She has stood on this floor to mark the anniversary of Sandy Hook and has authored legislation to fund community-based violence intervention, understanding that the fight against gun violence must be waged in neighborhoods as much as in this chamber. Today, Lucy continues to bring that same commitment to this panel, sharing Jordan's story once more, this time alongside other families who understand exactly what she has carried for over a decade. Her willingness to keep telling that story, even after years in public life, reflects a truth she has lived every day since 2012: that the pain of losing a child to gun violence never truly ends, but it can be transformed into the work of protecting other families from that same loss. Lucy's path from a mother on a mission to a leader on this floor stands as a testament to what grief can become when it is met with purpose. She has shown her colleagues, and the country, that advocacy borne of unimaginable loss can still change laws, change funding priorities, and change how this Nation talks about gun violence. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Congresswoman Lucy McBath for her tireless advocacy against gun violence, and for continuing to carry Jordan's memory into every fight she takes on for the families of this country.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Dick Taylor, whose lifelong residency in Bakersfield has made him an unofficial ambassador of Kern County and a bastion of the Local community. Born September 5, 1955, to Harris and Suzanne Taylor, Dick spent the entirety of his adolescence in the Central Valley, graduating from East High School in 1973. Shortly thereafter, he proudly joined the United States Marine Corps in 1975, attaining the rank of Sergeant before being honorably discharged in 1979. Following his years of service in the military, Dick returned to Bakersfield where he dedicated 27 years to Taylor Tire & Brake, his family's local business. During this time, he was named Director of the California State Tire Dealers Association, as well as both President and General Manager of Taylor Tire & Brake. After his time with Taylor Tire & Brake, he continued his service to Kern County, working six years as a field representative for Kern County District Supervisor Mike Maggard and, in 2012, becoming director of the Kern County Veterans Service Department. In the years following, he served in several leadership positions with the California Association of County Veterans Service Officers, served briefly as an Honorary Commander at Edwards Air Force Base, and retried in 2018 as the county veterans' services officer. Dick's lifelong commitment to Kern County is also visible through his work with local groups, serving as a liaison representative for the Devil Pups Youth Program, a board member for the Bakersfield National Cemetery Support Committee, and a tour leader for Tejon Ranch Conservancy along with numerous other volunteer and community service efforts. Notably, he and his wife Cheryl volunteered their time escorting World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam veterans to Washington, DC on seven `Honor Flight Kern County' flights, and helped establish the "Kern County Line, Where We Honor Veterans" signs installed in 14 locations along federal and state highways. Though much of their time is dedicated to others, Dick and Cheryl have built a life in the Central Valley centered on family, raising their children Maxwell and Shellie, and celebrating four grandchildren Jared, Kamryn, Brody, and Kellan. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing and honoring Dick Taylor on his 71st birthday, in appreciation for his lifelong service, leadership, and dedication to the people of Kern County.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with my colleagues Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi, Congressman Jared Huffman, and Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren to recognize the service of Alan Abbs upon his retirement from the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. Alan has worked throughout his career to improve air quality and public health in California. As the Legislative Officer for the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, Alan has been a strong advocate for strengthened air quality policies and investments to improve the health of our community. Throughout his career, Alan has shown his steadfast commitment to service and has worked tirelessly to strengthen California's existing environmental laws and advocate for critical new programs. Prior to joining the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, Alan served as an officer in the U.S. Navy, Executive Director of the California Air Pollution Control Officers Association, and as an Air Pollution Control Officer for multiple counties. He helped lead the charge to establish the Wildfire Smoke Clean Air Centers for the Vulnerable Populations Incentive Pilot Program, providing funding to retrofit public ventilation systems and other infrastructure to prepare for smoke events. Alan also worked on behalf of the Bay Area Air District to strengthen statewide statutory penalties for air quality violations, culminating in legislation that provides additional incentives for groups that prioritize safety and public health. Beyond his work to advance air quality protections, Alan has been a strong supporter of other environmental policies. He supported the expansion of the Protecting Blue Whales and Blue Skies Program, which protected marine life and promoted sustainable shipping along the California coast. Alan championed pollution reduction efforts at the federal level, as well. He testified before the House Science Committee on the importance of reducing auto emissions, utilizing his expertise to provide a framework for federal legislation. He was also a fierce advocate for the Clean Corridors Act, a bill I introduced that led to important funding for cleaner fueling and charging infrastructure across the Nation. Beyond his professional achievements, Alan is also an accomplished runner, regularly running 50- and 100-mile races alongside his wife, Beverly. He is also a long-suffering Detroit Tigers baseball fan. Alan's leadership has been integral to preserving clean air in California and beyond. Please join us in honoring Alan for his outstanding leadership and congratulating him on his well-deserved retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of a remarkable American, Captain Walter Harrison Sigafoos, III, whose courage and sacrifice have left an enduring mark on our Nation. Born on August 29, 1946, in Richboro, Pennsylvania, Walter Sigafoos answered the call to serve his country at a young age. He attended the United States Air Force Academy, where he graduated with the Class of 1968 with a degree in Astronautics. During his time at the Academy, he was named to the Superintendent's Merit List, served as president of the Ski Club, and participated in the Dance Committee. His classmates remember him as a young man who embraced both the discipline of military service and the fellowship of Academy life. After graduation, Lieutenant Sigafoos continued his training in preparation for service as an Air Force combat aviator. He distinguished himself during his training and went on to complete F-4 Phantom combat crew training at George Air Force Base. His path ultimately took him to Southeast Asia, where he served with the 421st Tactical Fighter Squadron, 366th Tactical Fighter Wing, based at Da Nang Air Base, South Vietnam. On April 25, 1971, Captain Sigafoos was serving as the weapons and systems officer aboard an F-4D Phantom II during a nighttime reconnaissance and strike mission over Laos. Then came a transmission, ultimately becoming the last known radio contact with the aircraft. The aircraft was subsequently presumed lost over Laos. Captain Sigafoos and his fellow crew member, Captain Jeffrey C. Lemon, were reported missing. More than five decades later, Captain Sigafoos remains unaccounted for. The Department of Defense continues to maintain his case among those of American service members lost in Southeast Asia. Mr. Speaker, we will never forget the sacrifice of Captain Walter Harrison Sigafoos, III. Though decades have passed since he was lost in service to our Nation, his memory lives on through the loved ones who have carried his name, his story, and his legacy forward. Their remembrance ensures that his courage and devotion will not fade with time but will continue to inspire future generations of Americans to understand the meaning of service, sacrifice, and duty to country. We honor Captain Sigafoos by remembering the life he lived, the service he gave, and the enduring example he leaves for all who come after him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today, as Chair of the U.S. Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys, on the occasion of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference, where we gathered to officially cut the ribbon for the Commission and to honor the memory of young Black boys who were murdered, and the parents who continue to carry their sons' legacies forward. It is in that spirit that I pay tribute to Sybrina Fulton, the mother of Trayvon Martin, whose advocacy in the years since her son's death has given comfort and community to countless mothers across this country. Trayvon Martin was 17 years old when he was fatally shot in Sanford, Florida, in February 2012. In the aftermath, Sybrina did not have the benefit of an established community of mothers who understood exactly what she was carrying. So she built one. Alongside Tracy Martin, she co-founded the Trayvon Martin Foundation to raise awareness of gun violence and support families facing similar loss. From that same grief came the Circle of Mothers, an organization Sybrina created to bring together mothers who have lost children or family members to gun violence, offering them a space for healing, empowerment, and fellowship. For more than a decade, the Circle of Mothers has hosted an annual retreat where grieving mothers gather not as strangers but as a family bound by shared loss. Sybrina has described the organization as something she dreamed into being because nothing like it existed when she needed it most. What began as one mother's search for connection has grown into a national network that has reached mothers far beyond South Florida, offering them what Sybrina herself was once without. Sybrina has carried this mission into every space available to her, speaking to communities, students, and policymakers across the country about the toll of gun violence and the resilience required to survive it. She co-authored "Rest in Power: The Enduring Life of Trayvon Martin," bringing her family's story and her ongoing advocacy to an even wider audience, and she has continued to show up, year after year, for mothers who never asked to join this circle but found strength in it nonetheless. Sybrina has often said that losing her son forced her to stand up rather than stay on her knees, and that spirit runs through everything the Circle of Mothers represents: turning unimaginable grief into a source of strength for others. Her willingness to keep opening that circle to new mothers, again and again, has made her one of the most enduring voices in this country's fight against gun violence. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Sybrina Fulton for her advocacy through the Circle of Mothers, and for the healing and hope she has extended to mothers across this Nation who have suffered as she has.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my dear friend Cesar Alvarez, an outstanding leader in law, civic advocacy, and an inspiring member of my community. His longstanding commitment to justice and leadership in the Cuba-American community has culminated today in his recognition by the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce in awarding him the "Sand in My Shoes Award." Originally from Havana, Cuba, Cesar exemplifies what it means to pursue and live out the American dream. His father, Licinio Alvarez, played a pivotal role in his upbringing, both in making the decision to pursue a life in Miami and instilling the importance of hard work and community involvement. With these values driven into him at a young age, it is no surprise Cesar chose one of the most rigorous and demanding career paths available in our Nation: law. In 1973 Cesar began his life's work at Greenberg Traurig as an associate. Throughout his time at the firm, he has been involved in nationally recognized cases, taking Greenberg Traurig time and again to new heights. Notably, Cesar has worked on cases that have significantly impacted the Cuban American community. During the Cuban Rafter Crisis in 1994, Cesar led a legal challenge against the government stance that Guantanamo was not U.S. territory. This involved seeking representation for those being detained and those that were denied asylum protection. This case served as essential legal precedent that influenced future policies regarding detainment at Guantanamo Bay, a reality which continues to this day. Perhaps the most recognizable of these victories includes his work in bringing justice to the families of the "Brothers to the Rescue". This horrific attack in 1996 resulting in the death of four unarmed American pilots tore through Miami's Cuban-American community; an attack perpetrated by the Castro regime in cold blood. Cuban MiGs shot down two aircraft operated by "Brothers to the Rescue," seeking to save the lives of countless Cuban men and women crossing the Straits of Florida and forced into exile by the Cuban regime. Alongside Frank Angones, Cesar fought for justice for the pilots through U.S. anti-terrorism laws. While successful in their heroic efforts, they encountered challenges upon attempting to collect the damages from the Cuban regime from the wrongful death suit, Alejandre v. Republic of Cuba 1999. This galvanized congressional action aiming to increase pressure for democratic change in Cuba, leading to the introduction and passage of the Cuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity Act in 1996, an act for which my dear brother Representative Lincoln Diaz-Balart and close friend Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen each provided critical support. This marked a singular moment in history for the Cuban American community, and Cesar's contributions were monumental. Similarly, Cesar played a pivotal role in the legal dispute between George W. Bush and Al Gore in 2000. He was contacted by Florida Governor Jeb Bush's legal team personally and ultimately approved of the firm's participation in this case. He worked to ensure Greenberg Traurig remained neutral and provided bipartisan representation. This case was essential in Greenberg Traurig's growth, opening the door for high profile cases, and placing them among other major players in the legal world. In clear acknowledgment of his historic contributions, Cesar ascended to CEO and President of Greenberg Traurig in 1997, leading the firm from these to become an internationally recognized organization with thousands of attorneys. Today, the heart of the firm remains in Miami, with Cesar serving as Senior Chairman, where it not only provides its legal services but contributes to the community by providing leadership and financial support to numerous local and national charitable organizations. Whether in law or in service to our community, Cesar Alvarez remains a singular figure in our Cuban-American community. Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to recognize my close friend Cesar Alvarez. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring his remarkable career and achievements. His work has truly shaped the Miami community, and his leadership has left a significant impact.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jane Garcia as she retires from La Clinica de La Raza. Jane has worked tirelessly to serve the East Bay community through her role as the Chief Executive Officer of La Clinica. Since beginning her role in 1982, Jane has led La Clinica in providing culturally sensitive care to over 86,000 patients throughout the East Bay. Jane has been a steadfast proponent for accessible, culturally competent, community-focused health care. She has helped thousands of patients in navigating the health care system and has worked diligently to build La Clinica into what it is today. She fostered strong partnerships with providers like Kaiser Permanente, allowing La Clinica to reach underserved communities. Under her leadership, La Clinica has not only become a major asset to communities in need of accessible health care, but it also helps to enroll patients in Medicaid and other insurance programs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Jane facilitated programs at La Clinica that helped patients re-enroll in health care after their coverage had expired, delivered meals to families in quarantine, and helped people find resources so that they were able to keep their homes. Furthermore, in 1997 she took then-California Governor Pete Wilson's administration to court for defunding Medi-Cal prenatal care for undocumented immigrant women--and she won. She also serves on various boards such as The California Endowment, the Alameda Alliance for Health, and Oakland Thrives, and she served a remarkable three-year term as President of the California Primary Care Association. Through working on the ground with patients and navigating policy, she has been a fierce advocate for historically marginalized communities and has been a true leader in protecting and promoting public health throughout the Bay Area. Jane's commitment to community health has earned her numerous awards, including the Equal Rights Advocates award, the YMCA Martin Luther King, Jr. Leadership Prize for Human Dignity and Brotherhood award, and the National Association of Community Health Centers 2010 Betsey Cooke Advocacy MVP Award. She has also been inducted into the Alameda County Women's Hall of Fame, as well as the Women's Hall of Fame by the Contra Costa Commission for Women, and was recognized as one of UC Berkeley's School of Public Health's 75 Influential Alumni. Jane's leadership has been integral to providing quality health care to marginalized communities around the Bay Area, and her stellar commitment to service has left a lasting impact on countless individuals. Please join me in congratulating Jane Garcia on her retirement after her four decades of service to our region.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Steve Bassett, an accomplished musician, songwriter and proud Virginian, who for 60 years has made extraordinary contributions to the Commonwealth's musical heritage. For six decades, Steve has helped shape Virginia's musical heritage through his songwriting, performances and commitment to the arts. His career has taken him to stages across Virginia and beyond, sharing music that reflects the people, places and spirit of the Commonwealth. Among Steve's most enduring contributions is "Sweet Virginia Breeze," which he co-wrote with Robbin Thompson. Beloved by generations of Virginians, the song celebrates the natural beauty and history that define our Commonwealth. In 2015, the Virginia General Assembly designated "Sweet Virginia Breeze" as Virginia's official popular state song, ensuring that Steve's contribution to Virginia's musical legacy will endure for generations to come. On October 10, 2026, friends, fellow musicians, and members of the community will gather at the Perkinson Center for the Arts and Education in Chester, Virginia, for "Steve Bassett: 60 Years in Music." The celebration will look back on Steve's remarkable career through music and storytelling while also looking ahead by highlighting the next generation of Virginia artists. Steve's legacy extends beyond any single song or performance. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated the important role artists play in telling the stories of our communities, preserving our shared culture and bringing people together. His six decades of artistry represent an extraordinary contribution to Virginia's rich musical tradition. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Steve Bassett on 60 years in music and thanking him for his lasting contributions to the arts and cultural heritage of the Commonwealth of Virginia. I wish him continued success as he celebrates this remarkable milestone.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today, as Chair of the U.S. Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys, on the occasion of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference, where we gathered to officially cut the ribbon for the Commission and to honor the memory of young Black boys who were murdered, and the parents who continue to carry their sons' legacies forward. It is in that spirit that I pay tribute to Attorney Benjamin Crump, who spent his career confronting the disparities Black men and boys face in our criminal justice system, our schools, our hospitals, and our workplaces. For nearly two decades, families who had nowhere else to turn have turned to him. As founder and principal owner of Ben Crump Law, he has stood beside the families of Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown, Stephon Clark, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd, and he has fought for the residents of Flint, Michigan, in their long battle for clean water. He carried the case for reparations on behalf of the family of Henrietta Lacks. As this panel's participants share the pain of losing a child and the fight that grief has demanded of them, Mr. Crump is not hearing their stories for the first time--he has lived alongside families carrying that exact weight for most of his career. What sets his work apart is that it rarely ends with verdicts alone. Time and again, he has taken the outcome of a single case and pushed it further, turning accountability for one family into policy that protects others--legislation restricting excessive use of force and requiring implicit bias training within law enforcement agencies. He understands, in other words, how an individual family's tragedy becomes the basis for the very kind of systemic reform this Commission was created to recommend. That commitment to building something lasting extends beyond any single case. Mr. Crump founded and directs the Benjamin Crump Social Justice Institute, and in 2023, St Thomas University's College of Law in Miami was renamed the Benjamin L. Crump College of Law in his honor--the first law school in the country named for a practicing Black attorney. It is that same investment in the next generation, and in turning individual pain into lasting institutions, that he brings to this panel today: a chance to ensure the stories shared by our families are not simply heard, but translated into the policy recommendations this Commission is charged with delivering. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Attorney Benjamin Crump for his extraordinary contributions to civil rights and social justice, and for lending his voice and his experience to this vital conversation on behalf of Black men and boys across America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the honorable and decades-long career in public service of my Counsel and Senior Policy Advisor, Autumn Morley. While Autumn started her education at Davidson College in North Carolina, an internship in Washington, D.C. so impacted her, that she chose to transfer to George Washington University, where she graduated summa cum laude with majors in political science and religion. In 2004, she received her J.D. from Emory University School of Law and Masters of Theological Studies from Emory's Candler School of Theology. That same year, she joined the Florida Bar. Autumn began her career on Capitol Hill as a Staff Assistant in the office of Representative Lincoln Diaz-Balart in 2005. However, it was in 2008 in her role as Legislative Assistant that Autumn would begin to hone her knowledge and skills in defense of democracy and on behalf of those suffering under repression. Taking charge of the Congressman's Cuba and foreign policy portfolios, Autumn began to lay the groundwork for her near-unparalleled expertise on Capitol Hill in the fight for freedom; a fight not only in our Nation or our hemisphere, but across the globe. Following her years of dedicated work as a Legislative Assistant, Autumn was later promoted to Legislative Director. In 2011, following Representative Lincoln Diaz-Balart's retirement, I had the immense privilege of having Autumn join my team as Counsel and Senior Policy Advisor. Once again, our community in South Florida was afforded the opportunity to have the best and brightest at the helm of our freedom agenda. Overseeing Cuba and Western Hemisphere affairs more broadly, democracy promotion, and the work in opposition to Communism, Autumn became an asset not only to my office or community in Miami, but she also became the preeminent expert in the fight for freedom for offices across Capitol Hill. Never seeking after credit, accolades, or praise, Autumn was for years an unsung hero on Capitol Hill, fighting for democracy and for the human rights of men and women she will likely never meet. Among her many contributions, Autumn was critical in drafting pro-freedom language for numerous appropriations bills, in preparing floor statements and other speeches, and always worked hand in glove with my entire team and committee staff in facilitating the passage of key legislation. Throughout the years, Autumn was clear in her convictions, unwavering in her commitment and hard work, and perpetually delivered for our community with humility and grace. For this and so much more, I wish to express my deepest gratitude on behalf of myself, our team, and our district for the 21 years of steadfast service Autumn has given to our community and her resolute dedication to the cause of freedom. Mr. Speaker, as a lifelong public servant, a dear friend, and a true patriot, Autumn has been instrumental in our team. Autumn now begins a new chapter, as she retires from public service. I am grateful for the time that she has graciously given to serve our community, state and country. She is a source of great pride to us all, including her husband, Michael, and her two sons, Zachary and Nicholas. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the service and accomplishments of this outstanding individual.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and service of Dr. Kent Lee Sack. Kent was born in Hettinger, North Dakota, on January 13, 1935. He earned his degree with honor from North Dakota State University where he studied pharmacology. Kent returned to his alma mater later to help build the university's master's program before he went on to medical school at Northwestern University. After medical school, Kent relocated to California where he completed an internship at Orange County General Hospital and later, a family medicine residency at Contra Costa Regional Medical Center. Kent was then drafted into the Navy where he accepted a Marine Corps assignment and served with the First Marine Division in Vietnam. During this time, Kent served as an anesthesiologist, surgeon, and medical troubleshooter, reactivating a Marine Corps MASH unit. For his service in the Marine Corps, Kent was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Following his military service, Kent continued to demonstrate his commitment to promoting public health and quality care. He returned to California where he completed a pediatric residency at Los Angeles County USC Medical Center and later returned to Contra Costa Regional Medical Center. Kent was a firm believer that everyone deserved to be treated with dignity and compassion. He led the way as an early provider of HIV care in the East Bay during the AIDS epidemic, helping to establish social service agencies for patients. Additionally, he served two terms as chair of Bay Area Physicians for Human Rights. He later went on to be a founding member of the Rainbow Community Center in Concord, providing critical resources and health services to Contra Costa's LGBTQIA+ community. Kent helped to shape the Rainbow Center into the organization it is today, guiding the organization through its early stages of development and leading the Rainbow Center through challenging financial periods. Throughout his career, Kent remained a tireless advocate for equitable, compassionate care. Kent sadly passed away in June of 2026, after greatly serving his country and his community throughout his entire life. Please join me in honoring him for his remarkable impact in our community and his incredible leadership and advocacy.

Mr Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Ste. Genevieve Industries, Inc. on its 50th anniversary. SGI was established to provide a place for individuals with disabilities to experience the value of dignified work. Over the years, this non-profit has offered opportunities for people to share their skills and talents, including two who have worked there since the very day SGI opened its doors. Katherine Blechle and Linda Wolk went to work at SGI on September 20, 1976, and they are still on their jobs today. SGI began by having its employees make custom pallets. In the decades since, they've added contract work--delivering bagged ice, shredding documents and operating the Ste. Genevieve County Recycling Center. They host electronic waste disposal events where residents can bring old computers, printers and other devices for safe disposal. SGI employs 28 adults with disabilities and 20 staff members at its location at 10929 Industrial Drive. Josh Adams is the director, and the Board of Directors is led by President Bob Hoog. Board members Clement Donze and Mary Ann Roth are also celebrating a half century of service to SGI. Ste. Genevieve Industries, Incorporated is a treasure in the Ste. Genevieve community, and it is my great pleasure to recognize SGI today on its 50th anniversary before the United States House of Representatives.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today, as the Chair of the U.S. Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys on the occasion of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference, where we gathered to officially cut the ribbon for the U.S. Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys and to honor the memory of young Black boys who were murdered, and the parents who continue to carry their sons' legacies forward. It is in that spirit that I pay tribute to Santonio and Monica Carter, the parents of King Carter, a six-year-old boy from Miami whose life was taken by a stray bullet as he walked to a nearby store. In the years since, Mr. and Mrs. Carter refused to let his death be reduced to a headline. King was walking to buy candy near his home in Liberty City when he was struck and killed in the crossfire of a dispute that had nothing to do with him. In the aftermath, his parents did what no parent should ever have to do: they buried their son, and then they turned their grief into a demand that the community around them do better by its children. Mr. and Mrs. Carter have since become fixtures in their community, not as bystanders to its violence but as people actively working to interrupt it. They founded "Save Our Kings and Queens" in their son's honor, offering young people in their neighborhood an alternative to the streets and a reminder that someone is watching out for them. They have stood at rallies, spoken to reporters, and shown up year after year at prayer vigils and balloon releases marking the day their son was taken, insisting each time that King's name not be allowed to fade. The street where King was killed now bears his name, a small but permanent reminder to everyone who passes that a child's life was lost there and that his family refused to let the moment pass quietly. Santonio has said plainly that he cannot get much out of life right now except helping somebody else, and that spirit has carried him and Monica through a grief no family should have to bear. The Carters carry with them not only the memory of their son but years of hard-won experience turning private loss into public purpose. Their presence is a reminder that the fight against gun violence is not an abstraction debated in hearing rooms alone--it is carried, every day, by parents like them who have chosen to keep showing up. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Santonio and Monica Carter for their courage, their persistence, and their unwavering commitment to ensuring that their son, King Carter's life continues to mean something for the children who come after him.

Mr. Speaker, I use today to recognize Knot Your Average Boys, a group of students at Coppell High School led by senior Prajit Sreenivas. Together, they crochet baby caps and blankets for patients at Scottish Rite for Children in Dallas. Veer Talsania, a former patient at Scottish Rite, participates in Knot Your Average Boys as an opportunity to give back to the hospital that cared for him. All five members are in the percussion section of the Coppell High School band and crocheting reminds them of performing together, a chance to build something bigger than themselves. I thank Prajit, Veer, Jayden, Satvik, and Arnav of Knot your Average Boys, for giving back to our community in such a creative way.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an outstanding member of Pennsylvania's 1st Congressional District, Orville Lee Hutchins, and to recognize a life defined by service, sacrifice, family, and devotion to his community and country. Orville's life of service to our Nation began in 1944, when he entered the United States military. He served for more than two decades, retiring in 1965 with the rank of E-7, Sergeant. During his distinguished military career, Orville served in the Pacific Theater during World War II, including combat service on the Philippine island of Luzon. In 1945, he was part of the occupying forces in Japan. In 1949, he was transferred to France, where he met Genevieve, who would become his wife. Orville later deployed to Okinawa on several occasions with his guided missile battalion. When the war ended, the 27th Regiment was part of the occupying forces in Japan where he was stationed from 1945 to 1946. While there, Mr. Hutchins came upon an orphanage which was being continuously looted by locals. He immediately provided armed security, food, and blankets for the children. This was the beginning of the 27th Regiment's now-continuous support of the Holy Family Orphanage to this day. Orville was married to his beloved wife, Genevieve Hutchins, for 64 years. Together, they raised their two sons, Cliff and Stephen Hutchins. Stephen proudly served for 21 years in the United States Air Force, retiring as a colonel. For the past 37 years, Orville has called Bucks County home and currently resides in Langhorne, Pennsylvania. On behalf of the United States House of Representatives and the people of Pennsylvania's 1st District, in recognition of his 100th birthday, I extend our congratulations to Orville, his family, friends, and all who love him. And may God bless Orville Lee Hutchins with happiness and good health for many years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to clarify a point from my September 14, 2026, remarks on the Legislative Branch Agencies Clarification Act, H.R. 10204. With regard to the relationship between the Library of Congress and the United States Copyright Office, "it is important that both of these institutions remain preeminent in their fields and that they work together, hand in glove, even though one is performing legislative functions and one is performing legislative and executive functions."

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a remarkable initiative born in my district in Jourdanton, Texas, that is helping change how we approach youth safety and emergency preparedness. Recognizing that children are often the first individuals present at a medical emergency, my constituents Dustin and Michelle Titzman, along with their children Penelope, Everly, Adeline, and Stokes, founded Warrior Kid Medic. This program is the culmination of Dustin's two decades of experience as a San Antonio firefighter, paramedic, and Army Reserve Blackhawk pilot, combined with over 14 years of youth leadership development at their summer program, Camp SkyWay. Together, they have translated real-world emergency experience into lessons children can understand and use. Through camp programs, homeschool groups, and community trainings, they have taught more than 1,000 children. Their work does far more than teach practical first aid; it builds lifelong character. In an emergency, it is easy for a child to feel scared, helpless, or like a victim. This training helps them step forward and determine, `What can I do? How can I help?' It replaces fear with critical thinking, leadership, and a steadfast commitment to serving others. Furthermore, this work addresses a real training gap. While it is often difficult to find the time to train adults, our youth are an attentive audience already in the mindset of learning. By teaching these skills early, we give students knowledge they can carry for life. The child we prepare today becomes the parent, banker, coach, coworker, neighbor, and community leader who not only knows exactly what to do in a crisis, but cares enough to act. Mr. Speaker, empowering our youth to lead builds stronger, more resilient communities. On behalf of the 28th District of Texas, I commend the Titzman family and Warrior Kid Medic for their dedication to cultivating the next generation of citizens and first responders, and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing this important work.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th anniversary of the Garde Arts Center in New London, Connecticut, and to honor the citizens, leaders, volunteers, donors, and community partners whose vision and dedication preserved one of southeastern Connecticut's most treasured cultural landmarks. Originally opened as the Garde Theatre on September 22, 1926, the theater emerged during the golden age of American movie palaces, becoming a gathering place where generations experienced film, performance, and shared community life. For decades, the Garde stood as a prominent symbol of downtown New London's civic and cultural identity. Like many historic theaters across America, the Garde faced significant challenges as patterns of entertainment, commerce, and urban development changed during the twentieth century. By the 1980s, its future was uncertain and demolition appeared a real possibility. Rather than allow a cherished landmark to be lost, the people of New London came together to save it. Beginning in 1985, community leaders and citizens launched an extraordinary preservation effort that transformed the historic theater into a nonprofit regional arts center dedicated to serving future generations. The story of the Garde is a powerful example of what can be achieved when a community commits itself to preservation, renewal, and public purpose. Through sustained investment, stewardship, and vision, the Garde became a catalyst for downtown revitalization and a center for arts, education, entertainment, and civic engagement throughout southeastern Connecticut. Today, the Garde Arts Center welcomes audiences from across Connecticut and beyond. From world-class music, theater, dance, film, and comedy to educational programs, community celebrations, and cultural partnerships, the Garde continues to enrich the lives of residents and visitors while strengthening the economic and cultural vitality of the region. The Garde's accomplishments have earned national recognition. In 2022, the League of Historic American Theatres presented the Garde with its Outstanding Historic Theatre Award, recognizing the institution as an exemplary model of historic preservation and community stewardship. As the Garde Arts Center celebrates its Centennial Season, we recognize not only a remarkable building, but also the countless individuals whose commitment ensured that this historic theater remained a living institution rather than a relic of the past. We honor the artists who took its stage, the audiences who filled its seats, and the volunteers, trustees, staff members, donors, businesses, and public officials whose efforts sustained it through challenges and opportunities alike. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Garde Arts Center and the City of New London on the occasion of this historic milestone and in recognizing the Garde's enduring contributions to the cultural, educational, and economic life of Connecticut. As the Garde begins its second century, may it continue to inspire creativity, strengthen community, preserve our shared heritage, and serve as a beacon for the arts for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today, as Chair of the U.S. Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys, on the occasion of the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference, where we gathered to officially cut the ribbon for the Commission and to honor the memory of young Black boys who were murdered, and the parents who continue to carry their sons' legacies forward. It is in that spirit that I pay tribute to Christine and Elmore Wonsley, the parents of Nolan Xavier Wells, an 18-year-old student-athlete whose death this past July has left a family grieving and a community demanding answers. Nolan played football at Ocean Springs High School and went on to play at Southwest Mississippi Community College, known by teammates and friends as a steady, well-liked presence. On July 4, he traveled by boat with friends to Horn Island off the Mississippi Gulf Coast; he did not return with the group that evening, and his body was recovered two days later. Since that day, Christine and Elmore have transformed their grief into a public and unrelenting call for a full, transparent investigation, asking for nothing more than the same thoroughness any family would expect when a child does not come home. Rather than grieve in silence, Christine and Elmore have stepped into the national spotlight. They stood alongside attorney Ben Crump and Rev. Al Sharpton at a press conference in Harlem demanding answers, and they have continued to speak publicly at national gatherings, including alongside civil rights leaders at the National Association of Black Journalists conference in Atlanta, to insist that Nolan's case receive the scrutiny it deserves. Their willingness to speak out, even as the investigation remains active and unresolved, has kept Nolan's story before the American people and ensured that his life, and the questions surrounding his death, are not forgotten. Their advocacy reflects something larger than one family's search for answers. It reflects a growing chorus of families across this country who have refused to let their loved ones become statistics, who have turned personal tragedy into public accountability, and who have reminded this Nation that justice delayed too often becomes denied. Christine's and Elmore's strength in the face of unimaginable loss, and their determination to see their son's case pursued to its full conclusion, embodies the same spirit that brought so many families to Washington this week to share their stories. As they look toward the future, Elmore and Christine have spoken of building a foundation in Nolan's name, ensuring that his legacy endures beyond the headlines and beyond the investigation itself. It is a testament to the kind of parents they are that even in grief, they are already thinking of how to help others. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in extending our deepest condolences to Christine and Elmore, and in recognizing their courage in speaking out, their persistence in seeking the truth, and their commitment to ensuring that Nolan Xavier Wells is remembered not only for how he died, but for the life he lived and the people he touched.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Chief Justice James T. "Jim" Worthen of the Twelfth Court of Appeals in Tyler, Texas, as he concludes nearly three decades of distinguished judicial service to East Texas and our great state. Chief Justice Worthen is a seventh-generation Texan who grew up in Big Sandy, and he has spent his entire professional life dedicated to serving the region he calls home. He earned both his bachelor's and master's degrees from The University of Texas at Tyler, his law degree from South Texas College of Law, and a Master of Laws degree from the University of Virginia. Before taking the bench, he practiced law in Tyler for nearly two decades, building a strong and respected reputation within the East Texas legal community. Chief Justice Worthen was first elected to the Twelfth Court of Appeals in 1998 and has served as Chief Justice since January 2003. Over his 27 years on the bench, he has provided steady, principled leadership and has earned the deep respect of his colleagues and the broader legal community for his integrity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to the title of law. His service has extended well beyond the courtroom, including his tenure as Chairman of the Council of Chief Justices and his longstanding involvement in the Texas legal community. Chief Justice Worthen's career represents the very best of public service; a profound respect for the law, a deep sense of responsibility to the office he holds, and an unwavering commitment to the people of East Texas. I am proud to join Chief Justice Worthen's family, friends, colleagues, and fellow East Texans in thanking him for his exceptional service and congratulating him on a well-earned retirement. I thank him for his dedicated service to East Texas and the State of Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ajay Anand of Kern County, California for his numerous contributions to Kern County, healthcare in the Central Valley, and the local communities of which he is a part. Decades spent exploring every corner of both the Central Valley and our healthcare systems have given Mr. Anand a wealth of experience which he uses to his advantage. His contributions include building healthcare infrastructure across the region, such as bringing `DaVinci' robots into the operating room for precision surgery, as well as leading philanthropic programs for underprivileged, at-risk youth. One of his most recognizable contributions to the Central Valley was the work he did for the Bakersfield Heart Hospital; which, in 2016, was incredibly close to closing after their `corporate parent company' went bankrupt. Mr. Anand put almost the entirety of his savings and resources into salvaging the hospital and even acquired corporate ownership to keep the hospital open and functional, helping save over 400 jobs in the process. Mr. Anand led both the development and creation of Centric Health, founded in 2013, a clinically integrated delivery platform in Kern County specializing in patient-centered healthcare and delivering care to over 120,000 patients a year; as well as QualCare, a network of independent physicians with over 600 providers, extending care to Medicare beneficiaries in Bakersfield and Kern counties. More recently, he and his family contributed to the Thomas M. Hardt Tower expansion at Mercy Southwest Hospital, in recognition of which the hospital's maternity and obstetrics center was named the Anand Family Birth Center. Mr. Anand's impact on Kern County and the Central Valley extends much further than the healthcare field, however. He is a co-founder and managing partner of the H2H Asset Group, a real estate and hospitality company contributing to the local economy, and has helped create jobs, services, and housing for his community. He is also committed to philanthropy and public works, creating the Anand Legacy Foundation to support at-risk youth, and supporting Garden Pathways, an organization committed to providing mentorship and education in the Central Valley. He also helped found the Centric Community Care Foundation, a nonprofit initiative promoting community health and well-being through education, outreach, and disease prevention. The Anand Legacy Foundation also provides support for the `emPOWERment Dess Perkins Foundation', a local organization dedicated to assisting survivors of human trafficking. His work and support in this field reflects a deep commitment to protecting vulnerable youths in our communities and strengthening our district. His commitment to helping the next generation doesn't extend only to the less fortunate and at-risk, however. Mr. Anand and the Anand Legacy Foundation also consistently support educational initiatives in the district, making annual contributions towards the Kern High School District Educational Foundation's Superintendent's First In Class Award program. Most recently, Mr. Anand has pledged $500,000 in support of the "Trump Accounts" initiative, to establish investment accounts for newborn children, with the contribution specifically directed toward supporting vulnerable and at-risk newborns in Kern County, including children born to mothers in rehabilitation and recovery programs. As with his charitable works, the focus he places on the protection and well-being of future generations show his great contributions to our community. Over the last 20 years, Mr. Anand has played a pivotal role in improving the quality of healthcare in the Central Valley in addition to his numerous charitable works. His dedication and work earned him a 2026 Hometown Hero Honoree selection by the Bakersfield Police Activities League, as well as the 2019 Bakersfield Mayor's Medal and Community Ambassador Award, and a Certificate of Recognition from the Kern County Board of Supervisors. Mr. Speaker, I invite my colleagues to join me in recognizing the incredible work that Mr. Anand has done for the Central Valley. Few individuals have made such a broad and lasting impact on our district, from strengthened healthcare access and support for vulnerable populations to investments in a stranger future for our district and Nation. We wish him nothing but continued success in his endeavors and thank him for all that he has done.

Mr. Speaker, I recently had the privilege of joining the Union of Concerned Scientists and more than 300 of my constituents for a town hall to discuss the Trump administration's continued, devastating attacks on science. The event--"What's at Stake, What's Possible: A Massachusetts Science Town Hall"--featured distinguished professors from Boston University, a Ph.D. candidate at MIT, and a local small business owner. Each spoke movingly about the damage inflicted by this administration's irrational, indefensible decision to cut research funding, politicize federal grantmaking, and destroy the institutions responsible for driving American innovation. The takeaway was clear: The cost of this war on science is nothing less than our global competitiveness, our environment, our health, and ultimately our lives. We must act now to restore scientific integrity and protect our scientists from the personal, destructive whims of politicians.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the distinguished Mater Dolorosa Passionist Retreat Center on its 100th anniversary. Mater Dolorosa Passionist Retreat Center was first acquired by the Passionists in 1924 and welcomed its first retreatants in July 1926. Today, several Passionist Retreat Centers can be found across the United States, welcoming all individuals who seek a deeper relationship with their faith. Over the past 100 years, Mater Dolorosa Passionist Retreat Center has faced many challenges, from economic hardships to natural disasters including earthquakes and wildfires. Most recently, the Eaton Fire burned many of their structures and left others filled and covered with smoke and dust. Yet, through perseverance, the Retreat Center has been able to rebuild and recover, while continuing to welcome new retreatants. Every year, over 10,000 people receive services from Mater Dolorosa Passionist Retreat Center. It hosts weekend retreats offering opportunities for people from all backgrounds and every stage of life, including men, women, couples, and youth, to reconnect with themselves and their faith. The 100th anniversary of Mater Dolorosa Passionist Retreat Center is an incredible milestone and I am proud to recognize its legacy of the organization and their impact in Sierra Madre and across the San Gabriel Valley. Because of their services, members of our community have been given the tools they need to heal, grow, and thrive.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize National Concussion Awareness Day, observed on September 18, 2026, and to draw attention to the millions of Americans, civilian and military, affected by concussions each year. Today, I am proud to highlight the University of Michigan Concussion Center, the national leader in advancing our understanding of these injuries. Since its founding, the Center has generated more than $100 million in research funding and produced more than 200 publications spanning injury prevention, identification and clinical care, and most importantly its long-term effects. Michigan Concussion Center reseachers connect scientific discovery with clinical expertise and real-world needs, working alongside civilian and military health professionals, educators, and community partners to improve prevention, treatment and recovery. The Center's impact extends well beyond Michigan and the United States, with members collaborating on research and public education in more than 25 countries. As a leader of the NCAA-DoD-supported Concussion Assessment, Research, and Education (CARE) Consortium, researchers at the Michigan Concussion Center are conducting the largest concussion study in the world, tracking more than 53,000 civilians and military officers to understand the acute and long-term effects of concussions. This public-private partnership has been instrumental in understanding and mitigating the effects of concussions on brain health, military readiness, and warfighter lethality. Their collaborations have also produced practical innovations. In partnership with the University's Center for Academic Innovation, the Center developed a virtual-reality training tool that allows athletic trainers and other health providers to practice recognizing and responding to concussions before stepping onto the sidelines. The Michigan Concussion Center also helped develop the recently released Concussion Navigator with the National Association of State Head Injury Administrators and the Brain lnjury Association of Michigan. This resource gives Michigan families trusted guidance on symptom monitoring, locating specialist care, and ensuring safe return to school, work, and play. The University of Michigan Concussion Center recognizes that research has its greatest impact when reliable information reaches the public. Through outreach, community engagement, and education, the Center equips students, athletes, parents, coaches, health professionals, and others to recognize concussion symptoms, respond appropriately, and support a safe recovery. On National Concussion Awareness Day, I encourage my colleagues and all Americans to learn the signs and symptoms of concussions, support safety measures, and seek timely medical care when a head injury occurs. I commend the University of Michigan Concussion Center as a national leader in advancing concussion science and for working to protect everyone, in every field, every day. Their dedication reflects the University of Michigan's enduring commitment to research and service for the common good.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Jeff Long for his selection as the recipient of the Kiwanis Club of Altoona's Distinguished Citizen Award. The award is given in recognition of major contributions to the betterment of society and advancement of the Altoona area. With nearly 50 years of achievement in the construction industry, including development of the popular Graystone properties, Jeff has generously supported numerous charitable and nonprofit organizations throughout the communities where he lives and works. Impressively, Jeff measures success by the people he has helped, the communities that he has built and strengthened, and the opportunities that he has created for so many others. As a businessman and community volunteer, Jeff has truly devoted his life to investing in Central Pennsylvania. On behalf of constituents throughout Blair County and the entire 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Jeff Long on this prestigious award and thank him for his contributions to the community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mel Orpilla, in recognition of nearly 40 years of distinguished public service, community leadership, advocacy and dedication to preserving the history heritage of Filipino Americans. Mel Orpilla is a lifelong resident of Vallejo, his commitment to public service began through community-based organizations, including Filipinos for Affirmative Action and Fighting back Partnership. He then spent the next nine years as the Community and Government relations manager for Kaiser Permanente. Mel subsequently brought his experience in community advocacy to Congressman Mike Thompson's office, serving as his Senior Field representative for nearly ten years in the Vallejo office. Mel has continued his work, serving as our Senior District representative for the last four years, where he has been pivotal in bringing federal funds and resources to Vallejo and Solano County. Throughout his work, he became the trusted resource for constituents, elected officials, city staff, and everyone in between to assist. Beyond his professional work, Mel has devoted decades to preserving Filipino American history, promoting cultural pride, and ensuring that the contributions of Filipino Americans are recognized and remembered by future generations. As a leader of the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS), Mel played a significant role in the effort to establish Filipino American History Month in California. He and his team helped advance legislation through the California Legislature recognizing October as Filipino American History Month. Under the leadership of key figures like Mel, FANHS helped advance the recognition of October on the federal level. In 2015, the White House recognized FANHS's longstanding efforts to establish Filipino American History Month and hosted the first-ever White House celebration of Filipino American History Month, with Mel, then FANHS National President, delivering keynote remarks. Mel Orpilla's career reflects the very best of community and public service, a commitment to people and determination to ensure that his community's history and voice are valued and remembered We proudly recognize Mel Orpilla for his decades of service and his lasting contributions to Vallejo, Solano County, the Filipino American community and the people he has had the privilege of serving.