Brad Ashford

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, I thank Ranking Member Takano, Chairman Roe, certainly Chairman Miller, and Mr. Speaker for bringing this important bill up for a vote today. H.R. 5099, the CHIP IN for Vets Act, was introduced by myself and others in the House and by my good friend and colleague, Senator Deb Fischer, in the United States Senate. There is an identical bill in the Senate awaiting action as we speak. As has been suggested and mentioned, this bill allows for the Department of Veterans Affairs to enter into donation agreements with community groups in order to complete VA construction projects. This is a new and innovative idea not necessarily brought to this body by myself, but by so many other people, as has been mentioned, who have worked on this bill for literally 2 years. I appreciate my good friend, Congressman Fortenberry from Lincoln, Nebraska, for his comments and his ability to hold me back from time to time as we proceeded down this course. I think when we started out with this process, what I was focused on was the idea that in our own communities it is veterans who can make those tough decisions as to what their needs are. Nobody better than our veterans understands those needs. What this bill will allow us to do is to combine community donors with veterans to actually involve themselves together in the development of these projects. Certainly in Omaha, in my community in Iowa, and Nebraska area, we have had a need for such a renovated facility for many, many years. My bill, I believe, empowers our veterans. It puts an end to the decades-long wait for hundreds of thousands of veterans in my area who have been promised new facilities. I think, as clearly as Congressman Fortenberry, Ranking Member Takano, and Chairman Roe mentioned, that this really does open up opportunities for VA facilities across the entire country and starts the course moving forward. Let me just conclude by thanking so many of you. I would be here much longer than 5 minutes if I were going to name everyone, but certainly I appreciate my cosponsors, Congressman Walz from Minnesota, Congressman Fortenberry, Congressman Smith from Nebraska, Congressman Dave Young from across the river in Iowa. I thank Chairman Miller, who gave me the opportunity to discuss, even on weekends, some of the positive elements of what we were trying to do in Nebraska. Lastly, thanks to the staff and certainly my staff leader on this bill, Denise Fleming. I am going to be in the House only a few more weeks, but I can't say that she is actually welcoming me leaving, but she certainly has been a tenacious advocate and has worked very, very hard. There have been other staff members as well, and certainly they have all added a tremendous amount to this bill: Christine Hill and Grace Rodden most particularly. Moving this bill ensures that Senator Fischer's bill, which is now in the Senate, can move in the Senate and become law so we can begin this project now. My friends in Omaha, in Nebraska, and Iowa are ready to donate what is necessary to unleash, as Mr. Fortenberry suggests, the money that has already been appropriated for our Omaha facility. Lastly, I would like to thank the Secretary of the Veterans Administration, Robert McDonald. I met Bob McDonald 2 years ago about just now when I was coming in to Congress. I suggested to him that we needed something to be done in Omaha, and I also suggested that I thought that our donor community and our veterans community would work together on an innovative public-private partnership to enable some sort of new way, some sort of center of excellence to develop; and certainly Secretary McDonald and his team have been great and have been so incredibly helpful in moving this along. Lastly, again, I thank my colleague and friend actually from our years together in the unicameral legislature in Nebraska, Deb Fischer, whose staff has been tireless and helpful in this matter.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember a beloved Nebraskan whose life was truly an inspiration to all who were fortunate enough to know him. Terry Moore, Jr., who has passed away at the age of 47, suffered from a rare developmental disorder known as Williams Syndrome. Although it brings with it a lifetime of health and learning challenges, Terry refused to let it slow him down as he maintained an extremely rigorous, productive and fulfilling life. Many Omahans came to know him during his years happily working in the City-County building, as an energetic and most-helpful clerk in the Douglas County Treasurer's office. This is a most difficult time for Terry's dad, Terry Moore, Sr., a very good friend of mine and longtime Nebraska labor leader. Terry, I can't begin to understand the pain you are suffering but please know that your son will long be remembered for his never-ending courage and grace as he lived a truly motivating life.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, I rise today to honor a woman who has left an indelible mark on the State of Nebraska and the Second Congressional District. Dr. Lourdes Gouveia is professor emeritus of sociology and the founding director of the Office of Latino/Latin American Studies at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. For over 25 years, with her leadership and knowledge, she has worked to provide educational institutions, government agencies, and the private sector with relevant, culturally competent, and socially responsible research and analysis of Nebraska's vibrant Latino population. She has directed work that details the economic, social, and political opportunities and challenges facing both the urban and rural sectors of the State. Dr. Gouveia has done this with a particular focus on the impact of migration, immigrant integration, and social justice. All this has now come full circle as her former students and others she has mentored fill a variety of highly meaningful roles in Nebraska and across the country. This ensures that her legacy, symbolized by the programs she has created and nurtured over the past quarter century, will continue to serve Nebraska and its citizens long into the future.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the exceptional life of John Sodoro, a lifelong resident of my hometown, Omaha, Nebraska. John was a respected lawyer and a loving father, grandfather, and husband. Many in the community knew him for his congenial personality and compassion for his clients. Before following his father's footsteps in the legal profession, John graduated from Creighton Prep, and later, in true Omaha fashion, he earned his undergraduate and law degree from Creighton University. Over the course of his career, John made a difference in the lives of many, successfully helping his clients through a wide variety of difficult times. The Omaha community has lost a great man and true public servant. May his work be remembered and his life always celebrated. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Sodoro family.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today out of respect for all those across the country who have lost a loved one due to suicide. September is Suicide Prevention Month, time to raise awareness of a mental illness that far too many of our veterans and their families find great difficulty discussing. We have all heard the numbers: an estimated 20 veterans commit suicide every day, nearly one life every hour. Those horrific numbers have names, the names of men and women who put themselves in harm's way to keep each other and every one of us safe. Last year, we passed the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act. It addresses the need for more mental health care experts inside the VA, evaluates what is working and what is not, and gives veterans more time to get the mental health care they need. In Nebraska, we are working with the VA to create centers of excellence, a national model for veterans care that will include top- flight mental health treatment, including for post-traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety. The debt we owe our veterans is a debt that can never be repaid, but we must keep our promises to our veterans and support their unique healthcare issues.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize one of Omaha's most illustrious athletes, Susan Marchese. Susan has been a dominant figure in Nebraska amateur golf for 40 years, dating back to her first two high school State championships in 1977 and 1978 as a student athlete at Omaha's Duchesne Academy. After high school, she attended the University of Oklahoma, where she was a four-time letter winner and an individual runner-up in the Big Eight tournament in 1981. Throughout the course of her post-college career, Susan has won 18 State amateur golf championships, 16 Omaha city championships, and six Nebraska senior women's golf championships. Her success on the green led to her induction as a member of the Nebraska Golf Hall of Fame, Nebraska High School Hall of Fame, Omaha Athletic Hall of Fame, and the Duchesne Academy Sports Hall of Fame. Now, as a Member of the House of Representatives, I am here to recognize the outstanding career of Susan Marchese.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, I stand with my colleagues and lament that we are going home without addressing these very difficult issues. Mr. Speaker, this week the Omaha community lost a treasured son. I stand before you today to honor the memory of 27-year old Seth Rich. Seth was returning home early Sunday morning when he was the victim of a tragic and senseless shooting just 1 block from his Washington, D.C., home. Seth had dedicated his all-too-brief career to public service that began in high school and blossomed in college before he set out to change things for the better in our Nation's Capital. While his life was cut short, his legacy and work to expand access to voting for millions of Americans will not be lost. Seth's family and friends remember a passionate young man out to do good works from whatever platform he was given. A Nebraskan through and through, although he now called D.C. home, Seth could be found cheering on the Husker football team and Creighton basketball team. No one deserves this kind of senseless violence, and the thoughts and prayers of all Nebraskans go out to Seth's family.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a friend and fellow Omahan, Kevin Hanrahan, the Tally Clerk of the House. He retires this September, after 38 years of distinguished service to the House of Representatives. In 1978, Kevin left Omaha with former Congressman John Cavanaugh, with whom he remains friends to this day, and shortly thereafter joined the Clerk's Office, where he has worked in the Tally section for the past 37 years--29 as an Assistant Tally Clerk and the last 8 as a Tally Clerk. Kevin is a workhorse, not a show horse. His depth of parliamentary and institutional knowledge is matched only by his love of this institution. He has played a pivotal role in making the process operate smoothly, and his knowledge and guidance will be deeply missed. While Kevin's upcoming retirement is a big loss for his colleagues and the House, we wish him and his lovely wife, Peggi, nothing but the best in their next chapter of life. I am pretty sure most of that chapter will be written on the golf course. With that, I wish them long drives and birdie putts. I might also add that Kevin and I played rugby at Creighton University a few years ago. Thank you, Kevin, for your outstanding service and for being a remarkable example to your colleagues of what serving this institution is all about.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, we should not leave on the longest summer break in more than three decades while our Nation faces serious security threats. There is no greater responsibility for this body than to keep our communities and our families safe. We face real threats from around the world, from the Zika virus, cyber threats, China, Russia, and North Korea. All of these demand attention, but we must act now to destroy ISIS. The campaign of destruction waged by ISIS has created the worst crisis in the Middle East in a generation and is threatening American lives at home and abroad. When I traveled to the Middle East 17 months ago, I came home and said that this must be our top priority. Congress must come together to develop a comprehensive strategy that attacks ISIS on all fronts, online and on the ground, reducing and eliminating its territory and its ability to direct attacks around the globe. A commitment to this effort will allow our military to make long-term strategic decisions. It is important for Republicans and Democrats alike to find a common vision for this effort. I do not believe that we cannot have and should not have a do-nothing summer while Americans are in jeopardy.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, I would like to offer my congratulations to the Farm Credit System as its cooperative owners and employees celebrate one hundred years of service. The Farm Credit System has provided a dependable source of financing for farmers, ranchers, and farm cooperatives throughout the years to ensure the agriculture industry can continue to feed America and serve as the backbone of our economy. I am also honored to serve as a cosponsor of House Resolution 591 to formally commend the Farm Credit System for their one hundred years of service to America's farmers and ranchers since the Federal Farm Loan Act of 1916 was signed into law by President Woodrow Wilson. Today in the second district of Nebraska, Farm Credit Services of America has been actively supporting the next generation of the agriculture workforce through its ongoing financial support for organizations like 4-H and Future Farmers of America. In addition to these groups, they are a key player in an industry-wide partnership to support Omaha Bryan High School's Urban Agriculture Academy. This innovative and important program allows students to study leadership skills, explore agriculture related careers, and gain a sense of community in the agriculture industry. One in three jobs in Nebraska is agriculture-related, and there is a strong demand for skills suited to those industries. Omaha Bryan is filling this demand with students who would otherwise not be aware of what a job in the agriculture industry can look like. Investment in the Omaha Bryan program by Farm Credit and many other Omaha businesses has been instrumental in getting the program, now in its fourth year, through the crucial, early development stages. Thank you, Farm Credit, for your leadership and support of Nebraska agriculture and rural communities.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman of the committee and the ranking member for helping us get this legislation through today. I also thank my fellow Nebraskans, Congressman Fortenberry and Congressman Smith, for their cosponsorship of this important legislation. Today I stand with a heavy heart and great pride to honor the life and legacy of Omaha native, Petty Officer 1st Class Caleb A. Nelson. On October 1, 2011, Petty Officer Nelson gave his life in service to his country when he was killed on a combat patrol by an explosive device that struck his vehicle in Zabul province, Afghanistan. His selfless and courageous service to our country will never be forgotten. Though we cannot repay the ultimate sacrifice that Petty Officer Nelson made while protecting our Nation, his legacy will now have a permanent physical memory through H.R. 4975. This legislation will designate the post office located a 5720 South 142nd Street, near my home in Omaha, Nebraska, as the Petty Officer 1st Class Caleb A. Nelson Post Office Building. Our Nation is defended by men and women who sacrifice to keep us free, protect our liberty, and strengthen our country. We have lost many brave men and women who have left this country to protect our life, and I am proud and humbled to stand here before this House to honor the life and bravery of one of those men today. Petty Officer Nelson entered the Navy in the engineering career field and graduated from boot camp on October 11, 2005. After graduating from Navy technical training, Petty Officer Nelson was accepted to attend Basic Underwater Demolition SEAL training. He graduated from SEAL training in November 2006. As a member of the elite team of Navy SEALs, Petty Officer Nelson continued to serve his country as a seasoned combat veteran, with a deployment to Iraq in 2009, and a deployment to Afghanistan in March 2011. Petty Officer Nelson's awards and decorations speak to his selfless heroism. These awards include the Bronze Star with Valor, Purple Heart Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Sea Service Ribbon, NATO Service Medal, Expert Rifle Ribbon, and Expert Pistol Ribbon.

Mr. ASHFORD. To those who knew Petty Officer Nelson best--his parents, wife, and two sons--he will be remembered as a loving son, husband, and father. To his fellow Navy SEALs, he will be remembered as a cherished teammate and a gifted SEAL operator. To this country, he will be remembered as an embodiment of the Navy's motto: ``Not for self, but for country.''

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an Omaha police officer whose heroic actions, while putting his own life on the line, saved the lives of countless innocent bystanders. I am honored to note that Officer Coral Walker is the recipient of the U.S. Justice Department's Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor. On June 15, 2013, Officer Walker was on patrol when a 911 call alerted him that a gunman was randomly shooting people. Two died, and two others were critically wounded. When he pulled up on the scene, Officer Walker ordered the shooter to stop and drop his weapon, a .45 caliber handgun. Ignoring Officer Walker, the gunman opened fire on the brave patrolman. As several shots were fired at Officer Walker, two hitting his police car, he fired back, killing the man and protecting those nearby. Officer Walker's selfless actions came as other innocent lives stood in the balance. The gunman, in the country illegally and carrying two additional loaded magazines, was walking toward a busy business area when Officer Walker stepped in. Only Officer Walker's exceptional courage, disregarding his own safety, brought this deadly shooting spree to an end. The Omaha community, the State of Nebraska, and our Nation are grateful for the heroic actions of Officer Coral Walker.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the retirement of Dr. Phil Smith of Nebraska Medicine at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Over 35 years ago, Dr. Smith established the Nebraska Infection Control Network to educate healthcare professionals regarding infection control in nursing homes and hospitals. Dr. Smith is a pioneer in the field of infectious disease, and his perseverance and dedication led to the establishment of the very critical biocontainment unit at Nebraska Medicine in 2005. Commissioned by the Centers for Disease Control, the unit was at ground zero in the fight against Ebola, providing Ebola training to more than 30 of the country's top hospitals while successfully treating several Ebola patients. Dr. Rick Sacra, who contracted the disease in West Africa, credits the Omaha unit with saving his life. Recently, Dr. Smith codeveloped the Center for Preparedness Education, a coalition between the University of Nebraska Medical Center and Creighton University Medical Center. It is very difficult to sum up this career that he has had. What is critical, though, is that the Ebola problem and crisis is not going away. The University of Nebraska Medical Center, the community that I come from, Omaha, Nebraska, and the entire State of Nebraska are committed to fighting Ebola. It will continue to do so by developing an even more significant biocontainment center, developing teaching regimens, and developing research regimens at the University of Nebraska Medical Center to fight Ebola and other infectious diseases. It is difficult to sum up the career that Dr. Smith has had, but I will quote this. He says: ``Patient care has been part of my life. It's a noble profession, and nothing beats the gratification of making a diagnosis and helping a patient.'' Nothing is more critical than the treatment of the Ebola crisis at the University of Nebraska. Saving lives, creating an atmosphere for further research, and creating a facility for training healthcare professionals from around the world is the mission that the University of Nebraska has taken up. Dr. Smith's contributions to Nebraska and our Nation are immeasurable, and we are grateful for his service. Interestingly enough, the University of Nebraska biocontainment unit is now in the capable hands of Dr. Angie Hewitt, who is the daughter of one of our colleagues, Representative Gene Green of Texas. Dr. Hewitt will continue the work that Dr. Smith has begun and will continue to enlarge and engage the world in the fight against infectious disease.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, as I rise, my prayers are with the victims of the terrorist attacks in Brussels. Today, I would like to pay tribute to a multifaith religious organization that rises above the divisive elements in our Nation and around the world. Each day, Omaha's unique Tri-Faith Initiative makes it clear that what unites us far outweighs what divides us. The Tri-Faith Initiative is made up of Jewish, Christian, and Islamic religious groups practicing respect, acceptance, and trust. Omaha's Temple Israel, Countryside Community Church, and the American Muslim Institute literally work side by side to realize the dream of three houses of worship on adjacent land. In three-part harmony, Tri-Faith strives to challenge stereotypes, learn from each other, and counter the flames of fear and misunderstanding. This initiative couldn't come at a more critical time in our history. America's greatness begins with its diversity. I am beyond proud that my hometown is home to this most important melting pot. Jews, Christians, and Muslims working and praying side by side, that is America.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today saddened by the passing of a true public servant, Dr. Marguerita Washington, the long-time publisher of the Omaha Star newspaper. When the Omaha Star began in 1938, it focused on printing positive news and being a champion for African American progress. When Dr. Washington succeeded her aunt, Mildred Brown, in running the paper, she successfully carried this responsibility for over three decades, making the Omaha Star a national landmark. Dr. Washington was a robust and principled voice for social justice. Through the Omaha Star, she enlightened the public on a variety of matters, including health care, jobs, and education. Her advocacy has garnered many well-deserved accolades and awards, including recognition by this body in the Congressional Record. She devoted her life to serving the citizens of Omaha, Nebraska, and the impact of her efforts will endure for generations to come. May God bless Marguerita Washington. May her memory strengthen and comfort all who mourn this remarkable woman.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Black History Month and the countless contributions of African Americans as well as recognizing a man who embodies the best of this celebration. Michael Maroney is president of the Omaha Economic Development Corporation. Our North Omaha community is a vibrant neighborhood, but one still facing economic challenges. Michael finds and furthers projects that result in more jobs, business ownership, diverse housing options, and training opportunities. Through Michael's leadership, the city of Omaha is making significant strides to lessen the stress and strain of poverty. Every American, no matter the color of their skin, should be able to achieve their full potential. One roadblock to this goal is the Supreme Court's flawed opinion in the Shelby v. Holder case, which significantly weakens the 1965 Voting Rights Act. Until Congress passes bipartisan legislation to right this wrong, every American's sacred franchise, the right to vote, is under attack. So this Black History Month, let us make time to recommit to working together to ensure a better, brighter, and more equitable future for all Americans.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the important contribution women pilots have made to the service of our military in World War II. These women deserve a proper military resting place. In 1942, Betty Grace Clements of Elmwood, Nebraska, entered into the Women Airforce Service Pilots. Betty was one of only 1,100 women who had earned her wings to fly noncombat missions to support the war effort. Betty's job during World War II was to provide courier services for then-Colonel Paul Tibbets and his crew. Colonel Tibbets and his crew were training to fly the Enola Gay and bring an end to the war. Betty was part of the history. She helped end the war, and she served Nebraska and her country with honor. Betty passed away in 1965, but, under today's law, her ashes could not be added to the Arlington National Cemetery. I think that is a shame. WASPs have fought for proper recognition for their service. I applaud Congresswoman McSally for her bill to give these women the recognition they deserve. I thank Dr. Grace Clements, Congresswoman McSally, and all women pilots who have served. I ask my colleagues to support this important legislation.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, I rise to thank you for recognizing the need to make this country safer from such horrible highly infectious diseases such as Ebola. I am glad that the 113th Congress had the foresight to improve our preventive and treatment options to fight Ebola during consideration of the Fiscal Year 2015 Appropriations Act that included emergency funding to protect our American citizens from this disease should such deadly illnesses ever spread to the USA. As we debate the Fiscal Year 2016 Omnibus Appropriations package before us today we have again wisely included language that will allow the unused funds from the emergency supplemental to be used to assist institutions to not only buy equipment and instruments but to also perform much needed renovation to existing structures and construct or expand facilities. It is vitally important that we maintain a core infrastructure capacity to preserve our national readiness capability. The use of already appropriated funds for the purposes of purchasing equipment, construction, renovation or expansion is prudent and appropriate. I rise just to thank you for your diligence on this and your foresight to prevent the possibility of an outbreak of a highly infectious illness like Ebola from occurring in the United States. I also appreciate the Chairman's partnership in ensuring that we were able to address this need without adding new funding and still strengthen our country's defenses against highly infectious diseases.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, in my view, H.R. 4038 is, in fact, a commonsense approach to addressing the legitimate security concerns that my constituents and the American people have expressed to me and are expressing today. In the wake of the horrific attacks in Paris--in my view, it is a game-changer--we must and are obligated to reassess our existing procedures--and that is all this bill does--for admitting and monitoring refugees from countries associated with ISIS. I cannot sit back and ignore the concerns of my constituents and the American public. This legislation does not shut down the refugee asylum process. If it did, I wouldn't support it. We are simply asking the administration to reassure us that those coming to the United States do not pose a threat to the American people. We should not accept anything less from our Federal Government. I am very proud of our American legacy of being a welcoming nation, and I have devoted much of my professional life to that concept and idea. This legislation, in my view, does not diminish that legacy. Rather, this legislation will protect that legacy into the future and will reassure Americans that we are working to protect them.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Dr. Robert Heaney on the occasion of his 87th birthday. It is an honor to share a birthday, November 10, with such a distinguished member of our community. Dr. Heaney is a world-renowned researcher in vitamin D deficiency. He is one of the most published researchers in the United States. He has published over 400 original papers, chapters, and reviews on science and education. His accomplishments speak to his perseverance and commitment to innovation in his field. From 1971 to 1984, Dr. Heaney served as Professor Emeritus and Vice- President of Health Sciences for my law school alma mater, Creighton University, in Omaha. In addition to his own achievements in his own field, he is no stranger to nutrition policy. Dr. Heaney helped redefine nutritional requirements by providing the link between malnutrition and long-term health problems. Most recently, he served as research director of Grassroots Health, a nonprofit organization committed to solving global vitamin D deficiency. I wish Dr. Heaney a very happy 87th birthday, and here's to many more.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of Small Business Saturday. Small Business Saturday takes place every year the Saturday after Thanksgiving. This event is an opportunity for Americans to reinvest in our communities by supporting our local businesses. Small businesses are the lifeblood of our local economies and a key to unlocking the American Dream. As a former small-business owner, I know the value that small businesses bring to our local communities. My family owned and operated the Nebraska Clothing Company in Omaha for generations. This experience taught me the importance of the entrepreneurial spirit to our economy and our communities. Nebraska is the proud home of over 166,000 small businesses. Nearly half of all working Nebraskans are employed by local companies. Beyond the facts and figures, small businesses are essential to the health of our communities. Local companies have local ties. They hire local employees, contribute to local causes, and provide a high level of personal service. This holiday shopping season we have an opportunity to show our appreciation for small businesses. I encourage all Americans to get out and support Small Business Saturday on November 28.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Chairman, I am proud today to stand with Representative Denham as a cosponsor of this amendment. This amendment reinforces--make no mistake--a current law that has been on the books for over two decades. It promotes interstate commerce, ensures economic growth, and fortifies safety requirements. This amendment will allow a vital industry in my district and a vital industry to our Nation, the trucking industry, to operate without a patchwork of State regulations. In my home State of Nebraska, we have several of the Nation's largest motor carriers. These employers haul freight throughout the country and provide good-paying jobs. Unfortunately, these employers may now face litigation that could cost tens of millions of dollars and create regulatory uncertainty across this country. Far-flung litigation shouldn't threaten the livelihood of hardworking Nebraskans. It is likely that companies like those in my district will simply refuse to do business in certain States. This result will destroy jobs, hinder competition, and hurt taxpayers. I urge my colleagues to support this amendment.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, today, I recognize and congratulate two of my constituents, John and Connie Rumbaugh, who this past Friday celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Both come from small towns, John from Bassett, Nebraska and Connie from Hinton, Iowa. John served in the Army, including in Korea following the war, and later worked for Boeing in Seattle before moving to Omaha in 1958. Connie came to Omaha in 1960 to attend business school. They met in 1962, and three years later--or 50 years ago Friday--they married. The next year they built their own home as part of the burgeoning west Omaha development of the times, and as newlyweds moved into the home in Millard where they still live today. In that home, they raised three children, Marti, Tracy and Kevin. I want to honor today their great accomplishment together, which to me represents one of the best qualities of the people I represent here in Congress.

Mr. ASHFORD

Mr. ASHFORD. Mr. Speaker, today I'd like to recognize CQuence Health Group, named number one on the list of ``Best Places to Work in Healthcare'' by Modern Healthcare. Ranked on their commitment to wellness, balance, and workplace fitness, Modern Healthcare definitively found CQuence was on top this year. This type of recognition is not unusual for CQuence, who were also named ``Employee Voice Award'' this year as well. In 2014 they were ranked Top 10 ``Best Places to Work'' and given the ``Golden Well Workplace Award''. The list of awards and accomplishments spans back all the way to 2009, demonstrating CQuence's real commitment to a better work place. Not only am I proud that CQuence's 31 employees work in my district, I'm also proud to represent this innovative leadership. CEO Mike Cassling clearly understands that the way we work has dramatically changed, so must we change the way we deal with stress and quality of life. Studies have shown workplace stress is costing our economy money: from health care costs, low productivity, to job turnover, stress negatively impacts businesses everywhere. CQuence's approach to work life balance and employee wellness will certainly change their employees' lives, which in turn will change the lives of their families and friends. Soon, this employee wellness first approach will permeate into the Omaha community, the greater state of Nebraska, and our country. I hope to see more businesses follow this example. If anyone is seeking a new job, I encourage them to see what Nebraska has to offer. Our low unemployment to our high employee satisfaction, Nebraska leads the way. I applaud Mike and CQuence for their award winning wellness programs and I am excited to see how they continue to enrich their lives next year.