Vern Buchanan

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 2954, the Securing a Strong Retirement Act, also known as SECURE 2.0. It is a sad reality that today too many hardworking Americans enter retirement without enough savings. In fact, according to a recent report, only 36 percent of working adults feel their retirement savings are on track to meet their goals and more than one-third of U.S. workers have never even had a retirement account. It's clear that millions of Americans could face a financial crisis during their retirement years. Congress can help head off this avoidable emergency and give individuals, families, and businesses more tools to boost their retirement nest eggs. Last year, the House Ways & Means Committee unanimously passed the bipartisan Securing a Strong Retirement Act of 2021, legislation providing new incentives to help improve the retirement financial landscape for Americans across the country. This bipartisan retirement savings bill seeks to build on the momentum from legislation that passed last Congress. Specifically, this important new legislation would double the existing tax credit for businesses with 50 or fewer employees that start a company retirement plan, expand-auto-enrollment, push back the withdrawal retirement age, and allow workers to double their catch-up contributions. This bipartisan bill also authorizes new protections for people paying down student loan debts and incentives to America's veterans. SECURE 2.0 is also completely budget neutral. Retirement doesn't have to turn into another U.S. financial crisis. With responsible incentives and smart planning, we can give more people the peace of mind they deserve as they grow older. I'm pleased to see Congress put aside partisan games and finally come together to enact SECURE 2.0 and strengthen America's retirement security.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a number of outstanding public school teachers in Florida's 16th Congressional District. I was once told that children are 25 percent of the population, but they are 100 percent of the future. And it's true. The education of a child is an investment, not only in that student, but in the future of our country. Therefore, I established the Congressional Teacher Awards to honor educators for their ability to teach and inspire students. An independent panel has chosen the following teachers from Manatee, Sarasota, and Hillsborough counties to receive Florida's 16th District's 2022 Congressional Teacher Awards for their accomplishments as educators: Victoria Adriano for her accomplishments as a Student Support Specialist teacher at Ballard Elementary School in Bradenton Erica Burton for her accomplishments as an English Language Arts teacher at Lincoln Memorial Middle School in Palmetto Tammy Harper for her accomplishments as a Chemistry teacher at Lakewood Ranch High School in Lakewood Ranch Eric Lostorto for his accomplishments as a Math teacher at Tuttle Elementary School in Sarasota Angelee Gens for her accomplishments as a Life Science teacher at Brookside Middle School in Sarasota Shannon Nelson for her accomplishments as an Exceptional Student Education teacher at Sarasota High School in Sarasota Kim Keebler for her accomplishments as a Reading teacher at Newsome High School in Lithia On behalf of the people of Florida's 16th District, I congratulate each of these outstanding teachers and offer my sincere appreciation for their service and dedication.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize fire, rescue and EMS personnel who have provided distinguished service to the people of Florida's 16th Congressional District. First responders, fire departments and emergency medical service teams are summoned on short notice to serve their respective communities. Oftentimes, they arrive at scenes of great adversity and trauma, to which they reliably bring strength and composure. These brave men and women spend hundreds of hours in training so that they are prepared when they get ``the call.'' Nine years ago, I established the 16th District Congressional Fire and Rescue and EMS Awards to honor officers, departments, and units for outstanding achievement. On behalf of the people of Florida's 16th District, it is my privilege to congratulate the following winners, who were selected this year by an independent committee comprised of a cross section of current and retired fire and rescue personnel living in the district. Parrish Fire District Division Chief Michael Williamson was chosen for the Career Service Award. Hillsborough County Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief Morris Lopez; Captains Derek Butler, Michael Bugg, Erik Sawyer, and Brian Visnovec; Acting Captains Charles Bridges and Adam Brown; Firefighters Travis Poirier and Edward Kofler; Fire Medics Colin Tracey, Gilad Maimoni, Brandon Gadberry, Adam Schwer, Violet Anderson, Juanita Benjamin, Brian Johnson, and Ryan VanBuskirk; Lieutenants Joseph Blackwelder and Joshua Veeck; Driver Engineers Ralph Mascaro, Derek Wendt, Ayron Burden, Jerome Mancillas, Jeffrey Hartzner, Patrick Geiger; and Acting Driver Engineers Marc Dieth, Joshua Thompson, and Ryan Fritz; and Manatee Search and Rescue Deputy Chief John Elwood and K9 Karma, and Captain Michael Dvorak and K9 Max were chosen to receive the Unit Citation. Hillsborough County Fire and Rescue Captain John Shirah and Driver Engineer Peter Dziubinski; Sarasota County Fire Department Lieutenant Randy Allen and Fire Medics Miriam Troyer, Andrew Moler, and Michael Alberti were chosen to receive the Preservation of Life Award. Hillsborough County Fire and Rescue Lieutenant Kimberlee Rogers, Deputy Chief Jason Dougherty; Manatee Search Nicholas Reis; and Manatee County EMS Social Worker Sonia Shuhart were chosen for the Dedication and Professionalism Award. Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office Lieutenant Terri Adams; Corporals William Barnes and Carlos Brito; and Deputies Keaton Bruce and Andrew Fleming; and Civilians Trexley and Bradley Cleophat were chosen for the Associate Service Award.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to law enforcement men and women who have provided distinguished service to the people of Florida's 16th Congressional District. Law enforcement is a demanding profession that requires sacrifice, courage and a dedication to serve others. Every day, brave men and women put themselves in harm's way to enforce the laws of our society and protect public safety. They deserve our gratitude and respect. Eleven years ago, I established the 16th District Congressional Law Enforcement Awards, CLEA, to give special recognition to law enforcement officers, departments or units for exceptional achievement. This year, I will present congressional law enforcement awards to the following winners chosen by an independent panel comprised of current and retired law enforcement personnel representing a cross-section of the district's law enforcement community: Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award: Sergeant Aaron Bowling, and Detectives Tyler Ackerman and John Jones, Jr., of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Associate Service Award: Director Matoaya Wimbley of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Dedication and Professionalism Award: Corporal Christopher P. Slowick of the Florida Highway Patrol; Sergeant Dino Murges, Detectives Derek Pollock and Raymond Richter of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office; Assistant State Attorneys Dawn Buff and Courtney Hollen of the 12th Judicial Circuit State Attorney's Office; Lieutenants Adam Kaskey and Jamesa Tose, Sergeants Don Bennett, Sam Lutz and Ray White, Deputies John Albee, Mark Eve, Wida Law, Phil Lucia, Grace Luh, Dean Pappas, Teodoro Perez, Luis Reyes, Neftalii Santos, Daniel Schenck, Rod Stewart, Deb Stookey, Mark Truskowski, Ray Vleck and John Wenzel, Civilian Lou Wolf, Detectives Hayden Gallof and Brendan Keats, Chief Pilot Brent Wineka, Pilots David Bouffard, Chirs Laster and Stephen Shull (posthumous), Mechanics Arthur Grassia and Douglas Wenz, and Radio Technician Steve Duzs of the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office. Gary Tibbetts Career Service Award: Detective Eddie Howell of the Sarasota Police Department; Manager Valorie Knight of the Bradenton Police Department; Major Daniel Kaufman of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office; Joseph (Chris) Panichello of the Sarasota-Manatee Airport Authority, Preservation of Life Award: Officers Paul Gagnon, Jared Lawhead, David Roberts and Cody Stanaland of the Sarasota Police Department; Sergeant Keith Noordzy, Deputies Keith English, Tyler Lewis, Donald Mays, Jacob Merrill, Deborah Perry, Jonathan Rubi, Todd Seillitto and Patti Smith of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Unit Citation Award: Sergeant Daniel Weinsberg, Officers Sean Carter and Matthew Hughes, and Administrative Specialist Tina Shumway of the Sarasota Police Department.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to law enforcement men and women who have provided distinguished service to the people of Florida's 16th Congressional District. Law enforcement is a demanding profession that requires sacrifice, courage and a dedication to serve others. Every day, brave men and women put themselves in harm's way to enforce the laws of our society and protect public safety. They deserve our gratitude and respect. Eleven years ago, I established the 16th District Congressional Law Enforcement Awards, CLEA, to give special recognition to law enforcement officers, departments or units for exceptional achievement. This year, I will present congressional law enforcement awards to the following winners chosen by an independent panel comprised of current and retired law enforcement personnel representing a cross-section of the district's law enforcement community: Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award: Sergeant Aaron Bowling, and Detectives Tyler Ackerman and John Jones, Jr., of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Associate Service Award: Director Matoaya Wimbley of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Dedication and Professionalism Award: Corporal Christopher P. Slowick of the Florida Highway Patrol; Sergeant Dino Murges, Detectives Derek Pollock and Raymond Richter of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office; Assistant State Attorneys Dawn Buff and Courtney Hollen of the 12th Judicial Circuit State Attorney's Office; Lieutenants Adam Kaskey and Jamesa Tose, Sergeants Don Bennett, Sam Lutz and Ray White, Deputies John Albee, Mark Eve, Wida Law, Phil Lucia, Grace Luh, Dean Pappas, Teodora Perez, Luis Reyes, Neftalii Santos, Daniel Schenck, Rod Stewart, Deb Stookey, Mark Truskowski, Ray Vlek and John Wenzel, Civilian Lou Wolf, Detectives Hayden Gallof and Brendan Keats, Chief Pilot Brent Wineka, Pilots David Bouffard, Chirs Laster and Stephen Shull (posthumous), Mechanics Arthur Grassia and Douglas Wenz, and Radio Technician Steve Duzs of the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office. Gary Tibbetts Career Service Award: Detective Eddie Howell of the Sarasota Police Department; Manager Valorie Knight of the Bradenton Police Department; Major Daniel Kaufman of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office; Joseph (Chris) Panichello of the Sarasota-Manatee Airport Authority. Preservation of Life Award: Officers Paul Gagnon, Jared Lawhead, David Roberts and Cody Stanaland of the Sarasota Police Department; Sergeant Keith Noordzy, Deputies Keith English, Tyler Lewis, Donald Mays, Jacob Merrill, Deborah Perry, Jonathan Rubi, Todd Seillitto and Patti Smith of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Unit Citation Award: Sergeant Daniel Weinsberg, Officers Sean Carter and Matthew Hughes, and Administrative Specialist Tina Shumway of the Sarasota Police Department.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of outstanding public school teachers in Florida's 16th Congressional District. I was once told that children are 25 percent of the population, but they are 100 percent of the future. And it's true. The education of a child is an investment, not only in that student, but in the future of our country. Therefore, I established the Congressional Teacher Awards to honor educators for their ability to teach and inspire students. An independent panel has chosen the following teachers from Manatee, Sarasota, and Hillsborough counties to receive Florida's 16th District's 2021 Congressional Teacher Award for their accomplishments as educators: Tammy Merrell for her accomplishments as a teacher at Samoset Elementary School. Carol Mays Davis for her accomplishments as a teacher at Lincoln Memorial Academy. Jeramiah Bowman for his accomplishments as a teacher at Braden River High School. Kari Johnson for her accomplishments as a teacher at Fruitville Elementary School. Judi Robson for her accomplishments as a teacher at Sarasota Middle School. Jeanette Marks for her accomplishments as teacher at Sarasota Military Academy. Timothy Mays for his accomplishments as a teacher at East Bay Senior High School. On behalf of the people of Florida's 16th District, I congratulate each of these outstanding teachers and offer my sincere appreciation for their service and dedication.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to law enforcement men and women who have provided distinguished service to the people of Florida's 16th Congressional District. Law enforcement is a demanding profession that requires sacrifice, courage and a dedication to serve others. Every day, brave men and women put themselves in harm's way to enforce the laws of our society and protect public safety. They deserve our gratitude and respect. Nine years ago, I established the 16th District Congressional Law Enforcement Awards, CLEA, to give special recognition to law enforcement officers, departments or units for exceptional achievement. This year, I will present congressional law enforcement awards to the following winners chosen by an independent panel comprised of current and retired law enforcement personnel representing a cross-section of the district's law enforcement community: Dedication and Professionalism: Sergeant Jeremy Beal of the Sarasota International Airport Police Department, Deputy Michael Watson of the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office, Officer Joshua Betts of the Holmes Beach Police Department and Grade One Detective Jay Gow of the City of Bradenton Police Department. Career Service Award: Officer Daniel Griesdorn of the City of Sarasota Police Department. Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award: Officer Ronald Dixon of the City of Sarasota Police Department and Deputy Richard Snyder of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Preservation of Life Award: Officer Robert Dodge, Officer Jaime Morrison, Officer Brandon Vermillion of the City of Sarasota Police Department, Deputy Tara Burge, Deputy Joseph Paavilainen, Deputy Antonio Starnes, Deputy Ian Clark and Sergeant Angel Posada-Wilcher of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Unit Citation Award: City of Sarasota Police Department Narcotics Unit, including Captain John Todd, Lieutenant Scott Mayforth, Sergeant Thomas Quinlan, Detective Ryanne Coppinger, Detective Travis Forrister, Detective Chase Gloeckner, Detective Ed Howell, Detective John Lake, Detective Juan Sanchez and Detective Douglas Vollmer.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Col. Edwin Dent Selby of St. Petersburg, Florida, a World War II veteran who will be 100 years old on October 16, 2020. He was born in 1920 at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, where his father, a career Army officer was stationed. He and his brother and sister were raised in many states and the Philippines. After attending college at the New Mexico Military Institute, he began active duty as a 2nd Lieutenant on December 27, 1941, shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor. His training started on horseback in the Cavalry branch and later transitioned to tanks in the Armor branch. He served over three years in WW II in combat theaters in North Africa and Italy. At one time he was placed in charge of 5,000 German prisoners of war. His outstanding service led him to be assigned to a high level staff position in Italy at the Mediterranean Theater of Operations, United States Army (MTOUSA), Allied Force Headquarters, Supreme Allied Command. Upon his return stateside he met and married 1st Lieutenant Elizabeth Moffat, a U.S. Army nurse. After post war service in Vienna, Austria, he was assigned as a tank gunnery instructor at the Armor school at Fort Knox, Kentucky. In 1957 he, his wife and four children moved to Taiwan (then Formosa) where he was an armor advisor with the Military Assistance Advisory Group (MAAG). While there, his beloved wife became suddenly ill and died. He returned to St. Petersburg, Florida, as a widower with four children 10 and under where he was placed in charge of the Army reserve units on the west coast of Florida. After over 21 years of service he retired as a Colonel in 1962. Following his retirement, he started Selby Real Estate in St. Petersburg. It was a highly successful brokerage which eventually grew to have 100 sales associates who covered much of Pinellas County. He bought and later personally operated with his wife, Janice, a 100-acre citrus grove in Parrish, Florida, where they grew, sold and shipped worldwide 25 varieties of fruit. He later expanded the grove to include a llama and emu ranch. At the age of nearly 85 he finally retired from his third career to his home in St. Petersburg Beach where he lives today with his wife Janice. He has enjoyed a fulfilling life of service to others and has lived very active life that included swimming, horseback riding, skiing, tennis, golf and travelling. I appreciate this opportunity to honor him for his service and wish him a happy birthday.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of outstanding public school teachers in Florida's 16th Congressional District. I was once told that children are 25 percent of the population, but they are 100 percent of the future. And it's true. The education of a child is an investment, not only in that student, but in the future of our country. An independent panel has chosen the following teachers from Manatee, Sarasota and Hillsborough counties for Florida's 16th District 2020 Congressional Teacher Award for their accomplishments as educators: Jessica Brumby for her accomplishments as a 4th Grade Teacher at Ballard Elementary School in Bradenton; Linda Bolno for her accomplishments as a Kindergarten and 1st Grade Teacher at Rowlett Academy in Bradenton; Jennifer Holt for her accomplishments as an 8th Grade Science Teacher at SCF Collegiate School in Bradenton; Thomas Desmond for his accomplishments as a Music and Choral Teacher for Grades 9 through 12 at Braden River High School in Bradenton; Kristen Costa for her accomplishments as a Behavior Specialist for Pre-K through 5th Grade at Fruitville Elementary School in Sarasota; Bryan Burns for his accomplishments as a 7th and 8th Grade Teacher at Sarasota Military Academy Prep in Sarasota; Robert Perkins for his accomplishments as a Math Teacher for Grades 9 through 12 at Sarasota High School in Sarasota; and Sandra Misciasci for her accomplishments as a 9th Grade Reading Teacher at Newsome High School in Lithia. On behalf of the people of Florida's 16th District, I congratulate each of these outstanding teachers and offer my sincere appreciation for their service and dedication.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to express my strong support the bipartisan Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The coronavirus is one of the most serious public health threats we have ever faced, particularly for our seniors and people with underlying health conditions. That's why I was pleased to see members of Congress on both sides of the aisle and the Trump administration work together to craft this $2 trillion emergency relief bill addressing the coronavirus pandemic--the largest emergency aid bill in history. This legislation provides much-needed financial assistance for individuals, families, small and medium-sized businesses, hospitals, medical facilities and state and local governments. The bill also includes significant resources for our front-line health care workers and first responders to ensure they have the vital equipment and medical supplies they need to protect the American public and themselves. Going forward, we need to dramatically ramp-up the supply of test kits, increase the number of locations where people exhibiting symptoms can easily get tested, and accelerate the process of getting results back--hopefully in less than 24 hours. We also need to accelerate the development of an affordable, effective vaccine, continue to implement proper quarantine and self- isolation procedures, and ensure the safety of our health workers who are testing, diagnosing, and treating confirmed cases. And while I am confident that the legislation before us today is a significant step in the right direction, there is still much more work to be done to help my constituents and the American people during this unprecedented period of health and economic challenges. With that, Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues on both side of the aisle to support this sweeping rescue package and look forward to President Trump signing it into law.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise in strong support of this Emergency Supplemental bill. I commend the bipartisan leadership of the Appropriations Committee for bringing this critically needed bill to the floor so quickly. Time is of the essence for my constituents. Why? Because in my District, we already have 3 confirmed cases of Coronavirus. I just finished 2 days of in-depth meetings with front-line medical experts at both the Doctors Hospital and Sarasota Memorial Hospital. The message I have today for my colleagues in the House is crystal clear. We need to dramatically ramp-up the supply of test kits, increase the number of locations where people exhibiting symptoms can easily get tested, and accelerate the process of getting results back-- hopefully in less than 24 hours. It is imperative that Congress quickly pass this bill so that key state and local public health agencies and officials, who are on the front-line of this pandemic get all of the resources they need. This will help them to identify potential patients and treat confirmed patients while working to keep everyone else safe from further exposure to this dangerous viral agent. Today is no time for partisan games. Congress should rise to the occasion by working together to approve this bill so that President Trump can sign it into law and provide vital funds and assistance to my part of southwest Florida and the rest of the Nation.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. I want to say up front, I am so excited about this bipartisan effort, that is going to make a big difference for American workers. Madam Speaker, I want to thank our leaders on our committee: Leader Brady, Chairman Neal, Chairman Blumenauer. I want to thank all of them, because this has been a team effort. It is exciting to see that once in a while. What the House passes today will bring us one step closer to finally modernizing and balancing the 25-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement, which supports nearly $1.3 trillion in economic activity and more than 12 million American jobs. Passing USMCA will update the United States' critical trading relationships with our North American neighbors into the 21st century, a high-standard deal that benefits American workers, businesses, and the economy. In fact, according to the independent International Trade Commission, USMCA will boost our economy by $68 billion and create an additional 175,000 new jobs. International trade is critical to my home State of Florida, where we export more than $12 billion worth of goods and services to Canada and Mexico, supporting more than 700,000 jobs. Leveling the playing field for Florida and the country, as well as increasing access to our foreign markets, is critical to growing the U.S. economy and creating good-paying jobs. Florida has 15 deepwater seaports, including Port Manatee in my district. Florida exports tens of billions of dollars in goods and services annually and adds more than $100 billion in economic value to our State. I also congratulate President Trump because this is something for the last 3 or 4 years he has been very passionate about, and Ambassador Lighthizer because, without him and his effort, I am not sure we would be here today. Madam Speaker, I urge support for this landmark trade agreement.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I will vote today against both Articles of Impeachment because they are without merit and setting a dangerous precedent for our country. This political vendetta is an abuse of the impeachment process and would subvert the votes of 63 million Americans. Just because the President's opponents are afraid that he will win reelection is no excuse for weaponizing impeachment. No President in history has been impeached 10 months before an election. Elections are the heart of our democracy. Our Founding Fathers devised a simple way to remove a President if you disagree with him. It is called an election, and we have one coming up in less than a year. Madam Speaker, let's let the people decide this next November.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall as it prepares to celebrate its 50th Anniversary. An architectural landmark and a cultural treasure, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall was built on Sarasota Bay in 1968 and 1969 and dedicated to the City of Sarasota on January 5, 1970. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright's son-in-law, architect William Wesley Peters and inspired by a seashell found by Wright's widow Olgivanna near the Sea of Japan, the Van Wezel is the world's only purple seashell-shaped theater. A true pioneer in the cultural development of Sarasota, the Van Wezel has a history of presenting spectacular Broadway musicals, national and international performers, popular comedians and a compelling mix of classical productions. Some of the stars that have visited the theatre throughout the years include Lucille Ball, Ray Charles, Bob Dylan, Van Cliburn, Liberace, Luciano Pavarotti, Josh Groban, Carol Burnett, Crosby, Stills & Nash, Hall & Oates, Tony Bennett, Dolly Parton, Jay Leno, Steve Martin and Martin Short, Ringo Starr, Renee Fleming, Vladimir Horowitz, John Legend, Sheryl Crow, Red Skelton, Count Basie and many more. The Van Wezel's powerhouse 2019 through 2020 Broadway season features seven Sarasota premieres including Come From Away, based on the events that took place in Newfoundland on September 11, 2001 and the days after, as well as the critically-acclaimed production of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, detailing the life and career of the iconic songwriter. They are also thrilled to present returning favorites Les Miserables and The Book of Mormon. Furthermore, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall is implementing its 2nd National Endowment for the Arts Grant to bring arts integration to schools. This is done through Schooltime Performances, teacher training, classroom workshops, and family workshops that serve over 30,000 students, teachers, and family members each year. The Van Wezel has a long tradition of enriching the community and supporting arts education. I appreciate this opportunity to help commemorate its 50th anniversary.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Fire and Rescue and EMS personnel who have provided distinguished service to the people of Florida's 16th Congressional District. As first responders, fire departments and emergency medical service teams are summoned on short notice to serve their respective communities. Often times, they arrive at scenes of great adversity and trauma, to which they reliably bring strength and composure. These brave men and women spend hundreds of hours in training so that they are prepared when they get ``the call.'' In 2012, I established the 16th District Congressional Fire and Rescue and EMS Awards to honor officers, departments and units for outstanding achievement. On behalf of the people of Florida's 16th District, it is my privilege to congratulate the following winners, who were selected this year by an independent committee comprised of a cross section of current and retired Fire and Rescue personnel living in the district: Lt. Ryan Anusbigian of the Hillsborough County Fire Rescue and Captain Thomas ``Mike'' Bloski of the Southern Manatee Fire Rescue District were chosen to receive the Dedication and Professionalism Award. Deputy Tyler Ackerman, Deputy Timothy Collins and Deputy Brian Hart of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office were chosen to receive the Preservation of Life Associate Service Award. Donald O'Leary, Retired Commissioner of the East Manatee Fire Rescue District and the New York City Fire Department was chosen to receive the Career Service Award. Manatee County EMS Ambulance Strike Team 601 was chosen to receive the Unit Citation Award. This unit is comprised of the following personnel: District Chief Mark Regis, Charge Paramedic Richard Johnson, Charge Paramedic Erwin Evelyne, Charge Paramedic William Cheek, Charge Paramedic Nick Horvath, Charge Paramedic Beth Harmount, Community Paramedic Earl Kulpa, Paramedic Dominick Reale and EMT Justin Woods.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Chair, I urge adoption of my amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Chair, I yield 30 seconds to the gentlewoman from Minnesota (Ms. McCollum), the chairwoman of the subcommittee.

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Chair, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. Blumenauer), my co-chair of the Congressional Animal Protection Caucus.

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Chair, I rise today in support of my amendment. For my constituents and my area, it is very important to them. The amendment would prohibit permits for hunting and killing endangered lions and elephants for trophies in various countries in Africa--Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Tanzania. Both the African elephant and lion are endangered species on the verge of extinction. We have seen lion populations decline by 50 percent in the past decade. In Tanzania, the elephant population declined by 60 percent between 2009 and 2014. This amendment is critical to help ensure these creatures do not become extinct. President Trump has called elephant hunting a ``horror show.'' There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that trophy hunting aids in helping to manage the population of these animals. If this were the case, we would see an increase in the species, not a dramatic decline of the elephant and lion populations. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Chair, I urge adoption of my amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Chair, I rise in support of my amendment. My amendment instructs the National Institutes of Health to designate $6.25 million to research the long-term effects of red tide and other harmful algal blooms on human health. As you may know, last year, Florida suffered from one of the longest and most devastating bouts of red tide in our State's history. I witnessed firsthand as thousands of tons of dead marine life washed ashore our local beaches, causing significant hardship on both our local residents and county governments. While some of the short-term health impacts of red tide are well documented, as swimmers and beach goers often suffer from severe respiratory issues, skin irritation, and rashes, the long-term health effects of exposure to red tide are largely unknown. That is why my amendment will devote critical resources to help us better understand the lasting health impacts on people exposed to red tide. I urge the amendment's adoption, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to law enforcement men and women who have provided distinctive service to the people of Florida's 16th Congressional District. Law enforcement is a demanding profession that requires sacrifice, courage and a dedication to serve others. Every day, brave men and women put themselves in harm's way to enforce the laws of our society and protect public safety. They deserve our gratitude and respect. Eight years ago, I established the 16th District Congressional Law Enforcement Awards, CLEA, to give special recognition to law enforcement officers, departments, or units for exceptional achievement. This year, I will present congressional law enforcement awards to the following winners chosen by an independent panel comprised of current and retired law enforcement personnel representing across-section of the district's law enforcement community: Dedication and Professionalism Award: Detective Ben Lubrano, Lieutenant Arlene Tracy, Sergeant Ivan Nelson of the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office, Sergeant Brian Hall and Officer Michael Walker of Holmes Beach Police Department, Officer Patrick Mahoney of the Bradenton Police Department and Lieutenant Mark Morie of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Career Service Award: Sergeant John Negron of the Bradenton Police Department, Detective Anthony DeFrancisco of the Sarasota Police Department, Detective Derek Pollock of the Manatee County Sheriff's Department and Sergeant Todd Bergman and Corporal Kimber Benavidez of the Florida Highway Patrol. Preservation of Life Award: Mr. Harry Mofield (civilian) nominated by Manatee County Sheriff's Office and Sergeant Rob Hendrickson of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Unit Citation Award: Sarasota County Sheriff's Office Narcotics Unit: Lieutenant Chris Montalbano, Sergeant Scott Huber, Sergeant Rob Jovanovski, Detective Eric Griffin, Detective Lyle Kennedy, Detective Ralph Manzano, Detective Michele Pufnock, Detective Jason Smith, Detective Erica Dawson, Detective Mark Eve, Detective Chandler Hartman, Detective Dominic Makowiecki, Detective Kyle Pfender, Detective Adam Shaw, Detective Brian Keane, Detective Ronald Koenig, Crime Analyst Natalie Johnson-Mayer. Bradenton Police Department Social Media Group: Captain Brian Thiers, Rose Hedberg, Emily Bibb, and Detective Frank Coleman. Sarasota Police Department's SWAT Unit: Lieutenant Kenneth Rainey II, Lieutenant Michael Schwieterman, Sergeant Jeffery Ball, Sergeant Tyler Rossnagle, Sergeant Dwayne Shellhammer, Officer Helios Blanco, Officer Kevin Campbell, Officer Sean Carter, Detective Patrick Comac, Officer Terry Crenshaw, Officer Nicholas Dominis, Detective Dustin Luciano, Detective Gary McDowell, Officer Jacob Nelson, Officer Michael Schultz, Officer Michael Skinner, Officer George Terris II, Officer Jonathan Misiewicz. Sarasota Police Department's Crisis Negotiation Team: Sergeant Tammy Featherstone, Officer Luis Paris, Officer Michael Dreznin, Officer Matthew Grochowski, and Officer Aaron Stoll. Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award: Corporal Angel Uruchima and Officer Madison Peters of Palmetto Police Department, Sergeant Orval Walker, Deputy Jeffery Cowling, Deputy Gerrod Huff, Deputy Kenneth Jewett, and Deputy Rodney Norris, Deputy Richard Young, Deputy Krystal Carpenter and Deputy Peter Papas of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of outstanding public school teachers in Florida's 16th Congressional District. I was once told that children are 25 percent of the population, but they are 100 percent of the future. And it's true. The education of a child is an investment, not only in that student, but in the future of our country. Therefore, I established the Congressional Teacher Awards to honor educators for their ability to teach and inspire students. An independent panel has chosen the following teachers from Manatee and Sarasota counties for Florida's 16th District 2019 Congressional Teacher Award for their accomplishments as educators: Marissa Dobbert for her accomplishments as a 7th Grade Math Teacher at Sarasota Military Academy Prep; Elizabeth Harris for her accomplishments as a 3rd, 4th, and 5th Grade Interventionist at Myakka City Elementary School; Chris King for his accomplishments as a 6th-9th Grade Special Education Teacher at Haile Middle School; Kate Kramer for her accomplishments as an Exceptional Student Education Liaison for PK and Autism at Fruitville Elementary School; Kari McMillan for her accomplishments as a Math Teacher at Palmetto High School; Ashlee Middleton for her accomplishments as an 11th and 12th Grade English and Reading Teacher at Sarasota High School; Nancy Miller for her accomplishments as a 3rd Grade Teacher at Ballard Elementary School; Kymberli Rivers for her accomplishments as a Literature and English Teacher at Manatee High School; Maria Underhill for her accomplishments as an 8th Grade Reading Teacher at Braden River Middle School. On behalf of the people of Florida's 16th District, I congratulate each of these outstanding teachers and offer my sincere appreciation for their service and dedication.