Susan Brooks

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. In closing, as the gentlewoman from Connecticut (Ms. Esty) so eloquently stated, I also commend my colleagues on the Committee on Energy and Commerce for seeing the importance of this. I thank Mr. Sarbanes, the chairman, and the ranking member for moving on this commonsense legislation. I thank Ms. Esty for being a champion of the Child Nicotine Poisoning Prevention Act. I urge all of my colleagues to support this bill. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of national Computer Science Education Week. Established in 2009 to coincide with the birthday of one of the first women in the field of computer science, Grace Murray Hopper, Computer Science Education Week provides a unique opportunity to connect students with opportunities in the computing fields. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that in the year 2020, there will be roughly 10 million jobs in STEM fields. Of those, half are expected to be in computing and information technology. Despite these opportunities, there is a substantial shortage of individuals with skills needed to fill computing jobs. The more we can expose and engage our students in computer science programs, the better prepared they will be for the jobs in the 21st century. This week, Representative Suzan DelBene of Washington, my co-chair on the Congressional Women's High Tech Caucus, and I introduced House Resolution 554 to encourage schools, parents, and our colleagues to support computer science education, participate in an Hour of Code event this week, and join this national movement in computer science education.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Chairman, my amendment is very simple and straightforward. It calls on the Department of Energy, working together with the Environmental Protection Agency and the Office of Management and Budget, to take another look at what is now 20-year-old data about how used oil is managed in the United States and to develop comprehensive strategies to increase recycling used oil as part of a national strategy to save energy and reduce pollution. Right now, there are options for disposal of motor oil commonly used in trucks and cars. The worst option is for that oil to be simply discarded, leading to contaminants polluting our air and water. If properly collected, the oil can be burned once for use as low-cost fuel. However, the best option uses modern technology which now exists to collect and sustainably recycle used oil. These refining techniques can now produce a product that is the quality equivalent to fresh virgin base oils. So this option also maximizes the benefits by conserving most of the energy needed to make oil while cutting emissions of carbon and other harmful pollutants. Re-refining can turn what used to be a waste product into an infinitely renewable resource. And not only does this re-refined oil meet government and industry specifications, but it is also cost- competitive, reduces waste, and reduces emissions. Earlier studies done by DOE as well as our national labs show that used motor oil is a valuable and reusable energy resource. As the motor sports capital of the world--Indianapolis, that is--it is no surprise that Indiana has traditionally been a leader in recycling and re-refining oil. We have two major used oil refineries in Indiana employing almost 1,000 people, and our State has a proud tradition of utilizing this product and promoting its technology. Re-refined oil is already being actively used by DOD and other Federal agencies, public and commercial fleets, and average consumers with great success. However, far too little of our used oil is recycled in this way. So my amendment is intended to increase conservation and sustainable reuse. The last major Federal study was called for in the Energy Policy Act of 2005. That study was issued in 2006, but relied on data that was then 10 years old. Now that data is 20 years old. My amendment will require the DOE to update that data so that we know how much oil is available and how much is actually being reused and re- refined. Data from 20 years ago showed that the United States was well behind other developed and even some developing countries in terms of sustainable reuse. Mr. Chairman, this amendment will also provide for the development of policies that can significantly increase both the collection rate and sustainable reuse of this valuable resource Mr. Chairman, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Upton).

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Chairman, I urge adoption of the amendment. Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, back in October I had the opportunity to attend the Indiana Industrial Energy Consumers annual conference in Indianapolis. There I heard from stakeholders across the energy supply chain about the serious economic and reliability issues emanating from the EPA Clean Power Plan. For instance, John Hughes with the Electricity Consumers Resource Council presented findings showing that Indiana alone stands to lose 12,500 jobs because of these rules. This comes on top of the previous Obama administration regulations that have severely restricted my State's economic competitiveness and has dramatically increased electricity bills for Hoosiers. In fact, Indiana's electric rates have gone from the fifth lowest in the Nation in 2003 to the twenty-sixth lowest in 2014. When these rules take effect, electricity rates in my State will continue to climb to the tune of up to 20 percent each year. As a result, Hoosier manufacturers, who drive more than 30 percent of our economy, will be forced to shutter assembly lines and lay off employees simply to pay their utility bills. Congress needs to think about the very real consequences of this, even if the EPA and the Obama administration are not thinking about this. The EPA Clean Power Plan means lost jobs, lost economic growth, and higher utility costs for both individuals and businesses. That is why I strongly support both of the bills before us, which put an end to the executive overreach, protect the American ratepayer, and allow us to truly pursue an all-of-the-above energy strategy that will transform our economy and lay that strong foundation for our energy future.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, on Friday the world again was shocked and stunned when eight gunmen wreaked havoc on Paris, the City of Lights. The day before a pair of suicide bombings struck Beirut, and today we learned that the Russian passenger plane carrying 224 innocent people that crashed last month was blown up using a homemade explosive device. Violent extremism can't be contained in far-off places. It is a cancer that will inevitably spread across the globe, dividing our societies, undermining our personal security, and sparing none from the true definition of terror. One year ago yesterday violent extremism touched my home State of Indiana. Abdul-Rahman Kassig, a 26-year-old humanitarian aid worker from Indianapolis, was mercilessly killed by the ISIS coward known as Jihadi John. Abdul-Rahman is exactly the type of person that ISIS is targeting in hopes of expanding their caliphate, an apolitical medical aid worker committed to treating the wounded and bringing some sense of relief to the 7.6 million displaced Syrians in Lebanon and Syria. The Islamic State's twisted ideology will not allow it to cease until our entire way of life is destroyed. That is why it is absolutely vital that the United States redouble our efforts to take the leadership role that the world demands of us, develop a strategy that will not just degrade, but will ultimately destroy, the ISIS network. Abdul-Rahman and the victims of terror and their families deserve this, and the security of our Nation depends on it.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in support of S. 599, the Improving Access to Emergency Psychiatric Care Act. The bill is the companion to H.R. 3681, which I proudly introduced with my colleague, Congressman Sarbanes from Maryland. With the passage of this bill today, I am pleased that this meaningful mental health reform will head to the President's desk. Fortunately, this bipartisan, bicameral, and commonsense legislation is a great step toward enacting meaningful reforms to an incredibly challenging system. Currently, CMS does not reimburse private psychiatric institutions or institutions for mental diseases for the services provided to Medicaid enrollees aged 21 to 64. Yet often serious mental illness manifests itself in those in their twenties, and they are not allowed to go with a severe psychiatric break to a psychiatric hospital. Instead, they go and present at our ERs; and our ERs are already overburdened. Many of them often lack the resources and sometimes the expertise to deal with people who are suffering from a true mental crisis. When they find themselves in the ERs, it is not uncommon for them to have to sit for hours and for far too long while they are suffering. This commonsense legislation extends the existing demonstration grant that lifts the IMD exclusion and will allow these important psychiatric clinics to receive Medicaid reimbursement while giving people access to short-term direct care in psychiatric hospitals when they need it most. I am proud to support the extension of this legislation that allows people to get the treatment that they need. As a lawyer, I have dealt with people who have been in a psychiatric crisis. Many of us have family members who have dealt with a psychiatric crisis. They need the help from the right experts at the right time. I thank the gentleman for carrying this in the House, and I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Rolls-Royce Indianapolis in celebration of its 100th anniversary. The company has made significant contributions to the city of Indianapolis, but its accomplishments can be seen globally. It is my privilege to honor this strong Hoosier company as it celebrates 100 years of excellence. The company's Indiana roots took hold in 1915, when Indianapolis businessman James Allison founded his engine shop. Within the first years of business, Allison entered the rapidly growing aerospace industry and began collaborating with Rolls-Royce on several aerospace ventures. After decades of collaboration and partnership, Rolls-Royce purchased what had been the Allison Engine Company in 1995, and has been serving the aerospace and marine industries with innovative, customer-focused products ever since. This anniversary is especially historical for Rolls-Royce as it not only marks 100 years of operations in Indianapolis, but it also marks 20 years since the company purchased the enterprise which Allison created. Today, Rolls-Royce is a trusted leader for land, sea, and air power solutions worldwide with a significant and growing presence. The Rolls- Royce facility in Indianapolis is home to the largest Rolls-Royce manufacturing location in North America and is one of the largest employers in Indianapolis. Rolls-Royce employs the best and the brightest engineers who are committed to maintaining Rolls-Royce's long-standing reputation of excellence. The company has 4,600 employees who contribute to designing and producing engines for a wide range of military and commercial aircraft as well as marine propulsion systems. More Rolls-Royce products are built in Indianapolis than anywhere else in the world. Many innovative and legendary aircraft are powered by engines built in the Indianapolis facility, such as the P-51 and P-38 aircrafts flown in World War II. Current examples include the F-35B Lightning II, C-130J Super Hercules, V-22 Osprey, and Global Hawk and Triton UAVs, which are used to power Department of Defense aircraft, civil helicopters, regional and business jets, and power systems for U.S. Naval vessels. In addition to all of Rolls-Royce's achievements in the manufacturing world, they also have a commitment to Indiana. The company recently announced Rolls-Royce will invest in the Purdue Research Park Aerospace District in West Lafayette, Indiana. Rolls-Royce is the first company to announce it will move into the research park. Additionally, the company recently announced exciting news that it is making a nearly $600 million investment to modernize manufacturing operations in Indianapolis and conduct technology research. It is the largest investment by the company in Indianapolis since its original purchase here in 1995. This investment contributes to the company's commitment to Indiana for many decades to come. On behalf of the citizens of Indiana's Fifth Congressional District, I would like to congratulate Rolls-Royce on the celebration its centennial anniversary. I am proud to represent a city that is home to exemplary businesses such as this one. I wish Rolls-Royce all the best as it embarks on its next 100 years of excellence.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ellen Rosenthal on the occasion of her retirement. For 10 years Ellen has served as President and CEO of Conner Prairie Interactive History Park, a beloved destination of Indiana's Fifth Congressional District located in Fishers, Indiana. Conner Prairie flourished under Ellen's leadership, and Hoosiers are eternally grateful for her contributions. Ellen has a long history developing museums and exhibits. She planned the opening of historic houses at the Minnesota Historical Society in St. Paul, Minnesota and at the Frick Art and Historical Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She also served as curatorial director for the American History Workshop in Brooklyn, New York, where she managed projects for the National Museum of American History, South Street Seaport Museum, and National Endowment for the Humanities. In 1999, Ellen began her career with Conner Prairie as Vice President of Internal Affairs, assumed a leadership role in 2003 when she was promoted to Executive Director, and in 2005 became President and CEO. Since then, Ellen played an integral role in transforming Conner Prairie from a traditional living history museum into the independent, immersive, and interactive history park it is today. At the beginning stages of Conner Prairie's transformation, Ellen redefined the museum's mission to ``inspire curiosity and foster learning about Indiana's past by providing engaging, individualized and unique experiences.'' She has a passion for creating and developing museums that offer active engagement and learning that transcends generations and strategic, data-driven decision making. A wonderful example of Ellen's vision put into action is the opening of the outdoor experience ``Civil War Journey: Raid on Indiana,'' which used historical actors, sounds, and sets to place visitors in the middle of a southern Indiana Civil War battle. Her unique approach to focusing on experiential learning and guest immersion as well as her incomparable ability to build support and raise funds for new exhibits has resulted in more than a 240 percent increase in annual attendance. More than 360,000 guests visit Conner Prairie's historic grounds and indoor experiences annually. During her tenure as President and CEO, Conner Prairie has received a number of honors and awards. Most notably, Conner Prairie was awarded the nation's highest honor for museums--the National Medal from the Institute for Museum Library Sciences. Conner Prairie also was selected as one of six museums nationwide to be featured as a magnetic museum, which is defined as ``high-performance organizations that deliver tangible cultural and civic value and achieve superior business results.'' Under her leadership, Conner Prairie became a Smithsonian affiliate, the only museum in Indiana to hold such a distinction. Additionally, Ellen led the effort that secured a $2.3 million National Science Foundation grant in 2012 that empowers Conner Prairie to lead four American institutions in the integration of informal science experiments at historical sites and museums across the country. Ellen's personal commitment to the community and success as a leader has not gone unnoticed. Governor Mike Pence is bestowing upon Ellen a Sagamore of the Wabash, one of the most prestigious honors in Indiana. She also received the Commitment to Creativity Trailblazer award from University High School (2014), the Torchbearer award from the Indiana Commission for Women (2013), was cited for Excellence in Innovation by the Indiana Innovation Awards (2012), named a Woman of Influence by the Indianapolis Business Journal (2008), and named a ``Distinguished Hoosier'' by Governor Mitch Daniels (2006). As a personal friend and admirer of Ellen for over a decade, it is truly a privilege to honor her today for her many accomplishments. On behalf of the grateful constituents of Indiana's Fifth Congressional District, I congratulate Ellen on the occasion of her retirement. We congratulate her on her remarkable career and extend a huge thank you for all of the wonderful contributions she has made to Conner Prairie and the Hoosier community. I wish the very best to Ellen, her husband, Dr. Ted Logan, and her three sons, Daniel, Sam, and Paul as she enjoys a well-deserved retirement.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 623, the DHS Social Media Improvement Act of 2015. I want to thank the gentleman from Pennsylvania for his management of the bill and, also, my good friend and colleague from the State of Indiana, Congressman Carson. Both of us have served in public safety in the past, and so it is especially gratifying that he is managing the bill as well this evening. Social media, as we have heard, is transforming the way the Nation is communicating before, during, and after terrorist attacks, natural disasters, and other emergencies. There are countless examples from recent events of how citizens are turning to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and even Snapchat for public safety information, to comfort survivors, tell loved ones they are safe, and request assistance. As has already been mentioned, citizens of South Carolina used social media to communicate with first responders, friends, and families after heavy rainfall caused destructive flash flooding across the State. Additionally, a quarter of Americans--let me repeat, a quarter of Americans--got information about the devastating terrorist attack at the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing from Facebook and Twitter. Citizens are not the only ones using social media during and after an emergency. First responders are proactively using social media as a force multiplier to get vital information out. For example, immediately following the terrorist attack and during the manhunt, the Boston PD utilized social media as a way to communicate with and solicit information from citizens and visitors. These are just a few of the hundreds of examples that demonstrate the prevalence of social media use before, during, and after an emergency. In the 113th Congress, I served as the chair of the Committee on Homeland Security's Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Communications. The subcommittee held two hearings that focused on this new phenomenon, and I learned at that time that while the Nation is making great strides in this area, gaps and challenges remain. One of the key takeaways, however, was that during and after a terrorist attack, natural disaster, or other emergency, there is still a need for better communication between the public and the private sectors, specifically, with how to utilize social media as a communication tool. So last year, I was proud to work with the ranking member, Congressman Payne, to find ways to better utilize social media during disasters by leveraging both public and private resources and experiences. The bill passed with overwhelming support last Congress and, after reintroduction this Congress, I am pleased to say, in February, the House again resoundingly agreed to its passage. H.R. 623, while authorizing and enhancing the Department of Homeland Security's existing social media group, essentially what it does is it ensures that best practices and lessons learned on the use of social media during terrorist attacks or disasters are being discussed and shared with Federal, State, and local first responders, nongovernmental organizations, academia, and the private sector. Currently, the Virtual Social Media Working Group is made up primarily of State and local officials, and they are doing great work and developing guidance. However, this bill will increase the group's stakeholder participation, particularly among the private sector and the Federal response agencies. So by including private sector groups like Google and Twitter and Facebook, we know it will improve coordination and relief efforts. Also, as we have already heard, it will require the group to submit an annual report to Congress highlighting best practices, lessons learned, and any recommendations. Finally, this bill will require the group to meet, in person or virtually, at least twice a year, and will not be a financial burden on the Department. I appreciate the swift action of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. I especially want to thank Chairman Johnson for his leadership on this issue. Their thoughtful additions have served to further improve the bill. I also want to thank Chairman Shuster and Chairman Barletta of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee for working with me to get this bill to the floor, and also my successor at EPRC, Ms. McSally, for continuing to make this issue a priority. Finally, I want to thank the staff, because we know that this bill and the improvements with technology will save lives, and it will make our first responders and those in danger safer. I urge my colleagues to support the bill.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman from Ohio for spearheading this Special Order tonight and giving us the opportunity to honor Speaker Boehner. Part of his legacy and what I was told about Speaker Boehner before I arrived here was his incredible honesty--honesty to all of us with whom he worked and honesty to the American people--his humility, his sense of humor, and his incredible patience. I remember first coming into Congress in the 113th Congress and, in fact, it was the Speaker's wife, Debbie Boehner, who became the mentor to my husband, as a new congressional spouse. I was, quite frankly, a bit terrified of the thought of my husband being assigned to the Speaker's wife. However, they were perfect. They both enjoy an incredible sense of humor, but they also ground us, and they remind us what is important in life. I would like to thank Debbie Boehner for sharing her husband and for sharing the father of their children with the country all of these many years. What the Speaker shared with all of us is he shared and taught all of us about the importance of this institution, its rich history, and how to serve the people of our districts with distinction and honor. Although I am a Miami of Ohio grad, I have to admit, I enjoyed a common bond with the Speaker in that my daughter played soccer for Xavier University, and so it was fun to share that love of Xavier University with him as well. I would like to mention probably his last codel, or his last congressional trip, and I was very honored to be asked to be a part of it. It was this summer, and it was a codel to Eastern Europe, to Lithuania, Finland, and Poland, most notably, and we ended in Ireland. However, while we were in Eastern Europe, it was because of Speaker Boehner that he showed the Eastern European countries how vitally important it was that we stand with our allies against Russian aggression. It was an honor to be a part of that trip because he demonstrated America's leadership and commitment to freedom and ensuring that we would stand with our friends and allies. It was an incredible learning experience for me and the others on the trip. When I think about the Speaker, he probably has worked harder than anyone I will ever know to protect this institution. Although it is not for much longer that we will call him Mr. Speaker, I will always admire his steadfast commitment to protecting the American public and serving our country. I must share that one of the unique aspects of his leadership and that of his terrific team which has surrounded him is they have done an incredible job sharing his experience as leader with the American public. Whether we have watched on YouTube or other ways a morning trip to the diner for breakfast, fixing his lawnmower at home, carving the turkey or, most importantly to him, the historic visit from Pope Francis, he and his staff have done an excellent job of giving the American public and the American people an inside look at the life of John Boehner, the Speaker of the House. He embodies the qualities of an American patriot. It has truly been an honor to serve with him in the United States Congress. I am now so pleased he will have the opportunity to enjoy being a new grandfather and enjoy his children, Lindsay and Tricia, and of course his wife, Debbie. He will very much be missed. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for your commitment to our country.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate an outstanding school in my district that is being honored as a 2015 National Blue Ribbon School. It is a pleasure to congratulate Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic School in Carmel, Indiana in celebration of this special occasion. The National Blue Ribbon designation, given by the United States Department of Education, is awarded to both public and private schools across our great nation. Started by President Reagan and given annually since 1982, the award celebrates great American schools that achieve very high learning standards or are making significant improvements in the academic achievements of their students. In my district and across the country, the award recognizes the great educators, students, and parents who have worked so hard to ensure Indiana's children reach their full potential and achieve academic success. For all of these reasons and many more, I am so proud that Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic School is receiving this prestigious designation. It is a wonderful acknowledgement of the school's commitment to providing young Hoosiers an exceptional education. While hundreds of schools nationwide were nominated, only 335 schools were designated as 2015 National Blue Ribbon Schools. Of the 335 schools, Our Lady of Mount Carmel was 1 of 50 private schools to receive recognition, making this recognition all the more impressive. Serving children from kindergarten through eighth grade, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic School provides its students with an outstanding education in both academics and the Catholic faith. It is a Four Star School, awarded by the state of Indiana. The school achieved this designation by placing in the top 25th percentile of schools in three ISTEP-based categories. Our Lady consistently provides excellence in education by facilitating a Christ-centered educational community that creates a vibrant learning community, provides opportunities to serve others, and prepares students for lifelong learning. As a mother whose children attended Catholic school, I applaud Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic School for its work to ensure its students engage in significant acts of community service and remain dedicated to carrying out the mission of Jesus Christ. As an advocate for education and youth, I also want to acknowledge how important it is to our nation's future to encourage and raise a new generation of Americans who have the skills and knowledge to succeed both in and out of the classroom. Students like those at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic School give me hope that we will accomplish this vital mission. Their outstanding work is an inspiration to students, educators, and parents across the nation. Once again, congratulations to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic School. I am very proud of you.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate an outstanding school in my district that is being honored as a 2015 National Blue Ribbon School. It is a pleasure to congratulate Oak Trace Elementary School in Westfield, Indiana in celebration of this special occasion. The National Blue Ribbon designation, given by the United States Department of Education, is awarded to both public and private schools across our great nation. Started by President Reagan and given annually since 1982, the award celebrates great American schools that achieve very high learning standards or are making significant improvements in the academic achievements of their students. In my district and across the country, the award recognizes the great educators, students, and parents who have worked so hard to ensure Indiana's children reach their full potential and achieve academic success. For all of these reasons and many more, I am so proud that Oak Trace Elementary School is receiving this prestigious designation. It is a wonderful acknowledgement of the school's commitment to providing young Hoosiers an exceptional education. While hundreds of schools nationwide were nominated, only 335 schools were designated as 2015 National Blue Ribbon Schools, making this recognition all the more impressive. Serving developmental preschool children through fourth grade, Oak Trace Elementary School provides its students with a safe and exciting learning environment. Oak Trace is a C.L.A.S.S. (Connecting Learning Assures Successful Students) school that implements a non-cognitive curriculum focused on doing the right thing and treating people right. They offer a unique learning atmosphere that focuses on building life skills, measures performance by individual student growth, and offers plenty of opportunities to give back to the community. Through differentiated instruction, students achieve well above the national average and consistently place in the top 5 percent of all students in Indiana. I applaud its administrators and teachers for their focus on individual growth and commitment to ensuring its students engage with the Hoosier community. As an advocate for education and youth, I also want to acknowledge how important it is to our nation's future to encourage and raise a new generation of Americans who have the skills and knowledge to succeed both in and out of the classroom. Students like those at Oak Trace Elementary School give me hope that we will accomplish this vital mission. Their outstanding work is an inspiration to students, educators, and parents across the nation. Once again, congratulations to Oak Trace Elementary School. I am very proud of you.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Albert Chen on the occasion of his retirement. For 30 years Albert has served as Telamon Corporation's leader. He and his wife, Margaret, founded Telamon Corporation in 1985 and since then have turned it into a multi- million dollar company that employs hundreds of people and provides opportunities for people to do meaningful work. The Hoosier community is forever grateful for Albert's dedication to making Indiana a better place. Albert, a Taiwan native, has been an innovator and successful business leader in Indiana for decades. After receiving his degree from National Cheng-Chi University in Taiwan, Albert came to America to pursue a career in business. He received his master's degree in Mathematical Sciences from Portland State University and started his business career with GTE on the west coast. He later relocated to Indiana to fill the role of Manager of the Midwest region for GTE. Albert and Margaret decided to lay roots and build their business in Carmel, Indiana. Albert is the founder, Chairman of the Board, President, and CEO of Telamon Corporation, a company based in Carmel, Indiana. Telamon, a company whose mission is to simplify business for their clients, specializes in simplified solutions for telecommunication networks, business process outsourcing, energy management, industrial assembly, and telehealth services. Since its founding in 1985, Telamon has developed into one of the largest private companies in Indiana and is consistently ranked as one of the 500 fastest growing companies in the United States. The company employs over 1,400 people, has ten domestic locations and three international facilities, two of which are in China. Additionally, the company is involved with improving the local communities. They launched the Telamon Foundation, which places special emphasis on nonprofit organizations that focus on arts and education. Promoting diversity in employment and throughout business operations is an important priority to Telamon, and Albert is proud that his company is a certified Minority Business Enterprise. Albert, who is also a graduate of the Executive Minority Business Program at Dartmouth's Tuck School of Business, takes pride in his heritage and has a passion for teaching Asians and Americans about each other, their diverse cultures and how to work together to build trust, share knowledge and create opportunities on U.S. soil and abroad. He established the America China Society of Indiana, which he created as a foundation to foster networking, cooperation, and trust between Indiana and Chinese businesses. Albert also started the Asian American Alliance, which aims to inspire Asian Americans to mobilize and be leaders in the community, and provided funding for the Asian Learning Center of Indiana, which aims to educate, connect, and engage Hoosiers about the history, cultures, and emerging business opportunities of Asia through public, private, community and business partnership in Indiana. Albert is a champion in fostering economic growth and enhancing relationships between Indiana and Chinese businesses. Although Albert is retiring, his commitment to Telamon Corporation and the Hoosier community will live on through his continued mentorship. Albert is proud that his legacy will live on through his children Stanley and Stephanie. Stanley will be taking over as Chief Executive Officer and Stephanie as Chief Operating Officer. He is an inspiration, both as a businessman and a community leader, and for that we extend a huge thank you. On behalf of all Hoosiers, I'd like to congratulate Albert on his success and wish him and Margaret the best as he enjoys a well-deserved retirement.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Chair, on rollcall No. 516 I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no.''

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, on this historic day of 9/11, a day in 2001 when terrorists killed thousands of Americans on United States soil and a day in 2012 when terrorists killed four Americans in Benghazi, Libya, I stand today in strong opposition to the Iranian nuclear deal, a deal with Iran, a leading state sponsor of terror. Every day that goes by another story comes out about why we shouldn't support the deal. The head of Iran's military has said they will never accept the deals restrictions on arms capabilities. The AP recently uncovered that key verification provisions are buried in a pair of confidential side agreements that Congress doesn't even have that will allow Iran to inspect its own nuclear capabilities. Just last week the Supreme Leader of Iran changed the rules of the game, saying that Iran will not comply with their side of the deal unless sanctions are lifted and not merely suspended. This is a deeply flawed deal, and I know we can do better. America is still the most prosperous and powerful country on Earth and the protector of freedom and stability in the world. We must do better for the victims of 9/11 and the victims of Benghazi.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Allison Transmission in celebration of its 100th anniversary. The company has a rich history in Indianapolis, but its accomplishments can be seen globally. It is my privilege to honor this strong Hoosier company as it celebrates 100 years of excellence. Since its founding in 1915, Allison Transmission has become the largest manufacturer of fully automatic transmissions and a leader in hybrid-propulsion systems for city buses. The company's heritage traces back to when James Allison, co-founder of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and part owner of several racing reams, founded the Indianapolis Speedway Team Company. While at first the company was focused on racecars, the company switched gears after the start of World War I and put all of its resources toward helping the United States military. In 1920, the name was changed to Allison Engineering Company. For its first couple of decades, Allison primarily manufactured engines and service parts for the military, but in 1946 Allison entered the commercial transmission field and would later go on to create the world's first fully automatic transmission. Since then, Allison Transmission has produced over 5 million transmissions and over 1 million fully automatic transmissions. The company is a leader in innovative technological advancements and is responsible for multiple groundbreaking inventions. In addition to the world's first fully automatic transmission, one of its most notable inventions is steel-backed bronze bearings, which extend the service life of aircraft engines and were famously used in Charles Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis in 1927. Allison Transmission has strong roots in Indianapolis and its headquarters remains there today. The company now has an international presence with over 2,700 employees, a market presence in more than 80 countries, and approximately 1,400 independent distributor and dealer locations worldwide. Allison transmissions can be found in cities and rural areas across the globe in a wide variety of applications such as buses, trains, cars, trucks, and airplanes. James Allison founded the company under 5 key values: innovation, quality, integrity, customer focus, and teamwork. These values have led the company to its many achievements and remain evident today through the hard work and dedication of its employees. The company's commitment to providing high-quality services that improve efficiency and make work as easy as possible for their customers is manifested in the unrivaled reliability and durability of their transmissions. In addition to all of Allison's achievements in the manufacturing world, they also have a robust history of community involvement. As part of their centennial celebration, Allison Transmission will be sponsoring a variety of community activities, including the building of a house for a family in need, sponsoring an essay contest for students at James A. Allison Elementary School in Speedway, and awarding 100 scholarships to local college students. The company has also earned the prestigious Centennial Business Award of the Indiana Historical Society. On behalf of the citizens of Indiana's Fifth Congressional District, I would like to congratulate Allison Transmission on the celebration of its centennial anniversary. I am proud to represent a city that is home to exemplary businesses such as this one. I wish Allison Transmission all the best as it embarks on its next 100 years of excellence.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. I want to thank the gentleman from Texas for holding this very important Special Order tonight because now, more than ever, it is more important than ever that we recognize and thank our Nation's law enforcement officers. These are the loyal and selfless men and women all across America who wake up each and every day and serve our community. Madam Speaker, police officers are an integral part of our communities and our neighborhoods, working every day and at all hours to keep us safe. From downtown city blocks to small town squares, from country roads to busy highways, our Nation's law enforcement officers are always there, always ready to serve. As we have heard, they are fathers and brothers, mothers and sisters, husbands, wives, sons, and daughters. Some are friends. Some are neighbors. Some are the strangers that we see every day. But we often don't even see them. They are on our morning commutes. They are on our trips to the grocery store. They are all around us. They are fellow citizens who have answered the call to serve and protect and, in some cases, pay the ultimate sacrifice for the safety and welfare of those in their communities. They protect their families and loved ones, and they protect the lives of complete strangers day in and day out. You may not know, but throughout U.S. history, over 20,000 law enforcement officers have made the ultimate sacrifice. Last year four Hoosiers lost their lives while upholding their vow to serve and protect. And, unfortunately, as we have seen, this has been an incredibly deadly August. Violence against police officers has skyrocketed recently, with six officers being mercilessly gunned down by individuals who neither respect law and order nor the value of human life. These officers' sacrifices as well as that of their families do not go unnoticed or unappreciated. In fact, this August the family of Jake Laird, an officer who was gunned down in August of 2004--and we have to think about the families--held another golf outing in order to raise money for more protective vests for law enforcement and more personal safety equipment for firefighters. These families--and I have seen them. I have witnessed them firsthand. They are remarkable families. They display courage in the face of adversity, compassion in the face of hardship, and an undying commitment to serve the communities in which they live. We must thank them, the families and the officers. So today I salute the men and women in uniform who every day head out to the streets. They cover their beats. They patrol their precincts. They take up again without fail the call to serve and protect. We must be thankful for their service and send our thoughts and prayers to their loved ones because, without hesitation, we must renew our appreciation for and our steadfast commitment to the heroic men and women who are part of that thin blue line. Please thank a police officer.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, on Wednesday, July 29, 2015, I missed a series of rollcall votes. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcalls 486 and 489. I would have voted ``nay'' on rollcalls 487 and 488.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a beloved member of the Indiana community, Wayne Townsend. He was a well-known member of the Indiana legislature, an esteemed farmer, and a vigorous supporter of Purdue University. Sadly, Wayne passed away at the age of 89 on July 3, 2015. He will be dearly missed by the Hoosier community, but we will remember him forever through the spectacular legacy he left behind. A lifelong Hoosier, Wayne was born on his family's farm in Grant County. He started school at Walnut Creek Elementary School and then went to Jefferson Township High School. While his parents did not attend college, they encouraged all six of their children to go to college. Wayne, like his older siblings, attended Purdue University and graduated with a bachelor's degree in Agriculture. Wayne's professional life reveals his different avenues of interest. A few years after graduating from Purdue, Wayne entered military service, serving primarily in Washington, D.C. as a special agent in the Counter Intelligence Corps. He stayed in the Army for two years until he returned to his family farm with his wife, Helen. Wayne maintained a hog and grain farm in Blackford County his whole adult life, but he was also heavily involved in Indiana politics. Wayne began his political career when he was elected to the Indiana House of Representatives in 1958. He served in the Indiana House of Representatives for six years, serving on the House Ways and Means Committee, and in 1970 he was elected to the Indiana Senate, where he served on the Senate Finance Committee. In the Senate, he is remembered for being the tie-breaking vote for Indiana to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment in 1977. Wayne was also selected as the Democratic nominee for Governor of Indiana in 1984, and he notably chose a female running mate, which was the first time in state history. After 16 years in the Indiana Senate, Wayne retired from the legislature and started a new adventure serving on the Board of Trustees for Purdue for 15 years. His commitment to the Boilermakers was evident through his extensive involvement with the university. He served as the Director of the Purdue Research Foundation and sat on the Search Committee tasked with finding a new president when President Steven Beering retired. He was a member of the John Purdue Club for 35 years and a lifetime member of the Purdue Alumni Association. Wayne, an effective advocate for education, was also a Trustee of Earlham College in Richmond, Indiana. In addition to his commitment to education, he was an active Quaker and served as a member and Trustee of the First Friends Church of Marion for 50 years. On many occasions, Wayne was recognized for his impressive work. Four different governors from both sides of the aisle named Wayne the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash. In 2014, he was honored with the Order of the Griffin, the highest honor bestowed by Purdue University. For his skill in farming, he was named a Master Farmer by Indiana Prairie Farmer and a Distinguished Purdue Agriculture Alumnus. Wayne is survived by his wife, Helen Townsend, children Jay Townsend, Mark Townsend, Lisa McHone, Steve Townsend, and Alan Townsend, eighteen grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Wayne was a leader in the community who will always be remembered for his dedication to Indiana and the enduring benefits he created. Please join me in thanking Wayne's family for sharing this truly remarkable man with the Hoosier community.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the incorporation of the city of Anderson, Indiana. Anderson has played an integral role in the industrial development of Indiana and Hoosiers from every part of the state are thankful for the contributions of the men and women of Anderson. The city of Anderson is celebrating 150 years, but the history of Anderson dates back further. Chief William Anderson of the Delaware tribe first settled in the area, giving it the name Anderson Town. Eventually the name was shortened to Anderson and in 1865, it was officially incorporated. From its early origins, Anderson has been a model for other cities and towns to follow, through its continued dedication to building a welcoming community for residents and visitors alike. In the years since its first mayor, Robert Williams, who served from 1865-1866, Anderson has developed into a lively and thriving community, serving as a home for generations to families, businesses, professionals, churches, schools, and other organizations. In 1887, the city saw a great influx in business due to the discovery of natural gas. This discovery is responsible for the initial spike in automotive, electric, and other manufacturing companies to settle in Anderson, most notably Delco Remy and Guide Lamp. Despite the downturn in the automotive industry in past decades, the city has exhibited resilience and welcomed new businesses such as, Nestle, Xerox, Greenville Technologies, Inc., Keihin North America, and Sirmax, to name only a few. In addition to its industries, the city is home to the Paramount Theatre, Mounds State Park, Anderson University, and Hoosier Park Racing & Casino. Anderson, with all of its industry and attractions, is nothing without the people. The citizens have a clear passion and love for their city. I am proud to represent such an amazing city, one with a history of growth and prosperity as well as the promise of a prosperous future. Please join me in celebrating the sesquicentennial anniversary of the incorporation of the great city of Anderson, Indiana.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Judge Dennis Carroll on the occasion of his retirement. For more than three decades, Judge Carroll has served as judge of Madison Circuit Court, Division 6 in Madison County, Indiana. The people of Indiana's Fifth Congressional District and especially Madison County are forever grateful for Judge Carroll's contributions to the Hoosier community. Although he is an Illinois native, Judge Carroll spent most of his life in Indiana. He first came to Indiana to attend Anderson University, where he earned his bachelor's degree in English and Education in 1969. Upon graduating, he was a high school English teacher at Shenandoah schools in Indiana, and later decided to attend law school. After graduating from the Indiana University School of Law in 1974, Judge Carroll and his wife, Emily, decided to lay down roots in Anderson, Indiana. He began his career in law serving as the first Executive Director of the East Central Indiana Legal Services Program. After three years, Judge Carroll returned to Anderson University as an adjunct professor and was Coordinator of the Pre-Law Studies Program. He also maintained a private law practice during his time with the University. Judge Carroll is truly a leader in the judiciary and in his community. During his 34 year tenure on the bench, he has served several terms as the Chief Judge of the Unified Courts of Madison County; was elected to serve on the Board of Directors of the Indiana Judicial Conference; and was appointed by the Chief Justice of the Indiana Supreme Court to serve on the Supreme Court Select Committee on Judicial Ethics, the Indiana Judicial Conference Education Committee, and the State Judiciary Criminal Law and Policy Committee. Additionally, Judge Carroll was a visionary when it came to Problem Solving Courts. In 2007, he founded a specialty court for Madison County, the Mental Health Court. In 2010, that court became the first Mental Health Court to earn accreditation as certified by the State of Indiana. He applied for and was awarded a grant that expanded mental health services in the Madison County courts under the banner of Problem Solving Courts, one of only two courts in the entire country to receive such an honor. In Madison County, Judge Carroll's contributions to the community go beyond his duties on the bench. He served on the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of Anderson University, the Board of the Madison County Urban League, and is affiliated with Community Hospital Anderson. His commitment to community led him to recruit people to fill public office and leadership roles in Madison County, including the current prosecutor and three judges. After Anderson University President James Edwards announced he would be retiring, Judge Carroll, as a member of the Anderson University recruitment committee, artfully orchestrated plans to recruit then Transportation and Security Administration Administrator John Pistole, an Anderson University alumnus, to return to Indiana to serve as the new President of Anderson University. This ensures that the strong legacy that past presidents have built at Anderson University will continue to grow. Judge Carroll's contributions to Madison County are vast and impressive, and although he will be retiring from his judgeship, we are thrilled that he plans to continue to play an active role in making our community a better place. On behalf of Indiana's Fifth Congressional District, I congratulate Judge Carroll on a well-deserved retirement and wish Judge Carroll and Emily the best as they move on to their next adventure.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a beloved member of the Indiana community, Thomas Lofton. Sadly, Tom passed away on June 19, 2015, at the age of 86. He was a well- established attorney and leader of the Lilly Endowment, one of the largest private philanthropic foundations in the country. He will be dearly missed by the Hoosier community, but he leaves behind a tremendous legacy that will live on and flourish under the leadership of those that he has mentored. A lifelong Hoosier, Tom was born and raised in Indianapolis. He attended Howe High School, and during this time he was an Eagle Scout and a delegate to Hoosier Boys State. He later earned his bachelor's degree from Indiana University and J.D. from the Indiana University Maurer School of Law. He graduated with distinction and was honored with membership to the Order of the Coif and Beta Gamma Sigma, both of which are honor societies recognizing academic excellence. Tom's experience in the law field is extensive and impressive. He started his career by serving as a law clerk to United States Supreme Court Justice Sherman Minton. After his clerkship he joined Baker & Daniels law firm in Indianapolis and remained there for over three decades. He developed a national reputation as an expert on tax-exempt organizations, providing counsel to organizations like The Clowes Fund, Liberty Fund, Indiana University Foundation, Christian Theological Seminary, the Eiteljorg Museum, and the Lilly Endowment, which he would later Chair. In 1991, Tom retired from his position as Managing Partner at Baker & Daniels to accept the position of Vice Chairman of the Lilly Endowment and in 1994 was named Chairman, a position which he would hold for the next 22 years. The impact he made in his over 45 years of service in Indianapolis is incredible. During his Lilly Endowment Chairmanship he oversaw the allocation of more than $7 billion in grants to education, community development, and religion, mostly in Indianapolis. He had a passion for helping others and cared deeply about the Endowment and its legacy. He was known to be a great mentor, investing time in helping others grow personally and professionally. He truly was an embodiment of the Endowment's mission to serve others. Tom's dedication to charitable causes went beyond his involvement with the Lilly Endowment. He was a member of the boards of the Indiana University Foundation and the Allen Whitehall Clowes Charitable Foundation, to name a few. Tom also continued his devotion to Indiana University by founding and sitting on the Board of Visitors of the Indiana University Maurer School of Law and sitting on the IU Medical School Dean's Council. On many different occasions, Tom was recognized for his wonderful work. He received honorary doctoral degrees from Indiana University, Ball State University, and Wabash College. He received numerous awards from Indiana University, including the Distinguished Alumni Service Award, the Thomas Hart Benton Medallion, and was inducted into the Academy of Law Alumni Fellows. From Wabash College he received the Peck Award for his distinguished career. He was even added to the Sigma Nu Fraternity Hall of Honor and awarded by Governor Mitch Daniels the prestigious Sagamore of the Wabash. Tom is survived by his wife, Betty Lofton, daughters Stephanie Lees of Indianapolis and Melissa Guinn of Bloomington, six grandchildren, two great grandchildren, and his brother, John Lofton. Tom had an unrivaled wisdom and commitment to serving others. Tom was a leader in the community who will always be remembered through his accomplishments and the enduring benefits he created for the Indianapolis community. Please join me in thanking Tom's family and friends for sharing such a wonderful man with the Hoosier community.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Pat Kiely on the occasion of his retirement. For 23 years, Pat served as President of the Indiana Manufacturers Association, the second oldest manufacturers association in the country and only trade association in Indiana that exclusively focuses on manufacturing. Pat has been a well- respected legislator and successful business leader in Indiana for decades. The Hoosier community is forever grateful to Pat for his tireless efforts and dedication to making Indiana a better place. A lifelong Hoosier, Pat spent most of his personal and professional life in Anderson, Indiana. He attended college in Indiana as well, earning his bachelor's degree in Marketing Research and Statistics from Ball State University. In 1978 Pat became the State Representative for the 36th District of Indiana; he was only 26 at the time. Five years into his service at the age of 31, he was appointed Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, making him the youngest Chairman in Indiana history. During his six and a half terms as a state legislator, he also served as Chairman of the State Budget Committee and Chairman of the State Tax and Financing Policy Commission. Throughout his tenure as a legislator, Pat was also a business owner and operator. In 1982, he opened Computerland, which was the first computer store in Indianapolis. Additionally, he was the Vice President at City Securities Corporation in Anderson from 1983 to 1991. He knew that technology would have a significant impact on the economy and his expertise in the area and experience as a business owner allowed him to bring valuable perspective to his role as a legislator. In 1991, Pat left the legislature and began his service as President and CEO of the Indiana Manufacturers Association. Under his leadership, the Indiana Manufacturers Association became a national leader in protecting the business environment. Pat was instrumental in his advocacy for manufacturer's interest at both the state and federal level. His advocacy and strong leadership led the association to many accomplishments in the areas of taxes, budget, infrastructure, healthcare, and environmental policy, among others. Pat also enhanced Indiana's economy through his ability to maintain, promote, and create quality manufacturing jobs in Indiana. This was especially important since Indiana is one of the top manufacturing states in the nation. Pat's involvement with the Indiana business community is extensive. Since 1979, he has been involved with over 35 organizations including the Indiana Economic Development Council, Indiana Employers Quality Health Alliance, Governor's Education Roundtable, Indiana Business Journal's Editorial Advisory Board, Skyline Club Board of Directors, and Indiana Legal Foundation. His commitment to the community and success as a leader have not gone unnoticed. He has been honored with Ball State University's Distinguished Alumni Award, Ball State's College of Business Award of Achievement, the Professional Fire Fighters' Union of Indiana Legislator of the Year Award, and the Indiana Department of Environmental Management's Environmental Impact Award. Pat has been a champion for manufacturers in Indiana and across the country for decades. On behalf of the grateful constituents of Indiana's Fifth Congressional District, I would like to congratulate Pat on all of his success and extend a huge thank you for his extraordinary contributions to the Hoosier community. I wish the very best to Pat, his wife Mary Pat, and his entire family as he enjoys a well-deserved retirement.