Susan Brooks

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Patrick William Kennedy, a friend to many in the Indianapolis community, including me. Pat passed away on April 12, 2020, after a courageous battle with Covid-19. He will be forever missed by his friends, family and colleagues. Pat Kennedy was born June 27, 1956, in Indianapolis, Indiana. After graduating from Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School, Pat went on to Notre Dame University where he graduated in 1978. Upon his graduation from Notre Dame, Pat joined the Kennedy family business and ultimately became the 4th-generation president of the three Kennedy family companies: Kennedy Tank & Manufacturing in Indianapolis; Southern Tank in Owensboro, Kentucky; and STAFCO in Columbia City, Indiana. Pat worked along side family including his three sons to gain national recognition in quality fabrication of steel tanks, pressure vessels, and heat exchangers. In addition to Pat's success in the business world, he was heavily involved in bettering the Indianapolis community. He had a deep passion for auto racing that led to him attending fifty-seven consecutive Indianapolis 500 races, but spectating was not all that he did. Pat served on the board of the 500 Mile Oldtimers Organization, sponsored race car drivers, and wrote two books on race trivia, collaborating with Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) historian and friend Donald Davidson as a technical advisor. Pat was a former director of the 500 Festival Board and was a director of the 500 Festival Foundation Board at the time of his death. Pat was very involved in bettering the experience for Hoosiers and fans all around the world when it came to his beloved Indy 500. The 500 was not the only way Pat served our community. He supported numerous organizations including Wheeler Mission, CYO, United Way, Friends of Holliday Park, Little Sisters of the Poor, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Foundation, and many schools and parishes in the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. Pat was a passionate sports fan, rarely missing a game played by those in his family, but his interest extended to any great competitive event. Pat was a devoted supporter and longtime season ticket holder of the Indiana Pacers and the Indianapolis Colts. Pat was preceded in death by his beloved parents, William and Frances Kennedy. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Cheryl Kennedy; children Maura (Chris Page), Bill (Ellen), Jimmy (Anna Grace Sterry), Patrick, and Joey Gaines; grandchildren Kate, Grace, Luke, and Bo; sisters Peggy Shorter (Mark), Kathy Fairchild (Thom), and Ann Bolin (Paul); and nieces and nephews Kelly Schneider (Matt), Mickey Shorter (Ashley); Kimmie Rumer (Justin) and Kyle Fairchild; and Courtney, Kevin, and Brian Bolin. On behalf of the Fifth District of Indiana I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Pat Kennedy. The Hoosier community will greatly miss him and his extensive contributions.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Paul Loggan, a friend, a mentor, a teacher, a coach and a father-figure among his many roles at North Central High School in Indianapolis, where he worked for more than three decades. Paul was a tremendous leader in our community including his role in the athletics department when my children attended North Central High School. He was a constant presence for Indiana high school football and his dedication to Indiana students will be missed greatly. His impact on high school athletics was honored on the evening of April 13 when football stadiums across the state of Indiana turned on their lights in his memory. Paul Loggan was born on April 5, 1963, in Shelbyville, Indiana. He was an outstanding athlete at Rushville High School, where he graduated in 1981. Paul went on to the University of Indianapolis, where he was an All-American linebacker and team captain on the football team before graduating in 1985. He went on to receive his master's degree from Ball State University. In 2012 Paul was inducted into the University of Indianapolis Athletics Hall of Fame. Paul's love for sports did not end with playing sports. In addition to his time at Franklin Central and Roncalli, he spent over three decades at North Central as a teacher, coach, department chair, Assistant Athletic Director and in 2014 became the Athletic Director. He went on to become the President of the Indiana Football Coaches Association (IFCA) and stayed active in the IFCA even after his time as president was over. Paul spent over three decades as the game director for the North/South All-Star football game hosted by North Central. He was dedicated to students and athletes for a large part of his life. Though athletics were very important to him, Paul held something even closer, his family. It was often said that it was rare to see Paul out without at least one of his children. This is what truly defined Paul. He had three kids, sons Michael and Will and his daughter Sami. He was married to his wife Kathy for nearly twenty-nine years. Paul is also survived by his mother, Marjorie Loggan, brothers Ted (Gena) and Bo, sister Kelly, and several nieces and nephews. Hoosiers everywhere mourn the loss of this great man. Our community will forever be thankful for the contributions Paul made to students and athletes across the state of Indiana. On behalf of the Fifth District of Indiana, I send my thoughts and prayers to his family and friends during this difficult time.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I was not present for the following roll call votes. Had I been present for them, I would have voted as follows: Roll Call 120--Veto Message to Accompany H.J. Res. 76, Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Department of Education relating to ``Borrower Defense Institutional Accountability''--NAY, Roll Call 121--Republican Motion to Recommit on H.R. 51--YAY, and Roll Call 122--H.R. 51--Washington, D.C. Admission Act--NAY.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I was not present for the following roll call votes. Had I been present for them, I would have voted as follows: Roll Call 110--S. 3744, Uyghur Human Rights Policy Act--YEA; Roll Call 111--On Ordering the Previous Question--NAY; and Roll Call 112--On Agreeing to the Resolution--NAY.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I was not present for the following roll call votes. Had I been present for them, I would have voted as follows: Roll Call 113--H.R. 6782, TRUTH Act--NAY; Roll Call 114--H.R. 7010 Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act--YEA; and Roll Call 115--Motion to Go to Conference on H.R. 6172, USA Freedom Reauthorization Act--YEA.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to honor the life of an outstanding public servant, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Officer Breann Leath, who served her city and country with principle and integrity. Tragically, Officer Leath was killed in the line of duty on April 9, 2020, while responding to a domestic violence call. Breann was born on December 30, 1995 in Hinesville, Georgia. Her family moved to Indiana and she graduated from Southport High School in 2014, where she served as captain of the dance squad. She was always a shining light in the eyes of her classmates and peers. She had a passion for public service, following in her father's footsteps who is also a police officer. After graduation, Breann enlisted in the Indiana Army National Guard and became a member of the military Honor Guard. Upon completing her service in the National Guard, Breann pursued her passion for service and protection by becoming a corrections officer at the Indiana Women's Prison. During her time at the Women's Prison, Breann recognized her true calling and passion for law enforcement. This prompted her to join the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, known as IMPD. Officer Leath graduated the police academy in 2018, going on to serve and protect the people of Indianapolis for two and a half years. On April 9, Officer Leath pinned on her badge and went to work on what she thought would be an ordinary day on the job. She responded to a domestic disturbance call on the far east side of Indianapolis where she was fatally shot. Officer Leath laid down her life to protect her community from a dangerous individual. Her service demonstrates the bravery and commitment that she and her brothers and sisters in uniform display every day while her last moments reflect the ultimate sacrifice law enforcement officers can make. On April 16, I attended an historical event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) to honor the life and legacy of Officer Leath. Due to the Public health recommendations surrounding the pandemic of COVID-19, fellow officers and Hoosiers around the state took unprecedented actions to properly and safely lay Officer Leath to rest. As many as 1,900 people joined to watch a live broadcast of the 11 a.m. services across local media websites and on YouTube, tuning in to view the first funeral held at IMS in its 105-year history. The multiple suites at the Speedway were also used for officials and officers to pay respects at a safe social distance Just below the suites, four rows of patrol cars lined the 2.5-mile track, comprised of her shiftmates at IMPD's East District, her classmates in the department's recruiting class and other officers from across the state. Just over the horizon hung the Indianapolis skyline--a silhouette of the city that Leath spent her shortened life serving. Officer Leath was only 24 years old. A leader with an infectious smile and positive attitude, a veteran who served her country and a public servant who loved her community, Officer Leath is a shining example of the commitment to the oath of protection our men and women in uniform take, paying the ultimate price to protect the citizens of Indiana. She leaves behind her young son Zayn, her parents Tom and Jennifer, her sisters Jayla and Tiana, her aunt Sherry, uncles Yuri, Timothy Patrick and her grandparents David and Susanne Malone. Officer Leath will forever be missed by family, friends and her colleagues at the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department. The people of Indiana's Fifth Congressional District are eternally grateful for Breann's contributions to our Hoosier community and it is my privilege to honor her today. On behalf of all Hoosiers, I salute Officer Breann Leath for her impact and service to our community. I extend my deepest condolences to Breann's family, her friends, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, and the fellow officers who mourn her loss.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I urge strong support for the CARES Act. For years, my colleague and I from across the aisle, Anna Eshoo, have worked to pass the Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Act that was signed into law in June of 2019. For years, we have said it was not a matter of if we would have a pandemic, but when we would have a pandemic. That when is now. Now is not the time to place blame. Now is not the time to look back. Now is the time to act and to look forward. Now is the time to restore confidence in this body. Now is the time to pass this act for those healthcare workers who are staying at the hospital while they are begging us to stay home. Now is the time for all of those schoolchildren who are watching this body, thinking about and learning about this body, to show them that we can come together and govern. Now is the time to pass the CARES Act. May God bless America.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Michael A. Evans, a medical expert, an entrepreneur and a dear friend. Dr. Evans was known throughout Indiana and the nation for his excellent work in the field of toxicology, but he was much more than that. A businessman, Mike founded two nationally recognized laboratories in Indianapolis, AIT Laboratories and AIT Bioscience. Mike was commended by the State of Indiana for his many successes. Hoosiers are forever grateful for Mike's significant contributions to the City of Indianapolis and the State of Indiana as a whole. Michael Evans was born on October 19, 1943, in New Albany, Indiana. He graduated from Our Lady of Providence High School and went on to attend St. Joseph's College where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. Upon his graduation, Mike served our nation as a platoon sergeant and an Army Ranger in Vietnam. Mike was awarded two Purple Hearts and a Silver Star Medal for valor in combat. After returning from his service, Mike earned his doctorate degree in toxicology from the Indiana University School of Medicine. After receiving his degree, Dr. Evans spent twenty years within the field of toxicology working as a researcher for government agencies, testifying as an expert witness and training the next generation as a professor. Dr. Evans also did private research in laboratories including those at Indiana University School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Illinois Institute of Technology and the University of Illinois College of Medicine. In 1990, Dr. Evans created AIT Laboratories, a toxicology and forensics lab that does testing and research for law enforcement, corporations, government agencies, pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, physicians, pain management professionals, medical examiners, attorneys, and courts of law. He went on to serve as the president and CEO until 2012. In 2012, Dr. Evans created AIT Bioscience which is an integrated bioanalytical contract research organization (CRO), supported by a state-of-the-art electronic laboratory environment. Dr. Evans' work is a testament to his passion for science and creating services that help people. He was decorated with honors and awards including a Distinguished Eagle Scout Award, the Distinguished Hoosier and he received the Sagamore of the Wabash Award from the Indiana Governor. Dr. Evans was also honored as the SBA Small Businessperson of the Year in 2006 and was the 2008 Ernst & Young Midwest Entrepreneur of the Year. Marian University honored Dr. Evans through the naming of the Michael A. Evans Center for Health Sciences building. Dr. Evans was the father of six children, Michael, Cara, Justin, Andrew, Katherine and Samantha. He enjoyed spending time with his children, working out and reading books on history, business and people who have made a difference in the world. Mike will be forever missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and the entire community. On behalf of Indiana's Fifth Congressional District, I extend my deepest condolences to Mike's family. Today I join the community and the entire family in mourning the loss of Dr. Michael A. Evans who made a difference in the world.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join my fellow colleagues on the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress in support of H. Res. 756. Over these past many months, under the incredible leadership of Representative Kilmer and Representative Graves, the members of the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress have worked diligently to address many, many issues that we believe in a bipartisan way have negatively impacted the ability of Congress to work effectively and efficiently for all Americans. Throughout my time in Congress, I have heard time after time many concerns from my constituents who believe that Congress has become too mired in gridlock, that our current political process has devolved into a system that rewards bitter partisan divide rather than an effective, for-the-people governance. I think my constituents would be so pleased, and all of our constituents would be so pleased, to see how this committee has worked and how we have plodded together through many difficult subjects. In the process of creating 2\1/2\ dozen recommendations, including this resolution, I think a couple of the most important the committee is focused on are how to foster that more civil discourse, beginning with new Member orientation. I want to applaud the chair and the ranking member of the Committee on House Administration for being so open-minded about any ideas that our committee put forward, willing to make changes to many programs, beginning with new Member orientation; also, efforts to create a congressional workforce more representative of our country's diverse population through initiatives like making permanent the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, and focusing on issues such as streamlining and reorganizing human resource services for the House of Representatives. We often operate as 435 different offices, but we can learn so much from each other. We can find, with collaboration and with a stronger H.R. office, better expertise in communications policies and constituent services. So it is my firm belief that the recommendations being voted on will be an integral step in moving Congress forward in a direction that not only produces a more productive workforce and workplace, but a more productive legislative branch.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I was not present for the following roll call votes. Had I been present for them, I would have voted as follows: H.Res. 410--Encouraging Reunions of Divided Korean American Families Act--YEA and H.R. 1771--Divided Families Reunification Act--YEA.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 50th Anniversary of the non-profit organization Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis, also known as Girls Inc. Indy. Stemming from the national program Girls Inc., Girls Inc. Indy opened its doors in 1969. It has since established programs in sixty-one different schools in the Indianapolis area with a mission to empower all young women to be strong, smart, and bold. The people of the Fifth Congressional District of Indiana are grateful for Girls Inc. Indy, and it is my pleasure to congratulate the organization in celebration of this special occasion. In 1864, the national organization Girls Inc. was created in Waterbury, Connecticut to aid girls and young women in their navigation of society after the Civil War. The new organization dedicated itself to creating a safe environment for young women to further their self- confidence, independence, and education. Over time, Girls Inc. adapted its programs to fit society's changing social climate while maintaining its original values. In 1969, Girls Inc. reached Indianapolis. The Girls Inc. Indy branch was established, rooted in the fundamental values of the national organization but designed programs specific to young women in the Indianapolis area. Historically girls in our country have been excluded from opportunities due to gender, race, or socio- economic status. Recognizing the detrimental effects that this has on girls' self-confidence and mental health, Girls Inc. Indy fights to provide young women with a safe place to grow in their own capacities and be themselves. This nonprofit organization is staffed by developmental professionals as well as trained volunteers, all of whom serve as mentors for girls in the program. Staff members are dedicated to providing girls with an emotionally stable environment in which they foster educational, professional, and personal growth. To embolden girls in their education and career fields, Girls Inc. Indy holds a variety of science and STEM initiatives, such as its Eureka! 5-year science program for middle school girls and its Girls Inc. Day for the inner scientist in girls of all ages. In preparing girls for their future endeavors, Girls Inc. Indy encourages their members to cultivate leadership skills and a streak of independence. It has adopted programs such as its Young Women in Leadership classes and its economic literacy classes for high school girls. However, because Girls Inc. Indy recognizes the irreplaceable value of high self-esteem, the organization has created numerous initiatives that focus on personal growth. Programs that discuss the definition of beauty and the importance of conflict management and empower young women as they embark on their journeys of self-discovery. Girls Inc. Indy has served a wide variety of young women around Indianapolis, welcoming all girls despite age, race, ethnicity, and socio-economic background. The impact of this organization on our girls is immeasurable. In 2017 alone, Girls Inc. Indy served 4,299 girls in its programs, reaching across four different counties in the Indianapolis area. Many of these girls participated in more than one program, totaling 8,106 program enrollments. For fifty years, Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis has aided the young women of the Indianapolis area in their development, facilitating a healthy environment to allow girls to explore their personalities, their communities, and their future careers. The challenges that young women face are constantly evolving, but I am confident that Girls Inc. Indy will continue to serve a pivotal role in their development for another fifty years and more. Annually, Girls Inc. Indy recognizes female leaders with the Touchstone Award to those who have made astounding contributions to the Indianapolis community, and have inspired all girls to be strong, smart, and bold, enabling them to be confident in their abilities, proud of who they are, and ready to take their place in the world. It was my distinct honor to receive this prestigious award in 2008. On this 50th Anniversary, I commend Girls Inc. Indy on its mission to embolden girls and its success in its programs. I wish the organization, its staff, volunteers and the girls it serves all the best in its future endeavors.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for H.R. 1980, the Smithsonian Women's History Museum Act. I want to thank Representative Maloney for championing this important legislation. Her determination to honor American women, which started back in 1998 and the fact that she has brought this type of legislation forward ever since then is a true testament to her grit. I also want to thank the chairwoman of the House Administration Committee. I want to thank the ranking member of the House Administration Committee. I really welcome their leadership, and they have seen the importance of this legislation. The Smithsonian Institution was established in 1846 to increase the diffusion of knowledge, and I can think of no better subject matter on which to increase and diffuse knowledge today in 2020 than educating Americans and those who visit our country about the amazing American women who have come before us. A museum dedicated to American women's history will help ensure that my daughter and my son--future generations--understand the impact that our women have had on our country's past; and with a greater understanding of our country's past we can better navigate the future. Establishing this museum to collect, study, and establish programs covering historical contributions of women will inspire generations of women to come--women like Jeannette Rankin, the first woman to ever come to this body, the U.S. House, from Montana in 1916 before women even had the right to vote. Women like Lucille Ball, and we all love Lucy, she was the first woman to run a television studio and capture the attention of viewers around the globe. Women like Dr. Mae Jemison, an engineer and physician, she was the first African American woman to travel to space. Women like these three--and there are thousands more--who deserve to have their stories shared with folks around the world and people here at home. Madam Speaker, I encourage all of my colleagues to support this strong bipartisan piece of legislation to create this national museum dedicated to American women's history. It will celebrate the achievements of American women.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I think it is important to note that in this 116th Congress, where you had a record-breaking number of women come to this body--101 women, more than ever before, and hopefully, even more will be coming in future Congresses--I urge passage of this important piece of legislation.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 2153, the Keeping Girls in School Act. I want to thank my very good friend from Florida, Representative Frankel, for championing this incredibly important legislation, and also my colleague, Representative McCaul of Texas, for helping ensure that this was through the House Foreign Affairs Committee. I am the mother of a daughter, and from birth I let her know that she could be anything she wanted to be. If she wanted to be a lawyer, a doctor, a nurse, a teacher, or an engineer, she could do whatever she wanted. We all know too well that many girls around the world are not so lucky. As my good friend, Representative Frankel, just talked about, Malala of Pakistan was shot at the age of 15 returning from school. I am very proud that the Children's Museum of Indianapolis in my home of Indianapolis will be inducting her into the Power of Children Exhibit, because she has fought for the human rights of girls and children being able to go to school. She was shot returning from school, and the Malala Fund is now focusing on her activism and trying to make sure that girls have the right to go to school. As we have learned, 130 million girls don't have the opportunity to go to school, and it is impossible for them to consider their big dreams and goals. So this bill is about breaking down these barriers that women and girls face in attending and staying in school. We know that the evidence has already shown, if we can keep girls in secondary education, it can boost economies of low- and middle-income nations by as much as $92 billion, annually. It can cut childhood deaths by 50 percent, annually. It can reduce violent conflict in countries, and it can reduce child marriage by 66 percent, annually. Studies show that girls between the ages of 10 and 19 are three times more likely than boys to be kept out of school, particularly in these countries where there is so much conflict. Yet, if we keep girls in school past fourth grade--and we are trying to get them through high school--we know that their wages will rise, their countries will be better, their communities will be better. With our foreign investments, why wouldn't we want to take all of the incredible aid that we provide and make sure that there are strategies in place to make sure that girls get education? This bill outlines that inexhaustible list of 14 barriers that keep girls from entering and remaining in secondary school. So let's bring together the State Department, USAID, Peace Corps, Millennium Challenge, and PEPFAR to address those challenges. We know that young girls like Malala, who is leading the way, is a child who is so powerful in her voice because of what she went through. We know that, when girls succeed, nations and our world will succeed. Madam Speaker, thank you, and I urge passage.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the career and achievements of Hamilton County Commissioner Steven Dillinger. A longtime dedicated public servant, Steve has had a significant impact on the City of Noblesville and entirety of Hamilton County, and Central Indiana. Having served as a Hamilton County Commissioner for over 30 years, he has amassed a record of service to his county that will have a positive impact for decades to come. A graduate of Noblesville High School, where he was a star athlete in football, basketball, baseball, and track for the Millers, Steve has continued to promote the lessons of teamwork, planning, and preparation that athletics helped instill in him at a young age. In his roles as the President of the Executive Board of the Noblesville Elementary Football League since 1990, and former longtime Coach of the Noblesville Grinders football team, Steve helped shape many generations of Hamilton County youth through participation in football. Steve has been tuned in to the needs of his fellow citizens for many decades. His first elected office was a seat on the Noblesville City Council from 1980 to 1984. He subsequently served on the Noblesville Plan Commission in 1981. Steve is also an exemplary leader in the Hamilton County Republican Party, serving as a Precinct Committeeman from 1986 to the present. In 1985, Steve was elected to the Hamilton County Council, serving as the governing body's President in 1988. After his time on the Hamilton County Council, Steve was elected to a seat as one of three Hamilton County Commissioners in 1989, representing the cities of Fishers and Noblesville as well as both Delaware and Noblesville Townships. Having found a true passion and adeptness for serving the constituents of Hamilton County, Steve has been continually victorious in both primary and general elections for one of the Hamilton County Commissioner seats for over thirty years. During nine of his thirty years, he has served as the President of the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners. Throughout his time as a Commissioner, Hamilton County has undergone vast changes. The population has exploded over 400 percent, from 82,000 citizens in the 1980's to a population of over 300,000 citizens in 2020. Steve has been an integral part of the planning of the county, having been involved in county-wide zoning updates that paved the way for massive growth within Hamilton County. Along with fellow Hamilton County leaders, Steve was a vital part of county initiatives that helped to foster increased development on 146th Street and 236th Street, transforming them into the major thoroughfares they are today. Steve was also deeply involved in the development and funding for the State Road 37 Thoroughfare Plan, and the effort to pave over 800 miles of roads in Hamilton County. During his time of service, the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners has overseen the construction of many new buildings for various county services including the Hamilton County Judicial & Government Center, the Hamilton County Highway Department, the Hamilton County Corrections Facility, the Hamilton County Health Department, and the new Humane Society facility. Steve was also involved in the major additions that have been made to the county-owned Riverview Health Hospital, including the new campus in Westfield. Throughout his tenure, Steve has also been involved in many of the county's quality of life initiatives including the effort to locate an Ivy Tech Community College Campus in Noblesville, as well as adding 1,000 acres of land to the Hamilton County Parks. Steve's service to the county includes service on the Hamilton County Plan Commission, the Hamilton County Drainage Board, the Hamilton County Board of Finance, and the Hamilton County Solid Waste Board. Noting his many years of service to community, Steve was chosen in 2000 to be the Hamilton County appointee to the Indianapolis Airport Authority Board. During his time on the board, a new national award-winning Indianapolis International Airport was built, and has been voted the Best Airport in North America year after year. With a public service career that has stretched over four decades, during a time of great progress for Hamilton County, it's no surprise that Steve was honored by the Indiana Association of County Commissioners as the Outstanding County Commissioner of 2019. In addition to this honor Steve has on five occasions been honored by the Indiana Association of Counties with their Outstanding County Achievement Award. Three times he received the organization's Government Cooperation Achievement Award. As the longest current serving County Commissioner in the State of Indiana his track record of unparalleled service to the citizens of Hamilton County speaks for itself. During my time in Congress, I have had the pleasure of working with many capable and dedicated community leaders, however very few community leaders have given more of their time and talent to their communities than my friend Steve. His decades of leadership are a testament to his desire to create a better community for his fellow citizens. It is with great honor that I commend my friend on his amazing career and all the important work he has done and will continue to do on behalf of the citizens of Hamilton County.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 100th Anniversary of the State of Indiana's ratification of the 19th Amendment to the United States Constitution. It was on this date a century ago that the Indiana General Assembly answered the call of history, helping to finally open the doors of democracy, equality, and opportunity to Hoosier women. Not long after the landmark Seneca Falls Convention and subsequent Declaration of Sentiments in 1848, female leaders in Indiana began to organize their own women's rights initiatives. Led by Randolph County native Amanda Way, Indiana's first convention for women's rights took place in 1851. Building on the energy generated from this first convention, participants went on to form the Indiana Woman's Rights Association in 1852. As the movement began to take hold the organization transformed into the Indiana Woman's Suffrage Association. In 1859, Richmond physician Dr. Mary F. Thomas spoke in favor of women's suffrage in front of the Indiana General Assembly in Indianapolis. As the leader of the Indiana Woman's Suffrage Association, she was the first female to address the Indiana General Assembly. Soon thereafter the scourge of the Civil War dominated political and social life throughout the country. However, the dream of women's suffrage did not wither in the shadow of this national calamity. After the surrender of Confederate forces in 1865, the states went on to ratify the 14th Amendment guaranteeing citizens equal protection under the law, in 1868. The states then ratified the 15th Amendment in 1870, guaranteeing the right to vote to all males regardless of race. These new guarantees reinvigorated the push for women's suffrage. Pressure for passage of statewide women's suffrage was first and foremost on the mind of May Wright Sewall's Equal Suffrage Society, which during the early 1880's, organized massive letter writing campaigns aimed at influencing the members of the Indiana General Assembly. Activists such as Helen Gougar of Lafayette, went even a step further, actively attempting to vote in an election in 1894. Having been barred from her attempt to vote, she filed a court case against the Tippecanoe County Election Board. After initial successes in lower courts, the case went to the Indiana Supreme Court which ultimately ruled against Mrs. Gougar. Later in 1897, American icon and women's suffrage leader Susan B. Anthony spoke before the Indiana General Assembly, advocating the swift passage of statewide women's suffrage. With the struggle continuing on into the 20th Century, those fighting for women's suffrage developed new connections and organizations, strengthening their forces in this march towards equality. Groups such as the Indiana Federation of Clubs, the Women's Franchise League, the Legislative Council of Indiana, and the Equal Suffrage Association employed new, more high-profile tactics such as auto tours, parades, car rallies, and other major grassroots campaigns, in an effort to increase support for their cause. Leaders including Indianapolis natives Grace Julian Clarke, Dr. Amelia Keller, and Carrie Barnes Ross, along with Ida Husted Harper of Terre Haute, Marie Stuart Edwards of Peru, and many others, recruited Hoosier women from all ethnic, socioeconomic, and religious backgrounds to their ranks, increasing the spectrum of voices calling for equality and opportunity. As a result of their continued efforts the suffragettes were successful in persuading the Indiana General Assembly to pass the Maston-McKinley Partial Suffrage Act in 1917. This act granted women the right to vote in certain state and local elections. However, a legal ruling from the Indiana State Supreme Court struck down the law shortly before the 1917 municipal elections. Undeterred, these brave, intrepid heroes continued their struggle. Then in 1919, the dam of inequality finally began to break as the United States House or Representatives and the United States Senate passed the 19th Amendment on June 4, 1919. The anticipated vote total in the U.S. House of Representatives was predicted to be so narrow that supporters of women's suffrage helped carry Hoosier Representative Henry Barnhart of Rochester, Indiana, from his hospital bed to the House floor so he could cast his vote in favor of the bill. After passing both houses of the U.S. Congress, the proposed amendment was sent to the states, needing three-quarters of the states to vote in favor of ratification before the amendment could be adopted. Back in Indiana, after resisting demands to call a special session to ratify the 19th Amendment, the Indiana General Assembly did finally convene, and on January 16, 1920, Indiana became the 26th state to ratify the 19th Amendment. After decades of struggle, the power of the vote was extended to women with the adoption of the 19th Amendment on August 26, 1920. Forever more the law would guarantee that the right of citizens of the United States to vote would no longer be denied to women. Today, a century after this landmark moment, women across our country continue to lead the United States into the future with the same zeal and steely determination that sparked a political revolution and allowed our country to move another step closer to living out the ideals of its founders.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Needham Slade Hurst, a renowned Hoosier business executive and dedicated community leader. His passion and drive for excellence led him to successes as a student, army officer, and business executive. Needham's philanthropic and community service helped to uplift the lives of countless fellow Hoosiers. The people of Indiana's Fifth Congressional District are forever grateful for Needham's immense contributions to the State of Indiana. Born to parents Needham King (N.K.) and Martha Slade Hurst on October 15th, 1933, in Indianapolis, Indiana, young Needham was brought up to be industrious in his work, kind and fair to others, and to be charitable to his fellow citizens. In 1938, his father founded the N.K. Hurst Company. The company began as a distributor of coffee, tea, sugar and other food commodities to local grocers throughout the State of Indiana. In 1947, they began packaging edible dry beans, a product that has become so popular over the decades that it has made the Hurst's Beans name a nationally known brand, synonymous with the highest of quality. As the years went by, young Needham showed himself to be an exemplary student at Broad Ripple High School. It was during his time at Broad Ripple that he would meet and fall in love with fellow student Mary Lou Beesley. After graduation from Broad Ripple High School in 1951, Needham matriculated at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. It was during this time in his life that Needham and Mary Lou would marry in 1954. In 1956 he departed from Indiana University having earned both his Bachelors of Science in Business and a Masters in Business Administration. Having been a member of the Reserve Officer Training Corp while at Indiana University Needham then went on to answer his country's call to duty, joining the United States Army in 1956. During his time in the Army, Needham served in the Quartermasters Corp, while stationed at Fort Lee in Petersburg, Virginia. By the time of his honorable discharge from the United States Army in 1958, Needham had risen through the ranks, ultimately attaining the rank of 2nd Lieutenant. Later in 1958, Needham and Mary Lou returned to Indianapolis to settle down and raise their children, son Rick, and daughter Cathy. Upon his arrival back in Indianapolis, Needham began his career at the family business, N.K. Hurst Company, where he initially worked in sales. In the succeeding years Needham would ascend to the position of Company President, working hand in hand with his brother Bill Hurst to grow the family business. Under the leadership of Needham and Bill, the N.K. Hurst Company expanded its operations becoming a nationwide distributor of coffee, tea, sugar and other food commodities. It was also during this time that the company became a major supplier of these food commodities to the United States Military Commissary Network. Having successfully stewarded the company through the decades, Needham and Bill, were able to pass the ownership and operations of the company to the 3rd and 4th generations of the Hurst Family. Wanting to spread the good fortune of the company's success to those less fortunate in Indiana, Needham and Bill continued the company's long history of supplying local food banks and charitable organizations with food supplies. This commitment to the betterment of his fellow Hoosiers is something that Needham practiced throughout his life. Needham served others in the community in a variety of different roles including serving as a church elder and deacon at the Second Presbyterian Church. He also maintained a role in encouraging youth sports as a basketball coach at the Jordan YMCA, and as a board member of the Indianapolis Junior Tennis Board. Needham also lent his leadership skills to many organizations throughout the State of Indiana. Terms serving on the Board of Directors of the Indiana University Foundation, as Governor of the Orchard School of Indianapolis, and as a Franklin College Trustee allowed Needham the opportunity to provide countless educational opportunities to ensuing generations of Hoosiers. Needham also served his community through his membership in organizations including the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, the Junto Club, the YPO (formerly the Young President Organization) and the University Club of Indianapolis. Along with his beloved wife Mary Lou, and son Rick, Needham served on the Board of St. Vincent Hospital in Indianapolis. Having also served as a member of the Board of St. Vincent Hospital, I had the distinct pleasure of developing a close friendship and working relationship with the Hurst Family. Needham cherished the summers he would spend with his family and friends on Lake Wawasee. His love of boating was a lifelong passion that he shared with succeeding generations of his family. Trips around Lake Wawasee in his boat ``Little Sugar'', a 1951, 16' Century inboard were a favorite pastime of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, especially during the ``Thunder Run'' parade of vintage boats on Sunday mornings. Needham's love for Lake Wawasee inspired him to serve on the Wawasee Area Conservancy Foundation, an organization aimed at keeping a clean and healthy lake for future generations to enjoy. After a long life of service to others, Needham passed away surrounded by his family and loved ones on January 1, 2020. Needham will be forever missed by the many Hoosiers whose life he impacted. On behalf of Indiana's Fifth Congressional District, I extend my deepest condolences to Needham's beloved wife Mary Lou, their daughter Cathy Meyer and her husband Philip, their son Rick Hurst and his wife Lisa, their grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as all past and present employees of N.K. Hurst Company, and all others who mourn his passing.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for the legislation we have been talking about today, not only H.R. 2881, the Secure 5G and Beyond Act of 2020, but now, H.R. 4500, Promoting United States Wireless Leadership Act of 2019. I want to commend my colleagues, the chair of the subcommittee, Chairman Doyle, Ranking Member Latta, as well as my colleagues that I have been working with, Representative Spanberger from Virginia, and Representatives Dingell and Walberg from Michigan. We have come together because we know that these two bipartisan bills are critically important to secure our communications networks and protect our next- generation telecommunications systems and the mobile infrastructure in the U.S. from dangerous foreign actors. As the cofounder and the co-chair with my colleague from Michigan of the 5G Caucus, we understand how important it is that our laws protect 5G innovation; but also how critically important it is to keep our citizens and country safe. I also represent a portion of Indianapolis, Indiana, an original test site for 5G. Our city has seen the benefits of 5G firsthand and we are continuing to see those benefits grow as we progress. Indianapolis was the first city in the country where both Verizon and AT&T tested, developed, and have deployed 5G technology. Purdue University has partnered with these companies to create a 5G acceleration zone that will serve as an incubator for research and development in exciting new technologies for 5G. And that is why the Secure 5G and Beyond Act of 2019 is so important, to protect the country from potential cyber threats, while ensuring innovation continues to move forward. But we need the administration to develop a national strategy to maximize the security of those 5G systems. With the Promoting United States Wireless Leadership Act of 2019, it will make sure that we are at the forefront; that the U.S. remains at the forefront in the conversation by bringing appropriate industry and government experts to the standards-body table. As our world becomes even more interconnected through new technologies and innovations than it already is today, it is important that we ensure our national security and our global competitiveness within these industries. So I am proud to be an original cosponsor of both of these bills. I urge our body to support securing the innovation of 5G while protecting the competitiveness of U.S. companies and the privacy of U.S. citizens.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor my Carmel District Office intern, Sarah E. Nakata for her work and service to the citizens of the 5th District of Indiana. Sarah has the spirit of a giver, the strength of a fighter and a heart of gold. She truly is an inspiration to all of us and I am proud to have her as a part of my team. The first time I met Sarah, I was presenting her an offer of appointment to the prestigious United States Military Academy at West Point during my second year as a Member of Congress in 2014. Her dream was to serve our nation in the United States Army and on that day, her dream became a reality. While Sarah attended high school at Covenant Christian in Indianapolis, she thrived inside and outside of the classroom both academically and athletically. She was a part of the Rifle Team, Rocket Team, Math Club, a member of the National Honor Society, attended NASA Explorer School and participated in band and pep band. Sarah was a tutor for English, Math, Science, and Spanish, all while volunteering her time at English as a Second Language classes as well as at the National Rifle Association's National Rifle Matches. She graduated high school with a 4.3 GPA and ranked first in her graduating class. She had a love for science, space, and mathematics but her true passion was rifle shooting. While on the Rifle Team at Covenant Christian High School, Sarah earned nine state titles, three national junior titles and served as a team captain. She was an Indiana Rifle State Champion in 2011 and 2012 through the Indiana State Rifle and Pistol Association. She joined the USA Shooting Team and was a National Junior Olympic Rifle Championship qualifier and participant in 2012 and 2013. Sarah was named the National Metric Grand Aggregate Prone and Position Intermediate Junior Champion in 2012 by the National Rifle Association and was National Metric Iron Sight Position Junior Champion in 2013. These achievements caught the attention of multiple colleges and educational institutions, including the United States Military Academy at West Point. Sarah was recruited for her skills in rifle shooting and received a Letter of Assurance from the academy. The last thing she needed in order to attend was a congressional or presidential nomination. As she was finishing her time at Covenant Christian High School, Sarah started the application process to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point through my office. As many know, it is no easy feat to be accepted into an academy and it takes hard work, dedication and commitment, which is exactly what Sarah had. These academies have the best and brightest students and Sarah was among those ranks. In the spring of 2014, Sarah received a congressional nomination from my office and on May 1, 2014, I presented her with an offer of appointment. Sarah reported to duty as a cadet at West Point in June of 2014 to begin her Plebe year. During the summer between Sarah's sophomore and junior year in June of 2016, she began to have abdominal pains and severe nausea while participating in summer training. Several days passed and Sarah continued to feel sick, was unable to digest food, and developed chronic dehydration. She was flown to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. Sarah was diagnosed with severe gastroparesis, preventing her stomach from appropriately digesting food. A year passed, Sarah's condition had not improved, and the United States Army medically separated her. I learned of Sarah's condition and I knew her dreams of attending the United States Military Academy at West Point and serving in the Army had come to a close. I reached out to her in late 2017 and offered her an internship in my Carmel District Office and she joined my team in January of 2018. Despite all Sarah has been through, her spirit, smile and laughter lifts up my team each and every day she is in the office. After years of testing, hospital visits, surgeries and medications, Sarah and medical professionals still do not have a full understanding of her illness, symptoms or a pathway for treatment, recovery or for a cure. Sarah is resilient and strong. I know her illness will not hold her back from accomplishing her new goals and striving for her dreams. Sarah has taught us all to not let the little things bother you, as you never know where life will take you. Life is precious and Sarah is a true inspiration to all of us. She will go on to do many great things after her internship ends and I thank her for her service to the residents of the 5th District of Indiana and to our country. It is with immense hope and great optimism that we look forward to watching Sarah embark on her future endeavors, with her parents Heidy and David by her side.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Malcolm W. Applegate, a titan of journalism in our nation. From the outset of his career on the sports beat at the Salina Journal in Salina, Kansas, to the end of his career as the President and General Manager of Indianapolis Newspapers Inc., and Publisher of the Indianapolis Star, Malcolm was considered by his peers to be the consummate ``old school'' journalist. Ever the prolific writer, Malcolm dedicated himself to delivering honest, informative and timely news to his readers at each stop along his storied career. Malcolm was born on January 26, 1936 in Kansas City, Missouri, to parents Florence and Paul Applegate. Growing up in WaKeeny, Kansas, Malcolm attended Trego Community High School, spending many hours after school on the basketball and tennis courts, forging lifelong friendships, and sparking a love of sports. After the tragic death of his father Paul in 1954, Malcolm and his mother Florence relocated to Topeka, Kansas, to start life anew. Wanting to stay close to home Malcolm initially chose to attend Washburn University, to study journalism and compete as a member of both the basketball and tennis teams. Later transferring to Kansas University, Malcolm continued his study of journalism while serving as the Editor of the Daily Kansan. It was also during this time that Malcolm competed as a member of the Kansas men's varsity tennis team and joined the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity. Near the end of his time at Kansas University, Malcolm would reconnect with grade school friend Constance Eaton, a student at nearby Fort Hays State University. Their friendship would quickly blossom into a lifelong love affair. After they both graduated from their respective universities, they began their life together, getting married on July 12, 1959. After earning a Master's Degree from the University of Iowa in 1961, Malcolm joined the faculty at Fort Hays State University. He later returned to Kansas University, this time as the Assistant Dean of the Journalism School. In 1969, Malcolm was offered the chance to join the well-respected Gannett Newspaper Company. He relocated to Rochester, New York with Connie, and their daughters, my very dear friends Kellie and Paula. Malcolm then began to rise up the ranks of Gannett which led to a number of opportunities. In 1971, Malcolm became the Editor of the Ithaca Journal in Ithaca, New York. Later in 1975, he relocated to Lafayette, Indiana to become the Publisher of the Lafayette Journal & Courier, and the Regional Vice President of USA Today. Malcom's next opportunity came with a move to Lansing, Michigan in 1986, where he would serve as both the Publisher of the Lansing State Journal and Vice President of USA Today. In 1990, Malcolm and his family arrived at their final stop in Indianapolis, Indiana, where Malcolm served as the President and General Manager of Indianapolis Newspapers Inc., and as Publisher of the Indianapolis Star until his retirement in 1998. Under his stewardship, he prepared the Indianapolis Star for the new digital era of news journalism, maintaining the paper's status as a beacon of journalistic integrity during this time of extreme transformation throughout the industry. Serving in these many leadership roles throughout the decades helped to mold Malcolm into one of the premier newspapermen in the United States. At every stop along his career, Malcolm was known for being both a mentor to young journalists, and a bonafide newsman, able to show the same dedication to the local news beat, that he showed when interviewing prominent national figures such as fellow Kansan Senator Bob Dole and others. Upon his retirement, Malcolm maintained a role in the Indianapolis community as a dedicated philanthropist. His work with organizations such as Goodwill Industries, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the United Way of Central Indiana helped to improve the lives of many fellow citizens. Malcolm was also very involved with the Indianapolis 500 Festival, a volunteer organization that conducts civic events celebrating the Indianapolis 500. As a loyal Kansas Jayhawk alumni, Malcom donated $500,000 to create the Malcolm W. Applegate Distinguished Professorship in Editing Fund at Kansas University's School of Journalism in 2002. Always the avid sportsman, Malcolm was often seen on the tennis courts of the community. As a lover of all sports, Malcolm took distinct pleasure in sharing his love of sports with his children and grandchildren, raising an impressive family of athletes. Known by his family as ``the World's Biggest Kansas Jayhawk Fan'', his daily wardrobe choices often included the school colors Crimson & Blue. Also an avid fan of both the Indianapolis Colts and Indiana Pacers, friends would often see him and his family in their season ticket seats ready to cheer the home team to a victory. After many decades of service to both his readers and his fellow citizens, Malcolm passed away on October 20, 2019. Malcolm will be forever missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and the entire national journalism community. On behalf of Indiana's Fifth Congressional District, I extend my deepest condolences to Malcolm's wife Connie, their daughter Kellie Prusiecki, her husband Drew, grandchildren Katie and Adam, as well as their daughter Paula Quammen, her husband Ron, grandchildren Christopher and Matthew, and all who mourn his passing.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for the Department of Veterans Affairs Contracting Preference Consistency Act and the AbilityOne program. This vital bill corrects an error made in previous law to ensure thousands of blind and visually impaired Americans, many of whom are veterans, are able to keep their jobs. Bosma Enterprises in my district, which has served Indiana for over 100 years, serves blind and visually impaired Hoosiers by giving them meaningful work. These Hoosiers want to work. They want to be self- sufficient. They want to contribute to their community. Many contributed to their country through their military service, which actually is where they sustained injuries causing their blindness or visual impairment. But Bosma relies on contracts with the VA through the AbilityOne program to be able to provide those good jobs to Hoosiers. Sadly, changes in VA policy and a series of court rulings threaten the viability of this productive partnership. With this important bill, Bosma and many other AbilityOne employers like it around the country will continue to provide meaningful work to those Americans. I am proud to be an original cosponsor of this bill, and I urge the Senate to adopt and take it up.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, if we defeat the previous question, we can move to pass H.R. 2207. Why is it so important that we repeal this disastrous medical device tax? Since 2013, when I came to Congress, my colleagues and I across the aisle have worked in a bipartisan way to delay and, ultimately, defeat this disastrous tax. And why is that so important? It is not just about the economics of a tax; it is about patients. This is about innovation for patients, and higher taxes mean fewer innovations will be developed for patients. Fewer lives will be saved because, when we tax this critical industry, it will make it harder for them to come up with and fund the next lifesaving technology. Tell that to the over a million people a year, worldwide, who receive implants like pacemakers. These folks rely on these lifesaving devices. So many of the innovations will not come to market. Medical devices allow patients to undergo fewer intensive procedures, with shorter hospitalizations and rehabilitation time, which ultimately lowers the overall cost of patient care. Beyond patient care, this is an amazing industry; and if we tax these businesses, jobs will be lost. We already know that, when the tax was in place, 29,000 jobs were lost in this industry. These are high-paying jobs in States across the country. Indiana is one of the top States in the country to have these types of medical device jobs. These pay 30 percent higher. The degree of expertise and the skill of these workers, particularly in the area of research and development and manufacturing, is unbelievable. And these people work day in and day out to provide better medical devices to consumers, not just here in this country, but around the globe. So reinstating this medical device tax, which will take place on January 1 of 2020, will hurt the success not just of these businesses, but it will roll back innovations and stifle R&D of these lifesaving and life-altering medical advances. We have a chance, with 256 cosponsors, to stand together and repeal this tax. I urge this body to pass the repeal of the medical device tax.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today to thank my colleague, the only pharmacist in the House, Buddy Carter from the great State of Georgia, who has brought us together to talk about the importance of lowering costs and making sure we can continue to focus on more cures. I also rise today in opposition to H.R. 3. We know that Americans pay far too much for the drugs at the pharmacy counter, something that my colleague knows better than anybody, and it is our duty to come together to find solutions that are solutions to lower costs of drugs while protecting innovation and future drug development in our country. But, unfortunately, H.R. 3, which we are scheduled to vote on tomorrow, jeopardizes that American innovation and patient access to care. The nonpartisan CBO estimates that, under H.R. 3, approximately 15 fewer drugs will be introduced over the next decade, and about 30 fewer drugs over the following decade, and then a 10 percent reduction annually, afterwards, into perpetuity. This means that over 40 potential cures will not be discovered over the next 20 to 30 years. So let's talk about what that means. It might mean there might not be a cure for breast cancer, maybe no cure for diabetes and no cure for Alzheimer's, diseases that we know impact Americans all across our country. We lead the world in innovation, in breakthrough medicines, cutting- edge technologies, and therapies to save and improve lives. Our peer nations have 40 to 60 percent fewer cures--as you just heard from previous speakers--compared to what is available in our market. In Canada, a country with a nationalized health system, Tori Lacey, a 21-year-old with SMA type 2, spinal muscular atrophy, is unable to access a treatment called Spinraza because it is not covered for those with type 2 SMA in Ontario. Stringent eligibility criteria for novel medicines prevent Tori, a college student, from focusing on her schoolwork and future. So Tori must suffer through this genetic neuromuscular disorder that affects the nerve cells that control voluntary muscles instead of being granted access to this critical drug. In America, Tori would be able to access this cure. If we lose these 15 drugs over the next decade, again, which drug and which disease is going to lose out? Is it breast cancer, a disease that claims one in eight women each year? Madam Speaker, do I go home and tell my dear, longtime friend Judy, who, at one time, was told she had 18 months to live--that was 8 years ago--do I tell her: Sorry, we may not be able to work on it, and the drug companies that do this R&D may not be able to because we can't get our act together to protect innovation? Judy has been fighting, for the second time, breast cancer for 8 years. She has been holding on to hope that next month there may be a cure and that next year there may be a cure. But under H.R. 3, those chances drop precipitously. If we lose 15 drugs over the next decade, will it be diabetes, a disease affecting over 30 million Americans, a disease gripping 700,000 of my fellow Hoosiers? This past summer, I visited with a young JDRF advocate, Ella, from Indianapolis. Ella was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 4. She is an incredible young girl who is advocating on behalf of kids like her with diabetes. She came to Washington and shared her story with me. She is a gymnast, but with her disease, she has to be incredibly careful and monitor her blood sugar constantly. She told me sometimes she has to sit out at practice due to her blood sugar and that it is very annoying to this 11-year-old gymnast. She should be focused on her gymnastics and on school, but instead of being a kid, she has to worry about her blood sugar and about her insuline pump. I hear from constituents like Ella and her family that the technology developments in the diabetes space is working to make lives almost normal. Diabetes was a death sentence just over 100 years ago. Now, diabetics can almost live normal lives. But what if we could find a cure? Hopefully one day, advancements in medicine technology will allow Ella to be that kid, a kid without any worry. If we lose these 15 drugs over the next decade, is it the GNAO1 encephalopathy? It is a rare neurological disorder that causes developmental delays, early infantile seizures, and abnormal movements. My dear friend and a former House staffer here on the Hill, Emily, had to leave my team when she found out that her first child, sweet Madeline, was diagnosed with this rare disease. Madeline is now 5 years old. Madeline, at this point in her life, will never be able to feed herself. She will never be able to run around with classmates. She will never experience a normal childhood without a cure, let alone more answers to this very rare disease. We could go on and on and on if we lose 15 drugs over the next decade. H.R. 3 is so wrong for America. But we have an alternative. We came together with H.R. 19, the Lower Costs, More Cures Act, of which I am proud to be an original cosponsor. This is a piece of legislation that is a bipartisan package, what Buddy Carter was talking about. It is focused on lowering drug prices while protecting America's ability to lead the world in innovative solutions. Our Energy and Commerce Committee enjoys an, actually, very warm and bipartisan working relationship on so many bills. We worked across the aisle; we held many hearings; we had many markups; and we worked on thorny issues together. Our committee actually put forward several serious bipartisan measures that could become law. They are part of H.R. 19. I am not going to go through all of those pieces that are in H.R. 19, but one of the things that is so important about H.R. 19 is it provides affordability and predicability for patients and seniors. Americans don't want a guessing game at the pharmacy counter. H.R. 19 caps out-of-pocket costs for seniors; it increases competition, which is key to getting more generic medicines to the market; it increases low-cost options for patients by bringing these generics to the marketplace faster; it ends pay-for-delay; it implements CREATES; and it eases new product entry to the market. I could go on and on. These were things that we worked on with our colleagues across the aisle, and that is what is in H.R. 19. So while H.R. 3 crushes investments in the R&D of new cures, it stifles innovation and uses incredibly harsh penalties to squeeze drug manufacturers who create these cures. It squeezes them almost out of existence in many ways. Ultimately, it is the patients who suffer, and it is H.R. 19 that will encourage innovation of those cures and protect access to new medicines. It will support competition, which will drive down prices and lower the cost of medicines, and it does put patients first. So I urge my colleagues to support that innovation by opposing H.R. 3 and supporting the bipartisan H.R. 19, Lower Costs, More Cures Act-- real solutions for Americans. Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague for hosting this important hour.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I was not present for the following Roll Call votes. Had I been present for them, l would have voted as follows: Roll Call No. 655 on H.R. 4761-DHS Opioid Detection Resilience Act of 2019-YEA, and Roll Call No. 656 on H.R. 4739-Synthetic Opioid Exposure Prevention and Training Act-YEA.

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana

Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize John Ditslear on his retirement from the Office of Mayor of Noblesville, Indiana. A well-respected public servant, Mayor Ditslear's career has been defined by his steadfast leadership of Noblesville. His many decades of public service in a number of different roles has greatly impacted the community and its citizens. A native son of Dublin, Ohio, Mayor Distlear graduated from my alma mater, Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, with a degree in finance. After graduation, Mayor Ditslear chose to serve his country by joining the United States Navy. Serving in the early 1960s, at a time of tumultuous international relations, Mayor Ditslear and his fellow sailors were tasked with transporting their Marine and Army counterparts to active theaters in Vietnam. During this time in the United States Navy, Mayor Ditslear rose to the rank of lieutenant while developing his leadership and situational management skills. After completing his naval service, Mayor Ditslear moved to Noblesville in 1966, where he invested a great deal of time in his community as a volunteer. He served as a board member for many community organizations including the Chamber of Commerce, Noblesville Boys & Girls Club, Riverview Hospital Foundation, Hamilton East Public Library and the United Way of Hamilton County. Ever the leader, Mayor Ditslear is also a past president of the Indiana Association of Cities and Towns, the Noblesville Redevelopment Commission, the Life Underwriter's Association and the Indianapolis chapter of Chartered Life Underwriters. It is clear that Mayor Ditslear's service to the citizens of Noblesville has reached far beyond his time in public office. After his service in the Navy, Mayor Ditslear entered into the business world joining the American United Life Insurance Company in Indianapolis. His success in the insurance business led him to start his own company Ditslear Insurance, with offices in Indianapolis and Noblesville. After many prosperous years, Ditslear Insurance merged into the Ditslear Elmer Group, where success continued. Mayor Ditslear made his initial foray into elected office with three terms on the Noblesville School Board, from 1984 to 1992 and then again from 2000 to 2004. This experience helped to prepare Mayor Ditslear for the rigors of serving in higher public office. When the opportunity presented itself in 2003, he chose to run for mayor of Noblesville, a race that he would go on to win against four general election opponents. After assuming the Office of Mayor of Noblesville in 2004, and later joining the Republican Party, Mayor Ditslear would lead the city in continued growth over his four terms and became the longest tenured mayor in the history of Noblesville. His successful stewardship of the local economy has had major impacts on both the operations of the city and its citizens. Since 2004, the assessed value of the taxable property increased 134 percent from $2.4 billion to $6.04 billion today. By 2016, the population of Noblesville grew by over 10,000 people to more than 60,000 residents. This growth led to the school system adding additional schools to support the younger population and helping to improve access to education. Mayor Ditslear led several quality of life initiatives, resulting in the development of Hamilton Town Center, and Federal Commons in addition to four new parks. Mayor Ditslear also worked to increase the amount of outdoor walking trails 183 percent by extending the Midland Trace Trail from Westfield to the center of Noblesville. His focus on the heart of the city also included renovating the downtown area through facade grants and road improvements and a focus on the White River. The Riverwalk Trail project provides a walkway down to the White River and provides citizens the opportunity to enjoy nature. Mayor Ditslear was also instrumental in attracting SMC, a Japanese pneumatic technology company, to make a massive investment in the Noblesville community creating over 600 new jobs by locating their North American headquarters to the city. As Noblesville continued to grow and expand to new heights under Mayor Ditslear's leadership, the Mayor and his team also led initiatives with fellow civic leaders and local business owners to maintain the vitality and attractiveness of downtown Noblesville. A long-time sector of commerce in the city, and the location of the Hamilton County Seat since 1824, downtown Noblesville has been the epicenter of Hamilton County since its inception. Working with groups such as Noblesville Main Street and various local businesses, Mayor Ditslear was able to encourage continued growth and revitalization of downtown Noblesville. Initiatives such as First Fridays, Jazz on the Square, and Small Business Saturdays, helped to build a sense of community that has made downtown Noblesville the focal point of life in the city once again. By focusing on the infrastructure of the city, improving parks and community spaces, promoting quality education, and even playing a role in founding the Roots of Life Community Church with his wife, Head Pastor Teri Ditslear, Mayor Ditslear has impacted his city as both a government official and a committed, longtime resident. On behalf of all Hoosiers, I thank Mayor Ditslear for his many years of service to the city and people of Noblesville, Indiana. I wish him, his wife and fellow civic leader, Pastor Teri Ditslear, and his family the best in a well-deserved retirement.