Cheri Bustos

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Jeff ``The Ironman'' Downer on his retirement after 36 years as a Groundskeeper at Pekin Community High School. Jeff started working at Pekin Community High School as a Groundskeeper in 1985 after graduating in 1977. His professionalism, attention to detail, and strong work ethic will make him difficult to replace. Jeff noticed when he first started work at the high school that the field was brown in the middle. It took two and a half years, but he was able to grow the field to be green and presentable for the students who use it. Jeff is respected because of his dedication to his profession and to the school, and is well-liked by everyone there. I commend Jeff for his hard work over the years to make Pekin Community High School a beautiful place where students are able to learn. It is because of community leaders like Jeff Downer that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate Jeff Downer on his retirement from Groundskeeping at Pekin Community High School.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dr. Duane Esarey, who is retiring from the Dickson Mounds Illinois State Museum in Lewistown after many years of tireless service. Dr. Esarey has been committed to the disciplines of archaeology and anthropology throughout his life, especially in Central Illinois. He started his career in 1977, working in the field as an archaeologist in the Archaeological Research Labs at Western Illinois University. In 1982, Dr. Esarey earned a promotion to Director of the Archaeological Field School of the University. The following year, he relocated to Lewistown and accepted a position as Collections Manager for the Dickson Mounds Illinois State Museum. Dr. Esarey served as Collections Manager until 1994, when he became Assistant Curator of Anthropology for the Museum. He worked in this capacity until 2004 when he left to complete his Ph.D. at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and work as Assistant Director for the Illinois State Archaeological Survey in Champaign-Urbana. After 15 years, the Museum welcomed him back on March 10, 2019 as Director. Dr. Esarey's contributions have been significant and irreplaceable to the profile and growth of Dickson Mounds Illinois State Museum, and the fields of archaeology and anthropology in Central Illinois. It is because of dedicated, innovative, and insightful leaders such as Dr. Esarey that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to, again, formally recognize Dr. Duane Esarey and thank him for his service to the collective Central Illinois community.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the life of Lieutenant Garrett Ramos of Sterling, Illinois. Thirty-eight- year-old Lieutenant Ramos served the Sterling Fire Department for a decade before losing his life late last week. Late Friday night in Rock Falls, Illinois, Lieutenant Ramos responded to a call for help. As he was bravely fighting a house fire, the floor collapsed beneath him. But while Lieutenant Ramos' life was cut short, his memory will live on. Described as an amazing individual of the highest caliber on and off duty, Lieutenant Ramos carried on his family's legacy of service when he became a firefighter, just like his father. Lieutenant Garrett Ramos was a good man, a good firefighter, a good friend, and a good Cubs fan. But above all else, he was a son, a husband, and a father to two little children who will dearly miss him. He was a true hero to the community he served. The community is asked to put a red light on their porch in honor of Lieutenant Garrett Ramos. My deepest condolences to his loved ones. May they be comforted by his memory.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Detective Timothy Metzger, who is retiring from the Rock Island Police Department after 28 years of service. His last day was Friday, November 12. Detective Timothy Metzger joined the Rock Island Police Department in December 1992. A graduate of Blackhawk College and Western Illinois University, Detective Metzger reported to duty each day with impeccable work ethic and compassion for the neighbors he strived to protect. After nearly 20 years, his peers and principals rewarded him for his commitment to the City of Rock Island by promoting him to Detective of the Police Department. For almost 10 years, Detective Metzger has handled every facet of investigations conducted by the Police Department. He specialized in computer, cellphone, and video forensics and helped with the Illinois Attorney General Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force at a local level. When he was not putting himself in harm's way, he enjoyed giving back to the area he served, helping coach youth softball and baseball teams in Rock Island. It is because of committed and honorable leaders such as Detective Metzger that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to, again, formally congratulate Detective Timothy Metzger on his retirement and thank him for his 28 years of service to our community.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Galesburg Police Department Lieutenant Jason Shaw on receiving a Life-Saver Award by Galesburg Mayor Peter Schwartzman on November 1, 2021. Fellow GPD Officer Chris Hootman experienced a medical emergency at his residence and contacted Lieutenant Jason Shaw, who acted swiftly to dispatch paramedics and Officer Dan Williams to the scene. After Lieutenant Shaw helped assess that Officer Hootman would require more care than St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg could offer, with Lieutenant Cromien following behind, Officer Williams and Lieutenant Shaw transported Officer Hootman by ambulance to St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria. On the way, paramedics had to pull over to provide immediate life-saving measures. While Officer Williams and Lieutenant Shaw rendered these mitigations, Lieutenant Cromien got out of her car and drove the ambulance the rest of the way. He was able to receive necessary medical care and is now recovering from his sustained trauma. Officer Chris Hootman was recently named School Resource Officer at Galesburg High School. Lieutenants Shaw and Cromien and Officer Williams saved his life, and thanks to this act of valor, he can continue to keep our children safe. It is because of committed and selfless leaders such as these three first responders that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to, again, formally congratulate Lieutenant Jason Shaw and thank him for saving the life of Officer Chris Hootman.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Galesburg Police Department Officer Dan Williams on receiving Life-Saver Awards by Galesburg Mayor Peter Schwartzman on November 1, 2021.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Galesburg Police Department Lieutenant Stephanie Cromien on receiving a Life- Saver Award by Galesburg Mayor Peter Schwartzman on November 1, 2021. Fellow GPO Officer Chris Hootman experienced a medical emergency at his residence and contacted Lieutenant Jason Shaw, who acted swiftly to dispatch paramedics and Officer Dan Williams to the scene. After Lieutenant Shaw and Officer Williams determined that Officer Hootman would require more care than St. Mary Medical Center in Galesburg could offer, with Lieutenant Cromien following behind, Officer Williams and Lieutenant Shaw transported Officer Hootman by ambulance to St. Francis Medical Center in Peoria. On the way, paramedics had to pull over to provide immediate life-saving measures. While Officer Williams and Lieutenant Shaw rendered these mitigations, Lieutenant Cromien got out of her car and drove the ambulance the rest of the way. He was able to receive necessary medical care and is now recovering from his sustained trauma. Officer Chris Hootman was recently named School Resource Officer at Galesburg High School. Lieutenant Cromien helped save his life, and thanks to this act of heroism, he can continue to keep our children safe. It is because of committed and selfless leaders such as these three first responders that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to, again, formally congratulate Lieutenant Stephanie Cromien and thank her for saving the life of Officer Chris Hootman.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Coney Island's 100th year in business. Coney Island was founded in 1921 by brothers Paul and George Nickolpolous. Through many changes of ownership over the years, Coney Island has remained a staple in the Galesburg community. Current owners Maria Valdez and her son, Jesus Valdez, have operated Coney Island since 2004. Each day, the restaurant serves up its famous Coney Island pork hot dogs with brown mustard and onions, covered in beef sauce. The topsecret recipe has remained largely the same over the years and the grill and dining counter are the originals from 1921. I commend Coney Island for its 100 years serving customers. It is because of strong businesses such as Coney Island in Galesburg, Illinois that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate Coney Island on its 100th Year in business.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Marla Clay on her retirement following 27 seasons as coach of the Galesburg High School Volleyball Team. Marla started coaching the Silver Streaks volleyball team in 1994 and currently holds a 407-429 career mark with the team. Throughout her tenure, she has helped countless young athletes develop their skills and a lifetime a love of sport. I want to thank Marla for her many years of service at Galesburg High School as a coach and teacher. It is because of leaders such as Marla Clay that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate Marla Clay on her retirement after 27 years as the Silver Streaks' volleyball coach.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Drew Hall for winning the IHSA Class 1A State Championships for Golf. Drew Hall first picked up a golf club 15 years ago, and with his skills on the green and the support of his family, he won first place at the IHSA State Championships. Drew recorded a 36-hole score of 144 at state and now joins Rockridge boys' golf history as one of the only state champions in golf in Rockridge High School history. At the end of the season, Hall's 3-under par 68 at Riverdale's Wayne Brinkmeier Invitational tied the 18-hole record and was the third of his three tournament titles. He also won gold at the Monmouth-Roseville Invite and Kewanee's Boiler Invite. As a former athlete, I commend the determination and hard work Drew has shown this season. I am proud to see him represent his community so well throughout the state with his dedication and passion for golf. It is because of student leaders such as Drew Hall that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate Drew Hall for winning the IHSA Class 1A State Championship in golf.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Chief Jeffrey R. VenHuizen, who is retiring from the Rock Island Police Department after nearly 29 years of service. His last day with the Department will be October 31, 2021. Chief VenHuizen first joined the Rock Island Police Department on February 1, 1993, after earning a degree in Law Enforcement Administration from Western Illinois University. From K-9 Officer to Patrol Lieutenant, Chief VenHuizen has held every position imaginable at the Department. His peers rewarded him for his hard work and steadfast dedication to protecting our community when he was named Chief of Police on December 10, 2012. Under his tutelage, the Department made outstanding strides forward. He helped enact the first body camera system in an agency of its kind in the Quad Cities region, implement community-oriented policing strategies, and reduce crime to unprecedented levels. Chief VenHuizen, along with his selflessness and dedication to the city of Rock Island, will be dearly missed. It is because of courageous and venerable leaders such as Chief VenHuizen that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to, again, formally recognize Chief Jeffrey R. VenHuizen on his retirement and thank him for his almost 29 years of service to our community.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jeff Rankin, who is this year's recipient of the Distinguished Service Award by Monmouth College. Mr. Rankin has always been drawn to Monmouth College, as his father played football for Monmouth. Further, his twin brother attended the institution and is now its Director of Theater. A strong affinity for Monmouth College is a part of the fabric of his family, which is why Mr. Rankin has truly been dedicated to sharing the story of Monmouth with the world for nearly his entire life. From 1992 until 2015, Mr. Rankin was Director of Communications for the College, where he served as an ambassador and one of its strongest advocates. He now assists the institution in a new position as the College's historian. Mr. Rankin's contributions to advancing the rapid progress of Monmouth College have been significant and invaluable. It is because of passionate and leaders such as Jeff Rankin that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to, again, formally congratulate Jeff Rankin on receiving the Distinguished Service Award and thank him for his service to the Monmouth community.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the United Autoworkers on strike at John Deere and to express my heartfelt condolences for a devastating loss. We woke up to tragic news this morning that a worker in Milan, Illinois, was crossing the street by the picket line and was struck and killed. This is heartbreaking. He was just described to me as a quiet and kind person, the type of guy who would make you laugh. My prayers are with his family and with all of the striking UAW workers today. These workers have put their lives on the line in more ways than one. At the height of the pandemic, Deere employees in the district that I serve were deemed essential, even making thousands of anti-COVID face shields that Deere donated to help keep others safe. They were working 10- and 12-hour shifts. John Deere is an iconic, homegrown American company, part of the fabric of the community where I live. When a business is as successful as Deere & Company, they need to make sure that their workers are rewarded for that, they are key to that success. These workers have earned a fair deal. I have faith in John Deere, and I stand with our UAW workers.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I was unable to vote on the Legislative Day of October 22, 2021. Had I been present for the roll call vote on the Motion to Recommit on H.R. 3110, the PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act, I would have cast the following vote: Roll Call 330: No.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I was unable to vote on the Legislative Day of October 22, 2021. Had I been present for the roll call vote on the passage of H.R. 3110, the PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act, I would have cast the following vote: Roll Call 331: Yes.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the residents of Lewistown, Illinois for their weekly community event, ``Music in the Park.'' Each Thursday night during the summer, Lewistown residents bring lawn chairs and blankets to the town square to listen to local musicians perform as a part of ``Music in the Park.'' This event has been a vital place of gathering and community and a safe and positive outlet for human connection during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is because of gatherings such as ``Music in the Park'' and their organizers that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally recognize Lewistown, IL for their community event, ``Music in the Park.''

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Rockford's ``Building New Opportunities'' project for bringing together high school students and families in need to create affordable housing. The organization received the 2020 Governor's Hometown Project Award for the incredible work they have done in the community. Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity and the Rockford Public School District came together to have construction trades students at Rockford's Guilford High School build a house from the ground up as part of their academic year curriculum. 32 high school students constructed a multi-level, four- bedroom home, which Rockford Area Habitat for Humanity sold to a local family in need of safe and affordable housing. In doing so the students mastered the skills needed for their post-graduation trades careers. It is because of community projects like Building New Opportunities that make me proud to represent Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally honor Rockford's ``Building New Opportunities'' for being awarded the 2020 Governor's Hometown Project Award for their efforts in the community.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Mount Carroll's ``Arbor Day Palooza'' for its effort to replace trees that were lost to bugs, disease and storms. The organization received the 2020 Governor's Hometown Project Award for the incredible work it has done for the community. The idea for ``Arbor Day Palooza'' was born from a desire to retain the character of the town, as it has been recognized as a Tree City for over 26 years. The city created a Tree Replacement Fund and the community bought in with many volunteers and donors coming forward to assist. In total, the project received over $13,000 in donations used to plant 52 new trees on city property, hold an Arbor Day tree planting ceremony in the new Stone House Memorial Park and host a tour of the Stone House site. It is because of events like ``Arbor Day Palooza'' and their organizers that make me proud to represent Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally honor ``Arbor Day Palooza'' for being awarded the 2020 Governor's Hometown Project Award for their efforts in the community.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Geneseo Kiwanis Club for 100 years of service to the Geneseo community. The Geneseo Kiwanis Club was chartered on October 22, 1920 and meets weekly to serve the community. In addition to donating to over 20 local charities, the Geneseo Kiwanis Club provides a scholarship for students and sponsors GMS Builders Club, GHS Key Club and Boy Scout Troop 131. The organization also provides free tax help, hosts fundraising events, built the Geneseo City Park shelter, and raised tens of thousands of dollars to help eliminate neonatal tetanus throughout the world. It is because of strong community organizations such as the Geneseo Kiwanis Club that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate the Geneseo Kiwanis Club on 100 years of service to the community.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chief Kevin Shook, who is retiring from the Kewanee Fire Department after 23 years of service. Chief Shook has been a member of the Kewanee Fire Department since 1998. Working his way through the ranks, he became Chief of the Department in 2016. His steadfast determination to keep his community safe, strive for innovation, and ensure the preparedness of the Kewanee Fire Department has been unwavering throughout his career in public service. Earlier this year, under Chief Shook's guidance, the Department was awarded a $205,431 regional grant through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program. This transformative investment to the city of Kewanee was made possible because of Chief Shook, one of the latest examples of his strong leadership. It is because of dedicated and selfless leaders such as Chief Shook that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to, again, formally congratulate Chief Kevin Shook on his well-earned retirement and thank him for his 23 years of service to our community.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize me Ali Rapps and her relay team for winning the Illinois High School Association State Title. Addison Pischke ran a strong first leg and passed the baton to Alison Bowers. Bowers handed the baton to third leg Annie Wirth, and the Leafs were in the lead. Wirth increased the lead slightly and when the baton came to Ali Rapps, she increased the lead and finished in 1:42.55, nearly two seconds ahead of the rest of the field. The team captured a state title in the relay and shattered the previous school record of 1:43.85. As a former athlete, I commend the determination and drive of these young women. They are a bright example of the importance of team dedication and strong work ethic. I am proud to see them represent their community so well throughout the state and the country with their dedication and passion. It is because of student leaders like them that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate Ali Rapps and the relay team for their accomplishment.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Alison Bowers and her relay team for winning the Illinois High School Association State Title. Addison Pischke ran a strong first leg and passed the baton to Alison Bowers. Bowers handed the baton to third leg Annie Wirth, and the Leafs were in the lead. Wirth increased the lead slightly and when the baton came to Ali Rapps, she increased the lead and finished in 1:42.55, nearly two seconds ahead of the rest of the field. The team captured a state title in the relay and shattered the previous school record of 1:43.85. As a former athlete, I commend the determination and drive of these young women. They are a bright example of the importance of team dedication and strong work ethic. I am proud to see them represent their community so well throughout the state and the country with their dedication and passion. It is because of student leaders like them that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate Alison Bowers and the relay team for their accomplishment.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Illini Bluffs High School softball team for winning the Illinois High School Athletic Association Class 1A State championship. The team won the state title in softball, completing a perfect 29-0 season. The Tigers fell behind 3-1, but rallied in the fifth inning. Triples from Zoe Eeten and Addie Welsh as well as timely base knocks from Ashley Aksun, Emma Hicks and Annabelle Fortin allowed the Tigers to score five unanswered runs and pick up a 6-3 win over Orangeville. As a former athlete, I commend the determination and drive of these young women. They are a bright example of the importance of team dedication and strong work ethic. I am proud to see them represent their community so well throughout the state and the country with their dedication and passion. It is because of student leaders like them that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate the Illini Bluffs' softball team on their Class 1A State Finals championship.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Addison Pischke and her relay team for winning the Illinois High School Association State Title. Pischke ran a strong first leg and passed the baton to Alison Bowers. Bowers handed the baton to third leg Annie Wirth, and the Leafs were in the lead. Wirth increased the lead slightly and when the baton came to Ali Rapps, she increased the lead more and finished in 1:42.55, nearly two seconds ahead of the rest of the field. The team captured a state title in the relay and shattered the previous school record of 1:43.85. As a former athlete, I commend the determination and drive of these young women. They are a bright example of the importance of team dedication and strong work ethic. I am proud to see them represent their community so well throughout the state and the country with their dedication and passion. It is because of student leaders like them that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally congratulate the Addison Pischke and the relay team for their accomplishment.

Mrs. BUSTOS

Mrs. BUSTOS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Black Hawk College for its 75th Anniversary. Black Hawk College has long been an excellent college in our district. Black Hawk College started off as Moline Community College in 1946, and was located at Moline High School. The College accommodated World War II veterans seeking higher education and offered transfer, career, and adult education classes. In 1961 it became Black Hawk College, which was the first county-wide junior college in Illinois. Black Hawk College expanded as neighboring school districts petitioned to join its district. In 1965, with the passage of ``The Illinois Public Junior College Act,'' Black Hawk College became part of the state's system of higher education, committed to offering traditional liberal arts courses, occupational courses, and adult education courses at its campus in Moline. I commend Black Hawk College for all it has done for students and community colleges in our district. It is because of community leaders such as Black Hawk College that I am especially proud to serve Illinois' 17th Congressional District. Madam Speaker, I would like to again formally recognize and congratulate Black Hawk College for its 75th Anniversary.