James Comer

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember the entrepreneurial spirit and compassionate philanthropy of Ray Eckstein, who passed away on April 20, 2019, at the age of 93. After receiving a law degree from Marquette University, Mr. Eckstein founded Wisconsin Barge Line. He later sold the business and formed Marquette Transportation, leading him to relocate to Paducah, Kentucky. His business had a profound economic impact and brought numerous jobs to the region. Mr. Eckstein and his wife touched the lives of many through the establishment of the Ray and Kay Eckstein Charitable Trust. The couple's generosity has, no doubt, had a tremendous impact on the local community. Over the years, they have gifted the area they loved with a hospice care center, regional cancer care center, and heart and vascular institute, all named in their honor. Mr. Eckstein was widely known for his warm, compassionate spirit and devotion to his family. I join with all those who knew him to express our gratitude for his outstanding contributions to western Kentucky. May God continue to bless the many members of his family through whom his memory lives on.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and legacy of Private First Class Charles D. Brewer, an American hero and exemplary public servant. Charles D. Brewer was born on August 16, 1923 in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. A Calloway County native, he enlisted in the United States Army on February 23, 1943 at the age of 20, during the height of the second World War. He trained at Camp Atterbury, Indiana and received a combat infantry badge along with rifle expert qualification. Private Brewer Shipped overseas with Company K of the 120th infantry. He contributed to the war effort as a truck driver, transporting light supply loads. Brewer valiantly served on several campaigns in the European theater including Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, and Ardennes. Although he suffered wounds in action, Brewer recovered to join the Allies in celebrating the epic defeat over the Axis forces. His valance earned him two Bronze Stars, a Purple Heart, and a Good Conduct Ribbon. On November 17, 1945 he was honorably discharged and rejoined civilian life. I am honored to recognize Private Charles D. Brewer and his great contributions to the 1st District of Kentucky and the American war effort. His many decorations represent the extraordinary sacrifice and bravery of heroes like Private Brewer. Today, I join this Calloway County native's family and friends in celebrating his legacy and honoring his noble service to our nation.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. For more than three decades, this organization has assisted families in their times of greatest need and unimaginable pain, and it has assisted law enforcement agencies with the recovery of more than 290,000 missing children. Although the Walsh family was the victim of child abduction with a tragic ending, their story inspired others and began a movement to create a coordinated national response to assist families like themselves. The resulting organization has dutifully carried out their mission of finding missing children, reducing child sexual exploitation, and preventing future victimization. They achieved these goals not only by assisting families during and after their traumatic experiences but by providing technical assistance and resources to law enforcement and healthcare professionals. I am proud that two vital pieces of legislation became law during the last Congress, the CyberTipline Modernization Act of 2018 and the Missing Children's Assistance Act of 2018, both of which strengthened and modernized programs essential to supporting the center's operations. I join with the staff, partners, and past and future beneficiaries of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in celebrating their 35th anniversary.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ashley Bailey, Lori Fulkerson, Jessica Sheffer, Dana Alves, and Amy Legate-- instructors at Henderson County High School who are receiving the National Excellence in Action Award from the Department of Education and Advance CTE. These awards are given to competitive schools with impressive career and technical education programs that provide students hands-on experiences and exposure to local industry in the career fields they are interested in pursuing. Established over 35 years ago, Henderson County High School's outstanding Health Science program has grown tremendously and is now one of the largest CTE programs in Kentucky. Students choose from focus areas including allied health, pre-nursing, or medical administrative assisting to gain knowledge and training specific to their future careers. All seniors enrolled in the program select a local health care facility partner to participate in work-based learning Upon completion of the program, students can earn up to 12 college credits and five industry-recognized credentials. Henderson County High School partners closely with the local Henderson Community College to prepare students for postsecondary education by teaching relevant topics and skill sets. I am thankful for Ashley Bailey, Lori Fulkerson, Jessica Sheffer, Dana Alves, and Amy Legate's leadership and devotion to educating young minds in Kentucky's 1st District. Their efforts are setting students up for success in the high-demand healthcare industry. I look forward to the many future accomplishments from these educators and their students.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of my good friend, Mike Falconite of Kentucky, who passed away on Friday, March 29, 2019, at the age of 62. Mike was born to the late Joe Falconite and Betty Lou Falconite and grew up in Cairo, Illinois. Mike's father owned and operated a heavy equipment company, which Mike took control of and moved to Paducah with his family in the 1980s. Mike was a great friend of mine who will be remembered for his work ethic, generosity, big heart, and passion for the outdoors. Mike expanded his company to multiple States and employed hundreds of people before selling it in 1995 and setting his sights on real estate in Paducah, starting up Falconite Development. I admired Mike's vision for Paducah and his enthusiasm for developing and expanding the community. Mike's motto was, ``The more you build, the more you learn.'' He lived that motto in many aspects of his life. When Mike was not looking for the next real estate venture, he enjoyed boating at Kentucky Lake and hunting, which took him on many adventures across the United States and other countries in search of prized game. He loved spending time with his family, including his two children, Nicki Roof and Joe Falconite, plus seven grandchildren. Mike was a humble, fair, and passionate man who was always willing to help others in need. Giving the benefit of the doubt to anyone he encountered, he will, undoubtedly, be remembered by those who loved him as hardworking, charitable, and incredibly passionate. I join with all of Mike's friends and family today in honoring his life, legacy, and love for others. Congratulating Brandon Garnett

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Brandon Garnett of Christian County for recently receiving the 2019 Friend of Agriculture award. Brandon Garnett has proved to be a strong advocate for agriculture and the farmers of western Kentucky. He has facilitated a number of important ag-related activities in the community, including the Christian County Cattlemen's rodeo scholarships for local youth and the soon-to-be ag expo center. Brandon is regional vice president for Farm Credit of Mid-America and serves on several boards throughout the city of Hopkinsville. In receiving the Friend of Agriculture award, Brandon shared the role his father played in shaping his outlook on being a friend to agriculture and how ``to always know that agriculture was a way of life and something that would always provide well if you put your heart into it.'' I am proud to know we have individuals like Brandon who work tirelessly to advocate on behalf of our agriculture community, serving, teaching, and always offering a helping hand. Again, I congratulate my good friend, Brandon Garnett, on being named the 2019 Friend of Agriculture, and I look forward to his continued success in Christian County and beyond.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in disappointment that, once again, the Federal Government is nearing another debt limit. Our national debt is a record $22 trillion. I blame both parties for this reckless and immoral burden that has been placed on our children. We do not have a taxing problem in Congress; we have a spending problem in Congress. Both parties have lacked fiscal responsibility over the past four decades. Both parties have operated in deficits when they were in power. Mr. Speaker, it will take both parties working together to control our spending. Our national debt is the single biggest challenge that faces our great country, and, surely, we can make it a bipartisan movement to cut unnecessary and wasteful spending while still funding our most important priorities of Social Security, Medicare, and our national defense.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Supreme Court Justice Bill Cunningham from Lyon County, of the First District of Kentucky, on his upcoming retirement from the Kentucky Supreme Court. After serving in the United States Army, Bill Cunningham was the Eddyville city attorney, the public defender for the Kentucky State Penitentiary, and the Commonwealth's attorney for the 56th Judicial District. He then served on the bench as a circuit judge for 15 years before his election to the Kentucky Supreme Court in 2006. As an avid writer, Bill Cunningham documented important parts of Kentucky's history in his books. Through his writings and life as a concerned citizen, he sought improved race relations and minority representation on juries. Justice Cunningham evidently passed his passion for public service on to his son, Congressman Joe Cunningham of South Carolina. I am proud to serve alongside Congressman Cunningham and look forward to working with him to promote bipartisan legislation in the 116th Congress. As Justice Cunningham begins the next phase of his life, I join with the people of western Kentucky to express our gratitude for his lifetime of public service to the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the bicentennial of the founding of Simpson County and the City of Franklin in the 1st Congressional District of Kentucky. Simpson County was founded on January 28, 1819 with the City of Franklin formally incorporated in 1820. To honor both, the local community is beginning a year-long celebration on Monday, which will highlight their shared past and anticipate their bright future. Simpson County's namesake, Captain John Simpson, was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1812, but postponed service in the House to fight in the War of 1812. Although Captain Simpson died before returning home from the war, his legacy carries on in the selfless service displayed daily by the residents of Simpson County. I appreciate the generations of local officials, military veterans and citizens of Franklin-Simpson who have steadfastly devoted themselves to the betterment of others. I am also grateful for all who have assisted with the planning of the celebration. This historic milestone is a culmination of their efforts and a testament to their collective pride for their beloved community. I look forward to continuing to work with local leaders and residents to further the economic and industrial prosperity of Simpson County and the City of Franklin for generations to come. I join with the county's current and former residents in honoring this tight-knit, culturally rich community.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in solidarity with the Marshall County community to honor and remember the precious lives of Preston Cope and Bailey Holt. Preston and Bailey were victims of a tragic shooting at Marshall County High School in Benton, Kentucky, on this day last year. Marshall County High School is comprised of a truly compassionate group of students, parents, and alumni who have demonstrated the resiliency of this community in the wake of such devastation. Preston Cope and Bailey Holt remain in our hearts as we remember and honor all that these young, bright individuals brought to their families, friends, school, and community.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 128, the Small Business Advocacy Improvements Act of 2019. I am proud, once again, to be the sponsor of this legislation which passed the House in a bipartisan manner during the 115th Congress. I want to thank my colleague, Chairwoman Velazquez, for working with me on this bill. The Office of Advocacy at the United States Small Business Administration plays a vital role in ensuring that Federal agencies adequately consider how their policies impact America's small businesses. While the Office of Advocacy has done excellent work on behalf of our Nation's small businesses, the current law is silent on whether it can research and advocate on behalf of small business on international matters such as trade initiatives and regulations. This is a problem that we can easily address. For many small businesses, exporting and operating overseas is an important part of their success and allows them to grow. Given the Office of Advocacy's knowledge and research on how domestic regulations impact small businesses, it is appropriate for the office to advocate and research small business interests on international matters as well, especially since international opportunities play a vital role for many of our Nation's small businesses. This bill advances the Office of Advocacy's mission to advocate for America's small businesses and clarifies its authority on international small business issues. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this important bipartisan bill.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of Sergeant William M. Bays, a beloved father and respected American hero who lost his life on June 10, 2017. Born October 17, 1987, in Barstow, California, Sergeant Bays valiantly rose through the ranks since enlisting in the United States Army in 2009, eventually serving as a squad leader with D Company, 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team of the 101st Airborne Division. Sergeant Bays' reputation of steadfast selflessness, along with the numerous awards he earned for his service--including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart--are evidence of his relentless dedication to safeguarding our nation's freedoms and values. His patriotic spirit and dedication to his country were rivaled only by his fervent commitment to his family and his enthusiasm for serving others. I join with his family and loved ones--including his wife, Jasmin Bays, his children, and his extended family--in celebrating his accomplishments and recognizing his noble service to our nation. His outstanding legacy of patriotism and compassion lives on in each member of his family and in all those who knew him. I am grateful for the Kentucky General Assembly's dedication of this roadway in the 1st District of Kentucky, as it will serve as a testament to his extraordinary sacrifice, which is worthy of our deepest respect and admiration.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of Mr. Curtis Ray Goode of Marion County in the 1st District of Kentucky who passed away on December 17, 2018. Born November 8, 1946, Mr. Goode valiantly served in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. After serving his country, he was not only a talented diesel mechanic with UPS in Louisville but steadfastly worked for the betterment of his fellow veterans as a devoted member of the Marion County Veterans Honor Guard, the Lebanon VFW, and the American Legion. Mr. Goode's service in the United States Marine Corps is evidence of his dedication to safeguarding our nation's freedoms and values and is worthy of our deepest respect and admiration. His patriotic spirit and dedication to his country were rivaled only by his fervent commitment to his family and his enthusiasm for serving others. I join with his family and loved ones--including his wife of 51 years, Christine Goode, his children, and his extended family--in celebrating his lifetime of accomplishments and recognizing his noble service to our nation. His outstanding legacy of service and compassion lives on in each member ofhis family and in all those who knew him.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Mr. and Mrs. Drew and Liz White of Union County, Kentucky, for recently being named Kentucky Farm Bureau's 2018 Outstanding Young Farm Family. This award recognizes young farmers between the ages of 18 and 35 who have shown strong leadership potential and farm management skills and have achieved consistent financial success in their farming operations. Drew and Liz come from families with rich histories in farming. Drew is the fourth generation to live and work on his family's farm, established by his great-grandfather during the Great Depression. Under Drew's management, the farm has grown and experienced success with raising cattle and a multitude of crops. Liz also grew up on a family farm and enjoyed showing saddlebred horses during her youth. She worked at a local winery throughout her high school and college years before becoming an occupational therapy assistant. The couple have both been extensively involved in the local agricultural community through the Future Farmers of America organization, the 4-H, and the Kentucky Farm Bureau. Their efforts have not only benefited Union County, but are a model for other young farmers throughout the Commonwealth. On behalf of the First District of Kentucky, I congratulate Drew and Liz White on their outstanding success and wish them the best as they continue to grow their farming operation and their family.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, it has been a long road of debate to reach an agreement on the 2018 farm bill. This bill benefits all of rural America, our farmers, producers, and consumers. The agreement we have reached on this year's bill includes many important provisions that will help farm country during tough economic times, fully protecting crop insurance and providing certainty to farmers. I am particularly glad to see industrial hemp de-scheduled from the controlled substances list, a key provision I worked with Leader McConnell on to ensure unnecessary government restrictions are lifted from this valuable agricultural commodity. I thank Leader McConnell for his collaboration and attention to legalizing industrial hemp, and I appreciate all of my colleagues who supported this issue and helped bring it to the table. I was proud to represent the interests of Kentucky farmers during this process, and I look forward to a new year of growth and prosperity for farmers and producers across rural America.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Monroe County Magistrate Karen Gordon of my hometown of Tompkinsville in the First District of Kentucky on her retirement from public service. Since taking office in a 2011 special election to fill the unexpired term of her late husband, Karen has steadfastly served her fellow Monroe Countians over the years and has continually sought opportunities to improve the lives of those around her. Her service as Monroe County's Fourth District magistrate, and a crucial member of the Heart of Tompkinsville board, has spurred economic opportunity and instilled a stronger sense of community pride in her fellow residents. I join with her daughters, Ann Marie and Amber Lee, as well as her extended family, friends, and all those who have benefited from her efforts, to recognize her distinguished record of public service and dedication to serving others. Recognizing Service of Alonzo Ford

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize my friend Alonzo Ford from my hometown in Monroe County, Kentucky, specifically Gamaliel, Kentucky. For nearly three decades, Alonzo's fellow citizens have reelected him to serve as the First District magistrate in Monroe County. This district includes Gamaliel and Fountain Run. He is widely respected as a public servant, and his leadership on several boards, including the farmers market board and the wellness center board, are a testament to his outstanding record of diligent public service in all facets of life. I am deeply thankful for his friendship, and I admire his tireless, lifelong devotion to working for the benefit of others. I join with his family and friends, as well as those he has impacted during his career, to express our dedication and gratitude for his contributions to our hometown.

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my good friend, Mayor Keith Riddle of Burkesville, Kentucky, on his retirement from public service after 22 years. His years as a city council member, in addition to his years spent as mayor, have had a profound impact on his fellow citizens. By dedicating his time to taking on countless projects to improve the city and well- being of community members, Mayor Riddle has made great strides for the citizens of Burkesville. Most notably, during Mayor Riddle's tenure, he was instrumental in the construction of a new water treatment plant, which produces 2 million gallons per day of clean water for the city and surrounding area. Another massive waterline improvement project was completed under the watchful eye of Mayor Riddle. This project replaced nearly 100-year-old lines and addressed wastewater overflow to provide improved protection of property, rivers, and streams in the community. Mayor Riddle has truly dedicated his time and talents to helping Burkesville grow and improve. His continuous work with the water department, fire and police departments, and various businesses in the area has helped set the stage for continued success in Burkesville. On behalf of the First District of Kentucky, I thank Mayor Keith Riddle for his decades of public service and wish him continued success in his retirement. Recognizing Philanthropy of Darren Cleary

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my friend Darren Cleary of Tompkinsville, Kentucky, for all the great philanthropy he has given to my home county of Monroe. Darren is the epitome of a successful businessperson who truly gives back to his community. Darren sponsors many activities and events throughout the year in Tompkinsville, including our annual July Fourth fireworks event at City Park. He has donated countless dollars to the Monroe County School system for, among other things, a new practice football field for the varsity football team, and along with his wife, Dawn, he is the reason Monroe County now has a swim team. Darren's main companies, Cleary Construction and Precision Engineering, together are two of the biggest private employers in Monroe County. Tompkinsville, Kentucky, is very fortunate to have Darren Cleary as its citizen. Congratulating Monroe County Magistrate Karen Gordon on Her Retirement

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate John Nicholas ``Nicky'' Smith, Mayor of Albany in the 1st District of Kentucky, on his retirement from public office and offer my best wishes as he focuses on doing what he enjoys most--spending time with his loved ones. As a staunch advocate for the citizens of Albany throughout his tenure, Mayor Smith secured over $27 million in grants and loans to improve the livelihood of each of his neighbors through improvements to downtown infrastructure and the expansion of vital community services. His leadership on Area Development District Boards of Directors and his chairmanship and involvement with multiple community boards and committees during his career are a testament to his fervent spirit and lifelong commitment to bettering those around him. I join with his family and friends as well as all those who have benefited from his efforts to wish him the best in this new chapter of his life. I am grateful for his steadfast leadership and profound influence on countless residents of the 1st District of Kentucky.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize my friend, Clinton County Judge-Executive Richard Armstrong. I am grateful for his efforts to better the lives of First District Kentuckians through his service on the Lake Cumberland Area Development District Board of Directors as well as his involvement with numerous community organizations throughout his career. As one of Clinton County's prominent community leaders and advocates, he has prioritized industrial development and spurred economic opportunities for those he has served. These significant accomplishments, in combination with his passion for serving his community, have distinguished him as one of the region's most prominent public servants. His achievements and efforts to improve the lives of his fellow Clinton Countians have forged a legacy of outstanding character and commitment to continuous improvements in all facets of community life. Judge-Executive Armstrong's passion for bettering the community is rivaled only by his love for spending time with his family. I join his wife, Joy; his children, Cannon and Brandy; and his five grandchildren; as well as all those who know him in thanking him for his years of service to his community. Recognizing Adair County Judge-Executive Mike Stephens