Tom Emmer

Mr. EMMER

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support Minnesota's bid to host the 2023 World Expo. I was proud to cosponsor and see both Chambers of Congress unanimously pass the U.S. Wants to Compete for a World Expo Act earlier this year to give Minnesota and the United States a chance to showcase the best we have to offer. The President signed the Expo Act into law in May, and since then, the State Department, the Expo 2023 coalition, and the entire Minnesota delegation have been working hard to bring this prestigious international event back to the United States. Now, as we near the November 15 announcement from the Bureau of International Expositions, Minnesota is one of the three finalists in the running to host the 2023 event with a proposed theme of ``Healthy People, Healthy Planet.'' I can think of no better place to hold such an event, as Minnesota is one of the healthiest States in the country, a hub for medical innovation and a world-class location to host the first Expo in the United States in more than 30 years. I am grateful for the support of my colleagues in Congress and the President to make this opportunity a reality, and I look forward to putting the United States and the State of Minnesota back on the world stage as the host of the 2023 World Expo. A Top Honor for Sherburne County

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Sherburne County Sheriff's Office for receiving accreditation from the American Correctional Association. Sherburne County received this accreditation because of the quality of the county jail and the high standards the staff maintains. The accreditation was actually earned by the 116 correctional officers who operate the jail and the strong leadership of Sherburne County Sheriff Joel Brott. This is quite an accomplishment. In fact, out of Minnesota's 87 counties, only one other county jail in Minnesota received this accreditation. Congratulations to Sheriff Brott and his officers. We are proud to represent you and to work for you.

Mr. EMMER

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize seven students from my district who have received 2017 National Merit Scholarships. The criteria that must be met to receive one of these scholarships is quite difficult. In fact, of the 15,000 finalists selected, only half will actually receive scholarships. The recipients of this prestigious scholarship are Connor Schmidt of Ham Lake, Benjamin Caswell of Shoreview, Raffi Toghramadijan of Blaine, Rachel Cho of Blaine, Piper Christenson of Spring Lake Park, Catherine Lewis of Blaine, and Kenneth Truong of Coon Rapids. Each one of these students has big plans for their future, which include careers in medicine, science, and engineering--all fields that are critically important to the success of our nation. I congratulate each of these students on receiving this scholarship, and I look forward to watching them achieve great success in their respective careers. Good work and good luck.

Mr. EMMER

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the renowned historian Dennis E. Frye for his dedication to preserving our nation's history and for his passion on sharing our history with anyone lucky enough to meet him. Dennis Frye serves as the Chief Historian at Harper's Ferry National Historical Park. Dennis has authored several books on the Civil War and has lectured on the topic throughout the nation. Recently, my staff had the good fortune of taking a tour of Harper's Ferry, led by Dennis. He not only gave them great insight into the battle that took place at Harper's Ferry, but he also gave them a wider understanding of one of the most tumultuous times in our nation's history. As Dennis so aptly pointed out on their tour, while our nation's history has not always been pleasant, it is critical that we never try to forget or erase it. If we do, then we have not learned from our history and we are more likely to repeat mistakes of the past. I thank Dennis for sharing his knowledge and wisdom with my staff. They will never forget him

Mr. EMMER

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 106th national day of Taiwan. The United States and Taiwan have enjoyed a fruitful partnership for decades, and I would like to wish the people of Taiwan a very Happy National Day. Our two countries' partnership has flourished thanks to a mutual commitment to democratic values and constitutional government. Through its many successful elections and commitment to an open election process, Taiwan serves as a strong example of democracy for not only the Asia-Pacific region, but also the world. Yet it is not just our commitment to democratic and constitutional values that ties our two countries together. In 2016, Taiwan ranked as the United States' 10th largest trading partner and 8th largest export market for U.S. agricultural products. In fact, Taiwan is Minnesota's 5th largest export market, with over $450 million in exports sent to our friends in 2016. This is a relationship I am proud to support and urge my colleagues to find areas where our two countries can partner to our mutual benefit. The framework for the United States' relationship with Taiwan, the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances, were crafted almost four decades ago, but our belief in their principles remains resolute. With continued commitment to this important relationship, I would like to again wish the people of Taiwan a Happy National Day.

Mr. EMMER

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate St. Cloud Metro Bus driver Todd DeZurik for his first place finish at the 2017 National Community Transit Roadeo, which was recently held in Detroit, Michigan. This competition gives drivers from all over the Nation the chance to take part in a little healthy competition and exhibit their talent by driving through a timed obstacle course that imitates real-life situations and difficult scenarios that can occur on the road. Todd has participated in this competition before, taking third place last year and second place in 2012. This year was Todd's year, as he took first place against 82 other drivers. Congratulations, Todd. I am glad to know we have skilled drivers like you on our roads safely transporting the members of our community. Keep up the great work. A Minnesota Soldier, Returning Home

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the city of St. Cloud for taking care of our community's drinking water. St. Cloud's safe drinking water comes from the mighty Mississippi, and its pure form is thanks to projects like the Northwest Regional Treatment System, the Northeast Sump Manholes, as well as the Northeast St. Cloud Water Quality Project, the city's newest water purifying project. To put the effectiveness of these projects in perspective, the Northeast St. Cloud Water Quality Project stops 10,200 pounds of sediment and 20 pounds of phosphorus from entering the Mississippi every year. Because of the commitment to the health and safety of the city's water supply, last month St. Cloud was awarded the Source Water Protection Award. It is an honor to represent a city that takes the health of its citizens so seriously. Congratulations to the city of St. Cloud and everyone responsible for the city's water supply. A National Award for a Local Bus Driver

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize one of Minnesota's finest military families who fought during our Nation's darkest hour. I would especially like to remember one family member who made the ultimate sacrifice and who, after more than a half century, will finally be returned and laid to rest in his beloved home State. Quentin, Earl, and Harold Gifford all bravely served our Nation during World War II. While Earl and Harold made it home safely, Quentin, who served on the USS Oklahoma, died in the attack on Pearl Harbor. For 75 years, Quentin remained in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, until this year, when his remains were finally identified. The identification of Quentin has brought relief and closure to his family, who never forgot the brother they lost. The Giffords are happy to have the chance to give Quentin the memorial he deserves. Mr. Speaker, I speak for all Minnesotans when I say we are happy to finally welcome home a hero like Quentin. 2017 Minnesota Farm Families

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the hardworking folks from my district who have been selected as this year's Minnesota Farm Families. The Minnesota Farm Families program is a longstanding tradition in our State, having taken place for the past 30 years. This program honors the families who have dedicated their lives to agriculture. They are chosen because of their exceptional contribution to advance Minnesota's agriculture industry. This year, five families from my district were selected for their agricultural contributions to our State. They include Jim and Sally Myers from Anoka County, Rick and Marlene Schlichting from Benton County, Curt and Joni Hedtke from Carver County, the Bahnemann Family Stock Farm in Washington County, and the Kreitlow and Ford family from Wright County. Farming is not just a profession for these families, it is a way of life. Their hard work and the hard work of families like them make agriculture one of the primary drivers of Minnesota's economy. Congratulations to the 2017 Minnesota Farm Families. Thank you so much for everything you do.

Mr. EMMER

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate an educator in my district whose dedication to her students has earned her an important award. Jolene Herfel, who serves as the assistant principal at St. Michael- Albertville High School, was recently named the Vice Principal of the Year by the Minnesota Association of Secondary School Principals. Jolene has served as assistant principal at St. Michael-Albertville High School for 9 years. She is known for her strong leadership and commitment to providing students with a great environment in which to learn and a top-notch education. She has shown her commitment by consistently improving curriculum and implementing many different programs designed to assist her students. One program she created is called Freshman Connections which helps build relationships between incoming freshman students and their upperclassmen peers. Successful students are the key to our future, so it is important that we recognize educators like Jolene who are guiding our students on the path to success. Congratulations, Jolene, on being named the Vice Principal of the Year. You deserve it. St. Cloud Hospital is Recognized as one of the Most Wired Hospitals

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the St. Cloud Hospital for being recognized as one of the most digitally connected hospitals in the Nation. This is not St. Cloud Hospital's first major award. In fact, just last year, they were named one of the top 100 hospitals in the country. As technology continues to develop and advance, our Nation's hospitals are better suited to provide their patients with the very best care possible, which is exactly what the St. Cloud Hospital does each and every day. We are proud that the St. Cloud Hospital is a leader in this healthcare industry and in utilizing useful technology, allowing patients to stay in touch with their doctors and nurses, renew prescriptions, gain access to their records, and even take part in virtual physician exams. This high distinction is the result of the healthcare providers and the information systems staff working for CentraCare Health and the St. Cloud Hospital. Thank you for your service, and thank you for making the St. Cloud Hospital a leader in 21st century healthcare. The Hubins are Named the Pizza Ranch Franchisees of the Year

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Randall and Sheryl Hubin, the owners of the Pizza Ranch in Andover, on being recognized as the Pizza Ranch Franchisee of the Year. The Hubins received this award not just because of their dedication to the Pizza Ranch brand but also because of their commitment to the Andover community. Randall and Sheryl have owned the Pizza Ranch for the past 4 years, and, as a direct result of its success, not only have they been named Franchisee of the Year, but they were also awarded the Community Impact Award last year. Opening and operating a franchise business is not an easy job. We appreciate the jobs that people like Randall and Sheryl Hubin create and the commerce they bring to our communities. Congratulations, Randall and Sheryl, on your award, and thank you for your contribution to Minnesota's Sixth Congressional District and the Andover community. Recognizing POW/MIA Day

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize National POW/MIA Day and to remember the brave Americans who became prisoners of war during their service and those still missing in action. Since America's founding, hundreds of thousands of Americans have been held as prisoners of war. To this day, more than 80,000 Americans remain missing in action. These patriots answered the call of duty during some of our Nation's darkest times. Their service and enormous sacrifice must never be forgotten or taken for granted. So I stand here today reaffirming our Nation's commitment to these Americans. They deserve to return home, and their families deserve answers. That is why every third Friday in September we not only honor these Americans, but we recommit to our promise to search until every missing soldier is accounted for. Today, I ask that we all pause for a moment to remember these Americans. Remember their sacrifice, and if they are still missing, pray for their homecoming.

Mr. EMMER

Mr. EMMER. I thank the chairman for yielding. Mr. Chairman, I am pleased to support this en bloc amendment because it contains language I offered to support the hardworking people of Minnesota. Our amendment halts a last-minute effort by the previous administration that would restrict all leasing, exploration, and potential development of approximately 234,000 acres of Federal land in northeast Minnesota. If this ban were to take effect, it would have a devastating impact on the economy of my State, as well as our Nation as a whole. Minnesota's Department of Natural Resources has estimated there are roughly $500 billion worth of minerals in the area proposed for withdrawal, in addition to nearly $3 billion in royalty revenues for Minnesota's Permanent School Trust Fund, which would support almost 900,000 K-12 students statewide. Through this amendment, we have a real opportunity to get the Federal Government out of the way so this land can remain available for future development to bring much-needed jobs and revenue to the great State of Minnesota. These efforts have garnered the support of more than 60 members of the Minnesota Legislature, from both parties I might add. We also have the backing of Chairman Bishop of the House Natural Resources Committee, as well as the chairman of the Energy and Mineral Resources Subcommittee, Representative Paul Gosar. The National Mining Association, Mining Minnesota, and the Congressional Western Caucus are in favor of the amendment, and it could not be more in line with the current administration's priorities to create jobs and reinvigorate the American economy. Because we know that somehow, somewhere, someone will find a way to mine the precious metals in this area in a safe and environmentally responsible way----

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Chairman, when that happens, Minnesota deserves to have that opportunity and the jobs and economic prosperity that will ensue. Again, I thank the chairman for the opportunity to speak in support of my amendment, and I encourage everyone to support the en bloc package.

Mr. EMMER

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding athlete from my district who was recently named Minnesota's Female Track and Field Athlete of the Year by Gatorade. Anna Keefer, a 2017 graduate of St. Michael-Albertville High School, was chosen for this award due to her impressive ability on the track and the excellence she exudes in every aspect of her life. Anna is a sprinter and jumper. Her accolades include three individual State titles at the Minnesota State High School League AA State Championship meet. She holds the all-time State record in the long jump. Anna also helped bring home the track team championship title to St. Michael-Albertville at the 2017 State meet. In addition to recognizing Anna with this award, Gatorade also donated a $1,000 grant in Anna's name to a nonprofit of her choice. It gave the grant to the STMA Stallions, a local Special Olympics team, because of her friendships with some of the members on the team. Anna is attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill this fall and plans to compete on the track team. We can't wait to see what she accomplishes next. Anna, all of us in Minnesota are so proud of you, and we wish you all the best in your future.

Mr. EMMER

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the Elk River Municipal Utilities Commission's recent 70th anniversary. The Elk River Municipal Utilities Commission was created or established in 1915, when a private citizen started Elk River Power and Light. The business was eventually purchased by the village of Elk River and operated by the city council. Later on, when their responsibilities expanded to include water, the council created the Elk River Municipal Utilities Commission. Throughout the years, this organization has not only seen their responsibilities expand, but their jurisdiction expand as well. In fact, today, the commission covers Otsego, Dayton, and Big Lake, in addition to the Elk River area, providing services to more than 11,000 Minnesota customers. Thank you to everyone that makes the Elk River Municipal Utilities work, and congratulations on 70 years of great service to our communities. An Incredible Anniversary

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 160th anniversary of the Anoka-Champlin Fire Department. Since 1857, this fire department has been dedicated to protecting lives and property in our communities. To give a little perspective on the history of the organization, the Anoka-Champlin Fire Department has been serving the great State of Minnesota since it was still a territory and before the Civil War. Due to their hard work and often lifesaving efforts, Anoka and Champlin have been allowed to grow into thriving communities. I want to thank the cities of Anoka and Champlin for continuing to support this important organization. Thank you for your service and commitment to our communities and their citizens. Congratulations on your anniversary and upcoming celebration. It is well deserved. Two Lives Honored for Saving Another

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor two men from my State whose quick thinking saved the life of another earlier this year. Dr. Bob Schwegler and Dr. Tom Cress were both golfing with Steve Blattner at the Albany Golf Course when Steve began to suffer a cardiac event. Instead of panicking, both doctors successfully performed lifesaving measures on Steve, and with the assistance of the Albany Fire Department, their efforts were successful in saving Steve's life. As a result of their heroic actions, Dr. Schwegler and Dr. Cress were recently presented with lifesaving awards by Stearns County Sheriff Don Gudmundson and Lieutenant Vic Weiss at the Stearns County Board of Commissioners meeting. Thank you, Bob Schwegler, Tom Cress, and the Albany Fire Department, for your heroic actions. We appreciate your service. A Perfect Score

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate a student in my district for an incredible academic achievement. Tyler Wilson of Andover, Minnesota, received a perfect score on his ACT this year, making him, no doubt, a valuable candidate for most colleges and universities across this country. To give an idea on how extraordinary that achievement is, only 0.1 percent of all individuals who take the ACT receive a perfect score. Tyler is going into his senior year at Andover High School. He hopes to attend either Drake University or the University of Minnesota in the Twin Cities, with the goal of pursuing a career as a pharmacist. We wish Tyler the best of luck on his senior year in high school, and we are excited to see what this scholar will accomplish in the future. Congratulations again, Tyler. We are all so proud of you.

Mr. EMMER

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the St. Cloud Federal Credit Union for being named one of the top 150 workplaces in Minnesota by the Minneapolis Star Tribune. The companies selected were based off of a survey done by Workplace Dynamics, which measured the employees' opinions on engagement, organizational health, and overall satisfaction at their company. This is a wonderful achievement for the St. Cloud Federal Credit Union as Workplace Dynamics surveyed nearly 70,000 employees throughout Minnesota to come up with these results. For every company, no matter how big or small, the employees are the key to securing success. The hard work they put in every day is critical, so it is imperative that management ensures they feel both valued and respected. I want to congratulate everyone at the St. Cloud Federal Credit Union on their incredible teamwork, and I especially want to congratulate management for creating a great workplace for their employees. Your company and employees will continue to thrive due to your leadership. Keep up the good work.

Mr. EMMER

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my friend Chris Coborn on his recent induction into the Minnesota Business Hall of Fame. Every year, Twin Cities Business honors successful businessmen and - women in Minnesota who have displayed strong leadership and a unique vision. During his time as president and CEO of Coborn's, Chris Coborn has helped build this family business, which was established in 1921, to 54 full-service supermarkets across Minnesota and North Dakota, in addition to their 70 convenience and liquor stores. Proving himself a true visionary, Chris expanded Coborn's even more when he obtained an online grocery delivery business. While, at the time, it was seen as a controversial move, Chris had the foresight to go where the market was going for his customers. Decisions like this are exactly why Chris has been selected to join the Minnesota Business Hall of Fame. Chris Coborn is a business leader in Minnesota and beyond. He truly deserves this recognition and honor.

Mr. EMMER

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Chairman, I thank my colleague from Massachusetts (Mr. McGovern) for yielding. I appreciate the opportunity to work with him on this issue. During my time in Congress, I have been privileged to meet with many of our Nation's veterans. The men and women in our Armed Forces are true heroes and truly the best our Nation has to offer. Yet far too often, they do not get the recognition and credit they deserve. This is especially true when it comes to our Nation's atomic veterans. From 1945 to 1962, nearly a quarter of a million of our servicemembers played a role in the testing of nuclear weapons, earning them the title, ``atomic veterans.'' Since 1990, our Federal Government has taken different approaches to try and recognize and thank our atomic veterans, but we have never given official recognition through an award or medal. Today, that will change with the support of the men and women in this Chamber. With the McGovern-Emmer amendment, we have an opportunity to finally acknowledge the incredible sacrifice these courageous individuals made more than half a century ago. Our amendment will require the Department of Defense to issue a service medal to the veterans or surviving families of those members of our Armed Forces who participated in aboveground nuclear weapons testing, were part of the U.S. military occupation forces in or around Hiroshima and Nagasaki before 1946, or were held as POWs in or near Hiroshima or Nagasaki. This amendment has been included in the House NDAA bill for the past 2 years and is supported by the National Association of Atomic Veterans. These veterans left their homes, left their families, and put their lives on the line to protect the freedoms and liberties we enjoy each and every day. I am honored to work with Mr. McGovern and our colleagues here in the House to ensure these brave soldiers get the recognition they deserve. Again, I want to thank Congressman McGovern for his efforts on this issue as well as to thank Chairman Thornberry, Ranking Member Smith, and the entire staff of the House Armed Services Committee for their work on the underlying bill, and I urge adoption of this amendment.

Mr. EMMER

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Logan Aleshire, a senior at St. Cloud Tech High School, on recently being named the Minnesota High School Class AAA Baseball Player of the Year by the Minnesota State High School Baseball Coaches Association. Logan is a star athlete, and due to his leadership and skills as a pitcher and shortstop, he helped lead his team to an undefeated season in this year's State tournament. Logan excelled on the field this year, but we have known about him for a while. In fact, he has been a three-time All-Central Lakes Conference pick, and just last year he was a Times Baseball All-Area Team selection. While his high school baseball career is coming to a close, I have no doubt we will see great things from this young man both athletically and scholastically in the future. We look forward to seeing what he will accomplish next. A Farm Family to Celebrate

Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Kreitlow and Ford family on being recently named the 2017 Farm Family of the Year. Built in 1898, the Kreitlow farm has been passed from generation to generation for more than a century, with each generation teaching the next about hard work and successful farming. Today, the Kreitlow farm is successfully operated by Willard Kreitlow, his daughter Marienne, and her husband Jerry Ford. The farm was once a dairy operation, but since 1990, the farm has mainly become a vegetable and pasture operation. However, the work the Kreitlow and Ford family has accomplished goes far beyond the fresh produce they harvest. In fact, this hardworking family goes above and beyond by striving to educate others through their work with the Sustainable Farming Association of Minnesota. I want to thank the Kreitlow and Ford family for not only providing quality food for Minnesotans, but also for educating others about the benefits of sustainable farming and giving back to their community. Our State is a healthier place because of their dedicated work. 50 Years of Giving Back