Bill Flores

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Olivia Parish, of Calvert, Texas, who celebrated her 100th birthday on October 27, 2016. Ms. Parish was born in Calvert, Texas, to Willie Harris and Pankie Carson-Harris. As a young girl, she developed a passion for helping others and would continue her service to others throughout her life. In 1932, she married Melvin Parish Sr. The two of them were blessed with thirteen children, forty-one grandchildren and seventy-four great grandchildren. Ms. Parish has been a faithful member of the New Magnolia Baptist Church and the Bethel Grove Baptist Church. In addition to her devotion to her family and church, Ms. Parish loved working in the yard, especially her flower garden, and won numerous yard of the month awards. At my request, on October 27, a United States flag was flown over the United States Capitol to celebrate and honor Ms. Parish's 100th birthday. Ms. Parish has led a remarkable life that is grand in accomplishments through her hard work and dedication. I join her family, friends, and the community of Calvert in celebrating this momentous occasion. I wish her more years of happiness, fulfillment, and health. Congratulations to Ms. Parish on her centennial birthday milestone. I am honored to represent citizens like her in the 17th District of Texas.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 150th anniversary of the First Baptist Church of Bryan, Texas. Since its founding on November 18, 1866, thousands of families have called First Baptist Bryan home. During the early years of the church, services were held in an abandoned saloon under the leadership of Rev. William Bartlett Eaves. The church would begin to grow larger and in 1883 a frame building was erected as a permanent place of worship. As the congregation continued to grow, bigger facilities were built to meet the needs of the church family for the next century. The church would also begin to expand its mission and focus on preaching the Gospel to the students of Texas A&M University. A strong bond was created between the church and the student community that still stands today. As more families and students joined the church, the importance of Sunday School began to emerge. Pastor John Held began to spread the teaching ministry beyond the church walls by organizing a successful Christ-focused men's Bible Study. Throughout the years, the church family has never lost sight of its commitment to fellowship, discipleship, worship, ministry, and evangelism. Since its beginning, the church has been involved in numerous mission activities with the Southern Baptist Convention, the Baptist General Convention of Texas, and the Creath Brazos Baptist Association. They have sent missions all across the world including Estonia, Australia, Germany, Zambia, Kenya, and Ghana. First Baptist Bryan has played an important role in planting numerous other churches throughout the area. They have also helped plant the Yurigaoka Baptist Church in Tokyo, Japan. The success of First Baptist Bryan can be attributed to the outstanding leadership from its Pastors. Since its establishment, 24 Pastors have led the church in worship and growth, each bringing different gifts and abilities to the church family. All of them brought a strong commitment to stewardship, mission, and leadership to the community. Because of these leaders, the families and students in the Brazos Valley continue to have a place to worship the Lord. Mr. Speaker, please join me in commemorating First Baptist Bryan and its congregation on their 150th anniversary. Before I close, I ask that all Americans continue to pray for our country during these difficult times and for the military men and women and first responders who protect her. God bless the American people, and God bless the congregation of First Baptist Bryan.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and congratulate the Taiwanese people on their National Day, the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Republic of China (Taiwan), celebrated each year on October 10th. Taiwan is a key ally in the region and shares the important values of freedom and respect for human rights with our country. This year, Taiwan went through a peaceful transition of power with the election of President Tsai Ing-wen, the first woman elected to this office. I was pleased to have productive conversations with President Tsai and my colleagues during a recent visit to Taiwan earlier this year. Taiwan's remarkable democracy serves as a model to neighboring countries. Both Chambers of Congress passed resolutions earlier this year reaffirming the importance of the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances. As a member of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus, I would like to reiterate my commitment of support to Taiwan and its self- defense capabilities. Once again, I extend my best wishes for a Happy Double Tenth Day to the people of Taiwan and our Taiwanese American friends at home.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Chairman, I thank Chairman Whitfield for allowing me to speak on behalf of this bill. As a coauthor of H.R. 4775, I rise to strongly urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan Ozone Standards Implementation Act of 2016. Since 1980, our economy has more than tripled in growth, while ozone levels have gone down by 33 percent. The EPA predicts that ozone levels will continue to improve, particularly as the 75 parts per billion standard is fully implemented. Most importantly, the EPA states: ``The vast majority of U.S. counties will meet the 70 parts per billion standard by 2025 just with the rules and programs now in place or underway.'' In March of 2015, the EPA released its implementation regulations on the delayed 2008 ozone standard of 75 percent per billion. Last October, just 7 months later, the EPA moved the goal posts with a new ozone standard of 70 parts per billion. Our States and communities now face the burden of spending scarce taxpayer resources to implement two different ozone standards at the same time. So what does this mean? It means that even though the EPA admits that air quality will improve, our States and counties now face a premature nonattainment designation, significantly limiting new job creation opportunities. Additional bureaucratic processes and unnecessary red tape will do nothing to protect public health; however, they will export jobs to countries like China with fewer regulations, while those countries send us their ozone emissions in return. H.R. 4775 includes a key harmonization provision from H.R. 4000, the bipartisan legislation I introduced last November. Section 2 of today's bill gives communities the needed time to meet the 70 parts per billion standard through 2025. It protects these areas from being subjected to unnecessary additional regulatory burdens and red tape, as these areas are already on track for compliance with both standards. We have also heard from our State regulators that the current 5-year review cycle timeline for National Ambient Air Quality Standards is overly ambitious and not attainable. This is proven by the fact that, since 1971, the EPA has taken an average of 10\1/2\ years to review the standard for ozone, not 5, as is currently in effect. Another provision I authored, section 3(a), modernizes the Clean Air Act by matching the mandatory review cycle with the actual timeline of previous EPA reviews; in other words, 10 years between reviews. This is a reasonable timeline in light of the Nation's dramatically improved air quality over the last three decades. Protecting both public health and the economy are bipartisan goals we all share, and the two are not mutually exclusive. I would like to thank Mr. Olson, Mr. Cuellar, Mr. Latta, Whip Scalise, and Leader McCarthy for their work on this important issue. I would also like to thank Chairman Upton and Chairman Whitfield for their efforts in shepherding this bill through the Energy and Commerce Committee. I strongly urge my colleagues to support this commonsense bipartisan legislation.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Francis Michael Young of Waco, Texas, who passed away on May 1, 2016. Mr. Young, better known as F.M., was a leading businessman and philanthropist in Waco and central Texas. While he ran a successful business and employed hundreds of central Texans, his lasting legacy are his family's charitable contributions to Waco institutions, such as Baylor University, the Waco Mammoth National Monument, and Providence Health Center. F.M. was born on January 13, 1930, in Tours, Texas. After a series of moves, the Young family settled in Speegleville, Texas, where F.M. attended local schools and met Gloria Davis, who later became his loving wife of over 60 years. F.M. went into business with his brothers, R.T. and B.W., building storage tanks for local farmers with surplus military equipment. In 1948, the Young brothers created Waco's first asphalt plant and would begin winning and working on State highway contracts in 1950. Over the next 20 years, F.M. expanded the company to be one of the top five highway contractors in Texas. F.M. spent countless hours serving his local community and central Texas in a multitude of ways. He served on the board of the Waco Boys Club, the Waco Chamber of Commerce, and the Baylor/Waco Foundation. He and Gloria also had a rich history of donating to Waco institutions. The Youngs provided concrete for the scoreboard at Baylor's Floyd Casey Stadium, created a marina on the Brazos River for the Governor Bill and Vara Daniel Historic Village, and designed and built the Brazos Queen II, a riverboat tourist attraction along the Brazos River. In 2007, Providence Hospital opened the F.M. and Gloria Young Tower. This facility, which was underwritten by a financial contribution from F.M. and Gloria, includes a five-story addition that provides bed space with state-of-the-art cardiac clinics and care centers. The Youngs also played a vital role in the opening of the Waco Mammoth site, an educational tourist attraction, which was recently designated a national monument by the National Park Service. Mr. Speaker, F.M. Young worked tirelessly to better our central Texas and Waco communities. He is loved by his city, and certainly left an enduring impression on central Texas. He will be forever remembered as a great philanthropist, businessman, husband, father, grandfather, and friend. My wife, Gina, and I offer our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the Young family. We also lift up the family and friends of F.M. Young in our prayers. Today I have requested that a United States flag be flown over the United States Capitol to honor the life and legacy of F.M. Young. As I close today, I urge all Americans to continue praying for our country during these difficult times, for our military men and women who protect us from external threats, and for our first responders who protect us here at home.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Harper Cunningham, age 12, and Maggie Cunningham, age 10, from College Station, Texas, who are recipients of the 2016 Jefferson Award for the Brazos Valley. The Jefferson Awards are presented annually to honor our unsung heroes, ordinary citizens who have done something extraordinary and that will have a lasting impact on the community. It is fitting that the Jefferson Award be presented to these two young girls, who not only exemplify what it means to serve, but who also share Thomas Jefferson's passion for reading. Harper and Maggie Cunningham's passion for reading and for helping those in need led them to create an organization to promote literacy and the well-being of our community students. Their Books and a Blanket program provides a basket of books and a blanket to elementary schoolchildren in need across the Brazos Valley during the winter months. Their mission is simple and impactful: they want all students to have access to books so that they, too, can experience the joy that comes from reading. Since 2012, Books and a Blanket has given away over 1,200 blankets and distributed over 33,000 books to over 2,500 children in need. Mr. Speaker, these two young girls have done a tremendous job helping others, promoting literacy, and being inspiring leaders in our community. As President Ronald Reagan once said: The greatest leaders are not necessarily the ones who do the greatest things. The greatest leaders are the ones who get other people to do the greatest things. It is evident that Harper and Maggie are models of true leadership, and their desire to serve and empower others is inspiring. Young Americans like Harper and Maggie provide confidence for all of us about the future of our great country. I congratulate Harper and Maggie Cunningham for their hard work, selfless service, and for being awarded the 2016 Jefferson Award for the Brazos Valley. Gina and I look forward to hosting them in Washington later this year for the National Jefferson Awards ceremony. I would also like to congratulate the other 2016 Jefferson Award winners from the Brazos Valley: Stephanie Sale, Alma Villarreal, and David Ruesink. Their selfless service to our community is inspiring and also worthy of these special recognitions. I am humbled to represent all of them in Congress. As I close, I ask all Americans to continue to pray for our country during these difficult times, for our military men and women who protect us from external threats, and for our first responders who protect us here at home. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, today, I honor a young family in mourning. Rae-Lynn Ziegler and Dan Ziegler are Capitol Hill veterans that have worked for Members of the U.S. House of Representatives. In fact, Rae- Lynn was an integral member of my team in Washington D.C.; she aided in setting up our office and served the constituents of the 17th Congressional District of Texas for nearly three years. On March 23, 2016, Rae-Lynn and Dan welcomed their first-born son, Daniel Alan Ziegler, Jr. into the world. Prior to his birth, Daniel Jr. was diagnosed with a life threatening condition--Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia--and his family knew his life would be challenging and require much specialized medical care and attention. Despite these challenges, he was born into an immediate and extended family full of hope, support, prayers and love. Unfortunately, his time on this earth was limited as he passed away on March 29, 2016. During his short time with us, Daniel Jr., touched many lives and was loved deeply by family and friends. His life was a brief gift to us and there is no doubt that Daniel Jr. had some of the strongest, most loving parents and supporters. Throughout this entire process, Rae-Lynn and Dan exhibited tremendous strength and were steadfast in their faith in God. Their unwavering commitment to Christ, along with the support of their loving families and friends, will help them get through this difficult time. Rae-Lynn, Dan, and Daniel Jr. will continue to be in our prayers. Psalm 34:18 reminds us that ``The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.'' In a nutshell, God has taken Daniel Jr. into his loving arms and is healing the broken hearts of his family. Mr. Speaker, today, we honor and remember the life of Daniel Alan Ziegler, Jr. While his life was short, he will live on in the memories of many and has left an indelible mark on the lives of his loving parents. May God bless Daniel Alan Ziegler, Jr. and his family. As I close, I ask all Americans continue to pray for our country, for our military men and women who protect us from external threats, and for our first responders who protect us here at home.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. I thank the gentleman from Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor U.S. Marine Corps Major Shawn M. Campbell of College Station, Texas. Major Campbell died on January 14, 2016, when he and 11 additional marines were involved in a helicopter training accident off the coast of Hawaii's Oahu Island. Major Campbell attended Klein High School in suburban Houston and went on to graduate from Texas A&M University. Upon graduation, Major Campbell decided to follow his lifelong dream of becoming a pilot. He accepted his commission and began a career as a Marine Corps aviator. During his time in the Marine Corps, Shawn served four tours in the Middle East, including one in Iraq. After serving our country overseas, Major Campbell returned to the U.S., where he became a flying instructor at the Naval Air Station located in Pensacola, Florida. Major Campbell, along with his wife, Kelli, and their children were later transferred to Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay in Hawaii in 2014. During his time stationed at the Marine Corps base, Shawn served as a CH-53E Super Stallion pilot with Squadron 463, Marine Aircraft Group 24. Throughout his tenure, Major Campbell garnered numerous awards and decorations for his bravery. These decorations include: the Air Medal with strike/flight device, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, the Navy Unit Commendation, the National Defense Service Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. Madam Speaker, Major Campbell was a fearless leader and a decorated veteran. His selfless devotion to protect our country will be forever remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Major Shawn Campbell. He will be forever remembered as an outstanding husband, father, and marine. We thank him and his family for their service and their sacrifice for our country. His sacrifice truly reflects the words of Jesus in John 15:13: ``Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.'' The loss of Major Campbell and his fellow marines serves as a reminder of the sacrifices the men and women of our Armed Forces make each day to preserve freedom for this great Nation. We are forever in debt to these great individuals who serve our country. As I close, I ask all Americans to continue to pray for our country during these difficult times, for our military men and women who protect us from external threats, and for our first responders who protect us from threats here at home.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise to state that I was not able to be on the House floor for roll call vote 46 to H.R. 2187 taken on February 1, 2016. Had I been present for this vote, I would have voted aye. The Fair Investment Opportunities for Professional Experts Act expands the definition of accredited investor to also include professional experts. This ensures that investors in my Congressional district have the right to access suitable investment vehicles and is critical for markets to operate efficiently.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. I thank the gentleman from New Jersey, not only for yielding, but also for the many decades you have spent of trying to protect the lives of our Nation's and, indeed, the world's most vulnerable. Mr. Speaker, soon we will mark the 43rd anniversary of Roe v. Wade, a decision that has irreparably damaged our Nation for generations and will continue to do so until it is reversed. Since the Supreme Court decision, as you have heard earlier, America has lost 57 million defenseless and innocent lives, while millions more have been deeply hurt. Fortunately, the movement to protect and defend life has made meaningful progress in the last year. The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed protections for unborn children, after 20 weeks, which is something the majority of Americans support. Yesterday, the House passed landmark pro-life legislation that paves the way to transfer Federal funds from those who would kill children, unborn children, to thousands of community healthcare centers that provide true comprehensive health care for women. Later this month, thousands from across the country will stand in front of this building to support life in our Nation's largest peaceful protest. We will continue to work and pray with hope and resilience, to give a voice to the voiceless, to advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves, and to protect our Nation's most vulnerable. As I close, I would ask all Americans to continue to pray for our country, and for our unborn children, and for those who reach out and try to protect those unborn children.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Darrell Allen of Garland, Texas, who passed away on November 10, 2015, as a result of wounds received while he was serving his community. Darrell Allen was chief of police for the city of Marlin. He selflessly served his community, and he will be greatly missed. Darrell was born January 17, 1972, in Galveston, Texas. He graduated from Texas City High School and went on to obtain an associate's degree in criminal justice from McLennan Community College in Waco, Texas. In his pursuit to better serve his community, Darrell returned to school and received his bachelor in criminal justice in May of this year. Since he was a child, Darrell dreamed of becoming a police officer. He began his career in law enforcement in 1994 with the Galveston County Sheriff's Department. Darrell's distinguished career also included service with the Alvin Independent School District, the Hitchcock Police Department, the Danbury Police Department, the Arcola Police Department, the Harris County Precinct 6 Constable's Office, and chief of police at the Lott Police Department. In 2005, Darrell joined the City of Marlin Police Department, where he proceeded to climb through the department ranks. He was promoted to assistant chief of police in 2006 and elevated to chief of police in 2009. As Marlin's chief of police, Darrell focused his efforts on building police community relations and increasing juvenile safety. He consistently drove down the community's crime rate. Today Marlin is one of the safest communities in America. His efforts garnered recognition for the Marlin Police Department from the Texas Police Chief Association's Foundation for Law Enforcement Agency Best Practices Programs. Darrell worked tirelessly to better our central Texas community. He loved his city, and he left an enduring impression on those he served. This is evident from the scores of residents who gathered together recently in memory of their fallen chief. He will forever be remembered for his devotion to public service, as a father to his children, and as a friend to countless Marlin citizens. My wife, Gina, and I offer our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the Allen family. We also lift up the family and friends of Darrell Allen in our prayers. As I close, I ask that all Americans continue to pray for our country, for our military men and women who protect us abroad, and for our first responders who protect us here at home.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Diana R. Garland of Waco, Texas, who passed away on September 21, 2015. Diana Garland was a teacher, dean, and a valued leader in the Baylor University community. She led a full life and will be greatly missed in our community. Diana was born on August 18, 1950, in Oklahoma City. She earned her undergraduate, master's, and doctoral degrees from the University of Louisville. After completing her degree, she went on to serve as professor of Christian family ministry and social work at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville. In 1997, Diana and her husband, David, moved to Waco and joined the faculty at Baylor University. One year later, Diana was named the director of the university's Center and Community Ministries. Under her leadership, Baylor University expanded its social work program. Later when the university created the School of Social Work, she was appointed its founding dean. During the following decade, Diana oversaw the school's rise to national recognition. Under her guidance, the School of Social Work grew to 20 full-time faculty members and 240 graduate and undergraduate students. During her tenure, she helped raise more than $7 million for research and established an endowment of $14.5 million. In 2010, Diana administered the school's move to downtown Waco. This move allowed the school to triple its teaching and lab space. To commemorate her achievements as the school's dean, the Board of Regents recently voted to name the university's School of Social Work in her honor. In addition to her teaching duties, Diana was the author, coauthor, and editor of 21 books and more than 100 academic articles. Her literary works included: ``Flawed Families of the Bible: How God's Grace Works Through Imperfect Relationships''; ``Inside Out Families: Living the Faith Together''; and ``Why I Am a Social Worker: 25 Christians Tell Their Life Stories.'' Diana was also the first lady of Baylor University while her husband, David Garland, served as the interim president from 2008 to 2010. Diana stepped down as dean on June 1 of this year due to her battle with cancer. She enjoyed the last few months of her life taking in God's beauty in Colorado. Mr. Speaker, Diana Garland left a strong legacy at Baylor University and touched the lives of many. She will be forever remembered as a cherished mentor, a loving wife, and a visionary servant leader. My wife, Gina, and I offer our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the Garland family. We also lift up the family and friends of Diana Garland in our prayers. As I close, I ask that all Americans continue to pray for our country during these difficult times, for our military men and women who protect us abroad, and for our first responders who protect us here at home. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Chairman, I thank Mr. Barton for his work on this important amendment. I also thank the chairman for his support. I strongly encourage my colleagues to support the amendment and the underlying bill.

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Chair, I rise in strong support of this amendment, which would strengthen our Nation's energy, its security, its jobs, and its economy. We have heard some interesting rhetoric tonight, but here are the facts. This amendment results in five key benefits to our country: First, it benefits the American consumer with resulting overall lower energy prices. This particularly benefits lower-income and lower middle-income Americans, providing greater economic security for those hard-working families; Two, it benefits American producers and allows them to further reinvest in our domestic energy infrastructure, furthering our energy security and good-paying American jobs. Most of those companies are small, independent oil and gas companies, not the major companies that were just talked about; Three, it benefits our geopolitical standing and strengthens ties with our global friends and allies, and it hurts those countries like Russia, Iran, and Venezuela, which are opposed to American interests; Four, it benefits the downstream refining community as lower prices will stimulate volume demand for their refined products. This gives them more financial capital to hire skilled American workers and to reinvest in their operations; Five, it helps cure our trade imbalances. These are five critical reasons as to why everybody wins if we lift the ban.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of H.R. 702. H.R. 702 results in five key benefits: Number one, it benefits the American consumer with resulting overall lower energy prices. This particularly benefits lower-income and lower- middle-income Americans, providing greater financial security for these hardworking families. Number two, it benefits the American producer and allows them to further reinvest in our domestic energy infrastructure, furthering our energy security and American jobs. Number three, it benefits our geopolitical standing and strengthens ties with our global friends and allies, and it hurts those countries like Russia, Iran, and Venezuela who are opposed to American interests around the world. Number four, it benefits the downstream refining community, as lower prices will stimulate volume demand for refined products. This volume gives them more financial capital to hire skilled American workers and to reinvest in their operation. Number five, it strengthens our national defense by enhancing the Maritime Security Program, which supports a robust Merchant Marine for use by our military during times of international crisis. These are five critical reasons why everybody wins after we lift the ban. The President has threatened to veto this commonsense bill, and hardworking American families all over this country should ask: Mr. President, why are you putting the interests of Iranian terrorists ahead of the interests of hardworking American families? Mr. Chairman, I strongly urge my colleagues to reject the Amash amendment and to support H.R. 702.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Arthur William ``Bill'' Bailey, Jr., of Waco, Texas, who passed away on August 18, 2015. Bill Bailey was a Korean war veteran, a renowned Waco businessman, and a distinguished alumnus and former regent at Baylor University. He touched many lives in the Waco and Baylor communities, and he will be greatly missed. Bill was born in Waco on April 24, 1929. He graduated from Waco High School in 1946 and enrolled in Baylor University. On December 15, 1950, Bill married his high school sweetheart, Roberta Hatch. They were married for almost 64 years prior to Roberta's passing in 2014. Roberta and Bill had 3 sons and were blessed with 10 grandchildren and 4 great- grandchildren. Bill graduated from Baylor University in 1951 with a B.A. degree and a law degree. While at Baylor, he was a member of the debate team and the Baylor Chamber of Commerce. Bill served our Nation in the United States Air Force as a first lieutenant in the JAG division during the Korean war. He was ultimately promoted to captain in the U.S. Air Force Reserves. After concluding his service to our Nation, Bill returned to Waco to enter into the insurance business. In 1956, he established his own independent insurance agency, Bill Bailey Insurance Agency, which is now known as Bailey Insurance and Risk Management, Inc. He became a noted State and national leader in the insurance industry. Mr. Speaker, because of his expertise in risk management, he was called upon to testify before the United States Senate and the United States House of Representatives committees as well as the Federal Reserve Board, all on behalf of the insurance industry. In 1969, Bill teamed up with a group of his fellow Texas insurance agents to establish the Certified Insurance Counselors Program, which focused on teaching advanced insurance topics to ensure high-quality standards of ethics and professionalism in the insurance industry. This program would become the foundation of the National Alliance for Insurance Education and Research. Today, these certification programs are conducted in all 50 States with more than 150,000 participants annually. Bill held many prestigious positions on various boards, including as the chairman of the Board of Governors for the National Alliance for Insurance Education and Research; the president of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers Association of America; the liaison to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners for the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers Association of America; and as director, executive committee member, and past vice chairman of the Texas National Bank of Waco. Bill's work in the insurance industry was honored by the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers Association of America when they dedicated their conference room in the Washington, D.C., office as the A. William Bailey, Jr., Conference Room. He was also a recipient of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers Association of America Woodworth Memorial Award for Meritorious Service to the Insurance Profession, as well as the Drex Foreman Award of the Independent Insurance Agents of Texas. Both of these are the highest distinctions for these respective organizations. Bill was active in the Waco and Baylor University communities and served as the following: Trustee, Vice Chairman of the Board, and Regent of Baylor University; Officer, Director, and Executive Committee Member of the Waco Industrial Foundation; Member and Chairman of the Hillcrest Baptist Medical Center Board of Development; Founder and Past President of the Waco Business League; and President of the following organizations: the Greater Waco United way; the Baylor-Waco and Baylor Bear Foundations; the Waco and Northwest Waco Rotary Clubs; the Waco YMCA; the Waco Camp Fire Girls; and the Baylor Stadium Corporation. In 1988, Bill was honored by the Baylor Alumni Association with the W.R. White Meritorious Service Award. In 1997, they honored him as a Distinguished Alumnus. Additionally, in 2008, the Waco Public Schools honored him as a Distinguished Alumnus. Bill was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Waco, where he served as Trustee, Deacon, and Chairman of the Board of Deacons; Chairman of the Finance Committee; Founding Chairman of the First Baptist Church of Waco Foundation; President of the McCall Sunday School Class; and Co-Superintendent of the College Sunday School Department. Mr. Speaker, Bill Bailey will not only be remembered for his long list of accomplishments, but, most importantly, he will be forever remembered as a loving husband, a father, a grandfather, a great- grandfather, and a loyal friend to hundreds of central Texans. My wife, Gina, and I offer our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the Bailey family. We also lift up the family and friends of Bill Bailey in our prayers. As I close, I ask that all Americans continue to pray for our country, for our military men and women who protect us abroad, and for our first responders who protect us here at home. Honoring Mattie Lee Phillips

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mattie Lee Phillips from Bryan, Texas, who passed away on August 25, 2015, her 103rd birthday. Mrs. Phillips was born in Washington County, Texas, on August 25, 1912. Growing up, Mrs. Phillips attended school in the Waco and McGregor areas and later attended Bryan Public School for Colored. She married Willie Sterling in 1931. They were blessed with five children. Later she married Eddie Phillips. They were blessed with four children. Mrs. Phillips was a member of the New Liberty Baptist Church in Boonville, Texas, at an early age and remained a member until 1941, when she became a member of the Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Bryan. She was an avid church worker, serving on the Pleasant Grove Church Usher Board for 35 years and as a Sunday school teacher and a mission teacher. She served on various programs and committees at the church and worked tirelessly raising funds to help improve their church facilities. Mrs. Phillips taught and counseled numerous youth during her life. She was a staunch believer in higher education, and all nine of her children attended college. Mrs. Phillips was an entrepreneur who took sewing and tailoring classes through the mail and worked for many years as a self-employed seamstress. She also bought, repaired, and resold real estate for additional income. In addition, she successfully owned and operated Phillips Cafe & Barbecue. Mrs. Phillips led a full life and was well respected in our community. She will be forever remembered for her devotion to her church and her community and as a loving wife, a mother, a grandmother, a great-grandmother, and a great-great-grandmother, a youth mentor to hundreds, and a friend to many as well. My wife, Gina, and I offer our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the Phillips and Sterling families. We also lift up the family and friends of Mattie Lee Phillips in our prayers. As I close, I ask that all Americans continue to pray for our country, for our military men and women who protect us abroad, and for our first responders who protect us here at home. Honoring Tommy Bosquez

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Henry Thomas ``Tommy'' Bosquez, of Bryan, Texas, who passed away on September 12, 2015. Tommy Bosquez selflessly served the Brazos Valley community in a variety of ways, and he will be missed greatly. Tommy was born on August 9, 1962, in Bryan, Texas. He graduated from Bryan High School in 1980. When he was 19, he began his public service career as a City of Bryan police officer. He was the city's youngest policeman and served on the force for 8 years. He held various assignments, including patrol, special advanced traffic investigations, the field training officer program, crime scene analysis, and honor guard detail. Tommy was also a member of the Texas State Guard. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant, serving as company commander in the 223rd Military Police Battalion, to assist State and local authorities in times of emergencies. Tommy married his high school sweetheart, Stella Grimaldo. They were married for 29 years and were blessed with two daughters. Tommy earned his associate's degree from Blinn College and later earned an undergraduate degree in political science in 1989 and a master's degree in public administration in 1995, each from Texas A&M University. During his time at Texas A&M and the years that followed, he worked for the university. He started out in the College of Medicine, where he held various positions, including Director of Special Programs, Special Assistant to the Dean of Medicine, admissions committee member, principal investigator, and a lecturer in the Department of Humanities in Medicine. He would go on to work for the university system in the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Human Resources, where he assumed a leadership role with the Health Science Center, working as Special Assistant to the President. Prior to his death, Tommy worked as the Chief Contracts Officer and Director for Contract Administrator in the Office of Finance and Administration at the Texas A&M Health Science Center. Tommy was an active volunteer and an engaged parent in the Bryan Independent School District for over 25 years. He began his service as an elected school board trustee in 2012 and served as vice president of that board. He also served extensively on various local and statewide charitable and educational organization boards such as the Texas Association for Access and Equity, the Texas Association of Advisers for the Health Professions, the Texas Area Health Education Centers--East, the Bryan- College Station Chamber of Commerce, the Bryan ISD Education Foundation, the Blinn College Advisory Board, the United Way, the Boy's and Girl's Club, the Kiwanis, Gear Up, Habitat for Humanity, and Junior Achievement. Tommy received many acknowledgements throughout his career, including the 2007 Texas Association of Chicanos in Higher Education Outstanding Meritorious Public Service Award, and the Kiwanis International Walter Zeller Fellowship Award. Tommy worked tirelessly to better our community. He will forever be remembered for his devotion to public service and as a loving husband, father, and friend to countless Brazos Valley citizens. My wife, Gina, and I offer our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the Bosquez family. We also lift up the family and friends of Tommy Bosquez in our prayers. As I close, I ask that all Americans continue to pray for our country and for our military men and women, who protect us abroad, and for our first responders, who protect us here at home. Honoring Dr. James Cooper

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. James F. Cooper of Bryan, Texas, who passed away on August 18, 2015. Dr. James Cooper was a veteran of World War II and the Korean war. He was a physician, an aviation medical examiner, and an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He touched many lives in the Brazos Valley, and he will be greatly missed. Dr. Cooper was born on August 30, 1927, in Farmersville, Louisiana. He was the son of a Baptist preacher and grew up in many towns throughout the South. At the age of 17, Dr. Cooper enlisted in the Navy to serve aboard the USS Dorchester in the South Pacific. Upon returning to the U.S., he used his GI bill benefits to attend medical school in Tennessee. He then served again in the Korean war as Deputy Medical Officer for the Destroyer Fleet Atlantic, stationed aboard its flagship, the USS Yosemite. Dr. Cooper retired from the Navy with a final rank of Lieutenant Commander, Medical Corps. In 1955, Dr. Cooper moved to Bryan, Texas, and entered a medical practice with his brother, O.C. Dr. Cooper was a well-loved family doctor and a surgeon at St. Joseph's Hospital. In addition to his medical practice, the good doctor had a strong affinity for aviation and specialized in aviation medicine. He was involved with the space programs at NASA and present at many of the Apollo launches. His knowledge and experience with NASA missions earned him the opportunity to do voice commentary for six Apollo launches for television broadcasts in Australia. Dr. Cooper also served as a FAA Senior Aviation Medical Examiner. As a fellow pilot, I was fortunate and grateful to have Dr. Cooper as my medical examiner for many years. We developed a strong friendship and shared many stories about our mutual love for aviation. Dr. Cooper was an extraordinary doctor not only specializing in aviation, but also serving as Chief Medical Officer for the Texas World Speedway in College Station. In addition to his medical duties, Dr. Cooper was an active member of VFW Post No. 4692 in Bryan. He was very passionate about the VFW and even served as Commander of the post. Mr. Speaker, Dr. Cooper left a strong legacy for his family and for the Brazos Valley. He will be forever remembered as a great doctor, a dedicated veteran, a loving husband, a great father, a grandfather, and a loyal friend. My wife, Gina, and I offer our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the Cooper family. We also lift up the family and friends of Dr. James Cooper in our prayers. As I close, I ask that all Americans continue to pray for our country, for our military men and women, who protect us abroad, and for our first responders, who protect us here at home. Honoring Alan Waldie

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Alan Duane Waldie, of Bryan, Texas, who passed away on August 22, 2015. Alan Waldie was a veteran, an electrical engineer, an Aggie, a pillar of the Brazos Valley community, and a great friend. He led a full life and will be missed greatly in our community. Alan was born on April 23, 1928, in Iowa Park, Texas. He graduated from Lamar High School in Houston in 1945 and later attended Texas A&M University. While at Texas A&M, Alan was a member of the nationally famous ``Fightin' Texas Aggie Band'' and served as drum major during his senior year. He graduated from Texas A&M University in 1951 with a bachelor's of science in electrical engineering. From 1946 to 1948, Alan served in the U.S. Navy. From 1951 to 1953, he served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army Signal Corps. After his discharge from the Army, Alan began a successful business career, which took him to Houston; Tripoli, Libya; and Calgary, Alberta, Canada. In 1995, he moved back to College Station to begin his retirement. There he served as a volunteer for the George Bush Presidential Library and was the member of the Bryan Rotary Club and the Central Baptist Church. Mr. Speaker, Alan Waldie will be forever remembered as a dedicated veteran, a loving husband, a great father, and a loyal friend. My wife, Gina, and I offer our deepest and heartfelt condolences to his wife, Nancy, and to all of the Waldie family. We also lift up the family and friends of Alan Waldie in our prayers. Mr. Speaker, as I close, I ask that all Americans continue to pray for our country, for our military men and women, who protect us abroad, and for our first responders, who protect us here at home. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor one of my constituents, John David Crow, of College Station, Texas, who passed away on June 17. To say that John David Crow is a Texas football legend is an understatement. He was a Heisman Trophy winner, a four-time NFL Pro Bowl selection, a college football coach, and an administrator for the Texas A&M University Athletic Department. John David was born on July 8, 1935, in Marion, Louisiana. When he was born, the umbilical cord was wrapped around his neck, causing nerve damage and permanently paralyzing the left half of his face. John David, however, never let that hardship hold him back. As a junior at Springhill High School, he led the football team to win the Class 1A State championship in 1952. As a senior, he led the basketball team to win the Class 1A State championship in 1954. After graduating from high school, John David married his high school sweetheart, Carolyn Gilliam, on July 2, 1954. Earlier that year, John David had committed to play football at Texas A&M University for legendary coach Paul ``Bear'' Bryant; so, in the fall of 1954, John David and Carolyn moved to College Station. During his time at Texas A&M, John David would play running back, defensive positions, and special teams as a kick returner. He truly was the complete collegiate football package. In 1956, he led the Aggies to their first ever road victory against archrival, the University of Texas, at Memorial Stadium in Austin. He also led the Aggies to a number one ranking during the 1957 season. Some of the accolades that John David received as an Aggie included being named twice to the Southwest Conference all-conference team in 1956 and 1957. He also received all of the following recognitions in 1957: a consensus All-American, the Walter Camp Memorial Trophy, the Southwesterner of the Year and Amateur Athlete of the Year, the Chick Harley Award, the United Press Player of the Year, the United Press Back of the Year, and the Heisman Trophy. John David was Texas A&M University's first Heisman Trophy winner and the only Heisman Trophy winner to ever be coached by the legendary Bear Bryant. When Bear Bryant retired from coaching, he was quoted as saying: ``John David Crow was the finest player I ever coached. Watching film on him was like watching a grown man play with boys.'' John David would graduate from Texas A&M with a degree in business administration and was named to the Scholastic All-American team. He was also recognized as a Who's Who in American Colleges and Universities. John David would go on to play in the NFL after being drafted in the first round to play for the then Chicago Cardinals, in Chicago and St. Louis, and playing for the San Francisco 49ers. He was named to the Pro Bowl four times and named to the NFL's 1960 All-Decade Team. After retiring from the NFL, John David began his football coaching career, starting as an assistant for his former coach Bear Bryant at Alabama. He continued his career as an assistant coach in the NFL for the Cleveland Browns and the San Diego Chargers. In 1976, he was named athletic director and head football coach of Northeast Louisiana University. In 1981, John David would leave Northeast Louisiana University to work for a private business for a couple of years. In 1983, he returned to his alma mater, Texas A&M University, first as associate athletic director, later as athletic director, and finally, as director of athletic development. During this time, he was at the forefront of collegiate athletic gender equity as he helped expand women's athletics at Texas A&M to the powerhouse that it is today. In 2001, John David would retire from A&M, but he still maintained a presence on campus and in the Bryan/College Station community. John David Crow was a great athlete, coach, and athletic administrator. He was inducted into the Texas A&M University Hall of Fame in 1968 and the Louisiana Hall of Fame in 1976. He was named to the National Football Foundation Hall of Fame in 1976 and the Texas Sports Hall of Fame in 1982. He was named a Distinguished Alumnus by Texas A&M University in 2004 and was honored during the Aggies' first year in the Southeastern Conference as an SEC Legend at the 2012 SEC Championship Game. While John David was dedicated to his career, he was also very much dedicated to his wife, Carolyn, and to their family. He and Carolyn had three children: John, Jr., Annalisa, and Jeannie. They were also blessed with seven grandchildren. John David was forever thankful for everything Carolyn did for their family. He was once quoted as saying: ``Whatever credit I get for doing anything, she deserves a lot more than I do. She has been the stabilizer for our family and very, very good to me.'' Mr. Speaker, John David Crow was a humble, kind, generous, and an all-around great man. The greatness that he evoked reached far beyond the football field. He truly embodied the core values of Texas A&M University--respect, integrity, leadership, excellence, loyalty, and selfless service. He will be greatly missed and will long be remembered as a great athlete, coach, and athletic administrator. More importantly, he will be remembered as a loving husband, a father, a grandfather, and as a friend. My wife, Gina, and I offer our deepest and heartfelt condolences to Carolyn and to the Crow family. We also lift up the family and friends of John David Crow in our thoughts and in our prayers. Also, as I close this conversation about John David Crow, I ask that all Americans continue to pray for our country, for our military men and women who protect us from external threats, and for our first responders who protect us here at home. Honoring Jack Gilley

Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jack Calvin Gilley of Stratford, Texas, who passed away on May 9, 2015. As a teacher and principal for 34 years, Mr. Gilley touched the lives of hundreds of students and schools throughout Oklahoma and the Texas Panhandle. I was fortunate enough to have Mr. Gilley as a principal during my time at Stratford Middle School. Jack Gilley was born in Dawson County, Texas, in 1924. He proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II as a torpedoman on the USS Stockdale. He attended Panhandle A&M College on basketball and baseball scholarships. Additionally, he received his master's in education from West Texas State University in 1963. In 1951, Jack married Donna Mal Oldaker. They were married for nearly 59 years, until her passing in 2010. Donna and Jack had four daughters and were blessed with one granddaughter. After retiring from teaching, Jack began his secondary profession of painting houses, refinishing furniture, and carpentry. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Stratford, as well as a member of the American Legion Post 262. He loved hunting pheasant and quail; eating breakfast and drinking coffee with his friends at the local cafe; and all things rodeo and all things sports, especially Duke basketball. Mr. Speaker, Jack Gilley impacted many lives, including mine, as an educator and as a mentor. He will be greatly missed and long remembered as a loving husband, a father, a grandfather, and a friend. My wife, Gina, and I offer our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the Gilley family, and we lift up the family and friends of Jack Gilley in our prayers. Mr. Speaker, as I close, I ask that all Americans continue to pray for our country, for our military men and women who protect us from external threats, and for our first responders who protect us here at home. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FLORES

Mr. FLORES. I thank Chairman Calvert for his work on this bill. Madam Chair, I want to set the record straight. In the year 2000, Congress did pass a bill during the 106th Congress to create an ocean commission to review and to make recommendations. Yes, President Bush did appoint persons to that commission. They did make those recommendations, and those recommendations were submitted to Congress. Since then, those recommendations have been reviewed by the 108th, the 109th, the 110th, and the 111th Congresses, and each of those Congresses decided that no action should be taken. What happened here is the President decided to go into the Article I powers, which are reserved for Congress, and to do what Congress does not intend to have done, which is to have an ocean zoning commission built from dozens of agencies. They have never asked for an appropriations for this activity, and there is no lawful basis for the activity to exist. The President's executive order is basically violating the statutes that have been passed by Congress, and it is also violating the Constitution. The language that is in the appropriations bill should remain as it is. Congress has voted seven times on this language, and it has passed all seven times on a bipartisan basis. The other side is that of basically trying to undo what Congress has said it wants to do seven times on a bipartisan basis.