Member of Congress

Greg Gianforte

Role
Former Representative
State
MT
Party
Republican

Speeches

RECOGNIZING GREGORY GROVE FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-18

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Gregory Grove of Eureka, a recipient of the 2019 Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to his country and leadership in his community. Mr. Grove is a veteran of the United States Navy. He served from 1983 to 1984 as a Diesel Engine Technician. Mr. Grove is best known for his coaching of the local Special Olympics team. His passion and dedication to children has made a huge impact in the community. Mr. Grove leads with a tender heart and truly loves being a positive influence on our youth. He has been involved with the Big Brothers program, Boy Scouts, 4-H, and coached Little League baseball. For ten years he has coached for Special Olympics. He's also an incredible Santa Claus. If you saw Mr. Grove, you could tell why his smile makes every little face he sees light up during Christmas time. He is also a member of American Legion Eureka Post No. 74 and plays an important role in the Highway Fatality Marker program in Lincoln County. I ask my colleagues to join me today in commending Gregory Grove for his service to his country and community.

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RECOGNIZING JUSTIN BRADLEY FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-18

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Justin Bradley of Lolo for the Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to his country and his service to his community. Mr. Bradley is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps from 2001 to 2006 serving in Operation Enduring Freedom in the Philippines and Afghanistan with two additional deployments to Japan. He received multiple commendations during his time in the Marines, including the Combat Action Ribbon, a NATO Ribbon, and the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal. Following his service in the Marine Corps, he returned to serve his community at the Department of Corrections in the Probation and Parole Division. There, he has dedicated himself to the protection of the community through accountability and never complaining about the long hours. In addition to this role, he works closely with the Missoula County Sherriff Crime Task Force, the High Intensity Drug Task Force, and the U.S. Marshalls. Mr. Bradley is known to help fellow officers individually in developing proper firearm safety, as well as self- protection for when they are on the job. I ask my colleagues to join me today in commending Justin Bradley for his service and his dedication to his community.

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RECOGNIZING WILLIAM WHITE FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-14

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize William White of Helena for the Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to his country and community. Mr. White served in the U.S. Army for over 25 years, spanning from Vietnam to the Gulf Wars. He received multiple commendations during his time in the Army, including the Legion of Merit. Mr. White has continued to serve his community. Volunteering at Fort Harrison Veterans Hospital, Mr. White has accumulated over 9500 hours serving in the office and as a driver. For his efforts, he earned a Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. Additionally, he is an active member of the American Legion, serving as Post Commander for Post No. 2 in Helena, as the VA Volunteer Services Coordinator for the American Legion of Montana, and serves on the National Veterans Affairs Rehabilitation Commission. I ask my colleagues to join me today in commending William White for his service to his country and community.

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RECOGNIZING PERRY MILLER FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-14

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Perry Miller of Chinook for the Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to his country and dedication to his community. Mr. Miller served in both the U.S. Marines and the Montana Army National Guard. During his combined 12 years of service, Mr. Miller deployed overseas and received multiple commendations, including the Meritorious Service award. Following his service, Mr. Miller became active in the community. He currently serves as a Judge and the Justice of Peace for Blaine County. Outside of his work, Mr. Miller has coached youth baseball, football, and wrestling, bringing many teams to state and individual championships. Through the VFW Post 4620, he volunteers for Memorial Day and Veterans Day services. Mr. Miller is also active in his church, teaching CCD class to high schoolers. I ask my colleagues to join me today in commending Perry Miller for his dedication and service to his community.

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RECOGNIZING KAREN SEMPLE FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-14

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Karen Semple of Montana City for the Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for her service and dedication to her community. Ms. Semple served in the United States Air Force for almost a decade. Ms. Semple received multiple commendations during her time in the Air Force and continued to serve her community when she returned home. Ms. Semple has served her community as a chaplain for various veteran groups and fire departments. In her role with the American Legion, she has led training for other chaplains to have the tools necessary to minister to veterans with moral injury, PTSD, and suicide ideation. In addition, Ms. Semple serves as a volunteer firefighter, and the American Legion of Montana Disaster Emergency Response Coordinator. I ask my colleagues to join me today in commending Karen Semple for her dedication and service to her community.

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RECOGNIZING LYNNE AND MYRON MALNAA OF GLASGOW2019-11-14

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Lynne and Myron Malnaa of Glasgow for their dedication to and compassion for Montana's children. After her eldest daughter graduated from high school and with their son and Myron rodeoing, Lynne felt like she had an empty nest, and she says she found her quiet house unsettling. One day Lynne, who ran a daycare out of their home for 25 years, got a call that changed her life. She was told there were a few desperate kids who needed a home right away. Lynne instantly stepped up and took them in. It happened so quickly, Myron, a law enforcement officer for 25 years, says he doesn't even remember Lynne talking to him about taking on such a big responsibility. Lynne says she did. Since that day 18 years ago, the Malnaas continue to provide a safe haven for many kids in need. They have welcomed more than 150 foster children into their home, embracing them with the unconditional love they need. Lynne and Myron nurture and care for the kids, who come to them from various backgrounds. They watch them grow and give the opportunity to let the kids be kids. Lynne and Myron have also adopted two children and are guardians to another. For their commitment to Montana's children, Lynne and Myron were recognized recently as 2019 Angels in Adoption honorees. Madam Speaker, for freely giving over 150 foster children unconditional love and a home, I recognize Lynne and Myron Malnaa for their Spirit of Montana.

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RECOGNIZING LE GAUB FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-14

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Le Gaub of Bozeman, a recipient of the 2019 Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to his country and leadership in his community. Mr. Gaub is a veteran of the U.S. Army. In his distinguished service from 1972 to 2003, He earned multiple commendations, including the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal, Reserve Component Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Armed Forces Reserve Medal. Serving his community through Troops to Teachers, Mr. Gaub works as a program manager to secure funding for military veterans seeking to transition to careers in K-12 education. He is a friendly face around many schools in Montana and in veteran support groups and nonprofits where he invests much of his time. Since his start with the Troops to Teachers program, he has helped bring in a substantial amount of grants ensuring its success. I ask colleagues to join me today in commending Le Gaub for his dedication and service.

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RECOGNIZING MARY LAFORGE FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-14

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mary LaForge of Crow Agency for the Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for her service to her country and service to fellow veterans at Crow Agency. Ms. LaForge served in the United States Air Force as a reprographic specialist. She received multiple commendation during her time in the Air Force, including the Air Force Overseas Service Ribbon and the Good Conduct Medal. At the Crow Agency, Ms. LaForge has played a large role in providing many services to her fellow veterans. She coordinated with the Billings Vet Center to ensure mental health services are provided to Crow Agency veterans, assisted others with enrolling in programs with the Department of Veteran Affairs, and brought veteran employment fairs and job opportunities to the agency. Additionally, she placed a key role in organizing the Yellowstone Homeless Veterans Stand Down. I ask my colleagues to join me today in commending Mary LaForge for her dedication and service to her country and community.

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RECOGNIZING RICHARD KLOSE SENIOR FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-14

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Richard Klose Senior of Laurel, a recipient of the 2019 Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to his country and leadership in his community. Mr. Klose is a veteran of the United States Army. He served from 1961 to 1964 in the 3rd Brigade 4th Armored Division and attained the rank of Sergeant. Serving the community of Laurel for 12 years, Mr. Klose volunteers at the Laurel Senior Center as a board member and a volunteer driver. He has also served on the Yellowstone County Adult Resource Alliance for seven years. For the last five years, Mr. Klose has served as vice president of the Friends of the Yellowstone National Cemetery. Mr. Klose is a prominent member of the Montana American Legion. He has been the Department of Montana Commander, the District 11 Adjutant, and Laurel's Post No. 123 Commander. Mr. Klose is dedicated to the post's Funeral Honors detail where he has participated in 85 percent of all funerals conducted at the Yellowstone National Cemetery. I ask my colleagues to join me today in commending Richard Klose Senior for his dedication and service.

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RECOGNIZING ROLAND HEATON FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-14

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Roland Heaton of Townsend for the Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to his country and dedication to the community. Mr. Heaton served in the U.S. Army as a maintenance technician in Vietnam and Japan. He received multiple commendations for his service, including the Good Conduct Medal and the Vietnam Campaign award. Mr. Heaton's heart to serve lead him to create a project that generates funding to assist the community's first responders with the purchase of non-budget equipment. This allows them to better serve the community. Since it was created, it has raised over $15,000 to purchase the needed equipment. Additionally, Mr. Heaton serves on the board of the county food bank and volunteers there regularly. I ask my colleagues to join me today in commending Roland Heaton for his service and dedication.

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RECOGNIZING HERBERT COGLEY FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-14

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Herbert Cogley of Clancy for the Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to his country and community. Mr. Cogley served with the U.S. Army in Vietnam as a combat engineer with the 101st Airborne Division. He received multiple commendations during his time, including the Bronze Star and Army Commendation Medal. Following his return home, Mr. Cogley helped build the VFW Hall in his hometown of Jordan, Montana. He continues to be a part of the VFW through volunteering and performing with the Honor Guard at veteran funerals. Over the years, he has also been involved in Habitat for Humanity, coordinating the building of several homes in Helena. In addition, Mr. Cogley volunteers with the Montana Military Museum at Fort Harrison and helps build displays. I ask my colleagues to join me today in commending Herbert Cogley for his service to his country and community.

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RECOGNIZING HAROLD RIENSCHE FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-13

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Harold Riensche Senior of Reed Point, a recipient of the 2019 Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to his county and leadership in his community. Mr. Riensche is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. He is a Vietnam veteran who served in the 3rd Tank Battalion, 3rd Marine Division earning awards like the Navy Cross, and attaining the rank of Master Gunnery Sergeant. During the Vietnam War, Mr. Riensche and his crew were assigned to recover a disabled tank. During this mission, their vehicle detonated a mine. While repairing their vehicle, the Marines came under heavy fire. In an instant, two of Staff Sergeant Riensche's crew were killed and two others were wounded leaving him alone to defend his injured crew and damaged vehicle. With the help of a few grenades and unmatched bravery, Mr. Riensche was able to fight off the Northern Vietnamese soldiers by himself until backup arrived. His quick action and heroism saved the lives of his two fellow Marines. After completing his military service, Mr. Riensche served as a member of the Stillwater County Weed control Board and President of the local community landowner's association. His friends and neighbors say Mr. Riensche never hesitates to help when asked upon. I ask my colleagues to join me today in commending Harold Riensche Senior for his dedication and service.

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RECOGNIZING QUINTIN STEPHEN-HASSARD FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-13

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Quintin Stephen-Hassard of Dillon for the Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to his country and his service in the community. Mr. Stephen-Hassard is a U.S. Navy veteran and served in Vietnam. Mr. Stephen-Hassard received multiple commendations during his time in the Navy including the National Defense Medal, and the Navy Commendation Medal with Combat V device. Mr. Stephen-Hassard has been a leader in the American Legion Beaverhead Post 20, including leading the research and development of the new Veterans Monument to replace one destroyed in a storm. He serves on the color and honor guard for public event and works with the Legion Community Hospital Equipment Loan Program. Mr. Stephen-Hassard also presents a year-long Ocean Science Program in the community. I ask my colleagues to join me today in commending Quintin Stephen- Hassard for his service to his country and community.

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RECOGNIZING ADELINE MITCHELL FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-13

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Adeline Mitchell of Glasgow for the Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for her service to her country and community. Ms. Mitchell is a veteran of the United States Navy, serving in World War II. She has decades of service in the community, and has exemplified the term, ``the greatest generation'' with her patriotism. Following her time in the Navy, Ms. Mitchell dedicated her time to supporting veterans through the VFW Auxiliary for 76 years and to the American Legion Auxiliary for 72 years. During her time, she volunteered in various veteran's homes and Fort Harrison. Ms. Mitchell also volunteered at the local Ronald McDonald House and local group homes as well as with the Head Start program. I ask my colleagues to join me today in commending Adeline Mitchell for her service to her country and her community.

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RECOGNIZING JUSTIN MADILL FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-13

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Justin Madill of Great Falls, a recipient of the 2019 Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to his country and leadership in his community. Dr. Madill served in the United States Army from 2004 to 2013 as a member of the medical corps attaining the rank of Major. He is a veteran of the 101st Combat Aviation Bridge for Operation Enduring Freedom where he earned the Air Medal with Valor Device, the Bronze Star, and the Meritorious Service Medal. While serving in Afghanistan during the Battle of Want, Dr. Madill extracted the wounded Staff Seargent General Ryan Pitts on July 13, 2008. Staff Seargent General Pitts was later the recipient of the Medal of Honor for his actions. Dr. Madill was a guest of the President of the United States at the Medal of Honor ceremony. Since returning to Montana, Dr. Madill works as an emergency physician in Great Falls where he's delivered care to thousands of Montanans. He continues to create special bonds with his patients both veteran and non-veteran where he receives numerous thank you cards for his care and compassion. I ask my colleagues to join me today in commending Justin Madill for his dedication and service.

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RECOGNIZING THOMAS GOYETTE FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-13

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Thomas Goyette of Butte, a recipient of the 2019 Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to his country and leadership in his community. Mr. Goyette is a veteran of the United States Navy. He served from 1967 to 1970 during the Vietnam War earning the National Defense Service Award, Navy Unit Commendation, Vietnam Service Award and RVN Gallantry Cross Unit Citation, and attained the rank of Petty Officer 3rd Class. Serving his community as a volunteer for the American Legion, his local VFW and the United Veterans Council, Mr. Goyette has dedicated in his life to helping others. He's spent more than 20 years serving rural communities working as a registered nurse and volunteering with the local ambulance services. It's hard to find a rural community Mr. Goyette hasn't volunteered in. He's also provided many hours in continuing education services for ambulance crews around the state of Montana. Mr. Goyette also has been the coordinator for his local Honor Guard for several years where he communicates with funeral directors and personnel to make sure fallen officers and retired officers are given the respect they deserve. I ask my colleagues to join me today in commending Thomas Goyette for his dedication and service.

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RECOGNIZING DALE LONGFELLOW FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-13

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dale Longfellow of Hobson, a recipient of the 2019 Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to his country and leadership in his community. Mr. Longfellow is a veteran of the United States Navy. He served from 1961 to 1964 with distinction on the USS Coral Sea CV 43 aircraft carrier. During his enlistment Dale earned nominations to the United States Naval Academy and the Merchant Marine Academy and attained the rank of Petty Officer Second Class. Mr. Longfellow has served his community in many ways. As a volunteer emergency medical technician, as mayor of Hobson, and as a dynamic businessman who for many years employed numerous people in the community. Mr. Longfellow is known as the person you go to for advice and the one you call if you're in a crisis. Those who know Mr. Longfellow use words like upright, moral and compassionate to describe him. He is a role model to his children and everyone else in his community. I ask my colleagues to join me today in commending Dale Longfellow for his dedication and service.

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RECOGNIZING JAMES GEIGER FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-13

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize James Geiger of Conrad, a recipient of the 2019 Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to his country and leadership in his community. Mr. Geiger was a member of the United States Army Air Corps during World War II. He served from 1942 to 1948 in the 303rd Bomb Group and 360th Squadron and earned the Air Medal with six oak leaf clusters along with Service Medals in the European, Asiatic and American theaters. Mr. Geiger attained the rank of First Lieutenant. Mr. Geiger was a B-17 pilot during World War II. During one of his crew's missions, the navigator and turret gunner were wounded. During the chaos, Geiger turned the controls over to his co-pilot and went to give first aid to his crew. Mr. Geiger kept them from bleeding out and saved their lives. He is a true hero who went above and beyond the call of duty to serve his fellow man and country. Mr. Geiger has served on the Church Council for the United Methodist Church, the Pondera Medical Center Hospital Board and is a member of the American Legion. He is a well-respected and adored member of his community. I ask my colleagues to join me today in commending James Geiger for his dedication and service.

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RECOGNIZING DANIEL FLYNN FOR THE 2019 MONTANA CONGRESSIONAL VETERAN COMMENDATION2019-11-13

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Daniel Flynn of Belgrade, a recipient of the 2019 Montana Congressional Veteran Commendation for his service to his country and leadership in his community. Mr. Flynn has served in the United States Army for over 15 years. In that time, he has earned a total of 12 medals and awards including the Bronze Star and Joint Service Commendation Medal, attaining the rank of Chief Warrant Officer III. In his service to both his country and the state of Montana Mr. Flynn has completed three tours of duty in the Middle East for Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Freedom's Sentinel. During his tours, he travelled thousands of miles where he routinely put himself in danger to protect others. Today, we honor and thank Mr. Flynn for his bravery. In the community Mr. Flynn has even helped the police apprehend a shoplifter. He is a father of two and his family is proud of his commitment and sacrifice to our great country. I ask my colleagues to join me today in commending Daniel Flynn for his dedication and service.

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RECOGNIZING LYNNE AND MYRON MALNAA2019-11-12

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, Lynne and Myron Malnaa of Glasgow, Montana are a shining example of dedication and compassion. For 18 years they have been active in the Montana foster care system, welcoming children into their home anywhere from overnight to 14 years. During this time, they have adopted two children and are the guardians to another. Lynne ran a daycare from her home for 25 years before she devoted nearly 15 years to the State of Montana Office of Public Assistance. Myron served our state as a law enforcement officer for 25 years. Together, their experiences helped them provide a safe haven, day or night, for more than 150 frightened and neglected children in need of care and love, which they have given so freely and unconditionally. We can all learn from Lynne and Myron's decades of kindness and generosity. I am pleased to recognize Lynne and Myron Malnaa as 2019 Angels in Adoption Honorees.

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RECOGNIZING ZIGGY AND STELLA ZIEGLER OF BILLINGS2019-10-28

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Ziggy and Stella Ziegler of Billings for their decades of selflessly helping people find a second chance in life. For more than 40 years, Ziggy and Stella owned and operated Stella's Kitchen and Bakery in Billings. Their establishment created a downtown buzz where every weekend you can find a line out the door of people waiting to eat a delicious breakfast. Their restaurant won a 2018 Billings Gazette Readers' Choice for Best Breakfast and Best Bakery. Recently retired, Ziggy and Stella were honored with this year's Billings Chamber Legacy Award for their dedication to the city. While their business success is well documented, it's the Zieglers' work in their community that sets them apart. In 1973, when Ziggy was young, his father was murdered. Instead of reacting in anger, Ziggy used that tragedy to fuel his passion for serving others. He dedicated his life to helping prisoners find fruitful, meaningful lives during and after incarceration. For the last 40 years, Ziggy has traveled to prisons and halfway houses throughout Montana. In those cell blocks and rehabilitation rooms, Ziggy offers spiritual guidance, be it a passage of scripture or a prayer. He also helps those incarcerated or formerly incarcerated develop their self-esteem, encouraging them realize their worth. Ziggy has helped hundreds of men and women find a plan for life after incarceration. That's where Stella stepped in to complete the ministry. Stella oversaw the day-to-day operations of the Ziegler's bakery, including hiring workers. Collaborating with the prison ministry, Stella filled many of open jobs with former inmates. The employment provided those reentering society with structure and a community. Stella's reach goes beyond her bakery. She was instrumental in building the new St. Francis Catholic Elementary School and remodeling St. Patrick's Co-Cathedral in Billings. Even after retiring, Stella continues to help her community as she serves on boards and leadership committees. Madam Speaker, for their business successes and ministerial impact to help build a better path for those reentering society, I recognize Ziggy and Stella Ziegler of Billings for their Spirit of Montana.

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PUBLIC DISCLOSURE OF DRUG DISCOUNTS AND REAL-TIME BENEFICIARY DRUG COST ACT2019-10-28

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Far too many Montanans can't afford the prescription drugs they need. They shouldn't have to leave the pharmacy counter empty-handed because costs are too high. Montanans need access to affordable medications, which is why reducing drug prices is one of my top priorities. To lower costs, we need more transparency in our healthcare system. We need to shine a light onto the opaque drug pricing process. Our commonsense, bipartisan bill before the House today will shine that much-needed light. The Payment Commission Data Act gives Congress' nonpartisan think tanks MedPAC and MACPAC greater access to drug pricing data. Armed with this data, they can better advise Congress about who is being a bad actor in the drug supply chain. It will help Congress address prescription drug prices more effectively. We all want to ensure the American people can buy more affordable prescription drugs. I believe the bipartisan approach we have here should be a working model for how to move forward, not simply ramming through partisan bills. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this commonsense reform to lower drug prices.

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THE NATION'S CATTLE MARKETS2019-10-22

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring attention to the state of our Nation's cattle markets. Following the August fire at Tyson's beef packing plant in Holcomb, Kansas, live cattle prices hit a 5-year low. At the same time, retail beef prices rose. It makes sense: if you can process less cattle, then there is an oversupply in the live cattle market and less processed beef, which increases retail beef prices. But the Holcomb processing plant represented only 5 percent of America's processing capacity, and yet live cattle prices fell 11 percent, while retail prices hit their highest levels since 2015. I asked Secretary Perdue to investigate the cattle market following the Holcomb fire, and he agreed. The USDA expects the investigation to wrap up by the end of this year. Mr. Speaker, I urge the House to do the right thing by America's ranchers and also to look into this cattle market. Montana ranchers produce the world's best beef, but current conditions in the market are hurting them. They deserve an explanation and to be treated fairly. I look forward to a full accounting of the cattle market.

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JEANNETTE RANKIN POST OFFICE BUILDING2019-10-16

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of my bill, H.R. 1972, to rename the post office at 1100 West Kent Avenue in Missoula as the Jeannette Rankin Post Office Building. Born and raised in Montana, Jeannette Rankin was a principled, fearless leader who paved the way for women in public service. She was a fierce proponent for women's suffrage. She led the successful campaign to secure the right to vote for women in Montana 6 years before ratification of the 19th Amendment that granted women the right to vote throughout our country. Her dedication to public service did not stop with advocating for women's suffrage. Two years after Montana enfranchised women, Montanans elected Rankin to the U.S. Congress. She became the first woman ever to serve in this body. Jeannette Rankin was a trailblazer for women's rights in our Nation. It is an honor to recognize her and her lasting contributions to our country. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring Jeannette Rankin by renaming the post office in her hometown of Missoula, Montana, in her memory.

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MISSING AND MURDERED INDIGENOUS WOMEN2019-10-16

Mr. GIANFORTE

Mr. GIANFORTE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Washington for yielding. Mr. Newhouse has been a leader in responding to the crisis of missing and murdered indigenous women, and for that I thank him for his leadership. In late August, Kaysera Stops Pretty Places who just turned 18, was supposed to join her mother to see a relative in North Dakota. She didn't make it. She disappeared. No one could reach her. Days later, her body was found besides a woodpile in Hardin, Montana. The circumstances surrounding her disappearance and death remain a mystery. Hers is one story of far too many. This tragic epidemic must end. These are our sisters, our daughters, and our granddaughters. Their cases often do not receive the attention they deserve. Their families deserve justice. Over the past months, I have met with Montanans in each of our 56 counties, and in the eight recognized Tribal governments. I have often heard of the challenges faced to address this crisis. We must do better. When someone goes missing, time is of the essence. Improving cooperation amongst local, State, Tribal, and Federal Governments is critical. I heard over and over of the challenges in delays in performing background checks for applicants to Tribal law enforcement. In one recent visit, Tribal leadership at one reservation shared with me that only 4 of their 14 law enforcement positions were currently filled, preventing them from effectively implementing the law on the reservation. The BADGES for Native Communities Act, which I cosponsor with the gentleman from Washington, speeds up that process with the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The legislation also improves information sharing and reporting between Federal and Tribal law enforcement. The BADGES for Native Communities Act also builds on Savanna's Act, which I also cosponsor with the gentleman from Washington. Savanna's Act addresses this epidemic by issuing new guidelines for investigating cases of missing and murdered indigenous women. I urge the committees of jurisdiction to consider the BADGES for Native American Communities Act, and I urge House leaders to bring up the bill for a vote. Finally, at a time when we should be dedicating our time and resources to this crisis, the Federal Government shouldn't stretch itself too thin. For 5 years, the FBI dedicated a full-time agent to combating human trafficking. The Bureau recently announced that it would divide that agent's time between human trafficking and Indian Country. In September, I urged the FBI Director to dedicate a full-time agent to addressing human trafficking, and another agent to fighting crime in Indian Country. The FBI should allow each full-time agent to dedicate his or her time, attention, and resources solely to his or her unique, pressing law enforcement challenge. At this critical juncture, now is not the time to be penny wise and pound foolish. There is more we must do for Kaysera Stops Pretty Places and thousands of missing indigenous women across our country. I thank Mr. Newhouse and all of my colleagues for their help in bringing needed attention to this serious issue.

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