Blaine Luetkemeyer

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Franklin County 4-H for 75 years of excellence. The Franklin County 4-H organization originated with 10 members in 1935, and has grown into the largest 4-H organization in the state, with 20 4-H clubs and 700 members. The members are led by over 300 adult and teen volunteer leaders. 4-H engages youth to reach their fullest potential, while advancing the field of youth development in four different areas of focus: head, heart, hands, and health. During the 75 year history, 52 adult volunteers have served for 20 or more years, 9 of whom have served for 30 or more years, a true testament to this important program. In its 75th year, the tradition of 4-H still remains strong throughout Franklin county. I would like to take this time to commend Franklin County 4-H for all their hard work, and I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing them for a job well done.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Gasconade County 4-H for 75 years of excellence. The original Gasconade County 4-H organization started with the ideas and planning of only 10 individuals. Since its inception in 1935, the Gasconade County 4-H has expanded and now includes 11 4-H clubs, 230 members, and 107 volunteers. The Gasconade County 4-H engages youth to reach their fullest potential, while advancing the field of youth development in four different areas of focus: head, heart, hands, and health. Through their hands-on learning, these young members build their leadership capabilities and expand their skills which enable them to be proactive forces in their communities and prepare for their future endeavors. In its 75th year, the tradition of 4-H still remains strong throughout Gasconade County. I congratulate the men and women who continue to advance this important cause, which has had such a positive effect on our youth and on our community. I am extremely proud. I also encourage more youth to participate in 4-H and other such programs that empower them to reach their full potential. I join the rest of the 9th Congressional District when I wish you all continued success and another 75 years of excellence! I would like to take this time to commend Gasconade County 4-H for all their hard work, and I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing them for a job well done!

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Charlie Kruse, President of the Missouri Farm Bureau, who is retiring after 18 years of service. Charlie is a proud native of Stoddard County where he and his wife own and operate a grain farm. He is a graduate of Arkansas State University and the University of Missouri, where he earned his master of science in agronomy in 1973. Recognizing Charlie's exceptional talent and commitment to agriculture, Missouri Governor John Ashcroft appointed him director of the Missouri Department of Agriculture in 1985. In 1990, Kruse served on President George Bush's Council on Rural America, the only Missourian named to the Council. He also served on U.S. Trade Representative Carla Hills' Intergovernmental Advisory Committee and on USDA's Federal Grain Inspection Service Advisory Committee. In 1991, Kruse accepted the position of executive vice president of the North American Equipment Dealers Association, and resigned that position in August 1992 to seek the presidency of Missouri Farm Bureau. In his 18 years as president of the Missouri Farm Bureau, Kruse has helped countless Missouri farmers who have reaped the benefits of his advocacy. The Missouri Farm Bureau is losing a capable and experienced leader whose tireless efforts have served to benefit all of our State's citizens, including me. During his tenure, Missouri Farm Bureau has seen tremendous growth in membership from 77,000 to over 108,000 farm families. The accomplishments during Charlie Kruse's career are far too numerous to list. We are thankful for his efforts not only at the local and State levels but also the Federal level. From his testimony before Congress to his many advisory positions at USDA and involvement with the most recent farm bill, Charlie's unwavering support for sound and responsible agricultural policy serves as a model to everyone in the industry. Charlie has so much to be proud of beyond his accomplishments in the policy arena. Missouri cannot thank him enough for his service in the Missouri National Guard and to the University of Missouri. I would like to take this opportunity to express my personal gratitude for all that he has given. As he returns home to Stoddard County, Charlie can do so with great pride, knowing that in the span of his career he has accomplished so much and helped so many. While he will be missed, I wish him the very best that retirement has to offer. In closing, Madam Speaker, I ask all my colleagues to join me in congratulating Charlie Kruse for his service to the State of Missouri and to American agriculture.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Eldon High School's FFA Parliamentary Procedure Team. On October 23, 2010 at the 83rd National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, IN, the Eldon High School FFA Parliamentary Procedure Team won its first national championship. The members of the championship winning team each received a scholarship to further their education at a post- secondary institution of their choice. The Eldon High FFA Parliamentary Procedure Team consists of seniors Payton Atteberry, who also holds the distinction of winning the Outstanding Chairman Award, Jill Blankenship, Cole Griffith, Kelsi Mueller, Arika Myers, and Abbey Thomas. The Eldon team competed against 44 teams from across the nation. This competition tests students' ability to effectively communicate ideas during a meeting. Components included a general knowledge exam of parliamentary law, a ten-minute demonstration of parliamentary procedure, oral questions, and written minutes of the demonstration. These six gifted young men and women were prepared and focused, due to their dedicated advisor, Eldon High School Agriculture teacher Matt Biddle, who trained and supported the team. Each student received $1,000 and a plaque in recognition of this event. I ask that you join me in recognizing the Eldon High School's FFA Parliamentary Procedure Team for a job well done. These students and all the other students who participated in the annual convention should be commended for their commitment to the future of agriculture.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Allan W. Purdy, the founding president of the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA). On October 13, 2010, this strong advocate for higher education passed away at 96. He dedicated his life to removing financial barriers to education and helping students access awards, scholarships, and financial aid. Purdy's life experiences strongly influenced his passion for financial aid and serving students. He graduated from high school in the middle of the Great Depression and worked his way through college with the help of the National Youth Administration, a newly created national work program for students. He earned a mere $15 a month, which paid for his graduate degree from the College of Agriculture at the University of Missouri. After graduation, Purdy served his country in the U.S. Navy as a PT boat captain during World War II. After the war, he returned to the University of Missouri to work as an extension horticulturist. In this position, he toured the state helping farmers resolve problems with their crops. Here, he saw firsthand the number of qualified students who lacked the financial resources to attend college and vowed to advocate on their behalf for more grants and work aid. The University of Missouri's president promoted him to assistant to the dean of the College of Agriculture, which led to his role in creating a department in the president's office to coordinate scholarships, jobs, and loans for all the students on campus. Under the direction of the University of Missouri's president, Purdy began meeting with other aid administrators in the Midwest and helped form the Midwest Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators in 1962. During this time, Congress was working on student aid issues and looked to the six regional, financial associations for suggestions. In hope of creating a more unified voice, Purdy strongly advocated for a national structure. In 1966, the regional representatives created the National Student Financial Aid Council, and Allan Purdy served as its chair for three years. It became NASFAA in 1969 and has always stressed the importance and needs of students. A large part of the organization's success is attributed to Purdy's tireless efforts and ability to build strong relationships with key policymakers and higher education advocates. He developed a reputation for being an excellent witness at congressional hearings and established NASFAA as a trusted resource for financial aid information. In 1975, Purdy received the first Lifetime Membership Award, the highest award that NASFAA can bestow. He retired in 1979 and was appointed to the Missouri Higher Education Loan Authority's (MOHELA's) Board of Directors in 1981. We have lost an irreplaceable advocate for college access and success. I believe educating our youth is one of the most important aspects in equipping our children with the necessary tools to succeed. Madam Speaker, I ask all my colleagues to join me in acknowledging Allan Purdy and his efforts to reduce barriers to higher education.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Bugeye Technologies, Inc., located in Pacific Missouri, for their efforts in upgrading the AS9100 Quality Management System Registration. Bugeye Technologies is a leading provider of replicated hardware for the simulation industry, and produces flight controls, visual display systems and simulated cockpits for military applications. Bugeye Technologies recent upgrade will increase productivity and enhance their competitive position in the global marketplace. This upgrade will also benefit the Ninth Congressional district and Missouri by spurring local economic development by creating and sustaining manufacturing jobs. I would like to take this time to commend Bugeye Technologies for all their hard work, and I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing Bugeye Technologies, Inc., for a job well done.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jim Ringland of Holts Summit, MO, who received the Silver Order of Saint Philip of Neri Award for his service in the United States Special Forces. Mr. Ringland served in the Special Forces for 26 years and has been a member of the Special Forces Association for 40 years. The award is presented to those who are ``selfless, superb teachers and inspirational leaders'', the qualities of an ideal Special Forces soldier. Mr. Ringland received this honor due in large part to his exemplary performance as a teacher in the Green Berets, where he trained soldiers in areas such as psychological warfare, survival, and unconventional warfare. The Silver Order of Saint Philip of Neri Award has only been given to 10 people before Mr. Ringland. Our country has been blessed to have citizens who have selflessly volunteered to defend our nation and freedom. They are the reason why we are the strongest nation on Earth, and the reason we stand today with freedom unparalleled across the globe. Without our nation's veterans and military men and women, and men like Jim Ringland, we would not have the rights and privileges that we as Americans enjoy today.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dennis Cupp, the former Chief of Police in Moberly, Missouri, who retired after 30 years of service to the city. Over the course of his storied career, Lieutenant Colonel Cupp has compiled an impressive resume of accomplishments and accolades. Lt. Colonel Cupp has received training from a number of prestigious institutions including the Harry S. Truman Police Academy, the University of Missouri, and the Missouri Police Chiefs Association. It should also be noted that Lt. Colonel Cupp graduated from the 127 class of Police Management School, School of Police Staff & Command, which is nationally recognized. Lt. Colonel Cupp is the regional vice president of the Missouri Police Chiefs Association. He is a member of Missouri and International Association of Chiefs of Police. He also serves the community in other ways as well. He has recently served in the role of region 4 coordinator for the Law Enforcement Torch Run for the Special Olympics. In closing, Madam Speaker, I ask all my colleagues to join me in congratulating Lt. Colonel David Cupp for his service to the city of Moberly and the State of Missouri.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, hardworking individuals and entrepreneurs have always been the life blood of our economy. They create jobs. They spur innovation. They have made the American free enterprise system the envy of the world. As Americans, we all understand that if you work hard you can be successful. Unfortunately, that spirit appears to be undergoing a fundamental transformation in which government comes before the spirit of free enterprise. The trend began early in 2009 when the government passed the so- called ''stimulus package'' that was supposed to boost the economy and keep unemployment under 8 percent. More than a year after stimulus, unemployment remains well above 9 percent. Around this country there is an atmosphere of uncertainty caused by Washington's anti-worker agenda. New taxes, mandates, and regulations in countless new laws and proposed laws are threatening to strangle our Nation's entrepreneurs and workers. As I travel around my district, a prevailing feeling of uncertainty about what lies ahead has made employers hesitant to create new jobs; and until this fear and uncertainty about the future is allayed, the American people will continue to wonder and ask the question: Where are the jobs?

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Marsha Tyson for receiving the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) on June 7th. Ms. Tyson should be commended for her hard work and dedication to the students and community in her school district. The PAEMST is a prestigious award and we are proud that she is representing our great state of Missouri and the 9th District. Advancement in the fields of mathematics and science are integral to the development and competitiveness of America in the future. I am honored to congratulate Ms. Tyson on her outstanding achievement. It is critical for the future of our country that students have access to a quality education. Without excellent teachers, our schools fail our students and communities. Ms. Tyson exemplifies what it means to be an excellent teacher and her dedication to her students and community is worthy of high praise. I ask that you join me in recognizing Marsha Tyson for her excellence in the field of science education.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Darwin Hindman, the former mayor of Columbia, Missouri, who retired after 15 years of public service, thus becoming the longest-serving mayor in the city's history. Over the course of his storied career, Mayor Hindman left a significant mark on Columbia's park system by creating Stephens Lake, Flat Branch, and the new South East Regional Park. During his tenure, Columbia grew to over 100,000 residents and saw its downtown greatly improved. Also, as an avid bicyclist, Mayor Hindman transformed Columbia into a more bike-friendly community. It should also be noted that Mayor Hindman has been a great advocate for healthy living and has won numerous awards for his efforts, including the Leadership for Healthy Communities Award in 2009. In addition, Mayor Hindman is a past recipient of the Columbia Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Citizen of the Year, University of Missouri Faculty Alumni, Chevron Times Mirror Publications Citizen Conservation, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Memorial Association, and MU College of Arts and Science Distinguished Alumnus awards. Mayor Darwin Hindman is supported by his wife, Axie, children Skip and Ellen, and four grandchildren. Mayor Hindman served two tours of active duty as a pilot in the U.S. Air Force. In closing, Madam Speaker, I ask all my colleagues to join me in congratulating former Mayor Darwin Hindman for his service to the city of Columbia.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Madam Speaker, on Monday, June 14, 2010, I missed rollcall vote No. 355 due to a flight delay. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall vote No. 355, to pass House Resolution 1368, supporting the goals of National Dairy Month, a resolution of which I am a cosponsor.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the recently passed House Resolution 1383 honoring Dr. Larry Case for his 26 years of service as National FFA Advisor. On January 1, 2011, Dr. Case will retire after 26 years as National FFA Advisor at the U.S. Department of Education. Dr. Case, a Missouri native and former high school agricultural education instructor, earned his bachelor's degree, master's degree, and doctorate from the University of Missouri and has since served in numerous positions including CEO and chairman of the board of the National FFA organization, chairman of the board for the National Postsecondary Student Organization, and national advisor to the National Young Farmer Education Association. Dr. Case has made a significant personal impact on the lives of hundreds of thousands of present and former FFA members. During his tenure as National FFA Advisor, the organization saw tremendous growth in both membership and educational innovation. As an advisor, executive officer, and chairman of the board of directors of the National FFA Organization, Dr. Case has been a national leader in secondary, postsecondary, and adult instructional programs relating to agriculture. As a Missouri farmer I have a special appreciation for Dr. Larry Case's commitment to agriculture and his exemplary efforts to highlight the importance of agricultural education in our state and nation. I congratulate Dr. Case on his outstanding service to agriculture and to our nation.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Rock Bridge High School Boys Tennis Team on their outstanding season. The young men and their coaches should be commended for all their hard work throughout the regular season and bringing home the Class 2 State Tennis Championship to their school and community. I ask that you join me in recognizing the Rock Bridge High School Tennis Team for a job well done.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize CF Industries and its Palmyra Terminal employees for reaching an impressive milestone: 15,000 consecutive safe days on the job. This is a proud achievement showing a commitment of the highest level of safety. Employees at CF Industries' Palmyra Terminal receive ammonia by pipeline and by barge on the Mississippi River from the company's Donaldsonville nitrogen complex and ships ammonia to customers via truck. If not for the hard work of these individuals, agriculture in our area would certainly suffer. These individuals do their jobs well, and that shows through the safety they exhibit while on the job. It is with great pride that I can share this news of this achievement. The Palmyra employees have set the bar high for safety standards in their community and the 9th District of Missouri. I am proud to represent this fine company and this terminal in Congress. Congratulations to every employee at the Palmyra Terminal on your outstanding safety record and commitment to excellence.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I am proud to rise in support of en bloc amendment number 9 and particularly my amendment, which is included, which directs a review of the service records of eligible Jewish American veterans from World War I. I want to particularly thank Chairman Skelton, Ranking Member McKeon, and other members of the committee for their support on this important issue. We owe much to the patriotic Americans who have worn and are wearing uniforms of our Nation's Armed Forces. Our country has been blessed to have citizens who have selflessly volunteered to defend our Nation and freedom. Unfortunately, qualified soldiers have not been considered for the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration awarded by our government, due to discrimination. In 2001, Congress passed the Leonard Kravitz Jewish War Veterans Act, which had broad bipartisan support. This important piece of legislation presented Jewish soldiers the opportunity to receive the Medal of Honor for their service in World War II. However, Jewish veterans of World War I have faced the same discrimination and have not been afforded the opportunity to receive recognition for their service. William Shemin, for whom this act is named, was a Jewish American who earned the Distinguished Service Cross in 1918 for saving three of his fellow soldiers' lives during an intense 3-day battle in France while also leading his platoon in combat after more senior soldiers were wounded or killed. Shemin passed away in 1973 but his daughter, Elsie Shemin Roth, a resident of my district, has passionately worked on behalf of her father and other Jewish soldiers' legacies. This amendment would build on past legislation and recognize the sacrifices of Jewish soldiers during World War I. I urge my colleagues to support this en bloc amendment number 9 and honor the work of these veterans and brave soldiers.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, one of the top issues on people's minds these days is Washington's never-ending spending binge and the need for responsible budgeting. The American people know that reining in this wild spending spree starts with balancing our budget. But wait a minute. The majority party has now indicated that the House might not even consider a budget resolution this year. It is vital for the House to submit a budget resolution that will start the budget process in this Chamber and crack down on the out-of- control spending that has the government borrowing 42 percent of the money we spend this year. If you are a businessperson, you have a budget. Most people even have a budget for their household. Our States have budgets. But yet, why would we think it is not important for the Federal Government to have a budget? If this were not so serious, it would be comical. The question, then, is why does the majority not want to do a budget? The answer is obvious. There are tough choices that have to be made to rein in this out-of-control spending, and there is no political will to make those choices. Spending is easy; making cuts is hard. Failure to budget is failure to govern.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. When we passed this bill in the House on December 8, 2009, this bill only applied to law enforcement officers as defined in section 5541 and other FBI employees who have sacrificed their lives during the performance of official duties. Additionally, the term ``qualified expense'' was more broadly defined than how this bill now characterizes the term. Following the bill's passage in the House, the Senate, which passed this bill on May 14, 2010, amended this bill to expand its coverage to certain CBP officers. Moreover, the Senate amended this bill to qualify the term ``qualified expense'' and limit what constitutes a qualified expense. At this stage, the bill would authorize the employing agency of Federal law enforcement officers as well as certain FBI and CBP employees who have sacrificed their lives in the performance of his or her duties to pay the moving, transportation, and relocation expenses due to a change of residence within the United States of the immediate family of the officer. Additionally, this bill would authorize the employing agency to cover the expenses of preparing and transporting the remains of the deceased to the place where the family will reside following the employee's death. The Federal Government often requires or asks Federal law enforcement, including CBP and FBI officers, to relocate to new areas all across the country and throughout the world. Frequently, these officers bring their families with them to see these new localities. When the lives of these officers have been sacrificed during the performance of their official duties, the family is often stranded with no financial means to return to the area they call home. Congress should make it a priority to help care for the families of these heroes who have honorably sacrificed their lives for the security of our country. Mr. Speaker, I support this measure and urge my colleagues to do as well. Mr. Speaker, at this point, I would like to yield such time as he may consume to my distinguished colleague from Michigan (Mr. Rogers).

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Cao).

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I urge Members to support the passage of House Resolution 1316, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise today in support of House Resolution 1316, celebrating Asian/ Pacific American Heritage Month. Asian American and Pacific Islanders have been an integral part of the fabric of American life since Japanese immigrants first arrived in the United States on May 7, 1843. Asian Americans worked as coal miners on farms and helped with the completion of the first continental railroad. Rising from their humble beginnings, Asian Americans have been instrumental in the building of this country from the 19th century onwards. In arts, sciences, math and sports, commerce, and every other aspect of American culture, the contributions of Asian Americans have enhanced and benefited our rich cultural heritage. The U.S. Census estimates that over 15 million Americans trace their ethnic heritage to Asia or the Pacific Islands and projects that by 2050, there will be approximately 40 million United States residents identifying as Asian alone or in combination with one or more races. The month of May once again provides the people of the United States with an opportunity to recognize the achievements and contributions, history, and concerns of Asian Americans. Today we had the opportunity to increase our body here by one with an Asian American, Mr. Djou of Hawaii, who we welcome and again give him the opportunity to serve his people and his heritage in this great body. With that, I would like to thank my respected colleague Mr. Honda for introducing this important legislation. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of House Resolution 1189, commending Lance Mackey on winning a record 4th straight Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. This resolution not only congratulates Mackey on his incredible successes but also recognizes the importance of the Iditarod race and all of the prestige that it brings to Alaska every year. Since the 1970s, the Iditarod Sled Dog Race--frequently referred to as the `Last Great Race on Earth'--has attracted the best dog sled racers (known as mushers) and dog teams from around the world to compete in Alaska. The 1,150 mile Iditarod trail race is famous around the world because of its difficulty and because of the incredible talent that it attracts every year. The Iditarod's official site explains the extreme difficulty of the trail saying that nature ``throws jagged mountain ranges, frozen river, dense forest, desolate tundra, and miles of windswept coast at the mushers and their dog teams. Add to that temperatures far below zero, winds that can cause a complete loss of visibility, the hazards of overflow, long hours of darkness and treacherous climbs and slide hills, and you have the Iditarod.'' In addition to a very exciting race, the Iditarod race every year attracts fans and spectators from around the world and creates many important jobs for Alaskans. Lance Mackey who won this year's Iditarod race provides an inspiration not only to fans of the Iditarod but to all Americans. Mackey grew up in a family of dedicated and victorious mushers as both his dad and his brother have won the Iditarod race. In 2001, Mackey suffered a severe career and life set back when he became sick with throat cancer. However, after a year of treatment and away from dog sledding, Mackey recovered from his cancer and was able to resume his career. Just a few years later he won his first Iditarod race and then went on to win three more times for a record four consecutive wins. Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge all of my colleagues to support this resolution. The annual Iditarod race is an amazing event not just for Alaska but for the entire country, and Lance Mackey, the champion for the last four years, deserves our recognition and congratulations. I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, to facilitate matters, I will include my remarks in the Record at the conclusion of these proceedings. With that, I yield such time as he may consume to my distinguished colleague from Alaska (Mr. Young). (Mr. YOUNG of Alaska asked and was given permission to revise and extend his remarks.)

Mr. LUETKEMEYER

Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise today in support of House Resolution 1172, recognizing the life and achievements of Will Keith Kellogg. Will Keith Kellogg, who was known worldwide as W.K. Kellogg, was a great American marketer, philanthropist, patriot, and great revolutionary of the health food industry. Mr. Kellogg and his brother ran the Battle Creek Sanitarium, a local health resort where he became interested in nutrition. Mr. Kellogg found a process to use corn grain to create light flakes that many guests in the sanitarium enjoyed. While his brother was skeptical, Mr. Kellogg said, I sort of feel in my bones that we're preparing a campaign for a food which will eventually prove to be the leading cereal in the United States, if not the world. Kellogg was also the first company to put a nutritional label on its products, signifying the importance of nutrition in everyday living. Mr. Kellogg worked long hours to get his products to the market. He began to manufacture products in 18 countries and sell them to people in 180 different countries, with production facilities in 14 States. He believed in the hands-on approach by walking through factories and observing operations daily. He was the first in the corporate world to offer extended benefits and services to his workers. He was particularly interested in helping children in 1927 when he opened a nursery at his main plant to accommodate the needs of his female employees with children. In 1930 the W.K. Kellogg Child Welfare Foundation was established with a first donation consisting of more than $66 million in Kellogg Company stock and other investments from Kellogg himself. The foundation believes that children are the world's future, and they depend on families, communities, and society at large to nurture and protect them. In reflecting on his success, Mr. Kellogg once said, I confess at the time I little realized the extent to which the food business might develop in Battle Creek. Kellogg made sure to establish and maintain a partnership between the small town of Battle Creek and its quickly growing company. During the Great Depression, Kellogg showed his patriotism and love of his country and community by his concerns for his fellow workers' welfare. He created more shifts so that more family men could be hired, directing his cereal plant to work four shifts, lasting 6 hours, helping the Battle Creek community. W.K. Kellogg was an American entrepreneur and breakfast revolutionary. He stressed the importance of American made and American duty. Upon retiring from his company in 1938, he remained a chairman of the board and very involved in Kellogg's placement in the market. Mr. Kellogg was diagnosed with glaucoma and spent the last of his life blind but continued to visit his company's plants with his seeing-eye dog. When he passed away in 1951, W.K. Kellogg left America a legacy of healthy living, patriotism, and entrepreneurism that still endures today. With that, Mr. Speaker, seeing no other speakers, I urge the support of passage of House Resolution 1172. I yield back the balance of my time.