Billy Long

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Harmony House in Springfield, MO, for their work in fighting domestic violence. Harmony House has partnered with photographer Randy Bacon for the project, Standing Together: Portraits and Stories of Domestic Abuse. The project features life size portraits, videos, and stories of survivors and those who work to break the cycle of domestic violence. The goal of the project is to highlight that abuse is not just a personal issue, but one that affects the whole community. This project will also show the human side of these victims, so that people can understand that they are not just statistics. The exhibition was on display through October 29 at the Pool Art Center Gallery located in Springfield, Missouri on the campus of Drury University. It will now be on display through November at the Randy Bacon Studio in Springfield, Missouri. The hope is to show the exhibition regionally and ultimately to a national audience. Harmony House was founded in 1976 and has since become the largest domestic violence shelter in Missouri, with 168 beds available. In that time, they have served more than 20,000 women, men and children who are victims of domestic violence. Their work in establishing a domestic violence hotline means that victims have access to resources for stopping abuse. Their goal is to provide temporary shelter to victims of domestic violence while providing resources to them on breaking the cycle. Madam Speaker, Harmony House has spent the last 45 years fighting domestic violence and Standing Together is just the latest example of their important work in educating the community about this ever-present issue. I commend the hard work they are doing, and wish them all the best in their continued efforts.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, you hear a lot today about the gain of dysfunction research. Gain of dysfunction research is going on right here in Washington, D.C., and I say it is time we put a stop to it. This gain of dysfunction research leads us to all kinds of problems in our country that we weren't facing before January 3 of this year and most definitely before January 20 of this year. Our friends across the aisle have proposed $5.5 trillion in new spending, $2.1 trillion in new tax increases, the highest level of spending and highest level of tax increases in history. Now, they can say no one under $400,000 has to pay these new taxes, but through the dysfunction of Congress and the White House, this gain of dysfunction research must stop. People under $400,000 are paying 42.1 percent more for gas. It is kind of a status symbol today to be able to fill your tank up with gas. Gas utilities are up 20.6 percent. I only wish in my hometown that is all we were going to face this winter. Propane, kerosene, firewood are up 27 percent. The energy crisis, national average for gas up to $3.38. And not to mention the dysfunction going on at our border, the worst border crisis in 30 years, 192,000 in apprehensions. I say it is time to end the state of dysfunction in Washington, D.C. research.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Compassus Hospice in Springfield, MO for their innovative work in providing hospice care. Founded in 1979, Compassus Hospice in Springfield is the oldest facility in the Compassus system and has provided critical care for Southwest Missourians. Hospice providers deliver end-of-life services for seriously ill patients, including bereavement support for their families and community. Compassus Hospice has always been at the forefront of hospice care, leading the industry in innovation for end- of-life care. Compassus Hospice has also worked to improve care by working with lawmakers to advance coordinated care with community partners. Their dedication to providing this critical care is truly commendable. November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, and Compassus in Springfield will celebrate its more than 40 years of patient care on November 18. Madam Speaker, for 42 years, Compassus Hospice in Springfield has been at the leading edge of providing end-of-life healthcare along with bereavement service for families. I congratulate them on 42 years of service and wish them all the best in the many years to come.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, in 1886, a product was brought online, Coca- Cola, and it remained one of the most popular products of all time until 1985, 99 years later, when they came out with a great idea, New Coke. The problem is, New Coke was a terrible idea, and 3 months later, they brought back what they call Classic Coke because of this terrible, terrible idea that had to be fixed. Making our military be vaccinated against their will is a terrible, terrible idea that needs to be fixed. Let me be clear. I have been vaccinated, and I have encouraged everyone to talk to their doctors and see if the vaccine is right for them. But ultimately, vaccination is a choice that shouldn't be mandated on our fighting men and women. As of yesterday, 30 percent of our total force remains completely unvaccinated. Are we prepared to lose 30 percent of the total force? How do we think that is going to impact military readiness? The Pentagon, when they came out with this program, said it was for military readiness. Come on. Some branches of the military offer waivers for religious reasons, but what if a breastfeeding mother isn't comfortable getting the vaccine? I have heard from several breastfeeding mothers. This needs to be fixed. I ask all my colleagues to join me in this effort. New Coke is not working.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, I want to read a letter that I got just 2 days ago. It is like a lot of letters I am getting today. Billy, I am appealing to you as one of your trusted constituents and fearful mother of two Active Duty Marines. Is our government trying to force our courageous military into submissive robots? The disgusting abuse of power is now out of control when the government begins taking away our God-given rights from loyal citizens and is seeking to take away the very dignity of those who served beyond measure. My son and daughter-in-law have served diligently and effectively with pride and honor for 14 years. What can I do to help this administration from taking our very hearts and stomping on them? I believe with every ounce of me God is in control here and we all know who will ultimately win this battle. What can I do to help win this sooner than later. Debi. Madam Speaker, let me be clear. I have been vaccinated. I have had three shots. I encourage everyone to talk to their doctor. And if it is right for them, to take the vaccine. But ultimately, the vaccination should be a choice that shouldn't be mandated by anyone. I had a mother show me a picture of her daughter in her fatigues looking at her newborn baby and telling me that a nursing mother is not exempt from this.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 4028, the Information and Communication Technology Strategy Act. Currently, far too many U.S.-based information and communications vendors rely on technology from foreign sources. The Information and Communication Technology Strategy Act will require the Department of Commerce to assess the dependence of information and communications vendors on foreign technologies and create a whole-of-government strategy that will bolster the economic competitiveness of U.S. information and communications vendors and reduce their reliance on foreign resources. With all the supply chain disruptions we have seen this past year, it is important to know how our domestic production of this crucial equipment can be strengthened in the future. If passed, this piece of legislation brings us one step closer to making sure our Nation's information technology supply chains are secure and free from dependence on foreign countries, such as China. We need to continue to work in a bipartisan manner to ensure that the whole-of-government strategy that is created through this legislation is properly implemented. I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate to ensure this legislation becomes law. I thank all of my friends across the aisle for helping us get to this point, and I look forward to getting this bill across the finish line.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the remarkable career of Betty Thomas Johnson. Born on December 18, 1946, Betty was adopted by Richard and Rosalie Thomas in early 1947. After spending most of her life in Cook County, Illinois, Betty and her husband David Johnson moved to Springfield, Missouri. Once in Springfield, Betty began her advocacy work for the Alzheimer's Association chapter in Southwest Missouri. One of Betty's major focuses was organizing annual events. These events brought awareness of Alzheimer's to the public and raised money for the organization while highlighting people diagnosed with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Betty helped organize six of these annual events during her time with the organization. On top of this, Betty also advocated on behalf of people diagnosed with Alzheimer's to her elected officials. Until her retirement in 2016, Betty met with me and my staff at least three times a year. During these meetings, Betty would keep my office updated on new and existing programs and sought our continued support in her efforts. Madam Speaker, Betty Johnson has spent her career advocating for people diagnosed with Alzheimer's. She has organized events to raise awareness and met with elected officials in support of her work. I have been honored to work with Betty over the last several years and am honored to recognize her dedication and hard work here today.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, the Ways and Means Committee went in last Saturday to mark up a $3.5 trillion spending bill, and when they got done, they had a $4.3 trillion spending bill. I don't know exactly how that happened, but I might have a suggestion on how it could have possibly happened. I am at a trillion. Now two, two trillion. Now three. Are you able to buy $3 trillion down here? Now 3\1/4\. What do you go for? 3\1/2\, 3\1/ 2\. Now 4. Oh, 3\1/2\, now 4. At last call, 3\1/2\. Oh, 4 trillion, 4- 1, 4-1, 4.1, now 2. You can afford 2. 4.2. Now 3. $4.2 trillion, and I have sold it for $4.3 trillion. You know, Madam Speaker, Missourian Harry Truman said, when you get elected to Congress, you spend your first 6 months up here thinking, wow, how did I ever get here? And then you spend the whole rest of your career thinking, how did some of these other people get here? If you have watched the boondoggle on the floor this week, you know exactly what I mean.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to wish Jack Hamlin, a lifetime resident of Springfield, MO, on his upcoming 100th Birthday. Born October 15, 1921, Jack has seen his fair share of excitement. He was recruited to play minor league baseball for the New York Yankees when WWII broke out in Europe. As many young American men did, Jack enlisted in the military. At first attempting to join the Naval Air Corps, Jack was disqualified for having an enlarged heart, so he joined the Coast Guard. His service brought him to Normandy, France on June 6, 1944 as part of the D-Day invasion. Jack and his unit were tasked with rescuing survivors in the water during the invasion. Amid the German counter assault, Jack and his unit saved 70 men from the water and brought them to a hospital ship. Jack also took part in the rescue of crewmembers from the SS Leopoldville on Christmas Eve 1944. On June 6, 1944 at Omaha Beach, Jack was the only one that shot down a German Focke-Wulf Fw 190. For his actions that day Jack was awarded the French Legion of Honor, their highest medal for Allied troops. After the war, Jack returned to Springfield and enrolled at the University of Missouri. He went on to run a successful insurance business in Springfield, and even served one term in the Missouri House of Representatives from 1951 to 1952. He continued to play baseball for the Springfield Generals, which led to him meeting his wife of nearly 60 years. Throughout all of this, Jack has always supported and served his local community. Madam Speaker, Jack Hamlin has lived a life of service to his community and his country, I wish him a happy 100th Birthday, and many more to come.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Ozark High School Army Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AJROTC), for receiving National Championships in four separate disciplines, Raider Competition, Air Rifle Three Position Competition, Armed Drill Competition, and Unarmed Drill Competition. This is the first time in the history of AJROTC that one school has accomplished such a feat. First created in 1916, AJROTC programs have expanded to over 1,700 schools nationwide. The goal of these programs is to develop Cadets into young men and women of impeccable character. A major part of the program is the development of leadership skills. As the Cadets progress, they are given the opportunity to lead younger Cadets. The teaching of the skills molds these men and women into the leaders of tomorrow. The AJROTC program would not succeed without the hard work of dedicated instructors. There are currently nearly 4,000 instructors nationwide. They come from a variety of backgrounds and are all retired from either active duty, reserve duty, or the National Guard. Among these dedicated individuals are 3 instructors from Ozark High School. Major Danny Cazier, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jason Allen, and 1st Sergeant William Crawford have more than 60 years of Army and Training experience. They have worked tirelessly to instill in their Cadets the values of citizenship, community and national service, personal responsibility, and a sense of accomplishment. It is thanks to their hard work that Ozark High School AJROTC accomplished so much this year. The Cadets of Ozark High School AJROTC are incredibly hard-working individuals. They begin their practices at 5:00 am, and they frequently sacrifice their Saturdays to the competitions. Their Drill Team also provides Ceremonial Color Guard for a variety of community events. All of this is in addition to their schoolwork. Madam Speaker, it is clear that our nation needs more young men and women who demonstrate a strong devotion to their community and country. The cadets of Ozark High School AJROTC live these values every day. I commend Major Cazier, Chief Warrant Officer 3 Allen, and 1st Sergeant Crawford, and all the Cadets of Ozark High School for their historic achievements this past year and wish them well in their future competitions.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the long and storied career of Branson West City Administrator Ken Smith. Mr. Smith began his tenure in 1998, and since then, has worked tirelessly for the people of Branson West. As City Administrator, he has overseen numerous projects designed to improve and expand the city. Shortly after he took office, the new Sewer Treatment Plant Facility was completed. This facility was designed to meet the needs of the city well into the future and has remained in operation, ready for the city to continue prospering. He has also overseen the expansion of utility lines so that the city can provide essential services to more properties. In addition to these projects, in recent years, sidewalks and streetlights have been added along Business Highway 13, and a new water tower has been approved. In October 2010, Branson West Municipal Airport was opened. The new airport includes a 5000-foot runway, and 10,000 square foot maintenance hangar connected to the terminal. There are 39 private T-hangars, all of which are occupied, and construction is about to begin on 4 larger square hangars. All of this allows for a general aviation facility, which serves the city and surrounding communities. In 2016, the city limits were expanded south on Highway 13 to Highway DD. All these projects have allowed for community growth. New businesses have been drawn to the community, and there are more projects underway to encourage further business expansion. The city has also recently acquired land for future parks and recreation. Mr. Smith has overseen all these projects, and many more, during his 23-year tenure as City Administrator. Madam Speaker, since taking office in 1998, Ken Smith has worked every day for the people of Branson West. He has led several projects and expansions of the city, all designed to improve the community he has so enthusiastically served. I wish him, and his family a happy retirement.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the historic career of Evangel University's longtime Men's Basketball coach Steve Jenkins. After graduating summa cum laude as a student athlete from Evangel in 1974, Coach Jenkins returned to the school in 1977 as an assistant basketball coach. From 1978 to 1983, he served as head coach for the University's baseball team, earning a record of 132-97-3. He also served as head coach of the golf team from 1998 to 2016, bringing the program its first conference championship, and winning Heart Coach of the Year in 2010 and 2012. His role as head coach of the basketball team has been his longest, taking over in 1982 and serving in that position ever since. During his tenure, Coach Jenkins has posted a record of 692-542 (.561) and has won 7 Heart of America Conference Championships, while competing in the NAIA Tournament 13 times. His team won the National Title in 2002, with a record of 35-l. He has been named Heart Conference Coach of the Year 7 times and won NAIA Coach of the Year in 2002. Coach Jenkins record goes beyond wins and losses. A total of 24 of his former players have been named first-team All-Heart Conference, with 6 earning the league's Player of the Year award, along with 2 Freshman of the Year nominees, 4 Newcomer of the Year winners, and one Defensive Player of the Year Recipient. He has also coached 33 NAIA All-American players. As coach of the baseball team, 5 players won All- District honors, including the first NAIA All-American and Academic All-American in program history. More than 30 of his former players and staff members have gone on to hold coaching positions across the nation. This is a testament to the true teacher and mentor that Coach Jenkins is. In 2014, Coach Jenkins was inducted to the NAIA Hall of Fame, the second inductee from Evangel. This followed his induction to the Evangel Athletics Hall of Fame in 2006, the Millwood Golf and Racquet Club Hall of Fame and Springfield Area Sports Hall of Fame in 2011, and the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2013. In 2016, he was inducted to the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. Madam Speaker, Coach Jenkins has proven his incredible leadership and coaching skills, and I wish him and his family a happy retirement.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to include in the Record an article honoring Sheldon Adelson, who was a truly great American. The following article, by Matt Brooks the Executive Director of the Republican Jewish Coalition, published in Newsweek on January 15, 2021, honors his incredible life and legacy. Horatio Alger wrote rags-to-riches stories in the 1800s about poor boys who became wealthy through pluck, luck and good deeds. Sheldon Adelson did him one better, actually living a rags-to-riches story rooted in hard work, vision, courage--and good deeds. With Sheldon's passing, we have lost not only a remarkably successful business leader and an extraordinary philanthropist, but someone I was privileged to call a dear mentor and friend. It is well known that Sheldon came from humble beginnings, as the child of immigrants living in Boston's Dorchester neighborhood. More than 80 years later, he still viewed the world through the eyes of a poor kid from Dorchester. As one of the richest men in America, he could afford the finest wines and any luxury foods he desired. But those who knew him knew that the best time to meet with Sheldon was on Friday over lunch in his office, because that was his favorite day, when his staff would bring him hot dogs and sliders for lunch and he was sure to be in a good mood. He never lost his enjoyment for those kinds of simple things. More than that, Sheldon never lost touch with people. Most of those who achieve his level of success spend a lot of money on staff to serve as buffers between them and other people. Sheldon didn't do that. At Republican Jewish Coalition events, people would be lined up 20- or 30-deep to say hello and take pictures with him. He obliged them, even in the middle of eating his dinner. He gave out his cell phone number freely and enjoyed being with people, talking to them and listening to them. Sheldon was a serial entrepreneur who created dozens of companies over the years. He was often called a visionary leader, which is true, but he had more than just vision. Hard work and courageous confidence (or outrageous confidence, to your detractors) are required to achieve great things. Sheldon had a vision of Las Vegas as more than just a gambling town. He knew that bringing in trade shows and business conventions and offering grand resorts with the finest amenities and big, beautiful rooms would make Las Vegas a top destination for millions of people. When he began building The Venetian, he was mocked and called a fool. But he never lost confidence in his vision of what Las Vegas could be, and today everyone is copying his integrated resort model. The same was true in Asia, where Sheldon saw glittering potential in Macau, then a seedy, prostitution-ridden city. He turned it into Asia's own Las Vegas, on land reclaimed from the sea. People called him crazy, but once again he had the courage of his convictions and he was proven right. His confidence in his own vision and his willingness to take risks to bring that vision to fruition were the keys to his success. That success made it possible for him and his beloved wife, Dr. Miriam Adelson, to engage in substantial and meaningful philanthropy--in the Jewish community and beyond. The Adelsons have been the largest funders of Taglit-Birthright Israel and supported Yad Vashem, United Hatzalah and Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, among other organizations in Israel. They built a $65 million campus in Las Vegas for the Milton I. Schwartz Hebrew Academy and Adelson School, which serves students from preschool through high school. In addition, their Dr. Miriam and Sheldon G. Adelson Medical Research Foundation funds collaborative, cutting-edge medical research. Dr. Miriam Adelson has contributed enormously to drug addiction research and therapy, and the Adelsons built two major drug abuse treatment and research centers, in Las Vegas and in Israel. The Adelsons have also extended tremendous kindness to friends and others in need. Sheldon showed the same compassion to his employees that he showed to everyone else. When COVID-19 hit, he refused to lay off his employees, and he continued to provide them with full pay and benefits throughout the pandemic. Sheldon did what he thought was right, in business and in every other part of his life. If you wanted to argue with him, you had better know your stuff. Sheldon never got a college degree, but he was one of the smartest people I've ever known. He hated yes-men and respected people who were not intimidated by him or his wealth--people who would give him honest and sound counsel. I have a very vivid memory of the first time I met Sheldon. I traveled to Las Vegas to tell him about the Republican Jewish Coalition (RJC) and try to get him involved in the organization. We had a wide-ranging conversation and, at one point, he asked me what I thought about something he'd said. I said I disagreed with him. You could have heard a pin drop in that room. Sheldon cocked his head and asked, ``Why?'' I answered him honestly, sure that I had lost all chance of getting him interested in the RJC, but he replied, ``Yeah, I think you might be right.'' After that, Sheldon was very involved in the RJC and gave generously not only his money, but more importantly, his time and good counsel. Much of the RJC's innovation and impact over the last few years were made possible by his vision and leadership. Sheldon was an American patriot, a dedicated defender of Israel and a living example of the American dream. His passing truly leaves an empty place where a vibrant, courageous and caring man once stood. He will be sorely missed.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to a great man and citizen of the Show Me state, Mr. Blake Hurst, as he celebrates his upcoming retirement. Since being elected the President of the Missouri Farm Bureau on December 7, 2010, Blake has helped strengthen the Bureau financially and grow its influence in Washington, D.C. The Missouri Farm Bureau was founded as the first state Farm Bureau in the United States in 1915, and over the years, it has grown to include over 130,000 members. During his tenure, Blake was a strong advocate for Missouri's farmers. He will be leaving the Missouri Farm Bureau in a stronger position than when he came into office and has ensured the long-term success and influence of the organization. Blake has been an active member of the Missouri Farm Bureau for much of his life, serving on the Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee before becoming the statewide chairman and eventually serving on the state board of directors. For eight years, Hurst served is a district board member for the state of Missouri and seven years as the Vice President of the Bureau. Blake has earned a national reputation as a leader in agriculture policy. Over the years, Blake has written numerous pieces which have appeared in the Wall Street Journal, The American, Weekly Standard, Wilson's Quarterly, Reader's Digest, Today's Farmer, and the Show Me magazine of Missouri Farm Bureau. Hurst continues to be an active member of his community, running a wholesale greenhouse business with his wife, Julie, daughter, Lee; and sons-in-law, Ryan Harms and Matt Schlueter. I wish Blake the very best as he embarks on this new chapter of life, and I am grateful for his service to his community.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to seven fine Springfield police officers after 25 years of service to their community. These men have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting Springfield, and their absence will be felt throughout the Springfield Police Department. They are shining examples of what it means to wear the badge and have served as strong role models for their fellow officers. Maj. Greg Higdon, Sgt. Justin Gargus, Cpl. Chris Welsh, Capt. Kevin Grizzell, Lt. Chris Wells, Lt. Mark Schindler, and Sgt. David Stone are members of the Springfield Police Department's 39th Police Academy and have each earned the Springfield Police Department's Life-time Achievement Award. These men have not hesitated to risk their own safety for the good of their community, and Springfield is better for it. Whether acting as the department's top commanders, the leading expert in gang activity, or head of the Zone 1 Patrol Division, these men have enriched and protected their community. The city of Springfield is grateful for their service and I join Springfield residents in wishing each of them the very best as they embark on their next chapters.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to a great man and citizen of Southwest Missouri, Mr. Mitch McCumber, as he celebrates his upcoming retirement. For the last 22 years, Mitch has served as the CEO and General Manager of New-Mac Electric Cooperative and will have the longest tenure of any CEO or General Manager in the co-op's history. New-Mac Electric Cooperative was incorporated in 1939 and serves nearly 18,000 member accounts primarily in Newton, McDonald, and Jasper counties. Under Mitch's leadership, New-Mac has enjoyed steady growth, and many of his colleagues contend that it would not be where it is today without Mitch's strong leadership. Mitch is a certified public accountant and worked for a number of CPA firms before he joined the New-Mac team. He began his career with the co-op in January of 1995, rising to the general manager position in 1998. McCumber is also an active member of his community where he lives with his wife, Becky, and has served on numerous boards and civic organizations including KAMO Power, Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives, Missouri Southern State University, Freeman Health Systems, Freeman Neosho Hospital, Community Bank and Trust, Consumer Electric Power Association, and Neosho Chamber of Commerce. He has served as the chairman for many of the aforementioned boards, and he is a member of both the American Institute of Certified Public Accounts and the Missouri Society of Certified Public Accounts. I wish Mitch the very best as he embarks on this new chapter of life and I am grateful for his service to his community.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, the Seventh Congressional District of Missouri's economy has a significant dependence on seasonal outdoor amusement and entertainment including the Ozark Empire Fair, the carnivals on the midways of county fairs, and the nation's favorite vacation spot, Branson. These for profit and not for profit enterprises employ thousands of Ozarkians, some year-round and the majority just in the season. Branson in the Missouri Ozarks draws about nine million visitors a year, mainly during a nine-month season. From the world-famous Silver Dollar City to the celebrated country music venues and all attractions in between, including excellent bass fishing, world class golf, youth baseball tournaments, and endless outdoor adventures, Branson is a premier destination in America. But these are not normal times. Springfield, Missouri is home to the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE). Agricultural Fairs--county fairs, state fairs and regional ag shows-- are deeply rooted in our heritage and history, with the mission to promote and advance agriculture, horticulture, domestic industry, with a focused emphasis on youth leadership development through competitions, education, and leadership opportunities. Most fairs, a total of 2,092 in the US, also provide exceptional educational activities to help today's Americans understand the importance of farming and the source of the food on their plate. Fairs cannot function without a complex arrangement of carnival midway operations, food and beverage operations, livestock shows, exhibits and demonstrations. With nearly 300 fairs happening across America in July alone each year, it is impossible to reschedule a fair for a different time. According to the IAFE, each year the operation of agricultural fairs results in $4.67 billion for the US economy and provides thousands of jobs. Fairs and their carnival partners on the midway have been devastated by the cancellation of events thus far. IAFE estimates a loss of revenue exceeding $1.4 billion to the fair and festival core organizations just for March through May. The Outdoor Amusement Business Association (OABA) represents some 200 carnivals, 15 circuses and hundreds of traveling food/game concessionaires in the United States. The vast majority of their members are small, family businesses, many in their third or more generation of ownership. The OABA estimates 350 carnival events have currently been closed through May I. Based on historical attendance data and this estimated performance cancellations, the lost revenue to carnival operators is near $250 million. Should the need for social distancing or total quarantine exist into the summer, the economic devastation will inevitably put these community organizations as well as many of the small businesses in the allied sectors out of business. Thousands of jobs will be lost. Because both the not-for-profit fair sector and the outdoor amusement business segment are unique subsets of our economic and commercial activities, we must ensure they are not excluded from any current or new SBA programs and they are just as eligible for federal support from the new $500 billion fund provided to the Treasury as any Wall Street traded company.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, on Friday, February 28, 2020, I was unable to vote on any legislative measures. Had I been present, I would have voted the following: (Roll no. 76) On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 2819--Gold Star Mothers Families National Monument Extension Act, had I been present I would have voted yes. (Roll no. 77) On Motion to Recommit with Instructions of H.R. 2339--Reversing the Youth Tobacco Epidemic Act, had I been present I would have voted yes. (Roll no. 78) On Passage of H.R. 2339--Reversing the Youth Tobacco Epidemic Act, had I been present I would have voted no.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend the Webb City football team, who won their 15th State Title in Class 4 last year. ``Go Cardinals''. I would also like to commend the Carthage football team for winning the Class 5 State Championship and our Joplin High School football team who were runner's up in the Class 6 State Championship. They all performed admirably this season and demonstrated a determination and dedication to their team, school, supporters and communities. Webb City football has a legacy of excellence and tradition that is evident in their record, which they only improved upon by claiming their fifteenth state title 48-0 against Platte County. The Cardinal's, ranked 1st in their Class with a 13-1 record, had a hard road reaching the finals. They faced not only the 2nd best ranked team, but also the 3rd and 4th in the lead up to their championship win. Following their semifinal defeat in 2018 to the eventual champions, Webb City's program worked hard all season and succeeded in accomplishing their goal of ``Chasing 15.'' Carthage football's Class 5 Championship win was tough fought, including a nail-biting third quarter with an impressive long completion that secured their 27-21 win against second-ranked Jackson Indians. Their Coach, Jon Guidie, said the team ``just . . . [wouldn't] die and they just won't quit.'' This win was the first state title for the 5th ranked Carthage team who finished their season 12-2. The Carthage team has fought back against the difficulties of their season, which is a credit to their determination and grit. Joplin High School football team, ranked 3rd, lost to the 1st ranked De Smet in the Class 6 Championship game. The game was a hard-fought loss for Joplin High, with the Eagles unfortunately unable to hold a third quarter lead that would have secured a victory. The Eagles ended their season 13-1, having beaten Ft. Zumwalt West and Marquette in the semi-finals and quarterfinals respectively. All of our great Missouri football teams have persevered through difficult seasons and have become better players, better members of their communities, and better students in their journey to the State Title. I am honored to recognize their achievements, and I thank each team for making Missouri's 7th District proud.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Ted Hillmer, Jr.'s 17 years of service as superintendent of Wilson's Creek National Battlefield in Greene County, Missouri. The park commemorates the Battle of Wilson's Creek, first major American Civil War engagement west of the Mississippi River on August 10, 1861. Hillmer's first experience at the park was in 1988, whereas project engineer he oversaw the construction of a brand-new visitor center for the 2,100-acre national park, southeast of Republic, Missouri. Hillmer later returned to the park in 2003, where he worked for 17 years as park superintendent. He leaves the historic battlefield knowing that a new, vastly-improved, and expanded visitors center, which he oversaw the design and planning, is scheduled for completion sometime in summer. The expanded visitor's center will include a wider array of artifacts from the battle and a far more expansive retelling of the almost 5-hour long battle that claimed 2500 lives. Hillmer has overseen a great increase in visitors and interest to the park since he became superintendent. Last year saw 220,067 people visit the historic park, including 3 classes from the Fort Leonard Wood. Without Hillmer's oversight, or the staff and experts working to meticulously maintain the surviving documents and artifacts of the battle, these lessons would have been lost to history. Madam Speaker, the passion and hard work shown by Ted Hillmer, Jr. should be an example to all of us. The legacy Ted Hillmer leaves behind will not be forgotten, both by the staff of Wilson's Creek National Battlefield as well as the surrounding communities who cherish the historic site. I hope we can all join together in remembering him for his service, not only to the community, but to the continued remembrance of the victims of our civil war.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, we have never, ever, in the history of this country, seen a Presidency like this one. Once the President was sworn in, 19 minutes later, The Washington Post said impeachment begins today. A million women marched the next day in Washington. Bank of America and Starbucks, both who supported Hillary Clinton, had their windows broken out here in Washington because people were so upset that this man was elected President of the United States. He has had his head held under water for almost 3 years now, never coming up for a breath of air, just keep pushing him down. Lowest Black unemployment ever, lowest Hispanic unemployment ever, highest stock market ever, and the very lowest unemployment in years.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commend Terry Plumb, Ken Bowling, Tanco II Lumber Company, and the Reeds Spring unit of Boys and Girls Club of the Ozarks for their dedication and selfless contributions to the Table Rock Lake community. On November 15, 2019, Lake Splash will recognize these four individuals and organizations by presenting them with awards for their service, and I join Lake Splash in applauding these recipients. Mr. Terry Plumb is a volunteer battalion chief with the Southern Stone County Fire Protection District and is this year's recipient of the Guardian Award for the bravery he exhibited in the line of duty. The Guardian Award is presented to a first responder in recognition of their fearless or selfless service to the community. Mr. Plumb didn't hesitate to risk his own life to assist a motorist whose car had caught fire; his actions and rapid response prevented casualties or injuries during the incident. I applaud him for his selfless actions and receiving this well-deserved recognition. Tanco II Lumber Company is this year's Business of the Year for exemplary and high-quality customer service while maintaining a strong commitment to the community. This year, Tanco II recently completed a new local facility, expanded their product offerings, and created several new jobs, making them an attractive candidate for this award. They have demonstrated a remarkable commitment to investing in their local community, and I congratulate them on receiving this award. Mr. Ken Bowling, owner of Ken Bowling Construction, will receive this year's Trailblazer Award for his contributions to the community during his tenure as a Stone County Commissioner, and for his work as a member of the Kimberling City Board of Alderman and former Chairman of the Table Rock Lake Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Bowling has always tirelessly served his community so it is only fitting that he receives an award that recognizes leaders that forge a path for others in their community. The final award is presented to the Reeds Spring unit of the Boys and Girls Club of the Ozarks for providing vital after-school care and education programs for children within this community. The Community Service Award is presented to an individual or organization who, through their service or commitment, has improved the quality of life, economy, educational opportunities, beauty, serenity, or safety in their community. The Boys and Girls Club of America offers invaluable resources to families across the nation, and I applaud this local branch's work in the Table Rock Lake area. All of the recipients of the 2019 Lake Splash Awards have made a significant impact on their community and deserve this recognition. I am honored to recognize their achievements, and I thank each recipient for their contributions to Missouri's 7th District.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the retirement of Dr. Vivianne Cisneros Wersel. Dr. Wersel has a long and storied career caring for our nation's veterans, and she knows what it means to pay the ultimate sacrifice. She is the widow of Lieutenant Colonel Richard Wersel, Jr. of the United States Marine Corps. Lieutenant Colonel Wersel served two tours of duty in Operation Iraqi Freedom and unfortunately died just one week after returning home from Iraq. Dr. Wersel grew from this tragedy and not only continued to help veterans through her role at Walter Reed Medical Center, but also as an advocate for Gold Star Families. Dr. Wersel holds a Doctorate of Audiology from the School of Audiology-Salus University. She is also a graduate of the Defense Language Institute (DLI), Monterey, CA and holds a language certificate in Spanish. She earned a Masters and a Bachelor's Degree in Communicative Disorders (Audiology) from San Diego State University. Dr. Wersel currently works full time as an audiologist at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and is designated as a prestigious Master Clinician. In addition to caring for the active-duty military, retirees, and their families, she provides hearing health care for members of Congress, including myself. Over the past 30 years as an audiologist she provided hearing care support to service members, retirees and their families at Camp Pendleton, CA; Twentynine Palms, CA, Nellis Air Force Base, Fort Brag NC, Camp Lejeune NC, Fort Dietrick MD, Fort Belvoir VA, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center Bethesda. But her service to our nation's veterans goes beyond her role as an audiologist. Shortly after her husband's passing in 2005, Dr. Wersel discovered she was not eligible for the newly enhanced survivor benefits. She subsequently became instrumental in changing the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance and Death Gratuity so that all active duty widows are now eligible for enhanced benefits. Today, she is considered a subject matter expert on Military Survivor Benefits and has testified before this body twenty times on the subject. In addition to her work on survivor benefits, she is a member of the Gold Star Wives of America (GSW) Public Relations; past chair of the GSW Government Relations Committee, President and founder of Arlington Gold Star Wives; military survivor advisor for the ``Got Your Back Network''; is an active participant in the VA/DoD Survivor Forum, and founder of, and advisor to the Surviving Spouses Support Group II MEF, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. She was a local representative for the National Military Family Association and was a volunteer for the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) and Military Officers Association of America. Dr. Wersel has devoted her career and her life to caring for our nation's veterans and advocating for Gold Star Families. In recognition of her work and her much-deserved retirement, I will be flying a flag over the United States Capitol in her honor. Madam Speaker, I ask that you and the rest of this chamber join me in congratulating Dr. Wersel on a job well done.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Melissa ``Misty'' Grandel for being named the 2020 Missouri Teacher of the Year. If there is one thing people know about Misty, it's that she is a Missourian through and through. Generations of her family, including Misty, grew up in rural Webster County near the town of Fordland, Missouri. She attended Fordland High School and went on to study English at Drury University. After a few years into her teaching career, she was asked to teach at Fordland High School where she has been teaching for 21 years. Misty knows the importance of education in a rural community. The Fordland School District serves 550 students, and over half of them qualify for free and reduced-price meals. Despite this statistic, 97 percent of students graduate on time, and 61 percent go on to attend college. This would not be possible without teachers like Misty who are passionate about their students and their community. Misty doesn't just put in her time and go home. She goes above and beyond for the children of Fordland High School. Along with teaching six courses, she also sponsors after school and extracurricular activities including the Beta Club. Through her work with the Beta Club, she shares her passion for giving back to the community with her students. Every day, Misty walks into her classroom not just to teach, but to instill lifelong values into the children of Fordland High School. She goes above and beyond for the children she teaches and the community she serves. She is well-deserving of this achievement, and we are proud to have her represent Missouri in the National Teacher of the Year program.