Billy Long

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Logan Martin Swearengin, of Springfield, Missouri, on his recent achievement of the Boy Scouts of America's (BSA) top rank of Eagle Scout. The rank of Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of America. It is the culmination of many years of hard work and dedication, requiring countless hours of service, training and learning. An extremely exclusive honor, less than two percent of the 112 million scouts since the BSA's founding in 1910 have achieved the Eagle Scout distinction. Logan's promotion to Eagle Scout is even more significant given that his brothers, Ethan and Austin, also achieved the Eagle Scout rank. To have one Eagle Scout in a family is remarkable, but to have three is beyond exemplary. Logan and his brothers' achievements are a testament to their family's reverence for focus and commitment. Mr. Speaker, by attaining the rank of Eagle Scout, Logan has set himself on the path to achieve future success, and I'm proud to count him among my constituents. His dedication in completing the required benchmarks and community service requirements to reach the Eagle Scout rank is indicative of his ability to accomplish whatever goals he sets his mind to. I wish Logan luck with all his future endeavors, and urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating him on this momentous achievement.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Austin Bailey Swearengin, of Springfield, Missouri, on his recent achievement of the Boy Scouts of America's (BSA) top rank of Eagle Scout. The rank of Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of America. It is the culmination of many years of hard work and dedication, requiring countless hours of service, training and learning. An extremely exclusive honor, less than two percent of the 112 million scouts since the BSA's founding in 1910 have achieved the Eagle Scout distinction. Austin's promotion to Eagle Scout is even more significant given that his brothers, Ethan and Logan, also achieved the Eagle Scout rank. To have one Eagle Scout in a family is remarkable, but to have three is beyond exemplary. Austin and his brothers' achievements are a testament to their family's reverence for focus and commitment. Mr. Speaker, by attaining the rank of Eagle Scout, Austin has set himself on the path to achieve future success, and I'm proud to count him among my constituents. His dedication in completing the required benchmarks and community service requirements to reach the Eagle Scout rank is indicative of his ability to accomplish whatever goals he sets his mind to. I wish Austin luck with all his future endeavors, and urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating him on this momentous achievement.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Ethan Lynn Swearengin, of Springfield, Missouri, on his recent achievement of the Boy Scouts of America's (BSA) top rank of Eagle Scout. The rank of Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of America. It is the culmination of many years of hard work and dedication, requiring countless hours of service, training and learning. An extremely exclusive honor, less than two percent of the 112 million scouts since the BSA's founding in 1910 have achieved the Eagle Scout distinction. Ethan's promotion to Eagle Scout is even more significant given that his brothers, Austin and Logan, also achieved the Eagle Scout rank. To have one Eagle Scout in a family is remarkable, but to have three is beyond exemplary. Ethan and his brothers' achievements are a testament to their family's reverence for focus and commitment. Mr. Speaker, by attaining the rank of Eagle Scout, Ethan has set himself on the path to achieve future success, and I'm proud to count him among my constituents. His dedication in completing the required benchmarks and community service requirements to reach the Eagle Scout rank is indicative of his ability to accomplish whatever goals he sets his mind to. I wish Ethan luck with all his future endeavors, and urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating him on this momentous achievement.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Colton Key, of Willard, Missouri, on his recent achievement of the Boy Scouts of America's (BSA) top rank of Eagle Scout. The rank of Eagle Scout is the highest rank attainable in the Boy Scouts of America. It is the culmination of many years of hard work and dedication, requiring countless hours of service, training and learning. An extremely exclusive honor, less than two percent of the 112 million scouts since the BSA's founding in 1910 have achieved the Eagle Scout distinction. Becoming an Eagle Scout requires a significant amount of determination and self-discipline, traits which will no doubt serve to make Colton a better employee, family member, and American throughout his life. To achieve the rank, he demonstrated active teamwork in his troop, underwent numerous wilderness training tests, dedicated time to his community, and has adhered to the BSA oath's reverence for character, citizenship, and personal wellness. Mr. Speaker, by attaining the rank of Eagle Scout, Colton has set himself on the path to achieve future success, and I'm proud to count him among my constituents. His dedication in completing the required benchmarks and community service requirements to reach the Eagle Scout rank is indicative of his ability to accomplish whatever goals he sets his mind to. I wish Colton luck with all his future endeavors, and urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating him on this momentous achievement.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Megan Huddle, who was recently honored with the Brighton Assembly of God's Gold Medal Award, the highest achievement in the Assemblies of God Girls Ministries program. To be honored with the Brighton Assembly of God's Gold Medal is the culmination of a 13-year journey of devotion to God that begins in kindergarten and finishes at the end of high school. The Girls Ministries program strives to instill Christian values and virtues in the young women who will be the future of our nation. To be honored with a gold medal, girls must go above and beyond the requirements for completing the five levels of clubs offered by the ministries. Medal awardees must also have read the Bible twice, the New Testament three times, memorized portions of scripture and have met weekly with a sponsor who helps to guide them spiritually. Mr. Speaker, Megan Huddle has not only displayed an uncommon level of spiritual devotion during her time in the Girls Ministries program, but also a measure of determination and commitment that will undoubtedly serve her well through her life. On behalf of Missouri's Seventh Congressional District, I urge my colleagues in congratulating her on this well-earned achievement.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Nethaline Hope Nothnagel, of Willard, Missouri, on her 90th birthday. Hope, as she's known by loved ones, has led a truly remarkable and full life over the course of her 90 years. Starting in her home state of Minnesota, she has lived in states far and wide, ranging from Alaska to North Carolina due to the military career of her husband Ervin--to whom she has been married for more than 50 years. Hope has 6 children: Ervin, Monica, Nelda, Joe, Jim and Norm. She additionally has 7 grandchildren: Renee, Eric, Perrin, Adam, Matt, Sam and Katie. Finally, Hope has 9 great-grandchildren: Cassie, Cruize, Kelsey, Kylie, Brooks, Owen, Davis, Gavin and Everrett. Even with a family this large, Hope was not content to merely serve as a matriarch. She worked various jobs during her life, ranging from executive secretary, to managing libraries and bookstores to serving as a professional seamstress for many years. Currently, Hope keeps occupied through her passion for reading and love of the outdoors. She often feeds and observes the wildlife on her 18 acre farm, and still shows off her green thumb with her love of gardening. Mr. Speaker, Nethaline Hope Nothnagel has lived an accomplished life and raised a wonderful family. I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating Hope for reaching this tremendous milestone and living her life as a role-model for the younger generations in her family.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Kelsie Eltringham, who was recently honored with the Brighton Assembly of God's Gold Medal Award, the highest achievement in the Assemblies of God Girls Ministries program. To be honored with the Brighton Assembly of God's Gold Medal is the culmination of a 13 year journey of devotion to God that begins in kindergarten and finishes at the end of high school. The Girls Ministries program strives to instill Christian values and virtues in the young women who will be the future of our nation. To be honored with a gold medal, girls must go above and beyond the requirements for completing the five levels of clubs offered by the ministries. Medal awardees must also have read the Bible twice, the New Testament three times, memorized portions of scripture and have met weekly with a sponsor who helps to guide them spiritually. Mr. Speaker, Kelsie Eltringham has not only displayed an uncommon level of spiritual devotion during her time in the Girls Ministries program, but also a measure of determination and commitment that will undoubtedly serve her well through her life. On behalf of Missouri's Seventh Congressional District, I urge my colleagues in congratulating her on this well-earned achievement.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Courtney Eltringham, who was recently honored with the Brighton Assembly of God's Gold Medal Award, the highest achievement in the Assemblies of God Girls Ministries program. To be honored with the Brighton Assembly of God's Gold Medal is the culmination of a 13 year journey of devotion to God that begins in kindergarten and finishes at the end of high school. The Girls Ministries program strives to instill Christian values and virtues in the young women who will be the future of our nation. To be honored with a gold medal, girls must go above and beyond the requirements for completing the five levels of clubs offered by the ministries. Medal awardees must also have read the Bible twice, the New Testament three times, memorized portions of scripture and have met weekly with a sponsor who helps to guide them spiritually. Mr. Speaker, Courtney Eltringham has not only displayed an uncommon level of spiritual devotion during her time in the Girls Ministries program, but also a measure of determination and commitment that will undoubtedly serve her well through her life. On behalf of Missouri's Seventh Congressional District, I urge my colleagues in congratulating her on this well-earned achievement.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Chair, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Chair, you don't need a Ph.D. from MIT to understand what is going on here. Despite President Obama and Federal Communications Commission Chairman Wheeler's past promises not to regulate the retail rates of Internet service providers, the Chairman announced last week that the FCC will start a new regulatory framework for the evolving business data market, and told other House Energy and Commerce Committee members and me last month that the FCC should have the authority to regulate broadband rates. Today, services provided over modern high-speed broadband facilities to customers are unregulated. It is a vibrant market where broadband companies compete vigorously for customers. If the administration gets in their way, the FCC will reverse course, price regulate business services, and create disincentives for further investment and deployment of high-speed fiber networks throughout the Nation. These burdens would harm investments, stifle innovation, and cost tens of thousands of jobs. Mr. Chair, our economy and American workers cannot afford this impact. I urge my colleagues to join me and support this crucial bill.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to take the National Hemophilia Foundation's Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month Red Tie Challenge, in recognition of more than 3 million Americans who suffer with debilitating bleeding disorders like hemophilia or Von Willebrand disease, which prevent blood from clotting naturally. It is currently estimated that more than 400,000 people worldwide suffer from hemophilia alone, and 75 percent of them either lack adequate treatment or have no access to treatment. Also, Von Willebrand disease occurs genetically and is believed to be the most common bleeding disorder. It is estimated to affect 1 percent of the United States population. If these problems are not treated effectively, these problems can result in extended bleeding after injuries, surgery, or trauma, and can be fatal for those suffering with them. This March is the first Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month, which further underscores the need for legislation like the 21st Century Cures package, which will spur greater medical research and innovation when it becomes law. Mr. Speaker, I urge my fellow colleagues to also take the Red Tie Challenge so these millions of Americans suffering with bleeding disorders will be helped.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Carl Junction High School Principal David Pyle on being named the Missouri Association of Secondary School Principals' 2016 Principal of the year. As Principal of Carl Junction High School, Pyle has worked diligently to ensure that students receive a high-value education and expand their learning opportunities. Going beyond the call of duty, he also takes time to familiarize himself with students by name and interacts with them on a personal level. Namely, Principal Pyle was awarded this decoration based on his positive impact in the areas of collaborative leadership; curriculum, instruction and assessment; and his personalization of this learning environment. Mr. Speaker, David Pyle's committed leadership in Carl Junction, Missouri, has set an essential example of how to maintain a standard of academic excellence for students. I am honored to congratulate him on his achievements as Principal of Carl Junction High School, and know that--with people like Principal Pyle in place--its students will be well prepared to achieve their future goals and achieve the American Dream.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize business leader William Kirkman for recently being named winner of the 2016 Springfieldian Award at the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce's annual meeting. As the Springfield Chamber of Commerce's most acclaimed decoration for more than 50 years, the annual Springfieldian Award honors an individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication to the Springfield, Missouri, community. As the first in his family to attend college, Kirkman graduated from Missouri State University in 1969. He was hired by Baird, Kurtz & Dobson (BKD) accounting firm out of college and rose through their ranks; He climbed from associate to partner and eventually became the firm's Chief Operating Officer in 2004. Described as a man with a heart of gold, Kirkman was admired and respected by his peers. He demonstrated a passion for helping those who worked under him to blossom professionally, and is considered to have been an early pioneer in helping women to break into the accounting profession. In addition to his impressive professional career, Kirkman has served in numerous leadership roles for Springfield area organizations. Currently, he holds the Chair position of the Board of Directors of City Utilities of Springfield but, in the past, he served at the Chair positions of the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce board of directors, the Springfield/Branson National Airport board of directors, and Springfield's Center City Development Corporation. He also served as President of the Springfield Business Development Corporation in 1995, and received the Outstanding Alumni Award from Missouri State University in 2004. Lastly though, and certainly not the least of his accomplishments, Kirkman also achieved the rank of Captain while serving in the Marine Corps. Mr. Speaker, William Kirkman--who I consider a personal friend--is not only a pillar of the Springfield community, but has been a mentor and inspiration for countless individuals that he has interacted with along his storied career. I urge my colleagues to join me as I extend my appreciation for his service to Missouri's Seventh Congressional District.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Piper-Danay Smith, an outstanding student at Missouri State University, on her selection to receive the Citizen Scholar Award. Each year, this prestigious award is given by Missouri State University's Board of Governors to students who have contributed to the university, furthered the university's public affairs mission, and have been significantly engaged in extra-curricular accomplishments and/or in important service activities in the community. Since the award was created in 2007, only forty-seven students have been recognized for their stellar achievements. Piper-Danay, from Grandview, Missouri, was one of a handful of exceptional students to receive the award this year. She is a senior nursing major who plans to become a nurse and has further aspirations to eventually obtaining a doctorate degree. Described by her professor as a strong leader and role model, Piper-Danay has displayed a dedication to helping others that extends past her own career goals in order to serve the people in her community. Mr. Speaker, Piper-Danay Smith's accomplishments have set a great example of what a Citizen Scholar should be. This award represents a great deal of her hard work and dedication. I am proud to represent students like her and I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating her on this well-deserved achievement.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Zane Clark, an outstanding student at Missouri State University, on his selection to receive the Citizen Scholar Award. Each year, this prestigious award is given by Missouri State University's Board of Governors to students who have contributed to the university, furthered the university's public affairs mission, and have been significantly engaged in extra-curricular accomplishments or in important service activities in the community. Since the award was created in 2007, only forty-seven students have been recognized for their stellar achievements. Zane, from Cameron, Missouri, was one of a handful of exceptional students to receive the award this year. He is presently a senior organizational communication major with minors in general business and economics. Zane has been recognized for his social awareness and compassion, along with his undying determination to significantly improve the world around him. Mr. Speaker, Zane Clark's accomplishments have set a great example of what a Citizen Scholar should be. This award represents a great deal of his hard work and dedication. I am proud to represent students like him and I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating him on this well- deserved achievement.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate University of Missouri student Joshua Gilmer on his acceptance to, and completion of, the U.S. Department of State's Critical Language Scholarship award (CLS) 2015 summer program. Joshua, a graduate of Nixa High School in Nixa, Missouri, was one of just 550 out of about 5,500 applicants to be selected to receive admittance to the CLS program this year. This scholarship is a prestigious award, which offers a fully immersive language experience and cultural exchange to 13 countries around the world. The program is aimed at training the next generation of U.S. Citizens to gain an enriched cultural knowledge of other countries and to be well equipped for careers in diplomacy, international business, and other globalized industries. Through the program, Joshua completed an Intermediate Russian language course in Vladimir, Russia. His time overseas was spent fostering not only his language skills, but his knowledge of and ability to relate to Russian culture. In the rapidly globalizing world, a cultural understanding of other countries is a key to continued American success in foreign affairs. Mr. Speaker, Joshua Gilmer is now well-equipped with this new knowledge to broaden the horizons of his peers here in the U.S. I am proud to know that young people like Joshua from Missouri's Seventh Congressional District will one day help guide America's global economic interests, and urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating him on this achievement.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Zach Moore, a senior trombone player at Glendale High School in Springfield, Missouri, on being selected to perform in the High School Honors Performance Series at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Starting in 2009, The High School Honors Performance Series was established to showcase the most talented high school performers in the country. To be considered for inclusion in this series, Moore underwent a competitive application process which required a written recommendation from an instructor and his submitting an audition tape. The various different ensembles on display at the series are conducted by renowned conductors, who will challenge Zach to perform to the best of his abilities. Zach has assembled a truly admirable body of work playing the trombone, earning a Bass Trombone slot in the All-State Orchestra this year as well as first chair trombone honors in the All-District Honor Band. He has played with the U.S. Army All-American Marching Band at the halftime show of the U.S. Army All-American Bowl, a testament to his ability to perform at a high level in front of a large audience. Zach has been described as an incredibly hard worker who is both dedicated to his art and exceptionally talented. Mr. Speaker, Zach Moore deserves our congratulations on his selection to the High School Honors Performance Series. I urge my colleagues to join me in extending congratulations to Zach on his achievements, which make him an example of the outstanding talent Missouri's Seventh Congressional District has to offer.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Brianna Duda, an outstanding student at Missouri State University, on her selection to receive the Citizen Scholar Award. Each year, this prestigious award is given by Missouri State University's Board of Governors to students who have contributed to the university, furthered the university's public affairs mission, and have been significantly engaged in extra-curricular accomplishments and/or in important service activities in the community. Since the award was created in 2007, only forty-seven students have been recognized for their stellar achievements. Brianna, from St. Louis, Missouri, was one of six exceptional students to receive the award this year. She is currently a junior socio-political communication major with a minor in political science. Brianna has been recognized for her skills in identifying intersections of identities and historically excluded groups. She has navigated these issues with great maturity, while addressing the conflict and barriers surrounding them with grace. Mr. Speaker, Brianna Duda's accomplishments have set a great example of what a Citizen Scholar should be, this award represents a great deal of her hard work and dedication. I am proud to represent students like her and I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating her on this well-deserved achievement.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Jim Harriger for his role in leading the Victory Mission of Springfield, Missouri, for the last 23 years. The Victory Mission is a non-denominational ministry which offers educational and emergency services to the community of Springfield. The ministry offers rehabilitative and conciliatory services, as well as providing food and education for those struggling with financial turmoil. It is a certified member of the national Association of Gospel Rescue Missions and has been a pillar of the Springfield community since its founding in 1976. Under Harriger's leadership, the Victory Mission has expanded and improved in significant ways. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Victory Trade School, which has helped countless citizens on their way to obtaining a productive career. The Mission has also drastically expanded their ability to help the needy in Springfield, feeding thousands of hungry people and offering a safe and supportive environment for those who needed help in their daily lives. Jim retired from his position as Executive Director of the Victory Mission after a 23-year career. Far from being the type of man to sit idly in retirement, Jim believes that his next step in life will be just as exciting as his time with the Victory Mission, and will likely involve helping others improve their lives. Mr. Speaker, Jim Harriger is not only a dedicated member of the Springfield community, but an embodiment of the ideals that we hold dear in Missouri. He has demonstrated compassion, a commitment to helping his fellow man and has gone above and beyond to lead the Victory Mission in their admirable goals. I urge my fellow colleagues to join me in appreciation for his accomplishments.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Caitlin Kemp-Shukwit, an outstanding student at Missouri State University, on her selection to receive the Citizen Scholar Award. Each year, this prestigious award is given by Missouri State University's Board of Governors to students who have contributed to the university, furthered the university's public affairs mission, and have been significantly engaged in extra-curricular accomplishments and/or in important service activities in the community. Since the award was created in 2007, only forty-seven students have been recognized for their stellar achievements. Caitlin, from St. Louis, Missouri, is one of only six students to receive the Citizen Scholar award this year. She is a senior majoring in both Dance Performance and Public Relations at Missouri State University. She hopes to travel the world and explore different cultures after graduation, which is emblematic of her drive for cultural enrichment and appreciation. Her professors praise her exemplary leadership skills, which she uses to benefit both the college and local communities. Mr. Speaker, Caitlin Kemp-Shukwit's accomplishments have set a great example of what a Citizen Scholar should be, this award represents a great deal of her hard work and dedication. I am proud to represent students like her and I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating her on this well-deserved achievement.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Bill Barnett, for his service as County Commissioner to Christian County for more than twenty years. After two decades, Bill has now decided to retire from this long held position. Bill began a career of outstanding service in 1994, and is now one of less than a handful of county employees who has more than twenty years of experience. His passion for his work stemmed from his passion for helping fellow residents. During his time serving as Commissioner, Bill has contributed to his community in many ways and accomplished much, but none he is more proud of than the barn that was built for the county's road crews, finally providing them with a central location to better serve the community. Over the years he handled adversity with disdain and dignity, balancing the community's need for services and the community's desire to maintain a low cost of living. Bill saw taxes as a last resort, traditionally setting the property tax of his district at zero. Mr. Speaker, Bill Barnett's work as County Commissioner has set a great example of exceptional public service for the people of Christian County. I am proud to represent citizens like him and I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating him on his well-deserved retirement from service.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Melanie Morgan, an outstanding student at Missouri State University, on her selection to receive the Citizen Scholar Award. Each year, this prestigious award is given by Missouri State University's Board of Governors to students who have contributed to the university, furthered the university's public affairs mission, and have been significantly engaged in extra-curricular accomplishments and/or in important service activities in the community. Since the award was created in 2007, only forty-seven students have been recognized for their stellar achievements. Melanie, from Springfield, Missouri, was one of a handful of exceptional students to receive the award this year. She is currently a senior dietetics major with minors in biomedical sciences and international nutrition. Melanie has been recognized for her dedication to help and serve the community, never focusing on herself and demonstrating a strong desire to help others. Mr. Speaker, Melanie Morgan's accomplishments have set a great example of what a Citizen Scholar should be, this award represents a great deal of her hard work and dedication. I am proud to represent students like her and I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating her on this well-deserved achievement.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Nadia Pshonyak, an outstanding student at Missouri State University, on her selection to receive the Citizen Scholar Award. Each year, this prestigious award is given by Missouri State University's Board of Governors to students who have contributed to the university, furthered the university's public affairs mission, and have been significantly engaged in extra-curricular accomplishments and/or in important service activities in the community. Since the award was created in 2007, only forty-seven students have been recognized for their stellar achievements. Nadia, from West Plains, Missouri, is one of only six students to receive the Citizen Scholar award this year. She has obtained her Associates degree from Missouri State University, and plans to enlist in the Peace Corps and to eventually obtain a Ph.D. in a related field. This is evidence of her passion to not only better herself, but to also better the situation of people worldwide. Mr. Speaker, Nadia Pshonyak's accomplishments have set a great example of what a Citizen Scholar should be, this award represents a great deal of her hard work and dedication. I am proud to represent students like her and I urge my colleagues to join me in congratulating her on this well-deserved achievement.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Larry Purdom, for his legacy of success and innovation in Missouri dairy cattle breeding. Starting in 1957, Larry and his wife Alice have cultivated one of the most outstanding herds of Holstein dairy cows in Missouri. He had his first Grand Champion cow at the Missouri State Fair in 1964, which he repeated in 1966, 1976, 1977 and 1978. He also had several other championships recognized at the Ozark Empire Fair, the Missouri Dairyman's Institute, and the Southern National show. In the show ring, Larry had 35 cows win All-Missouri honors. In addition to his prize winning cows, Larry has had an enormous impact on the development of Missouri Holstein cattle as among the best in the nation. His prize winning bull Senator Flame was placed in the Carnation Genetics AI stud in 1972, improving many herds around the country. Larry has also provided bulls for families on farms across Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas, helping to augment herds where artificial insemination was not practicable. Larry has also personally received the 2011 Missouri Dairy Hall of Honors Distinguished Dairy Cattle Breeder award, in addition to the Missouri Dairy Hall of Honors Dairy Leadership Award in 2002. He served as President of the Missouri Dairy Association from 2003-2014, and also served on the National Dairy Board, as well both the division and corporate boards of the Midwest Dairy Association. Mr. Speaker, I extend my gratitude and admiration for what Larry Purdom has accomplished in his career. His prize winning cattle have improved the stock of herds throughout the state, as well as helping to establish the Missouri Holstein as a premier breed of dairy cattle. On behalf of the 7th District, I congratulate him on his dedication and his well-earned accomplishments.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable 36-year career of Springfield News-Leader sports journalist Lyndal Scranton, and congratulate him on his retirement. Scranton got his start as the Sports Editor of Central High School's student paper, which transitioned to a position at the Springfield News-Leader when he was teenager in the fall of 1979. Ever since, he has written on area sporting events at every level, including the 1985 Bass Pro Tournament of Champions and Jack Nicklaus' hitting golf balls at the `Top of the Rock' golf course. Namely though, he has been a staple of Missouri State University (MSU) Sports since the late 1980s and has cemented himself in MSU sports history. Scranton has written about MSU basketball since the team first joined the Missouri Valley Conference, through the 1999 Bears' run to the Sweet 16, and up to present day with Coach Paul Lusk. His coverage of MSU football has now followed five head coaches' tenures, spanning from Jesse Branch to Dave Steckel. In his reporting on the MSU baseball team, he covered their mid-1990s NCAA tournament appearances, their College World Series contention in 2003, and their impressive 2015 season when the team fell just short of another trip to Omaha. Throughout his career, Scranton built a reputation as being an honest and to-the-point writer. Those who worked with him often remark that his genuine care for people and unwillingness to take cheap shots make him a rare gem from a bygone era of impartial journalism. He has even been a huge help to Legendary Sportscaster Art Hains. If Art ever needs to call for an expert opinion on horse racing, auto racing dating back to Larry Phillips at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds Track, or the NBA, Lyndal is Art's go-to man. All of his peers know--Hains included--that despite his making his living as a sports journalist, Scranton was first and foremost a sports fan. He is an avid supporter of the St. Louis Cardinals, the L.A. Lakers, loves to bowl, and also enjoys watching horse races at Oaklawn--that's not to mention that he makes some of the best bar-b-que in the Ozarks. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Missouri's Seventh Congressional District, I extend my appreciation to him for his dedication to sports journalism in our community and wish him the best of luck in his well-deserved retirement.

Mr. LONG

Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Aaron Pearson, retired officer of the Springfield Police Department, for his dedication to protecting the Springfield community as well as his courage and perseverance after being injured in the line of duty. On January 26, 2015, Officer Pearson was struck below the left eye with one of several rounds fired at him while responding to a request for backup. As a result of his injuries, doctors predicted that Aaron would likely never walk or talk again, but he never gave up. Aaron persevered through months of difficult rehab and less than five months later he made enough progress to throw the first pitch at the Springfield Cardinals game. His actions have shown an incredible example of courage in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. This November, he was awarded the Springfield Police Department Purple Heart for enduring this adversity. Officer Pearson served his community with passion throughout his time with the Springfield Police Department. Before his retirement, Aaron's accomplishments exemplified this and those who worked with him in the line of duty had great respect for his professionalism. Mr. Speaker, Aaron Pearson has worked tirelessly to protect his community and better those around him; I extend to him my deepest appreciation for his courage and dedication to ensuring the safety of the Springfield community. His efforts have not only contributed greatly the Springfield community, but have made me proud to serve the people of Missouri's seventh Congressional District.