Darin LaHood

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I rise with a heavy heart to honor Ryan Owens, a Navy SEAL from Peoria, Illinois--my hometown--who paid the ultimate sacrifice for his country over the weekend in Yemen. Ryan Owens, with his elite counterterrorism unit, SEAL Team Six, was fatally wounded during a night raid against al Qaeda in Yemen. The Department of Defense reported that the raid was a success but that the price was steep. The Constitution of our great Nation was written in ink, but those principles are defended in blood. This remarkable man's sacrifice is a painful reminder of the immeasurable cost of our freedom and national security and of the dark evil we face as we wage the war against terrorism. My thoughts and prayers are with Ryan's grieving family this week: his father, his wife, and his children. I pray that they will take comfort in knowing that his death was not in vain and that neighbors, community, and Nation are joining them in mourning his death and in remembering his life. Ryan Owens will be posthumously awarded with the Purple Heart. Mr. Speaker, at this time, I would ask that the House rise in a moment of silence to pay tribute to Navy SEAL Ryan Owens for his exceptional service to our country.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I recognize Catholic schools and parishes in our nation as we celebrate National Catholic Schools Week. As we approach this celebration, I am excited to announce that this year's theme is ``Catholic School: Communities of Faith, Knowledge, and Service,'' which resonates with my District that is home to twenty- eight Catholic schools. Parochial education strives to instill faith, community involvement, and commitment in the classroom to shape each generation of students into well-educated, compassionate members of our communities. For forty-three years, Catholic schools have taken part in this tradition, which provides a time to reflect on and commemorate their contributions to education. There are over two million students enrolled in the 6,525 Catholic schools across the United States that serve urban, suburban, rural, and inner-city communities. This past year, 37 Catholic schools were designated the Blue Ribbon from the U.S. Department of Education, exceeding academic standards, closing achievement gaps, and establishing progressive teaching methods. In addition to this prestigious award, Catholic schools exceed graduation rates throughout the country and extensively focus on college preparatory classes with 85.7 percent of their students attending a four-year college after graduation. As a proud graduate of St. Anne Grade School in East Moline, Illinois and Spalding Catholic High School in Peoria, Illinois, I am honored to co-sponsor legislation supporting National Catholic Schools Week. The religious values and foundation of faith instilled through Catholic schools has strengthened my relationship with God and informed my daily life with lessons of faith. I am also thankful that our three sons have the opportunity to attend Catholic schools and become immersed in the Catholic faith, quality education, and community service that they provide. This week is a time to reflect on and celebrate all the contributions of the National Catholic Education Association and the impact their schools provide to our communities. I look forward to continuing to support Catholic schools and carrying out God's mission of faith, service, and knowledge. During National Catholic Schools Week, I extend my sincere blessings to the Catholic schools across the nation and I am honored to promote their successes.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 7, the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion and Abortion Insurance Full Disclosure Act. Unfortunately, in our Nation, the most vulnerable and the most helpless lives amongst us have had their lives ended unceremoniously and tragically through abortion. Since 1973, 57 million lives have been lost to abortion. Even more disheartening, taxpayer dollars have been funding these abortions, despite the fact that polls show that 60 percent of Americans believe that abortions should not be directly paid for with tax dollars. Since 1976, the Hyde amendment has saved 2 million lives by prohibiting tax dollars from funding abortions. It is time to make this lifesaving amendment permanent and governmentwide. If signed by our new President, this measure would do just that. Supporting comprehensive, life-affirming care is a better and more effective way to invest in women's health. I am thankful to all those who will come to Washington, D.C., this week to March for Life on behalf of the unborn. As a practicing Catholic and the father of three, I am proud to be the voice for the unborn here in Congress. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 7 and stand up for life.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this budget resolution as a first step in the process to repeal and replace ObamaCare. It is undeniable that ObamaCare has failed. It has broken promise after promise to the American people. Constituents in my district in central Illinois are watching their premiums skyrocket by an average of 15 percent. This chart next to me here shows, all across the country in State after State, premiums have skyrocketed. Citizens also face deductibles that are so high that they try to get by without going to a doctor. One constituent from Roseville, Illinois, whose insurance costs have gone up 75 percent, stated to me recently: ``This is crazy. Almost half of my paycheck goes to insurance. How do they expect us to afford this?'' These burdensome costs stifle families and our small businesses' ability to participate in and help grow our economy. We have a mandate from the American people to fix this broken system and to rescue citizens from escalating healthcare costs. The goal is not to pull the rug out from underneath anyone. In fact, we are working to provide a stable transition to better, more affordable health care. We must have something that is economically sustainable and fiscally responsible, something that actually works. I look forward to working with my colleagues to replace ObamaCare with a system grounded in economic reality--a market-driven, consumer- centered healthcare system that provides Americans with more choices, lower costs, and greater flexibility. That is why we are working on a replacement system that will expand consumer choice through health care focused on their needs; a system that will spur innovation in health care; attract new doctors and healthcare providers; and protect patients with preexisting conditions. Mr. Chairman, we must help Americans gain access to insurance they can afford. Passing this legislation is one step towards helping people and fulfilling our promise to the American people. I urge my colleagues to support this resolution. We owe it to our citizens.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I would like to honor Illinois State Representative Donald Moffitt for his dedication to public service which has tremendously benefitted the people and State of Illinois. Today commemorates his last day as a Representative in the Illinois General Assembly. Representative Moffitt from the 74th House District of Illinois has dedicated twenty-three years to tirelessly serving his constituents in the Illinois General Assembly. His years of service have been distinguished by his commitment to providing timely and effective constituent service, a top priority for his office. As a leader of the Republican Party in Illinois, he has cultivated a statewide reputation for his dedication to matters concerning Illinois veteran's affairs, agricultural reform, healthcare, and especially, the public safety of Illinois. In 2004, he founded the Illinois General Assembly's Fire Caucus, which focuses on promoting the goals of Illinois' fire services. Among its accomplishments is the promotion of funding for Emergency Medical Systems, creating a fire truck loan program, placing sprinkler systems in college and university housing, and reforming hiring practices of fire departments to ensure greater public safety. He is also credited for requiring school buses to install swinging stop signs to ensure the safety of children crossing the street. His outstanding advocacy on public safety issues has not gone unrecognized as he has received numerous honors, including the ``Legislator of the Year'' awards credited to him by the Illinois Association for Fire Protection Districts, the Illinois Firefighters Association, and the Northern Illinois Alliance of Fire Protection Districts. Most notably, he recently received the 2016 Northern Alliance of Fire Protection Districts Lifetime Achievement Award. In addition to his advocacy for public safety, Representative Moffitt has also championed the most important issues facing the healthcare industry. As part of this important work, he sponsored a legislation preventing discrimination of insurance companies based on genetic test results, which would later serve as the paradigm for federal legislation of the same topic. Through his work within the Illinois healthcare field, Representative Moffitt has helped many families receive the necessary care and information that they need. Representative Moffitt's steadfast work to improve the lives of Illinois' citizens stands as a model for progress to further the greater good and prosperity of the state. He stands as a model for the values and priorities which current--and future--public servants should strive to uphold in order to better our communities. It is an honor to call Representative Moffitt not only a colleague, but a friend of many years. I want to congratulate him on his tireless work to improve public safety and his dedicated service to the State of Illinois.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, a day we set aside to thank those who risk their lives to protect our communities nationwide. These men and women are the hidden heroes of our country, and they deserve our respect and our gratitude. When they put on their badge and kiss their family good-bye each day, these officers have no certainty that they will return home safely. They willingly face that risk to keep the rest of us safe. This past year, 135 law enforcement officers made the ultimate sacrifice. One of those courageous individuals was our own Officer Scot Fitzgerald, who lost his life serving on duty with the South Jacksonville Police Department, located in my district. Last night, throughout the Capitol, blue lights were lit to honor our heroes in blue. In my office, we lit our blue candle in remembrance of fallen Officer Scot Fitzgerald. In 2016, more officers lost their lives on duty than in any of the previous 5 years. Let us show our admiration and appreciation to the sworn law enforcement officers across the State of Illinois and the 900,000 who serve and face danger in the United States every day. Not just this week, but throughout the year, we need to honor our law enforcement officials.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Amendment VIII: ``Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.'' Amendment IX: ``The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.''

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to recognize Douglas Oberhelman of Peoria, Illinois for his notable tenure as Chief Executive Officer of Caterpillar Inc. In 1975, Douglas began his career with Caterpillar in the treasury department. Since then, he has established himself as a leader and has participated in various businesses across the company. His talent and drive led to him being selected as Caterpillar's Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in 1995. Sixteen years later, Oberhelman was named Chairman of the Board of Directors and Caterpillar's Chief Executive Officer. Despite being named CEO in the midst of an economic crisis, Douglas led Caterpillar to the highest sales and revenue peak in company history. In addition to record high sales, Douglas focused on improving customer service and safety standards within the company and across the world. Throughout his career, Oberhelman has had the distinguished honor of serving on the Board of Directors of the Exxon Mobil Corporation, the Business Council, and being named Chairman of the Business Roundtable. Additionally, his remarkable leadership in the industry was further recognized when he was named Chair of the National Association of Manufacturers. Further, Douglas and his wife, Diane, have been generous supporters of our local community with longstanding donations of time and resources to the Easter Seals Foundation of Central Illinois, Millikin University, the Boy Scouts of America, and a multitude of conservation organizations and efforts. Douglas is known throughout Central Illinois for not only his outstanding business acumen, but also his innovative and visionary leadership of Caterpillar. Our community has been fortunate to benefit from the hard work and leadership of Douglas Oberhelman, I extend my sincerest congratulations to him on a successful career and I look forward to seeing his legacy continue in Central Illinois.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I would like to honor Tim Thornton, Head Coach of Peoria High School football, for his outstanding season and recognition as Coach of the Year. Recently, Coach Thornton's football team won the Class 5A Illinois High School Association State Football Championship. In addition to this incredible accomplishment, Coach Thornton was honored with the title of Illinois Coach of the Year by Friday Night Football Magazine, and received Athletico's Coach of the Year Award. Since Coach Thornton began his tenure as head football coach of Peoria High School, the team has made remarkable strides. This season, Coach Thornton achieved a record of 13-1, the best in the school's history. However, their success did not stop there as the team also went on to win the Big 12 Conference Championship and the Illinois State Championship, another best for the school's football program. Coach Thornton has worked tirelessly with his players not only on the field, but also off, helping them to become valuable members of our community. As an extraordinary coach and mentor, Coach Thornton exemplifies what can be achieved through hard work and dedication. He is an invaluable member of our community and the 18th District, and I am honored to share the same hometown and values. Coach Thornton is an extraordinary role model for the youth in our community, and I look forward to the great accomplishments that he will achieve in the future. I congratulate him on not only a fantastic season, but also a most deserved recognition as Coach of the Year.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I would like to honor Dan Hayes, of Brewers Distributing Company, in Peoria, for receiving the National Beer Wholesalers Association Employee Spotlight. Dan joined the Brewers Distributing Company in 2002 as a warehouse relief driver. Since then, he has become the Director of Operations and a company-wide leader, implementing new and innovative ideas to further advance and grow the company's success. He is responsible for developing the Brewers Distributing Company's employee engagement group, known as Brewers In Motion, which works to further staff and employer relations. Dan is also a member of the Brewers Distributing Company's Strategic Planning Committee, where he has been instrumental in working to develop strategies to ensure the company's continued success in the future. His leadership is worthy of recognition, and he is most deserving of the National Beer Wholesalers Association Employee Spotlight. Our community has greatly benefitted from his fourteen years of service to the Peoria region. In Illinois alone, beer distributors provide $7.6 million dollars in economic development and charity support, and a combined total of $3 billion in total economic impact. It is through the hard work and leadership of exceptional employees and individuals, like Dan, that the beer industry continues to flourish and contribute to our community. I commend Dan on his service and hard work that has led him to receive the National Beer Wholesalers Association Employee Spotlight. I want to thank Dan Hayes for his service to Central Illinois, and congratulate him on this most deserved recognition.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Frank Abdnour of Peoria, Illinois on his retirement as owner of The Spotted Cow, an iconic restaurant in my hometown. Mr. Abdnour first opened the Spotted Cow in the early 1980's as an ice cream push-cart on the Bradley University campus. During this time, Frank became a fixture of campus life and a favorite of students in need of a frozen treat in between classes. In 1987, fueled by the American entrepreneurial spirit, Frank successfully opened a brick-and- mortar ice cream store in Peoria Heights. Nineteen years later, Frank pursued his dream of turning the Spotted Cow into a full service restaurant at the corner of Sheridan and Glen, where it has become an institution in the Peoria community, serving the most delicious food and of course, ice cream. The Spotted Cow is a landmark throughout Central Illinois, known for its Italian beef, burgers, salads, and, most importantly, ice cream. Frank's famous, one of a kind ice cream is made in-store with flavors that can only be found at the Spotted Cow. I extend my sincere congratulations to Frank on a successful career as a Peoria icon, and I look forward to seeing his legacy carry on as The Spotted Cow continues to serve as a cornerstone of Peoria culture for years to come.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize George Manias of Peoria, Illinois on the 70th anniversary of his Peoria business, George's Shoeshine and Hatters World Headquarters, a fixture in the Peoria community since George began his shoeshine business 70 years ago. As a small child, George moved from America to Crete, a Greek isle, before World War II. George, his family, and their community worked tirelessly to fight off Nazi invasions, often having to shoot Nazi paratroopers before they could land on the island. Despite their gallant efforts, however, the Nazis did eventually invade the island. George's father, a U.S. citizen, was imprisoned numerous times throughout Nazi occupation during World War II. During this difficult time, young George went four years without a pair of shoes. In 1946, as a teenager, George returned to Peoria, Illinois, where he would become an integral member of our community. He started his shoeshine business with one seat, charging 25 cents a shine. A model of the American entrepreneur, George steadily grew his business, making it the national landmark it is today. During his 70 years of business in Peoria, countless public figures have walked through George's doors in hopes of meeting this industrious man and having the opportunity to place a signed photo in his place of business. Over the past 70 years, George has met various public figures, including four U.S. Presidents, numerous U.S. Vice Presidents, Governors, U.S. Senators, U.S. Representatives, White House Chiefs of Staff; Mayors, world champion athletes, CEOs, and local leaders. George's Shoeshine business is known throughout Central Illinois for the personal service, craftsmanship, and incredible attention to detail he puts into every shoe he shines. I am honored to share the same hometown as George, where a humble man can achieve the American dream through dedication, commitment, and hard work. I extend my sincere congratulations to George Manias on a successful 70 years and I look forward to seeing his legacy carry on in downtown Peoria.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to applaud the 2016 World Series champions, the Chicago Cubs, and to congratulate back-to-back World Series MVP, Ben Zobrist. As the switch-hitting, utility player for the Cubs, Zobrist played a crucial role in bringing his team to victory. At the top of the 10th inning in Game 7 of the World Series, Zobrist roped an RBI double giving the Cubs the decisive run in the 8-7 victory that won their team its first World Series championship since 1908. Ben Zobrist is a native of Eureka, Illinois, located in my congressional district. The four-sport Eureka High School athlete went on to play baseball at Dallas Baptist University before launching his major league career. More admirable than his talent is his character. In Major League Baseball, Zobrist has represented the sport with true midwestern values. Ben is both a devout man of faith and a family man devoted to his wife and three children. Ben Zobrist's commitment to God, family, and baseball make him not just a hero for his hometown of Eureka, Illinois, but a man that all of America can respect and admire.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I would like to commemorate Mike Mangold and Mangold Ford, in Eureka, Illinois, for 60 years of outstanding service to our community. Charles and Mary Mangold first opened the doors of Mangold Ford in 1956 with the intention of providing quality service based on Christian principles. Because of their faith and acumen, their dealership now employs over thirty dedicated employees varying from management, front office, and service teams who work tirelessly to ensure the utmost customer satisfaction. The employees at Mangold Ford, throughout its history, continue to make car buying an enjoyable experience for all customers. For the past thirteen consecutive years, Mangold Ford has been awarded the President's Award, an honor given to dealerships that have a consistent record of customer satisfaction and high-quality service. Beyond exceptional service, Mangold Ford has also played a significant philanthropic role in our community, partaking in and contributing to many local charitable events. I am thankful that America has been a country where hard-working families with a vision, such as the Mangold's, can grow their small business, employ others, and impact their community in a positive manner. I extend my sincere congratulations to Mr. Mike Mangold, his family, and the staff of Mangold Ford on an outstanding sixty years and I wish them sixty more prosperous years.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I would like to honor Reverend Jerry Trecek for his work as the Executive Director of Peoria Rescue Ministries for the past 45 years. As Executive Director, Rev. Trecek oversees the five divisions of Peoria Rescue Ministries, which include Peoria Rescue Mission, Victory Acres, Barnabas Center, Women's Pregnancy Center and Esther House. Peoria Rescue Ministries also supports international ministries in Latvia and the Ukraine, reaching beyond our border. Rev. Trecek has played an equally active role serving on the Board of Directors of these international ministries. With many professional and community service affiliations, Rev. Trecek remains an active part of the Peoria area community. In 1968, Rev. Trecek and his wife, Barbara, founded the Peoria Rescue Mission, where today they provide shelter, food, and a warm bed to nearly one hundred men each night. Under the leadership of Rev. Trecek, the organization has expanded from a single rescue mission facility to a thriving 3 million dollar ministry serving the men, women, and children of Central Illinois. Through community donations and the guidance of Rev. Trecek, Peoria Rescue Ministries housed 27,965 guests who were without shelter and served 70,737 meals to the hungry in 2015. More importantly, the ministry committed or rededicated 626 individuals in our community to Christ. In the words of Rev. Trecek, ``My main goal is to introduce people to the saving grace found in Jesus Christ.'' I would like to acknowledge Rev. Trecek's remarkable tenure as Executive Director of Peoria Rescue Ministries. Rev. Trecek's dedication to the Peoria Rescue Ministries has set a true example of community leadership and what it means to lead as the Lord leads day by day. It is an honor to represent such a charitable organization and I wish the best of luck to Rev. Jerry Trecek as he takes on the role of Director Emeritus focusing on the international ministries.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to honor Tri-Valley Elementary School in Downs, Illinois for receiving the U.S. Department of Education National Blue Ribbon. Since 1982, the U.S. Department of Education has awarded the Blue Ribbon to schools across the country based on their overall academic excellence. This year, 329 schools in the nation were awarded the National Blue Ribbon, including Tri-Valley Elementary School in Illinois' 18th District. Tri-Valley prides itself on their academic excellence and a proactive student body. The school offers a variety of clubs, intramural sports, and volunteer opportunities for its students, faculty, and parents. Additionally, Tri-Valley Elementary School has been awarded the Illinois State Board of Education Academic Excellence Award every year since the mid-2000's. Led by Principal Sara Burnett, the faculty has developed an effective curriculum to meet the academic needs of all students. Beginning in Pre-K, students at Tri-Valley develop the skills necessary to become life-long learners. It is an honor to represent the students, faculty, and administrators at Tri-Valley Elementary School. Their dedication to education, and their students, makes them a deserving recipient of the National Blue Ribbon, and more importantly, an example for schools all across the nation.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to honor Nichole Folkman, a 2017 Illinois State Board of Education Teacher of the Year finalist. Mrs. Folkman teaches English at Hartsburg-Emden Community Unit School District 21 in Hartsburg, Illinois. Having taught high-schoolers for over a decade, Mrs. Folkman's passion for teaching, her students, and their success, makes her a most deserving top ten finalist out of a field of 250 nominees. As a high school student, Mrs. Folkman recognized her desire to teach. Upon graduating from Milliken University, she began her career as an English teacher, focusing on how to effectively educate her students in the intricacies of the English language, journalism, and speech. Her approach in the classroom continues to engage and excite her students about the values of education within the language arts. Most importantly, because of Mrs. Folkman's ability to connect and inspire pupils within the classroom, Hartsburg-Emden students consistently look to her as a role model as they focus on their own futures. It is an honor to represent teachers like Mrs. Folkman, who passionately invest their time teaching the children of our schools. Her devotion to teaching has positively impacted not only her students, but also her colleagues and our community. I wish her the best of luck at the Those Who Excel banquet on October 22nd, where the highest teaching award in the state, the Illinois Teacher of the Year, will be presented.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to recognize Paul Findley's contributions to the state of Illinois and his accomplishments as a Member of the United States House of Representatives. From a young age, Mr. Findley had a talent for writing, starting at the Jacksonville Journal Courier in high school, he went on to author his own section in the Illinois College newspaper titled, Findley's Uncensored Prejudices. He then became the first editor of Wingtips at Monmouth College. Mr. Findley joined the Navy Reserves in the spring of 1942, following the attack on Pearl Harbor. Eager to go overseas, he was stationed in both Guam and Japan during the war. Upon his return to the United States, he married Lucille Gemme, a flight nurse whom he had met in Guam. They moved to Pittsfield, Illinois, where he became the managing editor of the Pike County Republican. In 1958, Mr. Findley felt called to enter politics, and he ran for Illinois' 20th congressional seat, which he won in 1960. As a Congressman, he was an active supporter for the Civil Rights Act of 1964. He persistently offered the Powell Amendment, to prohibit racial discrimination, as an amendment to each bill considered on the House Floor. In 1965, Congressman Findley hired Frank Mitchell, a 15-year-old boy from Springfield, Illinois, and the first African American page in the U.S. House of Representatives. Congressman Findley shaped U.S. House of Representatives' foreign policy by leading the NATO task force and establishing a stronger relationship with France, particularly General de Gaulle, whom he always considered a strong ally of the United States. In his early years in office, Congressman Findley was a supporter of the Vietnam War and led initiatives to block food sales to any Warsaw Pact countries aiding Hanoi. This action became known as the Findley Amendments. Congressman Findley devoted a considerable amount of his public and personal life to honoring Abraham Lincoln. He authored, ``A. Lincoln: The Crucible of Congress,'' a book about Abraham Lincoln's influence in the U.S. House of Representatives. His admiration of Lincoln led to the preservation of Lincoln's home, which was fulfilled when the Lincoln Home Historic Site Act was signed into law by President Nixon in 1974. Congressman Findley was the first Republican member of the House of Representatives to advocate for diplomatic relations with the Peoples Republic of China, during the Chinese Cultural Revolution. Once diplomatic relations were achieved, the Chinese Ambassador traveled to Jacksonville, Illinois to speak to the local Rotary Club, where he praised the leadership and friendship of Congressman Findley. During all of his overseas negotiations, Congressman Findley still found time to support his constituents in Illinois. He continuously protected the interests of farmers and the agricultural community, which made up most of Illinois' 20th Congressional District. Although one may disagree with Congressman Findley on policy, he was never a disagreeable person. His personal motto was ``One catches more flies with honey than vinegar.'' Congressman Findley spoke freely about his passions, even if they were against his own party. He continues, at the age of 93, to play a role in politics through speeches, books, and Op Ed articles advocating for tolerance, fair and balanced policy, and against nuclear proliferation. Stephen Jones, a long-time colleague and friend of Mr. Findley, described him saying, ``He was an ideal Congressman. He was not dogmatic, always open to persuasion, did his homework, and remembered the people back home.'' It is an honor to represent Jacksonville, Illinois, the hometown of Congressman Findley. He admirably served our state, worked to make the United States a stronger nation, and continues to live Abraham Lincoln's vision.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 5931, legislation prohibiting future ransom payments to Iran. In the midst of a global war on terror, it should be common sense that the United States of America should not be sending untraceable pallets of cash on an airplane to the leading state sponsor of terrorism. Apparently it isn't, though, because that is exactly what happened and what this administration engaged in. We know now that $1.7 billion in cash was given to Iran in exchange for the release of prisoners, violating America's longstanding policy against ransom payments. Predictably, this administration has admitted that it cannot guarantee that this money did not go to fund current or future terrorism by Iran. In addition, all of this was done in secret, lacking transparency with the American people. Today the House is taking action to end this practice. H.R. 5931 prohibits any cash payments to Iran regardless of the rationale or reasoning behind it. It also ensures the American people will be notified if a President ever attempts this sort of deal again. America cannot be a country that sends cash to countries that fund terrorism. Period.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, on roll call no. 505, on Wednesday, September 14, 2016 I was delayed on my way to the U.S. House of Representatives floor and missed the first vote of the series--Ordering the Previous Question on H. Res. 863. Had I been present, I would have voted Yes.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Springfield, Illinois, native Ryan Held on his Olympic gold medal for swimming at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. The 2016 Rio Games were Ryan Held's first Olympics, and he represented the United States in the 4 100 meter freestyle relay, along with Nathan Adrian, Caeleb Dressel, and Michael Phelps. Ryan took over for Phelps for the third leg of the freestyle relay. Ryan's fast split time of 47.73 seconds maintained the lead for the U.S. and helped the team swim to gold. I know I speak for everyone in Springfield when I say that we are very proud of Ryan Held. He represented his community, his State, and his country with the strength, speed, humility, and dignity befitting an Olympic champion. This past Friday, our hometown Olympian was warmly celebrated by the city of Springfield at Sacred Heart-Griffin, his alma mater, where hundreds from the community came out to congratulate him. Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner declared September 2, 2016, as Ryan Held Day during a ceremony at Sacred Heart-Griffin High School. I hope this day serves as a reminder to Ryan of our support and pride in him as he prepares for the rest of what will undoubtedly be a decorated swimming career.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize Ryan Held on his gold medal finish in the 4x100 meter Freestyle Relay at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. As a student of Sacred Heart Griffin High School in Springfield, IL, Ryan spent his time after school in the pool where he quickly impressed his teammates and competitors alike. As a sophomore, Ryan placed second in the 50-yard Freestyle and first in the 100-yard Freestyle at the Illinois High School Association Swimming Championships in 2012. The following year, he won both of these events at the State level, and earned the title of Illinois State Swimmer of the Year in 2014. Ryan currently attends North Carolina State University where he continues his collegiate swimming career. From a young age, Ryan has proudly represented Springfield, devoting himself to both swimming and the community. Becoming an Eagle Scout at the age of 15, Ryan committed himself to being a tone of positive change in our community. For his Eagle Scout project, Ryan built a memorial in honor of a student who had passed away. Ryan embodies what it truly means to be an Eagle Scout, displaying exceptional leadership qualities, and putting others before himself. After improving tremendously each year in the pool, Ryan became the NCAA Champion in the 4x100-yard Freestyle Relay in 2016; however, he had a larger goal in mind--the Olympics. This year, Ryan became a member of the 4x100 meter Freestyle Relay Team that won the Gold medal at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, swimming the third leg of the event along with teammates Caleb Dressel, Nathan Adrian, and Michael Phelps. His lifelong dedication to swimming has paid off as he is now considered one of the best swimmers in the world. Ryan serves as a reminder to the people of our community that when we believe in ourselves and dedicate our time and effort to the goals that we set, we can achieve even the most daring outcomes. Ryan exemplifies what it means to be an Olympian and an American. Central Illinois, the State of Illinois, and our Country could not be any prouder. Again, congratulations, Ryan, on your successful career.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to recognize Historic Grace Lutheran Church in Springfield, IL. This month marks their 175th anniversary of spreading God's Word, serving the community, and worship. Grace Lutheran is both spiritually and historically significant. The Church's entirely stone steeple is one of only two of its kind in the country. Further, recognized as part of the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Grace Lutheran's founder, Reverend Francis Springer, was a neighbor of Abraham Lincoln, in Springfield. Historic Grace Lutheran Church not only has a rich history, but it continues to serve the Greater Springfield Area with the utmost dedication. Its congregation remains committed to service through charitable endeavors including regular contributions to local food pantries. Their ongoing efforts to support the students, teachers, and staff of McClernand Elementary School and other schools in the area are commendable. Their commitment to helping the lives of the poor, uneducated, and the hungry embodies the virtues of true servants of God. On September 18, 2016, the Historic Grace Lutheran Church will celebrate 175 years of encompassing in the spirit of charity, religion, and community. As this momentous occasion is celebrated, I extend my sincerest congratulations and gratitude to the parish of Historic Grace Lutheran Church for all that they have done and continue to do.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I would like to commemorate William Edward Bontemps on his recent retirement from Goodwill Industries of Central Illinois, Inc. Bill Bontemps was born and raised in West Peoria and is known for his active role in the community, his service to our country during the Vietnam War, and his successful career at Goodwill Industries. Bill graduated from Peoria High School and earned a Bachelor of Science in business from Bradley University. After college, Bill served in the U.S. Army infantry in Vietnam and later served as a combat photographer for the 1st Battalion, 50th Infantry. In recognition of his service to the United States, Bill was honored with the Purple Heart, National Defense Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal. Following his decorated military career, Bill continued to serve others by becoming the Director of Vocational Services for Goodwill Industries in 2009. In his role with Goodwill, he supported various programs including Goodwill's Veteran Employment Services, Youth Services, job preparation and employment programs, and the General Wayne A. Downing Veteran's Home. Bill used his marketing background and photography skills learned in the military to promote these programs by assisting in the creation of flyers, signs, brochures, and calendars. His service to the community extended beyond Goodwill, as he served on the Board for the Continuum of Care and Senator Kirk's Veterans Advisory Board. Bill retired on July 8, 2016 after a long career of selfless service to the 18th District. I want to congratulate Bill for his commitment to our community and wish him and his wife, Patty, a relaxing retirement.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to honor Wanda Rae Powell, a cadet volunteer in the Civil Air Patrol during World War II, for receiving the Congressional Gold Medal. Wanda Rae Powell was raised in Towanda, Illinois and had a love for aviation for as long as she can remember. As a child, Wanda's heroes included Amelia Earhart and Charles Lindbergh. Upon moving to Bell, California in 1944, Wanda served as a volunteer cadet in the Civil Air Patrol while still attending high school. As a cadet, she studied silhouettes of military airplanes and learned to salute, march, and drill. In the summer of 1945, Wanda served in a factory overseeing the manufacture of military life jackets. After graduating from high school, Wanda returned to Illinois and attended Illinois State University, known as Illinois State Normal University at the time, where she studied Home Economics. Because of a teaching shortage in 1949, Wanda earned an emergency teaching degree and taught in Central Illinois before returning to finish her degree at Illinois State. After receiving her degree in 1955, Wanda continued to serve the Central Illinois community by teaching at Danvers High School. Additionally, she served our community as a Brokaw Hospital volunteer, a Brownie Girl Scout leader, and in the Parent Teachers Association. I am honored, today, to recognize Wanda for receiving the Congressional Gold Medal. Since the age of seventeen, she has shown what it means to be a true American, serving her country in the Armed Forces, as an educator, and community volunteer. On behalf of the 18th District, I would like to thank her for her service, and wish her my sincerest congratulations on this much deserved award.