Candice Miller

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct privilege to recognize a special achievement recently accomplished by the Romeo Bulldogs High School Hockey Team. Romeo capped off a remarkable and extremely memorable 2015-2016 season by taking home to Macomb County the school's first ever Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Division 2 State Championship. After a hard fought season, the Bulldogs finished with an overall record of 27-2-1 and charged into the playoffs facing off against tough competition before stunning the Livonia Stevenson Spartans at the USA Hockey Arena in Plymouth. In his second year as head coach, Nick Badder and his team have had great success. Last year's team won 20 regular season games for the first time in school history and was crowned the regional champion. But, Coach Badder and the rest of the team knew they could achieve more. There is always a learning curve for head coaches, but Coach Badder did not waste much time in turning the Romeo Bulldogs into champions. With hockey in his veins from playing NCAA hockey for the Central Michigan Chippewas, Coach Badder used both his youth and hockey experience to relate and teach the 22 young men to be better players, teammates and students. Coach Badder knew he had a fast and physical team, but they needed to focus on the details and play a better defensive game. All of these attributes came together at precisely the right time and the Romeo Bulldogs are now State Champions. Before making it to the State Championship game, the Romeo Bulldogs faced many competitors in the tournament. The Bulldogs faced a Davison team coming off of a 6-0 win over Lapeer and defeated them 8-3 in the pre-regional final. Next, Romeo faced Port Huron Northern and beat them by a score of 7-1 in the regional final. From there, the Romeo Bulldogs faced the Anchor Bay Tars at Suburban Ice Arena and bested them 8-3 in the quarterfinal. In the semifinals, Romeo faced a tough Ada Forest Hills Eastern team. This was Romeo's toughest test yet, but the Bulldogs remained unscathed in the playoffs with a 5-2 victory. With their sights on the championship, the Romeo Bulldogs would play in one final game and face their toughest challenge of the season. The Livonia Stevenson Spartans were now the only team that separated them from history. The Livonia Stevenson Spartans won the state championship in 2013 and finished as last year's runner-up, while the Romeo Bulldogs had never appeared in a championship game. The perennial powerhouse Spartans had the wind at their backs and history on their side, but history was about to change. Seven minutes into the game, Junior forward Brett Lanski scored to give Romeo a 1-0 lead. Stevenson scored less than four minutes later to even the score. Not long after, Logan Jenuwine scored a power play goal to give Romeo a 2-1 lead. In the next five minutes, Stevenson would score three goals to take a 4-2 lead. Coach Badder decided to call a crucial time out at this point to settle his team and slow the pace of the game. This decision proved to be a critical turning point in the game. Brett Lanski went on to score his second goal of the game, putting the Bulldogs within one shot of a tie. Less than a minute later, Luke Kaczor deflected defenseman Logan Ganfield's shot to tie the game with a minute and a half left in the period. In the third period, Stevenson received a five minute major for head- butting that put Romeo on a critical power play. The Bulldogs took advantage and Logan Jenuwine scored his second of the game giving Romeo a 5-4 lead. Steven Morris capped off the comeback victory with an empty net goal that sealed the 6-4 victory for the Romeo Bulldogs. The Bulldogs throughout the season exhibited all the qualities that make up a championship hockey team: heart, discipline and a positive attitude. As legendary Hall of Fame Defenseman Paul Coffey once said, ``Hockey's a funny game You have to prove yourself every shift, every game. It's not up to anybody else. You have to take pride in yourself.'' I applaud these young men for remaining both mentally and physically ready to compete. In addition, I want to commend the Bulldogs for staying energized and focused each time they stepped on to the ice. I understand this can be an extremely difficult task considering the numerous pressures and distractions high school student-athletes can encounter. I wish to recognize the hard work and sportsmanship displayed by all the members of this hockey team. These individuals are: Harrison Hunt, Brett Lanski, Zach Peters, Lorenzo Evangelista, Frank Ruffino, Logan Ganfield, Blake Gabler, Jacob Sunderlik, Chase Gillem, Andrew Cate, Luke Kaczor, Ryan Peters, Joey Morris, Jake Petri, Dan Geffert, Nick Blankenburg, Nolan Kare, Garrett Ganfield, Steven Morris, Max Citro, Logan Jenuwine, and Grant Williams along with Head Coach Nick Badder, and Assistant Coaches Adam Krefski, Brennan Cavanagh and Kyle White, Athletic Trainer Kim Ostrolencki and Manager Kim Gamble. I also want to congratulate administrators, teachers, cheerleaders, parents, students and fans alike for their assistance and for making this an unforgettable season. The Bulldogs proved they had the skill, heart and resilience to rise to the challenge and accomplish their ultimate goal--a State Championship. Teamwork, perseverance and friendship all contributed to this title as well. I know the community takes great pride in what these young men were able to achieve. In closing, Mr. Speaker, I share that same pride. I want to offer my personal congratulations. All the accolades, awards and trophies are rightfully deserved. Way to go Bulldogs.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 1670) to direct the Architect of the Capitol to place in the United States Capitol a chair honoring American Prisoners of War/Missing in Action.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I along with Representative Dingell would like to recognize an incredible group of women today. On May 29, 1943, in the midst of war, a new image appeared on the cover of the Saturday Evening Post. Created by Norman Rockwell, it was an image of a woman who was strong and brave. The image acted as an introduction to heroes the American people had already come to know. These heroes, known as Rosie the Riveters, have been solidified in our national memory as champions. Initially, there was uncertainty as to whether or not women should be allowed to work in industries and fill positions that were previously only occupied by men. However, as the war moved on, women began to fill positions in the workplace and keep American industry, and the war effort, afloat. Slogans such as ``The More Women at Work the Sooner We Win'' were sprawled across newspapers and magazines and appealed to women's patriotism and willingness to serve. As a part of Women's History Month, on March 22nd, we will welcome a group of ``Original Rosies'' to the United States Capitol to celebrate their tremendous contributions to our nation. To these women we say: through your service during the Second World War, you played an invaluable role in the war effort and victory as a part of the Greatest American Generation. Your rigorous work and passionate love of our great country are arguably what sustained the American people, at home and abroad, during a volatile time of war and uncertainty. You made great personal sacrifices and served with such infectious zeal that you were able to reinvigorate the war effort and inspire, encourage, and support your communities. Since your time serving during the War, the number of working women in the United States has never fallen to pre-war levels; this is one of countless examples of your legacy. Your generation paved a path for the generations of women to follow. We are grateful for the work you have done. We honor you and recognize your work as a symbol of American strength and ingenuity. Rosie's story inspires us. You inspire us, and we will continue to tell your stories to our children and grandchildren to ensure the American spirit, which you embody, never leaves our hearts. Your spirit is a reminder to the American people that we, too, can do something more for our country.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on House Administration be discharged from further consideration of House Concurrent Resolution 109, and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 10 a.m. tomorrow.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to take from the Speaker's table the concurrent resolution (S. Con. Res. 28) to establish the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies for the inauguration of the President-elect and Vice President-elect of the United States on January 20, 2017, and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to take from the Speaker's table the concurrent resolution (S. Con. Res. 29) to authorize the use of the Rotunda and Emancipation Hall of the Capitol by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies in connection with the proceedings and ceremonies conducted for the inauguration of the President-elect and the Vice President-elect of the United States, and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 10th anniversary of the merger of U.S. Customs and Border Protection's (CBP) air and marine assets, which today are known as CBP's Air and Marine Operations--or AMO. This valuable component of CBP provides critical aviation and maritime capabilities that support security along the nation's land and maritime borders. Prior to the establishment of DHS in 2003, the assets and personnel that comprise AMO were divided amongst multiple agencies, including the U.S. Customs Service and the U.S. Border Patrol. These resources were consolidated under DHS and integrated into CBP to better coordinate and align our nation's border and maritime security resources and increase the effectiveness of those resources. Today, AMO helps secure our nation from transnational threats, including terrorism; weapons and drug smuggling; and other illicit transnational activities. With 1,800 federal agents and specialists, a fleet of aircraft and marine vessels, and an array of advanced surveillance and domain awareness technologies, AMO conducts its mission along our land borders and coastlines, and within the nation's interior. Based out of more than 90 locations throughout the United States, AMO performed approximately 30,000 missions, which supported 51,000 apprehensions and made 4,500 arrests ensuring the safety and security of our nation. As one of the nation's largest and most capable aviation and maritime law enforcement organization, AMO leverages its capabilities by forging crucial partnerships with international, federal, state, local and tribal agencies in support of national security, law enforcement, disaster relief, and humanitarian operations. On behalf of a grateful nation, I want to commend the men and women of the CBP's Air and Marine Operations for their years of service and wish them a happy 10th anniversary.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I simply, once again, urge my colleagues to support H.R. 3878. It is a very good bill, and it is a very important bill--again, in a bipartisan way--for the security of our ports and the homeland security of our Nation as well. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers. If the gentlewoman from California is prepared to close, I will then close for our side.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the distinguished gentleman from New York (Mr. Donovan).

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 3878) to enhance cybersecurity information sharing and coordination at ports in the United States, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and include any extraneous materials on the bill under consideration.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3878, and I urge its passage. Since the terrorist attacks of 9/11, the U.S. Congress has appropriated $2.4 billion in port security grant funds to protect port facilities against potential terror attacks. As a nation, we have done a fairly good job of updating the physical security at ports, but the U.S. Government has been very slow to ensure that our ports are secure from cyber vulnerabilities. For example, cybersecurity of our Nation's critical infrastructure has been on the Government Accountability Office's High Risk List since 2003, yet we have not fully engaged on cybersecurity efforts at the Nation's 360 seaports. The threat of a cyber attack is real, and, when addressing the protection of maritime critical infrastructure, we must clearly define the roles and responsibilities for ensuring our Nation's ports are protected. Under the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002, the Coast Guard is identified as the government agency responsible for ensuring the physical security at our Nation's port infrastructure. This bill makes it clear that the Coast Guard is also the primary agency responsible for ensuring the maritime sector is prepared to prevent and to respond to cybersecurity risk and vulnerability. More than $1 trillion of goods--from cars, to oil, to corn, and everything in between--move through our Nation's seaports each and every year. Like many industries in America, port facilities and ship operators are increasingly moving cargo through our ports using automated industrial control systems. While this automation certainly has a lot of benefits, such as reducing the time that it takes to stock our shelves and lowering the cost of doing business, it doesn't come without risks. These computer systems are controlling machinery at port facilities to move containers and fill tanks and onload and offload ships. Terror groups, nation-states, criminal organizations, hackers, and even disgruntled employees could breach these systems, with potentially catastrophic results to the Nation's security and economy. Breaches in the maritime domain are particularly concerning, not only from an economic standpoint, but because the dangerous cargos, such as liquefied natural gas and other dangerous cargos, that also pass through our Nation's seaports are at risk. Just as we have hardened physical security at our Nation's ports, we need to do the same in virtual space to protect the systems critical to the maritime transportation system against malicious actors. This bill does just that, and it requires the Coast Guard to develop a comprehensive cyber risk assessment specific to the vulnerabilities of the maritime industry. It directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to encourage participation with information sharing to better streamline coordination at the national level. H.R. 3878 is a bipartisan piece of legislation, introduced by my colleague from California (Mrs. Torres), and I give her great credit for this piece of legislation, working with so many Members on this. It actually is the result of a hearing held by the Homeland Security Subcommittee that I chaired back in October on the subject of cybersecurity at our Nation's ports. The bill clarifies the Department of Homeland Security's role in maritime cybersecurity as well as it ensures that port facilities work with the Coast Guard to identify cyber risks and vulnerabilities and share best practices across the industry. This is the first step, Mr. Speaker, in protecting our ports from cyber threats, and I certainly urge my colleagues to join this commonsense, bipartisan legislation. Again, I want to thank the gentlewoman from California for her work on this issue. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I come from southeast Michigan, which is home of America's domestic auto industry where we build absolutely the finest quality cars and trucks on Earth. We know our products can compete against anyone anywhere in the world. All we ask for is a level playing field. Unfortunately, American car companies have suffered decades of economic devastation due to unfair currency manipulation practices from overseas competitors, like Japan, China, and South Korea. That is why I support this bill, Mr. Speaker. After decades of doing nothing--decades of doing nothing--this bill contains very strong measures to protect American products from nations that manipulate their currency. Now, there will be a three-part test that will identify countries that manipulate their currency and, once identified, they must be reported to Congress, and action must be taken. I certainly appreciate the help of the House leadership as well as the Committee on Ways and Means, because these provisions will level the playing field, Mr. Speaker. All of us want free trade, but it must be fair trade.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, the 9/11 Commission said that ``For terrorists, travel documents are as important as weapons.'' And I couldn't agree more. We simply cannot give people from other countries special access to our country if we don't have all of the information that we absolutely need to ensure that they are not a threat to our national security. I believe that the bill that we are considering today is the first of many, quite frankly, aimed at improving our security protocols. We need to have a comprehensive, complete review of all of our visa programs, including K1 visas, the so-called ``fiance visa,'' which was used by the female terrorist in the San Bernardino attack to enter the United States. As well, the issue of visa overstays also needs to be addressed. Today, the House is taking a very important step forward by considering this bill, which is focused on those traveling to the U.S. without a visa. As was said, the Visa Waiver Program actually was established back in the eighties to expedite tourism and trade as well, and it has worked very, very well economically for our country. Today there are 38 companies that participate; and their citizens, although they are required to have a passport, are not required to go to a U.S. Embassy or to a consulate to obtain a visa. Obviously, the world is a much different place today, and our security measures must evolve to meet any and all threats, which is why I introduced this bill. This bill has gone through regular order. As chairman of the Border and Maritime Security Subcommittee, I have held two hearings on this. It actually passed out of the full Homeland Security Committee as well on a unanimous vote, every Republican, every Democrat. Because before we are anything else, we are all Americans first, and we all recognize the vulnerabilities of our current program. Information sharing, especially with our European allies, is vital, absolutely vital to help combat the threat of foreign fighters bound for the United States. There is absolutely no second for having good information. We need to be certain that participating countries are giving us all of the information that we need from either their own terror watch list or travel manifests, and that all of the information protocols are being shared. As we know, sometimes it is not until after the fact that some of the participating countries actually provide us the names of individuals who they knew were a terror threat. That is unacceptable. This bill will change that because what this bill does is it gives the authority to the Secretary of Homeland Security to either suspend or terminate a country's participation in this program if we don't feel confident that we are getting all the critical information that we need to stop terrorists from exploiting this program to travel into the U.S. So, at this time, we still have an information sharing problem with some of our closest allies. And as the 9/11 Commission also accurately noted, we need to move from the mindset of the need-to-know information to the need-to-share information. Information sharing must happen, and this bill gives America the leverage that it needs to make sure that the information critical to our homeland security is being shared appropriately. It will also disqualify anyone who has traveled to Syria, Iraq, Sudan, and Iran within the past 5 years from participating in this program. In an abundance of caution, we will now require those individuals to apply for a visa and go through the formal visa screening process. It will also give the Secretary of Homeland Security the discretion to designate other countries that have significant terror concerns, or become terror safe havens in the future. Additionally, we will be requiring all participating countries to adopt e-Passports, like we have here in the United States, so that we are able to eliminate passport fraud. Mr. Speaker, as Americans, we live in a free and open society, and enemies of freedom are looking to use our freedoms against us. This bill will stop the enemies' ability to move internationally by strengthening the Visa Waiver Program. It is a critical component of keeping our homeland safe. I want to thank the House leadership for ensuring prompt consideration of this bill on the floor. I certainly want to thank Chairman McCaul and Chairman Goodlatte for working as well. And I also want to give a special thanks as well to Representative Katko from New York, who is the chairman of the Foreign Fighter Task Force, which really helped make this bill a much stronger product. It is my hope that a very strong, bipartisan vote on this bill today will send a message to terrorists that America is prepared to take any and all measures to protect our homeland.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct privilege to recognize a special achievement recently accomplished by the Romeo Bulldogs High School Football Team. Romeo capped off a remarkable and extremely memorable 2015 season by taking home to Macomb County the school's first ever Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) Division 1 State Championship. After a hard fought, one loss regular season the Bulldogs charged into the playoffs facing great adversity, challenging weather conditions and tough competition before upsetting the number four ranked Detroit Cass Tech Technicians at Ford Field. In 2002, Romeo was in need of a football coach. Assistant coaches Curt Rienas and Jason Couch both applied for the job and were named co- coaches. Coaches Rienas and Couch had Romeo Bulldogs football in their veins, first meeting each other as teammates on the field and the friendship grew. The two had made it to the semifinals together, but never further until this team. Coach Curt Rienas and Coach Jason Couch became the first co-coaches in playoff history to win a state championship. The Bulldogs played strong hard-nosed football focusing on the basic fundamentals and taking each play one at a time. This meant each player executing his designated assignment and beating the man in front of him. This also included playing sound defense with solid tackling and implementing an offensive scheme that would make an NFL playbook look elementary. The Bulldogs kept constant pressure on their opponents by blocking a punt, recovering an onside kick and making big plays on offense. Before making it to the State Championship game, the Romeo Bulldogs played what will probably be remembered as the second most memorable game of the season. The Romeo Bulldogs faced off against Grand Ledge in Brighton, Michigan for a game of the ages. Over a half foot of snow fell during the game and the Bulldogs ended Grand Ledge's historic undefeated season with a 48-21 victory. With victories against current state champion Clarkston, Lapeer, Detroit Catholic Central and finally Grand Ledge, the Bulldogs were ready for their final challenge against the Detroit Cass Tech Technicians. The team brushed aside any potential distractions and purely focused on winning the game. Despite the best efforts of Detroit Cass Tech, the Romeo Bulldogs would not be denied because this was their day alone. After an exciting first quarter and a 13-7 Bulldogs lead, the game remained close at the half with the Bulldogs holding on to a 19-14 lead. Romeo started the second half off by recovering the opening onside kick. The Bulldogs would use the favorable field position to drive 48 yards to the end zone putting the Bulldogs ahead 26-14. On Cass Tech's next possession, the Technicians went three-and-out which forced a punting situation. Romeo blocked the punt, again giving the Bulldogs excellent field position. The following play was a 20-yard run for a touchdown to put the Bulldogs in the lead by a score of 33-14. Nearing the end of the third quarter, Cass Tech would put six points on the board and follow it up with a touchdown halfway through the fourth quarter cutting the Bulldogs lead to 33-27. The Romeo Bulldogs would continue to pressure and push the play, resulting in a touchdown with 1:29 left in the game to seal the victory and make school history. The Bulldogs throughout the year exhibited the intangible ingredients which make up a winning football team: heart, discipline and a positive attitude. As legendary Hall of Fame Green Bay Packers Coach Vince Lombardi once said, ``A man can be as great as he wants to be. If you believe in yourself and have the courage, the determination, the dedication, the competitive drive and if you are willing to sacrifice the little things in life and pay the price for the things that are worthwhile, it can be done.'' I applaud these young men for remaining both mentally and physically ready to compete. In addition, I want to commend the Bulldogs for staying energized and focused each time they stepped on to the gridiron. I understand this can be an extremely difficult task considering the numerous pressures and distractions high school student-athletes can encounter. Mr. Speaker, I wish to recognize the hard work and sportsmanship displayed by all the members of this football team. I also want to congratulate administrators, teachers, cheerleaders, parents, students and fans alike for their assistance and for making this an unforgettable season. The Bulldogs proved they had the talent, fortitude and resilience to rise to the challenge and accomplish their ultimate goal--a State Championship. Teamwork, perseverance and friendship all contributed to this title as well. I know the community takes great pride in what these young men were able to achieve. In closing Mr. Speaker, I share that same pride. I want to offer my personal congratulations and best wishes. All the accolades, awards and trophies are rightfully deserved. Way to go Bulldogs.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, Ranking Member Robert Brady and I rise today to congratulate and recognize the outstanding employees of the Officers (Clerk of the House, Sergeant at Arms, and Chief Administrative Officer) and the Inspector General of the U.S. House of Representatives who have reached the milestone of 25 years of service to the U.S. House of Representatives, as well as the recipients of the House Employee Excellence Award and Team Player Award. The House's most important asset is its dedicated and exceptional employees, whose work, which is often behind the scenes, is vital in keeping the operations and services of the House running smoothly and efficiently. The employees we recognize today are acknowledged and commended for their hard work, dedication, professionalism, teamwork, support of House Members and their staffs and constituents, and for their contributions day-in and day-out to the overall operations of the House. These employees have a wide range of responsibilities and skills that support the legislative process, ensure the security of the institution, maintain our technology and service infrastructure, and contribute to a more effective and efficiently operating House support structure. They have accomplished many great things in a wide range of activities, and the House of Representatives and its Members, staff, and the American public is better served because of them. We recognize and honor the individuals named below for 25 years of dedicated service to the House. Collectively, this group has provided 350 years of service to the U.S. House of Representatives: Keith S. Brown, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer. Pamela L. Brown, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer. Mona S. Burnett, Office of the Sergeant of Arms. Ed Cassidy, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer. Mark Dobbins, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer. Daniel S. Hall, Office of the Clerk. Patrick A. Hirsch, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer. Araceli Jennings, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer. Tara A. Kelley, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer. Timothy Magruder, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer. Charles E. Powell, Jr., Office of the Chief Administrative Officer. Robin Richter, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer. Randy Rogerson, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer. David Tonizzo, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer. We also recognize and congratulate the House employees receiving the Employee Excellence Award. This is a merit-based award, given to an employee from each House Officer organization, and the Office of Inspector General. Selected employees exhibited outstanding overall job performance and displayed a willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty for their organization throughout the last year. We honor the individuals named below for receiving this prestigious award. Melissa K. Franger and John F. Looney, III, Office of the Sergeant at Arms. Kevin Hanrahan, Office of the Clerk. Michael A. Howard, Office of Inspector General. David E. McKittrick, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer. And finally, we recognize and congratulate several House employees being presented the Team Player Award. This award recognizes the value the House Officers and Inspector General place on working collaboratively across House organizations to strengthen and protect the U.S. House of Representatives. These awardees have demonstrated a collaborative attitude, commitment to achieving team objectives, respect and support of their teammates, and dedication to the betterment of House operations. We honor the individuals named below for receiving this notable award. Alison M. Trulock, Office of the Clerk. Kevin C. Cornell and Donna K. Wolfgang, Office of Inspector General. James J. Kaelin, Office of the Sergeant at Arms. Kevin N. Chambers, Office of the Chief Administrative Officer. On behalf of the entire House community, I extend our congratulations and once again recognize and thank these employees for their professionalism and commitment to the U.S. House of Representatives as a whole, and in particular to their respective House Officers, the Inspector General, and collaboratively across these organizations. Their long hours, hard work, and team spirit are invaluable, and their years of unwavering service, dedication, and commitment to the House set an example for their colleagues and other employees who will follow in their footsteps. I celebrate our honorees, and I am proud to stand before you and the nation on their behalf to recognize the importance of their public service.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Macedonian-American community in honor of their homeland's Independence Day. The people of the Republic of Macedonia voted on September 8, 1991, to officially gain independence from the former Yugoslavia. By voting for independence, the people decided that it was time for their country to forge its own path and to begin a new era in their history. This 24th anniversary of their independence provides us all an opportunity to recognize the Macedonian-American community's significant contributions within the United States. Since 2001, Macedonia has been one of the staunchest allies of the United States in the War on Terror. Macedonia was the fourth and fifth largest contributor of troops, per capita, in the mission in Afghanistan. Macedonian troops guarded American troops at the compound in Kabul. And, Macedonia welcomed 50,000 and 400,000 refugees during the wars in Bosnia and Kosovo, respectively. For a country of little over two million, Macedonia has done its fair share and deserves to be in NATO. On that note, I ask that you join me, and 34 colleagues, in cosponsoring H. Res. 56 in support of Macedonia's NATO accession at the Warsaw Summit in 2016. This month will also mark the 20th year of full diplomatic relations between the United States and Macedonia. With American support, Macedonia has become a model of stability in a region known for ethnic strife and tension. Recently, Macedonia has been struck with the unprecedented refugee crisis facing Europe, as thousands of migrants and refugees have fled war-torn countries in the Middle East and North Africa. This year alone, an estimated 70,000 migrants have traveled through Macedonia, and the Macedonian government is attempting to organize an orderly response to the influx of people, including organizing daily trains to ferry migrants from the southern to the northern border. If the partnership between the United States and Macedonia is to remain strong, the country needs our continued support. I also use this opportunity to urge Macedonia's leaders to continue strengthening their institutions and reforming its democracy and rule of law. As a way to recognize and strengthen this partnership, I started the first Congressional Caucus on Macedonia and Macedonian-Americans. This Caucus is a bipartisan group of members of Congress dedicated to maintaining and strengthening a positive and mutually beneficial relationship between the United States and the Republic of Macedonia, as well as advocating for the concerns and interests of the Macedonian community in the United States. Michigan's 10th District has one of the largest populations of Macedonian-Americans in the Nation. Over Labor Day weekend, St. Mary Macedonian Orthodox Cathedral in Sterling Heights, Michigan hosted the 41st Annual American-Canadian Macedonian Orthodox Convention, bringing thousands of guests from throughout the U.S. and Canada to my District. I would like to acknowledge their contributions to our District and our State, and I look forward to continuing that relationship as we deal with the problems facing our great Nation. Again, congratulations to all of Macedonian heritage for their achievements as we commemorate the anniversary of Macedonia's independence.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Coast Guard's storied history of service to our nation. Next week, on August 4th, the Coast Guard will celebrate its 225th anniversary. On that day in 1790, President George Washington signed an act establishing ten cutters, known as the Revenue Marine Service. These cutters were to be strategically positioned near our ports and used for the collection of tariffs. They were essential to our young Nation's finances, maritime security and trade activities. Over the years, several other services such as the Cutter Service, the Lighthouse Service, and the Life-Saving Service joined together to ultimately become the U.S. Coast Guard. While the service is vastly different than originally established, the Coast Guard has evolved with the changing threats to our nation. Following the events of September 11, 2001 the Coast Guard proved to be an even greater asset to our nation as their role in security operations significantly expanded through heightened vigilance in ports and increased presence along our coastline. As one of the five armed forces of the United States and the only military organization within the Department of Homeland Security, the Coast Guard protects our Nation's maritime interests at home and abroad. Their presence along our rivers, in the ports, coastal regions and on the high seas is vital to our national security. Right now there are Coast Guard men and women aboard buoy tenders and ice breakers keeping shipping lanes open ensuring a steady flow of commerce and transportation. National Security Cutters are conducting drug interdictions in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific keeping drugs off of our streets. Air stations and small boat stations are on call around the clock ready to save mariners in distress. Vessel examiners are inspecting commercial ships to keep them operating safely and ensuring the environmental stewardship of our waters. The Coast Guard has a large presence in my district conducting missions vital to the safety and prosperity of the Great Lakes. I am proud to represent the Coast Guard men and women at Sector Detroit and adjoining stations, as well as Air Station Detroit which operates out of Selfridge Air National Guard Base. I know the boaters in Michigan's 10th district are in good hands. Just two weeks ago, I met with the Commandant of the Coast Guard, Admiral Paul Zukunft, a superb leader with a bold vision that makes me optimistic for the future of this great service. The Coast Guard's values of honor, respect, and devotion to duty are seen day in and day out by the men and women who proudly wear the uniform. We are fortunate that they go to work every day ready to serve and protect the American people. On behalf of a grateful nation, I want to commend the men and women of the Coast Guard for their many years of service and wish them a happy 225th anniversary. Semper Paratus.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 998) to establish the conditions under which the Secretary of Homeland Security may establish preclearance facilities, conduct preclearance operations, and provide customs services outside the United States, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I certainly thank the majority leader for yielding the time. I would just say, Mr. Speaker, to my colleague from Mississippi, I certainly was moved personally just listening to him speak now; and I listened to him last night when he offered his privileged motion. I would say that the Committee on House Administration is looking forward to hearing more from Representative Thompson, as well as all of the congressional delegation from the great State of Mississippi, on this resolution. As well, our committee, of course, would want to have an opportunity to hear from all of the elected representatives at the State level of the great State of Mississippi. We want to say that we sincerely appreciate Representative Thompson for offering his privileged resolution and to assure the gentleman from Mississippi, Mr. Speaker, that our committee will give this measure every serious consideration and every thoughtful consideration.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in very strong support of this rule. I come from southeast Michigan, which, of course, is the heart of American manufacturing. Michigan manufacturers, especially the Big Three domestic auto companies, have all had concerns for years about the unfair competitive disadvantage that they face by nations that manipulate their currency such as Japan, South Korea, and China. It was very important to me that, as Congress moves forward with legislation to give trade promotion authority to this President and others, that the package must also include strong, new tools allowing America to fight back against those nations that unfairly manipulate their currency and those that harm American manufacturers. Mr. Speaker, I am very, very thankful that Chairman Ryan and House leadership agreed to work with us to craft an approach which I believe is a strong step forward. For decades, administrations of both parties have refused to identify foreign currency manipulators or to take any action to stop it. The manager's amendment, put forward by Chairman Ryan, that we worked with him to develop, gets very, very tough on currency manipulators. For the first time ever, Mr. Speaker, it puts in place a three-part test to define currency manipulation with specific guidance requiring nations that manipulate their currency to be named publicly. Also, for the first time, the focus will be shifted from reporting and monitoring to actionable items and to steps that will show the impact of currency manipulation on the American economy, as well, Mr. Speaker, as requiring remedial action to be taken. These tough steps will impact every Nation that we trade with, not just those that might be included in the TPP, but every Nation that we trade with, including South Korea and China, as I mentioned, Japan. Certainly, while these are steps in the right direction, more needs to be done; absolutely, more needs to be done. Here in Congress, every Member of Congress continues to reserve the right to oppose any TPP agreement that does not meet the needs of the American economy and the American manufacturing industry. With these changes that I have outlined here that are going to be in the manager's amendment, I support--and I am proud to support--this trade package that will provide an opportunity to drive our economy forward.

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan

Mrs. MILLER of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service and dedication of Lieutenant Commander Jay Guyer, who is leaving his post as Deputy U.S. Coast Guard Liaison to the House of Representatives. During his time as a liaison to the House, Lieutenant Commander Guyer was a consummate professional who exemplified the Coast Guard's values of honor, respect, and devotion to duty. Over the last three years, Lieutenant Commander Guyer's extensive knowledge of Coast Guard operations and strategic priorities has been invaluable to the Members of the Coast Guard's oversight Committees as critical decisions were made in an era of lean budgets. Lieutenant Commander Guyer was instrumental in the education of Congressional Members and staff on Coast Guard missions, operations, and significant recapitalization needs. Lieutenant Commander Guyer worked tirelessly to showcase interagency operations throughout the Department of Homeland Security, highlighting the interoperability of homeland security agencies along the California coastline and leading delegations that examined the national security impact of illicit maritime smuggling throughout the Caribbean. The men and women who serve as Congressional Liaisons make significant contributions to the success of the Coast Guard through their work with the Congress. Most notably, Lieutenant Commander Guyer played a key role in the transfer of 14 C-27J Spartan aircraft from the Air Force, avoiding over $500 million in Coast Guard acquisition costs. His continued support for vital recapitalization and modernization efforts was integral throughout the 113th and 114th Congresses. Lieutenant Commander Guyer's extensive knowledge of the Coast Guard's response operations ensured oversight committees were kept continually apprised of rapidly unfolding events during Hurricane Sandy, the Boston Marathon bombing, and surges in alien-migrant interdiction operations. On a personal note, he has been a tremendous help to me and my staff, especially in coordinating oversight of the Coast Guard's vital missions on the Great Lakes. I would like to thank Lieutenant Commander Guyer for his dedication and service in this challenging position and congratulate him on his upcoming position as Executive Officer on Coast Guard Cutter THETIS in Key West, Florida. I wish Lieutenant Commander Guyer fair winds and following seas as he continues his outstanding service to our Nation and thank his wife, Jennifer, and his children, Adam, and Kaitlin for their continued support to the Coast Guard family.