Kenny Marchant

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, in advance of Veterans Day, I rise to honor all of those who have served in the defense of our great Nation. The 24th District of Texas is home to over 38,000 veterans. They come from many walks of life, but they all have one thing in common, they answered the call to serve when our Nation was in need. As part of my office's commitment to serving north Texas veterans and their families, we will host our Fourth Annual Veterans Fair this Saturday in Grapevine, Texas. This event is dedicated to informing veterans about the programs and services that are available to assist them and their families. It is also an opportunity for our community to come together and honor our Nation's heroes. Thank you to all of our veterans and active military who have put the safety of this Nation before their own. We are forever grateful for your service and sacrifice.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a special veterans program in North Texas known as Guitars For Heroes. As an initiative through the Recreation Therapy Services of the VA North Texas Health Care System, the program was founded in 2012 by Fort Worth VA Outpatient Clinic Supervisor Donna Gerron with the objective of assisting veterans through music therapy. Guitars For Heroes provides veterans 12 sessions of free instruction, acoustic guitars, and accessory kits with the intent of restoring joy and a renewed purpose in life. Veterans from all different backgrounds who are overcoming traumatic experiences, depression, or isolation have found solidarity and restoration through the program. For over three years, Guitars For Heroes has mentored veterans into becoming fine musicians. I am pleased to announce that they will be performing at the Annual Veterans Fair on November 7, 2015, in Grapevine, Texas. This annual event, made possible by the tireless work of dedicated personnel, helps introduce veterans to important benefits, programs, and services. It will be a privilege to have Guitars For Heroes perform in front of the hundreds of attending veterans. As a special acknowledgment, I am pleased to recognize each member of Guitars For Heroes performing at the fair. These honorable veterans are Mike Andersen, James Benson, Steve Brenner, James Bullard, Rondal Burns, Keith Burrowes, Marco Garcia, Dujuan Jackson, Brian Michel, Frank Precure, Juan Reyes, Alfred Schram, Roy Vaughn, Glen Wilson, and Bill Yohn. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to acknowledge the success of Guitars For Heroes, and I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in recognizing this special program.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, yesterday the House of Representatives voted on the Retail Investor Protection Act, which passed by a wide margin of 245-186. Allow me to make a clarification on my vote. I fully support this legislation and meant to vote `yea' on final passage, not `no'. Unfortunately, by the time I noticed the error, the vote had closed and I was unable to correct it. Voting `no' was not my intention. I am pleased the Retail Investor Protection Act passed the House with broad support. Like many of my constituents, and others across the country, I have serious concerns about the negative impacts that the Department of Labor's proposed `fiduciary rule' will have on the retirement savings options available to employees. I believe that the Retail Investor Protection Act properly addresses these concerns and contributes to the financial security of millions of Americans. On October 26, 2015, I joined my House colleagues on a letter to the Secretary of Labor that urged the Department to withdraw the proposed rule and commit to a process that avoids the arbitrariness, uncertainty, and inadequate analysis embodied in the proposed rule. I remain fully committed to these views and support the entirety of the Retail Investor Protection Act.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, student loan debt is now the fastest growing and second-largest type of household debt in America. It is no surprise that many Americans are putting off marriage and family life for financial reasons. The decline in marriage is a problem that could impact our economy and society for decades to come. Yet, our Tax Code punishes married households who have student debt. That is why I have introduced the Fairness and Opportunities for Married Households With Student Loans Act. Currently, an individual with student loans can deduct up to $2,500 in interest paid on their loans, but that amount does not increase for married couples filing jointly. So spouses who both have student loan debt are limited to just one $2,500 deduction. This is not fair. My bill increases the deduction to $5,000 for married couples. It only makes sense. It also strengthens incentives toward marriage and financial independence. With student debt putting pressure on our economy, let's stop penalizing marriage and start helping families build a stronger future.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, our national debt now stands at more than $18 trillion. If current law remains unchanged, the CBO projects Federal debt can exceed $50 trillion in our lifetime. This cannot be sustained. That is why I have introduced the Debt Management and Fiscal Responsibility Act. This bill provides early and clear-eyed assessment of the debt well before even reaching the statutory debt limit. Under this bill, the Treasury Secretary would report on three items: first, the national debt and debt protection; second, debt reduction proposals; and, third, regular progress reports to Congress on debt reduction. All of this information would be made readily available to the public. The national debt is a shared responsibility, and it will take a shared executive legislative approach to reduce it. We can no longer afford to put $18 trillion on autopilot. Let's deal with it head-on and find a responsible measure to retire the debt before it is too late.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the birthday of a hardworking and enduring woman, my aunt, Emily Lucille Jones. Emily was born on October 16, 1925 in Cooper, Texas, to Alfred and Cordie Jones. Emily was born the third of eight children, all whom were active at a young age in day to day operations of the family farm. This taught Emily the importance of hard work and earning a living early on. After graduating from Gober High School in 1943 she moved to Bonham, Texas, to work for the county clerk's office. While there, she started attending the First Baptist Church. Becoming involved in the church led her to meet Dan Carver, the man she would eventually marry in 1947 and with whom she would move to Lubbock, Texas. As Dan attended Texas Tech University, Emily was employed by Southwestern Bell Telephone. After Dan earned his degree they had three beautiful children, Jeffrey, Judy, and Mary. In 1967 Emily received her Associates degree in elementary education from Trinidad Jr. State College and went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in elementary education in 1972 from Texas Tech University. Working with children was always a great passion of hers and she has always been a strong role model. Emily was always an active teacher in various church organizations including Sunday school, Girls Auxiliary, and Bible School, to name a few. She worked as a teacher as well as managed finances for various companies. Even in her retirement Emily remains active in several senior groups within the church. Travel was her leisurely passion, as Emily has travelled extensively throughout Europe and the United States. She is an avid quilter and enjoys crossword puzzles, cooking, working in her yard, and spending quality family time with her only grandson, Andrew. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to celebrate the birthday of such a fulfilled and jubilant person, my aunt, Emily Lucille Jones. I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in celebrating her ninety years.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to congratulate Thomas Clayton Quigley of Bedford, Texas, on his receipt of the City of Bedford's Hometown Hero Award for his service to our nation and outstanding citizenship in his community. Thomas chose to enlist in the United States Army in 1942, in the midst of World War II. He graduated Officer Candidate School and became a First Lieutenant who served in Company E, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment in the 2nd Infantry Division. After training in Scotland and England, Thomas and his unit landed on Omaha Beach on June 7, 1944, shortly after the first D-Day landings to liberate Europe from Nazi Germany. He was wounded twice in France but ultimately continued to fight, participating in the Battle of the Bulge. He recounts that, in the middle of war, he and his men were often too busy to be afraid, reflecting that, ``it was our job, the one we signed up for.'' After Germany surrendered, Thomas was stationed at Fort Swift in Texas, awaiting deployment to the Pacific, which was preempted by the Japanese surrender in August, 1945. While at Fort Swift, he met his wife, Barbara, when he and some friends decided to talk to some young women on a porch in Austin. He offered to help her when she brought out some water and she says ``He has been helping me ever since.'' Together they have been married almost seventy years and have three children-- Barbette, Kay, and Keith--and three grandchildren and two great- grandchildren. He says that surviving the war is ``one of [his] greatest accomplishments'' but that it is his ``wonderful family that has made [him] truly blessed.'' Thomas took advantage of the G.I. bill and went to study at Michigan State University, bringing his new wife with him. They returned to Texas for the weather (Thomas says, ``I survived the Bulge weather but couldn't stand the cold Michigan weather''), and he graduated from Texas Tech with a degree in agronomy. At first, like many returning veterans, finding a job in civilian life was difficult and he was a guard at the gate of a food plant. He eventually became a dispatcher for Central Freight Lines for 28 years, retiring in 1984. Even after retirement, Thomas was engaged and industrious, becoming the owner of a local 9-hole golf course and driving range. In his later years, Thomas has also become involved in keeping the recorded memories of World War II available for the public and future generations. With two Purple Hearts and two Bronze Stars, he went with Barbara to the 40th anniversary ceremonies at Normandy in 1984. Since that experience, he has written a memoir book, World War II, My War, logged his oral accounts in the National World War II museum in New Orleans, Louisiana, received the French Legion of Honor medal, and been featured recounting the Battle of the Bulge on the History Channel in 2008. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all my distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating Thomas Quigley on the Hometown Hero Award, honoring his valor and strong citizenship, and thanking him for his selfless sacrifice for our nation and freedom in the Second World War.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate 65 years of successful expansion of education and Christianity through Dallas Christian College founded right outside of downtown Dallas in 1950. Dallas Christian College (DCC) was established by church leaders and an enthusiastic and determined man named Vernon Newland. Vernon had a tough childhood that would push him to strive for a better life for himself and others. Being sent to live with his grandmother at the age of nine Vernon wanted to share God with people all over the world. As Vernon and several family members were traveling to conduct mission work they were sent to a Japanese internment camp shortly after arriving in the Philippines. They remained there for almost three years as they were taken right after Pearl Harbor had occurred. It was when Vernon and his family members returned to the United States that he was motivated to increase involvement in the church amongst the population. The Dallas Christian College was one of several schools Vernon had established, along with approximately two dozen churches and new ones coming along every two months or so. DCC was quickly expanding. With such growth, by the 1960s DCC needed more space and relocated to its current home in Farmers Branch, which resides in the 24th district of Texas. As DCC grew so did its mission, its reach expanded to troubled neighborhoods and was known for students and alumni to serve in urban centers all over the country. The school would also begin offering new programs teaching psychology, business, and education, attempting to broaden the horizons of its students and prepare them for different paths in life. Today DCC aims to educate and mentor the student body under God's influence and prepare them for all that life may bring. Training for service to the church and Christian ministry has been significant to the school's mission. The college wants to ensure that the student body is well educated and mentored in many aspects of life. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to recognize the 65th anniversary of Dallas Christian College. I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in celebrating this milestone in the college's history.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Detective Steve Hayes on receiving the Star of Texas Resolution for his service and dedication to the community. Detective Hayes has been a hardworking and respected member of the Coppell Police Department in Coppell, Texas, for several decades in different capacities. One routine traffic stop on March 31, 1995, changed his life forever. During the stop, a different vehicle struck his patrol car and left him with severe injuries to both his legs. Yet this didn't stop him from returning to work and continuing to make a positive impact on the community in any capacity he could. After Steve lost his right leg to amputation, endured multiple surgeries, and many months rehabbing and caring to his injuries, he came back to the police department as a training officer and dispatcher and has since been promoted. Today Steve works as a crime scene investigator and property crimes detective. His story is an inspiration and a strong message to all. Steve also volunteers and has become a board member of the Peace Officers Angels foundation. He regularly calls, travels, and meets with injured officers across the state as part of their program. He has been an integral part of the foundation and provides emotional support to other members of law enforcement injured on the job. It's admirable and inspirational that he uses his unfortunate accident as a positive influence to aid fellow members of law enforcement with their struggles from being injured in the line of duty. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to recognize the hard work and support Steve contributes as well as being awarded the Star of Texas Resolution. I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in recognizing Detective Steve Hayes of the Coppell Police Department.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of an outstanding citizen and entrepreneur, Ebby Halliday Acers. She passed away on the evening of September 8th surrounded by friends and family at the age of 104. Ebby was learning tools of her trade before she was 10 years old, selling skin ointment house to house as a child in Kansas. It wasn't long before she had a firm grasp on the importance of customer service. During the Great Depression she supported her family by selling merchandise and, due to her success, she was transferred to Dallas, Texas, as a department manager at the W.A. Green Store in 1938. While words can't begin to portray the profound and long lasting positive impact she had on North Texas in the business sector and local communities, she will be greatly missed. In 1945 Ebby Halliday Realtors was founded. Over the years, this once-developing business turned into the 10th largest independently owned residential real estate services company in the nation, and the largest in Texas. The company was involved in approximately 19,200 real estate transactions with 1,700 sales associates in 2014. On top of Ebby's business accomplishments, she was very involved in the community. She was a devoted volunteer, educator, supporter of foster children, and wonderful leader. In 2014, Ebby's Place, which houses a new women's center, and The Ebby House, which is a community for young women to transition out of foster care due to age, were announced. While Ebby didn't have any children, she cared for and helped educate the children of the community. She was involved in many different foundations and organizations such as the Thanksgiving Square foundation, St. Paul Medical foundation, The Dallas County Community College District foundation, Alexis de Tocqueville Society for United Way, State Fair of Texas, and many more. While her community work spoke for itself, she also received much praise and recognition from multiple associations, the city of Dallas, and the state of Texas. She received the Distinguished Service Award from the National Association of Realtors, was inducted into the Dallas Business Hall of Fame, and earned the Regional Entrepreneur of the Year Award from Ernst & Young. Business and community work weren't her only passions; she always spoke wonders of her husband Maurice Acers. They met by chance on a local business trip; Maurice was a lawyer and former FBI agent. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to celebrate the life of the incredible Ebby Halliday Acers. I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in celebrating her remarkable life and service to North Texas and the country.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to the Iran nuclear deal. Earlier this year, over 350 Members of Congress, myself included, wrote the President with objectives any deal must reach before we would consider lifting sanctions. The deal is before us, and now it has none of them. There are no anytime, anywhere inspections. Iran gets to maintain key nuclear infrastructure. The most important restrictions begin to expire in as few as 10 years. On top of that, Iran will receive $100 billion in sanctions relief almost immediately. This agreement is a dangerous gamble for the United States and our allies, especially for Israel. Our security is on the line, and the deck is stacked in favor of a sworn adversary. I will be voting to reject this disastrous deal, and I call on my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Jessica Caviness, a teacher in my district at Coppell High School of Coppell, Texas. Jessica was recently selected to receive the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST), along with 107 other teachers from all 50 states. Each recipient receives an award from the National Science Foundation and is invited to an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. This award is given out annually to outstanding K-12 science and mathematics teachers from across the country. The winners are selected by a panel of distinguished scientists, mathematicians, and educators following an initial selection process done at the state level. Ms. Caviness, a graduate of Stephen F. Austin State University, has just completed her 11th year in Coppell, where she teaches Geometry and Algebra II. Jessica routinely creates innovative and transformative learning experiences for her students. Most notably, Jessica excels in utilizing technology in the classroom, where her classes have utilized Skype, Twitter, and the iPads distributed through Coppell Independent School District's 1:1 iPad initiative. Jessica's work has not gone unnoticed, as she has presented at conferences at the local, state, and even national level. Her ability to integrate Twitter into the learning experience has also been featured in an article for November Learning, which profiled specific ways that Ms. Caviness was able to effectively engage students outside the classroom in a way that supplemented classroom material. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all my distinguished colleagues to join me in honoring Jessica Caviness for receiving the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. I wish her and all her students continued success in the classroom and beyond.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Fred and Betty Williams, of Carrollton, Texas on achieving this incredible milestone of 70 years of marriage on August 30th, 2015. While Fred and Betty both grew up in east Texas, they moved to Carrollton after retiring and reside there today. As long time members of the Nazarene Church, serving on the church board and in missions, they are beloved members of the community and strong role models. It is an honor to be able to call them my constituents and friends. In their successful marriage, Fred and Betty have been blessed with a family of three children, eleven grandchildren, and fourteen great- grandchildren. It is my sincere hope that their family may gain much joy and wisdom from Fred and Betty's wonderful journey together. May their lives and inspiring story pass down through generations to come. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all my distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating Fred and Betty Williams on their prosperous 70th wedding anniversary.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Andrew Hasson of Coppell, Afshan Kamrudin of Carrollton, Matthew Lenzen of Farmers Branch, Abhishek Raj of Carrollton, and Amanda Kathleen White of Farmers Branch, who were selected to be 2014-2015 Fulbright Grantees. This is an incredibly illustrious achievement, and I am honored that these came from my Congressional District in Texas. The Fulbright Program was established in 1946 by Congress. These five join the already 360,000 past participants over seven decades in the Fulbright Program, a prestigious group selected through open, merit- based competitions. Their destinations and universities are as follows: Andrew Hasson to Malaysia through the University of Pennsylvania. Afshan Kamrudin to South Africa through Southern Methodist University. Matthew Lenzen to Taiwan through Texas A&M University. Abhishek Raj to Germany through the University of Texas at Dallas. Amanda Kathleen White to Japan through the University of North Texas. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all my distinguished colleagues to join me in honoring Andrew Hasson, Afshan Kamrudin, Matthew Lenzen, Abhishek Raj, and Amanda Kathleen White for this tremendous achievement.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to the administration's nuclear deal with Iran. Earlier this year, over 350 Members of Congress--myself included-- wrote the president with objectives that a deal must reach before we'd consider sanctions relief. We said there must be anytime, anywhere site inspections. Above all, it must stop Iran's march toward a nuclear weapon. The deal before us does not meet these objectives. Yet, it gives Iran upwards of 100 billion dollars in sanctions relief almost immediately. Money it can use to finance the spread of terrorism and violence. This agreement is a dangerous gamble. The security of America and our allies is on the line, and the deck is stacked in favor of a sworn adversary to the United States. I will be voting to reject this bad deal. I encourage all my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to congratulate one of my personal staff members, Scott Cunningham, on his earning two prestigious national awards from the YMCA Youth and Government program for his volunteer service. YMCA Youth and Government exists at both the state and national levels and provides teenage youth with the opportunity to participate in model state legislatures, international assemblies, and other related bodies. The students involved often exhibit strong interest in being civic and community leaders and in developing policy ideas to better the world around them. At conferences, which often involve months of preparation on the part of the participants, the students learn to hone these skills. Some, like Scott, go on better prepared to pursue a career in public service and, in turn, give back by regularly helping the next generation's students in their own YMCA conferences. Scott first became involved with YMCA Youth and Government while in high school in Dallas, Texas, and was active in both Texas and national programs. After graduating high school in 1998, he returned to serve at conferences as a college advisor and has continued ever since among alumni volunteers at several state and national conferences. He has also lived his love for public service and policymaking in his own career. Scott came to Washington as a congressional intern in 1999. In 2007 he joined my staff and continues to serve the people of the 24th district of Texas with energy and integrity, first as policy director, then legislative director, and presently as deputy chief of staff. I have no doubt that Scott's hard work and experience in YMCA Youth and Government, both as a student and an adult volunteer, have contributed to his excellent and good-humored performance. For his consistent efforts to make Youth and Government and its participants as successful as possible, Scott recently received service awards at two different national conferences. On June 13, he was awarded the YMCA Youth and Government Distinguished Service Award at the Youth Governors Conference in Washington, DC. This award, better known as the Crystal Gavel, is presented to alumni in recognition of dedication and exceptional service to the program. To earn it, one must meet the established criteria which include: having volunteered with Youth and Government for over ten years, personifying a spirit of selfless service and exemplifying the qualities of servant leadership, demonstrating significant personal investment in the program and a meaningful impact on his or her area of work, and exemplifying the Four Core Values of the YMCA--caring, honest, respect, responsibility--and a commitment to the goal that ``Democracy must be learned by each generation.'' On July 2, at the 48th Annual YMCA Youth Conference on National Affairs in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Scott was awarded the Dr. Paul Grist Service Award. This lifetime honor is given for most distinguished service as an advisor to the conference and the Youth and Government program. For his part, Scott affirms that YMCA Youth and Government has done much for him in his life, and he considers it a privilege to give back to the program that gave him ``a whole lot and then some.'' It is an honor to have such a dedicated public servant assist me in many critical ways in representing the 24th district of Texas. And on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, Mr. Speaker, I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating Scott Cunningham on his two YMCA Youth and Government service awards and in thanking him for his tireless and sacrificial work to help the upcoming generation of young Americans learn the ideals and practice of democracy.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of the Establishing Mandatory Minimums for Illegal Reentry Act, also known as Kate's Law. This bill mandates 5-year minimum prison sentences for illegal immigrants who return to the U.S. after being deported. It comes in direct response to the murder of Kathryn Steinle in San Francisco by a man who had been deported from the United States five times. Kate's Law sends a strong message to any person considering illegal reentry: Come back, and you will face serious consequences. This bill strengthens the rule of law and leaves no room for selective enforcement by the administration for any sanctuary city. Madam Speaker, my deepest condolences go out to Kate's family and her loved ones. We cannot undo this tragedy, but we must work to prevent others by securing the border and strictly enforcing the law.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the city of Carrollton, Texas, located in my Congressional district, for renaming Jamestown Lane to Rainwater Lane in commemoration of the Rainwater family, who have resided in the area since 1855. This change, proposed April 7th, was approved by the city council on May 5th, and put into effect May 6th. The Rainwaters are one of the oldest families in Carrollton, having lived there for over 150 years. Carrollton has a history of honoring important residents and families with street names, and continues that tradition with Rainwater Lane. The Rainwaters even worked on the plot of land where Carrollton City Hall is currently placed. It is a long deserved honor to name a street after one of the great Carrollton families. The newly renamed Rainwater Lane is located behind Carrollton City Hall right in the heart of Carrollton. As Carrollton mayor Matthew Marchant said on the subject, ``The Rainwater family is a very key part of the history of the city of Carrollton and your legacy continues, even through today.'' Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all my distinguished colleagues to join me in honoring the Rainwater family and the city of Carrollton on this commemoration.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize retiring Corporal Mike Duff for his 31 years of public service as a Euless Police Officer for the City of Euless, Texas. Mike Duff joined the Euless Police Department in 1983 where he was hired as a patrol officer. After serving four years in that capacity, Mike was transferred to the Criminal Investigation Division (CID). Mike's hard work in the CID was acknowledged in 1990 by the department when he was promoted to Corporal. In addition to his primary roles in the department, Mike has also served as a member of the Euless Tactical Team. Throughout his career, Mike Duff has been a training officer with the Euless Police Department; furthermore, he has been assigned to local and federal drug task force agencies because of his outstanding police training and abilities. As a committed law enforcer, Mike Duff has sought training and certification throughout his years of service. His achievements include Basic Police Certification in 1983, Intermediate Police Certification in 1987, Advanced Police Certification in 1993, and Masters Police Certification in 2004. Furthermore, Mike received his Police Officer Firearms Instructor Certificate in 2005 and his Field Training Officer Certification in 2004. He has received over 2,000 hours of in-service training during his 31-year career as a police officer. Mike Duff's extensive experience and training in criminal investigation has been recognized on many occasions as a result of his contributions to the police department and community. He has received over 35 police commendations in which he was recognized for his professionalism and service to the community. Moreover, Mike has been nominated six times for Officer of the Year and was also selected for the Certificate of Merit in 2012, the Distinguished Service Award in 2006, and the Blackie Sustaire Award in 1996. Outside the field of law enforcement, Mike Duff recently earned his associate degree in General Studies from Columbia College in 2014. He is married to his wife, Andrea, and they have one daughter named Lyndsey. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all my distinguished colleagues to join me in thanking Mike Duff for his years of public service as a Euless Police Officer.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the recent improvements made to the Historic Downtown Square and Pioneer Park of Carrollton, Texas. Downtown Carrollton has been an iconic part of northern Texas since the early 1800's. These improvements will give people improved space and new scenery to visit and enjoy leisurely time with friends and family. It is important to keep our parks and recreational areas updated to continue and expand their vital role in the community. These renovations will reinvigorate the Historic Downtown Square as well as Pioneer Park and make them alluring destinations for years to come. There will be a ribbon cutting ceremony on June 27th to officially unveil the new changes. City officials and local leaders will be in attendance to speak about the hard work and effort put into the new developments. I encourage everyone to attend and show support for the time and dedication put into this project. I'm thankful for the people of the 24th district of Texas who strive to make our home a more habitable and enjoyable place. At the unveiling will be a concert featuring local artists as well as an outdoor movie with the director's wife present to introduce the film. It is this strong sense of community that will serve the people of Carrollton and everyone who visits the historic downtown. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to recognize the ever improved Historic Downtown Square and Pioneer Park. I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in celebrating such an accomplishment.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Pioneer Natural Resources of Irving, Texas, on having a successful fiscal year and joining an elite group of businesses on the Fortune 500 list. Pioneer is a strong and driven company set on providing oil and natural gas to the world. They work to meet the needs and demands of the oil and natural gas market that drives much of the energy industry. Pioneer has provided many years of stable economic growth, producing jobs and opportunities worldwide. It is an incredibly active and enriching company, and I am honored to have such a business within the 24th district of Texas. This company was not built overnight. Pioneer came to be by hardworking individuals and tactical strategic intelligent business maneuvers. With large oil and natural gas operations, its economic impact is felt far and wide. But its positive impact on local communities is just as meaningful. Pioneer's employees give back by volunteering for Habitat for Humanity, Dallas Court Appointed Special Advocates, the United Way, and the North Texas Food Bank, to name a few. By focusing on economic growth and helping the communities in which they are involved, Pioneer has built a strong reputation. This company will continue expanding and practicing smart business tactics that will bring about more jobs and enrich the lives of Texans and many others. Pioneer has brought pride to the 24th district of Texas and continues to be a positive influence in the state and our country. Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to recognize Pioneer Natural Resources as a member of the Forbes 500 list. I ask all of my distinguished colleagues to join me in celebrating such an accomplishment.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the city of Addison, Texas, located in my Congressional district, for this year's Addison Kaboom Town! fireworks show. July 3rd marks the 30th consecutive fireworks show for the town, which is expected to draw over 500,000 spectators, a remarkable accomplishment as Addison is home to 19,000 residents and is only 4.4 sq miles. Addison Kaboom Town! began in 1985 and has quickly grown into the nationally renowned event it is today. Addison Kaboom Town! has received accolades from the American Pyrotechnics Associations, USA Today, the Wall Street Journal, and AOL, each naming it one of the top fireworks shows in the country. The fireworks show has been simulcast over Dallas-Fort Worth radio, which broadcasts a music program that accompanies the fireworks. In addition to the fireworks show, this year will also feature the Addison Airport Air Show in addition to live performances by the 36th Infantry Division Band, Rhythm and Boots, and the Dallas Wind Symphony. Addison Kaboom Town! is truly a remarkable fixture of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, and the display of patriotism from Addison and the plethora of visitors it attracts is second to none. I look forward to this year's celebration as well as its continued success into the future. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all my distinguished colleagues to join me in honoring the 30th anniversary of Addison Kaboom Town!

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, today I honor the career and celebrate the retirement of a dedicated and tireless public servant, Carolyn Sims, who most recently worked as Precinct Administrator for County Commissioner Gary Fickes of Tarrant County, Texas. Carolyn was born in Dallas and built her career of local service on a strong educational foundation. At the University of North Texas she earned her Bachelors in Business Education and a Masters in Public School Administration, in addition to a vocational teaching certification and hours toward a counseling certification. After briefly beginning her professional life at a bank, she put her background to work in helping children. From 1973 to 1982 she served as an 8th grade teacher in the Irving and Grapevine-Colleyville Independent School Districts, teaching vocational subjects, including typing, and also serving as a counselor. Afterward, Carolyn worked for the latter as a volunteer coordinator. She then ran her own secretarial business for several years and became a mother to Trey and Kate. With that business experience in hand, in 1989, Carolyn became the president of the Colleyville Area Chamber of Commerce, where she worked to advance the concerns and success of local business for six years. Afterwards, she became president of the Arts Council of Northeast Tarrant County from 1995 to 2002. Seeing her record of service, Texas Representative Vicki Truitt recruited Carolyn to serve as her chief of staff in Austin during the legislative session of 2003. Upon returning, she entered local government by becoming the director of marketing and public affairs for the Town of Westlake until 2006, and then worked into the next year as the executive director of the Northwest Independent School District Education Foundation. Finally, Carolyn's record of leadership led her to becoming the Precinct Administrator, essentially a chief of staff role, for Tarrant County Commissioner Gary Fickes in 2007. In that position, she regularly worked with and served people from 17 cities. Her admirable history of service to the community, however, does not end with her professional track. Carolyn is currently on the boards of the Tarrant County MHMR (providing practical help to people with mental health needs), the Northeast Tarrant County Chamber of Commerce, and the Northeast Leadership Forum. Over the years she has volunteered with and been an active participant in numerous civic organizations including: Community Enrichment Center, United Way, JPS, Southlake Toastmasters, Hugworks, Rotary Club, Hill Country Bible Church, Austin Aggie Moms, Alliance for Children, Women's Shelter, Metroport Cities Partnership, Southlake Business Women Organization, American Cancer Society, University of North Texas Alumni, and other Chamber of Commerce branches and school district education foundations. She has also had professional affiliations with Americans for the Arts, Texas Alliance for the Arts, Association of Fundraising Professionals, Texas Travel Industry Association, North Hills Hospital Board, and the Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives. Suffice it to say, Carolyn loves to help others through her organizations and community service, listening to their concerns, sharing job opportunities, and providing means of assistance to those in need. She is the model of a citizen who dedicates her life to working hard for her neighbors. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 24th Congressional District of Texas, I ask all my distinguished colleagues to join me in thanking Carolyn Sims for her years of service to Tarrant County, and various aspects of the community within it, and in celebrating her well-earned retirement.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, policies that support free enterprise and open markets are the key to building a strong economy. Texas is a prime example. For the 11th year in a row, Texas has been ranked by Chief Executive magazine as the number one State to relocate your business to; and for more than 20 years straight, Texas job creation has outpaced the rest of the country by a factor of 2 to 1. Behind this lasting success are policies that have enhanced economic agreement and allowed Texas-made goods to be sold at markets across the world. It is no surprise Texas has also led the Nation in exports for the last 13 years running. Allowing free enterprise and open markets to thrive has fueled decades of Texas growth. It has also created millions of good-paying jobs for Texas families. Let's build on these successful free market policies and bring lasting strength to our American economy.

Mr. MARCHANT

Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I rise to applaud the passage of H.R. 36, the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. This legislation, which I cosponsored and voted for yesterday, will help protect unborn children by limiting abortion after 5 months, the point at which they can experience pain. This is not a divisive concept. In fact, the majority of Americans support limiting abortion after 5 months. It is a fundamental issue of human rights and dignity. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to pass the House Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act and join us in protecting the right of life, without which all other rights are impossible.