Daniel Meuser

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Missouri for yielding. Mr. Speaker, we all here agree, as do the American people, that our Nation's infrastructure is in dire need of upgrades and modernization. Yet our House Democrats have brought forth a transportation bill unfortunately destined to go nowhere. First of all, any bill prepared in such a partisan manner has no chance of becoming law. Why is it that it is done this way? Why is it? I don't want to speculate. In this Democratic bill, nearly $2 out of every $5 goes to unproven Green New Deal mandates, which, right out of the gate, absolutely puts a seemingly political agenda ahead of creating tangible projects. We must offer the American people a transportation bill that puts, first and foremost, a focus on safer roads, modern highways, and improved infrastructure projects that are so important to our States and communities. We also cannot put the burden completely on the taxpayers, which this bill does. Representative Webster and I recently introduced the Infrastructure Bank for America Act, which would create a mechanism to create public- private partnerships. Other countries, like China, are reaping the benefits of U.S. private investment in their infrastructure, while we fall way behind. These are serious times. It is time for us to get serious.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Mr. Speaker, what started as a tragedy, then turned disturbingly into our streets, resulted with tonight's vote with a partisan bill to nowhere. The people we have been elected to serve have asked--in fact, demanded--that this Congress do something to calm the unrest in our communities. Congress was asked to lead. Instead, this House has decided to bring forth another partisan bill to nowhere. Senator Tim Scott and others worked tirelessly in an inclusionary matter and developed the JUSTICE Act, a bill that would bring law and order and justice to communities. This bill will not become law. This bill that has been passed in the House will not become law because it was not inclusionary and would not reform the police. But by eliminating qualified immunity and no-knock warrants, it would put people and police into dangerous and costly scenarios. Mr. Speaker, this bill is another lost opportunity to serve the people we serve.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Ohio very much. Mr. Speaker, the Paycheck Protection Program, as we have been hearing, has provided critical support to small businesses across the country during this crisis. The intent of the PPP was to prevent layoffs, maintain certainty for workers, and help businesses weather the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. Thanks to President Trump's Treasury Department and other leaders in this body, whom I commend, the program's results were in line with the program's intent. Thanks, as well, to the SBA and many community banks. Over 4.5 million small businesses have been approved for loans through the PPP, and over $600 billion in loans have been processed. The PPP has administered over 155,000 loans, totaling $25 billion in Pennsylvania alone. Nationwide, nearly 65 percent of these loans have been under $50,000--remarkable to see results of a bill in line with its intent. However, we all do know--and we have been hearing from our constituents--that many businesses have not been able to reopen or access the loans amidst many various State government-mandated shutdowns, so additional time and flexibility to use the PPP funds will help them meet payroll and remain in operation as we safely and responsibly reopen our economy. Today's Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act will enact effective reforms which were created with input from small businesses. Again, I strongly commend the bill's sponsors for engaging in this way. Mr. Speaker, families are the heart of our communities. Small businesses are the backbones of our economy. Our families and our small businesses, with our support, will make it through this crisis and drive the next great American comeback. Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge a ``yes'' vote on this very important bill.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Cole) for yielding me the time. Mr. Speaker, for the past 2 months, Americans have shown resilience, grit, and patience. The viral and economic data project that we now can begin a safe, soft reopening of our economy. President Trump's inclusionary, data-based leadership in this fight is helping to protect both lives and livelihoods. Congress has also responded effectively in mitigating the effects of this public health and economic emergency. I am extremely disappointed, however, that this House Democrat bill was drafted with not only no Republican input, but no input from the American people. Where is the investment for transportation and infrastructure? Where is the funding to get our children back to school or to support small businesses to open their businesses safely? Today, President Trump announced Operation Warp Speed to develop a vaccine for this virus. Where is this House's investment towards finding a cure? Instead, this partisan wish list allows illegal immigrants to receive stimulus checks, removes local control of elections, and somehow cannabis is mentioned 68 times. What in the world cannabis has to do with this crisis, I don't know. This is another bill going nowhere. The American people deserve better, especially now.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Texas for yielding. Madam Speaker, the coronavirus pandemic has resulted in an unprecedented public health and economic crisis. While frontline providers are fighting to keep us all safe, the deliberate slowdown of our economy has caused significant disruption for employers and employees throughout the country. In Pennsylvania, the Payroll Protection Program has, in a period of 12 days, processed over 70,000 loans, totaling $15.7 billion, to help small businesses make payroll and save jobs. I thank our community banks and small businesses and the SBA for everything that was done. The severity of this crisis, however, necessitates additional funding for this program. For the past 2 weeks, Republicans in Congress have advocated for additional appropriations while Democrat leadership has permitted such delays to continue. It has been extremely disruptive for businesses that it took this long for the PPP to be increased. Businesses need some certainty. They do not have the luxury of waiting for partisan political games. Let's not let this happen again, particularly during the course of this crisis. Our country must now focus our efforts on planning to get back to work while maintaining a high level of safety standards. With new funding in place, we can continue to fight the virus, stay safe, and get our economy roaring again.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Mr. Speaker, this is not a crisis caused by a specific industry or weak economy. This is a voluntary shutdown of our economy in order to save lives. As a result, our government needs to support the families and businesses that are directly feeling the pain of this national emergency. The CARES Act will buy the needed resources for our hospitals and healthcare providers to safely care for the sick, ensure that hardworking Americans receive income and increased unemployment benefits during the crisis, extend emergency loans to small businesses which are forgivable for retaining their employees during this crisis, and establish a stabilization fund for other stressed businesses and to maintain liquidity in our economy. This bill is not perfect, but it is a necessary response to an unprecedented crisis. With these policies, coupled with the efforts of the private sector and the American people, we will defeat the virus and be ready for what will truly be a great American comeback.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Madam Speaker, it is with great respect that I rise today to recognize Jeannetta Politis of First National Bank of Pennsylvania on receiving the FNB Community Spirit Award. Each year, the First National Bank of Pennsylvania presents the FNB Community Spirit Award to an employee who provides excellent service to customers and contributes positively to their community through charitable endeavors. FNB selects two recipients from each region and donates $4,000 to a charity of their choice. Ms. Politis serves as one of FNB's Business Banking Relationship Managers and is also a dedicated community member with a commitment to volunteerism. She has focused her efforts on helping the next generation, serving as a board member for organizations such as the Harrisburg Young Professionals, Leadership Harrisburg, and The Joshua Group, a non-profit organization focused on the mentoring and guidance of at-risk youth living in the Allison Hill neighborhood of Harrisburg. Additionally, Ms. Politis volunteers with the Harrisburg Rotary Club and Hospice of Central Pennsylvania, caring for those who are most in need among us. On behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives and the citizens of Pennsylvania's Ninth Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Jeannetta Politis on this great honor and thank her for her dedication to the betterment of our communities.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Madam Speaker, it is with great respect that I rise today to recognize Steve Staman of First National Bank of Pennsylvania on receiving the FNB Community Spirit Award. Each year, the First National Bank of Pennsylvania presents the FNB Community Spirit Award to an employee who provides excellent service to customers and contributes positively to their community through charitable endeavors. FNB selects two recipients from each region and donates $4,000 to a charity of their choice. Mr. Staman serves as a Regional Commercial Loan Manager serving Berks, Schuylkill, Lancaster and York Counties. A founding Board Member and dedicated volunteer for the North Museum of Nature and Science, Mr. Staman has devoted countless hours to the museum's governance and development. He has also been active in the Lancaster Rotary Club since 1996, most recently serving as their Paul Harris Fellow. As a community-focused employee, Mr. Staman often assists FNB's local efforts including wrapping gifts for Toys for Tots and participating in the Coats for Kids Telethon at WGAL. Whenever his community is in need, Mr. Staman answers the call. On behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives and the citizens of Pennsylvania's Ninth Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mr. Steve Staman on this great honor and thank him for his dedication to the betterment of our communities.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of an important bill I recently introduced with my friend and colleague, David Trone from Maryland. H.R. 5572, the Family Support Services Act, would improve access to nonprofit community organizations that provide vital support for families of individuals struggling with substance use disorder. Despite the Trump administration's strong support of significant funding increases through H.R. 6 and other means, last year, my district experienced over 130 overdose deaths in Berks County alone, 102 in Schuylkill County. The numbers are tragically high throughout my district. Families play an essential role in helping their loved ones recover from addiction, but the recovery process can be intimidating, stressful, and confusing. Organizations across the Nation struggle to offer family support services, such as finding treatment options, navigating insurance coverage and funding assistance, joining local support groups, and training and educating parents. Currently, organizations offering these services receive no government funding. H.R. 5572 would create a grant program to improve access to these vital services and save lives. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to cosponsor H.R. 5572, and empower families to do all they can to help their loved ones recover.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Madam Speaker, it is with great joy that I rise today to congratulate MYST Hibachi/Sushi/Gastropub in Jim Thorpe on their recent grand opening. Small business owners and entrepreneurs, like Mike Heiser and Josh Crownover, co-owners of MYST, are the lifeblood of our communities. From its pleasant restaurants to charming stores, Jim Thorpe thrives on the innovative small businesses and those who support them. I am confident that MYST will be a fantastic addition to Carbon County's flourishing small business community. Jim Thorpe is a true gem in Pennsylvania's Ninth District. This quaint town welcomes thousands of visitors each year who come to enjoy its beauty, explore its unique shops and restaurants and appreciate the pristine nature that surrounds it. MYST will continue to build on the distinctive experiences Jim Thorpe offers to residents and tourists alike. On behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives and the citizens of Pennsylvania's Ninth Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating MYST on their grand opening. We wish them the best of luck and success on their new business endeavor.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Madam Speaker, it is with great admiration that I rise today to recognize and congratulate the Hobbie Volunteer Fire Company in Luzerne County, PA on their 70th anniversary. In 1736, our nation's first fire company was founded in Pennsylvania by Benjamin Franklin. Since then, thousands of brave and courageous firefighters have carried on our Commonwealth's distinguished legacy of selflessness, community service and commitment to safety. Each member of Hobbie Volunteer Fire Company has continued to build on the principles of professionalism and service since their founding on October 23, 1949. Over 70 years later, they have remained steadfast in their dedication to serving and protecting the people of Hollenback Township and the surrounding communities. This 70th anniversary is a great milestone for the Hobbie Volunteer Fire Company. I am grateful for all the past, present and future members of the department and their unyielding commitment to public safety. On behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives and the citizens of Pennsylvania's Ninth Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Hobbie Volunteer Fire Company on 70 years of serving and wish you many more years of safety and service.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Dallas High School Mountaineers football team for their outstanding championship season. Dallas football went undefeated during their regular season, going 15-0 with playoff wins and a district championship. For the first time since 1993, the Dallas Mountaineers made it all the way to a Pennsylvania State championship. Back in 2016, Dallas football went 2-9, with 12 freshmen on the team. Three years later, these players led their team to a championship season. Under the leadership of the one and only coach Richie Mannello and his great assistant coaches, Dallas was strong on all sides of the ball, with a great gang-tackling defense, a super-solid offensive line, an electrifying passing game, and a backfield I will never forget. The Dallas Mountaineer parents, student body, band, and cheerleaders were a huge part of the Friday night victories, and they made the games an awful lot of fun. The entire community, restaurants, fire department, all the residents of the Back Mountain were all part of this great season. We are going to miss these boys wearing Dallas blue under the Friday night lights, but we know the Dallas tradition, long established, will live on.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Madam Speaker, it is with great respect and appreciation that I rise today to honor Liz Paugh of Lebanon, who is retiring from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs after serving our nation's incredible veterans for over 30 years. Ms. Paugh began her career on December 11, 1989 at the Lebanon VA Medical Center in the Nutrition and Food Service Department. While serving in this role, she took great care to ensure Veterans meals fit of their diet and any medical needs. After, she was promoted to oversee Ingredient Control at the Lebanon VA. 20 years after her career began at the Lebanon VA, she accepted a position in Network Contracting Office 4 as a Purchasing Agent where she continued to support the Lebanon VA in a different capacity, through administrative contracting support. Throughout her long and distinguished career, Ms. Paugh faithfully provided heartfelt service to our Veterans. Although she is culminating an impressive and impactful career, I am confident that as she begins this new chapter, she will continue to be a positive influence and a dedicated member of our great community. On behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives and the citizens of Pennsylvania's Ninth Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Ms. Paugh on her retirement and thank her for her many years of dedicated service to our Veterans and our great nation.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Mr. Speaker, there are different definitions of productivity at the two ends of Pennsylvania Avenue at this point in time. Here at the Capitol, Democrat leadership seems to confuse activity with accomplishment, spending years--years--trying to impeach and remove a duly-elected President. At the White House, just this week, President Trump delivered two major accomplishments, a Middle East peace plan and the signing of the USMCA. The President's two-State peace agreement with Israeli leadership protects Israel's security and ensures Palestine has a prosperous future as long as it too seeks peace. It is the product of compromise and is a promising solution for a long-unstable region. The USMCA, just signed earlier today, opens new markets for American goods, levels the playing field for North American trade, and creates jobs nationwide. It is great for our country and it is great for Pennsylvania. As was stated very well earlier this week: ``Imagine if all the energy from this impeachment was used to solve the problems of the American people.''

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to amend the rule to make in order the Cole-McCarthy amendment that would ensure the President can protect the United States and our ally, Israel.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Mr. Speaker, as we begin the new year and a new decade, let's all commit in this House to doing the job that the people sent us to the people's House to do. Let us remember the words of Alexander Hamilton: ``Here, sir, the people govern; here they act by their immediate Representatives.'' Let us commit to working every day 9 to 5 on delivering real results on the issues that matter to our constituents and our country. These include working to reduce the cost of healthcare, including ending surprise billing, decreasing the cost of prescription drugs, ending prohibitions on association health plans, and ensuring there is no loss of insurance for preexisting conditions. Also, continuing to ensure that veterans receive the care they deserve and have earned. As well as having the backs of our troops by keeping our forces strong and prepared. Fixing our broken illegal immigration process, first by securing our border and then reforming our laws with a focus on high fences and wide gates. Making the 2017 Trump tax cuts permanent for families and small businesses. Driving workforce development by partnering with the private sector, our schools, career and technical centers, and apprenticeship programs. Supporting trade agreements that create reciprocal trade and open markets for our U.S.-made products and agricultural goods. Help assure our students have affordable and accountable educational opportunities. Continue to grow our domestic energy industry including all-of-the- above and all-of-the-below: clean coal, low-carbon natural gas, and regulated and responsible oil production. We can accomplish this like no other nation on Earth. We will work to develop and pass a transportation infrastructure bill to keep our roads and bridges safe, to modernize our highway system, and build America for the 21st century. Finally, we will be fiscally responsible with the people's money on all spending and work to reduce our deficit. On the district level, we plan to maximize Opportunity Zones to revitalize our small cities, focus on workforce development to match the enhanced demands of the 21st century workplace, maximize the economic opportunities of our area which will create good-paying jobs, improve our flood mitigation without putting it on the backs of our taxpayers, supporting police and first responders to maintain a high level of public safety, and continue to work to wipe out the terrible epidemic of drug addiction. Mr. Speaker, if we can accomplish these goals, we will have an incredibly successful 2020 and pave the way for a great American decade. Let's stop confusing activity with accomplishment. Let's keep our eyes on the prize with clear 20/20 vision to get things done for the American people.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Mr. Speaker, I as well rise today to pay tribute to our friend, the Honorable Michael G. Fitzpatrick, a longtime Republican who served as a Bucks County, Pennsylvania, commissioner and served as a Member of the United States House of Representatives, who, sadly, passed away Monday, January 6. Mike was the oldest son of eight children, born on June 28, 1963, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He grew up and resided in Bucks County. Mike was an Eagle Scout, an Eagles fan, and a graduate of Dickinson Law School. Those who knew Mike said the same thing: He worked hard every day to make his constituents' lives better. First elected to Congress in 2004, he served four terms and then stepped down, honoring his self-imposed pledge to term limits. Mike's brother, Brian Fitzpatrick, succeeded his older brother and continues to serve their home district honorably. Brian is a great Member and a friend to us all. Mike was described by a friend as a classic Bucks County Irishman and a man whose family always came first. Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick and the entire Fitzpatrick family appreciate our prayers. Mike is survived by, in addition to his brother Brian, his six other brothers and sisters; his parents, James and Mary; a grandson; a granddaughter; his wife of 31 years, Kathleen; and their six children. I thank you for your work to make Pennsylvania and our country a better place, Congressman Fitzpatrick.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Madam Speaker, back home people refer to Capitol Hill as a bubble. They are right. It is as if we are completely detached from what is going on in communities across America. Many here don't hear or listen to what people are saying, and many here, as well, think they know better than the people we serve. Our communities are benefiting greatly from President Trump's agenda: a booming economy, a secure border, better trade deals, and a stronger military. Unfortunately, inside the Halls of Congress, Democrats' obsession with impeachment is all consuming. Is this how Democrat leadership chooses to represent the people of America, by nullifying the results of the 2016 election, disregarding the will of the American people, and doing everything in their power to prevent the President and this Congress from doing the job we were elected to do? After 3 years of trying and months of unfair, politically motivated impeachment proceedings, Democrats have delivered two weak Articles of Impeachment. Abuse of power? Not according to Ukraine. President Zelensky confirmed many times that there was no quid pro quo, no action taken, and significant military aid was delivered without anything in return. Of course, his words have been conveniently dismissed. Obstruction of Congress? Is this the new standard? If this is the new standard, then every President since Jimmy Carter and every President moving forward would and will be impeached. Let me be clear: It is an honor to serve in the United States House of Representatives, but today I am distraught. Today Democrats will disregard the will of the American people and vote to impeach the duly elected President of the United States. What should be equally troubling is that this has eroded, if not wiped out, the trust the American people have in the 116th Congress.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Mr. Speaker, every day I hear from my constituents in Pennsylvania's Ninth Congressional District about the skyrocketing costs of prescription drugs. Families should not have to dedicate such a high percentage of their disposable income on prescription drugs, and families should certainly not be forced to choose between buying medication or putting food on their table. Over 70 percent of Americans think that lowering prescription drugs prices should be a top priority for Congress. Delivering for the American people will require a bipartisan approach with proposals that can actually pass the House and the Senate and be signed into law. Unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi's prescription drug pricing proposal, H.R. 3, was crafted without any Republican input and will be dead on arrival in the Senate. A key component of H.R. 3 involves the Federal Government mandating pricing for prescription drugs. While supporters of H.R. 3 describe this as ``voluntary negotiation,'' manufacturers who decline to participate in the process are taxed up to 95 percent of the medicine's gross sales. That is 95 percent of the gross sales price. This is not a negotiation. This is a heavyhanded government at its worst. It is ridiculous. It is take this price or else. It is, figuratively and literally, a poison pill provision to this bill. Government, command central price setting is not only un-American, it is ineffective. When we look at countries with heavyhanded approaches to price controls, we find they have significantly less access to lifesaving medications and treatments. Of the 270 new medicines available in the United States, only 41 percent are available in Australia; 52 percent in Canada; 53 percent in France; 67 percent in Germany; 48 percent in Japan; 64 percent in the United Kingdom. Imagine, in our country, a lifesaving drug being available in another country but not available here. We can't imagine that. Fortunately, House Republicans have found a solution to lowering prescription drug prices without sacrificing American innovation or harming access to lifesaving medications. H.R. 19, the Lower Costs, More Cures Act, is a package of over 40 bipartisan provisions to lower out-of-pocket spending, strengthen transparency, and spur competition. H.R. 19 protects seniors by placing an annual cap on out-of-pocket drug costs and establishing a ``smoothing'' mechanism to allow them to distribute their prescription drug spending throughout the year. Rather than heavyhanded government overreach, H.R. 19 stimulates free market forces to spur innovation and lower costs by streamlining FDA approval pipelines, increasing availability of over-the-counter products, and prohibiting anticompetitive practices that prevent access to generics. H.R. 19 makes insulin more affordable--so important--by capping the costs at $50 a month after a Medicare beneficiary has met their deductible. Under H.R. 19, doctors would know what a patient will have to pay for a drug, allowing them to prescribe medication that addresses the patient's needs and fits their budget. Again, every single provision in H.R. 19 is bipartisan and could actually become law. President Trump has made it abundantly clear that lowering prescription drug prices is a top priority, and H.R. 19 achieves this goal without harming innovation or access. I am a cosponsor to this vitally important legislation, and I do urge my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to work with the House Republicans on delivering lower drug costs for the American people.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Madam Speaker, it is with great respect that I rise today to recognize Brian Lyons for his incredible dedication and the many contributions he has made and continues to make to local first responders. Upon discovering that his local fire company, Elm Hill Hose Company No. 3 in Plymouth, did not have a Jaws of Life, Brian jumped into action and began selling lemonade to raise the necessary funds needed to purchase the life saving equipment. After selling over 7,500 cups of lemonade and receiving a $2,000 donation, Brian purchased the Jaws of Life and was on hand to donate the equipment to his local fire company in August. Brian's dedication to supporting our community's first responders, especially his local fire company, is a tremendous example to us all. On behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives and the citizens of Pennsylvania's Ninth Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking Brian Lyons for his dedication to our first responders.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mahantongo Valley Farm owners Larry and Joanne Snyder, who reside in Pennsylvania's Ninth District and whose farm is located in Schuylkill and Northumberland Counties. One of their beautiful Christmas trees was selected by the President and First Lady to adorn the Blue Room in the White House during this holiday season. The Snyder's magnificent 23-foot Douglas fir was personally delivered last week by the Snyder family to the White House, where they were greeted by First Lady Melania Trump. Mahantongo Valley Farms has been in the Snyder family for over 200 years, but this is the first time one of their trees has won the National Christmas Tree Contest. There are over 13,000 Christmas tree farms across the country, making this a truly remarkable accomplishment. Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the Snyder family for their contribution to this wonderful Christmas tradition and for making Pennsylvania and particularly Pennsylvania's Ninth District very proud.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Madam Speaker, it is with great respect that I rise today to congratulate Shelly Lutz of Lake Harmony on being named the recipient of the Carbon County Chamber and Economic Development's Volunteer & Community Impact Award. Shelly is both the owner and director of golf at the Split Rock Golf Club in Lake Harmony, Pennsylvania. Shelly oversees the operations of a beautiful 27-hole golf course and restaurant. Of her many honors and accolades, Shelly is perhaps best known for her annual ``Let's Save the Dogs'' golf tournament, which raises much needed funds for the NEPA Pet Fund & Rescue, the Carbon County Animal Shelter and the Red Rock Rescue of Northeast Pennsylvania. I applaud her hard work, business savvy, and dedication to her community. On behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives and the citizens of Pennsylvania's Ninth Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Shelly Lutz on this great honor.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Madam Speaker, it is with great respect that I rise today to congratulate the Carbon County Commissioners on receiving the Carbon County Chamber and Economic Development Corporation's Economic Development Project of the Year Award. The Economic Development Project of the Year Award highlights an outstanding economic development project designed to bring jobs and economic growth to Carbon County. Founded in 1843 and named for its large amount of anthracite coal deposits, Carbon County's vibrant economy is driven by manufacturing, commerce, and tourism. In a shining example of public and private cooperation, the Carbon County Commissioners, Jim Thorpe Borough, and the D&L National Heritage Corridor constructed the much-anticipated pedestrian bridge in Jim Thorpe across the Lehigh River. The completion of this bridge allows Pennsylvanians of every age to step out across this beautiful gorge and appreciate the natural beauty of our state. It's just one more reason to visit Jim Thorpe. On behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives and the citizens of Pennsylvania's Ninth Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Carbon County Commissioners on this great honor and thank them for their commitment to strengthening our community.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Madam Speaker, it is with great respect that I rise today to congratulate the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor on receiving the Carbon County Chamber and Economic Development Corporation's Economic Development Project of the Year Award. The Economic Development Project of the Year Award highlights an outstanding economic development project designed to bring jobs and economic growth to Carbon County. A nationally recognized transportation route traversing railroads, canals, rivers and trails, the D&L is a magnificent piece of our community. In a shining example of a public and private cooperation the D&L National Heritage Corridor, Carbon County Commissioners and Jim Thorpe Borough constructed the much-anticipated pedestrian bridge in Jim Thorpe crossing the Lehigh River. The completion of this bridge allows Pennsylvanians of every age to step out across this beautiful gorge and appreciate the natural beauty of our state. It's just one more reason to visit Jim Thorpe. On behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives and the citizens of Pennsylvania's Ninth Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor on this great honor and thank them for their commitment to strengthening our community.

Mr. MEUSER

Mr. MEUSER. Madam Speaker, it is with great respect that I rise today to congratulate Dorrie Merluzzi of Palmerton on receiving the Carbon County Chamber and Economic Development Corporation's (CCEDC) Ambassadors Award. The Ambassadors Award recognizes an outstanding individual dedicated to supporting the local chamber through organizing and attending events, assisting staff, and serving as the backbone of the organization. Ambassadors selflessly give their time and talents to embody the Chamber's tireless spirit and cultivate a stronger community. Dorinda Merluzzi demonstrates all these qualities in her service to the Chamber and to our community. Always willing to lend a helping hand with a cheerful and calming presence, her leadership, direction, and motivation has set a tremendous example for other Ambassadors. On behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives and the citizens of Pennsylvania's Ninth Congressional District, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Dorrie Merluzzi on this great honor and thank her for their commitment to strengthening our community.