Morgan McGarvey

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my support for H.R. 1912, the Veteran Fraud Reimbursement Act of 2025, authored by my colleague, Representative Connolly. He cannot be here today as he bravely battles cancer, and our thoughts and our prayers are with him. I echo the comments of Representative Bergman. Veterans in the fiduciary program are some of the most vulnerable in the VA's care. Because they are often elderly or mentally ill, they are at greater risk for financial abuse and theft of benefits than the population at large. Unfortunately, despite the VA's best efforts at vetting proposed fiduciaries, bad actors do arise from time to time. When that happens, theft or misuse of benefits can financially devastate veterans. On top of the financial harm, the strain of being taken advantage of can further eat away at the veteran's physical and mental health. We must empower the VA to more quickly return stolen or misused benefits to veterans who are exploited by their fiduciary. This bill would do just that. It passed the House last Congress, and I encourage my colleagues to support it again. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers, I am prepared to close, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, I also ask my colleagues to join me in passing H.R. 1912, the Veteran Fraud Reimbursement Act of 2025. Before I yield back, I do want to express my deepest appreciation and admiration for the sponsor of this bill, Representative Connolly. Representative Connolly has been a faithful and passionate servant of the American people for decades, both through his time as a congressional staffer and then as a Representative of his beloved State of Virginia. Unfortunately, he cannot be with us today. Anybody who knows Representative Connolly knows he is a bulldog, he is a fighter, and he is tenacious. He is facing some serious health challenges right now. Mr. Speaker, I know you will join me and Representative Bergman and everyone else in wishing him the absolute best as he is in this fight. I know he has got it, and we are with him. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Christina ``Elise'' Wobbe, a vibrant and talented individual who touched the lives of many through her passion for the performing arts and her kindness. Born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, Elise's journey was marked by dedication, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to her craft. From a young age, Elise immersed herself in the world of dance, singing, and acting. Her early start in dance paved the way for a lifelong love of performance. She showcased her talents at the Youth Performing Arts School (YPAS) at duPont Manual High School, where she graduated in 2024. Elise's excellence was further recognized when she attended the Governor's School for the Arts in 2022, specializing in musical theater. Continuing her artistic journey, Elise enrolled at Syracuse University as a first-year musical theater major. Her commitment to excellence earned her a place on the Fall 2024 Dean's List. She actively contributed to the university's theater community, serving on the production staff and costume crew for the Department of Drama's production of ``Pippin.'' Elise's unexpected passing on February 14, 2025, in Syracuse, New York, was a profound loss to all who knew her. Her warmth and genuine nature left an indelible mark on those around her. Her family fondly remembers her ability to light up any room and her knack for turning strangers into friends. They expressed, ``She lived her dream each and every day with exuberance, determination, and genuine kindness.'' In recognition of her impact and to honor her legacy, the family has established the Elise Wobbe Scholarship. This scholarship aims to support a YPAS senior pursuing a career in the performing arts, ensuring that Elise's passion continues to inspire future generations. Elise Wobbe's legacy is one of passion, kindness, and artistic brilliance. Her spirit continues to inspire, reminding us of the profound impact one individual can have on their community.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Dr. Don Dugi, a professor of political science at Transylvania University in Lexington, Kentucky, and to congratulate him on his retirement after a remarkable 50-year career dedicated to educating and empowering students. Dr. Dugi's teaching journey began in his youth, when he helped his teachers in a small rural school in Texas. He pursued higher education at St. Mary's University, earning bachelor's and master's degrees. Fifty years ago, in 1975, he joined Transylvania University, the oldest school west of the Allegheny mountains, founded in 1780. Over the following decades, Dr. Dugi became known for his commitment to high academic standards and his unwavering support for his students. In 2003, he was recognized for this dedication and was named Kentucky Professor of the Year by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the Council for Advancement and Support of Education. Dr. Dugi inspired students aspiring to enter the legal profession. He conducted intensive workshops to prepare students for the Law School Admission Test and the law school application process, resulting in Transylvania students gaining admission to top law schools, including Harvard, Stanford, Duke, Columbia, and the University of Kentucky. Thanks to Dr. Dugi, every student that Transylvania recommends to law school is accepted. Dr. Dugi has taught and mentored countless students throughout his years, many of whom have graduated and built successful careers as lawyers and judges. He led the way for students who have dedicated their lives to the rule of law and fighting for justice, including several who now serve as federal and state judges thanks to his mentorship. Dr. Dugi's legacy is his deep commitment to student success. His contributions have left an indelible mark on countless lives, and his retirement marks the end of an era at Transylvania University. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues, and every student who has been taught by him, to join me in expressing our deepest gratitude to Dr. Don Dugi for his outstanding service to Transylvania University and the Commonwealth of Kentucky and his enduring impact on students' lives.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, 2 years ago today, the blast of an AR-15 shattered a beautiful spring morning in Louisville as a lone gunman walked into Old National Bank on Main Street and opened fire. We lost Josh Barrick, Deana Eckert, Juliana Farmer, Jim Tutt, and my friend, Tommy Elliot. Five friends, neighbors, and loved one were taken too soon. Among the eight wounded was Officer Nick Wilt. Just 10 days out of the academy, he bravely ran toward the gunman and was shot in the head. Miraculously, he survived. That same day, just blocks away at JCTC, two people were shot, and Chea'von Moore was killed at just 24 years old. Mr. Speaker, I stand here today as a lifelong Louisvillian, still sad my community joined the long list of cities devastated by mass shootings. On behalf of all of our communities, we can and must do more to stop senseless gun violence.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I can tell you exactly what is going on in Louisville, Kentucky, right now. Grocery prices are up, and retirement savings are in chaos. Republicans could put an end to this crisis, but instead, they are going to make things worse. Republicans are about to hand billionaires like Elon Musk $5.3 trillion in tax cuts, the biggest billionaire tax cut in American history. To pay for it, Republicans are cutting health insurance for families; ripping away food from kids, seniors, and veterans; and cutting public education, all while increasing the national debt by $5 trillion. I don't ever want to hear a Republican complain about the debt again because no matter how they try to cook the books--believe me, they are doing that, too--they cannot hide from the negative impact this budget will have. Seniors will lose healthcare coverage. Veterans will lose coverage for the medications they need. Kids will go hungry. For what? So Elon Musk pays even less in taxes? It is reckless and it is wrong.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, 5 years ago, a young Louisville woman was killed in the middle of the night by police officers who forced entry into her home without warning. Her name was Breonna Taylor. While we will never forget how Breonna Taylor died, we get to choose to remember how she lived. Breonna was a sister, a daughter, and a girlfriend. Breonna was a caregiver, working at Louisville's emergency room to save lives. Breonna was a 26-year-old with her whole life in front of her. She had dreams, including of becoming a mom someday. Breonna loved her family, her community, and more than anything, she loved life. In the face of injustice, we cannot be silent. We must speak up. We must say her name: Breonna Taylor.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, Louisvillian Tim Nicolazzi has dedicated his life to service. He served in the Air Force and then Army, deploying to Kuwait and Iraq, where he earned a Bronze Star. After his honorable discharge, Tim's call to public service brought him to HUD, where he has helped victims of domestic abuse in Louisville find safety, helped veterans get off the streets, and helped first-time home buyers achieve their American Dream. A few weeks ago, Tim was fired with no notice and no severance or compassion. As we speak, the Trump administration is carrying out the biggest layoff of veterans in history, including tens of thousands announced just last night. That is why today I am cosponsoring an act to protect veterans' jobs and to reinstate veterans who have been illegally fired by Elon Musk and DOGE. Veterans put on the uniform. They served something higher than themselves. They deserve better. Mr. Speaker, I thank Tim for all of his service. I won't stop fighting for veterans like him.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, since before Christmas, I have heard from Louisvillians every day about mail delays. I have heard from people who haven't received paychecks, prescriptions, or W-2s. One woman told me she received a bill so late that she owed more in late fees than she did on the bill. What concerns me is if the Trump administration gets its way, things will get worse. The USPS has operated independently since 1970, but now Donald Trump wants to take it over. Why? So Elon Musk can go in and fire letter carriers and sorters? These are hardworking people who go above and beyond. This weekend, I heard about a Louisville letter carrier who wears a headlamp because she works well into the evening. She deserves support, not demonization. Let's fix this. Let's get our letter carriers the resources they need. Let's get our sorters the machinery they need. Let's ensure Americans don't pay late fees if their mail is delayed. Let's get this done.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my support for H.R. 695, the Medal of Honor Act. To join the armed services is an act of profound selflessness. On the Veterans' Affairs Committee, we recognize the sacrifice and service of every servicemember who, in the face of uncertainty and danger, took the oath and chose to commit themselves to a higher purpose. While every individual servicemember makes sacrifices and dedicates themselves to this path of honor, there are a select few who distinguish themselves from the rest. The Medal of Honor cannot be won. It must be earned through extreme selflessness and bravery. We recognize this distinguished service with our Nation's highest military honor, the Medal of Honor. From the first awardee to the most recent, Medal of Honor recipients have demonstrated their unwavering commitment to serve above and beyond the call of duty, even to their own death. There have been 43 Kentuckians who were awarded the Medal of Honor. I will just talk about one, Sergeant John C. Squires, a Louisville native who went from Male High School to the United States Army and served in Italy in World War II. It was in April of 1944, in the Italian countryside, that Squires braved automatic gunfire, artillery, and mortar fire to carry messages through barbed wire and over minefields, to organize troops, and bring reinforcements to the front line. With total disregard for his own well-being, he fought German soldiers day and night. He was killed in action. He lies in rest at Zachary Taylor National Cemetery in Louisville, and a bronze statue of Squires sits atop the Kentucky Medal of Honor Memorial. Squires is one of just 3,538 Medal of Honor recipients in our history. From all who have been awarded, for all of those who earned this honor, they do so through the acts of service that are incredible. There is no paycheck that could repay their sacrifice and no thank- you letter that could truly convey our Nation's gratitude. We cannot ever hope to repay this debt, but we can show our fullest support for them and their surviving spouses and families by increasing their annual compensation. The Medal of Honor Act ensures that servicemembers and their surviving spouses get an increased pension for their sacrifice, an increase that properly reflects the gravity of their service. Currently, the payment of $1,619.34 a month is deeply inadequate. Medal of Honor recipients go above and beyond the call of duty. It is only right that we honor their sacrifice with compensation that truly reflects their extraordinary actions. These heroes continue to serve, speaking throughout the country and inspiring our citizens in schools and beyond. They continue to carry the mantle of courage, sacrifice, patriotism, citizenship, integrity, and commitment here at home. There is nothing we can pay them that will ever match their sacrifice, but voting for this act is a step toward recognizing their service, courage, and enduring legacy. It is about showing them not just with words but with action that they are seen and valued and that they will never ever be forgotten. Mr. Speaker, I support H.R. 695. I urge my colleagues to do the same, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from New Hampshire (Mr. Pappas), my good friend and the ranking member of the Economic Opportunity Subcommittee of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee.

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 695, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Chair, I rise in opposition to the Republican budget resolution and urge my colleagues to reject it for what it is: a total scam and betrayal of the middle class. A budget isn't just a policy document. It is a moral document. In their budget, the Republicans make their moral code clear: The rich get richer, and the rest of us pay for it. There is no reason a teacher in Louisville, Kentucky, should pay more in taxes than Tesla did last year. Mr. Chair, let's talk about how this budget will hurt Kentuckians. This budget mandates at least $880 billion of cuts to Medicaid; $230 billion of cuts to take meals away from seniors, veterans, and kids; and at least $330 billion of cuts to our public schools. Let me make this clear for those of you watching from Kentucky. If you are one of the 1.4 million people in the Commonwealth who gets health insurance through kynect, Republicans are coming for your healthcare. If you have a kid in JCPS, Republicans are coming after their education--fewer teachers, fewer opportunities, and no more free school lunches. If you are one of our veterans, our seniors, or the one in five Kentucky kids going hungry as we speak, Republicans want to take away your next meal. It is wrong. I met with over a thousand of my constituents this weekend. They are angry. I am angry, too, because this budget hurts people, and for what? So Elon Musk can get even richer. It is a scam.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, we are in a constitutional crisis. Our Founding Fathers created three coequal branches of government to ensure that no one man can be king, but here we are. We have a President who is willing to tear up our Constitution in order to seize more power for himself. Last week, Donald Trump empowered Elon Musk to delete USAID. Now, they are trying to eliminate the Department of Education and go after Medicaid. What is next, Social Security? Let's be clear. It is unconstitutional for any President to abolish any Federal agency created and funded by Congress. My question to the body is this: Where are my Republican colleagues? They would not be okay if this were Kamala Harris or Joe Biden, and the difference is, neither would I. Mr. Speaker, stand with me. We all must stand up to do something to stop it.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Louisville Metro Councilman Robin Engel in honor of his extraordinary leadership, commitment to public service, and transformative contributions to the communities of Fern Creek and Jeffersontown. As a founding member of the Louisville Metro Council, his dedication since his initial election in 2002 and subsequent re-elections in 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020 has been pivotal in shaping and enhancing his district and Louisville Metro as a whole. Councilman Engel's leadership has been exemplified through his service as Republican Caucus Chair and as Chair and Vice Chair on numerous committees, including Public Works, Appropriations, Parks/ Libraries/Zoo & Arts, and Labor & Economic Development. His steadfast commitment to improving his community has driven progress in key areas, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to public service. His efforts have brought substantial investments to the Fern Creek area, including hundreds of millions in retail and business development, a $127 million investment into Fern Creek Park, Charlie Vettiner Park, and the creation of Broad Run Park. Councilman Engel has also played a critical role in securing $15 million for the new Fern Creek Library and advancing infrastructure improvements such as the $60 million Fern Valley Road & Hurstbourne Parkway extension and Bardstown Road expansion. Councilman Engel's commitment to transparency and accountability is evident in his sponsorship of Checkbook Louisville, ushering in a new standard for government openness. Furthermore, his advocacy for the Miracle League of Louisville has removed barriers for children with mental and physical disabilities, allowing them to experience the joy of baseball and leaving an enduring legacy of inclusion and opportunity. Mr. Speaker, Councilman Engel's visionary leadership and tireless dedication have enriched the lives of his constituents and contributed meaningfully to the growth and prosperity of Kentucky. I ask that the House of Representatives join me in expressing our profound gratitude for his leadership, vision, and service, and we wish him well in his future endeavors.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and enduring legacy of Shirley Mae Beard, a cherished figure in Louisville, Kentucky, who passed away on January 11, 2025. As the founder and owner of Shirley Mae's Cafe in the Smoketown neighborhood, Shirley Mae was renowned not only for her exceptional culinary skills but also for her unwavering commitment to our community. For over 30 years, Shirley Mae's Cafe has been a cornerstone of Louisville's restaurant scene and recognized nationally for its fried chicken, hot water cornbread, and warm. welcoming atmosphere. Shirley Mae's Cafe occupies a three-story building built in 1880 on the site of a post-Civil War encampment for freed slaves. Shirley Mae bought the building the same year she opened the restaurant, becoming the first Black owner of the building. Shirley Mae's dedication to preserving and sharing authentic Southern cuisine provided nourishment for both the body and soul, fostering a sense of unity and belonging among local diners and celebrity visitors alike Shirley Mae was an advocate for civil rights and a pillar of strength within our community. Her leadership and passion for justice left an indelible mark on Louisville, inspiring countless individuals to pursue equality and understanding. Shirley Mae Beard shaped our community in more ways than we can count from her civil rights leadership to her famous cornbread. As we reflect on her life, let us not just remember Shirley Mae Beard for her culinary talents, but also carry forward her legacy of love, unity, and service. May her memory continue to inspire us all to make a positive difference in our community, just as she did throughout her remarkable life.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Louisville Metro Councilman Rick Blackwell in recognition of his extraordinary leadership and decades of unwavering service to Louisville Metro Council District 12. As a founding member of the Louisville Metro Council, first elected in 2002 and re-elected in 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, and 2020, he has represented the neighborhoods of Pleasure Ridge Park, Riverport, and Valley Station with distinction. Councilman Blackwell's dedication to leadership has been evident throughout his tenure, serving as President of the Louisville Metro Council, Democratic Caucus Chair, and in various leadership roles including Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Budget Chair, and as a member of the Firefighters Pension Fund Board of Trustees and Louisville Metro Revenue Commission. His legislative achievements, including the Rental Registry Ordinance, Sunday Alcohol Sales Ordinance, and Kid's Meals Ordinance, reflect his commitment to improving quality of life for Kentuckians. Transformational projects like the Dixie Highway Corridor Master Plan, the $50 million New Dixie Highway Project, and the Colonial Gardens Public-Private Partnership demonstrate his vision for economic growth and infrastructure advancement. Through Councilman Blackwell's efforts, Riverview Park has become a cornerstone of community life, featuring renovated boat docks, a splash pad, playground, pickleball courts, and more. The annual Riverview Independence Festival, which he founded, continues to unite Kentuckians with its celebration of music and fireworks, fostering a sense of community pride and connection. Mr. Speaker, Councilman Blackwell's enduring commitment to serving the people of Kentucky, his leadership in advancing meaningful legislation, and his dedication to fostering thriving communities stand as a testament to the profound impact of his service. I ask that the House of Representatives join me in expressing our profound gratitude for his steadfast commitment to public service and community betterment, and we wish him well in his future endeavors.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Louisville Metro Councilwoman Madonna Flood and to acknowledge her exemplary leadership, unwavering dedication, and significant contributions to the people and communities of Louisville. First elected in 2002, Councilwoman Flood has served as a founding member of the Louisville Metro Council, representing District 24, which includes the communities of Okolona, Highview, and Fern Creek, among others. Through her leadership and commitment to service, she has improved quality of life for countless residents, advocating for policies and investments that have shaped the growth of her district and Louisville Metro as a whole. As Democratic Caucus Chair and Chair of key committees such as Planning & Zoning, Budget, and Public Safety, she has been instrumental in guiding policy decisions that have made a lasting impact on the city. Councilwoman Flood's role in advancing initiatives like the Fairness Ordinance, Smoking Ban Ordinance, and Adult Entertainment Ordinance exemplifies her commitment to fairness, public health, and safety for all citizens. Councilwoman Flood's leadership was vital in the construction of the South Central Regional Library, providing a valuable resource for the community, and she worked timelessly to resolve drainage issues in Okolona, improving infrastructure and addressing the needs of her constituents. Mr. Speaker, Councilwoman Flood's legacy of public service is built upon a foundation of dedication, advocacy, and an enduring commitment to improving the lives of those she served. Her contributions to Louisville's land use, public safety, and quality of life will continue to resonate for generations. I express my profound gratitude for her leadership, vision, and service, and I wish her well in her future endeavors.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Louisville Metro Councilman Jecorey Arthur, whose historic election in 2020 led to him becoming the youngest city legislator in Louisville, Kentucky's history, and to honor his unwavering dedication to the citizens of Louisville Metro Council District 4. Representing neighborhoods including Butchertown, California, Clifton Heights, Downtown, Old Louisville, Parkland, Phoenix Hill, Portland, Russell, and Smoketown, Councilman Arthur worked tirelessly to uplift his district. His investments in youth, arts, financial literacy, mental health, violence prevention, and mentoring programs provided essential resources and opportunities for our community. Councilman Arthur's leadership has brought significant improvements to public amenities such as libraries, community centers, parks, and affordable housing, while also enhancing infrastructure through street and alley repaving, sidewalk repairs, lighting, and beautification efforts. His commitment to community pride is evident through the annual district events he has funded, which celebrate the rich history and culture of his district. As councilman, he championed innovative and impactful policies that reflect a deep commitment to equity and justice. From sponsoring the country's first anti-displacement law to proactive rental inspections, protections against concentrated short-term rentals, and language access policies, his efforts have created a more inclusive and equitable Louisville. Councilman Arthur's leadership has also extended to addressing systemic challenges, including supporting federal reparations for descendants of slavery, funding a community grocery store, and requiring city government and vendors to accept job applications from unhoused individuals. These efforts, along with community benefits agreements and protections for vulnerable populations, have left a lasting legacy of progress and opportunity. Mr. Speaker, Councilman Arthur's service has uplifted communities, inspired change, and strengthened the bonds between government and the people it serves. I express my profound gratitude for his dedication, vision, and tireless efforts to build a brighter future for all Kentuckians, and I wish him well in his future endeavors.housed individuals. These efforts, along with community benefits agreements and protections for vulnerable populations, have left a lasting legacy of progress and opportunity.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Judge Gina Kay Calvert in recognition of her outstanding career in law and her significant contributions to the legal system of Kentucky. Judge Calvert's impressive career began with twenty years of practice, where she gained experience as a prosecutor, defense attorney, civil litigator, and family court attorney. Her extensive background in the legal field, coupled with her unwavering dedication to justice, paved the way for her election to the Jefferson District Court Bench in 2010, where she was re-elected in 2014. As Juvenile Court Judge, Judge Calvert served with distinction, also stepping in as a substitute judge for Family Court, Circuit Court, and Circuit Drug Court. As an Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney, Judge Calvert prosecuted some of the most sensitive and important cases, including physical and sexual crimes against children and felony domestic violence. Her 17 years of experience in Family Court, where she represented abused and neglected children, indigent parents, and handled divorce, custody, paternity, and adoption cases, has made her a respected voice in family law. Judge Calvert's role as a certified Family Court Mediator and Parenting Coordinator has further solidified her reputation as a compassionate and highly skilled legal professional. In addition to her service on the bench, Judge Calvert is actively involved in organizations such as the Kosair Charities Advisory Council, the FACE IT movement to end child abuse, and the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges. Her commitment to advancing the welfare of children and families is evident in both her professional and personal endeavors. Judge Calvert has earned the highest praise and endorsement from her peers, with more than 90 percent of attorneys rating her as highly qualified or qualified in the 2016 Louisville Bar Association candidate poll. Mr. Speaker, Judge Calvert's lifelong dedication to justice, children's advocacy, and the families of Kentucky has made a lasting impact. I express my deepest appreciation for her exemplary service and tireless commitment to ensuring justice for all.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Louisville Metro Councilwoman Cindi Fowler in honor of her exemplary leadership, unwavering dedication, and significant contributions to the residents of Louisville Metro Council District 14. Since her election in 2012 and re-elections in 2016 and 2020, Councilwoman Fowler has represented the neighborhoods of Valley Station, Pleasure Ridge Park, and Kosmosdale with integrity and a steadfast commitment to community growth and well-being. Councilwoman Fowler demonstrated leadership through her service as Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus, Chair of Parks & Sustainability, Chair of Government Oversight/Audit & Appointments, and her impactful roles with organizations like the National League of Cities and the Kentucky League of Cities. She has been a dedicated advocate for community development, serving on the boards of Southwest Community Ministries, Mattingly Edge, Dixie Area Business Association, Riverport Business Association, and Valley Woman's Club. Councilwoman Fowler's commitment to the betterment of Kentucky is reflected in her sponsorship of transformative legislation and initiatives, including Sadie's Law, the Union Safety Ordinance, the Metro Golf Course Ordinance, the $50 million New Dixie Highway Project, and the Catalytic Converter Ordinance. Additionally, her support for projects such as the Sun Valley Pool investments, U of L Mary & Elizabeth Hospital Women's Health and Birthing Services, Veteran's Village in Southwest Louisville, and the Watson Lane Elementary School redevelopment has significantly enhanced quality of life for Kentuckians. Mr. Speaker, Councilwoman Fowler's visionary leadership, commitment to service, and dedication to the people of Kentucky has left a lasting legacy. I express my profound gratitude for her leadership, vision, and service, and I wish her well in her future endeavors.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Kentucky State Senator Denise Harper Angel in recognition of her remarkable 49 years of public service, including 36 years as an elected official. As a trailblazer and devoted public servant, Senator Harper Angel has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to the well-being of Kentucky's most vulnerable populations. From her historic election as the first woman to serve as Jefferson County Property Valuation Administrator to her distinguished tenure in the Kentucky State Senate, her career has been defined by advocacy, leadership, and meaningful action. Senator Harper Angel has been instrumental in advancing critical legislation to protect children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities, including the creation of the Kentucky Golden Alert Program, the passage of the SAFE Act, and initiatives addressing youth suicide and sexual violence. Her dedication to justice, accountability, and victim support has left a lasting impact on the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Through her tireless service on numerous legislative committees, her efforts have strengthened Kentucky's communities, supported victims of crime, and enhanced public safety. Senator Harper Angel's steadfast leadership, from improving forensic processes to increasing compensation for victims, has set a standard of excellence and compassion for public service. Mr. Speaker, Senator Denise Harper Angel's legacy is a testament to the power of servant leadership, and her work will inspire future generations. I ask that the House of Representatives join me in recognizing her unwavering dedication and relentless commitment to protecting and supporting our Commonwealth's most vulnerable populations and congratulating her on her retirement.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Kentucky State Senator Adrienne Southworth in recognition of her service to the Commonwealth of Kentucky and unwavering dedication to the principles of transparency, accountability, and innovation in public service. Since her election in 2020, as the state senator for Kentucky's 7th Senate District, Senator Southworth has been a steadfast advocate for the citizens of her community. Senator Southworth's extensive experience in public service reflects a career devoted to solving complex challenges and delivering results. Whether addressing pension accountability, reforming emergency powers, or creating opportunities for workforce development, her commitment to improving the lives of Kentuckians is commendable. With her quick-recall expertise, grassroots approach, and ability to write legislation, she has represented her district with integrity and an understanding of the desires of its citizens. Mr. Speaker, Senator Adrienne Southworth's dedication to championing the voices of her constituents has set a high standard for public service. I ask that the House of Representatives join me in recognizing her contributions to the constituency of Kentucky's 7th Senate District and wishing her well in her future endeavors.

Mr. McGARVEY

Mr. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life, legacy, and service of Mr. Thomas Cork, Sr., a United States Marine Corps veteran from my hometown of Louisville, Kentucky, who recently passed away at 95 years old. In 1948, Thomas Cork left Louisville to serve our country as a Montford Point marine, making history as part of the first group of Black men to enlist in the Marine Corps. As part of the famous 1st Marine Division, his bravery and service directly helped lead to the end of the Korean war. However, like many other Black veterans, when he returned home, he wasn't given the reverence he earned. We are trying to atone for that. Today, as we honor his life and service, I want to express our gratitude on behalf of all those who didn't and should have. Thomas Cork, Sr., is an American hero who fought two battles, in the Pacific and on the home front. His legacy will live on for generations to come, and we thank him for his service.