Ed Perlmutter

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Flatirons Dance as the 2020 Business of the Year by the Arvada Chamber of Commerce. Flatirons Dance was founded in 2016 by Jessica Fitzgerald. As director of the studio, she worked to create a studio based on family values and her classes highlight the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and positive group interaction. Additionally, classes provide a high-quality dance instruction by teaching the history, vocabulary, technique, and cultural context behind dance. Classes help students in their day-to-day life by providing structured and supportive interactions, practice problem solving, and experience building academic and artistic skills. Flatirons' more than 20 professionally trained staff members work to make a nurturing, inclusive and welcoming environment for all of their students. Today, Flatirons offers both adult and children's classes and serves more than 400 students each year. Students have the opportunity to study many styles of dance including jazz, ballet, tap, hip hop, and musical theatre. For students looking for a larger commitment, Flatirons offers a competition team and a cheer program. Each student has the opportunity to showcase what they have learned in a presentation to peers, teachers, families, and the community each session. I applaud Flatirons Dance for their work to make a difference in the lives of their students every day and their commitment to our community. Congratulations on being awarded Business of the Year by the Arvada Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Joe Herrin of Lafayette, Colorado for his service to the City of Arvada and our community. On July 22, 2021, Herrin was involved in a serious accident at Jack B. Tomlinson Park when the mower he was operating overturned into Birdland Lake, pinning him underwater. Herrin was extricated from the water and put on advanced life support at Lutheran Medical Center. He passed away as a result of his injuries on July 28, 2021. Herrin joined the City of Arvada's Park Maintenance division in May 2018 and was a dedicated member of the team and public servant. Known as ``Joey'' to many of his friends and family, Herrin studied Environmental Studies at the University of Colorado Boulder. Herrin recently married his wife, Erin, and together they enjoyed the outdoors and could be found camping, hiking, and kayaking at various locations across the state. He will be remembered by his family and friends as adventurous and a music lover. Recognizing this difficult time for the Herrin family and the City of Arvada, I want to extend my deepest sympathies for the loss of Joe Herrin as well as my appreciation for his service to the City of Arvada, its residents, and our community.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dwayne Stephens of S.M.A.R.T. Local #9 on his retirement. Dwayne is a lifelong resident of Colorado, mostly in Jefferson County, where he has committed his time and energy into serving his community and local unions. He started as the Business Manager of Local 9 in September 2000, and continuously held that position until July 2012, along with several other positions, including Trustee on the Nuclear/Hazardous Materials Committee, Trustee for the Stabilization Agreement of the Sheet Metal Industry (SASMI), member of the International General Executive Council, as well as rising to International Vice President during his time as Business Manager. He was then re-elected as Business Manager of Local 9 in July 2015 and served in that capacity until July 2021. He has been a strong advocate and champion for union rights and trade issues. In addition to his service to Local 9, Dwayne has been very active politically throughout his career. I have worked closely with him in several capacities, including during his time with the Sheetmetal Worker's Union, as the Colorado AFL-CIO President, and his work with the Jefferson County Democrats, including his time as chair. I have always been grateful for his hard work and dedication to his community. I am particularly appreciative of his levelheaded approach to policy matters and his kind, calm demeanor is one of a kind. Dwayne is a loving husband and has been with his wife Linda for decades. I have enjoyed my friendship with both of them, and I wish Dwayne all the best in retirement and send gratitude for his service to the metro Denver community and the great State of Colorado.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of my amendment number 101 included in En Bloc Amendment No. 3 to increase funding for the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Facilities and Infrastructure account by $15 million to match the President's Budget Request of $167 million. This funding increase will help the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), located in the 7th District of Colorado, meet critical infrastructure needs. NREL is the nation's only lab with a primary mission dedicated to the research, development, and demonstration of energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies. For more than 44 years, NREL has led the world in research and design of products directly impacting the way we use energy. The lab has helped dramatically lower the cost of solar, wind, and biofuel technologies and pioneered energy efficient building technologies to reduce energy consumption. Full funding for the Facilities and Infrastructure account will support NREL's cross-cutting research, maintenance upgrades, and support the growing staff at the lab. NREL's economic impact on our nation totaled $1.4 billion in FY19 while the lab supported nearly 7,000 jobs nationwide. Supporting NREL not only supports Colorado, it supports our nation's continued scientific and economic competitiveness and supports high-quality, good-paying jobs nationwide. I urge all my colleagues to support this amendment.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Morelle for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support the rule and the underlying bills. I am pleased to see the House make significant progress this week by passing these appropriations bills which include important funding for my district, our communities, and for people all across the country. I do want to highlight two bipartisan amendments made in order under this rule which I have offered to H.R. 4505, the Commerce, Justice, and Science Appropriations bill. First is amendment No. 43, which I introduced with Representatives Brian Babin, Chrissy Houlahan, and Donald Norcross. Our amendment would elevate the Office of Space Commerce by moving it out of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and into the Office of the Secretary of Commerce. This relatively small office has growing responsibilities to license remote sensing activities or satellite imagery of the Earth and implement a pilot program on space situational awareness. Elevating this office would better leverage the expertise of the entire department to support their work and improve interagency collaboration, which is critical to their responsibilities. This proposal has been discussed for years, and it is time to finally make this move. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Science, Space, and Technology Committee to further define these new roles and responsibilities. I also want to highlight another bipartisan amendment No. 44, which I introduced with Representatives Ken Buck, Joe Neguse, Doug Lamborn, Diana DeGette, and Jason Crow from the Colorado delegation. Our amendment is a plus-minus amendment to NASA's exploration account to show our support for additional funding for the Orion Multipurpose Crew Vehicle totalling $1.45 billion. Orion is America's deep space exploration spacecraft which will carry our astronauts back to the Moon and on to Mars as part of the Artemis program. This additional funding for Orion will reduce costs in the program over the long term by maximizing reuse of Orion's systems and establish efficient production flows for the Artemis III Orion spacecraft and beyond. Our amendment would fully fund Orion while also supporting full funding for the Space Launch System and Exploration Ground Systems, as all three are critical to the Artemis program. The entire NASA Exploration program should be increased to meet these standards, and I hope to work with Chairman Cartwright and our Appropriations Committee to do just that and support NASA's important work without cutting other programs. I encourage all of my colleagues to support these amendments, the rule, and the underlying bills.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Shawn Hause for his longstanding and esteemed career in law enforcement and service to our country. At the age of 19, Shawn knew he wanted to serve in law enforcement and joined the Washington State Patrol Explorers in the Spokane District 4 Detachment and learned the ways of Washington State Patrol for two years until aging out of the program. At the age of 23, he was accepted into the Spokane County Reserve Deputy program where he volunteered a minimum of 16 hours a month in patrol work as a deputy sheriff. During this time, Shawn also was hired by the Colfax Police Department in Colfax, Wash. as a part-time officer. Shawn was credited with making the largest drug bust of any Colfax officer at that time after stopping a vehicle and seizing over one pound of marijuana in route to the Washington State University campus. Two years later, Shawn was hired by the Spokane County Sheriff's office as a full-time deputy sheriff. He attended the Spokane Police Academy and graduated at the top of his class in firearms proficiency. He went on to work graveyard, swing shift, power shift and dayshift patrol. He volunteered to be a firearms instructor where he instructed new recruits and his peers for six years. He was then accepted into the Spokane County SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) Team. He graduated from the Hanford SWAT Basic School in Richland, Wash. and served with the SWAT team for approximately nine months. After working as a patrol deputy for about seven years, successfully making numerous arrests for various drug violations, Shawn was accepted to Spokane County's drug unit, known as the Investigative Support Unit. In that role, he worked low to mid-level drug crimes within the Spokane County area. He worked in that position for four and a half years until the position was defunded at which time, he returned to patrol work. Following six months of patrol, Shawn was accepted as part of the Spokane Regional Drug Task Force (SRDTF). In the SRDTF, Shawn worked closely with the Drug Enforcement Agency, U.S. Attorney's Office and other state and local agencies to identify, infiltrate, and dismantle highlevel drug traffickers and Drug Trafficking Organizations in the Eastern District of Washington. During this time, Shawn and his best friend and partner (a uniformed deputy) were involved in an officer-involved shooting by a suspect the SRDTF was investigating. Shawn also worked in an undercover capacity, buying large quantities of methamphetamine from different factions of the Sinaloa Drug Cartel. Shawn also assisted other agents/officers with a large scale, multi-state Oxycodone investigation that involved the Eight-Trey gang out of California in which the SRDTF and DEA were nationally recognized for their work. Shawn also worked with the FBI's Gang Enforcement Task Force where he worked to specifically target drug cartels and gang members that were committing drug crimes. While working with the FBI, Shawn held a TopSecret security clearance. As a five-year rotated position, Shawn was rotated out of his drug investigator role after being granted an extra year based on his undercover work that was ongoing in the U.S. and Mexico. In total, Shawn spent more than 10 years working drug crimes and finished his career as a uniformed patrol deputy. He medically retired in good standing in 2019. I want to extend my deepest appreciation for Shawn Hause's service to the State of Washington, the surrounding region, and our country.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the heroes from the movie theater shooting in Aurora, Colorado, on July 20, 2012, and all of the everyday heroes who make sacrifices for their community, including those heroes we have seen during this COVID-19 pandemic. Nine years ago today, 12 lives were taken, 70 were wounded, and hundreds more suffered emotional trauma. Yet even in this tragedy, we saw incredible heroism, those who carried the wounded to safety, and the first responders, law enforcement, firefighters, and medical teams whose tireless efforts saved many lives. I would like to recognize those who lost their lives that night: AJ Boik; Jesse Childress; Gordon Cowden, whose two teenage children were in the theater when he was killed; Jessica Ghawi; Micayla Medek; Veronica Moser-Sullivan, age six, whose mother was shot in the chest and miscarried a week after the attack; Rebecca Wingo; and Alex Sullivan, who was celebrating his 27th birthday and was 1 week away from his first wedding anniversary. I would also like to recognize the four who died while saving and shielding others: Jonathan Blunk, John Larimer, Matt McQuinn, and Alex Teves. During trying times, it is important to remember the heroes among us who, on a daily basis, answer the call to step up for their community and especially on July 20, a day we think of as National Heroes Day. These everyday heroes such as healthcare workers, frontline workers, essential personnel, and those who helped develop and administer the COVID-19 vaccines, among others, have been particularly visible during this coronavirus pandemic, and I would like to recognize their tremendous acts of selflessness and bravery. Join me in saying ``thank you'' to the hero in your life. Let's exhibit the same spirit of courage and service today and throughout the year.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Shawn Hause for his longstanding and esteemed career in law enforcement and service to our country. At the age of 19, Shawn knew he wanted to serve in law enforcement and joined the Washington State Patrol Explorers in the Spokane District 4 Detachment and learned the ways of Washington State Patrol for two years until aging out of the program. At the age of 23, he was accepted into the Spokane County Reserve Deputy program where he volunteered a minimum of 16 hours a month in patrol work as a deputy sheriff. During this time, Shawn also was hired by the Colfax Police Department in Colfax, Wash. as a part-time officer. Shawn was credited with making the largest drug bust of any Colfax officer at that time after stopping a vehicle and seizing over one pound of marijuana enroute to the Washington State University campus. Two years later, Shawn was hired by the Spokane County Sheriffs office as a full-time deputy sheriff. He attended the Spokane Police Academy and graduated at the top of his class in firearms proficiency. He went on to work graveyard, swing shift, power shift and dayshift patrol. He volunteered to be a firearms instructor where he instructed new recruits and his peers for six years. He was then accepted into the Spokane County SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) Team. He graduated from the Hanford SWAT Basic School in Richland, Wash. and served with the SWAT team for approximately nine months. After working as a patrol deputy for about seven years, successfully making numerous arrests for various drug violations, Shawn was accepted to Spokane County's drug unit, known as the Investigative Support Unit. In that role, he worked low to mid-level drug crimes within the Spokane County area. He worked in that position for four and a half years until the position was defunded at which time he returned to patrol work. Following six months of patrol, Shawn was accepted as part of the Spokane Regional Drug Task Force (SRDTF). In the SRDTF, Shawn worked closely with the Drug Enforcement Agency, U.S. Attorney's Office and other state and local agencies to identify, infiltrate and dismantle high-level drug traffickers and Drug Trafficking Organizations in the Eastern District of Washington. During this time, Shawn was involved in an officer-involved shooting that took the life of his partner and best friend. Shawn also worked in an undercover capacity, buying large quantities of methamphetamine from different factions of the Sinaloa Drug Cartel, Shawn also assisted other agents/officers with a large scale, multi-state Oxycodone investigation that involved the Eight-Trey gang out of California in which the SRDTF and DEA were nationally recognized for their work. Shawn also worked with the FBI's Gang Enforcement Task Force where he worked to specifically target drug cartels and gang members that were committing drug crimes. While working with the FBI, Shawn held a Top Secret security clearance. As a five-year rotated position, Shawn was rotated out of his drug investigator role after being granted an extra year based on his undercover work that was ongoing in the U.S. and Mexico. In total, Shawn spent more than 10 years working drug crimes and finished his career as a uniformed patrol deputy. He medically retired in good standing in 2019. I want to extend my deepest appreciation for Shawn Hause's service to the State of Washington, the surrounding region and our country.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today, to recognize the Sub and Bowl restaurant for their 20 years of service to the Golden Hill Office Center and its tenants. This local, minority-owned small business in Lakewood, Colo. will be closing after two decades of service. Sub and Bowl opened its doors in 2001 and has served the numerous tenants of the Golden Hill Office Center with American and Korean meals for breakfast and lunch. It has survived quite a few challenges over the last 20 years, including the Great Recession and most recently, the COVID 19 pandemic which kept workers home for many months. I want to recognize owners Jung and Michelle for their dedication and service to the tenants of the Golden Hill Office Center: My staff and I will miss their warm greetings, conversation and great food. I extend my gratitude to Jung and Michelle of the Sub and Bowl for their service to our community. I wish them the best in their move to Texas and all of their future endeavors.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Robert (Bob) E. Cox of Lakewood, Colorado who passed away on June 25, 2021. Bob grew up in Denver and graduated from East High School. He experienced other parts of the country before returning to Denver, where he finished his career in 1999. He retired in Santa Fe, New Mexico where he rebuilt an adobe home on the Chama River. He briefly attended the University of Miami and then studied political science and journalism at CU Boulder. During his career, he worked as editor of the Colorado Daily, a correspondent and regional executive at United Press International, politics reporter at the San Diego Union, managing editor at the Colorado Business Magazine, politics writer at the Rocky Mountain News, editor at Weekly Newspaper in Glenwood Springs, and editor of the Green Mountain Gazette. He also served as press secretary for Tim Wirth's first U.S. House of Representatives campaign in 1974. In 1991, he and his wife, Sid O'Connell, purchased the Jefferson County weeklies and formed a partnership with other Denver suburban newspapers. The weeklies covered the western suburbs of Denver including Lakewood, Wheat Ridge and Arvada. The Coxes led their news and advertising teams to win many Colorado Press Association awards before selling the papers in 1999. Bob kept a sharp eye on the doings of elected officials, which was apparent in his many editorial columns. He coached his reporters to take time to dig for information and filled his editorials with directness yet wit and humor. Former staffers noted Bob's continual efforts to make time for some fun in the high-intensity work of news reporting as well as the high-level of respect many inside and outside of the journalism community had for Bob. He enjoyed lively conversations and kept folks on their toes with questions. In 2017, the dean of the College of Media, Communications and Journalism at CU Boulder, in an official ceremony, recognized Bob's life's accomplishments and retroactively awarded Bob a bachelor's degree in journalism, despite him being a couple of credits short in 1968. Upon Bob's passing, his son, Kennedy Cox, said he felt he had lost his best friend. The father and son enjoyed engaging in musical endeavors--especially guitar--and traveling on the road to have semi- philosophical conversations and spend time together. Bob is survived by his son; former wife, Sidnie O'Connell of Lakewood; sister Lynn Murphy of Seattle, Washington; niece Amie Servais of Sammamish, Washington; nephew Baxter Baldwin of Scottsdale, Arizona; and several great nieces and nephews. I am deeply grateful for his lifetime of service to our community.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Arvada Police Officer Gordon Beesley, who was killed in the line of duty on June 21, 2021. On June 21, 2021, Officer Beesley was responding to a report of suspicious activity in Olde Town Arvada, Colo. when he was ambushed and shot by a man who had immense hatred toward police. Officer Beesley joined the Arvada Police Department in 2002 and served in a number of roles for the Department. He spent most of the year working as a school resource officer at local schools in our community, including Oberon Middle School, Lincoln Academy and Excel Academy Charter School. During the summers, he often returned to patrol work. Officer Beesley was a well-known and well-liked member of our community. His calm, gentle and patient demeanor made a big difference in his day-to-day interactions with students, especially those students who needed it most. In 2015, he was named Employee of the Year by the City of Arvada after the city learned Officer Beesley was riding his bike to school multiple times a week with a student who suffered from developmental delays and was not able to ride by himself. Countless other stories have surfaced from students, his colleagues and community members in the days following his death about the impact he had on their lives, big and small. Officer Beesley is the first member of the Arvada Police Department to be killed by gunfire in the line of duty and the second police officer killed in the line of duty in Colorado in 2021. I want to extend my deepest and heartfelt condolences to Officer Beesley's family, the Arvada Police Department and the entire Arvada community for this tragic incident and the loss of Officer Beesley. We will remember Officer Gordon Beesley for his kindness and bravery, and are forever indebted to him and his family for his service and sacrifice for our community.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Denver resident and Good Samaritan, Johnny Hurley, for his heroic actions in Arvada, Colo. on June 21, 2021. On June 21, 2021, an Arvada Police Officer was ambushed and shot by a man who had immense hatred toward police. Minutes later, 40-year-old Denver resident Hurley intervened and shot the suspect, undoubtedly saving countless other lives. A tragedy upon a tragedy, Hurley was then mistook as the suspect and shot by a member of the Arvada Police Department. Hearing gunshots, Hurley stepped up to protect and defend his community. According to Arvada's Chief of Police, Johnny's actions were ``decisive, courageous and effective in stopping further loss of life.'' Hurley's friends and family remember him as ``an idealist'' and ``an iconoclast,'' and were not surprised to learn Hurley stepped up to defend his community in a time of need. The loss of Hurley is tragic, and I join the Arvada Police Department and our community at large in honoring his bravery for his actions that day which undoubtedly saved lives. I want to extend my deepest and heartfelt condolences to Johnny Hurley's family. We will remember Johnny Hurley for his heroic actions on June 21, 2021, and his sacrifice for our community.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, on June 21, 2021, the community of Arvada, Colorado, experienced a tragedy. In a matter of minutes, our community lost two heroes, with dozens of Arvada residents left stunned and horrified. Arvada Police Officer Gordon Beesley was responding to a report of suspicious activity in Olde Town Arvada when he was ambushed and shot by a man who had immense hatred toward the police. Minutes later, a Good Samaritan named Johnny Hurley intervened and shot the suspect, undoubtedly saving countless other lives. In a tragedy upon a tragedy, Hurley was then mistaken as the shooter, and he was killed. Officer Gordon Beesley joined the Arvada Police Department in 2002 and served in a number of roles for the department. He spent most of the year working as a school resource officer at local schools in our community, including Oberon Middle School, Lincoln Academy, and Excel Academy Charter School. During the summers, he often returned to patrol work, as he was doing last Monday in Olde Town Arvada. Officer Beesley was a well-known and well-liked member of our community. His calm, gentle, and patient demeanor made a big difference in his day-to-day interactions with students, especially those students who needed it most. In 2015, he was named employee of the year by the city of Arvada after the city learned Officer Beesley was riding his bike to school multiple times a week with a student who suffered from developmental delays and was not able to ride by himself. Countless other stories have surfaced from students, his colleagues, and community members in the days following his death about the impact he had on their lives, big and small. He was an accomplished drummer and singer who played in local Arvada bands Railbenders and Brethren Fast. We will remember Officer Beesley's kindness and bravery and the approach he brought to life each and every day to ``make someone feel special today.'' Hearing gunshots, another hero stepped up to protect and defend the community, 40-year-old Denver resident Johnny Hurley. According to Arvada's chief of police, Johnny's actions were ``decisive, courageous, and effective in stopping further loss of life.'' Johnny's friends and family remembered him as an idealist and iconoclast and were not surprised to learn Johnny stepped up to defend his community in a time of need. The loss of Johnny Hurley is tragic. I join the Arvada Police Department and our community at large in honoring his bravery for his actions that day, which undoubtedly saved lives. Although we don't know all the facts, our hearts go out to the officer who mistook Mr. Hurley for the shooter. This has been a difficult week for our community, including for members of the Arvada Police Department. Our heroes in uniform are charged with protecting our communities, and last week's shooting is a reminder of the dangers our police officers face each and every day across the country. Olde Town Arvada is a close-knit community at the heart of Arvada. On a typical day, it is a busy, vibrant, cheerful part of town. Mr. Speaker, June 21, 2021, was a dark day for our community, and it is difficult for many of us to process it. My deepest and heartfelt condolences go out to the families of Officer Beesley and Johnny Hurley and the entire Arvada community. Arvadans are resilient and strong. Together, we will get through this.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and applaud James Golden for receiving the Gold Medalist Congressional Award for 2021. The Congressional Award is a prestigious award from the United States Congress and is awarded to young Americans who demonstrate excellence in four program areas: Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness and Expedition/Exploration. The program recognizes young people who strive to challenge themselves and reach new goals. James received this award because of his determination, hard work and achievements in these program areas. This year, James is being awarded the Gold Medalist Congressional Award--the highest honor and a tremendous accomplishment. This type of achievement can only be attained with hard work and perseverance, both of which have been exemplified by James. I applaud students like James who work to make the most of their education, commit to being lifelong learners and develop a work ethic and new skills which will guide them for the rest of their lives. I extend my deepest congratulations to James Golden for his work to earn the Gold Medalist Congressional Award. I have no doubt he will exhibit the same dedication and character in all of his future accomplishments.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Reverend Edward Flaherty, Veteran of the United States Army, for his service to our country. Father Flaherty served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1945, serving two years, eleven months, and two days throughout the Pacific theater of World War II, including time in New Caledonia, the Solomon Islands, and Papua New Guinea. While serving in the Army, Father Flaherty was a Medical Technician with the 131st Engineer Regiment Medical Detachment, in which he played an essential role in treating his fellow soldiers' wounds and injuries while also assisting with evacuations for casualties. During his time in the Army, Father Flaherty earned the American Defense Service Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with one star but he was never awarded the physical medals. After inquiring on his behalf, our office discovered additional medals he earned but never received. After his discharge from the U.S. Army, Father Flaherty returned to his hometown of Kansas City and worked for Folger's as a bookkeeper and accountant. He formally entered the Jesuit order in 1959 at 40 years of age and was ordained as a priest in 1965. He then moved to Colorado in 1967 and taught at Regis University. He became a staple in the Colorado Jesuit community for the next several decades, most recently pastoring at the Shrine of St. Anne Parish in Arvada, Colo. Father Flaherty's courageous service helped to defend our nation's democracy and ideals abroad at a crucial moment in world history. His heroism has charted the path for future generations of men and women who serve in the military. We are proud to have Father Flaherty call Colorado home for so many years, and forever indebted to him for his bravery and sacrifice on behalf of our country. I extend my deepest appreciation to Father Flaherty for his dedication, integrity and outstanding service to the United States of America.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today, to recognize the City of Wheat Ridge, Colorado for being recognized as an All-American City for 2021, awarded by the National Civic League. The theme for 2021, ``Building Equitable and Resilient Communities'', focused on recognizing communities that have worked to improve broad- based economic prosperity while also adapting and evolving during a challenging time. Incorporated in 1969, Wheat Ridge has evolved from a quiet city to a bustling suburb while finding ways to honor its roots and its unique character and improving quality of life for its residents. The city was awarded based on three programs that highlighted the city's work to increase equity and resiliency. The ``Wheaties Academy'', a leadership program developed to expand and diversify the civic voice within the community, has successfully engaged a wide array of community members and reflected the actual diversity of the city. Secondly, the creation of ``Sustainable Wheat Ridge'', an environmental stewardship program, worked to prioritize a vision for the city as outlined in the city's long-term strategic plan. Comprised of 11 resident volunteers, the committee dedicated over 550 hours to complete the action plan which was approved and funded by the city. Lastly, the ``Wheat Ridge Together'' initiative is a collaborative effort to respond to the dual challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and racial justice issues within the community. Wheat Ridge was well-positioned to face the challenges of the pandemic due to two new virtual public engagement tools that were launched prior to the pandemic: What's Up Wheat Ridge and Wheat Ridge Speaks, both of which provided on line opportunities for the community to engage with the city and provide public comment on city business. Wheat Ridge Speaks hosted 54 virtual meetings in 2020 and 166 comments were submitted electronically. I extend my congratulations to City of Wheat Ridge on this recognition and their work to engage and evolve its community, particularly during a very difficult year. Keep up the good work.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Michael R. Altenberg who passed away on May 19, 2021. Mike was born in Chicago to Jerome and Goldie Altenberg. In 1951, he joined family members and a close friend to start Perlmutter and Sons, a prestressed and precast concrete company. In 1952, the company bought property at 58th and Pecos in Adams County. Perlmutter and Sons became Prestressed Concrete of Colorado before eventually becoming Stanley Structures, which spanned the Rocky Mountain West, Texas, Arizona and Canada, and employed more than 2,000 people. My dad, Leonard Perlmutter, served as CEO of Stanley Structures for many years. It was a union business from top to bottom and was instrumental in building thousands of structures including airports, resorts, roads and bridges, federal and state installations and laboratories, military bases, apartments, warehouses, office buildings, shopping centers, and hospitals. Mike joined the family when he married Roslyn Perlmutter. They had four children: Rick (Mary), Jim (Carole), Barb (Steve) and Judy (Bruce) and many grandchildren. His wife Roz passed away November 8, 2001. Mike then married Libby Bortz and for many years they have lived among friends at the Wind Crest Retirement Community. Mike valiantly fought through various life-threatening issues over the past decade. Mike was a beloved and devoted husband and was a loving father and grandfather. He never missed a moment in the lives of his children and never missed a moment to celebrate his wife. He was brilliant, honest, and kind. I appreciate his lifetime of service to our community.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Ann Knollman (born Anna Veronica Materek) who passed away on April 15, 2021. Ann was born on July 14, 1941 in Hoboken, New Jersey. She was raised in Hoboken and graduated from the College of Saint Elizabeth in Convent Station, New Jersey (now known as Saint Elizabeth University). After graduation, Ann taught elementary school at Wallace Elementary School in Hoboken. During that time she met Dieter Knollman, and they later married in 1969. In 1971, Ann and Dieter moved to Arvada, Colorado, starting a whole new chapter of their lives. Once in Colorado, Ann quickly became entrenched in the community, starting to work for local causes and local Democrats. This work became more of a passion and she dedicated much of her life to advancing Democratic causes and electing Democrats at all levels of government. In 1989, Ann became a Legislative Aide to former Representative and then later Senator Bill Theibaut. Her dedication and passion for Democratic politics only grew deeper. At one point or another Ann held just about every Democratic party office in Jefferson County. This included Captain-at-large, Financial Chair of Congressional District 7, Chair of Jefferson County Democrats, Chair of State House District 29, Chair of Senate District 19, Chair of Jefferson County Rules Committee, Chair and Cofounder of the Dem Fems, and her longest role, CD7 Chair. Ann worked around the clock and was known for her tireless efforts knocking on doors to remind people to vote and played a critical role in helping elect candidates for the districts she chaired. One of Ann's proudest achievements, and that of her family, was in 2006 when she received the prestigious ``Eleanor Award.'' This award is presented to an individual who exhibited distinguished and honorable service to the community. The award is given in honor of Eleanor Roosevelt who believed that all people deserve fair and equitable treatment. She also believed it appropriate to challenge injustice and often, to do so, to stand up, speak out and create change. These may have been Eleanor Roosevelt's thoughts, but they also very much described Ann. Ann was also very honored and proud to be chosen as one of Colorado's Presidential Electors for three elections. I would like to express my appreciation to Ann for her kindness, friendship, and support over the many years we worked together. To her family, she was and always will be our Auntie Anna. Ann was predeceased by her husband, Dieter Knollman, her parents, Mary and Vincent Materek, her four brothers, Joseph, Vincent, Adam and Theodore Materek, her sister Helen Monaco, and her pups, Plato, Brandy, Daisy, and Shadow. While our state has been blessed with capable leadership throughout its history, few rise to the caliber and reputation of Ann Knollman. I am deeply grateful for her lifetime of service to our community and send gratitude for her service to the Jefferson County community, the great State of Colorado, and the United States of America. Ann, will be deeply missed.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Gwen Efrrmeyer (Inglis) of Colorado who was tragically killed while riding her bike on May 16, 2021. Gwen was born on October 12, 1974. In high school, she was very active in sports and went on to play basketball and was an All-American high jumper at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. There she also received her degree in accounting. Gwen worked as Manager of Government Account Compliance at Brown and Caldwell for 14 years. In 2004, she discovered her love of cycling and began racing. This love of bikes led her to meet her husband, Mike. They were married in 2008. Gwen held numerous national and state champion titles. Gwen was a devoted wife and loving aunt and sister. She will be remembered for her contribution and impact on the local cycling community and as a great Coloradan.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Steven Chotin of Denver, Colorado who passed away on May 15, 2021. Steven was born in St. Louis, Missouri to Miriam and Alfred Chotin. He was the only son and middle child of two sisters. He graduated from Ladue High School and attended the University of Oklahoma for a brief time. He moved to Denver, Colorado in 1973 to reorganize a company that was owned by a family friend. Shortly after he moved, he met his wife, Robin Cohen, and they were married at Beth Joseph Congregation in 1974. Prior to founding his own company, Steven worked for MDC Holdings where he played a primary role in developing their mortgage banking business. In 1984, Steven founded The Chotin Group Corporation. Since inception, the firm successfully invested in structured financial products and real estate opportunities where he was instrumental in creating mortgage-backed securities. Throughout his career, Steven was a strong supporter of social and political causes in the Denver Jewish community, throughout the country, and Israel and the diaspora. In addition to his family office, most recently, Steven and Robin established The Chotin Foundation which is dedicated to improving and enriching the lives of individuals, children, and families with particular interest in Jewish causes as well as secular charitable initiatives in the areas of arts and culture, education, and health and wellness. In addition, he had a genuine interest in local, state, and national politics. Steven was a devoted husband and loving father and grandfather. Steven and Robin raised five children and enjoyed time with their grandchildren--Jaxon, Caden, Coco, Harper, Crew, Cole and Parker. I am deeply grateful for his lifetime of service to our community.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Edward Flaherty, Veteran of the United States Army, for his service to our country. Edward served in the U.S. Army from 1941-1945, serving two years, eleven months, and two days throughout the Pacific theater of World War II, including time in New Caledonia, the Solomon Islands, and Papua New Guinea. While serving in the Army, Edward was a Medical Technician with the 131st Engineer Regiment Medical Detachment, in which he played an essential role in treating his fellow soldiers' wounds and injuries while also assisting with evacuations for casualties. During his time in the Army, Edward was awarded the American Defense Service Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Philippine Liberation Ribbon with one star. Edward Flaherty's courageous service helped to defend our nation's democracy and ideals abroad at a crucial moment in world history, His heroism has charted the path for future generations of men and women who serve in the military. We are proud to have Edward call Colorado home, and forever indebted to him for his bravery and sacrifice on behalf of our country. I extend my deepest appreciation to Edward for his dedication, integrity and outstanding service to the United States of America.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Antonio Esquibel, a Northglenn, Colo. City Councilmember, former Mayor, a Vietnam Veteran, and a great Coloradan. Mr. Esquibel has been a resident and a staple in the Northglenn community for more than a decade, during which time he has dedicated much of his time and energy into serving his community and fellow neighbors. Throughout his tenure serving the City of Northglenn, Mr. Esquibel has held numerous positions in city government, including Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, City Councilmember, Finance Committee member, and Adams County 12 School Board liaison. Mr. Esquibel was first elected to the City Council in 2015 where he served as the Ward 4 representative before being appointed to Mayor Pro Tem in 2017. He was then appointed Mayor in June of 2019 and proceeded to serve out the term before returning to his role as a Councilmember. As Councilmember and Mayor, he has been a strong advocate and champion for education and mental health issues. Mr. Esquibel's dedication to the Northglenn community follows a lifetime of public service in which he worked as a counselor in Adams 12 Five Star Schools and served our nation in the Army during the Vietnam War. Mr. Esquibel served in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1974, ending his service with the rank of Sergeant. His service included time in Okinawa where he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Meritorious Unit Commendation and the Good Conduct Medal (1st and 2nd Awards). His primary specialty was as a military police officer and secondary specialty was with the 11th Bravo Company as a Light Weapons Infantryman. In addition to his service to Northglenn and to our country, Mr. Esquibel is a loving husband to Dr. Deborah Esquibel Hunt and is a devoted father and grandfather. While our state has been blessed with capable leadership throughout its history, few rise to the caliber and reputation of Mr. Esquibel. I wish Antonio Esquibel all the best in retirement and send gratitude for his service to the Northglenn community, the great State of Colorado, and the United States of America.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Herb Atchison, a former City Councilmember and Mayor of Westminster, Colorado and a great Coloradan. Mayor Atchison has lived in Westminster for more than 40 years, during which time he has committed his time and energy into serving his community and local residents. Throughout his tenure serving the City of Westminster, Mayor Atchison held numerous positions on the City Council and on city government boards such as the Planning Commission and the City's Special Permit and Licensing Board. Mayor Atchison was first elected to City Council in 1997 where he served two terms and came back for a third term in 2011. He was elected Mayor in 2013 and proceeded to serve two terms. As a Councilmember and Mayor, he was a strong advocate and champion for small business and transportation issues. In addition to his service to the Westminster community Mayor Atchison is a loving husband and devoted father. He has been married to his wife Erika for 50 years, is the proud father of two daughters, and a devoted grandfather to five grandchildren. While our state has been blessed with capable leadership throughout its history, few rise to the caliber and reputation of Mayor Atchison. I wish Mayor Atchison all the best in retirement and send gratitude for his service to the Westminster community and the great State of Colorado.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Committee on Rules, I call up House Resolution 380 and ask for its immediate consideration.

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, for the purposes of debate only, I yield the customary 30 minutes to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Reschenthaler), pending which I yield myself such time as I may consume. During consideration of this resolution, all time yielded is for the purposes of debate only. General Leave