Scott Perry

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor and recognize civil- and human-rights leader W. Miller Barbour, and commemorate his legacy and contributions to our Nation. While born in Philadelphia in 1908, Mr. Barbour was raised in Middletown, Pennsylvania. Very active in his local church, he witnessed barriers to opportunity in his community that shaped his commitment to equality and social work. Once graduating from Middletown High School, Mr. Barbour attended Elizabethtown College, where he became only the second African American graduate in 1932, and was the first known African American student- athlete to play college football in Lancaster County. After college, Mr. Barbour pursued a career in social work, focusing on the effects of poverty and employment opportunities. He worked directly with young people at Philadelphia's Wharton Center, where he helped address juvenile delinquency and gang violence by promoting mentorship and education. His work was an expression of his belief that, in order to fix social issues, we must first address the poverty and neighborhood environments that lead to them. Mr. Barbour later earned a Masters degree in Social Work from the esteemed University of Pennsylvania. He joined the National Urban League in 1947, becoming Executive Secretary of its Denver affiliate branch, wherein he was a passionate advocate for fair employment and equal economic opportunity, and worked to break down barriers preventing African Americans from participating fully in American life. In 1952, he became Director of the National Urban League's Western Field Office in Los Angeles, where he continued his work fighting for meaningful civil rights reform. In this role, he commissioned a 1952 study analyzing racial relationships and socioeconomic conditions in Richmond, California. He also co-authored The Prospect for Freedom: Human Rights, What Can be Done on the Local Level in 1951, which emphasized the responsibility of local communities to build equal institutions. Mr. Barbour sadly passed away unexpectedly in March 1957. His legacy has endured throughout our communities and Nation. Dauphin County recently proclaimed every July 16th as ``W. Miller Barbour Day,'' and his life also has been recognized by the Pennsylvania State Legislature. Mr. Speaker, I am humbled and honored to recognize Mr. W. Miller Barbour for his selfless and outstanding contributions to the Civil Rights movement, and for his enduring dedication to our local communities, Commonwealth, and our great Nation. His service, leadership, and tireless devotion set the standard by which all should be judged.

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend and honor the life of United States Army Specialist James Michael Yohn, Sr., who was killed in action (KIA) while bravely serving our Nation with the 1st Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment in Mosul, Iraq. Specialist Yohn dedicated his life to selfless service--both in and out of uniform. He was an athlete from a very young age, played baseball and basketball at a high level, and enjoyed fishing--saying that it was a calming way for him to stop and reflect in peace near the tranquility of the water. Before enlisting in the United States Army, Specialist Yohn served with the Highspire Volunteer Fire Department for eight years. While serving with distinction for the benefit and safety of his community, he also loved being on the fire engine and making people laugh while performing his duties. After the terror attacks on September 11, 2001, Specialist Yohn told his mother that he wanted to do something to protect our Nation from present and future barbaric acts of terrorism. Five years later, he enlisted in the Army and attended Basic Training at Fort Knox, Kentucky. After graduating, he was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, where he met his future wife, Amber. Shortly after deploying to Iraq in October 2007, he and Amber discovered that they were expecting their first child. He returned home for 30 days to make plans for their future and redeployed to Iraq in February 2008. On June 25, 2008, Specialist Yohn and two other Troopers of the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment's 1st Squadron were headed back to a combat outpost following a route-protection mission. Their vehicle was the convoy lead that provided security for the rest of the platoon when they struck a roadside bomb that tragically killed all three Cavalrymen. Specialist Yohn was 25 years-old when terrorists cowardly took his life. He was so excited about becoming a father. He was a devoted husband and family man who had a way of making others smile without even trying. He was an excellent Trooper who took pride in his work and loved the life of spirit of not only being a Soldier but being around other Soldiers. This year, 2026, marks 18 years since Specialist Yohn was killed in action (KIA). He was the first Fallen in the Global War on Terror to hail from Dauphin County, and his memory endures through his loving wife, Amber, and the son who proudly carries his namesake-- James Michael Yohn, Jr. Mr. Speaker, I am honored and privileged to recognize Specialist James Yohn, who not only selflessly and eagerly served our Nation with distinction in the United States Army, but defended those who may never even know him, that they might live free and peacefully because of his sacrifices. His tireless dedication, loyalty, patriotism, professionalism, and devotion are a great credit to himself, our communities, the United States Army, and the United States of America, and set the standard by which all should be judged. May he Rest in God's Peace until we ``. . . meet again on the High Ground.''

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and honor the service of Mr. Scott K. Bradley upon the auspicious occasion of his retirement after 41 years of cumulative service to our Nation in the U.S. Navy and federal government. As a child, Mr. Bradley had dreamed of serving on submarines ever since he witnessed two Canadian Oberon Class Diesel Submarines surface while on a family vacation. At 18, he joined the United States Navy. He thought himself to be a Northerner, so that February, he attended boot camp in NTC Great Lakes for 14 weeks, laughing at ``his cold self'' until he graduated. After graduating boot camp, the detailing team at Great Lakes tried mightily to get Bradley to accept a rate that called for a six-year enlistment, though his intent was to serve for four years and get a college degree with the GI Bill. The team offered him a choice between becoming a cook or a Torpedoman; he chose Torpedoman's Mate, marking the beginning of his decorated Naval career. After several school commands, TMSN Bradley was detailed to the USS George Washington Carver (SSBN-656) underway out of Holy Loch, Scotland. The only Sailor in a house full of Marines made for more than one wrestling match to get to the Thanksgiving table, but somehow, he managed to do that while earning his brothers' respect after he was promoted halfway through his third enlistment to Chief Petty Officer in just under nine years, and earned commission as an Underseas Ordnance Limited Duty Officer one year later, commissioned as an Underseas Ordnance Limited Duty Officer (LDO). Submarines were in his blood, and he crewed on several throughout his career. Later, as a Squadron Combat Systems Officer, he trained 18 weapons officers before ending his 24- year Naval career as a Special Projects Officer at Electric Boat Shipyard with the Strategic Systems Programs. After culminating his Naval career, Mr. Bradley began his second career with the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) in 2013, at which he's an essential part of the acquisition process from pre-award to sustainment. While postings at the Department of Energy and the Strategic Weapons Facility Pacific took him away at times, the importance of his work and the people with whom he served brought him back into the fold. Now, after 37 years of service to our Nation, Mr. Bradley is retiring to spend time with his wife and search for new challenges and adventures. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize and congratulate Mr. Scott K. Bradley on his retirement after more than four decades of service to our Nation. His tireless service, outstanding performance, and dedication to the United States of America set the standard by which we all should be judged.

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize members of the Harrisburg Havoc Women's Tackle Football Team for their participation in the 2026 Women's Football Alliance (WFA) All-American Bowl. On July 25, 2026, the WPA hosted the All-American Bowl at the Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio, where the best of the League's National Conference and American Conference faced off during the WFA ``Championship Weekend.'' Several members of the Havoc were selected to participate in this historic event to represent Pennsylvania on the National stage. Four Havoc players were selected to earn first-team honors: Leah Hutchinson, Kaeli Thomas, Ashley Robinson, and Elizabeth Smith (who is unable to participate due to her attendance at United States Army Basic Training). Earning second-team honors from the Havoc are Angela Deamer, Patience Waters, Samantha Moyer, Bri Swanson, Melissa Fawcett, and Millie Mosley. In addition to the players, Harrisburg Havoc Coach DeQuan Ware also was selected for the WFA All-Pro Team, where he worked alongside coaches from across the United States while proudly representing the Harrisburg Havoc and Pennsylvania in the All-American Bowl. The Havoc's selections to these prestigious positions showcase the dedication and commitment of these athletes on and off the field. These women have spent hours training, mentoring, competing, and serving as positive role models for their fellow teammates and other young women hoping to play at their level. Mr. Speaker, as the sport of women's tackle football continues to grow, I am proud that the 10th Congressional District is home to exceptional athletes who inspire others with their dedication, work ethic, and performance. I am honored to recognize the Harrisburg Havoc Football Team for their valiant efforts and performance in the All- American Bowl and look forward to their future successes.

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize The LIBRE Initiative on the auspicious occasion of its 15th Anniversary. For a decade and a half, LIBRE has worked tirelessly to advance economic freedom and opportunity for Hispanic communities across Pennsylvania and the Nation. Founded in 2011, The LIBRE Initiative has grown into one of the most active grassroots organizations serving Hispanic families, small business owners, and entrepreneurs. Through community outreach, civic education, and direct engagement with elected officials, LIBRE has helped countless individuals navigate the path toward greater economic self-sufficiency. Over the years, LIBRE has expanded its work to include English- language classes, financial literacy workshops, job fairs, and back-to- school drives to support working individuals and families. This milestone anniversary reflects 15 years of selfless and tireless dedication to empowering individuals to pursue their own version of the American Dream--free from unnecessary government barriers. Mr. Speaker, I am honored and privileged to recognize The LIBRE Initiative, commend its 15 years of service to Hispanic communities in Pennsylvania and across our Nation, and look forward to witnessing the positive and meaningful results of its tireless and dedicated work for decades to come.

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for his leadership and his dogged determination to bring this to the floor. Mr. Speaker, I am a proud original cosponsor of not only this bill but every other bipartisan bill that is not here. The record for me is clear on this. Last year alone, Members made, according to my count, over 13,000 trades, totaling over $600 million with 202 representatives and 56 senators trading, both Republican and Democrat. Every single year, at some point, somebody publishes a list of the Members that were most successful in trading. You will never see my name on there because I don't own any stock, no commodities, no crypto, none of it, because, Mr. Speaker, I came here to serve. If you know anything about service, you know service is about sacrifice. Service isn't about what you can get. It is about what you can give. Mr. Speaker, I thank the sponsor, the chairman, the author of this bill, for his dogged determination. I am glad we are going to vote on it, and everybody is going to see.

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Colonel (Col.) Christopher John Hickey upon the auspicious occasion of his retirement from the United States Army after 33 years of selfless service. Col. Hickey retired as Professor of the U.S. Army War College (USAWC), Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania on May 31, 2026. He entered the Army in 1989, upon earning a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from The Johns Hopkins University as the Distinguished Military Graduate. He served as Rifle Platoon leader, Company Executive Officer, and Battalion Liaison and Training Officer in the 1st Cavalry Division from 1994 to 1997, and as Brigade and Battalion Assistant Operations Officer and Rifle Company Commander in the 82nd Airborne Division from 1997 to 2000, including deployment to Haiti as commander of a 151-man Parachute Rifle Company Team. He served as an Instructor/Assistant Professor at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point from 2002 to 2005. In 2003, he served as Assistant Battalion Operations Officer with Task Force China, 3-15 Infantry, 2 Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division during the invasion of Iraq and the Battle of Baghdad, earning the Combat Infantryman Badge. Col. Hickey returned to Iraq from 2005 to 2006 and served as the campaign planner for Multinational Security Transition Command Iraq, and advisor to the Iraqi Ministry of Defense J5. From 2007 to 2010, he was a contingency plans officer in the U.S. European Command, serving as lead planner for all NATO and Russian plans, planner for the Regional War of Terror, lead planner for Georgia and the Baltic States of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, and played a key role in a major counterintelligence operation. In 2011, he served as Chief of Plans and Strategy for the NATO Training Mission-Afghanistan/Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan's Deputy Commander for Regional Support and led a lessons-learned exchange in Iraq. He served from 2011 to 2014 at the NATO Joint Warfare Center in Stavanger, Norway, as Exercise Officer for ISAF strategy plans and assessment training and deployed four times to Kabul. He also served as the Scenario Officer for NATO's first post-Cold War large-scale combat scenario. Until his retirement, Col. Hickey served as Director of Joint Operations Planning, Associate Professor, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Professor of Military Studies Chair, and finally as a Functional Area 47 Professor of the Army War College. He was senior strategic advisor to Joint, Army, and multinational leaders, and taught in all four of the schools' resident and distance learning departments, to include serving on the resident program's most prestigious seminar, the Carlisle Scholars Program. Col. Hickey's military education includes the: Infantry Officers Basic and Advanced Courses; Airborne School; Ranger Course; Combined Arms Staff Service School; Special Forces Advanced Urban Combat Familiarization Course; Command and General Staff College; Basic Strategic Arts Program; Joint and Combined Warfighting Course; NATO Defense College; and the U.S. Army War College. He earned a master's in public policy from the Harvard Kennedy School, Master of Strategic Studies from the USAWC, and Ph.D. in Policy Studies from the University Maryland School of Public Policy. Col. Hickey's awards and decorations include the: Presidential Unit Citation; Joint Meritorious Unit Award (w/6 OLC); Legion of Merit; Bronze Star; Defense Meritorious Service Medal (w/1 OLC); Meritorious Service Medal; Joint Service Commendation Medal (w/2 OLC); Army Commendation Medal (w/2 OLC); Joint Service Achievement Medal (w/1 OLC); Army Achievement Medal (w/3 OLC); National Defense Service Medal (w/1 BSS); Iraq Campaign Medal (w/5 CS); Afghan Campaign Medal (w/2 CS); GWOT Service Medal; Armed Forces Service Medal; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon (4); NATO Medal--ISAF AFG; Master Combat Infantryman Badge; Senior Parachutist Badge; and Ranger Tab. Mr. Speaker, I am honored and privileged to commend and congratulate Col. Christopher Hickey upon the occasion of his retirement after more than 33 years of selfless and distinguished uniformed service to our Nation. His dedication, professionalism, and tireless devotion to duty, the U.S. Army, and the United States of America set the standard by which all should be judged.

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Captain Theresa Bowie on the auspicious occasion of her retirement after nearly 25 years of service to our Nation in the U.S. Air Force and Pennsylvania Air National Guard. Captain Bowie first enlisted in the USAF in 2002; after completing Basic Training and Technical School, she was assigned to Beale Air Force Base, where she became an electrical/environmental specialist working on the U2-S ``Dragon Lady'' reconnaissance plane. During her six years of active component service, she completed deployments in 2005 and 2007, supporting Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. In 2008, Captain Bowie left active the active Air Force and joined the Pennsylvania Air National Guard's 193rd Special Operations Wing, where she served as an EC-130 Aircraft Electrician, and deployed two more times in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and Freedom Sentinel. Captain Bowie transferred to the 201st RED HORSE Squadron in 2018, wherein she completed the requirements to commission as an Engineering Officer. Her knowledge and expertise were vital during two more deployments during the Global War on Terror, as well as during a humanitarian mission in Hawaii. Mr. Speaker, I am honored and privileged to recognize Captain Theresa Bowie on her retirement upon nearly 25 years of outstanding and selfless service to our Nation. Her tireless service and dedication to her fellow Airmen, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the United States of America set the standard by which all should be judged.

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Chief Master Sergeant Natalie A. Briggs on the auspicious occasion of her retirement upon 26 years of selfless service to our Nation. Chief Master Sergeant Natalie Briggs has more than 25 years of human resources, personnel management, and military leadership experience in the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. She currently serves as Senior Enlisted Leader for the 193d Special Operations Wing Force Support Squadron, where she serves as a principal advisor to commanders on enlisted morale, welfare, training, readiness, and mission execution, while being the vital bridge between enlisted personnel and senior leadership. In this role, she helps reinforce the Air Force core values, professional military standards, and culture of readiness while advocating for policies and decisions that support Airmen and their families. Throughout her career, Chief Master Sergeant Briggs has held key leadership roles across force sustainment, human resources, recruiting and retention, personnel readiness, casualty assistance, contingency operations, and crisis action support. She has led teams, managed programs affecting thousands of Airmen, guided commanders and supervisors through complex personnel matters, and supported major deployment, conversion, and readiness initiatives. Known for her sound judgment, regulatory expertise, professionalism, and compassionate leadership, Chief Master Sergeant Briggs consistently strengthened programs, improved processes, and developed Airmen at every level. Having earned a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Management from Eastern University, and an associate's degree in human resources from the Community College of the Air Force, Chief Master Sergeant Briggs' professional development includes Distinguished Graduate honors from the Senior Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, Non-Commissioned Officer Academy, and Airman Leadership School. Her career reflects a strong commitment to service, mentorship, mission readiness, and trusted leadership within the military community. Chief Master Sergeant Briggs has earned numerous awards, including the: Meritorious Service Medal (w/2 OLC); Air and Space Commendation Medal (w/2 OLC); Meritorious Unit Award (w/l OLC); Air and Space Outstanding Unit Award (w/5 OLC); and the Air Reserve Forces Meritorious Service Medal (w/7 OLC). She has deployed to Andrews Air Force Base as the A1 Representative in support of Operation Jump Start in 2006, and to RAF Akrotiri, Cyprus, with the 1st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2009. In Cyprus, during emergency aircraft diversion, Chief Master Sergeant Briggs employed shelf-plans untouched for 10 years and deployed 20 personnel to recover the aircraft. Mr. Speaker, I am honored and privileged to recognize, commend, and congratulate Chief Master Sergeant Natalie A. Briggs upon the auspicious occasion of her retirement after more than 26 years of outstanding and selfless service to our Nation. Her dedication, professionalism, and tireless devotion are a great credit to herself, our Commonwealth, the U.S. Air Force and the United States of America and set the standard by which all should be judged.

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mr. William F. McQuade for his distinguished career in the Heating, Ventilation, Air- Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC&R) industry. After graduating from high school, William earned his Bachelors (1991) and Masters (1992) degrees in Mechanical Engineering from Penn State University. Under the mentorship of Dr. Ralph Webb, a pioneer in enhanced heat transfer, he conducted research that helped the HVAC industry transition to safer more environmentally responsible refrigerants. Despite his young age, he was ready and able to contribute to global environmental research. After college, William began his career at York International Corporation, where he rose from heat exchanger design engineer to Director of Innovation and Technology for Applied Products. While working full time, he earned his MBA from Penn State. In 2012, he was named a Fellow for the American Society for Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), the leading global society for the HVAC&R industry, recognizing his contributions to chiller design and his work on the United Nations ``Montreal Protocol.'' As his career progressed William's influence expanded internationally. Transitioning to Johnson Controls, he played key roles in crafting global energy efficiency standards for HVAC equipment and various international energy agreements, including the Paris Climate Accord. He has advised the U.S., EU, and Chinese governments on ozone and climate policy, and the U.S. Department of State and EPA appointed him to the Indo-U.S. Taskforce on hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). He later served on the Department of Energy HVAC Roadmap Collaboration Team. In 2019, William joined the Air Conditioning, Heating and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) as Vice President of Sector Services, where he oversaw standards and certification programs, and led an industry-wide effort to apply lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic to future equipment design. Since 2023, he has served as Global Vice President for Government Affairs and Sustainability at Baltimore Aircoil Company. Last year, after decades of work, William achieved his dream of serving as the international President of ASHRAE. In his role, he spent more than 250 days traveling the world to champion his theme, ``Healthy Buildings: Designing for Life,'' in which he elevated water quality as an important pillar of indoor building quality, established the Presidential Ad Hoc Committee that led to the creation of the Center of Excellence for Indoor Environmental Quality, and advocated for standardized methods to measure embodied carbon in mechanical systems. William has received numerous honors throughout his career, including the: ASHRAE Distinguished Service Award (2012); AHRI Richard C. Schulze Distinguished Service Award (2014); ASHRAE Exceptional Service Award (2023); and ASHRAE Distinguished Public Service Award (2023). On top of his honors, he earned 22 U.S. and international patents. Most importantly, William has been an actively engaged father and mentor despite his demanding career. As a mentor, he has guided students, young engineers, and colleagues with patience, encouragement, and genuine care for their wellbeing. As a father, he guided his two sons as Boy Scouts, serving as Den Leader, Assistant Scoutmaster, and eventually Council President for the New Birth of Freedom Council. Mr. Speaker, I am proud and honored to recognize Mr. William F. McQuade on his distinguished and decorated career in the HVAC&R industry and congratulate him on being installed as President of ASHRAE for the 2025 to 2026 session. His service to our local communities and Nation, and his commitment to making the world a better place, set the standard by which all should be judged.

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 241; YEA on Roll Call No. 242; NAY on Roll Call No. 243; NAY on Roll Call No. 244; YEA on Roll Call No. 245; NAY on Roll Call No. 246; and YEA on Roll Call No. 247.

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mrs. Carmen Bloom-Harvey on earning the title, ``Mrs. East Coast International 2026.'' Carmen's journey to the Mrs. International stage has been special and unique. Through her platform and influence, she promoted her ``Welcome Without Worry'' initiative that raises awareness about the seriousness of food allergies, advocates for inclusive practices in schools and public spaces, and helps parents gain the confidence and tools they need to advocate for and protect their children. Her three-year-old son, Charlie, has severe food allergies and experienced anaphylaxis twice. Carmen's advocacy not only helps her son, but every child who suffers from severe allergies to feel safe, included, and understood in school, on sports teams, and elsewhere. In the future, she hopes to work with community organizations, speak at local events, and use her platform to support increased awareness and preparedness regarding food allergy safety. Outside of pageantry, Carmen is a full-time attorney who leads a state school boards association, instructs a group fitness class at a YMCA, and carries the critical roles of mother and wife. Her pageant experience gives her the opportunity to amplify a mission that affects millions of individuals and families, and her advocacy is driven by love of her son and a commitment to creating a world where every child may completely and confidently participate in life. From July 21 to July 24, 2026, Carmen will compete for ``Mrs. International'' in Chicago, a pageant developed 37 years ago with higher standards than other pageant systems, and the focus of which is to showcase women 21 to 56 years of age, married at least six months, and a resident of the state/citizen of the country she represents. Each contestant has the opportunity to select a platform of her choice, which she spends the year promoting. As a contestant for Mrs. International and a representative of the ``Welcome Without Worry'' platform, Carmen is proud to stand as a representative of advocacy, leadership, and inclusion for individuals with allergies, highlighting that allergies should not stop them from fulfilling their dreams. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 10th District of Pennsylvania, I am honored and proud to recognize Mrs. Carmen Bloom-Harvey on earning the title of ``Mrs. East Coast International 2026,'' and wish the best in her competition for ``Mrs. International'' in July. Her focus, platform, and advocacy on behalf of others sets the standard by which all should be judged.

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Cathedral Parish of Saint Patrick of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on the auspicious occasion of its 200th Anniversary. This beautiful House of Prayer, the Mother Church of the Diocese of Harrisburg, serves more than 242,000 Catholics in the 15 counties of central Pennsylvania, and welcomes parishioners, pilgrims in faith, curious tourists, or wanderers in search of a spiritual home with refreshment of soul and spirit in the peace of Christ. The sacrifices of many Catholics--from every demographic and background throughout the Diocese--built, renovated, and maintained this Cathedral for two centuries--particularly in 1949, 1976, 2003, to 2005, and 2006--up until this day. German Jesuits brought Catholicism to Central Pennsylvania during the pre-Revolutionary period; the first two churches were established in Conewago and Lancaster. Historical records indicate a small Catholic mission in Harrisburg in 1806. In 1823, the Allison Hill property known as Sylvan Heights was purchased, and purportedly, a chapel was built on that site. The influx of Irish laborers who built Pennsylvania's canals and railroads influenced the building of a church closer to the riverfront, and in 1824, land was purchased at the present State Street site, with the cornerstone being laid for Saint Patrick Church in 1826--originally part of the Diocese of Philadelphia. After the formal establishment of the Diocese of Harrisburg in 1868, the original Saint Patrick was designated as a ``pro-cathedral''--a church that temporarily would house the cathedra--or the Bishop's chair--until permanent cathedral could be erected. The cathedral is a symbol of the unbroken apostolic succession of the bishop and unity with the Pope, the Bishop of Rome. At that time, the Diocese was placed under the patronage of Saint Patrick. During the 1880s the church was enlarged, and the entrance was relocated from Liberty Street to State Street. Graves from a cemetery that formerly occupied the space adjacent to the pro-cathedral were exhumed and relocated to Mount Calvary Cemetery, Harrisburg, along with the granite Celtic Cross that adorned the Saint Patrick Cemetery. As part of the diocesan synod in 1902, Bishop John W. Shanahan (third Bishop of Harrisburg) proposed the idea of building a proper cathedral. Construction began in 1904, was completed on March 1, 1907--less than 40 years since the formal founding of the diocese--and the current Cathedral was dedicated on May 14, 1907. The architectural design of the new Cathedral was modeled in the Romanesque-Renaissance style. It is cruciform in shape and the original main altar was patterned after Bernini's altar adorning the chapel of the Blessed Sacrament in Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome. The current cathedral was constructed of North Carolina granite on the site of the original church, and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a contributing property in the Harrisburg Historic District in 1976. Beyond physical changes over time, strength of faith, determination, and dedication to the mission of the Church remains steadfast as the House of God, built with care, love, and devotion. It continues its legacy with grace and gratitude for what's been accomplished and focused resolve on what remains to be done. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 10th Congressional District of Pennsylvania, I am humbled and honored to celebrate the Cathedral Parish of Saint Patrick on this auspicious and blessed occasion of its 200th Anniversary. The church family's contributions to our communities--spiritual, charitable, educational, and social--are immeasurable, and I pray for God's continued blessings on their continued call to serve and honor Him.

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I'm proud to recognize the Historic Peter Allen House of Dauphin, Pennsylvania upon the auspicious occasion of its 300th Anniversary. The Peter Allen House is the oldest home in Dauphin County, dating back to 1726. The original grant to Peter Allen, a Scots-Irish trapper and trader, was for nearly 400 acres. The House is listed on both the National and State Registries of Historic Homes, and some contend that it was considered the Western English Frontier of the then-Pennsylvania Colony. Built at the base of Peters Mountain in central Dauphin County, the Peter Allen House historically served as the signature trading post for the migrating settlers of the colonial, pre-Revolutionary western frontier. Throughout the 19th Century, it also served as an inn, tavern, and hotel, hosting settlers and guests from across the Country. It was a welcomed stop on what was then known as the Sunbury Turnpike, which stretched from Reading to Sunbury. Today, the Peter Allen House serves as a memorial to early pioneers and settlers who gave everything for their Country and Commonwealth. The current owners have restored the House, converting the stable into a private residence, and growing the House into a popular site for weddings and special events. To celebrate their 300th Anniversary and America's 250th Birthday, the Peter Allen House is hosting an historic Independence Day celebration, featuring special readings of the Declaration of Independence, reenactments, educational forums, tours, fireworks, and a colonial costume ball. The celebration will be a testament to the tremendous impact the House has had upon our region throughout our Nation's history. Mr. Speaker, I'm honored to recognize the Historic Peter Allen House on its 300th Anniversary. From the early days of precolonial America to today, the Peter Allen House has played an enormous role in Central Pennsylvania's history, and on behalf of the Citizens of the 10th Congressional District, I'm proud and honored that the owners can celebrate and share this wonderful and momentous occasion with our local community.

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I'm proud to recognize the Unforgettable Big Band's ``Freedom is Not Free'' celebration of our Nation's 250th Birthday. The Unforgettable Big Band originally formed in 2000, in the York, Pennsylvania area, for the simple joy of playing music for the local community; however, its reputation quickly grew. Within a couple of years, the Lake Meade Homeowners Association invited the Band to perform at the annual charity fundraiser dance, marking the Band's first public appearance. Their overwhelming success turned the performance into a bi-annual tradition that occurs to this day. As word about the Band continued to spread, they began performing more frequently across the York area. Proceeds from performances for local charities and churches enabled the Band to invest in a sound system and stage lighting, further elevating their shows and performances. Many of the Band's early performances focused on World War II Veterans' reunion events--an important tradition the Band upholds as long as surviving Veterans are able to attend. In 2019, the Central Pennsylvania Music Hall of Fame was formed to recognize and support bands and music in Central Pennsylvania. In January 2020, the Unforgettable Big Band won ``Best Ensemble,'' and followed that win with a ``Cover-To-Cover'' award in 2021, for the song ``Fighter,'' which was written to benefit the Four Diamonds Foundation's support of families of children with cancer at Penn State Milton S. Hershey Children's Hospital. On July 3, the Unforgettable Big Band will host ``Freedom is Not Free,'' a World War II-themed USO-Canteen Swing Dance at York's Valencia Ballroom, to honor our Veterans--past and present--and our community's First Responders, and the unique role that York County has played in the history of our Nation, All profits from this event will benefit charitable local causes supporting Veterans and First Responders. Mr. Speaker, I'm honored and privileged to recognize the Unforgettable Big Band and their ``Freedom is Not Free'' celebration of America's 250th Birthday. From the early days of the Continental Congress, to the York Plan that helped achieve the Allied victory, to end World War II, York County has made an enormous mark on American history, and on behalf of the Citizens of the 10th Congressional District, I commend the Unforgettable Big Band for its service to our Nation and Veterans, and am proud that this memorable and historic celebration will occur in our local community.

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Master Sergeant (MSgt) David ``Lucky'' Luciano on the auspicious occasion of his retirement upon nearly 30 years of service to our Nation in the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. MSgt Luciano first enlisted in the Air National Guard with the 201st RED HORSE Squadron in October 1997. He attended Basic Training at Lackland AFB, Texas, and became an Engineering Assistant after completing Technical Training at Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri. Over the course of his nearly 30 years in service, MSgt Luciano ultimately earned promotion to the rank of Master Sergeant and became the Non- Commissioned Officer in Charge of the Pennsylvania Air National Guard Engineering Section. During his decades of service, MSgt Luciano has received numerous awards and commendation for his service and performance, as well as completing myriad deployments around the globe, to include: Qatar and Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan (2002); Camp Taji and Camp Victory, Iraq (2004); Ali Air Base, Iraq (2010); Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait (2014); U.S. Virgin Islands for Hurricanes Irma and Maria recovery efforts (2017); and Tinian Island, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (2025). Mr. Speaker, I am honored and privileged to recognize Master Sergeant David ``Lucky'' Luciano on his retirement upon nearly 30 years of uniformed service to our Nation. His tireless service and dedication to his fellow Airmen, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the United States of America set the standard by which all should be judged.

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Good Shepherd Parish on the blessed occasion of its 75th Anniversary. Good Shepherd Parish in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, was founded on May 28, 1951, to help serve the rapidly growing Catholic population on the West Shore of Harrisburg. Sunday Masses began on June 10, 1951, at the Camp Hill Theatre, and were supplemented in the auditorium of Trinity High School as the first pastor, Father Simpson, was called to find a home for his flock. The pioneer spirit was not lacking. Given the challenges of humble beginnings, land was purchased on Market Street between 34th and 35th Streets by the Diocese of Harrisburg, and the growing parish worked vigorously to raise funds to build a church and school at the site. In July 1952, a groundbreaking ceremony was held at 34th and Market for the Good Shepherd Church and school. The attached school of four classrooms was opened September 1, 1953, with 121 students. The first Mass was celebrated by Bishop George Leech on the day of the Church's dedication, September 13, 1953. As the Catholic community expanded through the 1950s and 1960s, additions and modifications to the school part of the Market Street campus were made to accommodate. Sunday Masses were held in the standing room only, even with an overflow to the school hall and additional Masses at Trinity High School auditorium. The need for a larger church was evident, and a 7.6-acre site was purchased 25 years after Good Shepherd's doors first opened. On September 11, 1977, a groundbreaking ceremony was held on Trindle Road for the construction of the new church--with a seating capacity of 1,100, an all-purpose room to function as a gathering and meeting space, an administrative wing, and a new rectory. Construction was completed in the summer of 1978, and the church was dedicated by Bishop Joseph Daley on November 5, 1978. Beyond physical changes over time, the strength of the faith, determination, and dedication to the one Good Shepherd remains steadfast as the House of God, built with care and love. It continues its legacy with grace and gratitude for what was accomplished, and what yet remains to be done. The legacy of the Good Shepherd Parish, 75 years later, provides its faith family deep, strong roots that continue to flourish--with a membership of more than 1750 families who serve God and our community with charity and fidelity. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the 10th Congressional District of Pennsylvania, I am humbled and honored to congratulate the Good Shepherd Parish on this auspicious and blessed occasion of its 75th Anniversary. The church family's contributions to our communities-- spiritual, charitable, educational, and social--are immeasurable, and I pray for God's continued blessings on their continued call to serve and honor Him.

Mr. PERRY

Mr. PERRY. Well, it is interesting. Every single Republican Member here already voted in favor of limiting the government's ability to install a central bank digital currency. We have had assurances from leadership, from the top to the bottom. We are told that people in the other Chamber are all for it, as well. It is fascinating and interesting to me that, as much as that may be true, and it is proclaimed, we simply can't seem to get an up-or-down vote on it, which leads me to believe they have every intention of instituting it. The fact that they put a go-live date in the last bill that we passed should sound the alarm bell to every single American who doesn't want their bank accounts to be monitored and controlled by the Federal Government. Do not allow this to happen.

Mr. PERRY. It has already happened. It is happening. It has already happened. We already talked about the millions of Americans who were spied on under the guise of foreign intelligence surveillance. We have already talked about that. We have already talked about the government lying to us about the effects of the pandemic and forcing us to inject things into our bodies that were experimental. These things aren't theory. These things aren't something that might happen in the future. These are things that did happen, are happening, and are happening at a more and more alarming rate, and are ubiquitous and becoming more ubiquitous in our society.

Mr. PERRY. Will the gentleman yield?

Mr. PERRY. Unfortunately, there is darkness within the hearts of men and women. On occasion, we all fall short, and this Constitution exists so that we have a remedy for the times when somebody misuses the awesome power that is provided at the government level, with the use of law enforcement as the enforcer. I think back to a time not so long ago. There was a pandemic in this country. I was in some state of shock and disbelief that our government told people that they could not work, and that they could not earn a living. They were told that they had to inject an experimental substance into their body or lose their employment. People will say that it can't happen or it can't happen again, but it did happen. It happened just a little while ago. I am talking to people who say--I see things with my own eyes right now, and I say: ``How did they do that?'' And they said: ``It is AI.'' Mr. Speaker, 6 months ago, we didn't have the capability. We have that capability now. FISA still exists. Facial recognition software is available. The kill switch is still being mandated for your car. Automatic license plate readers are being installed by the thousands and tens of thousands. We are on the edge--as a matter of fact, we just passed a bill about 1\1/ 2\ weeks ago with a go-live date for a central bank digital currency. The datacenters that are going to collate all of this information are being put in every single town, in every single State and county, it seems like, across the country, and people don't even know what the datacenter is for. I think people would support them if it was to fight China, but if it is just to collect all this data about all of us, I don't think people are going to go for that. Yet, I think that is what Mr. Self is getting at this evening. Somebody has to be the stewards of this constitutional right that we have to our own effects, our own privacy, unless there is probable cause that we did something wrong. Not we are going to sweep it all up just in case you did something wrong or just in case we don't like you, and we don't agree with what you are doing, and then we are going to declare it wrong and make it wrong and punish you for it.

Mr. PERRY. Would the gentleman from Texas agree that all of us men and women fall short of the grace of God?

Mr. PERRY. No one of note. We spy on millions of Americans and violate their constitutional rights. That seems like a civil rights violation to me, and no one is held accountable. You couple FISA with facial recognition software, think about the limits of power there. It is ubiquitous now. You can buy this stuff on the open market for yourself, let alone government doing it. It is one thing if a store wants to do it. Maybe you want to do it personally. Maybe your neighbor gives you trouble, and you want to make sure that you see him or her coming before they get there. God bless you. That is your business to protect your property. But when law enforcement, when the awesome, irresistible power of the government has these things, what are you going to do about it? Well, I tell you what you are going to do about it--not much, not much. You are going to be bankrupted. Your reputation is going to be destroyed. Maybe you will be falsely accused. When it is all over, when the whole thing is done, you haven't done anything and the government finds nothing, well, they just quietly slink off into the darkness. And you will be left with your shattered reputation, your bankrupt, empty bank account, your destroyed marriage, your destroyed family, your destroyed reputation. That is what you will be left with. Now, recently, under the guise of safety, this government mandated that every new car in 2027 and beyond will have a kill switch put in it, not because you ordered it, not because you have a family member that you worry is going to drive impaired and you want to make sure you protect them and your fellow citizens. So you say to the dealership: I want to have a switch in this car that I can shut it off in case I feel my loved one is driving impaired. No. If you are going to buy a car, the government is going to mandate that that be in the car. You're going to get the kill switch whether you want it or not. The car is going to decide, the vehicle--judge, jury, and, as they say, executioner--whether you are going to keep driving or not. It doesn't matter if it is 2:30 in the morning and Mr. Self--Mr. Self's family member, because Mr. Self is a little bit older than this now--but Mr. Self's family, his beloved family member is taking his wife to the hospital to deliver Mr. Self's grandbaby. Maybe he is driving a little erratically or a little differently than he normally does because the pressure is on. His wife doesn't want to have the baby in the car. She would prefer to have it at the hospital. Well, the car says: Hey, look. Something is off here. I don't like the way you are driving, so I think I will just shut it off and keep everybody safe. How about this: What about some young lady who is leaving an establishment. She notices somebody watching her, stalking her, following her. She thinks, boy, I either better get home to my father or my husband, or maybe I want to get to the police station. I am a little nervous. I don't know what this person behind me is going to do. Maybe I run the stop sign or whatever. The car is going to keep you safe. It is going to shut off for you. That is exactly what you need at that moment. Again, hook this up with facial recognition software before an intelligence surveillance act, and you can see the whole world caving in on you and your privacy. That is the kill switch. Now ubiquitous, automatic--and it is important that you include automatic in this-- automatic license plate reading cameras installed ubiquitously now. Two years ago, there were probably 500 of them installed. Now, there is 100,000. Businesses are talking about installing them on their location, and businesses are allowed to do that. Maybe they want to determine what time you show up, what you are wearing, what you are buying. It is one thing for a business to do it, but now law enforcement is also accessing it. Again, when you have to fight the power of the State, it is very, very difficult. And we found out that automatic license plate readers are being installed near gun stores, being installed near gun shows. Why would that be? To the gentleman from Texas, what if they are installed at your next rally? The law prohibits the Federal Government from compiling a database of those who own guns. But if we have a database of their car, their license plate, model, year of car, what time they came, what time they left, what they were carrying when they came out of the rally, the gun store, the whatever, well, maybe the government didn't get a warrant; but easy enough, Mr. Self, they just buy the data. Now, I will say this: Myself; Representative Biggs, who is going to be the next Governor of Arizona; Representative Self, trying to save Texas, you won't find any Members more supportive of law enforcement than those three individuals and the people that come up and talk about these issues. We want a robust law enforcement to go after criminals, to be armed with every single tool necessary for their success and their safety, but--people say: ``Well, you can't say but''--myself, Representative Self, Representative Biggs, and all of those law enforcement officers raised our hands to take an oath to defend this piece of paper that says you will not have your rights violated for expedience because it is easy, because it makes the job easier. We want their job to be easy, but we have got to set rules here, and we have to follow those rules. Finally, the Central Bank Digital Currency, I hear people in my office say to me: Nobody knows what you are talking about. CBDC, Central Bank Digital Currency, no one knows what you are talking about, so quit ranting about it. Well, they will know when it is too late, when they no longer have their dollar bills, when they pay with their phone or with their card, and we don't exchange--we are already not exchanging pennies. Oh, it would never happen. We are already not exchanging pennies. The Central Bank Digital Currency means you will no longer be exchanging dollars, 20s, 50s, 100s. You will no longer exchange them. That will be done with a card. That will be done with a phone, and it will be monitored by the Federal Government at a central bank, digital, card, phone, currency, how you pay for things. Now, maybe people say to me: Well, why should I care about the cameras? Why should I care about the kill switch? Why should I care about Central Bank Digital Currency? I am not doing anything wrong. Apparently, they haven't read Solzhenitsyn, right, because people didn't do anything wrong in the Soviet Union either. But as often has been said--and I don't know who the quote really goes to because that is in dispute too, but governments have been known to say things like: ``Show me the man, and I'll show you the crime.'' With all of these things, that is what we are going to have in America. It is slow. It is creeping. It is insidious. It is like boiling the frog. Representative Self from Texas and me are here to turn down the temperature. We don't want to boil the frog. We are trying to wake the frog up. Don't let this happen in the United States of America. Let's not be like the Communist Party of China with a system of social credits, because after all of this is in place, that will be next. We say: Well, I am not doing anything wrong. I don't even go to gun shows. Well, I don't know, there are a lot of people in this country that subscribe and ascribe to climate change theory and theology. It is almost like a religion. Well, Mr. Self, I don't know, maybe you want to drive a 1978 F-250 with lots of carbon emissions. Mr. Self, I have got facial recognition software. I can see you in that old truck, and now I have got a license plate reader. It doesn't have a kill switch in it, but I think you are exceeding your carbon credits for the day, Representative Self. And maybe I can't shut it off, but now I will send the police out to pull you over. But, Heaven forbid, if I can shut it off--maybe it is a newer one, and you are just driving too much. Maybe Mr. Self doesn't like flying to Washington, D.C., from Texas, so he says: Well, I will drive. Well, my goodness, you are exceeding your carbon credits for the day, Representative Self. We have to shut that thing off. It is not because your daughter is pregnant. It is just because we disagree with you. These are the powers that the government should not have. If this is a power that is available, it should be your choice whether you have it in your vehicle, whether you are surveilled on a camera, and whether you let the Federal Government determine whether you can buy something, how much of it you can buy, when you can buy it, how often you can buy it. Then, finally, I want to talk to you about something that we see happening all across the country now: Data centers. Now, we understand we are in an existential race against China, who calls us the enemy. They call us the enemy, by the way. China considers the United States of America an enemy, and they would like to defeat us. It is really important that we win this race on artificial intelligence, which requires the use of data centers. But the question is: Where all of these data centers are popping up, is this about the race against China for these data centers, or are we putting a data center up so that we can conglomerate data from automatic license plate reading cameras that are at this store or at that store so that that data can be bought so the other store can say: Well, how can I get this customer from going to that store to this store? Hold on a second. I am all about commerce and competition, but my license plate and where it is and what it is doing there on what car is my business, not somebody else's business to just use. If they are going to use it, then they ought to pay me for it and ask permission or get a warrant--or get a warrant. So I applaud my friend from the great State of Texas. I am happy to stick around and have a discussion with him, but we are trying to raise the alarm because the violations have happened. We are pretty sure the violations continue to happen if whistleblowers aren't lying to us. We also know that some of the intelligence agencies aren't forthcoming with the information, right? So we have questions. We are here because we took an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States and all of the amendments--not just some of them, not just when it is convenient, and not just to make things easy for some. We want to protect America. We want to protect our liberties. We can do both. We have to do both. Just because we have these new capabilities doesn't mean that, suddenly, we walk away from what has made this country great. With that, I will stay.

Mr. PERRY. Right? No one of note, for sure.

Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Texas for bringing this to light, and I am happy to engage in a colloquy with the gentleman. I am going to talk about a few things. I am going to talk about the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. We use a lot of acronyms around here, so I am going to try to stick to these words so people understand: Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. We will talk about facial recognition software, the kill switch in your car, automatic license plate reader cameras, central bank digital currency, and data centers. All are part of what we are here to discuss tonight, which is your privacy enshrined, guaranteed, in this document that everybody here swears an oath to uphold and defend. I am sure that my friend from Texas, Mr. Self, can see that this thing is made of paper. Try as it may, it can't defend itself. It depends on men and women of good character and integrity to do that job for it. That is how this system was designed. That is how our Founders saw it. It can't defend itself. It depends on us. In this document, the Fourth Amendment says: You will not be spied on; you will not be searched; your property will not be seized; and your privacy will not be violated without probable cause and due process. Yet, we know it has been violated, Mr. Speaker, Representative Self. We all took this oath, and the people who violated it took an oath. The people who violated it, whether they were on the court, whether they were in law enforcement, somehow, someway, the piece of paper couldn't stop the violations to the American people and their personal effect. The Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act--let me be clear, Mr. Speaker. What Americans do, what American law enforcement does, what the American intelligence services do to keep us safe regarding foreigners, God bless them, go do it. Do whatever is necessary within the bounds of legality and morality to keep us safe. It is called the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act for a reason, because we are supposed to be surveilling foreigners, foreign countries, foreign entities, foreign individuals, not millions of Americans who were spied on without their knowledge and then found out after the fact. Of course, as the gentleman from Texas knows--well, maybe he doesn't know; I think he does. Well, let me ask you in this colloquy: Who has been held accountable?