Tim Ryan

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, we have been hearing a lot in the last few days and weeks about what is happening in Indiana with the Carrier plant. Last night, the President-elect of the United States took a swipe at the local union official of United Steelworkers in Indiana, a man who in the last several months has probably had the worst months of his life to where he has to tell members of his union that they are going to lose their job right before the holidays--families. Many of us in this body have known union leaders who have had to deal with this exact situation. For the President-elect to take his position--the bully pulpit that the people of our country have given him--to try to smack down a steelworker in Indiana who is dealing with such a tough situation is shameful. And on the heels of that, appoint someone to the Secretary of Labor's position who is antilabor and wants to get rid of food workers, when he makes millions of dollars a year and the food worker makes $18,000 in a good year. This is not what my people signed up for, the people who may have even voted for Donald Trump.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor one of the great jurists of the United States, Nathaniel R. Jones. Judge Jones was born and raised in Youngstown, Ohio, just blocks from the federal courthouse that now bears his name. He served his country valiantly in World War II, and later attended Youngstown College. Judge Jones was the first African American to serve as Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio. In 1969, he became General Counsel of the NAACP, where he directed national legal efforts to end school segregation. In 1979, President Jimmy Carter nominated Judge Jones to the U.S. Court of Appeals, where he served until he retired from the bench in 2002. Judge Jones has dedicated his life and career to protecting the rights of all: as a professor at Harvard Law School, an observer in South Africa's first democratic elections, a defender of affirmative action, and an advocate for black servicemen facing discrimination in our newly-integrated military. At age 90, Judge Jones still serves as Senior Counsel at Blank Rome, LLP in Cincinnati. In October, he will receive the Simeon Booker Award for Courage of which he is so deserving. Thank you, Judge Jones, for your tireless service to our community, our nation, and our world.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Sarah E. D'Errico, 42, who passed away on July 6, 2016. Sarah was born on February 25, 1974 in Columbus, Ohio, the daughter of Walter and Karen Lee Kingry Matheny. Sarah graduated from Westland High School in 1992 and went on to attend The Ohio State University, then eventually graduate Summa Cum Laude from Youngstown State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Education. She went on to work for Delphi Packard Electric, and then for the Trumbull County Educational Service Center, where she taught for their Trumbull Virtual Learning Academy. Sarah enjoyed being involved with the community and contributed her time in many ways. She belonged to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Niles, and was a parish school instructor and festival volunteer, and a Girl Scout Troop Leader. She also loved to fish, scuba dive, kayak, go on family vacations, entertain, and craft. Above all else, she loved spending time with her husband and children. Sarah will be deeply missed by her family. She leaves behind her parents, her husband James D'Errico, whom she married June 25, 2004, her daughter Alysse Marie D'Errico, her son Gavin Joseph D'Errico, her two brothers Andrew Matheny and Adam Matheny, her maternal grandmother Evelyn Kingry and her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Sam and Joyce D'Errico.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Sterling McPherson who passed away on Sunday, September 4, 2016 at the age of 82. Sterling was born on January 24, 1934 in Cairo, Illinois, the son of John and Rose Courtney McPherson. While living in Cairo, Sterling played baseball in the Negro leagues. After moving to Warren, Ohio Sterling managed Danny's Bar, Delmar Lounge, and Mac's A.C. Club baseball teams, as well as the Escapades baseball team. He worked as a foreman for Albee Homes for 20 years and the City of Niles Water Department for 20 years. I was lucky to have Sterling as a member of my Congressional staff for 10 years where he proved to be a dedicated public servant. Sterling will be deeply missed by his family. He leaves behind his loving wife of nearly 59 years, Reaby Bowling. They raised several children together including their daughters Roslyn (William) Williams of Warren, Darlene McPherson of Warren, Charlene (Eddie) Roberson of Warren; his sons, Sterling (Tracy) McPherson of Las Vegas, Londell McPherson of Las Vegas, Robert McPherson of Warren; and his stepson, Fred (Michelle) Bowling of Harrisburg, Pa.; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. Sterling was preceded in death by his parents, his son Richard, his stepson James, his brothers Robert and John and his sister, Ella. Losses like these are never easy, but we can all take solace in the fact that Sterling touched the hearts of many whether it was through baseball or public service. I miss him and I know that his memory will live on through all of us that knew him.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Summit County Executive Russell ``Russ'' M. Pry, who passed away on July 31, 2016 following a courageous battle with cancer. Russ was born on May 30, 1958 to Helen Lucille (Morris) and Donald Pry and grew up in Mogadore, Ohio. His maternal grandmother, Elsie Morris, played a major role in his upbringing and her strong union and Democratic influence molded his values and lifelong desire to help people. Russ was a successful attorney, two-time Mogadore Village Councilmember, Chair of the Summit County Democratic Party, member of the Summit County Board of Elections and for the last nine years of his life, the Summit County Executive. More importantly, Russ was a leader, an advocate, a conciliator, and a friend. Russ gave willingly to many people throughout his life and worked in each position during his career to make people's lives richer and our community a better place. He was loyal, faithful and devoted to his friends and always was available with solid advice, a gentle word and a sympathetic ear. As the Summit County Executive, Russ will be remembered by his many achievements, which include assisting and honoring the men and women of the military, creating and keeping jobs in Summit County, successfully guiding the County through difficult economic times, making Summit County government more efficient and effective and for beginning new programs aimed to help those in the community of greatest need. Russ was a history buff, an avid reader, crossword puzzle ace and a Jeopardy whiz. He knew everything about our U.S. presidents and often grilled his friends and staff on American History trivia. Russ also enjoyed winding down his day with a cocktail at Rockne's, which he affectionately called his ``West Office.'' We have lost a brother, a great friend, a loyal Democrat, an incredibly smart man and genuine good guy who worked hard to make his community a better place. Rest in peace, Russ.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of William ``Bill'' John Lyden, 86, who passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2016, at the Salem Regional Medical Center. Bill was born on Oct. 16, 1929, in Youngstown, Ohio. The son of the late William E. and Margaret Kane Lyden, Bill was a member of St. Jude Catholic Church in Columbiana and was a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served during the Korean War. He was a member of the Benjamin Firestone Post No. 290, American Legion and the Salem Elks No. 305. He began his career as a journeyman electrician LU 64 IBEW in 1954, and worked his way up to business manager by 1967. During this time, Bill also served as president of the Western Reserve Building Council from 1972 until his retirement in 1992. While working, he served his community by holding a position as trustee from 1975 to 1989 with Youngstown State University. He was an avid YSU fan and was proud to have served as chairman of the board from 1977 to 1978. Bill enjoyed golfing and wintering in Florida. Mostly, he just enjoyed life. He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Howells Lyden, whom he married on April 5, 1986; two daughters, Deborah Caracozza of Struthers and Kathleen Lyden of Sarasota, Fla.; a son, Terrence (Tina) Lyden of Dublin, Ohio; a stepdaughter, Jennifer (Robert) Turner of Milford; a stepson, Robert (Patience) Gow of Frisco, Texas; and three brothers, John (Margaret) Lyden of Poland, Dennis (Norma) Lyden of Boardman, and Edward (Joyce Ramsey) Lyden of Boardman. Also surviving is Bill's former wife, Virginia Milisky Lyden of Poland; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and six stepgrandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother, Timothy Lyden in 1990. Losses like these are never easy, but we can all take solace in the fact that Pat led a long and fulfilling life. He will live on in the memory of his beautiful family.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Eddie DeBartolo Jr., who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on September 6, 2016. DeBartolo was known for building a winning organization with the 49ers and was credited by Hall of Fame quarterback Steve Young for working to create the strongest relationships between players and owners throughout the NFL. In addition to his teams averaging 13 wins from 1981 through 98 his teams would win 13 division championships, five Lombardi Trophies, and win league championships in the 1981, '84, '88, '89, and '94 seasons. Eddie is not only known for building great football programs, but he is also known for his love and compassion for players, family, and his community. When his moment came to speak during his induction ceromony DeBartolo had no intentions to bask in the accomplishments that granted him access into the hall of fame, but instead he spent 27 minutes focusing on the players, staff, family, friends, and others who gave him the strength and courage to reach the pinnacle of the pro football world. He understood that success was not only just on the owners and players, but everyone on the staff from the equipment managers and groundskeepers who worked hard every day all the way to the owner's box. Eddie is a man who sees deeper than the game of football itself, saying ``We weren't just a family on Sundays, we were a family every single day.'' So again, I would like to congratulate Eddie on this well-deserved recognition. He makes Ohio proud.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary woman. Josephine Covelli will celebrate a 90th birthday on September 30th, 2016. Josephine, or ``Jo'' as she is known to her family and friends, has been a fixture in her community for many years. Her passionate service has extended to the Trumbull Mobile Meals program, children's rehabilitation in Warren, Ohio as well as the Hibiscus House in Stuart. Beyond that Josephine has been heavily involved with her time, as well as through generous financial contributions in all children's services at Blessed Sacrament and JFK. Along with service to her community, Jo knows how to relax. She has won more awards than anyone else in the history of the Trumbull County Country Club and has been highlighted in the papers for winning more tournaments than anyone else in the Valley--including two wins in the Amateur Ladies Professional Golf Association (LGPA). Josephine is loved by her family and all those who are lucky enough to know her. In addition to thanking her for her service to our community, I would like to wish her the most wonderful 90th birthday surrounded by family and friends. We are a better community because of the great work of Josephine Covelli.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of John R. Fritz, 48, who passed away on June 27, 2016. John was born on March 20, 1968 in Youngstown, Ohio, the son of Richard and Diane (Griffith) Fritz. John graduated from the Austintown Fitch School, where he was consistently involved in the school's instrumental music program, in 1986. He went on to join the Austintown Fire Department for 26 years. He worked as a MCCTC fire instructor for many years and helped found the Austintown Honor Guard. John was also employed by the Western Reserve Mechanical in Niles for almost 20 years. Throughout his life, John prioritized spending time with his family and serving others. He enjoyed archery, shooting, and scuba diving. He held a black belt in karate, collected unusual knives, enjoyed line dancing, appreciated motorcycles, and was a talented tinkerer. Passionate about raising money to fight Spina Bifida, John twice walked 60 miles from Austintown Fire Station No. 1 to Cleveland Clinic to help raise $5,700 in donations. He was a founding member of the Mahoning Valley Fools (Fraternal Order of Leatherhead). John will be deeply missed by his family. He leaves behind his wife, Karen (Bickle) Fritz, whom he married on September 11, 1999, and his children, Ryley, Bailey, Halley, Kassidey and Owen. He leaves also his parents, Richard and Diane; his sister, Jill (Kenneth) Ferrone; father-in-law, Gordon Bickle; brothers-in-law, Greg and Kevin Bickle; niece, Madison; nephew, Miles Ferrone; and his family of firefighters. He also leaves his dogs, Toby, LuLu, Sophie Mae, and Kooper. Charitable even through his death, John was a Lifebanc donor. He will be sadly missed by the community to which he gave so much.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to rise today to recognize the extraordinary service of Mr. James Keating. Jim, a lifelong resident of Warren, Ohio, recently announced his retirement from a remarkable career spanning 23 years as the Human Resources Director for Trumbull County. Jim had previously been the Human Resources Director for Heltzel Steel and served 12 years as an elected councilman in Warren. During his tenure at Trumbull County, Jim managed labor relations with five bargaining units within the Sheriff's Office and four with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees units, including contract negotiations and resolving grievances. In 2006, Jim established a county-wide committee to develop a personnel policy manual that could be adopted by all Trumbull County elected officials. In leading this committee, Jim exhibited not only his extensive knowledge of human resources policy, but also his ability to lead and establish consensus among county officials. The result was a personnel policy manual that was adopted and is now followed by all elected officials and departments in Trumbull County government. This brings the entire county into legal compliance, fostering fairness and uniformity in human resources practices, and significantly reduces the county's liability exposure. As a result of his success with the county-wide policy manual in Trumbull County, Jim was tapped by the County Commissioners Association of Ohio's County Risk Sharing Authority (CORSA) in 2012 to be a member of the CORSA Personnel Policy Best Practices Panel. As a member of this Panel, which received the Ohio Public Employer Labor Relations Association and National Public Employer Labor Relations Association 2013 Pacesetter Awards, Jim helped take his success with a county-wide manual in Trumbull County to counties throughout the State. Ultimately, Jim's leaves a professional and productive labor-management environment he has successfully fostered at Trumbull County. In addition to his knowledge of labor law, Jim is known for his common-sense, respectful approach to labor negotiations. His professional and logical demeanor brings out the best in both sides, and reduces the tendency for proceedings to become adversarial-- rightfully earning Jim a reputation for fairness in negotiations. For his leadership in Trumbull County and for the example he has set for government hiring practices across State of Ohio, Jim was awarded the 2014 Ohio Public Employer Labor Relations Association's ``Award of Excellence''. Jim has served his city and his county, and he has earned the respect of his peers. We have been lucky to have him in our community, and Jim will now have an opportunity to spend more time with his wonderful wife, Bernadette, his three children, Brendan, Ryan and Mary Kathryn, and three grandchildren, Justin, Alexis, and Donovan. Mr. Speaker, I wish Jim a great retirement.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, back in 2005, '06, '07, '08, '09, and '10, in Ohio, we saw a housing crisis unlike anything we had ever seen before. We saw almost 400,000 people in Ohio, families, lose their home. We saw over 400,000 job losses. We saw a 16 percent decrease in housing values in Ohio. All the while, hundreds of miles away, perched in the gold-plated towers of the Trump building in New York City, there was a billionaire saying: I hope this happens. I hope the housing market collapses. I hope people get thrown from their homes. I hope they file bankruptcy because that will be good for me. Shame. Shame that we have a major leader of a major party rooting against families in Ohio, in Pennsylvania, in Florida, in Colorado. Shame on you, Mr. Trump. You are supposed to be rooting for the American people, not rooting against them.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of John D. Wagner, an outstanding member of the Northeast Ohio community who passed away on April 28th at the age of 69. A lifelong resident of Barberton, Ohio, Mr. Wagner spent his life dedicated to service. One who not only provided for his family as a business manager of the local Number 219 Plumbers and Pipefitters Union, but also as one who provided for the members of his community. He served on multiple boards and councils, such as the Barberton City Council and the executive board of the Ohio AFL-CIO, just to name a few. John was also known for coaching the Barberton American Little League for many years. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and the hard- working folks he helped to represent. Mr. Wagner's passion and leadership for his community serves as a hallmark not only for the city of Barberton, but for all of us who are making differences for the people we represent.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Chairman, I want to thank the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Goodlatte) and Mr. Sensenbrenner for all their good work on this. This is really one of the great days, great weeks, I think, on this House floor because of what we are doing here to address the heroin and opioid crisis in America. It is sad to watch someone from Virginia and someone from Wisconsin and someone from Michigan and someone from Ohio and someone from Texas all get up and really kind of embody and express how deep this problem is in our country today. I know we have all been to calling hours and we have all been to funerals and seen up close and personal how devastating this epidemic is here in the United States. Like many of my colleagues, unfortunately, Ohio has now seen accidental deaths by overdose surpass even car accidents. So we all need to come together, Democrats and Republicans, to try to solve this problem. I think this week is a major step in that direction. I am supporting the Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Reduction Act and many other bills that are coming to this floor this week. In Trumbull County alone, one of my biggest counties, a few months back we had 22 overdoses and, of that, 7 deaths in that one county. This is pervasive in Cuyahoga County, which is Cleveland. We have almost one death a day that we are dealing with in Ohio. So the Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Reduction Act program creates at the Department of Justice a real opportunity for us to fix this program. It focuses on how we can tackle substance abuse through preventative programs, expansion of the prescription drug programs, and resources for veteran treatment court programs. That is one of the key elements of this: how we are going to make sure our veterans can get diverted through veterans courts.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. In Ohio alone, we have seen first responders use naloxone. In 2013, over 12,000 doses were administered. This is a huge problem. We have seen the men and women and we have seen the families that have been destroyed because of this. I hope that, as we get the Senate bill out of conference, we make sure that it is comprehensive, that it is addiction, treatment, and recovery, and, as we move through the budget process, through the appropriations process, we make sure that there is the appropriate revenue, the appropriate amount of money, going to these programs that will ultimately hit the ground and help us get our arms around this program.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding collection of talented young women and men that make up the University of Mount Union Concert Choir. Hailing from Alliance, Ohio the University of Mount Union Concert Choir is one of the oldest collegiate choirs in the United States. It is world renowned, touring the U.S. and abroad. Last year, they traveled to Austria and had an opportunity to perform inside many historically significant churches, cathedrals, and abbeys. These remarkable young musicians are from a variety of academic disciplines such as biology, criminal justice, neuroscience, mathematics, political science, and more. The Choir is led by Dr. Grant William Cook, III, who is a Kent State University alumni and accomplished musicologist. The Concert Choir recently visited Washington D.C. and performed at the National Cathedral on May 8th--Mother's Day. I am proud to recognize such gifted young Ohioans and welcome you to join me in celebrating their achievements.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, this week, we are going to take up a package of bills that I support dealing with the massive heroin epidemic plaguing places like Ohio, but all over the country. In my congressional district, we saw, a few months back, over 22 overdoses. In Trumbull County alone, 7 deaths; in Summit County, city of Akron, 56 people died of a heroin overdose, compared to just 40 in 2013. Now, in Ohio, these drug overdoses have been the leading cause of accidental deaths in our State, bypassing car accidents. This House this week is going to do the responsible thing and pass key legislation and hopefully combine with the Senate legislation. But there is a missing piece on the recovery side. We need to make sure that, as we address this issue, it is comprehensive: it is about addiction and it is about treatment, but it also must be about recovery. So I commend my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for these important pieces of legislation that are coming forth. I will support them, but knowing that we have got a lot more work to do and that the bottom line is we need money behind these programs. The President put in his budget over $1 billion. We need to make sure that the resources get down to the local community so that we can help stem the tide of this epidemic in our country.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman, and I also thank my colleagues from Ohio. This has been one of the true bipartisan issues that we have dealt with. So I would like to thank Mr. Gibbs, Mr. Joyce, Ms. Kaptur, Marcia Fudge, Jim Renacci, also, Pete Visclosky, and Chris Collins. As you just heard from Mr. Joyce, the Great Lakes are a huge issue. But, also, for us, Lake Erie is a huge issue. My legislation was put into this bill to require the EPA to appoint a coordinator to address the issue of harmful algal blooms in the Great Lakes. We have so many groups that are interested, but we need the EPA to help coordinate. Our friends helped get this language into this bill, and I am deeply grateful for that. These harmful algal blooms affect over half a million Ohioans. It did in 2014. Lake Erie provides clean drinking water for approximately 3 million Ohioans, many of them up and around the Cleveland and Toledo areas. In August 2014, we had an environmental disaster caused by a harmful algal bloom that left nearly 500,000 residents of Toledo and the western basin without safe drinking water for 3 days. Lake Erie's tourist industry generates $12.9 billion in visitor spending, including 119,000 jobs, and contributes $1.7 billion in Federal, State, and local taxes. This crisis just continues to build, and it is critical that we start working together to come up with a plan to stem the growing tide. The Great Lakes' abundance of fresh water is a vital resource and a strategic advantage, and it is critical that we do everything in our power to combat the threats to the Great Lakes that threaten the health and well-being of Ohio and other States surrounding the Great Lakes. So we must do everything we can. This language helps to make that happen. This language will ensure that there is a coordinator at the EPA to work with the appropriate Federal, State, local, tribal, and foreign governments to address this critical issue affecting the State of Ohio. As we see the changes in our economy and as we see what is happening out west, we are reminded every single day how critical and how lucky we are, those of us who live in the Great Lakes region, to be able to access this fresh water. So, again, I thank my friends from Ohio. I thank Mr. Shuster from this committee, Mr. DeFazio, and others who helped make this happen and for including this language in the bill. Hon. Tim Ryan, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Congressman Ryan: We write in support of H.R. 1923, your bill requiring the administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to appoint a Great Lakes Harmful Algal Bloom Coordinator, which is now part of H.R. 223, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Act of 2015. Thank you for your leadership and for being a champion for our Great Lakes, particularly Lake Erie. Currently there are many efforts underway to reduce the number of harmful algal blooms throughout the Great Lakes, such as in Lake Erie, Saginaw and Green Bays, and Fox River. These efforts, however, are not always coordinated to leverage resources and share vital information. Appointing a coordinator ensures resources are used effectively and efficiently and that federal, state, and local agencies, tribal governments, universities and non-governmental organizations are working collaboratively to reduce phosphorus flowing into the Great Lakes. The first step is a coordinator to ensure everyone is working together to address these complex issues. A coordinator could not come quickly enough. Lake Erie is the canary in the coal mine of what is to come for freshwater bodies if the nation does not solve this problem. In 2015, Lake Erie experienced a HAB that stretched from Michigan to well past Cleveland and was the biggest bloom on record. In 2014 and 2013, residents in the Toledo area and Carroll Township, respectively, went without tap water because of the toxins produced by these blooms. As you know, over 30 million people rely on the Great Lakes for their drinking water. We must take action now because the longer we wait, the more serious and expensive this problem becomes. Please let Kristy Meyer with the Ohio Environmental Council know how we can be helpful in seeing this vital piece of legislation become law. Sincerely, Heather Taylor-Miesle, Executive Director, Ohio Environmental Council; Jill Ryan, Executive Director, Freshwater Future; Molly Flanagan, Vice President, Policy, Alliance for the Great Lakes; Cheryl Nenn, Riverkeeper, Milwaukee Riverkeeper; Carol A. Stepien, Professor of Ecology, Director, Lake Erie Science Center, University of Toledo; Howard A. Lerner, Executive Director, Environmental Law & Policy Center; Deanna White, State Director, Clean Water Action Minnesota; Jennifer McKay, Policy Specialist, Tipp of the Mitt Watershed; Melinda Hughes, President, Nature Abounds; Michael Griffin, Executive Director, County Executives of America; George Meyer, Executive Director, Wisconsin Wildlife Federation. Sandy Bihn, Executive Director, Lake Erie Waterkeeper, Inc; Jim Stouffer, President, Lake Erie Improvement Association; Lynn McClure, Midwest Regional Director, National Parks Conservation Association; Mike Shriberg, Regional Executive Director, Great Lakes, National Wildlife Federation; Matt Misicka, President, Ohio Conservation Federation; Paul Pacholski, President, Lake Erie Charter Boat Association; Ray Stewart, President, Ohio Wetland Association; Nicole Barker, Executive Director, Save the Dunes; Joy Mulinex, Director of Government Relations, Western Reserve Land Conservancy; Indra Frank, MD, MPH, Environmental Health & Water Policy Director, Hoosier Environmental Council; Brian Smith, Associate Executive Director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment. Rick Novickis, MPH, RS, Director of Environmental Public Health Services, Cuyahoga County Board of Health; J. Meiring Borcherds, Watershed Coordinator, Mill Creek Watershed Partnership; Ivan J. Hack, Jr., President, Headwaters Chapter, Izaak Walton League of America; Sr. Rose Therese Nolta, SSpS, Justice and Peace Coordinator, Holy Spirit Missionary Sisters; Irene Senn, Coordinator, Religious Coalition for the Great Lakes; Robert Stegmier, National Director, Izaak Walton League of America; Josh Knights, Executive Director, The Nature Conservancy, Ohio Chapter; Christi Carlson, President, Friends of Euclid Creek; Charlotte Jameson, Government Affairs Director, Michigan League of Conservation Voters; Katie Rousseau, Director, Clean Water Supply, Great Lakes, American Rivers; Denny Caneff, Executive Director, River Alliance of Wisconsin; Todd Ambs, Campaign Director, Healing Our Waters--Great Lakes Coalition.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, two days prior to Earth Day, in my capacity as a member of the bipartisan Congressional Aluminum Caucus, to note the many ways in which the aluminum industry has contributed to the environmental goals we all share. The list of contributions the aluminum industry has made to protect our nation's air and land is long, but allow me to mention just two ways in which aluminum deserves recognition on Earth Day. Let's start with recycling. The aluminum industry's record as a contributor to driving up the nation's recycling rate is formidable. In the United States, 70 percent of all aluminum produced is recycled. And recycling that aluminum requires only 8 percent of the energy it took to make it the first time. Because the metal is infinitely recyclable, as well as durable, a remarkable 75 percent of all aluminum ever made is still in use. Recycled aluminum is so valuable that it more than pays for itself in the consumer recovery stream. We all benefit from clean air, and aluminum has a lot to be proud of here, too. As auto companies commit to increased fuel economy, many are realizing that using aluminum in the bodies of cars and trucks significantly increases performance because it's strong and light weight. This, in turn, means that drivers go further on a tank of gas, saving vast amounts of money over the life of a vehicle. It means that a lighter weight vehicle will be responsible for reduced greenhouse gases and increased fuel efficiency, which benefits everyone. And aluminum is increasingly being used in modern building construction, which in turn makes buildings more energy efficient. I am proud to have major aluminum plants in my district that generate $755.7 million in economic output. It creates great jobs, and is putting into commerce a material that is being used increasingly in all aspects of our lives from cars, planes and buildings and construction. On this day, when we take note of the great strides we have made in protecting the planet, but also realize the work ahead of us, I wanted to take special note of the contributions made by my friends in the aluminum industry. I applaud their efforts.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I want to speak for 1 minute on the Central States Pension Fund, which right now, because of its demise, is going to gut the pensions of thousands and thousands of workers in Ohio, over 4,000 in my district alone. I want to thank Marcy Kaptur of Ohio for spearheading this legislation in which we ask the wealthiest people in the country, those who are trading art, to help us raise the $29 billion we need to put back into this pension fund. We have senior citizens who have spent 30 or 40 years as Teamsters or Machinists, working their rear ends off, earning a pension, saying: We don't want the money now--as they negotiated contracts--you take this wage that we could have and you save it for later, but we want it back. This bill, these pieces of legislation, help to restore some respect and dignity for those workers in Ohio and across the country. I ask my colleagues to help us with the Keep the Pension Promises Act and the Pension Accountability Act. People need to be respected, and these pensions need to be secured.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Daniel ``Bud'' Alan Ayres, 53, of Poland, OH who passed away on Wednesday March 30, 2016. Daniel was born on March 28, 1963 in Belleville, Illinois and was a veteran of the United States Army where he served in Korea and Washington, DC as a Military Police Officer. Together with his family, and throughout his 11 year military career, Daniel was stationed in many locations throughout the U.S. and in Germany. After September 11, 2001, he joined Homeland Security as an Air Marshal. To Daniel, there was no such thing as a stranger--only a friend that he had yet to meet. His passion for family, friendships, Texas style BBQ, Alabama & Patriots football, togetherness and fun, will live on in everyone who knew and loved him. Daniel will be deeply missed by his family. He leaves behind his loving wife of 28 years, Kimberly Ann of Poland. They raised four children, Joshua Alan, Dustin Alan, Chance Alan, and Grace Ann. He leaves one brother, Steven (Linda) Ayres of Beeville, Texas; mother-in- law and father-in-law, Patsy and Ricky Smith of Austin, Texas; sister- in-law Sherri (David) Fossati of Houston, Texas; and a niece, nephew and many close friends, all of whom adored him. Daniel will be greatly missed by his family and the Poland community. He has lived a long and prosperous life and will be remembered for his service.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Terence J. O'Sullivan, 86, who passed away on Thursday March 31, 2016 after a courageous battle with cancer. Terry was born in 1930 in Colma, California to Irish immigrant parents. He enlisted in the U.S. Marines and served in the Korean War, from where he was honorably discharged in 1952. During the conflict, he participated in the Inchon Landing and the Battle of the Chosin Reservoir, one of the bloodiest engagements of the war. Terry worked in the Laborers International Union of North America (LIUNA) Local Union 261 in San Francisco in 1947, at the age of 17. He quickly rose through the ranks, taking on many leadership roles before being appointed LIUNA General Secretary-Treasurer, the second-highest elected office in the union, in 1968. For more than six decades, Terry was a major force in his union, which represents nearly half a million workers in construction, health care, the public sector, and the federal government. He dedicated his life to fighting for workers' rights, and for social and economic justice. Terry was a lifelong advocate of training, retirement security, and health benefits for the proud men and women of LIUNA. Through his entire career, he worked passionately and tirelessly on behalf of LIUNA, its members, and their families. Terry will be deeply missed by his family. He leaves behind his loving wife, Lenora, of 62 years. They raised three children, Kevin, Kathleen Finnerty (Shawn), and Terry, who is the current general president of LIUNA. He leaves one brother, Brendan (Diane); five grandchildren; and many other family members. Losses like these are never easy, but we can all take solace in the fact that Terry led a long and fulfilling life. He will live on in the memory of his beautiful family.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of James M. Coates, 86, who passed away with his family by his side on Monday, April 11, 2016. He was reunited on this day with his wife Velma on what would have been their 63rd wedding anniversary. James was born on February 5, 1930 in Niles, Ohio, a son of James and Isabella Brutz Coates. James was a 1949 graduate of Niles McKinley High School, a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish in Niles, and a United States Army Veteran of The Korean War. James was married to Velma D'Annunzio on April 11th, 1953. He enjoyed spending time with his family and attending his children's and grandchildren's sporting events. During his lifetime, James started 1-Minute Car Wash in 1959; now Coates Car Care, Inc. James excelled in customer service. James was one of the founders of The Mahoning Valley Chapter of The National Sports Hall of Fame and was named Man of The Year in 2001. He was actively involved with The Oblate Sisters of The Sacred Heart, The Ohio Car Wash Association, The Private Industry Council, The Warren General Hospital Foundation, The Elks, and The Loyal Order of Moose. He will be deeply missed by his children; his son James Coates Jr. and his wife and their five daughters, Roselyn Cera and her husband Robin, Isabelle Santisi, Angela Stabile and her husband Robert, Amy Limongi and her husband Richard, and Jamie Williams, two brothers, Michael Coates and Marty Coates, two sisters, Anna Mae Massullo and Marian Mitolo, and fifteen grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, a daughter Linda Livi, and a sister Isabelle Marcovecchio. James will be honored for his military service by The Girard Veterans Council Honor Guard. James led a fulfilling life as a soldier, a husband and father, and beyond. He will live in the memory of both his loving family but also his wonderful community.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Ralph Naples, the owner of the Golden Dawn Restaurant in Youngstown, Ohio which has served as a very special place to both locals and travelers. Mr. Naples was born on June 16th, 1919, in Youngstown, the son of Andrew and Mary Carmen Agnone Naples. He attended The Rayen School and later Youngstown College where he graduated with a degree in Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering in 1941. After university, Ralph enlisted in the U.S. Army. In World War II, he served in the U.S. Army Air Corps as a bombardier and navigator on both the B-17 and the B-29 aircraft, obtaining the rank of lieutenant. The Golden Dawn Restaurant, established in 1934, was co-owned by Ralph and his brother Carmen after the death of their parents. The ``Dawn'' became and still is a gathering place for families, fans and students of Youngstown State University and Ursuline High School, but really all are welcome. Ralph was truly a known legend in Youngstown. Ralph leaves behind his sons, Andrew, Phillip, Benedetto, Ralph, and Johnny; daughters Mary, Cathy, Christine, Casseday, and Annie; 14 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He is survived by a sister, Antoinette Hudson. The Naples family will continue to operate the Golden Dawn. Mr. Naples was loved by all those in the community. He was a great man, a gentle man and a great family man. He will be missed by our entire community.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Ruth Irene Anthony, who passed away peacefully at the age of ninety on Sunday, February 14th, 2016, at her residence surrounded by her loving family in Fort Myers, Florida. Ruth was born in Warren, Ohio on Dec. 9th, 1925, to Daniel and Olive Webb McCormick. Ruth married Lee Andrew Anthony on January 3rd, 1945. They resided most of their lives in Niles, in northeast Ohio where they raised their four children. Ruth and Lee became residents of Fort Myers in 1989. Ruth is survived by her beloved husband of 71 years; their son George and three daughters, Sandra, Kathy, and Ruth along with 15 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and 14 great-great- grandchildren. Ruth will be greatly missed by her loving family, friends, and neighbors, not only in Ohio but in her home of Florida as well.

Mr. RYAN of Ohio

Mr. RYAN of Ohio. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Russell J. Brode, 80, who passed away on February 19, 2016. He was born on April 11, 1935 in Ravenna, Ohio, a son of Ralph and Beulah Brode. Russell had a career with Ohio Bell and AT&T for forty years. He was also a member of the Ravenna Volunteer Fire Department. Russell was a great patriot and proudly served the Naval Reserve Seabee Construction Force from 1951-1959. Russell loved his family. He had a warm heart and was always willing to help others. The Reverend Deacon Russell Brode was ordained as a Permanent Deacon for the Diocese of Youngstown in 1995. From that point on, he served as a Deacon for the Immaculate Conception Parish in Ravenna, Ohio. Deacon Brode also shared his faith through his active service in the prison ministry at the Trumbull Correctional Institute. In addition to faith and family, Russ was dedicated to supporting the youth of the Ravenna area. He was a founder of the Portage, Stark and Summit County youth wrestling program, as well as an OHSAA wrestling official, and coached many different youth basketball and baseball teams over the years. Russell will be deeply missed by his family. He leaves behind his wife of sixty years, Sandra (Winkler) Brode. Together, Russell and Sandra raised seven children, Kathleen (John) McHugh, David, Dennis, Robert (Liz), Russell, Kim Paull, and Linda (Robert) Corcoran. Russell also leaves behind his sister, Dolores (David) Middleton; twenty-three grandchildren; twenty-three great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and countless friends. It can be difficult to cope with a loss of such a great person as Russell, but we can all take comfort in the fact that he led a long and fulfilling life.