Glenn Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairwoman for her leadership. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to rise today in strong support of the A Stronger Workforce for America Act, which will strengthen the Federal workforce system and increase access to high-quality and in-demand jobs nationwide. WIOA was successful in many respects, including supporting educational services to help adults develop basic skills and providing funding for vocational rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities. However, additional reforms are needed to respond to the challenges employers face in filling millions of open jobs nationwide. I am particularly pleased to see additional funding directed toward upskilling incumbent workers, including giving States new tools through the critical industry skills fund to help employers upskill, hire, and retain workers in critical industries. I am also pleased to see additional emphasis on digital literacy within this legislation, as we all know that these skills are necessary to succeed today. Together, these reforms will ensure workers remain relevant for the rapidly changing 21st century economy. As the co-chair of the bipartisan Career and Technical Education Caucus, I am grateful to see better alignment for State activities authorized through Perkins. This coordination will allow for expanded integrated education and training programs, assistance to providers in reporting participant outcomes, and additional materials to meet the needs of adult and English learners. Additionally, local workforce development agencies will now be able to relocate one-stop centers to CTE schools, creating a true hub for skills development. Finally, I am pleased to see my bipartisan legislation, the Creating Opportunities to Thrive and Advance Act, included in this legislation. This will bolster career counseling programs and allow for public outreach to educate Americans on the many opportunities the workforce system can provide them. Together, these provisions fuel innovation. Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Order of the Eastern Star State College Chapter 388. On April 5, this group will celebrate 100 years of service and renew their commitment to the principles of freemasonry. State College Chapter 388 is a Masonic appendant body, part of the Pennsylvania Order of the Eastern Star, which is part of the General Grand Chapter, the international order that stretches around the world and makes up the largest coed fraternal organization in the world. The Order of the Eastern Star has a strong bond of friendship and support for each other based on shared values and respect. Their members are service-minded individuals organizing and participating in service projects supporting our youth, veterans, and greater community. Mr. Speaker, the State College Chapter of the Order of the Eastern Star works closely with other Pennsylvania chapters that support charitable endeavors such as Shriners Hospitals for Children. They are also proud to support individuals with disabilities of all ages. I congratulate them on this magnificent milestone. May they continue to celebrate years of fellowship and community service.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight Energy Week and how House Republicans are fighting back against the antienergy policies of the Biden administration. These policies threaten to undo years of innovation making our domestic production of natural resources the cleanest in the world. It is clear the United States has an abundance of clean-burning natural gas, especially in Pennsylvania, which is the second largest producer of natural gas in the country. By utilizing the Commonwealth's resources, we can provide jobs and invest directly into our communities that have suffered at the hand of the Biden administration's antienergy policies. By revoking new oil and gas leases on Federal lands, canceling vital pipeline permits, and imposing politically motivated regulations on our energy producers, this administration is jeopardizing American jobs and risking our energy and national security. Thankfully, House Republicans have not ignored the devastating impact these policies have on hardworking Americans. Mr. Speaker, my colleagues and I know energy security is national security, and we have had enough of Biden's failed far-left anti- American energy agenda.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on National Agriculture Day to highlight bipartisan legislation I introduced with five of my colleagues to invest in our food and national security. The Growing Opportunities in Agriculture, or the GO Ag Act, will improve agriculture educational opportunities in our schools. Mr. Speaker, the most recent Census of Agriculture showed the average age of the U.S. farmer is over 58 years old, underscoring the importance of investing in programs to promote agriculture at an early age. The GO Ag Act would create a $5 million grant program to help high schools cover the startup costs associated with agriculture education programs. Schools can apply for competitive grants to cover classroom and laboratory instruction, teacher salaries, and curriculum development. I have seen firsthand the impact agricultural education has on our communities. In my district, FAA and 4-H programs provide students with the opportunity to discover different careers across the agricultural industry. I hear directly from these students and educators how valuable these programs are and the role they play in shaping our next generation of leaders. Mr. Speaker, investing in education is the most commonsense way to prepare individuals who are passionate about a career in agriculture, and I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize National Agriculture Day. Today is a day for Congress to come together to share their appreciation. This day serves to highlight the vital work our farmers, ranchers, foresters, and farmworkers do in providing the safest, highest quality supply of food, fiber, and fuel in human history. Agriculture touches our lives daily. If you have eaten today, thank a farmer. If you have clothes on your back, thank a farmer. Agriculture also provides the foundation upon which the entire American economy rests. It is more important than ever to ensure our farmers, ranchers, and foresters have their voices heard in the Halls of Congress. That is why it is my honor to represent farm families in rural America as the chairman of the Committee on Agriculture. Rural America deserves policies that help, not hinder, economic vitality and global competitiveness. Consumers deserve affordable and abundant food, fiber, and fuel. Every farmer I have met across nearly 40 States says the same thing: They want a government to work for them, not against them. Getting a farm bill across the finish line is a tall task, and each reauthorization has its own unique set of challenges. This year's farm bill can show the best of America--farmers--that we have their backs.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jaylene Everhart of Centre County, Pennsylvania. I had the privilege of meeting with Jaylene last week while she was in Washington, D.C., for the national Agriculture's Promise forum. Jaylene is a junior at State College Area High School and currently representing Pennsylvania for the National Young Farmers Education Association. Her passion for agriculture started at a young age as she grew up going to her grandparents' farm for chores before heading to school. As a member of the Little Lions FFA Chapter and 4-H, she advocates for agricultural education on a wider level, encouraging educators to include agricultural education in classrooms. In December, Jaylene was one of two high school students from Pennsylvania selected to compete at the National Young Farmers Education Association Institute and Agriculture Communications competition in College Station, Texas, at Texas A&M University. The association works with local FFA chapters and 4-H organizations to help raise the next generation of agricultural leaders and advocates. During the event, Jaylene attended educational tours to learn about the variety of agricultural opportunities and what Texas agriculture is all about and competed in a variety of agriculture advocacy and communication competitions against college- and high-school-age students from across the country. Jaylene placed first in the Agriculture Expressions contest, which consisted of a 500-word essay on a current agricultural topic, a personal biography, and a release statement for publication. She also participated in the Agriculture Communications contest, where she created social media posts, radio, TV, and newsprint submissions throughout the week to exemplify the impact and education of the institute. Madam Speaker, as chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture, I take great pride in meeting with our next generation of agricultural leaders. Jaylene has an incredibly bright future ahead of her, and she is an inspiration to other young farmers looking to get involved with the industry. Without students like Jaylene, who have such a passion for the agricultural field, we risk our future food supply. I am also looking for ways to lift the voices of her generation in Congress and encourage our next agricultural leaders. We must encourage their participation in the agriculture industry. Madam Speaker, I congratulate Jaylene on her accomplishments. They are truly outstanding. She is a talented young lady, and I look forward to seeing all that she will accomplish for the agricultural community and beyond.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Keystone Central School District students for their accomplishments earlier this year. This group of talented young students demonstrated exceptional talent during the SkillsUSA district competition, which was held at the Pennsylvania College of Technology in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, on January 26. I am proud of the 25 students who achieved first place finishes, granting them a spot in the next round in Hershey, Pennsylvania. This next round will take place in early April. The SkillsUSA program is designed to educate students ranging from middle school to college in order to prepare them for trade, technical, and skilled service jobs. Thanks to programs like these, our Nation will have a very successful future workforce. Congratulations again to all the students for their hard work and dedication to learning. Good luck in the next round.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, during President Biden's politically charged, factually inaccurate, and often confusing State of the Union speech, we heard a lot of excuses about the problems American families are facing. One line from the President's speech stood out to me: Because of my investments, family farms are better able to stay in the family. Well, this rosy picture painted by our President doesn't tell the whole story, and his own Department of Agriculture's data proves it. Under President Biden, rural America and our family farms are in crisis. We are in the middle of the largest agricultural trade deficit on record. Farm input costs from fuel to fertilizer have skyrocketed. Interest rates are sky high. Grocery prices are up 21 percent since Biden took office. The state of the Union is expensive. Rural America is struggling. Our family farms are in dire straits. As the New York Post recently said: ``Shrinkflation and many other problems are the bitter harvest of Bidenomics.'' Thankfully, we have the opportunity to course correct, to revitalize rural America, and truly get our family farms back on track. We will do this through the farm bill, one of the few remaining exercises in good governance left in Washington, D.C. Mr. Speaker, I hope my colleagues on both sides of the aisle will join me and truly uplift our family farms.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the annual DuBois Area YMCA Polar Plunge, which takes place in Clearfield County. The event, which occurred on Saturday, February 3, has taken place for the last 13 years and has raised thousands of dollars for the YMCA's Strong Kids Campaign. With their help, children are able to participate in YMCA activities at a much lower cost. Despite the cold weather, 58 brave participants dove into Treasure Lake. The ages of the participants ranged from 12 to 82 years old. The plunge initially began in 2011, when it was founded by DuBois YMCA executive director Dan Dowling. I take this time to continue to show my support for all those who participated, as well as the DuBois YMCA for their gracious efforts. Without these fundraising events, those who are less fortunate would not be able to access these very important youth programs. Keep up the great work.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Eric Clark of Howard, Pennsylvania. Eric recently accepted a fully qualified appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Eric is the son of Amy and Benjamin Clark. He is the grandson of Uleta and Eric Clark of Warriors Mark, Pennsylvania, and Ann and William Welsh of Rixford, Pennsylvania. Eric is a senior at Bald Eagle Area High School, where he has excelled in and out of the classroom. As a captain of the varsity football and wrestling teams, Eric is a strong leader. He also serves as senior class president and is a member of the National Honor Society. Eric has a clear passion for service and is a great example of what leadership looks like. Best wishes in Annapolis, Eric. I look forward to seeing all that you achieve. Congratulating Jude Sterling

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Samuel Hunsberger of Licking Township, Pennsylvania. Samuel recently accepted a fully qualified appointment to the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York. Samuel is the son of Melissa and Larry Hunsberger, and he is the grandson of Jane Hunsberger and the late Ronald Hunsberger of Licking Township, Pennsylvania, the late Audrey Woodkirk of New Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and the late Burdette Woodkirk of Hazle Township, Pennsylvania. As a student at Keystone Junior/Senior High School, Samuel is active in the classroom, on the athletic field, and on the stage. He is a member of the student government, a 3-year varsity football player, and a member of the marching band. Outside of school, Samuel is a volunteer firefighter for Knox and Callensburg-Licking Township companies. I congratulate Samuel for his commitment to service and wish him the very best of luck as he embarks on this exciting new phase of life at West Point. Congratulating Eric Clark

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Jude Sterling of Millmont, Pennsylvania. Jude accepted a fully qualified appointment to the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Jude is a senior at the Meadowbrook Christian School. He is the son of Jason and Ann Rishel and the grandson of Shirley O'Brien and Harry Vansickle of Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, and Kathy and Carl Baskin of Sugar Hill, Georgia. Jude is an active member of the Civil Air Patrol, where he has served in a variety of leadership positions. He is also a student pilot and a member of the cross-country and track and field teams. His commitment to service is an inspiration to us all. I am confident that Jude's experience in and out of the classroom will serve him well as he looks forward to this exciting new phase of life. Jude, thank you for your commitment to our Nation, and best of luck in Colorado Springs. Mr. Speaker, it was an honor to nominate these young men. Their dedication to serving our country is inspirational, and I look forward to seeing their successes in the years to come. Again, I thank all of them for their commitment to our Nation.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Pennsylvania 4-H members who received the Diamond Clover Award at the recent 4-H State Leadership Conference. 4-H is a youth development program under the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The program's main goal is to educate our Nation's youth on pivotal skills and responsibilities to develop them into outstanding citizens. As chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, I am enlightened to see the work of USDA's programs paving the way for youth. In total, there were 24 Diamond Clover Award winners from 13 counties across Pennsylvania. I am especially proud to say that out of those 13 counties, 3 of them are from my district, Pennsylvania 15. Special congratulations to Hannah Trigg from Centre County, Phaedra Bower from Clinton County, and Crystal Clark from Potter Country. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate all of them on their hard work and this recognition. I wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and thank, and express my sincere gratitude for, an incredible group of students at Penn State University. This group of students has spent the last year dedicating countless hours to support a fantastic cause benefiting pediatric cancer patients. THON is a yearlong fundraising effort that culminates in an annual 46-hour dance marathon to support, financially and emotionally, more than 4,500 families with children who are battling cancer. On February 16, Penn State students, staff, families, friends, volunteers, and spectators filled the Bryce Jordan Center for the 52nd annual THON to raise money for the Four Diamonds foundation. THON was founded in 1973 by Penn State fraternities and sororities. What began as a small fundraiser, bringing in $2,000 in its inaugural year, flourished into a campus-wide effort with more than 16,000 student volunteers across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In 1977, THON partnered with the Four Diamonds foundation. Since then, not a single Four Diamonds family has received a medical bill, thanks to the tireless work and dedication of Penn State students. The Four Diamonds foundation was founded by Charles and Irma Millard in 1972 after their son, Christopher, lost his battle with cancer at 11 years old. Before Christopher passed away, he wrote a story about a great knight who sought four diamonds of courage, wisdom, honesty, and strength to be saved from an evil sorceress. His parents realized these four qualities were all necessary to overcome cancer. They created the Four Diamonds foundation in his memory. Over the past 50 years, THON has grown into the largest student-run philanthropy in the world. Students stood from 6 p.m. on Friday, February 16, until 4 p.m. on Sunday, February 18. It was an impressive feat to behold. What is even more incredible is the drive, fortitude, and flexibility these students showed in their commitment to this cause. This year, Penn State students raised a record-breaking $16,955,683.63. This surpasses THON's 2023 record-breaking total by nearly $2 million. To date, students have shattered records and raised more than $200 million. Of course, their dedication is to be applauded, but ask any Penn State student, and they will agree: THON isn't about them. It is about the children and families fighting cancer. THON is for the kids, and it is for families to focus on celebrating more birthdays, piano recitals, science fairs, graduations, and every other milestone a child should celebrate without fear. THON exists so one day, parents don't have to hear the words: ``Your child has cancer.'' Madam Speaker, I am proud of these students, but more importantly, I am proud of the children and families who have the courage to fight back against pediatric cancer. Once again, I congratulate everyone involved in this year's THON. We Are.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Robert David Laughlin of Boalsburg in Centre County, Pennsylvania. A lifelong central Pennsylvanian, Robert was born on March 9, 1924, in Altoona, and will be celebrating his 100th birthday this coming Saturday. At 18, he enlisted in the United States Navy and was selected for officer training. He received his commission at the U.S. Naval Academy under an accelerated program for wartime midshipmen. At that time, he was one of the youngest commissioned officers in the fleet. He served during World War II in the Pacific region as radar officer aboard the USS Pittsburgh and later aboard the USS Pasadena. A Penn State graduate, Robert spent his career as a physicist studying electro-optical research for early airborne reconnaissance platforms and holds several U.S. patents. He later served as science adviser to the Governor of Pennsylvania under three administrations. Most notably, he helped coordinate the initial State government response to the Three Mile Island accident in 1979. Today, Robert is actively working on computer repairs, studying quantum physics, and spending time with his 8 grandkids and 10 great- grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I wish Robert a happy birthday.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, today, I rise to celebrate a week honoring one of our Nation's most significant youth organizations, the FFA. National FFA Week, celebrated February 17 to 22, recognizes the far- reaching impact of this organization. FFA has chapters in all 50 States, and today, there are more than 900,000 active FFA members. Because of the incredible investment FFA has made and continues to make in agricultural education, more of our Nation's young people have the skills, knowledge, and opportunity to pursue careers in agriculture and related fields. Access to agricultural education is vital to our country's future, not just our rural communities. Agriculture is the food on our table, the clothes on our backs, and, increasingly, the fuel in our cars. It is also science, technology, and innovation. Madam Speaker, agriculture is nothing without the next generation, which is why I am so proud to celebrate the FFA. The blue FFA jackets symbolize hard work, competent leadership, and a commitment to serving one's community. FFA members are some of the premier leaders in this country. It is an honor to celebrate the past successes of FFA, while looking forward to how future FFA leaders will enact positive change.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a Pennsylvania 15th District native, Command Sergeant Cory M. Bell for his service to the United States of America. Command Sergeant Bell is retiring as a master sergeant after 24 years of serving in the United States Army. He was raised in Eldred, McKean County, Pennsylvania. He enlisted in the Army on August 24, 2000. After completing his One Station Unit Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, he became a 12B combat engineer. Over the next 24 years, Command Sergeant Bell's service took him around the United States and the world in a variety of posts and positions. He is currently serving in the 3-393rd Brigade Engineer Battalion at Fort Cavazos, Texas. Regardless of location, Command Sergeant Bell consistently provided leadership and guidance to his fellow soldiers. Following his retirement, he will return to Kane, Pennsylvania, with his loving wife, Kristen, and three daughters. Mr. Speaker, we owe Command Sergeant Bell a sincere debt of gratitude for his sacrifice, dedication, and courage to our country. On behalf of a grateful Nation, we thank him for his service to the United States of America. His dedication to our country is admirable. Enjoy retirement, you deserve it.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Lisa Foradori's service to the United States House of Representatives. This month, Lisa will be retiring from the Office of Official Reporters, which is within the Office of the Clerk of the House. Lisa has been one of the House's elite court reporters providing expert stenographic support to committees and the House floor. Lisa was born in DuBois, Pennsylvania. That is in the 15th Congressional District, and I am very proud of that. She grew up in Ebensburg, Pennsylvania, which also was in my Congressional District for a while. In 1982, she obtained her court reporting degree from Central Pennsylvania Business School in Summerdale, Pennsylvania. Following graduation, Lisa worked as an official court reporter in Clearfield, Pennsylvania, and Pasco and Hernando Counties in Florida. In 1992, Lisa started her own court reporting firm in Ebensburg, Pennsylvania. During this time, Lisa also worked as a contract reporter for the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. In 2007, Lisa moved to Washington, D.C., to serve as a court reporter for the United States District Court for the District of Columbia, where she worked until joining the House. Lisa enjoys spending time with family and friends, and two beautiful granddaughters, Vivian and Chloe. Once retired, Lisa plans to travel, play golf and tennis, and go kayaking. Mr. Speaker, the court reporters who support the House floor are the best in their profession, and Lisa is no exception. On behalf of the whole House, I wish to express my gratitude for Lisa's dedicated service to the House and her country. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Lisa and wish her all the best in her next chapter.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to talk about the CBYX program and to thank Linus Wullner, a current participant and intern in my office. As the chair of the bipartisan German-American Caucus and a Congressman for the 15th District for Pennsylvania, a State with a history of German heritage, I have supported the CBYX program for many years. Established in 1983, the Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange program celebrates its 40th exchange cohort this year and is jointly funded by the U.S. Congress and the German Congress. Every year, this unique program offers 75 young Germans and 75 young Americans the opportunity to study, work, and volunteer in Germany and the United States. Participants fully immerse themselves into the other culture, attending university, interning, and living with host families all across the USA and Germany. Linus was first placed with the welcoming host family of Patricia Vazquez in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he worked in the hospitality industry while studying political science at Southern Nevada University. Now he is living with a host family in Burke, Virginia, and experiences everyday working life within my office. Mr. Speaker, I emphasize the importance of cultural exchange programs. The American-German friendships don't stop after participants like Linus return to Germany and his hometown of Hinnenkamp. The cultural exchange continues. American friends will visit Germany, Linus will visit the United States, and he will continue to share his experiences in the United States with his family, neighbors, and coworkers in Germany. It is through citizen diplomacy that we expand cultural knowledge across the globe.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the life of Rich Kelley of Centre County. Rich was a tireless advocate for emergency services in Centre County, and he never wavered on his dedication to helping others. Rich joined Mount Nittany Health System in 1991, working his way up to EMS manager and is responsible for the significant development and growth of the department and EMS in the region. Over the years, he also served as Centre County coroner, executive director of Bellefonte EMS, assistant manager of Centre LifeLink EMS, and was a flight paramedic for Geisinger Life Flight. He was active in fire service, having served as a volunteer for the Undine, my own home department of Howard, and the Logan Fire Departments, where our paths crossed. I consider Rich and his wife, Teresa, dear friends, and his passing is a tragic loss. His contagious personality and cheerful sense of humor will be missed across Centre County for years to come. Scripture in 1 Thessalonians instructs us with these words: Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. Rich Kelley lived his life dedicated to service and caring for others in a way that brought hope to so many. Let us find peace having known Rich Kelley.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, tomorrow is the 114th anniversary of the Boys Scouts of America, the Nation's foremost youth program of character development and values-based leadership training. On February 8, 1910, Chicago businessman William D. Boyce, who grew up in western Pennsylvania, incorporated the Boy Scouts of America. It later went on to be chartered by the U.S. Congress. Since then, millions of young men and women have joined the Scouts and learned the values of patriotism, courage, and self-reliance. I have been involved in Scouting for more than 50 years, including serving as a Scoutmaster and achieving the rank of Eagle Scout in 1977. Scouting helped me discover my life purpose: helping others. I take the lessons learned throughout my own Scouting career and apply them in every aspect of my life today, including in my job as a U.S. Congressman. As co-chair of the Congressional Scouting Caucus, I am proud to introduce a resolution, alongside my fellow Eagle Scout from Georgia (Mr. Bishop), designating tomorrow, February 8, as Boy Scouts of America Day, to honor the tireless service of Scout volunteers and participants in our communities. In challenging times like now, I think we could all learn a lesson from the Scout slogan: ``Do a Good Turn Daily.''

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dani Kugler of Kersey, Pennsylvania, Elk County. Dani currently serves as the city of St. Mary's Parks and Recreation director. She was recently recognized by Parks and Recreation magazine with the National Recreation and Parks Association's ``30 under 30'' award for young professionals leading the way in 2024. This award is given to young professionals who raise the bar for the parks and recreation profession. Dani was selected from a pool of over 100 applicants and scored on the impact on the agency's community and service population; contributions to the professional development of the field of parks and recreation; and for innovative ideas, programs, or research in the field of parks and recreation. Dani was hired as the first year-round and full-time director in June 2019. In her 5 years serving the St. Mary's area, she has established a strong social media presence and increased membership and program participation by 40 percent. She has also successfully increased the city's 15 summer-only program events to 45 year-round programs and events. This is the first time in St. Mary's history that its park director has been recognized for this award. I congratulate Dani on this much-deserved recognition. I look forward to seeing continued growth and development of the St. Mary's Parks and Recreation Department.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Young Women's Christian Association of Oil City, in Venango County, or more widely known as the YWCA, as they celebrate their 100th anniversary. In 1922, Olive Bailey Shaffer proposed the idea of establishing a YWCA in Oil City. Two years later, on June 24, 1924, with 450 charter members enrolled, the Oil City YWCA was founded. To sustain the organization and their mission, members of the YWCA raised more than $10,000 in their first year. Following these efforts, the Oil City YWCA received their national charter on December 24, 1924. Over the years, the YWCA continued to grow and establish strong roots in the community. What started as humble beginnings led the chapter to the Samuel L. Maxwell Home at 109 Central Avenue, which remains the current home. This location continued to grow with the chapter with multiple renovations and additions over the 100 years. The group now uses this location to host programming and advocacy to generate institutional change in three key areas--racial justice and civil rights, empowerment and economic advancement, and health and safety of women and girls. Today, the YWCA stands true to their mission to eliminate racism, empower women, stand for social justice, help families, and strengthen communities. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the women of the Young Women's Christian Association of Oil City on this monumental anniversary. May they continue their good work for the next 100 years.