Glenn Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize February as Career and Technical Education Month. In recognizing this month, we are highlighting the value that career and technical education has not just for our students but for our country. As the co-chair of the bipartisan Career and Technical Education Caucus, I am proud to be an advocate for CTE and the work that we do to support job training, apprenticeships, and CTE programs. Skills-based education provides learners of all ages with career- ready skills, giving individuals the tools to succeed and restore the rungs on the ladder of opportunity. A highly skilled workforce is important to the success of our American workforce. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have the co-chair of the bipartisan CTE Caucus, Congresswoman Bonamici join me in introducing a resolution to recognize the importance of career and technical education. In Congress, I will continue to work feverishly to close our Nation's skills gap and provide our next generation of workers with the tools needed to succeed.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today ahead of a very special day back in my district. This Friday, February 2, is Groundhog Day. This annual event takes place in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, located in southern Jefferson County. For years, crowds have flocked to Gobbler's Knob on the evening of February 1 to see our weather predictor extraordinaire and hear his weather prediction firsthand. Mr. Speaker, I recognize and thank one of the most productive, job- producing constituents in my district, Punxsutawney Phil. His hard work every year predicting the end of winter brings so much joy to Pennsylvania 15th and across the Nation. For more than 120 years, our furry friend has been predicting our winter weather. This tradition stems from Pennsylvania's strong German heritage. Legend has it if Phil sees his shadow, it is an omen of 6 more weeks of winter. If not, we know spring is just around the corner. Crowds begin to gather the night before and wake Phil up by chanting his name in the early hours of the morning on February 2. As our seer of sees emerges from his burrow, the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club Inner Circle president translates Phil's prediction and relays the message to the crowd. Despite naysayers trying to replace him with an animatronic groundhog or a gold coin, Phil continues to bring a smile to so many faces. I believe in creating jobs, not eliminating them, and Punxsutawney Phil is no exception. I will always stand up for the hardworking men, women, and rodents in the 15th District of Pennsylvania. In all seriousness, Groundhog Day brings together people of all backgrounds and reminds us of the importance of tradition. It is not only an economic stimulus in the district, but it is also a great source of pride. Be sure to tune in on Friday morning to see Phil share his weather predictions. We could either have an earlier spring or 6 more weeks of winter. I have been told he is never wrong. Thank you, Phil, for sharing your wisdom and weather predictions with all of us.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Knights of Columbus Council 403 as they celebrate their 125th anniversary. The Knights of Columbus Council 403 is located in Bradford, Pennsylvania, in McKean County, and this chapter has been instrumental in the history and growth of the city of Bradford. This anniversary is commemorated with a marker that was commissioned by Wright Monuments, and it was placed outside the St. Bernard Church. To celebrate this anniversary, members gathered on church grounds before dinner and before socializing at the Bradford Club. The Catholic fraternal organization was founded January 29, 1899, and the council continues its deep history in the Bradford Catholic community today. As members of the council, they aspire to live by four principles: charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. I congratulate the council on this historical anniversary, and I am grateful for all the work they do within the Bradford community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the Allegheny River as Pennsylvania's 2024 River of the Year. The historic Allegheny River starts as a stream in Potter County, meandering through a field of wildflowers before crossing briefly through New York and then through six counties in western Pennsylvania. The 325-mile river ends in Pittsburgh where it meets two other rivers. The Allegheny River provides a fertile valley and abundant biodiversity leading to many calling this place home. The U.S. Forest Service has documented more than 50 mammals, 200 birds, 25 amphibians, 20 reptiles, 80 fish, and 25 freshwater mussels in and around the Allegheny. A series of locks and dams were constructed in the early 20th century to make the Allegheny River navigable for barges to transport goods, and now swimming, boating, and fishing are enjoyed by residents and visitors. Whether bird-watching, island camping, or traveling through the locks, you are sure to find that the Allegheny River is rich with life, history, and beauty. Mr. Speaker, I remain committed to keeping the Allegheny River a key piece of western Pennsylvania's economy. I congratulate the Allegheny River on this spectacular achievement.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, the Greater DuBois Chamber of Commerce held its annual Business Bash Saturday evening, where outstanding organizations and individuals were recognized. The 2023 Small Business of the Year Award was presented to Penn Central Door, the premier provider of exceptional garage door solutions in the DuBois, Pennsylvania, area and beyond. The 2023 Community Cup Award was presented to the DuBois Central Catholic School, DuBois Central Catholic, since DCC has emerged as a leader in academic excellence and character formation. The 2023 DuBois Area Jaycees Distinguished Service Award was presented to Libby Gray. Known for more than 50 years of service to the DuBois area, Mrs. Gray has served on the board and as president of many groups, including the DuBois Regional Medical Center, YMCA, United Way, Public Broadcasting, the American Red Cross, the Catholic Social Services, and the Catholic Charities of the diocese of Erie. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to offer my congratulations and thanks to all of those recognized for their impactful contribution to the DuBois area community.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bipartisan bill, the Orphan Well Grant Flexibility Act. We all know that abandoned wells, either unplugged or improperly plugged, can pose serious environmental and health risks to surrounding communities. In Pennsylvania alone, there are more than 27,000 documented abandoned and orphaned oil and gas wells across the State. It is not just a Pennsylvania issue, however, as abandoned wells are found across the country. The Orphan Well Grant Flexibility Act, which I introduced alongside my colleague Congressman Deluzio from Pennsylvania, will empower States to maximize their flexibility when plugging abandoned oil wells and cut red tape to accelerate environmental rehabilitation. We have many of the resources we need to plug these wells, and now it is our job to ensure that they are able to be used for their intended purpose. Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Deluzio for joining me in leading this critical effort, and I encourage all of my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor World War II veteran John Ward of Oil City, Pennsylvania, on his 100th birthday. Mr. Ward enlisted in the U.S. Army at the age of 18 and participated in campaigns in Europe with the 405th Antiaircraft Gun Battalion. He saw time in Normandy and northern France, Germany, Belgium, and England, where he received numerous citations for his service to this Nation. Mr. Ward said he has fond memories of his time in the Army, especially the people he met and the friendships he made. For a number of years, John and his late wife, Betty, enjoyed reunions of the 405th Battalion. After he concluded his military service, John returned to Oil City and worked in the local steel plant for 39 years. He is a longtime devoted member of the Oil City Wesleyan Methodist Church. He was married to Betty for 72 years until her passing in 2019. They raised three children. Mr. Speaker, I wish Mr. John Ward of Oil City a very happy 100th birthday and thank him for his service during World War II.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, over the weekend, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania kicked off one of my favorite events: The Pennsylvania Farm Show. For more than a century, farmers have gathered each January at the Pennsylvania Farm Show in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. This weeklong event is the largest indoor agricultural exposition in the Nation, showcasing more than 6,000 animals, nearly 12,000 exhibits, and more than half a million visits. Each year, I host a listening session at the farm show, and we cover a range of topics during the public forum. This year, I held my listening session on January 6, the same day the farm show kicked off. I was joined by my fellow Pennsylvania Congressman, Dan Meuser, and Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary, Russell Redding. Mr. Speaker, I thank them both for being there as we heard directly from Pennsylvania's farmers and producers. I have been hosting this listening session as the Representative for Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District for 14 years. Like every year, I look forward to hearing directly from the backbone of our Nation, the hardworking men and women of American agriculture.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at noon on Tuesday next for morning-hour debate and 2 p.m. for legislative business.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today to recognize a special day for our dairy farmers, National Milk Day. National Milk Day originates back to January 11, 1878, when milk was first delivered in glass bottles in the United States. Milk is consumed by millions of Americans every year because not only is it delicious but also provides key nutrients like calcium, potassium, and other vitamins. This is one of the reasons why I am so thankful for the passing of my bill, the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act of 2023, which will provide these key nutrients to children and schools nationwide. Milk is also very important to my home State of Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania dairy industry alone generates 52,000 jobs and $14.7 billion in revenue in the State. Furthermore, Pennsylvania is ranked second nationally in the number of dairy farms. I am so proud of all that they have accomplished. As a descendant of a long line of dairy farmers, let's raise a glass of milk in honor of these dairy farmers who work around the clock to bring fresh, nutritious, and delicious milk to our tables every day.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate 100 years of the Kane Veterans of Foreign Wars charter located in McKean County. The Kane VFW post is a top-tier post in the State. In 2023, they qualified and were awarded All State status for the second time and were also awarded the coveted All American Post award for the first time. The post will mark this anniversary with a celebration at the end of January with numerous guest speakers, camaraderie, and friendship. The Kane VFW post's first meeting to establish their charter was held on December 11, 1923, in the Eagle Hall, and they were granted their charter on January 29, 1924, with just 79 founding members. Over the years, the club grew in size, serving as a place for veterans and community members alike to gather in fellowship. Mr. Speaker, VFW posts are so important to our communities because they offer veterans a place to gather together and connect. From hosting local Scout troops to important community meetings, the Kane VFW post has seen it all over the last 100 years. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the Kane VFW and their dedicated members on this monumental anniversary.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today to celebrate National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. I would take this time to honor the more than 800,000 sworn officers currently serving in the U.S. for their continued dedication to upholding the law and ensuring our safety. Words cannot describe how difficult and how important your jobs are. Established in 2015, National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day takes place annually on January 9. It is a special time in our country because it allows us to truly recognize the brave men and women of this country who serve in law enforcement. Thank you to the Capitol Police, the Secret Service, and the Metropolitan Police Department for keeping us continually safe here in our Nation's Capital. Thank you to the law enforcement in my home State of Pennsylvania, the State troopers, as well as the local police forces across the 15th District for their unwavering commitment to protecting so many communities. Thank you again to all law enforcement across United States for your admirable service to our country.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, last night, in a bipartisan manner, the House passed my legislation, Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act. This bill addresses the importance of providing whole milk in school cafeterias. It is proven that milk is the number one provider of 13 essential nutrients, as well as a great deal of long-term health benefits, including better bone health, lower blood pressure, and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. These benefits are crucial for the healthy development of our Nation's youth. Over the years, milk has been unfairly demonized, leading to the loss of nearly an entire generation of milk drinkers. This bill will give children a wide variety of milk options and bolster milk consumption, a win-win for growing children and America's dairy farmers. Mr. Speaker, farmers feed, nutrition matters, and whole milk heals. It is time to follow the science and allow whole milk back into school cafeterias. I call on my Senate colleagues to bring this bill to the floor and pass this critical legislation.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Chairman, these studies show, among other things, that full-fat dairy foods have little to no association with high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, blood pressure, or cholesterol. In fact, several of these studies show that full-fat foods help improve or lower negative health outcomes for children who drink more full-fat dairy beverages.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Chairman, additionally, since whole milk was removed from school lunchrooms, the childhood obesity rate has increased, according to the CDC and several case studies. Whole milk is not the problem. For our children to excel in the classroom and beyond, they must have access to more nutritious options, not fewer. The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act will allow schools participating in the National School Lunch Program to serve all varieties of flavored and unflavored milk, including whole milk. It is important to remember that this legislation does not require any student to drink, or any school to serve, whole milk. Rather, this legislation simply gives schools the flexibility to serve a broader variety of milk in the school lunchroom. Additionally, if students have a documented medical condition or disability that prohibits them from safely or comfortably consuming milk, schools are required to offer them an alternative beverage. This legislation would not change that standard. Mr. Chair, I am proud to have 134 bipartisan cosponsors from 44 States. The bottom line is the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act is about ensuring students have the necessary nutrients to learn and grow.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Chairman, I thank the chairwoman for her leadership and support. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in strong support of my legislation, the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, that supports students and dairy farmers across America. Milk is an essential building block for a well-rounded and balanced diet, offering 13 essential nutrients and numerous health benefits. Out-of-touch Federal regulations have imposed dietary restrictions on the types of milk students have access to in school meals. Our ranking member is a dear friend of mine, and we have worked together. I have been here for 15 years and him a little longer. We have a great relationship and have had a lot of bipartisan bills together, like we marked up yesterday. Mr. Chair, I have to say, the only special interest here is our kids. It is our kids who have been cheated out of the nutrition that they need. Case studies have shown that the rate of obesity and being overweight increased dramatically after access to whole milk and flavor was taken out of the schools in 2007-2008, which was a baseline. In 2010, a Democrat-led initiative demonized milk fat. In 2020-2021, there was a study of that same cohort, and obesity has gone up without this beverage. Mr. Chairman, regarding my good friend from Louisiana, who just spoke, everybody is entitled to their own opinion but not their own facts. The facts are that it is the underlying law that was passed back in 2010 by a Democratic House and signed by a Democratic President that, quite frankly, required a physician prescription for health reasons. That is a good part of the law, and we didn't touch that. We didn't address that in this bill, so I am not sure why he is talking about it. It is not germane to the topic we are talking about today. That is the underlying law. The bottom line is that students and parents do have choice. There is a mechanism to honor that. The only choice they don't have, though, is access to the most nutritious beverage, which is whole milk-- specifically, whole milk and flavor. Mr. Chair, I appreciate the gentleman from Louisiana sharing how much waste there was and what that amounts to in cartons and half pints and what it amounts to in dollars. That is because of the taste experience. It is not that these kids are throwing the milk away because it is unhealthy for them. It is just a terrible taste experience when you are drinking low-fat or nonfat milk. Students have been limited to fat-free or reduced-fat milk since the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act was enacted in 2010. While some of my friends on the other side of the aisle have argued that we should not reform individual aspects of child nutrition, it was that legislation more than a decade ago that singled out milk for regulation, which is why we are here today. There are several reasons why these top-down regulations are harmful to students and school districts that are forced to comply with them. First, we have seen students opt out of consuming milk altogether if they don't have access to a variety that they enjoy. According to the ``Scientific Report of the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee,'' more than two-thirds of school-age children failed to meet the recommended levels of dairy. No kidding. We took out most nutrition and most taste and made it inaccessible to them. Let's face it, the only way to benefit from milk's essential nutrients is to consume it. We are not force-feeding anybody anything. This is about choice. When students turn away from milk, they often opt for far less healthy alternatives that are highly caffeinated, sugar- sweetened, or lack key nutrients. These regulations also perpetuate baseless claims that milk is bad for our kids. Research has shown time and time again that whole and 2 percent milk are not responsible for childhood obesity and other health concerns. In fact, these beverages are so nutritious that research shows positive health outcomes for kids who consume whole milk. Mr. Chairman, I include in the Record academic studies from researchers around the world, including from top institutions such as Boston University and Tufts, who have studied the health effects of full-fat dairy. [From the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition] Whole Milk Compared With Reduced-Fat Milk and Childhood Overweight: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Introduction Childhood obesity has tripled in the past 40 y, with nearly 1 in 3 North American children now overweight or obese (1-3). Over the same period, consumption of whole-fat cow-milk has halved (4). The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Canadian Paediatric Society recommend that children switch from whole- fat cow-milk (3.25%) to reduced-fat cow-milk (0.1 to 2%) at 2 y of age to limit fat intake and minimize the risk of childhood obesity (5, 6). European (7), British (8), and Australian (9) health authorities have provided similar recommendations. Healthcare providers (10) and families (11) frequently follow this guideline, and school and child-care nutrition policies (12-14) often reflect them. Since 1970 whole-cow-milk availability has dropped by 80% in North America, whereas reduced-fat milk purchases have tripled (15, 16). Given that cow-milk is consumed daily by 88% of children aged 1 to 3 y and by 76% of children aged 4 to 8 y in Canada (17) and is a major dietary source of energy, protein, and fat for children in North America (17, 18), understanding the relation between cow-milk fat and risk of overweight or obesity is important. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the relation between total dairy consumption and child adiposity have had conflicting findings. According to these studies, higher cow-milk intake in children is associated with taller height and better bone and dental health (19-21). Although these studies evaluated total dairy consumption, they did not consider cow-milk fat specifically. The objectives of this study were to systematically review and meta-analyze the relation between whole-fat (3.25%) relative to reduced-fat (0.1 to 2%) cow-milk and adiposity in children. Methods A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature was conducted. The study was designed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines (PRISMA-P) (22) and registered as a PROSPERO systematic review and meta-analysis (registration number:

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 10 outstanding students across Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District who have been awarded the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship. The Gilman program is named after former Congressman Benjamin A. Gilman, who served in Congress from 1973 to 2003. He was chair of the House International Relations Committee and represented Upstate New York. Established in 2001, the Gilman program is part of the State Department's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs. This scholarship sponsors students to study or intern abroad during the academic year. This program is an important part of the Federal Government's effort to expand and diversify U.S. study abroad and allows Americans to gain the global competencies that are crucial to our national security and our economic prosperity. Since 2001, this program has allowed more than 41,000 Americans from 1,350 U.S. colleges and universities to study or intern in more than 160 countries. The Gilman program advances people-to-people diplomacy and strengthens America's role in the global marketplace. The Gilman program continues to expand the American student population that studies abroad with nearly 70 percent of Gilman scholars identifying as students of color, 60 percent from small towns or rural parts of the United States, and nearly 50 percent are first- generation college students. Congratulations to Rik Bhattacharyya, a student from Penn State University studying in India; Ashlyn Bird of Lycoming County, a student at Drexel University studying in the United Kingdom; Deven Dancy of Union County, a student at Susquehanna University studying in Ghana; Hannah Dees of Centre County, a student at Juniata College studying in the United Kingdom; Shawnee Geletka of Venango County, a student at College for Creative Studies studying in Italy; Saoirse Hopp of Centre County, a student at University of Pittsburgh studying in Spain; Kimberly Johnson of Potter County, a student at Drexel University studying in Italy; Luke Kantz of Snyder County, a student at University of Pittsburgh studying in India; Rute Pires of Union County, a student at Bucknell studying in Ireland; and Casey Sennett of Centre County, a student at Penn State University studying in Italy. These students are currently studying or interning across the world. Good luck in your studies, and enjoy your time abroad.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Clara Barton, the founder of the American Red Cross. Clara is one of the most honored women in American history. From a young age, she was dedicated to service and helping others. Clara started her career in Washington, D.C., working in the Federal Government. She was in D.C. at the start of the Civil War. Clara recognized the immediate need to help these newly recruited troops. Clara spent the early days of the war collecting food and supplies for the Union Army. She would later risk her life heading to the field hospitals to volunteer and deliver medical services. More than 140 years later, the Red Cross continues its service through its strong network of volunteers, donors, and partners. They continue to serve those in need by mobilizing the power of volunteers in times of emergencies. Mr. Speaker, Clara Barton's birthday is on December 25. Her passion for service is an example to all of us. Her selflessness and determination to help others continues to inspire us to this day.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a very special tradition taking place this Saturday, December 16. Every year on the third Saturday of December, thousands of volunteers set out across the country and the world in a coordinated wreath-laying ceremony. This ceremony is known as National Wreaths Across America Day. In 1992, Morrill Worcester from Harrington, Maine, noticed he had an abundance of holiday wreaths and decided to take the opportunity to honor our country's fallen soldiers. After contacting his Senator, arrangements were made for the wreaths to be placed at Arlington in an older section of the cemetery. This tradition would quietly continue until 2005 when a photo of the tombstones decorated with wreaths and covered with snow went viral. From there, this quiet annual tribute to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice transformed into a mission to remember, honor, and teach. Since the viral photo, Wreaths Across America continues to grow. This Saturday volunteers will lay wreaths at more than 2,500 locations in the United States, abroad, and at sea. This simple gesture is a way for all of us to express our appreciation during the holiday season. Earlier this week, what has become known as the country's longest veteran's parade, Wreaths Across America's annual Escort to Arlington kicked off. The official route will travel down the East Coast, stopping at schools, memorials, and other locations along the way to remember the fallen, honor those that serve, and teach the next generation the value of freedom. Stops with public events will be held in Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Washington, D.C., before arriving at Arlington National Cemetery on the morning of Saturday, December 16, National Wreaths Across America Day. This pilgrimage to Arlington National Cemetery represents the very best of our Nation. Tractor trailers will haul more than 250,000 wreaths to their destination. Mr. Speaker, as many Americans will volunteer this weekend, it is a reminder that our freedom is not free. These men and women paid the ultimate sacrifice, and this small gesture is one of the many ways we are able to thank them for their service. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit wreathsacrossAmerica.org.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Hayley and Stephanie Painter of Tioga County. The Painter sisters are fourth-generation farmers who started an organic skyr yogurt brand to preserve their family's Pennsylvania farm in 2020. Painterland Sisters Yogurt now sells across nearly 2,000 locations at grocery stores, including Giant, Whole Foods, Sprouts, and Gristedes. They also sell the cream left over when making yogurt to make ice cream. Earlier this year, Painterland Sisters was named on the Forbes 30 Under 30 Food and Drink List. The Painter sisters, like many younger- generation farmers, were looking for a way to carry on their family's agricultural legacy while making it their own. Their family's farm is home to 400 cows who graze all over the property. The Painter sisters' dedication and passion for the family farm and business have led to tremendous success. I congratulate the Painter sisters on this magnificent accomplishment. Keep making delicious and nutritious yogurt. Farmers feed. Nutrition matters. Whole milk heals.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today to recognize the A&B Heating and Sheet Metal Company from Warren County. Originally founded in 1953 by World War II veteran, Carl Papalia, the family-owned small business continues to provide excellent services to those in the Warren area for the last 70 years. Before creating the company, Carl served his company honorably as a flight engineer on B-24 bombers in the South Pacific. Carl and his brothers, Ralph and Joe, were first-generation Americans who together paved the way for the success of the business for more than 40 years. Following Carl and Ralph's passing, Carl's son, David, took over the ownership of the company, leading to substantial growth. Today, the company has 20 employees specialized to assist customers in a 60-mile radius. Seventy years later, the company's mission statement, ``The satisfaction of helping the community is not about what you do, it is about who you are,'' remains the same. I am so proud of the A&B Heating and Sheet Metal Company and all the work that they have done for those in Warren County and across the Northern Tier. God bless them.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today to recognize an important day in American history. On December 7, 1941, our great Nation was suddenly attacked by the Imperial Japanese Navy, leading to the death of 2,043 American servicemembers and civilians. Mr. Speaker, 82 years later, we remember these brave souls who lost their lives that day defending our very freedoms. On August 23, 1994, Congress created National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day to honor the lives lost each year. Now, on December 7, 2023, we once again recognize and remember every man and woman who laid down their life for the United States that day. We are forever indebted for their sacrifices. In the time of war, our great Nation was able to persevere. Let this day be a reminder to us that our freedom should never be taken for granted. God bless those who lost their lives that day, and God bless America.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 10 school districts across the 15th District who are recognized as ``Best Communities for Music Education'' and received the SupportMusic Merit Award from the National Association of Music Manufacturers Foundation. This recognition is given to schools who continue to provide all children with the opportunity to learn and to grow with music. The award program acknowledges and celebrates innovative schools and districts that have developed a stronger presence for music education on campus and in the lives of the students. Congratulations to St. Francis School in Clearfield County, Tidioute Community Charter School in Warren County, Bald Eagle Area School District in Centre County, Armstrong School District in Armstrong County, DuBois Area School District in Clearfield and Jefferson Counties, State College Area School District in Centre County, Bellefonte Area School District in Centre County, Clearfield Area School District in Clearfield County, Lewisburg Area School District in Union County, and Port Allegany School District in McKean and Potter Counties. We congratulate these school districts on this recognition.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize National Special Education Day. In the 1970s, Congress made a commitment to provide a free and appropriate education to students with disabilities. While we have made tremendous progress thanks to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, we have also failed to fully fund the cost of special education. Congress promised at that point to cover 40 percent of the extra cost of special education, but we have never come close to fulfilling that promise. In fact, the current funding remains at only 14 percent of the targeted amount. Mr. Speaker, that is shameful. This means our students and schools suffer. It means that programs will be cut. It means that schools won't be able to recruit and retain qualified teachers. Above all else, it means that students with disabilities will not be able to succeed, not without appropriate, high-quality services that they deserve. That is why I proudly cosponsored the bipartisan IDEA Full Funding Act, which would mandate gradual increases in IDEA to reach that full commitment--40 percent by fiscal year 2029 and each subsequent fiscal year. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and uphold the promise to provide students and schools with the resources that they need.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Warren County native Kit Sekelsky for her success on ``Jeopardy!.'' In 2021, Kit won three games, taking home nearly $40,000. Earlier this month, she had the opportunity to compete again as part of the Second Chance Tournament. The Second Chance Tournament gives champions from past seasons an opportunity to qualify for this season's Tournament of Champions. Kit was able to make it out of the quarterfinal before finishing second in the semifinal match. While she was unable to move forward in the competition, Kit earned the elusive ``Jeopardy!'' champion title. Congratulations, Kit, on this special achievement.