Jackie Walorski

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Madam Chair, I appreciate Chairman Smith's support and the work he has done on this bill. Madam Chair, I rise in strong support of the Increasing Opportunity and Success for Children and Parents Through Evidence-Based Home Visiting Act. In my home State of Indiana, three of the nine counties eligible for MIECHV funds are in my district. In April, I had the pleasure of visiting with Healthy Families St. Joseph County to hear firsthand the good work they are doing in Indiana's Second District. I heard from a single mom who had no job, no place to live, and very little money when she gave birth to her son; but with the help of Healthy Families, she turned long odds into success. The mother gained confidence to raise her son, and her son gained a shot at a thriving life that he may not have had without this program. Home visitors helped over 2,600 Hoosier families in situations like this in Indiana last year. MIECHV is a program that gets results. It works. We know this because of the statistics, but we hear it in the stories that they share with us. Parents get the tools and the confidence they need to raise their children. This improves outcomes for their children in the really early critical years and sets them on a better path as they grow up. The program helps to root out deeper issues like drug abuse and domestic violence that destroy families and hinder a child's development. If there is one thing I have learned as I have heard from people in my district who successfully broke the cycle of poverty, it is this: It is one thing to provide money, but if that money comes on a one-size- fits-all basis, people cannot break the cycle. Checking a box doesn't break the cycle. Human interaction, looking at each person as an individual and not just a number, resolving underlying issues unique to each person's situation, and having a person coming alongside, saying, ``I am with you; let's do this together'' breaks the cycle. MIECHV is a great example of a program that does this. Madam Chair, I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Eagle Scout Nathan Hite of Elkhart, Indiana, on completing all 143 merit badges this year. Since 1910, Boy Scouts of America has been a pillar in youth development throughout the country. In the generations since, millions of Boy Scouts have gone on to make lasting impacts in their communities and learn important skills and life lessons that helped them make the future brighter. Instilling the characteristics of strong citizenship-- such as courage, determination, and compassion for others--Boy Scouts of America has allowed young men like Nathan to challenge themselves to be better and make positive contributions in the world around them. Nathan has distinguished himself among his peers and now joins the ranks of Boy Scouts who have completed all merit badges available to them at the time of their service. In fact, because there are more merit badges available now than ever before, Nathan has earned more than any previous Scout. At the young age of 13, Nathan achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and pushed forward in his quest to complete all the available merit badges. I have no doubt Nathan will continue to aspire to excellence and meaningful accomplishments in all his future endeavors. Under the guidance of the Boy Scouts of America LaSalle Council and New Paris Scout Troop 12, Nathan has learned skills that will stay with him for the rest of his life. He exemplifies the character that we all strive to attain, and through his participation in Boy Scouts, Nathan has become a well-rounded leader and a role model for others. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Indiana's 2nd District I am grateful for the exceptional opportunities Boy Scouts of America offers our youth, and I look forward to all the amazing things that lie ahead for Nathan

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dale and Judy Stickel on celebrating 50 years of marriage. Having met in kindergarten and attended Junior prom together, they knew the stars had aligned early in their lives. Their heartwarming story of a childhood friendship that turned into a lifetime of love makes this golden anniversary all the more special. Not only that, their lasting commitment, not only to one another but to their family and community, is a shining example of devotion and faithfulness in our country. Dale and Judy have lived in northern Indiana nearly their entire lives, and I have no doubt the positive influence they've had here will last far into the future. They exemplify the hardworking and compassionate citizens we all strive to be. I am truly inspired by their passion to help others and their efforts to make service a family tradition. It is clear that their love for one another and the family they have built grows stronger each day. Now 50 years later we have a wonderful reason to celebrate. Fifty years of marriage is a marvelous accomplishment, and this milestone speaks volumes about the love and compassion they share with one another, as well as their tremendous foundation of faith. Dale and Judy have built a life together that revolves around making a difference in the lives of others. It is no surprise the example they've set will ensure their legacy of selflessness, community, love, and faith is passed along to their three children and six grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of 2nd District Hoosiers, it is my honor to congratulate Dale and Judy Stickel on their anniversary and join their family in celebrating this milestone.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Indiana's State Senator Luke Kenley on his retirement, and to thank him for the many years he dedicated to serving our fellow Hoosiers. From balancing the budget to reforming State taxes, he has worked for 25 years to empower local communities and strengthen Indiana's economy. He led important efforts to enhance our schools, roads, businesses, local institutions, and more. Senator Kenley's commitment to Hoosier common sense, and his tireless efforts to bring our State's economy into the 21st century, helped transform Indiana and improve Hoosiers' lives. I am grateful for Senator Kenley's leadership and his keen understanding of the Hoosier values that are so important to our way of life. I have no doubt his impact on our State will last far into the future. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing Indiana State Senator Luke Kenley the absolute best as he embarks on this next chapter in life.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate John Schultz on his recent retirement after 44 years at UPS. John has been delivering packages to families, individuals, and businesses in Elkhart since 1973. He quickly became a friendly face in the neighborhood, and hard work, determination, and inspiration led John to become one of the longest-serving drivers for UPS. John exemplifies the characteristics we should all strive for in our daily lives. He is kind, thoughtful, and high-spirited, and his steadfast work ethic has allowed him to succeed in his various roles with UPS and continue to proudly support his family. I am so grateful that our community has someone like John to look up to as a role model for perseverance in both career and everyday life. During his tenure with UPS, the technological advancements and growing economy made his role and responsibilities dynamic and ever-changing. John dealt expertly with the changing times and emerged as a leader in the field. He was trusted by his peers and superiors, and he carried out each job with integrity, always keeping safety, his training, and customer service in mind. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Indiana's 2nd District, I want to thank John for his commitment to safe, responsible driving, and for serving our community for many wonderful years. I applaud his hard work and achievements over the years and wish him all the best in this next chapter.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Steel Warehouse Company and join them in celebrating 70 years of success. Three generations ago, the Lerman family set up a small shop, which quickly expanded its capabilities and began serving South Bend, Indiana, and the surrounding communities. Now 70 years later, with more than 600 employees, Steel Warehouse has established a global industrial network to deliver high-quality materials to their customers. This family-owned business sets a high bar within the steel industry, and I am so grateful for the outstanding innovation and quality of service Steel Warehouse provides. A leader in its field, Steel Warehouse uses the incredible strength of large, powerful machinery while harnessing the brainpower of its highly skilled engineers, operators, and technicians. The company's commitment to steady growth has enabled it to expand far beyond its headquarters in South Bend. In fact, with fourteen locations, Steel Warehouse employs workers across the U.S., Mexico and Brazil, and utilizes a growing relationship with steel mills throughout the Midwest and around the world to purchase the best supply for its customers. Not only have this company's capabilities increased immensely with new technology and growing markets in the Midwest, the Lerman family's unique adaptability and dynamic ingenuity has created a business model built on creativity and problem-solving. As the State of Indiana continues to lead the nation in steel production, Steel Warehouse is an extraordinary example for businesses across Indiana and the United States. It is a privilege and an honor to represent Steel Warehouse, the Lerman family, and the hardworking employees who have played such a positive role in northern Indiana's growing economy for decades. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Indiana's 2nd District, I want to thank Steel Warehouse for an incredible 70 years, and I look forward to the continued growth and expansion that lies ahead.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of the beloved Roberta Bishop, or to those who knew her, ``Bobbie.'' Bobbie was a model citizen who dedicated her life to giving back to those in need. Not only did she have a kind spirit and a big heart, she also empowered herself to make a real difference by creating Midwest Service Dogs, a non-profit in South Bend, Indiana, that helps train and place service dogs and companion dogs. The combination of her love of animals and her desire to give back fueled her participation in multiple charities as well as her work at a local animal clinic. Bobbie strived to make our community a better place, and from her loving family to the many friends she made along the way, her strength in character and compassion for others were hard to miss. Bobbie lived a meaningful life full of love, happiness, and generosity of spirit. I am grateful that her wonderful legacy is sure to live on in the cherished life lessons she taught her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I'm personally thankful for our decades-long friendship and the impact she had on my life. Our country lost a great human being, and I wish her two sons and extended family all the best

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate David Daugherty on his retirement as President of the Goshen Chamber of Commerce and to thank him for his 14 years of serving northern Indiana Hoosiers. As Chamber president, David was committed to fostering opportunities that advanced our growing workforce, supported existing businesses, attracted new ones, and united our community under a common vision for a brighter future. I am grateful for the outstanding leadership and insight David brought to the Chamber. In tackling important issues like redevelopment, our community saw David's keen ability to build valuable relationships among community members and strong partnerships with education and government leaders. David's work at the Chamber was guided by the values of integrity, respect, collaboration, and the belief that thriving businesses build stronger communities. A forward thinker, David has consistently led efforts that aim to improve the quality of life for Hoosiers, their families, and our local businesses. In doing so he encouraged greater inclusion and empowerment through the Chamber's efforts to work ``Together, Growing Goshen.'' Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Indiana's 2nd District I want to thank David for all he has done to make Goshen a wonderful place to live and work. His impact on the community is sure to last far into the future, and I have no doubt the Chamber will continue to honor David's legacy by working to strengthen our business community and welcome growth and innovation.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Michael Becker and to celebrate the positive impact he had on our community. In 2006, Michael and his wife Kim founded the non-profit Hello Gorgeous!, which brings joy to women fighting cancer by giving them a red-carpet experience complete with a makeover and spa. Reaching 15 states with mobile day-spas and affiliate salons, Hello Gorgeous! has provided unforgettable experiences to thousands of women all over the country. The organization Michael and Kim built together and the mission they devoted themselves to brings happiness and hope where it is needed most. Their passion, drive, and faith inspire us all, and their selfless generosity is an example we should strive to follow. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor and a privilege to represent such kind and giving people. Michael lived a life full of love, laughter, and spirit. My thoughts are with Kim and everyone at Hello Gorgeous!, in whose work I have no doubt Michael's memory will live on.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Michael Becker, to celebrate the positive impact that he has had in our community. In 2006, Michael and his wife, Kim, founded the not-for-profit Hello Gorgeous!, which brings joy to women fighting cancer by giving them a red carpet experience complete with a makeover and spa. Reaching 15 States with mobile day spas and affiliate salons, Hello Gorgeous! has provided unforgettable experiences to thousands of women all over the country. The organization Michael and Kim built together and the mission they devoted themselves to brings happiness and hope where it is needed most. Their passion, drive, and faith inspire us all, and their selfless generosity is an example we should strive to follow. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor and a privilege to represent such kind and giving people. Michael lived a life full of love, laughter, and spirit. My thoughts are with Kim and everyone at Hello Gorgeous! in whose work, I have no doubt, Michael's memory will live on.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dale Hemphill, a U.S. Navy veteran from Mishawaka, Indiana, on creating the Spirit of America Foundation and designing the Spirit of America flag to promote patriotism and appreciation for our nation's veterans. The Spirit of America Foundation is a non-profit organization founded in 2001 that works to identify and prioritize veterans' health issues, create a network among other veterans service organizations, coordinate fundraising, establish support groups, and provide information and educational resources. The Spirit of America flag Dale created symbolizes the mission of the foundation and serves as a powerful tribute to the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country. Dale served in the U.S. Navy for six years and embodies the values of a true patriot. He designed the Spirit of America flag with great attention to detail: each aspect of the flag serves to commemorate what our veterans have done to preserve our freedom in a special way. For example, the color red on the banner symbolizes bloodshed, and the color blue represents valor and bravery. Not only does the flag honor our veterans by listing every conflict Americans have served in, it also recognizes the civilians, firefighters, police officers, and paramedics who died in the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. Dale has given his flag to people all over the world, including four American presidents, every Indiana senator, governor, and representative, and the last surviving American WWI veteran, Frank Buckles. Nicknamed ``Old Glory's Companion,'' this patriotic flag flies over multiple U.S. military bases. Dale's love of country is evident to anyone who knows him. He has dedicated both his professional life and free time to serving and honoring his country and those who have fought to protect it. Even his car reflects his patriotism, decorated with both the Spirit of America flag and the American flag. His incredible commitment of time and talent and his positive impact on veterans should inspire us all. I am so grateful to Dale for the worthy mission he defends. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of 2nd District Hoosiers, I want to thank Dale Hemphill for his unwavering patriotism and his commitment to honoring his fellow veterans. He has truly left a mark on the northern Indiana community and the entire nation, and I look forward to the great things that lie ahead in his future.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor North Miami Community Schools agriculture teacher James Wildermuth on being named Indiana's Rural Teacher of the Year. Since 2004, the Indiana Small and Rural Schools Association has been recognizing exemplary teachers from small and rural towns across our state. Mr. Wildermuth is well deserving of this high honor. He truly embodies the characteristics of an exceptional Hoosier educator who has had a profound impact on student achievement, serves as a collaborating member of the greater rural community, fosters valuable learning among his students, and exemplifies leadership in a way that should inspire us all. Mr. Wildermuth has taught for 17 years, including the last four at North Miami Community Schools. In addition to his remarkable accomplishments and sterling reputation as a teacher, Mr. Wildermuth serves as the district advisor for the local Future Farmers of America Program. Given his dedication to his students and the rural community as a whole, it is no surprise that he stood out among more than 6,000 Hoosier teachers in over 70 school districts considered for this prestigious award. I am grateful that North Miami students have Mr. Wildermuth as a role model and mentor. With his kind spirit and innovative teaching style, he is sure to keep his students engaged and focused not only on the lesson at hand but also on how the knowledge and skills they learn each day will benefit them in their future. Mr. Wildermuth is a gifted educator in many ways, and his ability to connect with his students and enlighten them beyond the standard curriculum is where he truly makes a difference. He uplifts his students and teaches them how to grow as individuals with the confidence to succeed. He is a true inspiration to young Hoosiers and a truly valued leader in our community. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of 2nd District Hoosiers, I want to thank Mr. Wildermuth for all he has done to educate, support, and guide his students on the path to achievement. It is a privilege to represent teachers like Mr. Wildermuth who help make our communities vibrant and our children's futures bright

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Indiana's Rural Teacher of the Year, James Wildermuth of North Miami Community Schools. Mr. Wildermuth is well deserving of this high honor awarded by the Indiana Small and Rural Schools Association. He is truly an exceptional Hoosier educator who has had a profound impact on student achievement and who exemplifies leadership in a way that should inspire all of us. In addition to his 17 years as a teacher, Mr. Wildermuth also serves as a district adviser for the local Future Farmers of America program. I am grateful that North Miami's students have Mr. Wildermuth as a role model and a mentor, always keeping them not only engaged in the lesson at hand but focused on using these lessons to succeed in life. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Second District Hoosiers, I want to thank Mr. Wildermuth for all he does to educate, support, and guide his students on the path to achievement and to make our community stronger.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Holy Cross College. This institution has been a pillar of the northern Indiana community for a half century, and I have no doubt the next 50 years will be just as meaningful for students, faculty, alumni, and the northern Indiana community. Holy Cross College was founded in 1966 to advance the apostolic mission of the Brothers of Holy Cross. From the beginning, the college has been dedicated not only to fostering intellectual growth and discovery, but also to cultivating global citizens who are passionate, faithful, and courageous. Today, with more than 500 students from over 30 states and 18 different countries, Holy Cross College is putting its values of global diversity and integration into action, no doubt enriching the lives of each and every student. The prestigious faculty and hardworking staff at Holy Cross are committed to providing an engaging and transformative college experience, offering enlightenment in numerous areas of study, and instilling the values of knowledge, faith, and personal growth. Students at Holy Cross have vast opportunities to get involved on campus and in the community. The college has played a positive role in making northern Indiana a better place to live, learn, and grow. I applaud the selfless efforts students past and present have taken to give back to those in need. It is a privilege to represent the Holy Cross community in Congress. I am grateful for the passion, integrity, and intellectual spirit that resonates both on and off campus. On behalf of 2nd District Hoosiers, I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations on celebrating 50 years, and I am excited to learn of all the amazing things that are sure to come.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 2847) to make improvements to the John H. Chafee Foster Care Independence Program and related provisions.

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 2847.

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to support the Improving Services for Older Youth in Foster Care Act. In fiscal year 2015, almost 21,000 youth aged out of foster care, meaning they left foster care without a permanent family connection. Many of them are often poorly prepared for adulthood and lack some of the basic skills they need to be successful adults. Last year, the House passed the Family First Prevention Services Act, a bill that would improve the lives of children and families by making sure more children can stay safely at home and not enter foster care in the first place, helping to make sure fewer children age out of care. The bill also updated the John H. Chafee Foster Care Independence Program to allow States to assist older former foster youth up to the age of 23, including providing education and training vouchers, to help those young people who do age out to have a better future. Unfortunately, it did not pass the Senate, so it never became law. I am glad my good friend, Mr. Faso, introduced the Improving Services for Older Youth in Foster Care Act to highlight the needs of these older youth, and I know many will benefit from the changes made by his bill. Specifically, this bill would support older youth leaving foster care by allowing existing funds used for financial housing, counseling, and employment support to support older youth leaving care. It would also allow HHS to redistribute unspent funds if a State has money remaining at the end of the fiscal year so more youth can be helped with existing resources. And through this bill, we will also be able to learn more about youth leaving foster care and their outcomes, which will help us develop better policies in the years ahead. I am grateful for the opportunity we have today to support this bill. I encourage my colleagues to support this legislation. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Faso), the sponsor of this bill.

Mrs. WALORSKI. I yield an additional 30 seconds to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Faso).

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Franks), my good friend.

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, having no other speakers, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve the balance of my time.

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I want to thank Mr. Faso and Mr. Reed from New York and Ms. Bass from California for introducing this important bill, and I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes.'' Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.