David Young

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Bud Holtz of Avoca, Iowa on the very special occasion of his 100th birthday. Bud celebrated his birthday on February 7, 2018. Our world has changed a great deal during the course of Bud's life. Since his birth, we have revolutionized air travel and walked on the moon. We have invented the television, cellular phones and the internet. We have fought in wars overseas, seen the rise and fall of Soviet communism and witnessed the birth of new democracies. Bud has lived through eighteen United States Presidents and twenty-five Governors of Iowa. In his lifetime, the population of the United States has more than tripled. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to represent Bud in the United States Congress and it is my pleasure to wish him a very happy 100th birthday. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating Bud on reaching this incredible milestone, and wishing him even more health and happiness in the years to come.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Sheila Kunze of Lewis, Iowa on her retirement as the Cass County Clerk of Court. Sheila began her duties in the Clerk's office in 1979, and has served the citizens of Cass County for almost 39 years. Appointed as the Cass County Clerk of Court in 2001, Sheila said when she joined the Clerk's office she was hired as an office clerk. During her 39 years of service she has witnessed many changes in the office and the way records are kept. Today, almost everything is electronically filed, but the office still handles some paper forms. Sheila said the greatest part of her job was ``working with all the people, I've met a lot of people over the years, and made a lot of friends.'' Mr. Speaker, Sheila has made a difference in her community by helping and serving others. I am honored to recognize her today and I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in applauding her accomplishments and in wishing her nothing but the best in her retirement.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Shawn Thompson of Sidney, Iowa for receiving the 2017 Iowa Football Coaches Association John Taft Memorial Junior High Award. Shawn is the junior high football coach at Sidney High School in Sidney, Iowa. Shawn was nominated by Sidney High School Head Coach Donnie Sears. Coach Sears said, ``Shawn had four undefeated seasons and four additional seasons with just one loss. But, his impact goes far beyond the field.'' Shawn goes above and beyond to help his struggling students; he arrives very early in the morning at school to tutor them and help them set up appointments with other teachers to help with their studies. Shawn said, ``I was shocked when I found out and wondered, why me? My biggest thought was and still is, why am I being rewarded for doing something I love to do. Coaching is very rewarding to me.'' Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Shawn for receiving this outstanding award. He is a shining example of how hard work and dedication can affect the future of our youth. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating Shawn and in wishing him nothing but continued success in all his future endeavors.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Ann and Rex Walters of Beaconsfield, Iowa, on the very special occasion of their 60th wedding anniversary. They were married on January 26, 1958 in Mount Ayr, Iowa. Ann and Rex's lifelong commitment to each other and their family truly embodies our Iowa values. As they reflect on their 60th anniversary, may their commitment grow even stronger, as they continue to love, cherish, and honor one another for many years to come. Mr. Speaker, I commend this great couple on their 60th year together and I wish them many more. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating them on this momentous occasion and in wishing them both nothing but continued success.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Bill Ballenger of Council Bluffs, Iowa for his leadership and vision in helping organize 13 honor flights that have taken nearly 3,500 Iowa veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit memorials that were built in their honor. Bill and his son Jeff saw a need to honor our country's aging veterans from World War II, the Korean War, and Vietnam War. The Ballengers have partnered with HyVee, Inc., Casey's General Stores, and others to raise more than $3 million to fund this special endeavor. Carol Hagberg's father, the late James Snook, who was a World War II veteran said, ``Dad felt so honored and privileged. We heard about the wonderful time he had over and over on the flight. He was very proud to have served his country.'' Mr. Speaker, I applaud and congratulate Bill on his incredible efforts to organize and fund the 13 honor flights for our veterans. I am proud to represent him in the United States Congress. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating Bill and in wishing him nothing but the very best.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Bill Pavkov of Hastings, Iowa for his dedicated service to our country in World War II and the Korean War. Bill turned 90 in 2017 and has the rare distinction of serving his country in two wars. Bill was born and raised in Doylestown, Ohio. He left school in the l0th grade to join the U.S. Army Transport Service in 1944. He was only 17 years old and his father had to give his permission in order for Bill to serve. Bill was aboard Army Transport ships that delivered both troops and supplies around the world. After his service to our country, Bill returned to Ohio, married and began his career as an over-the-road semi-truck driver. In 1960, Bill and his family moved to Iowa where he started farming and continued driving trucks. He served his community as a volunteer firefighter and as Mayor of Hastings. When Bill retired in the 1990s he had logged 52 years as a truck driver and 30 years as a farmer. Mr. Speaker, I commend and congratulate Bill for his many years of dedicated and devoted service to the United States of America, his family, and his community. It is with great honor that I recognize him today. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in applauding his service as a veteran and in wishing him and his family nothing but the best.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Bonnie and Daryl Haynes of Prescott, Iowa on the very special occasion of their 70th wedding anniversary. They celebrated their anniversary on January 18, 2018. Bonnie and Daryl's lifelong commitment to each other and their family truly embodies Iowa values. As they reflect on their 70th anniversary, may their commitment grow even stronger, as they continue to love, cherish, and honor one another for many years to come. Mr. Speaker, I commend this great couple on their 70th year together and I wish them many more. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating them on this momentous occasion.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Dan Flores of Council Bluffs, Iowa, on his recent retirement as a Lieutenant with the Council Bluffs Police Department after 36 years of service. Dan began his career with the Council Bluffs Police Department in 1981. Dan said he could sum up his career by using one word, ``service'', and said it has been an honor and privilege to be part of the Council Bluffs Police Department. Dan grew up in northern Iowa and attended Minnesota State University where he received his Bachelor's Degree. Council Bluffs Police Chief Tim Carmody said, ``the scope of Dan's career is a testament of how officers have a true investment in their communities. It's been a heartwarming experience and an adventure.'' Mr. Speaker, I applaud and congratulate Dan on his retirement and career. Dan has made a difference by helping and serving others. It is with great honor that I recognize him today. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in honoring his accomplishments and in wishing him nothing but the best in his retirement.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Dr. Robert Fryzek of Glenwood, Iowa on his retirement as a practicing physician. Dr. Fryzek has served the Glenwood area for the past 54 years, practicing general family medicine and received the respect, trust, and loyalty of his patients who called him ``a working man's doctor.'' Dr. Fryzek graduated from Central High School in Omaha, Nebraska in 1952. He received his bachelor's degree from Creighton University in Omaha and earned his medical degree from the University of Nebraska in 1960. Dr. Fryzek served his internship at Wesley Hospital in Wichita, Kansas and spent two years at the Western Shoshone Duck Valley Indian Reservation in Owee, Nevada before moving to Glenwood, Iowa in 1963 to start his local practice. Dr. Fryzek offered weekend hours, treated patients at the local nursing home on his days off, served as the County Medical Examiner, and volunteered as the team doctor for Glenwood High School. He is a one-of-a-kind doctor who went above and beyond for his patients and community. Mr. Speaker, I commend and congratulate Dr. Fryzek on his retirement and thank him for his many years of dedicated and devoted service to the citizens of Glenwood. I am proud to represent him in the United States Congress and I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating him for his many accomplishments and in wishing him and his family nothing but the best.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Gordon Kokenge of Clarinda, Iowa who recently retired after twenty-eight years of service to the City of Clarinda as a member of the City Council and as Mayor. Gordon was elected in l988 to the City Council and as Mayor in 2005. Gordon has served Clarinda with honor, dedication, and with determination to improve the lives of every citizen. During his tenure he has been a leading force in economic development in Clarinda to help develop new industries and help save local companies that have now prospered and expanded. Many citizens in Clarinda supported Gordon because of his insight, knowledge, commitment to the city, and his concern for the city's budget. He has a reputation of working for the good of the city. Clarinda City Manager Gary McClarnon said, ``Gordon has been a very good leader for the city and will be remembered as a great leader for the city during his time as a City Councilman and Mayor.'' Mr. Speaker, I applaud and congratulate Gordon for taking an active role in his community. Gordon's commitment is not only for Clarinda but for all of Southwest Iowa. I am proud to represent him in the United States Congress and I ask that my colleagues in the House of Representatives join me in congratulating him for his service and wishing him nothing but continued success.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Jeff Ballenger of Council Bluffs, Iowa for his leadership and vision in helping organize 13 honor flights that have taken nearly 3,500 Iowa veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit memorials built in their honor. Jeff and his father, Bill Ballenger, saw a need to honor our country's aging veterans from World War II, the Korean War, and Vietnam War. The Ballengers have partnered with HyVee, Inc., Casey's General Stores, and others to raise more than $3 million to fund this special endeavor. Jeff said, ``It takes nearly 200 volunteers to help make each honor flight a success. Dad and I might be the front, but we could not do it without the volunteers who are so important in turning the plans into a reality.'' Mr. Speaker, I applaud and congratulate Jeff on his dedication and diligence to promote, organize, and fund the 13 honor flights for our Veterans. I am proud to represent him in the United States Congress. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating Jeff and in wishing him nothing but continued success in all his endeavors.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Jess and Chase Weller, of Weller Farms. They were recently awarded the Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Award by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Iowa Department of Natural Resources, and the Iowa Governor's office. They were nominated for this award because of their implementation of soil health and conservation practices on their farming operation. They have recognized improved water quality and soil sustainability is important for not only their business but also for the farmers working and living near them and the citizens of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Jess and Chase Weller for this award, and for working hard to make sure Iowa is a quality place to farm and live for many years to come. I am proud to represent them in the United States Congress and ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating the Wellers and wishing them nothing but continued success.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Isabel Lathrum of Winterset, Iowa, on the very special occasion of her 102nd birthday on February 26, 2018. Our world has changed a great deal during the course of Isabel's life. Since her birth, we have revolutionized air travel and walked on the moon. We have invented the television, cellular phones, and the internet. We have fought in wars overseas, seen the rise and fall of Soviet communism, and witnessed the birth of new democracies. Isabel has lived through nineteen United States Presidents and twenty-four Governors of Iowa. In her lifetime, the population of the United States has more than tripled. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to represent Isabel in the United States Congress and I'm proud to recognize her today on this momentous occasion. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating her and in wishing her nothing but continued happiness.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Nola and Walt Pritchard of Clarinda, Iowa on the very special occasion of their 65th wedding anniversary. They celebrated their anniversary on December 23, 2017. Nola and Walt's lifelong commitment to each other and their family truly embodies Iowa values. As they reflect on their 65th anniversary, may their commitment grow even stronger, as they continue to love, cherish, and honor one another for many years to come. Mr. Speaker, I commend this great couple on their 65th year together and I wish them many more. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating them on this momentous occasion and in wishing them nothing but the best.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Clayton Saeugling of Atlantic, Iowa, for receiving the American Future Farmers of America Degree Award. The American Future Farmers of America (FFA) Degree is the highest honor an FFA member can achieve. According to Eric Miller, FFA Advisor at the Atlantic High School, ``less than one percent of the 653,359 FFA members will receive this prestigious award.'' In earning this degree, Clayton had to earn and invest at least $10,000 through a supervised agricultural program that he started, owned, and in which he held a professional position. He also had to complete 50 hours of community service, demonstrating his community commitment and leadership skills. FFA Advisor Eric Miller further added, ``I am very proud of Clayton and all his hard work he has put into his project and his education.'' Clayton said, ``getting my American FFA Degree was a once in a lifetime experience that I am glad I could be a part of. All of the time and hard work that I have put into FFA was well worth it.'' Mr. Speaker, I applaud and congratulate Clayton for earning this award and it is with great pride that I recognize him today. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating him and in wishing him nothing but continued success.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Jean and Kenneth Polsley of Blanchard, Iowa on the very special occasion of their 50th wedding anniversary. They celebrated their anniversary on December 23, 2017. Jean and Kenneth's lifelong commitment to each other and their family truly embodies Iowa values. As they reflect on their 50th anniversary, may their commitment grow even stronger, as they continue to love, cherish, and honor one another for many years to come. Mr. Speaker, I commend this great couple on their 50th year together and I wish them many more. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating them on this momentous occasion.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Rev. Richard Blodgett of Council Bluffs, Iowa on his recent retirement as the Pastor of Emanuel Church of the Nazarene. Rev. Blodgett has served his congregation for over 31 years. Originally from Wisconsin, Rev. Blodgett and his family have made Council Bluffs their home for the past three decades. After high school, he studied to become a teacher and wrestling coach, but he said it just did not feel right. He entered Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Illinois. After graduating, Rev. Blodgett began his work in Dubuque, Iowa before answering the call to serve in Council Bluffs. Rev. Blodgett plans to stay active in the community by volunteering with his spiritual experience at Fox Run Assisted Living, Jeannie Edmundson Hospital, and at the Iowa Share Food Program. Mr. Speaker, I commend and congratulate Rev. Blodgett for his 31 years of dedicated and devoted service to Emanuel Church of the Nazarene. He has made a difference by helping and serving others and it is with great pride that I recognize him today. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating him on his retirement and in wishing him nothing but the best.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Jacob Baudler, of Fontanelle, Iowa for earning the American FFA Degree. Jacob was recently awarded this degree at the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was a member of the Nodaway Valley FFA Organization and is the son of John and Darla Baudler. The American FFA Degree is awarded to members who have demonstrated the highest level of commitment to FFA and made significant accomplishments in their supervised agricultural experience. Jacob had to meet certain requirements, such as studying agriculture for three years in high school, earning money in an agriculture field and investing that money into their business, participation in community service and having a record of outstanding leadership ability and community involvement. The work toward this degree involved many years of hard work and dedication in agricultural pursuits. Mr. Speaker, it is a profound honor to represent leaders like Jacob in the United States Congress and it is with great pride that I recognize and applaud him for utilizing his talents to reach his goals. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating Jacob on receiving this esteemed designation and in wishing him the best of luck in all his future endeavors.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Bill Hillman of Shenandoah, Iowa on his selection as the 2017 Outstanding Individual Leader, awarded by the Iowa Tourism Office and Travel Federation of Iowa. Bill received this honor for his work with the Everly Brothers Childhood Home, Wabash Trace Nature Trail and many other community activities. Bill has worked tirelessly in promoting economic development and tourism opportunities in Shenandoah and the surrounding communities. Through Bill's determination and dedication, and with the use of his time and resources, he has had a direct impact on the economic future of Shenandoah. Mr. Speaker, Bill has made a difference by helping and serving his community. It is with great honor that I recognize him today. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in honoring his accomplishments and in wishing him nothing but continued success.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Cleo Hawthorne of Atlantic, Iowa, on the very special occasion of celebrating his 105th birthday on December 31, 2017. Our world has changed a great deal during the course of Cleo's life. Since his birth, we have revolutionized air travel and walked on the moon. We have invented the television, cellular phones, and the internet. We have fought in wars overseas, seen the rise and fall of Soviet communism, and witnessed the birth of new democracies. Cleo has lived through nineteen United States Presidents and twenty-four Governors of Iowa. In his lifetime, the population of the United States has more than tripled. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to represent Cleo in the United States Congress and I'm proud to recognize him today on this momentous occasion. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating him and in wishing nothing but the best.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Darlene and Donald Wimmer. They were awarded the 49th Annual Community Christmas Candle in December 2017 at the Afton Methodist Church. Service to their community and their church began over 70 years ago. Donald has served as a key leader at the Arispe Methodist Church for years and has served on the Food for Life committee. Darlene taught Bible and Sunday school for many years while Donald also outfitted his barn so Arispe kids had a place to play basketball. They have both also volunteered their time at Greater Regional Medical Center and with hospice. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Darlene and Donald for receiving this award and I am proud to represent them in the United States Congress. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating Darlene and Donald and in wishing them both nothing but the best.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Karla and Bill Livingston on the very special occasion of their 60th wedding anniversary on December 30, 2017. Karla and Bill's lifelong commitment to each other and their family truly embodies Iowa values. As they reflect on their 60th anniversary may their commitment grow even stronger, as they continue to love, cherish, and honor one another for many years to come. Mr. Speaker, I commend this great couple on their 60 years together and I wish them many more. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating them on this momentous occasion.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Betty and Ronald Conley of Mount Ayr, Iowa, on the very special occasion of their 60th wedding anniversary. They celebrated their anniversary on January 3, 2018. Betty and Ronald's lifelong commitment to each other and their family truly embodies our Iowa values. As they reflect on their 60th anniversary, may their commitment grow even stronger, as they continue to love, cherish, and honor one another for many years to come. Mr. Speaker, I commend this great couple on their 60 years together and I wish them many more. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating them on this momentous occasion and in wishing them both nothing but continued success.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate John Reasoner of Creston, Iowa for being named Creston Youth of the Year for 2017. John is the son of Mike and Margaret Reasoner. John has participated in numerous activities during his time at Creston Community High School. He has been active in choir, band, winter drumline, speech and musicals. He has also spent three years on the student body government and this year as the student body President. He credits his parents, family and some great teachers for his success as a student. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to represent community leaders like John in the United States Congress and it is with great pride that I recognize him today. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating John for this outstanding recognition and in wishing him nothing but continued success.

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa

Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Makayla McMann. Makayla was recently named a winner of the Uncommon Students Award. The award is given through the Hoover Presidential Library-Museum in West Branch, Iowa. The Uncommon Student Award program annually identifies and honors up to 15 Iowa high school juniors who propose and accomplish a project of their own design. Makayla created and implemented a day camp in the small town of Villisca, Iowa. The camp ran for five weeks and served students in kindergarten through sixth grade. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Makayla for this award and I am proud to represent her in the United States Congress. I ask that my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives join me in congratulating Makayla for receiving this outstanding award and in wishing her nothing but continued success.