Statements For the Record

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Minnesota's vibrant Somali-American community and the many cultural, economic and social contributions members make to our state as they begin preparations to celebrate 2017 Somali Independence Day week next summer in Saint Paul and Minneapolis.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Saint Paul District on 150 years of service to residents of Minnesota and the entire upper Mississippi region. The Saint Paul district has, over the past century-and-a-half, conserved our aquatic habitats, managed the effects of drought and flood damage, provided outdoor recreation areas for the public, and ensured that the products and services produced in our region have the ability to be transported safely via our waterways. This is only to name a few of the critical tasks performed by the U.S.

Mr. Speaker, my dear friend, Frank J. Indihar, MD passed away on October 23, 2016. He leaves a legacy of both medical excellence and committed service to my community, the state of Minnesota, and our nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge. Established in 1976, this refuge managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service provides vital habitat for migratory water fowl, fish and other species. The Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a wonderful example of Minnesota's commitment to conservation and the environment.

Mr. Speaker, on May 3, 2014, our former House colleague and dear friend, Chairman Jim Oberstar, passed away. Congressman Oberstar served Minnesota and the families of the 8^th Congressional District from 1975 to 2011, including four years as chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Prior to being elected, Jim served in the U.S. House for eleven years as a senior staff member on the Public Works Committee.