Statements For the Record

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.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the passage of the 1968 National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, signed into law 45 years ago by President Lyndon Johnson. This landmark legislation has resulted in the protection of more than 100 rivers, including Minnesota's Saint Croix River. Across the country, these beautiful riverways cross many political boundaries and state boarders, uniting Americans in appreciation of our natural heritage.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor National Park Service staff, volunteers and partners of the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (MNRRA) on the 25th anniversary of its establishment as a national park. This 72-mile park corridor, winding northwest to southeast through the Saint Paul-Minneapolis metropolitan area, crosses some of the most naturally, culturally, economically and nationally significant areas in the United States. It is the only national park dedicated exclusively to the Mississippi River.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to the congregation of Saint Peter Lutheran Church of Afton, Minnesota on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the church. Since its founding by German settlers in 1863, the church has served as a center of faith and community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my profound sympathy for the loss of life and destruction in the Philippines caused by Typhoon Haiyan.

Ten thousand people are feared to be dead. More than nine million people are estimated to have been affected, including 650,000 who have been displaced. In some of the hardest hit areas, the typhoon destroyed 70-80 percent of the structures in its path, severely hampering rescue and relief efforts for the millions in need.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Planned Parenthood of Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota (PPMNS) on the 85th anniversary of its founding.

In 1928, Minnesota's first clinic was established, providing women with access to reproductive care. Since then, additional clinics in Minnesota, South Dakota, and North Dakota have opened ensuring women, men and their families have access to affordable, comprehensive care. Each year, more than 60,000 patients access a broad range of health services including preventative screenings, reproductive care, and routine exams.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Minnesota Lynx for winning their second WNBA title in three years.

The Lynx entered the play-offs with the WNBA’s best record, 26-8, and a starting line-up that boasted four all-stars and three gold medalists. They were undefeated through all seven post-season games, sweeping the Seattle Storm, Phoenix Mercury and the Atlanta Dream, to win their second title.