Condemning Anti-Jewish Demonstrators on College Campuses

Floor Speech

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to condemn the anti- Semitic and anti-Jewish, pro-Hamas demonstrators who, amidst Passover, are wreaking havoc on campuses around the country and threatening violence against local Jewish communities and students.

Such violence is unacceptable anywhere, but to witness this at our universities is truly painful. Places of education are supposed to be of discourse and of learning and rising above, and all those who choose to attend deserve peace and respect.

My heart goes out to all of the Jewish students who no longer feel safe at American universities. They deserve better than this.

Mr. Speaker, the purveyors of anti-Semitism must be stopped. I ask my colleagues to join me in condemning these anti-Semitic protesters and continue the push to combat anti-Semitism and stand with our Jewish friends and neighbors. Recognizing Elivia Papcun's Equestrian Abilities

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commend Elivia Papcun, an Iowa native, who overcame a severe injury to become a top-ranked NCAA equestrian recruit.

Just a short while ago, Elivia had an accident that shook her to her core. As she rode her beloved horse, a moment of misfortune turned into a nightmare as her horse stumbled, leaving Elivia critically injured. The severity of her injuries left her unable to move, her very future hanging in the balance.

However, Elivia refused to give up. With each passing day, she fought tirelessly to reclaim her strength and through grueling rehabilitation and unwavering determination, she defied the odds and emerged stronger than ever before.

Elivia has recently reentered and committed to Texas Christian University. This commitment is akin to being recruited to play football at Alabama or Georgia in the equestrian world. It underscores not only Elivia's remarkable talent and dedication, but also the recognition of her potential by one of the top programs in the Nation.

Mr. Speaker, let us commend Elivia Papcun for her remarkable journey and wish her continued success as she embarks on this exciting new chapter. Recognizing 911 Operators Amy Kemner and Kris Decker

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Warren County 911 dispatchers Amy Kemner and Kris Decker for their 30 years of service to their community.

Despite the long shifts, difficult calls, and extended time away from family, Amy and Kris have remained dedicated to their work of ensuring the safety of Warren County residents.

While the average tenure of a dispatcher is only 7 years, Amy and Kris have taken pride in serving Warren County. Their long tenures, while an anomaly in their field, are a reminder of the worthwhile pursuit of community service.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Amy and Kris for their ever-present service to their community and thank them for being the front line of defense when emergency calls. Honoring Fire Chief Greg Chia on his Retirement

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the distinguished career of Indianola Fire Chief Greg Chia, who recently announced his retirement, which is set to take effect on December 31, 2024.

Chief Chia originally began his career in 1985 as a firefighter in Des Moines, and throughout his tenure worked up the ranks to reach chief officer.

In May 2015, Chief Chia was appointed to become the first fire chief for Indianola and has since led the response to multiple crises with poise and gravitas.

Under his leadership, the Indianola Fire Department has served as an illustrative example of top-notch community safety, and his absence will be felt by many.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues today to join me in celebrating Chief Chia's incredible career and his commitment to safety and in wishing him the best on a well-deserved retirement. Iowa City Farmers Market

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the return of the Iowa City Farmers Market for its 52nd year on May 4, and to congratulate Bill Lane on being appointed director of the Iowa City Farmers Market.

In recent years, the Iowa City Farmers Market has become a cultural staple in town with the market welcoming tens of thousands of residents yearly. The market puts Iowa's rich agricultural history on display for everyone with countless local vendors, serving a wide variety of Iowa's best agricultural products.

With live music and activities for everyone to enjoy as well, the Iowa City Farmers Market is sure to enjoy another amazing year as a preeminent venue for residents to shop, dine, and enjoy time with friends and family.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating this phenomenal Iowa City staple and, once again, congratulate director Bill Lane on what is sure to be another great year for the Iowa City Farmers Market.

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