The Great State of Iowa

Floor Speech

Date: May 15, 2024
Location: Washington, DC

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of my home State of Iowa being ranked the sixth overall State to live in.

Scoring third in opportunity and in the top 10 for education, Iowa has proven that regardless of where you come from or where you are going, you can find success in the Hawkeye State.

Looking for a great place to study? Iowa has some of the Nation's top schools. Want to buy a house and start a family? Iowa is one of the most affordable States to live in and a beautiful State to raise a family.

Want to start a new career? Iowa is home to several booming industries, entrepreneurship flourishes, and we would be happy to have you.

Iowa is historically known for being a farming State, but recently our State has emerged as one of the Nation's leaders in clean energy production.

In Iowa, the American Dream is alive, well, and waiting for you. God bless the Hawkeye State. celebrating national teacher appreciation day

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Day, which took place this past Tuesday on May 7.

America's teachers are heroes who take on the monumental task of shaping our Nation's future leaders with the utmost grandeur and grit.

Growing up, we never forget those teachers who have left a marked impact on our lives and mentor us through the grueling process of maturation.

As a matter of fact, I remember my second grade teacher, Ms. Tenniswood in Michigan, who helped me to know that I was special enough to one day achieve my dreams.

Thanks to the tireless efforts of America's teachers, our upcoming generation stands poised to confront the complexities of the future with resilience and readiness.

Iowa is home to over 35,000 teachers who play a key role in the future of our State. As we honor their invaluable contributions, let us unite in recognition of their dedication and pray for their continued success in nurturing the youth and steering the course of America's future.

Together, let us commit to supporting and uplifting our educators who are the bedrock of our society. national nurses week

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Nurses Week, which takes place from May 6 to May 12 every year.

In 1974, President Nixon declared that one week in May should be dedicated to our amazing nurses. Then in 1993, the American Nurses Association board of directors declared that May 6 through May 12 would be the official dates, coinciding with National Nurses Day on May 6 and Florence Nightingale's birthday on May 12.

As someone who has dedicated their life to healthcare and public service and was a former nurse before becoming a physician and married to a nurse, I can confidently say that our nurses are community heroes. The sacrifices they make for the well-being of our communities are commendable.

Let's take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to these dedicated healthcare heroes and thank them for their unwavering care and compassion. celebrating national police week

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of National Police Week. National Police Week stands as a beacon of honor, remembrance, and solidarity, allowing us to pay homage to the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

Since its inception in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy, this week holds profound significance as we commemorate Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15 and the surrounding days as Police Week.

It is a time when tens of thousands of law enforcement officers, survivors, and citizens converge on our Nation's Capital to partake in events that honor and remember our fallen heroes.

National Police Week isn't just a commemoration; it is a testament to the resilience and dedication of those who wear the badge. It is a reminder that the sacrifices made by our law enforcement officers will never be forgotten.

Let us stand together in gratitude and solidarity, honoring the heroes who have given their all for the safety and well-being of others. In Iowa, we will always back the blue. Honoring Coach Lisa Bluder

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the incomparable career and influence of Iowa women's basketball Coach Lisa Bluder, who announced her retirement from coaching this week.

In her 24-year career coaching the Hawkeyes, she has led the team to five Big 10 tournament championships and two Final Fours. She is finishing her tenure as the Big Ten's winningest women's basketball coach of all time. Her wide-ranging influence over women's basketball is undeniable, and her time spent mentoring and molding young women into this generation's elite assembly of athletes is worthy of the utmost commendation.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Coach Bluder's immaculate career and in wishing her well on a well-earned retirement.

As always, go Hawkeyes, and I congratulate Coach Bluder.

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