[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 147 (Tuesday, September 12, 2023)]
[House]
[Page H4236]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    HERKY THE HAWK CELEBRATES 75 YEARS AS UNIVERSITY OF IOWA MASCOT

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from 
Iowa (Mrs. Miller-Meeks) for 5 minutes.
  Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Herky the 
Hawk, who this August celebrated 75 years as the beloved mascot of the 
University of Iowa.
  Herky embodies the spirit of the University of Iowa, representing the 
determination, resilience, and unwavering commitment of its students, 
alumni, and supporters. With his distinctive black and gold feathers, 
imposing stature, and fierce countenance, Herky exudes an unmistakable 
aura of Hawkeye pride. His presence at sporting events, campus 
gatherings, and community outreach activities has created countless 
memories and fostered a sense of camaraderie among Hawkeye fans young 
and old.
  As we celebrate Herky's 75th year as the University of Iowa's mascot, 
we not only honor a beloved icon but also recognize the enduring 
values, unity, and pride that make the University of Iowa a special 
place.
  Here is to Herky, a symbol of excellence and Hawkeye spirit for 
generations to come.


Congratulating Kalayna Durr, 2023 Iowa State Fair Queen

  Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kalayna 
Durr of New London in Henry County, Iowa, for being crowned the 2023 
Iowa State Fair Queen this past August.
  The annual Iowa State Fair Queen competition takes place during the 
Iowa State Fair as county queens from across the State compete for the 
coveted crown. Judging is based on personality, leadership, attitude, 
citizenship, contribution to the community, as well as overall 
appearance, demeanor, and poise. After 5 days of workshops, 
evaluations, and interviews, Kalayna was able to beat out 103 other 
contestants for the title.
  In addition to the well-deserved crown, Kalayna Durr's triumph comes 
with substantial awards, including $8,000 in scholarships, a $600 gift 
card, a pair of cowboy boots, exquisite diamond earrings, an Iowa State 
Fair brick, and, of course, a sash that signifies her role as the 
State's ambassador of agriculture and community.
  Her reign promises to be a symbol of grace, intelligence, and 
leadership as she represents Iowa and its cherished traditions 
throughout her term as the Iowa State Fair Queen.
  Congratulations to Kalayna Durr on this outstanding accomplishment.

                              {time}  1230


                     Rest In Peace K9 Officer Kurly

  Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize retired 
K9 Officer Kurly who passed away at the age of 12 due to natural causes 
in August. Kurly served alongside Corporal Brian Schertz for 9 years in 
the Davenport Police Department.
  Kurly was more than just a dedicated member of the department. She 
was a beloved member of the community who worked tirelessly in the 
patrol division and contributed to countless cases on both sides of the 
river. In retirement, Kurly enjoyed long walks, playing, and spending 
time with the Schertz family.
  As we bid farewell to this loyal and valiant K9 officer, we express 
our gratitude for her years of service to the community. Kurly's memory 
will live on in the hearts of those she protected and the lives of 
those she touched.
  May Kurly rest in peace. She will be deeply missed.


                       Iowa Football Kid Captains

  Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 2023 
Hawkeye football kid captains. Each season, the University of Iowa 
Stead Family Children's Hospital designates current or former patients 
as kid captains for each game of the football season.
  These kid captains, who have faced challenges that most of us can 
only imagine, will spend their game day immersed in the world of Iowa 
football, experiencing the excitement and camaraderie that comes with 
it. The highlight of their day, however, is the heartwarming wave they 
initiate, sending love and encouragement to the children at the 
hospital across the street. It is a simple gesture that carries 
immeasurable meaning, symbolizing their triumph over adversity and 
their enduring spirit of hope.
  This year's kid captains are Gracelyn Springer, Nile Kron, Maggie 
Larson, Gabby Ford, Wyatt Rannals, Max Schlee, Madi Ramirez, Bentley 
Erickson, Lincoln Veach, Chloe Dinkla, Cooper Estenson, and Nathan 
McDonald.
  As we cheer the Hawkeyes on the field this season, let us also take a 
moment to salute these kid captains. They are true champions.


  Two Iowans Returning Home After Circumnavigation to Eradicate Polio

  Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
extraordinary efforts of two Iowans, Peter Teahan and John Ockenfels, 
who returned home in August after circumnavigating the globe as part of 
Rotary International's End Polio Now initiative.
  Their journey started at the Eastern Iowa Airport, taking them 
through 19 countries on four continents. Along the way, they engaged 
with local leaders, sparking crucial discussions about their mission. 
Their unwavering dedication to eradicating polio and the impact of 
their journey led to over $1 million raised for Rotary's Polio Plus 
Program, which provides vital vaccines to those in need globally.
  This self-funded expedition, costing approximately $100,000, served 
as a poignant reminder that the fight against polio is ongoing, and 
their efforts have brought it one step closer to its end. With ongoing 
donations matched by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, their 
mission continues to inspire and uplift, emphasizing that hope knows no 
bounds when dedicated individuals join forces to make a difference.

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