[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 18 (Wednesday, January 31, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H322]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                        AMERICA'S CREDIT UNIONS

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Arizona (Mr. Ciscomani) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise to highlight the importance of 
America's credit unions and the opportunities they provide for our 
communities.
  Arizona is home to 35 credit unions with nearly 2 million members.
  Credit unions fill a unique role in the financial services 
marketplace as they serve communities that do not have access to banks 
or larger financial institutions.
  As not-for-profit financial cooperatives, credit unions exist to 
serve all their members without the involvement of shareholders or 
outside investors.
  I remember that a credit union was my first account that I ever 
opened.
  In stride, I want to recognize the new creation of America's Credit 
Unions. This organization unites the two existing national trade 
associations to create a single and strong voice promoting the ideals 
of credit unions across the country.
  Moreover, I wish now, with this statement, America's Credit Unions 
the best as they advocate for credit unions as a crucial financial 
option for all Americans.


                           CDO Football Team

  Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Canyon 
Del Oro football team for securing their first State football 
championship since 2009.
  Their victory took place at ASU's Mountain America Stadium in Tempe 
where they went up against Yuma Catholic and came out with the win with 
a score of 35-27. This marks CDO's return on the State football titles 
game after more than a decade.
  The 29 graduating seniors proudly brought the championship trophy 
home in their final year, contributing to the team's flawless 14-0 
record. It was their first perfect season since the last State 
championship in 2009. This remarkable accomplishment stands as a 
testament to the dedication and skill of the entire team.
  As we celebrate their success, we eagerly anticipate the bright 
future that lies ahead for our student athletes and the CDO football 
program.


                Honoring the Memory of Vern Pellman, Jr.

  Mr. CISCOMANI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Vern 
Pellman, Jr., as an esteemed member of the Oro Valley community who 
passed away last fall at the age of 82.
  Vern's life can be defined by faith, family, and service. He was a 
loving husband, devoted member of his church, and retired Air Force 
colonel. In 1963 Vern graduated from the University of Notre Dame where 
he was an active member of the ROTC.
  Following graduation, he was stationed with the Air Force at Vance 
Air Force Base in Oklahoma, a move that would kick-start a military 
career spanning nearly three decades. While he served for nearly 30 
years as a command pilot, Vern would tell people he never worked a day 
in his life.
  His assignments took him across the globe, flying in and out of 
destinations that many can only dream of. Upon retiring with the rank 
of colonel in 1992, Vern transitioned to civilian life taking on a new 
role at the Evergreen Airline and eventually going on to serve as a 
Lear instructor.
  He is remembered for his love for his family and leaves behind his 
wife, Connie, who is a dear friend of mine, as well; five children, 
whom I have met and who speak highly of their dad; and even more 
grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
  Laura and I continue to hold Connie and the entire Pellman family 
close to our hearts.

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