[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 28 (Tuesday, February 10, 2026)]
[House]
[Page H2106]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
RECOGNIZING JOSHUA HOBSON
(Mr. Mackenzie of Pennsylvania was recognized to address the House
for 5 minutes.)
Mr. MACKENZIE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Officer Joshua
Hobson of the Bethlehem Police Department for an act of service that
reflects the very best of our law enforcement.
While working an overtime shift, Officer Hobson responded to a call
that was first reported as a burglary. It turned out to be an 88-year-
old resident who was deeply concerned about the lock on her front door,
and she no longer felt safe in her own home.
After inspecting the door, Officer Hobson realized that the lock had
been improperly installed. Instead of just filing a report and moving
along, he took it upon himself to go to a local store, purchase a
proper lock, and install it himself, giving this resident the peace of
mind that she had been missing.
This story is just one example of the many behind-the-scenes ways
that our local law enforcement serves their communities every single
day. Officer Hobson's actions reflect the care, professionalism, and
compassion that define the men and women who protect our communities.
I am grateful for Officer Hobson and for the men and women of the
Bethlehem Police Department who work every day to keep our communities
safe.
Recognizing Kate Gilchrist
Mr. MACKENZIE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kate Gilchrist,
a senior at Parkland High School and a resident of Orefield, for an
extraordinary achievement.
Kate was recently selected as an Emerging Young Artist awardee, 1 of
just 15 nationwide whose work will be displayed prominently here in
Washington, D.C. This program highlights talented artists with
disabilities and supports their growth in the creative economy.
Kate's work reflects creativity, confidence, and resilience, and her
selection is a testament to her talent and determination. It is
inspiring to see a young person from our community be recognized on the
national stage for telling her story through art.
As a fellow Parkland Trojan, I congratulate Kate, her family, and her
teachers, and I wish her continued success as she pursues her passion
and future opportunities.
Recognizing Mario Landino
Mr. MACKENZIE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mario Landino,
a graduate of Emmaus High School, for representing our community on one
of football's biggest stages.
Mario recently played in the College Football National Championship
as a member of the Indiana University Hoosiers, starting on the
defensive line as his team captured the national title.
Back home in Emmaus, where I reside, friends, former teammates,
coaches, and neighbors came together to cheer him on, a testament to
the character and leadership that Mario has shown, both on and off the
field.
Mario's success reflects the hard work, discipline, and values
instilled by his family, coaches, and community. I congratulate him on
this incredible achievement and wish him all of the best and continued
success in the years that lie ahead.
Honoring the Life and Service of Jim VanWert
Mr. MACKENZIE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and
service of Jim VanWert, a dedicated member of the Lower Macungie Fire
Department, who recently passed away after 45 years of service to our
community.
Jim devoted his life to protecting others, serving in many roles over
the decades, including nearly 25 years as assistant fire chief.
Jim's leadership, experience, and commitment helped to shape the
department and mentor generations of firefighters. For nearly half a
century, Jim answered the call whenever his neighbors needed help. His
service reflects the dedication and sacrifice that define fire
departments across our region.
I extend my deepest condolences to Jim's family, his fellow
firefighters, and the entire Lower Macungie community. As a Lower
Macungie resident, I thank Jim for his service and the sacrifice that
he gave.
Jim will never be forgotten, and I am grateful for the example that
he has set for all of those who serve.
Recognizing Kevin Cahill
Mr. MACKENZIE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kevin Cahill,
head coach of the Lehigh University football team, for earning the
Eddie Robinson Award, presented to the top head coach in the Football
Championship Subdivision, or FCS.
This national honor reflects Coach Cahill's leadership in building
Lehigh football and restoring a championship culture. Under his
guidance, the Mountain Hawks captured back-to-back Patriot League
titles, earned consecutive FCS playoff appearances, and completed an
undefeated regular season.
Beyond the wins, Coach Cahill has built a program centered on
discipline, teamwork, and student-athlete leadership, values that will
reflect the very best of the Lehigh University community.
I congratulate Coach Cahill, his staff, and all of the student-
athletes on this well-deserved recognition, and I thank them for
representing Bethlehem and the Lehigh Valley with excellence, both on
and off the field.
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