Honoring the Legacy of Central Washington Veterans

Central Washington has given rise to brave men and women who have fearlessly stepped forward to safeguard the principles that define us as a nation.

This past Memorial Day, celebrations all over our region occurred to honor the fallen soldiers who served our nation.

On Saturday afternoon, veterans, residents, and public officials gathered for the dedication of the new "Vietnam Veterans Memorial Highway" located on Highway 20 in Okanogan County. This highway will honor the over 183,000 Vietnam War veterans currently residing in Washington.

In Brewster, the community honored two fallen heroes: Marvin E. Galbraith and John Timothy Lane—two childhood friends who gave their lives during the Vietnam War. Lance Corporal Marvin E. Galbraith tragically lost his life to a landmine while Private First-Class John Timothy Lane fearlessly sacrificed himself by throwing his body on an enemy grenade to protect his fellow soldiers. These two brave men dutifully sacrificed themselves for our nation and bring honor to Central Washington.

Our very own District Gold Star Fellow, Hank Cramer, also delivered the keynote speech at the Gold Star Memorial Service at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake. He advised the group to "be the kind of American worth dying for"—wise words that we should all take to heart.

Let us inspire the younger generation to uphold the torch of freedom and to protect the ideals that Central Washington's heroes fought valiantly to secure. It is our responsibility to ensure that their sacrifices were not in vain, that the legacy they entrusted to us remains intact, and that the flame of liberty never falters.

Uncovering the CCP's Nefarious Activity on U.S. Soil

Last week, the Department of Justice (DOJ) charged two men affiliated with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) who attempted to bribe a public official as part of a scheme to topple the persecuted faith group, Falun Gong.

John Chen, a 70-year-old U.S. citizen born in China, and Lin Feng, a Chinese citizen aged 43, attempted to “manipulate the IRS Whistleblower Program, through bribery and deceit,” in an attempt to strip a Falun Gong-run entity of its tax-exempt status, according to court filings unsealed on May 26.

On May 14, the pair met with an undercover agent who posed as an IRS official in a restaurant, promising to pay a total of $50,000 to open an audit on the Falun Gong-related entity.

Let me be clear—the United States should be a safe haven from persecution, not a hunting ground for authoritarians. This is just another example of how the CCP attempts to undermine our sovereignty and silence all dissent, even on our soil.

From secret police stations and safe houses, to the targeting of Chinese Americans and others the CCP labels “dissidents”, to this attempt to bribe a government official targeting U.S.-based practitioners of Falun Gong, Congress and all levels of law enforcement need to help protect groups targeted by the CCP and continue to shut down these espionage operations on American soil.

As a member of the House Select Committee on the CCP, I will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that the United States stands strong against the acts of aggression from the CCP.

Commending Central Washington's Future Military Members

Congratulations to the five Central Washington students on their well-deserved military academy appointments!

I am truly inspired by the unwavering dedication displayed by these exceptional students chosen to serve at our nation's esteemed military academies. Their remarkable academic achievements, active participation in our communities, and unwavering patriotism prove them to be outstanding representatives from Central Washington.

Bradley Gorham of Kennewick, Caleb Craddock of Okanogan, Caleb Combs of Kennewick, Luke Binfet of Grandview, and Luke Roskelley of Pasco have all accepted their respective appointments and look forward to dutifully and honorably serving our country.

May your journeys as future leaders in the United States military be filled with triumph and a profound sense of pride. Central Washington is proud of you!

Expanding Consumer Choice for Beer and Wine Delivery

Last week, I introduced the USPS Shipping Equity Act to end the Prohibition-era ban that prevents the United States Postal Service (USPS) from shipping alcoholic beverages to consumers.

This legislation will allow USPS to ship directly from licensed producers and retailers over the age of 21, in accordance with state and local laws at the delivery location. This bill is critical in leveling the playing field and increasing consumer and manufacturer choice while bringing in millions of dollars in revenue each year.

While other carriers deliver alcoholic beverages directly to consumers, current law prohibits USPS from taking similar action. Allowing USPS to deliver wine, beer, and spirits produced across our great nation provides another option for shipping carriers.

This is extremely beneficial to small craft breweries and locally owned wineries, especially in rural regions like Central Washington, who struggle to gain market access. The time has come for us to shatter these barriers and unlock the tremendous potential of the wine and alcoholic beverage industry.

This crucial legislation has the potential to create opportunity for the wine, beer, and spirits landscape, foster economic growth, and empower consumers and businesses alike.

Preparing for Wildfire Season

It's wildfire season, Central Washington!

Remember, it's important to follow the guidance of local authorities and stay updated on the latest information regarding wildfires in your area. Stay safe!

Highlighting Student Art

Starting this weekend, Tieton Arts and Humanities is hosting their student arts show.

Located at the Mighty Tieton Warehouse Gallery, students aged K-12 from Highland, Naches Valley and West Valley school districts will be showing their art. Fun for the whole family, the exhibit will be available to the public until July 15.