As I reflect back on Memorial Day 2024, I am reminded that our freedom is not free, and many paid the ultimate sacrifice. It is on this solemn and significant day that many across the country pay tribute to fallen heroes by visiting memorials, attending ceremonies, and gathering for parades to honor servicemembers. 

This past weekend wasn't just a "long weekend", it was a time to pay our respects to those in the armed services who sacrificed their lives for us. It is also essential to remember and honor their sacrifices every day, not just on special occasions.

On May 29th, 2024, Wisconsin celebrated its 176th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its rich history. Wisconsin was established in 1848 as the 30th state of the United States of America. 

Known as "America's Dairyland," Wisconsin boasts a thriving agricultural sector, producing some of the nation's finest dairy products. Such as cheese, milk and ice cream. Speaking of ice cream, the first ice cream sundae was created in Two Rivers, Wisconsin in 1881! 

Beyond agriculture, Wisconsin has a strong manufacturing market and employs approximately 481,000. This sector is important to our state's economy, producing over $70 billion in economic output annually. Wisconsin’s manufacturing spans various sectors, including machinery, food processing, fabricated metal products, and paper manufacturing, making it a vital contributor to the state's economic stability and growth.

Wisconsin offers so much and as a lifelong resident, I know how fortunate I am to call the Badger State home!

I want to provide a reminder that the annual Congressional App Challenge (CAC) is officially underway! The challenge presents an opportunity for middle and high school students in the Sixth District to showcase their coding skills on the national stage. Every year, the CAC invites students across the country to submit an app in its annual coding competition.

The winner from the Sixth District, chosen by a panel of expert judges, will have their app featured on the CAC website. The winning app will also be eligible to be on display for visitors of the U.S. Capitol, along with other winning apps from across the country.

The competition is designed to promote innovation and engagement in computer science and coding. Students who plan to participate must register online and submit their app by October 24, 2024.

I encourage all students in the Sixth District with an interest in computer programming to design and submit an app in this annual coding competition.

To learn more about the rules and registration, visit the Congressional App Challenge page on my website.

I visited the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Columbia County in Portage on Thursday. This great facility offers free services to help those with disabilities.