Matt Cartwright

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor former athlete and Northeastern Pennsylvania native, Chris Wadas. This year, Chris was inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame at the 35th annual dinner on August 11, 2019 for his distinct athletic achievements as a runner. Each year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who have brought recognition to the state of Pennsylvania through their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors. As an athlete at Misericordia University, Chris was a 4-time MVP, National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Mideast All-Region selection, 3-time Pennsylvania Athletic Conference (PAC) individual conference champion, 4 time All-Conference, and he helped lead the team to 4 PAC team titles. In track and field, he was the 2005 team MVP and All-Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) in the 10,000 meters. In indoor track, he set the school record at 1500 meters. In outdoor track, he holds the 3,000 meter school record and is on the all-time Misericordia top 10 list for 1500 meters, 5,000 meters, 3,000 meters and 10,000 meters. Chris is a member of the Misericordia University Athletics Hall of Fame and was the 2004 Misericordia University Wendy's Athlete of the Year. Chris continued running after college, boasting impressive finishes and numerous wins in races across Pennsylvania. Since then, he has run for the Inside Track Running Store, Keystone Track Club, and the National Running Center. Currently, Chris is a track and cross country coach at Misericordia University. In his 13 years of coaching, his teams have won 10 Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) titles, 4 in cross country, 4 in indoor track and field, and 2 in outdoor track and field. In addition, his teams have won one PAC men's title in cross country and one women's outdoor ECAC title. Chris was named two-time NCAA Mideast Regional Head Coach of the Year. He was also named MAC Coach of the Year 10 times in his 13 years of coaching. It is an honor to recognize Chris on his induction into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame. May his story and athletic career serve as an inspiration to the next generation of Pennsylvania athletes striving for excellence.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor former athlete and Northeastern Pennsylvania native, Joy Gallagher. This year, Joy was inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame on August 11, 2019 for her distinct athletic achievements. Each year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who have brought fame and recognition to the state of Pennsylvania through their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors. Joy began her athletic career at Hazleton Area High School as a four- letter winner in basketball, softball, and volleyball. In basketball, she was three-time First Team Wyoming Valley Conference (WVC) All-Star and two-time WVC Player of the Year. She finished her high school career with 1,413 total points and was named MVP of the WVC Senior All- Star Game. In softball, Joy was a four-time First Team All-Star and MVP of the WVC and WVC Senior All-Star Game her senior year. In volleyball, she was a two-time selection to the WVC All-Star Team. Joy was named the Reading Eagle Lower Anthracite Female Athlete of the Year and won the prestigious Scotty Roman Award in 2002 for outstanding athlete, male or female, in the Hazleton Area. Joy was inducted into the Hazleton Area Sports Hall of Fame for her outstanding athletic achievements. Joy was awarded a full athletic scholarship to Wagner College where she played basketball from 2002 to 2006. She is a member of the college's one thousand-point club and was named captain her senior year. While at Wagner, Joy excelled on the court. As a sophomore, she set the school's single game three-point record (11) against Boston University, and she led the NCAA Division 1 ranks with 3.5 three-point field goals made per game and broke the school's single-season record with 99 three-point field goals for the season. She holds the school career record for career three-point field goals made at 240. Joy was a Second Team All-District-1 Academic All-American her junior year and First Team Academic All-American District-1 her senior year. She was named the 2006 Northeast Conference (NEC) Student-Athlete of the Year and received a $7,500.00 NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship, the first Wagner College recipient of this prestigious award. Joy walked onto the softball team her senior year, recording a Northeast Conference (NEC) season high 21 game hitting streak while batting 0.333 and garnered second team All-NEC honors. Joy was selected for the Academic All-American softball team. It is an honor to recognize Joy on her induction into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame. May her story and athletic career serve as an inspiration to the next generation of Pennsylvania athletes striving for excellence.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor member of the Tunkhannock Little League Association and Northeastern Pennsylvania native, Christine Button Strumski. This year, Christine was inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame at the 35th annual dinner on August 11, 2019 for her distinct achievements in the sport of softball. Each year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who have brought fame and recognition to the state of Pennsylvania through their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors. Growing up in a time when sports like baseball were male-dominated, Christine became a trail-blazer for the inclusion of women in sports in the 1970s. In the 70s, the National Little League was sued by the National Organization for Women for discrimination based on sex. Christine would go on to help form the first girls' softball league in Tunkhannock. Dedicated to equality and inclusion, Christine commissioned the board to have a girls' team from the league participate in the State of Pennsylvania Baseball Tournament. The girls' league was so new at the time that one team would only have to win six games to become state champions. Despite the small number of competitors and a new league, the competition was fierce. Christine helped her team secure the first state girls' softball championship against Minersville. Today, Christine is still actively involved in the Tunkhannock Little League Association. This past year, the girls secured another state championship title. Under her leadership, the team qualified for the Softball World Series in Portland, Oregon where they came in second. Christine's dedication to equality and excellence has been an inspiration to all. Her service and willingness to stand and be counted in the uphill battle for equality in sports is admirable. It is an honor to recognize Christine on her induction into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame. May her story serve as an inspiration to the next generation of Pennsylvania athletes striving for excellence.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor sports writer Ed Ackerman. Ed received the 2019 Media Award from the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame at the 35th annual dinner on August 11, 2019 for his remarkable career in journalism. Each year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who have brought fame and recognition to the state of Pennsylvania through their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors. Starting at 17 years of age, Ed began his storied sports writing career for Pittston's Sunday Dispatch. For 52 years, Ed has covered some of the most seminal moments in Pittston sports history. From reporting on the undefeated Pittston Area High School football team to breaking the news that one of the most recruited running backs in the country, Jimmy Cefalo, elected to attend Penn State University, Ed has been at the forefront of Pittston sports history. Ed has served in various journalistic positions throughout his five- decade career. In the early 1980s, Ed was the managing editor of the Sunday Dispatch in Pittston. His personal column has been running for over 30 years and continues today, appearing in the Greater Pittston Progress. In addition to writing, Ed serves as a full-time professor of Communication Arts at Luzerne County Community College, where he has taught since 1990. Ed is also heavily involved in his community as a member of the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick and the Pittston Lettermen's Club and is currently the longest serving member of the Citizens Advisory Board of the Greater Pittston Salvation Army. Ed's outstanding work has not gone unnoticed. For his column, the Pennsylvania Newspapers Publishing Association honored him with a First Place Keystone Award. Additionally, Ed received the Excellence in Teaching Award from the National Institute of Staff and Organizational Development, and the Pittston Memorial Library presented Ed with the Jean Yates Award for his service to the library. The Greater Pittston YMCA awarded Ed with a lifetime achievement award in 2016. Further, his likeness appears in the Pittston Inspiration Mural, forever cementing him as a fixture of the Pittston community. It is an honor to recognize Ed as the recipient of the 2019 Media Award from the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame. May his story and journalism career serve as an inspiration to the next generation of Pennsylvanians striving for excellence.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Joseph ``Bo'' Orlando, who was inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame on August 11, 2019 for his outstanding athletic achievements in the sport of football. Each year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who have brought fame and recognition to the state of Pennsylvania through their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors. Bo's storied athletic career began at Berwick High School, where he led the team to a 13-0 record and a USA Today National Championship as quarterback in 1983. Following high school, Bo took his athletic talents to West Virginia University. During his time with the Mountaineers, he helped lead the team to an undefeated season in 1988 while earning the reputation as one of the best defensive players in the school's history. After graduating college, Bo entered the 1989 NFL Draft and was selected in the 6th round as the 157th pick by the Houston Oilers. Bo remained with the Oilers for 5 seasons, where he had 7 interceptions. After leaving Houston, Bo played for the San Diego Chargers and became the second leading tackler on the team. Bo also went on to lead the Cincinnati Bengals in tackles during the 1996-1997 season. He finished his professional career in 1998 with the Pittsburgh Steelers. During his time in the NFL, Bo amassed 10 interceptions and 2 sacks. Throughout his decades of football experience, Bo received numerous awards for his remarkable performance on the field. In high school, Bo was named an All-Conference player in 1982-1983, Berwick MVP in 1982- 1983, a 1983 All-State Defensive Back, a 1983 high school All-American, and a 1984 Big 33 player. In 1988 while at WVU, he earned 1st team All Big East Defensive Back, Defensive MVP, and was an Almanac All- American. Bo's alma mater, West Virginia University inducted him into the West Virginia University Sports Hall of Fame. Today, Bo remains involved in sports, serving as the athletic director at Berwick Area High School. It is an honor to recognize Bo on his induction into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame. May his story and athletic career serve as an inspiration to the next generation of Pennsylvania athletes striving for excellence.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor athlete and Northeastern Pennsylvania native Morgan Alaina Craft. This year, Morgan was inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame on August 11, 2019 for her distinct athletic achievements in the sport of skeet shooting. Each year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who have brought fame and recognition to the state of Pennsylvania through their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors. Morgan was born and raised in rural Sullivan County, Pennsylvania where she grew up with a passion for shooting and the outdoors. When she was 7, she began shooting .22 rifles with the Sullivan County 4H program. Her family played a key role in implementing a shotgun shooting program as a varsity sport at her high school. Always athletic and competitive, Morgan enjoyed playing basketball and soccer throughout junior and senior high but shooting remained her true passion. Olympic skeet shooting soon caught her eye, and in 2008, she competed in her first National Championship in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Morgan continued her education at Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Missouri, earning a bachelor's degree in exercise science. While at Lindenwood, she helped lead her team to win the Collegiate National Championship three years in a row. She also won an individual gold medal at the 2012 ACUI Collegiate National Championship. As she continued her shooting career with the Junior Olympic Team and the United States National Team, Morgan traveled all over the world to compete. In 2012, Morgan competed in the Olympic Trials and was named team alternate for the London Olympic Games. Her alternate status drove her to reach even higher. She was named USA Shooting's Women's National Champion in 2014 and Female Shooter of the Year in 2015. In 2015, she won silver and bronze World Cup medals and a gold at the 51st International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Championships, securing one of the two spots for Team USA at the 2016 Summer Olympics. In 2016, she added a gold World Cup medal to her collection and competed at the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. She earned a spot in the Olympic final by winning a three-way shoot-off against Argentina and Russia. Morgan finished in fifth place in Rio. It is an honor to recognize Morgan on her induction into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame. May her story and athletic career serve as an inspiration to the next generation of Pennsylvania athletes striving for excellence.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor former athlete and Northeastern Pennsylvania native, Laura Whalen Slane. This year, Laura was inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame at the 35th annual dinner on August 11, 2019 for her distinct athletic achievements in the sport of field hockey. Every year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who have brought fame and recognition to the state of Pennsylvania through their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors. Laura is a graduate of Crestwood High School's Class of 1996. There she played several sports including basketball, soccer, track and field, and field hockey. In 1995, Laura was named field hockey team captain and helped her team secure the AAA District Championship. For her impressive efforts, she was placed on the All-Conference first team and the All-State second team. In addition to her many accomplishments in field hockey, she was also the captain of the basketball team and set a number of district track records. After high school, Laura continued her excellence in sports at Rutgers University. During her time at Rutgers, she won several field hockey awards including The Mission Statement Award, The Coaches Award, Rutgers Defensive Player of the Year, and Team MVP. She also earned other honors during her college career, including Big East Player of the Week, Big East Academic All-Star, and Rutgers Player of the Year. She played on the Big East All-Conference team and was named a Division I Regional All-American. While helping her team accomplish six shut-out games, she succeeded in breaking the Rutgers school record for most defensive saves in a single season. In addition to her stunning sports record, Laura pursued an academic career which led her to become world history teacher in New Jersey. She has taught at Warren Hills Regional School District for 16 years while coaching for the past 13 years. To date, her teams have only lost a total of 5 games under her leadership. Laura still has time to participate in other sports as well; she plays in a soccer league and runs 5ks and half-marathons when time allows. She is supported in her sports endeavors by her husband Roger and son Andrew. It is an honor to recognize Laura on her induction into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame. May her tremendous athletic career and service to the community be a source of inspiration to future athletes in Pennsylvania.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Waverly Township, Pennsylvania and the Waverly Community House. The first cornerstone for the Waverly Community House, the hub of community activity and affectionately known as `the Comm,' was laid in 1919. Waverly found its humble beginning as a few settlers homesteading in a small area of a forest, but as more businesses and settlements began to populate the area, local resident and philanthropist Margaretta Belin and her children saw the need for a space for their community to gather. The idea was a tribute to her beloved husband Henry Belin Jr. who passed away in 1917. As the director of the Scranton Lace Company, Henry was steadfastly dedicated to emphasizing the importance of recreation to his staff. The Belins incorporated the memory of their dear father into the mission statement and purpose of the Waverly Community House as a place for residents to gather, learn, and play together. In 1919, under the direction of architect George M.D. Lewis, the Comm was built, and in 1920 the building and the portion of the land were deeded to Abington Township. In the century that followed, the Comm faithfully embodied the spirit of the Belin family's mission to promote civic engagement and recreational activities for the Abingtons and beyond. The original building included a bowling alley, a gathering area, a post office, a library, and the first kindergarten in Lackawanna County. The Comm offered activities such as an annual fair, classes, tennis tournaments, and movie. During World War II, the Comm was pivotal in support the war effort on the home front by organizing volunteer efforts, sending regular newsletters to soldiers stationed abroad, holding defense meetings, and collecting book donations. As the Comm flourished, the Belin children dedicated two additional wings to the building in honor of their mother to accommodate its growing community events. The rooms are still in use today and house spaces for camps, education, arts programs, and a welcome center which features Destination Freedom, a Walking Tour of the Underground Railroad in Waverly. The Comm continues to be the center of community life in Waverly. Special events like the annual Antiques Show and Sale, the Artisans' Marketplace, the House and Garden Show, Summer Music Concerts, and seasonal children's parties. It is an honor to recognize Waverly Township and the Waverly Community House on their centennial. The Comm has been the heartbeat of community life in the Abingtons since 1919, and I wish them another hundred years of growth and prosperity in the tradition of service to others, recreation, and civic engagement.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Andrew Barilla, Jr. and Swoyersville Borough, Pennsylvania as Swoyersville rededicates its Slocum Street Park as the Andrew Barilla, Jr. Park. Andrew Barilla, Jr. has been a force for positive change in Swoyersville Borough and an outstanding member of his community in every way. He was born in Swoyersville and was the borough's first All- Scholastic athlete in three sports. Driven to athletic and academic excellence, he attended Michigan State University on a football scholarship. After a severe knee injury ended his athletic career, Andrew finished his degree at Lock Haven State Teachers College. As a ten-year member of Swoyersville Borough Council, Andrew made it his mission to share his love of sports and remain active with the children in his community. He founded Slocum Street Park, which will now bear his name. He is also a charter member of the Swoyersville Baseball Club for Boys and was a driving force behind building Roosevelt Stadium. Andrew also generously sponsors Barilla's team in the Wyoming Valley Girls' Travel Softball League. For his athletic prowess and commitment to sports, he was inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame in 1991. Andrew's dedication to his community does not end with athletics. He is a past president of the Crime Clinic of Greater Wyoming Valley and the Special Court Judges Association, and he recently retired as the Magisterial District Judge for Swoyersville, Forty Fort, Luzerne, Courtdale, and Pringle. It is a privilege to recognize Andrew during the rededication of the Slocum Street Park in his honor. I thank him for his lifetime of service to the people of Swoyersville Borough and beyond. May the park continue to be a place for residents and visitors to gather and enjoy for generations to come.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Borough of Throop, Pennsylvania for its quasquicentennial year. Throop celebrated 125 years of being incorporated on April 16, 2019. The borough was named after one of its most influential residents, Dr. Benjamin H. Throop, who settled in the county in the fall of 1840. He became an active figure in the community, buying real estate and advocating for the separation of Throop and Dickson City Borough. Dr. Throop also served in the military during the Civil War, and at the time he was one of the wealthiest figures in the area. Throop originally applied to become independent of Dickson City Borough in 1888, but the subdivision failed. Refusing to back down, the community banded together to continue to circulate petitions. Among the many reasons driving the residents' motivation to become their own, independent borough was a dispute over schools and the desire to have their own schooling system. In 1893, the petition was granted, and the borough was officially incorporated on April 16, 1894. The Throop family continued to be a driving force behind the borough's success. The Throop Hose Company 1 was organized in 1894 and named after Dr. Throop's son, Dr. George S. Throop. The borough building was completed in 1895 on land donated by Dr. Throop, Dr. Pancoast, and Eli K. Price. Once incorporated, Throop had a population of 1,639 with 266 dwellings, 9 hotels, a small number of businesses, two churches, a colliery, and a school. Like many communities in Northeastern Pennsylvania, Throop's coal mining industry was the principal industry in the region for decades. Throop has the distinction of being the site of the first anthracite coal mined in Lackawanna County, which was taken from the Anderson farm by Willian Wurts in 1814. Throughout its notable 125-year history, Throop has established an impressive public school system and has continued to celebrate its religious heritage. The borough has also shown its incredible resilience in the face of devastating floods from Hurricanes Diane, Agnes, and Gloria. Today, Throop is a vibrant community with around 3,900 residents and many industries and businesses that have taken the place of coal mining. Annual traditions and celebrations for children like the Santa Parade and Tree Lighting make Throop an inviting and welcoming place to live and visit. Throop's rich history and a tight knit community make it the flourishing borough it is today.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the community contributions of Marjorie ``Peggy'' Murphy at time of her retirement. Peggy has been a prominent and passionate member of Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania's theater community for most of her life. Both on the stage and in the community, Peggy has dedicated her career to making a positive impact on those around her. For over 50 years, Peggy has been actively involved in bringing live community theater to audiences in Wayne County. She has directed and performed in all kinds of productions, from dramas and comedies to musicals and mysteries. And her involvement extends far beyond the stage. Along with her late husband Richard Murphy, Peggy helped create the Ritz Company Players, a tight-knit group of community theater performers who forged an unbreakable bond through their love of the arts. Even after her retirement from the board, Peggy remains a board member emeritus for her continued dedication to the company and for the wisdom she entrusts to the next generation of leaders in the theater community. Outside of the world of theater, Peggy has also served her community in several other capacities. For the past 43 years, for example, Peggy has been a board member of the Wayne County Redevelopment Authority, and for three decades she has served on the board of the Wayne County Housing Authority. In those roles, Peggy has been instrumental in bringing federal funds to the county for housing and community development projects. Peggy has also been very active in public policy issues and politics, working on the local level in that regard in Hawley for 40 years. She was also the National Vice-Chair of Commissioners of the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Authorities, and she co- authored the National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials' Handbook for Commissioners. Through her service both in and outside the theater, Peggy has been an illustrious and impactful resident of Wayne County. Her life of service is one to be recognized and celebrated. It is an honor to recognize Peggy Murphy at the time of her retirement for her many community accomplishments. Her dedication to Wayne County is admirable and will help ensure a smooth succession to the next generation of leaders. May her journey continue to inspire our community, not just through artistic expression but also through Peggy's continuous, selfless service to others.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Chairman, as a member of the subcommittee, I rise today to discuss the importance of the Financial Services and General Government bill, FSGG. First, I would like to thank Chairman Quigley for his leadership on the subcommittee and for his work on the bill. I would also like to thank Ranking Member Graves for all that he has done to ensure this bill receives its proper airing and reaches the floor and for his support on several provisions in the bill. The FSGG bill supports a broad range of functions and services in both the executive and judicial branches that are essential to the operation of our Federal Government. The FSGG bill supports programs that assist and protect the public, such as shielding consumers from defective and dangerous products, assisting small businesses, investing in distressed communities, and ensuring the integrity of Federal elections. This bill includes significant funding to support these critical functions. One especially important provision the workers in my district appreciate is the increase in the Federal civilian pay by 3.1 percent in FY 2020. This pay increase means so much to the hardworking men and women in our Nation who struggle to make ends meet while serving our Nation. For far too long, Federal workers have been shortchanged by the work they do, and their wages have not kept up with the changes in our country's cost of living. Importantly, this FSGG bill is also about improving our economy. From increased funding for the IRS to assist taxpayers and bolster enforcement, to supporting the Small Business Administration to help small businesses develop and expand throughout the country, this bill will make our economy stronger for everyday Americans. Mr. Chairman, another important program I would like to highlight in the bill is the funding for the Office of National Drug Control Policy. My home State of Pennsylvania, like so many others across the Nation, has suffered severely from the effects of the opioid crisis. To help combat this crisis, the ONDCP receives $100.5 million for the Drug-Free Communities program, along with $300 million for the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas program in the bill. Notably, these funding levels are a rejection of the administration's proposed transfer or elimination of the ONDCP grant programs. It is vital that we continue to support these programs, which help fight addiction issues in communities across this Nation. Finally, this FSGG bill takes an important step in improving election security and integrity. In the last Presidential election, we saw unprecedented interference with our election system, an issue that we, as a Congress, must address in the strongest of terms in support and defense of our national sovereignty. We cannot, and will not, allow any foreign power to harm our democracy. It rests solely in the hands of the American people. To that end, the FSGG bill provides $600 million to the Election Assistance Commission. This commission deals with issues that are extraordinarily important to this Nation, conducting reliable, secure, and accessible elections. The integrity of American elections should not be a partisan matter. Mr. Chairman, for these reasons, I am proud to support this bill as it comes to the floor today, and I urge my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Baltimore Mine Tunnel Disaster, one of the deadliest mining accidents in Pennsylvania's history. On June 5, 1919, more than a hundred miners entered the Delaware & Hudson Coal Company's Baltimore Mine Tunnel No. 2 in Wilkes-Barre. Disaster struck when 12 barrels of blasting powder ignited, killing 92 miners and injuring dozens. Historians believe the blast was caused by a loose power cable that came into contact with the trolley, causing the powder from the rear cart to ignite. Unfortunately, only seven miners escaped unscathed. Following the disaster, legislators questioned the official procedures and safety regulations in mining plants. They believed regulations were not followed entirely, and many blamed the Baltimore Mine Tunnel Disaster on an ambiguous and lax mining code. Historians believe the incident could have been avoided if the Pennsylvania mining code had explicitly prohibited the transportation of powder in the same trolley cart as miners. As a result, legislators passed sensible protections that restricted the access and distribution of blasting powder by employees. To this day, the Baltimore Mine Tunnel Disaster remains one of the deadliest industrial accidents in Pennsylvania's history. It is our responsibility to commemorate this day in Northeastern Pennsylvania's history, remember our region's roots in anthracite coal, and honor the legacy of those who lost their lives in the mines.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Chair, I thank my colleague from Texas (Mr. Green) for yielding. Madam Chair, I rise in support of the Green amendment. Madam Chair, to the Members of this House, when we file into this room, we file past a three-times-life-size statue of Thomas Jefferson, one of our Founders in this Nation. And Jefferson said he considered a trial by jury ``as the only anchor, ever yet imagined by man, by which a government can be held to the principles of its constitution.'' Trial by jury was that important to Thomas Jefferson that he said it was that important. Daniel Webster, who is quoted up here on our wall, said, ``The law: It has honored us.'' Let us honor it by executing it in its fullest severity. How do we do that? We allow jury trials for American citizens. We teach our children accountability, responsibility, being accountable for your actions. The way to do it in America is to allow jury trials to decide who is at fault.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, for nearly a decade, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act has helped millions of Americans get the care that they need. It has allowed parents to keep their kids on their own insurance plans, and it has protected millions and millions of Americans who are living with preexisting conditions, and that piece is so important. It means that Americans living with cancer, living with heart disease, and living with diabetes can no longer be thrown off their plans or denied coverage simply because of their medical history. In my own State of Pennsylvania, more than 5.4 million people depend on these protections to treat their asthma, to afford their insulin, and to receive treatments for other preexisting illnesses. Madam Speaker, I promise these families that I will keep fighting to keep them healthy, which is why this week I am voting for the Strengthening Health Care and Lowering Prescription Drugs Costs Act which will ban junk insurance plans that don't offer sufficient coverage, bring lower-priced generic prescription drugs to market more quickly, and invest in helping Americans sign up for healthcare. That is what Democrats are focused on, moving forward, making sure seniors, veterans, and working families across our Nation have the healthcare they need. I hope the current administration will see this as an opportunity to work with our House majority in order to lower the cost of prescription medications, and I hope Republicans in Congress will join us in our mission to keep working for the people and to make sure that every American can afford their prescription medications and their healthcare.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize InterMetro Industries on receiving an Excellence Award from the Northeast PA Manufacturers and Employers Association in the Manufacturer Product Innovation and Process Improvement category. They will be honored on May 7, 2019 for their accomplishments. Founded in 1929 and headquartered in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, InterMetro Industries (Metro) is a leading manufacturer in storage and transport products for the food service, commercial products, and health care industries. What started as a shelving company has grown into a world-class, innovative, and solutions-based company that has revolutionized the way many industries conduct their day-to-day business. InterMetro is being recognized for its PrepMate MultiStation, an adjustable-height, high-productivity worktable that has changed the way food is prepared in commercial settings. The PrepMate MultiStation's unique design reduces food waste and operator fatigue. This fairly- priced piece of equipment helps increase efficiency in the kitchen by eliminating the need to consistently change workspaces for different purposes. It is an honor to recognize InterMetro on this outstanding accomplishment. I applaud the excellent work they're doing to create revolutionary new products to help businesses meet the needs of their customers. I wish them the best for many successful years to come.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Women's Club of West Pittston on the 100th anniversary of their founding. The Women's Club, under current president George Anne Neff, meets the third Tuesday of the month, from September through May, at the First United Methodist Church of West Pittston. Founded in 1919, the Women's Club of West Pittston provided a social opportunity for women in the community to gather and work toward the betterment of their community. Throughout their storied history, the Women's Club of West Pittston has been involved in many philanthropic and local endeavors. The Club famously rallied support behind the Iron Bridge over the Susquehanna River, which connects West Pittston and Pittston, and they are credited with helping save the historic structure. The Women's Club focuses their mission on supporting four key local entities: fire companies, ambulance companies, Meals on Wheels, and the West Pittston Library. Each year, they raise funds and donate them to these groups. Members of the Women's Club are actively involved with the West Pittston Library, serving as volunteers and as board members, and donating money and books in honor of deceased members. The Women's Club partners with local community organizations throughout the year, including the Salvation Army, Dress for Success, Blue Chip Animal Rescue, and the SPCA. Using funds raised from their annual clothing sale, the Club supports two $500 scholarships for graduating female seniors from Wyoming Area Secondary Center, to help further their education. For generations, the West Pittston Women's Club has provided an environment for women to gather and find their voices to give back to their community. It is a great honor to recognize this organization for the work they have done and will continue to do. I wish them the very best for another hundred years of growth and prosperity.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Wyoming Seminary Field Hockey team on winning their state championship in Pennsylvania. The Blue Knights were named the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association's Class 1A Field Hockey State Champions on November 17, 2018, after they won the final game against the Newport Buffalos by a final score of 2-0. The team also earned the WVC Division 1 and District 2 Class A Field Hockey Championships. Head Coach Karen Klassner, Assistant Coach Kim Barbacci, and Assistant Coach Margaret Kerrick led the team to victory during the season. The state champions team roster includes: Grace Aiello, Kate Barilla, Maggie Barilla, Emma Bean, Ava Bufalino, Cristiana Burcovschii, Reese Butcher, Shawna Casey, Julia Christian, Ahna Dinsmore, Halle Kehl, Bari Lefkowitz, Mia Magnotta, Hannah Maxwell, Tyra McCormick, Abby McDaniel, Quinn Medico, Anna Mozeleski, Aubrey Mytych, Grace Parsons, Coty Pinero, Dani Reiser, Kelsey Reznick, Katie Ritsick, Abby Santo, Elisabeth Seyfarth, Alex Wesneski, Emily Williams, Tyler Wood, and Tiana Wren. Senior midfielder Kelsey Reznick scored the initial point during a penalty stroke in the final minutes of the first half. In the opening minutes of the second half, forward Hannah Maxwell scored the additional point for her team. Keeper Mia Magnotta made two saves for Wyoming Seminary throughout the course of the game. It is an honor to recognize the outstanding achievement of these young women and their coaches. It is with great pride that I congratulate them on their winning season. Go Blue Knights.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I read with dismay this morning that the Justice Department and the current administration has decided to continue to treat the Affordable Care Act as an unconstitutional wrong committed by the House and the Senate and signed into law by the last administration. I can't believe that they are taking this position. This has been a long national struggle that we have gone through. We have had this debate, we have had this discussion, and we have had this fight. And to say now that it continues to be unconstitutional, the way that they have said all along, we don't need to do this again. We have 10 to 20 million Americans with preexisting conditions that depend on the workings of the Affordable Care Act to keep covered so that they don't have to file for bankruptcy when they get sick, so that they can move from job to job without worrying about their healthcare coverage. Let's not do this again. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues here in the House to reject the idea that the ACA is unconstitutional.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Kevin Kane who received the Wyoming Valley Children's Association's (WVCA) ``Making A Difference'' Award along with his wife Mickey Kane on Friday, March 22, 2019 during the organization's 95th Anniversary Gala. The WVCA provides quality, early childhood education as well as physical, occupational, and speech therapy programs to students diagnosed with autism, Down syndrome, and speech delays, and also to other children. The ``Making A Difference Award'' recognizes individuals who go above and beyond in their commitment and service to the WVCA. Kevin currently works for the Luzerne County Court Administration as the Director of Domestic Relations for Family Court. Kevin has proudly served on the Board of Directors for Wyoming Valley Children's Association for twenty-seven years. He also served as the President of the Board. Kevin and Mickey are the proud parents of two children: Katie and Sean. Together they established the Sean P. Kane Memorial Fund in honor of their son. It supports services, programs, and causes aligned with health, wellness, and wellbeing of people across the community, with an emphasis on individuals with special needs. It is an honor to recognize Kevin as he and Mickey accept the Wyoming Valley Children's Association's ``Making A Difference'' Award. May they continue to support the early childhood education needs of our community.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Mickey Kane who received the Wyoming Valley Children's Association's (WVCA) ``Making A Difference'' Award along with her husband Kevin Kane on Friday, March 22, 2019 during the organization's 95th Anniversary Gala. The WVCA provides quality, early childhood education as well as physical, occupational, and speech therapy programs to students and developing children that have been diagnosed with Autism, Down syndrome, or speech delays. The ``Making A Difference Award'' recognizes individuals who go above and beyond in their commitment and service to the WVCA. Mickey is a Senior Registered Associate with Morgan Stanley in Wilkes Barre, PA. She started with Morgan Stanley's predecessor firm in 1988. Mickey holds a General Securities Representative License (Series 7) and passed the Uniform Combined State Law Examination (Series 66). Mickey is essential to several Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor teams, and she is responsible for administrative and account services for Wealth Management clients. Kevin and Mickey are the proud parents of two children: Katie and Sean. Together they established the Sean P. Kane Memorial Fund in honor of their son. It is intended to support services, programs, and causes aligned with health, wellness, and wellbeing of people across the community, with an emphasis on individuals with special needs. Mickey has been active in the WVCA Walk-A-Thon for more than 25 years, coordinating ``Team Katie'' for that event. In addition, she also works on the committee for the annual Sean P. Kane Memorial Mixer. It is an honor to recognize Mickey as she and Kevin accept the Wyoming Valley Children's Association's ``Making A Difference'' Award. May they continue to support the early childhood education needs of our community.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Edward Hart, who was named the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons Man of the Year at their annual St. Patrick's Day celebration on Sunday, March 17, 2019. Edward is a Pittston native and the son of the late Edward and Jean Morrow Hart. He is a graduate of Pittston Area High School and the University of Scranton. Edward has dedicated his career to radio and broadcast television, concentrating in revenue development and management. He began his career at WARM before moving on to Magic 93. In 1988, while working at Q102 Radio, Edward became the youngest radio station manager in the country. He then transitioned to television, working in various sales and management roles for WOLF-TV, which later became FOX56. In 1998, Edward was the first to generate over $1 million in revenue in FOX history. Edward transitioned to WNEP in 2006 where he also managed the local sales efforts to record levels. Edward is an active member of the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. In 2014, he served as president during the group's centennial year. He dedicated a tremendous amount of time and effort liaising with the Secret Service and the Office of the Vice President to secure Vice President Joe Biden as the principal speaker at the organization's centennial celebration. Edward also instituted the recitation of St. Patrick's prayer to begin every meeting--in order to honor the group's patron saint. Edward has been married to his wife, Natalie Amico Hart, for 25 years, and they have three children, Edward IV, Alexandra, and Emma. Edward is actively involved in his community as a youth sports coach for basketball, baseball, football, and soccer. He is a member of Our Lady of the Eucharist Parish in Pittston and a 4th Degree Knight of the Knights of Columbus Assembly No. 948 and JFK Council No. 372. It is an honor to recognize Edward as the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons 2019 Man of the Year. I thank him for his dedicated service to our community and wish him the best this St. Patrick's Day.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize William J. Williams, who will receive the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons' Swingle Award. William was honored on Sunday, March 17, at the Friendly Sons' annual St. Patrick's Day event. William was born to William and Susan Rudick Williams on May 25, 1955. He is a graduate of Pittston Area High School (class of 1973), and he earned an associate degree in industrial electronics from Luzerne County Community College and a real estate license from Penn State University. William found success in a variety of fields throughout his career, in the medical field as a respiratory therapy technician, in commercial building sales, and as a real estate agent with Atlas Realty. William has been involved with the Pittston City Ambulance Association since 1973, and he earned his EMT certification in 1977. He is also a member of the Hughestown Hose Company, president of the Eagle Hose Company, and the secretary of the Pittston Volunteer Fireman's Relief organization. In 1990, William was hired by the City of Pittston as a firefighter. In 1998, he received commendations for valor from the Pennsylvania House of Representatives and Senate after valiantly rescuing an elderly woman from her gas-filled home. William retired from the profession in 2018 as an Assistant Fire Chief and Fire Inspector. In addition to having an impressive professional career, William has always been actively involved in his community. He has been a member of the Knights of Columbus since 1998, achieving 4th degree in 2003. William has been a member of the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons since 1998, serving as president of the organization in 2009. He currently serves as the co-chair of the Friendly Sons Scholarship Committee. William resides in Pittston and has been married to his wife Irene for 42 years. He is the proud father of three daughters: Amy, Jennifer, and Samantha. It is an honor to recognize William for his many years of service to our community. I wish him all the best on this St. Patrick's Day.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Frank Balon, who was named the Freeland Sons of Erin 2019 Citizen of the Year. He was honored on Saturday, March 16, at the organization's annual St. Patrick's Day event. Frank is a graduate of Freeland High School and Pennsylvania State University. He worked as a mechanical engineer at Tobyhanna Army Depot before retiring after thirty years of service in 2013. During his tenure at Tobyhanna, Frank received the Department of the Army Achievement Medal for Civilian Service in both 1997 and 2002. Frank brings something unique to Northeastern Pennsylvania that is never in adequate supply: the joy of music. He plays trumpet in several local ensembles including the Freeland St. Ann's Band, where he also serves as band president, and the Hazleton Philharmonic Orchestra and Big Band. Frank is also the leader of the popular brass quintet, the Hot Tin Roof Brass Band. As part of his musical career, he has performed the national anthem for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders and the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs Triple-A baseball teams on many occasions, and he has additional appearances scheduled for the upcoming season. Frank's musical talents extend to singing as well. He is a choir member and cantor at Immaculate Conception Church and an officer and founding member of the Freeland Community Choir. Frank is diversely active in his community. He is a contributing writer for the monthly Progress Magazine, and he enjoys researching family history and genealogy. Frank enjoys hiking and is an avid outdoorsman. He also currently serves as the secretary for the Hazelton Archery Club. Stemming from his civilian employment with the United States Army at Tobyhanna Army Depot, Frank is dedicated to honoring and serving our veterans. He is part of the honor guard and a proud honorary member of American Legion Post 473 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5010. His community efforts were recognized by the Freeland American Legion Post when they named him Citizen of the Year in 2017. It is an honor to recognize an outstanding individual like Frank as he accepts the Citizen of the Year Award. I am grateful for his many talents and his willingness to serve the people of Northeastern Pennsylvania, especially veterans. I wish him the best this St. Patrick's Day.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise to remind this House of the Democratic For the People agenda, which starts with rebuilding American infrastructure and creating good paying jobs doing so. It includes expanding healthcare so that it is available to more and more Americans, and bringing down the costs of healthcare and prescription drugs. It includes cleaning up our American democracy and rooting out corruption in our electoral process. We achieved the third one this month with H.R. 1, the For the People Act, but the other two took a serious blow this week when we saw the President's budget, which cuts Medicare to the tune of $1.5 trillion over the next 10 years, breaking a core promise of the President's campaign, and also cuts infrastructure spending. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to reject that shortsightedness in the President's budget, and let's go ahead and achieve the For the People agenda.