Matt Cartwright

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. I yield to the gentleman from New York.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I thank Representative Tonko. The gentleman has repeated the word ``competitive'' about three times just now, and I couldn't think of a more appropriate word because, Madam Speaker, it is a tough world out there. We Americans may think the world owes us a living, but it doesn't. We have to get out there and compete. Our businesses have to compete, and our people have to compete. We have to be at the top of our game to win and keep those jobs and make sure they don't go to Europe or Russia or China. Those countries are investing in themselves. They are building fast railroads; they are building their roads and bridges; and they are investing in high-speed internet--all of these things. As a result, we had better be at the top of our game. That is what we do with the Build Back Better Act and these infrastructure investments. Now, I have talked about jobs and tax cuts, but cutting costs for American families has to be covered as well. As Representative Tonko mentioned, this bill will save most families more than half their spending on childcare and deliver free pre-K for every 3- and 4-year- old in America, as we talked about. That will free up moms and dads to go to work. It will also provide money for senior care. There are a lot of folks at home who can't leave the house because they are taking care of an elder at home. That is another thing that these bills help. Just think about what it means to a working family in northeastern Pennsylvania or anywhere else in this country that they can be freed up to go back to work and fill jobs that are going begging right now. It means parents can go to work and fuel our economy knowing their kids or their elderly parents are taken care of. That is good for our entire economy. Now, we know that eldercare and childcare isn't the only thing keeping parents up late at night. It is about making ends meet and making sure they can afford good healthcare coverage. These bills beef up the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act to the point where we almost have universal healthcare in this country. That is so good because it keeps our hospitals afloat. Madam Speaker, do you know what happened in Pennsylvania before we got the expansion of Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act? We started losing rural hospitals. Madam Speaker, it is no longer a theoretical thing. When your hospital isn't there because it went under, your actual healthcare suffered, not your coverage. Your chances of making it if you had a heart attack or a stroke go way, way down if the local hospitals are not financially sound and robust. This will lower healthcare costs by strengthening the Affordable Care Act. It is a very important part of this bill. Madam Speaker, maybe the most important thing that people miss about these bills that we are working on right now: The Build Back Better Act is paid for. It is fully paid for by making sure that the ultra-wealthy and corporations pay their fair share. It will not add to the deficit, and no one making less than $400,000 a year will pay a penny more in taxes. In fact, working families are going to see their taxes cut because Build Back Better rewards work and not wealth. This contrast is worth repeating, Madam Speaker. When Democrats control the Congress, we cut taxes for working people. When Republicans do, they cut taxes for millionaires and corporations. No more. As the President often says, for far too long, this economy has worked great for those at the top while hardworking Americans who built this country have been cut out of the deal. Democrats are dealing working people back into the deal by building an economy that gives them a fair shot. We are going to make sure it is paid for by asking the ultra-wealthy to pay their fair share. It is only right. Madam Speaker, it is so important that we pass these bills. Representative Tonko has spent some considerable time talking about the importance of rebuilding, maintaining, and expanding our bricks-and- mortar infrastructure. That is so important. These are assets that were passed down to us from the Greatest Generation. Who are we to think that we don't have to maintain them, take care of them, expand them, make them better, and make them work for a modern economy and all the needs that American workers and businesses have to stay competitive in the world? I say let's pass these bills, let's get the job done, and let's fulfill the vision for the American workers, the American people, and our entire Nation. Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Tonko).

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I thank Congressman Tonko for his comments. Madam Speaker, you can tell when you get Congressman Tonko, a guy from Amsterdam, New York, revved up about the Erie Canal, he is going to give you a good speech. A good speech is what we need to be doing right now because we have to have people understand the importance of passing the infrastructure bill and the Build Back Better Act, and passing them together because they fulfill the vision not only of President Biden but a vision that we have all been waiting for for the longest time. Representative Tonko and I have been serving our entire time in Congress--for me, 9 years; for the gentleman, 13 years--waiting for infrastructure to happen. Representative Mary Gay Scanlon spoke earlier tonight about all the infrastructure weeks we had under the past administration. We had infrastructure week after infrastructure week. She said that as a joke because it never happened. We just labeled weeks ``infrastructure week,'' and nobody did anything about it under the Republican administration. We are here to say President Biden and the current Democratic majority in the House are going to deliver for the people on the vision of infrastructure and making our economy and our American people competitive on the world stage. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor John Basalyga who will be recognized as the Italian American Man of the Year by the Columbus Day Association of Lackawanna County at their annual gathering on Sunday, October 10, 2021. John was raised in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. When he began his career in 2001, he knew he wanted to maintain the deep connection he felt to his home region by creating jobs and supporting the local economy. He founded Eastern Roofing Systems in Jessup, Pennsylvania, which began as a small local business and eventually grew into one of the largest commercial and industrial roofing contractors in the country, known for a commitment to quality and innovation. In 2006, John founded JBAS Realty and began turning industrial properties into housing, transforming spaces from the region's manufacturing past into modern accommodations. The Lofts at 300 Bowman in Dickson City, the Railroad Lofts in Moscow, the Warehouse Lofts in Scranton, and the North Valley Lofts in Olyphant are a testament to John's architectural and design vision and his commitment to providing housing in Lackawanna County. His company also takes on commercial properties. In 2015, John acquired the Mall at Steamtown, which he transformed into the Marketplace at Steamtown: a modern, mixed-use facility that attracts tourists and locals to downtown Scranton. Other properties that have benefitted from John's talent and expertise include Crunch Fitness; the Olde Brook Inn, a popular fine dining restaurant; Geisinger Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, set to open later this year; and the Rock Creek Corporate Center and the Rock Creek Shops. John is always working on new and innovative ventures that improve the landscape of our community. He recently founded Serenity Care, LLC, which will own and operate five senior care centers in Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties. In his most ambitious move yet, he plans to demolish the Red Carpet Inn to construct the City of Scranton's tallest building, which will feature retail establishments, a restaurant, a hotel, office space, and residential units. His success in commercial roofing led John to expand his business to include independent service and residential departments in 2019. Eastern Residential Solutions won an Angie's List Super Service Award in 2020 and is integral to John's charitable work. The company recently provided a new roof for a local veteran through the Beacon of Hope Project in 2020, and in 2021, they donated the labor and materials to replace all the roofs at South Scranton Little League. I am honored to join with the Columbus Day Association of Lackawanna County in recognizing John as the Italian American Man of the Year. John's hard work, dedication, and vision have transformed the City of Scranton, and I wish him all the best as he continues to help our beloved city reach new heights.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Providence United Presbyterian Church in Scranton, Pennsylvania on its 175th anniversary. According to the original charter, it was the first Presbyterian church to be founded in the Lackawanna and Upper Valley. The occasion will be marked with a festive celebration and service on Sunday, October 3, 2021. On July 27, 1846, residents of Providence village gathered to discuss building a meeting house. A vote determined that the meeting house would be governed by the. Presbyterians. On October 5, 1846, the First Presbyterian Church of Providence, Pennsylvania was organized. The first church building was built on the corner of Church Avenue and Oak Street, and the first meeting of the congregation took place on April 19, 1847. The house was dedicated on July 25, 1849 with Rev. Joseph Barlow as the first pastor. In 1862, a parsonage was added to the grounds, and a lecture and bible classroom was added to the church building in 1869. In 1882, the congregation purchased land to build a new house of worship. They sold the parsonage to fund the cost of the new church in 1884, and in 1886, the beautiful stone church was completed and dedicated. The faithful gathered and worshiped at 2020 North Main Avenue for almost a century. In 1971, the Providence Presbyterian Church merged with the Suburban Presbyterian Church to form the Providence United Presbyterian Church (PUPC). The congregations joined together to bear witness to their faith and serve their community. The PUPC has been a pillar of the strong and supportive faith community of the City of Scranton for nearly two centuries. When the Concord United Church of Christ closed its doors, the PUPC welcomed its members into their fold. From 2004 to 2008, the PUPC shared worship and gathering spaces with many area churches, such as Marywood University, Covenant Presbyterian Church, the Presbyterian Church of Dunmore, Immanuel Lutheran Church, and Throop United Methodist Church. In 2008, the PUPC dedicated its new church building at 1145 Providence Road in Scranton. Today, PUPC continues to grow and thrive. The church welcomes the faithful of the City of Scranton to practice their faith, fostering community and fellowship within the congregation. I am honored to join with the congregation of the Providence United Presbyterian Church to celebrate 175 years of worship and community and the essential role it has played in the growth of Presbyterianism in Scranton. May PUPC continue to be a mainstay in the Scranton faith community and provide a safe and welcoming place to worship for generations to come.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mary Ann Moran- Savakinus for her 30 years of service to the Lackawanna County Historical Society. Mary Ann will be recognized on September 30, 2021. Mary Ann, daughter of the late Francis Moran and Joann Schemel Moran, is an Archbald, Pennsylvania native. She pursued her interest in history at Kutztown University, and as an undergraduate, she worked as a curatorial intern at the Anthracite Heritage Museum. After graduating with a bachelor's degree in anthropology, she was recruited by the Museum to catalogue their Hennemuth photo collection. Mary Ann also spent time in Iowa as an archaeological technician for American Resource Group as a member of the field crew. In 1991, she returned to Northeastern Pennsylvania where she began working at the Lackawanna County Historical Society as the administrative assistant. Six years later, she was appointed the Executive Director of the Society. Under her thoughtful direction, the Society expanded its programming, education opportunities, and community partnerships. One of the hallmarks of Mary Ann's tenure as Executive Director is her effort to connect the Society with the surrounding community and promote interest in local history. She has invited local artists to participate in Society events to create compelling programming such as the musical/historical production ``Under the Lackawanna Moon''. She also helped start the Museum as a Classroom program which allows local teachers to receive Act 48 credits for familiarizing themselves with local resources that are available to their students. Mary Ann's most popular programs are tours of the City of Scranton, which bring hundreds of visitors into the heart of the city to learn about its history. The Historic Hill House Tour, the Places of Worship Tour, and the Scranton After Dark paranormal walking tour teach visitors about the diverse architecture of Scranton and the residents who called the city home. Mary Ann's direction has also supported the financial growth of the Society, increasing fundraising efforts with the annual Taste of History event and the successful Capital Campaign to fund the restoration of the exterior of the Society headquarters at the Catlin House. I am honored to join the Lackawanna Historical Society in recognizing Mary Ann's 30 years of dedicated and selfless service. Her vision, commitment, and passion have helped foster a love of and appreciation for local history in our communities, and she has created a legacy of innovative programming that will be enjoyed by generations to come. I thank her for her service to our community and wish her all the best.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I thank the distinguished gentleman from Colorado for yielding. It is true. Today, in the Congress, the Treasury Secretary of the United States, Janet Yellen, testified that we will run out of borrowing ability on October 18, next month. What this is, is a pernicious, dangerous threat to the United States of America that is happening right now. A lot of people don't realize it because, as Mr. Neguse just mentioned, extending or suspending the debt limit has been a routine, a normal thing for us to do, something that, in the words of Senator McConnell himself, is essential for keeping our economy moving, protecting American jobs, and preserving the livelihoods of many, many Americans. So the question is, what are we doing? Why do we have to do this? Why do we have to stand here tonight and stand up for the full faith and credit of the United States? It is because the economy depends on it, not only the economy of America, but the economy of the world depends on the full faith and credit of the United States of America. Credit is vital to the operation of any economy. Any businessperson knows that. Every businessman, every businesswoman knows that his or her business runs on their credit and their credit rating. They know that credit, every loan, every loan decision, is based on the strength of the promise to repay, and that is what we are talking about here. If a promise to repay a loan isn't strong, that loan is not made. If the strength of the promise to repay a loan is not there, then either the loan is not made or they have to charge a much higher interest rate to reflect the extra risk in getting repaid. It is all about repaying your loans. If there is one thing that has been a constant in these United States, and something that we have been really proud of in our Nation for generation after generation, it is that if there is one rock-solid, dependable promise in the world, it is that the United States of America will pay its bills. That is a rock-solid promise, and it is something that reverberates in the world's economies. That is why we have such a strong economy and a base from which to grow it. That is why we are able to run a government and build bridges and roads, and why we are able to maintain armed services in this country. It is why we are able to function as a nation and as an economy. It is the foundation for our country's credit and financial systems. It is the source of confidence that powers our national economy. It is what makes our American dollar the currency of the world. To threaten that by threatening to crash our obligations, to default on the obligation of the United States, it is the most irresponsible thing that I have heard of, even in the words of Senator McConnell himself, who, hours after Secretary of the Treasury Janet Yellen testified that October 18 is the day when we default on our obligations, hours after that, Senator McConnell over in the Senate whipped a ``no'' vote on suspending the debt limit, doing exactly what he said must not be done, endangering jobs, endangering our economy, threatening Americans savings. What will happen? We will talk about this a little bit later.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Sure. That is really the big question here tonight. Before I get to that, I want to commend my colleague from Pennsylvania for that excellent and well-thought-out legislation. If I can, I want to ask Congressman Boyle a question. Your legislation that would vest the decision on the debt limit in the Treasury Secretary, would that apply to both Democratic and Republican Treasury Secretaries?

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. When you asked her, Secretary Yellen, about what would happen if we turned our back on our national debt, defaulted on our promises, just went back on our promise to pay, when you asked her that, did she talk about what could happen to the stock market?

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. I am not surprised. Go ahead.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Sure. Well, it is pretty obvious that every economist that you talk to finds it unthinkable that our Nation would turn its back on our obligations. When you ask them, What happens if we do? The first thing they say is that the stock market crashes. In fact, it would be so bad that the stock market would crash more than 20 percent. 20 percent is the level at which--if it comes down 20 percent, they have to halt trading in New York on the stock market. It is such a catastrophe. That would happen. Now, we have stock market crashes, and then there are other stock market crashes, but this is the kind of stock market crash that would be caused by an undermining of the confidence and the faith in the United States economy and the Government's ability and willingness to pay its debts. That rock solid promise that the world economy relies on would be gone. And so much of what drives an economy and makes it strong is confidence in governments and confidence that promises to pay will come true. If that happens, that would be the kind of stock market crash that would presage not only a recession but a great depression. The last time we had that kind of a stock market crash was in 1929, and it led to a great depression that led to unemployment rates of over 15 and up to 20 percent of this country. It was unbelievable how bad the depression was. It lasted for over a decade. It would be a catastrophe in this country of a magnitude we can't imagine. Nobody in our generation has had to live through something like that. As a result, we have to talk about these things as if they would actually happen. If the country defaults on its debt, there will be a stock market crash, and it would be followed by a great depression, which is horrible, horrible damage that would be caused by nothing more than a political stunt by Senator Mitch McConnell.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. I would hope that, but my hopes have been dashed before. We have seen this story before in different aspects. In fact, we are approaching the 8-year anniversary now of what happened when I was a freshman Representative in 2013. It was October 1. The government shut down. At that time, the debate of the day was the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, and there was the demand by the Republicans in the Senate that we repeal the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, and if we didn't, they were going to shut the government down. Madam Speaker, they did shut the government down. They shut it down for 16 days in October. And I can tell you, when they do these things, they do damage the economy and they did damage the economy in 2013 in the fall. In fact, in my own district, we actually measured how much damage was done to the economy in northeastern Pennsylvania. We have this marvelous asset, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, that had to shut down because of that government shutdown. Now, this happened the first 16 days of October, which always is a very lucrative tourist season in northeastern Pennsylvania. The people are out to see the beautiful resplendent colors of the fall in northeastern Pennsylvania. Because the national park had to shut down for those 16 days, leaf peeper season went out the window. And all of the little businesses ringing that national park in Pike County and Monroe County, Pennsylvania, the restaurants and the motels and the gas stations and all of the little businesses that survive off the tourism every year, they got murdered during that shutdown. In fact, we measured that per day. That damaged our economy to the tune of $400,000 a day in my district alone. The question is: Would Mitch McConnell go ahead and damage our economy purposely to make a political point? The answer is, yeah, he probably would. It looks like he is doing it, and they have done it before, and they don't care. So it is a sad answer, I know. But the truth is, they would rather score a political point and do harm to our Nation's economy than stick up for the full faith and credit of the United States.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Matthew John Meade, who will be recognized as the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick's 2021 Man of the Year at their Halfway to St. Patrick's Day event on Friday, September 24, 2021. Matthew was born to Jack and Staton (Monk) Meade in Luzerne County and raised in Jenkins Township, Pennsylvania. He attended and graduated from Pittston Area High School, and he continued his education at Penn State University, Marywood University, Wilkes University, and King's College. Matthew is actively involved in his community. He served as the president of the Friendly Sons in 2020. He was instrumental in guiding the organization during COVID-19 and innovating new ways to foster connection and maintain the group's hallmark conviviality despite the challenges of the pandemic. Matthew is also a member of the Knights of Columbus John F. Kennedy Council 372 and a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus Assembly 948. He is currently the president of the Pittston Knights Home Association. Matthew has dedicated his professional career and volunteer efforts to educating children and encouraging their athletic endeavors. Since 2012, he has been employed by the Luzerne Intermediate Unit, Greater Nanticoke Area, and Northwest Area, and he has coached young people in track and field, football, golf, and basketball. Matthew also coached in the Avoca Jolly Boys Basketball League. I am honored to join with the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick in recognizing Matthew as the 2021 Man of the Year. He has been a longtime champion of local causes and organizations, and he has a bright future ahead of him. May he continue to answer the call to serve his community.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor P.J. Melvin, who will receive the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick's 2021 Achievement Award at their Halfway to St. Patrick's Day event on Friday, September 24, 2021. P.J. was horn in Pittston, Pennsylvania. A lifetime resident of the area, he has lived in the family homestead since he was born. In 1964, P.J. graduated from Pittston High School, earning the title of Outstanding Senior Boy. He continued his education at King's College, graduating with degrees in sociology and English education. While at King's, he played on the football team and could be found on stage acting in Shakespearean plays. After graduating from King's, P.J. began his career as an educator at St. Cecilia's Junior High School in Exeter, Pennsylvania. He then joined the teaching staff at the Wyoming Area School District where he held several educational positions during his tenure. P.J. is actively involved in many community organizations and he has dedicated his time to serve in leadership roles. He is a former president of the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons. He is also a member of the Knights of Columbus John F. Kennedy Council No. 372 where he previously held the position of Grand Knight. P.J. is known for his love of Pittston, and his presence has been a mainstay in the community for generations. Always seeing the potential of his beloved hometown, he served his community and fellow citizens as a Pittston City councilman. He was instrumental in starting the Pittston Tomato Festival, an event that attracts thousands of visitors downtown annually, and he was part of the effort to bring the statue of President John F. Kennedy to Kennedy Boulevard in the city. In 2019, P.J. was unanimously chosen by the Parade Committee to serve as Grand Marshal for the Pittston St. Patrick's Day Parade. I am honored to join with the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick in recognizing P.J. as the recipient of the 2021 Achievement Award. I admire P.J's lifetime of dedication to the Greater Pittston area, and I wish him all the best.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Lee Monteforte, who will receive the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick's 2021 W. Francis Swingle Award at their Halfway to St. Patrick's Day event on Friday, September 24, 2021. Lee was born and raised in Pittston, Pennsylvania. He is a graduate of Pittston Area High School and he continued his academic career at Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in education. Lee started his professional career working as a representative for MetLife Securities and Wachovia Bank. He then transitioned into a career in marketing in the broadcast media industry, sharpening his skills in digital strategy, broadcast sales, connected TV advertising, and media buying. In 2000, he started at WOLFTV FOX 56 as a marketing consultant, and in 2006, he joined the marketing team at WNEP-TV 16. Lee also dedicates his time to serving his community. In 2015, he served as president of the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons, and he has volunteered with the Pittston City St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee. He is a member of the Knights of Columbus John F. Kennedy Council 372 and a Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus Assembly 948. He currently serves as secretary for the Pittston Knights Home Association. Seeking to encourage young athletes and to further give back to his community, Lee returned to his alma mater, Pittston Area, to coach track and field and cross country. Lee lives in Jenkins Township with his wife, Deborah, and they are the proud parents of Justin and Jaret. I am honored to join with the Greater Pittston Friendly Sons of St. Patrick in recognizing Lee as the recipient of the 2021 Swingle Award. May he continue to find success in his career and fulfillment in his time spent serving his community.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Avoca Borough, Pennsylvania as its residents celebrate its 150th anniversary of incorporation. On May 24, 1871, Avoca Borough, then known as Pleasant Valley, was officially incorporated after splitting from the nearby Pittston Township. Governed by three councilmen, Pleasant Valley was a booming community with four railroads, four churches, a board of trade, a school, and a fire company. In 1889, residents wanted to move the Marr Post Office to a more central location in the community. With another borough in the Commonwealth already claiming the name Pleasant Valley, the United States Postal Service rejected their request, but the citizens were undeterred. They requested a name change to Avoca through the Luzerne County Court after the Avoca Hose Company. The court granted their request, and the name was officially changed. The twentieth century saw growth and prosperity for Avoca, and as the population grew, so did the needs of the community. In 1905, a group of Avoca's most enterprising citizens met to discuss the need for a town bank, and on April 1, 1907, the First National Bank of Avoca opened on Main Street. In the early 1920s, schools were struggling to accommodate the number of students due to a steadily increasing population. In 1925, the Avoca School Board finalized plans for a four-year high school building, which was completed in time for the 1926 school year. Avoca has always been home to patriotic Americans who valiantly served their country and sought to give back to their community. In 1931, a group of ex-service members organized the American Legion McPhillips-WiddaI Post, and in 1946, Avoca veterans formed the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8335. Both organizations supported civic and athletic programs in Avoca. Like many communities in the area, coal mining was the primary driver of the local economy. Many residents supported their families with careers in the mines, but the industry proved to be unsustainable. As the coal mining industry began to decline in the 1940s, the Wilkes- Barre-Scranton Airport was constructed, which would become a flourishing regional hub for travel throughout the Northeast. Through the 1950s, the anthracite coal mining industry continued its decline, forcing Avoca residents to relocate for more viable employment. Today, Avoca remains a tight-knit community with thriving local businesses and a true small-town atmosphere. I am honored to join with Mayor Bob Mullen, Parade Grand Marshals Chris Van Luvender and Bob Matthews, Anniversary Committee President Kelly O'Brien, and all the residents of Avoca in celebrating the Borough's 150th anniversary. May the Borough continue to see growth and prosperity over the next 150 years.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Pleasant Valley High School's Envirothon Team. The team of Emma Barrett (captain), Reece Kresge, Zachary Dooner, Jacob Possinger, and Benjamin Keppel recently placed seventh at the International NCF-Evirothon competition hosted virtually at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Evirothon began in Pennsylvania in 1979 as the ``Environmental Olympics'' to encourage young people to take an interest in conservation and environmental issues, and, over the past four decades, the program has expanded to 46 states and internationally to Canada and China. Teachers and professionals support high school students as they participate in natural resource environmental education both in the classroom and outdoors. To advance to the international competition, the team competed against teams from 58 Pennsylvania counties in a series of field station tests focused five areas: soils and land use, aquatic ecology, forestry, wildlife, and environmental issues. They also prepared and delivered an oral presentation where they demonstrated their problem solving and oral presentation skills and provided their recommendations to solve a current environmental issue. Their impressive performance earned them first place and a chance to compete at the international competition. The team also posted the top score in the wildlife station. At the 32nd annual NCF-Enivrothon competition, hosted by the National Conservation Foundation and the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts, the team took on 42 teams--35 from the United States, four from Canada, and three from China. Vying for glory as well as scholarships and awards, the team competed in the five stations and delivered their oral presentation to a panel of judges, ultimately placing seventh overall and earning $1,000 scholarships. It is an honor to recognize Emma, Reece, Zachary, Jacob, Benjamin, and their advisor, Maricatherine Garr, as they celebrate this outstanding achievement. They have made the 8th Congressional District proud and represented the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania well on the world stage. These students have bright futures ahead of them in whatever career path they choose, and I wish them well as they continue on in their studies. May they be lifelong stewards and advocates for our environment.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor former athlete and Northeastern Pennsylvania native Corey Welch. Corey will be inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame in 2021 for his distinct athletic achievements in the sports of swimming and water polo. He and his fellow inductees will be honored at a reception on August 8, 2021. Each year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who have brought fame and recognition to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania through their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors. Corey started competitively swimming when he was five years old. Five more years later, he won his first age group PA State Championship for the Wilkes-Barre YMCA in the 50 meter backstroke. Corey continued to succeed in the pool, winning the 100 IM as well as the 50 backstroke, setting a state and national record. He was ranked as the number one 14-year-old in the country in the 200 IM and the 100 backstroke. Corey also began playing water polo, and in 1996, he was selected to attend the USA Water Polo Youth Development Camp at the USA Olympic Training Center. Corey had a very successful high school athletic career at Wyoming Valley West, and, as a freshman on the water polo team, he was voted the best freshman player in the state. He went on to be All-State the following three years and All-American in his junior and senior seasons. He helped lead the team to four consecutive division championships. On the swim team, Corey was undefeated in his individual events at the AAA district championships, and he helped the team win the PIAA District 2 and Wyoming Valley Conference Team titles during each of his four years. After graduating from Wyoming Valley West, Corey continued his swimming career on a Division I scholarship at the University of Florida. He qualified for the USA Swimming National Championships each of his four years as a Gator, and, in 2004, he qualified for his first Olympic Trials in the 200 LCM breaststroke. Corey qualified for finals in several Nationals, as well as the 2004 US Open where he won the title as part of the 400 medley relay along with the overall team title. For his efforts, he was named to the Gators' All Time Top Ten list in the 100 breast, 200 breast, 200 medley relay, and 400 medley relay. In 2005, he won the SEC Championship with a conference and team record, and he earned Division I NCAA All-American status when the team finished fifth at the NCAA Championships. His impressive times also earned him a spot at the 2008 Olympic Team Trials. After graduation, Corey pursued his doctorate in physical therapy at Drexel University. While in Philadelphia, he began coaching a USA Masters swim team, and he continued to compete himself in several Masters meets. In 2010, he was the USMS National Champion in both the 100 and 200 LCM. In early summer 2012, Corey swam a lifetime best in the 100 LCM breaststroke to earn a spot at the 2012 Olympic Team Trials. It is an honor to recognize Corey 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, coach, and Northeastern Pennsylvania native Ashlee Ward. Ashlee will be inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame in 2021 for her distinct athletic achievements in the sport of track and field. She and her fellow inductees will be honored at a reception on August 8, 2021. Each year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who have brought fame and recognition to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania through their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors. At Meyers High School, Ashlee was a star member of the track and field team. She held the records in high jump and discus. At the PIAA District 2 Championship in 2007, she was the high jump champion and placed fourth in discus. She went on to take eighth place in high jump at the PIAA State Championship. The following year, Ashlee again came out on top to take first place in high jump at the District 2 Championship, as well as second place in discus. She was sixth in the state for the high jump. In 2009, she placed second in high jump and third in discus at the District Championships and ninth in the state for high jump. Her senior year, she was crowned the District 2 Champion in both discus and high jump, and she was second in the state for high jump and fourth in discus. While at Misericordia University, she held the school records in high jump and discus as well as the Middle Atlantic Conference indoor and outdoor high jump records. Her freshman year, at the MAC Indoor Championships, she was runner-up in high jump, and at the MAC Outdoor Championship, she was named Field Athlete of the Year and Champion in high jump and discus. At the NCAA Outdoor qualifier, she was 12th in high jump; at the Eastern College Athletic Conference Indoor Championship, she placed sixth in the high jump; and at the Outdoor Championship, she earned A11-ECAC outdoor honors after placing fifth in the high jump, as well as 11th in discus. Her sophomore year, she was named the MAC Outdoor Champion in high jump and discus as well as the MAC Indoor Runner Up in high jump. She also participated in the Indoor and Outdoor ECAC Championships and the NCAA District Ill Outdoor Championships. As a junior, she continued to dominate the MAC as the Indoor Champion in high jump and the Outdoor Champion in high jump and discus. She also placed in the top five at both the indoor and outdoor ECAC Championships in high jump. Ashlee had an incredibly successful senior season. She was the MAC Indoor High Jump Champion as well as the MAC Outdoor High Jump Champion and runner up in discus. She went on to compete at the ECAC Outdoor Championships, winning the gold in high jump and placing seventh in discus. She triumphed at the NCAA Division III Indoor and Outdoor Championships, placing first in high jump at both contests. For her efforts, she was named the NCAA Division III Outdoor Track and Field Women's Athlete of the Year for the Mideast Region. It is an honor to recognize Ashlee 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, coach, and Northeastern Pennsylvania native Ashlee Ward. Ashlee will be inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame in 2021 for her distinct athletic achievements in the sport of track and field. She and her fellow inductees will be honored at a reception on August 8, 2021. Each year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who have brought fame and recognition to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania through their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors. At Meyers High School, Ashlee was a star member of the track and field team. She held the records in high jump and discus. At the PIAA District 2 Championship in 2007, she was the high jump champion and placed fourth in discus. She went on to take eighth place in high jump at the PIAA State Championship. The following year, Ashlee again came out on top to take first place in high jump at the District 2 Championship, as well as second place in discus. She was sixth in the state for the high jump. In 2009, she placed second in high jump and third in discus at the District Championships and ninth in the state for high jump. Her senior year, she was crowned the District 2 Champion in both discus and high jump, and she was second in the state for high jump and fourth in discus. While at Misericordia University, she held the school records in high jump and discus as well as the Middle Atlantic Conference indoor and outdoor high jump records. Her freshman year, at the MAC Indoor Championships, she was runner-up in high jump, and at the MAC Outdoor Championship, she was named Field Athlete of the Year and Champion in high jump and discus. At the NCAA Outdoor qualifier, she was 12th in high jump; at the Eastern College Athletic Conference Indoor Championship, she placed sixth in the high jump; and at the Outdoor Championship, she earned AII-ECAC outdoor honors after placing fifth in the high jump, as well as 11th in discus. Her sophomore year, she was named the MAC Outdoor Champion in high jump and discus as well as the MAC Indoor Runner Up in high jump. She also participated in the Indoor and Outdoor ECAC Championships and the NCAA District Ill Outdoor Championships. As a junior, she continued to dominate the MAC as the Indoor Champion in high jump and the Outdoor Champion in high jump and discus. She also placed in the top five at both the indoor and outdoor ECAC Championships in high jump. Ashlee had an incredibly successful senior season. She was the MAC Indoor High Jump Champion as well as the MAC Outdoor High Jump Champion and runner up in discus. She went on to compete at the ECAC Outdoor Championships, winning the gold in high jump and placing seventh in discus. She triumphed at the NCAA Division III Indoor and Outdoor Championships, placing first in high jump at both contests. For her efforts, she was named the NCAA Division III Outdoor Track and Field Women's Athlete of the Year for the Mideast Region. It is an honor to recognize Ashlee 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, coach, and Northeastern Pennsylvania native Shana Welch. Shana will be inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame in 2021 for her distinct athletic and coaching achievements in the sports of swimming and water polo. She and her fellow inductees will be honored at a reception on August 8, 2021. Each year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who have brought fame and recognition to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania through their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors. At Wyoming Valley West High School, Shana was a standout member of the swim team. She received All-American recognition from the National Interscholastic Swim Coaches Association in both the 50-yard and 100- yard freestyle event. She was named Conference Swimmer of the Year four times and won 15 PIAA District II swimming medals. Shana was not only a skilled swimmer, but she was also a key player on the soccer, water polo, and track and field teams, earning four letters in water polo and soccer and one in track and field. On the water polo team, she helped lead the team to their first State Championship in 1999. She was a four-time All-State and four-time All- American, and in her freshman year she was named Rookie of the Year. After her senior year, she was crowned MVP. Shana continued her academic and athletic careers at the University of Michigan, establishing herself as one of the best players in school water polo history. She set new program records for career goals and points and led the team as captain in 2006 and 2007. The Collegiate Water Polo Association (CWPA) recognized her athletic prowess throughout her collegiate career, naming her Rookie of the Year in 2005, MVP of the CWPA Western Division three times, and CWPA Player of the Week nine times. Shana was instrumental in leading the team to the 2005 CWPA Championship and earned an NCAA tournament berth, as well as four consecutive division crowns from 2004 to 2007. USA Speedo named her a Top 40 player in both 2005 and 2006. In addition to her dominance in the pool, Shana excelled academically. She received the University of Michigan Athletic Academic Achievement Award in 2006 and 2007, and she received the Bob Ufer Sr. Athlete Award in 2007. Shana played professional water polo in Australia with the UWA Comets the year after graduation and in Greece from 2010-2011. Stateside, she focused on coaching, accepting a position as Bucknell University's assistant swim coach for the 2008-2009 season. For the 2009-2010 season, she coached the Harvard men's water polo team. In 2014, Shana joined Long Beach State University as the women's water polo volunteer assistant, and, in 2020. she was named the first dedicated coach for the women's water polo program since 2008 after leading the team in six standout seasons in various coaching roles. In recognition of her athleticism and contributions to the sport, Shana was named to the Michigan All-Decade team in 2010, and, in 2016, she was inducted into the CWPA Hall of Fame. It is an honor to recognize Shana 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, coach, and Northeastern Pennsylvania native Jacqueline Hardwick. Jacqueline will be inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame in 2021 for her distinct athletic achievements in the sport of basketball. She and her fellow inductees will be honored at a reception on August 8, 2021. Each year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who have brought fame and recognition to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania through their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors. While at Dallas High School, Jacqueline excelled on the basketball team. Her sophomore year, she was selected as a Division II All-Star, and her team won the Wyoming Valley Conference Sportsmanship Award while also being named the WVC Division II Champions for the first time since 1985. Her junior year, she was named WVC Division II Player of the Year, and the team won the District II Class 3A Championship. As a senior, she reached a high school career total of 1,134 points and was named WVC Division II Times Leader All-Star. That same year, her team won the WVC Division II Championship. Jacqueline was also a key player on the soccer team; she was named a WVC Division D All-Star her freshman and sophomore years and a WVC District A All-Star her junior year. She helped lead the team to a Division D Championship her freshman year and to District 2 Playoffs her junior year. Her senior year, her team was crowned the District A Champions. Jacqueline continued her athletic career on the basketball court at Albright College. Her junior year, she was named Albright College's Most Outstanding Women's Basketball Player. During her collegiate career, she scored 1,016 points, and she helped the team make its first Division II NCAA tournament appearance in school history. In 2008, Jacqueline was recognized by Who's Who in American Colleges and Universities. After graduating, she was hired at Kenwood High School with the Baltimore County Public Schools as a special education teacher, and she also coached the junior varsity girls' basketball team. From 2009 to 2013, she played semi-professional basketball with the Baltimore Starz in the Women's Eastern Basketball Alliance. Even with the demands of a semi-professional carrier, she continued to coach at Kenwood High School, serving as the assistant coach for the girls' varsity basketball team from 2009 to 2013. From 2011 to 2014, she coached Allied Soccer, and in 2013, she was named head coach of Kenwood's girls' varsity basketball head coach, a position she held until 2015. It is an honor to recognize Jacqueline on her induction into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame. May her story and athletic and coaching careers 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, coach, and Northeastern Pennsylvania native Paul Lupinski. Paul will be inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame in 2021 for his distinct athletic and coaching achievements in the sports of soccer, basketball, golf, swimming, baseball, and football. He and his fellow inductees will be honored at a reception on August 8, 2021. Each year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who have brought fame and recognition to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania through their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors. At Tunkhannock Area High School, Paul was a standout multi-sport athlete, earning letters in soccer, golf, basketball, swimming, and baseball. He was named All-Conference in soccer, swimming, and baseball, and his senior year, he received All-State Honors in swimming. In the pool, he set school records in the 50 freestyle, 100 freestyle, and 200 freestyle relay, and he won three district gold medals, one in the 50 freestyle and two in the 100 freestyle. In 1995, he went on to swim at the state championships, placing third in the 100 free and fourth in the 50 free. That year he was named to the High School Academic All-American Team. He was named to the 1994 and 1995 Times Leader Wyoming Valley Conference Swimming All-Star Team, as well as the 1995 Wyoming Valley Conference Baseball All-Star Team. He was also a Dutch Keller and Procter and Gamble Scholarship recipient. At the end of Paul's senior year in baseball, he suffered a stroke caused by endocarditis due to a defective aortic valve. However, he was determined to honor his commitment to swim for Penn State University that fall. He made an impressive recovery and went on to have a collegiate swimming career. He placed third in the 200 free relay at the 1997 Big Ten Conference Meet, and he was named Academic All-Big Ten athlete for the 1996-1997 season. Paul's heart condition was monitored as he swam for two seasons at Penn State, but there were still signs of leakage in his heart. Despite deciding to give up swimming, he went on to play fall baseball for Penn State, and, in the spring, he was the last person cut from the team. In 1999, Paul graduated with a degree in chemical engineering. While monitoring his heart condition after two open heart surgeries, Paul stays active and encourages young people to reach their full potential in sport. He has coached junior high baseball, age group swimming, rec league soccer, baseball, and basketball. He has served as the Tunkhannock Youth Soccer Commissioner and the Tunkhannock Youth Basketball Association Treasurer. He was on the board of the Wyoming County United Way and a trustee of the Center Moreland United Methodist Church. Paul shared his story of perseverance and overcoming adversity with the students of his alma mater as the keynote speaker of the Tunkhannock High School Honors Banquet. It is an honor to recognize Paul on his induction into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame. May his unique story and athletic career serve as an inspiration to future Pennsylvania students striving for personal excellence.

Mr. CARTWRIGHT

Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor former athlete, coach, and Northeastern Pennsylvania native Eric Speece. Eric will be inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame in 2021 for his distinct athletic achievements in the sport of football. He and his fellow inductees will be honored at a reception on August 8, 2021. Each year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who have brought fame and recognition to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania through their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors. Eric first stepped on the football field as a member of the West Pittston Rams mini football team. He helped lead the team to two championships, one in 1976 and one in 1978. He played Little League Baseball for Halls Nursery/Millers Economy; his team won the championship in 1979. He also wrestled in junior high. Eric attended Wyoming Area High School, where he was a key player on the football team. While in high school, he gained over 1700 rushing yards and scored 26 touchdowns. In 1982, he lettered in football and received an honorable mention All-Scholastic. In 1983, he lettered and was named to the first team All-Scholastic as a running back. That year, he rushed for 1100 yards and scored 20 touchdowns. He was a leading scorer in the Wyoming Valley Conference with 20 touchdowns, a safety, and a two-point conversion. For his efforts, the Citizens' Voice named him Offensive Player of the Year, and he was named All- Conference VFW Player of the Year and WVC Second Leading Rusher. He played on the UNICO West Team, and in 2009, he was inducted into the Wyoming Area Ring of Pride. In addition to football, Eric played basketball and ran track. Eric continued his football and academic careers at Lock Haven University. His freshman year he was the team's leading rusher and started seven games, He lettered in 1984-1985 and had 122 carries for 585 yards, five touchdowns, and one receiving touchdown. He then transferred to Bloomsburg University where he lettered in football in 1987 and 1989. While at Bloomsburg, he had 405 rushing yards with one touchdown and 90 yards receiving with one touchdown. After graduating from college, Eric continued to pursue his passion for football. He played adult flag football from 1990 to 2006 in the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton area. In 2000, he joined the coaching staff of his alma mater, Wyoming Area. He also returned to West Pittston Rams mini football as coach from 1990 to 2006; his teams made the playoffs nine out of his ten seasons with the team. In 2000, they were the Super Bow1 runners-up. It is an honor to recognize Eric 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 coach and Northeastern Pennsylvania native William Sexton. William will be inducted into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame for his distinct coaching achievements in the sports of wrestling, baseball, and football. He and his fellow inductees will be honored at a reception on August 8, 2021. Each year, the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame honors those who have brought fame and recognition to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania through their outstanding achievements and contributions in athletic endeavors. William is a graduate of North Pocono High School and Bloomsburg State College. He spent nearly four decades as a social studies teacher at Towanda Area High School, In 1978, he was named assistant coach of the school's wrestling team, and in 1980, he was promoted to head coach. Under his shrewd and capable leadership, the Black Knights had 676 wins, 233 loses, and three ties. His legendary career varsity record makes him the winningest coach in PIAA District IV history and the second in Pennsylvania all-time history. He coached his wrestlers to eleven Northern Tier League Championships, fifteen PIAA District IV North Section Team Titles, four PIAA District IV Team Titles, and one Northeast Regional Title. Dedicated to helping young people reach their full potential in sport, William spent forty years, from 1978 to 2018, coaching the Black Knights baseball and football teams. As the head baseball coach, he lead the team to 549 wins, and throughout his coaching career, the teams won eleven Northern Tier League Titles and one District IV title. It is an honor to recognize William on his induction into the Luzerne County Sports Hall of Fame. May his story and coaching career serve as an inspiration to the next generation of Pennsylvania athletes striving for excellence.