Member of Congress
Brian Fitzpatrick
- Role
- Current Representative
- State
- PA
- Party
- Republican
Speeches
RECOGNIZING THE RUBIN FAMILY2019-01-09
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a family and a school community in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, that is working to keep the legacy alive for a young person taken too soon. In 1998, Jason Rubin, then a 13-year-old student at Cecelia Snyder Middle School in Bensalem, tragically succumbed to a bacterial infection. Jason was a popular kid who loved sports and played on the school's basketball team. Shortly after Jason's passing, his parents, Richard and Gail, set up a memorial fund in his honor. The fund assists our community in various capacities, including through scholarships for Bensalem High School students. This year, the family wanted to do something different and special. Realizing Cecelia Snyder's scoreboard was outdated, the Rubin family dedicated a new scoreboard in memory of Jason D. Rubin, a fitting tribute for their basketball-loving son. A dedication ceremony with the Rubin family present was held last week. Madam Speaker, we applaud the service of the Rubin family and members of the Cecelia Snyder school and their community, and we are all so proud to see Jason memorialized in such a meaningful way. Honoring Grace Godshalk
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a native of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, and a community that has rallied around him in support. Jay Smith graduated from Central Bucks West and was diagnosed with ALS in 2014. This month, a jazz concert, dubbed ``Jazz for Jay,'' will be held to help Jay and his family pay for medical expenses. Jay is a writer and an inventor, a husband to Melissa, and a father to Loghan and Peyton. Despite his declining health, he currently serves on the board of directors of a foundation, Every 90 Minutes, which serves to promote research for a cure for ALS. While he currently lives in Texas, his ties to Bucks County run deep, and our community is proud to support him in this fight. Madam Speaker, here in Congress, we must all do our part to ensure that our medical research community has the resources needed to fight and find a cure for ALS. I would also like to thank those participating in the Jazz for Jay ceremony and activities, and the Smith family for their advocacy.
HONORING THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SIGNING OF THE MIGRATORY BIRD TREATY ACT2018-12-19
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, this year marks the 100th anniversary of the signing of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. This landmark law has protected cherished birds throughout North America while unifying environmentalists, hunters, and scientists for generations. In New Hope, Pennsylvania, supporters of environmental preservation are gathering at the Bucks County Audubon Society at Honey Hollow on December 19, 2018, to celebrate the ``Year of the Bird'' in honor of the centennial celebration of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It gives me immense pride to stand with them and their commitment to environmental stewardship for all animal species. As we celebrate the ``Year of the Bird,'' let us remember the joy and beauty nature provides us, and strive for unifying goals of which the Migratory Bird Treaty Act is a prime model.
RECOGNIZING LOIS WHEELER2018-11-29
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, we recently returned to Congress after celebrating Thanksgiving, a time when we pause and reflect on the many blessings that our community bestows upon each one of us. Today, I am proud to recognize an outstanding citizen from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who worked tirelessly for over three decades to ensure residents were able to enjoy the holiday surrounded by friends and good food. Lois Wheeler of Lower Makefield began serving Thanksgiving meals to the underprivileged in our community in 1980. Known as ``Bountiful Harvest Feasts,'' Lois hosted between 125 and 200 people yearly at the Masonic Lodge in Fairless Hills. Lois' dedication to serving the hungry began in high school. While attending Neshaminy High School in Langhorne, Lois saw a classmate who was not able to afford lunch. Wheeler was so moved, she would bring him sandwiches to eat. When they were not available, she would give away her own lunch. Lois is truly beloved in our community. Her continued generosity has earned her the nickname ``Sister Wheeler,'' and she has also been called the ``Mother Teresa of Bucks County.'' While Lois' health prevented her from participating this year, her legacy of service to Bucks County cannot be erased. We applaud Lois for her charity and generosity, and wish her and her husband, George, all the best. Recognizing the Lingohocken Volunteer Fire Company and the Council Rock School District's ACHIEVE Program
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize students and public servants in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who recently teamed up to spread awareness of fire safety and vocational training. Last month, the Lingohocken Volunteer Fire Company met with students in the Council Rock School District's ACHIEVE program, which is geared towards providing students with special needs the tools and skills needed for self-sufficiency. The Lingohocken Volunteer Fire Company's presentation, which took place in a fire safety trailer to simulate real-life emergencies, was aimed at preparing students to respond to a fire hazard. I would like to thank Council Rock ACHIEVE staff John Engelhardt, Dan Bartleson, Steve Ruane, and David Marcinkowski for their work in preparing Bucks County students for the future. I would also like to thank Lingohocken Chief David James, along with firefighters Gary Davis, Charlie Vaughn, Ted Middleman, and Glenn Forsyth of Newtown Township Emergency Services for their dedication to our community. At a time when our fellow citizens in California are experiencing devastating wildfires, firefighters' skills and expertise are appreciated and so sorely needed. We need them now more than ever. Recognizing Lindsey Spritzler
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a student from Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, for her outstanding achievements. Lindsey Spritzler, a senior at North Penn High School in Lansdale, was recently selected as a member of the 2018 All-National Honor Mixed Choir and is performing at their annual conference this week in Orlando, Florida. Lindsey was one of only 240 individuals across our country to be selected to join the vocalist team. This is certainly no small feat. In order to even qualify, Lindsey had to be selected for the Pennsylvania All-State Chorus and place near the top of her section. I applaud Lindsey for her hard work and exceptional talent. We are also proud to recognize Music Department Chair Matthew Klenk for his commitment and dedication to our community and for his service to the North Penn School District as well. On behalf of our entire community, we all look forward to seeing what Lindsey will accomplish in the future. We know they will be great things.
FEDERAL AGENCY CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE ACT OF 20182018-11-29
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, every day throughout the private sector, businesses obtain feedback from their customers to improve their products and improve their services. However, this is much less common--if not nonexistent--within the Federal Government, where agencies could be doing far more to improve the customer service experience of every citizen in this country. The latest American Customer Satisfaction Index found the Federal Government is near the bottom of the list when it comes to customer satisfaction. H.R. 2846 requires certain Federal agencies to collect voluntary feedback from individuals about their interactions with the government. People who interact with government agencies will have the opportunity to give feedback on their experience. Using feedback provided by the public, agencies will figure out just how effectively they are at serving the American people. The result, Mr. Speaker, will be a win-win. The American public receives better services and customer care, while agencies achieve greater impact and ability to fulfill their missions. H.R. 2846 also sets guidelines for agencies' solicitation of voluntary feedback from the public. The questionnaire will be no longer than 10 questions, and the response must be anonymous. Agencies are required to work with the General Services Administration and the Office of Management and Budget to formulate their surveys to ensure feedback is both reliable and useful. However, customer feedback on its own will not improve the relationship between the American people and the Federal Government. H.R. 2846 requires agencies to report publicly on the voluntary feedback that they collect. This report will include information about the feedback received and a description of how the agency will go about improving customer service. The Government Accountability Office will also create customer experience scorecards for the agencies to foster accountability. I urge my friends on both sides of the aisle to support H.R. 2846.
PANCREATIC CANCER AWARENESS MONTH2018-11-28
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, and I am pleased to recognize an organization in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, that works to raise awareness and seeks to cure this disease. My constituent Christine Edmonds formed A Love for Life based in Newtown, Bucks County, nearly 6 years ago in memory of her husband, Kevin Edmonds. Kevin died in April 2012 at the young age of 51 after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer, shortly after his sister Nora died of the very same illness. The mission of A Love for Life is to ensure that pancreatic cancer research is properly funded. Pancreatic cancer is a very, very devastating illness. The average survival rate for stage IV pancreatic cancer averages around 6 months. A Love for Life is looking to change that, partnering with the Abramson Cancer Center at the University of Pennsylvania to promote advanced research. We offer our heartfelt thanks and gratitude to A Love for Life and Christine Edmonds for their work to eradicate pancreatic cancer in our community, in our country, and in our world. Mr. Speaker, I encourage all of our constituents and everyone in our community to follow her courageous lead in standing up for and serving a cause bigger than herself.
MANAGE OUR WOLVES ACT2018-11-16
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to H.R. 6784 as this act will block vital protection for gray wolves across the entire Nation, protections that were implemented under the Endangered Species Act. H.R. 6784 would direct the Secretary of the Interior to issue a rule removing the gray wolf from the Endangered Species Act list, which would preclude judicial review of agency decisions on wolf delisting and deny citizens the right to hold the Government accountable for its actions. There is no mystery about the negative impact that passing this legislation would have on the gray wolf, because we have already seen it. In 2011, Congress used an appropriations rider to delist wolves in Idaho and in Montana. And since 2011, over 2,500 wolves have been killed in these two States where the management practices included shooting wolves lured by bait, chasing wolves with packs of hounds, using steel-jawed legholds, and using wire snare traps. Given these concerns, Mr. Speaker, I oppose this legislation. Endangered Species Act decisions must be made with caution. We should also be extremely bipartisan in these approaches. And if there is legitimate dispute over delisting, then delisting is premature and ill- advised. That is why I oppose this legislation.
HONORING DOLORES McCRACKEN2018-11-16
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to honor the memory and extraordinary life of an educator in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, whose dedication of Pennsylvania's children made her one of Pennsylvania's most prominent voices on education advocacy, policy, and practices. Dolores McCracken, who served as president of the Pennsylvania State Education Association, passed away on November 13 following her courageous battle with cancer. Dolores spent the past two decades as a passionate activist for improved public education, working to promote PSEA initiatives on the Federal, State, and local levels. Dolores' professional contributions to Pennsylvania education are impactful and incredibly far-reaching. She worked closely with numerous statewide partners and served on the board of directors at the Keystone Research Center, the Pennsylvania Budget and Policy Center, and the Council Rock Education Foundation. She also served as president of the Churchville Elementary Home and School Association. For Dolores, it always came down to improving the lives of our community's children and their families. She firmly believed that every child, regardless of the circumstances of their birth, deserves the best education in the world. A paralegal by trade, Dolores is survived by her husband, Jack Jr.; her children, Jack III and Kristin; and her grandchildren, Dylan, Reese, Paige, and Logan. May they take comfort in knowing Dolores' life work will carry on in our students' lives for generations. Dolores McCracken is our children's hero.
CELEBRATING DIWALI2018-11-14
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, last week, the Indian American community celebrated Diwali, the festival of lights. The holiest day of the Hindu calendar, Diwali celebrates the spiritual victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Today, we welcome these amazing community members right here in our Nation's Capitol. In Bucks and Montgomery Counties, Pennsylvania, I am honored to recognize the Hindu community and members of the Indian American community who celebrated and expressed their faith. Today, I am proud to recognize the several mandirs who serve our community in innumerable ways located in Levittown, Montgomeryville, Warrington, Feasterville- Trevose, Bensalem, and Souderton. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to join the Hindu faith community in celebrating Diwali and applaud their efforts of inclusion and community betterment in Pennsylvania and across America. I look forward to working with these amazing people today and every day
RECOGNIZING PENNSYLVANIA STATE SENATOR STEWART GREENLEAF2018-11-06
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a dedicated public servant, Pennsylvania State Senator Stewart J. Greenleaf. Senator Greenleaf devotedly served the people of Bucks and Montgomery Counties in the Pennsylvania General Assembly for 42 years. A lifelong resident of Upper Moreland Township, Senator Greenleaf graduated from the University of Pennsylvania, where he played varsity basketball, and received his law degree from the University of Toledo School of Law. He is married to Cecelia ``Kelly'' Greenleaf Early in his career, Senator Greenleaf served as Assistant District Attorney in Montgomery County and Chief of Appeals, writing briefs for cases that were appealed all the way to the United States Supreme Court. Stewart Greenleaf's career in the Montgomery County Courthouse was his first exposure to politics, which inspired his decision to make a life-long career of public service. Working as a prosecutor, he gained the insight into the criminal justice system and the judiciary that led to his decades-long chairmanship of the Pennsylvania Senate Judiciary Committee. Senator Greenleaf has passed more legislation than any other member of Pennsylvania's 253-member General Assembly. He has been the prime sponsor of 160 bills signed into law, and the driving force of many other measures that didn't carry his name. Notably, he has authored the Clean Indoor Air Act of 2008, Pennsylvania's Megan's Law, the Grandparent Custody Law, the Rails to Trails Act, the School Pesticide Law, the Health Club Consumer Protection Act, the Puppy Lemon Law, the ``No Means No'' Law, the Amusement Ride Inspection Act, and the Missing Children Act. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Senator Greenleaf for truly dedicating his life to the service and betterment of others.
HONORING THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE NEWTOWN ATHLETIC CLUB2018-11-02
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize the 40th anniversary of a business in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, that promotes the health and wellbeing of our community, the Newtown Athletic Club. On Saturday, November 3, 2018, the Newtown Athletic Club will host a night of celebration and camaraderie. This evening will seek to celebrate physical and mental wellness, along with raising awareness and funding for ALS research through the organization's partner charity, the NAC Have a Heart Foundation. To date, the NAC Have a Heart Foundation has raised nearly $2 million to find a cure for this disease. I applaud the leadership of Newtown Athletic Club owner and NAC Have a Heart founder, Jim Worthington, for his generosity and advocacy. Jim truly embodies community service and active citizenship. I'd also like to recognize Matt Bellina, whose activism on behalf of the ALS community is deeply inspiring. The Newtown Athletic Club is more than just a facility; it is cherished institution here in Bucks County. I appreciate all the Newtown Athletic Club has contributed to our home, and wish all members, management, and staff my heartiest congratulations on its 40th anniversary.
RECOGNIZING JACKIE RIPPERT2018-11-02
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an educator in Bucks County, Pennsylvania who recently became a finalist in a national education grant contest. Jackie Rippert, a teacher at Neshaminy High School in Langhorne, becomes one step closer to the $100,000 education grant that is sponsored to fund meaningful projects in local schools and communities. If selected, Jackie plans on creating a ``living classroom'' that enables students to grow plants and cultivate produce. This is particularly beneficial for food pantries, who will benefit from the vegetables grown. It will also serve as a hands-on learning experience for students with special needs to gain valuable life skills. I applaud Jackie for her dedication to her students and our community. I wish her all the best in her quest for this important grant.
HONORING THE 100TH BIRTHDAY OF EDWARD G. BUNTING, SR.2018-10-30
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record a proclamation honoring the 100th birthday of Edward G. Bunting, Sr. Whereas, Mr. Edward G. Bunting, Sr., celebrated his one hundredth birthday on July 2, 2018; Whereas, Mr. Bunting valiantly served our country in the United States Air Force from 1943 to 1946 and the Air Force Reserves from 1946 to 1950, and embarked on a successful business career at Germantown Savings Bank for thirty-six years; and Whereas, Mr. Bunting, his late wife Elizabeth, and children Daniel, David, and Edward, Jr., have contributed substantially to our community; now therefore, do I, Congressman Brian K. Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, proudly recognize Mr. Edward G. Bunting, Sr., on the year of his one hundredth birthday celebration, and honor his remarkable accomplishments.
HONORING THE 70TH BIRTHDAY OF PAT POPRIK2018-10-26
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I'm proud to recognize a dear friend, trusted partner, and community icon who is celebrating her 70th birthday this month. Pat Poprik continues to work tirelessly to improve the lives of all Bucks County residents. For decades, she championed the virtues of limited government, individual freedom, and liberty for all people of this great nation. For the past four decades, Pat has provided wisdom and mentorship for Pennsylvania Republicans, rising to become the party's state treasurer. Her work culminated in her current position as chairwoman of the Bucks County Republican Party, where her deep understanding of local issues and community concerns has delivered lasting, positive results for our community. It is hard to name anyone who works harder or is more connected to Bucks County than Pat. On behalf of a grateful, civic minded community, I wish Pat a very happy birthday.
RECOGNIZING FULBRIGHT SCHOLARS NATASHA BEDNARZ, ANDREA BISCOVEANU, ELIAV EHRENKRANTZ, JULIANA HEFFERN, ROBERT McDONOUGH, JAKE MEYERS, AND ALEXANDRA MILLER2018-10-16
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, for more than 70 years, the Fulbright Program, established by Congress and funded through an annual appropriation to the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, has forged connections between emerging leaders in the United States and across the globe. Since 1946, more than 380,000 individuals from the United States and over 180 countries have participated in the Fulbright Program. These individuals represent the excellence and diversity of the United States and other countries. I rise today to recognize the prestigious accomplishments of students from my district who received Fulbright Scholarships for the 2017-2018 academic year: Ms. Natasha Bednarz, Yardley, PA, Boston College, Armenia Ms. Andrea Biscoveanu, Yardley, PA, Pennsylvania State University- University Park, Australia Mr. Eliav Ehrenkrantz, New Hope, PA, University of Massachusetts- Amherst, Russia Ms. Juliana Heffern, Carversville, PA, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Malaysia Mr. Robert McDonough, Trevose, PA, La Salle University, Austria Mr. Jake Meyers, Richboro, PA, Washington and Jefferson College, Cambodia Ms. Alexandra Miller, Newtown, PA, Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, Argentina These scholars make us tremendously proud. On behalf of all residents in the Eighth Congressional District, we congratulate them on their outstanding achievements.
RECOGNIZING JAMES MALONEY2018-10-16
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an educator in Bucks County, Pennsylvania who recently became a finalist in a national education grant contest. James Maloney, a teacher at Neshaminy High School in Langhorne, becomes one step closer to the $100,000 education grant that is sponsored to fund meaningful projects in local schools and communities. If selected, James plans on creating a ``living classroom'' that enables students to grow plants and cultivate produce. This is particularly beneficial for food pantries, which will benefit from the vegetables grown. It will also serve as a hands-on learning experience for students with special needs to gain valuable life skills. I applaud James for his dedication to his students and our community. I wish him all the best in his quest for this important grant.
PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING THE 100TH BIRTHDAY OF EDWARD G. BUNTING, SR.2018-10-05
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record the following Proclamation in recognition of the one hundredth birthday of Mr. Edward G. Bunting, Sr. Whereas, Mr. Edward G. Bunting, Sr. celebrated his one hundredth birthday on July 2, 2018; Whereas, Mr. Bunting valiantly served our country in the United States Air Force Reserves from 1946 to 1950, and embarked on a successful business career at Germantown Savings Bank for thirty-six years; Whereas, Mr. Bunting, his late wife Elizabeth, and children Daniel, David, and Edward, Jr., have contributed substantially to our community; now, therefore, do I, Congressman Brian K. Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, proudly recognize Mr. Edward G. Bunting, Jr., on the year of his one hundredth birthday celebration, and honor his remarkable accomplishments.
RECOGNIZING OTHERWISE GIFTS2018-09-27
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a school in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, that plays a tremendous role in the development of our youngest citizens. Mary, Mother of the Redeemer School in North Wales has provided educational growth and spiritual guidance since 2003. While the parish community has existed since the church was established in 1987, it is a testament to MMR's parishioners' devotion to their faith and community that a school was ultimately established. It also comes as no surprise that this school has some remarkable achievements. MMR is a nationally ranked Blue Ribbon, School of Excellence, a recognition of exceptional academic achievement bestowed by the U.S. Department of Education. Earning this award despite its mere 15 years in existence demonstrates the future is tremendously bright for this amazing school. Mr. Speaker, I commend Mary, Mother of the Redeemer School Principal Denise Judge and all faculty, staff, and parents for facilitating such a wonderful community school. We are grateful for your presence in our community, and we wish you all the best. Recognizing Montgomeryville Elementary School
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a school in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, that plays a pivotal role in the development of our community's youth. Montgomeryville Elementary, located in North Wales, is known for instilling in its students the value of academic success and the virtues of acceptance and appreciation. These ideas are ultimately culminated into the school's motto: ``Dream big. Achieve greatness.'' Last year, Montgomery Elementary was ranked the 48th best elementary school in the State of Pennsylvania. This is no small feat, especially given that Pennsylvania contains over 4,000 elementary schools. These noteworthy milestones would not be made possible without the assistance of a dedicated staff and school community. I am especially grateful for the leadership of principal TJ Seidenberger, who has given Montgomery Elementary the tools they need to thrive and succeed since he took the helm at the school. We thank Montgomery Elementary for all they do for our community, and we wish them continued success in the future.
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a small business in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, that was recently recognized by the Lansdale Economic Development Committee as Business of the Month. Otherwise Gifts, located on Green Street, has been a fixture in Lansdale since its opening in 1979. Owner John Otherwise describes his shop as containing unique gifts for everyone. Indeed, Otherwise Gifts sells everything from antiques, woodworking items, lamps, furniture, and nearly everything else John believes would help beautify Lansdale community homes. A Philadelphia native, John previously worked in construction and in the nuclear industry before deciding to follow his passion and open his own store. At age 77, John continues to offer unique experiences and gifts to citizens of Montgomery County and throughout the region. I wish John and his wife, Cynthia, all of the best, and I send my congratulations to Otherwise Gifts on being named Lansdale's Business of the Month. Recognizing Mary, Mother of the Redeemer School
MOMENT OF SILENCE IN REMEMBRANCE OF CAPTAIN CONNOR BEDNARZYK2018-09-27
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise today with my colleagues to honor the life and the memory of Connor Bednarzyk, who tragically passed away on September 7 in an armored vehicle accident near Fort Benning, Georgia. Connor was 25 years old. Captain Bednarzyk grew up in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, where, even at a young age, he demonstrated superb leadership. A 2011 graduate of Central Bucks East High School, where he lettered in football, baseball, and wrestling, he went on to attend Penn State University on an ROTC scholarship. He graduated with a degree in security risk analysis, graduating in the top 10 percent of ROTC graduates in the entire United States. An Army Ranger, Captain Bednarzyk was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, at Fort Benning. In his time in the Army, he was awarded the Ranger Tab, the Air Assault Badge, the Army Parachutist Badge, and the Expert Infantryman's Badge. He previously deployed to Kosovo, where he conducted training exercises and led U.S. troops on a peacekeeping mission with NATO forces and local military. Captain Bednarzyk is an American hero. While his life was tragically cut short, his service to our community and to our Nation will forever live on. His courage and his determination to succeed are truly inspirational. We send our deepest condolences to Captain Bednarzyk's parents, Casey and Ruth, along with his brother Kevin and grandfather Francis. Thank you for sharing his life with us. Rangers lead the way. Connor Bednarzyk led the way. I now ask my colleagues to join me in a moment of silence for an American hero, Connor Bednarzyk.
RECOGNIZING R.J. LEONARD FOUNDATION2018-09-26
Mr. FITZPATRICK
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a nonprofit organization in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, that actively seeks to improve the lives of disadvantaged youth in our community. The R.J. Leonard Foundation, based in Doylestown, was founded in 2008 to assist adolescents who transition out of the foster care system once they turn 18. Oftentimes, many of these young people lack the resources they need to live self-sufficient lives once they have aged out of the system. That is where the R.J. Leonard Foundation comes in, awarding young adults fellowships that provide individualized grants to further their education or career. These grants assist not only with books and tuition costs, but also provide transportation support and social and cultural enrichment opportunities. To provide stability and encouragement, each fellow is matched with a mentor who provides support and guidance. I am proud of the work that the R.J. Leonard Foundation does for our community, and thank them for their 10 years of service to our community. I also commend founder Jo Leonard and executive director Caitlin Deppeler for their outstanding leadership. Recognizing Tom Buzby
Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an individual in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who has dedicated her career to the safety and well-being of our community's children. Pennsbury School District Transportation Director Charlie Williams recently named Jeanne Lakawitz as the Pennsbury 2018 School Bus Driver of the Year. For the past 14 years, Jeanne has transported students to area schools, including Pennsbury High School, Penn Wood Middle School, William Penn Middle School, and Quarry Hill Elementary School. During this time, she cultivated strong and inspirational relationships with her students and their families. Jeanne says she treats all children on her bus as if they are her own, a statement that I think puts into context her dedication to the job. Her job driving does not stop with Pennsbury. In the summer, she also transports summer campers who participate in programs at the Lower Bucks Family YMCA, assisting our community's families. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Jeanne on this much deserved recognition. I also thank Charlie Williams for his dedication to transportation safety in our community in Bucks County