Brian Fitzpatrick

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of amendment No. 15. This important bipartisan amendment bans the transportation of equines for the purpose of being slaughtered for human consumption. Madam Speaker, currently, horses, donkeys, and others can be transported inhumanely across our country and borders only to be slaughtered for human consumption in Mexico and in Canada. Moreover, this heinous practice is responsible for over 3,500 horses being slaughtered in 2020 alone. These horses are not old or sickly. More than 92 percent of these horses sent to slaughter are in good condition, according to the USDA. Madam Speaker, these innocent horses deserve better, and we must lend a voice to the voiceless to help end the practice of American horses being needlessly slaughtered. This amendment has the overwhelming support of the equestrian community, including the Humane Society, the SPCA, and Horses for Homes Coalition. I thank Representative Carter for leading this amendment, along with the other bipartisan cosponsors of this amendment, and I urge all my colleagues across the aisle to support it and vote ``yes'' on this bipartisan en bloc.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a notable resident within my district, Victor Sorace of Boy Scouts of America Troop 168. Victor earned the rank of Eagle Scout in January of 2020, and I had the distinct pleasure of attending his Eagle Scout Court of Honor. Victor's Eagle Scout Service Project consisted of building a memorial in honor of our community's armed forces service members, police officers, firefighters, and first responders. The memorial was built in Falls Township Park and stands as a constant reminder of the sacrifices those in our community and throughout our nation make every single day. Recently, Victor was recognized as the American Legion's Eagle Scout of the Year for the entire state of Pennsylvania. As an Eagle Scout myself, I can attest to the fact that this is no light achievement. To be the Eagle Scout of the Year requires a lot of dedication, hard work, and community service. Victor excelled in all of these aspects as he truly is an individual who is guided by a sense to better his community and has demonstrated an extraordinary ability to overcome complex challenges and situations throughout the years. We are incredibly grateful for the positive impact that he has on our community.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Police Week. Each May, our Nation comes together to recognize the service and profound commitment of our police officers, to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, and to recommit ourselves to the ideals and laws of our Nation that these fine men and women in uniform are tasked to uphold. But the dedication and sacrifices of our brave officers deserves to be respected and honored, not just in one week out of the year, but every single day, both in this Chamber and across our country. Time and time again, officers across our Nation are met with the greatest threats of danger, and they face them with the greatest displays of courage, honor, and dignity. Mr. Speaker, my great-uncle, Philip Fitzpatrick, was a proud patrolman with the NYPD. He was also a poet, often writing about the world he knew as--what he referred to--a soldier of peace. As I have taken time to reflect during this police week, I found myself thinking of him and a line from one of his poems: ``When he kisses his wife and children good-bye, there's a chance he will see them no more.'' Unfortunately, Mr. Speaker, these words were true for my family and for so many families in our Nation. This month marks 74 years since my great-uncle Phil was shot while attempting to disarm a robber at a Manhattan bar, a fatal injury he succumbed to days later. While the times have changed, the dangers faced by our law enforcement community remain present every time they go to work. Bucks County and my community is home to some of the finest law enforcement officers in our great Nation. Sadly, Mr. Speaker, we have lost too many. I would like to take a moment to honor our valiant fallen officers: Police Officer James K. Armstrong; Deputy Sheriff Thomas A. Bateman; Ranger Thomas Booz; Ranger Stanley E. Flynn; Police Officer Brian S. Gregg; Police Officer Joseph E. Hanusey, III; Detective Christopher C. Jones; Constable Henry A. Kolbe; Sheriff Abraham Kulp; Police Chief Eli M. Myers; Police Sergeant George M. Stuckey; Deputy Sheriff George M. Warta, Jr.; and Police Officer Robert Yezzi. Mr. Speaker, these 13 individuals laid their lives on the line to protect our community, the community that I grew up in, the community that I love, and they paid the ultimate price. We will never forget them and their extraordinary service to our community. We owe them and their families and all of the honorable police officers and public servants who have given their lives in the line of duty a debt of gratitude and appreciation, one that can only be paid back through our love and support for them here on this floor and across our Nation. Our Nation, indeed, our world, is in the midst of unprecedented times. Now, more than ever, our courageous and honorable law enforcement officers need our support. I encourage everyone to take a minute this week to thank a police officer and reflect on the sacrifices so many of them have made. To our hero law enforcement officers in every town, in every city, and in every State across America: We thank you, we are grateful for you, and we love you.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today in tribute to the life and legacy of Mrs. Barbara Flaumenbaum, the late mother-in-law of a member of our team, Mr. Peter Chong. Born in West Oak Lane, Philadelphia, Barbara worked tirelessly as a lab technician for many years and had a spirit that warmed and welcomed all lucky enough to cross her path. You didn't have to know her well to see and understand how deeply she valued generosity and compassion. Not a day went by when Barbara did not exemplify these traits. She instilled these qualities and so much more in her family and the many lives she touched, including her son-in-law, Peter. Barbara and her husband of over 45 years, Steven, raised two incredible daughters, Alisha and Lindsay. Family was everything to Barbara, and what Barbara loved most about life was being a mother and, most recently, a grandmother to her two grandsons, Ethan and Benjamin. They say the best measure of a life well-lived has less to do with the number of our accomplishments, but more to do the with the number of lives we have touched. Madam Speaker, it is clear that Barbara's was a life well-lived and one that will be greatly missed by all. Recognizing Council Rock South High School Students

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the tremendous work and ingenuity of a group of students at Council Rock South High School in Pennsylvania's First Congressional District. At the height of the pandemic, Daniel Krauss, Noah Necowitz, Dean DiDomenico, and Dylan Weselovs, along with the guidance of their teacher, Fred Bauer, saw a need in our community and heeded the call to help. This innovative, impressive group of young men worked tirelessly to design, manufacture, and deliver 3,000 lifesaving PPE face shields that were certified by the Bucks County Emergency Operations Center to medical facilities, nursing homes, and our frontline heroes in Bucks County. I want to applaud this very special group of students for taking what they learned in the classroom and using that to serve our community. I know the future of both our community and country is bright with young men like Daniel, Noah, Dean, and Dylan at the helm. I stand here today on the floor to express our community's utmost pride and gratitude for them. We are excited to see all that they will accomplish and know that, wherever their paths may lead, their futures will be very bright.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall No. 106.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of Matt Gruda, my senior adviser and someone who has become both a friend and a confidant. Matt will be departing our team and beginning a new and exciting chapter in his home State of Florida, and I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to Matt and the remarkable work he has done for our team over the past 2 years. Matt joined our team in 2019, and quickly became an asset to both our team and our district. His expertise, sincerity, thoughtfulness, quick wit, and always pleasant demeanor made him fast friends with so many in our community with a wide range of personalities for sure. He has touched so many lives, and he has made more of an impact than he realizes. Mr. Speaker, I could rattle off a list of wins and crucial behind- the-scenes tasks attributed to Matt, but we would be standing here for quite a while. So to be brief, I want to thank him from the bottom of my heart for his many incredible efforts not just for Team Fitzpatrick, but for so many organizations, schools, businesses, local government officials, municipalities, and the people across Pennsylvania's First Congressional District. Matt does all things with passion, and he has given so much of his heart to our community. So much of what has been accomplished over the past 2 years would not have been possible without Matt's contributions. Matt's drive, determination, positivity, and compassion are a winning combination and truly a rarity in this world. I believe this is why he has been and will continue to be so successful in all walks of life. He recognizes the importance and value in differing opinions and how we can learn from those who think differently from us; and to produce success, we often need to think outside the box; and to best serve our community and our country, we must give everything we have and never give up. He has led our team for over 2 years in this manner, inspiring creativity, collaboration, and passion throughout the ranks. Matt's most admirable quality is his resiliency. I have spoken to Matt's mom, Zena, who talked about the fact that his road to get here was full of challenges, bumps, twists, and turns; yet he faces each one of them with an open mind and looks at them as an opportunity to learn and to improve and grow better. From an early age, Matt's love of baseball was apparent. He would spend hours and hours practicing and throwing a ball against a wall; and once on the field, his eyes and smile reflected his unbridled enthusiasm and deep-rooted passion for the game. On the field, he was in complete control and nothing else mattered. Simply to be there in uniform along with his teammates was a great feeling for him. Then, in seventh grade, he developed a tumor on his spine. After three extensive surgeries, Mr. Speaker, he was told he could not play the game anymore. For most kids, that heart-wrenching gut punch would be a pivotal moment in their life, one in which they would give up in defeat. But not Matt Gruda. Faced with a challenge and the unknown, he decided to seize on the opportunity, becoming the youngest assistant coach and umpire in the history of the league. He confronted his adversity, not viewing it as a stumbling block, but as a stepping stone to success. He has continued to build stepping stones to success with every challenge he has faced. In speaking with the people who know Matt best, they described him as someone who does not hold a grudge; someone who is always looking on the bright side of things; someone who is kind, considerate, and is always eager to make you smile; someone who is a good friend, a caring brother, and a wonderful son; and someone whom you would always want on your team. I know that I am grateful to have had Matt on our team for the past 2 years. He will always have an honorary spot on our bench. As a mentor, Mr. Speaker, I stand here today very proud of what Matt has accomplished and so excited for him to take this next chapter by storm. He is a bright, talented, and determined young man, and I look forward to seeing all that he will accomplish in life. On behalf of our entire team and our entire community, we thank Matt.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act, my legislation, which will be on this House floor tomorrow. Madam Speaker, for years, VAWA has been instrumental in safeguarding women and children from abuse, anguish, and violence, and has resulted in the saving of millions of lives. Madam Speaker, in my own district in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, A Woman's Place has served as a lifesaving resource for over 40 years; and NOVA, the Network of Victim Assistance, has helped over 3,600 victims--neither of which would be able to do their work without the help of VAWA and the reauthorization. Madam Speaker, in August of 2018, 7-year-old Kayden Mancuso of Bucks County was murdered by her father after being awarded partial, unsupervised custody, despite a documented history of violence. She was a beautiful young girl whose life was taken from us. Kayden's Law is included in this bill and takes steps to improve our response to the failures of State courts to protect children in custody proceedings. Madam Speaker, VAWA is lifesaving legislation, and I implore my colleagues and all of my friends who we have built relationships with on both sides of the aisle to join me tomorrow in supporting this legislation.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, prior to my coming to Congress, I dedicated my entire life as an FBI agent to fighting corruption and fighting for electoral reform, having overseen that program for the entire Nation. H.R. 1 sets us back. H.R. 1 should not be called For the People. It should be called for the politicians. We know what we need to do to fix this system, Mr. Speaker. Several of my colleagues and I have introduced legislation that would actually restore faith in this institution and in the electoral process: term limits, no budget-no pay, a balanced budget amendment, single-issue legislation, abolishing congressional pensions, ending ballot harvesting, providing free photo IDs to every registered voter, ensuring signature matching, and, with the exception of military ballots, requiring that all ballots be received by 8 p.m. on election night. Mr. Speaker, this is common sense. What this body is doing today is the opposite. My colleagues are further eroding trust in this system, and that is a real shame because we have the opportunity to fix this. Mr. Speaker, I want to know why House leadership refuses to put these issues on the floor that would unequivocally pass with overwhelming margins in the House and the Senate. If it is going to pass overwhelmingly here, that means the American people want it. Let's put those on the floor.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a staple of my district, Altomonte's Italian Market and Deli. Altomonte's was originally founded as Mike's Meat Shop in 1971 by 2 Italian immigrants, Mike and Frances Grispino. In honor of their Italian hometown, Altomonte, they elected to change the name of the establishment to Altomonte's. Through much commitment and hard work, this family owned business has grown from a small butcher shop to a full-scale market and deli with 2 locations in Bucks County. Altomonte's prides themselves in having a friendly, hard-working, and knowledgeable staff. In addition to serving fine Italian cuisine, Altomonte's plays an active role enriching the community they live in. As our Nation continues to deal with the realities of COVID-19, they have been a shining example for both customer and employee safety. This year, 2021, Altomonte's will celebrate its 50th anniversary. We are extremely grateful for the impact Altomonte's has had on our community.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a very special human being, Mr. Charles Ellzy, who our community lost earlier this year. Mr. Speaker, Charles was a proud graduate of Bensalem High School and Temple University. In 1963, Charles met the love of his life, Rosia. They would go on to have two children, Samantha and Vincent. Charles dedicated his entire life to bettering our community. He spent over 25 years working for the Department of Defense in Philadelphia, and Charles was also the president of the Lin-Park Civic Association. Under his leadership, the LPCA established a community baseball league, organized fundraising events, and collaborated with Betz Laboratories to create the Lin-Park Betz Scholarship. Mr. Speaker, Charles also served for years as a deacon at the Linconia Tabernacle Christian Center in Bensalem. His connection and love for God fueled his complete and total dedication to others. And in August, the Bensalem Township Council unanimously passed a resolution renaming Warren Avenue to Charles Ellzy Way in his honor. Mr. Speaker, this past weekend, I had the honor of joining Charles' family and congregants of the Linconia Tabernacle Christian Center for the unveiling of such a fitting tribute to an amazing man. Mr. Speaker, we are extremely grateful for Charles' contributions, for his 80 years of life, and may the spirit of his generosity and service continue to inspire our community. Charles is now reaping the reward of a life he spent serving others.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the incredible service of two very special Members of this Chamber who are retiring after this term, Will Hurd of Texas and Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii. Will Hurd is a native son of San Antonio, Texas, and a graduate of Texas A&M University, where he was a student body president and graduated with a degree in computer science and international relations. After graduation, Will spent 9 years working and serving our country for the CIA. While primarily based here in Washington, D.C., Will was also stationed overseas in Afghanistan and Pakistan and India. And while in Pakistan, Will worked undercover and became fluent in the native language. In the CIA, Will worked to keep our national security safe, thwarting terrorism across the globe, and putting nuclear weapons proliferators out of business. Part of his responsibilities in Washington was to brief Members of Congress here on the Hill on intelligence and national security issues, which undoubtedly sparked his interest in politics. During his time in Congress, Will has been a leading Member on cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, immigration, and tech issues. He worked incredibly hard to ensure that the Department of Homeland Security is able to work efficiently and effectively, modernize our immigration system, and speak on the need to stay ahead of our adversaries in cybersecurity and technology. Also a colleague of ours, Tulsi Gabbard was born in American Samoa and was raised in Honolulu, Hawaii. A graduate of Hawai'i Pacific University, Tulsi was elected to the Hawaii House of Representatives at age 21, the youngest legislator ever elected in the State. A year into her service, she enlisted in the Hawaii Army National Guard and volunteered to deploy with her fellow soldiers in 2004. She went on two tours of duty in the Middle East, first in Iraq and later in Kuwait, and is currently serving as a major in the Army Reserves. In between her tours of duty, Tulsi served as a legislative aide to the late Senator Daniel Akaka of Hawaii. During her time with the Senator, she worked on issues related to energy, Homeland Security, the environment, and veterans. During this time, Tulsi graduated from Officer Candidate School at the Alabama Military Academy, where she was the first woman to finish as a distinguished honor graduate. During Tulsi's time in Congress, she has been a fierce advocate for veterans, servicemembers, and their families. She has worked to make their lives easier and to ensure that Congress never forgets the women and men who sacrificed for our freedoms. Mr. Speaker, Will and Tulsi have been two amazing Members of this institution. I served with Will on the Homeland Security Committee, and I served with Tulsi on the Foreign Affairs Committee. This Chamber and our Nation are better off because they chose to serve in Congress. Mr. Speaker, both Will and Tulsi caucus with different parties in this Chamber, but they share an awful lot in common: They are both people of class; They are both people of honor and dignity; They both put their life on the line in service of our Nation; They both are independent thinkers; They are both people of incredible courage; They are both people of intellectual honesty; They are both leaders whom I respect and look up to, both before I was in Congress and certainly now. They are two people who served this institution well, who made our Nation proud, and I have no doubt that their time serving our Nation is not at an end. Mr. Speaker, I thank them both for their service, for their courage, for their sacrifice, for being intellectual leaders, thought leaders, being honest, staying true to their convictions, and putting their country ahead of their party every single day of their lives. I appreciate their service, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from North Dakota (Mr. Armstrong) for yielding. Mr. Speaker, as my friend, David Cicilline, just alluded to, we have no higher responsibility than to protect our children. Cyberstalking is a serious crime that needs to be met with stricter penalties and more cooperation amongst law enforcement agencies, including my friends and colleagues in my former agency, the FBI. The Office of Women's Health defines stalking as repeated contact that makes one feel afraid or harassed. Each year, this crime affects an estimated 7.5 million people, including many children. Stalking disproportionately impacts women. Stalking victims are 50 percent more likely to be female, and according to the CDC, one in six women has experienced some form of stalking in their lifetime. Mr. Speaker, my Combat Online Predators Act ensures that not only are we increasing penalties for these crimes, but we are also requiring Federal law enforcement officials to evaluate and update practices to combat this online harassment. This bill provides enhanced criminal penalties for stalkers under title 18, section 2261, by up to 5 years if the victim is a minor. Moreover, the legislation calls for the Attorney General and the Department of Justice to produce an evaluation of Federal, State, and local efforts to enforce laws relating to stalking and to identify and describe elements of these enforcement efforts that constitute best practices across the United States. Moreover, Mr. Speaker, this legislation was inspired by the story of a family in my district in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, the Zezzo family, whose teenage daughter, at the age of just 13 years old, was cyberstalked by a friend's father through social media. Despite the stalking being sexual in nature, the then 51-year-old stalker pleaded guilty only to a misdemeanor stalking charge and was sentenced to probation and counseling. Three years later, in 2016, this very same stalker began making contact again. Hiding behind social media, the predator created a perverted library of over 15,000 posts detailing his warped vision to marry her and his insistence that no one could ever stop him from being with her. Thankfully, Mr. Speaker, following a sting operation by our hero law enforcement officers, local police arrested him and sentenced him to between 18 months and 7 years in State prison. Sitting with the Zezzo family, I saw the pain in their eyes. After hearing the disturbing story of cyberstalking endured by this young girl and her family for years, the pain that they have endured for years and still endure to this day, I knew that something had to be done. My Combat Online Predators Act is the first step in making the internet a safer environment for all users, especially young Americans, and this step cannot come soon enough. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Cicilline and members of the committee. I thank the Zezzo family, particularly Madison and Erin Zezzo, for their advocacy in this incredibly important issue. They have turned their unspeakable pain into action and provided a voice for all cyberstalking victims across this country, especially our young victims and our children. We will continue to fight for justice for all victims. Mr. Speaker, I also thank Representative Stephanie Murphy, my partner in this legislation, and Senator Pat Toomey and Senator Bob Casey from my home State of Pennsylvania, all of whom had a part to play in this. Mr. Speaker, we must do everything we can to forcefully respond to egregious instances of stalking and cyberstalking, especially when committed against the most vulnerable among us. Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on the Combat Online Predators Act.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I speak on the House floor tonight, not as somebody who has ever served on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, but as someone who was a freshman in the 115th Congress with a very, very specific and very direct link to a piece of legislation we were advocating known as the right-to-try bill. When I got sworn in, one of the first people I sought out was Chairman Greg Walden. I went to his office, and I was initially taken aback by the photography he had throughout his office of his district, which is an incredibly beautiful district in Oregon. We have all had many meetings in our time in Congress here, but one of my memories is, when I met with Chairman Walden, I have to acknowledge I was very intimidated. I was a freshman Member speaking to a committee chairperson of a very, very significant committee. The time, the attention, and the respect that he showed me and the issue that I cared about I will never forget. It is one of those memories that I have of my freshman term that I will never forget. We have all heard many definitions of character being spoken throughout our lives. My favorite definition is character being defined as the things that we do and the decisions that we make when nobody else is watching. Having worked with Chairman Walden on the right-to-try bill, his honesty, his integrity, and his commitment to doing the right thing-- not the politically popular thing, not what any interest group was advocating for, but trying to get the specifics and the details of a piece of very important legislation right--was very, very instructive to me. It was probably the greatest experience and the greatest learning experience I had as a freshman Member of Congress. For Greg to walk away having accomplished all that he has on his own is reminiscent of my favorite President, George Washington. Everybody wanted him to continue serving, and all he wanted to do was go back home to his farm in Mount Vernon, live under the laws he helped pass, and make way for a new generation of leadership, which is one of the reasons he is so revered throughout history. Likewise, we ought to respect Chairman Walden, our friend, Greg, for doing the same thing: for understanding the important things in life, for valuing his family the way he does, knowing that as much as he enjoys this job and how humbled he is to serve in the capacity he has, he is going back home to his family because they are the most important things to him. So, Chairman Walden, Godspeed to you. We love you. Thank you for all you have done, not just for this Chamber, but for the United States.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize hard work and dedication of the local Disabled American Veterans Chapter in my district. The national organization was founded by veterans on September 25, 1920 and was officially chartered in 1932. Our local chapter was established in 1971, primarily from veterans of World War II and Korea. Once facing dissolvement, the DAV Chapter 17 bounced back and is now stronger than ever. This would not have been possible without the leadership of George Lindsey Jr., Don Parzanese, Bob Staranowicz, Jack Thomas, Tom Herron, Bill Severns, Lou Rizzo, and Kimberly Carter-Guerian. The Chapter works to support our veterans and the larger community through yearly events including job fairs, veteran ceremonies, and fundraisers. While Disabled American Veterans celebrates 100 years of serving veterans of the Armed Forces, their families, and survivors, we are extremely thankful for their commitment to helping veterans in need. The DAV is dedicated to a single purpose: empowering veterans to lead high-quality lives with respect and dignity, their families, and survivors. Let us never forget the selfless sacrifice and dedication of all our disabled veterans across the country. In order to ensure that their memory is not forgotten, I include in the Record the names of all the current members of the DAV Chapter 17: James F. Gartland, Robert A. Godwin, Leslie H. Goldstein, Edward T. Grabert, John P. Greer, Morris S. Guggenheim, James M. Haitsch, Charles G. Hall, Brain J. Hamilton, Angela M. Hardy, Ronald J. Harkins, Thomas D. Herron, Daniel C. Haskett, Albert M. Hill, Timothy M. Holland, George K. Honer, Robert P. Hoopes, George W. Horne, George A. Ingram, Robert P. Joyce. Gilbert Kasirsky, David C. Kline, Michael Krajnikovich, Daniel J. Kwiatkowski, Robert G. Larrisey, Joel Laskey, William Lee, Albert Paiste, Phillip Paolella, Dennis Parker, Donald D. Parzanese, Noel G. Pelletier, Randy G. Phillips, Normand A. Picard, Francis X. Poole, Charles E. Quaste, William B. Redington, Edward D. Renner, Devon A. Richio, Lou Rizzo. Brain M. Roberts, Larry F. Rodrigo, Edward A. Rosen, Ronald R. Rottloff, Amanda L. Rudolph, Joseph S. Runewicz, Alexander Rupeiks, John Schaefer, Bruce A. Sheeler, Richard W. Scholl, Lawrence M. Schorr, Robert J. Schulberger, Richard G. Scott, William J. Severns, Michael J. Shamp, Sharon Lynn Shaw, Otis L. Weathersby, William J. Wheeler, George K. Wiley. Ian A. Woods, Todd E. Yanik, Douglas G. Yedinak, Ronald C. Zinzer, Fred Ewald, Gerry Albertson, Ronald Henry Alfors, Anthony Antonio, John W. Bader, Michael W. Barnes, Russell H. Bendel, James Howard Bergeson, Chuck Daniel Biresch, John A. Boccadori, Lawerence P. Booth, Martin M. Bradley, Mark Otis Bristow, David Bryk, Francis X. Buschman, Steve Calderbank, Paul J. Carsello, Kimberly Ann Carter, Sean W. Carty. Demetrius R. Casillas, Fergus G. Castree, Thomas H. Chapin, Peter Chong, Theresa Colbert, Vincent A. Concordia, Mihael Wayne Corona, Stephen Cosminski, Francesco Cozza, John C. Craig, Richard E. Dalton, Herbert A. Dashiell, Thomas C. Day, Hugh F. Deithorn, James J. DelVecchio, Matthew P. Devlin, Anthony Diblasio, Gary Lyn Dimaio, John L. D'Onforio, Lawrence Duchnowski. Darryl J. Dukowski, Alan G. Eck, Marcos Perez Elizondo, Orlando G. Epifano, Robert Errickson, Vincent Evangelista, Nelson Lewis Fairman, Joseph A. Farrugio, Joseph L. Felter, John P. Fernandez, Roy G. Ferrari, Robert J. Foley, Charles H. Fratz, Raymond A. Freiling, Henry Fretz, Lawrence A. Fulmer, Arthur T. Short, Hampton G. Silcox, Alfred E. Smith, Thomas J. Smith. Robert I. Snovel, Edward L. Snyder, Stanley W. Stanwick, Robert Staranowicz, Martin Stern, Michael Ray Stever, Roy Stoker, Godfrey R. Strecker, Francis Tacey, Rudolph V. Taurino, Cindy Riley Ternay, John W. Thomas, David A. Thompson, Irvin P. Thompson, Joseph Troxell, Joseph M. Tyson. Peter Paul Ulmen, Goline D. Vanderhoof, Atty T. VanHamel, Ronald F. Vellner, Donald T. Walton, Donald E. Libby, George Henry Lindsey, Hugh C. Liverman, Thomas A. Locke, William B. Luckenbill, Joseph T. Mallamaci, Anthony Lee Maniscola, F. Marcano-Rodriquez, John M. Marino, Anthony Thomas Mark, Gregory L. Marston. Bruce B. Martin, Richard Matyskiela, Jean W. McGinnis, James Douglas McEwan, Richard P. McEwen, Richard Joseph McMullin, John Patrick Mowry, Daniel Moyer, Michael John Mullen, Ralph G. Myers, Norman B. Newbon, John J. O'Donnell, Jeffery T. Olavarria, Bruce Gary Onraet, Albert Ortiz, Donald S. Page, Robert T. Painter.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, for too long, big cats have been mistreated, exploited, and abused in private roadside zoos. Private possession of big cats is a tremendous risk to humans as well. On average, a 1-year-old tiger weighs about 200 pounds and can easily harm or kill a human. These wild animals are trained to perform for paying customers, and at the end of the day, they are wild, dangerous animals that are a serious risk to humans and themselves. Big cats, themselves, are also at risk, as there have been countless reports of abuse, mistreatment, and exploitation at private zoos. Madam Speaker, opponents of our legislation argue that it unfairly targets small zoos, pitting the large against the small. To be clear, this legislation has nothing to do with the zoo size and does not ban any zoo from possessing, breeding, or exhibiting big cats. Our legislation prohibits zoos from allowing the public to interact with big cats. It does not in any way impact the typical model of zoos in which they have an exhibit of big cats on display. As long as the zoo does not allow direct contact between people and the public and these big cats, they will not be affected by this legislation. This practice also takes a toll on law enforcement agencies that are forced to respond to escapes and attacks when big cats have outgrown cub petting and are funneled into the hands of private citizens. Madam Speaker, this bill is supported by both the National Sheriffs' Association and the Fraternal Order of Police. I thank the Humane Society, Animal Wellness Action, and the Animal Welfare Institute for their incredible advocacy on this issue, and to my predecessor who worked on this bill, Congressman Jeff Denham from the State of California, for all of his work. And, of course, I thank my partner on this legislation, Congressman Mike Quigley. As a member of the bipartisan Congressional Animal Caucus, we are committed to ensuring that our government is doing its part to promote animal welfare, and it is crucial that we stand up for animals, both as individuals and societies. Madam Speaker, as was pointed out, there are 230 cosponsors on this bill that collectively represent over 165 million Americans who support this legislation. Madam Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on H.R. 1380, the Big Cat Public Safety Act.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I thank Ranking Member McCaul for yielding me time to speak on the Global Child Thrive Act. Madam Speaker, as a lifelong FBI special agent, one of my greatest concerns has always been the welfare of children, not just children in the United States, but children across the globe. Last year, as the ranking member indicated, I partnered with my colleague, Congressman Castro, to introduce H.R. 4864, the Global Child Thrive Act. This legislation was written to support young children and their families across the globe. Our bill has wide bipartisan and bicameral support. Our bill passed unanimously out of the House Foreign Affairs Committee in December. We have over 60 bipartisan cosponsors. It is also supported by over 50 civil society groups working in child and international development. Madam Speaker, I want to particularly thank Catholic Relief Services, whose constituent advocates in my home district have championed these issues. Madam Speaker, the Global Child Thrive Act would update our foreign aid programs to increase their effectiveness and multiply developmental outcomes for young children. Currently, less than 1 percent of our U.S. budget goes towards international aid programs, so it is critical that those limited dollars do as much good as possible. Today, the need for the enactment of our bill into law is more pressing than ever, as experts agree that the secondary impacts of COVID-19, such as increased food insecurity, malnutrition, and violence, will fall most heavily on vulnerable children. The Global Child Thrive Act will support the most vulnerable children to withstand the secondary impacts of the coronavirus, as well as future deadly pandemics. Moreover, this act is crucial, since children around the globe are continuously affected by widespread poverty and the lack of adequate childcare. According to UNICEF, extreme poverty in low- and middle- income countries is the reason why 250 million children 5 years old and younger may not achieve their full developmental potential. Moreover, UNICEF reports that at least ``75 million children under age five live in areas affected by conflict.'' Conflict increases a child's ``risk of toxic stress'' and ``can inhibit brain cell connections.'' Finally, Madam Speaker, I thank Congressman Castro for his bipartisanship and his hard work on this legislation. I also thank Chairman Engel and Ranking Member McCaul, all fine colleagues of mine, for their cooperation and support on our legislation. As we all know, Madam Speaker, focusing on children is focusing on our future, and I urge all of my colleagues, Democrat and Republican, to vote ``yes'' on H.R. 4864, the Global Child Thrive Act.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I include in the Record the following letter:

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I thank Ranking Member Comer for yielding. Madam Speaker, I stand today with the hardworking letter carriers and postal workers of the United States Postal Service. The USPS must be fully funded so that my constituents and millions across our Nation can receive the high-quality and timely service that the post office has always provided us. Madam Speaker, today I will vote in favor of the Delivering for America Act. Republicans and Democrats, House and Senate, must come together and address the serious challenges that USPS has been facing for quite some time now. I look forward to continuing to work with our colleagues on bipartisan solutions to move all of our heroes forward and support our heroes at the U.S. Postal Service.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the hard work and dedication of Mr. Joe Fabrizio and his eighth grade students at Holland Middle School in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Each year, Mr. Fabrizio and his students write letters to our office on a variety of topics, and each year, reading these letters is something that our entire staff looks very much forward to. Madam Speaker, one of the most important things that one can do as a citizen is to communicate with your elected officials by writing a letter, sending an email, making a call, or paying a visit. These students are playing their part in the political process, and these students at Holland Middle School know that the decisions that our government makes today will impact them, and eventually, it will be their turn to make decisions in their government. I think my colleagues in the House would very much benefit from being able to review these letters, and so I will include the letters in the Congressional Record. Madam Speaker, by taking the time to write our elected officials regarding issues important to them, it shows that these students truly care about our district and our Nation, and it should give all of us faith in the future of our Nation.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to bring appropriate Congressional recognition to the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of Warsaw. In 1920 a young Polish Republic, that just regained independence after 123 years of foreign domination, faced an existential threat from a Soviet invasion. For Vladimir Lenin and the Soviet leadership, the conquest of Poland was to serve as a steppingstone for a Soviet advance into western Europe. On August 12, 1920, the Soviet Red Army began its assault upon Warsaw and for the next fifteen days, the battle was fought not just for the future of the Polish Republic, but for all free societies in Europe. Under the unwavering leadership of Jozef Pilsudski, the Polish army executed a brilliant counterattack and shattered the Red Army, forcing the Soviets to retreat. Lord DAbernon, who was part of a British mission in Warsaw during the battle, wrote in the New York Times on its 10th anniversary that there were few incidents in the history of civilization of greater importance than the Battle of Warsaw. By winning the encounter, which since has been called ``The Miracle on the Vistula,'' the Polish army saved Poland and the rest of Europe from a Communist takeover and preserved freedom and democracy for millions. While we pay tribute to those who bravely fought to stop the Soviet invasion, it is important to recognize the role that was played in the battle by a group of 21 American pilots who formed a united called the Kosciuszko Squadron and flew many missions during the battle providing critical aerial support to Polish ground forces. Madam Speaker, please join me in tribute to the sacrifice, courage, and heart of the Polish forces who bravely defended their homeland during the Battle of Warsaw. This was a striking example how yearning for freedom, justice, and independence can motivate in times of great peril and while facing seemingly insurmountable odds. In August 1920, the Polish army along with the help of U.S. troops, saved Europe from an evil totalitarian dictatorship. Today, we should honor and celebrate the Polish soldiers who bravely fought not for just the freedom of their homeland, but for the liberty and justice for all. We should also use this opportunity to recognize the strong friendship between the United States and the Polish Republic, who has been a loyal ally in Europe for the last three decades.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the recent 100th birthday of longtime Bucks County, Pennsylvania, resident, Lidia Tubiello. A resident of Nockamixon, Lidia has consistently been a role model, showing all of us that hard work and serving others is the calling that we all have. A bona fide Rosie the Riveter, Lidia answered the call during World War II and began work as a welder in western Pennsylvania, where she helped assemble transport vessels. The ships that Lidia worked on played a critical role in the invasion of Normandy. Lidia's husband, Frank, was drafted to the United States Army. Once the war was over, Lidia and Frank set up their permanent residence in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. The couple welcomed seven loving children: Frank, Ralph, Sam, Paul, Laurie, Lisette, and Loretta. As their children grew and they had their own families, the large Italian-American family came together for traditional Italian meals during frequent Sunday dinners. Mr. Speaker, we are all extremely fortunate to have Lidia in our community. Her hard work and service are something that we should honor.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an amazing member of our community. Nicky Christopher is a 12-year-old from Yardley, Pennsylvania, who has been working to brighten the day of people across our community. Over the last several months, Nicky has decorated dozens of homes to celebrate birthdays, graduations, and bar and bat mitzvahs and other causes for celebration. In an amazing show of community spirit, families have donated supplies and decorations to help Nicky continue to bring joy across our community. And while Nicky receives some cash donations, he takes any money that is not spent on supplies, and he donates that money to children who have been displaced from their homes. Mr. Speaker, Nicky's kindness and generosity are an inspiration for our entire community and our entire Nation. I know that he has been able to brighten the day of so many people in our community when they have really needed it the most. Last month I had the opportunity to meet Nicky over Zoom, and I cannot say enough about what an amazing young man he is and how proud I am to represent him in Congress and how incredibly proud his family must be. Mr. Speaker, I thank Nicky for bringing so much light to our community and to our Nation. We need more people like him.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Madam Speaker, I rise in tribute to a man whose life not only stands as a testament to his own achievements but also as an illustration of the greatness of the United States of America and as an embodiment of the American Dream. Dr. Hafeez Malik, whose son Dean Malik has resided in Bucks County with his family for almost 20 years, passed away on April 20, 2020, at the age of 90 years old. Dr. Malik was a professor at Villanova University for over 50 years, teaching undergraduate and graduate-level courses in political science, international relations, American history, and American government. Dr. Malik was a world-renowned scholar who dedicated much of his life to strengthening the relationship between Pakistan, the country from which he emigrated, and the United States. Dr. Malik provided lectures to American diplomats and senior military officers on multiple occasions at the U.S. State Department, while also forming the Pakistani American Congress in the 1990s. Dr. Malik's scholarship has become an invaluable contribution, enabling the United States to understand the nuances of diplomacy throughout the Muslim world and has guided American foreign policy for nearly half a century. Madam Speaker, Dr. Malik's success and acclaim would not have been possible without the love and support of the love of his life, his wife of 64 years, fellow Villanova professor Dr. Lynda Malik. Hafeez and Lynda met as students at Syracuse University in the early 1950s. They got married in 1956. These two amazing people embarked upon an amazing, productive, and renowned public partnership grounded in the bonds of everlasting marriage, ending only with Hafeez's recent death. Throughout the Villanova University community, in the international world of academia, as well as in their social circles in southeastern Pennsylvania, where I represent, and elsewhere in the United States and in their home country of Pakistan, Hafeez and Lynda were known as a married power couple. Throughout the years, they shared in each other's successes as well as each other's hardships and served as productive, upstanding members of our community. Hafeez and Lynda were also proud, patriotic Americans. Their son Dean, who is a friend of mine, is a former Marine officer, a former criminal prosecutor, a practicing attorney, and a proud Iraq war veteran. Madam Speaker, in death, Dr. Malik leaves behind his lifelong spouse and partner, who is suffering from dementia, and a disabled older son. Nevertheless, it is a comfort to all who know them that the success earned by this couple throughout their lifetime shall go to support these family members now in their time of vulnerability and their time of need, and that their son is to carry on Hafeez's legacy of public service in this life. Madam Speaker, I rise in tribute to a man and his wife whose life not only stands as a testament to his own achievements but also as an illustration of the greatness of the United States of America and as an embodiment of the American Dream itself. Madam Speaker, let us honor not only the life of Hafeez Malik and his wife, Lynda, but also his lifelong partnership with his wife, Lynda; their amazing family; all they have done for the community of Pennsylvania; all they have done for Villanova University as a couple; and all they have done for the United States of America as a couple. They are a great family. They were a very, very special couple, and I wanted to honor them on the floor of the House of Representatives tonight. Madam Speaker, I ask to have this speech and the life of Hafeez and his wife, Lynda, permanently entered into the Congressional Record. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FITZPATRICK

Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as the lead sponsor of the Great American Outdoors Act, and this is a very, very big day for this Chamber. As my colleagues are aware, I have been pushing to both permanently reauthorize and permanently fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund literally since the day I entered this Chamber. In addition to the LWCF, this legislation tackles the maintenance backlog that needs to be addressed on public lands and parks across our great Nation. Mr. Speaker, this bill will have a positive impact on nearly every single Congressional District in this country, and the LWCF has already had a positive impact on many sites in my district alone, most notably, Nockamixon State Park. Hundreds of businesses, recreation, and environmental groups have come together to endorse our legislation, including the Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, the League of Conservation Voters, the Audubon Society, the Natural Resources Defense Council, Ducks Unlimited, Clean Water Action, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Speaker, this bill is historic; it is bipartisan; it is bicameral, with over 250 cosponsors in the House. It overwhelmingly passed the Senate, and it will be signed into law by the President. That is what is called bipartisan cooperation. Mr. Speaker, for those of us who are strong advocates of our environment, this is a good day. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes.''