Brian Higgins

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of a great spiritual leader from Western New York, the Reverend Monsignor John I. Ducette, who passed away last week at the age of 79. Msgr. Ducette was a native of Buffalo and Niagara Falls, educated in those cities and later at St. Bonaventure University and Christ the King Seminary, both in Olean, NY, and later at Seton Hall University, The New York Province Priests' Institute and the National Institute for Clergy Formation. Ordained a priest on St. Patrick's Day 1962, Msgr. Ducette accepted diocesan assignments and ministered to congregants throughout Western New York, from East Otto to Niagara Falls before finally earning assistant pastor positions at two parishes in the town of Tonawanda. In 1985, Msgr. Ducette was appointed Pastor of St. Timothy's Parish in the town of Tonawanda, and it is at this parish where he made his most lasting mark. As Pastor for more than 23 years, he established St. Tim's as a warm and inviting--and prospering--parish within the nearby Sheridan-Parkside community. Msgr. Ducette often spoke of St. Tim's as ``an intentional parish.'' He told his congregants that, ``the people that come to St. Tim's don't necessarily live in the community, but they long for the type of services that we provide to the people.'' The response he received to his work demonstrated that fact. Msgr. Ducette was a master at attracting retired priests to St. Tim's, where each might say one or two masses per weekend. In so doing, he managed a robust schedule of masses and attracted the followers of these retired priests to come and worship at St. Tim's, thereby growing the size of the parish and enhancing the parish's ability to provide services to a local community often beset by economic and social challenges. Msgr. Ducette was known to run a tight ship. He liked to celebrate a well-organized and efficient Sunday mass. But within that efficiency was an innate ability to deliver a cogent and thoughtful message. While few of Msgr. Ducette's homilies during mass would exceed two or three minutes of length, all were memorable, and most if not all would end with a question, usually one that would cause his congregants to examine their respective faith and allow them throughout the ensuing week to consider what they were doing in their lives to do a greater good within their own communities. In addition to having been named a prelate of honor by Pope St. John Paul II and his service as Chaplain of the Town of Tonawanda Police Department, Msrg. Ducette was a great lover of the sea. He served as Chaplain of the Port of Buffalo and for 35 years served as diocesan director of the Apostleship of the Sea, praying for the safety of all seafarers and blessing sailing vessels. He delivered blessings at the dedication of the USS Little Rock and USS The Sullivans at the Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park. I was proud to invite Msgr. to participate in a nautical ceremony at the Buffalo Yacht Club several years ago. I was proud to have known Msgr. Ducette and to have been in his presence when he offered prayers. He was a kind soul, loved by all who had the privilege of knowing him. It is certain that his many friends and followers mourn his loss and will look to his great legacy--the successful St. Timothy's parish--for comfort at this time of sadness.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, in 2014, 28,000 Americans died from an overdose of opioid drugs, an annual total that has quadrupled since 1999. In Erie County, 11 people die per week from suspected opioid overdoses. Yet one in nine Americans with substance abuse problems-- less than one in nine--are currently receiving treatment for their disorder. One cause is a cap that limits the number of patients a doctor can treat with opioid treatment medications such as Suboxone. I have introduced legislation to raise these caps and expand prescribing authority to physician assistants and nurse practitioners, which is especially important in medically underserved communities. When treatment was approved for use in France without patient caps, the opioid overdose debt rate declined by 85 percent in 5 years. I urge my colleagues to support the TREAT Act, to give professionals the tools they need to treat addiction and our families new hope for recovery.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in honor of the 65th Infantry Regiment, a segregated Puerto Rican unit known as the Borinqueneers. The regiment was created in 1917, and it remained segregated throughout World Wars I and II and most of the Korean war, even after President Truman ordered the desegregation of the Armed Forces. These soldiers sacrificed everything for a country that had not yet embraced the rights of Hispanic Americans--a shame for our country, but a show of incredible loyalty and service by those who served. Today, the House and Senate leaders will present a Congressional Gold Medal in honor of the 65th Infantry Regiment. In attendance will be Cas Rodriguez, Sr., chairman of the Hispanic Heritage Council of Western New York. I thank Cas and the others who worked so hard to make sure that Americans will never forget the service of the 65th Infantry Regiment.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize and honor the 50th anniversary of the Great Lakes Center (GLC). For more than half a century, the Great Lakes Center has worked to improve the quality of the environment by providing the best possible science to decision makers concerned with the health and sustainability of our freshwater resources, with a primary focus on the Great Lakes and their watersheds. The Center was established in 1966 when Howard Sengbush formed the Great Lakes Laboratory. The Great Lakes Center's field station is located on SUNY Buffalo State's waterfront campus along the Black Rock Channel. It is a multidisciplinary research, education, and service institute focused on advancing our knowledge and understanding of the largest body of freshwater on Earth. The Great Lakes Center is the only institution within the SUNY system with a research field station physically situated along the water. The Center maintains a large fleet of research vessels dedicated to specific types of research and educational functions. Over the last eight years under the Direction of Sasha Karatayev, the GLC saw sustained activity and productivity: over 80 research papers published, 240 presentations given at various state, national, and international meetings and 35 funded projects totaling over 14 million dollars. This living laboratory dedicated to the investigation of the ecology of the Great Lakes and its tributaries is staffed by research scientists, educators, technicians and professors with the Biology department. The Center provides opportunities to obtain Masters of Arts and Masters of Science degrees in Great Lakes Ecosystem Science. The Great Lakes ecosystem is complex, dynamic, and fragile. The work conducted at the GLC informs policy makers, educators, community leaders, and environmentalists--and contributes toward effective stewardship and decision-making. As part of the Great Lakes Observing System, the GLC operates the only operating observation buoy in eastern Lake Erie. The GLC continuously works to reverse the damage of decades of abuse neglect of the Great Lakes. The Center continues to explore opportunities to expand its educational programs within the regional community. In February of this year, I was proud to speak on the House Floor during Great Lakes Day to demonstrate the importance of Congress to continue to fund the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI). Since the creation of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative in 2010, nearly $1.6 billion has been invested in projects to clean up the Great Lakes, the world's largest freshwater system. Locally, the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative supports a number of initiatives including the restoration of the Buffalo River. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me this opportunity to once again speak about the Great Lakes with pride in this visionary, vitally important and internationally renowned center whose home base is my alma mater, Buffalo State College as its Gold Anniversary will be celebrated on April 15, 2016. Congratulations and deepest appreciation to all those who contributed to the past and present of this Center as the preservation, protection and promotion of the Great Lakes is of immeasurable importance to our future.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today the people of Niagara Falls will reclaim what was taken from them 50 years ago: access to, arguably, the world's greatest waterfront, Niagara Falls. Since 1964, the Robert Moses State Parkway has cut off the city from its waterfront. The highway is one of several ill-conceived projects rammed through cities 50 years ago that have kept western New York from realizing its full economic potential. Three years ago, I issued a report that detailed the role of the New York Power Authority, which planned the parkway, evicted homeowners, and owns the land on which it sits, justifying the New York Power Authority's responsibility to fix what they had broken. Shortly thereafter, work began on the removal of the southern portion, and now, as we proposed, the New York Power Authority will fund the next phase, a $42 million project that takes down the parkway and builds up this city. Two weeks ago, I stood with Mayor Paul Dyster to demand the complete removal of the parkway. With today's announcement, Niagara Falls will reclaim its waterfront and all of the promise that comes with it.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and accomplishments of Mrs. Doris Young Hurley. A beloved wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, as well as an irreplaceable member of the community, Mrs. Hurley passed away on February 28th, 2016 at the age of 94. Born in Buffalo, New York on May 27, 1921, Mrs. Hurley was raised on Humboldt Parkway on the East Side of Buffalo. One of nine children, she was a graduate of St. Mary Magdalene as well as St. Mary's Seminary. In her scholastic career she was extremely proud of an essay she wrote in 1933 titled ``Why I am Proud to be an American'' which won an Americanism Essay award. Mrs. Hurley worked for American Airlines in the Buffalo airport after high school and during World War II, where she met her future husband Paul Bishop Hurley of Belmont, Massachusetts when he was transferred to Buffalo. They were married in January 1944, and were together sixty-two years until his passing in 2006. In her spare time, Mrs. Hurley enjoyed many activities including sewing, crafts, dancing, and music. She was a dedicated fan of the Buffalo Bills. A devoted mother, Mrs. Hurley's family brought her great joy. She is survived by her daughters, Mary Ann Tanski, Barbara Pacitti, Colleen Argus; sons Paul Jr., John, Daniel, Michael, William, and Timothy; 25 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. Paul Jr. served as President of Trocaire College from 1998 to 2012, and John has held the position of President of Canisius College since 2010. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to honor the memory of Mrs. Doris Y. Hurley, an adored mother, sister, and grandmother. I offer my deepest condolences to her family, friends, and loved ones.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Promoting Travel, Commerce, and National Security Act introduced in the House and Senate. This legislation sets rules by which American border agents will operate in Canada, thereby allowing a land port of entry to move the inspection of all inbound cargo to the Canadian side of the border. Last year U.S. Customs and Border Protection conducted a pilot program at the Peace Bridge in Buffalo. It concluded that preinspection of cargo would double the capacity of the bridge and slash wait times during peak season from 22 minutes to 5 minutes. The Peace Bridge is an economic lifeline between western New York and southern Ontario, and its efficiency and safety is a top priority. I thank Congresswoman Kuster for her leadership and partnership. I urge the House to approve this important legislation.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, the Department of Transportation has announced its eighth round of grants will be awarded under the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery, or TIGER, program. TIGER grants are awarded on a competitive basis to surface transportation capital projects. Weight is given to proposals that will have a significant local or national impact, generate economic development, and increase access to affordable transportation. Western New York has received TIGER grants totaling more than $39 million to restore access to Main Street in Buffalo and construct a new international train station in Niagara Falls. As a result, businesses are returning to the theater district and tourism is growing in Niagara Falls, New York. The TIGER program sends the message during this period of tragic underinvestment in our infrastructure that America can still tackle the big projects that historically have grown our economy. I urge support of the TIGER program.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Mr. Benjamin T. Jealous as he is the keynote speaker for the Canisius College Academic Talent Search Black History Month event. Mr. Jealous and his years of experience in civil and human rights will bring invaluable insight to the students of Canisius College and to the Buffalo community, and we are honored to have him with us today. The Academic Talent Search (ATS) Program at Canisius College identifies and provides services for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, helping students progress through the academic pipeline from middle school through post-baccalaureate programs. The program serves approximately 600 youths recruited from area schools and community service organizations, giving educational, social, and career support as well as co-curricular and cultural enhancement. Mr. Jealous has previously served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the NAACP. He recently began working in the Silicon Valley venture capital firm Kapor Capital, where he plans to continue his goal of growing opportunities for minorities in the tech economy. A Rhodes Scholar, Mr. Jealous was named by both Forbes and TIME magazine to their ``Top 40 under 40'' lists, as well as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum. The youngest president in the NAACP's history, Mr. Jealous began his career at 18 opening mail at the NAACP Legal Defense Fund. Under his leadership, the NAACP grew to be the largest civil rights organization online and on mobile, and became the largest community-based nonpartisan voter registration operation in the country. In addition, the NAACP experienced their first multi-year membership growth in over 2 decades. A builder of robust coalitions, Mr. Jealous's leadership included bringing environmentalist organizations into the fight to protect voting rights, and convincing several well-known conservatives to join the NAACP in challenging mass incarceration. Prior to leading the NAACP, Mr. Jealous spent 15 years as a journalist and community organizer. Throughout his entire career, he has been the leader of successful state and local movements to ban racial profiling, defend voting rights, secure marriage equality, and free multiple wrongfully incarcerated people. Mr. Jealous has built a legacy on fighting for justice, and has made a career out of helping the disadvantaged and less fortunate. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to honor Mr. Benjamin T. Jealous for all of the work that he has done. The ATS Program and Canisius College is honored to have such a distinguished and honorable speaker for their event. His personal contribution of time and effort towards the progress of justice in our nation is admirable, and I am grateful for his unwavering commitment to such noble causes. I wish him much continued success in all his future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize and honor New Era Cap Co, Inc. for receiving the Commitment to Excellence Award from the Amherst Chamber of Commerce. For nearly a century, New Era has helped people express their unique passion, pride, and style. Now a brand recognized around the world, New Era came from humble beginnings. In 1920, Ehrhardt Koch founded the company out of the back room of a rented company on Genesee Street in Buffalo, New York. The company is family-owned to this day. Each generation of the Koch family has embraced and grown New Era's legacy. The company started with a focus on making a high-quality men's fashion headwear, entering the market with a cap known as the ``Gatsby.'' After a few years, Ehrhardt Koch and his son Harold developed their next business venture, the baseball cap. Under Harold's leadership, New Era built relationships with baseball teams from Little League to college and professional leagues. Harold Koch's son David continued to develop the baseball cap, growing New Era from a company supplying a few teams with caps to providing almost every Major League Baseball (MLB) and their Minor League affiliates with its 59FIFTY fitted cap. It was David's dedication to building relationships with partners like MLB that helped create the reputation New Era has today. Chris Koch, David's son and the fourth generation Koch to lead the company, picked up where his father left off. With his knowledge of New Era's uniqueness, he secured a partnership with the National Football League in 2010. With the addition of apparel and accessories to its portfolio and having New Era products sold in over 70 countries has transformed New Era from a manufacturing company to a global lifestyle brand. A search for a new headquarters in 2005 led the company to the ex- Federal Reserve Bank building in downtown Buffalo. Today, the company has 1100 employees and 17 offices, producing 50 million caps per year to be sold in 81 countries. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating New Era on their accomplishment of Commitment to Excellence award and their continuous dedication and contributions to the community at large.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Pegula Sports and Entertainment for receiving the Business of the Year Award from the Amherst Chamber of Commerce. Created in 2014, Pegula Sports and Entertainment is a management company streamlining the Pegula family's business endeavors across sports and entertainment, including the Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Sabres, Buffalo Bandits, Rochester Americans, HARBORCENTER, and Black River Entertainment. On February 22, 2011, a new era in Buffalo sports history began when Terry and Kim Pegula purchased the Buffalo Sabres and Buffalo Bandits. That summer, the Pegulas acquired the Rochester Americans, and resuming the team's long time relationship with the Sabres as their American Hockey League affiliate. In 2012, the Pegulas purchased the 1.7 acre Webster Block across from First Niagara Center, which became the HARBORCENTER complex. HARBORCENTER features two NHL-size rinks, the Academy of Hockey, (716) Food and Sport, IMPACT Sports Performance, a destination Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop, 750-space parking ramp, and full-service Marriott Hotel. The Pegulas' dedication extends beyond reinvigorating the Sabres and their arena. On Friday, October 10, 2014, Terry and Kim became owners of the Buffalo Bills, after the passing of Ralph Wilson, Jr. The Pegulas are only the second owners of the beloved 55-year old National Football League organization. To show their commitment to our region, on Sunday, October 12th, 2014, coinciding with the Pegula's first game as owners of the Bills, Pegula Sports and Entertainment officially launched the ``One Buffalo'' campaign. The ``One Buffalo'' campaign provides an association and link between the Bills, Sabres, the Pegulas, and the City of Buffalo. The campaign is a celebration of the future of sport in Western New York and the family who has invested so much into the city, and seeks to bring the community together as a representation of teamwork and a deeper connection between Buffalo sports teams and their fans. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Terry and Kim Pegula as they receive the Business of the Year Award. I am deeply grateful for their incredible investment and belief in Western New York, and I wish them all the best in their future endeavors, and many championships for the Bills and Sabres under their leadership.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, on the occasion of Great Lakes Day, hundreds of advocates are in Washington to support funding for the restoration of the Great Lakes. Fortunately, after years of neglect, Congress is starting to meet its responsibilities to protect and to restore this irreplaceable resource. In 1968, the Buffalo River, which drains into Lake Erie, was so contaminated that it was declared biologically dead. Today, funded by the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, the Federal Government, local businesses, and the Buffalo Niagara RIVERKEEPER are working on a massive undertaking to clean up and restore the river. Now we expect it will be fishable and swimmable within the next decade. In the coming weeks, Congress will begin to devise its spending plan for the year. I urge my colleagues to support programs like the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which support local economies, natural habitats, and public health throughout the region.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize and honor 360 PSG, Inc. for receiving the Technology Award from the Amherst Chamber of Commerce. Founded in 2005 by 360 PSG partners Joel Colombo, Matthew Whelan, and Ben Shepard after their previous employer closed its doors. With no capital and grueling 20 hour work days, by the end of the first year they had built three websites to start the company. 360 PSG hired its first employees in 2006. Over the next two years, the company continued to hire, launched over 150 new websites, and developed automated tools and platforms to help small business owners take full advantage of internet marketing. In the following two years another 300 websites. By 2011 the staff had grown to almost 20 full- time members. The company focuses its business on two flagship products that have been programmed and developed in-house, Fission CMS and 360 CMS. With over $2.5 million dollars of operating capital invested, these innovative products provide website management tools with modern design elements to support the small business community across the country. Having come a long way from their humble beginnings, 360 PSG, Inc. serves over 1,000 customers from nearly every state and Canada. Their solid core values and a dedication to treating clients like partners allows them to develop strong, lasting relationships with high retention, remain profitable every year in business, and continue regional employment growth. 360 PSG's internal divisions now include all aspects of digital and internet marketing. Employing 30 full time team members specialized in their respective fields of web design, software engineering, social media advertising, search optimization and marketing, and service/support departments, 360 PSG continues to evolve as a single-stop hub of services supporting our region by bringing in national revenue, creating full-time technology jobs. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating 360 PSG, Inc. on receiving the Technology Award from the Amherst Chamber of Commerce, and wish them the best as they continue to provide innovative services to small businesses and contribute to Western New York's revitalization.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Mr. Matthew Pelkey as he is presented with the Emerging Business Leader Award by the Amherst Chamber of Commerce. Matthew, through his extensive and distinguished work, has proven to be a leader in his community. Matthew is an attorney and recent partner with Colligan Law LLP. Matthew's practice relates to counseling startups, entrepreneurs and businesses. His practice includes land use, commercial real estate and regulatory compliance for businesses and political groups. An active member of the Western New York startup community, Matthew was co-founder and co-director of the Buffalo Chapter of Startup Grind. In that role, he also co-founded the monthly #LaunchHour entrepreneur Twitter chat in partnership with Launch NY. He serves as a member of FIKA Buffalo and the 43 North WeMakeBuffalo Team. Additionally, Matthew sits on the advisory board of the ECIDA Venture Capital Fund, a board responsible for making recommendations to the ECIDA Board of Directors on how to form and operate a ten year, multi-million dollar early stage venture fund focusing on local emerging companies with high growth potential. An entrepreneur himself, Matthew is a co-founder and Chief Financial Officer of Black Squirrel Distillery, a New York State craft distillery. In that role he also co- founded the WNY Craft Beverage Alliance, Inc. Outside of the startup community, Matthew is a strong advocate for sustainable development and has served as a member of the Smart Growth Work Group of the WNY Regional Economic Development Council and the One Region Forward Land Use & Development Working Team. As the former Chair of The Emerging Business Leaders, Matthew served on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee of the Amherst Chamber of Commerce, as well as the Chamber's Public Policy Committee. He volunteers for B-Team Buffalo and the Parkside Community Association. Matthew also serves as a member of the Professional Panel for the Cancer Legal Resource Center, and as an advisory board member for WomenElect. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to honor Matthew Pelkey as he receives the Emerging Business Leader Award from the Amherst Chamber of Commerce. His personal contribution of time and effort towards the progress and enhancement of our community is admirable, and I wish him much continued success in all his future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Buffalo Manufacturing Works as the Amherst Chamber of Commerce presents the organization with the Innovation Award. Their cooperative and supportive mission plays an important role in bolstering Western New York's manufacturing community. Buffalo Manufacturing Works is a collaborative organization that exists to serve the needs of the Buffalo Niagara manufacturing community. Previously known as the Buffalo Niagara Institute for Advanced Manufacturing Competitiveness, it was established with $45 million from the Buffalo Billion Investment Plan. Working with their operational partner EWI, Buffalo Manufacturing Works has met with over 150 local manufacturers and business officials to gather input and develop a shared vision. A critical piece of their model is the Buffalo Manufacturing Works Founders Council, a dedicated group of local manufacturing companies that represent the industry and focus on fostering long-term sustainability. Buffalo Manufacturing Works enables local manufacturers and businesses to grow and develop through a strong network of support from industry, research, and academic partners. Their partners include the University at Buffalo for fundamental research, Insyte Consulting for process excellence, EWI applied research and development, and the World Trade Center Buffalo Niagara for market expansion. In addition, Buffalo Manufacturing Works provides insight into workforce development practices to companies. To help companies manufacture products in the most efficient way possible, the organization also develops its own new technologies. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to recognize Buffalo Manufacturing Works as they receive the Innovation Award from the Amherst Chamber of Commerce. I wish the organization continued success and commend their commitment to building a strong present and future for Western New York's economy.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Amherst Youth Hockey for receiving the Community Service Award from Amherst Chamber of Commerce. The Amherst Youth Hockey Association was established in 1964, when the Audubon rink was first built. The cost to participate when established was $5.00 to register and 25 cents every time one went on the ice. Those who worked to first develop the program were William E. Russell, Barney March, Bob Westphal, Bud Aschbacher, Frank Sykes, Gary Mitchell, Don Satchell, Harvey Rogers, H. Jarvis (Jerry) Turner, Bob Sacha, Jim Wurzer, Danny Guynn, Skip Harrington, John Brownschidle, Thomas Burke, Charles Kramer, Richard Johnston, Drury Williford, Ray Cotter, H. Hamilton, W. Leahy, Leo Lynett, Phil Boudreau, Frank Mathewson, R. Weisenborn, Robert Carver and many more. During its second year of existence, the organization had the opportunity to host the New York State Peewee Championship during March of 1965. Familiar players in that tournament include Kevin McGuire, Chuck Sykes, Terry Brownschidle, Terry Sykes, Bill Bush, Mark Aschbacher, Pete Hunt, Sean Mccrossan, Ed McGuire, Keith Metzger, Brian Cavanaugh, Gary Hill, Ray WeiI, Bill Graf, Mike Hanretty, David Smith, Mike Caruana and Jay Hill. Presently, the Amherst Youth Hockey now operates out of the Northtown Recreation Center. It is a youth hockey organization for boys and girls ages 4 through 18, offering house programs, travel programs, and a spring session. The Amherst Youth Hockey Association is committed to giving back to the community and providing a tremendous experience for all members. Dedicated to enriching the community's youth through sport, the association provides children with the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of hockey, find enjoyment in the sport, and become young athletes. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Amherst Youth Hockey on receiving the Community Service Award and recognizing their continuous dedication and contributions to Western New York.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Mr. Brian Hayden as he retires from the City of Buffalo. Brian's career with the City spanned over forty years. Brian was born on February 8th, 1954 at Our Lady of Victory Hospital in Lackawanna, New York to his beloved parents John & Dorothy (Norton) Hayden. He has two siblings, Dennis and Susan. Growing up, Brian graduated from Holy Family Grammar School in 1968, one of several Catholic schools in the close-knit community of South Buffalo. He went on to attend Father Baker High School, becoming Senior Class President for the class of 1972. Brian attended Brockport College. Brian first worked as a pool attendant at the Boone Street Playground during the summer of 1973, transitioning into a rink guard at Cazenovia Ice Rink. The next year, he started as a Laborer with the Carpenters for the Buffalo Board of Education. In 1979 he became co- owner of the Ounce and a Half, a favorite neighborhood gathering spot on Abbott Road in South Buffalo. In 1983 Brian became a Building Inspector for the City of Buffalo. As an inspector, he ensured structures were safe and compliant with local, state, and federal regulations. Working his way up through the ranks, in 1990 he moved to the role of Director of Building Safety & Health for the Buffalo Board of Education. In 1993 he began his service as the Director of Building Inspections for one year, continuing to serve as a Building Inspector afterwards. A family man, Brian is married to Jean Ann Kalec, with whom he has 2 sons, Matthew and John. He is also known for his community involvement, and volunteers for many races, organizations, and groups. He is a founding member of the Connors, Kait, Harrity Memorial Race, which went on for twenty-five years. Brian won the prestigious Irishman of the Year award in 1995 and the St. Thomas Aquinas Parishioner of the Year in 1996. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to honor Brian Hayden upon the occasion of his well-deserved retirement. His service to the City of Buffalo and our community are worthy of recognition. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors and a fulfilling, relaxing retirement.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor West Herr Automotive Group for receiving the Retail Award from the Amherst Chamber of Commerce. West Herr's history of and dedication to good corporate citizenship as well as their continued success is worthy of recognition and praise. West Herr Automotive Group, established in 1950, is the largest automotive group in New York State and the 24th largest in the nation. West Herr is a long-time contributor and supporter of many worthwhile organizations in Western New York, demonstrating their generosity and commitment to giving back to the community that supports them. With 21 locations in Erie, Niagara, and Monroe Counties, West Herr has 23 franchises and over 1,900 employees. In 2015, the company sold more than 46,000 new and used vehicles. West Herr prides itself on dealing honestly and fairly with customers and employees, a philosophy shared throughout all levels of the organization. West Herr builds their reputation on excellence, customer satisfaction and an understanding of their roots. All owners live in Western New York and actively manage the 21 locations on a daily basis. Their customer and employee satisfaction efforts have earned them countless awards. West Herr has received Business First of Buffalo ``Best Place to Work in WNY'' Award for eleven consecutive years and the Better Business Bureau's ``Torch Award for Marketplace Ethics'' six times. In 2012, the group was recognized nationally as one of the ``Best Dealerships to Work For'' through Automotive News. Additionally, the Buffalo News recognized West Herr as a Top Workplace in its inaugural year for the program. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating West Herr on receiving the Retail Award from the Amherst Chamber of Commerce. Their contributions to Western New York and commitment to quality service is commendable and I wish them continued success.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Mrs. Leslie Zemsky as she receives the Amherst Chamber of Commerce's Woman of Distinction Award. An artist, community leader, and Director of Fun for Larkin Square, Leslie has played an instrumental role in revitalizing the Larkin District and the City of Buffalo. As Larkin Square's Director of Fun, Leslie partners with her husband Howard Zemsky and Joe Petrella to lead the Larkin Development Group. The group has renovated a number of former warehouse buildings which were once part of the Larkin Soap Company. Since 2002, the Larkin Development Group's renovations include more than 800,000 square feet of office space, more than a half mile of streetscape improvements and a public gathering space for events called Larkin Square. Thanks to their creative vision, the Larkin District, now known fondly as Larkinville, has returned to its roots as a vibrant, mixed-use neighborhood, home to offices, residences, restaurants, parks and public gathering spaces like Larkin Square. Under Leslie's leadership Larkinville has become a destination. Nearly every day of the week, thousands gather in Larkin Square for events such as Food Truck Tuesdays, Live at Larkin Wednesdays and the Larkin Square Author Talks. The neighborhood continues to evolve and grow with the opening of Flying Bison Brewery and Hydraulic Hearth Restaurant & Brewery, run by Leslie's son Harry. The rebirth of Larkinville has played a leading role in the rebirth of Buffalo. Larkinville has gained national attention, from the Congress for New Urbanism to earning praise from journalist Katie Couric during her recent visit to Buffalo. My Buffalo District office is located in the Larkin at Exchange Building, and we've witnessed an incredible transformation due in no small part to Leslie. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating her for receiving the Woman of Distinction Award, expressing our deepest gratitude for her vision and efforts, and wishing her all the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Clarisa Matias, Britt Perry, Krystal Watson, and Jordan Yastremski, graduating seniors on the Buffalo State women's basketball team. During their collegiate careers, these young women have proven to be talented and dedicated scholars and athletes. Their achievements on and off the court are worthy of praise. From Buffalo, New York, Clarisa Matias graduated from Holy Angels High School and majored in Biology at Buffalo State. Clarisa played the position of guard during her years on the basketball team. Prior to her time playing guard for the Bengals, Britt Perry earned her high school diploma from Hutch Tech High School. She is a Buffalo native who chose to enroll at Buffalo State and will earn a degree in Health and Wellness. Krystal Watson will graduate with a Business degree and played forward during her time on the Buffalo State basketball team. Her hometown is Buffalo, New York, and she attended Sacred Heart High School. Hailing from Bath, New York, Jordan Yastremski traveled to Buffalo State from Bath-Haverling High School. She studied Criminal Justice and played the position of forward for the Bengals. Mr. Speaker, I thank you for allowing my colleagues to join me in recognizing these extraordinary Buffalo State Bengals and in congratulating them as they obtain their undergraduate degrees. As an alumnus of Buffalo State, I will be proud to call them fellow alumni. Their commitment and ambition will propel them to success, and I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize four exceptional members of the senior class at Buffalo State College, Derrick Fernandez, Luke Jenkins, Kevin Marmolejos, and Akeem Williams. These students are known as leaders among their peers and teammates as members of the Buffalo State men's basketball team. I commend these young men for their scholastic and athletic dedication, and congratulate them as their college careers come to a close. Coming from the borough of the Bronx in New York City, Derrick attended Herbert H. Lehman High School and majored in Sociology. Derrick played the position of guard during his time on the Buffalo State basketball team. Luke Jenkins came to Buffalo State from his hometown of Slingerlands, New York. A graduate of Bethlehem High School, Luke played forward for the Buffalo State Bengals. He will be earning a degree in Criminal Justice. Kevin Marmolejos is a graduate of Beach Channel High School and a native of Woodhaven, New York. During his time at Buffalo State, Kevin played guard and his major was Individualized Studies. Akeem Williams graduated from White Plains High School and made his way to Buffalo State from White Plains, New York. He studied Criminal Justice and played in the position of forward on the Buffalo State basketball team. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing my colleagues to join me in recognizing these outstanding Buffalo State Bengals and in congratulating them as they obtain their undergraduate degrees. As an alumnus of Buffalo State, I will be proud to call them fellow alumni. I wish them all the best in their future endeavors and am confident they will achieve success.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, in 2010 Congress passed landmark aviation safety legislation. The provisions of this law reflected the recommendations of the National Transportation Safety Board, which tragically were given urgency after the crash of Continental flight 3407 near Buffalo, New York. The families of those who were lost in the crash turned their grief into purpose and led a relentless and heroic campaign to pass this law. Years later--at this very moment, in fact--the families are across the street at a committee markup of the FAA authorization bill, amid rumors that regional airlines might encourage amendments to water down these safety reforms. I want the families to know that they are not alone. The western New York congressional delegation will fight alongside them and against any attempt to weaken aviation safety standards. Tomorrow marks the seventh anniversary of the crash. I call on this House not to forget it.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, the budget that President Obama sent to Congress yesterday contained a number of important proposals: more cancer research funding, more treatment for prescription painkiller and heroin addiction, and making permanent the solar investment tax credit and the new market tax credit. While these initiatives generated headlines, one small and simple provision could have a significant impact on the economy of western New York. Beginning this year, at the Peace Bridge in Buffalo, Customs and Border Protection will automate the collection of user fees for commercial vehicles. Currently fees are collected manually, which increases congestion and deters Canadians from traveling to western New York. I called for the implementation of this policy last year and am happy to see the Department of Homeland Security moved so quickly on it. By automating fee collection, hiring more Customs and Border Protection officers, this budget will benefit the western New York economy that is dependent on commerce via the Peace Bridge.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Carleton Zeisz as he is honored by the City of Tonawanda Democratic Committee upon his retirement from public service. Carl's career spans an impressive twenty-four years of service. Carl began his tenure with the City of Tonawanda as an Alderman in 1992 and 1993. He became the Common Council President in 1994, and held the post for twenty-two years, until 2015. In 2009, Carl earned the Outstanding Public Service Award from the Conservative Party. Many major projects in the City of Tonawanda have benefited from Carl's efforts as he worked throughout the years together with the Mayor and Common Council. His efforts include the development of Gateway Park, the Niawanda Park Pavilion, the implementation of Central Dispatch, the development of Kibler High, closing the Tonawanda Landfill, the Niagara Street and Young Street development, and a multitude of other infrastructure projects. Carl's greatest asset was his ability to get many to work together for the good of Tonawanda. In addition to his career in public service, Carl has worked in General Cinema theaters for twenty-four years at eight different locations, with twenty-one years in the position of General Manager. In 1989, he was recognized as General Manager of the Northeast for General Cinema. For the past eleven years, Carl has worked at Maple Ridge 8. In 2015, Carl was recognized as Runner-up General Manager of the year, chosen from managers out of 341 AMC Theatres. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Carl for his years of service to the City of Tonawanda and wishing him the best in his retirement from service.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, next Friday will mark the seventh anniversary of the crash of Continental Colgan Flight 3407. The cause of the accident was pilot error due to inexperience. The families of those who were lost fought for and won reforms that require pilots to be sufficiently experienced before they are entrusted with the safety of the flying public. But regional airlines are trying to roll back these higher standards, claiming that they cannot find enough experienced pilots. That is simply not true. The airlines would see that if they increased starting salaries for pilots from $16,000 a year to a level commensurate with the responsibility they are given. Yesterday the Western New York congressional delegation stood with the families to serve notice that we will relentlessly oppose any attempt to water down these reforms. We will honor those who died by ensuring that never again will our loved ones be entrusted with inexperienced pilots.