Brian Higgins

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Governor Mario Cuomo, who passed away on January 1, 2015 at the age of 82. A highly respected public servant and brilliant orator, Mario Cuomo served as Governor of New York State for three terms, from 1983 to 1994. Governor Cuomo was born on June 15, 1932, in his beloved Borough of Queens. Hailing from a family of Italian immigrants, he worked in the family's grocery store in South Jamaica growing up. The governor graduated from St. John's Preparatory School, and went on to play baseball on the freshman team at St. John's University. An aggressive player, he showed great talent and promise. Indeed, he was signed as a prospect in the Pittsburgh Pirates organization, earning a signing bonus that exceeded that of a contemporary prospect--Mickey Mantle--that was later the subject of joking between the two men. Shortly after beginning to play for the Class D Brunswick Pirates in Georgia, the young future Governor Cuomo was struck in the head by a fastball, forcing his retirement from baseball. He then returned to St. John's University, graduating in 1953. There he met his wife, a fellow student, Matilda Raffa Cuomo. Together they had five children: Andrew Cuomo, the current Governor of New York, Dr. Margaret I. Cuomo, Maria Cuomo Cole, Madeline Cuomo O'Donohue and Christopher Cuomo, a journalist at CNN; and fourteen grandchildren. Upon graduation, Cuomo enrolled in St. John's Law School on scholarship, where he graduated at the top of his class. Cuomo experienced success in his law career early on, often fighting on behalf of many blue-collar and middle class families like his own. His success did not go unnoticed, and in 1974 he was the Democratic Party's choice for Lieutenant Governor of New York. Although he lost the primary election, newly elected Governor Hugh Carey named him New York's Secretary of State. In 1978, Governor Carey asked Cuomo to be his running mate as Lieutenant Governor, and the pair won the election handily. In 1982, when Carey did not run for re-election, Cuomo sought and won the office of Governor of New York. In his inaugural speech, Cuomo called on the state government to be ``a positive source for good,'' espousing an energetic optimism and true belief in government. An elegant spokesman for liberal politics, his keynote address at the 1984 Democratic National Convention is widely regarded as one of the finest political speeches of our time. Gov. Cuomo served proudly as New York's 52nd Governor for three terms, leading the state with a philosophy of ``progressive pragmatism'' that resulted in fiscal and ethics reforms for the state, and a broader economic reach for the state in the global marketplace. At his lead, New York became renowned for passing more ``first in the nation'' types of legislation than any other state. From automobile safety to education reforms to public safety, Mario Cuomo's leadership, more than anyone else's, succeeded in ensuring New York's rightful place at the Empire State. On a personal level, I was always an admirer of Governor Mario Cuomo, from his first election right up until his unfortunate passing. Shortly after my initial election to Congress in 2004, I made an appointment to meet with Gov. Cuomo at his New York law office. Scheduled as I was for a brief meeting, I was surprised to spend nearly two hours in the Governor's office, absorbing his advice and hearing of his many experiences in government and private life. To this day, to gain inspiration and to learn more about how to say what is on my mind, I consult many of Gov. Cuomo's writings. His voice still teaches and his message still resonates all these many years later. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to honor the life of Governor Mario Cuomo. I ask that my colleagues join me in expressing our deepest condolences to the Cuomo family, and our most sincere gratitude for his dedication to creating a better state and nation.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Frank L. Ciminelli, who passed away on December 26, 2014 at the age of 80. A highly respected member of Western New York's business and construction community, Mr. Ciminelli's contributions to our region were many and varied. Mr. Ciminelli was born in Buffalo, New York on October 6, 1934, and grew up on the city's East Side. As a curious young man, he would assist with his father's concrete business, learning the trade as he was completing high school. Mr. Ciminelli graduated from Erie County Technical Institute in 1954. An extraordinary businessman, Mr. Ciminelli started his own concrete company in 1960, the Frank L. Ciminelli Construction Co., which grew steadily and ultimately became the largest general contractor & construction firm in Western New York. This company was sold to his son Louis in 1987 and is now known as LPCiminelli. Like his father, Louis continues to expand the company based on the values of honesty, integrity, and commitment to excellence. In 1981, Mr. Ciminelli founded a real estate company, the Ciminelli Real Estate Corp, which expanded to four states and manages over 12 million square feet of real estate. The company is now owned by his son Paul, who was inspired by his father's business acumen, and possesses similar strengths as a business leader within our community. Mr. Ciminelli was a dynamic figure in the region, dedicated to his business, and behind many well-known construction projects including expansion projects at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital and Roswell Park Cancer Institute, the General Motors Tonawanda Engine Plant, the Ford Motor and the Natural Sciences Building on the North Campus of the University of Buffalo, as well as numerous others. An active philanthropist, Mr. Ciminelli was also involved with the Roswell Park Alliance, the Sisters Hospital Foundation, Catholic Charities, the University at Buffalo Foundation, St. Luke's Mission of Mercy, Business Backs the Bills, and countless other causes. Mr. Ciminelli was a hardworking and loyal family man, and he leaves behind his loving wife, Rosalie G. Savarino Ciminelli, his six children, Louis, Gary, Paul, John, Susan, and Mary, eleven grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren, as well as a host of friends and associates. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to honor Mr. Frank Ciminelli. I ask that my colleagues join me in expressing our deepest condolences to the Ciminelli family and our gratitude for their contributions to Western New York.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Leon Hare, Sr., who recently passed away at the age of 92. A distinguished World War II veteran, Mr. Hare was born in Buffalo, New York to William and Lillie Hare on January 10, 1923. In his youth, he was an accomplished basketball player during his time as a student at Hutchinson Central High School. In 1942, Mr. Hare was drafted into the United States Army, serving with distinction in Italy and Germany. He later returned to the U.S. and married Margaret Eileen Sealy, and began a career as a steelworker. He and Margaret had three children, Frances, L. Nathan, and Lorna. Mr. Hare was an avid bowler as well. He worked at Ellicott Lanes, managing and administering the business, and becoming a father figure to thousands of young men and women, teaching and mentoring them not just in bowling, but also in life. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me to take the time to honor the life of Leon Hare, Sr., and I ask that my colleagues join me in offering our deepest condolences to the Hare family.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and accomplishments of Harry C. McLaughlin, a distinguished member of the Western New York community, on his ninety-fifth birthday. Mr. McLaughlin was born in Salamanca, New York on December 31st, 1919. After marrying his beloved wife Marjorie, he enlisted in the United States Armed Services. A member of the 17th Airborne Division, he served as a Cook, a Motor Sergeant, and a Sergeant Major. His position as a Motor Sergeant was especially notable; in charge of a Motor Pool containing one hundred fifty-four assorted vehicles, Mr. McLaughlin personally performed difficult repairs such as engine overhauls, transmissions, transfer cases, differentials, relined brakes, and aligned wheels. His respectable service and loyalty to the military earned him a certificate of thanks from President Harry S. Truman, citing his ``heartfelt thanks'' for McLaughlin's ``fortitude, resourcefulness and calm judgment.'' Unfortunately his wife Marjorie passed away at a young age due to an illness. In 1960, Mr. McLaughlin married Mary, moved to Eden, New York and adopted eight children: James J., James H., Dan, Harry Jr., Debby, Judith, Maria, and Michael. Four were Mary's, while the other four were foster children. For over twenty-five years, the couple continued to take in and raise foster children. This honorable endeavor provided emotional and physical safety, as well as a loving, stable home for many children in need. Mr. McLaughlin joined the East Eden Fire Department until his retirement in 1981 and practiced carpentry. He was also an active member of the American Legion Post 880 in Eden. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to celebrate the life and numerous accomplishments of Harry C. McLaughlin. I ask you to join me in wishing Mr. McLaughlin a very happy birthday and congratulate him for reaching such an exciting milestone.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, the Great Lakes represents the largest source of freshwater on this planet. They support more than 1.5 million jobs. They provide those who live near them with countless opportunities for outdoor enjoyment and recreation. My community of western New York considers its proximity to Lake Erie as one of its greatest assets. We must strive to guard the Great Lakes against imminent and future threats, and this week the House did just that. Today we introduce the Guarding the Great Lakes Act, which will continue to help protect the Great Lakes from Asian carp and other invasive species. The act will also take necessary steps to focus on permanent solutions by beginning work on water quality and flood mitigation projects. Yesterday the House passed the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative Act, providing $300 million in Federal funding annually to support projects related to the protection and restoration of the Great Lakes for each of the next 5 years. These are two excellent steps forward as we continue to protect these great bodies of water.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Rev. Jeffrey C. Chambless on the occasion of his installation as pastor of Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church on December 12th in Buffalo, New York. Rev. Chambless was born and baptized in Rockville Centre, Long Island and became an active member of the Shiloh Baptist Church at the age of 10 under the leadership of the late Rev. Dr. Morgan M. Days, Jr. His early life of service included appointments as a junior trustee, deacon and usher board president. He later relocated to Buffalo and attended Canisius College, majoring in Pre-Law with a minor in Religious Studies. His educational pursuit also included a major in Police Services while attending Erie Community College. Led by his family to Zion Missionary Baptist Church, this determined and dedicated man continued to embrace a life of service through his work on the Deacon Board, as Youth Pastor and then Interim Pastor. His impressive engagement with Church leadership and civic and community involvement includes membership with the Baptist Ministers Conference of Buffalo, NY and Vicinity, Delegate to the National Baptist Convention, Chaplain at Erie County Medical Center and Kaleida Health System, member of the Board of Directors for Teens In Progress (TIP) Youth Organization, Regional Committee for the New York State Department of Health AIDS/HIV Institute and Say Yes to Education Buffalo Clergy Task Force. Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church was founded in September 1960 by the late Rev. Anthony Benson, Sr. Their congregation has continued to grow for more than fifty years and through the guidance of several pastors. Under the spiritual leadership of Rev. Robert E. Baines Jr., valuable programs were started at the church including the Women's Ministry, the Senior Citizens Ministry and the Drug Abuse Program. Mount Moriah moved to its current location on Northampton Street in Buffalo in 1994 where fellowship flows to this day. Since accepting this leadership position, Rev. Chambless's ministry has added new members and appointed two deacons. His many gifts and ability to bring his practical experience to serve the needs of people in the Church as well as the community will continue to yield growth, goodwill and guidance to his congregation and the City of Buffalo. Mr. Speaker, it is in that spirit of service, that I rise with great pride today to extend deepest congratulations and best wishes for success to Rev. Jeffrey C. Chambless, his wife Clarisse and their daughter, Camille, and all who join with them on December 12th to witness his installation as Pastor of Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, when a natural disaster strikes, the damage and cleanup costs often far exceed the local government's ability to respond and to rebuild. Americans take comfort in the knowledge that the Federal Government will aid in the response by providing assistance to mitigate the often massive costs of natural disasters. The recent record-breaking snowstorm in western New York reminded the Nation that Buffalonians are resilient and generous people. That was on display during the storm and its aftermath with so many instances of neighbors helping neighbors. The storm also left my community with significant expenses in terms of the emergency response and structures that collapsed under the weight of the snow. That is why I have joined the western New York delegation to urge FEMA to act quickly to certify the disaster and disburse assistance. Western New Yorkers are the first to volunteer to aid other communities in need. Now we must ensure a helping hand is there for them when they are in need.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, this Sunday, December 7, is the 73rd anniversary of the attack on the American naval base at Pearl Harbor. That day, over 2,000 American soldiers and sailors lost their lives, and another 1,000 were wounded. South Buffalo native, Army Corporal Earl Wickett, witnessed the horrors of that day; fought bravely for this Nation; and was fortunate to make it back, raise a family, and serve his community as a Buffalo firefighter. Sadly, Earl passed away this year, but his stories and the bravery of all of those who served that day must always be remembered. On Sunday, West Seneca American Legion Post 735 will be among those recognizing Pearl Harbor Day and honoring the promise to never forget the sacrifices and service of those who were there on that day. Today, I join them and others in paying tribute to all of those who faced the unthinkable at Pearl Harbor, to survivors, like Earl Wickett, and to the many who never made it back.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Lou Schriver as he receives the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas. Known as Ramblin' Lou, the Tonawanda native's distinguished career in broadcasting is worthy of praise. Born and raised on Young Street in Tonawanda, New York, Ramblin' Lou worked at his father's riding academy during his childhood. While he has earned national recognitions, he has always remained close to his roots, doing all he can to promote the Tonawandas. In 1947, Ramblin' Lou started a ``Twin Cities'' radio show on 1440AM in Niagara Falls, New York to honor merchants in the Tonawandas. He has performed many assemblies at Tonawanda High School to benefit various charitable causes and community members. Annually, Lou and Charlie Fleischman organized an annual benefit show for the ``Twin Cities'' for over 25 years. Since the introduction of Canal Fest in 1983, the Ramblin' Lou Family Band has performed at the iconic Tonawanda festival. A lifetime member of Musicians' Local #209/106 of Tonawanda, Lou served as the president and general manager of WXRL Radio. Ramblin' Lou is the recipient of many local and national honors. In 1978, he was inducted into the Walkway of Stars in the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Tennessee. Other honors include the induction into the Buffalo Music Hall of Fame in 1996; the Distinguished Broadcaster Award from the Buffalo Broadcaster Pioneers in May 1998; the Tonawanda High School Distinguished Alumni Award in May 2002; serving as Grand Marshall for the Canal Fest Parade in July 2007; and election into the New York State Country Music Hall of Fame in 2010. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to recognize the life and career of Ramblin' Lou Schriver. His broadcast excellence and promotion of his hometown are honorable, and I wish him the best in all his future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Mr. Mark E. Saltarelli as he is recognized as Citizen of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas. Mr. Saltarelli is a practicing attorney and former acting City Court Judge, whose dedication to public service and the law is commendable. A graduate of the University of Buffalo and Syracuse Law School, Mr. Saltarelli practices at Saltarelli and Associates, P.C., in the city of Tonawanda. He is a trusted attorney whose sound legal advice has helped many in the community for decades. In addition to his legal work, Mr. Saltarelli has leadership roles in many non-profit organizations, including the Knights of Columbus, the Tonawanda Club, the Kiwanis Club of the Tonawandas, the Riviera Theatre, Gateway Harbor, Inc., and Buffalo's Franciscan Center. Mr. Saltarelli is involved heavily in the St. Francis of Assisi Parish Council and their school board. While the school is in danger of closing, Mr. Saltarelli has joined with many in the community in an attempt to keep the school open. A family man, Mr. Saltarelli enjoys spending time with his wife Marcia and their two children, Rachel and Mark Thomas. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to recognize the accomplishments of Mark Saltarelli, the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas Citizen of the Year. I congratulate Mr. Saltarelli on this honor and wish him continued success in all his future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize DeGraff Memorial Hospital as the 2014 Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas Business of the Year. This award is especially relevant this year, as DeGraff Memorial is celebrating 100 years of service and care to Western New York. DeGraff Memorial Hospital is a Kaleida Health Facility that has served the Tonawandas and the Northtowns since 1914. A major employer in North Tonawanda, the hospital has 70 inpatient beds to provide necessary services. DeGraff's versatility in health services is known throughout the region. The hospital is equipped to provide medical, surgical, and diagnostic services to both inpatients and outpatients. In addition, long term residential care is offered through a Skilled Nursing Facility, and special rehabilitation units are available for patients that require extensive recovery through acute and subacute care. The progressive mission of DeGraff Memorial places the community at the center. Each day, those employed by the hospital work to advance the health of the community and provide exceptional quality services to those in need, paired with a commitment to education and research that is accessible to all. The values of the hospital are accountability, patient-centered, integrity, and excellence. The hospital has received national recognition as a Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders Hospital for their excellence in providing sensitive and exemplary care for those over 65 years of age. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me to recognize DeGraff Memorial Hospital as the 2014 Business of the Year for the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas. I commend the hard work of those employed by the hospital and their dedication to the health of our community.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Zonta Club of the Tonawandas as the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas honors the club for their outstanding community service at their 2014 Awards Dinner. The Zonta Club of the Tonawandas was formed on April 15th, 1931, by founding officers Mrs. Helen Annis, Miss Althea Wilson, Miss Emma Barnard, Mrs. Lillian Dickson, Mrs. Benjamin Rand. Their Charter Members were Pauline VanVorhees, Marian Strum, Margaret McNerney, Catherine Rowley Lautz, Clara Collins, Grace Eaton, Rena Hilton, and Edna Sutton. The mission of the Zonta Club is a worldwide network of executives and professionals working together to advance the status of women worldwide through service and advocacy. The Zonta Club of the Tonawandas focuses on scholarship awards to college bound students and providing financial assistance to local outreach organizations. Annual scholarships have been awarded to Tonawanda and North Tonawanda High School graduates. Local aid organizations that have benefitted from the generosity of the Zonta Club include Inner Faith Food Pantry, Meals on Wheels, Salvation Army and YWCA Carrel House. In partnership with the YWCA of the Tonawandas, the Zonta Club has developed ZAP, a computer education and training program for women. ZAP teaches basic keyboarding, Microsoft Word, and Microsoft Excel skills, which helps participants build independence and self-worth. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to recognize the Zonta Club of the Tonawandas for their excellent community service work. I wish them the best in all their future endeavors and commend their honorable mission.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, over the past 2 days, the western New York community has been pummeled by unrelenting lake-effect snow. Areas of the city of Buffalo and surrounding suburbs were blanketed in over 5 feet of snow, and it continues to fall. Stranded in cars and trapped in homes, people are unable to access potentially necessary emergency services. Over 150 miles of the New York State Thruway closed, and thus far, the storm has claimed the lives of eight people. Snowstorms are a routine part of western New York winters, but even with advance notice, storms of this capacity are nearly impossible to prepare for. I applaud the leadership of Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz, Mayor Byron Brown, and Governor Andrew Cuomo. Their emergency management teams have been hard at work and will not rest until the snow has been cleared and everybody affected is safe. However, it is not just those trained for emergencies that have turned out. Neighbors helping neighbors shovel and dig out are common sights around western New York. The city of Buffalo once again proved itself to be The City of Good Neighbors.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the importance of carbon monoxide awareness. Each year, 400 people in the United States die from carbon monoxide poisoning, making it the leading cause of accidental poisoning deaths in the country. The real tragedy is that these deaths could be prevented through the installation of carbon monoxide detectors in the home. In January 2009, western New York teenager Amanda Hansen tragically passed away from carbon monoxide poisoning as a result of a defective boiler. After Amanda's tragic death, her family created the Amanda Hansen Foundation, which aims to educate and promote the awareness of carbon monoxide poisoning and to help those who cannot afford it to obtain and install CO detectors. I join them in encouraging all Americans to prevent carbon monoxide-related tragedies by installing detectors in their homes. It is for Amanda and for others who have unnecessarily died that I am a cosponsor of H.R. 4864, the Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Prevention Act. This legislation would help States and local governments implement education programs, develop training materials, and buy and install CO alarms in schools and homes.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support increased funding for medical research. In the last decade, funding to the National Institutes of Health has been cut by nearly 25 percent, and America's health, position as global leader, and economy are paying the price. In 2013, NIH funded 640 fewer competitive research projects than the year before. Fewer opportunities sent a signal to young people to avoid careers in medical research. Meanwhile, as America is falling behind, Japan, Germany, China, and India are dramatically boosting medical research funding. Underinvestment in medical research is financially shortsighted. Every dollar of NIH funding generates $2.21 in local economic activity. We should be investing in ways to alleviate the burden of chronic diseases, such as Alzheimer's, which costs the Nation $200 billion a year, and cancer, which costs the Nation another $216 billion. We cannot afford to wait. I encourage my colleagues to join Congresswoman DeLauro and me in supporting H.R. 5580, the Accelerating Biomedical Research Act. The time to reverse these cuts is now.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to stand with the American Postal Workers in Buffalo, New York, and across the country who today rally to send a message: Stop delaying America's mail. Since 2012, 141 mail processing plants have closed. Eighty-two more across 37 States are scheduled to either close or be consolidated beginning in January. The erosion of service standards is not only bad for customers, U.S. businesses, and hardworking postal workers, but it represents a huge step backward in an increasingly competitive delivery industry. Today the Postal Service Board of Governors holds their last public meeting of 2014. I urge them to reverse course and maintain service standards that uphold the trademark reputation of the United States Postal Service. I also urge the House to bring H.R. 630, the Postal Service Protection Act, to the floor for a vote. This legislation removes the pension pre-fund obligation, provides for the expansion of shipping operations and the lease of surplus facility space while maintaining Saturday delivery.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Buffalo Spree, a magazine that showcases Western New York's rich beauty, on being awarded the Amherst Chamber of Commerce 2014 Stewardship Award. Buffalo Spree performs a function that provides measurable value to the community. The magazine was founded in 1967 by Richard G. Shotell and Johanna Hall Van De Mark as an outlet to celebrate Western New York. Later, under Van De Mark's leadership, the magazine became an outlet for creative writers, along with contributions by local historian Austin Fox and architectural expert John Conlin. Buffalo Spree was bought in 1998 by Larry Levite and David McDuff and published six times a year. Content was also added, including a focus of arts, entertainment, lifestyles, and featured articles on local projects and issues. The magazine now publishes an issue once a month, along with yearly supplements. They have been nationally recognized by the City and Region Magazine Association and locally by the WNY chapter of the American Institute of Architects, Preservation Buffalo Niagara, and the Burchfield Penney Art Center. Buffalo Spree has enhanced its community involvement by relocating their headquarters and by their integration into the digital realm. Mr. Speaker, I stand here today to recognize with pride the accomplishment of Buffalo Spree on their commitment to excellence in the Buffalo Niagara region. The publication showcases Buffalo and provides proof of the depth of the Western New York area.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Employee Learning Week, which will be celebrated the week of December 1-5, 2014. A national campaign, Employee Learning Week strives to emphasize the importance of the link between employee education and achieving exceptional results within an organization. Established by the American Society for Training & Development, the campaign brings awareness to the necessity of professional training and workplace education for employees and organizations alike. Each year, Employee Learning Week recognizes and lessens the growing skills gap in today's highly competitive economy. An important facet of Employee Learning Week, the Niagara Frontier Chapter is an independently- incorporated, nonprofit organization affiliated with the American Society for Training & Development. With over 140 members hailing from diverse industries across the region, the chapter has been successful in making a meaningful difference in the area of professional growth. Through these efforts, the Niagara Frontier Chapter has demonstrated a significant commitment to developing the region's workforce, a noble investment in Western New York's economy. Mr. Speaker, please join me in identifying December 1-5, 2014, as Employee Learning Week, and congratulating the Niagara Frontier Chapter of the American Society for Training & Development on their endeavor.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the career and accomplishments of a distinguished member of my community and my friend, James M. Boles, Ed.D. Dr. Boles's work and unwavering dedication to better the quality of life for those who need it most-- the disabled, children, seniors, and their families--is a model and an inspiration. Dr. Boles served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of People, Inc., the largest non-profit human services agency in Erie County. On October 1, 2014, after thirty-three years spent growing this impressive organization, he retired. When Dr. Boles began his tenure with People Inc. in 1981, the organization staffed 200 people. Under his leadership, People Inc.'s budget has grown from $2 million to over $144 million, an impressive feat in Western New York's non-profit community. At his time of retirement, Dr. Boles had the responsibility of overseeing more than 3,200 staff that assist over 12,000 individuals. A lifetime student and advocate for those with disabilities, Dr. Boles received his Doctor of Education and his Masters of Education degree from Columbia University, and his Masters of Arts degree from Goddard College in Clinical Psychology. Dr. Boles has been a member of countless groups such as Commissioner's Advisory Council on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, the American Association of Marriage and Family Counselors, the National Conference of Executives of Associations for Retarded Citizens, National Rehabilitation Association, and the Buffalo Niagara Partnership. He was appointed to the President's Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities by President Bush in 2006, a committee that I had the pleasure of nominating him for once again. During my years as an elected official I have worked closely with Dr. Boles and People, Inc. The work they do is incredible and necessary. From creating and maintaining group homes across Western New York, easing the pain of families and individuals that need their care, to advocacy for the human services on local, state, and national levels, Dr. Boles was consistently at the forefront. As stigma surrounding the disabled decreases and awareness of conditions and care needed rises, it is in no small part due to the work of Dr. Boles. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to honor the amazing accomplishments of James M. Boles Ed.D. during his career and to congratulate him on the occasion of his retirement. I am certain his advocacy for those with disabilities will not cease with his retirement from People Inc., and his enduring legacy will impact our community for years to come.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize CCS Oncology as the recipient of the 2014 Innovation Award presented by the Amherst Chamber of Commerce. This award recognizes a firm that goes beyond the industry standard to advance their service through the integration of technology. Located in Williamsville, Kenmore, Lockport, Niagara Falls, Hamburg, West Seneca, and Dunkirk, CCS Oncology provides comprehensive cancer services to Western New York. With over 30 board certified physicians and 200 professionals, CCS Oncology is dedicated to providing the most advanced technology and personalized treatment plans to their patients. Their services include chemotherapy, hematology, radiation therapy, general surgery, and genetic screening, and numerous others. To better serve their patients, and all of Western New York, CCS Oncology provides the highest quality clinical services, giving hope for all stages and types of cancer. It is with great honor, Mr. Speaker, which I stand here today to recognize CCS Oncology on the receiving of the 2014 Innovation Award.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the founding members of Emerging Business Leaders on receiving the 2014 Young Professional Leadership Award from the Amherst Chamber of Commerce. This award acknowledges a group of young professionals that demonstrate commitment to the Buffalo Niagara Region. Originally called the Creative Class Consortium, Emerging Business Leaders is a network of over 500 smart and dynamic professionals under the age of 40. Four years ago, Chamber President Colleen DiPirro adopted a non-traditional business model, and reached out to local firms and invited employees under the age of 40 to create a dialogue that encourages their engagement. These members come from different industries, have different ideas, but are all committed to innovation. With the creation of the Emerging Business Leaders, these professionals were given a network to become community stewards. I stand here today, Mr. Speaker, to recognize the enormous contribution that comes with the foundation of Emerging Business Leaders to the Buffalo Niagara region. This group of young and progressive individuals will keep the Amherst Chamber of Commerce relevant, benefitting the entire region.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight the importance of clean energy sources and the leading role America is poised to play in this field. Earlier this summer, the company SolarCity announced its intention to open one of the largest solar production plants in the world in Buffalo, New York. This display of renewable energy would be a tremendous addition to the western New York community through the creation of over 1,000 jobs; however, the continued growth in renewable energy is dependent on Congress enacting the right policies. This is why we must extend the solar investment tax credits which are due to expire at the end of 2016. We also need to ensure that consumers selling energy back to the grid are able to do so at predictable and fair prices. That is why today I have sent a letter to the Secretary of Energy urging his office to formulate best practices for net metering. This allows those who generate their own electricity from solar power to feed what they do not use back to the grid. Just as the Buffalo Niagara region was an early adopter of hydroelectricity, we intend to be a leader in clean energy technologies like solar power as well.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, in my western New York community, there is no shortage of pride for our Buffalo Bills. This was apparent yesterday when it was announced Terry and Kim Pegula will be the new team owners. The Pegulas have time and again shown their commitment to western New York through their ownership of the Buffalo Sabres, financing of the new HarborCenter development on Buffalo's Inner Harbor, and now as owners of the Bills, keeping the team in western New York where it belongs. This is excellent news for the team's future. Still more good news came for football fans yesterday when FCC Chairman Wheeler announced plans to consider repeal of the sports blackout rules at their next meeting. Commissioner Ajit Pai was recently in Buffalo advocating for the same, and it appears now that momentum is building to return the game to the fans who support their teams and end blackouts once and for all. The Federal Government certainly should not support such outdated and unfair practices, and I am hopeful that the FCC will end the backing of NFL blackout rules on September 30.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize September as National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Cancer continues to be a leading cause of death by disease for America's children. Every year in the United States, almost 16,000 children under the age of 21 are diagnosed with cancer. Approximately one-fourth of these children will not survive. Two prominent health institutions in western New York, Roswell Park Cancer Institute and Women & Children's Hospital in Buffalo, work collaboratively to conduct research, provide treatment, and raise awareness on behalf of these children. I urge my colleagues to support increased funding for the National Cancer Institute.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, in my western New York community, there is no shortage of pride for our NFL Buffalo Bills. Taxpayers are currently investing millions into the existing stadium, and the community is engaged in discussions about future ownership and potential construction of a new stadium. Despite this, outside interests are making moves to pull the team out of Buffalo, and antiquated rules turn TV screens black on game day. Both threaten to take the team away from its loyal fan base. Our legislation, the Furthering Access and Networks for Sports Act, eliminates the antitrust exemption that gives NFL teams the ability to black out home games that haven't sold out and ensures that local fans will be able to watch their teams from home. The people of Buffalo have stood by our team. And the next owner of this franchise, the Buffalo Bills, must be one that will stand with this community for generations to come. (Mr. HARRIS asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute.)