Brian Higgins

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Regina Marie Catanise who peacefully passed from this earth on Tuesday, April 4, 2006, at the age of 84. The wife of the late Raymond Catanise, Mrs. Catanise, affectionately known as ``Gina,'' was a cherished member of her community of Waterloo, NY, and was loved by one and all who knew her. Survived by her three children, her son the Reverend Joseph Catanise, her daughter Candi Catanise, and her other son, Richard, Gina is also survived by two sisters, two brothers, four grandchildren, six great grandchildren, and several nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. I take this moment to honor Gina Catanise, Mr. Speaker, because of the closeness felt to her by my friend, Richard Catanise. Richard spoke to me very often about his family in general and about Gina in particular. While I know today that Richard and his entire family's loss is great, I know, Mr. Speaker, that the entire Catanise family knows and understands the depths of the love felt for them by their mother, Gina. I want to thank you, Mr. Speaker, for allowing me the opportunity to honor the memory of a great New Yorker, a woman who gave of herself to family, friends and community throughout her life. I am pleased that these remarks will remain a permanent part of the Congressional Record in perpetuity, so that generations to come may reflect upon the life and contributions to family and community made by Regina ``Gina'' Catanise. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, few communities have suffered more from the decimation of the American manufacturing sector than Western New York. In the Buffalo of my youth, any person willing to work hard enough could make a decent living for his or her family at one of our great industrial plants. It is no secret that those days are gone. Factories have closed, health care benefits have been dropped, wages have fallen and pensions are in trouble. Competition for remaining jobs is intense and those lucky enough to have a job live in constant fear that it will be outsourced or that their wages, health insurance or pension benefits will be cut. One of the last bastions of good-paying manufacturing jobs in Western New York is the auto industry. Over 9,000 workers in my congressional district are employed at the Delphi plant in Lockport, the American Axle facilities which supply General Motors in Tonawanda and Cheektowaga, and the Ford Stamping Plant in Woodlawn. So far, we have been lucky--as bad as things look now, they could be much worse, The Ford Stamping Plant was spared in the first round of plant closings Ford announced in January. And the Lockport plant will be one of the few to survive the recently announced Delphi closings. However, there will not be much relief for the Delphi workers in New York and elsewhere, because of unconscionable actions taken by the company in bankruptcy proceedings. Delphi has asked the bankruptcy court to slash wages, jobs, healthcare and retirement benefits by voiding the collective bargaining agreements that were negotiated between the company and its workers. Such disregard for the collective bargaining process is incomprehensible in light of the fact that Delphi was recently able to come to an agreement with the United Auto Workers on an attrition program to save costs. Rather than flouting the collective bargaining agreements, Delphi should have re-engaged its workers in a good-faith manner to find a solution together. If the bankruptcy court cancels the current contracts it will have devastating effects not only on the workers who rightfully relied on those agreements, but also on General Motors itself. This is a risky and unnecessary gamble Delphi is taking, and the economic health of thousands of families hangs in the balance. I strongly urge Delphi to reconsider its ill-advised request to cancel its contracts and to engage its workers in a constructive, good- faith manner that respects the collective bargaining process and the workers who depend on it.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Daniel Figueroa, who has set an example to all, through community involvement, selfless dedication and tireless compassion for the community. To his community he is known as a pioneer, and as someone who never forgot his roots, to his coworkers he is known for his diligence and exemplary work ethic. Detective Sergeant Daniel Figueroa is not only an outstanding member of the department but also an outstanding member of his community. Daniel Figueroa has been a member of the Buffalo Police Department for 35 years. It is also important to note that officer Figueroa was one of the first Hispanic-Latino officers in Buffalo, NY. Aside from his duty in law enforcement he also served as an Army paratrooper during the Vietnam War. Officer Figueroa has also been recognized for is service working undercover for the Federal Drug Enforcement Administration. Stories and memories of his work while in the department have changed lives and inspired others. A prime example of officer Figueroa's dedicated service occurred in 1970 when on patrol at the Erie Basin Marina; he noticed a crowd of people and saw a man in the water. Without hesitation, he jumped in to rescue the drowning man. He learned later that the man he had rescued was trying to commit suicide, eventually the man contacted officer Figueroa to thank him Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and gratitude that I stand here today to recognize Daniel Figueroa for his dedication, honorable service and his daily commitment to making western New York a safer place, and guaranteeing a better tomorrow.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. House Concurrent Resolution 360 authorizes the use of the Capitol Grounds for the 25th annual National Peace Officers' Memorial Service, a most solemn and respectful public event honoring the brave, heroic officers who have fallen in the line of duty. The event, scheduled for May 15, will be in coordination with the Office of the Architect of the Capitol and the Capitol Police. Mr. Speaker, on average, one officer is killed in this country every other day. Approximately 23,000 are injured every year, and thousands more assaulted. Sadly, 155 names will be added to the memorial wall this year, including the names of five women who were killed in the line of duty. The fallen officers come from 32 States, the Federal Government, and Puerto Rico. Their average age was 38 years and 7 months. The youngest officer was 21 years old. The memorial service is a fitting tribute to Federal, State and local police officers who gave their lives protecting our families, our homes, our places of work. They serve every day on the front lines in the battle to keep our communities safe. They sacrifice so much, and for this we are all, each of us, eternally grateful. It is in this spirit of appreciation that in my hometown, Buffalo, Police Officer Greg O'Shei initiated the public recognition of fallen officers by memorializing their names on signs posted throughout the city of Buffalo. Officer O'Shei's efforts have reminded us every day in Buffalo and throughout the Nation of these brave sacrifices that are made daily. The ceremony to be held on May 15 is the 25th anniversary of this memorial service which was established as a national event by President Kennedy in 1962. Consistent with all Capitol Hill events, the memorial service will be free and open to the public. I support the resolution and urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this tribute to our fallen peace officers. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, this week the House will vote on the Darfur Peace and Accountability Act, legislation that could play a major role in ending the ongoing genocide in Darfur. For the past 2 years, the international community has remained paralyzed as Sudan's state-sponsored brutality has claimed the lives of an estimated 400,000 Darfurians, and as millions more Darfurians have been forced from their homes. Those who are displaced struggle to feed their families; an estimated 3.5 million are starving. And as the displaced women of Darfur go about their daily lives, they live in fear of rape, beating, or murder at the hands of Janjaweed militias. Despite worldwide efforts to provide financial and humanitarian support, the lack of cooperation from the Sudanese Government has rendered the African Union powerless to stop the violence and hunger. With each day that passes, the Sudanese Government continues to commit atrocities against their own people with impunity. Though the situation in Darfur is dire, it is not too late to save hundreds of thousands of lives. This week, Congress can take a major step in ending the slaughter and brutality in Darfur by passing the Darfur Peace and Accountability Act. This legislation would authorize the administration to revitalize the African Union peacekeeping effort by giving them the tools they need to put a stop to the chaos and violence in the region. The legislation would also take a critical step by authorizing the administration to impose political and economic consequences on the Government of Sudan for the crimes they are committing against the people of Darfur. For too long we have sat and watched as innocent men, women, and children have been killed, and forced from their homes. We cannot sit idly by any longer, we must act. In calling attention to the crisis in Darfur, and through their support of the Darfur Peace and Accountability Act, the Jewish community continues to lead the way in defending victims of the worst forms of social and political injustice around the world. As a cosponsor of the Darfur Peace and Accountability Act, I will proudly stand with the Jewish community when I vote for this important legislation. The Jewish community's leadership on this issue has brought it national and international attention. And as we approach the Jewish holiday of Pesach--Passover--and the celebration of the Jewish Exodus from Egypt and redemption from slavery, the Jewish community should be proud that it has given a voice to an afflicted group of men and women in a far away place at a time when few others have taken notice.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to H.R. 609, the Higher Education Reauthorization Bill. Today the House of Representatives wasted an opportunity to help millions of American students achieve a higher education and a more secure future. Just 2 months after Republicans cut student aid by $12 billion in the budget reconciliation bill to, the largest cut in history, they are again making higher education less affordable by placing the burden of financing tax cuts for the wealthy on the backs of students and their families. It is ironic that this bill is entitled the College Access and Opportunity Act, because in reality it restricts access and denies opportunity. This bill breaks a promise to lower interest rates to 6.8 percent for student borrowers. The bill could reduce the number of doctors by making it overly cost prohibitive for students to study medicine by further restricting their ability to consolidate debt or to receive a lower rate. Additionally, the bill freezes the maximum Pell grant award and the Federal Work Study Program for the next 6 years; so much for access and opportunity. I voted against H.R. 609 because there is a better option--the Democratic substitute. The substitute would have re-directed Federal dollars recently cut from student aid to low interest loans or grants to help students. But that better option was voted down by the Republican majority. The substitute would have cut interest rates for students with subsidized loans in half, providing $2.5 billion in interest relief for America's middle and low income families. The substitute would also have established a new Black Serving Institution Program and a new graduate Hispanic Serving Institution Program to boost college participation rates of low-income, black, and Hispanic students and to encourage minority students on campus. Sadly, Republicans rejected the amendment. Congress has a responsibility to help hardworking young men and women realize their potential through educational opportunities so that they can achieve the American dream. At a time when college costs are rising faster than inflation, we should not be restricting student financial aid, we should be encouraging young men and women to continue their education, so that they can compete in the 21st century global marketplace. I am saddened that this Congress passed up the opportunity to create real access and real opportunity for the men and women of my district in western New York, but I want them to know that I will keep fighting on their behalf.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Chairman, on rollcall No. 55, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``no.'' (By unanimous consent, Ms. Eshoo was allowed to speak out of order.) Honoring Profiles in Courage Recipient

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to mark a very sad occasion: the passing of my former colleague in the New York State Assembly, Assemblywoman Sandra Lee Wirth. Last Saturday, Sandra Lee lost her courageous battle with lung cancer. She undertook this fight--like all others she took on, and there were many--with the grace, poise and dignity that we all came to expect from her. Born Sandra Lee Liberatore in West Seneca, Sandra Lee was a realtor by profession, and was President of the Greater Buffalo Association of Realtors in the early 1990s. At that time, during a county fiscal crisis, the Erie County Legislature instituted a county Real Estate Transfer Tax to fund the operation of mass transit services in Erie County. As one might imagine, Sandra Lee was appalled and swore to do something about it. She did. Sandra Lee took on and defeated an entrenched incumbent in the Erie County Legislature. During Sandra Lee's 3 years in the County Legislature, she was a fighter for senior citizens and property taxpayers. She was also a great opponent of government waste: she refused various ``perks'' of the job and funded the operation of her legislative district office personally. In 1994, the incumbent in the then-148th district seat of the New York State Assembly was retiring, and Sandra Lee jumped into the race with the same vigor that she took to the race for the County Legislature. In another heated and expensive campaign, Sandra Lee again defeated the same person she defeated for the County Legislature in this race for the Assembly. It was in the Assembly that I got to know--and deeply respect--Sandra Lee Wirth. Although we came from different political parties and were of different generations, few people were as kind to me upon my election to the Assembly in 1998 as Sandra Lee was. We represented adjacent districts, and in addition to sharing a border, our respective communities shared many important characteristics and on local issues affecting our communities, Sandra Lee and I worked together very well. In 2002, the legislative redistricting process was underway--and lo and behold--Sandra Lee Wirth and I were redistricted into the same Assembly district when her hometown of West Seneca was added to my Assembly district. In initial news reports, Sandra Lee was quoted as saying, ``I'm running where I live, Period.'' Mr. Speaker, I'm glad Sandra Lee changed her mind. Rather than contest an election against me, Sandra Lee instead chose to run in a newly created district east and south of West Seneca. She continued to serve in the Assembly until her death last week. In 2004, Sandra Lee was forced to deal with another challenge--the illness and subsequent death of her husband Bill. When I saw Sandra Lee at Bill's wake, she spoke lovingly of ``her Billy,'' and as she struggled through Bill's illness and her own, Sandra Lee's love of her family and her community never waned. Every fight that Sandra Lee Wirth fought was waged with dignity and aplomb. Her commitment to public service was as strong as any I have ever witnessed. I am proud to have called her a colleague, but Mr. Speaker, I am prouder still to have called her my friend. May God ensure that she rests in peace.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Herbert L. Bellamy, Sr., who passed away Wednesday, March 8, 2006, at the age of 74. Mr. Bellamy was a businessman and civic leader in Buffalo for more than 30 years. Herbert L. Bellamy, Sr., moved to Buffalo, after serving in the Marine Corps, to study at the Dale Carnegie Institute and Buffalo State. Mr. Bellamy worked hard to build a career in community service as well as creating over a dozen businesses. In 1970 he founded the 1490 Enterprises, a nationally recognized community center which serves as city hall for the neighborhood. 1490 Enterprises grew to provide housing to the senior citizen as well as providing other services for seniors. The center honors community leaders by sponsoring a Black Achiever's awards dinner and Black History breakfast. In 1979, Mr. Bellamy was the first African American member of the Buffalo Municipal Civil Service commission where he served for 8 years. In 1990 he was appointed to the Judicial Conduct and later served on the Peace Bridge Authority. Herbert L. Bellamy, Sr., was the first black director and vice president of the Buffalo Area Chamber of Commerce and the Buffalo Downtown Nursing Home. He was also the president of the Greater Eastside Business Association. Mr. Bellamy also served on many boards such as the Canisius College Board of Regents, the Police Athletic League, the Reed Cross, the Private Industry Council, the National Association of Colored People and the National Conference of Christians and Jews. Thought his life Herbert L. Bellamy, Sr., accumulated over 150 awards, including the Roberto Clemente Humanitarian Award, the Buffalo News citizen of the year award, the Buffalo Challenger Man of the Year Award and its Millennium Award, the Canisius College President's Award, the Cold Spring Businessman of the Year Award, the 100 Black Men Award and the Buffalo Urban League Family Award. Herbert L. Bellamy, Sr., is survived by his mother, six children, ten grandchildren, one great-grandchild as well as brothers and sisters. Mr. Bellamy was a great man whose contributions to Buffalo, New York, will live on as will his memory. The people of Buffalo appreciate his commitment to our community and the lifetime of devoted service.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to stand here today to recognize Jim Maloney a remarkable citizen who will be honored on March 11, 2006, by Goin' South, a civic, social, and cultural organization based in South Buffalo, New York. Jim is a retired railroad conductor from South Buffalo, NY. He and his wife Delores have 4 children, 12 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. Mr. Maloney is actively involved at St. Thomas Aquinas Parish and serves as President of the S.T.A. Travel Club. He also volunteers his time to assist Bishop Timon/St. Jude High School in their fundraising efforts. Mr. Maloney's recent and most notable contribution to the South Buffalo community was unveiled in the summer of 2005 in the form of a Law Enforcement Memorial at McKinley Parkway and Abbott Road in Heacock Park. Jim and Delores Maloney's son Daniel died tragically in the line of duty and it was his heroic sacrifice that served as Jim's inspiration. He sought to create a visual reminder of the sacrifices that law enforcement officers make every day. Turning his vision into reality, Jim worked tirelessly with the help of friends to create the beautifully designed memorial which displays the names of over 70 fallen Western New York Law enforcement officers. Mr. Speaker, Jim Maloney is being honored as the recipient of the 2006 Goin' South Civic Pride Award for his hard work, civic contributions and steadfast commitment to honoring Western New York's law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty. It is my distinct honor to recognize him here today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to stand here today to recognize William Bohen, a man who is being honored as ``Irishman of the Year'' on March 11, 2006 by Goin' South, a civic, social, and cultural organization based in South Buffalo, New York. Bill Bohen is an upstanding citizen, a proud member of the South Buffalo community of which I am a lifelong resident. And like me, Bill shares a love for the people and the place that has made us who we are today. Bill's ancestors came from Ireland and settled in the Old First Ward. His father Daniel Bohen was a Buffalo Firefighter; his late mother was Milly Ahearn. Bill Bohen began his career as an apprentice in 1975 with Ironworkers Local 6--and he quickly rose through the ranks as a Board Member, Executive Committee President, and to his current position as Business Agent/Financial Secretary. Ironworkers Local 6 is one of the most influential trade unions in Western New York. Its members participated in the construction of HSBC Arena, Buffalo's Baseball stadium, Pilot Field (now Dunn Tire Park), waterfront housing at Admiral's Walk and the Galleria Mall. It is also important to note that Bill led Local 6 members to New York City to assist with rescue efforts just hours after the tragedy of September 11th. Bill's kindness is reflected in the generosity of Local 6 and the willingness of its members to pitch in when it comes to charitable and civic causes in and around South Buffalo. They have volunteered on such projects such as the Valley Community Center and Bishop Timon/St. Jude High School. Irish Americans represent what is best about America--that if you work hard, play by the rules, love your family and give back to your community, the American Dream can be yours. Bill Bohen is a citizen worthy of that description. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for this opportunity to recognize Bill Bohen, a great guy from the neighborhood, a friend and a man deserving of this special recognition. It is my distinct honor to join with Bill's sisters--Nancy and Patty--his brother Danny--his two sons Bill Jr. and Eric and his wife Mary Jo and numerous other family members and friends to honor the personal accomplishments, leadership and hard work of a great son of South Buffalo.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, it gives me a tremendous sense of pleasure to honor the personal accomplishments and the long career in public service of a great elected leader and wonderful friend, former New York State Assemblyman Richard J. Keane. Dick Keane is, as I said, a close friend of long standing. In point of fact, I succeeded Dick Keane as a member of the New York State Assembly in the 145th District. In all truthfulness I can say that no new member had a better mentor than I did. Like me, Dick Keane is a lifelong--and tremendously proud--resident of South Buffalo, New York. A product of a large and politically prominent family in South Buffalo, Dick's career began protecting the public as a Buffalo Firefighter. From there, Dick went on to serve on the Erie County Board of Supervisors and was the first Democrat to serve as Chairman of its successor body, the Erie County Legislature. Dick was elected to a vacant seat in the State Assembly in 1976, and served in that seat proudly for 22 years. But in Albany, Dick had two official duties that brought him great joy--his management of the Assembly's baseball team, and the Presidency of the American Irish Legislators Society of New York State, the latter being an organization in which I would later serve as Historian. Each year, the American Irish Legislators Society of New York State honors one of its own, a former member of the State Legislature who made a significant contribution both to public service and, usually, to the Society itself. On Monday, March 13th, in Albany, NY, Dick Keane will be the Society's 2006 honoree. That that event, it will be my distinct honor to present Dick with a commemorative copy of these remarks and to join with my successor in the State Assembly, Assemblyman Mark Schroeder, in honoring Dick Keane's service to New York State and to his community. Mr. Speaker, owing to my past service as Historian, I want to close with a bit of history. Ireland provided to the United States a number of wonderful gifts, but none more valuable than its people. Since the first days of landing on American soil, the Irish people have demonstrated a commitment to public service that is unrivalled by any other ethnic group. From police and fire service to elective office, Irish Americans represent what is best about America--that if you work hard, play by the rules, love your family and your community and give as much as you can back to that community, the vaunted American Dream can be yours. Dick Keane is a public official and a private citizen utterly worthy of that description and of the respect of those whose lives he made better for that service. It is my distinct honor to recognize him here today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure I recognize the young men from Cub Scout Pack 60 from Buffalo, New York as they celebrate the traditions and contributions of the Boy Scouts of America on this the 76th anniversary of Cub Scouting. Since 1910 Cub Scouts have embraced their motto ``Do Your Best'' and promoted the values of: citizenship, compassion, cooperation, courage, faith, health, honesty, perseverance, positive attitude, resourcefulness, respect, and responsibility among its membership. Today we have more than 885,000 Cub Scouts across America, learning valuable life lessons through the scouting program, who will be the next generation of leaders. On Sunday, March 5, 2006 Pack 60 will celebrate the Anniversary of Scouting with a ``Blue & Gold'' dinner; blue representing truth, spirituality, steadfast loyalty and the sky above and gold which stands for warm sunlight, good cheer and happiness. Mr. Speaker, thank you for the opportunity to recognize Cub Scout Pack 60 whose members have learned at a very young age the importance of teamwork and giving back to one's community. We should be proud knowing they are this Nation's future.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor I recognize General Casimir Pulaski, a living legend who became known as the ``Father of the American Cavalry'' after leaving his native land Poland to defend this great country during the Revolutionary War. A bold and dedicated soldier, Pulaski defined his selfless loyalty in a letter to George Washington in which he stated, ``I came here, where freedom is being defended, to serve it, and to live or die for it.'' In February of 1778, with Washington's endorsement, Pulaski submitted his plan to Congress and with their authorization he formed the Independent Corps later known as the Pulaski Legion. During the siege of Savannah in 1779, General Pulaski paid the ultimate sacrifice and was mortally wounded; leaving a legacy of heroism that continues to inspire people around the world. In 1910, by an order of Congress, a statue of Gen. Pulaski was erected at Pennsylvania Avenue and 13th Street in Washington, DC, paying tribute to this great hero. My hometown of Buffalo, New York, is one of a handful of communities which have also recognized Pulaski's contributions with a statue. Monuments can also be found in Hartford, Connecticut; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Savannah, Georgia; and Czestochowa and Warka Poland. On Friday, March 3, 2006, I will have the privilege to join community leaders and friends from the western New York General Pulaski Association in celebrating the legacy of General Pulaski in a wreath laying tradition at the Pulaski statue which first began in the 1930s. Mr. Speaker, we in western New York have the great privilege of having a strong and vibrant Polish American community. Thank you for allowing me to recognize the contributions of General Pulaski, a man who has served as a patriot to not one, but two great nations.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Lillian Vitanza Ney of Jamestown, NY, for being awarded the Paul Harris Fellow award, the Rotary Club's highest honor. The Paul Harris Fellow recognition is given to show appreciation for contributions to the Rotary Club's charitable and education program. A contribution of $1,000 was given on behalf of Dr. Ney. Dr. Ney is a graduate of Jamestown High School and Wells College. She earned her medical degree from State University at Buffalo. She serves as wellness director, cardiology director, medical education director and vice president of medical affairs at WCA Hospital and is a member of several professional organizations. Dr. Ney is also highly involved in the community she served as a city councilwoman including being the first female city council president. She was one of the founding members of the Jamestown Area Youth Orchestra and is a board member for several community organizations. Dr. Ney has shown great dedication and excellence in her work and community. That is why, Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor her today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Joshua Carpenter, a young man who was named town of Eden 2006 ``Youth of the Year.'' Josh has demonstrated leadership and outstanding service to his school, community, and at the Boys and Girls Club of Eden in particular. Joshua became an active member of the Boys and Girls Club the year of its inception in 2002. He and his peers benefited from the experiences they shared at the club; therefore, Joshua decided that he would like to work at the Boys and Girls Club to share these experiences with other young members. He brings energy and enthusiasm to each activity and acts as a mentor for others. In addition to the work he does with the Boys and Girls Club, Carpenter is actively involved in the community where he lives. He participates in the ICC Church Youth group and volunteers at the PTA- sponsored festivals as well as at family events that are held at the school. Joshua is an outstanding Eden High School senior. He has a keen interest in learning about other cultures and expands his awareness through his participation in the Model United Nations Club. He was named to the National Honor Society during his junior year and remains active in several NHS-sponsored programs. Additionally, Josh is a leading member of the tennis team. I am proud to honor Joshua Carpenter today, an outstanding young man and an emerging leader in the community. Mr. Speaker, I thank you for this opportunity to highlight the achievements of Joshua Carpenter and I am pleased to join with members of the community to congratulate him on being named the 2006 ``Youth of the Year.'' I wish him continued success and happiness in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Ted Smith, a life-long resident of Chautauqua County and a truly remarkable man. Paying Tribute to Ted Smith (By Manley J. Anderson) Two well-known local public figures have shared their thoughts about R. Theodore ``Ted'' Smith who was an integral part of their lives for several years. Those paying remembrance and tribute to their late, long-time colleague are Joseph Gerace Sr., New York State Supreme Court Justice now serving as a judicial hearing officer; and Dr. Gregory T. DeCinque, Jamestown Community College president speaking for the area's academic community. Gerace said he and Smith campaigned together years ago for the Chautauqua County Legislature, representing the Busti/ North Harmony area. ``Ted in just about every respect was one of the most outstanding people I've ever met,'' the jurist said. ``He was the kind of public official we wish we had in all positions: honest, straightforward and caring about the community.'' ``He was Mr. Environment,'' Gerace said, ``and I feel we may still be waiting for the sewer districts except for Ted Smith, who also was known as Mr. Integrity. We campaigned together for the Chautauqua County Legislature, knocking on doors, and Ted took on a county-wide assignment with the landfill, closing open dumps and developing a solid waste plan that was the envy of the area and so effective the private sector wanted to buy it.'' The jurist closed with, ``He was an all-around guy with a great sense of humor. He was truly the Mark Twain of our era and he always used humor to make the best of a situation.'' ``It is with deep sadness that I share with you that Ted Smith passed away late yesterday (Thursday) at Hamot Medical Center as the result of a heart attack he suffered Sunday evening,'' DeCinque said. ``Ted was among the early faculty who established JCC as the premiere community college in New York,'' he said. ``Whether as a faculty member, founding dean of the Cattaraugus County Campus, dean of academic affairs, or retiree, Ted's contributions to JCC are legend.'' DeCinque continued with, ``Ted led JCC through the development phase of many academic programs as well as the growth of our Cattaraugus County Campus, our outreach into Pennsylvania, and our Dunkirk center.'' The academician pointed out, ``Ted was recognized with the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1975 and the JCC Foundation's John D. Hamilton Award in 2001. He is among the select few to receive these highest honors associated with the college.'' DeCinque went on with, ``Ted was highly regarded throughout the state both as an educator and a political leader. His service on the Chautauqua County Legislature led to many improvements within the county, and I know he will be remembered as one of the best legislators we have had in Chautauqua County.'' He continued with, ``Following Ted's retirement, he returned to the classroom and continued his love affair with teaching. I had the privilege of participating in many of Ted's Student Success Seminars where I witnessed the relationship he was able to develop with students. In addition to teaching in his retirement, Ted carries out a number of research assignments for us that resulted in establishment of several of our newest academic programs including professional piloting, occupational therapy, and dental hygiene.'' DeCinque said, ``On a personal note, Ted was always there to provide me with insight and wisdom, and he often would send me short notes from Busti or Florida that were always on target and helpful. I will miss that guidance.'' The college leader said, ``JCC and our larger community have lost a dear friend and colleague, and our heartfelt sympathy goes out to Pat and the entire Smith family.'' He closed with, ``Information on services for Ted will be shared with you as it becomes available. Ted was a man who fully understood how to live to its fullest and that, Mr. Speaker, is why I rise to honor him today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor prominent Buffalo businessman Robert E. Rich who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 15, 2006. He was a loving and dedicated husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was an inspiring colleague and friend. He was an athletics enthusiast. He was an innovative and legendary entrepreneur and founder. And, he was a generous and compassionate community and industry advocate. Mr. Rich began his path to frozen food industry fame in 1935 as owner and operator of Wilber Farms Dairy. In 1945, while serving as the war food Administrator in Michigan, he learned about successful research at the George Washington Carver Institute on the use of soybeans to create innovative food products. After investigating the use of soybeans, he developed the world's first non-dairy whipped topping. Rich's industry- leading reputation was as a family-owned business dedicated to treating customers around the world like family. He was also committed to continuing the company's aggressive worldwide growth while maintaining its headquarters in Buffalo, NY. In 1965, Mr. Rich was a charter member of a group which attempted to bring a National Hockey League franchise to Buffalo. In 1972, through Rich Products, he purchased the naming rights of the new football stadium for the Buffalo Bills. In 1988, he authorized the purchase which kept the Buffalo Bisons, the Triple-A affiliate of the Cleveland Indians, in town. Under his chairmanship of the Bisons, the city constructed Pilot Field, which is now Dunn Tire Park, which has become a source of city pride and national attention. Rich founded and headed up the University at Buffalo's Christmas Scholarship Fund which made 30 annual scholarships available to outstanding scholar-athletes. In 1991, he was inducted into the inaugural class of the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame. Mr. Rich continued his commitment to his Buffalo home in 1989 with the decision to renovate and redevelop the historic 1200 Niagara Street complex on the banks of the Niagara River on the city's West Side. Today, the state-of-the-art facility is home to the Rich Research Center, hailed as the industry's finest, the Rich Renaissance Niagara Atrium and Conference Center, site of weddings, banquets and business meetings, the Rich Wellness Center, and the Rich's Family Center, Western New York's first on-site child daycare center which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 1999. In 2004, Rich's made a significant pledge to the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation to establish the Robert E. Rich Aspiring Entrepreneurs Scholarship. Four scholarships each year support the continued education of undergraduate students pursuing careers in the restaurant and foodservice industry. In 2005, Rich Products celebrated its 60th birthday posting annual sales in excess of $2.5 billion. The company sells more than 2,300 products in more than 85 countries and employs more than 7,000 Associates worldwide, including more than 1,300 in its headquarters in Buffalo, NY. Frozen food industry pioneer, architect of the nation's largest family-owned frozen foods manufacturer, sportsman, and community leader all describe Robert E. Rich. Rich Products will continue to grow and thrive as a family business under the ongoing leadership of his son, Bob Rich Jr. But Western New York will sorely miss Robert E. Rich.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 2006 Winter Olympian Steve Mesler. Steve, originally from the West Side of Buffalo, is to compete in the four man bobsled race Friday, February 25. This will be his first time competing in the Winter Olympics, as he served as an alternate in the 2002 games. Steve Mesler is truly a scholar-athlete. Born and raised in Buffalo, he graduated from City Honors High School in 1996 after participating in four consecutive city track and field championships. He also received the Buffalo Bills Academic/Community Service/Athletic Scholarship. Steve attended the University of Florida with a track and field scholarship. He graduated from the University of Florida, where he is still ranked six all-time among University of Florida decathletes with 6,817 points, with honors for a degree in Exercise and Sports Science. After ending his track and field career in 2001, Steve traveled to San Diego for bobsled training camp. Although he was new to the sport he learned quickly. Four months after beginning the sport he was selected to travel with the 2002 men's Olympic Bobsled team to Salt Lake City, Utah as an alternate. Steve won his first World Cup medal in 2002-2003 season. The men's bobsled competition consists of four runs, two runs per day for two days timed to hundredth of a second. The final standings are determined by the total time over the four runs; the winner is the sled with the lowest time. As a part of the nine man Olympic bobsled team, Steve Mesler is expected to push for Todd Hays, the 2002 Olympic silver medalist. Steve has much courage and determination--he and his team have come back from their four man sled crash at the November 2005 World Cup in Lake Placid, NY. Steve is truly a member of the City of Good Neighbors. He describes himself as a kid from Buffalo having grown up playing street hockey and soccer. He is a die-hard Buffalo Bills fan; his favorite bill was Thurman Thomas, and his family partakes in Buffalo traditions such as tailgating--even when temperatures reach as low as 30 degrees. The 2006 men's Olympic bobsled team is expected to bring home a medal, and I am proud to have Steve Mesler represent my district, my state, and our country at the 20th Olympic Winter Games in Torino, Italy.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Hadley A. Weinberg of Bemus Point, New York for being named by the Consumers' Research Council of America to its list of best financial planners throughout the United States. Mr. Weinberg a partner at Weinberg Financial Group, Financial Education Resources and Chautauqua 401K with a total of eight affiliates at offices in Jamestown and Buffalo. He has served thousands of clients offering financial services from wealth management to retirement plans and is involved with numerous community organizations. The criteria employed by the Consumers' Research Council complies its best financial planners list using criteria it deems valuable in determining its top professionals. This criteria includes experience, training, professional associations and financial certifications. All criteria Mr. Weinberg has accomplished all of this in his 23 years of service to the industry. Mr. Weinberg has displayed extreme excellence in the field of financial planning, that is why, Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor him today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I recognize the young men from Cub Scout Pack 890 from Woodlawn, New York as they celebrate the traditions and contributions of the Boy Scouts of America on this, the 76th anniversary of Cub Scouting. Since 1910 Cub Scouts have embraced their motto ``Do Your Best'' and promoted the values of: citizenship, compassion, cooperation, courage, faith, health, honesty, perseverance, positive attitude, resourcefulness, respect, and responsibility among its membership. Today we have more than 885,000 Cub Scouts across America, learning valuable life lessons through the scouting program, who will be the next generation of leaders. On Sunday, February 12, 2006 Pack 890 will celebrate the Anniversary of Scouting with a ``Blue & Gold'' dinner; blue representing truth, spirituality, steadfast loyalty and the sky above and gold which stands for warm sunlight, good cheer and happiness. Mr. Speaker, thank you for the opportunity to recognize Cub Scout Pack 890, whose members have learned at a very young age the importance of teamwork and giving back to one's community. We should be proud knowing they are this Nation's future.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I stand here today to express gratitude to a number of soldiers from Western New York who have recently completed a tour of duty where they fought heroically on behalf of the United States of America. In particular, I would like to recognize SGT Benn, SSG Benson, SGT Carr, SFC Collins, MAJ Dukes, SSG Hendricks, SSG Jindra, SGT Kulesz, SSG LaBuda, SSG Lemay, SFC Liberatore, SFC Press, SSG Printup, SPC Santiago and SFC Schuler, just a few of our local heroes who selflessly put their lives on the line to protect and improve the lives of those in this country and others worldwide. These decorated men and women have demonstrated supreme courage and commitment through their call to duty and fight for liberty. Their valiant efforts are the reason why we continue to be the ``land of the free and the home of the brave.'' Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the residents of the 27th Congressional District and all Americans I wish to extend my sincerest appreciation to these courageous and noble soldiers. Their service and sacrifices help protect the safety and freedoms that make this Nation great.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, on April 14, 2005, as New York's highest court prepared to sit outside of Albany for the first time in recent memory, I had occasion to recognize the professional career of retired New York State Court of Appeals Judge Matthew Jasen. During that extension of remarks, I was honored to take note of the many personal and professional accomplishments of Judge Jasen, in a manner consistent with the honors bestowed upon him by his successor colleagues on the Court of Appeals that day. Today, Mr. Speaker, I rise to call the House's attention to the passing of this great legal giant in New York State. Judge Matthew J. Jasen entered into his eternal rest on February 4, 2006, at the age of 90. Without seeking to be repetitive, Mr. Speaker, the fact remains that Judge Jasen was widely regarded as one of the sharpest legal minds of his era. Taking his seat on the Court of Appeals back in the days when that bench was still elected by popular vote statewide, Judge Jasen was the last western New Yorker to serve on the court, and his decisions were widely regarded as fair and impeccably researched. Rising to the position of senior associate judge before his mandated retirement in 1985, Judge Jasen was well known as a lawyer's judge--someone who knew the law, who understood both its limits and its full potential. Following his retirement, Judge Jasen's career in law--even past his 80th birthday--continued to flourish and become all the more distinguished. His appointment by the United States Supreme Court as a special master to assist in determining the true border between lllinois and Kentucky along the Ohio River is but one example of how this keen legal mind continued its contribution to the jurisprudence of his State and Nation. This past Sunday's Buffalo News editorialized the career of Judge Jasen, and it is that editorial with which I will close this extension of remarks. On behalf of all Members of the House, I extend to the Jasen family our most heartfelt sympathy, as well as our appreciation for the many contributions made by Judge Matthew Jasen to the American way of life. Judge Jasen was the Court of Appeals' first Polish-American member, and it is fitting that I close this extension of remarks with the traditional Polish toast--``Sto Lat''--which literally translated means ``100 years.'' While Judge Jasen could not give a chronological century to serve the people of this State and Nation, in effect he made good on that toast, and I am honored to pay tribute to his memory here today. [From the Buffalo News, Feb. 12, 2006] Jasen, Generation's Legal Standout Sorrow flows at the passing of one of the most respected and skilled lawyers and judges of his generation. Former Court of Appeals Judge Matthew J. Jasen, who died Saturday at the age of 90, was both a brilliant legal mind and a respected adviser who guided the practice of law in this region and nationally. Jasen was the first Polish-American and the last Western New Yorker to sit on the state's highest court, serving there for 18 years, becoming senior associate judge there before retiring at the legally mandated age of 70 (a mandate he upheld in writing the high court's opinion on its validity). He also was a highly regarded arbiter who, even in retirement, was called upon by the U.S. Supreme Court to work as a ``special master'' deciding such questions as the proper location of the Illinois-Kentucky boundary along the Ohio River. He was known for clear and concise opinions, and for his mentoring of lawyers and judges. He was a forceful arguer and legal scholar whose fairly common early year dissents to Court of Appeals decisions in several areas were later vindicated in subsequent court rulings, sometimes after his retirement. He won a string of legal honors, including a special Buffalo Law Review issue featuring accolades from the state's top judges. Jasen should have been New York's chief judge; he was proposed for that post by a nominating commission in the late 1970s, but passed over by then-Gov. Hugh Carey for a more politically connected junior judge. As a conservative Democrat and fiercely independent thinker, Jasen had distanced himself from politics while serving on the high court; that cost him politically, but provides a truer measure of his worth as a judge. Even during his retirement, New Yorkers benefited from Jasen's fair-mindedness and independence as he joined or led task forces and committees dealing with matters such as judicial conduct or traffic court fairness, and state agency adjudication procedures. Jasen was a champion of the rule of law, and a man who would have desired no other epitaph.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Fred Cusimano, a life long resident of Chautauqua County and a truly remarkable man. County Remembers Fred Cusimano (By Manley J. Anderson) Friends and associates of the late Fred J. Cusimano of 190 Linwood Ave., Jamestown, who died Monday morning in the WCA Hospital emergency room have expressed their thoughts about him. ``He was a man for all seasons,'' said Joseph Trusso Jr., longtime friend, fellow Democrat and veteran member of the Chautauqua County Legislature. ``He worked on an oil rig, he owned a gas station, he was a tree farmer. We planted Christmas trees. I helped him plant some of those trees.'' Cusimano had a lengthy career in the voting machine industry, first as sales manager of Voting Machine Service Inc. owned by the T.H. Huhn Agency. He also worked as sales representative for the former Automatic Voting Machine Company from 1960-1990, and in the later part of his career was named vice-president of Automatic Voting Machine. He had also worked for the Voting Machine Service Center in Gerry, until his retirement in 1992. Voting machines weren't Cusimano's only foray into politics, however. Trusso said Cusimano was respected by both local Republicans and Democrats while being invited to President John F. Kennedy's 1960 inauguration. ``He worked for Automatic Voting Machine and became vice president,'' Trusso said. ``He was a member of the Board of Supervisors when there were only about seven of them. He was par excellence about elections. He knew everything about election law and wrote most of the election laws in New York state. He was a strong Democrat who believed in the democratic way and he wished at times we could go back to it. Fred's predecessors were all Republicans. You can call him a man for all seasons. You can call him a Renaissance man. He advised the city's Democratic and Republican mayors. He worked very hard for the parks in the county. He had a trail named after him.'' Trusso also noted Cusimano's dedication to the Bemus Point rest stop and Chautauqua Lake overlook even when he wasn't feeling well. ``You never see a Fred Cusimano come along very often,'' Trusso said. ``He's a great loss to the city, the county and the state and especially to the Democrats. This man should and will be honored. He devoted a good part of his life to the parks of Chautauqua County. He also helped Allegany State Park. He was a member of the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) that helped build it. He was in the Army before and after the draft and before and after the war (World War II) for about five years.'' Trusso said that at their traditional breakfast meeting Tuesday he brought a toast to the little restaurant where the faithful gathered with an empty chair for Cusimano who was remembered by his surviving comrades. Trusso concluded with, ``I owe him a lot. I don't see anyone who can take his place. What a wonderful person.'' He was influential in returning the City of Jamestown from a ``non-partisan'' to the ``party'' system for local elections. He was a past member of the Jamestown Area Chamber of Commerce and served on its Governmental Affairs Committee and its Greater Jamestown Industrial Development Committee. Cusimano was a past member of the city Planning Commission and served as chairman of the county Economic Development Commission. He also served several years on the Advisory Council to the state Legislature's Joint Legislative Committee on Election Law, and for many years served as a consultant and honorary member to the Election Commissioners Association of New York State. ``He was considered the father of the Chautauqua County Parks System,'' said Anthony M. Teresi, a longtime Cusimano friend and former county legislator. ``He was very active with the parks until the end. The West Side Trail was named for him. He helped everyone who asked for help and it was good help. With me, he was a good and loyal friend who helped me a lot with some of the county issues when I was a legislator. When he believed in something he pursued it until it was done. I consider him the brother I never had. I miss him dearly.'' John C. Cheney of Belleview, Bemus Point, a longtime member and former chairman of Chautauqua County Parks Commission, said of Cusimano, ``He was with us for years. He was one of the founders of it. He's a real loss. We've named one of the trails after him. He had a lot to do with getting those trails organized and started.'' Fred was a man who fully understood how to live to its fullest and that Mr. Speaker is why I rise to honor him today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I stand here today to recognize David J. Shenk, a man who is being recognized as town of Boston 2006 ``Democrat of the Year'' for his selfless dedication to his community and his country. Mr. Shenk currently serves as the Boston town clerk, a position he first won by just three votes in 1991, at the young age of 21. For the last 14 years Mr. Shenk has served his community well, securing 14 records management grants, streamlining efficiencies in town government, and establishing a foundation which provides grants to local nonprofit organizations. Mr. Shenk's allegiance to his hometown is only rivaled by his commitment to this great Nation. Enlisted in the United States Army Reserve in 1988, he has served in Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom. A health care specialist in the 1982nd Forward Surgical Team, his decorations include three Army Achievement Medals and an Army Commendation Medal. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for this opportunity to recognize David Shenk, a man I am proud to have as a colleague in Western New York government, a friend and a public servant deserving of the title ``Democrat of the Year.''