Brian Higgins

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life of Frank J. Lemke and many others from my district and around the country who volunteered to participate in Project 19, a secret program to aid the Allied Forces during World War II. Mr. Lemke was born in Buffalo, attended St. Mary's School, and later attended Technical High School. After graduating, he was a machinist for the Airplane Division of the Curtiss-Wright Corporation in Cheektowaga producing P-40 fighter planes. At this time, the U.S. had not formally entered World War II so American troops could not be sent to the battlefields. Winston Churchill, the Prime Minister of Great Britain, requested help from the U.S. because the British Royal Air Force's planes were being shot down much faster than they could be repaired in North Africa. There was a great need for a repair base in that region to continue the strong attack against the Nazis. At a meeting of the nation's top U.S. airplane manufacturing centers, President Franklin D. Roosevelt authorized Project 19 to respond to this great need overseas and the Douglas Aircraft Company was selected to manage this project. Frank J. Lemke, and many other employees from the Curtiss-Wright Corporation in Cheektowaga volunteered to go on this 18-month mission to Africa. In total there were over 2,000 volunteers across the country. In the middle of the night Frank and many others crammed into a World War I troop ship and took a 50-day trip to an abandoned Italian air force base in Gura, located in the hills of North Africa. Their mission was to repair aircraft so that they would be battle ready once again and to assemble new aircraft. After the Germans were defeated in Africa, Project 19 was officially closed. American civilians had the choice of enlisting or returning to the U.S. and Frank decided to return home. In the Winter of 1943 Frank was on a freighter returning to the U.S. when the ship that he was on was torpedoed off the coast of South Africa. He was later picked up near Sao Paulo, Brazil, after 42 days in a 22-foot lifeboat with 25 crew members. He finally arrived back to Buffalo, NY where he became a hydraulics instructor at Curtiss-Wright's airport plant. Unfortunately, Frank Lemke passed away on July 16, 1955, but his memory lives on in my district. Mr. Speaker, I thank you for allowing me to recognize Frank J. Lemke and many others who participated in Project 19. It is important to recognize Frank and other civilian heroes who have contributed to the preservation of freedom in this great country. It is an honor to recognize these heroes who not only helped my district, but the Allied Forces win the war.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, the administration's reckless use of tariffs are inflicting harm in all of our communities, including mine in western New York, and the harm is real and immediate. Welded Tube, a Canadian company with a factory in Lackawanna, New York, in my district, reports the cost of moving goods between the United States and southern Ontario has increased from $0 last week to $214,000 this week. The company is reporting they may be forced to close without tariff relief. From small firms like Niagara Transformer to auto manufacturers like Ford and GM, the harm is real and widespread. The United States and Canada are the world's largest trading partners. Canada has been a reliable ally in fighting terror and has been a good friend to the United States. We need to stand with our allies and friends, not abandon them. China's trade actions threaten our national security. Canada does not.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Michael K. Clarke upon his retirement as the Executive Director of the Buffalo, New York office of LISC (Local Initiatives Support Corporation). The LISC strategy to ``invest in businesses, housing and other community infrastructure to catalyze economic, health, safety and educational mobility for individuals and communities,'' has been brought to life under Mike Clarke's two decades of visionary leadership. This nonprofit agency, promoting community development in collaboration with public and private partners, has encompassed housing, commercial and recreational facility development. Despite Buffalo being among the smallest of the many cities LISC is involved, Mike's depth of experience in neighborhood redevelopment, public housing and community and commercial financing projects boosted our city's profile in the national organization. Since opening their doors in 1998, LISC has invested $131 million in those neighborhoods, further leveraging an additional $254 million in investment. Our work has resulted in the creation of 2,574 units of affordable housing, 355,000 square feet of commercial space, and the renovation of 9 recreational fields for youth. Mike and LISC became synonymous twenty years ago at a time when Buffalo needed their assistance most as we faced the challenges of old, vacant housing stock, a smaller base of philanthropic sources and reductions in government support. Far from standing outside the fire, Mike went all in bringing public, private and non-profit partners to the table to research, learn, listen and get to work to implement targeted solutions one house, one street, one neighborhood at a time. Today, while problems remain, our ability and resolve to address them as One City has never been stronger. Mike Clarke's investment in the citizen-led planning movement building on our great architectural, civic and cultural assets, the re- emergence of downtown and adjacent neighborhoods yielded real action and results that have contributed greatly to Buffalo's renaissance. Mike's ability to harness progressive strategies using all financial resources available led to the first federal New Market Tax Credit investment that preserved the historic Asbury Delaware Church. Now, known as Babeville, this unique performing arts center founded by Ani DiFranco and Scot Fisher is a center for music, art, and community projects in Buffalo, New York. Responsible for implementing HUD's Section IV grant program, LISC's capacity building program has had a tremendous impact on driving community development activity here in Buffalo. Its collaboration with HELP USA on the HELP Buffalo II affordable housing project for families with minimal incomes, and permanent supportive housing for formerly homeless veterans is spurring new energy in the Broadway-Fillmore neighborhood. Mike's active involvement in bringing the National Vacant Properties Campaign to Buffalo and intense focus on neighborhood business district activities, including Jefferson and Elmwood Avenues laid the foundation for enhanced urban commercial corridors. Most recently, an investment of $5 million from LISC and in a dynamic public-private partnership led by Herbert Bellamy, Jr, the son of a legendary leader on the east side of Buffalo, a closed warehouse- turned-community center is now home to 30 families with community space and a children's playground. Prior to joining LISC Mr. Clarke was a Mortgage Officer for the Community Preservation Corporation (CPC) a not-for-profit real estate lender, which specializes in financing affordable housing for low and moderate-income households. For five years he served as the Executive Director at the Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority (BMHA) which owned and operated over 5,000 low-income rental apartments in 27 developments in the City of Buffalo. He was a Capital Programs Manager for the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR), and the Executive Director of Kensington-Bailey Neighborhood Housing Services, Inc. His extensive public service has extended to volunteer leadership on the following boards: Rental Assistance Corporation of Buffalo; Friends of the School of Architecture and Planning at SUNY at Buffalo; Erie County Commission on Homelessness; Bailey-Amherst District Management Association and the Downtown Neighborhood Development Corporation. To all who know him or know of him, worked with him or at times, worked against him, there is one thing we can all agree on, Mike put his community first. His hard-won reputation as a community organizer, neighborhood advocate, housing activist and all-around agitator has earned him our respect and gratitude. Mr. Speaker, as family, friends and colleagues join in ``Larkinville'' to acknowledge his many accomplishments on June 4, I add my appreciation for Michael K. Clarke's friendship, leadership and legacy of making a real difference in the lives of those who live in and love the City of Buffalo.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, there are 54,000 structurally deficient bridges in America. Every second of every day, seven cars drive on a bridge that is structurally deficient. Earlier this month, New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli issued a report finding that our broken sewer systems are dumping billions of gallons of sewage into our lakes and rivers. The American Society of Civil Engineers gives the Nation a D rating when it comes to infrastructure and estimates that it will cost $2 trillion just to bring our infrastructure to a state of good repair. Mr. Speaker, a $1.5 trillion infrastructure plan over 5 years would create 34.5 million jobs, and infrastructure pays for itself with $1.60 of new economic growth for every dollar invested: this, according to the Congressional Budget Office. That is 6.9 million jobs each of the next 5 years and 575,000 jobs each month for the next 60 months. Mr. Speaker, it is time that we get out of Iraq and Afghanistan and invest in nation building in America, with American workers and for the American people.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, on May 10, on final passage of H.R. 3053, The Nuclear Waste Policy Amendments Act of 2017, I inadvertently cast my vote contrary to my own intentions. I intended to vote ``no'' on that bill. Personal Explanation

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of my friend Frank Mesiah, the recently deceased former longtime president of the Buffalo NAACP. After serving in the United States Armed Forces, Frank returned to Buffalo in 1950, where he would serve in law enforcement and education and would take on discrimination cases for the State Department of Labor. Frank left an indelible mark on Buffalo, dedicating his life to fighting discrimination. Frank was a leader passionately committed to positive change. Frank was instrumental in the desegregation of Buffalo public schools and the successful integration of the Buffalo Police Department. Western New York is grateful for Frank's lifetime of tireless work to advance the cause of justice and equality, the impact of which we and future generations will feel for years to come.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, the House will vote tomorrow to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration. In 2010, Congress approved landmark flight safety legislation after flight 3407 crashed outside of Buffalo, New York, in 2009. The National Transportation Safety Board concluded that pilot error was the cause of that tragedy. The bill the House will vote on tomorrow must uphold and reaffirm our commitment to those safety standards. The Southwest Airlines emergency landing 2 weeks ago is an urgent and inspiring reminder of the importance of pilot training to keep the flying public safe. The Southwest pilot, Tammie Jo Shults, piloted that plane to a safe landing in a calm, controlled, and competent manner borne out of one thing: excellent pilot training.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the celebration of the Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center's 120th Anniversary. A time capsule will be buried on April 25, 2018 to commemorate this momentous occasion at Roswell Park's campus in Buffalo, New York. The capsule will remain sealed until the year 2118. Included in this time capsule along with contributions from many others from the Western New York community will be a copy of this extension of remarks presented alongside a speech I delivered on the Floor of the House of Representatives last week calling for the continuation of Roswell Park's distinguished standing as a National Cancer Institute designated comprehensive cancer center. Doctor Roswell Park gave the world cancer research when he opened as the first dedicated cancer center in 1898, and this esteemed facility has been contributing to our understanding of cancer and pioneering treatments ever since. For 120 years Roswell Park has been recognized nationally for its groundbreaking work in the fight against cancer. That same confidence is felt by people here in Western New York who walk through those doors every day knowing that Roswell Park is the home of compassionate cancer experts who care for those afflicted with cancer. Roswell Park gave the world the first preclinical chemotherapy program, the prostate-specific antigen test, and it is collaborating today with Cuba on a promising new lung cancer vaccine. New clinical trials to treat metastatic breast cancer and immunotherapy are occurring there today. Today's discoveries provide great hope for the future of cancer prevention and treatment. While it is uncertain what cancer care will look like 100 years from now, it is certain that Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center will be leading the way. Mr. Speaker, I thank you for allowing me this time to recognize the great influence that Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center has had not only in the great city of Buffalo, but throughout the nation. It is an honor to celebrate this anniversary today.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, 120 years ago, Dr. Roswell Park founded the first cancer center in America in Buffalo, New York. For the last century, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center has been a leader in furthering our understanding of cancer and pioneering new patient treatments. Roswell Park gave the world the first preclinical chemotherapy program, the prostate-specific antigen test, and it is collaborating today with Cuba on a promising new lung cancer vaccine. Herceptin, for metastatic breast cancer, was clinically trialed and tested at Roswell, and new immunotherapy clinical trials are occurring there today. In addition to promising new treatments, Roswell is home to the compassionate cancer experts for those afflicted with cancer and for those who love the afflicted. Today, we are urging the National Institutes of Health to renew Roswell Park's well-deserved designation as one of just 49 national cancer centers in the Nation. New lifesaving and life-quality treatments are within reach at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as we recognize April as National Volunteer Month to call special and deserved recognition to Gerard Place and its dedicated advocates. Gerard Place opened its doors and its heart to a community in need in 2000, under the auspices of twelve Congregations of Women Religious in my hometown of Buffalo, New York. These Women of Faith brought a closed city corner back to life for homeless single parents and children through counseling, education, employment, housing and life skills training. With its core values ingrained in the organization's building blocks of compassion, reverence, integrity and collaboration, Gerard Place's programs have been highly successful as more than 90 percent have transitioned to independent housing. Statistics are a required reporting tool of course, but Gerard Place's real impact is found in the faces and heard in the stories of second chances given and opportunities seized by women now living productive, purposeful lives. With individualized, intensive support, families are strengthened, careers are pursued and a better future is within reach. Understanding the work is never complete, Gerard Place is expanding its offerings with the rehabilitation of the Community Center to bring classroom space, job readiness training and quality childcare to the neighborhood. As is the case in so many of our mission driven non-profits, the leadership and staff of Gerard Place will be the first to share that so much of what has been achieved and so much that is left to do is only possible thanks to the tireless dedication of its amazing volunteers. It is a belief I share as a true example of how lives are changed by those inspiring people among us who give their time, talent and treasure back to their communities. Without the more than 100 volunteers devoting more than 6,000 hours annually in a multitude of roles including engagement with program participants, staff support, event organization and board membership, the goals of Gerard Place would be unattainable. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to acknowledge and add my thanks to the outstanding volunteers of Gerard Place for everyday of every month they give hope and help to those they selflessly serve in our community.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the accomplishments of Henry and Gwendolyn Colon, upon the recognition of a lifetime together of faithful and courageous service in the U.S. Navy. Henry and Gwen Colon had quite a journey together in the Navy. Henry joined the Navy in 1974. Gwen enlisted into the Navy in 1979 because she was inspired by her father William McKinley Hawkins who served in the Navy during World War II from 1943 to 1948. Gwen's father received several medals and awards for his service in World War II and his name is listed on the African American Veterans of Western New York exhibit located at the Frank E. Merriweather, Jr Library on Jefferson Ave. in Buffalo, NY. Henry and Gwen first met on June 9, 1980 at the Navy Exchange where their barracks were located. Days later they went on their first date and only four months later Gwen knew Henry would be the man she would marry. Henry and Gwen Colon's military service took them to several states including California, Virginia, Florida, and Mississippi. Gwen was also stationed in Naples, Italy and conducted inspections throughout the Mediterranean. While it was always a challenge living in two separate places throughout much of their time in the military they always found a way to be together. They were married in 1987, had a child together in 1989, and served together at the U.S. Naval Computer and Telecommunications Station Roosevelt Roads in Puerto Rico. In September of 1989 Hurricane Hugo hit Puerto Rico and Gwen brought her son back to Buffalo to her parents' house until it was safe to return to Puerto Rico. Henry and Gwen Colon had 35 combined years of military service. Henry served from 1974 to 1993 and Gwen served from 1979 to 1995. While in the Navy they rose a combined 11 ranks. They received many medals and awards. Henry Colon received the Good Conduct Medal with two bronze stars, Navy Expeditionary Medal with one bronze star, National Defense Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal with one bronze star, Humanitarian Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Ribbon with one bronze star, the Navy Sea Deployment Ribbon with one bronze star, and the United States Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation with Distinguished Device. Gwen was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Overseas Service Ribbon with one bronze star, United States Coast Guard Special Operation Service Ribbon, and the New York State Medal for Merit. After many years of service Yeoman Second Class Gwen Colon was honorably discharged from the Navy and worked as a paralegal for a prominent attorney and Henry become Company Commander at the Recruit Training Center in Orlando, FL. Radioman First Class Henry Colon was honorably discharged in 1993. In 1999, Gwen returned to Buffalo where she worked at the Buffalo VA Medical Center. Unfortunately, Henry Colon passed away in 2002. Gwen retired from the Buffalo VA Medical Center in 2009 but never stopped advocating for veterans and their families. In 2015 Gwen started volunteering for the Patriot Guard Riders. Mr. Speaker, I thank you for allowing me a few moments to recognize Henry and Gwen Colon. It is an honor to recognize them as an example of veterans who were dedicated to serving in the military for the betterment of our nation. Henry and Gwen represent the strong resolve and determination of the people of Buffalo and their commitment to furthering their ambitions through hard work. They serve as inspiration to others by showing that our citizens can overcome challenges in their quest to serve our country.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, House Republicans recently voted to add $2.5 trillion to the national debt over the next decade. That is more debt in the shortest period of time by any one political party, the Republican Party, in American history. Their debt will exceed the entire American economy in 10 years. The moral horror of passing this debt on to your kids and grandkids now belongs to you. You own it and they owe it. To now offer a balanced budget amendment is transparently cowardly and egregious. Congress does not need a constitutional amendment to do its job honorably. The Constitution already gives Congress that authority. What is missing is the intestinal fortitude to do that which the Constitution calls on you to do honorably.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of David M. Downing, a diligent worker, kind employer, devoted husband, father, brother, and friend. After a hard-fought battle with cancer, David passed away Sunday, April 8, 2018 at the age of 53. David grew up in Orchard Park and graduated from Canisius High School. He continued to Princeton University where he earned his degree in History. While at Princeton, David played both golf and hockey for the University. After his time there, David returned to Buffalo to get his MBA from the University at Buffalo. Eager to apply his skills, David started working outside of the family business at Procter & Gamble and Rich Products in sales and marketing. However, drawn towards the family profession, in 1994 he joined his brother Frank Downing, Jr. at Towne Automotive Group, the business started by their father, Frank Downing, Sr. Together the two brothers worked side by side to grow their family business into one of the largest automobile dealers in the region. At one point, David even served as Vice President of the dealership, while Frank served as President. The brothers proved to be a good pair in business and worked together harmoniously. When Towne's longtime Chief Financial Officer Mike Smith retired, David assumed his role. In this position David managed the dealer group's relationships with banks and insurance companies, dealt with Towne's real estate and franchise agreements, and served as Frank's business partner. David's life was not all work as he cherished his time with his family as well: his wife Karen; four sons Joseph, Stephen, David Jr. and Ethan; brothers Frank, Stephen and Matthew; and two sisters, Molly Regan and Gretchen Cappiello. In his spare time he volunteered with non-profits and spent time with his wide and varied network of friends. All appreciated David's positivity and resilience in his struggle with cancer, his ability to keep moving forward despite hardship. Mr. Speaker, I thank you for allowing me a few moments to honor David Downing's life and legacy. His impact on his community, colleagues, and family is admirable, and I offer my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, 8 weeks ago, a lone gunman entered the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, and in just 6 minutes, killed 17 students and staff and injured 17 others: 1 shooter, 6 minutes, 17 dead, and 17 injured. In the weeks since, I have stood alongside students at the March for Our Lives in Buffalo, New York, sat down and listened to students from schools across western New York, and participated in a town hall panel discussion by Students for Action. These students are respectful of the Second Amendment and of those good, law-abiding citizens of gun ownership. Congress can learn from the thoughtful, reasoned, respectful, and passionate approach demonstrated by each of the students I have encountered. They have come from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds and different communities, rural, suburban and urban, but they are unified in their fight to get weapons of war off our streets and to end mass school shootings. Mr. Speaker, we can come together to save lives.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the incredible life and career of Eric Martin. Eric, a longtime Buffalo native, will celebrate his retirement from Grand Slam Productions where he worked diligently as an MC and promoter for over 40 years. Eric Martin's life was centered around family. As the youngest child of five siblings, he had a close relationship with his mother, Shirley Martin. Her saying ``let your actions match your looks'' was instrumental in forming his outlook on life. His journey in the music industry started at the young age of 16 first working with ``The Exoutics'' a well-known soul group in the Western New York area. In a continuation of his passion for music Eric worked under the direction of Freedom Train and when he was 18 started spinning records at Sylvester's Night Club on Fillmore Avenue. Some notable events from Eric's early career include MC'ing a Maze and Beverly Concert, a Phyllis Hyman show at Shea's Performing Arts Center, and a Juneteenth festival concert. In addition, Eric has worked with artists such as S.O.S Band, Atlantic Starr, and Loose Ends. However, Eric's career did not come without its challenges. In his commitment to his passion for music Eric served the city in a variety of other jobs in order to continue his work as a promoter. His hard work has been seen in 22 years with the Buffalo Board of Education, 20 years at Dunlop Tires, 6 years with BFNC and 4 years with Big Brother Big Sister. Eric discusses the challenges posed by minority promoters within Buffalo saying that ``Buffalo's a very tough market, a lot of establishments aren't open to black promoters.'' This has made it even more difficult to gain a foothold in Buffalo's event and nightlife scene. Despite these challenges Eric Martin retires from a dynamic career in the music industry with renewed hopes of bringing his love of music to a new generation through his wife Tracy and their three children Erica, Eric, and Aaron. His dream being that Buffalo will one day be able to establish a major music festival. Mr. Speaker, I am inspired by Eric Martin's remarkable commitment to pursue his passion for music. I'm honored to celebrate his retirement and hope that he continues to be a driving force in the great city of Buffalo.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the historic Red Blazer Men's Chorus, as they celebrate their 70th anniversary during the 2018 Red Blazer Varieties. Over the past seven decades, the nearly 400 members of this group have touched the lives of many in our community and beyond with their talents. In 1948, the Red Blazer Men's Chorus, formerly known as the Amherst Glee Club, was founded as part of the Amherst Adult School community education program in conjunction with Amherst High School. By 1980 the group became incorporated as an independent not-for-profit organization. The group currently consists of 45 members from all over the Western New York area. With a varied repertoire of music, the Red Blazer Men's Chorus can perform anything from Barbershop to Broadway, and have sung nearly 800 pieces in total over their illustrious history. For a number of years the Red Blazer Men's Chorus served as an active member of the Associated Male Choruses of America, including when they hosted the AMCA International Big Sing, that brought 42 choruses and their 900 members to Buffalo in 1998. Recently, the group has crossed the border to work with the Association of Male Choruses of Ontario. The Red Blazer Men's Chorus has performed in 28 cities across the United States and Canada. Their current lineup of regular events includes the annual spring Red Blazer Variety Series, an annual concert honoring veterans and active servicemembers, and holiday-themed shows. They continue to find new ways to connect with different audiences. In 2016 they launched a new Senior Citizen Concert Series, in which they perform for individuals in assisted living facilities who may not be able to go out on their own. Along with that they have worked with a multitude of groups including the from Lockport Male Chorus, Amherst Symphony Orchestra, and Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the 70th anniversary of the Red Blazer Men's Chorus during the 2018 Red Blazer Varieties. I commend their talents, longevity, and contributions to the music and art of Western New York. May they experience continued success in all their future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, Louise McIntosh Slaughter served the people of Rochester in Monroe County, as well as the city of Buffalo, in the United States Congress from 1987 until her untimely death last week. Louise Slaughter was a champion of progressive causes and a liberal lioness in the United States Congress. She knew who she was fighting for, and she knew how to fight. For the homeless, the hopeless, and the voiceless, Louise Slaughter championed all their causes because her political ethos was forever to defend the dignity of every citizen. She never deviated from that cause and reinforced it each and every day on the floor of this Congress, the institution that she loved. She served as chair and ranking member of the Rules Committee and championed the first $500 million earmark for breast cancer research to the National Institutes of Health and the Violence Against Women Act. These are among a long list of impressive accomplishments that were championed by Louise Slaughter. Her friends and her family will miss her, but her accomplishments will forever be enshrined on this institution representing the people that she loved in Rochester and Monroe County.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Madam Speaker, this weekend, Irish Americans will celebrate St. Patrick's Day with parades and parties of every level of exuberance, including in my hometown of Buffalo, New York. Buffalo's St. Patrick's Day celebration is one of the most spirited in America. This year is a special celebration as it marks the 20-year anniversary of peace in Northern Ireland. The 1998 Good Friday Agreement brought peace to Catholics and Protestants after 700 years of armed conflict. This peace belongs to the people of Northern Ireland and to the world. Sinn Fein leaders Gerry Adams and the late Martin McGuinness, along with the Democratic Unionist Party's Reverend Ian Paisley took a courageous step no one believed was possible 20 years ago. They denounced violence and committed themselves to a peaceful power-sharing and reconciliation to live in peace together. Madam Speaker, let this St. Patrick's Day and the 20th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement stand as a shining light of hope for a gentler America and a more peaceful world.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Thomas H. McCarthy, who has been selected to serve as Honorary Chairman of the 47th Annual Civic Luncheon to benefit the Buffalo Irish Center. A proud Buffalonian, born and raised, Tom is a graduate of St. Thomas Aquinas School, Bishop Timon-St. Jude High School, Canisius College, and Simmons School of Mortuary Science. One year after graduating from Simmons, he founded the Thomas H. McCarthy Funeral Home. Through his funeral home business, he has provided care and compassion to neighborhood families during difficult times. Tom is a dedicated community servant. He served in the Buffalo Fire Department for 37 years, retiring as a Lieutenant. Additionally, he is a member of the Knights of Columbus, an organization of nearly two million Catholic men. Tom embodies their principles of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. Organizations that benefit from Tom's stewardship include his alma mater, Bishop Timon, where he raises funds for student scholarships with the Hillery Foundation. For almost 60 years, he has been a member of the Blackthorn Club, a group which encourages the camaraderie and connection of its members with Irish ancestry through social events. At one point, he served as President of the Club. Married for 63 years, Tom and his wife Mary Ellen have raised six children together. They now have twelve grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Alongside his wonderful family, Tom has been an active participator in this Luncheon since the beginning. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to honor Mr. Thomas H. McCarthy here today, to recognize his countless contributions to the Irish community in Buffalo, and the Western New York community as a whole. His time and talents have made a difference in the lives of so many, and he is deserving of our most sincere gratitude.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, 9 years ago, Continental Flight 3407 crashed in western New York, killing all aboard and one on the ground. The National Transportation Safety Board found that the cause of the crash was pilot error and poor training. Prior to the enactment of flight safety laws, there were two levels of safety: one more stringent for the commercial carriers that we are all familiar with, and one considerably less stringent for the ones that we are less aware of. There were two levels of safety. Now there is only one because of the courageous work of the families of the survivors who came to Congress and helped Congress enact very strict safety regulations. We have not had a commercial crash that ended up in fatalities since that time. It is important that we not roll back these safety standards, as they are based on the National Transportation Safety Board's findings and the work of this Congress.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the exemplary life and career of Thomas J. Moran, Chief of the ``A'' District of the Buffalo Police Department, who passed away on March 1st of this year. Chief Moran was 49 years old. Chief Moran first joined the Buffalo Police Department on February 4, 1994 at age 25, a recent graduate of the State University of New York at Brockport. In May of 2006, he received the Edward H. Butler Award for Heroism for having successfully disrupted an armed robbery of a retail store in the Ferry-Fillmore district where he had been stationed. After performing admirably in various roles as a Police Officer for eighteen years, he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in April of 2012, and again promoted to Chief in June of 2013. As Chief of the ``A'' District covering South Buffalo and the adjacent neighborhoods, he was known for his responsiveness and engagement with community stakeholders, for his clear leadership and helpful mentorship of the officers under his command, and for his dedication and commitment to the citizens of the City of Buffalo, to the Buffalo Police Department, and to the principles of law and order. Like so many in my community, I am grateful to have known Chief Moran and to have called him a friend. I shall remain grateful for his leadership, and his work to serve and protect the people of South Buffalo and the entire City of Buffalo. Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join with me and with Members of the House to express our deepest condolences to his wife, Kelly, to his daughters Ava and Lila, and to the entire family of the late Chief Tom Moran, and join me in recognizing his many years of dedicated public service.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, yesterday we unveiled plans for a new, state-of-the-art land port of entry at the Peace Bridge in Buffalo, New York. Deploying the most advanced detection technology, the Gateway at Buffalo will improve national security and public safety. It will cut wait times for both passenger and commercial vehicles in half. It will greatly improve air quality in the neighboring community. It will improve aesthetics with new L.E.D. lighting, landscaping, and public art. This plan will improve our region's growing economic relationship with Canada, leveraging $30 billion in commerce and over $200 billion in economic activity, supporting over 1 million jobs. This plan is long overdue. It is a plan that our community deserves and a gateway that is worthy of the promise and potential of our future in Buffalo and western New York and our relationship economically and otherwise with the great country of Canada.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Al- Ross Screen Printing & Embroidery as the West Seneca Chamber of Commerce's choice for the 2018 Business of the Year Award on Thursday, February 15th at Kloc's Grove. For 45 years, Al-Ross has provided embroiders and screen print clothing and apparel for the Western New York area. Through their talented work, Al-Ross allows people and organizations of all sorts a sense of identity, professionalism and an unforgettable local brand. Along with Al-Ross's strong business sense comes an equally strong sense of community and giving back. Following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Al-Ross raised and donated more than $20,000. Locally, the business founded and supported the Athlete of the Month Club in West Seneca schools, giving students athletes t-shirts promoting their achievements. Al-Ross consistently donates to basket raffles and fundraisers for schools, clubs, churches, benefits, and charities. Embodying community spirit, when the Buffalo Bills made the NFL playoffs for the first time in seventeen years, Al-Ross rose to the challenge and quickly created customized shirts for fans. The Seneca Street fixture saw lines out the door as excited Western New Yorkers rushed to support their team and their business. Mr. Speaker, I wish to take this opportunity to honor Al-Ross Screen Printing & Embroidery as they receive the 2018 Business of the Year Award from the West Seneca Chamber of Commerce. The contributions to our community made by this business are commendable, and I wish them much continued success in their future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the West Seneca Youth Theatre, as the West Seneca Chamber of Commerce names the group 2018 Community Service Organization of the Year during their annual Community Awards ceremony at Kloc's Grove. The West Seneca Youth Theatre was founded in 2005 to give children ages 10 to 17 an opportunity to perform in a theatrical setting. Since its creation, the theatre has presented numerous productions of professional caliber, teaching children the value of hard work, friendship, and giving back to others. In addition to performing at local schools, the West Seneca Youth Theatre has entertained at the Kiwanis Club's annual Christmas and Easter celebrations for adults with disabilities, and has visited and performed at assisted living and long-term-care facilities including the Garden Gate Health Care facility and Father Baker Manor. A fixture in the community, the West Seneca Youth Theatre presents Christmas carols at the Southgate Plaza annually, and has frequently been invited to perform at Town of West Seneca-sponsored programs. Outside of bringing entertainment and joy to many, the theatre troupe consistently gives back to the community. Following extensive flood damage in 2014 to the Lexington Green neighborhood, children in the theatre raised more than $9,000 for those affected. Each year, students and directors volunteer their time and expertise to West Middle School productions, as well as loaning out set pieces and costumes to various school productions in the area. Mr. Speaker, I wish to take this opportunity to recognize the West Seneca Youth Theatre. I congratulate the West Seneca Youth Theatre as the recipient of the 2018 Community Service Organization of the Year award and wish them continued success in all their future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Mr. Paul Clark of West Seneca as he is presented with the 2018 Citizen of the Year Award by the West Seneca Chamber of Commerce at Kloc's Grove. Paul has proven a recognized leader in his community through his extensive public service. Paul has worked as a certified public accountant for over four decades. He belongs to the New York State Society of Certified Public Accountants and is a partner at the firm Clark & Nihill. As a member of the Construction Exchange of the New York Board of Governors, he has trained local contractors in accounting and finance. As a leader, mentor, and engaged neighbor, Paul has been a Cub Scout Den Leader, coach of St. John Vianney's Boys Basketball, and sponsor of West Seneca Girls Softball. He has belonged to the local Rotary Chapter for over thirty years, serving in every position. Initiatives Paul has been involved with have improved quality of life in Western New York, and include bringing the Koessler Center to Canisius College, and assisting in the chartering and organization of the board of the Burchfield Nature and Art Center. As a member of the YMCA Capital Board he advised members to create Ismailia Shrine Temple and to bring the Y to the Southtowns. Paul's volunteer efforts reflect his commitment to history, economic development, education, healthcare and an appreciation for an iconic American automobile. The Pan-Am Exposition Society, West Seneca Development Corp., Bennett High School, Mercy Flight, and the Western New York Mustang Car Club have benefitted from his good and generous works. Mr. Speaker, I want to honor Mr. Paul Clark as the West Seneca Chamber of Commerce's 2018 Citizen of the Year. His dedication to our community is commendable, and I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.