Brian Higgins

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, as the Nation recognizes Black History Month, I rise to pay tribute to a special history in my western New York community. This Friday marks the 100th anniversary of the opening of Buffalo's historic Colored Musicians Club. The club's origin stretches back to 1917 when a group of African American musicians sought to create its own safe haven in a then-segregated community. They banded together, organized, and started Local 533 of the American Federation of Musicians. Some of the world's most prolific jazz musicians have performed at the club. The likes of Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, and Ella Fitzgerald all impressed crowds in the building near the corner of Broadway and Michigan. Through the years, the Colored Musicians Club has become an important community and cultural center, featuring a museum to educate new generations of the club's key role in Buffalo and our country's history. As this landmark celebrates a century of work, we support its continued success and celebrate the example it sets in advancing the coming together of community and culture.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to H.J. Res. 40 with a message, and that is: Do not repeal this rule. The Social Security Administration rule is intended to promote and to preserve the integrity of gun ownership in America. I have heard it said by gun owner advocates that a steady hand is the best gun control. I believe that, but a steady hand requires a rationale mind. The Social Security Administration rule that my colleagues on the other side want to eliminate is written carefully and narrowly, affecting a very small group of people with a very severe, long-term mental disorder that makes them unable to do any kind of work in the U.S. economy, even part-time or with very low wages and, also, people not mentally capable of managing their own benefits. The Social Security Administration rule ensures that individuals, who are already prohibited from having guns under existing Federal law, have their names included on the National Instant Criminal Background Check System. Mr. Speaker, 93 percent of Americans support background checks and believe that systems should be in place to ensure that guns are not in the hands of individuals who have been determined already by Federal law to be unable to use them safely. I urge my colleagues to reject H.J. Res. 40.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, this week in 1940, the first Social Security check was issued. Since then, it has been one of our Nation's most impactful and successful programs. Social Security is based on a simple premise: if you work hard, you should live a dignified retirement. It has been a critical lifeline for America's seniors, tens of millions of whom were pulled out of poverty because of this program. In order for Social Security to continue to fulfill its promise, Congress and the administration need to work together. I am concerned that the new administration may wish to dismantle Social Security as we know it. The President's choice for Budget Director has a long track record of calling for raises in the retirement age and of lowering Social Security benefit payouts. In 2011, when my Republican colleagues proposed cuts to Social Security, the nominee argued that the cuts were not rapid enough. This is unacceptable. We cannot afford to weaken Social Security. We should expand and strengthen this program. We need to make Social Security more generous and increase the benefits so that today's and tomorrow's retirees get the dignified retirements that they have earned. This is also good for economic growth, higher wages, higher demand, higher economic growth, and opportunity.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise on behalf of so many western New Yorkers and Americans who are outraged by the President's executive order on immigration. The story of America is defined by the struggle of immigrants overcoming incredible odds to claim their piece of the American Dream. The executive order on immigration is callous, unlawful, and unconstitutional. An immigration ban on anyone that is based on religion or country of origin is in conflict with basic American values and who we are as a people. Inspired by the work of the International Institute, Catholic Charities, Jericho Road, Jewish Family Services, and so many more, my western New York community continues to be welcoming to refugees and immigrants from all over the world, including from those countries that are directly affected by this order. I know my community will continue to lead by example and proudly project American values.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, Friday we commemorate Holocaust Remembrance Day. A day that was established by the Israeli Parliament in 1951, to coincide with the anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. This is a time we mourn the loss of more than 6 million Jews and the many other victims of the Holocaust. It serves as an annual reminder to Americans, and indeed to all humanity, that we must never forget the evil that mankind has visited upon itself. History must serve as a template to right the wrongs that humankind has committed. Famously said, those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it. This week we must reflect on grave consequences of which vilifying individuals, based on race, religion, ideology or sexual orientation, could yield. I encourage all those in Western New York and across the country to join in memorializing the victims of the Holocaust, in hope that a tragedy of this scale is never committed again.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, today I stand before you to recognize and honor Hodgson Russ, LLP as the firm celebrates its 200th Anniversary. Hodgson Russ is not only Buffalo's oldest law firm, but the city's oldest continuously operating business, with roots dating back to 1817. The firm has played a pivotal role in the City of Buffalo's history and has been instrumental in the growth and expansion of the region. One of the first independent law firms in the nation, it was founded in 1817 by Mr. Hodgson Russ. Today, the firm employs 208 attorneys and more than 275 staff members who continue to follow the same philosophies upon which Mr. Russ originally founded the firm. The firm extends into industries such as health care, construction, life sciences, railroads, steel, banking, milling and manufacturing. It practices in areas that extend from business transactions and compliance to environment and energy, immigration, tax and real estate to name but a few. Since the firm's inception, Hodgson Russ provides representation to its clients with the utmost respect and integrity. Notably, Hodgson Russ has a long and substantial record shaping early Buffalo, producing notable attorneys that played key roles both locally as well as on a national stage. The founder of Hodgson Russ's earliest predecessor firm, Mr. Asa Rice, played a key role in the completion of the western terminus of the historic Erie Canal project in 1825. In 1832, partners Joseph Clary and Millard Fillmore drafted the first Buffalo city charter, playing a pivotal role in the city's municipal incorporation. A few years later, it was partner Nathan Hall who led the effort to create the Buffalo public school system, the first tuition-free, tax-supported public school system in the State of New York. The Hodgson Russ legal family more than made its contribution in and around elective public office as well. In 1849, Millard Fillmore was sworn in as the 12th Vice President of the United States, and sixteen months later, upon the death of President Zachary Taylor, was inaugurated the 13th President of the United States. A few years later, Grover Cleveland joined the firm as a clerk and in 1859 was admitted to practice, after which he would, during the period 1870-1892, be successively elected Sheriff of Erie County, Mayor of Buffalo, Governor of New York and twice as President of the United States. The firm's role in the history books continues in 1901 when Hodgson Russ partner John Milburn played an instrumental role in bringing the Pan-American Exposition to Buffalo. A sad postscript: President William McKinley-- wounded by an assassin's bullet at the Exposition--succumbs to his injuries at Mr. Milburn's home on Delaware Avenue, on the site where Canisius High School now stands. While the firm honors its illustrious past, it remains focused on the future, providing emerging businesses and new industries with business- focused legal advice that contributes to the growth of our overall economy. The firm is also known for providing charitable contributions through their financial support of more than 250 organizations, as well as its work providing pro-bono legal services throughout local communities. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to recognize and honor the Hodgson Russ Law Firm. I would also ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Hodgson Russ, as they celebrate their Bicentennial with an event planned for Thursday, January 25, 2017 at their offices at the historic Guaranty Building, a National Historic Landmark designed by renowned architect Louis Sullivan. Hodgson Russ has produced leaders in Congress and the Court System, in the NYS Senate and Supreme Court. This local Buffalo firm produced a president of the World Bank and not one, but two Presidents of the United States. It is my distinct honor to join current president Rick Kennedy and the many partners, associates, clerks, and other members of the Hodgson Russ legal family as they celebrate this momentous occasion.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, Friday we commemorate Holocaust Remembrance Day. A day that was established by the Israeli Parliament in 1951, to coincide with the anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. This is a time to mourn the millions of victims of the Holocaust. And it serves as an annual reminder to Americans, and indeed to all humanity, that we must never forget the evil that mankind has visited upon itself. History must serve as a template to right the wrongs that humankind has committed. Famously said, those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it. This week we must reflect on grave consequences of which vilifying individuals based on race, religion, ideology or sexual orientation could yield. I encourage all those in Western New York and across the country to join in memorializing the victims of the Holocaust, in hope that a tragedy of this scale is never committed again.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a time in our country to reflect on the progress that we have made on civil rights as well as how much further still as a nation we must go. When contemplating the progress in western New York, Frank B. Mesiah immediately comes to mind. Mr. Mesiah has been a prominent civil rights leader in Buffalo since 1950, following his service in the United States Army. Following a 20-year stay as president of the Buffalo NAACP, he retired late last year and will continue to be a public watchdog, this time through the lens of an active citizen. During his years of service, Mr. Mesiah has always been the first to stand up and fight on behalf of our community. He played a leading role in desegregating Buffalo public schools, integrating the Buffalo Police Department, and fighting against noninclusive neighborhoods. Mr. Mesiah has been a key leader in promoting tolerance and equality in western New York. While his time as NAACP president has concluded, his wisdom and passion endures in our community, and his work will inspire generations to come.

Mr. HIGGINS of New York

Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, nearly 8 years ago, western New Yorkers watched in horror as Continental flight 3407 crashed, tragically ending the lives of those on board. Since then, the families of those lost have turned their grief into a relentless fight to strengthen pilot training and flight safety rules.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today marks the 75th anniversary of the tragic attacks on Pearl Harbor. It is a day we reflect to remember over 2,400 Americans whose lives we lost that morning. Today I especially remember Army Corporal Earl Wickett, a south Buffalo native, who was stationed at Pearl Harbor on the day of the attacks. Mr. Wickett went on to fight on behalf of our Nation for over 4 years. Following his tour, he returned home to western New York, raised a family, and continued to serve his community as a Buffalo firefighter. Unfortunately, Mr. Wickett is no longer with us, passing away a few years ago, but his stories and acts of bravery live on. Today I join all Americans in remembering those who paid the ultimate price at Pearl Harbor and those who sought and seek to protect our freedom here and throughout the world. This Nation is always grateful for those like Mr. Wickett, for their bravery, dedication, and selfless service.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Mrs. Linda Berman, a dedicated volunteer for the Democratic Party and resident of Amherst, New York. Linda's tireless service is recognized today by her friends on the Amherst Democratic Committee. A member of the Committee since 2005, Linda and her son David have committed countless hours to further Democratic causes in our community. Linda was introduced to politics in 2003, when she met Mark Poloncarz. Linda and her son David joined Mark to campaign for John Kerry's bid for the presidency. The three political volunteers established the group ``Democrats for Progress'' in 2005. That same year Mark Poloncarz sought the office of Erie County Comptroller, so Linda and David worked diligently to support his efforts. In 2005, Linda joined the Amherst Democratic Committee, where she remains involved in to this day. In her capacity as a volunteer, she worked on every facet of Democratic politics: chairing events, service as a Zone Leader, running phone banks and other important service on campaigns. Of particular note are Linda's efforts to elect Mark Poloncarz as Erie County Executive in 2011. Her experience earned her an appointment as a delegate in 2012 for the Democratic National Convention, where she traveled to North Carolina to support the nomination of incumbent President Barack Obama. Before her involvement in politics, Linda and her husband were the owners of Masterline, a successful small business on Sheridan Drive that sold hair pieces. After selling the business, Linda worked for five years at the Buffalo Jewish Center. Next she brought her skills to the business office of the Williamsville Central School District, a position she held for fifteen years before her retirement in July of 2008. Linda shares her passion for politics with her beloved son David, who has unwaveringly supported his mother and her efforts every step of the way. Over the years, he has walked in parades, knocked on doors, and participated in a number of Democratic campaigns. Their bond as a family and commitment to serving Democrats in Western New York is truly honorable. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to honor Mrs. Linda Berman and her admirable dedication to Democratic politics. Linda's commitment, which she instilled in her son David, is exceptional, and she is most deserving of this recognition by the Amherst Democratic Committee.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, how does America, the strongest economy in the history of the world, accept a world ranking of 23rd behind Spain and Chile in the quality of our roads and bridges--American infrastructure? Let's look at the facts. In 2005, Congress passed a roads bill that was 35 percent smaller than what was needed just to bring our roads and bridges to a state of good repair. In 2009, Congress passed an economic stimulus bill, directed just 7 percent to our transportation and infrastructure, and, last year, we passed a transportation bill that provided less than half of what was needed to reverse the decline of our roads and bridges. This is not only weak, it is pathetically weak. Standard & Poor's reports that for every $1.3 billion invested in roads and bridges, it creates 29,000 jobs--American jobs--produces $2 billion in economic growth, and reduces the Federal deficit by $200 million. Both Presidential candidates talked about a large investment in American infrastructure, but I am concerned that the President-elect's program may be comprised of tax cuts for already-planned projects. This would be selling the American people and the American economy short. You just spent $105 billion rebuilding the roads and bridges of Afghanistan. You just spent $76 billion rebuilding the roads and bridges of Iraq. It is time the Nation built here at home and in America.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, Buffalo will select a new site for a train station in the next several months and will build a new passenger train terminal in the next 2 years. This offers an opportunity to remake Buffalo's storied Central Terminal. Selection of the Central Terminal will be a catalyst for the redevelopment of the city's Broadway-Fillmore neighborhood, improve destination choice, and will represent the next exciting iteration of what is possible in the new Buffalo. This is not simply about building a new train station. Selection of the Central Terminal is a bold statement of confidence and commitment by a city of limitless potential and possibility.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the 21st Century Cures Act and the hope and help it brings to those whose lives have been touched by disease or addiction. In my western New York community, opioid overdoses doubled from 2014 to 2015, and, tragically, that number is expected to double again this year. This bill delivers funds to help States and families fight the epidemic. This legislation also makes substantial investments in pioneering research for those fighting cancer, Alzheimer's, and other debilitating diseases, bringing us closer to the promise of better treatments and cures for the afflicted and hope to those who love and care for them. The 21st Century Cures Act also provides tens of billions of dollars more in research funds to accelerate promising cancer research in our Nation's leading cancer centers, including Buffalo's Roswell Park Cancer Institute.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the legacy of longtime Buffalo News publisher, Stanford Lipsey. Mr. Lipsey, a Pulitzer Prize- winning journalist, will be most remembered for his significant contributions to the field of journalism. As the Buffalo News publisher, he saved it from closure, revamped its content and quality, and appointed the first woman editor in Buffalo News history. Mr. Lipsey has also been a tireless advocate for projects that have contributed to Buffalo's revitalization--from leading efforts to preserve our architectural treasures to securing funding for our prestigious cancer center. He donated over 2 million books to low- income children and invested in projects like Re-Tree Western New York that helped to reforest our neighborhood parks after a surprise October snowstorm. Mr. Lipsey's vision for Buffalo was one of hope. He recognized the city's potential, and he helped people of the city to realize their own potential. Although he was a native of Omaha, Nebraska, he loved his adopted city of Buffalo, New York. As we continue to work towards a better Buffalo, I hope to honor his dedication to our city.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize NOAH, Niagara Organizing Alliance for Hope, on the occasion of its 10th Anniversary and to extend deepest appreciation for this grassroots organization's tireless efforts on behalf of those in need in Niagara County. In 2005, a group of faith and neighborhood leaders came together to make their community a better place focusing particular attention to the economic struggles of the inner city of Niagara Falls. Today, NOAH is a faith-based, urban, suburban and racially diverse community organizing coalition of over 22 congregations, labor unions and community organizations that collaboratively work for positive social change in the city of Niagara Falls and Niagara County. NOAH is also an affiliate of Gamaliel, a national network of faith based organizations whose mission is to empower ordinary people to effectively participate in the political, environmental social and economic decisions affecting their lives. With its core values rooted in the principles of democracy and social justice for all, NOAH has worked on job creation, education, economic development, parks and public transportation, winning significant victories in all. NOAH's work to bring attention to workforce racial disparities across the region culminated at a standing room only public meeting this year with sister organization VOICE-Buffalo that featured U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas Perez. A Buffalo native who remains deeply connected to our community, Secretary Perez brought a very unique perspective on techniques for greater collaboration on critical issues of workforce opportunity and development. Greater collaboration was clearly evidenced when in August we joined with NOAH, Laborers' Local 91, Iron Workers' Local 9, Catholic Charities of Buffalo and the City of Niagara Falls to announce a federal grant to support the implementation of an innovative Pre- Apprenticeship Program to address the barriers too many people of color face in pursuing a career in the building trades. This grant fuels the momentum started during the community discussions on workforce development with U.S. Labor Secretary Perez. Through this unique collaborative effort, faith-based, labor, government and social service agencies are working together to provide new opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds to begin a stable and rewarding career path. And while the work will and must continue, those whose efforts have contributed to NOAH's accomplishments and achievements gather on October 6th under the leadership of NOAH Board President, Rev. JoAnne Scott, to celebrate ten years of service and solidarity. Throughout this evening of praise and commendation to continue the work, there will also be a presentation of awards to those individuals whose contributions have advanced the mission of NOAH including Sister Beth Brosmer, Deputy Carl Cain, Rev. Lora Allen, Richard Palladino and Rev. Harvey L. Kelley. Since January 2010, Sr. Beth Brosmer, OSF, has served as the executive director of Heart, Love & Soul Food Pantry & Dining Room in Niagara Falls, N.Y. Working almost seven years at Heart, Love & Soul she continues in a servant-leadership role as a Sister of St. Francis of Penance and Christian Charity where she continues to work harder, inspire more and expand needed services to those who need so much. Deputy Superintendent of Police Carlton Cain has served with distinction for more than 25 years as a member of the Niagara Falls Police Department. His assignments have included patrol, street crimes, housing, internal affairs, community relations and co-director of the Niagara County Law Enforcement Academy. He brought the Game Changers program to the Niagara Falls Boys and Girls Club which received federal recognition by President Barack Obama. Rev. Lora Allen is known and respected as an accomplished speaker, motivational leader, teacher and preacher. She is the wife of the Rev. Raymond Allen, Pastor of the Bethany Baptist Church in Niagara Falls where she serves as Associate Pastor. Rev. Allen is also the Niagara County Democratic Elections Commissioner, the first African American woman to hold that position in New York State. Richard Palladino served his country in the United States Navy and continues to serve his community as the business manager of Local 91. A laborer in the construction field for decades, his passionate commitment for all those he represents is indisputable as he strengthened the relationship with the Laborers International Union of North America, as well as local, state and federal officials to ensure Local 91 realizes its full potential. His determination to help others reach their full potential is exemplified by his implementation of training classes and initiation of the Apprentice Program. Since 1982, Pastor Harvey Kelley has served the members and the ministry of the New Hope Baptist Church of Niagara Falls and will lead the celebration of his Church's 80 years of service in March of 2017. Adding to a distinguished list of accomplishments, Rev. Kelley is a member of the Niagara Ministerial Council and a member of the Board of Directors of Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center and served in the Urban Ministry Program at Niagara University. He is a former board member of Niagara Community Center, Niagara Falls Chapter of the Red Cross, Niagara Habitat for Humanity, and the Center for the Study and Stabilization of the Black Family, formerly located at Niagara University. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me to acknowledge NOAH's leadership, membership and those they will recognize on October, 6, 2016 on its first decade of remarkable achievements and to wish them success and support as their mission of action, empowerment and inclusiveness moves our community forward making our community a better place for all.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Ruth Kahn Stovroff, a beloved figure in WNY especially in the Jewish community, who passed away on October 20, 2016 at the age of 104. Mrs. Stovroff was a role model to three generations of men and women and stayed active on volunteer boards past her 100th Birthday. Mrs. Stovroff's passion for social justice prompted her involvement on several boards of not-for-profit agencies that sought social justice, fought poverty, drug use and intolerance. Mrs. Stovroff was a leader in the Jewish community locally, nationally and internationally. She was a remarkable woman with great vision and knowledge about the world. Her three sons, Dr. Kenneth R. Kahn, Steven C. Kahn and Richard Kahn viewed her as a role model because she had a great sense of what was right or wrong with the world. Mrs. Stovroff was a prominent voice in the Western New York community. She served as the board president for the Olmsted Center for the Visually Impaired, Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo, Child & Family Services, Community Action Organization, and Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies and Camp Lakeland. Mrs. Stovroff's work in Western New York has not gone unrecognized. She has received dozens of awards dating from 1965 to 2006 from organizations as diverse as the United Way, the Center for Hospice & Palliative Care, the Urban League, the Jewish Federation, the Food Bank and the National Conference of Christians and Jews. Mrs. Stovroff was just recently honored by the Olmsted Center with its 2016 Visionary Award. Mrs. Stovroff will be remembered fondly by members of the Western New York community and recalled for her passion and commitment to social justice and issues important to her community. Ruth Stovroff will be remembered for the great respect she showed young people as she listened to their ideas. Her warm smile, soft-spoken demeanor and impeccable style will long be remembered by all those close to her. Ruth is survived by three sons, six grandchildren and seven great- grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in extending our deepest condolences to her family and friends. Her good work and selfless devotion to Western New York has inspired many to serve others and to be involved in their communities. We are a better community because of Mrs. Stovroff's service.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the millions that fight each day against Dysautonomia, a group of debilitating medical conditions that result in a malfunction of the autonomic nervous system. This system is responsible for ``automatic'' bodily functions such as respiration, heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and temperature control, things that many of us have the luxury of taking for granted. Dysautonomia continues to significantly impact the lives of Americans across the United States especially in Western New York. As is, dysautonomia can be extremely debilitating but an often unseen symptom of this disability is the social isolation that accompanies it. The stress on the families of those impacted coupled with the financial hardships warrant our recognition as well as awareness. I am proud to affirm that the outstanding character and strong moral fiber of those in the Western New York community has provided the much needed support for the victims suffering from dysautonomia. Looking ahead, it will be crucial for the community to rally around these victims as they continue their hard fought battle against this disease. Dysautonomia awareness is monumental in the early detection of the disease due to the fact that most patients take years to be properly diagnosed. Dysautonomia International, a non-profit organization that advocates on behalf of patients living with dysautonomia, encourages communities to deepen their understanding and be mindful of this challenging condition especially during Dysautonomia Awareness Month each October. The tireless efforts of the Dysautonomia community for increased research and accessible services will be recognized on Saturday, October 1 in my Congressional District as the color turquoise will bathe Niagara Falls and the Peace Bridge in the light of care, concern and continuing the fight to improve the lives of individuals living with this chronic condition. Currently, Dysautonomia International is funding research to develop more substantial treatments and hopefully find a cure for all forms of this condition in the future. I wanted to recognize the contributions of the professional medical community, patients and family members who are working to educate our citizenry about dysautonomia throughout Western New York. They are deserving of our support, recognition and respect. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in support for those suffering from the devastating medical condition and encourage them to spread awareness across our nation throughout and beyond the month of October.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, this Friday, the Bellamy Commons will emerge as a new community fixture on Jefferson Avenue in Buffalo, New York. Upon opening, the Bellamy Commons will become home for many, with all 30 affordable apartments already filled. This space will also serve as the new home for the Buffalo Black Achievers Museum to share success stories of Buffalo African Americans. This project was a collaboration of Federal, State, local, and private investment along with the aid of over $4 million in Federal low-income housing tax credits. These credits encourage development and construction in communities that are often neglected and increase affordable housing options. Developments like the Bellamy Commons have the power to create, encourage, and empower more residential and commercially integrated neighborhoods. A full community effort is something we are no stranger to in western New York. Over the years, it has been a key in revitalizing our region. It is time that we begin to see the same development and much-needed investment in Buffalo's east side neighborhood.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, western New York is experiencing a resurgence that was unimaginable 10 years ago. We have reclaimed our waterfront, generated thousands of jobs in the life sciences, and will soon be the largest supplier of solar panels in the Western Hemisphere. But still there is much work to be done. The Buffalo-Exchange Street Amtrak station is, in terms of function and aesthetics, the worst in the State and among the worst in the entire Nation. It is currently closed because the ceiling collapsed. This is a station that is not in keeping with a city that is on the rise. Yesterday, I asked the New York State Department of Transportation to begin planning for a new station at our bustling Canalside district or our historic Central Terminal. If we act quickly to produce a plan for a new, state-of-the-art train station that is shovel-ready, we will position Buffalo to benefit from a much-needed investment in infrastructure throughout the Nation.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper, and its executive director, Jill Jedlicka, winner of the Thiess International Riverprize awarded by the International River Foundation. As Buffalo's industrial economy faded, we were left with a river so polluted that the Environmental Protection Agency declared that the Buffalo River was biologically dead and ecologically destroyed. So western New Yorkers decided to do something about it. They formed the Friends of the Buffalo River, which became the first organization to receive Federal authority and funding to manage a remediation project in the Great Lakes. Now, thanks to the Riverkeeper, the Buffalo River has come back to life, with over $80 million in private investment as Buffalonians reclaim their land at the water's edge. I congratulate the Riverkeeper on this recognition, and I thank it for the legacy it has left to our community, one of the greatest environmental success stories in Western New York's history.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate the life and legacy of Stewart Levy, a wonderful and warm humanitarian, a Buffalo civic leader, and my friend. Stewart Levy's love of family, friends, and community was always on display--clearly evident--and always inspiring. Mr. Levy first came to Buffalo to work in a local recording industry. He quickly established himself as a leader and fixture in that industry. He would host at his home, as overnight guests, the likes of Frankie Avalon, Sammy Davis, Jr., and Pat Boone. Mr. Levy ran for mayor of Buffalo in 1973, as a Republican in a heavily Democratic Buffalo. Though unsuccessful, his campaign tagline, ``For the Love of Buffalo,'' reflected Stewart's pride and civic purpose. He inspired everyone he touched. He was charismatic and kind, interested and interesting, and insatiably curious. His mind and his enthusiasm never aged. I remember thinking the last time I saw and visited with him that Stewart Levy was gifted with that rare quality--so rare--that made you look forward to the next opportunity you had to see and visit with him again. To Stewart's wife, Faye, and sons, Jordy and Mitchell, thank you for sharing him with us. Stewart Levy will be missed, but there will always be light and inspiration to guide us from the love and friendship that he gave us.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, the financial research firm of Standard & Poor's reports that for every $1.3 billion invested in our infrastructure, 30,000 American jobs are created; it adds $2 billion in economic growth; and reduces deficit by more than $200 million. Economists at the Council on Foreign Relations explained that ``the compelling case is that a dollar in on a macro basis in our economy results in more than a dollar out;'' which is to say, Mr. Speaker, that to shortchange infrastructure is to reject and undermine economic growth in this country. Policies that create growth and reduce the deficit should be embraced by everybody, including conservatives. Indeed, it was the Republican President Eisenhower who initiated the National Highway System, and the Chamber of Commerce is a leading voice in calling for infrastructure spending today. I urge this body to embrace sound economics and the tradition of bipartisan support for infrastructure spending, and make the investment that our Nation needs to nation-build, not in Afghanistan, not in Iraq, but right here at home in America.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I recognize Major Brenton Weece of the United States Army for his extraordinary dedication to duty and service to our Nation. Major Weece will soon transition from his current assignment as an Army Congressional Liaison in the House of Representatives to serve as an officer in the Oklahoma National Guard. A native of Miami, Oklahoma, Brent was commissioned through the Oklahoma State University Army ROTC Program in 2005 and subsequently assigned to the Oklahoma National Guard. Since then, Brent has served in multiple staff and leadership positions in the Oklahoma National Guard, including two deployments with Oklahoma's 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team. In 2008, he deployed to Iraq as the aide-de-camp to the commander of the Joint Area Support Group--Central in Baghdad and in 2011 and 2012, he commanded an infantry company in eastern Afghanistan. During the course of Major Weece's service to this Nation, he has earned awards and decorations including: the Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Air Assault Badge, Pathfinder Badge, Combat Action Badge, and Combat Infantryman Badge. In 2015, Brent was selected to serve as a Congressional Liaison in the US Army House Liaison Division. Army Congressional Liaison Officers provide Members and staff insight and understanding of Army policies, actions, operations, and requirements. Their first-hand knowledge of military needs, culture, and tradition is a tremendous benefit to Congressional offices. His service in the House of Representatives has proven invaluable to both the Department of Defense and Congress. Brent was especially effective in his service to Members and staff as he escorted them on fact-finding missions to multiple countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Mr. Speaker, it has been a pleasure to work with Major Weece during his time as an Army Congressional Liaison Officer in the House of Representatives. On behalf of a grateful Nation, it is my honor to recognize the selfless service and sacrifice of Major Brenton Weece, his wife, Emily, and their children Lily and Graham. I wish them the very best as they continue to dedicate their lives to the service of our Nation.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.