Brian Higgins

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize November as National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month. Over 5 million Americans nationwide are living with Alzheimer's, a disease that afflicts the victim but also the family, a disease whose origins are unknown but whose end is absolutely certain. It is a disease that takes your mind, your dignity, and, eventually, your life. In 2013, Alzheimer's will cost the Nation $203 billion. This number is expected to rise to $1.2 trillion by 2015. Mr. Speaker, I commend the work of the Western New York Alzheimer's Association and local advocate Nancy Swiston, who worked so hard this month and year-round to highlight the effects of Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimer's disease is a public health crisis that can't be ignored. I urge my colleagues to raise awareness about Alzheimer's in their own communities and to support the bipartisan HOPE for Alzheimer's Act to improve diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, later today the House of Representatives will vote on legislation that would reject the debt ceiling increase that was passed by Congress earlier this month. This vote makes no sense. Make no mistake, voting to reject the debt ceiling increase is a vote to default, and these are the same Members who just a couple of weeks ago decried the notion of America defaulting on its obligations and voted earlier this year for a budget resolution that spends $700 billion more than it takes in in revenue. The logical consequence of this action is to raise the debt ceiling. Mr. Speaker, to achieve growth, the American economy needs stability and certainty, not fake votes that put politics ahead of the American people. Let's end this nonsense and get back to the work of creating jobs and nation-building right here in America.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, this week the House will consider a number of bills to honor and support our veterans. These are good bills, but they are not enough. A good and grateful Nation would also make sure a strong commitment is made to helping our veterans find work when they return home. Mr. Speaker, the current unemployment rate for post-9/11 veterans is 10 percent; and among young veterans between the ages of 18 and 24, it is 22 percent. This is unacceptable. We owe it to our veterans to support programs like the not-for-profit Helmets to Hardhats, which partners with the Department of Defense, American businesses, and organized labor to help returning veterans prepare for work in the construction trades. We must also be sure that veterans have the ability to get the educational benefits they have earned without being constrained by deadline, as my legislation, the Veterans Educational Flexibility Act, would do. Along with the commitment to nation-building right here at home, we can create good American jobs that can't be outsourced and give back to those who have served our Nation.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize People Inc. in being awarded the 2013 Health and Health Services Award from the Amherst Chamber of Commerce. People Inc. began in 1970 to ensure that people with disabilities or special needs have an available support so they can succeed. The organization provides services to people of all ages, from children and adults with disabilities to senior citizens. These services include residential, employment/vocational, community outreach, health care and recreation programs. Their comprehensive services are well-known throughout Western New York. Over the years, People Inc. has grown to expand their services. They have increased their populations served, spectrum of services, geographic locations and number of sites. Since 2010, People Inc. has been recognized as one of New York State's certified Compass Agencies. Compass stands for Consumerism, Outcome, Management Plan and Agency Self Survey, and conveys People Inc.'s effective model of person centered planning, managed outcomes, and advocacy involvement by individuals and their families to accomplish their mission. Those involved with People Inc. strive toward a future where all persons whose needs limit their integration into the community reach their highest potential as responsible members of society. These individuals deserve to become contributing and active members in their communities, enjoy the greatest possible degree of independence, and acceptance in all aspects of their lives. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me to honor People Inc. for being awarded the Health and Health Services award and commend them for their great work on behalf of all Western New Yorkers.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend the Village of Williamsville: Picture Main Street Project as the Amherst Chamber of Commerce's choice for the Revitalization Award for their 2013 Business of the Year Awards for their efforts to transform the main commercial strip of the Village of Williamsville into a more vibrant and vital urban village core. Through the process of placemaking, the village of Williamsville initiated a citizen-driven effort to create a vision for what Main Street should be and to create a plan to make that vision a reality. More than 36,000 vehicles travel down Main Street each day, and residents and businesses identified the lack of a pedestrian environment as a detriment to both commerce and the viability of the future of the village. The Community Plan was devised in 2005 which identified a solution to the traffic problems on Main Street. Picture Main Street directly addressed those issues by seeking to make the state road more equitable for both drivers and pedestrians. The plan called for numerous improvements to make the shopping district more accessible to pedestrians which include $7,000,000 streetscape enhancements, aggressive tree planting, bulb-outs, a mid-block signal for pedestrians, lighting, gateways, pocket parks, and even a smartphone application or valet parking in the village. Changes could also result in the creation a ``village-square'' or second shopping district around the Historic Williamsville Water Mill. Although pending approval by the state, the changes are set to go into effect next spring. Within the waiting period, thousands of residents took part in ``taking back Main Street,'' an old-fashioned block party that closed the thoroughfare to traffic and invited residents out onto the street. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me the opportunity to recognize the Village of Williamsville: Picture Main Street Project's effort to revitalize the Village of Williamsville. Their innovation and determination are not only admirable and deserving of such praise, but an incredible asset to the future success of Western New York. I congratulate the Village of Williamsville: Picture Main Street Project as the recipient of the Revitalization Award for the Amherst Chamber of Commerce's 2013 Business of the Year Awards.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) on its many accomplishments including being recognized by the Amherst Chamber of Commerce at its 2013 Business of the Year Awards Ceremony. The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation is being honored with the Stewardship Award at the Chamber's event on October 28, 2013. In 2005, as part of the NYPA settlement agreement, we called for a dedicated revenue stream to fund waterfront development in the city of Buffalo. But perhaps more importantly, we called for a locally controlled, waterfront development corporation, whose express purpose was to enhance public access to Buffalo's Inner and Outer Harbor waterfront areas. The Corporation's primary objective would be the design and construction management of physical improvements to the Buffalo waterfront areas to create private and public sector recreational and commercial development along the Lake Erie shoreline. Fortunately, we won that settlement and in 2007 the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation was created. Since that time, ECHDC has taken an aggressive approach to waterfront development and is credited with remarkable projects along Buffalo's Inner and Outer Harbors that are reinvigorating our city and residents and visitors alike. ECHDC is responsible for the work on the Erie Canal Redevelopment Project, which revitalized 12.5 acres of idle waterfront space into a highly trafficked downtown destination now known as Canalside. This site incorporates historic elements of the original Erie Canal and celebrates Buffalo's role as the western end of the canal. The Corporation has successfully managed development of 23 acres at the Inner Harbor for public, commercial and mixed uses. ECHDC oversaw demolition of the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium, ongoing construction of historically aligned canals to be used as unique water features and public ice staking destinations, and improvements to the public landscape including a vibrant central wharf at Canalside that accommodates large concerts, public markets, and hundreds of other popular events throughout the year. As a result of the groundwork laid by ECHDC, work is now underway on HARBORcenter, an over $170 million private sector investment on the Webster block that builds off of the success of Canalside. Thanks to the hard work of the ECHDC, we now have increased business and recreational activity on the Inner and Outer Harbors including 1,000 feet of boat dock installments at Canalside, two new restaurants, the development of Wilkeson Pointe, a 20 acre parcel of parkland on the Outer Harbor among many other public access improvements and amenities. Given ECHDC's record of accomplishment in the waterfront development business, the Corporation was recently entrusted with devising a plan for the future use of approximately 130 acres of Outer Harbor lands. Mr. Speaker, the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation has worked tirelessly in their mission to revitalize the City of Buffalo's Inner and Outer Harbor areas and restore economic growth to Western New York. The region has benefited from the leadership and innovative vision of the Corporation, its staff and Board of Directors. I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation for their dedication to Western New York and congratulate them in receiving the Stewardship Award from the Amherst Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding recipients of the 2013 Niagara Street Area Business and Professional Association. The Niagara Street Area Business and Professional Association is an association of business and professional men and women living in, owning or operating a business or service in the Niagara Street Community. They are dedicated to improving and aiding in the development of the community. The members of the Association work together to make Niagara Street a progressive and serving community of which one can be proud. This year's awardees embody these noble values. The recipients of the 2013 Niagara Street Area Business and Professional Association Awards are the Zajac Funeral Home, Inc., Marsha (Koban) Frost, Norma Higgs, Bob Anderson, Niagara Street School, Nick D'Agostino, Rev. Kevin Dobbs and Don King. Each of these impressive individuals has made significant contributions in various career and community endeavors. I am proud to see such dedicated, hard-working individuals be recognized tonight, and applaud their efforts to better our community. Mr. Speaker, thank you for giving me the opportunity to recognize the recipients of the 2013 Niagara Street Area Business and Professional Association Awards, and those who work tirelessly for this valuable organization. Their achievements are commendable and their devotion to our community is inspiring. I wish each and every one of them the best in all their future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Helen Sondel as she celebrates her 100th birthday on October 31st, 2013. Born in Poland in 1913, Helen made the journey to the United States at the age of thirteen. Due to the poor health of her mother, Helen bravely made the journey alone. Once she arrived in America, she was reunited with her father. Determined to begin a new life in the United States, Helen made her way to Buffalo, New York. She enrolled in the Buffalo Public School System, seizing her opportunity to obtain an education. During World War II, Helen channeled her indefatigable spirit into supporting the war effort at home. She worked in the Bell Aircraft Factory, which produced fighter planes, including the first supersonic aircraft, the Bell X-1. She married the love of her life, Anthony Sondel on May 20, 1933. After nearly seven years of marriage, the couple adopted their beloved son David from the Father Baker infant home. Helen's family has grown to include six grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren, who she loves dearly. Helen is a faithful member of the St. John Baptist church in Kenmore. She enjoys staying active by gardening, playing cards, shopping, and spending time with her family. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to celebrate Helen Sondel's 100th birthday, her generous spirit, and her boundless love for her family and friends. Thank you for allowing me a few moments to recognize the legacy of this outstanding woman. I wish Helen and her family all the best for their many years to come.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, if Congress does not meet its responsibilities, tomorrow the United States Treasury will have $31 billion in revenues and $52 billion in obligations. At that point, the United States would default, with a profound impact on the global markets, which are structured on the premise that U.S. Treasury bonds are the safest asset in the world. The stock market will tank, and interest rates will spike. Earlier this year, House Republicans passed a budget that spent $800 billion more than it took in. The logical consequence of that is to raise the debt ceiling. For the other side to use America's national credit as leverage is shameful, as shameful as Members protesting the closure of the World War II Memorial when they are the ones who voted to close it. Austerity and uncertainty kill economic growth. There is not an example in human history where an economy has grown itself out of a recession through austerity. Moving from crisis to crisis, as Congress has done in the last 3 years, has cost the American economy 900,000 jobs. Enough. Reject austerity. End uncertainty and open the government, and pass a debt limit bill.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Anthony J. Delmonte, who passed away on October 12, 2013 at the age of 88. A resident of the Town of Orchard Park, he and his brothers built many of their homes and worked at the New York Central Railroad for twenty years. In 1963, Mr. Delmonte began working for Bethlehem Steel where he was employed for nineteen years. In addition, he helped build and operate the Burmon Inn, owned by his brother John, and owned and operated the Round-Up Hot Dog Stand in Lackawanna. Mr. Delmonte was a proud American, who honorably served his nation. Immediately after graduating from Lackawanna High School in 1941, he served as Private First Class for the United States Marine Corps in World War II. His Marine unit was deployed to Nagasaki, Japan shortly after the atomic bomb was dropped in 1945. Mr. Delmonte was honorably discharged in 1946. Mr. Delmonte was an active member of his community. He was involved in Orchard Park politics for many years. He was also President of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Senior Citizens and a member of the Buffalo Raceway Horseman's Association. Mr. Delmonte was a devoted, loving family man. He leaves behind his wife of sixty-three years, Ethel, two children, Anthony and Denise, grandchildren, Lisa and Samantha, and great-grandchildren Jeffrey and Giada. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in expressing our deepest condolences to the family of the late Anthony J. Delmonte, and join with me in honoring his life and legacy.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, the deadline for preventing the United States from defaulting on our debt is growing closer, and the need to act is more critical. The truth is, Mr. Speaker, we don't know the full extent of the damage that our Nation's economy would suffer. But here is what we do know: a default would mean higher interest rates for over 278,000 New Yorkers with mortgages, a loss of disability benefits for over 100,000 New York veterans, and the threat of being unable to pay Social Security and Medicare drug reimbursements to over 3,000 New Yorkers. Mr. Speaker, the argument by some in this Chamber that defaulting on our debt wouldn't be a big deal is outrageous. Putting the full faith and credit of our Nation--not to mention the strength of the world economy--on the line simply to prove a political point is both reckless and irresponsible. This House must put the best interests of the American people first and avert this disaster so we can get back to rebuilding this economy and nation-building right here at home.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the Women's Business Center at Canisius College on the occasion of its tenth anniversary. The Women's Business Center at Canisius College is a comprehensive resource for small business owners and professional women providing training and networking opportunities to empower women with the critical skills necessary to develop their business. The Center gives participants access to the college's business courses, counseling, advice from business coaches, forums and an annual Women's Leadership Conference that featured ``Creativity and Innovation'' as one of its themes. The Center not only benefits women in business but also benefits the Western New York economy. Bolstered by an initial federal grant from the Small Business Administration, the Center has served over 21,000 participants, helped start over 200 businesses, and created 290 jobs since opening in September of 2003. The Women's Business Center at Canisius College, one of 28 Jesuit universities in the nation, also deserves recognition for the link it continues to provide between the local educational institutions and the economic centers of our community. The success of small businesses is crucial to the prosperity of our region and nation and we are fortunate that for the past decade this group has worked to leverage funds and build new private-public partnership and establish unique and nurturing mentoring relationships that have ensured women have equal opportunity to start their own business. The success of the Center is realized in the economic gains and confidence generated by its many participants and program graduates. Yet, for every success, there is a daily reminder that the Center's work is not complete as our region's entrepreneurs and small business owners remain in need of the valuable resources, experience and support needed to strengthen our economy and to create equal opportunities for all Americans. Mr. Speaker, it is with appreciation and acknowledgement of their important contributions, that I rise to congratulate all those responsible for achieving this milestone as the Women's Business Center celebrates its 10th anniversary in the Montante Cultural Center on the campus of Canisius College.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Mr. Robert Greene, as he is awarded the prestigious Buffalo Club Medal. Created in 1956, the Buffalo Club Medal is presented to individuals who represent the ideal, gracious, deeply perceptive, dedicated, self-effacing leader. An accomplished lawyer, humanitarian champion, and dedicated community servant, Bob epitomizes these qualities. Since 2001, Bob has been deeply involved in the creation of a sustainable orphanage for young girls in Haiti, among countless other pursuits, locally and otherwise. Bob's work in Haiti began with his first trip in November 2001, serving as a member of a medical team through the Catholic Health System of Western New York and the Sisters of Mercy. Since his initial trip, Bob has traveled to Haiti on over twenty separate occasions, serving in various roles. Since the devastating earthquake in 2010, Bob has dedicated his efforts to planning of and fundraising for a sustainable orphanage for girls ages 4 through 9 on the outskirts of Port-au-Prince. Upon completion, the orphanage will be a home for over 200 girls. Fifteen bungalows will host twelve to fifteen children each. The orphanage will include a multipurpose building and a primary school, which has future plans to expand to include a secondary school. Grounds will include a large vegetable garden and pond for fish, which will supply much of the food. Solar panels will power the orphanage complex. Bob's generosity is boundless. Presently, he serves as the Director and Past President of the Notre Dame Law Association, Director and Chairman Emeritus of the Western New York Public Broadcasting Association, Director of the Global Health Ministry, and a trustee of the WNED Foundation and the Foundation of the Zoological Society of Buffalo. In the past, Bob has served as the Chairman of Canisius College, a trustee of the Albright Knox Art Gallery, Director of the Sisters of Charity Hospital, Director and Chairman of the Zoological Society of Buffalo, Chairman of Shea's Buffalo Center for the Performing Arts, the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, and Bishop's Council of the Laity. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to honor Bob Greene as he receives the Buffalo Club Medal. His personal contribution of time and effort towards the progress and enhancement of our community and those abroad is admirable, and I am grateful for his commitment to such noble causes. I wish him much continued success in all his future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding recipients of the 2013 Black Achievers, Inc. Awards. Black Achievers, Inc. is an impressive organization dedicated to promoting qualities such as leadership, service, and making a positive impact in our community. This years' awardees embody these noble values. The recipients of this the 2013 Black Achievers, Inc. awards are Jorge Albarran, Leslie Allison, Kimberly Beaty, Larry Bonds, Harold S. Cardwell, Jr., Shemika Charles, Phillip Dabney, Jr., Vincent J. Grooms, Lloyd James Hargrave, Dwight Douglas Hicks, James Jones Jr., Leonard E. Lane, Kyle L. Mann, Willie A. Price, Dolly Michelle Randle, Kaamalal Robinson, George E. Stokes, Mark Worthy, and Keith M. Young. Each of these impressive individuals has made significant contributions in various career and community endeavors. I am proud to see such dedicated, hard-working individuals be recognized tonight, and applaud their efforts to better our community. Mr. Speaker, thank you for giving me the opportunity to recognize the recipients of the 2013 Black Achievers, Inc. Awards, and those who work tirelessly for this valuable organization. Their achievements are commendable and their devotion to our community is inspiring. I wish each and every one of them the best in all their future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, instead of waging a war on cancer, the Republican Tea Party is waging a war on cancer patients. The Tea Party shutdown will deny 200 patients a week--30 of them kids--treatment at the largest research hospital in the world, the National Institutes of Health. These are often last-chance cancer treatments that offer the only hope for kids who are stuck with cancer. And why did the Tea Party shut down the government? Because they oppose the Affordable Care Act. This is a law that says that never again can insurance companies deny coverage for a family with a kid who is stuck with cancer. Under the Affordable Care Act, no family will go bankrupt because of cancer. And this is the bill the Tea Party is so furious about. What's more, the Tea Party budgets have decimated cancer research. NIH used to fund 33 percent of applications for promising research; today, it's 16 percent. The shutdown is stopping cancer research at Roswell Park and across the country. I hear we may take another fake vote tonight to restore funding to the National Institutes of Health. This is disgusting. This bill will continue the sequester assault on cancer research. I would remind my colleagues that for families and kids fighting cancer, the only failure in cancer research is when you are forced to quit because of a Tea Party Federal Government shutdown.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, the Robert S. Pierson is a Canadian freighter full of wheat, trying to reach a Buffalo business. It's been stuck in the Buffalo River for 5 days because of a broken lift bridge, causing economic damage throughout the Great Lakes and its economy. For years, House Republicans have chosen policies of austerity, sequester, and now, shutdown. They have refused to invest in America, and, as the Pierson shows, this is catching up to us. In a recent interview, World Fuel Services Chairman Paul Stebbins decried our lack of investment in infrastructure, education, and research, saying: Europe has 10 years of disaster ahead of them. China's a mess, financially. The U.S. could be blowing the doors off it, but the worst enemy is us. This is self-imposed. So shame on us. Indeed, shame on us. Shutting down the government and playing games with our credit is exactly the wrong thing to do. Now is the time for bold investment in rebuilding the Nation's infrastructure, not brinkmanship.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of our children suffering the unthinkable as we recognize September as National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Cancer is the leading cause of death from disease among U.S. children over the age of 1. Moreover, cancer kills more children than cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy, AIDS, asthma, and juvenile diabetes combined. There are many organizations doing good work to raise awareness, conduct research, treat children with cancer, including Roswell Park Cancer Institute and Women and Children's Hospital of Buffalo, who are working together in western New York to cure our youngest cancer patients. Our children deserve to be cancer-free. They deserve the opportunity to be just kids and have a full life. They deserve a cure. We owe it to them and their families to make it happen by supporting strong Federal investments in cancer research far beyond what we're doing today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate playwright A. R. ``Pete'' Gurney as he returns to his hometown to serve as the 2013 Honorary Chairman of Curtain Up!, the 32nd annual celebration of the opening of Buffalo, New York's professional theatre season. Born in Buffalo, New York, Mr. Gurney attended Williams College, graduating in 1952. After graduation, he nobly served our country as an officer in the United States Navy, where his writing skills were called into duty as his shows entertained fellow military personnel. Following his discharge in 1955, he began his studies at Yale School of Drama where he wrote ``Love in Buffalo,'' the first musical ever produced at the school. A gifted educator, Mr. Gurney shared his talents with students for many years, teaching literature at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Eventually, he moved to New York City to devote himself fully to his writing and the arts. His first play, ``Scenes from American Life,'' was produced in New York in 1968. In 1970, it received its world premiere at Buffalo's legendary playhouse, Studio Arena Theatre. The early 80's brought success with his play, ``The Dining Room,'' a comedy of manners influenced by his life on Lincoln Parkway in Buffalo. He continued to explore a wide range of familiar themes including rekindled love, family life, and confronting skeletons in the closet in other works including ``The Middle Ages,'' ``The Golden Age,'' ``The Perfect Party,'' ``Another Antigone,'' ``The Cocktail Hour,'' ``The Old Boy,'' ``The Fourth Wall,'' ``A Cheever Evening'' and ``Sylvia.'' ``Love Letters,'' written in 1989, remains Mr. Gurney's most produced play with its two-character cast who sit side by side at a desk. The man and a woman who share their complicated, loving and lasting friendship through 50 years of correspondence has been brought to life by extraordinary actors, including Mr. Gurney himself. Mr. Gurney is the recipient of a number of awards for his work, earning membership into the American Academy of Arts and Letters as well as the Theatre Hall of Fame. More recently, several of Mr. Gurney's plays have been produced by the Flea Theater off Broadway where his latest work, ``Family Furniture,'' will appear this fall. His own family includes wife, Molly, four children and eight grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to honor ``Buffalo's own playwright,'' A. R. Gurney. His authentic voice, crisp observations and creativity have become part of the fabric of the American theatre and we are sincerely grateful to welcome him home as the Honorary Chairman of the 2013 Curtain Up! Celebration.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, September is National Preparedness Month, and preparedness includes making sure that the public has access to timely information in cases of emergency. For many Americans, public broadcasting is a vital source of important emergency announcements. Over 98 percent of the American population has access to public radio or a television signal. In times of emergency, public broadcasting is a go-to source of information for emergency management officials and first responders. We have a responsibility to ensure that stations that are damaged in a disaster are repaired and operational as quickly as possible. That's why I've introduced the Emergency Information Improvement Act. My bill clarifies that local public radio and television stations are eligible for assistance to rebuild their facilities when they are damaged in a federally designated disaster such as a storm or terrorist attack. This legislation will help ensure that this important informational resource will be available to Americans in times of need. I invite my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Diamond Hawk Golf Course as it is awarded the 2013 Small Business of the Year award by the Cheektowaga Chamber of Commerce. Originally a hunting area, construction on the Diamond Hawk Golf Course began in 2004. The name Diamond Hawk reflects the land's history, combining ``Diamond,'' an enduring and precious figure and the ``Hawk,'' after the red-tailed hawks that frequented the hunting area. Completed in 2006, the Diamond Hawk Golf Course is a par 72, 18-hole golf course. Its state-of-the-art facilities include a driving range, pro shop and an 8,000 square foot clubhouse. Diamond Hawk is widely regarded as one of Western New York's premiere golf courses. In 2007, Buffalo Spree rated the course the Top Public Golf Course in the area. Throughout its development, one of the course's biggest supporters has been Sam Tadio. Sam's community service efforts are well-known in Cheektowaga. He has held volunteer positions with the Traffic Commission, Narcotics Commission and Police Commission. Reflecting Sam's altruism, the course hosts a variety of high school and junior golf tournaments, as well as charitable events. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to recognize the Diamond Hawk Golf Course and the great work of its advocates and employees as it is awarded Cheektowaga Chamber of Commerce's 2013 Small Business of the Year Award. Their commitment to their community and guests exemplifies the highest quality of small business in our country.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the remarkable career of Chief Warrant Officer Larry Cannan upon the occasion of his retirement. After nearly thirty years of dutiful service to our country in the United States Coast Guard, Larry will be retiring on August 24, 2013. Larry bravely chose to enlist in the United States Coast Guard in August 1982. Initially joining the Reserve Unit in San Diego as a Petty Officer 3rd Class, he remained in California for two years until his transfer to Buffalo, New York. Throughout his years of service, Larry steadily advanced in rank. While serving in Buffalo, he obtained his coxswain qualification and certification. After participating in port security unit training operations in Ahuas Tara, Honduras, Larry was called into active duty. During the first Gulf War, he selflessly served in both Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in Saudi Arabia from September 1990 to April 1991. Just three years later, Larry was once again called into active duty for Operation Restore Democracy in Haiti. Using his expertise in port security, Larry instructed training units in Valdez, Alaska in April 1995, and was a participant in training operation Marcot 96 in Nova Scotia, Canada. In January 2001, Larry advanced to Petty Officer 1st Class, transferring to the Group Buffalo Field Intelligence Team. Two years later, he was promoted to Port Security Chief Petty Officer and completed the Chief Petty Officer Academy. November 2006 saw Larry return to active duty as a First Coast Guard Fulltime Liaison Officer to the International Border Intelligence Team in Ottawa, Canada, where he served until February 2007. In August 2008, he commissioned as Chief Warrant Officer at Sector Buffalo Intelligence and completed Indoctrination School at the Coast Guard Academy. Larry's last service in active duty ran from May 2010 to August 2010 for Operation Deepwater Horizon. Called into service by the Atlantic Area Logistics Unit, Larry was commended as responsible for \1/3\ of the production of the 6 member unit. From March until June in 2012, Larry authored and obtained approval as a Project Officer of Operation Spring Break, a sector Buffalo intelligence joint operation in cooperation with U.S. Border Patrol conducted along the St. Lawrence River in Ogdensburg, New York. For his exemplary service, Larry was commended for the success of the operation and distinct honor of it being the first operation of its kind in the 9th district. Mr. Speaker, I thank you for allowing me a few moments to recognize the truly outstanding career and service of Larry. I am sincerely grateful for his service, and wish him the best in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Cheektowaga Patriotic Commission as they are awarded the 2013 Community Service Award by the Cheektowaga Chamber of Commerce. The Cheektowaga Patriotic Commission was established almost 40 years ago in response to the Town of Cheektowaga's designation as a National Bicentennial Community by the state and federal governments. The founding officers devoted their time to planning a number of activities to celebrate our nation's 200th birthday, including a flag pole dedication, Appreciation Days for the Town's veterans and firemen, and the unveiling of the Town's Bicentennial Calendar. Their dedication demonstrates the pride the officers have in their country, which is both honorable and commendable. The Cheektowaga Patriotic Commission continues their great work today, giving residents and businesses in Cheektowaga the opportunity to show their patriotism. The group sponsors and coordinates the July 4th Parade as well as the activities and fireworks display in Town Park. These activities bring together the community to celebrate their pride in the United States of America. The Commission donates their time and talent to projects that benefit and entertain the residents of Cheektowaga and Western New York. They worked with the Town Park Homeowners Association, the Polish-American Festival Committee, the Federation of German-American Societies, and the Cheektowaga Cultural Society to establish a pavilion in Town Park. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me to recognize my good friends in the Cheektowaga Patriotic Commission for the important role they have played in our community for the past 40 years. I sincerely appreciate their efforts, and wish them much continued success in the years to come.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the 90th anniversary of one of Buffalo's most beloved dining establishments, Chef's Restaurant. In 1923, Chef's Restaurant opened its doors on the corner of Seneca and Chicago, and soon established itself as a fixture in the neighborhood. During the restaurant's early years, a hard-working employee named Lou Billittier began to move his way up the ranks. Beginning as a dishwasher and busboy, Lou was promoted to a waiter. Eventually, he earned the title of restaurant manager. By 1950, Lou had become co-owner of Chef's. Four years later, he stood proudly as the sole owner of the neighborhood staple. For over 60 years, Chef's has stayed true to their motto, ``Where family and friends meet to eat.'' The late Lou Billittier, along with his daughter Mary Beth and son Louis John, have worked tirelessly to run their establishment according to the values of community involvement and customer service. The Billittiers believe in being involved in the restaurant's day-to-day process, and know that a personal touch goes a long way. Over the years, Chef's has mastered blending tradition and innovation. The restaurant began with just seven tables and a small banquet room. Three years ago, they implemented a drive-through window which enabled the restaurant's sales to increase. Now, the famous dining establishment is innovating again with their plans to create a food truck that will take Chef's notable Italian cuisine to the streets of Buffalo. In addition to their renowned restaurant, the Billittiers are known for their charity. Lou Billittier memorably had former Buffalo Sabre Rob Ray shave his head in front of a crowd of supporters for ``Bald for Bucks,'' a fundraiser for cancer research and patient support programs at Roswell Park Cancer Institute. On September 11th, 2013, in honor of its 90th anniversary, the restaurant will play host to the ``World's Largest Pasta Dinner.'' Proceeds from the event will benefit the Wounded Warriors Project which honors and empowers wounded U.S. troops and assists in making their post-service transition a smooth one. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me to recognize Chef's Italian Restaurant for providing 90 years of dining and community service to Western New York, as well as the Billittier family for their continued hard work and generosity. As one of my personal favorites, I am proud to honor their legacy today, and I wish them the absolute best in all of their future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I stand today to recognize Costanzo's Bakery, Inc. and the Costanzo family, as they receive the Special Presentation Award from the Cheektowaga Chamber of Commerce. The company is an outstanding employer and well-run company that showcases the endless possibilities of growth for businesses today in Western New York. In 1933, Angelo Costanzo started a small business along the Niagara River known as Costanzo's Bread. His Italian breads became a household name in supermarkets and grocery stores around Buffalo. In the 1970's Angelo Sr. realized the growth in sub and pizza shops around the area, and expanded his business to sell to local food service establishments. In 1977, Angelo Jr. and his brother took over the bakery and moved into a new location on Union Road in Cheektowaga. It was here that Costanzo's grew to serve a national marketplace by developing a line of frozen, fully baked sub rolls and round rolls. This was the beginning of Costanzo's Bakery, Inc. Costanzo's now represents the last remaining member of a once vibrant baking industry locally. The industry has faced many issues over the last several years. Customer demands, compliance costs and increased commodity prices have negatively impacted many bakeries. But Costanzo's has continued to grow, due to its ``recipe for success'' that it has maintained for eight decades. The company's products are delivered fresh up to five days a week to dozens of local delis, convenience stores, specialty markets, and supermarkets throughout the region. It has also launched many new products including brioche rolls, artisan style sandwich rolls, rustic- style sub rolls, whole wheat rolls and spicy Buffalo rolls. While the recipes have stayed the same, Costanzo's has been innovative in developing strategies to meet modern challenges. With the goal of selling its bread to all people regardless of location, it has recently established a national sales team comprised of a director of national accounts and a corporate chef to work directly with multi-unit retail and food service accounts nationwide. The company has also partnered with a Canadian food distributor to represent the brand in Ontario and Quebec. Costanzo's is also pursuing a British Retail Consortium certification, which is the highest level of quality and food safety certification in the industry. The bakery employs over 120 full and part-time employees, many of whom reside in Cheektowaga and the surrounding areas of the Buffalo- Niagara Region. In addition, Costanzo's gives back to the community providing donations to over 40 non-profit organizations and community groups throughout Erie County. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to recognize Costanzo's Bakery and the Costanzo family as they receive their Special Presentation Award from the Cheektowaga Chamber of Commerce. For the past 80 years, they have demonstrated impressive commitment to our community, their customers, and employees. Their quality service and history is known throughout Western New York, and we are proud to have such reputable small businesses filled with hard-working employees in our region.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I stand today to honor the remarkable career of Mr. James Sampson as he retires from his position of President and Chief Executive Officer of Gateway-Longview, Inc. One of Western New York's largest child welfare agencies, Gateway-Longview has expanded exponentially during Jim's nine years as President and CEO. During Jim's tenure, Gateway-Longview has expanded to include eighteen different programs, serving 3,400 children and families per year. His work includes the establishment of Gateway-Longview's Family Resource Center, Behavioral Mental Health Clinic, and Supervised Independent Living Program. Located on East Ferry Street, the Family Resource Center promotes familial strength and provides bonding activities such as tutoring, swim classes and music lessons. Jim assisted in creating Gateway-Longview's Behavioral Mental Health Clinic, which tends to the emotional needs of Gateway children and families. The program currently has two satellite offices in Buffalo Public Schools, with five more set to open in the fall, to ensure our city's children receive the care they desperately need. For teens that have not been adopted but have aged out of foster care, Gateway created a Supervised Independent Living Program to help teens develop the skills necessary to live independently and become self-sufficient. Jim is a truly dedicated public servant. Beyond his work with Gateway-Longview, Jim was elected to serve on the City of Buffalo School Board this past May, and is a founding member and trustee of the West Buffalo Charter School. Under appointment from Governor Cuomo, he serves as Chair of the Erie County Fiscal Stability Authority, and has previously been a member of the Board of Directors for the Buffalo Niagara Partnership. Jim is also involved with the Rotary Club of Buffalo. Jim's undergraduate years were spent at the University at Buffalo, where he earned his Bachelor's degree in Social Work. For his graduate studies, Jim attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison for his Master's in Social Work. Current, he holds the position of adjunct professor for the University at Buffalo's School of Social Work, teaching leadership, management, and administration. Jim's love for children and families stems from his own. He is happily married to his wife, Florence, with whom he has two children. His son Gregory is a lawyer and Assistant Parliamentarian for the United States Senate, living in College Park, Maryland with his wife, Jamie and their two children, Isaac and Kira. His daughter, Robin, is the lead scientist for the Department of Energy Solar Energy Loan Guarantee Program, living in Washington, D.C. with her husband Dr. Frank Wong. Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to recognize the inspiring career of Mr. Jim Sampson. His work for Western New York's children and families is truly admirable, and I wish him the best in his retirement.