Brian Higgins

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the service of a public official with more than fourteen years of continuous service as a elected official. I rise to honor the distinguished service of my friend, Erie County Legislator Steve McCarville. Steve McCarville is a lifelong resident of the town of Orchard Park, and began his public service as a member of the Orchard Park Village Board in 1991. Serving as Village Trustee from 1991 to 1997, Steve was part of a village team, including then-fellow trustee and current New York State Supreme Court Justice John Curran, that oversaw a transformation in the village of Orchard Park into what we see today--a vibrant, bustling village environment in one of Erie County's most successful suburban towns. In 1997, Steve won election to the Orchard Park Town Board, a position he held until his appointment to a vacant 13th District seat in the Erie County Legislature. In 2001, Steve was appointed to serve the balance of a two year term and was later elected in his own right to represent the 13th district, which encompasses the towns of Aurora, Colden, Collins, Concord, and Orchard Park. In the Legislature, Steve's work has been marked by a strong deliver of constituent services. In addition, he has secured funding for vital county road repairs in his district, opened the first Satellite Office in the town of Boston, and has worked to revitalize the Emery Park Inn. Steve McCarville and I have an interesting past, in that he was my first opponent for a seat in the New York State Assembly in 1998. Although it was a tough and hardfought contest, it speaks well of Steve's character and integrity that we were able to resume our friendship at the end of that contest. Politics is politics, Mr. Speaker, but I am pleased to know that in the area of serving the public and the people who elected us to our respective offices, Steve McCarville and I were able to work cooperatively and effectively. We checked our politics at the door, and the public was better served for it. Steve has at all times, expressed a sincere and steadfast intention to effectively represent the residents and taxpayers of Erie County in general and of his district in particular. He has served well, Mr. Speaker, and I am honored and privileged to call the House's attention to that service here today, and am grateful to have this opportunity to honor him.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a great son of the city of Lackawanna, New York, and a longtime public servant whose retirement at the end of this year will mark the close of a career in elective office that has spanned nearly four decades. Today, I want to honor the career in public service of Erie County Legislator Edward J. Kuwik. Ed Kuwik is a special kind of public servant and leader. Born and raised in gritty Lackawanna, Ed was educated at local schools, and earned a Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the University at Buffalo, and a Master's degree in education from Niagara University. Ed began his public service as a mathematics teacher in the Lackawanna city school system. Later, after serving a stint as Lackawanna's City Engineer, Ed was elected to the first of two four- year terms as Mayor of Lackawanna. In 1983, a vacancy occurred in the 1st district seat in the Erie County Legislature, and Ed sets his sights on filling it. Fighting an uphill battle for the appointment with a candidate supported by the party leadership, Ed won the appointment and was in November 1983 elected to the Legislature in his own right. Aside from a primary election in 1987, Ed Kuwik was never seriously challenged for election again. Throughout his many years of service to his constituents, public safety has been a hallmark issue for Ed Kuwik. From 1984 to 2001, and from 2004 to today, Ed Kuwik has served as Chairman of the Legislature's Public Safety Committee, overseeing the operations of the county's Correctional Facility, Department of Central Police Services, STOP DWI Division, Department of Emergency Services, and worked closely with the county District Attorney's Office and the county Sheriffs Office. Ed has always been a fighter for additional resources to fight crime, adding prosecutorial positions in the District Attorney's Office, civil and criminal deputy positions in the Sheriff's Office and probation officers in the Division of Probation. In 1993, Ed began a stint as a member of the Legislature's formal leadership, and was unanimously selected as Majority Leader, a position he held until 1996. After finishing his service as Majority Leader, Ed returned to focus his attention on his continued leadership of the Public Safety Committee and on an unparalleled reputation for constituent service. Ed Kuwik is a full time public official, and when he says full time, he means it. Until January of 2003, when Ed was unexpectedly hospitalized for several days, Ed Kuwik had attended every single legislative session since his initial appointment to the Legislature in 1983--543 consecutive legislative sessions. Ed has also attended every scheduled committee meeting that has been held since that time. No other member in the nearly four decade history of Erie County Legislature has a record to match. Ed is also a forceful and effective member of his local Democratic Party. Ed is a former Chairman of the Lackawanna Democratic Committee and has been a force in Lackawanna city politics for more than 30 years. Ed Kuwik has enjoyed many successes as a public official. However, his greatest success has been as a devoted husband and father. Ed is married to the former Karen Moore, a public school teacher in the Lackawanna City school system. Ed is the father of three sons, Kevin, Keith and Mark, all of whom have collectively made their mark academically, militarily and professionally in their respective fields of study and service. In 2005, Ed Kuwik chose not to run for re-election, and although he will be succeeded in the Legislature by another fine public official, the Legislature and his district will each be poorer for his absence. It is my fervent hope and belief that Ed Kuwik will remain an active member of his community, and allow us to work together to make his city and our region a better place to live, work and raise a family. I am proud to call Ed Kuwik my colleague and my friend, and I am grateful, Mr. Speaker, that you have allowed me this opportunity to commemorate his service here today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor a friend and fellow public official whose unique and energetic service to the residents of Erie County will long be remembered. I rise to commemorate and honor the service of Erie County Legislator Albert DeBenedetti. Serving as a legislator since his initial appointment in 1991, Al DeBenedetti brought a quick wit and a keen intellect to the deliberations of the Erie County Legislature. Often contentious and pugnacious, few Erie County Legislators in history have cared more for the communities they represent, and about the actions of government in service to those people than has Al DeBenedetti. Now, I tell you Mr. Speaker, Al is a unique individual indeed. Al comes from proud and deeply rooted Italian and Polish stock, and his father was a renowned professional wrestler. One thing is certain--it is a good thing for his opponents that Al's weapon of choice was his mind and not his fists, because Al always fought, and fought hard, for the people he represented in Buffalo's Black Rock, Riverside and west side neighborhoods. Prior to his service in the Erie County Legislature's 6th District, Al was Assistant Deputy Commissioner to the Erie County Board of Elections and also served on the Administrative Staff of former Erie County Executive Dennis Gorski. Upon the election of then-Legislator David Manz to Buffalo City Court in 1991, Al took office as his successor, and has served in this capacity ever since. Al rose quickly through the Legislature's ranks. In only his third term of office, Al was elected Majority Leader and was appointed Chairman of the Legislature's Finance and Management Committee. In that capacity, Al worked with legislators and with then-County Executive Dennis Gorski to steer a clean and effective financial ship for Erie County. In 2002, Al was elected Chairman of the Erie County Legislature, a position he held for one year. During his Chairmanship, the Legislature began the process of moving its offices from the Erie County Hall Annex back to its original home in Old County Hall, the historical site where United States President Grover Cleveland once held court as Mayor of Buffalo. Al DeBenedetti rarely saw an election day without a vigorous fight, but was always successful. I have always chalked that success up to his personality and his unwillingness to give up on a fight. I had a nickname for Al--I always called him ``Alley Cat.'' I think I did this because Al was always a scrapper, and invariably, his fight was an independent one, and was conducted on the behalf of Erie County's taxpayers. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to you for allowing me an opportunity to commemorate the service of my friend and colleague, Erie County Legislator Al DeBenedetti, on the occasion of his retirement as a member of the Erie County Legislature. Al's service on the Legislature was honorable and unique, and his history as a member of this august body will carry on for many years to come.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor retiring Erie County Legislator Denise Marshall for her 2 years of service to the residents of the towns of Alden, Elma, Holland, Lancaster, Marilla, Sardinia and Wales. A life-long resident of Erie County, Denise Marshall was born and raised in Cheektowaga, NY. Graduating in 1986 from Cheektowaga Central High School, Denise attended both Erie Community College and the State University of New York at Buffalo, majoring in Business Administration. Professionally, Legislator Marshall is founder and president of Marshall Data Solutions, a computer consulting firm specializing in office automation, training and database application development for both business and governmental clients. Beginning her career as a project manager and support representative for KVS Information Systems in Amherst, NY she designed and helped support accounting applications for municipal government clients, traveling throughout the northeastern United States to implement these new technologies and provide training for office personnel. Legislator Marshall's service, while only 2 years in length, was eventful; her service was perhaps most noteworthy for her desire to effectively serve the residents of her district. Given that her district covered a geographic area which traverses the whole of Erie County's eastern side nearly from its northern border to its border in the south, there can be no doubt that this is a challenging task indeed. During my initial years as a member of the New York State Legislature, I too represented a number of the same towns Legislator Marshall would later represent in the County Legislature. While Legislator Marshall, as a resident of the town of Lancaster, is not a constituent of mine, she did faithfully serve several towns that are within the confines of the 27th Congressional District, including the towns of Alden, Marilla, Holland, Sardinia and Wales. Her office's cooperation with mine was universally professional. Mr. Speaker, I thank you for the opportunity to honor Legislator Denise Marshall upon the occasion of her retirement as a member of the Erie County Legislature, and I want to wish to her and to her family the best of luck and Godspeed.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the City of North Tonawanda which is being recognized by the American Institute of Architecture with the Friends of Architecture Award. Located midway between the Cities of Buffalo and Niagara Falls, North Tonawanda is the 15th largest city in New York with a population of over 33,000 residents. Formerly a manufacturing hub, under the leadership of Mayor David Burgio, City Engineer Dale Marshall and Public Works Superintendent Gary Franklin, North Tonawanda is being transformed into a waterfront destination. The potential for waterfront development in Erie County is great and the City of North Tonawanda has set an example for the rest of the region. Gateway Park is a premiere attraction for residents and tourists alike. Thanks to new design and infrastructure improvements Gateway Park has come alive year-round with events such as Canal Fest, October Fest, Winter Walk, boat shows, and concerts. In addition, investments in North Tonawanda redevelopment have served as a catalyst for economic growth resulting in new businesses and jobs in the community. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and gratitude that I stand here today to recognize the City of North Tonawanda as a Friend of Architecture. Their proactive approach to design and development highlights the natural, historical and architectural resources right here in our backyard.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Father Vincent M. Cooke, S.J., President of Canisius College in Buffalo, New York, who is being recognized by the American Institute of Architecture with the Friends of Architecture Award. In 1993 Western New York was pleased to welcome Father Cooke as the new President of Canisius, a 36-acre private Jesuit college located on Main Street in the City of Buffalo. A man with a brilliant educational past, with certificates of degree from Fordham University, Loyola Seminary, Woodstock College, Yale University and the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Fr. Cooke's vision for Canisius' future would take the college and surrounding community to places never imagined. Over the past 13 years, Fr. Cooke has led the way in planning and implementing $115 million in capital projects at Canisius, converting the college from a commuter college to an institution ranked number one residential college experience among Jesuit institutions and number five nationwide. Father Cooke has taken a hands-on approach with each and every project which has resulted in state-of-the-art living and recreation spaces and cutting edge classrooms. His success has earned him recognition by The Buffalo News as the second most influential civic leader in terms of his positive impact on the community. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and gratitude that I stand here today to recognize Father Vincent Cooke as a Friend of Architecture. Canisius College employs the motto ``Where leaders are made'' and Fr. Cooke stands as a shinning role model for his students and an example of how true leadership can transform a college and a community.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I missed a rollcall vote on the night of Wednesday November 9, 2005. I would like to enter into the Record how I intended to vote on the missed rollcall: On rollcall No. 582 regarding S. 1894, the Fair Access Foster Care Act of 2005, I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Yes, in its current form, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I offer a motion to recommit.

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, when this Nation has been hit with terrorist attacks or national disasters, America has always responded with a strong, decisive, generous spirit. Four years ago on September 11, 2001, without warning, like missiles from hell, two planes filled with the most innocent of victims slammed into the World Trade Center's twin towers, 3,000 dead seemingly in an instant. America's response was quick, decisive and powerful. On that day, we as Americans took a hit, but we stood united and we responded with confidence, blue States and red States, suburban and urban, black and white, rich and poor, together, united. Everyone suffered equally and resolved collectively to rebuild, to sacrifice, to reaffirm boldly what the scum terrorists had tried to destroy. People reached deep within themselves and from the collective heart a supremely compassionate response for and from the ages, a source of national pride forever. Confidence in public officials and institutions soared. Today, Mr. Speaker, we are a nation that is stumbling. We have lost our confident and compassionate way. In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, the Federal Government's response was slow and sluggish, sloppy and uneven. No one took responsibility and there was no leadership. None. Our collective and national compassion was reduced to internal retreat and rapacious impulses. While so-called leaders spun blame, the poor, the sick and the stranded continued to suffer. We, as a nation, collectively fell down and hard, and against and away from the greater good that is in all of us. Mr. Speaker, government-sponsored no-bid contractors at politically motivated firms like Halliburton are exploiting our Nation's generosity here in America and abroad. In the gulf coast region of this Nation and in the Middle East region of this world, contractors are pillaging the very people whose economic interests we have been sent here to protect. In the midst of war and in the aftermath of natural disaster, hundreds of millions in taxpayer-funded relief and recovery are being wasted, squandered, lost forever. Mr. Speaker, the motion I offer today will impose stiff fines and criminal penalties on contractors who knowingly falsify information in order to win approval of government contracts during Presidentially declared emergencies. While in this Chamber the proper role of government is often debated, the one undisputed and unifying principle is that above all else, our responsibility to each other and to the American people is to protect the Nation from entities who seek to injure and destroy us and from natural disasters that devastate our community. Mr. Speaker, the motion I offer today at this defining moment in our Nation's history will either reaffirm the promise of our Nation's greatness or condemn us from this moment on for failing to live up to our obligations as a nation that deserves and demands only from us fairness and goodness. Mr. Speaker, I urge all the Members to support this motion to end this culture of corruption. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a longtime member of the Erie County Legislature who has chosen 2005 as his final year of service as a legislator. This person is not a resident of the 27th Congressional District, but is someone with whom I have worked closely, and about whom I still maintain kind and warm thoughts--former Erie County Legislature Chairman Charles M. Swanick, one of that body's longest-serving members. Now, Mr. Speaker, believe me, there have been and will continue to be many things said about Chuck Swanick, his tenure in the legislature and his service to the people he represented. I choose to remember Chuck's service in a manner once used by The Buffalo News in endorsing his candidacy for re-election in 1995. That word was ``indefatigable.'' The word indefatigable is defined as ``tireless,'' ``unflagging'' or ``untiring.'' Knowing Chuck as I have for nearly 20 years, these words could not describe him, or his manner of service to his constituents, more effectively. Chuck Swanick was born a quintessential ``baby boomer''; born in Buffalo on December 18, 1948 and raised in a northern first-ring suburb of Tonawanda, Chuck and his older brother Dave were raised by two wonderful people, his father Dave, a railroadman, and his mother Murial, a homemaker. Chuck grew up on Moore Avenue in Tonawanda's Lincoln Park area, and like most baby boomers of his generation, made his way through the 1960s and 1970s in a routine way. He finished high school, found work on the railroad like his dad, and spent time with his friends. It was his friends--or rather a conversation with his friends--that brought Chuck Swanick into the public realm. During one night's round of discussion and ``refreshment,'' Chuck Swanick and his friends continued a long-held discussion of current events that ordinarily would end with the conclusion that the public officials running Erie County were, shall we say, less than effective. During this conversation, as more beverages were consumed, it was determined that one of the group should stand for election to public office, in order to ``make a difference'' for their community and, one supposes, for their younger generation. Then came the kicker for Chuck: he was the only unmarried person--and thus the only person with enough time to effectively campaign for office--among the group. Chuck, it was collectively decided, would be the group's candidate. The office he chose? Erie County Legislator. Chuck began his quest for public office by answering the local Democratic Party's advertisement for a candidate for the Legislature in what was then the 12th District. Upon attending an endorsement meeting, Chuck was dutifully supplied the party's endorsement and was told, ``we'll see you in November.'' Obviously, the committee wasn't counting on victory. In truth, they were in for a wild ride. Chuck began his quest for office with a write-in candidacy for the Conservative Party's endorsement--an impossible task, many pundits thought. Chuck began a write-in campaign the likes of which had never before been seen in Erie County, and stunned observers by stealing the line away from the incumbent. Thereafter, Chuck won a difficult general election victory, and so born was a political career that has stretched more than 25 years. Chuck was a rebel during his early years in the Legislature. Known as a ``maverick'' Democrat, Chuck always sought to represent the people of his district--in the towns of Tonawanda and Grand Island, the City of Tonawanda and the Village of Kenmore. Chuck had no problems bucking the party line when he thought it appropriate to do so. In so doing, at one point or another, he earned the enmity of public officials from all levels of government. But in his mind, he was representing the people who sent him to County Hall. That was good enough for him. In later years, as Chuck's years of service in the Legislature grew, he became something of an ``elder statesman.'' Graying hair precipitated the shaving of his moustache, and by the 1990s, Chuck's years of service gave him an institutional knowledge of County government that few possessed. Indeed, it would be that knowledge that would serve him well in years to come. Chuck served as the chairman of several of the Legislature's standing committees, and was the longtime chairman of the Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board (formerly known as the Agricultural District Advisory Committee). In 1996, after nearly giving up hope of ascending to the Legislature's leadership, a sudden vacancy in the Legislature's Chairmanship occurred. With a unanimous vote, Chuck Swanick became the 9th Chairman of the Erie County Legislature in May of 1996. I was proud to work with Chuck during this period. At this time, Mr. Speaker, I had just returned from my studies at Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government, and was eager to work with Chuck in his newfound leadership role. We would have many successes, working together. All told, I worked with Chuck in the Legislature until my election to the New York State Assembly in 1998, and during that time we had many successes. We worked together to keep the county's property tax levy at a reasonable level, and working together with then-Erie County Executive Dennis Gorski, we retired $108 million in debt left over from the previous county administration. Chuck made his mark upon the local laws of Erie County as well. Chuck worked with Legislator Ray Dusza on his first Item Pricing/Scanner Accuracy Law, and then forged a coalition of business leaders and consumer advocates to draft a new, more comprehensive law in 1997. Chuck also was the author of many laws involving one of his pet areas of county government, the Erie County Parks system. After my election to the State legislature, Chuck continued as Chairman and fought battles old and new. Chuck would go on to serve two stints as Chairman, for a total of six and one-half years as Chairman, which is the longest total amount of service as Chairman of the Erie County Legislature. There is one other aspect of Chuck Swanick's life that I cannot fail to mention--and that is his family. Chuck's wife Shelly may well be the most patient and understanding spouse of an elected official in the United States, given Chuck's seemingly non-stop campaign schedule. Chuck is also the father of two children, Maverick and Charlie. Chuck Swanick's record in the Erie County Legislature is an impressive one. Chuck was the author of dozens of local laws and thousands of legislative resolutions. As a member of the Legislature, Chuck served with four county executives, six legislative chairs (excluding himself), ten majority leaders and eleven minority leaders (excluding himself). Over the Legislature's thirty-seven year history, one hundred and three people have served as members of the Erie County Legislature; at one time or another, Chuck Swanick served with 57 of those people. At the end of the day, Mr. Speaker, there will be a lot of things said about Chuck Swanick and about his 26 years of service in the Erie County Legislature. To me, Mr. Speaker, I will always remember the sincere concern that Chuck had for his constituents, and the earnestness with which he served those constituents. Chuck's legacy of twenty-six years of service will mark an important chapter in the history of county government, and I am proud to honor his service today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend a sincere congratulations to my good friend Tom Grace upon his retirement as a social worker from the New York State Office of Mental Retardation and Mental Disabilities. Tom Grace worked for 30 years in the Developmental Disabilities Service Office in West Seneca, New York. Tom is a well respected union official in Western New York; in 1981 he was elected as the first President of Division 167 of the Professional Employees Federation. Tom was the Western New York Regional Coordinator for PEF from 1985 through 1987. For many years he served on the Executive Board of the Buffalo AFL-CIO District Council and presently serves on the Executive Board of the Western New York AFL-CIO Federation. Tom Grace is also a distinguished social activist. Tom has always been a leader in the fight for social change in the United States. He is a staunch Democrat, and over the years he has been most generous with his time and resources. Tom's social activism goes back to his college days. On May 4, 1970 Tom was one of the students wounded at Kent State while protesting the Viet Nam war. Tom's spirit is unwavering. He is committed to speaking out when he sees injustice; be it in the work place or the social theater that makes up this Nation. Tom has a reputation for fearlessness; he is modest in stature but grand in his convictions. Mr. Grace will be greatly missed but I am sure he will not travel far from the causes so dear to him. It is with great pride and gratitude I stand here today to recognize Tom Grace for his many years of support and for his commitment as a community advocate. I wish Tom, his wife Peggy and their children TJ and Allison many years of continued health and happiness.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, due to an excused absence, I missed 3 rollcall votes on the night of Tuesday October 25, 2005. I would like to enter into the record how I would have voted if I had been able to attend the session: On H.R. 3675, the American Spirit Fraud Prevention Act, I would have voted ``yea.'' On H. Con. Res. 269, a resolution recognizing the 40th anniversary of the White House Fellows Program, I would have voted ``yea.'' On H.R. 3256, a bill to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 3038 West Liberty Avenue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as the ``Congressman James Grove Fulton Memorial Post Office Building,'' I would have voted ``yea.''

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the exemplary community service of Phyllis Ciminello, a resident of Chautauqua County, Village of Fredonia, in recognition of her nine years of volunteering for the Foster Grandparent Program. Ms. Ciminello works every day helping children to increase motivation, academic skills, daily living skills, and positive behaviors. Ms. Ciminello has served with the FGP since 1996 and is a vocal fan of this program. She is also involved with the Head Start program, where she volunteers in a Head Start classroom at Connections North in Dunkirk. Ms. Ciminello has donated countless hours towards improving her community. She is hard working, and dedicated. Her leadership and generosity sets an example for us all. That is why, Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor her today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I stand here today to express thanks to the Marines from India Company who have just completed a tour of duty where they fought heroically on behalf of the United States of America. The brave soldiers from India Company were deployed to Iraq in March of this year to aid in Operation Iraqi Freedom and have just recently returned to be with their families in western New York. In particular, I would like to recognize Sgt. Eugene O'Connor, Cpl Joshua O'Connor, PVT Matthew Shaw, Sgt Gary Spengler Jr., PVT Jarred Leavitt, Cpl William Maher, Sgt James Thompson, LCpl Chris Manns, LCpl Jason Florea and Cpl Jonathan Monaco, our local heroes who selflessly defended peaceful international relations and helped secure freedom for the Iraqi people. Each played an integral role in their company and deserve our recognition and respect. Through their valiant efforts they assisted stabilizing the city of Hit in the province of Al Anbar, protecting Iraqis and their comrades, aiding in the arrest of 116 insurgents, and assisting in exposing over 150 weapons stores and 160 bombs. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the residents of the 27th Congressional District and all Americans I wish to extend my sincerest gratitude to these courageous and noble soldiers. Their service and sacrifices help protect the safety and freedoms that make this Nation great.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and salute the Msgr. P. Adamski Polish Saturday School in Cheektowaga, NY, which will celebrate its 50th Anniversary on Saturday, October 15. The school was founded thanks to the commitment of people belonging to the Polish Teachers Federation and the Polish Veterans Union. They were deeply convinced that only an educational institution which provides instruction in the Polish language, history and culture could keep their identity alive. Classes were held for the first time on October 1, 1955 at the Polish Union House. From the very beginning, the school was extremely successful and six weeks after opening, it moved to the premises of St. Stanislaus Parish, where it stayed for more than 40 years. Since 1996, the site of the school has been located at the parish of St. John Gualbert in Cheektowaga. Since its creation many people: parents, chaplains and teachers, put much effort to make the Polish Saturday School a well-functioning educational institution. Its authorities have always tried to provide high quality teachers and staff and a positive learning environment for its students. Today the school consists of 86 students and 10 teachers. Its main goals are to teach the language and culture of Poland, and to help people both young and old reconnect with the Polish tradition of their parents and grandparents. In order to better achieve these aims, the school runs kindergarten for children beginning at 4-years-old and provides classes for adults in learning the Polish language and history. The Polish Saturday School is an accredited institution and its students complete their education with an examination, which gives them three Regents credits honored by every public high school in the NY state. The Director of the school is Mrs. Mira Szramel, and all organizational issues belong to the Parents' Board and its Chairman, Krzysztof Sokolowski. The school, a nonprofit institution, is financed thanks to the small tuition fees from parents and the donations from various Polonia organizations and individuals. Invaluable help comes from the Chaplain of the school, Father Tadeusz Bocianowski and Parochial Vicar, Father David Bialkowski. The 50th Anniversary, also called the Golden Jubilee, is a wonderful occasion for paying tribute to those who throughout these past years created the school community and taught young people the Polish language, culture and tradition. Their hard work and devotion will never be forgotten by Polonia. From its foundation, the Polish Saturday School was focused on teaching children but also served the local Polish community. During the past 50 years, the school has built a strong presence among Polish-Americans in Buffalo. Students have always actively and willingly participated in the life of Polonia, preparing national and religious celebrations. They and their parents are proud of their Polish roots, cultivate their tradition and thus enrich the great diversity of American culture. The 50th Anniversary celebrations on Saturday, October 15, will consist of two main events. There will be an artistic program prepared by students of the school, as well as short speeches by invited guests. The official program will be followed by dinner and a dance with music played by `Polanie'. On Sunday, October 16 there will be a special Mass at St. Stanislaus Church, celebrated by Bishop Edward Grosz and by the Chaplain of the Polish Saturday School--Father Tadeusz Bocianowski. These celebrations will be an important event not only in the history of the school, but also in the history of Polonia in Western New York.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a great labor leader, public official and dear friend and colleague who at the end of this year will retire from active public service as a member of the Erie County Legislature--the man commonly known as ``Mr. Cheektowaga,'' Legislator Raymond K. Dusza. During the 1990s, I worked closely with Ray, and saw firsthand his gentle yet persistent leadership style. Ray's leadership on so many issues important to taxpayers and consumers won kudos from countless local residents and praise from local taxpayers' groups. Ray's call to public service came early in life. He enlisted in the United States Army and defended this country as a Paratrooper in the unit known as ``America's Guard of Honor,'' Ray's beloved 82nd Airborne Division. When Ray came home after his military service, he started at the Westinghouse Electric corporation, where his reputation as a ``man of the people'' became apparent. Ray rose through the ranks and was chosen to represent 4,000 of his labor brothers and sisters as leader of the International Union of Electrical Workers, Local 1581. In 1988, the 8th District seat in the Erie County Legislature became vacant. After many years of active service in the community and in the Democratic Party, Ray contested and won election that November, representing the residents of the Town of Cheektowaga and the Village of Depew. Over the past 17 years, Republicans and Democrats alike have bowed to the high regard with which this man has been held--Ray has never been seriously challenged for re-election. Local consumers soon learned that they had no greater defender of their rights than Ray Dusza. Ray led the fight for a new Item Pricing/ Scanner Accuracy law for Erie County, to ensure that prices consumers were charged for goods were properly reflecting prices on store shelves. Through Ray's work, scanners in supermarkets, home centers and other retail stores that were estimated to be accurate only 50 percent to 70 percent of the time must now offer consumers 98 percent accuracy. In addition, Ray will always be remembered as the ``Coupon King'' for his successful fight against the Proctor & Gamble Corporation's attempt to deny local shoppers free access to manufacturer's coupons. Ray fought hard for consumers, residents and taxpayers as Vice Chairman of the Legislature's Public Safety Committee, and as Chairman of two legislative standing committees, the Government Affairs Committee and the Energy and Environment Committee. Ray Dusza added one more very important element to his service in County Hall: a robust sense of humor. Ray's philosophy was to ``be serious about what you do, but don't take yourself too seriously,'' and he was indeed good to his word. Ray always added a refreshing sense of humor to the deliberations within County Hall, consistently entering committee meetings with the declaration that ``the paratroopers have landed,'' and sarcastically questioning what time the perennially tardy ``nine o'clock caucus'' would begin. Ray's dedication to his community was not limited to his role in the Legislature. The following are just a few of the organizations Ray has dedicated his time and energy toward: the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Knights of Columbus--Father Justin Council, Polish Falcons Club, American Legion Gierlach Post, Depew/Cheektowaga Taxpayers' Association, AMVETS Buddy Knaus Post, Catholic War Veterans Post 1313, the Ushers Society at St. Philip the Apostle Church, and St. Josephat's Parish Holy Name Society. In addition, Ray is the leader of the eponymously-named ``Ray Dusza Booster Club,'' a grouping of political supporters that Ray sentimentally refers to as his ``commandos.'' Mr. Speaker, I am a lifelong resident of another great Western New York community--South Buffalo, NY, and the highest compliment that folks can pay to someone from South Buffalo is that they remember where they come from, and remember the people who sent them to serve in public office. Few public officials remember from whom and from whence they came the way Ray Dusza does. I am delighted that you have allowed me to take a few moments to honor Ray's service to our community here today, and I am honored even more to call Ray Dusza my friend. To Ray, his wife Terry, to their children, grandchildren and to the entire Dusza Family, I want to offer my sincere thanks, and my wishes of good luck and Godspeed for many years to come.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a great labor leader, public official and dear friend and colleague who at the end of this year will retire from active public service as a member of the Erie County Legislature--the man commonly known as ``Mr. Cheektowaga,'' Legislator Raymond K. Dusza. During the 1990s, I worked closely with Ray, and saw firsthand his gentle yet persistent leadership style. Ray's leadership on so many issues important to taxpayers and consumers won kudos from countless local residents and praise from local taxpayers' groups. Ray's call to public service came early in life. He enlisted in the United States Army and defended this country as a Paratrooper in the unit known as ``America's Guard of Honor,'' Ray's beloved 82nd Airborne Division. When Ray came home after his military service, he started at the Westinghouse Electric corporation, where his reputation as a ``man of the people'' became apparent. Ray rose through the ranks and was chosen to represent 4,000 of his labor brothers and sisters as leader of the International Union of Electrical Workers, Local 1581. In 1988, the 8th District seat in the Erie County Legislature became vacant. After many years of active service in the community and in the Democratic Party, Ray contested and won election that November, representing the residents of the Town of Cheektowaga and the Village of Depew. Over the past 17 years, Republicans and Democrats alike have bowed to the high regard with which this man has been held--Ray has never been seriously challenged for re-election. Local consumers soon learned that they had no greater defender of their rights than Ray Dusza. Ray led the fight for a new Item Pricing/ Scanner Accuracy law for Erie County, to ensure that prices consumers were charged for goods were properly reflecting prices on store shelves. Through Ray's work, scanners in supermarkets, home centers and other retail stores that were estimated to be accurate only 50 percent to 70 percent of the time must now offer consumers 98 percent accuracy. In addition, Ray will always be remembered as the ``Coupon King'' for his successful fight against the Proctor & Gamble Corporation's attempt to deny local shoppers free access to manufacturer's coupons. Ray fought hard for consumers, residents and taxpayers as Vice Chairman of the Legislature's Public Safety Committee, and as Chairman of two legislative standing committees, the Government Affairs Committee and the Energy and Environment Committee. Ray Dusza added one more very important element to his service in County Hall: a robust sense of humor. Ray's philosophy was to ``be serious about what you do, but don't take yourself too seriously,'' and he was indeed good to his word. Ray always added a refreshing sense of humor to the deliberations within County Hall, consistently entering committee meetings with the declaration that ``the paratroopers have landed,'' and sarcastically questioning what time the perennially tardy ``nine o'clock caucus'' would begin. Ray's dedication to his community was not limited to his role in the Legislature. The following are just a few of the organizations Ray has dedicated his time and energy toward: the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Knights of Columbus--Father Justin Council, Polish Falcons Club, American Legion Gierlach Post, Depew/Cheektowaga Taxpayers' Association, AMVETS Buddy Knaus Post, Catholic War Veterans Post 1313, the Ushers Society at St. Philip the Apostle Church, and St. Josephat's Parish Holy Name Society. In addition, Ray is the leader of the eponymously-named ``Ray Dusza Booster Club,'' a grouping of political supporters that Ray sentimentally refers to as his ``commandos.'' Mr. Speaker, I am a lifelong resident of another great Western New York community--South Buffalo, NY, and the highest compliment that folks can pay to someone from South Buffalo is that they remember where they come from, and remember the people who sent them to serve in public office. Few public officials remember from whom and from whence they came the way Ray Dusza does. I am delighted that you have allowed me to take a few moments to honor Ray's service to our community here today, and I am honored even more to call Ray Dusza my friend. To Ray, his wife Terry, to their children, grandchildren and to the entire Dusza Family, I want to offer my sincere thanks, and my wishes of good luck and Godspeed for many years to come.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the birthday of Catherine Givens Rifenberg, born Catherine Hanorah Givens on October 16, 1905 in Holland Center, Ontario, Canada. Born to Hanorah Kenefick Givens and James Givens, Katherine was the youngest of her six brothers and two sisters: Robert ``Jack,'' James ``Ted,'' Philip, Leo, Albert, Harvey, Mary and Margaret. Catherine and her family faced several tragedies, including the early death of their mother and the total destruction by fire to their family home. As a result, Catherine was raised by her mother's relatives, the Kenefick family, and remained in Canada through her early teenage years. As a young adult, Catherine migrated to the United States, settling in Detroit, Michigan with her brother, Albert, and his wife, Ruby, before moving to Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada to join her sister Mary. Catherine finally moved to Buffalo, New York in the mid 1920's where she continues to live her long, healthy and happy life. Catherine Givens married Francis Rifenberg in 1930 and the two of them spent the greater part of their adult lives together in the Elmwood Avenue area of Buffalo, an area that Catherine truly loves for its excitement, diversity and warmth of the people. She has resided in the Stuyvesant Apartments for the last twenty years, where she continues to cook her own meals and be amazingly self-sufficient. Catherine worked as a waitress for over forty-five years in Buffalo. Her genuine love of people and warm and welcoming ways made her a favorite at area restaurants; including, the renowned, historic ``Kathryn Lawrence's Tea Room,'' ``Laube's Old Spain'' and ''The Place Restaurant.'' Catherine has kept close contact with her beloved Givens family offspring living in the United States and Canada. Her large family of nieces and nephews and extended family of three generations fondly refer to her as Aunt Kitty. Kitty has enjoyed a friendship of over sixty years with her dear friend Mary Marchese and she will happily tell the world that Dr. Jeremiah O'Sullivan has the answer to all her health care needs. Catherine Givens Rifenberg, residing in the City of Buffalo, will be celebrating her 100th Birthday on the 16th day of October in the year 2005. I join today with her family and friends from near and far in celebrating this very special occasion.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Hiscock & Barclay, a legal institution in the State of New York. In 1855 founding partners and brothers L. Harris and Frank Hiscock opened a two-man law office in Tully, NY. H. Douglas Barclay later became a partner in the firm, now known as Hiscock & Barclay. Mr. Barclay dedicated 40 years to the practice and has also served his fellow citizens as a 20-year member of the New York State Senate, his country as a President George H.W. Bush appointee as director of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation and was named United States Ambassador to the Republic of El Salvador by current President Bush. Throughout the years Hiscock & Barclay's team has grown to 160 attorneys working in offices in Syracuse, Buffalo, Rochester, Albany and New York City. The firm's attorneys have held various auxiliary roles including: former general counsels of New York State's Department of Environmental Conservation, Department of Social Services and Health Planning Commission; a nationally syndicated media commentator; district attorneys and Court of Appeals judges; New York State and Federal Representatives; a former NFL football player; the former general counsel of a North American trade association; and a World War II prisoner of war. In the last century and a half, Hiscock & Barclay has evolved from a practice dedicated to railroad, banking and manufacturing law, to one that now covers 26 practice areas ranging from construction and environmental law, to labor, real estate and international business services. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to have this opportunity to recognize Hiscock & Barclay, a firm with a long tradition of commitment to defending the law, upon this, their 150th anniversary.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the exemplary academic achievements of Nicole Calamunci, a resident of Chautauqua County, city of Jamestown, upon receiving the United States Academy Achievement Award. Nicole was named a United States National Award winner in English. Fewer than 10 percent of all High School Students across America are given this prestigious honor. Nicole was nominated for this award by her Middle School English teacher. Along with her academic achievements Nicole demonstrates a variety of other outstanding characteristics. She possesses leadership skills, an interest in multiple subjects, and a strong motivation to improve and learn new things. Nicole is also very enthusiastic, responsible, and has an excellent attitude. Nicole is the daughter of John and Gioconda Calamunci of Jamestown, and attends Persell Middle School. Ms. Calamunci is an exemplary and dedicated student, with much to offer. That is why Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor this young lady.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the heroic actions of Robert Kost, resident of Chautauqua County, city of Jamestown, upon his receiving the 2005 Emergency Communicators Award. Although this award is only 2 years old it is an exclusive award. Kost was nominated for this honor by Livingston County Sheriff Joe Gerace. Gerace felt that Kost deserved this award for the actions that Kost displayed when he received a 911 call reporting that a 95 year old woman was choking. Kost calmly and readily took action and walked the son and daughter in law of the woman through the Heimlich maneuver. The procedure was successful after the son performed it a second time. Kost then continued to stay on the line with the woman's son and daughter in law until the fire department arrived and could provide further care. Robert Kost is a brave and heroic man who has saved the lives of many people thanks to his devotion and dedication to his career as a professional dispatcher. Because of these commendable actions taken by Robert Kost, I rise to honor him today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the exemplary community service of Joseph Genco, a resident of Chautauqua County, City of Jamestown, upon receiving the Joseph H. Mason Award. The award is given annually to a union member who demonstrates strong volunteer service to the community, and is selected by a committee of past winners. Mr. Genco was presented with this honor at the annual United Way Salute to Labor Dinner. Joseph Genco, who is a Jamestown Police Department sergeant, has been the president of the Jamestown Kendall Club PBA since 2000, and a past secretary of the Chautauqua County Police Organization and Western New York Police Association. Genco also serves on the Board of Directors of Joint Neighborhood Project and was former secretary of PALMA, the Police and Latino Mediation Advisory committee. Mr. Genco has donated countless hours towards improving his community. He is hard working, and dedicated. His leadership and generosity sets an example for us all. That is why, Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor him today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I join my colleagues in mourning the loss and honoring the life of Simon Wiesenthal. Simon Wiesenthal died this week in Vienna at the age of 96. He was a survivor of the resistance movement and lived through internment in Nazi concentration camps. He became the most famous Nazi hunter when he returned to Vienna after World War II. Mr. Wiesenthal devoted his career to exposing and documenting Nazi atrocities and bringing perpetrators to justice. After World War II and the Holocaust, Mr. Wiesenthal became the permanent representative of Holocaust victims, determined to bring the perpetrators of one of history's greatest crimes to justice and punishment. He took the job no one else wanted, and he charged himself with the task that few sought. He was a voice of conscience for all humanity and he inspired world leaders and individuals to fight anti-Semitism and intolerance. Mr. Wiesenthal is best known for his instrumental investigative research that contributed to the capture and conviction of more than 1,100 Nazi war criminals, including Adolf Eichmann, the architect of the ``Final Solution.'' Through the Simon Wiesenthal Center, he also promoted Holocaust remembrance, the fight against racism and anti-Semitism, and the monitoring of neo-Nazi and other extremist groups worldwide. Simon Wiesenthal's message, mission and courage will not die with him. He has shown us all what it means to fight the fight, whether unpopular or difficult, whether lonely or tedious. Because of Mr. Wiesenthal's courageous, gutsy and earnest work, we have learned as a country what it means to stand up for what is right. As a Member of Congress, I will always follow Mr. Wiesenthal's precedent, and will continue to lead my colleagues in Congress to fight anti-Semitism and intolerance wherever it may be.