Chris Jacobs

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today to join the Western New York Community in commending the honorable service of African American veterans throughout the history of the United States military. The recently unveiled African American Veterans Monument in Buffalo, New York, highlights the contributions made by African American service members to our country. These contributions cannot be understated. I commend all who supported the development and construction of this project, including the Erie County Chapter of the Links for taking the steps necessary to honor these veterans. This unique monument now stands as a symbol and reminder on the Buffalo waterfront to all Western New Yorkers of the sacrifices that these brave individuals made to preserve our freedoms. From the Revolutionary War onwards, 2.1 million African Americans served this country with unconditional valor. Over 90 African Americans have been awarded the Medal of Honor, our nation's preeminent military commendation. Out of admiration for these esteemed veterans, many of Western New York's community leaders banded together to demonstrate our thanks for their sacrifices--a gesture that many of us believe is long overdue. The symbolism undergirding this monument uniquely pairs with the traits displayed by the generations of African American men and women who have served our country. Located at the Erie County Naval & Military Park, the monument consists of 12 pillars representing the 12 military conflicts in which these veterans demonstrated their strength, courage, and patriotism. The top of each pillar is illuminated by a beacon of light, referencing the practice that active-duty military families used to guide their loved ones home. These illuminations will glow eternally, along with our nation's everlasting appreciation to its African American servicemembers. We must continue to recognize and commemorate those who sacrificed on behalf of our nation and fought on our country's many historic battlefields. Our selfless and courageous African American veterans of Western New York and the greater United States will forever be remembered within our local community. It is my honor to represent these veterans, along with the members of our community who crafted this historic monument.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember and honor the life of Anatoly Dwigun, who passed away on February 24, 2022, at the age of 76. Mr. Dwigun was born in Germany on October 28, 1945. His two parents and three siblings immigrated to the United States in 1955 when he was ten years old. A true exemplar of American patriotism, Mr. Dwigun joined the U.S. Army in 1968, just shortly after earning his American citizenship. His remarkable service in Vietnam as a helicopter mechanic and door gunner led to him receiving several honors: including the Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and the New York State Conspicuous Services Cross Award. In a demonstration of humility, Mr. Dwigun declined to accept the Purple Heart; in his own words, stating he was not ``as worthy of that honor, as those who lost their lives''. Following Vietnam, Mr. Dwigun proudly worked as an engineer and spent considerable time enjoying the outdoors. He was precise and caring in all his actions, best exemplified by his superb vehicle-maintenance abilities and immaculate yard work. Mr. Dwigun's humility was constantly reflected during his marriage to his loving wife, Janice. The two shared countless happy memories not only with each other, but also their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Many of his most cherished times were during family gatherings and shared meals. To summarize, Mr. Dwigun's memory lives on through his family and his country. Madam Speaker, please join me celebrating Mr. Dwigun's life and in honoring his life's work and all his achievements.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and celebrate the 80th birthday of Alan Dewart, a business and civic leader in our community. Alan has been an entrepreneur and real estate developer for his entire professional life. Alan's impact on the revitalization of the city of Buffalo is unparalleled. During the dark economic times of the 1980s when the city was experiencing a mass exodus of people, businesses, and hope, Alan was a pioneer who reinvested and revitalized a section of downtown Buffalo, taking vacant and derelict buildings in Buffalo's theater district and transforming it into a vibrant city center consisting of apartments, restaurants, and music/entertainment venues, infusing life and vibrancy back into a historically significant section of our city. Alan's pioneering work sowed the seeds of future developers and future projects to bring downtown Buffalo back to life. I interned for Alan Dewart as a college student and through him developed a passion for urban revitalization. He is a friend and a mentor, and I thank him for all he has done for me and all he has done for our city.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Mike Long, one of our State's greatest political leaders. Mr. Long served as chairman of the New York State Conservative Party for three decades. An article in the New York Post that was recently written called Mike a working-class champion, and that he was. From the beginning of his career in politics, he believed Conservatives and Republicans must focus on what matters for working-class Americans. Mike's beliefs were as correct today as they were nearly 60 years ago when he began his career in public service. I remember speaking with Mike for the first time when I was going to run for a special election for the New York State Senate several decades ago now. At that time, we were talking about his family, and Mike's son had just been in a near-fatal accident, run over by a New York City bus while he was riding a bicycle. His son Matt broke numerous bones and had countless surgeries as a result. But like his father, he had incredible grit and determination, and he not only recovered but continued to compete in triathlons and Ironman competitions. Mike lived out his conservative principles. He was married to his wife, Eileen, for 59 years and had nine children, as was mentioned, and countless numbers of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Our State and Nation are a better place due to Mike Long's service and commitment to his principles. May he rest in peace.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember and honor the life of Albert J. Rinow, Sr., who passed away on May 2, 2022, at the age of 96. Mr. Rinow worked at Trico for 43 years, all the while serving in the Lancaster Fire Department. Mr. Rinow joined the Lancaster Fire Department in 1950 with the Rescue Hook and Ladder Company and joined the Citizens Hose Company in 1954. For his service, in 2001 and 2006, Mr. Rinow was awarded the Lancaster Fire Department Firefighter of the Year Award. From 2003 through 2017 Mr. Rinow served as the Lancaster Fire Department Chaplain, and in 2017, Mr. Rinow attained life membership status in the Lancaster Fire Department, after 67 years of active service. For all his noble work with the Lancaster Fire Department, Mr. Rinow was also named to the Erie County Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Wall of Honor. At the age of 20, Mr. Rinow married Shirley Pearles at Sacred Heart Church in Bowmansville, NY. Together, Mr. and Mrs. Rinow had six children: Judith; David; Daniel; Patricia; Albert, Jr.; and Nancy. Additionally, Mr. Rinow had 15 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and a great-great grandchild named Georgia. Of note, Mr. Rinow's son Daniel and his grandson Marc are 3rd and 4th generation firefighters with the Lancaster Fire Department. Mr. Rinow was also a man of faith and active in his church. Mr. Rinow worked as the cemetery director for St. Mary's Cemetery and served as a Eucharistic minister for the church. In his free time, Mr. Rinow also was a basketball coach, and enjoyed fishing. Madam Speaker, please join me in mourning Mr. Rinow's passing, and in honoring his life's work and all his achievements.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor and commemorate the lives lost this past weekend in Buffalo, New York. Katherine ``Kat'' Massey--72 Pearl Young--77 Roberta Drury--32 Ruth Whitfield--86 Geraldine Talley--62 Celestine Chaney--65 Heyward Patterson--67 Andre Mackniel--53 Margus Morrison--52 Aaron Salter--55 Madam Speaker, these are the names and the ages of the 0O people who were brutally and senselessly murdered in my hometown of Buffalo, New York. I rise to record their names in these hallowed Chambers. I stand here in solidarity for their deaths and for the suffering that their families and friends are enduring right now. I have thought of little else since this carnage occurred on a beautiful Saturday afternoon in Buffalo. The murderer--whom I will not give the satisfaction of saying his name--targeted this grocery store and this neighborhood because it was heavily populated with African Americans. As our sheriff, stated, this was a racially motivated act and this was a hate crime. I do not have the honor of representing this community in Congress, but I have represented it previously. I served for many years on the Buffalo Board of Education and frequented this area, there are many of our schools in close proximity. Through my service on the Buffalo Board of Education, I came to know Katherine ``Kat'' Massey who was one of the victims. Kat was a tireless advocate for Buffalo's children and her impact to her community will be felt for generations. I grew up in Buffalo. Buffalo is a great place for many reasons-- beautiful architecture, the shores of Lake Erie and the Niagara River, its bucolic neighborhoods all contribute--but what makes our community so very special is the people. Kind, warm, fun, with a priority on family, friends and community. That is, in my mind, what makes Buffalo the spectacularly special place it is. These 10 represented some of the best of Buffalo, and we mourn their tragic loss. I will conclude by saying this: our city is right now in the national spotlight. The politicians and the media have their sights set here due to this vile and horrific tragedy. But predictably and inevitably the national attention will fade, and it will be our community's task to heal and it's my great hope that we come together in this healing process. I hope we unify, and we do not succumb to division and polarization. In honor of those lost, in our healing we become a stronger and more loving community. I conclude by quoting a sign someone put in a front yard in our community that says: ``I love you. You're probably thinking, you don't even know me. But if people can hate for no reason, I can love.''

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of my amendment, which would be of great benefit to adult learners across this country, and especially in my home State of New York. New York State has had issues over the last several years in distributing these funds promptly. Independent programs typically operate on very thin budgets, so any delay in funding puts their operations in jeopardy. My amendment would ensure States are held accountable for distributing funding promptly by requiring the States to provide a timeline for distributing grants and contracts for adult basic education in the Unified State Plan, and specifying that funds must be distributed in a timely manner. The typical adult learner benefiting from title II funding is either an individual who was not able to access a K-12 education as a child or is a recent immigrant. Last September, I visited one of the adult education programs in my district, Literacy West New York, and I walked away very impressed by the adult learners there. Life certainly has not been easy for them, but that hasn't stopped them from pressing on and working to improve their lives. It is important we make sure that the resources promised to our Nation's adult learners, and the programs that support them, are available. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this amendment.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Mr. William Lorenz, Jr.'s devotion to our Western New York communities. Mr. Lorenz was born and raised in Buffalo, New York and has lived there his entire life. After high school, Mr. Lorenz attended Canisius College and graduated with a degree in political science and a classics minor. Mr. Lorenz was also member of the Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity at Canisius College, and after completing his undergraduate studies, Mr. Lorenz attended the University at Buffalo School of Law, where he graduated with an intellectual property concentration. Since graduating from law school, Mr. Lorenz has worked in the legal field, currently serving as a Senior Associate for the Mura Law Group. Mr. Lorenz has been volunteering in our Western New York communities for several years. He has raised thousands of dollars for various charities including the Mental Health Association of Erie County, Compeer of Greater Buffalo, Mercy Flight, Inc., and Hearts for the Homeless. Mr. Lorenz has also donated his time and expertise as a litigator by teaching and coaching the Canisius College Mock Trial Team. In 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr. Lorenz volunteered at social distancing parades for children with special needs, collected donations at food and blood drives, and delivered groceries to those unable to get groceries for themselves. While selflessly volunteering at these events, Mr. Lorenz found that there was a food shortage emergency in Western New York. After this realization, he partnered with FeedMore WNY to organize the first-ever Superhero Food Drive and he is now recognized as ``Buffalo's Best Batman.'' Through Mr. Lorenz's efforts, the Superhero Food Drive collected over 1,300 pounds of non-perishable donations in a single day. These donations were critical to helping those in need within our Western New York communities. I thank Mr. Lorenz for his commitment to community service and his dedication to our Western New York communities, and I believe that Mr. Lorenz exemplifies what it means to be a Western New Yorker. Madam Speaker, please join me in thanking Mr. Lorenz for service to our communities and in honoring the positive impact he has made and continues to have on New York's 27th Congressional District.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, today, on Holocaust Remembrance Day, I honor the life of Gerda Weissmann Klein, who passed away on April 3. Gerda was born in Poland in May 1925 and was only a teenager when her homeland was invaded by the Nazis. In 1942, she was sent to the Gross- Rosen camp system. In 1945, Gerda was taken on a 3-month death march through Czechoslovakia. Luckily, the failed ignition of an incendiary device saved Gerda and 120 other women, who were liberated soon after. After the war, Gerda immigrated to western New York, my home, to raise her family, and she traveled the country sharing her story. Gerda's first book, ``All But My Life,'' told her story and was adapted into an Oscar-winning documentary called ``One Survivor Remembers.'' Gerda has received numerous honors and awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Gerda also spoke before the United Nations General Assembly on the first International Holocaust Remembrance Day. Gerda is survived by 3 children, 8 grandchildren, and 18 great- grandchildren. May her memory be a blessing to us all.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to call up H.R. 471, the PAUSE Act, to protect all Americans from Biden's border crisis.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Hamburg Village Mayor Thomas J. Moses, Sr. in honor of his retirement and decades of service to his community. It's been an honor to represent the Village of Hamburg for a decade now, as Erie County Clerk, the New York State Senate, and now in Congress. All that time having the great honor to work with and get to know this truly good man and model public servant. Mayor Moses was born on April 1, 1947 and began serving the Village of Hamburg at the age of 11, when he volunteered at the playground. He graduated from Saints Peter & Paul and Hamburg High School in 1966, then attended Erie Community College. He was later hired by the Village and went on to serve as Recreation Supervisor for 32 years. Mayor Moses has worked to improve the lives of village residents by developing and improving Hamburg's parks and playgrounds, as well as by overseeing renovations to village assets like the Village Swim Center. Mayor Moses has always believed in volunteerism and community service. He was one of the founders of the Hamburg High School EMT program and is a member and past president of the Hamburg Volunteer Fire Department. He also served as Assistant Village Disaster Coordinator. Mayor Moses has served on numerous committees and boards, all with a focus on improving the aesthetics, services, opportunities, and educational offerings in the Village. During his 16 years of service as Hamburg Village Mayor, Mayor Moses oversaw the transformation of the Village of Hamburg with the Route 62 project that has drawn recognition from across the country. He has worked tirelessly to make the community he calls home a special place to live, and his leadership has made a significant impact on the Village of Hamburg. Mayor Moses has been married to his wife, Mary Lou Leyda, for 54 years. They have two sons, Tom Jr., and Tim, 6 grandkids, and 3 great- grandkids. Mayor Moses represents the very idea of public service and passion for his community is unmatched. Madam Speaker, please join me in congratulating Mayor Moses on his retirement, in thanking him for service, in wishing him a happy 75th birthday, and in honoring the positive impact he has had on the Village of Hamburg.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I thank Representative Joyce for holding this very important event today. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of the millions of Americans who are facing pain at the pump and around the Nation. On his first day in office, President Biden signaled to the world that American energy independence was no longer a priority. He canceled the Keystone XL pipeline on day one. He made regulatory changes to make new domestic production incredibly punitive. He put a moratorium on all new drilling on Federal lands. The President's actions set the high prices we are seeing today in motion. Long before Russia invaded Ukraine, Americans were getting squeezed by the inflationary tax caused by careless and unrealistic policymaking. In fact, the national average for a gallon of gasoline had risen over a dollar in the year before Russia took this malign action. International events have sent prices higher in the past week, but the administration cannot hide from the fact that their policies have amplified this financial crisis. The solution to this crisis is clear-- American production and energy independence are the best protections we have at our disposal. The President must reverse the course of his administration immediately and allow the full force of the U.S. energy industry to be unleashed in Americans' time of need. Banning Russian oil imports out of principle is one thing, but it rings of hypocrisy when the administration turns around and immediately begins negotiating with vile dictators in Iran and Venezuela. The solution is no better there, and simply expands our dependence on hostile foreign nations for our economic and national security. Madam Speaker, perhaps the administration does not want to admit their early anti-energy moves were wrong, but American energy and financial security cannot hinge on the egos of the President and his staff. It is time to get out of the way of American production, allow our producers to increase capacity, and deliver affordable energy to the American people free from malign influence. Our future prosperity and national security depends on it.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I hereby remove my name as cosponsor of H.R. 1440.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize World War II Veteran John Long for his 95th Birthday and his service to our Nation. At the end of his senior year in high school in June 1945, John Long was drafted into the United States Army. He was sent to Camp Wheeler in Macon, Georgia for basic infantry training, and it was there that he and his fellow young recruits learned that they were being trained in preparation for the invasion of Japan. These young infantrymen were being trained with the knowledge and understanding that a major military invasion was being planned that would likely lead to tremendous U.S. sacrifices of more than a million casualties. Ultimately, President Harry S. Truman was unwilling to sacrifice so many American lives and changed the course of history by ordering the first nuclear bomb dropped on Japan. After the Japanese surrender, Dr. Long's First Infantry Division was sent to Germany to serve in the Army of Occupation, allowing long serving service members to return home. Grateful that his life was spared, Dr. Long returned home after his service with a deep sense of gratitude and pride and earned his Doctor of Chiropractic under the G.I. Bill. Dr. Long has always held a strong commitment to his fellow veterans and community service. He is a life member of many veterans' organizations and has been recognized on countless occasions for his service to the community. Turning 95 years old, today, on January 18, 2022, Dr. Long looks back on his dual careers as both a chiropractor and dedicated public servant with great pride and a deep and abiding affection for his country and his community. Dr. Long is a true American patriot and the 27th Congressional District of New York is deeply grateful for his service and wishes him a happy 95th birthday.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate and honor the 100th birthday of Ms. Elsie Hartmann. Ms. Hartmann was born in Dansville, New York, on January 9, 1922, to Ray and Ruth Finch. As a child, she was adventurous, loved the outdoors, and was a proud member of the Girl Scouts. Ms. Hartmann graduated from Dansville High School in 1939 and served as Senior Class Treasurer alongside her future husband Austin ``Mush'' Hartmann, who was Senior Class President. After high school, Ms. Hartmann attended Cortland Normal School for one year as a Physical Education major, and then enrolled at the Rochester Business Institute and graduated with a certificate in Secretarial Science. After graduating, Ms. Hartmann accepted a job as a clerk in the Methods and Tool Design department at Gleason Works, a machine shop in Rochester, New York. In 1943, Ms. Hartmann left Gleason Works and enlisted with the U.S. Marine Corps and was part of the second group of women to enlist with the U.S. Marine Corps. Ms. Hartmann joined the Marine Corps to become a mechanic, but because of Ms. Hartmann's secretarial background, she was sent to Arlington, Virginia, to work at the headquarters of the U.S. Marine Corps. At the end of WWII, Ms. Hartmann was discharged with the rank of Sergeant, and in 1946 she married her high school sweetheart, Mush Hartmann. Ms. Hartmann enjoys the simple things of life, bird watching and flower gardening, and is happiest when her house is filled with family. As the proud matriarch of her large family, which is comprised of 6 children, 13 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren, she attends as many of their events as possible, including high school and military graduations, school performances and sporting events. Ms. Hartmann still lives at the Hartmann Homestead, which has been in her family for over 170 years. Ms. Hartmann is very talented both artistically and musically. She still sings in her church choir and plays the hand bells. At various times in her life, Ms. Hartmann played the violin, piano, flute, tap- danced, was involved in various singing groups, and participated in community theatre. Ms. Hartmann's calligraphy work can be seen throughout Dansville and West Sparta, including on the wall of the Clara Barton Chapter 1 Museum, and at the Dansville Presbyterian Church in their Memorial Book and on the inside front cover of every hymnal that is used today. In 2012, a flag-size banner that Ms. Hartmann hand- lettered, was taken up to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro by a Dansville native. Ms. Hartmann has always remained involved with her local community. Ms. Hartmann is the oldest and longest serving member and choir member of the Dansville Presbyterian Church, and is a long-time member of the West Sparta Historical Society. In 2004, Ms. Hartmann and her husband Mush were chosen as Livingston County Senior Citizens of the Year. In 2014, Ms. Hartmann had the honor of participating in Rochester Honor Flight mission No. 35 and that same year, was chosen as the honorary Grand Marshal of West Sparta's Old-Fashioned Day celebration. Madam Speaker, please join me in honoring Ms. Elsie Hartmann for her service to our country and in celebrating her 100th birthday.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Erie County Sheriff Timothy B. Howard for a long and dedicated career in law enforcement and public service. Sheriff Howard's career has spanned over four decades, including 24 years with the New York State Police, where he reached the rank of Staff Inspector, the fourth highest rank in an agency comprised of over 4,000 employees. In 1998, Sheriff Howard was appointed Erie County Undersheriff, and served in that role until he became Sheriff on January 1, 2005 due to the resignation of the previous Erie County Sheriff. Sheriff Howard was elected for his first full four-year term in 2005, and was re-elected in 2009, 2013, and 2017. Sheriff Howard is also the longest-serving Erie County Sheriff since 1821, when the post was established--a testament to his dedication to serving Erie Country, and the positive impact he has had on the county. Sheriff Howard also currently serves as the co-chair of Homeland Security Zone 15. Sheriff Howard is a true law and order Sheriff, and he has demonstrated his heroism and commitment to his community throughout his career. Among Sheriff Howard's many notable awards, he has received the Superintendent's Unit Citation Award, the Hero's Award of the 100 Club of Buffalo, the Erie County Law Enforcement Award, the Judges and Police Conference Outstanding Law Enforcement Award, the Attorney General's Award, and the Brummer Award, which is highest award given in the New York State Police. Sheriff Howard has also received a New York State Legislative Proclamation in honor of his work. Sheriff Howard graduated from the FBI National Academy in 2000 and has a master's degree in Criminal Justice from SUNY Albany. In addition to his tireless work protecting the community, Sheriff Howard has prioritized educating the next generation of law enforcement officers-- teaching at both the New York State Police Academy and the Rochester Institute of Technology. After a long and remarkable career in law enforcement, Sheriff Howard is leaving his post to pursue a new opportunity as the Supervisor of the Town of Wales. Words cannot express the debt of gratitude the people of Erie County owe to Sheriff Howard for his decades of work taking dangerous criminals off the street, rescuing those in danger, and improving every community he has touched. Madam Speaker, please join me in congratulating Sheriff Howard on his retirement, in thanking him for service, and in honoring the positive impact he has had on Erie County.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I am recorded as not voting on Roll Call No. 412, On Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass, as Amended H.R. 1155--Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act. Had I been recorded, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 412.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Lancaster Public Library in the Town of Lancaster, New York on its bicentennial anniversary. The Lancaster Public Library was founded in 1821 as the ``Cayuga Creek Veterans' Library Society'' in honor of the estimated forty veterans from the American Revolution and War of 1812 that founded the library. The library grew considerably over the years, moving from the Johnson School House to the Lancaster Presbyterian Church in 1832. It then moved to the Town Hall in 1896 and then to the Potter Estate in 1940 after the residence was donated by Mrs. Fanny Potter Eaton. In 1947, the growing Village of Depew located within the Town of Lancaster opened its own branch library, enabling even more Western New Yorkers to read and learn. By 1964, the Depew branch had opened its own exclusive facility until the Lancaster and Depew libraries merged in 2005. Today, the Lancaster Public Library is one of the most vibrant and community-oriented libraries in the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library System. The library hosts various programs for all community members to enjoy. In recent years, the library has organized institutional staples for children such as story hours, crafting, and science activities. For adults the library hosts lectures series from local leaders on business, STEM topics, government affairs, and the arts. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Lancaster Public Library worked to provide extensive virtual programming for the residents of Lancaster. Additionally, raffles, giveaways, and chicken barbeque fundraisers also help to promote the Lancaster Public Library's close- knit relationship with our community. The Lancaster Public Library also partners with other local organizations and agencies to enhance their patrons' library experiences. Through the Lancaster Historical Society, the library has been able to compile photography displays of Lancaster from its humble beginnings to the bustling town that it is today. With Frosty's Ice Cream, a Lancaster favorite, the library has organized scavenger hunts for children with Frosty's coupons as prizes. Finally, the Lancaster Public Library has worked closely with the Erie County Department of Health to keep community members knowledgeable about COVID-19 and vaccinations. The library has forwarded public health directives and created public forums for citizens to speak directly with county health officials. I thank the Lancaster Public Library for its tireless efforts serving the community since its founding and I again congratulate the library on its bicentennial anniversary.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Village of Orchard Park, New York, on its centennial anniversary. The Village of Orchard Park is a beautiful, tranquil village that lies in western New York, and I am honored to call it my home. The Village of Orchard Park was founded in 1921. The area of present-day Orchard Park was historically referred to as an ``uncultivated part of nature's garden'' and was said to resemble a ``park of orchards.'' The early pioneers of Orchard Park worked to transform a forest into the beautiful community it is today. They built residences, churches, and public places which remain important parts of the culture and values of today's Orchard Park. Many great businesses and businesspeople have hailed from the Village of Orchard Park, including Harry Yates. Mr. Yates moved from Buffalo to Orchard Park and purchased multiple farms, including roughly 3,500 acres of land. Mr. Yates created and donated Green Lake to the Orchard Park community, which is still enjoyed today by residents and visitors. Mr. Yates also donated the land for the construction of two churches, Nativity of Our Lord Roman Catholic and St. John's Lutheran. The Village of Orchard Park centennial celebrates the best of America. These communities are the incubators of local politics, commerce, education, recreation, entertainment, and faith for our village neighborhoods. I am proud to congratulate the citizens of the Village of Orchard Park on their 100th anniversary. I believe that it is important to recognize their unique contribution to the development of western New York and wish them happiness and prosperity during the next 100 years.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, Democrats claim their bill will cost $1.7 trillion. That number, by itself, should cause alarm. But this number is reached through budget gimmicks. If Democrats succeed in making the provisions of this bill permanent, as they have publicly said they intend to do, then the cost will be much, much higher. The Penn-Wharton Budget Model estimates total spending for this bill would be $4.6 trillion over 10 years if the provisions are made permanent. The Committee for a Responsible Budget estimates the cost at $4.9 trillion. If Democrats are going to spend this kind of money, they should at least be honest about the true cost to the American people. I urge my colleagues to reject this reckless spending.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for his service and sacrifice to our country. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support, as well, of H.R. 1476 to allocate more resources to our American heroes struggling with post- traumatic stress disorder, PTSD, and traumatic brain injury. Madam Speaker, as we become more aware of mental health, we must ensure that we make every possible effort to help those who served our Nation and are now struggling. It is estimated that 11 to 20 percent of veterans suffer from PTSD, and almost 500,000 veterans have suffered a TBI in the past 20 years. These injuries were incurred protecting our Nation and defending our freedom across numerous wars. Certainly this conversation surrounding mental health has gained a new national spotlight in the past number of months as veterans witnessed the chaotic and reckless withdrawal from Afghanistan. My office has received numerous calls from veterans in my district who are deeply disturbed by the events we have witnessed, and many are experiencing new grief and pain. Similarly, it was reported that the veterans crisis hotline saw a recent surge in both texts and calls from veterans struggling with mental health around the Nation. There is no greater honor or act of selflessness than to sign up to serve our Nation in our military. We have a moral and sworn obligation to protect those who sacrificed protecting us, and we have an obligation to ensure any veteran can access the resources they need. I proudly cosponsored the PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Peer Support Program Act as one solution to this complex problem. I would say I knew full well how well this program operated as a member of the State senate trying to carry on the great work and the creation of Congressman Zeldin when he was in the State senate. I want to thank him for his leadership on this issue and carrying this forward to the Federal level so more areas can benefit from it. Supporting our veterans is a bipartisan issue we can all get behind. There is no room to debate this issue, only room for action to help our American heroes. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in cosponsoring H.R. 1476, and I urge this body to move efficiently to provide more mental health and brain injury resources to hundreds of thousands of veterans across the Nation who desperately need it. I am grateful for this opportunity.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today in opposition to the Democrats' radical reconciliation package and, specifically, their plans to weaponize the IRS and dramatically expand the agency's reach into the lives of everyday Americans. Originally, Democrats' plan was to hire thousands of new IRS agents to surveil the bank accounts of Americans who have $600 or more in their accounts. While they have upped that amount in the legislation to $10,000 in deposits and withdrawals, this would still subject every American working at least a minimum wage job, who has a bank account, to government intrusion. I can tell you, and I think most of my colleagues would agree, that I have not had a constituent call and beg me for more IRS agents or for the agency to have increased ability to monitor their accounts. Rather, my constituents are concerned this proposal represents an attempt by the administration to weaponize and politicize the IRS and fund their partisan agenda. I believe Americans are entitled to privacy and constitutional rights. This proposal is a dramatic overreach and emblematic of this administration's priorities: expand the government's control over everyday Americans.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Buffalo Medical Group on its 75th anniversary. In 1946, Drs. Ramsdell Gurney, Murray S. Howland, Jr., George F. Koepf, and Frank Meyers came together to form the Buffalo Medical Group. At its founding, the Buffalo Medical Group was one of the first group physician practices in Western New York. Today, the Buffalo Medical Group continues to deliver high-quality patient care, and I am honored to represent it in Congress. The founding physicians of the Buffalo Medical Group served in World War II, where they were exposed to the group practice model. Unlike the solo practice model, which was the norm at the time, the group practice model allows for greater shared clinical experience and access to information. It also broadens the scope of a practice, enables a group to provide care to more patients, and allows physicians to practice medicine more effectively. Given these benefits, a year after the war, these doctors brought the group practice model to their community, establishing the Buffalo Medical Group. By 1963, the practice consisted of ten physicians and had widespread name recognition throughout Western New York. Several years later, to accommodate the growing practice and its new patients, the group constructed its own office building at 85 High Street, which still functions as a Buffalo Medical Group office today. Buffalo Medical Group's continued success led to the construction of additional major offices in Williamsville, NY in 1986 and in Orchard Park, NY in 1999. After 75 years, the Buffalo Medical Group has grown into one of the largest multi-specialty physician practice groups in New York State. Today, the group has 135 physicians, 115 advanced practice professionals, 725 employees, and 34 surgical and medical departments that occupy four main offices and seven satellite offices throughout Western New York. The Buffalo Medical Group records more than 850,000 outpatient visits annually and continues to maintain a strong and positive presence in Western New York. The Buffalo Medical Group has employed exceptional physicians, including Dr. Richard Cooper, who developed the ``Cooper regimen'' of chemotherapy for advanced breast cancer, and Dr. Scott Tu Iman, who performed the first laparoscopic splenectomy in North America. More recently, in October 2021, Dr. John Notaro of Buffalo Medical Group was honored nationwide as a ``Best Physician'' during National Primary Care Week. The group is also admired for its early adoption of innovative medical technologies and software. Over a decade before Congress created federal subsidies to incentivize the use of electronic health record systems, the Buffalo Medical Group implemented its own electronic health record system. This early investment created long- term benefits for both the practice and patients alike. I thank all the doctors and employees of the Buffalo Medical Group for their unwavering commitment to wellness and patient care, and I again congratulate the group on its 75th anniversary.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I urge the Democratic leadership to heed the message of Senator Joe Manchin and take a strategic pause on the $4.3 trillion reconciliation bill they are attempting to pass. To spend this amount of money on top of the nearly $6 trillion we have spent on COVID since last March is reckless to say the least. We should not forget the long-term debt crisis we are facing. The graph beside me shows how dire this fiscal outlook is. By 2051, as is shown in this chart, the Congressional Budget Office projects our debt will reach 202 percent of the GDP. In other words, more than twice our annual output. And that does not include the $4.3 trillion the Democrats are proposing to spend in this reconciliation package. This will far exceed the debt levels even after World War II. As you can see in the graph, at the end of World War II our debt fell sharply and continued falling for several decades. Madam Speaker, this body needs to come together now, just as we did back after World War II, to get our fiscal house in order. I know no one here wants to see this projection become reality where we will have record and unsustainable debt loads for decades and decades to come. I urge my Democratic colleagues to end their reckless spending proposals and work with us to get our fiscal house back in order. This cannot be the legacy we leave for our children and our grandchildren.

Mr. JACOBS of New York

Mr. JACOBS of New York. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Genesee Symphony Orchestra on its 75th consecutive season. One of the oldest civic orchestras in New York State, the Genesee Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1947 as the Batavia Civic Orchestra, with a mission to enrich the local community with high-quality performances, educational opportunities, and guest artists. Under the leadership of its three founders, Mr. Norman Hall, Mr. Hugh Lawing, and Dr. Biagio Mansuetto, the orchestra performed its first concert at the Dipson Theatre in Batavia, New York on November 6, 1947. Under the direction of conductor Jan Wolanek, the concert was played to a sell- out crowd of 1,400 people. As the orchestra became more popular and its influence grew beyond the city of Batavia, in 1958 its management changed the orchestra's name to the Genesee Symphony Orchestra. The Genesee Symphony Orchestra has been an important institution within the surrounding community since its founding, including in recent years. In addition to its annual concerts, the Genesee Symphony Orchestra holds an annual ``Young Artists Competition,'' allowing high school students to compete for the opportunity to perform with the orchestra. The orchestra also holds an annual ``Meet the Orchestra'' event and a ``String Workshop.'' The Genesee Symphony Orchestra is proud to have hosted a wide array of talented individuals during its 75-year history, including fifteen renowned conductors and hundreds of musicians. The orchestra has welcomed musical talent ranging from world-class artists and composers, to more locally known soloists. I thank all musicians, conductors, and members of the Board of Directors for their unwavering commitment to bringing arts, culture, and entertainment to Western New York, and I again congratulate the orchestra on its 75th anniversary.