John Joyce

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, right now, our Nation is facing a growing workforce crisis. For anyone who is paying attention, the most recent jobs report was incredibly disappointing, but it wasn't a surprise. Nearly everywhere I go across my district in Pennsylvania, I see ``help wanted'' signs. Every day, I hear from small businesses that are struggling to hire and struggling to keep staff. Despite the progress that we are making in our fight against the COVID-19 virus, Democrats are continuing their Big Government, socialist plans. This alarming workforce trend is rooted in the Democrat's scheme to keep paying people to stay at home, and it must end now. Thanks to American innovation and the success of Operation Warp Speed, our Nation is winning the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Safe vaccines are the key to restoring our personal liberties, eradicating this virus, getting our kids back to school full time, and, yes, getting the American people back to work. Just like every previous challenge in our history, I know that our Nation has the potential to recover from this pandemic and to recover stronger than ever before. This truly is the American way. To succeed, we cannot allow President Biden and the Democrats to sabotage our forward momentum. From day one in office, the President has promised Big Government interference that comes with higher taxes and more regulation for American businesses. Now, in the name of so-called infrastructure reforms, the Biden administration is flaunting job-killing plans that would crush America's and Pennsylvania's robust manufacturing and energy industries. Mr. Speaker, job-killing schemes and higher taxes are not the answer to the problem that lies in front of us. The dignity of work is a core tenet of our national fabric. This belief has motivated the generations of courageous Americans who built and forged our Nation. Now it is once again time to get America safely back to work. Alongside President Trump, I worked hard to advance a pro-growth agenda to support the workforce and create American jobs for American workers. We need to return to these solutions today to secure our success for tomorrow. American workers are the key to our recovery. They are truly essential. For centuries, hard work has been the key to uplifting families and achieving the American Dream. We cannot allow this longstanding tradition to be lost. For the sake of our workforce and for our communities, we must uphold the dignity of work. We must support the workforce, and we must get our Nation back on the road to recovery.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Wesley R. Fugate, Ph.D. for his service as the 20th President of Wilson College in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Since commencing in this leadership role in January of 2020, Dr. Fugate has overcome challenges stemming from the pandemic. His strategic planning process has resulted in the implementation of six new undergraduate majors, along with a new degree completion program, a graduate program, and a new endorsement and certification program. These offerings have provided a strategic boost to the academic offerings at Wilson College, and his hard work is paving the way for continued advancement. Prior to his work at Wilson College, Dr. Fugate served as the Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students, Vice President and Chief of Staff, Secretary of the Board of Trustees, and Interim Vice President for Employment Management at Randolph College. He also served as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Planning and Education Policy to the Governor of Kentucky. As a community leader, Dr. Fugate has demonstrated great dedication and participation in local civic organizations. In our region, he has served on a number of leadership boards, including the Greater Chambersburg Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Fugate earned his doctorate in higher education from the University of Georgia's Institute of Higher Education. He received his master's degree from Vanderbilt University and his bachelor's degree from Centre College. In recognition of his outstanding achievements, Dr. Fugate has received many awards, including the Alice L. Beeman Research Award in Communications and Marketing for Educational Advancement for an Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation from the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education. As a leader, Dr. Fugate is propelling a forward-looking vision for Wilson College. It is my privilege to serve the students and academic community of Franklin County alongside him. I thank Dr. Fugate for his work in our community, and I wish him every continued success.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Martin's Famous Pastry Shoppe in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania for its outstanding leadership and service to our local community and beyond. Like many Pennsylvania businesses, Martin's Famous Pastry Shoppe faced unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these obstacles, Martin's continued its essential work to feed the American people and protect their workers' livelihoods. Now led by President James ``Jim'' Martin, this family-owned company was first established as a small bakery in 1968. Since then, it has expanded broadly in both market reach and workforce. Today, Martin's Famous Pastry Shoppe employs hardworking Americans in Franklin County and around the country. Throughout its decades of service, Martin's Famous Pastry Shoppe has maintained a clear focus on community outreach and support. Starting with founders Lloyd and Lois Martin, the organization has prioritized community focus. Each year, this company gives back to our Chambersburg community and supports charities in Pennsylvania and around the world. On behalf of the 13th District of Pennsylvania, I am honored to recognize Martin's Famous Pastry Shoppe for its incredible work and legacy. It is my privilege to work alongside Jim Martin and his team in our shared service to Franklin County, and I wish them continued success.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Stuckey Automotive in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania for its commitment to the United States flag and our community. Since 1985, Stuckey Ford has proudly flown a 50-foot American flag. This patriotic display has become a hallmark of the Hollidaysburg landscape. This week, a flag-raising ceremony will mark the replacement of the original flagpole. I am proud to join the Stuckey Family and members of our community for this cherished event to witness the initial flag- raising. As we commemorate this transition, I thank Matt Stuckey, President of Stuckey Automotive, and his team for their unwavering commitment to the flag. This longstanding tradition is an important part of our community fabric, and it showcases Blair County's great respect for our Nation's flag. A leader in Blair County, Stuckey Automotive is a key part of our community and local economy. First founded as Replogle Motor Company, its history began before World War II. Will and Barbara Stuckey bought the business, which was incorporated as Will Stuckey Ford in 1959. For decades, Stuckey Automotive has grown in both size and workforce. Today, with nearly 300 employees, this family-owned business remains committed to its mission of delivering exemplary service to Pennsylvanians. On behalf of the 13th District of Pennsylvania, I am honored to recognize Stuckey Automotive for its incredible commitment to our community and our nation, and I look forward to the continuation of this patriotic display.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, equal justice under the law is a cornerstone of our American democracy. At home in Pennsylvania and around our country, our communities are blessed with dedicated law enforcement officers who work daily to protect and to serve. During National Police Week, the American people honor and thank the law enforcement officers who keep us safe each and every day. While no organization is perfect, our local police work hard to uphold the law and maintain peace in our communities. As Chambersburg Police Chief Ron Camacho told me just this week, good police forces are centered on protecting and learning how to protect better. He said that good police forces are constantly evolving and improving. I wholeheartedly agree with my friend, the chief of police in Chambersburg, and Congress must do our part to support these heroes. Instead of talking about defunding the police, we should be working to better train and equip law enforcement officers to do the job that we have entrusted them to do. As we move forward, the American people know that Republicans are leading commonsense, bipartisan solutions. For over a year, Senator Tim Scott and Congressman Pete Stauber have led our efforts to improve transparency, accountability, and training. Rather than defund or dismantle the police, the Justice Act will enact bipartisan reforms to better equip these brave Americans who serve our communities. I was proud to cosponsor that legislation, and I encourage my colleagues on all sides of the political spectrum to join us in this commonsense approach. Democrats say that they want to work together on police reform. Now is the chance. Getting this right today is critical for the future of policing in our Nation. We cannot allow the radical left to erode trust in the justice system and degrade the good name of the public servants for the sake of their own woke agenda. Right now, our law enforcement community is facing unprecedented attacks. Every day, the left threatens to abandon these heroes who protect us. Chief Camacho leads an exemplary police force in Franklin County, Pennsylvania. He and the vast majority of the law enforcement community go above and beyond to protect our communities. As a nation, we must never turn our backs on the police. We must never defund the police. During National Police Week and throughout this year, it is my privilege to stand with the thin blue line, and I will always back the blue.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, during National Police Week, it is my honor to pay tribute to all of the men and women who put their lives on the line to serve and protect all of our communities. In Pennsylvania and around the country, including here in Congress, dedicated law enforcement officers show up for work every day and quietly do the job that we have entrusted to them. They uphold the law, they promote safety, and, most importantly, they preserve human life. Far too often these officers, unfortunately, do not come home. Today I ask that the American people join me in remembering our Nation's fallen police officers and honoring their service and their sacrifice. More than a profession, law enforcement is truly a calling. Whether on the streets of Pennsylvania, on our borders, or across our great Nation, I thank our law enforcement officers for answering the call to serve the American people.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the military spouses of Cambria and Somerset Counties and to commemorate the 12th Annual Military Spouse Appreciation Day Ceremony in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan established that the Friday before Mother's Day would be Military Spouses Appreciation Day, which honors the service and sacrifice of military spouses. Like their partners in uniform, military spouses also answer the call to serve our nation. Their unwavering commitment to our servicemembers and families is a key part of America's story and success. As the husband of a Naval officer, I understand firsthand the challenges that many military spouses face, and I am incredibly grateful for their role in supporting our Armed Forces and the defense of our Nation. Today's ceremony, made possible by the Johnstown Veteran Community Initiatives, Wessel & Company, and the American Red Cross, is a well- deserved opportunity to recognize these outstanding Pennsylvanians who have sacrificed so much. On behalf of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, it is my privilege to honor the military spouses of Cambria and Somerset Counties and to thank them for their service and sacrifice for our Nation. On Military Spouse Appreciation Day and every day of the year, I ask that Pennsylvanians join me in praying for the wellbeing and perseverance of our local military families--as well as for the peace and safety of our Nation.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Dave Peoples for his decades of service to the Huntingdon County community as he retires from the Juniata Valley Emergency Medical Service. After volunteering for the fire department, Dave began his tenure as an EMT in 1979. During his time as a first responder, he has witnessed remarkable advancements in his profession. While the role of EMTs has changed over the years, the need for compassionate and capable providers has not. Throughout his career, including the COVID-19 pandemic, Dave has remained a vital and consistent presence in the Huntingdon County EMS community, mentoring new EMTs and providing outstanding patient care. For more than four decades, Dave Peoples' steadfast service has saved lives and benefitted the people of Huntingdon County. As this local hero retires following 42 years of service with the Juniata Valley and Huntingdon Emergency Medical Services, it is my honor to recognize his leadership, dedication, and grace under pressure. I thank Dave and his family for his many contributions to our community, and I wish him and the Peoples family every continued happiness in the chapters to come.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mayor Richard ``Dick'' Starliper for his outstanding service to the Waynesboro community. For decades, Mayor Starliper has demonstrated his dedication to the people of Waynesboro. Currently, he is serving in his 16th year in office. Prior to his tenure as mayor, he served as a Waynesboro Borough Councilman for 14 years. During this time, worked to promote small businesses, expand Waynesboro's historic downtown, cut taxes, and ensure the safety of Waynesboro residents. In addition to his official duties, Mayor Starliper is an active participant in the Waynesboro community and other civic organizations. He is a member of the Greater Waynesboro Chamber of Commerce, the Waynesboro Beneficial Fund, the Pennsylvania State Mayors Association, and the Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs, as well as the president of the Bums Hill Cemetery Association. Mayor Starliper also founded the Franklin County Mayor's Association, which encourages communication between county leaders. Mayor Starliper is an incredible asset to the Waynesboro community. His steadfast dedication to our community has made Waynesboro a better place to live, work, and raise a family. It is my privilege to serve the people of Waynesboro alongside Mayor Starliper, and I wish him continued success in this vital work.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor G. William Ward as he celebrates his 90th birthday on May 6, 2021. For decades, Mr. Ward has been a pillar of our Blair County community. After serving in the U.S. Navy, Mr. Ward became the President of Ward Transportation and Logistics Company in 1966. Within three years, Mr. Ward expanded the company to more than 500 employees. Under his leadership, Ward Transportation and Logistics flourished, expanding to new locations across the Mid-Atlantic region. Mr. Ward's hard work to build his business has been invaluable to the growth and economic success of our community. Throughout his life, Mr. Ward has devoted his time and talents to serving his family, our nation, and our community. He married his wife Carolyn (Williams) in 1953, and they celebrated 64 years of marriage before her death in 2017. Mr. Ward has five children, 12 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. He has been a dedicated member of our community, serving on many statewide and local boards and civic organizations. On behalf of the 13th Congressional District of Pennsylvania, it is my privilege to recognize G. William Ward for his outstanding service to our neighbors and our nation. As he celebrates this milestone, I wish my friend a very happy 90th birthday, as well as continued health and happiness.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of my friend John Francis Gority, who passed away on April 12, at the age of 74. Throughout his life, John devoted himself to our nation and our community. A veteran of the Vietnam War, John was awarded a purple heart after being wounded in the line of duty. After returning home to Blair County, John worked tirelessly to serve local veterans. In addition to serving as Post Commander of the Altoona Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 3, John was also a member of Catholic War Veterans, the American Legion's Gallitzin Chapter, and Disabled American Veterans. A 1965 graduate of Bishop Guilfoyle High School, John continued his education at Penn State University, where he studied business administration. As a businessman, he owned and operated Broadway Sharpening and Gority Cabinetry for more than 30 years. John was a staple of the Blair County Community. In addition to his work with local veterans, John also served as a leader of the Blair County Historical Society, Open Doors for the Handicapped, Eastern Amputee Golf Association, Fire Base Eagle, and Bravo Company. As a community leader, John Francis Gority exemplified a life of service to our nation and to his neighbors. On behalf of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, it is my privilege to honor John for his many contributions. I extend my deepest condolences to John's devoted wife Donna, their two daughters, and four grandchildren as they mourn this great loss.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise to congratulate Rebecca Wright, a student at Windber Area High School, on being crowned the 74th Maple Queen at the Pennsylvania Maple Festival. A pianist, Rebecca earned accolades at the competition for her performance of ``Midnight Rhapsody,'' including the Anna Ruth Thomas Memorial Talent Award. She also won the Promenade Award and the Interview Award. As the Maple Queen, Rebecca will represent Somerset County's robust maple industry. Since 1947, the Pennsylvania Maple Festival has been hosted by maple producers from across the region to showcase maple production. On behalf of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Rebecca and her family on this incredible achievement. As Rebecca commences her service as Maple Queen, I wish her every continued success.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of my friend Nancy Hicks Sheetz of Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, who passed away on April 16. Nancy Hicks Sheetz was an incredible community leader whose dedication defined our region's art and culture landscape. As a lifelong supporter of the theater community, Nancy worked tirelessly to advocate for the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art. She was an outstanding artist, actress, and musician who used her talents to bless others. A lifelong Blair County resident, Nancy was born on July 9, 1935 in East Freedom and attended Altoona High School, where she was elected president of her class and graduated in 1953. She was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother whose compassion and care for her family was evident to everyone she met. In addition to her artistic pursuits, Nancy served the Altoona community as a member of the Blair County Historical Society. We also shared a love of gardening. On behalf of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, it is my privilege to celebrate the life of Nancy Hicks Sheetz and honor her legacy. She leaves a profound void in the community that I share alongside all who knew her. As we remember Nancy for her many contributions to Blair County and our commonwealth, I extend my deepest condolences to the Sheetz family.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize Kasey Meredith of Johnstown, Pennsylvania as she is named the Cadet First Captain and Regimental Commander of the Virginia Military Institute's Corps of Cadets. A trailblazer, Cadet Meredith will be the first woman to hold the position in the Institute's 181-year history. As Regimental Commander, Cadet Meredith will oversee the training, discipline, fitness, and morale of the Corps. She currently is a member of the U.S. Marine Corps Recruit Officers Training Program. Upon her graduation and successful completion of the program, Cadet Meredith will receive her commission as a Second Lieutenant of Marines. Cadet Kasey Meredith's selection as Regimental Commander is a testament to her strong academic performance, determination, and leadership. On behalf of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, it is my privilege to recognize outstanding Pennsylvanians as they answer the call to serve our nation. I proudly congratulate Cadet Meredith on earning this well-deserved position and wish her every continued success.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 2630, to extend the temporary emergency scheduling of fentanyl analogues. In the rural Pennsylvania communities that I represent, the fentanyl crisis is anything but temporary. Every day, we experience the ramifications of the opioid epidemic, which has only been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. As the Franklin County coroner, Jeff Connor, told me just this week, ``Fentanyl is easy to get and fast to kill.'' This is true across our entire Commonwealth. In my home of Blair County, we suffered an 80 percent increase in overdose deaths in 2020. As I have heard directly from our county coroner, Patty Ross, there is no question that the widespread availability of illicit fentanyl is a substantial factor in our region's drug epidemic. Fentanyl already poses a deadly threat to our communities. If we don't act to extend the fentanyl import ban before it expires next month, we will invite massive vulnerabilities in our shared fight against the opioid crisis. In Pennsylvania and around the country, we need more accountability for those who bring illicit fentanyl into our communities. H.R. 2630 is lifesaving legislation that will give law enforcement and the justice system the tools that they need to keep this dangerous illicit drug off of our streets. This temporary fix needs to be the bridge to a permanent solution to protect the American people. We do not have time to waste. By passing this bipartisan legislation, we can protect families, equip those on the front line, and prevent tragedy. For the health and safety of our communities, I urge a ``yes'' vote.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, as the son of a civil engineer, I was raised with an understanding of the value of infrastructure that serves people and benefits communities. My commitment to infrastructure has spanned decades. As a young man, I put shovel to the road for the construction of highways and bridges; and now, today, I advocate for infrastructure improvements in Congress. As we know all too well in rural Pennsylvania, infrastructure has real-life consequences for communities. At its core, improving roads, bridges, and other key infrastructure should be a commonsense, bipartisan priority. Failing infrastructure does not discriminate. A broken bridge can harm Democrats just as it can harm Republicans. Unfortunately, the so-called infrastructure reform put forth by President Biden fails to take seriously the challenges that we are currently facing in Pennsylvania and around the entire country. In the rural district that I represent, we know the importance of true infrastructure. We need to make our roadways and bridges safer, we need to improve our transportation systems, and we desperately need to deploy reliable internet to those lacking access to broadband. This is what true infrastructure is. But, unfortunately, that is not the Biden plan. Let's look at the facts. In President Biden's infrastructure plan, less than 6 percent would go to roads and bridges; less than 2 percent would go to waterways, locks, dams, ports, and airports; and less than 5 percent, unfortunately, would go to broadband. With $600 billion devoted to the Green New Deal, this has never been about infrastructure. In Pennsylvania, the extreme policies championed in the Biden plan will crush our vital manufacturing and energy industries. This plan prioritizes the progressive agenda over the needs of the American workers and small businesses. In the name of infrastructure, Democrats want to kill jobs, raise taxes, burden families, and stunt our recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, I ask a very simple question: Is it worth it? As we seek to define infrastructure and consider improvements to our Nation's fundamental infrastructure needs, I urge all of my colleagues to dispense with the political games. We need roads, bridges, and reliable internet. We do not need the Green New Deal. Stop calling this infrastructure. Stop hiding progressive policies in trojan horses. Stop trying to trick the American people. While I stand ready to work with the President and House Democrats on what is true infrastructure reform, this plan is further evidence that the Biden-Harris administration are more happy to push their radical agenda at the expense of hardworking Americans. Instead of propelling these radical policies, this could be a good- faith opportunity to deliver results for the American people. If we work together, we can get this job done. From deploying rural broadband to sustaining our basic roads, we must bridge this divide.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, the Second Amendment is a fundamental piece of the U.S. Constitution. The right to keep and bear arms is one of Americans' inalienable freedoms. This has been true for centuries, and despite what the White House would like you to think, this is still true. Right now, the left is advancing unprecedented threats to Americans' Second Amendment rights. Just last week, the President rolled out two executive orders that would restrict the rights of law-abiding citizens. The President proudly announced that he is willing to undercut our core constitutional liberties. With his pen and, I might add, without Congress, the President can singlehandedly unravel our rights. Mr. Speaker, I fear that we are embarking on a perilous path. Now, more than ever, we must recommit to protecting this vital freedom. Instead of stripping away Americans' constitutional rights, the U.S. Government should be focused on enforcing law and order. Instead of stripping away Americans' constitutional rights, the U.S. Government should be focused on securing our southern border. Instead of stripping away Americans' constitutional rights, the U.S. Government should be focused on protecting our citizens from gang violence, stopping human trafficking, and stopping the illicit drugs that cross our porous southern border. The President is correct that we have a public health crisis. We have a public health crisis on the southern border. While the Commander in Chief spends time plotting ways to subvert the U.S. Constitution, the brave men and women of U.S. Customs and Border Protection are encountering record numbers of migrants attempting to cross the border unlawfully. Last month alone, border agents encountered more than 170,000 migrants, a colossal 400 percent increase from the same time last year. Yes, this is indeed a crisis. But the problem is not with the law- abiding citizens. The problem is not with the Second Amendment. Here in Washington, our leaders need to get their priorities in order. We need to uphold our oath to defend the U.S. Constitution. We need to defend the American people from foreign threats. And we need to protect our fundamental freedoms.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Cookies for Caregivers on winning the Special Merit Award from the Huntingdon County Chamber of Commerce. The award is given to an organization that demonstrates outstanding achievement in the community. Cookies for Caregivers is a national program that was established by Huntingdon residents in April 2020. The groups founders, Scott McKenzie and Jeremy Uhrich, began baking cookies for frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. What started a local community service project has transformed into a national movement. With more than 100 bakers joining the group, Cookies for Caregivers has made more than 10,000 cookies to share with essential workers. It is my privilege to recognize Scott and Jeremy for their leadership and ingenuity through the development of Cookies for Caregivers. This is a remarkable service to our community and beyond, and I wish them continued success in their efforts.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Juniata Brewing Company on winning the New Construction Award, which showcases excellence in development, from the Huntingdon County Chamber of Commerce. The Juniata Brewing Company opened its doors in March 2020 and faced numerous challenges amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Overcoming these obstacles, the Juniata Brewing Company team adapted their business to provide curbside growler pick up and offered delivery services within the community The Juniata Brewing Company seeks to enrich the community and expand our region's craft brewing industry. Small businesses such as the Juniata Brewing Company are a staple of our community. Congratulations to the team for persevering through unprecedented challenges, and I wish them continued success.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Huntingdon Rotary Club on winning the Preservation Award from the Huntingdon County Chamber of Commerce. The award is given to a deserving group that restores, preserves and rehabilitates buildings and architecture to retain their historic character. The Huntingdon Rotary Club has worked tirelessly to preserve the 1850 Pennsylvania Railroad Stone Arch Bridge located in the Huntingdon Borough. The multi-span stone bridge was once used by the first steam- powered train in Huntingdon. The club's preservation efforts included removing overgrown vegetation, adding a sign to memorialize the significance of the bridge, and beautifying the historic architecture. The Huntingdon Rotary Club's dedication to preserving the community and its history is an important part of our community. I congratulate the club members on receiving this well-earned award and wish them continued success in their efforts.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the life and memory of Somerset County Sheriff Brad Cramer, who passed away on April 3, 2021. As a public servant, Sheriff Cramer worked tirelessly to protect and serve the residents of Somerset County. Sheriff Cramer spent four decades as a law enforcement officer. He served for 30 years with the Somerset Borough Police Department, including six years as the Borough's Police Chief. He went on to serve the Conemaugh Township Police Department for four years and afterwards, he joined the Somerset County Sheriffs Department as a deputy prior to being elected Sheriff in 2015. His presence and leadership will be missed by the people he served over his career. I am grateful for the service of Sheriff Cramer and on behalf of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District I wish his family and friends comfort during this difficult time.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Huntingdon County History and Heritage Roundtable on winning the Community Spirit Award from the Huntingdon County Chamber of Commerce. The award recognizes an organization that has made significant contributions to Huntingdon County through community development. The Huntingdon County History and Heritage Roundtable encompass representatives from various historical organizations throughout the county. Despite challenges stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, this group continued to provide engaging online events for community members and sought to share the rich history of Huntingdon County. The Huntingdon County History and Heritage Roundtable's collaboration and community outreach is an important part of our community. I congratulate the members on receiving this well-earned recognition and wish them continued success in their efforts to showcase our region.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise to congratulate the leaders and staff of Conemaugh Meyersdale Medical Center for receiving the Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval. The Gold Seal of Approval recognizes the hard work that the team at Conemaugh Meyersdale Medical Center does every day to serve the people of southern Somerset County. The center provides outstanding treatment and care to all patients. The Joint Commission's Gold Seal is a testament to their outstanding work, and I am grateful for their service to our community. To receive the accreditation, Conemaugh Meyersdale Medical Center was evaluated during a spontaneous, unannounced review late last year. Surveyors from the Joint Commission evaluated the staff's performance in a variety of areas. On behalf of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I congratulate the entire team at Conemaugh Meyersdale Medical Center on this well-deserved award. I am grateful for their work and commitment to providing outstanding medical care to the people of Pennsylvania.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Julia Strine on winning a state championship in the 2021 PIAA Class 3A swimming contest. Julia is a senior at Shippensburg High School. She won the girls 100- yard Breaststroke with a time of 1:02.33 winning by just .29 seconds. Julia showed true determination and grit to win the gold medal. Prior to winning this prestigious award, she placed seventh at the PIAA swimming championships her freshman year. Her desire to win a gold medal was spurred by this experience. Continued determination has led her to be named Female Athlete of the Winter in the Waynesboro Record Herald. On behalf of the 13th District of Pennsylvania, I congratulate Julia Strine on a successful season and wish her every continued success as she pursues her education and athletic goals.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Berlin Brothersvalley High School boys basketball team on finishing second in the PIAA Class IA Championship. This was the first time in school history that the Berlin Brothersvalley team advanced to the PIAA state title round. The 51-47 point game against Nativity BVM was decided in overtime. The team was led by Elijah Sechler, who scored 20 points and collected 11 rebounds. Pace Prosser scored 15 points while Abe Countryman grabbed 13 rebounds. The 2020-2021 players for the Berlin Brothersvalley Mountaineers were: Ryan Blubaugh, Isaac Etris, Will Spochart, Preston Foor, Tyler Miller, Elijah Sechler, Caden Montgomery, Lukas Coughenour, Tuck Hillegass, Craig Jarvis, Pace Prosser, Abe Countryman, Caleb Rohrs, Brayden Deeter, and Jalen Melton. The students were led by head coach Tanner Prosser. On behalf of the 13th District of Pennsylvania, I congratulate these students and their coaches on a successful season and wish them every continued success.