William Keating

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I was unable to cast a vote during last night's vote series. I would have voted to retain Title Ill, which is consistent with my voting for the final passage of H.R. 7910. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 239.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 100th anniversary of the Tifereth Israel Congregation of New Bedford, Massachusetts. As the Jewish population of New Bedford grew in the 1920s, so did the need for a new synagogue. On November 17, 1921, the Tifereth Israel Congregation was chartered and has continued to serve the Greater New Bedford area for over 100 years. The original Tifereth Israel Synagogue still stands at 42 South Sixth Street; however, in 1966, during a two- week celebration, elders of the congregation moved sacred Torahs to the newly constructed synagogue on Brownell Avenue with over 800 people attending the dedication ceremonies. Today, the Tifereth Israel Congregation remains a pillar of the community offering a variety of programs, including Bar and Bat Mitzvah classes, the Minyan Breakfast Club, the United Youth Program, as well as the Tifereth Israel Sisterhood and Men's Club. The Tifereth Israel Congregation--currently led by Rabbi Raphael Kanter, who has served as the congregation's spiritual leader since 1997--is known for being a kind and welcoming place of worship, promoting the message of respecting all, even when beliefs may differ. Madam Speaker, I am proud to honor the 100th anniversary of the Tifereth Israel Congregation. I ask that my colleagues join me in thanking them for their invaluable service and wishing them all the best in the many years to come.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 50th anniversary of the Immigrants' Assistance Center of New Bedford, Massachusetts. Founded in 1971 by members of the New Bedford Portuguese community, the Immigrants' Assistance Center has served as an invaluable resource to the Southcoast of Massachusetts for over 50 years. Working with 12,000 immigrants and non-English speakers a year, the Immigrants' Assistance Center provides case management and legal assistance all throughout the immigration process and road to citizenship. The multilingual staff offers language and literacy classes and works tirelessly to ensure work force readiness by assisting members of the immigrant community obtain employment to become financially self- sufficient. With its dedicated staff advising clients on the steps necessary to access essential resources--such as food, clothing, shelter, and healthcare--the Immigrants' Assistance Center is the organization that many look to for guidance when first coming to the U.S. This incredible organization assists members of the community in a variety of circumstances and across all ages. From their at-risk youth program to their elder services program, which provides healthcare coordination assistance as well as a weekly Health, Wellness, and Social program, it is clear why the Immigrants' Assistance Center has grown to become a pillar of the Greater New Bedford area. Madam Speaker, I am proud to honor the 50th anniversary of the Immigrants' Assistance Center for their dedication to bettering their community. I ask that my colleagues join me in thanking them for their service and wishing them all the best in the years to come.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Jay Zavala, as he is named the 2022 Outstanding Citizen of the Year by the Falmouth Chamber of Commerce. Jay moved to Falmouth, Massachusetts, in 2000, and has since established himself as a pillar of the community through his extensive involvement with the town over the past two decades. Jay, a veteran of the Vietnam War, writes, produces, and hosts the Town of Falmouth's Annual Veterans Appreciation Breakfast each year. With a knack for TV production, Jay also sits on the Falmouth Community Television Advisory Council and works as a FCTV production volunteer. After being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2016, Jay joined the American Parkinson Disease Association Massachusetts Chapter, and was later elected Vice President of the chapter. In recognition of Jay's advocacy on behalf of individuals with Parkinson's disease and their caregivers, Jay was named the 2021 honoree for the third annual APDA MA-Cape Cod Optimism Walk. Following a career in government contracting, corporate marketing and sales, and independent business consulting, Jay applied his professional expertise and commitment to community service to a series of productive pursuits. Jay served as President and CEO of the Falmouth Chamber of Commerce, Chair of the Continuing and Adult Education Advisory Committee of Upper Cape Regional Technical School, and Vice Chair of the Cape Cod Commission. Further, Jay has served on the board of directors for several local organizations, including Friends of Fairwinds Clubhouse, Falmouth Housing Trust, Open Cape Corporation, and the Falmouth Economic Development and Industrial Corporation. Through his civic engagement, Jay has devoted his life to supporting and bettering his community. Madam Speaker, I am proud to honor Jay Zavala and ask that my colleagues join me in commending him for his many years of dedication and service to the Cape Cod community and our country.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I associate myself with the remarks of my colleagues regarding our late colleague Don Young, my friend, someone I worked with on fishing issues, ferry issues, air service issues. He will be sorely missed. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 6865, which makes significant investments in the extraordinary work of the United States Coast Guard. I have deep concerns, though, about one provision in the bill regarding the sole-sourced crewing of foreign vessels needed to construct the first offshore wind projects in our country. This language will prevent existing crews from building already planned offshore wind projects years before the ships can be built and long before American seamen are trained to take on these jobs. We all support U.S. jobs, but here at home, this industry is at its relative infancy. The requirements in this provision will prevent participation of the existing fleet of vessels needed to begin construction on these projects while no U.S. alternative exists. This will cost us jobs, jeopardizing more than 3,600 jobs, largely union jobs, from the Vineyard Wind project in my district alone and create years of delays to the building of offshore wind projects with an estimated 20,000 new jobs across the eastern seaboard. Mr. Speaker, I ask the chairman to work with me to amend this language in conference to ensure that the United States does not falter as we take our first steps into this burgeoning industry, one that will increase our energy independence, create American jobs, and move us away from our reliance on fossil fuels.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume for the purpose of closing. Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague on the Foreign Affairs Committee, Representative Meuser, for his very eloquent remarks and his bipartisan support and leadership on this issue for Ireland. I want to record and reflect upon the people lost during these tragic events marked by Bloody Sunday. They are John ``Jack'' Duddy, Patrick ``Paddy'' Doherty, Bernard ``Barney'' McGuigan, Hugh Gilmour, Kevin McElhinney, Michael Kelly, John Young, William Nash, Michael McDaid, James Wray, Gerald Donaghy, Gerard McKinney, William McKinney, and John Johnston. We need to remember and memorialize these people, young and old, who stood peacefully, and in defiance, in their support for their values. While many, rightfully so, have been commended for their work to bring peace to the island of Ireland, the victims of the Bloody Sunday massacre made the ultimate sacrifice, fighting against repression and demanding peace. To the victims of Bloody Sunday; all victims of The Troubles, including the disappeared; the families of the victims; and the people of Ireland and Northern Ireland, I say this directly to you: We, in Congress, remember. We, in Congress, stand with you. We, in Congress, know there is much more work still to be done. I introduced this resolution to demonstrate our solidarity with you, and I urge passage to signal that we will continue to fight for peace and stability on the island of Ireland. With that spirit, I wish you all a happy St. Patrick's Day, and I urge all of my colleagues to join us by voting in the affirmative on this important resolution. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I yield an additional 1 minute to the gentlewoman from Texas.

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson Lee), a champion of civil rights here in this country, a civil rights movement in this country that helped inspire the Good Friday Agreement.

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Neal), a champion of the Good Friday Agreement, a person who I mentioned in my remarks was there at the time, working to make it successful. Ireland and the Good Friday Agreement have no greater leader and supporter.

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Pennsylvania for his support and for his bipartisan efforts at healing and moving forward. Madam Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Brendan F. Boyle), who is a friend of Ireland and a friend of mine. He is a champion of civil rights causes.

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to the resolution (H. Res. 888) expressing the hope for justice for the victims of Bloody Sunday, one of the most tragic of days during the Troubles, on its 50th anniversary as well as acknowledging the progress made in fostering peace in Northern Ireland and on the island of Ireland in recent decades, as amended.

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of my resolution expressing the hope for justice for the victims of Bloody Sunday, one of the most tragic days of the Troubles, a violent time which lasted 30 years from approximately 1968 to 1998. This resolution acknowledges the progress made in fostering peace on the island of Ireland in recent decades and calls on all parties to come together to ensure full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement. This resolution comes at an important time during the 50th-year anniversary of the massacre and on St. Patrick's Day, a day where people of Irish descent around the world remember our roots and celebrate our history. I am proud the resolution is moving forward on this day of all days. First, I thank many of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for their sponsorship of this resolution. To the original cosponsors-- Representatives Richie Neal, Mike Kelly, Brian Fitzpatrick, David Cicilline, Jim McGovern, Nicole Malliotakis, Gerry Connolly, Juan Vargas, and Tom Suozzi--and almost 40 other cosponsors, I am grateful for their support and for their longstanding work on this issue. I also express my deepest gratitude to Chair Meeks, Ranking Member McCaul, Leader Hoyer, and the House Foreign Affairs Committee staff for their support of this resolution. As a member and as a former chair of the Europe, Energy, the Environment and Cyber Subcommittee himself, Chair Meeks understands firsthand the importance of peace and stability on the island of Ireland. I introduced this resolution to honor the lives lost during Bloody Sunday, a singular day amidst a long period of struggle that exacerbated the conflict in Northern Ireland. On January 30, 1972, I was a college student in Boston, a city known for its deep connection to Irish-American culture. I vividly recall the images and displays of unbridled violence during a peaceful protest in Derry that reverberated throughout the world. Even today, I remain deeply affected by the actions of British soldiers that led to the wounding of 26 unarmed civilians and the death of 14 individuals. On January 30, 2022, as 50 years had passed, I expressed to the families of the victims my firm belief that Bloody Sunday represents one of the deadliest injustices to take place during the Troubles. I underline that as we continue to mourn the loss of those who perished that day, we must also advocate for justice while taking the necessary steps to build a more peaceful future. As I expressed to the families, accountability and justice for the events of Bloody Sunday must be achieved to ensure a long-lasting peace on the island of Ireland. While it has long been acknowledged that British soldiers were directly responsible for the murder of civilians on Bloody Sunday, those who suffered under this unlawful use of force continue to be denied an honest assessment of the events that took place in 1972. To date, not one of the individuals involved has been held accountable for their actions. I want to state clearly: amnesty proposals by the government of the United Kingdom are disrespectful and deny due process to Bloody Sunday victims and their families. They run counter to the spirit of remarks of then-Prime Minister David Cameron who termed the events as unjustifiable and wrong. The evidence is clear: The individuals responsible for the violence that took place on that fateful day must be brought to justice. Along with the avoidance of a hard border, these legacy issues remain as threats to and unfinished business of the Good Friday Agreement, an agreement few thought would ever occur. Both sides compromised. Its improbable success of diplomacy over violence inspires us today as Europe and the world face its greatest conflict in 80 years. On St. Patrick's Day we take pride in the indispensable role the United States has played in forging the Good Friday Agreement. The Clinton Administration and congressional leaders worked tirelessly over two decades ago to implement the Good Friday Agreement and achieve peace through diplomacy. I admire the efforts of American leaders like Tip O'Neill; Ted Kennedy; George Mitchell; and my colleague, Richie Neal, who were all instrumental in negotiating a long-lasting peace. I firmly believe the agreement accompanied by the efforts of community activists and leaders willing to work for peace and commit to a political framework was and remains essential to creating stability in the region. We must continue to support the ongoing efforts to promote integration and reconciliation and address the impacts of intergenerational trauma. Leaders like Monica McWilliams and Jane Morrice, as well as countless others working on these issues today, recognize that peace does not begin and end only on Good Friday. The work they do and the work of others healed divided communities and should and must go on. This resolution not only remembers those who lost their lives during the Troubles but also recognizes challenges and opportunities of maintaining the hard-fought peace that followed. Let Bloody Sunday serve as a reminder of the hard work and pain to achieve harmony. Madam Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to support this resolution, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous materials on H. Res. 888, as amended.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the life of Esther Hopkins, the first African-American Framingham Selectwoman, a chemist, an environmental attorney, and a mother. Esther Hopkins passed away on May 19, 2021, at the age of 94. Hopkins was born on September 18, 1926, in Stamford, CT. Throughout her life, she broke down barriers, surpassed milestones, and led a life full of notable accomplishments. Hopkins was highly educated, achieving multiple degrees over her lifetime. She received her B.A. from Boston University, her M.A. and M.S from Howard University, her J.D from Suffolk University Law School, and her Ph.D. from Yale University. Esther was a chemist, environmental attorney, and elected public official in Framingham. She is remembered for not only those accomplishments but also her consistent respect and kindness towards others. Following her Ph.D., she was offered a job with the Polaroid Corporation where she led the Emulsion Coating and Analysis Laboratory. Following her time at Polaroid, she joined the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection as the Deputy General Counsel, which eventually led to her time as an elected official of Framingham. In 1999, she became the first African-American woman to serve on the Board of Selectmen in Framingham, eventually becoming the chair of the board. Following her time as a Selectwoman, she joined the Keefe Tech Regional Vocational School Committee. Additionally, Esther was involved with the Framingham Finance Commission and Framingham's Tercentennial Celebration. After quite an impressive life and career. Hopkins retired to Martha's Vineyard with son, Ewell Hopkins, Jr. Madam Speaker, I am proud to honor Esther Hopkins. I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing her accomplishments and her life. She will be dearly missed by so many.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Cape Cod resident, Lillian Vaccarello, as she celebrates her 100th birthday on July 13, 2021. Lillian was born on July 13, 1921 in Concord, Massachusetts. She was a talented athlete, playing on her high school's field hockey team, she was even voted by her classmates as ``most athletic.'' Not long after, Lillian married her husband, Vincent Vaccarello, in 1939. They moved to Waltham, first to a triple decker surrounded by Vinny's family, until eventually purchasing a home of their own in the Warrendale neighborhood of Waltham. There, the couple would raise their four children, Janet, Diane, Skip, and Rick. Lillian worked various jobs to help support her family including working evenings at the Waltham Watch Company and as a station wagon driver for the Green Acres Nursery School. She would later become a teacher at the school while attending night classes. Lillian later joined the school's administration before retiring after 21 years. Throughout her life, Lillian was a well-known community volunteer. Lillian was a Girl Scout Leader and a member of her community's Women's Club. She helped found the Warrendale Little League and was head of the Women's Auxiliary. Lillian has also dedicated her time to volunteering with nursing homes, Meals on Wheels, the garden club, and a local church organization that delivers meals to those in need. Lillian also loved to organize neighborhood activities to bring families and children together. Lillian has lived a full and adventurous life. She performed on the Jay Leno Show with her tambourine group, the Concord Shakers. She took a hot balloon ride for her 80th birthday and a bi-plane tour over Cape Cod for her 93rd. In her now 100 years of life, Lillian's joy and dedication to helping others continues to be a constant presence in her new community of Cape Cod Senior Residency. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in wishing Lillian Vaccarello a very happy 100th birthday. I wish her continued health and happiness in this next year of her life.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 100th birthday of Antone ``Tony'' Oliveira, a longtime resident of New Bedford, Massachusetts, who served our country in World War II and worked for the railroad industry for more than 40 years. Born on November 14, 1921, Mr. Oliveira grew up in New Bedford and briefly worked for the Soule Mill before being drafted by the Army. Six months into his service, Mr. Oliveira was unfortunately injured during weapons training and returned home, where he began his career in railroading. Mr. Oliveira worked for New York, New Haven, and Hartford Railroad, which was later consolidated with other railroads and became Con-Rail. Stationed all over the region, Mr. Oliveira sold tickets, sent and delivered telegraph messages, and manned the control towers that operated the switches and signals on the rail. Mr. Oliveira loves to reminisce about his early railroading days in the postwar years when the railroads were extremely busy. He proudly brags that he once sold $50,000 worth of tickets in June of 1945. Mr. Oliveira was the last railroad ticket agent in the New Bedford railroad depot and sold the last ticket to the New Bedford-Boston commuter train, which ended service in 1958. In addition to working on the rails, Mr. Oliveira found time to volunteer for the Disabled American Veterans organization. In 1987, after 44 years of working for the railroad, Mr. Oliveira retired. When he began working, he was No. 237 on the seniority list of the telegraphers roster. By the time he retired, he was No. 5. In his retirement, Mr. Oliveira continues to be a railroad enthusiast. He frequently takes advantage of his permanent Amtrak pass to visit his family. Mr. Oliveira is hopeful that the New Bedford commuter rail will reopen, and there will be a revival of the once-busy rail line carrying people to and from Boston. Mr. Oliveira told former state Transportation Secretary Richard Davey that he wanted to sell tickets again if the train were to reopen. As Mr. Oliveira celebrates his birthday with his family, I ask that my colleagues join me in wishing him a happy birthday and a profound thank you for his lifetime of service.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Monica Lyden Mullin, a selfless, committed public servant who has dedicated over forty years to service to the people of Massachusetts. Born in East Weymouth, Massachusetts, Monica and her seven siblings are the children of a labor leader and longtime member of MassPort's Board of Directors. Early on, she realized that she had an affinity for public service and a commitment to helping others. Her start in government came in 1979 when she worked for then-Governor Edward J. King in the Appointments Office. Working directly with members of the House and Senate, she quickly developed the skills and relationships that would support her work throughout her career. What set Monica apart was the fact that she cared more about people than politics. For Monica, it didn't matter what the person's party affiliation was. It only mattered that they needed help and Monica could do something to make their situation a little better. After four years at the State House and three years at Mass Housing, Monica decided to put her career on hold to raise Sean, William, and Brendan, the three boys she had with her husband, Sean. However, the call to public service was inexorable, and she joined State Senator Therese Murray's district staff working directly on constituent matters. Monica engrossed herself in district issues and never lost sight of the true aim of government--to help the constituents we serve. Whether it was base realignment efforts in 2005 that impacted Joint Base Cape Cod or planning for the Plymouth 400 commemoration. Monica honorably represented the Senator and the residents of the Plymouth and Barnstable District. Her invaluable work was recognized throughout state government. When Senate President Murray, a Democrat, stepped down from her seat, the Republican who succeeded her asked Monica to continue as his District Director. Monica once again saw people, not politics, as the foundation of her work. She gladly stayed on and has continued to serve the people of the Plymouth and Barnstable District under Senator Viriato deMacedo and his successor, Senator Susan Moran. More recently, families, neighbors, and businesses faced upheaval as COVID-19 swept the globe. Monica's decades-long experience and deep understanding of government made an immeasurable difference for scores of constituents. She has always taken great satisfaction in helping and advocating for people, especially during the COVID crisis. Monica's illustrious career in public service is deserving of recognition and her dedication, selflessness, and commitment to the people of Massachusetts is worthy of distinction. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Monica Mullin on her retirement and recognizing her for her outstanding service to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of Robert Correia, former Majority Whip of the Massachusetts House of Representatives and mayor of Fall River, Massachusetts. Born and raised in Fall River, Bob graduated from B.M.C. Durfee High School. He would go on to attend the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and Bridgewater State University. where he earned a Master's degree in Education. Soon after, Bob decided to serve our country and joined the U.S, Marines. After an honorable discharge in 1962, he became a math and science teacher at the Henry Lord School in Fall River. Later in 1977, desiring to further serve his community, Bob ran for local office and was elected to the Massachusetts House of Representatives. Representing the Bristol 12th and 7th District respectively. Bob was proud of his city and his Portuguese heritage. In 1985, he founded Heritage Day of Portugal commemoration at the state house on Beacon Hill, an annual event that continues to this day. Holding several important positions over his decades of service. Bob became Majority Whip of the House of Representatives in 2002. A successful legislator, he secured state funding to develop the boardwalk that runs along the Taunton River. A boardwalk that since 2018, now bears his name. He also secured funding to repair the USS Massachusetts battleship at Quincy's Fore River Shipyard. Years later, in 2007, Bob was elected Fall River's 41st Mayor. Beyond public service, Bob was the husband of his high school sweetheart, Patricia. for 60 years. Bob loved his family which included his 3 children, Robert Jr., Susan, and Mark. many grandchildren, great grandchildren. and nieces and nephews. Bob passed away on July 2, 2021. His commitment to Fall River and the people of Massachusetts will be remembered through his long-lasting contributions and his role as `Mayor Bob.' Madam Speaker, I am proud to honor the life of Robert Correia. a former colleague and friend. I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing his many decades of public service.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Brenda Swain, a dedicated volunteer who has performed remarkable service to the greater Cape Cod community. As a young child. Brenda's parents instilled in her a spirit of volunteerism that has remained with her to this day. Since graduating college, she has put serving others at the core of all she does. For twenty years, she worked as a substitute teacher, an early childhood educator, and director of a preschool daycare center. In Falmouth, however, Brenda is best-known for her steadfast and transformational leadership of the Falmouth Service Center. On her first day, the Center was housed in a small room at the end of a shopping plaza with just thirty-five volunteers operating a food pantry and offering financial assistance. Today, after seventeen years of Brenda's guidance, the Falmouth Service Center has been transformed into an expansive resource for residents, providing access to health care, financial support, and food. Under Brenda's leadership, the Falmouth Service Center now operates fourteen different programs and boasts six hundred volunteers. Over the years, Brenda worked to add numerous programs such as Falmouth Eats Together, a community-wide free meal, to the center's offerings. She created fresh markets in the Falmouth Public Schools and worked to bring a mobile dental clinic that comes once a month to the center. Brenda also developed a partnership with WE CAN--Women's Empowerment through Cape Area Networking--which uses the service center offices once a month, and constantly worked to expand the center's resources for Falmouth residents. Madam Speaker, Brenda Swain has served as an unshakeable pillar supporting Falmouth and Cape Cod for her entire life. I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing Ms. Brenda Swain's remarkable career and commending her for her steadfast dedication to community service and volunteerism.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the career of Police Chief Walter Sweeney, who is retiring from the Hanover Police Department after 43 years of service to our community. Walter Sweeney grew up in Massachusetts, graduating from Hanover High School. He earned a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from Stonehill College and a Master's Degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Western New England College. Chief Sweeney began his career with the Town of Hanover in 1977 as a volunteer firefighter and later joined the Hanover Police Department in 1978 as an emergency communications center dispatcher. From there, he rose through the ranks--serving as an officer, sergeant, and lieutenant before ultimately being appointed police chief in 2008. Chief Sweeny pursued additional opportunities to serve his community and is an active member of several committees. He is a past president of the Plymouth County Chiefs of Police Association and a current member of the Plymouth County Outreach Board of Directors. Chief Sweeney also holds membership status in the Massachusetts Chief of Police Association, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and the Southeastern Massachusetts Chiefs of Police. Additionally, Chief Sweeney was appointed as the Acting Town Manager for the Town of Hanover in 2012 and is also a long-lime instructor at the Massachusetts State Police Academy. Chief Sweeney's leadership and commitment to reforming law enforcement's role towards drug addiction and recovery is among his outstanding achievements. Sweeney has been on the Plymouth County Outreach team, a collaboration of police departments focused on helping those with substance abuse disorder. since its founding in 2017. The program, which Chief Sweeney was instrumental in creating, has been nationally recognized for its innovation and results after fatal overdoses in Plymouth County decreased by 26 percent. Chief Sweeney has been a strong advocate for the PCO model and presented on this program at the 2020 COAP National Forum and the 2019 PAARI National Conference. I want to congratulate Chief Sweeney on his exemplary career and service to our community. Chief Sweeney will gather with family and friends on December 16 to celebrate his retirement from the Hanover Police Department. I thank Chief Sweeney for his lifetime of exemplary service. I wish him and his family all the best in your future endeavors.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the career of Sandra ``Sandy'' Denty, a beloved sixth grade Science teacher at Furnace Brook Middle School in Marshfield, Massachusetts. After thirty- seven years dedicated to her students and her community, Sandy is celebrating a well-deserved retirement. Sandy has lived in Marshfield for her entire life, where she and her family have been an integral part of the community. Her grandparents founded Marshfield's first grocery store, now the Brant Rock Market. Her father, Fred Parziale, owned barber shops around town and her mom, Dotti Parziale, managed the popular local restaurant Casabrini. Sandy and her husband, Bill, have raised two children. Kali and Billy, with the same values with which they were brought up. Sandy graduated from Marshfield High School in 1978 and began substitute teaching with Marshfield Public Schools shortly after receiving her bachelor's degree. She made an immediate impact on the school community, and when a middle school science teacher position became available, she jumped at the opportunity. As a sixth-grade science teacher, Sandy has a unique way of connecting with each child on an individual, personal level; through everything she says and everything she does. Sandy's greatest talent is making others feel special. Sandy's impact on Marshfield Public Schools reaches beyond the students in her classroom. She is endlessly supportive of her colleagues, running various staff-wide competitions, sporting events and festive programs every year. She donates her free time to making banners for Furnace Brook's ``One Book One School'' program. Sandy has run countless fundraisers, talent shows, and other community-building activities. In 1999, she founded the ``Denty Connection'', a private business that has helped many teachers get re-certified and receive graduate credits. Sandy Denty's selfless career as a teacher in Marshfield Public Schools has come to an end after thirty-seven years, but her impact has spanned multiple generations of students and will never be forgotten. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Sandy Denty on her retirement and recognizing her for her outstanding service to the Town of Marshfield and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life of Commander Francis T. Williams, as the bridge over Scorton Creek in East Sandwich, Massachusetts, is renamed the Commander Francis T. Williams and Sandwich Veterans Memorial Bridge. Commander Williams was a highly decorated Naval Officer with a decades-long career of service. He served honorably as an U.S. Marine from 1969 through 1975 and was deployed to Vietnam. Commander Williams was commissioned as a Naval Lieutenant in 1994 and was stationed throughout his career in Connecticut, Fort Dietrich Maryland, the National Naval Medical Center, New Hampshire, Italy, and coordinated medical logistics on the USNS Comfort. Commander Williams was deployed to Iraq and served two tours in Afghanistan. His degrees in Pharmacy, Epidemiology, and National Security and Strategy Studies helped him train the Afghan National Army and lead the evacuation of critically wounded personnel. Commander Williams passed away on February 25, 2013, after a battle with brain cancer and a stroke while on active duty in Afghanistan. It is an honor to again recognize Commander Williams' service to his country as the bridge over Scorton Creek in East Sandwich is renamed the Commander Francis T. Williams and Sandwich Veterans Memorial Bridge. This bridge is of particular significance to Commander Williams' family as he caught the biggest bass of his life in its shadow. Commander Williams spent much time in the area fishing, canoeing, and being outdoors. The bridge also honors all Veterans from the town for service to their country. Madam Speaker, I am proud to honor the life and distinguished career of U.S. Navy Commander Francis T. Williams and all Veterans from Sandwich, Massachusetts, who are memorialized by the Commander Francis T. Williams and Sandwich Veterans Memorial Bridge. I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring these brave men and women.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the life and service of Sergeant Michael Cassidy, a 27-year veteran of the New Bedford Police Department. Sergeant Cassidy grew up in New Bedford and attended Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School. After graduation, he began his life of service by enlisting in the U.S Marine Corps, serving in Operation Desert Storm. Sergeant Cassidy returned to New Bedford and joined the City's Police Department in 1994. He was honored with numerous commendations throughout his decades of service, including the New Bedford Life Saving Award in 2006. He was honored again with the award in 2018 when he helped revive and save the life of a cashier who collapsed while Sgt. Cassidy was off-duty and grocery shopping. This is just one example of Sergeant Cassidy going beyond his everyday responsibilities for his community. Sergeant Cassidy was a dedicated family man and Boston sports fan. Besides being a firearms and CPR instructor, he also taught Kenpo Karate for years and was a 5th degree black belt. Sergeant Cassidy left his family and community too soon when he passed away on April 28, 2021 at the age of 52. He led a life of service to his country and to New Bedford and set an example of what true heroism looks like. Madam Speaker, I am proud to honor the life of Sergeant Michael Cassidy. I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing his lifetime of service to our country and the people of Massachusetts.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Captain Scott Langum, Commanding Officer of Air Station Cape Cod as he is relieved of duty. Captain Langum was born in Colfax, WA. He attended the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, from which he graduated in 1993 with a Bachelor of Science in Government. He earned a Master of Public Administration from the University of South Alabama, and a Master in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College. He married Carmen Harder, also from Colfax, and have two daughters, Kendall, and Paige. After graduating in 1993, Captain Langum's career began with his first operational tour aboard the USCGC Sundew (WLB-404) in Duluth, MN. He later served as the Aids to Navigation Officer for the Greater Antilles Section of San Juan, PR. Additionally, Captain Langum served as Commanding Officer, U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Houston TX. As Chief of the Future Operations Division, Captain Langum was responsible for coordinating mission efforts for the Defense Support of Civil Authorities, Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear response, Combating Transnational organized crime, Theater Security Cooperation, Personnel Recovery and Search and Rescue. In addition to these responsibilities, Captain Langum went on to serve as the Military Liaison to the United States Senate, where he was responsible for facilitating the Coast Guard's congressional engagements. After an impressive career, he is retiring from his final post as Commanding Officer of Air Station Cape Cod. Captain Langum has received the Defense Superior Service Medal, the Distinguished Flying Cross, three Meritorious Service Medals, two Commendation Medals, and three Achievement Medals. We thank him for his service and wish him the best in his retirement. Madam Speaker, I am proud to honor Captain Scott Langum. I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing his career and commitment to serving our country.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the life of William ``Bill'' Zammer, an entrepreneur and devoted philanthropist on Cape Cod. A native of Norristown, Pennsylvania, Bill was widely known throughout his adopted home of Cape Cod as a leader in the hospitality industry. He was equally known for his willingness to step up to support countless charitable causes in the community. Moving to Cape Cod in 1988, Bill operated a number of establishments throughout the region over the years including: The Flying Bridge, the Coonamesset Inn, The Red Horse Inn, Tugboats, the Popponesset Inn, the Picnic Box, and Clancy's, among others. Owning and operating restaurants came naturally to Bill after serving in the 1980's as President and CEO of the Seilers/Sodexo Corporation, overseeing 15,000 employees working in facilities across the nation. A gifted executive, prior to his time in the hospitality industry, Bill spent two years as the President & Publisher of Tribune Publishing Company and also served as the as a director at the Tufts New England Medical Center. Realizing a need to further his education in order to start his own business, Bill enrolled at Northeastern University where he received his M.B.A. and, most importantly, where he met his partner in life Linda Raub Zammer. Bill was firmly committed to helping his community. Whether he and Linda were advocating for his industry as a past President of the Massachusetts Restaurant Association, fighting for educational opportunities for Cape Cod students, supporting our veterans and active servicemembers, leading the Cape Symphony and Conservatory as a Director or helping foster children, their generosity of time and spirit was endless. They were recognized time after time for this, including as the Philanthropists of the Year from the Philanthropy Partners of the Cape and Islands. Bill also served on many boards, including with Cape Cod Healthcare Foundation, the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce, and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute, among others. Most recently, during the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to supporting his long-time employees who were out-of-work, Bill stepped up to help lead the Falmouth Cares Business Roundtable, which worked to support other businesses impacted by the pandemic. Bill Zammer never stopped moving, and the reminders of his investment in the greater Cape community will live on as a testament to his work. Among his greatest legacies will be the professional lives he changed in the hospitality industry. His employees were his second family and many advanced their careers through the Linda and William Zammer Hospitality Institute at Cape Cod Community College. His greatest love, though, was always his family: his wife, Linda, his children Robert, Peter, and Joanne, his eight grandchildren, his mother, Wanda, and his three siblings. Madam Speaker, Bill Zammer's ``life well lived'' has positively touched thousands of lives on Cape Cod through his professional abilities and good works and I am proud to have been his friend.