William Keating

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the completion of the Flaherty Drive Project in New Bedford. Greater New Bedford is a working city, constantly progressing and growing. The New Bedford Business Park allows local businesses to set up shop and participate in our community's--and nation's--economy. Of course, with emerging businesses, space is limited. When two million dollars were allocated to extend the park by 45 acres, an opportunity was given to new businesses, and existing businesses were given the opportunity to expand. The Flaherty Drive Extension has been completed by the Bourne Financial Development Corporation, and currently offers water, sewer, gas, electric, and telecommunication services to the New Bedford businesses looking to operate in the new section of the Business Park. This project would not be possible without Bill Flaherty, the longtime Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Greater New Bedford Industrial Foundation's Executive Committee. He served on the Committee from 1987 until 2002. Mr. Flaherty passed away in 2003 at the age of 57 after a courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife, Joan, and his daughters, Megan and Mary. At the Celebration of the Flaherty Drive Project, a memento of dedication to Mr. Flaherty will be presented to his family. It's essential to highlight the progression of local businesses, especially in the current economy. It is the hard work and dedication, as exhibited by Bill Flaherty, that allows for our country to advance and thrive economically. Mr. Speaker, it brings me great pride to recognize the completion of the Flaherty Drive Project in New Bedford. I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing the importance of this newly expanded business park, the insurmountable role it will play in the lives of local business owners, and the devotion of Bill Flaherty in his work to better the City of New Bedford.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, and to honor the men and women who proudly served in the United States Armed Forces during this turbulent period in history. Our nation will never be able to fully express the heartfelt gratitude we have for our veterans. The debt that we owe them is immeasurable. Time and again, our servicemen and women have stepped forward to defend the freedoms we enjoy today. American veterans are a cornerstone of society. Past generations helped build up this great country and did not hesitate to answer the call of duty. As we remember their selfless actions, it is my hope that citizens everywhere take time to speak with the veterans in their family and community. Thank them for their service, and ask them about their role in defending our country. Helping veterans pass on their priceless wisdom and memories to future generations is one of the best ways we can honor them today. Mr. Speaker, please join me in commemorating this 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. [ask that my colleagues rise and join me in thanking our veterans, past and present, for the sacrifices they have made in service to the United States of America.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, as Ranking Member of the Committee on Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia, and Emerging Threats, I rise along with the co-chairs of the Congressional Ukrainian Caucus, Representatives Kaptur, Levin, and Gerlach, to voice my support for Ukraine's European aspirations. As long-time advocates for the democratization and economic liberalization of Ukraine, we welcome the progress that has been made to date and encourage Ukraine's continued efforts in the coming weeks to realize the final steps necessary to enter into an Association Agreement with the European Union (EU) at the Eastern Partnership Summit in Vilnius this November. By strengthening Ukraine's bilateral relationship with the EU, we are confident that through greater economic integration and political cooperation, Ukraine will be able to achieve a stronger relationship with current EU Member States, as well as transatlantic partners, such as the United States, through a shared respect for democratic principles, rule of law, good governance, human rights, and essential freedoms. As such, we believe that the signing of an Association Agreement between Ukraine and the EU will continue to serve as a catalyst for democratic and human rights reforms, enhanced economic development, and improved welfare for all Ukrainians. Over the last year, we have observed with interest Ukraine's efforts to meet the EU's conditions for this agreement, and as the Eastern Partnership Summit in Vilnius draws near, we wish to encourage all parties to continue to cooperate and work swiftly to complete all remaining reforms, in law and in practice. Recognizing that key progress has been made in certain areas, including the enactment of a new criminal procedure code, we support further tangible action by Ukraine to address critical issues and incorporate the reforms necessary to improve its electoral system, governing institutions, and its system of justice. In particular, we believe that a crucial step towards such reform would be the pardon and release of former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko under mutually acceptable terms. The signing of an Association Agreement with the EU marks a significant opportunity for Ukraine to fulfill its commitments to democracy and human rights and is in the strategic interests of Ukraine, the EU, and the United States. We offer our support and encouragement to Ukraine in the coming weeks as it takes the final steps towards a stronger and enhanced relationship with the EU.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Tadeusz Mazowiecki, who passed away today at the age of 86. Tadeusz Mazowiecki played a pivotal role in the Round Table talks that paved the way for Poland's peaceful democratic transition. He was an architect of the agreement that led to Poland's first partially free elections in June 1989 and went on to serve as Poland's first post- communist prime minister. Throughout his life, Mazowiecki was a courageous advocate for workers' rights and human dignity. He was the leader of a small group of Polish intellectuals who traveled to Gdansk in 1980 to show their solidarity with striking shipyard workers. He was one of the first to be arrested when communist authorities declared martial law in December 1981 and one of the last to be released a year later. Throughout the 1980s, Mazowiecki served as an advisor to Lech Walesa and played a leading role in Solidarity movement. As prime minister, Mazowiecki sped political reforms, enacted civil and political rights, and laid the groundwork for Poland's successful transition to a free market economy. Poland's peaceful revolution sparked a chain reaction throughout Central Europe, culminating in Czechoslovakia's Velvet Revolution and the fall of the Berlin Wall in November 1989. Mr. Speaker, the people of the United States and Europe owe Tadeusz Mazowiecki an immeasurable debt of gratitude. The world today is safer and more free because of him and Polish patriots like him. His memory serves as an inspiration to those who fight--often against all odds-- for rule of law and human dignity in their own countries, and as a reminder to all that the blessings of liberty and democracy should not be taken for granted.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the people of Georgia on the conduct of the October 27 presidential election. International observers, including the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, characterized the election as ``positive and transparent,'' noting that freedom of expression, movement and assembly were respected, and that candidates were able to campaign without restriction. The election's successful conduct--and the pending peaceful transfer of power--demonstrate the growing maturity of Georgia's democracy. This is an important indication that Georgia is indeed ready to initial an Association Agreement with the European Union at the November 28-29 Eastern Partnership Summit in Vilnius, Lithuania. The Association Agreement, which includes deep and comprehensive free trade provisions, will give the Georgian people new tools and new incentives to strengthen their democratic institutions, fight corruption, and uphold the rule of law. Mr. Speaker, I also congratulate Giorgi Margvelashvili on his electoral victory. I call on all political parties to work together to advance Georgia's interests and the interests of the Georgian people.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Yvonne Wright, who celebrates her 100th birthday on October 23, 2013. Yvonne Angelle Vigeant was born on October 23, 1913 in Brookline, Massachusetts. Growing up with twin sister Helene, she graduated from Brookline High School and was working at Boston State Hospital when she met Lewis Wright, who she married in 1935. A twin himself, Lewis and his brother were local entrepreneurs, purchasing English's Dairy and establishing Wright Brothers' Sports Center, the popular Holbrook bowling center and golf driving range. Together, Yvonne and Lewis raised four children, and went on to welcome nine grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. Mrs. Wright has expressed a lifelong passion for art, having become an accomplished oil painter. She is also well-known in her community as being passionate about the environment, often advocating for greater environmental protections and voicing her opinion in local newspapers. Yvonne loves to spend time with her large family, and is often be found at her grandchildren's soccer games and school events. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to honor Yvonne Wright on her 100th birthday. I ask that my colleagues join me in wishing her many more years of health and happiness.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Malala Yosafzai, who today was awarded the European Parliament's Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought. I join our European counterparts in honoring Malala's tremendous bravery in the face of repeated and unconscionable threats, including an assassination attempt last year, when she was shot by Taliban gunmen while returning home from school. Malala's courageous advocacy for the rights of girls to have the same education as boys inspires us all. Throughout our history, Americans have understood the importance of education. Put simply, we are a stronger, healthier, and more prosperous nation because we have made quality primary and secondary education available to all our children. The same is not true in other parts of the world, especially in societies torn apart by conflict, violent extremism, and poverty. There are tens of millions of girls out of school around the world, and women make up nearly two thirds--almost 500 million--of the world's illiterate adults. In her address to the United Nations, Malala reminded the world of the power of education to combat ignorance, intolerance, and violent extremism by promoting human dignity and creating undreamed-of opportunity. Mr. Speaker, I join Malala in her call on the world's leaders to ensure that all children--girls and boys alike--have access to a quality education. By working with our international partners to achieve this goal, we can help families around the world lift themselves out of dire poverty and, in so doing, make the world a safer and more prosperous place.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chief George Baker upon his retirement from the Mashpee Fire Department. Chief Baker has spent the past thirty years serving the town of Mashpee through his invaluable service to the Mashpee Fire Department, filling the role of Fire Chief for the past two decades. His many friends and colleagues describe him as a man truly dedicated to his service, always putting his fellow firemen and the Mashpee community first. Even on his last day at the Department, Chief Baker chose to wear a blue firefighter's uniform instead of his usual white chief's uniform to remember his earlier years of service, and he spent the day responding to emergency calls throughout the community. His dedication to helping others sets an example for us all to follow, and I know I speak for many when I say that his accomplishments have been invaluable to the town of Mashpee. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize Chief George Baker upon his retirement from the Mashpee Fire Department. I ask that my colleagues join me in thanking Chief Baker for his many years of service.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the distinguished career of Fire Chief Glenn Olson upon the occasion of his retirement from the Eastham Fire Department. Chief Olson has given over 3 decades of invaluable service to his community. I know I speak for many when I say that his outstanding achievements are evident in his distinguished career as a Firefighter and Paramedic in both the Hyannis and Eastham Fire Departments. The Eastham department recognized his skill and value when they appointed him to Shift Lieutenant in 1987. Chief Olson continued to honorably protect the people of both Hyannis and Eastham for 13 years until he was chosen as Fire Chief of the Eastham Department. On November 1st of this year, Chief Olson will retire having spent thirteen years as Fire Chief. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to honor Fire Chief Glenn Olson upon his retirement from Eastham Fire Department after thirty-three years and eleven months of invaluable service. I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating him on this important occasion and in thanking him for all that he has done for his community.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the people of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine. These six countries are members of the European Union's Eastern Partnership, an initiative that aims to promote democratic values, rule of law, and economic opportunity in Eastern Europe. Participation in the Eastern Partnership is strictly voluntary, in line with the long-standing international principle that sovereign states have the right to make their own decisions and choose their own alliances. Each of these six countries, to one degree or another, has made clear their interest in closer relations with the European Union and has chosen--again voluntarily--to participate in the Eastern Partnership. Three of the Eastern Partnership countries--Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine--are poised to make historic strides in their relations with the European Union by initialing or signing Association Agreements at this November's Eastern Partnership Summit in Vilnius, Lithuania. These Association Agreements, which include deep and comprehensive free trade provisions, will accelerate the process of political reform in each country and create conditions for extraordinary economic growth. These Association Agreements pose no threat to other countries. Indeed, I believe that the greater geographic neighborhood and peoples of the Eastern Partnership countries would benefit from these countries' integration into the European economy. For this reason, I cannot understand nor do I condone threats of trade embargoes, energy price hikes, gas supply cutoffs, and other forms of intimidation that might dissuade Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine from a path they have voluntarily chosen. Mr. Speaker, I call on any government engaged in such coercive practices to respect each country's right under international law to define and conduct its own relations. I call on the Administration to stand with the people of Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine at this important moment in Europe's history.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Ambassador Victoria Nuland, who was sworn in this afternoon as the State Department's Assistant Secretary for Europe and Eurasia. Assistant Secretary Nuland, a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, has served with distinction under Democratic and Republican Presidents, most recently as State Department Spokesperson, as U.S. Ambassador to NATO, and as the former Vice President's Principal Deputy National Security Advisor. Throughout her career, Ambassador Nuland has demonstrated a fervent commitment to strengthening the transatlantic partnership, a relationship based on shared devotion to democratic principles and values. As Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia, and Emerging Threats, I look forward to working with Assistant Secretary Nuland to strengthen America's ties with Europe, as we work together to advance our mutual interests around the world.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Bob DuBois as he prepares to step down from his role as Executive Director of the Yarmouth Area Chamber of Commerce. A longtime fixture on Cape Cod, Mr. DuBois has worked tirelessly to strengthen the Chamber of Commerce, the thriving business community it represents, and the entire Yarmouth community. For the past twenty- three years, Mr. DuBois has served as the Chamber's Executive Director, and he has touched many lives in this role. Many of his colleagues and friends recall the many early mornings and late nights he spent in the Chamber's office, seeing him at countless events and meetings around town, and his diligence in promoting Yarmouth's thriving businesses. His many years of hard work have been invaluable to the town's success, and he will certainly be missed by those who work and live in the community. Mr. Speaker, I am happy to recognize Mr. Bob DuBois for the service that he has given to the Town of Yarmouth. I ask that my colleagues join me in thanking him for all that he has done for the town, and in wishing him well in his future endeavors.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding civic contributions of Mr. Louis Cataldo and Mrs. Alice George on the occasion of their retirement from the Mercy Otis Warren Woman of the Year Selection Committee. Mr. Cataldo first conceived the Mercy Otis Warren Award as a way of recognizing the contributions of Cape Cod's women, past and present. The honor has been bestowed upon twelve women since 2002 for their exceptional leadership, involvement in local institutions, and community enrichment. Mr. Cataldo's love of history and the Cape Cod community are evident in the award's namesake, as Mercy Otis Warren was a citizen of Barnstable County and a vocal advocate for civil liberties in the midst of the American Revolution. Mr. Cataldo's initiative has helped preserve the memory of an often-overlooked American patriot while praising the distinguished women who continue Warren's legacy today. A charter member of the Mercy Otis Warren Woman of the Year Selection Committee, Mrs. Alice George has presided as its chair from the beginning. In partnership with Mr. Cataldo and the Barnstable County Commissioners, Mrs. George has led the charge to bring Cape Cod's most inspiring women to the forefront. She has long been a central figure in Barnstable and actively serves in many charitable and community organizations. Mrs. George also worked with Mr. Cataldo in bringing the Mercy Otis Warren statue to the grounds of the county courthouse. Following eleven wonderful years at the helm, Mr. Cataldo and and Mrs. George will step down from their positions on the selection committee. Mr. Speaker, please join me in thanking Mr. Louis Cataldo and Mrs. Alice George for over a decade of service to southeastern Massachusetts. I ask that my colleagues join me in applauding them for their selfless advocacy efforts.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Chair, I would like to thank my colleague, Ms. Speier for offering this amendment. While many protections for victims of sexual violence have recently been put in place across our Armed Forces, a review by the IG of military sexual assault cases revealed that over three-quarters (83%) of the 501 investigations conducted, were not properly investigated, and had significant deficiencies, such as a failure to collect key evidence; incomplete interviews; and only partial crime scene investigations. As a former District Attorney, I was stunned by these findings. I have worked to protect victims of abuse and violence throughout my career and know that such sloppy investigative work will only cause further injury to victims and their families. To add insult to injury, these victims are the very men and women who have devoted their lives to the lives of others. With this amendment, we will be returning the favor of their commitment to our country's security and ensure additional funding and training to close the harmful loops that exist in the military's investigative processes related to sexual assaults. This amendment is a vital step towards ensuring an environment where there is justice for all victims. I urge support of our amendment.

Mr. KEATING. Madam Chair, I would like to thank my colleague, Ms. Speier for offering this amendment. Frequently, sexual-assault victims in the military are referred to Uniformed mental-health experts. From there, they are all too often subsequently diagnosed with ``personality disorders'' and separated from the military. While the military is making some positive steps to correct the improper processes surrounding sexual assault cases, it is impossible to know how many veterans of the military have disputed their personality disorder discharges and it is even more difficult to know how many victims of sexual assault did not come forward in fear of being labeled or scapegoated. Instead of sweeping these crimes under the rug, this amendment will review these cases and identify individuals that were improperly separated from the military subsequent to reporting a sexual assault and correct their record. I urge support for this important way forward in addressing sexual crimes.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding service of the Korean War Veterans Association Honor Guard and the dedication of the leaders of Chapter 299 of the Association: Mr. Arthur Griffith, Mr. Otis Mangrum, and Mr. Mark Tiilikkala. The Korean War Veterans Association (KWVA) was founded in 1985 with the goal of organizing, promoting, and maintaining an association of individuals who served the United States during the Korean War. Mr. Mangrum, Mr. Tiilikkala, and Mr. Griffith, of KWVA Chapter #299, have served as the KWVA's Honor Guard at Memorial Day and Veteran's Day commemorations in Washington, D.C. every year since 2007. Based in the Massachusetts State House, the KWVA Honor Guard of Chapter #299 has proudly performed their duties at Arlington National Cemetery and the Korean War Memorial for appreciative citizens and veterans. As we commemorate the 60th anniversary of the armistice between North and South Korea, it is essential that we recognize the selfless actions of the soldiers, sailors, marines, airmen, coast guardsmen, and others who fought to secure peace for the Korean people and safeguard America's allies. Mr. Mangrum, Mr. Tiilikkala, and Mr. Griffith deserve our gratitude for dedicating themselves to their fellow veterans and ensuring the nation's colors stand tall whenever we honor our service men and women. As the years continue to pass, we must make sure that the commitment made by the veterans of the Korean War is preserved in our memories now and in the future. The commitment made by the KWVA Chapter in honoring this memory sets an example for us all to follow. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to thank Mr. Arthur Griffith, Mr. Otis Mangrum and Mr. Mark Tiilikkala of KWVA Chapter #299 for their steadfast commitment to honoring veterans. I ask that my colleagues join me in commending these gentlemen for their skill, military excellence, and deportment.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Ms. Dorothy Savarese on receiving the prestigious Mercy Otis Warren Woman of the Year Award. Ms. Savarese joined the Cape Cod Five Cents Savings Bank in 1993 as a commercial lending officer. Her exemplary leadership and dedication saw her elevated to senior vice president and director of product planning. She was named the bank's chief operating officer in 2004 before becoming their first woman president and CEO the following year. Ms. Savarese's success at the head of Cape Cod Five was recognized by American Banker Magazine in 2012 when they named her one of the 25 most powerful women in banking. She has been an active member of the local business community, serving as Chairman of the Massachusetts Bankers Association and the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce. Ms. Savarese has also engaged in national financial issues, serving on the American Bankers Association's Community Bankers Council and the FDIC Advisory Committee on Community Banking. Her endeavors have established a focus on the Cape's vibrant financial sector, while ensuring the Commonwealth remains an active player in the national banking industry. A resident of Barnstable, Ms. Savarese has graciously dedicated her time to numerous community institutions, including the Cape Cod Community College Board of Trustees, the Regional Employment Board, the Special Commission on County Governance, the Cape Cod Symphony Orchestra, and the Arts Foundation of Cape Cod. Under her chairmanship, Cape Cod Five's foundation trust has leveraged its $11 million in assets to underwrite many charities and worthy causes throughout southeastern Massachusetts. I applaud Ms. Savarese's advocacy on behalf of these venerable institutions and her commitment to the arts. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to honor Ms. Dorothy Savarese for many years of extraordinary service to her fellow citizens and for her sterling record in community banking. I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing Ms. Savarese on her reception of the Mercy Otis Warren Woman of the Year Award.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, today, the European Union (EU) demonstrated its commitment to global security as the 28 EU member states spoke as one voice to condemn Hezbollah's deadly attack in Burgas, Bulgaria last year, and for plotting a similar attack in Cyprus. As the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia, and Emerging Threats, I feel that it is difficult to determine where Hezbollah's civilian wing ends and militant one begins, but the EU's decision to designate the military wing of Hezbollah as a terrorist organization is a welcomed step. This designation will send a clear message to the international community that freedom-espousing democracies will not stand idly by in the face of coercive tactics and aggression by Hezbollah's leaders, militants, and their foreign financers. I am confident that following today's decision, more governments will follow suit and see Hezbollah for what it truly is- a terrorist organization devoted to violence against innocent people both within and beyond Lebanon's borders.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the service and sacrifice of six fallen heroes hailing from the great town of Plymouth, Massachusetts. Since September 11, 2001, Plymouth has lost six of its own citizens who answered the call to defend their Nation. These selfless individuals will now be memorialized by family, friends, and neighbors in their hometown when Plymouth's Fallen Heroes Memorial is officially unveiled next week. Today, I would like to express my gratitude for their service by presenting the names of the fallen to the Congressional Record: Sergeant First Class Robert E. Rooney, Army National Guard Killed in action September 25, 2003 in Kuwait Lance Corporal Jeffrey C. Burgess, United States Marine Corps Killed in action March 25, 2004 in Fallujah, Iraq Private First Class Kevin J. King, United States Army Killed in action April 18, 2007 during a training exercise at Fort Campbell, Kentucky Sergeant Benjamin W. Sherman, United States Army Killed in action November 10, 2009 in Western Afghanistan Staff Sergeant Matthew A. Pucino, Army National Guard Killed in action November 23, 2009 in Pashay Kala, Afghanistan Specialist Steven E. Gutowski, United States Army Killed in action September 28, 2011 in Ghanzi Province, Afghanistan These courageous, distinguished men embodied the best ideals of our country and dedicated their lives to its security. I sincerely thank these six Plymouth natives for all that they have given in the line of duty. Mr. Speaker, it is a great honor to recognize the outstanding sacrifice that these veterans made for their country. I ask that my colleagues join me in this remembrance, and in thanking all of our servicemembers deployed across the globe.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the distinguished career of Ms. Paula Raposa on the occasion of her retirement. Ms. Raposa has been a vibrant fixture in her local community for over fifty years. After arriving in Fall River from the island of Sao Miguel in 1960, Ms. Raposa got her start at a factory on Water Street. Six years later, her gift for helping others led her to a job as a teacher's aide with Fall River Public Schools. For the next 12 years, she would serve as a secretary and parental liaison for the school district's bilingual program. Ms. Raposa played a key role in guiding the next generation of Portugese-speaking immigrants as they became acclimated to life in the United States. She later supported the Women's Center at Bristol Community College as their outreach coordinator. In 1978, Ms. Raposa began her career with SER-Jobs for Progress as a consultant. She was soon named as the first executive director for SER's Fall River affiliate. Under Ms. Raposa's leadership, the organization proved indispensible in training residents for jobs in the local garment industry and beyond. In 1984, her efforts were recognized by President Reagan through an appointment to the Advisory Committee on Apprenticeship, a federal body devoted to economic development and the advancement of workforce trainees. At that time she was the first woman in over fifty years to be appointed to this prestigious position. SER continues to provide a range of vital services to the community, including business classes, adult English instruction, computer training, and job placement. Alumni of SER's programs have gone on to succeed in a variety of professions. Following 35 wonderful years at the helm, Ms. Raposa will retire as executive director to spend more time with family, while still remaining active with numerous Fall River institutions. Mr. Speaker, please join me in thanking Ms. Paula Raposa for over five decades of outstanding service to southeastern Massachusetts. I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Ms. Raposa for her countless contributions.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the one hundredth anniversary of the iconic The Whaleman statue's unveiling in New Bedford, Massachusetts. One hundred years ago today, on June 20, 1913, prominent New Bedford citizen and former Congressman William W. Crapo stood outside the New Bedford Public Library and, surrounded by thousands of local residents, officially presented the statue that would soon become an icon of the city. Standing in the bow of a skiff, with waves crashing over its hull, The Whaleman's subject is poised with his harpoon, watchfully looking ahead. The statue's inscription quotes Herman Melville's Moby Dick and reads ``A Dead Whale or a Stove Boat,'' referring to the danger inherent in a profession in which the desired catch was just as likely as an overturned, or ``stove,'' vessel. Mr. Crapo had commissioned the statue one year earlier, in 1912, as an acknowledgment of the city's rich history in the whaling industry and to pay homage to the whalemen whose hard labor had contributed so much to New Bedford's growth. With the approval of New Bedford mayor Charles Ashley, famed Boston sculptor Bela Lyon Pratt was initially paid $25,000 to create the statue, and The Whaleman was completed in less than a year. Pratt recruited local boatsteerer Richard McLachlan to stand as his model, in an effort to capture the true spirit of those who worked in this industry. Since its unveiling in 1913, The Whaleman has become one of the most recognizable icons of New Bedford. Its likeness has found its way onto everything from coffee mugs to Christmas ornaments, and it has been viewed by visitors to the city from around the world. The statue remains in its original home outside the New Bedford Public Library, and its centennial this June will be celebrated in the very spot on which it was first presented. On the one hundredth anniversary of The Whaleman, it is also important to remember those whom the statue itself was created to honor--the countless individuals whose work contributed to the growth of New Bedford in its early years. These pioneers were truly responsible for the strong foundation on which the region would rest for decades to come, and New Bedford's story would have been far different without their many contributions. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to recognize the one hundredth anniversary of The Whaleman. I ask that my colleagues join me in marking this important celebration.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, for 12 years, I've worked with victims of rape and incest. And for those of you who think you're carving out an exception for rape and incest, you're not. If you were truly carving out an exception, you wouldn't be making it contingent on things that silence victims, things they have no control over, like being traumatized, like being threatened with your life if you talked, like not knowing the law because you're a minor and a victim of statutory rape. These are reasons why more than half the rapes are never reported. As a district attorney, I've had cases where the victims didn't even report; yet we were able to convict the perpetrators with other evidence. Reporting wasn't even necessary to convict criminals; but in this bill, it's necessary for a crime victim to exercise their constitutional right to privacy. Fundamentally, those who support the language in this bill don't understand that rape and incest are crimes. These are crimes of violence, crimes that you bring penalties to the perpetrator. This bill brings penalties to the victim.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize June as National Scoliosis Awareness Month, and to reaffirm our commitment to fighting a potentially debilitating medical condition that afflicts over 7 million Americans. National Scoliosis Awareness Month brings together all members of the scoliosis community, including physicians, patients, families, and businesspeople to raise awareness about this condition. Diagnosing scoliosis is a simple procedure that takes less than 30 seconds, and early detection allows physicians to monitor the condition and, if necessary, begin treatment before serious complications--including chronic back pain and impacted heart and lung function--even begin. Raising awareness is therefore crucial to the fight against scoliosis. Between two and three percent of the American population suffers from scoliosis, and the number of family and friends who are impacted by this condition numbers many millions more. While serious complications of scoliosis are largely preventable, affordable care and public awareness are necessary in order to maximize the effectiveness of treatment. National Scoliosis Awareness Month promotes a positive public awareness message that elevates the visibility of scoliosis and empowers those individuals whose lives have been touched by this condition. It is a time for us to recommit ourselves to reducing its impact in the future. Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing June as National Scoliosis Awareness Month, and in thanking organizations such as the National Scoliosis Foundation and the Scoliosis Research Society, as well as their many supporters, for making it all possible.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, on June 3 and 4, 2013, I was unavoidably detained and missed the following rollcall votes: No. 184 for H.R. 1206 and No. 188 on Agreeing to the First Broun of Georgia Amendment to H.R. 2216. Had I been present, I would have voted ``aye'' on rollcall No. 184 and ``nay'' on rollcall No. 188.

Mr. KEATING

Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Linda Hutchenrider upon her upcoming retirement from her position as Town Clerk of Barnstable, Massachusetts. Ms. Hutchenrider has been a constant figure in Barnstable's Town Hall since she first took a position with the town's local government in 1987. She was elected to her current position in 1993, and has been reelected in every election since. She has administered over 38 elections during her twenty-year tenure as Town Clerk, and her knowledge of the many intricacies of the position has gained her the respect and admiration of Clerks throughout the Commonwealth. Ms. Hutchenrider's many accomplishments include having served as President of the Massachusetts Town Clerks Association, President of the Cape and Islands Town Clerks Association, and Chair of the New England Municipal Clerks' Institute and Academy. During her time as Barnstable Town Clerk, Ms. Hutchenrider also attained her Master Municipal Clerk (MMC) and Certified Massachusetts Municipal Clerk (CMMC) designations, both of which required many hours of advanced training. While Ms. Hutchenrider may be retiring this June, she has not finished giving back to her field, and plans to serve as a volunteer teacher for the New England Municipal Clerks' Institute and Academy this summer. It is fitting to acknowledge and to thank those who have offered service to their communities, and Ms. Hutchenrider is a true embodiment of such an individual. I thank her for all that she has done for the Barnstable community, and wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing and congratulating Ms. Linda Hutchenrider upon her retirement.