John Katko

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the tremendous victory of the Jamesville-DeWitt Girls' Basketball Team in the New York State Public High School Association Class A Championship on March 17, 2018. The Jamesville-DeWitt Red Rams defeated Elmont Memorial High School by a score of 64-51 to win the state title for the Third year in a row. On March 21st the Red Rams won the Federation Championship for the first time against James Madison High School by the score of 42-41. The Red Rams were led by Seniors Meg Hair, Kasey Vaughan and Jamie Boeheim. Other team members include: Sydney Baker, Lena Jones, Andrea Sumida, Gabriella Stickle, Paige Keeler, Noura El-Hindi, Momoka LaClair, and Kailey McKenna. The Red Rams are coached by Robert Seichen, Scott Gantos, Caroline Cottet and Bill O'Keefe. I am honored to recognize the teamwork displayed by the Jamesville- Dewitt Red Rams and to congratulate the members of the team, their families, the coaching staff, and teachers at Jamesville-Dewitt High School. This is a historic win for Central New York and I am confident that the positive experiences from the 2018 season will yield continued success in both athletics and academics.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the important history of Lyons, New York. Recently, the town's iconic downtown historical district was granted a designation on the National Register of Historic Places. This designation allows for the town to keep and preserve many historical buildings and landmarks. Located in Wayne County, the Town of Lyons was originally settled in the late 1700's and then, in 1796, renamed after Lyons, France. The construction of the Erie Canal was pivotal to the growth of the town. The town also grew due to an abundant amount of peppermint oil, and a great deal of manufacturing. I would like to congratulate Joan Delaro, the Executive Director of the Lyons Main Street Program. This program is essential to the Lyons community, as is it assists local businesses, organizes community clean up and beautification program, and leads the effort to designation downtown Lyons as a historical area. I would also like to thank Brian Manktelow, town supervisor, and all of the town board members for their support in designating Lyons a historical place. This new designation not only allows for the community to preserve and revitalize many buildings and landmarks, but it will also help encourage economic development. I am proud that Lyons has received this designation, and I will fight to make sure that it has the means it needs to be able to succeed.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to speak in favor of legislation I authored, H.R. 2851, the Stop the Importation and Trafficking of Synthetic Analogues Act of 2017. Synthetic drug abuse has crippled my community and the communities of many other Members in this Chamber. Last year, Syracuse area hospitals saw a record number of overdoses due to synthetic drug abuse. In May of last year, over 15 individuals had overdosed on synthetic drugs and were taken to the ER in a span of 24 hours. All of these synthetic drugs were purchased at bodegas in Syracuse, purchased over the counter, and stamped ``not for human consumption.'' Clearly, that was the intent. Unfortunately, stories like this have become the new normal. First responders and emergency room physicians across the Nation have seen incredible increases in calls due to synthetic overdoses, which is why I wholeheartedly support this legislation, as do they. Toxic synthetic drugs are designed to mimic street drugs like marijuana, LSD, cocaine, ecstasy, fentanyl, and other hard drugs. They can be more potent than the real thing and oftentimes are more deadly. Unfortunately, when law enforcement encounters and begins to combat a specific synthetic drug compound, which they must do under the law, manufacturers of these substances are able to slightly alter the chemical structure of the drug, and this puts law enforcement at a serious disadvantage because that chemical alteration makes that drug technically not legal until it gets on the analogue statute. This leaves them constantly one step behind. As a former Federal prosecutor for more than 20 years but, more importantly, as a father, getting these drugs off the streets and out of the hands of our loved ones remains a top priority for me. Right before I introduced this bill, I met with a constituent in my district, Teresa Woolson, whose son was tragically killed by a synthetic drug identified as XLR-11. He went into a store and bought it. It was called K2/spice. He thought that since it was sold over the counter it was okay to use. He used the drug, smoked it--it was synthetic marijuana--had a seizure, and drowned in Lake Ontario. Unfortunately for Teresa, the drug that killed her son managed to remain legal and on the streets and sold over the counter in stores for 4 years after his death until it was finally added to the controlled substances list. This is unacceptable. These families deserve more than that and they deserve justice. The potency and dangers of synthetic drugs do not only threaten users. We are now seeing local law enforcement and first responders put in harm's way simply by coming in contact with these highly potent and often lethal substances, oftentimes being mixed with heroin, which is killing people at a record pace in this country. Numerous cases across the country have resulted in emergency personnel becoming gravely ill and even dying while responding to these synthetic overdoses. The threat synthetic drugs pose to our communities and law enforcement must be stopped. H.R. 2851 takes a big step toward eradicating these harmful substances and protecting our communities. The bipartisan SITSA Act will give local, State, and Federal law enforcement the necessary tools to target synthetic substances and the criminals who traffic them. Specifically, this legislation will create a new schedule to the Controlled Substances Act and establish a mechanism by which analogues can be temporarily or permanently added to that schedule in as little as 30 days after the chemical composition is determined by the Attorney General. With amendments adopted by the Judiciary Committee and on the House floor today, we have struck the right balance between providing law enforcement with the tools they need and facilitating research on these chemical compounds. I would like to thank Chairman Goodlatte and Chairman Walden and their staffs, specifically Tony Angeli and Adam Buckalew, for their tireless work on this bill. I would also like to thank my legislative director, John Drzewicki, who has done a tremendous job on this bill. The stories of synthetic drug use are in no way limited to my area of the country. This is a nationwide epidemic. I respectfully ask my colleagues to vote in favor of SITSA because every moment we fail to act, another person is affected by synthetic drugs. Since I have more time, I want to address a specific issue spoken about by my colleague from Texas. Under this bill, a substance placed in schedule A would be a schedule A controlled substance as defined in 21 U.S.C. 802(6). In a controlled substance analogue case, the criteria of that 21 U.S.C. 802(32) and 813 must be met for each defendant, case by case, in addition to the elements of the underlying crime. It cannot be simply asserted a schedule A controlled substance is substantially similar pursuant to those provisions and the court arrive at a 21 U.S.C. 841(b)(1)(c) penalty.

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Chair, just so I am clear about the gentlewoman's position, the gentlewoman is concerned that a drug trafficker may face a penalty of a harsh sentence when they have caused someone's death, as an example. Let me give you an example. Deanna Axe was 5 months pregnant. She had been off heroin for 8 months. A drug trafficker pushed her and cajoled her over the course of about 12 hours through texts that we saw trying to get her to try this specific type of heroin. She took one dose. Her mother found her. The heroin that he gave her killed her and her 5- month-old baby in her womb. That is the reality of what we are facing. He is facing 15 years in prison. He pled guilty to that. She is gone. Her baby is gone. That is the reality. So we are trying to find a positive balance here. No one is suggesting that mandatory minimums under 841(b)(1)(A) or 841(b)(1)(B) can be applicable. They are not. It is the (b)(1)(C) category for this, except when a death is caused. So please let us try and find a proper balance here.

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Chairman, I would like to briefly respond to some of the comments that were made by my colleagues on the other side of the aisle. First of all, when my colleague refers to sweeping new authority--I believe that was a quote--that the Attorney General has under this law, it must be made clear that it gives the Attorney General authority to list these substances temporarily on a controlled substance analogue list under schedule A. It also gives Congress 180 days to overrule the Attorney General at any time. That is a very potent and powerful check. This does not shift significant power to the Attorney General. I think that is important to note. My colleagues also noted several times that it would limit the research ability of individuals under this statute to research synthetic drugs. The Griffith amendment addresses this issue in a powerful and potent manner. It ensures and protects that individuals doing research can continue to do the research and will not be sanctioned or in trouble for doing that research. We have worked closely with the industry to get their input. More importantly, we worked very, very closely with Health and Human Services and the Drug Enforcement Administration to provide substantial input. Based on that input, we have made the adjustments that are now memorialized in the Griffith amendment. While we are talking here, let's keep something in perspective. Every hour in this country, at least five people die from heroin- and opioid- related overdoses. That is five an hour. By the time we are done, five more people will have died. Of those individuals dying, the vast majority are dying because of the synthetic drug components that are being found in all the heroin overdoses, such as synthetic fentanyl. Synthetic fentanyl and other synthetic drugs are generally made outside this country. The bad guys know that when we find a chemical compound and get it listed on the drug analogue statute, they simply tweak the compound, and then it takes another 3 or 4 years for that drug to get back on the statute and to again make the compound illegal. It is a cat-and-mouse game that they are winning and we are losing, because we are losing our children. In closing, I would look to just note this and ask people to consider this. Let's put a face on this stuff. John Socci had a daughter. She was murdered in front of her 18-month- old child by her boyfriend, who was addicted to opioids. Two years later, they lost their son to a heroin overdose. Breanna Axe, as I mentioned earlier, died 5 months pregnant when a drug dealer repeatedly pushed her to try heroin, even though she hadn't been using for 7 or 8 months. One dose and she was gone. That dose had synthetic drugs in it as well. There are so many other stories out there. Law enforcement is in trouble because of these synthetic drugs. They are afraid to even touch them because simple contact is going to kill them. While we are complaining about jurisdiction and who was able to review this bill or whether researchers are properly protected, which I submit they are, people are dying in this country at a rapid rate. We must do something. Victor Woolsen, who I talked about earlier who bought a synthetic drug over the counter, had a seizure, and died, that synthetic drug was on the streets for 4 years after he died. It took us 4 years to get that drug off the shelves and off the streets of our country. I don't think it is a tall stretch to ask the Attorney General to have authority, when I believe this is not just an epidemic, it is a pandemic in this country, to get these drugs off the streets quickly, 30 days. If the Attorney General messes up, we will be right back here to fix it within 180 days. That is the backstop. We also have backstops for the researchers as well.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet on Tuesday, June 19, 2018, when it shall convene at noon for morning-hour debate and 2 p.m. for legislative business.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, as the House considers legislation to address a heroin and synthetic drug epidemic plaguing our country, to honor the memories of two young people from my district: Morgan Brittany Axe, who died from a heroin overdose more than 2\1/2\ years ago, and Victor Orlando Woolson, who drowned after using synthetic drugs that he bought over the counter almost 6 years ago. Morgan and Victor and so many others were touched by this terrible epidemic. Morgan and Victor were both active members of our community and touched the lives of every person they interacted with. Before she passed away, Morgan worked at the Dewitt Animal Hospital and treated sick and injured animals on a daily basis. Victor was a high-achieving graduate of Mexico High School and was enrolled in Cayuga Community College, where he studied criminal justice and psychology. Drug addiction is a terrible disease. Morgan became addicted to Xanax after the suicide of her boyfriend. She was just 17 years old at the time. Morgan became dependent on Xanax and needed it to function on a daily basis. She then progressed to other pills in order to numb her pain. After a long battle with heroin and prescription painkillers, Morgan found the strength of sobriety for 8 months and was on the drug Vivitrol. Vivitrol magically makes it impossible for addicts to get high on heroin or painkillers. After she found out that she was pregnant, Morgan went off Vivitrol because she did not want it to harm her child. Unfortunately, post- acute withdrawal set in, and Morgan relapsed. Morgan did not have to drive to a drug house on Syracuse's west side to buy the bag of heroin that killed her. Instead, a career drug dealer delivered it to her house in Fairmount after cajoling her to use it. After doing one bag of heroin, Deanna Axe found her daughter lifeless in her bedroom. Morgan overdosed and died, and her unborn child, Isaiah Douglas Lee Mathis, died with her. Morgan's drug dealer, Anthony Vita, was federally prosecuted and is now in prison for the next 15 years. However, Vita being in prison where he belongs, will never bring Morgan back. Victor Woolson was your average happy-go-lucky teenager who had many friends. He was not only a loyal friend but a loving brother, uncle, and grandson. Victor graduated Mexico High School with an advanced regents diploma and had 4 years in the Marine Corps Junior ROTC program. In college, Victor was contemplating a career in law enforcement while attending Cayuga Community College. While attending community college, Victor began experimenting with synthetic drugs that he was able to purchase legally over the counter. Because he could buy these substances over the counter, Victor assumed these illicit substances were safe. They were not. At the young age of 19, Victor went into a shop, bought a packet of K2/Spice over the counter at a head shop in Oswego, New York, suffered a fatal reaction from smoking that synthetic marijuana, and drowned in Lake Ontario. After Victor's tragic death, his mother, Teresa channeled her sadness and anger into advocacy and founded the Victor Orlando Woolson Foundation, or the VOW Foundation for short, which advocates for stronger legislation against synthetic drugs and assists individuals and organizations in providing services for mentally ill, homeless, and low-income youth in Oswego County. It has been my honor to fight alongside Teresa, and this year I invited her to be my guest at the State of the Union in order to highlight the need to address and combat the use of synthetic drugs. I am proud to fight in memory of Morgan and Victor and so many others, and in this Congress I introduced the Stop the Importation and Trafficking of Synthetic Analogues Act, or SITSA for short. The SITSA Act modernizes the Controlled Substances Act by speeding up the process of placing synthetic drugs on the controlled substances list. Under current law, drug producers often make minor tweaks to legal substances that mimic the effects of banned drugs and use this loophole to prevent law enforcement from removing these drugs from circulation. In addition, the SITSA Act outlaws 13 synthetic fentynals that have been identified by the Drug Enforcement Administration as an immediate threat to public health. Together, by passing this legislation, we can prevent synthetic drugs from, one, being imported into this country; two, being routinely mixed with heroin in fatal doses; and, three, being sold over the counter in head shops and bodegas throughout this country. These efforts can't bring Victor Orlando Woolson back. They can't bring Morgan Brittany Axe back and so many others from our district and our country, but this is a start in the right direction to stop this terrible epidemic. Every hour in this country, five people die from heroin overdose-- every hour, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year. We have got to stop it. We have got to keep pushing. I am proud to be part of the legislation, and I am proud that the Congress is acting in such a meaningful manner.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sergeant Joseph Ayotte, a dedicated member of the Wayne County Sheriff's Office whose quick response and expert training saved the life of a fellow officer, Rochester Police Sergeant Ralph J. Gagliano. On November 26, 2013, Sergeant Gagliano was driving home when he suffered a severe headache and subsequently lost control of his vehicle, veering off the road. Arriving on scene, Sergeant Ayotte quickly assessed Sergeant Gagliano, determining the occurrence of a medical emergency. Following transportation to the hospital, the sergeant underwent emergency surgery for a brain aneurysm and awoke 21 days later with no memory of the incident. Following his retirement on March 2, 2018, a date Sergeant Gagliano may have never seen had it not been for Sergeant Ayotte's imperative and professional conduct, Sergeant Gagliano presented Sergeant Ayotte with the Life Saving Award. Sergeant Ayotte and his actions that day emblemize why we have such tremendous love and respect for our officers and first responders. Perhaps the message on the Life Saving Award says it best, ``Your Actions on that day will always be remembered.'' Prior to representing Central New York in Congress, I spent nearly my entire professional career serving as a federal prosecutor, working alongside our local law enforcement and first responders to improve the safety and stability of our communities. I have always held the utmost of respect for the difficult jobs of our first responders, and I recognize the challenges they face, which grow greater every day. Yet, they never shirk their duty and always rise to the occasion. I greatly commend them for their dedication to serving our community--a community that includes fellow police officer Ralph J. Gagliano--and I thank them wholeheartedly for their service each and every day.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the career of Stephen Cvengros. Mr. Cvengros recently retired as the Vice President of Content for Advance Media New York, the accredited publisher of The Post-Standard, Syracuse.com, and NYup.com. Mr. Cvengros retired with numerous accolades in the news business and leaves behind a lasting legacy. Mr. Cvengros has worked for several news and media outlets throughout his career, which he began in print media. He was an editor for the Chicago Tribune, The Detroit News, and Newsday. Later, he became an executive producer for MSN News before starting his tenure at Advance Media New York. In Mr. Cvengros' time at Advance Media New York, he has helped The Post-Standard develop its website and build a strong online following. As a result, Syracuse.com has frequently ranked in the top of local news sites in the country. Additionally, The Post-Standard has cemented its position as one of the nation's top five best read newspapers. Throughout his career, Mr. Cvengros has accumulated numerous awards, including Gold Awards from the National Press Photographers Association and glowing recognition from the Michigan Press Association. His decorated career reflects his hard work and passion for journalism. I commend Stephen Cvengros for his dedication to journalistic integrity and for efforts to modernize print journalism and make news more accessible. His professionalism has provided great levels of success and stability and he will surely be missed.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 10th anniversary of the Bhutanese refugee community's arrival in Onondaga County. The first members of our vibrant Bhutanese community arrived in Central New York in 2008, in the wake of intolerance and violence in Bhutan. Today, almost 3,000 Bhutanese people live in Central New York, where they serve as good neighbors, excellent students, and leaders of our community. Under the leadership of Jay Subedi, who serves as the President of the Bhutanese Community in Syracuse, the Bhutanese Community runs educational programs such as English as a Second Language and citizenship classes. The Bhutanese Community in Syracuse also offers Problem Solving programming in which volunteers assist members of the community in basic daily tasks such as applying for government assistance, making and changing doctor's appointments, and filling out different types of applications. On March 24th, the Bhutanese community organized a 10th anniversary celebration at Franklin Elementary School. As a testament to the organization's dedication to our community, it has also announced the creation of a blessing box, which will be filled with food every Saturday and used to provide for people of lower incomes. It is my honor to recognize the contributions of the Bhutanese community to Central New York over the past 10 years. The United States is a country that was founded by immigrants. Our success as a nation is directly tied to our acceptance of all nationalities, ethnicities, and cultures. I join our community in wishing all members of the Bhutanese community ``congratulations'' on 10 years of improving and enriching our community.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the victory of the Liverpool Warriors Boys basketball team in the New York State Public High School Association Class AA Championship on March 17, 2018. The Liverpool Warriors defeated the Half Hollow Hills East team by a score of 71-64 to win the state title for the first time in program history. The Warriors' victory marked the end of a perfect season for the team. Despite this dominant record the game was close, with the Warriors trailing by seven at halftime. They rallied in the second half won the game. Tournament MVP, Senior Charles Pride, who scored 18 points along with seven rebounds and six assists, and senior Noah Issakainen who added another 17 points in the win. Members of the championship team included Pride, Issakainen, as well as seniors Peter Cerrone, Alan Willmes, Joe Desocio, Nas Johnson, Connor Jones, juniors Kyle Butler, Alex Ruston, Jake Piseno, Nick Klein, Joe Valerino, Ryan Valentine, Ian Conroy, Matt Senecal, and sophomores Freshaun Dreher, Kyle Caves, and Lateef Edwards. The team was led to victory by their coach Ryan Blackwell. I am honored to recognize the teamwork displayed by the Liverpool Warriors and to congratulate the members of the team, their families, the coaching staff, and teachers at Liverpool High School. This is a historic win for Central New York, the first Section III Class AA title since 2002, and I am confident that the positive experiences from the 2018 season will yield the Warriors continued success in both athletics and academics.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th anniversary of Simplex Manufacturing Company in my district in Auburn, New York. Founded in 1918 by William J. Merritt, Simplex Manufacturing Company began as a leather goods manufacturer. Over the years, however, Simplex has evolved with market trends, and now provides a variety of essential, modern products that are often custom-made for a variety of machines and devices. Today, the parts crafted by Simplex are used in all manner of devices from motors and hand tools, to security systems which keep families and businesses safe from harm. Throughout the years, Simplex has become a staple of the Central New York business community. In this day and age, while many companies have chosen quantity over quality, Simplex has remained dedicated to producing an excellent product. I am proud to congratulate the owners and employees of Simplex 100 successful years in business.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Roderick Allison, Acting Deputy Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration, who recently announced his retirement from TSA after 33 years of government service. Mr. Allison's career began in 1985 with 13 years in the U.S. Army at the National Security Agency and 7th Special Forces Group. In 1998, Director Allison's career with the Federal Air Marshal Service began when the program was part of the FAA. Following the events of 9/11, Mr. Allison returned to the Federal Air Marshal Service and has served with distinction in several critical roles throughout TSA, including Acting Administrator, Acting Chief of Staff, and Acting Chief of Operations. Since becoming Director of the Federal Air Marshal Service in May of 2014, Mr. Allison has been widely recognized for his resolute leadership, integrity, and commitment to the mission of TSA and the Federal Air Marshal Service. He truly is a leader among leaders. He has established a lasting legacy, both through action and mentorship, that will continue to have a positive impact on TSA and Federal Air Marshal Service personnel for many years to come. Thank you for your service, Mr. Allison.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the selfless actions of Sean O'Gorman, a firefighter from Oswego, New York whose quick actions saved the lives of three girls in North Carolina. On April 26, 2018, while on vacation with his family in North Carolina, Mr. O'Gorman witnessed three girls in distress after being caught in a rip current. The girls' father tried to reach them on a surfboard, but the rip current was too strong, and he was not able to make it. Luckily, Mr. O'Gorman immediately leaped into action. Exhibiting consummate professionalism, Mr. O'Gorman entered the water to save the girls in distress. Mr. O'Gorman had recently attended Swift Water Rescue training in Auburn New York, where he had received training to prepare for this type of emergency. Using the aggressive swim, forceful crawl stroke he learned in training, O'Gorman managed to reach the girls in the rip current, where the father had been unable to reach. He managed to successfully retrieve the girls from the water, saving their lives. By the time the Emerald Isle Fire Department arrived, Mr. O'Gorman already had everyone out of the water and safe. Mr. O'Gorman, a firefighter with the Oswego Fire Department, heroically saved the lives of three girls from a deadly rip current at Emerald Isle. His quick thinking and heroic actions stem from his training as a first responder. Our first responders are often called to dangerous and dire situations that threaten life. Just as he does every single day, Mr. O'Gorman did everything in his power to help those in need. It is my honor to recognize him and to offer thanks, praise, and a deep debt of gratitude for his tireless efforts.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and legacy of Lawrence ``Larry'' Parry who passed away on Saturday, May 5, 2018. Mr. Parry served his nation proudly as a U.S. Army Mechanic. In 1941, Mr. Parry was stationed in Oahu, Hawaii, when Japanese forces launched a surprise aerial attack on the naval base at Pearl Harbor. Mr. Parry played an integral role in the defense of Pearl Harbor, tasked with supplying ammunition to troops around the island. Mr. Parry's experience at Pearl Harbor changed his life forever. After the war, Mr. Parry became an ambassador of The Greatest Generation Foundation, working day in and day out to ensure that the lives of our nation's veterans are honored and memorialized. Mr. Parry returned to Pearl Harbor in 2016, with one hundred other survivors, to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the attacks. Mr. Parry was predeceased by his son Frederick. Frederick ``Fred'' Parry served in the U.S. Army like his father, and passed away in January at the age of 67. A veteran, Fred was awarded a Purple Heart for his service in Korea. Mr. Parry is survived by his daughter, Susan Acker, his grandchildren, and his great grandson, Liam ``Bug Boy'' Roland. Mr. Parry has been justly recognized for his career of service. Last December seventh, he traveled to Washington to meet President Trump, and will be introduced into the New York State Senate's Veterans hall of fame. Lawrence Parry lived a life of fantastic and selfless service, always putting the interests of our great nation first, even in our darkest moments. For his tremendous efforts to defend our nation, honor our brave veterans, and for making our community a better place, it is my distinct privilege today to honor a great American, Lawrence Parry.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the centennial celebration of Maxwell Memorial Library in my hometown of Camillus, New York. Maxwell Memorial Library in the Village of Camillus first opened its doors 100 years ago following the advocacy of local teacher K. Belle Hackford, who organized the Camillus Library Association on May 26, 1918. The library was granted a provisional charter on September 22, 1921, and its absolute charter on February 19, 1926. The name was changed to Maxwell Memorial Library, in honor of librarian Mary Ellis Maxwell, on February 28, 1958. Maxwell Memorial Library has had several homes, all on Main Street in the village. Its first location was in one room over Abert's Plumbing Shop. In 1922, it moved downstairs to a larger space. The next move was in 1924, to the former Cook home. In late 1925, it made a fourth move to an old building behind Kemper Garage before the library finally settled into its current home in the former Presbyterian Church. Today, Maxwell Memorial Library offers adult, early, and digital literacy programs to its patrons. On average, around 31,000 people visit Maxwell Memorial Library every year. It is my honor to recognize Maxwell Memorial Library's current director, Amanda E. Perrine, and former director, Katy Benson, and Board of Trustees Lucille Adorante, Donna Breen, Michael Dendis, Cynthia Drake, Megan Glass, Sue Mezey, Kristen Northrop, and Barb Parsons for their hard work to make this library what is today. Congratulations on 100 years in our community.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the teachers, students, and administrators that make Moravia Middle School one of the best middle schools in New York State. On May 5, New York State Education Department officials honored the Moravia Middle School with the ``School to Watch'' designation, a national distinction recognizing academic and developmental excellence as well as social equity and organizational performance. In 2006, Moravia was among the first schools in New York to achieve a ``School to Watch'' status. The School to Watch Program recognizes schools that are exemplars for the implementation of the State Education Department's Essential Elements of Standards-Focused Middle- Level Schools and Programs. Schools are evaluated on 4 categories: Academic Excellence, Social Equity, Developmental Responsiveness, and Organization and Structure. If a school proves it excels in all 4 categories, it is eligible to become a ``School to Watch.'' Moravia has undergone the rigorous re-application process, including student interviews, to claim the accolade every three years since 2006. Moravia has earned the prestigious designation four times in 2009, 2012, 2015, and now 2018 for its curriculum, teacher responsiveness, and its unique school organization. I am honored to recognize such an outstanding school in Central New York. The teachers and administrators at Moravia Middle School make their students feel important each day by developing a program that guarantees every student will have at least one positive interaction with an adult. I am confident that the positive experiences inside and outside the classroom at Moravia Middle School will yield continued success for its students in the future.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 125th anniversary of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Syracuse in my district. Since 1892, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Syracuse has been serving Syracuse children of all races, religions, and socioeconomic backgrounds. While the program began as simply the ``Boys' Evening Home'' in the May Memorial Church in Syracuse, it has grown extraordinarily in the last 125 years. Following World War I, membership continued to grow exponentially, resulting in several relocations and expansions until the Club found its permanent home at 430 East Genesee Street. By the late 1940s, the Club had expanded to a total of three branches to accommodate its 6,000 members. In 1990, the Club changed its name to the Boys & Girls Club of Syracuse. After many years of welcoming girls into the organization, it only seemed proper to finally change its name. Today, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Syracuse has four clubhouses and two school-based sites, which provide a variety of programs for the children of Syracuse. Serving over 1,000 members annually, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Syracuse enables children in our community to realize their potential and become productive and prospering members of our society. The Boys and Girls Clubs of Syracuse will always ensure that every child has access to a safe environment after school with caring adults. The work that they do provides an incredible benefit to Central New York, allowing parents to work hard without having to worry about the safety of their children. It is my distinct honor to recognize the Boys and Girls Clubs of Syracuse on 125 years of great success.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer Betty Babcock, of the Onondaga Nation's Snipe Clan my best wishes on the celebration of her 95th birthday on April 22nd. Meaning ``People of the Hills,'' the Onondaga Nation and people celebrate a rich and vibrant culture. Standing as the ``Keepers of the Fire'' due to their central location, the Onondaga served as the keystone to the great Iroquois Confederacy, forming a system of governance that inspired America's founding fathers in crafting the Constitution of the United States. In a storied and respected society where matriarchy is especially revered, Betty is certainly the keeper of her family's hearth, embodying an inextinguishable flame. Betty has a close-knit family including: her husband of sixty years Milton, daughter Darlene, grandchildren Betty and Eric; and her brother Oscar. Family has always played a key role in Betty's life; as a young teenager, Betty became responsible for raising her younger brothers and sister, and maintains her dedication to her family to this day. Betty's first job was at the offices of Syracuse Attorney Bob Daugherty, after which she opened and operated a very successful restaurant. She has always been known for her generosity, sense of humor and wonderful meals. The celebration of Betty's 95th birthday is a truly momentous occasion. Betty has witnessed great milestones in our Nation's history, and I am honored to wish her a happy birthday.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of one of my dear friends and colleagues, Representative Dorothy Louise McIntosh Slaughter. Congresswoman Slaughter passed away last month at the age of 88 after more than 31 years of service in the House of Representatives representing the people of Rochester, New York. Born a coal miner's daughter from Kentucky, Louise quickly became a true native daughter of upstate New York, exemplifying its values and representing her fellow constituents with the zeal and tenacity that was unrivaled in her storied tenure. Becoming the first woman to chair the House Rules Committee, Congresswoman Slaughter was a pioneer in her advocacy for issues ranging from congressional transparency to health protections for those with preexisting conditions. I had the distinct honor, pleasure, and privilege to work with Representative Slaughter on a whole host of issues that affect our neighboring communities in upstate New York and the Nation at large. Whether it was tackling the opioid epidemic, or ensuring our citizens had access to clean drinking water, I am proud, but humbled, to say Louise and I worked side by side. For Louise, the interest of her constituents and fellow Americans rose above all else as she embodied the true meaning of bipartisanship, readily reaching across the aisle to people like me, in spite of party or public pressure, to achieve the common good. Rest peacefully, Louise. I will miss your lovely demeanor and your wonderful smile.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize April as Child Abuse Awareness & Prevention Month and to honor the tremendous work of McMahon/Ryan Child Advocacy Center in Syracuse, New York. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, over 683,000 children were victims of child abuse or neglect in 2015, a number that has held steady for years. Additionally, 1,670 children died from child abuse or neglect in 2015 and according to the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, the majority of these deaths could have been prevented. Since 1983, April has been designated as Child Abuse Awareness & Prevention month. In recent years, the focus of the month on recognition and prevention has expanded to include promoting healthier parenting and strong families. In Central New York, we are incredibly fortunate to have McMahon/Ryan Child Advocacy Center as a strong resource. This organization works to prevent child abuse and neglect and to provide care and support for those who have endured abuse. The goal of McMahon/Ryan is to end child abuse, and to ensure that the community fully understands the impact of abuse. The McMahon/Ryan Child Advocacy Center offers a variety of life- changing programs which work efficiently every day to support victims of Child Abuse, and stop child abuse outright. Throughout the month of April, McMahon/Ryan will recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month with its annual ``Go Blue 4 Kids'' Campaign. In 1989, Bonnie Finney, a grandmother in Virginia began the blue-ribbon campaign as a tribute to her three-year-old grandson who had died at the hands of abuse. The blue ribbon remains a symbol of childhood abuse and neglect prevention across the United States. Additionally, the blue pinwheel is a national symbol of child abuse and neglect prevention. It stands as an uplifting reminder that all children deserve a happy childhood and future. Purchasing a pinwheel this month helps McMahon/Ryan contribute to the lives of children directly in our community. I encourage all Central New Yorkers to ``Go Blue'' during the month of April and to support the work of McMahon/Ryan Child Advocacy Center to help end child abuse.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 50th birthday of PEACE, Inc., a nonprofit, community-based organization in my district in Onondaga County. PEACE, Inc., was founded on March 26, 1968, with a mission to empower individuals in our community to thrive. Today, this organization plays an integral part in the lives of so many central New Yorkers. From children and families, to teenagers, to senior citizens, PEACE, Inc., is dedicated to helping all individuals realize their self-worth and become self-sufficient. Under the leadership of Executive Director Joe O'Hara and its board of directors, PEACE, Inc., in Onondaga County has such programs as Head Start, Senior Nutrition, the EITC Free Tax Prep programs, and many others. Poverty does not just hurt those who live in it; it hurts our entire community. By focusing on stabilizing families, improving living conditions, and developing partnerships with our regional schools, businesses, and other nonprofits, PEACE, Inc., has provided thousands of individuals and families in our community with a pathway out of poverty. After 50 years of outstanding work, PEACE, Inc., deserves our recognition and our gratitude. I join many in our community in wishing the many men and women involved in this great program congratulations on 50 years of serving the community.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak out against domestic violence and sexual abuse. Domestic violence affects people from all backgrounds. Regardless of race, religion, and socioeconomic background, domestic abuse touches all aspects of our community. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, nearly 20 people per minute are assaulted by an intimate partner. We must work together to stop this. Central New York is home to Vera House, a wonderful organization that works to prevent and respond to domestic and sexual violence. This month, it kicked off its 24th annual White Ribbon Campaign in central New York. This campaign raises awareness for the need to put an end to domestic violence and sexual abuse. Throughout the duration of the White Ribbon Campaign, thousands of central New Yorkers, such as myself, will be wearing a white ribbon or a white wristband to stand in solidarity against abuse. I urge my House colleagues to join me in wearing a white ribbon to demonstrate a personal pledge to work towards preventing violence against men, women, and children.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 20th Anniversary of Biscotti Cafe in Syracuse. Two decades ago, in March 1998, Geoff and Debbie Camire opened their bakery on Butternut Street. Soon after opening, their business flourished, and became a staple in Syracuse. Unfortunately, just five years after opening their doors, Geoff and Debbie's business was destroyed in a fire. Despite this massive setback, Geoff and Debbie reopened their bakery and persevered. After a few years on South Geddes Street, the bakery reopened on North Salina Street in 2004, where it remains today. The cafe serves sandwiches, soups and salads for lunch. But throughout our community, the bakery is best known for its Italian and European-inspired pastries, cookies and cakes. Twenty years later, the Camires and their staff make thousands upon thousands of pastries, cookies, and cakes each year. Businesses and business owners like these form the foundation of our economy, and provide our communities proof that the American Dream is alive and well. I am proud to recognize the Camires and Biscotti Cafe for celebrating 20 years in business. Geoff and Debbie Camire have become an indispensable part of the Syracuse community and I wish this outstanding business continued success in the years to come.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 30th anniversary of Provisions Bakery & Restaurant, located in Armory Square in my district in Syracuse, New York. In coordination with AccessCNY, Provisions Bakery & Restaurant operates a job training program for individuals living with disabilities in our community. The mission of Provisions is to empower all of its employees, individuals of all abilities, to work in a positive and supportive environment and gain skills needed to secure and maintain competitive employment. In its three decades, the bakery has sold more than 200,000 of its signature chocolate chip cookies, but more importantly has positively impacted over 1,000 lives. Provisions trainees work alongside professional staff learning all aspects of the bakery from cooking and baking, to serving and cleaning. Trainees develop employment skills such as time management, interpersonal skills and how to manage workplace expectations, which will improve their access to employment opportunities across Central New York. Throughout the years, Provisions has become a staple in the Armory Square restaurant and business community, and I am proud to congratulate the employees of Provisions on the occasion of 30 years in business.