John Katko

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I missed several votes on December 17th due to incliment weather and a flight delay. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 683; NAY on Roll Call No. 684; YEA on Roll Call No. 685; YEA on Roll Call No. 686 and YEA on Roll Call No. 687.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of my amendment to H.R. 729, which I am proud to offer with my colleagues from New York, Representatives Morelle, Brindisi, and Stefanik. This amendment would explicitly authorize the U.S. Geological Survey to conduct research on harmful algal bloom, or HAB, development within the Great Lakes Basin system. This research would help to address significant risks that algal blooms pose to freshwater ecosystems, including the production of toxins that endanger humans and animal life. These hazards are all too familiar to the community that I represent in central New York, which has faced a rising number of outbreaks in recent years. In these instances, outbreaks have jeopardized the availability of clean drinking water for my constituents and directly impacted the health of our lakefront communities. Unfortunately, this issue extends beyond my district and even further beyond the Great Lakes. These algal blooms have been recorded in all 50 States, necessitating increased Federal support for research and mitigation efforts nationwide. Research conducted in the Great Lakes under this amendment would help to stem the increasing spread of this toxic threat and provide peace of mind to at-risk communities. Mr. Chair, I urge support of my amendment, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Chairman, I thank my colleague from Hawaii. I urge adoption of my amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of my amendment to H.R. 729, the Coastal and Great Lakes Communities Enhancement Act. This amendment would extend the eligibility for grant funding under H.R. 729 to projects that assess the impact of Great Lakes water level management practices on coastal resiliency. My constituents on Lake Ontario's southern shore have faced record high and oftentimes catastrophic water levels in 2 of the last 3 years. These rising levels have resulted in catastrophic flood damage and coastal erosion, threatening the physical well-being of our communities and posing an existential threat to the local economy. As water levels continue to rise across the Great Lakes, it is important that we thoroughly evaluate all the factors that contribute to the health of our coastal communities, including the water level management procedures that are supposed to mitigate those threats to our coasts. My amendment will provide necessary support to projects that include a thorough evaluation of these procedures as a part of the broader effort to improve coastal resiliency across the Great Lakes. I urge support of my amendment, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Chairman, I urge adoption of my amendment, but I will note that my colleague from Hawaii is right in that this needs to be properly administered if it is, in fact, made into law. One of the problems we have in the Great Lakes in general is the high water levels. What we have on Lake Ontario is something called the International Joint Commission, which I would argue is not properly administering the water levels and is contributing greatly to the problem. This amendment is meant, in part, to address that and to have more uniformity with respect to the application of water levels and considering more the impact on the coastal shorelines from those regulations. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Donald J. Winn, who passed away on October 17, 2019, at the age of 90. A veteran, loving husband, father, and grandfather, Donald Winn will be dearly missed by his family and community. A graduate of Searles High School in Massachusetts, Donald Winn enlisted in the U.S. Army following his graduation and proudly served his county in the Korean War. After the war, Donald Winn returned home and worked for the Friendly's Corporation for 32 years, eventually retiring as a District Manager. Donald Winn was married to his wife Maurita for 60 years, and together, they have 5 children and 12 grandchildren. He was known for his commitment to his family and his love for family-time. An avid University of Connecticut Women's Basketball fan, Donald Winn would often take his grandchildren to games, even attending several NCAA Final Four contests. Additionally, Donald Winn treasured the beach, especially enjoying family vacations to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the life of Donald J. Winn. A devoted family-man and veteran, Donald Winn's legacy will always be remembered and cherished. I encourage my colleagues to keep his family in their prayers during this truly difficult time.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Edward J. Moses, Esq., who was recently named the ``2019 Distinguished Lawyer'' by the Onondaga County Bar Association. In his career extending over 50 years as an attorney, Edward Moses has been known for his uncompromising ethic, client-focused approach, and loyalty to his firm Mackenzie Hughes, LLP, where he has spent his entire legal career. Across the legal profession, Edward Moses has garnered admiration from his peers, competing lawyers, and respected judges. For this reason, in 2016 and 2018, Edward Moses received the distinction of ``Syracuse Lawyer of the Year'' in corporate law. In 1968, Edward Moses began his career in law with Mackenzie Hughes, LLP, immediately following his graduation from Syracuse University College of Law. However, within only two weeks of his start date, Edward Moses put his career on hold to fulfill the commitment he made to the United States Coast Guard. For ten weeks, he attended boot camp at Cape May, New Jersey, before returning home to Central New York in 1969. Edward Moses and his wife, Elana, have five sons and reside in Otisco, New York. He is known for his commitment to his family--and while he frequently works six days a week, he never misses a family dinner or sporting event for his sons. Devoted to his faith, Edward Moses is active in St. Patrick's Church in Otisco. Additionally, he is a deeply involved alumni of Christian Brothers Academy and Georgetown University, where he received his undergraduate degree and played football, lacrosse, and baseball. For nearly 40 years, Edward Moses has served with distinction on the Christian Brothers Academy Board of Trustees. In this role, he notably oversaw improvements to its campus and played an instrumental role in transforming the school into a coed institution. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring Edward J. Moses, Esq. A devoted family-man, and highly respected figure in our Central New York community, Edward Moses has served with great distinction in the legal profession and is highly deserving of this honor.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Don Waful, who passed away at the age of 103 on September 12, 2019. Mr. Waful was known in Central New York as a decorated World War II veteran, prominent Syracuse University sports fan, and for his tenure as the President of the Syracuse Sky Chiefs baseball team. After graduating from Syracuse University with a bachelor's degree in 1937 and master's degree in 1939, Mr. Waful went on to enlist in the U.S. Army at the onset of World War II. In the war, Mr. Waful served with the 1st Armored Division, receiving several commendations for his service including, the POW Medal, American Defense Service Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, and the Honorable Service Lapel Button. Notably, while in Tunisia, Mr. Waful and his unit encountered a German tank company, which subsequently took him and his unit prisoner. Mr. Waful survived as a POW in camps in Italy, Poland, and Germany before finally returning home. Following World War II, Mr. Waful returned home to Central New York to pursue a career in insurance and to serve as the President of the Syracuse Sky Chiefs baseball team. In his role with the Sky Chiefs, Mr. Waful contributed to the design and construction of NBT Bank stadium, which opened in 1997. Along with his contributions to the Sky Chiefs, Mr. Waful was known for his unwavering support of Syracuse University sports. As a lifelong Syracuse University Football fan, Mr. Waful was a mainstay at home games, missing only three contests since 1945. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the life and legacy of Mr. Don Waful. As a celebrated member of our Central New York community and prominent Syracuse sports supporter, Mr. Waful will be dearly missed. I ask my colleagues to keep him and his family in mind as we remember his life.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Village of Hannibal Mayor Ronald K. Greenleaf who was recently named Veteran of the Year by the Oswego County Veterans Service Agency. Ron Greenleaf has spent the vast majority of his life in public service, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to his country and community. In 1967, he entered the United States Navy, serving in Vietnam on the USS Harnett County. An electrician by trade, Mr. Greenleaf assisted with maintenance, while contributing to the ship's overall mission of providing tactical assistance to American and Vietnamese forces. In recognition of his service, Mr. Greenleaf was recommended to receive the Combat Action Ribbon. Following his deployment, Mr. Greenleaf returned to central New York to pursue a career as an electrician, to raise a family, and to continue his service in the Navy Reserves. Ron Greenleaf has been married to his wife, Dawn, for 47 years, and together, they have two daughters. He is known for his commitment to his family, attending countless practices, games, dance recitals, and plays of his grandchildren. Following his retirement, Mr. Greenleaf ran for the Hannibal Village board, a position he was elected to in 1994, and served in for 10 years. He then ran for the position of town supervisor where he served seven terms. Leaving this position in 2017, Mr. Greenleaf went on to be elected as the mayor of Hannibal, a role he still holds today. Of his many accomplishments as an elected official, Mr. Greenleaf has most notably worked to improve infrastructure and promote recreation in Hannibal. He has been praised as a driving force behind the popular Hannibal ramp park, a multiuse park for bikes, skateboards, and Rollerblades. Aside from his work in public service, Mr. Greenleaf has found many other ways to serve his community. As a member of the VFW, Hannibal American Legion, and chairman of the 2013 Wounded Warrior Benefit, he has worked to assist and support his fellow veterans through adversity and hardship. A deeply patriotic man, Mr. Greenleaf has given several speeches at Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies in and around Hannibal. On several occasion, Mr. Greenleaf donated his skills as an electrician to assist with repairs for in-need neighbors. Devoted to his faith, for many years Mr. Greenleaf has been an active participant in the Hannibal United Methodist Church, serving as a trustee and youth group leader. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in honoring Ronald K. Greenleaf. Serving in the military, contributing as an elected official, and volunteering in central New York, Mr. Greenleaf has spent the majority of his life serving others. Our Nation and community need more people like Mr. Greenleaf, and we are inspired by and thankful for his commitment to public service. Honoring the Life of Elijah Cummings

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and passing of my friend, Elijah Cummings. When I first came to Congress a few terms ago, I teamed up with Mr. Cummings to introduce a bill honoring the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman. When I approached Mr. Cummings about this bill, he didn't ask me what party I was in. He didn't ask me what my political philosophies were. He didn't care about partisanship. What he cared about is the fact that we had a common interest; that being, Harriet Tubman. I always appreciated that and in the years that have passed since then, we continued to cosponsor that bill and continued to push it. I am sad to hear of his passing, and I offer my prayers to his wife and family, and I pray that he is united with God right now. And I think going forward, we can all be happy and proud of the legacy he set for us here in Congress.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of Laura Hand as she retires after 47 years as a celebrated journalist in Central New York. For nearly five decades, Laura Hand has been a trusted source for news in our community, a household name in broadcasting, and beloved by many in Central New York. Throughout her career, she has told countless community stories, inspired rising journalists, and used her platform to raise awareness for childhood literacy. Born in a military family in Virginia, Laura Hand spent much of her childhood travelling around the world to countries including England, Germany, Thailand, and Italy. Developing an interest in news and politics at a young age, Laura Hand followed this passion and enrolled in Syracuse University's Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, where she studied journalism and political science. While a student at Syracuse University, Laura Hand became the first woman to direct the campus radio station, WAER. After graduating in 1971, she took her first full-time position as a radio news reporter with WFBL in Syracuse, NY. In 1972, Laura Hand transitioned from radio to television, joining the NBC 3 broadcast team. Throughout her reputable career with NBC 3, she held a number of positions, but has become best known for anchoring ``Weekend Today'' and ``Monday Night Answer Desk,'' where she encouraged viewers to get involved and have fun in the Central New York community. Passionate about her community, for years Laura Hand maintained the ``In Your Community'' webpage, a site dedicated to informing residents of the many community events in Central New York. Throughout her career, Laura Hand has interviewed some of the most prominent figures in American politics, including former New York State Governor Nelson Rockefeller and former First Lady Nancy Reagan. Laura Hand has coupled her prominent career in journalism in Central New York with her passion for reading, and, for more than 30 years, has organized the ``Books Breaks'' summer reading campaign, an annual program that promotes childhood literacy in our community. She plans to continue this work into retirement. In addition, she has served as a long-time member of the Salvation Army/Syracuse Board. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring Laura Hand for an incredible 47-year career in journalism. I wish her all the best in her retirement.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of my bill, H.R. 3675, the Trusted Traveler Reconsideration and Restoration Act of 2019. This bipartisan legislation seeks to improve the process of having one's trusted traveler status reinstated after it may have been revoked in error. Every day, the Department of Homeland Security's Trusted Traveler Programs keep the traveling public moving freely and securely. The Trusted Traveler Programs, like PreCheck, Global Entry, Nexus, and Sentri, facilitate growing passenger volumes at airports and ports of entry while also making screening risk-based. Unfortunately, however, some travelers have suffered from instances of miscommunication or misidentification, causing them to lose their trusted traveler status. Unlike the Department's redress program for individuals who are originally denied enrollment in these programs, the process for restoration when someone's trusted traveler status has been erroneously revoked is much less clear. The traveling public should not be subjected to a litany of bureaucratic hurdles and lengthy procedures at multiple different agencies when seeking help having their trusted traveler status reinstated. H.R. 3675 helps alleviate this burden by implementing a top-to-bottom audit of the Department's existing data and processes by the Government Accountability Office. It is my intention that this review will yield recommendations for Homeland Security to improve how travelers engage with the government on these issues, and break down communication barriers between Federal, State, and local agencies. Importantly, my legislation also directs the Secretary of Homeland Security to provide commensurate re-enrollment time to those individuals found to have had their trusted traveler status revoked in error. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my bill's bipartisan cosponsors, including my friends, Mrs. Watson Coleman, Mr. Correa, and Ms. Slotkin for their support of this important bill. I also thank the chairman of the full committee, Mr. Thompson, and Ranking Member Rogers for bringing this bill to the floor today. Mr. Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 100th Anniversary of the League of Women Voters in Syracuse and New York on September 19, 2019. For 100 years, the League of Women Voters has successfully engaged and educated millions of women, promoted female participation in government, and advocated for significant public policy change. Tracing its origins to the National American Woman Suffrage Association, the League of Women Voters in Syracuse and New York was created after New York State gave women the right to vote in 1917. Since its founding, the League has operated as a nonpartisan organization, dedicated to educating and empowering women voters. In the spirit of this mission, the League of Women Voters today puts out periodic legislative newsletters to inform members on major public policy issues. Additionally, the League of Women Voters works to improve female participation in elections by hosting voter registration events and Get-Out-The Vote drives. Along with improving civic education and participation in government, the League of Women Voters in Syracuse and New York undertakes advocacy efforts at the national, state, and local levels. As part of a national effort, the League's first historic legislative success came with the passage of the Sheppard-Tower Act, which provided federal aid to maternal and child programs. Later, the League advocated for the Social Security and Food and Drugs Act, which passed in 1938 to remove hundreds of federal jobs from the spoils system and place them under the Civil Service. Most notably, they also lead efforts to form the United Nations and encourage American participation in the organization. In recognition of the League of Women Voters' contributions to help create the United Nations, it became the first American organization to receive a United Nations designation as a non- governmental organization. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the 100th Anniversary of the League of Women Voters in Syracuse and New York. Since its formation, the League has made great contributions to empower women voters and has played a significant role in positively shaping public policy in our country.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember the life of Undersheriff Stephen B. McLoud, a loving husband, father, and grandfather, and a devoted public servant, who passed away on August 29, 2019. For nearly 25 years, Undersheriff McLoud worked in law enforcement, selflessly dedicating his life to service of those in our community and nation. A lifelong member of the Central New York community, Undersheriff McLoud graduated from Weedsport Central High School and from Cayuga Community College with an associate degree in criminal justice. After college, Undersheriff McLoud became the first full-time police officer for the Village of Weedsport. In 1983, Undersheriff McLoud joined the Cayuga County Sheriffs Office, starting as a patrol deputy. From there, Undersheriff McLoud was promoted to investigator in 1991 and again to Undersheriff in 2003. He held this position until retiring in 2006. Along with Undersheriff McLoud's work in law enforcement, he was also a 35-year member of the Weedsport Volunteer Fire Department. Additionally, he served with the Finger Lakes Drug Task Force and as a Cayuga County Fire Investigator. Following the attacks on the World Trade Center on September 11th, Undersheriff McLoud bravely traveled to New York City to assist in search and rescue efforts at Ground Zero. Tragically, Undersheriff McLoud developed an illness stemming from his work to aid in the emergency recovery efforts. Outside of his work in public service, Undersheriff McLoud was a member of the Weedsport Presbyterian Church, a former member of the Brutus Town Board, and owner of Oakland Acres Firewood, a family operated firewood and land management company. Undersheriff McLoud was also an avid outdoorsman, and a loving family man who cared deeply for his wife, children, and grandchildren. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the life of Undersheriff Stephen B. McLoud. A lifelong public servant and beloved member of our Central New York community, Undersheriff McLoud will be dearly missed. I ask my colleagues to keep him and his family in mind as we remember the selfless contributions he has made to our community and country.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, on Roll Call No. 525, I mistakenly voted and would like to correct my vote to a YEA. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 525

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to remember the life of New York State Police Sergeant/Station Commander Jeffrey M. Cicora, a beloved father and husband, and dedicated public servant, who passed away on August 10, 2019. Sergeant Cicora spent 24 years on the New York State Police force and diligently protected communities throughout New York State. Sergeant Cicora was a lifelong member of the Central New York community and aspired to be a state trooper from an early age. He graduated from Auburn High School in 1983 and then earned a degree in criminal justice from Cayuga Community College and public justice from SUNY Oswego. Upon completing his training in 1992, Sergeant Cicora was officially sworn in as a New York State Police Trooper. Sergeant Cicora was stationed at the Baldwinsville State Police Station for the majority of his career, but his duties called him to various regions in New York State. During the tragic events of September 11, 2001, Sergeant Cicora arrived at Ground Zero and assisted with search and rescue efforts. In the six months following the attacks, Sergeant Cicora and his K9 partner, Devitt, deployed to New York City's John F. Kennedy and LaGuardia airports to ensure traveler safety. Notably, Sergeant Cicora was awarded the Superintendent's Commendation Award from the New York State Police for his efforts in the arrest of an on-the-run fugitive wanted for violent crimes. Sergeant Cicora and his K9 partner, McGinn, were the first to respond following the fugitive's attack on two people, then successfully tracked him through the woods and made an arrest. Outside his work with the state police, Sergeant Cicora was a wonderful family man. He deeply loved his wife, Valerie, and son, Jack, as well as all his extended family members. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed spending time fishing and boating with his family. Sergeant Cicora served honorably and, sadly, contracted an illness stemming from his emergency search and rescue efforts at Ground Zero. It is essential our nation supports the brave individuals and first responders who selflessly acted on September 11, 2001 without reservation. Many of these brave individuals, like Sergeant Cicora, have developed health conditions from their experiences at Ground Zero. We owe these individuals an enormous debt of gratitude, and with my support, the House passed legislation I cosponsored to permanently reauthorize the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund. This bill is now law, but we must continue to support the brave men and women who responded on 9/11. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in honoring the life of Sergeant Jeffrey M. Cicora. A brave member of New York State's law enforcement community who acted heroically throughout his career, Sergeant Cicora will truly be missed in the Central New York community. I ask my colleagues to keep him and his family in mind as we remember the contributions of this cherished public servant.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 10th Anniversary of the Veterans Legal Clinic in Syracuse, NY, and to recognize Mr. John Powers, Attorney and U.S. Army Veteran, for providing pro bono legal assistance to veterans. For 10 years, Mr. Powers, through his work with the Veterans Legal Clinic, has devoted himself to helping veterans, working with over 600 former servicemembers to provide access to readjustment after service and legal services. In July 2009, Mr. Powers entered into a partnership with the Department of Veterans Affairs' (VA) Syracuse Vet Center to establish the Veterans Legal Clinic. Mr. Powers works with veterans from all branches of the military and from all walks of life to provide free confidential legal services. Through Mr. Powers's partnership with the VA, his clinic has become a vital resource for veterans attempting to secure earned benefits or upgrade a military discharge. Additionally, Mr. Powers coordinates and provides legal staff to support veterans with ongoing legal needs. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the 10th Anniversary of the Veterans Legal Clinic and Mr. John Powers for providing professional legal services to our community's veterans. I commend the Veterans Legal Clinic and all those who donate their time to ensure veterans, who have sacrificed so much for this country, have access to legal services.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Clarence ``Bud'' Randall as he celebrates his 100th birthday. Throughout his life, Mr. Randall has demonstrated exemplary patriotism through his service in World War II, and longstanding devotion to his family and friends. Serving as a Staff Sergeant in the Army's 373rd Engineers Unit during War II, Mr. Randall supported efforts in Germany, France, Belgium, and England. During the war, Mr. Randall worked with his unit of engineers to ensure the safety of his fellow soldiers by clearing mines and constructing floating docks used in Normandy. Notably, at the war's end, Mr. Randall and his unit were among the first service members to enter Nazi concentration camps and liberate those held captive. After completion of his military service, Mr. Randall returned home to earn a bachelor's degree in accounting from Robert Morris University. In 1969, Mr. Randall moved with his wife and six children to Canton, New York, where he then accepted a job as the Vice President of Business Affairs for St. Lawrence University. Mr. Randall held this position for 16 years before retiring from the University. Today, Mr. Randall remains active, continuing to prepare taxes for clients as an enrolled agent. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the life and service of Mr. Clarence ``Bud'' Randall. Mr. Randall's life has been one marked by admirable devotion to his family, friends, and country.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to join East Hill Family Medical in Auburn, New York in recognizing National Health Center Week from August 4, 2019 through August 18, 2019. This week honors the significant impact of Community Health Centers, like East Hill Family Medical, on America's healthcare system. For over 50 years, Community Health Centers have provided high-quality, affordable, and comprehensive primary and preventative healthcare services in our nation's underserved communities. As the country's largest primary care network, Community Health Centers currently serve 28 million Americans across the country. These centers are a critical element of our healthcare system, providing healthcare to both rural and urban populations. Often, Community Health Centers serve as the only accessible and dependable source of primary care for underserved communities. Every day, Community Health Centers work to develop new approaches to healthcare, integrating a wide-range of services beyond just primary care. Further, they are on the frontlines of emerging healthcare crises, providing access to care for our nation's veterans, addressing the opioid epidemic, and responding to public health threats in the wake of natural disasters. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me during National Health Center Week in recognizing the great contributions of East Hill Family Medical in Auburn, New York as well as Community Health Centers across the country.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 75th anniversary of the Fort Ontario Emergency Refugee Shelter located in Oswego, New York. Fort Ontario holds historical significance as the only shelter for European Holocaust victims in the United States during World War II. At the time, the Fort was America's first exposure to the damaging extent of the Holocaust and today serves as an important reminder of our nation's responsibility to defend the freedoms and rights of all individuals. On July 17, 1944, 982 European refugees from 18 different countries boarded the USNS Henry Gibbons in Naples, Italy to cross the Atlantic Ocean as they fled Nazi persecution. The refugees arrived at the Fort Ontario Emergency Refugee Shelter on August 5 following the 19-day journey, which marked the beginning of their ten month stay at the fort. Fort Ontario, which was also known as Safe Haven, shielded the refugees from violent persecution and tyranny in Europe. The shelter was closed in June 1945 and many refugees became American citizens, while some returned to Europe. Although it was open for less than a year, the Fort Ontario Emergency Refugee Shelter played a critical role in saving the lives of the 982 refugees who resided in the fort. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in celebrating Fort Ontario Emergency Refugee Shelter's 75th anniversary. Since serving as a shelter for European refugees, Fort Ontario has been recognized as a significant site by the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Thousands of visitors travel to Fort Ontario each year, and they are reminded of the Holocaust victims who took refuge there and America's role in protecting these vulnerable individuals.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today in celebration of Angelo Bordonaro's 100th birthday. A lifelong resident of Central New York, Mr. Bordonaro has lived an incredible life--he started working at the age of 10, served in World War II, and dedicated 60 years to the Taunton Volunteer Fire Department. Angelo Bordonaro was born in Syracuse to a family of five children. When he was five years old, his father passed away in a car accident, leaving his mother to care for the rest of the family. Mr. Bordonaro and his family moved to St. Louis, Missouri shortly after his father's death to find work. During this time, he began working as a shoe-shine boy at 10 years old to help pay his family's bills. The family later returned to Syracuse after the Great Depression and, along with his three brothers, Mr. Bordonaro went to work in the local factories. When the United States joined World War II in 1941, Mr. Bordonaro and his brothers joined the Army. He served in Europe and reached the rank of sergeant--a distinction he would give up in 1944 in order to re- deploy to the Pacific Theatre. During the battle at Fortress Corregidor in 1945, Mr. Bordonaro exhibited remarkable feats of fearlessness and commitment to his duties. After surviving behind enemy lines alone for three days--while suffering from malaria and shrapnel wounds--he finally reunited with his unit and refused to be taken off the front lines for treatment. Following his military service, Mr. Bordonaro returned to Syracuse and settled in the town of Camillus with his wife, Josephine. Mr. Bordonaro worked as a high-skilled mason and was employed by Prestolite Co. for 35 years. He later held a position at Solvay Process for 11 years. He built a home in Camillus where he and his wife raised four daughters. To this day, Mr. Bordonaro still lives in the home he built. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the remarkable life of Angelo Bordonaro. As a member of America's greatest generation, Mr. Bordonaro has bravely defended our nation and helped shape the country we live in today. He is a cherished member of the Central New York community and I wish him all the best on his 100th birthday.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Syracuse Chapter of Say Yes to Education. Throughout its history in Central New York, Say Yes Syracuse has mentored thousands of public-school students and helped them successfully graduate high school. Additionally, Say Yes Syracuse financially supports select students after their high school graduation as they pursue postsecondary education. Say Yes Syracuse offers a variety of services to aspiring Central New York students. These services include summer education programs, SAT study classes, and pre-college preparation seminars. As a result of Say Yes Syracuse's efforts, 9th-grade dropout rates have declined and over 4,000 Say Yes Syracuse students have enrolled in two- or four-year colleges. In order to fulfill its commitment to local students, Say Yes Syracuse has developed strong relationships with many Central New York institutions and leaders. Syracuse University, Onondaga County Community College, the Syracuse City School District, the City of Syracuse, and Onondaga County all contribute to Say Yes Syracuse's goal of helping all Syracuse-area students reach their full academic potential. These public-private partnerships strengthen the Central New York's community. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in celebrating Say Yes Syracuse's 10th anniversary. Since opening its Syracuse chapter, Say Yes to Education has positively impacted the Central New York community and provided new education opportunities to underserved students. Under the leadership of Ahmeed Turner, I am confident Say Yes Syracuse will continue to thrive in Central New York.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to take from the Speaker's table H.R. 3401, with the Senate amendment thereto, and concur in the Senate amendment. This bipartisan bill passed the Senate overwhelmingly. Ten times more Senators voted for this bill than voted against it. That is the essence of bipartisanship. I ask that we make this House proud. I ask that we make our colleagues proud. And I ask that we pass this bill and send it to the President's desk for his signature today.