Tom MacArthur

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate and honor a young student from my district who has achieved national recognition for exemplary volunteer service in her community. Meghan Vizzard of Mount Laurel has just been named one of the top honorees in New Jersey by The 2018 Prudential Spirit of Community Awards program, an annual honor conferred on the most impressive student volunteers in each state and the District of Columbia. Ms. Vizzard is being recognized for founding ``Cozies 4 Chemo,'' a nonprofit that has led volunteers in creating more than 6,500 blankets for people undergoing cancer treatment. It's vital that we encourage and support the kind of selfless contribution this young citizen has made. People of all ages need to think more about how we, as individual citizens, can work together at the local level to ensure the health and vitality of our towns and neighborhoods. Young volunteers like Ms. Vizzard are inspiring examples to all of us, and are among our brightest hopes for a better tomorrow. The program that brought this young role model to our attention--The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards--was created by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals in 1995 to impress upon all youth volunteers that their contributions are critically important and highly valued, and to inspire other young people to follow their example. Over the past 23 years, the program has become the nation's largest youth recognition effort based solely on community service, and has honored more than 120,000 young volunteers at the local, state and national level. Ms. Vizzard should be extremely proud to have been singled out from the thousands of dedicated volunteers who participated in this year's program. I heartily applaud Ms. Vizzard for her initiative in seeking to make her community a better place to live, and for the positive impact she has had on the lives of others. She has demonstrated a level of commitment and accomplishment that is truly extraordinary in today's world, and deserves our sincere admiration and respect. Her actions show that young Americans can--and do--play important roles in our communities, and that America's community spirit continues to hold tremendous promise for the future.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor Doug Pederson of Moorestown, New Jersey, head coach of the World Champion Philadelphia Eagles. Doug Pederson led the Philadelphia Eagles to win their first Super Bowl championship in a thrilling game against the New England Patriots. Doug and his family first moved to Moorestown in 2009 as Assistant Coach for the Eagles and then returned to the community in 2015, when he became Head Coach. We are glad to have him back home in South Jersey. Doug played quarterback for the Eagles in 1999, and he also played for the Green Bay Packers where he won a Super Bowl. He has had an inspiring career and exemplifies the meaning of working hard and bringing people together with a common goal. Doug is a family man, a man of character, and a man of faith. His hard work has given his community a joy not felt before. Mr. Speaker, the people of New Jersey's Third Congressional District are tremendously proud to have Doug Pederson as a member of our community. It is my honor to recognize his outstanding accomplishment of leading the Philadelphia Eagles to their first Super Bowl victory and I know many of my constituents feel the same way.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Martin Truex, Jr., of Ocean County as the 32nd driver in the NASCAR Cup Series history to be crowned Champion. Since his Cup series rookie season in 2004, Martin has racked up 15 wins, 67 top 5's and 160 top ten finishes with 6,519 laps led throughout his hard fought and resilient career. Beyond his great success on the race track, Martin is committed to giving back to his community. In 2007, he and his longtime girlfriend, Sherry Pollex started the Martin Truex, Jr. Foundation to support children with pediatric cancer. When not driving for Colorado based Furniture Row Racing team, Martin and Sherry devote much of their time together to furthering cancer research and awareness. The Martin Truex, Jr., Foundation has committed over one million dollars in aid to help grow the emergency room at the Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin, New Jersey. Additionally, their efforts contributed to the grand opening of a new Pediatric Care Center at Southern Ocean Medical Center, in August of 2013. Martin was raised in Mayetta, NJ, a very small and not so populated area inside of Stafford Township in southern Ocean County. In 1998, he graduated from Southern Regional High School, while racing for the Modified Division at Wall Stadium in Wall Township, always striving to accomplish his childhood dream, which was to become a NASCAR Cup Series Champion. Mr. Speaker, the people of New Jersey's Third Congressional District are tremendously proud to have Mr. Martin Truex, Jr., as an involved member of their community. It is my honor to recognize his outstanding accomplishment of being crowned the 2017 Champion in the NASCAR Cup Series and his continued commitment to giving back to his community, before the United States House of Representatives.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an important member of South Jersey's religious community, Congregation Beth Tikvah led by Rabbi Nathan Weiner, and to denounce the hate speech that was inflicted upon the congregation. Recently, Congregation Beth Tikvah's synagogue was defamed by vandals who wrote out homophobic and racial slurs on the roof. This type of hate has no place in South Jersey's community or any community across our country. Anti-Semitism--and all types of hate speech--is un- American and a direct betrayal of the values on which this nation was founded. We must call out prejudice, intolerance and violence wherever it exists and whoever perpetrates it. And we must all have the courage to protect the persecuted and speak out against bigotry and hatred. Congregation Beth Tikvah is a welcoming place that teaches the values of joy, community building, and peace. Under Rabbi Nathan Weiner's dynamic leadership, this community and their members have spread these values throughout South Jersey and I'm proud to represent them in Congress. Mr. Speaker, places of worship, like Congregation Beth Tikvah, are vital to our communities. They provide people comfort in times of need, care for those less fortunate, and enable people to come together and express their faith. I'm grateful for the impact Congregation Beth Tikvah has made on South Jersey. And I know many of my constituents feel the same way.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I also am from the Northeast, from New Jersey, and I rise in support of this bill today. Five years ago, Superstorm Sandy devastated my district. Ocean County, my home, was the epicenter of that storm. You might remember the photographs of the iconic Jet Star roller coaster sitting in the ocean. That was my district. Even today, I have thousands of constituents who are still out of their homes. Now, thousands more are experiencing the same thing because of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. 140 million Americans live in coastal counties, and the NFIP has done a lot to help with zoning standards, building standards, flood plain management standards. It hasn't been run perfectly, but this program is desperately needed by people in areas like mine. The NFIP has fiscal issues, and this bill seeks to address them. It is the only Federal disaster program that actually collects money in advance of a disaster. When I got on this committee a year ago, I set out on this issue to do four things: a long-term reauthorization, improve affordability, increase accountability, and enhance mitigation efforts. This is a 5-year reauthorization. It reduces the mandatory annual cap on premium increases; it brings more accountability, including my language to forbid NFIP from hiring disbarred lawyers; and it doubles the mitigation coverage from $30,000 to $60,000. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Chair, I move that the Committee do now rise.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an important South Jersey business. Holtec International creates and manufactures custom-engineered equipment for energy companies and nuclear reactors. Holtec has been based in South Jersey for over 30 years ago and has a world-class manufacturing facility on the banks of the Delaware River. Recently, Holtec opened up a new facility in Camden, New Jersey pledging to hire hundreds of people from the surrounding community. Holtec has shown it is invested in the future of the South Jersey community and its people by working with Camden County College to train welders and grow a highly-skilled work force from the local area. Holtec's investment in Camden brings hope to a struggling city. South Jersey is better off because of Holtec's pledge to the community. One local laborer even said he had been waiting his whole life for this. I'd also like to recognize the leadership of Holtec's President and CEO Dr. Kris Singh. None of this would be possible without him. Dr. Singh has led this company from its inception and helped it grow into the powerhouse it is today. Because of him, many South Jersey residents will have the opportunity to better their lives. Mr. Speaker, companies like Holtec that are dedicated to their community should be commended. They help expand our economy, create jobs and improve the lives of so many Americans. I'm grateful for the impact Holtec is having on South Jersey. And I know many of my constituents feel the same way.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory and life of the Honorable Samuel M. Morris of the Third Congressional District of New Jersey, and to express my sincerest condolences to his family and loved ones he has left behind, as well as to recognize his career of public service. Samuel was known for his unwavering focus on his goals. His talent for advocacy started in high school where he was an active member of the Debating Club at Point Pleasant Beach High School. He was a talented athlete, and was a member of the 1953 ``miracle gulls'' football team, which won the Group I State Championship. In 1954, Samuel responded to our nation's call by joining and serving in the armed forces with the Engineers of the 11th Airborne. With a passion for learning, specifically the law, he continued his academic studies while serving his country, taking courses in German and International Law in Munich, Germany. Among his return home to the United States, Samuel completed his Bachelor's Degree in History and Political Science at Monmouth College and eventually received his Juris Doctor Degree from the Seton Hall University School of Law. Samuel went on to lead a successful legal career, first practicing for Mead, Gleason, Hansen, and Pantagesa Firm in Newark, New Jersey, specializing in Workers' Compensation Law. Samuel decided to open his own practice in his hometown of Brick, New Jersey. After years of establishing a successful private practice, Samuel was appointed to become the Brick Township Municipal Judge. He was so successful in that position, that he was called upon by other townships to help them establish their municipal court systems. He was known and well respected in every township that he presided over in the years to come. Beyond his illustrious legal career, Samuel was a dedicated family man, who married his wife Lynn in 1956. Samuel enjoyed spending time with Lynn, their five children, and many grandchildren, and great- grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, the people of New Jersey's Third Congressional District are tremendously honored to have had the Honorable Samuel M. Morris as a selfless and dedicated member of their community who devoted his career to bettering the world around him. It is with a heavy heart that I commemorate his veteran service, career, and life, and recognize the lasting legacy of public service that he has left behind, before the United States House of Representatives.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the leadership and contributions of Lee Bealuk, of the Third Congressional District of New Jersey, specifically all that he has done for the Township of Medford. Lee has served in a leadership capacity with Boy Scout Troop No. 20 of Medford for over 50 years, currently serving as Scoutmaster Emeritus and mentor to scouts who are working towards attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. Lee has mentored 84 young men from Troop No. 20 who have achieved this rank, the highest within the Boy Scouts of America organization. Lee's accomplishments with Troop No. 20's Eagle Scouts are astonishing given that less than 5 percent of youth who participate in Boy Scouts achieve this rank. As a component of the Eagle Scout process, the candidate must develop, coordinate, and implement a community service project and with 84 Scouts earning this rank, the Township of Medford as well as many other local facilities, have been the beneficiaries of the projects undertaken by the Eagle Scout candidates. Lee serves as the liaison between each Eagle Scout and the entities where the projects are conducted and his diligence in ensuring that all the logistics have been addressed is an excellent example to the Scout, while imparting other Boy Scout ideals including responsibility, community involvement, and civic duty. Lee's leadership skills and dedication are an asset to the Boy Scouts of America Troop No. 20, his community, his family, and his friends. Mr. Speaker, the people of New Jersey's Third Congressional District are tremendously honored to have Mr. Lee Bealuk as a selfless and devoted member of their community who has made a tremendous impact on our future generations of leaders. It is my honor to recognize his outstanding achievements and untiring dedication in mentoring the young men and fellow Scoutmasters who participate with Troop No. 20, especially those who commit to attaining the rank of Eagle Scout, and thank him for all that he has done, before the United State House of Representatives.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, the friendship between the United States and the Republic of Korea is based not only on shared, strategic, and economic interests, but also on shared values. We share a commitment to democracy and to political, religious, and economic liberty. It is a joy to welcome President Moon Jae-in to Washington, D.C. I congratulate him on his election, and I wish him a successful summit. But, for me, the relationship with South Korea is also deeply personal. My wife and I adopted two of our three children, David and Isabella, from Korea. I am deeply grateful to the people of South Korea for my children and for giving me the family that I love so much. But not every family on the Korean Peninsula is so fortunate. We remember those who live under the oppression of the North Korean regime that has no regard for the dignity of human persons. We condemn the horrifying crimes of that regime, and I express my hope for the reunification of Korea. We express our firm commitment to the ongoing friendship with South Korea, rooted in our shared values of freedom and democracy.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the academic scholarship and contributions of Professor Roland Alum, Jr., of New Jersey, specifically his recent article, regarding the 115th anniversary of the inauguration of the Cuban Republic in 1902. Include in the Record this article which was published on Saturday, May 20, 2017 in the Jersey Journal. Professor Roland Alum, Jr., has managed a successful career of university teaching, administration, and scholarship, while still remaining committed to civic engagement. In his article, Professor Alum reviews a book by another New Jerseyan, Professor Margarita Garcia, which honors the legacy of Tomas Estrada, who served as the first elected president of the Cuban Republic. Prior to his installation as president, Estrada spent 25 years in exile, mostly in the United States, where he grew to admire our democracy and civilian-dominated system of government. Professor Alum explains his view that these facts contribute to the reasons why the Castro brothers' dictatorship in Cuba demonizes Estrada's memory and further ignores the historical significance of May 20th. Professor Alum contrasts Estrada's good will and actual governmental history with the Castros' mega militaristic, oppressive totalitarianism, since 1959. He concludes his article with an emphasis on the significance of the date of May 20th, particularly to the pro-democracy Cuban-Americans, who constitute a valuable community in New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, the people of New Jersey are tremendously honored to have Professor Roland Alum, Jr., as a dedicated member of their community. It is because of his recent academic contribution, that I rise to recognize his scholarship and request that this article, as prepared by Professor Alum, be printed into the Congressional Record before the United State House of Representatives. Why May 20 Is so Important to Cuban Americans (By Roland Alum, Jr.) On May 20, 1902, the independent Republic of Cuba was inaugurated with the swearing in of its first elected president, Tomas Estrada (aka Estrada Palma--with his maternal patronymic added as per Hispanic cultural tradition). Cuban patriots had been waging the War of Independence vs. colonial Spain since 1895, a conflict that blended into the brief Spanish-Cuban-American War in 1898, in turn giving way to the first U.S. Intervention (1898-1902), which called for elections in 1901. Estrada won the presidency after 25 years in exile, mostly in the U.S. After rising in arms against the Spanish Empire in 1868, Estrada (1835-1908) was taken prisoner; upon his release, he moved to Honduras, where he was hired to reorganize the postal, educational and health-care services. When the Honduran military ousted the democratic government for which he worked, Estrada settled with his family in Central Valley, New York, 50 miles north of Manhattan (an hour's drive from Hudson County), directing a pioneering private school there. In 1895, Estrada became the head of the Cuban Revolutionary Party that had been founded in New York for the independence of Cuba and Puerto Rico. Leading an extraordinary lobby pro Cuba's independence, he often passed through today's Jersey City's Liberty State Park on his train trips to/from Washington. Hudson County is nowadays home to the second most important Cuban-American community, and May 20 is routinely remembered with celebrations, including a Bergenline Avenue parade and ``pilgrimages'' to Central Valley. The Castro family's Communist-styled tyranny and its pro-democratic exiled opponents share in the commemoration of most Cuban patriotic holidays, except for this one, given that the ``socialist'' dictatorship demonizes Estrada as ``a U.S. puppet.'' Professor Margarita Garcia, a Hudson County ex-resident, straightens the record of Estrada's legacy in her recent ``Before `Cuba Libre': The Making of Cuba's First President, Tomas Estrada Palma'' (Outskirts Press, 2016). One gathers from her book that among Estrada's presidential accomplishments (1902-1906) was the limiting the number of U.S. naval bases from the seven requested of the nascent republic, to one: Guantanamo. Above all, Estrada sought to establish a civilian-dominated, honest governmental system, drastically distinct to what had already become by then a nefarious Latin-American militaristic model, of which he had been a victim in Honduras. Unfortunately, throughout Cuba's republican trajectory, the military often interfered in politics, culminating in the Castros' six-decade reign, as the island-country is tormented by an egotistic elite of ``revolutionary generals'' parroting passe, hate-mongering Marxist-Leninist slogans while the average Cuban suffers boundless deprivations. Since 1959, the Castro family--an un-elected, de facto Caribbean nepotistic dynasty--has persistently accused Estrada of turning Cuba into a ``Yankee vassal state.'' Paradoxically, it was the Castro brothers who made Cuba subservient to the far-away, failed Soviet Bloc, thus transfiguring a progressive trending nation into a backwards one from which its people desperately aspire to flee. Ironically, that ruling entrenched gerontocratic oligarchy now seeks the ``stinking Yankee dollars'' to subsidize the government's business monopolies managed by a vast network of corrupt Castro kinspeople and accomplices. What Cuba needs above all is a regime change that would bestow power to the people and establish a democratically elected, civilian dominated open society that will respect individual freedoms and human/civil rights, as was envisioned by the republic's founding fathers, such as Presidente Tomas Estrada.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay'' on rollcall No. 44.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory and life of veteran Richard Noble of the Third Congressional District, and to express my sincerest condolences to his family and loved ones he has left behind, as well as to recognize his steadfast dedication and service to our nation. Richard Noble was a Vietnam War Veteran who was on his way to a Veteran's Day Ceremony before a tragic accident claimed his life. Brave men like Richard have enabled us to live our daily lives with the free ideals that our country was founded upon. It is important that we continue to honor Richard and all veterans and remind ourselves of how precious our freedom is, so that we never take a day for granted. Mr. Speaker, the people of New Jersey's Third Congressional District are tremendously honored to have had Richard Noble as a selfless and dedicated member of their community and a veteran, who put his life in harm's way to protect and serve country during a time of need. It is with a heavy heart that I commemorate his career and life, and recognize the lasting legacy of that he has left behind, before the United State House of Representatives.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sea Box, Inc., of New Jersey's Third Congressional District, in its recent award of a 32 million dollar General Services Administration contract to provide the United States Air Force with Containerized Hygiene Systems over the next two years. Sea Box, Inc., of East Riverton, was established in 1983 and specializes in the design, customization, and manufacturing of ISO containers and related equipment for military and commercial applications. Sea Box directly supports our warfighters and has created 200 manufacturing jobs in New Jersey. This two year contract will provide the United States Air Force with temperature controlled expendable shelters for bathing and storage that can be transported worldwide, utilizing standard military equipment. Sea Box, Inc., has deep ties to the community and has answered the call of need for our men and women in uniform. I am proud to represent a South Jersey company that is providing shelter and care for our active duty members who sacrifice so much to protect our nation and our freedom. Mr. Speaker, the people of New Jersey's Third Congressional District are tremendously honored to have Sea Box, Inc., as a part of their community. Sea Box, Inc., has shown a desire to serve our nation and provide for our troops. I am honored to recognize the award of their GSA contract, which will enable them to service our soldiers more efficiently, and to commend Sea Box, Inc., for all of its contributions to our community, before the United State House of Representatives.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the quick and efficient response of the first responders during the terrorist attack in Seaside Park, New Jersey on Sept. 17th, 2016. A bomb was detonated at the starting point of a charitable race for our veterans. Starting at the local level, the Seaside Park Police Department took control, and kept civilians out of harm's way as they assessed the situation. The Seaside Park Police Department was joined by the Ocean County Sheriff's Department along with representatives of other Federal, State, County, and Local agencies who responded to the call of duty. I am proud of the work our first responders do and am grateful for the efforts carried out by those who apprehended the suspect in the bombing in Seaside Park, as well as in New York. National security is a constant concern in an age when terror attacks are increasing in frequency. Now more than ever, we should all thank the men and women that defend us, provide guidance in times of severe uncertainty, and apprehend the terrorists that seek to spread hate and destruction. Mr. Speaker, the people of New Jersey's Third Congressional District are tremendously honored to have the men and women who responded on this day as selfless and dedicated members of their community. It is with the highest level of gratitude and appreciation that I commend them for their service following the bombing in Seaside Park, New Jersey, and recognize their outstanding service and protection of their community, before the United States House of Representatives.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, upon the 15th anniversary of the September 11th Terrorist Attacks, I rise today to honor all the victims of that horrible day, and specifically, those of New Jersey's Third Congressional District. Innocent loved ones were stolen far too soon from family and friends, and brave first responders were lost in the line of duty in the wake of the attacks. The love that we demonstrated for our fellow citizens in the aftermath of the attacks was the ultimate rebuke to the hatred of those who attacked us fifteen years ago. I stand today, overwhelmed with that same love and feeling of unity. Today, I would like to especially remember these New Jersey residents: Manuel Alarcon of Medford Peter Apollo of Waretown Brett Bailey of Brick Nicholas Bogdon of Pemberton Borough Christopher Cramer of Stafford Michael Diehl of Brick Patricia Fagan of Toms River Joan Griffith of Willingboro Leroy Homer of Evesham Gricelada James of Willingboro Robert Kennedy of Toms River Ferdinand Morrone of Lakewood Jon Perconti of Brick James Sands, Jr. of Brick Raphael Scorca of Beachwood Lesley Thomas of Brick Christopher Traina of Brick Perry Thompson of Mount Laurel Lee Adler of Springfield JoAnn Heltibridle of Springfield James Murphy of Point Pleasant This anniversary should remind us that the American way of life stands for freedom and the firm belief that people can govern themselves through free exchange of ideas and respect for one another. We do not bend to those who rule by oppression, violence, and fear and that will never change. This anniversary reminds us that we can band together, that we have done so in the past and that we will continue to do so going forward, in the spirit of our nation. Today, we move forward together in honor of those that were lost on that terrible day, united as one, determined to prevent such terrible tragedy from occurring again. Mr. Speaker, the people of New Jersey's Third Congressional District are tremendously honored to have had each and every one of these victims as selfless and dedicated members of their communities. It is with a heavy heart that I commemorate their lives, and recognize the lasting legacies that they have left behind, before the United States House of Representatives.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory and life of Coach Stan Slaby, of the Third Congressional District, and to express my sincerest condolences to his family and loved ones he has left behind, as well as to recognize his career of service and community engagement. Coach Slaby was a beloved educator at Admiral Farragut Academy for 39 years at its northern campus in Pine Beach, New Jersey. He was born in 1924 to Polish immigrants and enlisted in the United States Navy almost immediately after graduating high school. He received the Navy & Marine Corps medal for saving a drowning marine in the sea at Normandy on June 9th of 1944 and continued on to receive four more service medals before being honorably discharged in April of 1946. After resuming his education and receiving his BA in History with a Minor in Physical Education, Coach Slaby was hired by Admiral Farragut Academy where he taught history and eventually became the full-time Athletic Director. Coach Slaby coached many great teams and outstanding student-athletes, won coaching awards, and was admired by his peers. He is remembered fondly for his teachings and legacy of discipline, self- reliance, and respect that his coaching philosophy was centered upon. Mr. Speaker, the people of New Jersey's Third Congressional District are tremendously honored to have had Coach Stan Slaby as a selfless and dedicated member of their community, whose coaching legacy and vivacious spirit will never be forgotten. It is with a heavy heart that I commemorate his honorable service to our nation, as well as his coaching career and life, before the United States House of Representatives.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Olympic gold medalist Kelsi Worrell, of the Third Congressional District, in her recent accomplishments at the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio, and to commend her for her outstanding dedication to the sport of swimming. Kelsi, who is a resident of Westampton, worked diligently to help the United States Women's Swim Team win a gold medal in the women's 4x100m medley relay. In addition to her great accomplishment at the Summer Olympic Games, Kelsi has continued to be a role model for so many young children with aspirations of greatness. Her hard work and determination has instilled a great sense of pride within the local communities of South Jersey. Her achievements exhibit the great pride with which Kelsi represents herself and the United States of America. Mr. Speaker, the people of New Jersey's Third Congressional District are tremendously honored to have Olympic gold medalist Kelsi Worrell as a member of their community, who has shown a desire to represent her nation with great honor and has worked continuously to do so to the best of her ability. I am honored to recognize her accomplishment and dedication to her sport, before the United States House of Representatives.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the recent accomplishments of Staff Sergeant Brian Darling as well as to recognize his career of service to the United States of America. Staff Sergeant Darling recently completed the Advanced Leaders Course at The Judge Advocate General's Legal Center and School in Charlottesville, Virginia. Staff Sergeant Darling is a Paralegal Noncommissioned Officer serving in the Office of the Staff Judge Advocate, Joint Force Headquarters, New Jersey Army National Guard. He has recently returned from his third deployment overseas and is about to complete his second master's degree. Staff Sergeant Darling is a decorated service member who has served our nation with honor and courage. He has managed to excel academically during his service, and balance raising his son. Mr. Speaker, the people of New Jersey's Third Congressional District are tremendously proud to have Staff Sergeant Brian Darling as a selfless and dedicated member of their community, who continues to serve and protect the freedoms and ideals of our nation. I am honored to recognize him for his recent graduation from the Advanced Leaders Course for his Military Occupational Specialty, as well as for his dedication to completing a second master's degree and to commend him for his outstanding service to his community and our country, before the United States House of Representatives.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge my colleagues to support the Social Impact Partnerships to Pay for Results Act. As founding co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Social Investment Taskforce, I believe that we can harness the power of market forces and private capital to solve local problems, benefit American taxpayers, and uplift communities. This bill will encourage the private sector to invest in some of the most pressing challenges we face as a nation. I believe in the power of government to be a force for good, but after 30 years in business, I tremendously believe in the untapped potential of the private market to solve problems. The goal of this bill is to unleash that power of the private sector to work with local governments and communities. This bill is based on the pay for results model, in which Federal funds are only spent when measurable results have been achieved. Instead of simply creating more government programs, this saves taxpayer dollars by ensuring funds are only spent on successful programs. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Representative Todd Young and my fellow co-chair of the taskforce, Representative John Delaney, for introducing this important legislation. I urge all of my colleagues to support this.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Chair, on rollcall No. 325, I inadvertently voted ``yes'' on the Rohrabacher amendment. I intended to vote ``no.'' Amendment No. 37 Offered by Mr. Walberg

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Chairman, we all know about the crisis in Puerto Rico involving 3\1/2\ million U.S. citizens, and we know the causes, fiscal mismanagement over decades, resulting in nearly $120 billion of bonds and unfunded pension liabilities. Unemployment is two times what it is here on the mainland, and people are fleeing Puerto Rico in droves, especially young people. It is not sustainable. Mr. Chairman, we decided, as a society, hundreds of years ago, that we were not going to throw debtors into prison, but we were going to allow for the orderly reorganization of debts. And yet, Puerto Rico does not have the basic laws that allow that to take place in this situation. This bill fixes that. This bill puts equal pressure on bondholders, on the island of Puerto Rico. The bill will require them to work together or there will be consequences. And the bill brings an oversight board to help that happen, to even require that to happen. We have to do this. But, Mr. Chairman, fixing the debt crisis alone is not going to fix Puerto Rico's future. We need growth initiatives. This island will not enjoy an enduring prosperity until this Congress also thinks about how to help Puerto Rico grow. That is why I introduced a title to this bill; it is just a sense of Congress, but it puts a flag in the ground saying that we have more work to do on growth, and I am really pleased to see a Growth Commission included in the bill. Mr. Chairman, I have spent a lifetime in business. I have had the privilege of creating thousands of jobs. That doesn't happen when you have uncertain conditions. In 1996, we changed the Tax Code in Puerto Rico that treats the return of earnings from that island to the mainland like it is coming from a foreign country, and you can watch the growth rate of Puerto Rico plummet ever since. Ever since 2006--my date was wrong--2006, you can see the growth rate plummet over 10 years. Manufacturing is still half of the island's economy and yet, it is reduced by half over the last 20 years. We have to do things that make Puerto Rico an attractive business environment. We all are worried about offshoring. This is an opportunity for near- shoring in a U.S. territory. It is an opportunity to demonstrate pro- growth principles in action; to allow Puerto Rico, an island paradise, to become an economic miracle. This is the opportunity that I see. I am proud of the bill. Like any bill, it is not perfect. But let's not let the perfect become the enemy of the good. It is a good bill that deserves our support. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes.''

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory and life of Dr. John D. Lewis, Jr., of the Third Congressional District, and to express my sincerest condolences to his family and loved ones he has left behind, as well as to recognize his service and career. Dr. Lewis joined the United States Army in high school and served in World War II from 1943 to 1946. Upon returning to the United States, he completed his education and entered Hampton University. Dr. Lewis continued to serve our nation by participating in the ROTC program, while studying biology. He became an officer in the military at Hampton and earned his bachelor's degree in 1951. After leaving Hampton University, Dr. Lewis was stationed at Camp Edwards in New Bedford, Massachusetts where he met Agnes Perry Alves, whom he married in July of 1952. Dr. Lewis served as an officer in the Korean War from 1951 to 1953. He then joined the Army Reserves and rose to the rank of Major before retiring with honor and distinction in 1976. Dr. Lewis continued his education while raising a family with Agnes in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He became a certified Physical Therapist in 1962, and then decided to pursue a career in Podiatry. He became a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine in 1969. He opened a practice in 1970, where he served members of the community. He and his family were very active in the Holy Cross Lutheran Church, always giving back to others when possible. Dr. Lewis was known throughout his community as a hard- working, thoughtful and determined man who overcame discrimination and much adversity to obtain success. Mr. Speaker, the people of New Jersey's Third Congressional District are tremendously honored to have had Dr. John Lewis, Jr., as a selfless and dedicated member of their community, whose generosity and vivacious spirit will never be forgotten. It is with a heavy heart that I recognize his honorable service to the United States of America and commemorate his career and life, as well as the lasting legacy that he has left behind, before the United State House of Representatives.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address the growing addiction crisis and the challenge it presents for families and communities in South Jersey. We need to take action now, and it is with resolve, that I stand with the Bipartisan Task Force to Combat the Heroin Epidemic, and local leaders like Ocean County Prosecutor Joseph D. Coronato and Ocean County Sheriff Michael G. Mastronardy. New Jersey's heroin overdose death rate is triple the soaring U.S. rate and our local officials have made combating the addiction epidemic a top priority. They have sought partnerships between law enforcement, hospitals and educators, and created a Drug Task Force to coordinate efforts with local police forces. The steps Congress is taking are strong and necessary, and I am proud to lead that effort by supporting bipartisan bills to address this growing crisis. Ocean County admits more people for heroin addiction treatment than any county in New Jersey. I wish we didn't have such high numbers of people needing help--but as long as they need assistance, we must make sure they get it, so they can improve their lives and provide hope to those struggling with this disease. Mr. Speaker, the people of New Jersey's Third Congressional District are tremendously grateful for the hard work done by Prosecutor Coronato, Sheriff Mastronardy and others like them. All of us know someone whose life has been affected by drug addiction--we need to fight this epidemic now.

Mr. MacARTHUR

Mr. MacARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory and life of William P. Thomas, of the Third Congressional District, and to express my sincerest condolences to his family and loved ones he has left behind, and to recognize his service, as well as his career and community engagement. William, a resident of Stafford Township, New Jersey, was a graduate of Cardinal Hayes Memorial High School in New York City and attended Princeton University before he enlisted in the U.S. Army to defend our country during World War II as part of the Fifth Ranger Battalion. For his honorable service, he received five medals, including the Purple Heart and Bronze Star. When he returned home from the war, determined to provide for his family, he started his own company, William P. Thomas Builders. The company was successful and completed projects, which included 500 homes, motels, a 55-unit oceanfront condominium in Ship Bottom and work on the Ocean County Courthouse. He also developed Deer Lake Park in Stafford. William began selling real estate in 1953 and was extremely prosperous, eventually becoming president of the New Jersey Association of Realtors and the New Jersey Shore Multiple Listing. Thomas ultimately became the broker-owner of Prudential Zack Shore Properties in Toms River, which recently became Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Zack Shore Realtors, a business now overseen by his son and sister. Mr. Speaker, the people of New Jersey's Third Congressional District are tremendously honored to have had William P. Thomas as a hardworking and dedicated member of their community. It is with a heavy heart that I commemorate his honorable service to our country, as well as his fruitful career and life, and recognize the lasting legacy that he has left behind, before the United States House of Representatives.