Chris Pappas

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Tom Raffio on receiving the Walter R. Peterson Award for Education and Public Service. The Walter R. Peterson Award for Education and Public Service is presented to an individual whose contributions best exemplify the late governor's values of public service and dedication to higher education. As a passionate civic leader, Tom's community leadership spans across numerous New Hampshire organizations that support local education initiatives, youth programs, health causes, and the arts. Tom believes in the importance of access and affordability to quality post-secondary education for all New Hampshire residents. Under Tom's leadership, the Northeast Delta Dental Foundation is committed to improving oral health care accessibility and education. This Foundation supports oral health programs each year throughout New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine. It also addresses the shortage of dentists in under-served communities by raising funding for medicine scholarships and dental education loan repayment programs. In New Hampshire, one of the dental health education programs serves adult clients with disabilities, many of whom encounter oral health challenges. Further expanding its community impact under Tom's leadership, it has grown to include numerous local community partners to join this philanthropic mission. On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to extend my gratitude to Tom Raffio for his exceptional commitment to serving New Hampshire. We thank Tom for his leadership and contributions to advance health equity and the overall wellness of our local communities. His work has enriched so many lives and is an inspiration for us all to join together and improve the lives of our community members.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Claire Nash, a longtime resident of Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, who will celebrate her 100th birthday in October. Claire is a beloved member of the Wolfeboro community whose giving heart continues to touch the lives of all who have come to know her. Today, I honor Claire for her steadfast commitment to spreading love and joy throughout her community. Claire is loved throughout Wolfeboro and the towns surrounding it. Those who know her best would likely agree that it is better to describe her as 100 years young, not old. Everywhere she goes, she brings with her the exuberance and energy of the youngest at heart. As we celebrate Claire's 100th birthday, we recognize her unwavering dedication to her community and her continued contributions to the lives of countless others. Claire has long been passionate about crochet and other hand crafts, skills she perfected over the years and continues to share with the world. Through the years, Claire has handmade and gifted countless quilts, pillows, and other crafts to the Police Department, Fire Department, Children's Center, veterans and many other local organizations in and around Wolfeboro. In all she does, she inspires us with an enduring legacy of caring, creativity, and selflessness. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I wish Claire a happy and healthy 100th birthday. We thank her for bringing so much happiness and caring to her community and for her continued commitment to the people of New Hampshire.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Claire Nash, a longtime resident of Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, who celebrated her 100th birthday in August. Claire is a beloved member of the Wolfeboro community whose giving heart continues to touch the lives of all who have come to know her. Today, I honor Claire for her steadfast commitment to spreading love and joy throughout her community. Claire is loved throughout Wolfeboro and the towns surrounding it. Those who know her best would likely agree that it is better to describe her as 100 years young, not old. Everywhere she goes, she brings with her the exuberance and energy of the youngest at heart. As we celebrate Claire's 100th birthday, we recognize her unwavering dedication to her community and her continued contributions to the lives of countless others. Claire has long been passionate about crochet and other hand crafts, skills she perfected over the years and continues to share with the world. Through the years, Claire has handmade and gifted countless quilts, pillows, and other crafts to the Police Department, Fire Department, Children's Center, and many other local organizations in and around Wolfeboro. In all she does, she inspires us with an enduring legacy of caring, creativity, and selflessness. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I wish Claire a happy and healthy 100th birthday. We thank her for bringing so much happiness and caring to her community and for her continued commitment to the people of New Hampshire.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Bobby Stephen's Annual Saint Patrick's Day event in Manchester, New Hampshire. Since its inception in 1978, this cherished tradition has brought together the community in a celebration that goes beyond mere festivity. Over the years, Bobby's event has become a cornerstone of charitable giving in our state, raising funds to support educational opportunities for disadvantaged youth throughout New Hampshire. The origins of this event can be traced back to Bobby's restaurant, the Vault, where a small gathering of friends and patrons first came together to celebrate Saint Patrick's Day. What began as a modest celebration has evolved into a significant fundraiser, drawing hundreds of attendees each year. Through the Bobby Stephen's Fund for Education, the proceeds from this event have provided scholarships to New Hampshire citizens, enabling them to further their career goals through postsecondary education. Bobby's unwavering dedication to this cause has made a tangible difference in the lives of countless students and their families. As we mark the grand finale of this event in its ``sunset'' year of 2024, it is fitting to reflect on the enduring legacy that Bobby's Saint Patrick's Day celebration has created. Across four decades this event has not only raised over $500,000 in scholarships, it has also fostered a deep sense of community among its participants. The funds raised have empowered students, supported educational advancement, and reinforced the values of generosity and service that Bobby has championed throughout his life. On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to extend my gratitude to Bobby Stephen for his exceptional commitment to our community. We thank Bobby for his tireless efforts and for creating a tradition that has touched so many lives. As this event comes to a close, its legacy will continue to inspire us all to join together in support of our youth and the future of our community.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, on Monday, July 22, 2024, I missed one Roll Call vote. Had I been present, I would have voted YES on Roll Call No. 356.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Brigadier General John ``Pogo'' Pogorek, who was Commander of the New Hampshire Air National Guard (NHANG). On July 8, 2024, he was the victim of a tragic accident near his home in Rochester, New Hampshire. General Pogorek was a beloved father, husband, son, and brother who dedicated his life to service in both the Air Force and NHANG. Born in Ware, Massachusetts, General Pogorek received a Bachelor of Science in Human Factors Engineering from the United States Air Force Academy and was commissioned as an officer in 1989. He Joined NHANG in January 1999, serving in numerous leadership roles, including commanding the 157th Maintenance, Operations, and Air Refueling Wing Groups. General Pogorek was promoted to Commander of the NHANG in June 2022 and served as the principal advisor to the Governor of New Hampshire. General Pogorek made a remarkable impact on New Hampshire and our country throughout his 35 years of service. During his career he logged over 6,000 flight hours piloting T-1, C-130, KC-135, and KC-46 aircraft. He also helped design the KC-46 tail art and helped to bring back military airshows to New Hampshire. For his dedicated service, General Pogorek received accolades such as the Meritorious Service Medal with four oak leaf clusters, the Air Medal Aerial Achievement Medal with four oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster, the AF Outstanding Unit Award, and several others. He was dedicated to the health and safety of everyone that is currently serving at Pease, and those that served there in the past, along with their families. General Pogorek was deeply devoted to his family, and in 2018, he and his beloved wife Whitney established Red Gate Farm. The family farm quickly grew into a heritage breed meat business, where General Pogorek transitioned his service and dedication from country to community. General Pogorek and his family developed relationships selling their meat to local farmers markets as he adapted to life as a farmer. General Pogorek's family and friends describe him as a kind, humble, funny, and resilient man. He had a passion for learning and inspired those around him, both within his career of service and outside of it. Those who knew General Pogorek recognized his dedication to his country and family, and admired his loyalty, kindness, and leadership. We are forever grateful for his selfless service and sacrifice. During this difficult time, my thoughts and condolences are with his wife Whitney, his children, Megan, Jacob, Jenna, Jason, and Jackson, his mother Mary, his siblings, Karen, Donna, Kevin, and Sandra, and all of General Pogorek's loved ones. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I commend General Pogorek for his exemplary service and sacrifice to our Nation. His legacy will endure, and he will be dearly missed.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Freedom's 125th Old Home Week Parade. Freedom has become an example of how small towns and other communities in New Hampshire can grow strongest through shared traditions that bring together a community's past and present. In 1831, after the community of North Effingham voted to secede from the town of Effingham, they chose the name ``Freedom'' for their new town--a tribute to their residents achieving their goal of self-determination. Freedom's location on the north end of Ossipee Lake has allowed the town to be a gateway between New Hampshire's Lakes Region and the White Mountains. Old Home Week is a New Hampshire tradition that allows us to celebrate the places we call home. Created by New Hampshire governor Frank W. Rollins in 1899, Old Home Week was inspired as a way to encourage New Hampshire natives to return to their hometown after many younger New Hampshirites had moved west in search of economic opportunities. In the 21st century, globalization and technological advances have reduced social distance throughout the world, but the importance of strong, close-knit communities has remained the same. By proudly continuing the tradition of Old Home Week, Freedom envisions a community where current and former residents alike can be proud of their hometown. Thank you to the town of Freedom for inviting me to experience their community as a part of the Old Home Week Parade. I admire all of the volunteers who made this experience possible for the 125th straight year. I hope everyone enjoys themselves in celebrating this wonderful town. To understand the importance of small towns building a proud community for their current and former residents, we all need to hear Freedom ring.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Paul LeBlanc for his more than two decades of service to Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). An immigrant, a first generation college student, an acclaimed author, and a renowned instructor, Dr. LeBlanc's impact as President and CEO of SNHU cannot be understated. I commend Dr. LeBlanc for his enduring legacy as an educator and an innovator in higher education that will continue to enrich the lives of people across our nation. After earning his master's degree and PhD, Dr. LeBlanc worked at Houghton Mifflin Publishing Company and transitioned to a career in education. Dr. LeBlanc held the title of President at Marlboro College in Vermont before joining Southern New Hampshire University in 2003. At the time he took the job, SNHU was a local institution with an enrollment of 2,000 students and was struggling economically. Under Dr. LeBlanc's leadership, SNHU transformed itself and has grown to have a worldwide enrollment of more than 225,000 students. Today SNHU is accessible, equitable, and affordable and is the largest non-profit university in the country. After two decades of Dr. LeBlanc's leadership, SNHU has been named one of the ``World's Fifty Most Innovative Companies'' by Fast Magazine and Dr. LeBlanc himself received numerous accolades, including from Forbes Magazine, Washington Monthly, and the TIAA Institute. After decades of hard work, including a three month assignment at the Department of Education in 2015, Dr. LeBlanc is stepping aside from his role as President and CEO of SNHU. As a lifelong learner, Dr. LeBlanc hopes to explore and research the development of artificial intelligence during a year-long sabbatical. On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I offer my sincere appreciation to Dr. Paul LeBlanc. Dr. LeBlanc has revolutionized education across the State of New Hampshire and country, and he has helped thousands achieve goals that they never thought were possible. I look forward to seeing what his next chapter holds and wish him the best in his academic and professional career.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Madam Speaker, I thank the ranking member and the chair for bringing this legislation to the floor. I rise to urge support of this bipartisan bill that would make needed improvements in the way that Federal partners coordinate and collaborate to support entrepreneurs with disabilities. The ThinkDIFFERENTLY About Disability Employment Act is a bipartisan piece of legislation I was proud to work on alongside Congressman Molinaro, and I thank him for his leadership on these issues. This legislation would require the SBA and the National Council on Disability to collaborate to help people with disabilities pursue small business ownership and employment opportunities. Specifically, it would require the SBA to report to Congress on the challenges entrepreneurs with disabilities face, better understand current resources available to them, and recommend ways to address the challenges and needs these entrepreneurs have. I remain committed to working across the aisle on behalf of our small businesses and continuing to bring the voices of our Main Streets to the Halls of Congress to ensure we are meeting their needs and ensure that we are supporting them moving forward in the challenges that they face. This bipartisan bill is a commonsense step. It is good for people. It is good for small businesses. Madam Speaker, I thank Congressman Molinaro, once again, for his leadership, and I urge the House to pass the bill today.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Madam Speaker, I thank the ranking member and Chairman Williams for bringing this piece of legislation to the floor. I rise in support of bipartisan legislation that works to support our rural small businesses and entrepreneurs. In my State of New Hampshire, small businesses are our big business, and we must advance legislation that meets their needs and supports the economies of our local communities. I introduced this bill alongside Representative Bean, as well as Representatives Golden and Mann, and I am grateful for their leadership on this issue. This bipartisan bill would require the SBA to develop specific outreach policies and procedures for rural communities and ensure that rural small businesses have full access to SBA disaster assistance. It would specifically tailor outreach and marketing plans for the SBA's disaster loan program to address challenges rural communities face in accessing disaster relief. Rural small businesses face unique challenges, and we must ensure that we are taking every step possible to see that they have access to the full spectrum of resources and support, especially with regard to disaster preparedness and relief. As we continue to see extreme weather events impacting our communities, this legislation couldn't be more important. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this bill on the floor today.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my bill to name the East Derry post office in honor of Chief Edward B. Garone, who served with distinction as the chief of police in Derry, New Hampshire, for 50 years. He first answered the call to service as a marine and then as a law enforcement officer, first with the Lebanon Police Department and then in Derry, where, after 8 years, he was named chief of police in 1972. From that day until 2022, when he retired, the chief worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of citizens in his community and also the officers that he oversaw. Throughout the years, he has worked on projects focused on building a better, stronger community in Derry. That includes efforts to combat the opioid and addiction epidemic in Derry and throughout the State, as well as spearheading the formation of the Southern New Hampshire Special Operations Unit, the first regional special operations unit in New Hampshire. He passed away Tuesday, October 11, 2022, at his home in Derry. I am thinking of his friends and family, especially his wife, Blanche, who was always by his side, as well as his children and grandchildren, and all who served with him and knew him. The naming of this post office is one small way that we can continue to honor his legacy of leadership, professionalism, and excellence in service to the community. On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First District, it is an honor to introduce this legislation to pay tribute to a man who embodied the very best of law enforcement and of the Granite State. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chair and the ranking member for working together to bring this bill to the floor today.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the career of a true New Hampshire original, the dean of our State Senate, Lou D'Allesandro. Senator D'Allesandro, or Lou, as he is universally known, will be retiring from the New Hampshire State Senate after serving the people of District 20 for 26 years. New Hampshire's working families and middle class have no greater champion than Lou D'Allesandro. The work he has done on their behalf to improve public education, to create jobs, and strengthen our economy will be felt for decades to come. His legacy is as much the bills he has passed and the laws that bear his name as it is the generations of young men and women he has taught, coached, and mentored, leaving a lasting impression on them all. In addition to being a lifelong public servant, Lou is an educator, a coach, and someone so dedicated to his family, including his amazing wife, Pat. Lou's life work has made a tremendous difference on New Hampshire and all of its families and communities. Mr. Speaker, I join all Granite Staters in thanking him for his years of service, and as he often says: I hope Lou D'Allesandro has a great, great American day.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Patricia ``Patti Cakes'' Baldi, who is being honored today for her retirement from running the iconic Weirs Drive-in Theater in Laconia, NH. While the Drive-in has been in operation since 1949, Patti Cakes purchased the property in 1974 and has since played an active part in continuing the theater's success. Throughout her career, Patti Cakes has been essential in adding three additional screens to the theater as well as guiding her business through a global pandemic. Since purchasing the Weirs Drive-in Theater, Patti Cakes and her team have cemented the theater's status as a staple attraction of the Lakes Region. Whether they came to see a summer blockbuster or participate in a community event, countless families from across the Granite State and beyond will forever cherish the memories they made at Weirs Drive-in Theater. On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to thank Patti Cakes for the decades of entertainment and memories that she has provided to our community. I congratulate her again on her incredible career and I thank her for all that she has done to make our state such a wonderful place to live.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise as we mark Police Week to express my thanks and support for law enforcement officers in New Hampshire and across the country who are dedicated to keeping our communities safe. Our police answer the call each and every day, and the work they do is indispensable to fight crime, keep the peace, and provide the kind of assistance that our families and neighbors need. Across New Hampshire, I have had the great privilege to get to know so many of our law enforcement officials. I am grateful for their professionalism, their courage, and their leadership. Recently, I had the chance to visit the police department in Wolfeboro, New Hampshire, to see the long-needed upgrades that they are making through a community project grant secured through our office. Congress must continue to invest in public safety infrastructure, technology, training, and recruitment and retention efforts to support 21st century policing. We must commit to valuing and supporting those who swear an oath to protect and serve our communities.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Arthur Bourgeois of Exeter, New Hampshire on his 100th birthday. A World War II Navy Veteran, active community member, and loving family man, Arthur has shown what it means to devote his life to his loved ones, community, and country. On this special day, I commend Arthur on his distinguished lifetime that exemplifies service and dedication. During World War II, individuals like Arthur sacrificed their lives to defend our freedom and democracy. His contributions have left a mark on our nation's history and the world. His bravery and selflessness during one of the most tiresome times in American history has not gone unnoticed. The sacrifices made and the challenges overcome speak volumes about Arthur's character and will serve as an inspiration for generations to come. On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to thank Arthur Bourgeois for his service and wish him a happy 100th birthday. While we can never fully repay our debt of gratitude, we recognize and applaud his decades of service. I look forward to seeing what his next chapter holds, and I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Merrimack Senior Center on its 50th Anniversary. Since 1974, this establishment has gathered seniors across the town of Merrimack and beyond to enjoy local speakers, educational workshops, and trips to concerts or plays throughout New England. Serving nearly 200 seniors, the senior citizens club offers a centralized space to build community, play games, socialize, and create true friendship. The Merrimack Senior Club offers meaningful services for seniors as well, including safety presentations from local police and fire departments and a discounted restaurant meal program in partnership with Meals on Wheels. Furthermore, the club offers philanthropic opportunities to its members. Working with community organizations and leaders, the club provides a $1,000 annual scholarship to a local high school student and gathers donations for local food banks. I commend the Merrimack Senior Center for its many years of community-oriented service and look forward to its continued work to bring seniors together throughout the Merrimack area over the next 50 years.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Stan Lyford's more than fifty years of outstanding contributions to the Portsmouth High School Track Program. Since 1975, Stan has been a committed coach and mentor for the Portsmouth High School girls track and cross-country teams where he works to motivate his athletes to succeed not just on the track, but also in their academic and personal lives. With a lifelong passion for giving back to his community and ensuring that every student can succeed, Stan embodies the value of service above self and has had an immeasurable effect on strengthening the Portsmouth community. In addition to his profound impact on the Portsmouth High School Track Program, Stan was also a math teacher at Portsmouth High School where he worked to engage with students and equip them to reach their highest academic potential. Although he retired from teaching in 2007, his continued role as head coach showcases his lifelong commitment to his students. On behalf of New Hampshire's First District, I commend Stan for reaching this remarkable fifty-year milestone in his continued service to his community. The amount of trust placed in Stan for over half a century is a testament to his efficacy and compassion as a teacher, coach, and leader. I look forward to seeing what he will continue to achieve as he carries on his commitment to the Portsmouth Track Program.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Diane Fitzpatrick, Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Club of Manchester, for being named Executive of the Year by the Nation's over 1000 clubs. This award is determined by the Professional Association of Boys & Girls Clubs and by Diane's peers throughout the country. As the Executive of the Year, Diane has been recognized for her significant impact on the Manchester community and the youth development profession at a local, regional, and national level. As CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Manchester, Diane works with staff, the board of trustees, and community members to serve children and families across the city. With over 30 years of experience in higher education, marketing, and business development, Diane has pursued a bold and innovative vision for the Boys & Girls Club since she joined the organization in 2014. In this role, Diane oversees strategic planning, fundraising, community relations, and partnership development. She is widely regarded by staff as an indispensable leader and among the broader New Hampshire community as critical to the advancement of children's issues. I commend Diane for winning this prestigious award and will continue to support her work to help youth reach their full potential. I look forward to seeing what Diane will accomplish for the Manchester community in the years to come, and I am confident she will continue to uplift kids and families in our district. On behalf of all the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I applaud Diane for her commendable leadership, and wish her success in future endeavors.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the reckless budget proposal released this week by a group of House Republicans. This budget will cut Medicare, make healthcare more expensive, and undo the real progress that we have been making to lower prescription drug prices. It would also cut Social Security benefits and raise the retirement age, forcing hardworking Americans to work even longer. The only winners in this budget plan are the ultra-wealthy and the biggest corporations, who get rewarded with huge tax cuts. This is backward, it is wrong, and it is something I will fight every step of the way. New Hampshire seniors who have paid into Social Security and Medicare need to know that their earned benefits will be there for them when they retire. I remain committed to fighting to strengthen Social Security and Medicare, to lowering the cost of healthcare and prescription drugs for all Americans, and Congress must make this a top priority.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Ona Marie Judge Staines, a New Hampshire woman born in Virginia, who was enslaved by George and Martha Washington, and taken by them to Phildelphia during Washington's second term as United States president. Ona Judge self-emancipated from their household, as the Washingtons were preparing to return to Mount Vernon in their semi-annual effort to avoid the Pennsylvania law that enabled enslaved people to sue for their freedom if they remained in the state for more than six months. Recounting her story in 1845 she remarked on her escape, ``Whilst they were packing up to go to Virginia, I was packing to go, I didn't know where; for I knew that if I went back to Virginia, I should never get my liberty . . .'' During her time in the city, Ona Judge had become acquainted with members of Philadelphia's large free Black community who provided her contact with a ship captain who would take her north. On May 21, 1796, she boarded the ship Nancy, bound for Portsmouth, New Hampshire in search of freedom. The Washingtons relentlessly pursued her, but Ona Judge found a home among Portsmouth's Black community. Washington learned of her whereabouts and sent one of his wife's relatives to convince her to return. She refused, saying ``I am free now, and choose to remain so.'' Rebuffed, the man determined to take her and her child back to Virginia by force and admitted his intentions to Senator John Langdon. Whether it was Langdon who alerted her to the impending capture, or his trusted free Black servant Cyrus Bruce, we do not know for sure. But Ona was determined to remain free and fled eight miles from Portsmouth into Greenland, New Hampshire, where she lived with her daughters and friends John and Phillis Jacks and their family until her death in 1848. Several years before her death, Ona Judge Staines told her story to two abolitionist newspapers. The interviewer for the Granite State Freeman asked her if she ever regretted her decision, and she replied ``No, I am free, and have, I trust, been made a child of God by the means.'' Her journey exemplifies the power of determination in the search for liberty, embodying our state motto ``Live Free or Die.'' On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I commend the bravery of Ona Judge Staines to assert her right to freedom at any cost. May her story never be forgotten.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Captain Jack Casey of Dover, New Hampshire. On February 7, 2024, Captain Casey was among 4 other Marines who tragically died in a CH-53E helicopter crash in Pine Valley, California. Captain Casey was commissioned in the Marine Corps on May 16, 2019, and was promoted to the rank of Captain on September 1, 2023. As a Marine, Captain Casey was a member of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing's Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, nicknamed the Flying Tigers, where he was a pilot. During his career, Captain Casey was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. Captain Casey and his family are well known and loved throughout his hometown of Dover, New Hampshire, where he attended Saint Mary Academy and St. Thomas Aquinas High School. After graduation, he went on to attend Virginia Military Institute (VMI) where he was a physics major and Company I commander for the 2018-2019 academic year. After graduating from VMI, he trained at flight school in Corpus Christi. Captain Casey truly loved his life and lived it in service to others. He married his beloved wife Emma on December 3, 2022. Among his fellow service members, classmates, and friends, Captain Casey was known as a charismatic, helpful, and humble young man that made a positive impact on all. Back home, community leaders and teachers knew him as not only a smart and energetic student, but also a kind and joyous individual with a bright future. We are forever grateful for his selfless service and ultimate sacrifice. During this difficult time, my thoughts and condolences are with his wife Emma, his parents Catherine and James, his siblings, James, Patrick, Sean, and Catherine, and all of Captain Casey's loved ones. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I commend Captain Casey for his service and sacrifice to our Nation. He will be dearly missed.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Jameson (Jamey) French of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, on the occasion of his 70th birthday. Jamey has dedicated his life thus far to New Hampshire and its forest industry, impacting our state and public lands immensely. As President and CEO of Northland Forest Products, Inc., headquartered in Kingston, New Hampshire, and a 4th generation business owner, a passion for the forest industry's interests runs deep in Jamey. Throughout Jamey's career, he focused on creating sensible solutions to forest usage issues while bringing the forest products industry and the environmental community to a common ground. Jamey was one of a small group of industry leaders in the mid-1990s who embraced the concept of forest certification. Jamey played an instrumental role in forming the national initiative for the Forest Stewardship Council in the United States (FSC-US) and was elected to the FSC-US Board for three years, serving as the first chairman from the economic sector. In addition to receiving many honors and awards, including the Sustainable Standard Setter Award by the Rainforest Alliance in 2004, Jamey is the Vice Chair of the National Wildlife Federation Action Fund and chairs Friends Forever International. Over the last several decades, Jamey has donated his time, energy, and expertise to local, regional, and national environmental and charitable organizations. His deep-rooted passion for his work and community earned him the title of Portsmouth's most friendly face and a placement on The Portsmouth Herald's top 10 Most Influential list. Outside his dedication to New Hampshire's forests, Jamey's time is devoted to his wife and three beautiful children. On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to recognize Jamey French on his 70th birthday for his lifetime achievements. He continues to amaze the individuals of New Hampshire with his pure devotion to environmental advocacy, and I look forward to seeing what his next chapter holds. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Rare Disease Day on February 29, 2024. According to the Federal Drug Administration, over 7,000 rare diseases affect more than 30 million people in the United States. That's nearly one in every ten Americans. The National Institutes of Health recognizes more than 7,000 rare diseases. Of those 7,000 plus diseases approximately 95 percent have no treatment. Instead, many patients receive treatments that are not approved by the FDA for their specific conditions. This treatment process can lead to patients experiencing difficulty with insurance reimbursements. All Americans deserve quality access to affordable health care, and we must do more to assist our fellow Americans with rare diseases in reaching these standards. Rare diseases not only have a debilitating impact on the individuals affected but also the families and loved ones who support them. On average, individuals with rare diseases do not receive an accurate diagnosis for more than four and a half years, in addition to difficulty in finding medical experts and treatments for their conditions. This leaves patients, families, and caregivers waiting indefinitely for diagnoses, treatments, and additional support for indefinite periods of time. Rare Disease Day is a significant step in increasing public awareness and encouraging funding for research into these conditions. It is critical that Congress continue to partner with patients, advocates, scientists, and health care employees to seek solutions that will prioritize public funding for the health, wellness, and treatment for all those impacted by rare medical conditions. On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to commemorate this important day and remind my fellow Americans to recognize those impacted by rare diseases, in addition to the medical professionals committed to finding treatments for them.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Arvid H. `Gus' Gustavson, an Army Veteran and resident of Hampton Falls, New Hampshire, who passed away in December. Gus was a beloved husband, father, son, and brother, who proudly dedicated his life to public service both in the United States Army and at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Born in Somerville, MA, Gus married Shirley Ambrose and joined the United States Army. After two years of service, Gus and Shirley moved to New Hampshire and Gus began his decades long career at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. During this time, Gus received many accolades, reflecting his hardworking nature and dedication to the community. His fellow coworkers have all been impacted by the legacy that he left behind after retiring in 1985. Gus's family and friends also remember him for his giving nature and ever-present love and support. He has touched many lives through his unforgettable sense of humor and positive mindset, both of which his family carries on today. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I share my condolences with the Gustavson family, including Gus's children, Stephen, Karen, and Paul, and his many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. I would once again like to extend my condolences to the Gustavson family and wish them all the very best in this time of grieving.

Mr. PAPPAS

Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Aaron Ruvinsky of Merrimack, New Hampshire on his 100th birthday. A World War II veteran, successful newspaper journalist, active neighborhood volunteer, and loving family man, Aaron's century of American life speaks to his tireless devotion to his loved ones, community, and country. On this special day, I want to commend Aaron on his distinguished lifetime that exemplifies service and dedication, and is an inspiration to others. Over the last 100 years, Aaron Ruvinsky has grown alongside the United States. During the Great Depression, he worked in a machine shop and studied physics at Brooklyn College. After enlisting in the Army Air Corps during the Second World War, Aaron enrolled in meteorological school, crafting weather reports for the safe passage of Allied planes through Canada and Alaska. Once the war ended and Aaron earned a journalism degree from New York University, he began his decades-long career in the paper business. Although limited by discrimination against Jewish Americans in New York, Aaron worked as a Washington reporter and editor until his retirement. For years Aaron volunteered with Meals on Wheels and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in D.C., becoming actively involved in community affairs. While in Washington, he spent his days swimming, playing tennis, and enjoying time with his grandchildren. In 2018, Aaron moved up to New Hampshire to make a new home with his family in the Granite State. Unable to remain idle, Aaron continues to lead a productive life, swimming weekly, reading the newspaper daily, and enjoying big bowls of ice cream. On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to wish Aaron Ruvinsky a happy 100th birthday. Aaron has lived an exemplary life and has made our state and country proud. I look forward to seeing what his next chapter holds and wish him many more happy, healthy years.