Tom Reed

Mr. REED

Mr. REED. I yield to the gentleman from Idaho.

Mr. REED. Reclaiming my time, I appreciate the gentleman's support of that effort. With that, I yield 1\1/2\ minutes to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Higgins).

Mr. REED. Reclaiming my time, Mr. Chairman, I thank the subcommittee chairman for the support on this amendment. I thank my colleague on the other side of the aisle for joining us in this effort, and I ask that we support this amendment and move forward. With that, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. REED

Mr. REED. Mr. Speaker, I write to inform you that I was unable to be on the House floor for votes on June 25, 2014 related to H.R. 6, the Domestic Prosperity and Global Freedom Act (rollcall No. 359). Had I been there, I would have voted in support of the legislation.

Mr. REED

Mr. REED. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the excellence of Pioneer Middle School in Yorkshire, New York. The school was recently designated a ``School to Watch'' by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform. Pioneer Middle School was one of only 118 schools from across the country to receive this outstanding distinction. The Forum uses rigorous criteria of requirements and achievements to select the recipients of this highly esteemed honor. Academic performance, developmental responsiveness, and social equity are among the factors used to grade each school. Schools that receive this prestigious distinction must display a strong ``sense of purpose'' and maintain a ``trajectory toward excellence.'' Pioneer Middle School continually meets and exceeds each of these requirements and it shows in the students and their mentors. Earning this award speaks to the dedication of the administration and faculty to providing students with the highest level of academic excellence. I would like to specifically recognize the principal of Pioneer Middle School, Melissa Prorok, for going above and beyond in facilitating a positive academic experience for each student. Once again, I commend Pioneer Middle School on this notable achievement. I am confident that the excellence displayed by the teachers and administrators will continue to develop strong academic foundations for their students, paving the way for them to achieve success throughout their academic careers. I am proud of the positive impact this school is making on students and its community.

Mr. REED

Mr. REED. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extensive and highly decorated career of a constituent, William ``Bill'' Gallow. Mr. Gallow has dedicated his life to serving his neighbors throughout the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions of New York. Mr. Gallow served as a Combat Infantryman in the United States Army during World War II, under the command of General George Patton. Upon returning home, Mr. Gallow began working with the Arnold Ambulance Service, a volunteer EMT position that he held for over 25 years. In 1963, he embarked on a remarkable 60-year career with the Van Etten Volunteer Fire Company. During his tenure, Mr. Gallow held the positions of Chief, President, Secretary, Trustee, and Senior Medic. In addition, he passed down his knowledge and expertise to other first responders by teaching courses at academic institutions, training facilities, and the New York State Fire Academy. Bill Gallow exemplifies selfless service and true leadership. His generosity and willingness to assist anyone in need has earned him the highest level of respect within the Van Etten community and throughout all of Chemung County. He consistently goes above and beyond through his volunteer work and community service. Mr. Gallow has served as a medic at the Special Olympics and the Susan B. Komen ``Race for the Cure'' on multiple occasions. In recognition of his excellent and selfless service, he was awarded the Southern Tier Regional Emergency Service Award in 1997 and the Richard Habbershaw Community Service Award in 2007. I commend Mr. Gallow for all the great work he has done at the Van Etten Volunteer Fire Company and throughout his community. He is a selfless and generous individual who has made countless positive contributions to New York's 23rd Congressional District, and I am proud to recognize him today.

Mr. REED

Mr. REED. I thank the gentleman from North Carolina for yielding this evening. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bill, H.R. 3765, to rename the post office at 198 Baker Street in Corning, New York, after Specialist Ryan P Jayne. I am so pleased to have the support of my colleague from North Carolina, as well as my good friend from Massachusetts, coming together in a bipartisan manner to recognize, in a very special way, the ultimate sacrifice that Specialist Jayne provided for our family, for our country, and for all of us as he gave, at his young age of 22 years of age, the ultimate sacrifice, and we need to honor and recognize it here today. As has been stated, Corning, New York, is my hometown, and Specialist Ryan Jayne was a 2008 graduate of Corning East High School, a high school I went to. Ryan was an exemplary student and was awarded the Judi McCort Memorial Scholarship for his courage, hard work, and responsibility. Following high school, he went to our local community college, Corning Community College, before enlisting in 2010. Serving his second tour of duty in Afghanistan, Specialist Jayne was tragically killed by an IED alongside two fellow New Yorkers, two of his fellow New York soldiers that were standing with him at the time of his death. At the time of his death, he had accrued over 2 years of service with the U.S. Army. I can tell you, Mr. Speaker, I was there at the memorial service at Corning East High School auditorium, and in the stadium. His death was felt throughout our entire community, but he is remembered as a passionate young man, a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan, as has been mentioned, and one who loved truly spending time with his family and friends. We honor and remember Specialist Jayne for his sacrifice and the sacrifice of his family, actions of heroism that we will never, ever forget. Naming the post office in Corning, New York, after Specialist Jayne is the least we can do here in this body and in this Chamber this evening to honor Specialist Jayne's bravery, his service, and his love of our country, and for a love of his community, Corning, New York, that he called home. So I encourage all my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, let's come together, let's do what is right, and stand with Specialist Jayne this evening and recognize the courage, the sacrifice that he provided to all of us.

Mr. REED

Mr. REED. Mr. Speaker, S-T-I-C-H-O-M-Y-T-H-I-A. Stichomythia. Mr. Speaker, this is the word that Sriram Hathwar spelled correctly to win the 2014 Scripps National Spelling Bee. I rise today to recognize and congratulate Sriram on this incredible accomplishment. Sriram, an eighth-grade student at the Alternative School for Math and Science in Corning, New York, participated in the National Spelling Bee this year for the fifth time. In his final year of eligibility, Sriram outlasted 279 other contestants and was declared co-champion after correctly spelling twelve ``championship words.'' As he progressed through the competition, Sriram appeared unfazed by the increasingly difficult words that were presented to him. He displayed impressive levels of composure, confidence and determination throughout the competition, which propelled him to victory. After diligently studying the roughly 470,000 words in the Merriam- Webster Dictionary, Sriram successfully spelled some of the most challenging words in the English language. The amount of preparation and training Sriram completed in preparation of this competition exemplifies his unrelenting dedication to learning. In addition to his proficiency at spelling difficult words, Sriram's display of humility and sportsmanship throughout the competition was commendable. Upon being named co-champion, Sriram recognized his fellow contestants by stating that the competition was ``against the dictionary, not against each other.'' Sriram Hathwar is a source of inspiration within my congressional district and across the country. I am proud of his success in the Scripps National Spelling Bee and confident that he will build upon this experience to accomplish great things in the future.

Mr. REED

Mr. REED. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the tremendously positive impact the American Red Cross has on my congressional district. Earlier this month, my constituents in the Southern Tier and Finger Lakes regions of New York endured disastrous levels of flooding. Upon finding their homes severely damaged, hundreds of people sought refuge at local Red Cross shelters. I had the opportunity to visit the areas in Yates County hit hardest by the storm and was humbled by the outpouring of care and support provided by the Red Cross. As it has done countless times in the past, the Red Cross responded immediately to provide critical resources and assistance to our friends, families, and neighbors who were affected by the damaging floods. With the help of the Red Cross, these communities were able to pull together to support each other and overcome the challenges caused by the flooding. Since its founding in 1881, the Red Cross has consistently provided excellent care and relief to those who need it most. Throughout wars, famines, and natural disasters, the staff and volunteers from the Red Cross put themselves on the front lines to help the victims of these tragedies through their times of need. Each year, the American Red Cross responds to over 70,000 catastrophes all over the world, providing emergency relief to those impacted. In addition to providing temporary housing, warm meals, medical assistance, and emergency blood supplies, the Red Cross deploys mobile response units to help ease suffering during disasters. I thank the staff and volunteers of the American Red Cross for serving as ``real heroes'' in our community, our country, and throughout the world. I commend their dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of each person in need, especially in New York's 23rd Congressional District.

Mr. REED

Mr. REED. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Susan G. Komen Twin Tiers Region ``Race for the Cure'' on another successful event this year. This event, which was held for the 16th consecutive year, took place on Sunday, May 18, 2014 in Elmira, New York. This race is a bold statement of unity among the survivors of breast cancer, the friends and families who support the ongoing search for a cure, and those who are currently fighting this disease. The annual event has raised over $1 million for projects focusing on cancer research, prevention, and treatment. Seventy-five percent of this money has remained in the Southern Tier, directly benefiting thousands of my constituents. Breast cancer affects millions of individuals in the United States each year, including countless friends, family members, and neighbors in my congressional district. For far too long, this disease has taken away our loved ones; an estimated 40,000 people will die from breast cancer this year. As a nation, we must continue to support every victim of breast cancer and show steadfast resolve in our efforts to find a cure for this disease. Thanks to the hard work of Komen Twin Tiers Region staff and over 200 volunteers, more than 1,000 people participated in this year's ``Race for the Cure.'' Every person involved in the event displayed their unwavering determination to finding a cure for breast cancer and supporting those affected by this disease. I especially appreciate the work of Scott Heffner and Megan Burns, co-chairs of the race, who were primarily responsible for the success of this event. I am confident that the hard work of dedicated individuals like Scott and Megan will continue to benefit victims and survivors of breast cancer as we continue working together toward a cure for this horrible disease.

Mr. REED

Mr. REED. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to commend your efforts, along with those of the Judiciary Committee, in bringing this legislation to the floor of the House. As you and I have met and discussed on numerous occasions, along with my good friend from Indiana (Mr. Stutzman), this issue is important to not only many of my constituents back in western New York, but also to our country. Provisions in this bill, such as the reforms made to bulk data collection and enhanced declassification requirements, are specific ideas that were shared with me by constituents in western New York and brought to here, Washington, D.C. As you know, I am happy to report, through our work with you, these provisions were incorporated into this legislation. Mr. Chairman, as this bill moves forward, I hope I have your commitment to continue to work together to assure that a balance between national security and the protection of our personal freedoms is achieved.

Mr. REED

Mr. REED. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Chautauqua Golf Club on its 100th anniversary. This historic venue, located in beautiful Chautauqua, New York, hosted its first round of golf on July 18, 1914. Over the past 100 years, Chautauqua Golf Club has hosted legendary golfers including Ben Hogan, Walter Hagen, Sam Snead, and Jack Cawsey. The Club's courses have been enjoyed by countless celebrities and dignitaries, including former President Bill Clinton. Each of these individuals has experienced the superior design and character offered by the two four-star courses designed by famous golf architect Donald Ross. The Club has hosted numerous tournaments throughout its history. Since 2000, it has partnered with Jamestown Community College to host the National Junior College Athletic Association's Men's Division III National Championship. In addition, an annual Professional-Amateur Tournament to benefit the Chautauqua Watershed Conservancy is held at the Club. Chautauqua Golf Club recently opened the Golf Learning Center, a teaching and practice facility that serves golfers of all ages and skill levels. The center focuses on teaching strategies, improving skills, and fostering an appreciation for the finer points of the game. This center, which is ideal for families, school teams, and community groups, intends to make the game of golf accessible to everyone. I once again commend Chautauqua Golf Club on its 100th anniversary. I am proud to recognize this remarkable accomplishment and the great contributions the Club has made, and will continue to make, to New York's 23rd Congressional District.

Mr. REED

Mr. REED. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate the Cuba, New York Chamber of Commerce on its 100th anniversary. Over the past 100 years, the Chamber has successfully provided small businesses and local entrepreneurs with the resources, expertise, and advice needed to succeed. The town of Cuba is stronger and more vibrant because of the Chamber. This organization has proven to be an invaluable resource for promoting local businesses by providing them with opportunities for growth. The Chamber brings businesses together, creating strong economic bonds and partnerships between its members. In addition, it provides referrals that are crucial to many businesses in the area. Due to the Chamber's unrelenting work in assisting commerce, local businesses continue to provide well-paying jobs and high-quality products and services to our region. The Chamber is also a strong advocate for local tourism. It supports local events and industries that attract visitors to Allegany County, including a wide variety of agritourism and outdoor activities. Once again I wish to congratulate the Cuba, New York Chamber of Commerce on 100 successful years of service and I look forward to the great contributions it will continue to make to New York's 23rd Congressional District.

Mr. REED

Mr. REED. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Dr. David Skorton on his recent appointment as Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution. Dr. Skorton, who currently serves as the 12th President of Cornell University, in Ithaca, New York, will begin his tenure as the 13th Secretary of the Smithsonian in July 2015. Dr. Skorton was chosen for this position based on his outstanding merit and impressive leadership record. He has extensive experience as an administrator, cardiologist, and biomedical researcher. Dr. Skorton brings his unique talent and knowledge base to his new position, where he will be the first physician to lead the Smithsonian. A staunch advocate of the arts, sciences, and humanities, Dr. Skorton will effectively promote the Smithsonian Institution's mission of supporting the ``increase and diffusion of knowledge.'' I am confident that his skills, experience, and expertise will serve Dr. Skorton well in his efforts to oversee the immense collection of museums and research centers that comprise the Smithsonian Institution. I commend Dr. Skorton on earning this remarkable opportunity and I look forward to the new heights that the Smithsonian Institution will reach under his leadership.

Mr. REED

Mr. REED. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge support for the bill, the Save American Workers Act, introduced by my good friend, Mr. Young of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, this is a fundamental question about what is fair, what is fair for the American worker. We have had a long history in America of protecting the 40-hour workweek. This mandate--this requirement under the Affordable Care Act to go to 30 hours as the definition of full-time work is going to hurt. It is not fair to the American worker. I would just offer comments that I just received from a constituent in the 23rd Congressional District, which I have the honor to represent. Carol Tyler, the owner of Hager's Flowers and Gifts in Gowanda, New York, writes: As a business owner, I encourage you to vote in favor of legislation that better reflects my business' workforce needs while maintaining wages and flexible health benefits options for my employees. The ACA's definition of full-time employee status must align with a standard that better reflects current employment practices within our industry. Increasing the ACA's 30-hour per week definition would make it easier for employers to provide additional hours to all employees. That means more money in hardworking taxpayers' pockets across America. I urge my colleagues to join with Ms. Tyler's plea to support this legislation, to stand with the American worker, and protect the 40-hour workweek, which means more money in American workers' pockets as they go forward. I have to say, Mr. Speaker, there is a contrast between our side and the other side. When I hear the other side argue that what this will allow people to do is to not have to work, what I hear is they are not championing the concept of work. I believe in the American work ethic, Mr. Speaker. I believe in the strong work ethic that allows people to work a 40-hour workweek has made this Nation strong for generations. I ask my colleagues on the other side of the aisle to please stand with us to protect that which has made America great, and this is the 40-hour workweek in the American workplace and environment.

Mr. REED

Mr. REED. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to remove my name as a cosponsor of H.R. 217.

Mr. REED

Mr. REED. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the subject of my Special Order.

Mr. REED. Madam Speaker, I thank my colleagues that have joined me this evening to talk about an issue that is very personal to me and I think something that we need to discuss across America in an open and honest fashion. Madam Speaker, this month, April, is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. I am joined with many of my colleagues here today to discuss the issue of sexual assault, domestic violence and, in particular, a national effort that we have become familiar with in our office and in my household called the NO MORE campaign. NO MORE is a group that is represented by numerous entities across the country that are coming together to say ``no more'' to sexual assault and domestic violence. Madam Speaker, you may recall I came to this floor of this Chamber back on March 14 and I discussed the issue of NO MORE Week at that point in time. I shared my family's personal story that moved us in our household--my wife, my brother, my sister, my 11 older brothers and sisters--to say ``no more.'' Madam Speaker, over the last year and a half, we dealt with a situation where my niece was raped. I will tell you, going through that experience, it is time to say ``no more.'' I just am humbled to see the outpouring of support that my colleagues are showing me this evening and coming together to say we need to talk about sexual assault, we need to talk about domestic violence across the country. We can't be shameful, we can't hide any longer. We need to stand with the victims and say this isn't something that is just going to be brushed aside and there are going to be excuses of, well, she wanted it or they deserved it or they were drinking, and therefore it is okay. ``No more,'' Madam Speaker, no more to sexual assault and domestic violence. Earlier today, my colleague across the aisle, Gwen Moore, and I introduced a resolution supporting the goals and ideas of April as Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month. I am glad to see that we are coming together in this Chamber on a bipartisan basis to identify this issue, speak about this issue, and coming together to solve this critical problem for Americans across the Nation. Also, I just wanted to say, from this personal experience as a husband, as a father of a beautiful girl who is 15, the uncle of my beautiful niece who went through this horrific situation, that we just can't express enough how horrific and tragic sexual assault is when it comes to families, young men and women, just men and women across the country, and I stand here today to say ``no more.'' With that, I yield to the gentlewoman from West Virginia (Mrs. Capito), my good colleague, to speak on this important issue.

Mr. REED. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentlelady from West Virginia for her words and offer of support. At this time, Madam Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from California (Mr. Costa), a good friend from the other side of the aisle, the cochair of the Victims' Rights Caucus.

Mr. REED. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from California for his kind words. What I will say is, it is awareness, education, and empowerment. With that, I yield to the gentleman from Texas, Judge Poe, a good friend and cochair of the Victims' Rights Caucus.

Mr. REED. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman for the words. I am so pleased that this is a bipartisan Special Order, where Members from the other side of the aisle are joining us tonight to talk about the issue of sexual assault, domestic violence, and us saying ``no more.'' With that, I yield to my good friend from Virginia (Mr. Scott).

Mr. REED. I thank the gentleman from Virginia for joining us. At this point in time, I would like to yield to a good friend of mine from the great State of North Carolina (Mrs. Ellmers).

Mr. REED. Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague from North Carolina for coming today. I am pleased to yield to a good friend from the other side of the aisle to talk about this important issue of Sexual Assault Awareness Month and the NO MORE campaign. I can't encourage people enough across America to go online, become aware of the NO MORE campaign, and the Sexual Assault Awareness Month. With that, I yield to my good friend from Florida (Ms. Frankel).

Mr. REED. I thank the gentlelady for coming tonight and joining us and raising awareness on this critical issue facing men and women across the country. I appreciate the gentlelady's words. From the gentlelady's words, I am reminded how pervasive this is across our country. It does remind me also why we have to remain diligent and continue to raise awareness and educate people on these issues and to empower victims and stand with victims such as my niece. With that, I yield to my good friend from Pennsylvania (Mr. Meehan).

Mr. REED. I so appreciate the work, leadership, and experience of the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Meehan) on this issue. I don't think I could have said it any better in the sense of the victims being victimized repeatedly not just by the perpetrator, but by the system. Hearing the gentleman from Pennsylvania give a firsthand account as to what that means, I think, is very important as we deal with the NO MORE campaign and Sexual Assault Awareness Month. At this time, Madam Speaker, I am pleased to yield to a new Member, but a great Member of this great Chamber, Mrs. Brooks from Indiana.