Elise Stefanik

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize Dr. John Rugge, this year's recipient of the Annual J. Walter Juckett Community Service Award. Dr. Rugge is the founder of Hudson Headwaters Health Network, a community of 21 health centers dedicated to providing medical services to communities across Upstate New York and the North Country. Dr. Rugge began work as a supervising physician at the Glens Falls Hospital in 1974. He originally intended to stay at the post for only six months, but when he noticed the need for consistent medical care in many North Country communities, he realized he had found his life's calling. That year, he established the Hudson Headwaters Health Network, and today, the network provides medical services to over 150,000 patients in Northeastern New York. Under Dr. Rugge's dutiful leadership, Hudson Headwaters quickly became an example for other medical providers. Over the course of his career, he partnered with policymakers from over 40 different government advisory panels, task forces, and councils to address how best to improve the quality of healthcare available to underserved communities across the country. Dr. Rugge's dedication to his community and passion for providing accessible medical care have made him a pillar of Upstate New York. On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, it is my honor to celebrate the 34th Annual J. Walter Juckett Community Service Award recipient, Dr. John Rugge.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Army Technical Sergeant Harold Williams' 100 years of life and honor his illustrious military career. As a young man, Harold dropped out of school and began working to help support his family during the Great Depression. In 1942, he enlisted in the Army and served in the 1st Infantry Division of the 62nd Armored Field Battalion as a forward observer and a radio operator. During his military service, he participated in both the African and European Theatres of war. Notably, Harold fought in the Battle of the Bulge and was among the first wave of young Americans to storm the beaches of Normandy on D-Day. This act of bravery at Normandy helped turn the tide against the Nazis. During his remarkable military career, Harold received many recognitions for his service. He earned both the American Theatre and European-African-Middle Eastern Theatre Campaign Medals, as well as an Army Occupation-Germany Medal, a Republic of France Certificate, and a Presidential-Unit Citation. Following the end of World War II, Harold retired from active-duty service and started his second career working for the United States Postal Service. He also earned his high school diploma in 2021 and was inducted into the New York Senate's Veterans Hall of Fame a year later at the age of 99. Harold's life is a shining example of service for all Americans. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I am honored to celebrate a decorated American veteran's 100th year of life.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember the incredible life and legacy of Colonel Joan ``Johnnie'' Pantanelli. Colonel Pantanelli was a lifelong civil servant and a dedicated leader in the Civil Air Patrol, as well as a recipient of the Congressional Gold Medal for her fortitude of spirit. Colonel Pantanelli was a trailblazer for women in civil service. She began her career in the Marine Corps Reserves in 1944 and dedicated the rest of her life to public service. Colonel Pantanelli went on to join the Civil Air Patrol and spent the next 80 years of her life working towards fulfilling its mission of serving communities, saving lives, and shaping futures. In 2015, she was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal for her service as a World War II mission observer who flew coastal patrol missions in search of German submarines. Moving up in the ranks of the Civil Air Patrol, she earned the titles of Squadron Commander and Colonel. Colonel Pantanelli completed each of the five levels in the Civil Air Patrol Training and Education program and also held the rating of ``Master'' in the Command and Cadet Program specialty tracks. Her achievements eventually led to the squadron she once served in being renamed in her honor, the Colonel Johnnie Pantanelli Composite Squadron. Colonel Pantanelli loved her country unconditionally and her legacy will live on in the hearts of all those she impacted during her many years of selfless service. On behalf of New York's 21st District, it is my honor to remember and celebrate the life of Colonel Johnnie Pantanelli.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the accomplishments of Upstate New York's Pat Borello, an acclaimed NASCAR crew chief whose racecar was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Mr. Borello was raised in Watertown, New York and spent his childhood in close proximity to his father's trucking company. As a young man, he was enamored with trucks and their mechanics, and when his father collaborated with a local racecar driver in 1963, his love of racing took hold. He built his first racecar during his sophomore year of high school, and, in 1976, he began working as the crew chief for racecar driver Jerry Cook. Mr. Borello had an illustrious career, achieving the honor of being named the 1977 Crew Chief of the year and being a vital part of a championship run. Pat eventually returned home to his father's garage where he continued to work closely with local racecar drivers. In 2007, Pat moved to North Carolina and reconnected with his old racing partner, Jerry Cook. He eventually got his hands on some original parts from Cook's championship winning racecar and began to restore the antique car back into racing condition. In 2021, the car was placed in the North Carolina Auto Racing Hall of Fame and was later moved to the NASCAR Hall of Fame's ``Glory Road'' in Charlotte. An honor which represents Pat's lifelong dedication to racing and his many years working to perfect his craft. Mr. Borello's commitment to racing has led to the enshrinement of Upstate New York in the NASCAR Hall of Fame and shows what dedication to one's passion can accomplish. On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, it is my honor to celebrate the many accomplishments of Pat Borello.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of United States Marine Corps Private Robert Vogt. Robert was born on July 10, 1936, and spent his childhood growing up in his birthplace of Troy, New York. In 1953, when he was still in high school, Robert enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He served as a Parachute Rigger and was assigned to Parris Island Platoon 262, Naval Air Technical Training Center Class P, and Parachute Rigger School Class A. After three years of active service, Robert joined the Marine Corps Reserves in 1956 and was ultimately honorably discharged in 1961. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal for his valiant service. Following his honorable discharge from the Marine Corps, Robert earned his high school diploma and went to work for the Bendix Corporation as a machine operator in their Friction Materials Division. He was active in his local United Auto Worker No. 1508, serving as their recording secretary for many years. In 1985, following a heart attack, he was forced to retire from the Bendix Corporation but remained involved in his local community, serving as the President of the HUDMO Valley Federal Credit Union, eventually being named the Chairman of the Supervisory Committee. In addition to serving his country and his community, Robert was a dedicated family man. He enjoyed spending time with his wife of 45 years, Ann, and their four children. Upon his passing in 2004, he was survived by 12 grandchildren and one great grandchild. Robert lived a full life that demonstrated his utmost dedication to his country, his community, and his family. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I am honored to recognize the life and service of Robert Vogt.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Today, House Republicans are laser-focused on fulfilling our commitment to America by reining in historic inflation, historic Bidenflation, on behalf of hardworking American families and small businesses, not just in my district, but across this great Nation.

Ms. STEFANIK. Madam Chair, I rise today to urge my colleagues to support my REIN IN Act. During the past 2 years of one party, far-left, radical, socialist Democrat rule in Washington led by President Joe Biden, inflation has skyrocketed to the highest level in my lifetime. You talk to any family, any small business, any farmer, any manufacturer, and they will say that the inflation that they are suffering from is crippling their businesses, crippling their family budgets. It is a painful tax on every American and Bidenflation continues to be the number one concern I hear today across my district in upstate New York in the North Country. In House Republicans' ``Commitment to America,'' our new House majority, the people's House majority, promised to deliver and support policies to ensure our economy is strong. In fact, one of the main reasons we have this Republican House majority is because the American people are smart. They know that the historic inflation, the highest rate of inflation in my lifetime, is a direct result of Joe Biden's executive orders and the trillions and trillions of reckless and wasteful spending from single-party Democrat rule. In fact, in Joe Biden's first year in office, he issued more executive orders than any President in my lifetime. This reckless, far- left agenda cost hardworking families more than $1 trillion in taxpayer dollars and even more in the added cost of inflation. Whether it was canceling the Keystone XL pipeline on his first day in office to pushing his out-of-touch and costly Green New Deal regulations, Joe Biden has fueled this inflation crisis and caused this inflation crisis working with the previous radical, socialist Democrat majority. By passing the REIN IN Act, House Republicans will demand transparency for the American people by revealing just how much Biden's executive orders are costing hardworking families and the painful impact that has on inflation. What are the Democrats so afraid of? This is about transparency for the American people, and it is long past time for Joe Biden to take into account this harmful impact of his failed, far-left agenda.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 9 a.m. tomorrow.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Madam Speaker, by direction of the House Republican Conference, I send to the desk a privileged resolution and ask for its immediate consideration.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, by the direction of the Republican Conference, I offer a privileged resolution and ask for its immediate consideration.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 9 a.m. tomorrow, February 9, 2023.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, by direction of the House Republican Conference, I send to the desk a privileged resolution and ask for its immediate consideration.

Ms. STEFANIK. (During the reading). Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to dispense with the reading.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Kapusinski family for their hard work and dedication that has enabled 70 incredible years of business for Huletts-on-Lake-George. On the east shore of Lake George, this family-owned and operated small business has provided welcoming vacations for those wishing to explore the incredible beauty that Lake George and the Adirondacks has to offer. In 1953, George and Margaret Eichler purchased property in Huletts Landing, New York, after falling in love with the quiet oasis on Lake George. They wanted to share this quaint vacation spot with those who want to appreciate time with their families. There is nothing more important than family time together. I am proud to recognize the hard work and dedication of three generations of the Kapusinski family. Their contributions to Huletts Landing and the Lake George area have been instrumental in the lives of many. Their demonstrated entrepreneurial spirit is a trademark of upstate New York and the North Country. I look forward to witnessing 70 more years of their strong business in the Lake George region. On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate the Kapusinski family for 70 years of successfully operating Huletts-on-Lake-George.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Howard ``Howie'' Ganter for over 40 years of service to The Arc Jefferson--St. Lawrence, formerly Jefferson Rehabilitation Center. Since 1978, Howie has served The Arc in many capacities, culminating in his promotion to Chief Executive Officer in 2009. Howie began his career at Jefferson Rehabilitation Center in 1978 as a Recreation Therapist, where he was an exceptional provider of services for people with disabilities and truly embodied the vision of the Jefferson Rehabilitation Center. Under Howie's tremendous leadership, Jefferson Rehabilitation Center merged with St. Lawrence NYSARC and established The Arc Jefferson--St. Lawrence. During this time, Howie successfully led these organizations through a smooth merger, while never losing sight of their missions to enhance the lives of people they serve to help them achieve their hopes and aspirations. Howie's immense passion for serving others extended beyond his career at The Arc. Howie served on numerous committees and boards and volunteered countless hours to many organizations dedicated to helping those with disabilities. He served as the President of 1 World Foundation, where he coordinated shipments of needed supplies for people with disabilities in underserved areas all over the world. Additionally, Howie was the President of DOHL Development Corporation, a for-profit corporation that employs and trains nearly 100 people with disabilities providing them with vocational independence and confidence. Howie's motivation to make the world a better place for everyone, especially for those with disabilities, led him to lead a life of service even above himself. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I am honored to recognize Howie's immense contribution to his community that has assuredly left an indelible impact for generations to come. His dedication to serving those with disabilities and tireless support of The Arc should serve as an inspiration to us all. I congratulate him on his well-deserved retirement, and I wish him the best for all of his future endeavors.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, by direction of the Republican Conference, I offer a privileged resolution and ask for its immediate consideration.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Madam Clerk, I make a point of order that a quorum is not present.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. John E. Hughes for his dedicated service to our country. Mr. Hughes was born in 1945 and attended Hadley-Luzerne Central School District schools, where he was actively engaged in academic and student life. He enlisted in the United States Army on June 13th, 1966, serving with Company C, 124th Signal Battalion, 4th Infantry Division as a Radio Teletype operator in Vietnam. During his time in the Army, Mr. Hughes was stationed at the Central Highlands in Vietnam, where he transported soldiers and supplies to and from firebases. While participating in a Reaction Force Patrol, Mr. Hughes saved the life of his fellow soldier and was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for Heroism for his selfless act. For his tremendous commitment to service, he was also awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal. Upon his honorable discharge from the Army in March 1968, Mr. Hughes was employed as a heavy equipment operator for Finch Prime & Co. He maintained participation in multiple veterans' organizations, including the William J. Varney American Legion Post #862, the VFW Post #5836, the Vietnam Veterans of America, the Tri-Town Seniors, and publicly served as Assessor for the Town of Hasley. Mr. Hughes married the love of his life in 1970, and they raised their beautiful family of 3 children together. Throughout his life, Mr. Hughes demonstrated exemplary service to his country and members of his community. I am proud to recognize him during the Saratoga County Veterans Association's Honor our Deceased Veterans Ceremony. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I would like to commend the life of Mr. John E. Hughes and thank him for his brave service to our country.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Madam Speaker, on December 13th, I was speaking with constituents and unintentionally missed the vote on Roll Call No. 519, the Motion to Concur in the Senate Amendment to the Quantum Computing Cybersecurity Preparedness Act. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 519.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Dennis Brobston for his remarkable career at Saratoga Economic Development Corporation (SEDC). Over his almost fifteen-year tenure, Dennis had a tremendous impact on Saratoga County and the Capital Region. Under Dennis' leadership, SEDC focused on creating economic growth and stability in Saratoga County and the surrounding region by helping companies invest in facilities, technology, and talent. Since Dennis began serving as President in March 2008, he has worked on nearly 200 projects that have landed Saratoga County billions in economic development. Among these projects was the creation of GlobalFoundries in 2009. SEDC estimates that this international firm created more than 3,000 jobs in Saratoga County and more than 20,000 indirect and induced jobs throughout the region. Dennis was involved in projects of all sizes, including creating distribution centers for Target, Ace Hardware, Quad/ Graphics, Greenfield Manufacturing, Agrochem, Synergy Park, and Cortex. Throughout Dennis' career, private investment in Saratoga County reached $16 billion, job creation grew by over 5,000, and more than 4,000 jobs were retained. These investments and growth will continue to have an economic impact on the regional and state economy for many years going forward. While Dennis' career at SEDC is coming to an end, his leadership will continue bringing economic success to the Saratoga region. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I am honored to congratulate Dennis for his monumental career at SEDC. We thank him for making a lasting impact on the Capital Region and wish him luck in his future endeavors.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor William Breckenridge Bowden, the Director of the Lake Champlain Sea Grant Institute, for his years of service to protecting our lakes and native aquatic life. Since 2012, Dr. Bowden has served as the Director of the Lake Champlain Sea Grant Institute. Under his leadership, the Lake Champlain Sea Grant has grown and was even awarded institute status in 2018. This redesignation came with a 150 percent increase in its base budget in federal support for research, outreach, and education to improve the environment and economy in the Lake Champlain Basin. Thanks to Dr. Bowden's leadership, the Lake Champlain Sea Grant earned the institute designation for demonstrating excellence in research, education, and public service dedicated to environmental responsibility and outreach. Dr, Bowden was instrumental in getting the program to the level necessary to receive this prestigious designation, which has allowed the Institute to expand its educational outreach program to New York State schools and has increased support for combatting invasive species. Founded in 1999, the Lake Champlain Sea Grant Institute aims to raise awareness to benefit the environmental health of Lake Champlain, Lake George, and their respective watersheds, and encourage sustainable economic development. Dr. Bowden has led the Institute in building resilient communities and economies in the Lake Champlain basin, improving environmental literacy, and promoting healthy coastal ecosystems. Dr. Bowden has committed his life to educating the next generation on environmental sustainability and is currently a professor in Watershed Science and Planning in the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources at the University of Vermont. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I would like to thank Dr. Bowden for his contributions to the Lake Champlain basin and congratulate him on his retirement. I wish him well in this next chapter of his life.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and thank Greg Lee for his extraordinary service to his country and community. Lance Corporal Lee honorably served in the Vietnam War and continues to go above and beyond to serve North Country veterans. Greg Lee was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on April 3, 1951. After moving to Virginia in 1955, Greg left school in eighth grade and supported himself by working three separate jobs. Utilizing this disciplined work ethic, Greg enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on May 2, 1968. Shortly after enlisting, Greg was deployed to Vietnam, where he conducted search and destroy missions throughout the Quang Nam Province. While engaging the enemy during Operation Oklahoma Hills on May 8, 1969, Lance Corporal Lee was seriously wounded in action by a mortar explosion. His right arm had to be amputated due to these injuries. For this brave service in combat, Lance Corporal Lee was awarded the Purple Heart medal and Combat Action Ribbon. Due to his injuries, he was taken back to the United States. Greg moved to Peru, New York, where he immediately began helping other wounded veterans by driving them to and nom the VA hospital in Albany. After Greg was discharged, he tried to reenlist in the Marines. Lance Corporal Lee was not discouraged by his wounds saying, ``He could do with one arm what any man could do with two a arms.'' Despite his reenlistment application being denied, Greg continued to serve his country by working for the Plattsburgh Airforce Base in the Department of Morale, Welfare, and Recreation. Greg worked at this job serving his fellow veterans until his retirement in 1991. Once retired, Greg continued to support local veterans by organizing functions for the Disabled American Veterans Organization, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and American Legion posts. In addition to his work with these organizations, Greg has been an active member of the Honor Flights in Plattsburgh since 2013. During this time, Greg has given countless hours to organizing over forty Honor Flights for his fellow veterans. Lance Corporal Lee has accomplished all of these incredible things while battling service-related cancers throughout the years. Despite these hardships, he continues to tirelessly serve his country and the North Country veteran community. On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, it is my honor to recognize and thank Lance Corporal Greg Lee for his steadfast commitment to service.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. William E. Helman for his extraordinary service to our country. Mr. Helman was born in 1923 to Edward and Sara Helman. He attended Ballston Spa Schools and enlisted in the United States Army at the age of 19. In the Army, Mr. Helman served with the Company B, 404th Engineer Combat Battalion as a Combat Engineer and a Jack Hammer Operator. During his time in the Army, Mr. Helman courageously fought in World War II in the Italian Campaign. He was deployed across Italy to Sicily, Naples-Foggia, Anzio, Rome-Arno, North Apennines and the Po Valley. For his brave service in the war, Mr. Helman was awarded the European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal and the Bronze Arrowhead. Additionally, he was awarded both the Good Conduct Medal and the WWII Victory Medal. Upon his honorable discharge from the Army in October 1945, Mr. Helman worked in the automotive industry. He was a self-employed body and fender man and worked out of many garages in New York State. In 1946, Mr. Helman married Rachel and, together they raised their family of three children. Throughout his life, Mr. Helman exemplified dedicated service to his country. I am proud to recognize him during the Saratoga County Veterans Association's Honor our Deceased Veterans Ceremony. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I would like to honor the life of Mr. William Helman and thank him for his brave service to our country.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate Richard ``Dick'' McGuire for his dedication and service to the New York State agricultural community. Dick was born in 1922 and raised on his family farm in Jackson, New York. Given his family's deep agricultural roots and his interest in football, Dick attended SUNY Morrisville and studied animal science while playing college football. Despite his passion for sports, Dick turned down an offer to try out for the Philadelphia Eagles, instead choosing to work on a farm throughout college. Upon graduating, Dick fully dedicated his time to working on his family's farm. In just a short period, he expanded it from 65 acres to 440 acres. He soon became involved in local affairs, leading to him become the President of the New York State Farm Bureau from 1970 to 1984. In 1988, he was appointed by the Governor to serve as New York Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets, where he served for seven years. He later advised numerous national leaders and Presidents, including Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, and Ronald Reagan on issues important to farmers and agriculture. For his exceptional service to New York State and the country, Dick was named Outstanding Commissioner of Agriculture by the National Biotech Industry and given the Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award by the American Farm Bureau. Dick and his wife, Polly, currently operate the Penope Farm in New York. Their farm includes twelve museum collections of farming equipment and tools dating back to the 1800s. His efforts have been instrumental in educating New Yorkers about the history and importance of farming. Dick still collects items, each one meticulously documented and arranged, and regularly hosts visitors. Dick has been an instrumental leader in the Upstate New York agricultural community, a dedicated public servant, a true historian, and a farmer at heart. His work on behalf of New York farmers and agriculture has made significant impact on his community, state, and country. He continues to inspire generations through his important documentation and collection of historical objects to tell the story of the evolution of American agriculture and rural life. On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, I would like to congratulate Dick on his 100th birthday, wish him well in his years to come, and thank him for his continued leadership and inspiration.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember Gouverneur community leader, Eldon B. Conklin. Eldon served the Gouverneur community for decades as an elected official and an innovative business owner. Eldon was born on November 21, 1929 in the town of DeKalb and attended Osbornville Country School on Rock Island Road. At the age of 18, Eldon was working as a truck driver for John Austin Trucking in Richville, New York until he joined the United States Marine Corps in 1951. After serving his country and receiving an honorable discharge, Eldon returned to trucking, hauling milk, horses, and other heavy equipment. In 1969, Eldon married Eloise Tibbits at the Gouverneur United Methodist Church. Together, they purchased Van Ornum Furniture on Main Street in Gouverneur, which they owned and operated until it was sold in 1998. In 1985, Eldon became interested in serving his local community and served as Village Trustee, Mayor, and finally Town Councilman. He served as Councilman from 2003 until his passing. Additionally, Eldon was the Town Chairman of the Gouverneur Republican Town Committee. Because of his tremendous work in this position and his unyielding commitment to the North Country, the St. Lawrence Republican County Committee presented him with the prestigious Betsy Kaplan Award in 2017. Eldon dedicated his storied career to serving the Gouverneur community in many capacities. Eldon co-owned many other Gouverneur businesses, including the Gralyn Theater, Gouverneur Bowl, and Antique Emporium. He also was a member of the Greater Gouverneur Chamber of Commerce and became an honorary lifetime member in 2017. Throughout his tenure in public service, Eldon worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for residents of Gouverneur. Eldon was instrumental in several projects, including by being a vocal advocate for the recently completed Gouverneur Community Center. Eldon's commitment to serving his community should serve as inspiration to all. On behalf of New York's 21st Congressional District, I am honored to recognize Eldon's exceptional leadership and remember his enduring contributions to the Gouverneur community.