Elise Stefanik

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the conference report for the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018. I strongly believe that this bipartisan bill puts us on a course towards readiness recovery, ensuring that our military is fully equipped, trained, and supported. As the chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities, I am especially proud of our contributions to ensure proper resourcing and authorities for cyber warfare, safeguarding our technological superiority and defense innovation, enabling Special Operations Forces to counter terrorism and irregular warfare threats around the world, and energizing programs and activities that counter the spread of weapons of mass destruction. I would specifically like to highlight what our subcommittee has achieved this year in the areas of cyber warfare and cyber operations. Our emphasis on cyber has carried three broad themes: First, we increase congressional oversight of cyber operations by including H.R. 2807, a bill introduced by myself, Ranking Member Langevin, Chairman Thornberry, and Ranking Member Smith, which will ensure Congress is kept fully informed of sensitive military cyber operations. We also require a cyber posture review to clarify U.S. cyber deterrence policy and strategy. Second, we bolster international partnerships for cyber warfare to counter aggressive adversaries such as Russia, China, and North Korea. This includes support for our NATO partners and those within the Asia- Pacific region to enhance partnered cyber capabilities and information sharing, and to counter and mitigate adversarial propaganda efforts and information warfare campaigns. Third, the bill continues to build and enhance our U.S. cyber warfare capabilities and activities--principally within U.S. Cyber Command, but also across our government--with the services and within the intelligence community. This includes resiliency of Department of Defense networks, weapons systems, and supply chains. Furthermore, Mr. Speaker, this bill reinforces counterterrorism and unconventional warfare capabilities by fully resourcing U.S. Special Operations Command's programs and activities, including ongoing efforts in Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan, Yemen, Somalia, and Eastern Europe.

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, we also include a new 2-year authority to counter irregular warfare and unconventional threats, such as those being posed by Russia and other adversaries. Before I conclude, I would like to thank Chairman Mac Thornberry for his leadership, as well as my subcommittee ranking member, Jim Langevin, from Rhode Island, for his consistent bipartisan leadership on all of these issues. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill and to vote ``yes'' on the conference report.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize dedicated individuals of the Fountain Brothers American Legion Post 1619 who are working to reduce the prevalence of hepatitis C among Vietnam Era veterans. Vietnam Era veterans are at a significantly higher risk for hepatitis C infection than the general population due to dangerous health practices applied to service members before the virus was discovered. Consequently, many veterans continue to die as a result of complications from hepatitis C. Due to scientific breakthroughs, hepatitis C is now easily diagnosed and largely curable. To ensure that all Vietnam Era veterans receive proper testing and follow up care, the Fountain Brothers American Legion Post 1619 in my district has been holding regular outreach testing events with the local VA. Post 1619 has tested over 1,200 veterans in the past year, providing the first step for diagnosis and potential life-saving treatment. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I want to recognize the work that the members of Post 1619 have accomplished and thank them for their dedication to our veterans. Those who serve deserve the respect of a grateful nation, and the hard work of Post 1619 represents an important step in the right direction.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge my colleagues to support the CHAMPIONING HEALTHY KIDS Act. This critical healthcare legislation provides a 5-year extension to the CHIP program that so many children and low-income families rely on. In my district alone, over 21,000 children use CHIP for access to low-cost healthcare services. I am also proud that this legislation includes a needed 2-year extension of funding for community health centers. This is an issue I have worked hard on, as almost 95,000 people in my district receive critical healthcare and preventative services from these centers. There is still much more work to do to improve our healthcare system for families in the north country. In Congress, I will keep fighting to protect the programs our district depends on, and I will continue working toward the affordable, high-quality healthcare system that my district deserves.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate Jeff Garnsey as he is named the 2017 Clayton Citizen of the Year. Jeff began his long career of service to both his country and community upon entering the United States Navy in 1983. Throughout his 26-year military career, he served on seven different submarines, one of which broke the endurance record under the North Pole by spending 97 consecutive days submerged in water. He also served on the Navy's most decorated warship, the USS Parche, where his crew received the Presidential Unit Citation, as well as the USS Cheyenne, which participated in the Iraq war's first shots and strategic strike. Jeff was ultimately advanced to the Navy's highest enlisted paygrade of Master Chief Petty Officer. Now retired from his naval career, Mr. Garnsey is the proud owner of Garnsey's Classic Island Cruises and holds several leadership positions in the Clayton community, including Board President at Save The River and Director of the Muskie Hall of Fame. Truly committed to giving back, he also volunteers at many local organizations such as the 1000 Islands Museum, the Clayton Rotary Club, the Clayton Opera House, and the Clayton Chamber of Commerce. I would like to thank Mr. Garnsey for the sacrifices he has made in serving our country and the people of the North Country. His commitment to others is a reminder of the strength that veterans bring to our local communities and sets a wonderful example for residents of New York's 21st District.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Philip Imbarrato on receiving the 2017 Veteran of the Year Award. Philip Imbarrato has made important contributions to both his country while in the military and to his community as a veteran. In 1953, he was drafted to serve in the Korean War in the 6th Tank Battalion, 24th Infantry Division. Upon leaving Korea later that year, he was posted to Mount Fuji Army Base where he served until his discharge in January 1955. In recognition of his dedication and sacrifice, Phil received a promotion to Corporal as well as multiple medals honoring his service in Korea. After completing his enlistment, Phil returned to school at the City College of New York where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Sales and Management. Throughout his career and to the present, Phil has been a member of the Ballston Spa Lions Club, where he served as President in 1983. Phil is also one of the longest serving Docents at the New York State Military Museum, a position he has held since 2006. On behalf of New York's 21st district, I want to congratulate Phil on his well-deserved award of 2017 Veteran of the Year, and thank him for his service and dedication to both his country and community.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize Win and Polly Belanger of Willsboro, New York, for their consistent and enduring dedication to community service. After retiring from the United States Air Force in 1990, Win Belanger moved to Willsboro, New York with his wife Polly, where they have worked for the betterment of their community by lending both their ears and their voices. By urging individuals in Essex County to become more involved in their government and enter into public service, the Belangers have helped to encourage authentic and sincere representation. Additionally, Win has shown a steadfast commitment to the wellbeing of his peers through his work on the Willsboro Central School budget committee, the town zoning board and as a founding member and officer of the Willsboro Community Housing Assistance Task Force. On behalf of Essex County, I would like to thank Win and Polly for their service, their patriotism and their friendship, while also wishing them the best of luck in their future endeavors.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize King Brother's Dairy in Schuylerville, New York, and their recent partnership with National Grid. For five generations, Kings-Ransom dairy farmers have been making a positive impact on the North Country economy with their contributions to the local agriculture market. In 2010, the farm's owners, Jan and Jeff King, decided to return to their roots by starting King Brothers Dairy, a service which provides fresh milk and other dairy products directly to the doors of nearby consumers. By providing highly sought after locally sourced food to their neighbors, the King Family has contributed greatly to the Upstate New York community, earning their dairy products the ``New York State Grown and Certified Producer'' certification in the process. The innovative spirit displayed at King Brother's Dairy has also attracted the attention of National Grid, who have partnered with the farm by providing $100,000 in energy efficiency and economic development grant funding. This investment from National Grid has assisted King Brother's Dairy in the development of their new bottling facility, while also helping to ensure that the farm can continue their leadership in the agricultural community. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I want to thank National Grid and King Brother's Dairy for their important contributions to local agriculture. In addition to encouraging economic development in the North Country, their work provides an important example of the success that can be achieved by working together.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Ken Vigus, the former Chairman of New York State's Tug Hill Commission. Ken had a great interest in and love for the Tug Hill Region of New York. He was appointed to the Tug Hill Commission in 2002, where he worked to help local governments and citizens shape the future of the Tug Hill Region, which encompasses much of Jefferson, Lewis, Oneida and Oswego counties. With a total of 14 years of service, Ken served as both Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Commission. Ken's involvement in the region did not stop there. He enjoyed hunting on the Tug Hill Plateau and served as President of the Horse Shoe Hunting Club. He was also a member of the Boonville Zoning Board of Appeals and served on the Boonville Town Planning Board. Earlier in his life, Ken made important contributions to both his country and to his community by serving in the Air Force during the Vietnam War and then as a professional firefighter. I would like to offer my deepest condolences to Ken's family and friends, particularly his wife, Rhonda. He was a true community leader and his legacy of service will endure in New York's 21st District.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize Annual Surrender Day in Schuylerville, New York, a day that commemorates the surrender of British General John Burgoyne to the colonial army following the Battle of Saratoga. The Battle at Saratoga, fought in October 1777, marked a crucial win for the Americans that is considered the turning point leading to victory in the Revolutionary War. After a failed campaign through the Adirondack region of New York, General Burgoyne found his army surrounded by American forces and retreated to Saratoga where he surrendered his entire army to American General Horatio Gates. The surrender at Saratoga not only bolstered American morale in the north, but also served as a deciding factor in bringing active French support to the American cause. The residents of the Saratoga region celebrate this historic day with a reenactment of the famous battle, music from local students and musicians, and other Revolutionary War related festivities. We are proud that the 21st District of New York can commemorate this important event in American history

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, when you eat today, you can thank a farmer. Across this great Nation, over 3 million farmers work tirelessly each day to produce the food that feeds our families and keeps our country running. From Grace-Way Dairy Farm in Lowville to Everett Orchards in Peru, I have been blessed to meet with so many farmers that make up the backbone of our north country economy. Many of these family farms in my district produce dairy, apples, honey, wine, and the most delicious maple in the country. As Congress works on the next farm bill, we need to focus on supporting those who support our Nation's food supply. Mr. Speaker, today, on National Farmers Day, I urge my colleagues to join me in thanking the men and women who rise before the sun each and every day to make sure our families are fed.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Major General Miyako Schanely on her assignment as the Commanding General of the 416th Theater Engineer Command. MG Schanely will lead the 416th Theater Engineer Command in conducting theater-level engineer operations supporting a joint force, and execute unified land operations while providing a training and ready combat-capable force to support mission requirements. MG Schanely has had a long history of serving her country. Since she received her commission as a Second Lieutenant in 1986, she has served in both active and reserve units of the U.S. Army for over 31 years. MG Schanely is a graduate of the Army War College and holds several civilian master degrees. Previously assigned as the Commander of the 102nd Training Division, MG Schanely has become the first female Japanese American to become commander of the Theater Engineer Command as a two-star and is ready to take on the challenges associated with this rapidly evolving role. On behalf of the 21st District of New York, I would like to congratulate MG Schanely on her well-deserved promotion, and wish her luck in her new role. I want to thank MG Schanely for her service to our country and for the sacrifices she will make in the years to come.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Thomas Macaulay for his 50 years of service in the Massena Volunteer Fire Department. Since joining the department in 1967, Mr. Macaulay has proven to be an effective leader, advancing through the ranks of Lieutenant, Captain, and Assistant Chief of the department. As a testament to his distinguished service, he was chosen by his peers as Fireman of the Year in 1998. A decade later, Mr. Macaulay was elected to serve as Chief of the department until 2010. Currently serving as Treasurer, he continues to be a valuable asset to the Massena community. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I would like to thank Mr. Macaulay for the sacrifices he has made in protecting the residents of Massena for over half a century. We applaud Mr. Macaulay for his selfless service, and for acting as an example for future generations of firefighters.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Saratoga County Prosperity Partnership for receiving a Silver Excellence in Economic Development award for its 8@8 e-Newsletter. Saratoga County Prosperity Partnership is the leading agency in advancing economic development in Saratoga County. The Saratoga Partnership sends out a biweekly e-Newsletter featuring the top eight news items affecting the Saratoga County economy. 8@8 provides important information to stakeholders in the community as a way of creating opportunities that benefit business in Saratoga County. To recognize this important service, the International Economic Development Council presented the Silver Excellence award to the Saratoga Partnership at its annual conference held in late September. This award reflects the Saratoga Partnership's commitment to building a business environment where all companies can succeed. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I want to congratulate the Saratoga County Prosperity Partnership on its well-deserved award. We are grateful that the Saratoga Partnership can provide this informative e-Newsletter to the people of Saratoga County.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the opening of Habitat for Humanity's Southern Adirondack ReStore. Habitat for Humanity has a long history of serving Northern Saratoga, Warren and Washington counties by providing affordable housing to those in need. In order to continue its mission, Habitat for Humanity is expanding its services to a new ReStore in Moreau, New York. At this location, Habitat for Humanity will sell furniture, appliances, home accessories, building materials and more for an affordable price. Habitat for Humanity's ability to offer these goods and services at the ReStore is made possible by the hard work of volunteers and donors throughout the community. By working on behalf of their neighbors, the volunteers of Habitat for Humanity continue to enrich the North Country community. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I want to thank Habitat for Humanity and its volunteers for providing an invaluable service to the North Country. We are grateful for Habitat for Humanity's commitment to this region, and look forward to the benefits that the ReStore will provide for years to come.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Chair, today I rise to recognize and support the Environmental Protection Agency's work on acid rain. My district is the proud home of the Adirondacks, which for decades were being destroyed by acid rain from the mid-west. Thanks to the work of the EPA to support efforts to halt this epidemic, we are recovering in spectacular fashion. Trout populations are returning to once dead lakes, waters and trees are getting healthier, and the park is a booming economic engine for our district. I've visited a lab in Ray Brook where the water samples collected by the Adirondack Lake Survey Corporation are tested, and ask that you help me ensure that the grant funding for this important work is renewed. The EPA's programs and grants have been essential in restoring this ecological gem in my district. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in Congress to support these important programs.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the opening of the Institute for Advanced Manufacturing at Clinton Community College. Clinton Community College serves as a member unit of the State University of New York system (SUNY), which allows students of diverse backgrounds across the state to access educational programs and services. Since its founding in 1966, Clinton Community College has promoted educational opportunities that enrich minds, strengthen the economy, and improve the quality of life in the North Country. Clinton Community College is approaching completion of a 30,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility for its technology programs, which was made possible by a $12.7 million award through the SUNY 2020 grant program. This new facility will feature flexible teaching and learning spaces, as well as a variety of courses in transportation and manufacturing. These fields play an important role in local economic development, and the addition of this facility will continue Clinton Community College's legacy of bringing education and opportunity to the North Country. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I want to congratulate Clinton Community College on the opening of the Institute for Advanced Manufacturing. We are grateful for the College's commitment to educating our community, and hope that this addition serves it well for many years to come.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate B3CG Interconnect on the opening of their new plant in Plattsburgh, New York. B3CG is a world leader in the manufacturing of cable, harnessing and electrical mechanical assembly. In 2009, the owners of B3CG decided to expand their business from its headquarters in Saint-Eustache, Quebec, and open a second plant in Plattsburgh, New York. This move has allowed B3CG to expand their business within the United States, contributing greatly to the North Country economy in the process. With B3CG now moving into a new facility in Plattsburgh, we can reflect on all of the company's important work in the transportation, medical and industrial sectors, as well as their contributions to the upstate community. By employing state of the art manufacturing technology and a dedicated local workforce, B3CG has built a strong relationship with the people of New York's 21st District, one which we are excited to continue. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I want to thank B3CG Interconnect for its contributions to the North Country and wish it the best of luck in its new location.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of half a million students across the country who will lose access to critical financial aid without action by Congress. Perkins loans are an important resource for low- and middle-income students. A majority of those receiving this aid come from families with household incomes less than $30,000 a year. In my district alone, this program is used by students at Clarkson, Paul Smith's College, and SUNY Potsdam, SUNY Canton, and SUNY Plattsburgh. Without congressional action, these students will lose access to these important loans after September 30 when this program expires. I have introduced H.R. 2482, the Perkins Loan Program Extension Act, that will reauthorize this aid for two more years. I have been grateful to receive support from 160 bipartisan cosponsors. Mr. Speaker, we must ensure that low-income students have access to a quality education, and the Perkins Loan Program is a critical tool to help them succeed. I urge the House to swiftly pass my bill before the end of the month.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the 125th Anniversary of the Crandall Public Library in Glens Falls, New York. Since its establishment in November of 1892, the Crandall Public Library has remained true to its mission of serving and educating our community. Acting as the central library for the Southern Adirondack Library System, the Crandall library holds an extensive and diverse collection of books and materials. The library's historical collections preserve the rich history of the region, while its Folklife Center Program showcases the cultural traditions of the upper Hudson Valley and southern Adirondacks. By offering thoughtful and engaging opportunities for people of all ages, the Library has provided our community with an excellent place to come together and learn. In New York's 21st District, we are grateful for the Crandall Public Library's work on preserving our history, educating our people, and bringing our community together. I would like to thank the library's employees for their dedicated service, and congratulate them as they celebrate this historic occasion.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the Annual Saratoga County Office for the Aging Senior Picnic. Since its inception, the Saratoga County Office for the Aging Senior Picnic has brought our community together to celebrate our senior citizens. The Senior Picnic features food and entertainment for people of all ages, highlighting the Office's year-round work for Saratoga County seniors. As with many of the Office's programs, the Senior Picnic depends on the dedication and tireless efforts of volunteers from our community On behalf of New York's 21st Distnct, I want to thank the Saratoga County Office for the Aging for its vital service to our seniors. The Office provides programs and information to help our seniors in key areas like healthcare, employment, and legal services. We are grateful to the Office for their continuing commitment to our elderly population, and wish them all the best on their Annual Senior Picnic.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize one of the most influential members of the women's suffrage movement. Elizabeth Cady Stanton was born in Johnstown, New York in 1815. From a young age, Stanton showed interest in pressing social issues affecting American society, which would eventuallydrive her to become a force for change. At her father's law office, she witnessed the inequitable laws restricting women's freedom and abilities to inherit property. As a young mother, Stanton advocated for equal education and freedom of expression for all of her children, no matter their gender. Stanton was also heavily involved with the abolitionist movement; however, frustration over the exclusion of women from many of the local meetings and proceedings led her to focus her efforts on a different mission. Along with fellow reformer Susan B. Anthony, Stanton launched a crusade to ensure that women's rights were brought to the forefront of national debate. While Anthony served as themovement's public face, Stanton remained behind the scenes, guiding the movement's direction and agenda. Perhaps Stanton's most defining moment was the delivery of her Declaration of Sentiments at the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848, the first women's rights conference ever held in the United States. At the convention, Stanton recited a familiar testimony with a subtle yet resonant sentiment, ``We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men and women are created equal''. In the years following the Civil War, Stanton continued her work for women's suffrage, serving as the president of the National Women's Suffrage Association from 1865 to 1893. In 1866, she ran for a Congressional seat in New York and received the first votes ever cast for a female candidate. Elizabeth Cady Stanton passed away in 1902, seventeen years prior to the enactment of the 19th amendment. Her dedication to removing the barriers of gender inequality exists as an act all women can look to for inspiration and courage. And as Stanton once noted, ``the best protection any woman can have . . . is courage.'' In New York's 21'' District, we are proud of Stanton's legacy as an advocate for liberty and equality.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the service and sacrifice of Marine Corporal Luke McDermott. Corporal McDermott was serving his second deployment in Afghanistan when on June 9, 2010, an improvised explosive device detonated underneath his vehicle during a routine security patrol. The damage caused by this explosion cost Corporal McDermott both of his legs, but it did not take away the fighting spirit which enabled him to persevere through the difficult recovery process. It is a true testament to Corporal McDermott's character that these injuries have not prevented him from pursuing life to its fullest. In addition to actively training and traveling with the U.S. National Sled Hockey team, he has continued his service to the global community by participating in a volunteer trip to study social development in Morocco. Through the generous work of Homes for our Troops, Corporal McDermott will soon become a resident of New York's 21st District, and we are proud to welcome him. Since 2004, the organization has built 236 adapted homes for veterans, and now Homes for our Troops is providing Corporal McDermott with an accessible residence in Clayton, New York. Here, he can live comfortably and pursue his dreams of working toward a law degree. I would like to thank Corporal McDermott for his service to our county and for the sacrifices he has made for our way of life. He is a deserving recipient of the incredible opportunity that Homes for our Troops provides.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the 100th Anniversary of the Poke-O-Moonshine fire tower. Sitting atop Poke-O-Moonshine Mountain since 1917, the historic fire tower has played an important role in protecting the Adirondack's environment and wildlife by allowing lookouts to detect and report early signs of wildfires. Although it was decommissioned by New York State in 1988, the fire tower has been fully restored and continues to offer hikers incredible views of the Adirondack Mountains, Lake Champlain, and Vermont. In honor of the fire tower's centennial, the Friends of Poke-O- Moonshine is hosting several celebratory events including hikes up the mountain, a silent art auction, and live performances. The organization, which was largely responsible for the restoration of the fire tower, is dedicated to preserving Poke-O-Moonshine and to educating the public about the mountain and its surrounding areas. Their efforts have expanded public access to this special place and increased awareness of our region's rich environmental history. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I want to join in celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Poke-O-Moonshine fire tower. It is an important piece of the Adirondack Park and a symbol of the North Country's long tradition of outdoor engagement.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the Salem Courthouse Community Center for its outstanding service to New York's 21st District. Founded by a group of dedicated local citizens, the Salem Courthouse Community Center provides a place for people of all ages to come together. Cognizant of its historic location in the Old Washington County Courthouse, the Center seeks to preserve our region's history while creating opportunities for individuals to enjoy and strengthen our community in the present. In service of this mission, the Center offers a wide variety of programs that foster artistic expression and community growth. The Center's many facilities, including a community garden, pottery studio, and public kitchen, host instructive and enriching programs for both children and adults. This summer, the Center has hosted nearly 150 local children in their Lunch, Learn & Play program which provides active and educational fun for its participants. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I want to thank the Salem Courthouse Community Center for its dedication to bringing our community together. We commend its incredible service, and look forward to its future endeavors.