Elise Stefanik

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the ribbon cutting for the new expansion of the science building at SUNY Adirondack. SUNY Adirondack is a regional leader in education. Their dedicated faculty and motivated students share the college's interactive and community-oriented mission. Since its founding in 1961, SUNY Adirondack has created opportunities for growth and excellence in the North Country.` In service of this educational mission, SUNY Adirondack has been constructing two additions to its current science building. On one side, a new science wing features redesigned classrooms, increased laboratory spaces, and a greenhouse. These modernized and expanded facilities will house the nursing, science, technology, engineering, and math programs at the college. On the other side, a new Workforce Readiness Center is scheduled to be finished by the end of the year. The enlarged and renovated building, renamed `Adirondack Hall,' embraces the dynamic and innovative learning style of the college. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I want to congratulate SUNY Adirondack on their new facilities. We are grateful for their commitment to educating our community, and hope that this expansion serves them well for many years to come.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, my legislation gives military spouses the choice to establish the same State of residency as the servicemember, giving them the benefit of retaining the same State of residency for voting and tax purposes. As the proud Representative of Fort Drum and the Navy site at Kesselring, which I visited just this past Friday, I have heard firsthand about the challenges that military families face, and I have the highest respect for the sacrifices these families make to help protect our Nation and safeguard our freedom. Military families must relocate every few years due to their spouse's responsibility to meet the requirements within the military. They sacrifice a great deal during these relocations, uprooting their lives and disrupting their families, all while serving as the critical support system for their loved ones. This is often a difficult and challenging time, with the heaviest burden falling upon military spouses. Current law allows Active-Duty servicemembers to maintain one State of legal residence for tax and voting purposes, even when servicemembers receive military orders requiring them to relocate, but this does not apply to the servicemember's spouse. Essentially, this loophole requires spouses to establish residency every time the servicemember receives a new assignment, adding undue stress and anxiety to military families already under the pressure of managing their relocation. This legislation fixes this inconsistency. Military spouses serve, too, and this bill eliminates the daunting task of documenting multiple tax jurisdictions and helps reduce instances of military spousal unemployment. Traveling across the north country in New York, I have listened to the sacrifices our military families make to keep our Nation safe. We have a duty to reduce these burdens they face. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill on a bipartisan basis.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of New York State Trooper Joel Davis, a Watertown native who was recently killed in the line of duty while serving his community. I extend my condolences to his family, especially his wife, Suzanne, and three children. Joel Davis lived his life in a way that was truly indicative of his North Country values. He was deeply dedicated to his family and completely invested in the well-being of his community members. After graduating from Indian River High School, Trooper Davis attended Jefferson Community College, and eventually went on to graduate from the Black River/St. Lawrence Valley Police Academy in 2003. He worked as a Jefferson County Sheriff's Deputy for 10 years before his service as a New York State Trooper, where he was known as a ``go-to guy,'' responsible for the Philadelphia, New York satellite station outside of Fort Drum. Additionally, Davis was a certified sniper with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Emergency Response Team and was a field training officer for both the Sheriff and State Police. Davis will be fondly remembered as a fair cop who heard both sides of every situation and was always first-on-scene when an issue arose. He was an honest, polite, friendly, and kind man who wanted to help the community he called home. Joel Davis had an older brother, Josh, who is a member of the Watertown City Police Department. Josh cites his brother as one of the most important role models in his life, and the reason he chose a career in law enforcement. Though Joel was considered the more serious of the two brothers, he also loved a good joke and to laugh--he loved to dance to music and have fun. Trooper Davis also loved sports and grew up playing every sport imaginable with his family and friends. In his spare time, he volunteered as a coach and commissioner of a youth baseball league, and has had a lasting impact on the lives of the many young athletes he worked with. This past Saturday, thousands of officers attended the services for Trooper Joel Davis. We will not forget Trooper Davis and the ultimate sacrifice he made. Our hearts mourn with his family, friends, and the entire law enforcement community.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Chairman, today I rise in opposition to Mr. Perry's amendment which would strike language that requires the Department of Defense to compile a report on the vulnerabilities of military installations and combatant commander requirements resulting from climate change. As we heard earlier today, this language passed by voice vote on a bipartisan basis during our markup in committee. Increased maritime access to the Arctic, rising sea levels, desertification, increases in natural disasters, damage to existing infrastructure, and other effects of climate change are drivers of geopolitical instability and degrade the security of the United States. We would be remiss in our efforts to protect our national security if we do not fully account for the risk climate change poses to our bases, our readiness, and to the fulfillment of our Armed Forces mission. This is about a report. Let's get the information. This is why I believe we have bipartisan support within the committee. We must incorporate environmental factors in our threat assessments and contingency planning to ensure the long-term operational viability of our missions and the safety of our men and women in uniform.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to Mr. Nadler's amendment, which strikes language that prohibits the use of funds to transfer or release Guantanamo Bay detainees to the United States. As we are all aware here today, GTMO holds some of the world's most dangerous and heinous terrorists, individuals who are responsible for and are ideologically committed to killing Americans at home and abroad. They are responsible for killing our men and women in uniform. Transferring these terrorists to the United States, where constitutional protections and immigration law may apply, puts our national security at risk and hinders our intelligence-gathering ability. Today, we remain in a war against al-Qaida and all associated forces. It is the responsibility of Congress to do everything in our power to provide the resources and authorities to win that war, and transferring Guantanamo Bay detainees to the United States undermines these efforts. Therefore, I strongly urge my colleagues to oppose this amendment.

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Chairman, today I rise in strong support of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018, which increases readiness and ensures that those who serve our Nation are fully equipped, trained, and supported. As the chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities, I am especially proud of the oversight regarding stronger cyber warfare capabilities, safeguarding technological superiority, enabling our Special Operations Forces around the globe, providing resources and authorities to counter terrorism and unconventional warfare threats, and energizing programs and activities that counter the spread of weapons of mass destruction. Our achievements in cybersecurity carry three broad themes: First, the bill increases congressional oversight of cyber operations by including a bill introduced by myself, Ranking Member Langevin, Chairman Thornberry, and Ranking Member Smith that ensures Congress is kept fully informed of sensitive military cyber operations. Second, we bolster international partnerships for cyber warfare to counter aggressive adversaries, including efforts 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. Furthermore, Mr. Chairman, this bill reinforces counterterrorism and unconventional warfare capabilities by fully resourcing U.S. Special Operations Command's programs and activities and increasing congressional oversight of intelligence activities. Finally, I would like to thank Mr. Rogers, chairman of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, for including language that supports the decision for a future East Coast missile defense site. I would like to thank Mr. Coffman, chairman of the Military Personnel Subcommittee, for including portions of my bill, the Lift the Relocation Burden From Military Spouses Act. Before I conclude, I would like to thank Chairman Mac Thornberry for his leadership, as well as my subcommittee ranking member, Congressman Jim Langevin of Rhode Island, for his bipartisan energy and cooperation on all of these issues. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on H.R. 2810.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the 30th Annual Fulton County Office for Aging Senior Picnic. Since its inception in 1987, the Fulton County Office for 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 Fulton 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 District, I want to thank the Fulton County Office for 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 30th Annual Senior Picnic.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the opening of The Store at Rebuilding Together Saratoga County. Founded in 2003 by the Larkin Family of Saratoga Springs, Rebuilding Together Saratoga County is an inspiring example of our community coming together to support its members in need. The organization works with low-income homeowners to provide necessary home repairs and safety updates at no cost to the homeowner. Due in large part to their dedicated team of local volunteers, Rebuilding Together Saratoga County continues to strengthen our community by ensuring that our citizens can live safely and independently in their homes. The opening of The Store is an important development for Rebuilding Together Saratoga County. The revenue from its sales will directly contribute to the organization's projects and operations, allowing them to reach even more people in need. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I want to thank Rebuilding Together Saratoga County for their incredible service. We are grateful for their commitment to bringing our community together, and wish them all the best on the opening of The Store.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize Erin Coe for her dedication to cultivating and promoting fine arts in New York's 21st District. Throughout her career, Ms. Coe has worked in some of New York's most interesting artistic destinations, including the Shaker Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. In 1999, she began her time as chief curator of the Hyde Collection in Glens Falls; a role Ms. Coe served in for 15 years before becoming the museum's director in 2015. Under Ms. Coe's supervision, the Hyde has transformed into a regional center for artistic discovery, strengthening its relationship with the local community and expanding its collections and exhibit space. As director, Ms. Coe more than doubled the museum's modern art collection, and worked to open the Feibes & Schmitt Gallery, which houses incredible works from some of the best-known artists of the 20th century. In addition to her work at the Hyde, Ms. Coe has also contributed to our community through her work on the advisory board of American Women Artists, and as a member of the Forum for Executive Women of the Capital Region. As she begins a new chapter in her career with Penn State University's Palmer Museum of Art, I want to thank Ms. Coe for these efforts, and for sharing her love of art with us all. In New York's 21st District, we appreciate Erin Coe and her years of service. Her legacy at the Hyde Collection will endure, and I wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize a staunch advocate for the Adirondacks and beloved member of our community. George Canon was a fixture in local politics. After retiring from the National Lead mines in Newcomb's Tahawus hamlet, Mr. Canon devoted himself to public service by working in many local organizations. Most notably, he was Newcomb supervisor from 1990 to 2015, serving 13 terms in office. During his long and inspiring tenure, Mr. Canon played a significant role in successfully preserving the Satanoni Great Camp and the historic railroad between North Creek and Tahawus. A lifelong resident of the North Country, Mr. Canon loved the Adirondack Park deeply, cherishing both its history and natural beauty. This appreciation for his surroundings led George to seek out balanced environmental policies by working as a member of the Northern Forest Lands Council Advisory Committee. Through these efforts, Canon coupled his appreciation for the environment with a pragmatic understanding of his constituents' needs. George Canon also served as president of the Adirondack Association of Towns and Villages, where he spent a decade representing and advocating for the citizens of the North Country. I am honored to have taken part in celebrating Mr. Canon's retirement in 2015, and hold a deep admiration for the lasting impact that his service has had on our area. I would like to offer my deepest condolences to George Canon's family and friends, particularly his wife Monica. 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 Thomas O'Keefe for his dedication to the safety of our nation and the well- being of his fellow citizens. Mr. O'Keefe began his long career in government in 1984, working for the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. In 2003, he transferred to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, where he has served diligently for the past fourteen years. As a member of Customs and Border Protection, Mr. O'Keefe worked each day to protect the security of the United States and its citizens. In addition to his work for the federal government, Mr. O'Keefe played an active role in the National Treasury Employees Union, serving as President of Northern New York's Chapter since 1995. The Chapter grew dramatically during his tenure, increasing both in membership and territorial reach. As Chapter President, Mr. O'Keefe fought for the rights of employees and sought to secure fair treatment for everyone he represented. I want to thank Mr. O'Keefe for his years of work for the United States Government and the people of Upstate New York. His commitment to protecting our nation exhibits his strong character, and we commend his fine service.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the 150th Anniversary of Canada's Confederation. As one of our closest allies and largest trading partners, our country shares a historic bond with the people of Canada. This connection is deeply felt by North Country residents, who hold strong economic and cultural ties with our neighbors across the border. In celebrating Canada's foundation, it is only fitting that we also celebrate the nation's first capital city; Kingston, Ontario. Located directly across the Saint Lawrence River from New York's 21st district, the city holds an essential place in Canadian history; serving as the birthplace of Canada's first Prime Minister, John Alexander Macdonald. Congratulations to the people of Canada as they celebrate this remarkable milestone. I am confident that our unique and enduring friendship will continue for many years to come.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the 225th Anniversary of Milton, New York. Located on Kayaderosseras Creek in the heart of Saratoga County, the town of Milton demonstrates the rich and evolving history of Upstate New York. Even before it was officially established on March 7, 1792, Milton's forests and water supplies provided early pioneers with a fertile environment for their settlements. Included amongst these early establishments were the water mills, which provided the town's namesake and acted as a driving force for economic development into the 20th century. In 1948, the Kesselring Site of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program came to West Milton, becoming a major employer in the area. To this day, the site serves an important role in training the servicemen and women who operate our country's nuclear powered submarines and aircraft. Many Milton residents also commute to New York's Capital region, where they serve their community by working in local and state government. While continuing to grow and develop, the town of Milton provides valuable services and a strong sense of community to its residents. Milton has five established parks for outdoor recreation, as well as a variety of other rural recreation areas for people to enjoy. Additionally, the town works with nearby Ballston Spa to preserve their shared environment and to care for the elderly in their populations. I would like to congratulate the town of Milton on its 225th Anniversary. In New York's 21st District, we are proud of this momentous occasion and look forward to the many years which lie ahead

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the Public Broadcasting Service of Mountain Lake on their 40th Anniversary. The Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) is a non-profit organization with a mission of enriching and inspiring communities around the country. Through its 350 member stations, PBS is able to provide television and radio programming for all ages, ranging from local and national news, to educational shows for both children and adults. Reaching 82 percent of all American households, the work of PBS allows people from all walks of life to experience a broader world. In my district, Mountain Lake PBS serves an especially important role, bringing news and entertainment to the people of Upstate New York, Vermont, Quebec, and Ontario. Their work has greatly expanded the options available to North Country residents, whether they are parents looking for fun and informational programming for their children, or adults looking for more choices in news or recreation. I would like to thank Mountain Lake PBS for making the betterment of our community a priority during their 40 years of broadcasting.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable man who has shown a strong dedication to educating the students of New York's 21st District. Growing up in the historic foothills of the Adirondack Mountains, Matthew Rozell's surroundings inspired in him a deep interest in the past. This fascination led him to SUNY Geneseo, where he received a Bachelor of Arts in History, and a Master's in Education. After graduating, Mr. Rozell returned to his high school alma mater in Hudson Falls, NY, where he has spent the entirety of his career going above and beyond as an educator. As the founder of the World War II Living History Project, Mr. Rozell has established an excellent tool for educating students. He has helped to connect WWII veterans and survivors throughout the country and worked to make their stories known. Specifically, the work that the project has done on uncovering personal accounts and photographs from the Holocaust has drawn attention and recognition from organizations around the country. In addition to being featured as an ABC World News ``Person of the Week,'' Mr. Rozell has received multiple awards, including the History Teacher of the Year Award from the Organization of American Historians, and the Founders' Medal for History Education from the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Rozell also received the New York State Education Department's Louis E. Yavner Teaching Award for Distinguished Contributions to Teaching the Holocaust. I would like to thank Mr. Rozell for his enduring commitment to academia and research. Through his work, he has served as an exemplary educator and as a role model for his students and his peers.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Saratoga County Economic Opportunity Council as they participate in Community Action Month. With the passage of the Economic Opportunity Act in 1964, Congress made way for the establishment of Community Action Agencies. These groups are typically comprised of local business and community leaders, who work as part of a statewide network to provide essential services for the impoverished in their communities. For over 40 years, the Saratoga Economic Opportunity Council has been working as the designated Community Action Agency for their region. This organization works to help their neighbors by supporting a variety of initiatives, including Head Start and the Community Lunch Program. Through these efforts, the Saratoga EOC has helped to improve thousands of lives, making their community a better place for everyone in the process. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I would like to recognize the Saratoga Economic Opportunity Council for their legacy of public service. We are proud of their dedication to helping the Saratoga community, and thank them for their tireless efforts.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 25th Anniversary of the Jellystone Park in North Hudson, New York. Since 1992, Jellystone has provided families from New York and beyond with excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation. Located in the beautiful Adirondack Mountains, the park allows campers to take in some of the most scenic lakes and forests that the North Country has to offer. On behalf of New York's 21st District, I would like to wish Jellystone Park many years of continued success as they celebrate their 25th Anniversary.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the Head Start organization on its 52nd Anniversary. Since its establishment, Head Start has been working to serve the country's most vulnerable families. In addition to working with organizations that provide learning, nutrition and general health assistance for children, Head Start has also helped to provide training, job development, and volunteer opportunities for low-income parents. These efforts are critical for establishing an environment in which every American is equipped to reach their full potential. In my district, the Lewis County Head Start Center has strengthened our community by working with over 180 families to provide learning opportunities for children and parents alike. Focusing on early childhood development programs, these centers partner with families to ensure that every child is prepared to take full advantage of their education. I would like to thank Head Start for 52 years of commitment to children and families across the country. In New York's 21st District, we are grateful for their work to make sure every child has the opportunity to succeed. I wish Head Start a prosperous future and I am confident that it will continue making a positive impact on the lives of many Americans.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the Salem Volunteer Fire Department. On November 27, 2016, our country's flag was raised over the Fire Department's brand new station, beginning a fresh chapter in the organization's two hundred and fourteen-year history. Since its foundation, the Salem Volunteer Fire Department has played a crucial role in the community. In 2011, firefighters were called on to rescue Salem's families from the flooding caused by Hurricane Irene, as well as to respond to a deadly propane explosion on State Route 29. This department has also served the entire state of New York, readily volunteering their assistance on September 11, 2001. In my district, we are proud of these firefighters and respect the sacrifices that they make to ensure our community is safe. On behalf on New York's 21st District, I would like to congratulate the Salem Volunteer Fire Department as they open their new firehouse. We are grateful for their service, and hope that this new station will serve as a suitable home for many years to come.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable woman who has shown strong dedication to serving New York's 21st District. Carole McCoy first came to Watertown, New York, in January 2007, when she was appointed as the fifth president of Jefferson Community College. During her ten years of service, Ms. McCoy has continually demonstrated her commitment to the students of the North Country. Under her leadership, the college saw the construction of a Collaborative Learning Center for the purpose of fostering academic curiosity and encouraging cooperation among students. Additionally, since 2007, enrollment at Jefferson Community College has increased by nearly 21 percent, seven times the typical growth rate at community colleges across New York State. Ms. McCoy also received the 2016 ATHENA Award, which celebrates remarkable women as valued members and leaders of the community. She was recognized for professional excellence, providing valuable services to her community, and for supporting women to realize their potential. In the 21st District of New York, we are proud of Carole McCoy's commitment to service and academia, and we honor the legacy she will leave at Jefferson Community College.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the Head Start organization on its 52nd Anniversary. Since its establishment, Head Start has been working to serve the country's most vulnerable families. In addition to working with organizations that provide learning, nutrition and general health assistance for children, Head Start has also helped to provide training, job development, and volunteer opportunities for low-income parents. These efforts are critical for establishing an environment in which every American is equipped to reach their full potential. In my district, the Warren County Head Start Center has strengthened our community by working with over 250 families to provide learning opportunities for children and parents alike. While focusing on early childhood development programs, these centers also offer assistance to parents seeking higher education, lessening their burden so that they may work towards a brighter future for their family. I would like to thank Head Start for 52 years of commitment to children and families across the country. In New York's 21st District, we are grateful for their work to make sure every child has the opportunity to succeed. I wish Head Start a prosperous future and I am confident that it will continue making a positive impact on the lives of many Americans.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to praise a school in my district that is going the extra mile to ensure that our heroes are given the resources and opportunities they deserve. On April 22, Paul Smith's College in my district will hold the grand opening of their Veterans Resource Center--a project made possible through grants from the Holder Family Foundation and the Fred L. Emerson Foundation. This center will provide vets on campus with an important recreational resource and place to study, as well as house the Paul Smith's College Veteran's Club. Paul Smith's has a proud tradition of service with our Armed Forces dating back to when the campus was first built during World War II and was used as a U.S. Army Signal Corps training center. Since then, the school has upheld their commitment to our servicemembers, working with several organizations to ease the transition from service to academia for our veterans. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to speak on the House floor today to recognize the special work being done for our heroes by Paul Smith's College.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the hard work and skill of the Clarkson University Women's Hockey Team, who just ended their already impressive season by winning the NCAA Division I championship. Led by Coach Matt Desrosiers, the Golden Knights defeated the number one seeded Wisconsin Badgers for the championship title. This is the team's second Division I title, with the Golden Knights being the only team outside of the Western Conference to ever win the championship. Under the leadership of seniors Corie Jacobson, Jessica Gillham, Genevieve Bannon, McKenzie Johnson and Carly Mercer, the team was able to regroup from a rough early season and achieve this impressive victory. Junior goaltender Shea Tiley was an instrumental part of this victory, allowing zero points against the strong Wisconsin offense. In New York's 21st District, we are incredibly proud of all of these women and their incredible achievements. I hope that their hard work and dedication serve as an inspiration for generations to come.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to serving New York's 21st District. Evelyn Trippodo spent the majority of her life in Gloversville, New York, and was a dedicated and active member of her community. In addition to her work as a religious education teacher and confirmation sponsor, Evelyn also cared for the vulnerable and elderly through her 30 years as a member of the Nathan Littauer Nursing Home Auxiliary. In the 21st District, we are proud of the guidance that Mrs. Trippodo offered to those around her, and honor the life she led with faith, joy and kindness. I would like to extend my deepest condolences to my friend Sue McNeil, and to the rest of Mrs. Trippodo's children whom she loved so deeply. I know that she will be missed by all of her family and friends.

Ms. STEFANIK

Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize James Cody of Syracuse, New York, for his consistent and enduring dedication to serving our nation's veterans. Mr. Cody began his work with the Department of Veterans Affairs in 1978 and has worked in multiple VA Centers across the east coast since then. For the last 17 years, he has served as the Director of the VA facility in Syracuse, while also overseeing its seven outpatient clinics. Mr. Cody oversaw an expansion of the facility's services, which included the construction of a Spinal Cord Injury Center, and during his tenure, approximately 48,000 veterans received the treatment they deserved. I would like to thank Mr. Cody for his work providing an invaluable service to the veterans of New York's 21st District. The time and effort that James has put into assisting our servicemen and women speaks volumes of his character, and we applaud his years of service.