Jefferson Van Drew

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I want to recognize Kyle Francis Leahy who has been a scout since he was six years old, and recently achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. Kyle demonstrated his leadership skills when he designed and created an outdoor classroom for the Friends School in Mullica Hill, South Jersey. Because of the pandemic, Kyle had minimal assistance while he cleared an 800 foot wooded trail ending in an amphitheater sized classroom. This will allow future generations of students to learn in a natural outdoor environment. Kyle is currently a senior at Tower Hill School in Delaware and plans on attending the University of South Carolina in their Capstone Leadership Program. Kyle wants to study economics and political science and has the hope to attend law school once he graduates from college. I am proud of Kyle and his dedication to his community, and I look forward to seeing what he accomplishes in the future. God Bless Kyle and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I want to recognize Seamus Riley for earning the rank of Eagle Scout. Seamus completed his Eagle Scout project December of last year. His project consisted of pouring ten 3 x 5 concrete slabs for entryways through a fenced in area that leads to a community recreational area where sporting events take place. Seamus coordinated the entire project and solicited the funds and material. He learned how to utilize his leadership skills in order to apply engineering and math skills to his project. Seamus will be pursuing a college degree in Colorado majoring in engineering. I wish Seamus the best of luck in his future endeavors and I know he will go on to achieve great things. God Bless Seamus and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to H.R. 3684. Our country's infrastructure is crumbling. Prices are surging everywhere. Yet before us is an infrastructure plan that fails to address America's needs, and, in fact, will make our lives even more expensive. This bill neglects to fix the bureaucracy that makes the United States one of the most difficult places in the world to build infrastructure. The bill diminishes American energy prosperity and grows our dependence on the Chinese Communist Party's slave labor. The bill makes goods and services more expensive by overregulating American workers and American businesses. To put it simply, this bill makes it more expensive to be an American. We need truly bipartisan legislation to address the American infrastructure crisis. We should focus on traditional infrastructure by investing in roads and bridges and dams, as well as modern infrastructure of broadband internet. We should strengthen American supply chains so that the American infrastructure boom is fueled by American materials, American workers, and American businesses. Mr. Speaker, these are the steps we must take to build a stronger America. I and all of us will never stop fighting for this vision of American greatness.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I am here today to recognize Matthew Krokenberger, a Mantua Township Eagle Scout who achieved Scouting's highest rank. Matthew is a senior at Clearview Regional High School and will be attending Rowan College of South Jersey in the fall majoring in psychology. For his Eagle Scout Project, Matthew installed five birdhouses at Branch Park which provided protection and shelter to red wing blackbirds. During his time as a Boy Scout, Matthew has served as his troop's historian, quartermaster, assistant patrol leader, and patrol leader. Matthew has also earned 33 merit badges. These are amazing accomplishments and Matthew and his family should be very proud of the hard work he has done for his community. I wish Matthew nothing but a happy and healthy future, and I know he will go on to do great things. God Bless Matthew and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I am here today to recognize and commend Dr. Mary Gruccio for overcoming adversity and being an inspiration not only to her family, but the South Jersey community. Mary has been an educator for 46 years, all of which have been with the Vineland Public Schools. Mary herself even graduated from Vineland High School. She is not only an advocate for our youth, but she also is a strong believer in giving back to her community and has been active in numerous organizations. One organization that is near and dear to her heart, is the American Cancer Society. Mary battled both cervical and breast cancer, but with the support of her family and friends she was able to beat cancer and now works tirelessly to help others in similar situations and make a positive difference within her community. Mary has had a notable career, from being appointed as Superintendent, to being inducted into the Cumberland County Women's Hall of Fame in 2017. Mary also received Cumberland County's Hometown Heroes award in 2018, and she is no doubt just that . . . a hero. I am proud to represent South Jersey and Mary is one of the many reasons that makes South Jersey great. God Bless Mary and her family and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I am here today to recognize an exceptional 17-year-old, Josh Buffington, who positively impacts his community every day. He has been a Boy Scout since he was 5 years old and has accumulated around 300 hours in community service. He has volunteered for scout events and projects as well as for local churches. For his Eagle project he assisted in cleaning up Sacred Heart Cemetery in Cedarbrooke, New Jersey where he replaced the split rail fencing and installed grave markers. Aside from giving back to his community, Josh has played soccer since he was five years old and is also involved in the performing arts, starring in over a dozen plays. Josh is preparing to go off to college, and hopes to pursue a career in sports management. I had the honor of meeting Josh at his Eagle Scout Court of Honor earlier this month, and I wish him the best of luck with his future endeavors. God Bless Joshua and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I am here today to recognize Pastor Gerritt Kenyon, and I first want to wish him a very happy belated birthday. Pastor Kenyon turned 90 years old last month. Pastor Kenyon, ordained with Assemblies of God for 65 years, has served on national, state, and sectional levels of the denomination. While he was a pastor, he conducted over 13,000 services, 600 weddings, 3000 funerals, made around 35,000 hospital visits, and over 2500 radio and TV programs. In his retirement, he keeps his days busy from serving as a host for WSNJ ``Music that Matters'' radio to a board member of Timothy's Abode in Ecuador, and numerous other commitments such as running a kid's camp. Pastor Kenyon is also a parent to four children and a grandfather to eight grandchildren; several of which are in the ministry, and four great grandchildren. Pastor Kenyon states that ``he has enjoyed ministering the message of hope to generations of families over this period of time,'' remembering that ``when we have done our best, God will do the rest.'' God Bless Pastor Kenyon and his family and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, three outstanding Ocean City residents were recognized for their public service at the MLK Community Service Awards. These three selfless individuals are Kathy Thompson, Jennifer Bowman, and Mike Morissey. They have uplifted the lives of those around them through a constant dedication to the service of others. By making and delivering meals to South Jersey residents, to running events and programs for veterans--these individuals show us what it means to give back to their community. During these awards, four bright and driven middle schoolers were recognized for their exceptional essays on Martin Luther King. Those students are Joseph Heng, Gabrielle Henry, Danna Ramirez, and Catie Brooks. God Bless those who were recognized at the MLK Awards Ceremony and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I am here today to recognize Noah Kizer, a Mantua Township Eagle Scout who achieved Scouting's highest rank. Noah is a senior at Clearview Regional High School and plans on pursuing a career in welding after graduation. Noah's Eagle Scout Project consisted of the construction and installation of two informational kiosks for Tall Pines State Preserve. Noah guided fellow scouts and adult volunteers on this 140-hour project from beginning to end. This project was the first Eagle Scout Project ever completed for Tall Pines. Throughout his time as a Scout, Noah held the positions of Senior Patrol Leader, Quartermaster, and Patrol Leader. Noah also had the amazing opportunity to attend the 2017 National Scout Jamboree. He also earned a total of 35 merit badges during his time with Troop 7083. Noah should be proud of all his accomplishments, and I wish him the best of luck with his future career. God Bless Noah and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, on April 7th Julia Buck, a junior in high school, was in a terrible car accident with three of her friends while driving home after getting ice cream. Julia was sitting directly in front of where the car was impacted, and she had to be airlifted to Cooper University Hospital where she underwent a total of 51 hours of surgery. Julia sustained the worst injuries out of her friends, but she still wanted to make sure she was there to comfort them and held their hands the whole time. This past Monday, Julia was released into rehab, and her strength and perseverance led to her being able to stand up for the first time in 36 days. Prior to her accident, Julia played soccer and basketball and was just accepted into the National Honors Society. Julia is a living miracle who not only has the support of her family and friends, but also the South Jersey community. I am praying for Julia and her family that she makes a full recovery, and I know she will go on to achieve great things. God Bless Julia and her family and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, today, I would like to posthumously recognize Robert Blizzard. A man who was guided by his faith and love for his family and community. Robert was from Newport, New Jersey and strived to become an EMT after his father and grandfather both experienced unacceptably long wait times for an ambulance. These events led to Robert deciding to create the Downe Township Rescue Squad. The rescue squad was located at his house, and he trained his family and members of the community to give medical attention to those who needed it. At the same time Robert created the rescue squad, he became a certified paramedic. He also held positions on the county board of health and with the American Heart Association. Robert assisted his community in a countless number of ways and left a mark on all those that he met throughout his life. EMT Paramedics are an integral part of our society, and it is people like Robert who deserve to be recognized for their selfless dedication to helping others. God Bless Robert and his family and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I am here today to recognize two brothers, Nick and Anthony Della Vecchia, and the restaurant they built from the ground up, Tony Beef. Since Nick and Anthony were kids, they had the dream to open up a restaurant. This dream was started from their father, Tony, who always dreamt of opening up a butcher shop. Nick graduated from La Salle University majoring in accounting and finance and now manages Tony Beef. Anthony is a graduate of Atlantic Cape Community College Academy of Culinary Arts and is Tony Beef's head chef. Nick and Anthony's family have been supportive of their dreams from the beginning and have been by their side every step of the way. Because their father was a huge inspiration for them to open their own restaurant, they decided to name it Tony Beef in honor of him. I had the opportunity to eat lunch at Tony Beef and meet Nick and Anthony, and I encourage anyone in the South Jersey area to stop by and grab a burger. God Bless Nick and Anthony and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I am here today to recognize Tim Bonaventure, a Mantua Township Eagle Scout who achieved Scouting's highest rank. Tim is a senior at Clearview Regional High School, and he plans on attending the School of Music at the University of Delaware in the fall. For his Eagle Scout Project, Tim got together a group of scouts to construct outdoor seating for the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Tim and the group of scouts built 8-foot picnic tables, 4-foot benches, and one 11-foot bench. With the help of his fellow scouts and adult volunteers, the project took nearly 170 hours to complete. Tim was the Assistant Patrol leader for two years, then served as Patrol Leader, and moved up to become the Senior Patrol Leader. Throughout his time as a scout, he earned 29 merit badges. I wish Tim the best of luck in his future endeavors, and I know he will achieve anything he puts his mind to. God Bless Tim and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I want to recognize a group of innovative children in South Jersey who thought of and started the Absecon Dog Show. In 2018, Grace Marzick came up with the idea to create a dog show for mixed breeds. Grace then told her friend Zoey about her idea, so Zoey decided to form a committee with a group of their friends. On May 23rd, they held their 3rd annual dog show. Grace, Zoey, and their friends went around town and received sponsorships from local businesses to help fund the event. They even made posters and hung them up all over Absecon in South Jersey to advertise the event. This year's event had the largest turnout with 51 dogs making an appearance in the show. All of the proceeds raised from the Absecon Dog Show are donated to the Humane Society of Atlantic County. For their first event in 2018 they raised $600, in 2019 they raised $2,100 and so far this year they have raised $2,500. These students are remarkable, running this event solely by themselves. This group of extraordinary students have a bright future ahead of them and I commend them on their dedication and community service. God Bless Grace, Zoey, and their friends, and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, over the weekend, I had the honor to meet Anthony and Michael Zeg from Franklinville, New Jersey. Both Anthony and Michael were awarded their Eagle Scout rank this year, and I had the privilege of attending their Eagle Scout Court of Honor. In order to meet the rank of Eagle Scout, they must participate in community service for their Eagle Scout project. Anthony and Michael both completed their project at the American Legion Post in Atco, NJ where each of them spent over 100 hours repairing and painting the building. Anthony is a senior in high school and is attending Gloucester County Institute of Technology studying HVAC and also interns for two different HVAC companies. Michael plans on attending college to study engineering and will be interning for an engineering company this summer. Both of these boys have a bright future ahead of them and I wish them nothing but success. God Bless Anthony and Michael and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I want to recognize Barry's Buns, and its owners Joel and Jen Singer. Barry's Buns just opened a new location in Wildwood Crest in South Jersey, and I was able to meet with Joel and Jen and attend the grand opening. The inspiration for the name ``Barry's Buns'' comes from Joel, who's middle name is Barry. He also says that he was born to be a baker. Joel has always wanted to have his own bakery, and when he was just 14 years old, he started his own cheesecake business. He graduated with a degree in Pastry Arts and was the Assistant Pastry Chef at the Rittenhouse Hotel. Joel drew inspiration to open up his own business from his father, who before his passing had his own farmers style market. Joel developed a passion for customer service from watching his dad, and when a location opened up in Pennsylvania, he knew it was time to start his own bakery. Jen handles the business side of Barry's Buns and its day-to-day operations. Now, Joel and Jen own two locations, and I know that South Jersey will continue to provide overwhelming support for Barry's Buns. God Bless Joel and Jen and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I am here today to speak about a historical and scenic road in South Jersey, the Bayshore Heritage Byway. Earlier this year in February, the Federal Highway Administration selected the Bayshore Heritage Byway as a National Scenic Byway. This is a wonderful accomplishment and I congratulate all of those who have worked towards achieving this goal. The Bayshore Heritage Byway was nominated on two intrinsic qualities: its natural beauty and historical components. It will now be featured in a commemorative 2021 National Scenic Byways Program Designations Booklet and will also be listed on the America's Byways website. The Bayshore Heritage Byway is full of beauty and history and I am proud that a South Jersey landmark has been given this distinct recognition.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I had the pleasure of attending the opening ceremony of Broadway Scoops in Pennsville, South Jersey. At the opening, I met Gary and Sabrina Green who opened Broadway Scoops' doors after finding inspiration through their love for ice cream. The entire shop was constructed by local small businesses and the supplies were sourced from local small businesses as well. Gary and Sabrina wanted to create a place where their local community could come in with their families and have a space to try ice cream and relax outdoors. There are picnic tables, checkers, corn hole, and various other games that patrons can come and enjoy free of charge. Gary and Sabrina told me how the support from their local community has been overwhelming and friends and family have traveled across the country to support their business. It is amazing to see South Jersey small business prosper, and I wish Gary and Sabrina the best of luck in their new venture. God Bless Gary and Sabrina and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I am here today to recognize Daniel Levine, a Mantua Township Eagle Scout who achieved Scouting's highest rank. Daniel is a senior at Gloucester County Institute of Technology and is enrolled in their Performing Arts Academy. In the fall, Daniel will be attending Rowan College of South Jersey. For his Eagle Scout Project, Daniel created a sensory path by the playground at Sewell Elementary School. This project provided the children who attended the elementary school the opportunity to do fun activities and work on their gross motor skills. During his time as a Scout, Daniel served as both Assistant Patrol Leader and a Den Chief. Daniel has also earned 35 merit badges as his time as a Scout. Daniel has excelled throughout his time as a scout, and I look forward to seeing what he accomplishes in the future. God Bless Daniel and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I am here today to speak about an inspiring citizen of Cape May, New Jersey--Dekon Fashaw, Sr. Back in February, he became the first Black police chief for the City of Cape May. Before becoming police chief, Dekon was with the Cape May Police Department for 22 years. Throughout his career, he longed to be a police officer because he felt that it was important for a man of color to be in the esteemed position to look after his community. Dekon has the support of many behind him, including his predecessor, Anthony Marino. The City of Cape May Mayor Zack Mullok also emphasized how Dekon has brought the community together through his positive attitude and desire to care for people. I have no doubt that Dekon will serve and protect the City of Cape May. He is an exceptional man who has dedicated his life to public service. God Bless him and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I am here today to speak about the nostalgic Doo Wop Drive-In and its founder, Jason Kramer. Doo Wop Drive-In is located in Wildwood Crest, South Jersey and was established last year. I had the pleasure of meeting Jason a couple of weeks ago, and his hard work and dedication to his theater should be an inspiration to all. Jason had the idea of owning a drive-in theater since he was a kid. He loves movies and remembers the good times of going to a drive-in with his family. Jason closes off the parking lot for the drive-in and people will bring chairs, blankets, coolers, and anything else that will make their experience special. Doo Wop Drive-In not only allows people to bring their own food and drinks, but the movie is free, and popcorn is also provided. Jason wanted to open a drive-in so it could be enjoyed by his community. He wanted to make the experience very affordable and a fun place for families to bring their children. It is people like Jason who make me proud to be from South Jersey and proud to have the opportunity to represent the South Jersey community. God Bless Jason and his family and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I am here today to recognize John Koza, a Mantua Township Eagle Scout who achieved Scouting's highest rank. John is a senior at Gloucester County institute of Technology and is enrolled in the Performing Arts Academy. He will be attending Rowan University in the fall, pursuing a dual degree in Business and Political Science. For his Eagle Scout Project, John oversaw the construction and staining of a bookcase, cabinet, and safety measures at Saint Margaret's Church of the Infant Jesus Parish in Woodbury Heights. With the help of scouts and adult volunteers, the project took 153 hours to complete. John held positions as Assistant Patrol Leader, Patrol Leader, Bugler, and Den Chief throughout his time as a scout. John attended the National Jamboree in 2017 and remains one of his most memorable highlights of his scouting experience. John earned a total of 28 merit badges and obtained his BSA Lifeguard Certification during his time as a Scout. John has done wonderful things for the South Jersey community over the years, and I know he will excel at Rowan University. God Bless John and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I am here today to recognize Greg DeStafano, a resilient fighter who left an impact on all of those he ever met. Greg DeStefano was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor at the age of 10 and he defied the odds, living more than 30 years past the doctor's initial prognosis. Greg's family was by his side every step of the way, and they emphasize the fact that he left an impact on all of those he met with his huge smile and kind heart. Despite the multiple brain surgeries that Greg underwent, he graduated from high school and went on to attend a vocational high school for communications. After graduating, he traveled to Mexico to help children in need. Greg longed to help others, despite his own struggles. Greg passed away at the age of 42 this year, with his family by his side, like they always had been. On the day of Greg's memorial, $13,000 had been donated in his honor to the Make a Wish New Jersey Foundation. One week following his passing, the total raised was over $17,000. The impact Greg left not only on his family, but his community, is remarkable. God Bless Greg and his family and God Bless America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I rise in opposition to this bill. In the midst of an unprecedented and ongoing border crisis, as CBP struggles to keep up, Democrats focus on a bill that will not only be expensive but will continue to hamper and slow down our hardworking women and men with the CBP. Almost a billion taxpayer dollars--almost a billion taxpayer dollars--provided for by the hardworking men and women in America, both legal immigrants and others, literally, to provide access to legal representation to noncitizens. I guess they would call it noncitizen human infrastructure. But really it is just another payday for lawyers. America is struggling. Our borders are struggling. Our neighbors are struggling. We all want to help. But let's help America. Let's love America. Let's take care of our American people. Oppose this bill.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I am here today to recognize an outstanding 10-year-old girl from Sea Isle City in south Jersey. Regan Capone is already an engaged member of her community and frequently fundraises for local charities. Last year, Regan raised over $6,000 for the Love of Linda Cancer Benefit Horse Show. Regan is now raising money for her Uncle Mike's Seafood Polar Bear Run/Walk For Autism. Aside from fundraising, Regan is a competitive equestrian and competes in the English Circuit of South Jersey. She even made it to the regionals this year. Regan is a dedicated individual who impacts the South Jersey community every day with her selflessness and her desire to raise awareness for the causes that are so close to her heart. Thank you, Regan. You are truly an American hero for all that you do. God bless you and God bless America.