Jefferson Van Drew

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, I want to address one thing before we start. It was again mentioned about the bipartisan bill. The bipartisan bill was a bad bill. It didn't stop catch and release. It didn't expedite immediately to the country of origin. It didn't rebuild the wall. It didn't have a stay in Mexico policy. It was words. It wasn't actions. It wasn't good. That is why people didn't vote for it. That is why it wasn't successful. Speaking about words, though, when I came here today, I thought about a lot of words. I hear a lot of words, a lot of debate, a lot of discussion. To the family of Laken Riley and to so many others across the United States of America, words don't matter. Condolences don't count. Speeches don't do it. Words will never replace her life. In life, we have all gone through tragedies sometimes, so we often say: My God, why did this happen? Why did this car accident happen? Why did this person get cancer? Whatever it is. This is different. We know why it happened. It happened because of the administration allowing illegals, some of whom--not all of whom but some of whom--were criminals into our country, feeding them, clothing them, transporting them, housing them, paying for them. Men and women are breaking their backs in this country to make a living, but we are paying for it. We know how it happened. We know how it happened to the New York City woman who was set on fire. We know how it happened to State Trooper Christopher Gadd in Washington State when he died because of an illegal alien. We know how it happened to Lizbeth Medina from the great State of Texas. She was 16 years old, and her life was snuffed out. That is never okay. Laken Riley fought for her life. You hear about her last 20 minutes on this Earth. She fought, and she fought with everything she had. She didn't want to be raped. She didn't want to be brutalized. I don't want to curse here.

Mr. VAN DREW. Madam Speaker, this individual then took a rock and bashed her head in until she was unrecognizable. Do you know what? Condolences aren't going to do it. I say it to my friend on the other side of the aisle, the ranking member. Feeling bad, feeling sorry, is not going to do it. It doesn't make the difference. All of us here, most of us have been mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, daughters, or sons. You can't imagine how her family feels. People say, ``I know how you feel.'' No, I don't know. I don't know. You don't know. There is something we can do. All this bill does is detain people who have done something wrong, who have broken the law already, and who have the potential to do even worse. All of these cases that I mentioned and many more would not have occurred if we had this law in place. Don't give condolences. Vote for the bill.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, today, I celebrate Anthony Barone for reaching the coveted rank of Eagle Scout after many outstanding years of achievement. Anthony's journey began six years ago, a testament to his unwavering dedication to the Boy Scouts. He earned his way through each of the respected positions, demonstrating his commitment and earning 21 merit badges in the areas of citizenship, personal fitness, and family life. While working on his photography merit badge, he discovered a passion for photography--a hobby which has only added to his well-roundedness. Anthony's love for the community shone through as he acquired over 250 volunteer hours, feeding people experiencing homelessness, and mentoring the younger Cub Scouts in town. For his Eagle Scout project, he honored our men and women in uniform by installing six flagpoles to the town Veteran Memorial, to house each of America's branches of service, complete with a granite marker to honor our troops. Anthony is currently a senior at Kingsway Regional High School in the Woolwich Township of South Jersey, where he is taking three college-level courses, which led to his induction into the National Honor Society. He has many plans for his future and greatly enjoys public speaking and speechwriting. He plans to utilize these skills by writing a book that will inspire others to follow in his footsteps. First, he plans to attend Rowan University and pursue a degree in Business Administration. I have complete faith that whatever Anthony puts his mind to, he will accomplish, and I look forward to seeing the great things he will achieve in the future. God Bless Anthony and God Bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to offer my heartfelt congratulations to The Tia Maria Foundation on the momentous occasion of its First Annual Scholarship Gala. Tonight is a special moment--not only because it marks a significant milestone for the foundation but because it celebrates the presentation of its inaugural scholarship to a well-deserving student. This organization has been built on the outstanding legacy Maria M. Luis left behind after a remarkable life that began in Terceira, Portugal, over 100 years ago. Maria endured countless hardships that began at the beginning of her life when she lost her mother during childbirth, causing her to step into the role of caregiver to her eight younger brothers and sisters. She valiantly took on this job and ensured that her siblings received the care and love that every child deserves. Maria didn't get a chance to pursue higher education due to her responsibilities tending to her family and other obstacles from her health, but this did not stop her from chasing a better life for herself and family. She migrated to the United States in 1970 and ensured that her children and grandchildren could have an excellent education. Now, The Tia Maria Foundation, under the leadership of Chairman Gavin Szilvasi, is continuing Maria's mission by empowering the youth of Elizabeth, New Jersey. By awarding scholarships, this foundation is making a tangible difference in the lives of students, ensuring they have the resources they need to pursue the higher education that Maria so greatly valued. Your foundation is not just awarding scholarships, but it is also about making a way for students to reach their highest academic potential and achieve their greatest dreams. This mission is something we can all be proud of, and I want to take a moment to thank them for the difference they are making in so many lives. Congratulations on a great year. I understand that the journey to this point has not been easy, and I commend their resilience and dedication. I hope they have a great time tonight and take tonight to celebrate the real difference their work in the community has had. God Bless The Tia Maria Foundation and God Bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to congratulate Sean Annuzzi on his exemplary achievement of attaining the rank of Eagle Scout. This distinguished honor represents the culmination of his dedication, having earned nearly 40 merit badges across a wide array of skill sets. From Automotive Maintenance to American Business to Archaeology, Sean has shown a deep commitment to becoming a well- rounded young man, always eager to learn. To achieve the rank of Eagle Scout, he completed 14 additional merit badges, including Citizenship in the Nation, Personal Fitness, and Lifesaving. These accomplishments not only signify his dedication to personal growth but also his unwavering commitment to serving his community. Outside of his studies, he is already making a meaningful impact by mentoring children and teenagers with disabilities, exemplifying the spirit of compassion and service that the Scouting program seeks to instill. In his free time, Sean trains youth and teenagers in karate, equipping them with skills that foster both confidence and resilience. His efforts in this regard are highly commendable and are a testament to his character and leadership. Sean's family takes immense pride in his accomplishments, and I am honored to share in this sentiment. I have no doubt he will continue to do amazing things in the future. May God bless Sean and God bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, this afternoon, I have the privilege of recognizing and celebrating Matthew Gleason for achieving the great rank of Eagle Scout after 13 years of steadfast commitment to the Scout Oath and Law. Matthew's scouting career began as a Cub Scout in the fall of 2011, where he rapidly ascended to leadership roles, including Assistant Patrol Leader and Patrol Leader. Early on, he earned the prestigious Arrow of Light award, a testament to his dedication and hard work. Matthew's commitment to community service has been nothing short of exemplary. He logged nearly 200 hours helping neighbors, friends, and strangers alike, demonstrating an inspiring dedication to those around him. In addition to his service, he has shown impressive physical fitness by completing a challenging 33-mile hike through rigorous terrain, successfully reaching every mission-required destination. For his Eagle Scout project, he dedicated over 160 hours to the Aura Volunteer Fire Company, where he built a shed for their antique fire truck, preserving and honoring the department's rich history. Beyond his scouting achievements, Matthew is a remarkable student. He has consistently made the honor roll ten times and has been recognized on the Superintendent's List five times. As a standout soccer player, he has lettered three times at Delsea Regional High School and has earned a spot on the All-County team for all three years. Looking ahead, Matthew has clear and ambitious goals: he plans to pursue a degree in Civil Engineering and eventually establish his own engineering firm. In a beautiful full circle moment, inspired by the tremendous support he received from firefighters during his project, Matthew is determined to serve his community as a volunteer firefighter. I am confident that Matthew will excel in any path he chooses, and I eagerly anticipate the significant impact he will make in our world. May God bless Matthew and God bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to AJ and Dorian Elmore and all the dedicated anglers of New Jersey SAT FEST for their unwavering support. This year, 13,000 of them will compete for the largest cash prize in New Jersey's history, and I wish each of them the very best of luck. The remarkable efforts of the event organizers have brought this incredible competition back for a third straight year, and this year, each one of them stands a chance to win the prize. When this event began three years ago, it not only gained national attention, but also inspired countless individuals when one winner, Miguel Rios, used his cash prize to send his daughter to college. This outstanding event has made a huge impact, generating 38 million video impressions across the country and igniting a spirit of ambition and pursuit of dreams in Americans everywhere. As they prepare for the competition, I wish each of them good luck. Be safe, and take pride in being part of one of the premier fishing events on the East Coast. God bless New Jersey SAT FEST, and God bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, today, I want to honor Dr. Eugene Carroccia, a Quilt of Valor recipient and Vietnam War veteran, for his exceptional service as a Battalion Surgeon in the late '60s. Eugene had just completed medical school at the New Jersey College of Medicine and was about to begin his residency when the United States Army called him to serve his country. He was assigned to the Ninth Infantry Division, where he became the sole physician, with the responsibility for the medical well-being of all the soldiers entirely on his shoulders. Dr. Eugene participated in the Medical Civic Action Program, during which he and his medics provided medical care to local Vietnamese citizens, including children at Saigon orphanages, ensuring they received the best care possible. After his time in Vietnam, he was stationed at Fort Ord in California, where he was first introduced to plastic surgery by performing reconstructive surgery for service members. Following his service in the Army, he attended St. Louis University, where he completed his surgical residency and then a fellowship in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Medical College of Ohio. Eugene returned to South Jersey, where he dedicated over 40 years to medical treatment and surgery until his retirement in 2020. I thank Eugene for the outstanding care he provided to his fellow soldiers and to the residents of Southern Jersey. God bless Dr. Eugene, and God bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, it was my pleasure to visit the Maryville Addiction Treatment Center in Vineland, South Jersey, and to congratulate them on 75 years of service in New Jersey. Founded in Williamstown, Maryville has been serving the community since 1949 when Father Bennett Conway established the institute to help alcoholic men achieve sobriety. Over the years, it has evolved into a comprehensive organization with four separate campuses across New Jersey, providing assistance to individuals and families struggling with addiction. Maryville opened its first outpatient clinic in 1979, followed by the Vineland office. Just recently, they also acquired the Burlington County 54-bed residential facility, now known as the Post House at Maryville. They offer a variety of services, including withdrawal management, residential treatment, medication-assisted treatment, and outpatient care. Maryville also has a treatment continuum for individuals dealing with multiple mental health conditions, provided by licensed counselors and Advanced Practice Nurses. Maryville's commitment to healing is a true asset to South Jersey, and I am proud to support their work. God bless Maryville Integrated Care, and God bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I would like to honor retiring Vineland Fire Chief Lou A. Tramontana, Jr. Lou is a city official, local businessman, and dedicated volunteer who has served as the Chief of the Vineland Fire Department since 2017. He has had a passion for firefighting for many years, beginning his service 37 years ago when he joined the New Jersey State Forest Fire Service, where he is still the District Warden. In 1992, Lou joined the City of Vineland Fire Department, becoming a career firefighter two years later and achieving the rank of Captain in 2006. He earned countless New Jersey fire certifications, including Fire Official, Officer, and Investigator, as well as becoming a Level 2 Instructor with an FAA Drone Pilot License. Lou was also recognized as Fireman of the Year, served as president of the Vineland Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association, and raised over $200,000 for burn victims. In addition to his firefighting duties, Lou serves as the president of the board of the Cumberland Cape Atlantic YMCA, a position he has held for 11 years. Lou credits his wife, Lisa, and his two stepchildren, D.J. and Carli, along with his longtime friend Brandon, as the people who have made his life complete. I thank Lou for his many years of dedicated service to Vineland. God bless Lou, and God bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate the Boys and Girls Club of Cumberland County on 20 years of outstanding service to children and teenagers in Vineland. Their mission is to empower disadvantaged youth to reach their full potential as successful, kind, and respectful adults and the Vineland chapter serves nearly 260 young people through its various programs. They are committed to providing a world class experience that ensures every child who walks through their doors can achieve success. With their mentorship, they expect every member to graduate from high school with a solid plan, good character, exceptional citizenship, and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle. The Boys & Girls Club recognizes that helping kids succeed requires more than just a single approach. It takes compassionate mentors, a safe environment, and quality programs that encourage youth to excel academically and lead productive lives, ensuring that every child has a bright and promising future. For two decades, the Vineland Boys and Girls Club has gone above and beyond to guarantee that all kids have a fantastic future, and I thank them for their efforts. God bless the Vineland Boys and Girls Club, and God Bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to honor Jack Mazzeo from Hammonton, who owns and operates Mazzeo Studio, the oldest photography studio in New Jersey. Since 1946, this family business has built a legacy of excellence in photography. Jack has continued on his father's tradition, creating beautiful portraits, while also training his daughter, Deanna, to carry on the tradition. He has taught his daughter well, as she specializes in capturing images of babies and children. Jack's work has been recognized worldwide, competing with other professionals from around the globe, and earning him the prestigious title of Master of Photography. Many of his award-winning photographs have been showcased at Professional Photographers Conventions in New York, Chicago, New Orleans, and even as far away as South Korea. Jack is one of the world's finest photographers, and I am proud to say he is from my district. God bless Jack, and God bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize Mayor Dale Archer of East Greenwich Township, who has dedicated many years of service to our community, including 11 years as mayor. Under his leadership, East Greenwich has flourished with strong fiscal management and innovative solutions for local governance. He improved the township's finances by implementing a five-year plan with policies that allowed him to manage the community effectively, resulting in the second-lowest tax rate in Gloucester County. Because of his guidance, East Greenwich received the Innovative Government Award from the League of Municipalities for its shared fire department service with Paulsboro. The remarkable progress East Greenwich has made since Mayor Archer took office led to the town being recognized as the Best Small Town in New Jersey by South Jersey Magazine. In addition to his commitment to his community, Mayor Archer served the world's finest fighting force, the United States Marine Corps, and has been a long-time member of both the Veteran of Foreign Wars and the Marine Corps League. I thank Mayor Dale Archer, for his dedicated service to East Greenwich and our country, and I look forward to seeing all that he will accomplish in the future. God bless Mayor Dale Archer, and God bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, today, I want to celebrate the story of two American heroes from the Air Force and Navy who not only served the country in Afghanistan but also started a beautiful relationship. Roger Hopkins and Betsy Jenkins, two individuals who had never crossed paths, found their destinies intertwined in a remarkable twist of fate when they heard each other's voices on the radio in the heart of Afghanistan. They were both on deployment, with Betsy working for the Combined Joint Task Force, while Roger was embedded with the primary assault team for the Kunar-Nuristan when the gunfire started. Roger was on a no-fail mission, a critical operation considered highly dangerous due to the hostile environment in Afghanistan. This mission was of utmost importance, as its success was crucial for the safety and security of the region. After a successful completion, Betsy was the much needed escort out of the city, which was a daunting task given the ongoing conflict, marked by frequent enemy attacks and the constant threat of ambush. During this intense situation, Betsy's calm and composed voice, a rare sound for Roger and the Airmen, became their beacon of hope. Using the aerial views from the standard operating picture, she skillfully and bravely guided the convoy out of the city, demonstrating her exceptional leadership and tactical skills that earned the entire team's respect. Betsy's female voice of calm was not something that Roger and the Airmen were used to, and Roger became determined to figure out who this voice was. In a display of true warrior spirit, Roger, determined to find the hero who led them out, used every means at his disposal, including an Afghan translator, to track down Master Chief Betsy Jenkins of the United States Navy, a testament to his unwavering commitment and deep admiration for her. Roger used his charm to ask Betsy what she missed most other than her family, which she responded with, ``mangos and avocados.'' In almost unheard-of fashion, Roger delivered her mangos and avocados in less than a week. This was the beginning of their relationship and as Betsy would say, showed her ``without a doubt, Roger saw no obstacles, only opportunities.'' Roger and Betsy have dedicated much of their lives to serving their country, often at great personal sacrifice, and have enjoyed outstanding military careers. Roger retired as Master Sergeant, having served as the Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Special Operations Command of the Pacific's Medical Directorate, providing unconventional Special Forces mission support. His career was marked by numerous commendations and successful missions, a testament to his dedication and bravery. He also served at the Pentagon and, after September 11th, re-trained as a part of special operations command as a Para-rescue man and subsequently did a total of nine combat deployments across three countries in 23 years of service. Betsy has been in the United States Navy for 23 years, with her first 12 serving U.S. Naval forces in Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Greece, New Caledonia, and other countries before deploying to Afghanistan in 2014. She is currently supporting NAVIFORES as the Information Systems Technician Rating Advisor. Her awards include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, three Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, and three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, as well as many others. She and Roger have seven beautiful children they are raising in our great Nation, and I am sure they will learn from their parents' excellent leadership and service. God bless Roger and Betsy, and God bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to congratulate the Northfield Volunteer Fire Company on its 100th anniversary, marking a century of exceptional service. Over the years, many dedicated firefighters have been part of this outstanding department, with several serving for over 50 years. A few of their veterans recall their involvement in negotiating a deal in 1968 for land on Burton Avenue, where the current firehouse and training area are located. Times were different back then, as firefighters responded to calls in the 1960s and `70s with gear that was assigned on a ``first come, first served'' basis. Despite these challenges, these brave men always answered the call and served their community valiantly. Today, the fire department has expanded and ensures that their firefighters have all the necessary gear, enhancing their reliability in Northfield. Recently, the department dedicated its new fire truck, Ladder 63, in honor of Jake Eggie and Robert Leeds, both of whom dedicated 50 years of service to the community. Fire Captain Flaherty and Chief Cummings have emphasized that you cannot celebrate 100 years without remembering those who made this achievement possible. Congratulations on 100 years of exemplary service. God bless the Northfield Volunteer Fire Company, and God bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to address the next generation of American leaders from the AP United States Government and Politics class at Cumberland County Tech. Today, I stand before them as their Representative in the United States Congress, and I want to thank them for their decision to take a college-level course that deepens their understanding of American government and politics. Learning civics is an important step toward becoming informed citizens and future leaders of our nation. It is essential for people to understand how laws are made, to participate in the political process, and to know their rights in order to make a positive impact on their community and country. The House of Representatives, where I serve, is one of the two chambers of Congress that form the federal government's legislative branch. This branch plays a crucial role in creating laws, declaring war, and overseeing the Executive Branch. By understanding how this process works, they enhance their ability to become our country's next leaders and to make meaningful contributions as outstanding Americans. I thank them for taking this important first step toward making a significant difference. God bless Cumberland County Tech, and God bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, this past September, I had the honor of commemorating the historic 100th Anniversary of the Oceanville Volunteer Fire Company, a milestone that marks decades of exceptional service to our community. Oceanville Fire is the oldest fire department in Galloway Township, established in 1924 by local community members. These visionary individuals, primarily farmers and shell-fishermen, recognized the urgent need for fire protection and rescue services. Their selfless dedication set the foundation for the department we know today. The department, now consisting of 39 men and women, continues to serve the township with unwavering commitment. Their dedication as extraordinarily well-trained firefighters echoes the spirit of the founding members many years ago, providing a sense of security to the township. Through the years, Oceanville Fire has proven to be a vital part of the community and has played a crucial role in making its residents feel safe. I am deeply grateful to the Oceanville Volunteer Fire Company for their century of great service and may they continue to protect and serve for many more. God bless Oceanville Fire Department, and God bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse located in North Wildwood, South Jersey. The Hereford Inlet has served as a beacon of safety since the 17th century when it was first used by whalers to draw in and prepare their catch. Through the course of time, the need for a lighthouse became more apparent due to the high number of shipwrecks, so the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse was built and first put into use on May 11, 1874. This remarkable structure was designed by Lighthouse Boards Chief Draftsman, Paul J. Pelz, who later went on to design the Library of Congress here in Washington, D.C. Over the years, the Hereford Lighthouse has stood the test of time despite many tides, storms and hurricanes threatening to tear it down and eliminate the assurance it has provided mariners over the years, but it continues to stand strong. Currently, the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse is managed by the City of North Wildwood's Historical Commission, who are an excellent group of volunteers from the local community that have done a tremendous job maintaining the appearance of the magnificent building. Known as one of the most important structures on the Five Mile Beach of South Jersey, it continues to operate as a navigational aid and is open to the public to learn about its history, take in the ocean air, and walk the beautiful gardens to the seashore. Happy 150th Anniversary to the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse and here is to 150 more. May God bless the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse and God bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, Friendship United Methodist Church in Buena, New Jersey has done an outstanding job spreading the good news of Jesus for over 200 years. This extraordinary place of worship has been standing in the same place it was back in 1808, when it became one of the first Methodist Episcopal churches in the area. In the early days of South Jersey and the United States, there were not many places to worship, but the dedicated followers of Jesus Christ made sure that the people of Buena, New Jersey had a place to fellowship with their Lord. The church has endured hardships through the years and even had to close its doors at one point, but with the commitment from the ancestors of some of its original members, the house of God once again reopened in 2010 and has stood strong ever since. To this day, it is the oldest known church structure that is still in use by its congregation, and it looks forward to many more years of bringing people close to God and remembering the history- of Christianity in South Jersey. God bless Friendship United Methodist Church and God bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Richard DeMaria on having May 20, 2024, officially being named ``Richard DeMaria Day'' in the Borough of Buena because of the incredible contributions he has given to the area. Richie has owned and operated the Landisville Liquor Store since 1957 and has made it an integral part of the Buena Borough by providing great service to the community as well as initiating and maintaining its economy. The Landisville Liquor Store has been a model for businesses and has set the standard for customer service, quality, and professionalism throughout the years. Leading up to starting the Landisville Liquor Store, he worked in his grandpop's feed store and bar, and he was a very likeable young man playing three sports in high school and having many friends. After graduation, he joined the Navy and sailed around the world several times before coming back to Buena, buying the bar from his grandpop on credit and paying it off creating what we have today as the Landisville Liquor Store. Richie has risen above many challenges in his life to not only become a successful businessman, but also an outstanding role model family and local community. I thank Richie, for all he has done for South Jersey and congratulate him on a well-deserved new holiday. God bless Richard DeMaria and God bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, this past month, it was my honor to attend the Eagle Scout Court of Honor for an incredible young man, James Scalice. James has learned an incredible amount through the merit badge program earning 41 total badges in subjects such as Life Skills, Business, and Science. Within his troop, this young man has developed leadership skills through elected positions and has learned the value of serving his community by participating in countless hours of service to his church and community. He has displayed his love for God by earning two religious emblems including ``Pope Pius the twelfth'' from the Catholic Diocese of Camden. With a deep love for his country and great respect for veterans, James decided to help out the American Legion Post 28 in Absecon, South Jersey for his Eagle Scout project.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize the great school of Pineland Learning Center in Vineland, South Jersey, which has been of incredible mentorship for children in South Jersey for over four decades. Since its founding in 1980 by the late Fred Eccleston, the school has been an outstanding outlet for students that have struggled in the traditional learning environment by providing alternative learning techniques to fit their needs. Many times, the students that come to PLC have been dealt hands in life that most adults can't even imagine and because of this they have not been able to find their full potential in a typical school setting. With the dedicated staff that Pineland has to offer, the kids are provided with a safe, structured, and consistent learning environment where they can discover their gifts and see all the possibilities life has to offer. The staff gains the children's trust by committing themselves to learning who the student is by understanding the student's personality as well as quirks and triggers that cause outbursts. This allows the kids to learn who they are by being allowed to be themselves in a culture that feels just like a family. PLC goes beyond academics by also providing the students with work-based learning for jobs that the local community has to offer, and college fairs where many of the kids can attend universities throughout the country. It is my great honor to commend the Pineland Learning Center on many years of great service to the youth of South Jersey and I look forward to many more years of improving their lives. God bless Pineland Learning Center and God bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I had the privilege of attending a masterful Eagle Scout Court of Honor for Raylen Weaver from Mullica Hill, South Jersey. Raylen has been involved in boy scouts for seven years since he was a rising fifth grader as a Webelos Scout and now in the tenth grade he has already achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. He has held multiple leadership positions which includes the Den Chief, Scribe, Patrol Leader and earning his way up to the position of Senior Patrol Leader. On his climb up to Senior Patrol Leader, he spent 59 nights camping, hiked 84 miles, and logged 76 hours of service to better his community before he is accredited with completing 130 more hours to complete his Eagle Scout project. For his project, he decided to create the Little Way Children's Garden to benefit the Mary Mother of Mercy Church in Glassboro, South Jersey. This garden is a beautiful prayer area defined by edge stones with concrete and wood benches complete with statues of St. Therese, Mary, and St. Joesph in a perfect display to benefit children of the church and parishioners. Raylen is also an avid runner and biker participating in a Duathlon and the 100- mile MS ride City to Shore. He plans to attend the Naval Academy or West Point to serve his county and continue to improve himself. I have all faith that Raylen will make his country proud and continue to make his local community proud. God bless Raylen Weaver and God bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to wish Tony Bocelle a happy 100th birthday after so many great years of serving our country, being a great family man, and giving back to his community. Tony gave years of his life to his country by serving in the United States Army during World War II being in the 11th Airborne Division where he was involved in several combat missions. In his time of service, he bravely assisted in a daring prison raid in Los Banos, Philippines, which resulted in freeing nearly 3,000 American prisoners from the horrific treatment from the enemy's military. The operation took place on February 23, 1945, when prisoners were lined up to be executed before the 11th Airborne division made their attack and liberated the thousands of allied prisoners of war and civilians. Tony was shown homage for his service to his country on his 100th birthday on April 19th of this year when 100 flags were placed in his yard from Americans and Filipinos thanking him for his service. Since the end of War World II, Tony has continued to be an outstanding member of society and has fathered a beautiful family that have added to their father's legacy. I wish Tony a happy birthday and I wish him 100 more extraordinary years. God bless Tony Bocelle and God bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to wish Buena Borough of South Jersey a happy 75th anniversary. This wonderful community has been a major part of the history of South Jersey, despite being one of the newer incorporated townships in the area. It was first settled as a part of Cape May County in 1692, making it one of the oldest settlements in the entire United States. Through the years, this community had a significant role in growing the economies of Cape May, Gloucester and Atlantic Counties before becoming its own incorporated town in 1949. A mass meeting was organized in the Landisville Fire Hall to discuss the formation of this new small city, drawing a record attendance. The new township resolved many issues related to the public water system and other industries, paving the way for many firms to come to the area in the years after. Buena Borough has flourished for the last 75 years, and I am proud to say they are an outstanding part of South Jersey. God Bless Buena Borough and God bless the United States of America.