Jefferson Van Drew

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, on October 7, 2023, Hamas infiltrated Israel and brutally attacked and murdered thousands of men, women, children, and babies, taking 240 hostages, including those that were so unbelievably innocent. Women were beaten. Women were raped. They were paraded around covered in blood. Some were so brutally raped that their pelvises were broken. They begged for mercy, but none was given. They begged to die, but Hamas would not allow that until they were first dehumanized, beaten, and raped. Hamas celebrated. They celebrated, and they took photos and videos of these horrific crimes. Families were forced to watch videos of their loved ones, their daughters, their babies, their wives, their mothers being brutalized, raped, and killed. Babies were decapitated. They were put in ovens. This was not a military operation. Hamas is not a military group. They are not freedom fighters. They are not fighting against oppression. They are nothing more than the face of evil. This vote is not complicated. You can vote to stand against rape, torture, and murder of women. You can vote to stop the innocent from being harmed. You can vote to stand alongside those who committed these horrific, evil crimes, or you can vote to say that it is awful. It is up to the men and women in this Chamber. It is a simple choice. Every single Member of Congress should acknowledge that these actions are despicable, barbaric, disgusting, and evil. Every single Member of Congress should stand on this House floor and vote to condemn these violent acts and show your support for the innocent victims of these terrorists. Every single Member of Congress must stand on the right side of history. I stand with Israel. I stand with these women, with these babies, and with these mothers. I hope that we all do.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, this past January, it was my honor to attend the Eagle Scout Court of Honor for an incredible young man, Hayden Thom. Hayden has been involved with the Scouts since the second grade and has been a very active member in the years since. Throughout his journey, he has held several leadership positions, earned thirty merit badges, and completed almost 200 hours of community service. His trail to Eagle Scout culminated with his Eagle Scout project where he helped design and install a new display for a World War II Anti-Tank Gun for American Legion Post 452 in Mullica Hill, South Jersey. This display included a new concrete pad, lighting, new flag poles, protective bollards for the gun, and decorative stone. He hopes to stay involved with the troops and give back by volunteering with his scout troop as an adult leader. In June of 2026, Hayden will graduate from Gloucester County Institute of Technology and plans to attend the Universal Technical Institute to further study the automotive industry. I know this young man will do big things, and I am incredibly proud of him for this accomplishment. God bless Hayden and God bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, this past January it was my pleasure to attend the Middle Township Ambulance Corps Installation of Officers Dinner in Cape May Court House, South Jersey. During this dinner we recognized members for their outstanding achievements, honored those who displayed exceptional bravery during the pandemic, and celebrated the installation of these officers. It was my honor to celebrate the following new officers as they took their oath of office: Deborah A. Rue as President, Theodore Bohn as Vice President, Deborah Brannon as Treasurer, Julie Mounts as Secretary, Joseph F. Eagan, IV as Chief, Gary Seabridge, Jr. as Assistant Chief, Brian Mounts as Captain, Zachary Lex as First Lieutenant, Andrew Raniszewski as Second Lieutenant, and Charles Roach Third Lieutenant. Middle Township Ambulance Corps, Inc. is the sole volunteer ambulance corps in Middle Township, covering over 89 square miles. Our South Jersey community feels safer knowing this group of amazing people will always be there to answer their call. I want to thank them for their unwavering dedication and their invaluable contributions to our community. God Bless Middle Township Ambulance Corps and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, this past December, I had the honor of celebrating Harvey and Madalyn Rovinsky and their retirement after almost 60 years in the jewelry business. Through their hard work and dedication over the years, Harvey and Madalyn have cemented their names in the luxury jewelry industry. Harvey joined the jewelry business at a young age, working with his father as a watchmaker. In 1966, he joined Bernie Robbins Jewelers, working for his future parents-in-law. He learned vital business lessons from Bernie, emphasizing credibility and customer relationships. In 1992, Harvey and Madalyn transformed the company, creating an exquisite jewelry destination that now has three locations spread over Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Under their leadership, Bernie Robbins has become a highly decorated business, receiving countless recognitions and awards. In 2022, they received the National Jeweler Retailer Hall of Fame Award and Bernie Robbins Jewelers was recognized as a New Jersey Top Workplace for employee engagement. Because of their hard work, Bernie Robbins has become synonymous with expertise and exceptional customer experiences in a welcoming atmosphere. I hope Harvey and Madalyn enjoy their retirement, and I know their legacy will continue to shine brightly for years to come. God Bless Harvey and Madalyn and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, we come together with heavy hearts to honor the life and legacy of former Mayor Aldo Palombo, a passionate and caring man who dedicated his life to service. Mayor Palombo served as the 15th Mayor of North Wildwood from 1994 to 2005 and in his capacity as mayor, completely turned the city around. What was once a run-down city was transformed into a desirable family destination under his leadership. Mayor Palombo was a beacon of optimism and boundless energy during these trying times. His leadership breathed new life into the city of North Wildwood at the time it needed it most. He was a tireless ambassador for North Wildwood, always eager to promote the community and his efforts and commitment left an indelible mark on the city. As we bid farewell to Mayor Aldo Palombo, I extend my deepest condolences to the entire Palombo Family. His memory will live on for generations to come in the city that he cared for so deeply and helped shape. We are forever grateful for his dedication, optimism, and enduring impact on North Wildwood. May he rest in peace.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, this past January, I had the honor of celebrating Ryan Simpkins and his achievement of the rank of Eagle Scout, the highest honor in the Boy Scouts of America. During his time in the Scouts, Ryan has learned valuable lessons in leadership, friendship, and service and will carry these lessons with him for the rest of his life. For Ryan's Eagle Scout project, he assembled ``Little Libraries'', which are a free book exchange where people can take a book or share a book. His noble goal was to encourage literacy in his home area of Hopewell South Jersey and Bridgeton South Jersey. The Scouting experience has left an indelible mark on Ryan, and he will continue his scouting experience as an adult leader in scouting later in life. Congratulations to Ryan on achieving this milestone, and I wish him all the best. God Bless Ryan and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate Catholic Schools Week across the Nation, we come together to recognize and honor the profound impact of Catholic education. On January 31st, we marked National Appreciation Day for Catholic Schools, a day that acknowledges the enduring commitment of these institutions to educate not only the mind but also the soul. Catholic Schools, like St. Ann's in Wilmington, Delaware where my grandchildren attend, instill faith, academic excellence, and service in their students. Together, we are not just celebrating a week; we are celebrating the noble mission of Catholic education, to educate the whole child and transcend the boundaries of traditional learning. God bless our Catholic Schools and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, this past January, I had the pleasure of attending Jason Fetrow's Eagle Scout Court of Honor to celebrate his achievement of the highest honor in the scouting world. Jason started his journey with the scouts at just six years old when he joined Cub Scout Pack twelve. At age eleven, he moved up to the Boy Scouts who have allowed him incredible experiences such as the opportunity to attend the World Jamboree in 2019. For his Eagle Scout Project, Jason decided to give back to the fields where he played baseball for eleven years by expanding the trophy case at Gabriel Memorial Baseball Fields by three feet so it can better accommodate the growing number of trophies on display. Just last year, Jason graduated from Cedar Creek High School and he now studies Exercise Science at Stockton University. It was my honor to celebrate this milestone with Jason and wish him all the best in his future. God Bless Jason and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, this past December, I had the honor of celebrating Nicholas Grusemeyer on his achievement of the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. Throughout his scouting journey, Nicholas has gained invaluable life skills, and as he puts it, ``there was never a dull moment.'' For his Eagle Scout Project, he undertook the task of constructing a Memorial Wall inside the engine bay of the Quinton Fire Company in Quinton, South Jersey. This wall holds profound symbolism, featuring the original bell from one of the first fire engines, stars from an old hose used by Quinton, and a list of the names of past members of the fire company. It stands as a lasting tribute to the bravery and dedication of those who have served their community. Looking ahead, Nicholas has plans to graduate from high school and pursue a career in the Fire Service, a path that reflects his deep commitment to public safety and his desire to give back to the community that he has served as a scout. This outstanding young scout has set a high standard for us all to aspire to and it was an honor to celebrate him. God Bless Nicholas and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, this past December, it was my pleasure to attend Raymond Ridgway's Eagle Scout Court of Honor. Throughout his scouting experience, Raymond has gained invaluable life skills, particularly in survival skills and how to be a great leader. To achieve the rank of eagle scout, he chose to freshen up the Education Wing at Quinton Baptist Church in Quinton, South Jersey. Recognizing the importance of their church in the community, he took on the task of painting the walls and installing storage cubbies in the Education Wing. His efforts have not only improved the physical environment, but he has also created a more welcoming and functional space for education and community gatherings. Beyond scouting and his commitment to service, Raymond enjoys bowling, music, and working at his job. It was a pleasure to attend his Eagle Scout Court of Honor and I wish this young man all the best. God Bless Raymond and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, this past December, I had the honor of attending the dedication of the Avalon Public Safety Complex to a longtime friend of mine, Mayor Martin Pagliughi, or as I know him, Marty. Marty's commitment to the fire department and his lifelong dedication to public service to Avalon have been truly commendable. Marty has been a guiding force for the community and his tireless efforts have proven great results. In 2020, Avalon benefited substantially from his leadership, saving $1.6 million on flood insurance--a testament to his commitment to the town's well-being. Furthermore, since 2012, he has served as the Cape May County Office of Emergency Management Coordinator, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to safety and preparedness. In honoring Mayor Pagliughi and his legacy, we celebrate a man whose tireless service has enriched the lives of Avalon residents and set a shining example for us all. The Avalon Public Safety Complex now proudly bears the name of Avalon's former Mayor Martin Pagliughi, and it was my pleasure to attend the event. It was an honor to work with Mayor Pagliughi over these past few decades and this momentous event serves as a fitting conclusion to his remarkable 36-year career in public service. God Bless Marty and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, this past November I had the pleasure of attending the send-off party for two exceptional individuals, Miss New Jersey 2023 Victoria Mozitis and Miss Teen New Jersey Ashley Greco. In this upcoming year, these two will go off to compete in the prestigious 2024 Miss America Pageant. Our Miss New Jersey 2023, Victoria Mozitis, is a resident of Northfield, South Jersey and recently graduated Magna Cum Laude from Rider University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre. Her Community Service Initiative, ``LEAP: Literacy Enhancement, Artistry, and Performance,'' focuses on improving literacy worldwide through her partnership with The African Library Project and advocating for arts education. Victoria's talent in musical theatre has already earned her scholarships and recognition and she will carry these incredible talents with her to the 2024 pageant. Ashley Greco, our Miss New Jersey Teen 2023, is a recent high school graduate from Waldwick, New Jersey, and started at University of Massachusetts Amherst in the Fall 2023, majoring in Public Health with aspirations of becoming a Physician Assistant. Ashley's Community Service Initiative, ``Be an A.L.L.Y.--Advocating for People with Disabilities,'' aims to educate and raise awareness about working with individuals with disabilities, breaking the stigma that surrounds them. Her hard work and dedication have brought her far, and I know she will shine on stage next year. As Victoria and Ashley embark on this exciting journey, I wish them all the success in the world. I am proud to have them represent New Jersey, and it was an honor to celebrate them last month as part of the road to Miss America 2024. Good luck, God Bless Victoria and Ashley, and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I extend my congratulations to Fire Official and Firefighter William Cripps on his retirement this year after 25 years of service. Beginning his career in 1996, inspired by his father, he started at the City of Wildwood Fire Department as a part-time Firefighter and EMT. In 2000 he began working full time and in 2018 he took on the role of Fire Official in Wildwood, overseeing the Bureau of Fire Prevention. Throughout his service, William held many roles, including Cape May County Fire Coordinator, an instructor at the Cape May County Fire Academy, and a member of the Cape May County Urban Search & Rescue Team. He earned numerous awards, including the 9/11 Commendation for his response to the 2001 World Trade Center attacks and he also received Disaster Commendations for his work during Hurricane Sandy, Winter Storm Jonas, and Tropical Cyclone Ida. William's dedication shone through in the creation of the very successful Summer Cadet Firefighter youth program and the initiation of the City of Wildwood Fire Department's Fire Investigation Unit. This legacy runs in the family, with his brother Charles Cripps, Jr. and son Nick Cripps also embracing the noble path of firefighting. William Cripps is a symbol of dedication, and he leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations of firefighters to come. I thank Firefighter Cripps for keeping South Jersey safe and I wish him well in his retirement. God Bless Fire Official and Firefighter William Cripps and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute and honor the life of a beloved South Jersey native, James ``Jim'' M. Hemingway, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, who passed away peacefully on November 30, 2023, at the age of 77. Jim's kindness, dedication, and love made our community and our world a better place. In his early life, Jim honorably served our country in the U.S. Army. When he returned, he founded Garden State Dredging Inc., a company which was a culmination of his different passions. Jim was a pillar of his community, committing a big portion of his time to giving back through the Lower Township planning board, the lower township Chamber of Commerce and the West Cape May Volunteer Fire Company. Jim's enduring partnership with his wife, Shirley A. Hemingway, spanned 58 beautiful years and together they created a life filled with love and cherished memories. As a loving father to James and Sheri, and adored grandfather and great-grandfather, Jim's wisdom and love will continue to inspire his family. Jim enjoyed family time more than anything as well as constructing model trains and airplanes, creating special moments with his grandchildren. Jim's generosity and selflessness left a profound impact on others, shaping the paths of those he loved. As we celebrate Jim's life, we remember a man who embodied the best in all of us, leaving an indelible mark that will continue to inspire us. God Bless Jim and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, this past December, I had the honor of celebrating a remarkable young man, Benjamin Fairfield, who has achieved the prestigious Rank of Eagle Scout. His journey is a true testament to his dedication, leadership, and community service. Throughout his scouting journey, Benjamin has learned the importance of being prepared for anything and has made lifelong friends along the way. Benjamin's Eagle Project involved upgrading the Climbing Area at Camp Edge in Ranch Hope, South Jersey. He built a double-sided climbing wall, landscaped the area, and even pressure washed and painted benches, making it a safer and more enjoyable space for all. Benjamin is not only dedicated to scouting but also passionate about hunting and fishing, reflecting his love for the outdoors and adventure. Beyond scouting, Benjamin plans to continue working at Hidden Creek Farm and eventually open up his own farm. I am proud of this young man, and I wish him the best. God Bless Benjamin and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, this past November, I had the pleasure of attending Clayton Skrobanek's Eagle Scout Court of Honor. Clayton has been involved in the Eagle Scouts for over a decade, starting in first grade as a Tiger Scout. Over the years, he has been very involved in his troop by holding four different leadership positions, contributing over 100 hours to community service, and participating in countless outdoor adventures all while earning 37 merit badges. Outside of the scouts, he dedicates his time to helping those in need by volunteering at the ``Your Place at the Table'' Food Pantry. This upcoming year, he is expected to graduate from Clearview Regional High School and hopes to pursue a career in nursing. I am honored to congratulate this young man on his remarkable achievements, and I wish him the best. God Bless Clayton and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, this past December, we gathered to celebrate Colin Finney, a bright young man who worked his way up to the rank of Eagle Scout. To achieve this rank, Colin undertook an Eagle Scout Project involving the restoration of generators and fans at Fort Mott State Park in Pennsville, South Jersey. Fort Mott holds a significant historical importance to our nation, serving as an Army Base during World War II. In 1942, three Diesel Generators were installed to provide essential electric services. Colin dedicated his time to the meticulous restoration work of these generators that involved cleaning, priming, and painting, as well as the restoration of the three fans and the gate door, ensuring their preservation for future generations. Looking ahead, Colin has ambitious plans. He plans to graduate from Salem Vo-Tech's Electrical program and continue his journey in the Electrical Field as a Lineman. Beyond scouting and his career aspirations, Colin enjoys hunting, spending time with friends, and has a commendable interest in firefighting. This remarkable young man has a bright future ahead of him and I can't wait to see what he accomplishes. God Bless Colin and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, this December, I had the pleasure of attending the Eagle Scout Court of Honor of Jack Fowler, a young man who has accomplished a significant milestone in the world of scouting. Jack's hard work is a testament to his commitment to making a positive impact on the South Jersey community and his unwavering dedication to the values of scouting. For his eagle scout project, he took on the task of building fences and cleaning up the grounds of the Mount Zion AME Cemetery in Woodstown, South Jersey. The cemetery had become overgrown, and its boundaries were unkempt. With great care and effort, Jack built fences, created a defined entrance, and trimmed bushes and trees to beautify the area. His hard work not only restored the cemetery to its rightful dignity but also honored the memory of those laid to rest there. In this upcoming year, Jack plans to graduate from Salem County Vocational Technical Schools with an associate's degree in Biochemistry from Salem Community College. Outside of scouting and school, he has a passion for music, playing the drums and guitar in his free time. Jack has already accomplished so much at such a young age, and it was my honor to celebrate him. God Bless Jack and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, a nation without borders is not a nation at all. Currently, we have an administration that prioritizes illegal immigrants over American citizens, over our own constituents. Since President Biden took office, more than 8 million illegal immigrants have entered our country without consequence; 300,000 since December alone. Within months, there will be more illegal immigrants than the population of my home State of New Jersey, a State that would rank tenth in population made up of illegals. Yet, this President, Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and my Democratic colleagues continue to deny that the crisis even exists, allowing millions of illegal immigrants, many from countries that hate America, threatens our national security, and it is wrong. Using taxpayer dollars to give illegal immigrants free healthcare and making Americans pay for it is wrong. Sacrificing the education of our American children to turn their schools into shelters for illegal immigrants is wrong. Cutting public safety funding to pay for services like free housing, free legal aid, and welfare for illegal immigrants that many Americans struggle to afford themselves is wrong. College education subsidies for illegal immigrants is wrong. Those on the terror watch list slipping through our borders is wrong. Sanctuary State status, sanctuary city status is wrong. Standing idly by while tens of thousands of Americans, American young people, die at the hands of illicit fentanyl that is flowing freely across our border is wrong. President Biden and this administration have had the power to stop it, but they refuse. Our Democratic colleagues had a chance to stop it by voting for H.R. 2, but they refused. Four years ago this didn't exist, and now our Senate colleagues have refused to take up H.R. 2 and are working to increase incentives for illegal immigrants to come into our country. We need to get serious. Those responsible must be held accountable, and once again I demand that this administration, for once, put American people first. I hope and I pray that everyone will vote for this good resolution.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (S. 3250) to provide remote access to court proceedings for victims of the 1988 Bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland.

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to insert extraneous materials on S. 3250.

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, on December 21, 1988, a bomb planted by Libyan terrorists detonated on Pan Am Flight 103 while it was flying over Lockerbie, Scotland; 270 people, including 190 Americans, 34 of which were from my home State, the State of New Jersey, lost their lives in this tragic attack. Over 30 years later, the Department of Justice announced the arrest and indictment of the alleged bomb maker. His trial is scheduled to take place in Washington, D.C., with pretrial hearings that are already underway. However, given the time that has passed and the attack's international impact, surviving families are generally older, and some of them are physically unable to attend these hearings. Others live scattered across the United States of America and the world, making it difficult to travel and to attend. In light of this fact, the government filed an unopposed motion with the court to provide remote access to the proceedings for the victims of this bombing. Unfortunately, the court denied the motion, finding that no statute or case law authorized such an accommodation. This bill, fortunately and importantly, provides that authorization. S. 3250 provides the court with a limited, one-time only authorization to accommodate the victims of the Pan Am 103 bombing by making remote video and telephonic access available to these victims and their families. Additionally, there is precedent for this type of measure. Congress passed similar laws authorizing access to trials for victims of September 11 and again during the COVID-19 pandemic. This bill is supported by Victims of Pan Am Flight 103, which is an organization comprised of family members whose loved ones were killed on the flight. Their unyielding resolve in holding those responsible for the murder of their loved ones is the embodiment of American tenacity and American spirit. I am proud to have spearheaded the House version of this important legislation, which will ensure that the victims of these attacks can witness as the architect of this atrocity faces the full weight of the American justice system. Let this case serve as an unwavering warning to our enemies around the world: If you harm Americans, if you dare to strike at the heart of America, know this--there will be no refuge and no corner of the Earth where you can hide. You will find no peace. I urge all Members to support this bill. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers. I am prepared to close, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 remains one of the deadliest terrorist attacks on American civilians in America's history. Now, 35 years later, we are on the verge of finally--finally--holding those responsible individuals accountable. Let that be a symbol of America's unending pursuit of justice against those who would choose to do our country and our citizens harm. I thank the families of the victims of this attack for their involvement with this bill and their tireless work in achieving justice for their loved ones. I thank the bipartisan coalition both in the Senate and here in the House that helped this bill move rapidly to the President's desk. I thank my good friend from Georgia for his support, and I thank Ranking Member Nadler. He is an important guy, and I certainly should thank him, as well. We appreciate his support and appreciate Ranking Member Nadler as well as, of course, the chairman of the Judiciary Committee, Jim Jordan. Mr. Speaker, once again, I urge all of my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this important bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.