Jefferson Van Drew

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, in April, I had the pleasure of attending the 25th anniversary celebration of Big Sky Aviation in Millville, South Jersey. As a full-service, fixed-base operator, this aviation center provides a valuable and enriching experience to our South Jersey residents through its many services. These services include hangar leasing, aircraft cleaning, jet fueling, pre-purchased inspections, airframe repairs, tie downs, car services, catering, and much more. They also offer personalized flight school programs working directly with students to create a strategy that aligns with their individual needs and objectives. The experienced team of aviation professionals at Big Sky Aviation ensure that your visit to South Jersey is as convenient and enjoyable as possible. I thank all the staff at Big Sky Aviation for sharing their passion for aviation with our South Jersey community for the past 25 years. God Bless Big Sky Aviation, and God Bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, today, I would like to honor Brian and Kevin Murphy for graduating high school and 8th grade. Brian has graduated from Rustin High School with honors and headed to Penn State University in the fall where he will study Business. Kevin has graduated 8th grade with honors from St. Simon and Jude School. Kevin will continue his journey at Rustin High School next year. Both Brian and Kevin have recently assisted their baseball teams in winning their Championship games. Two amazing young men with incredible futures ahead of them. I know their family is very proud of them, especially their Aunt Allie. God Bless Brian and Kevin and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, today, I want to commend the achievements of Eustace Mita, a prominent figure in South Jersey's luxury real estate industry. Mr. Mita serves as Chairman and CEO of Icona Resorts, Chairman of Mita Management, and CEO of Achristavest, all of which have left a significant mark on South Jersey's luxury real estate sector. He founded ICONA Resorts in 2013, quickly establishing a highly regarded brand of luxury hotels in South Jersey, including the top ranked Icona Diamond Beach resort. Currently, ICONA operates seven hotels along the South Jersey shore in Avalon, Cape May, Wildwood Crest, and Spring Lake. Mr. Mita's business ventures extend to high-end luxury home development with Achristavest and strategic investments in local real estate and the automotive sectors through Mita Management. Outside of business, he is a devoted family man to his wife, Susie, and their five children and sixteen grandchildren. He is a respected leader in the Catholic Church's service initiatives and his contributions were recognized by Pope Francis during the 2015 World Meeting of Families in Philadelphia. He also serves as the first lay president of the Papal Foundation, a charity that funds Papal requests for charitable grants and scholarships. It is an honor to celebrate Eustace Mita's contributions to South Jersey's luxury real estate and commitment to community service. His entrepreneurial spirit and dedication have left a lasting impact on our South Jersey community. God Bless Eustice Mita and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, today I celebrate the achievements of the Ideal Institute of Technology Class of 2023. Through hard work and dedication, these graduates have achieved an incredible milestone, and they should be incredibly proud of their accomplishments. By choosing the Ideal Institute of Technology, these students allowed themselves to gain real-world experience through the hands-on approach that the Institute is known for. The Institute has ensured their graduates have every tool they need to be successful in this next phase of life. As they take the next step, I know without a doubt these graduates will continue to make our South Jersey community proud. I extend my sincere congratulations to these graduates and wish them all the best in their future endeavors. God Bless the graduates of Ideal Institute of Technology, and God Bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, this June, I had the honor of celebrating Gino Martignetti's achievement of the rank of Eagle Scout. Gino joined the Scouts at the age of eleven, beginning as a Tiger Cub Scout and quickly rising through the ranks. After transitioning to the Boy Scouts, Gino continued to thrive with the Scouts, and he has now achieved the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. He is an involved member of the Scouting community having held several leadership positions over the years, including Chaplin's Aide, Den Chief, Assistant Patrol Leader, and Quartermaster. For his Eagle Scout Service Project, Gino generously donated his time and his efforts to build a gaga ball pit for Guardian Angels Regional School in Gibbstown, South Jersey. Gino will be continuing his education at Rowan College of Gloucester County starting this fall where he will be participating in their Physical Therapy Assistant Program. It is my privilege to recognize his achievements and I wish him the best in all his future endeavors. God Bless Gino Manignetti and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, in April, I had the pleasure of attending the Quilt of Valor Ceremony honoring George Cappuccio, a World War II Veteran who served our country as an artilleryman. During the war, he was stationed in Germany, France, and Italy and for each he can recount many harrowing tales. After the war, he moved back to Hammonton to care for his aging parents and has lived there ever since. During the 1950's, George and his brother started a local business called Capp's Greenhouse which was loved by many in the area. Throughout his life, George had a passion for music, giving trumpet and guitar lessons for years as well as a stint as a member of a band. He shared this passion with his wife, Aggie, as the two of them taught dance lessons for members of their community. After celebrating his 102nd birthday this past February, George is now the oldest member of the American F.A. Funston Post 186. I extend my utmost gratitude for George's service to this country and to his dedication to his South Jersey community. God Bless George Cappuccio, and God Bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, this April, I had the opportunity to attend Dylan Branca's Eagle Scout Court of Honor. Dylan joined the Boy Scouts in the fifth grade and shortly after achieved the Arrow of Light, the highest honor in Cub Scouts. Once he crossed over into the Boy Scouts, he hit the ground running with his troop, embarking on many adventures such as hiking Mount Washington and Tuckerman's Ravine. One of his most memorable adventures was the twelve-day trip to Philmont Scout Reserve in New Mexico, where Dylan had the opportunity to serve as their ``Leave No Trace'' Guide. For Dylan's Eagle Scout project, he planted lavender in the fields at Reed's farm in Egg Harbor Township. This lavender is now being used to produce different products such as soaps and oils while the fields are simultaneously serving as the location for community yoga classes. Dylan currently studies environmental science at Cedar Creek High School in the Magnet Program while simultaneously earning college credit. It was a pleasure to attend Dylan's Eagle Scout Court of honor and he should be proud of his scouting achievements. God Bless Dylan, and God Bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I want to honor the achievements of the Dino-bots, a robotics team who developed a system nicknamed ``The Coolinator''. The Dino-bots recognized that thermo- electric plants require cooling to operate safely and efficiently, but the water used for cooling is returned to its source fifteen degrees warmer than before. They proposed an idea that nuclear power plants using a once-through cooling system build a pipe system that allows the water to journey twenty feet underground where a heat transfer will take place, resulting in a 7.5 degree Fahrenheit cooling on the water exiting the thermo-electric plants back to its source. After consulting with a scientist from NOAA, it was concluded that this proposal would improve biodiversity and result in a major positive impact. The Dino- bots developed this idea while participating in the annual robotics competition hosted by First Lego League and were selected to move on to the Mid Atlantic Innovation Project Competition. The Dino-bots are actively searching for energy solutions for our Nation, and I am very proud of them for all their accomplishments. God Bless the Dino-bots, and God Bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, it is my pleasure to recognize and honor the illustrious career of Assemblywoman DiAnne Gove who has dedicated her life to serving our South Jersey community. DiAnne's journey began with a strong educational foundation. After graduating from Southern Regional High School, she pursued her passion for teaching, earning degrees in Social Science from Cabrini University and Monmouth University. For an impressive 32 years, she dedicated herself to educating and inspiring students, and her exceptional commitment earned her the well-deserved distinction of High School Teacher of the Year in 1992. In 1984, DiAnne was appointed to complete the term of a former Commissioner in Long Beach Township. Her dedication and leadership were evident, as she was elected to a full term the following year. DiAnne has also served in various community roles, including as an Eucharistic Minister and Lector at St. Francis parish and as a board member of the Southern Ocean County Hospital and the Ocean County Advisory Committee on the Status of Women. In 2003, DiAnne was called upon once again to serve her community, filling a vacancy as Mayor and Commissioner. She was subsequently elected to a fall term and served as President of the Ocean County Mayor's Association. In 2009, DiAnne's commitment to public service led her to the General Assembly, where she was selected to fill a vacant seat, and was reelected many times since. She is a champion of veteran's issues and she authored the ``Veterans' Business Assistance Act,'', a bill that supports veteran-owned businesses that was signed into law in 2011. Because of her dedication, she has been recognized with awards such as a the Southern Ocean County Women of Achievement award and the VFW Legislator of the Year. I thank her for her lifelong commitment and service to her community and to the people of South Jersey. God Bless Assemblywoman DiAnne Gove, and God Bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, today is my honor to bring attention to the courage and strength of Danielle Hong, a woman who fights to bring awareness to Tracheal Bronchial Malacia. At the age of 18, she was diagnosed with asthma after she noticed her lung capacity was quickly deteriorating. After a series of tests and treatment, her condition only seemed to get worse. It wasn't until she visited the professionals at South Jersey Chest Diseases in Hammonton, South Jersey did they discover that she was misdiagnosed. Her illness, Tracheal Bronchial Malacia is commonly mistaken for asthma and because of this, often goes untreated. Following proper treatment, Danielle now has zero airway collapse. Danielle fights every day to bring attention to this pressing medical condition, so others don't have to suffer as she did. Now, she works at a local hospital in South Jersey and continues to educate and bring awareness to our South Jersey community. I thank her for her public service and dedication to this important issue. God Bless Danielle Hong, and God Bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, this April, I had the pleasure of attending Cooper Kane's Eagle Scout Court of Honor. Cooper entered scouting at the age of six and immediately felt at home with his troop. He participated in the National Youth Leadership Training through the Scouts which ignited his passion for leadership. He soon after became a staff member and participated in the National Advanced Youth Leadership Experience in New Mexico. For his final step in completing his rank of Eagle Scout, Cooper built a gaga pit, which is an outdoor group ball game, for the Ventnor Middle School students to enjoy. Cooper will be attending the University of Alabama in the fall and will be pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Cooper should be proud of his achievements with the Boy Scouts, and it was my honor to attend his Eagle Scout Court of Honor. God Bless Cooper, and God Bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, today, I honor the unwavering dedication and remarkable milestones of State Senator Chris Connors throughout his career. His commitment to public service began with his election to the Lacey Township Committee in 1984, followed by his role as Mayor from 1986 to 1990. Senator Connors has also served as Director of the New Jersey Commission on Capital Budgeting and Planning, overseeing the state's capital budget and expenditure plans. Elected to the General Assembly in 1989, Senator Connors has been a champion for his constituents. He was subsequently elected to the Senate in 2007, and his contributions have been recognized through various honors and awards. During my time as a state legislator, I had collaborated with Senator Chris Connors on several practical initiatives, such as establishing the Coastal New Jersey Evacuation Task Force to enhance the preparedness of coastal communities for natural disasters. Additionally, we fought diligently to secure South Jersey representation on the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, the governing body responsible for overseeing the Garden State Parkway. In addition to his political career, Senator Connors is an accomplished attorney, and he remains a dedicated family man, married to his wife Deborah since 1979, and together they have two children. Senator Christopher J. Connors' unwavering dedication, notable achievements, and commitment to serving his community make him a true role model. Let us express our utmost respect and appreciation for his remarkable public service. God Bless Senator Chris Connors, and God Bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, last month, I had the honor of attending Ian McKinney's Eagle Scout Court of Honor. Ian began his scouting experience as a Tiger Cub and after many years and transformative experiences, has now earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Throughout the years, Ian has gained valuable knowledge and useful skills, made possible by his participation in the merit badge program and his steady involvement with the troop. To achieve the rank of Eagle Scout, Ian developed and built a community educational garden to enrich his school's STEM program, leaving a lasting impact on fellow and future classmates. Ian's dedication to the Scouts has been admirable and he should be proud of all that he has achieved with them. God Bless Ian McKinney and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, this May, I had the pleasure of attending the Knights of Columbus ceremony at St. Joseph's Church to honor dedicated members of our community. These individuals have made a profound impact on our South Jersey community through their passion, their resilience, and their unwavering commitment to making our community a better place. I honor Sister Thomas Marie as our Educator of the Year, Flora Morris as our Female Student of the Year, Nicholas Catanoso as our Male Student of the Year, Joseph LaRosa as the recipient of the Shield Award, Thomas Owings as our Senior Citizen of the Year, the Keefer Family as our Family of the Year, Abby Powell as our Citizen of the Year, and Father Perry Cherubini as our Knight of the Year. I express our deepest gratitude to these exceptional individuals for their selfless service and dedication. Let us not only honor them but also draw inspiration from their remarkable examples. Their efforts remind us that each one of us has the power to make a difference and that our collective actions can shape a brighter future for our community. God Bless these outstanding community members, and God Bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, it is my honor and pleasure to extend my personal congratulations to an exceptional healthcare executive, Ms. Lori Herndon, on her recent retirement as President and CEO of AtlantiCare. Throughout her exceptional forty-year career, which began as a critical care nurse on the healthcare frontlines, Ms. Herndon, has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to strategic growth, operations, and development. Since 2016, Ms. Herndon, has led a team of over 6,000 AtlantiCare staff, providers, and volunteers serving the community in more than 100 locations in Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, and Ocean counties of southern New Jersey. Ms. Herndon's focus on listening to patients, a critical aspect of her role as a bedside nurse, has become a hallmark of her leadership. Under Ms. Herndon's visionary leadership, ARMC received Magnet designation for the fifth time, one of only thirty-five Magnet-designated organizations to do so out of 608. In 2022, US News & World Report recognized ARMC as the sixth best hospital in New Jersey. Her work at AtlantiCare has garnered state-wide and national recognition, with Ms. Herndon, recently named one of Modern Healthcare's 100 most influential leaders. The year prior, Herndon, was named one of NJBIZ's Best fifty Women in Business. In January 2022, Ms. Herndon was appointed as chair of the New Jersey Hospital Association, where she has worked to protect healthcare workers, redesign care delivery and develop the workforce. I extend my heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to Ms. Lori Herndon, on her retirement after an outstanding career spanning more than four decades. God Bless Lori Herndon, and God Bless our United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, this Month, I had the honor of attending Nathan Amey's Eagle Scout Court of Honor. Nathan first joined the Scouts as a Tiger Cub in the first grade and immediately embraced the true tenets of scouting. He quickly emerged as a natural leader to all and embodied the characteristics of the Scout Law. Nathan is someone his troop can count on and is constantly thinking of ways to improve the scouting experience for his troop. Whenever the Senior Patrol Leader is unable to attend, Nathan is the first person the scouts turn to for guidance. His Eagle Scout Project was based on his reverence for the American flag as he built a flag retirement pit area for the American Legion Post 524. Outside of scouting, he participates in countless activities such as playing the cello and piano, participating on his school's tennis team, is an active member in Model United Nations and French club and so much more; all while maintaining his academic standing of Distinguished honors. Nathan is now a sophomore at Ocean City High School and continues to excel in all facets of his life. Nathan should be proud of his achievements in the Scouts, and I wish him all the best in his promising future. God Bless Nathan, and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, it is with great pride that I congratulate John Siciliano for his retirement from the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority after Twenty Seven and a half years of service. His career with GWTIDA began in 1995 as CFO and he quickly proved himself a force to be reckoned with in the travel and tourism industry. He soon after became Executive Director and CFO in 1997. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in developing the 260,000 square foot, Seventy million Dollar Wildwoods Convention Center, which has become a major economic catalyst, hosting over one hundred forty five events annually and generating more than fifty million dollars in revenue a year. Under John's guidance, GWTIDA nurtured a culture of excellence, leading to an average employee longevity of seventeen years. John's dedication and advocacy have been pivotal in the resurgence of the Wildwoods as a top family vacation destination. Some of his professional achievements include but are not limited to the Cape May County Chamber of Commerce Golden Whelk Tourism Award, the Tourism Excellence Award by the New Jersey Tourism Industry, and many more. John consistently pursues innovative strategies to keep the Wildwoods at the forefront of the travel and tourism industry. His positive impact to the community extends outside of his work with the GWTIDA as he shifts his focus to helping children in the area maintain good grades through the Kiwanis BUG program. His good work has culminated into an enriched community, and it reflects the type of man that John is. I thank John for his for dedication to South Jersey and to GWTIDA, and I hope he enjoys his retirement. God Bless John Siciliano and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, last month, it was an honor to celebrate Miguel Santos' achievement of his Eagle Scout ceremony. Miguel joined the Scouts as a Tiger Scout and, along with his brothers, has completed the journey to Eagel Scout. This journey was a transformative one for Miguel, teaching him lessons like the importance of leadership, the significance of comradery, and the value of service. For his Eagle Scout Project, he rehabilitated a structure at Saint Joesph's Cemetery in Woolwich in South Jersey and made it into a meditative prayer space for those to enjoy and find solitude. Along with his project, he dedicated a lot of his time to the Church, resulting in him completing all four Pillars of Faith and earning the four Catholic Scouting Awards. Miguel plans to take the lessons that he has learned with the Scouts and apply them to his future studies of filmmaking and design at Rutgers University in Camden. I am incredibly proud of Miguel for all his achievements in the Scouts and I know he has a bright future ahead of him. God Bless Miguel Santos and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, this June, I had the pleasure of celebrating Jacob Gilchrist's achievements with the Scouts. Jacob joined the Scouts as a Tjger Cub and after years of hard work and dedication, has earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Through earning merit badges, participating in outdoor adventures, and developing his leadership skills, Jacob has gained valuable knowledge that he will carry with him for the rest of his life. For his Eagle Scout Service Project, Jacob renovated and repaired a local World War Two monument in his local community. Jacob's service does not go unnoticed, and I applaud him for his hard work and dedication for improving our South Jersey community. I congratulate Jacob and I wish him all the best. God Bless Jacob Gilchrist and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, this past June, it was my privilege to attend Rubem Santos' Eagle Scout Ceremony. As soon as Rubem joined the Scouts, it was his dream to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout. Now, as this dream comes to fruition, it is my privilege to recognize the time and energy he has dedicated to the Scouts. Throughout his scouting journey, he has collected thirty one merit badges and three Catholic Scouting Awards. For his project to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout, he built Barn Owl Boxes for Woodstown Borough, South Jersey, for the purpose of providing a safe nesting environment for Barn Owls and encouraging the growth of their population. Outside of his involvement with the Scouts, he was a committed member of the South Jersey Robotics Team, the Lunatecs, who helped to develop a custom mold for an adaptive swim fin for veteran amputees. He is constantly searching for solutions, and this drives his passion to study Civil Engineering in the future. Rubem should be proud of his accomplishments, and it is my honor to celebrate him. God Bless Rubem Santos and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, it is my honor and privilege to commemorate the induction of Ralph Contini as the National President of UNICO National. Ralph, an exceptional leader with fourty years of dedicated service to UNICO at all levels, currently serves as its Executive Vice President and Chairman of the UNICO National Columbus Day Committee. Throughout his tenure, he has been recognized for his unwavering commitment and received prestigious awards, including the Dr. Anthony P. Vastola Gold Medal Award and the Outstanding District Governor Award. Born and raised in Italy, Ralph's deep connection to Italian heritage has shaped his remarkable journey. Beyond UNICO, Ralph actively participates in several Italian American organizations, holding esteemed positions such as Treasurer/Executive Director at the Tri-State Italian American Congress and serving on the Board of Trustees for The Columbians. His dedication was further recognized with the honorable title of Cavaliere by the President of the Republic of Italy. As District Governor of New Jersey Districts Six and Seven, Ralph received the ``Outstanding'' and ``Distinguished'' UNICO National District Governor Awards, recognizing his outstanding leadership and dedicated efforts in managing the chapters within each district. Today, as the proud owner of Ralph A. Contini, CPA, LLC in Paramus, he provides top-tier accounting, tax, consulting, and financial planning services. Now residing Hackensack with his family, Ralph finds joy and fulfillment in his family life and values the support they provide as he continues to make a meaningful impact to their community. His legacy as an outstanding leader and advocate Italian heritage stands as a testament to his deep commitment and passion to the cause. Congratulations to Ralph for his induction as National President at UNICO and I thank him for his dedication to his community. God Bless Ralph Contini and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, today I celebrate the accomplishments of Noah Quinton Brown and his recent achievement of the rank of Eagle Scout. Noah began scouting at the age of five, following in the footsteps of four generations of family before him. Now, having reached the highest rank in scouting, we celebrate his achievements. During his time in the Scouts, Noah has participated in countless fundraising and community service activities along with many different camping and hiking adventures. In July of 2022, Noah completed a 60- mile Trek at Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico where he achieved the Boy Scout 50 miler award. For his Eagle Scout Project, he built benches, a water station, and rehabilitated a pavilion for use by spectators at cycling events put on by Camp Edge in Alloway, South Jersey. His remains active in the scouts with his current position of Junior Assistant Scoutmaster at Troop 60 in Daretown, South Jersey. Noah is now a junior at Woodstown High School, consistently earning his way on to the Honor Roll. Outside of scouting, he is an athlete on his school's Varsity Track and Field team and a volunteer at his church, all while maintaining a job at a local farm. Along with his Eagle Scout award, Noah will be presented with the Bronze and Gold palms for his remarkable leadership and his willingness to accept responsibility. I am incredibly proud of Noah for all his accomplishments in the Scouts and I know he has a bright future ahead of him. God Bless Noah and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, today I celebrate the accomplishments of Noah Wertzberger and his recent achievement of the rank of Eagle Scout. Noah embarked on his scouting journey as a K-cub during his kindergarten years. Throughout his scouting experience, he remained actively involved and just recently completed his Eagle Project in October. His project involved the removal of two Osprey nests situated on the Great Egg Harbor Watershed. Once those were removed, he constructed and installed replacement Osprey Nests with the help of the Great Egg Harbor Watershed Association. Noah is extremely grateful for Troop Seventy-Nine and the Boy Scouts for imparting invaluable lessons and fostering friendships. After achieving the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, he now serves as an assistant scoutmaster, providing ongoing assistance to the Troop. In the upcoming fall, he will be attending Seton Hall University. Noah should be incredibly proud of his accomplishments, and I know he has a bright future ahead of him. God Bless Noah Wertzberger and God Bless the United States of America.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 9 a.m. tomorrow.

Mr. VAN DREW

Mr. VAN DREW. Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Johnson for his leadership. Mr. Johnson is focused. He is an individual who is bringing this whole body forward, and I look forward to working with him continually on these issues. There is a saying, we all know it, the truth shall set you free. The accusations made against the Bidens more than require an investigation. These accusations have painted a picture of corruption, bribery, and shameful behavior unbecoming of our executive branch. Let's talk about them a little bit. Bank records obtained by the Oversight Committee reveal almost $20 million in payments directed to Biden's associates and family. These aren't Republican talking points. These aren't Jeff Van Drew talking points. This is the reality of what we have already found. Over 150 transactions involving the Bidens have been flagged as ``suspicious activity.'' That is not only by the banks, but also the Treasury Department. President Biden himself participated in phone calls with his son, Hunter--it is a fact--effectively acting as the merchandise that was being sold by his son, Hunter, who was the salesman. They closed deals, and we want to know what they are about: calls that led to the funneling of millions of dollars to Hunter and other Biden family members and Hunter's associates. The list goes on and on and on. I am only touching the surface. This is more than enough to garner the extra powers granted from an impeachment inquiry. Our goal is to get to the truth. As I said in the beginning of this conversation, the truth shall set you free. If there is nothing for them to worry about, they should welcome an impeachment inquiry. They should welcome producing the records, and they should welcome producing the statements. It is just the truth that we want. We have a mission, a duty, and a responsibility. Our duty is to restore the American people's faith in our institutions. Our mission is to reaffirm that no one person, no one group is ever above the law in the United States of America. This inquiry will move forward, with full transparency and steadfast resolve. If there is nothing here to hide, there is nothing here to worry about. If the allegations are confirmed, there will be, and needs to be justice.