Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding group of young citizens from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who are actively living out their faith and making our community a better place.

Earlier this year, members of the Newtown Quaker Meeting helped raise $1,665 for the Mercer Street Friends' Community Schools through a lasagna dinner held at the Newtown Friends Meetinghouse. The youth collected voluntary donations, served the meal, and cleaned up after dinner.

This exemplary act of community service is the norm, not the exception, for young members of Newtown Quaker Meeting.

Previously held lasagna dinners have raised funds for Penndel Food Pantry, Heifer International, Haiti Relief, and Save Darfur, among other organizations. By serving simple meals twice a year, they have now raised over $28,000 for charity over a 10-year period.

Mr. Speaker, I applaud the work of these children, their parents, and congregants of the Newtown Quaker Meeting. I would like to particularly thank members of the Children's Religious Education Committee of Newtown Meeting, including Sarah Buxton, Eileen Grant, and Kelly Lake for all of their work.

In Memory of Malcolm Crooks

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and memory of a resident of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who passed away last month at the age of 96.

Malcolm Crooks, a lifelong resident of Solebury Township, was a noted environmental and conservation leader. He was the founding member of the Honey Hollow and Aquetong Watershed Associations and was a member of the first Solebury Township Planning Commission. He also served on numerous boards that promoted environmental protection, including those of the Bucks County Audubon Society and the Bucks County Planning Commission.

A man of devout faith, Malcolm was a member of Solebury Friends Meeting, and in the 1960s, he moved to Algeria and led a team of Quakers to assist local residents. Throughout his life, Malcolm and his wife, Elaine, continued to travel the globe and immerse themselves in world cultures.

Mr. Speaker, Malcolm made our community a better place. Generations will continue to experience the beauty of our home because of his selfless work.

I send my prayers and condolences to Malcolm's wife and his children--Sylvia, Malcolm, and Catherine--along with his entire family.

In Memory of Pete Rossetti

Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to honor the life and memory of an American patriot from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who passed away on June 5 at the age of 96. Pete Rossetti, a resident of Southampton, lived a life in service to our country and our community.

Born in Philadelphia, Pete served honorably in the United States Navy during World War II. He earned the American Theater, European Theater Combat Medal and was also a Purple Heart recipient. In January, Pete was awarded the French Legion of Honor Medal, the highest French military distinction, for his service. Pete served in several campaigns during the war, including the invasion of Sicily, Salerno, Angelo, and Normandy.

A graduate of Temple University, Pete earned a degree in business administration from Temple University, and he later worked as an employee benefit consultant.

Mr. Speaker, I send my deepest condolences to Pete's children--Donna, Sandra, Carla, Joseph, and Mary Ellen--along with the entire Rossetti family. May they take comfort that he is now reunited with Annette and enjoying his eternal reward.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding group of citizens in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who are actively engaged in academic achievement.

Last year, New Hope-Solebury Middle School established its robotics club, and it did not take long for that club to grow and find success. They quickly grew to 20 students strong, with 5 students recently awarded the Judges Award at the competitive VEX Robotics Competition.

The robotics club at New Hope-Solebury Middle School is looking to build off of its accomplishments. With the help of librarian Craig Smith and school board member Mark Cowell, members are looking to become more active in competitions to demonstrate their skills. Recently, the Lambertville-New Hope Rotary Club, of which Mark is a member, held a fundraiser to assist these kids in reaching their goals.

I would like to congratulate members of the New Hope-Solebury Middle School robotics club on their achievements. I would like to thank Mark and Craig and members of the Lambertville-New Hope Rotary Club for their vision.

Recognizing Walter Wydro for His Steadfast Commitment to Community

Service

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a citizen of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, for his steadfast commitment to community service.

Walter Wydro, a resident of Upper Makefield, has been a constant presence in local initiatives for 50 years. Walter has been a champion for land preservation and played a significant role in open space efforts in Upper Makefield Township.

Since 1972, Walter has served on the Upper Makefield Planning Commission. He was also a founding member of the Newtown Area Zoning Jointure, the first of its kind in the State of Pennsylvania.

In 2004, Walter was named Upper Makefield's Volunteer of the Year and, in 2005, he joined the Bucks County Planning Commission. His work has been so impactful and his reach and expertise so great that the Bucks County Commissioners declared May 7, 2019, Walter Wydro Day.

Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have the privilege to represent such a thoughtful and compassionate constituent as Walter, and I thank Walter for his innumerable contributions to our community.

Recognizing Ben Harder for His Strength and Perseverance

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize an outstanding resident from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who is teaching us all about strength and perseverance.

Ben Harder, a resident of Levittown, recently participated in the Kiwanis-Herald Sesame Place Classic, which I was honored to attend. This was Ben's 21st consecutive year participating in the 5K race, an event cherished by our local community. His presence this year was made remarkable, however, due to the fact that Ben is currently undergoing chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer.

Mr. Speaker, Ben is no stranger to athletic feats. While a student at The University of Southern Mississippi, he was also a top-ranked power lifter for his weight class.

I would like to honor Ben for his strength and his spirit in the face of adversity, and our entire community is praying for him as he undergoes treatment.

I would also like to extend our best wishes to Ben's family, including his siblings, Arthur, Chloebelle, Rosen, and Eleanor.

Madam Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to honor the life and memory of Trooper Donald C. Brackett, a dedicated law enforcement professional with the Pennsylvania State Police. Trooper Brackett passed away while on duty Saturday morning at the age of 58.

Our Nation just recognized National Police Week, a time to reflect upon and honor the sacrifices made by the men and women in law enforcement. Trooper Brackett was no exception.

A resident of Bensalem, Trooper Brackett served nearly 18 years in the United States Marine Corps and enlisted in the Pennsylvania State Police in October of 2001. He was most recently assigned to the patrol section of Troop T, King of Prussia, and was previously assigned to Troop K, Media, and Troop M in Trevose throughout his distinguished career.

Madam Speaker, Trooper Brackett lived his life in service to our Nation and to our community. He is truly an American hero, and I send my deepest condolences to his wife, Marta, and his children, Gabriella and Brianna.

Trooper Brackett lived his entire life in service to our community. He set the example for our entire Nation to follow.

In Recognition of Paul Steklenski

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a native of Perkasie in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who is promoting animal welfare through the nonprofit organization he established 4 years ago.

Paul Steklenski, an Army veteran and a network engineer, founded Flying Fur Animal Rescue in 2015. Flying his 1970 Beechcraft single- engine airplane, Paul transports shelter animals, mostly dogs, at risk of being euthanized to rescue groups along the East Coast. To date, Paul estimates he has saved the lives of over 1,300 animals in need.

Paul credits Rick Witt, who helps manage the operations at Doylestown Airport, for the success of this organization. Rick allows Paul to use the original aircraft he used to transport the animals.

Madam Speaker, I applaud the work of Flying Fur Animal Rescue and thank Paul for his work. I encourage all of us to follow his lead of being a voice for the voiceless.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize an outstanding nonprofit organization in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, that is serving individuals in need in our community.

Brush With the law, based in Montgomeryville, was founded as a visual arts program at the Montgomery County Correctional Facility in 2013. The program quickly grew popular and was transitioned into one that helps marginalized individuals trying to reenter society.

Brush With the Law works with municipalities and small businesses in their endeavors, which involves creation of conceptual art installations to beautify our community. These installations seek to raise awareness for issues important to local residents, such as drug addiction, homelessness, and climate change. The principal goal of Brush With the Law is to bring people together, a vision which we all should applaud.

I would like to recognize the founder and director, Maria Maneos of North Wales, for her leadership and for her work in empowering our community.

Madam Speaker, I rise today with enthusiasm and gratitude that exactly 100 years to the day this very body passed the 19th Amendment which guaranteed women the right to vote.

This decision was a critical step forward, a major development in a representative government to empower millions of Americans and allow them access to the fundamental freedoms enshrined in our Constitution.

The passage of the 19th Amendment was an important turning point, and the culmination of decades of fervent activism by members of the women's suffrage movement and their allies. Their vision and their tenacity paved the way for generations of leaders who would follow.

And in their honor, I am proud to be the co-lead of H.R. 1980, the Smithsonian Women's History Museum Act, along with my friend and colleague, Carolyn Maloney from New York, to give these pioneers proper recognition by constructing a National Women's History Museum on the National Mall.

Madam Speaker, I am privileged today to be a Member of this House at such a monumental time where there are more women serving in the House of Representatives than ever before. I am proud to serve with them and to honor this centennial anniversary by their side.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize two impressive student athletes from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who are making their school and our entire community very proud.

Justin Massielo and Emelie Curtis, students at Pennsbury High School in Fairless Hills, Pennsylvania, both recently hit impressive milestones in their respective sports.

Justin, a senior, recently recorded his 100th hit as a 4-year starter for the Falcons' varsity baseball team, and Emelie, a junior, just notched her 100th career goal as a 3-year starter for the Falcons' varsity girls lacrosse team.

What makes their achievements even more special, Madam Speaker, is that Justin and Emelie also are cousins.

On behalf of our entire community, I would like to congratulate Justin and Emelie on their notable athletic achievements. We wish them, and their families continued success.

Recognizing Lieutenant Terry Hughes

Madam Speaker, this week is National Police Week, and I rise today to recognize a dedicated law enforcement professional from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who recently retired after a very distinguished career in public service.

Lieutenant Terry Hughes of the Bristol Township Police Department retired after over 30 years in local law enforcement.

A resident of Bristol Township throughout his entire life, Lieutenant

Hughes previously worked at the police departments in Hulmeville, Newtown Township, Northampton, and Middletown before joining his hometown's police force in 1990.

Throughout his entire tenure in Bristol Township, Terry became a senior member of the department, leading detectives, running special investigations, and he was a driving force in public outreach.

Madam Speaker, I had the opportunity to personally work with Lieutenant Hughes on the Department of Justice's Weed and Seed program.

We thank our friend, Terry, for his years of public service and for protecting our community. Terry has law enforcement in his blood, and I have no doubt whatsoever that his service in protecting our community will carry on.

St. Michael's Evangelical Lutheran Church Celebrates 150th Anniversary

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a faith community in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, that recently celebrated a very special milestone.

St. Michael's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sellersville commemorates its 150th anniversary this year.

First commissioned in 1869, St. Michael's was to be a union church between Reformed and Lutheran Christians. Nearly 2,000 people attended one of St. Michael's consecration ceremonies.

The church is rich with tradition and history. Early sermons were spoken in German, and in 1904, the church became the first building in Sellersville to have electricity.

Today, the St. Michael's community is as active as ever, participating in community meals, working on community gardens, and providing food for Pennridge FISH and Keystone Opportunity Center, and offering numerous educational programs.

Madam Speaker, we congratulate the St. Michael's faith community on their 150th anniversary of such an amazing and special place.

I would also like to thank Pastor Julie Bergdahl for her pastoral care and leadership.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an individual and organization in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, working to make our community a better place.

Earlier this month, Zane Moore, the president and CEO of the YMCA of Bucks County, walked across the entire county to raise awareness of the positive impact the YMCA has on our neighbors and funding for its programs.

Last Thursday, Zane began his trek at the YMCA in Quakertown, wrapping up at the YMCA in Doylestown. He picked up on Friday where he left off, completing his journey that same day, all the way to the YMCA in Lower Bucks County in Fairless Hills.

Madam Speaker, I applaud Zane and all the local leaders who joined him along the way on his journey. We appreciate the work of the YMCA and all of its efforts to promote education, physical well-being, and recovery programs for those in our community.

Recognizing Rotarian of the Year Max Rose

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize a resident of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who was recently honored as Rotarian of the Year by the Rotary Club of Doylestown.

Last month, 24-year Rotary Club member Max Rose received this distinction at the 10th annual Four-Way Test Awards Fundraiser. During his distinguished tenure, he twice served as president of the Rotary Club of Doylestown, has been an instrumental force in the organization's youth exchange program, and has assisted greatly in local events such as the Borough Dam cleanup and the Doylestown at Dusk Car Show.

Madam Speaker, I congratulate Max on this well-deserved recognition. I also thank Rotary Club president Gail Linenberg, along with all the members of the Rotary Club of Doylestown, for their dedication and their service to our community.

Recognizing Students and Faculty of St. Andrew School, Newtown,

Pennsylvania

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding group of students in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who recently partnered with a local organization to comfort children who have experienced traumatic events.

At St. Andrew School in Newtown, a group of third-grade students participated in a service project in collaboration with the Newtown Quilters' Guild. Using lighthearted drawings by the students, the guild will create colorful quilts and distribute them to the Newtown Township Police Department and emergency services personnel to give to young children who have been through difficult situations.

Madam Speaker, I applaud these students and the faculty of St. Andrew School in Newtown, especially Principal Nancy Matteo and third-grade teachers Ashlyn Kalicki and Lynn Dixon.

I also thank all the members of the Newtown Quilters' Guild for their thoughtfulness, along with all the officers of the Newtown Township Police Department on this National Police Week. We appreciate all the work they do for our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Bucks County Community College men's golf team for their strong performance this season, their first year competing as a Division II athletic program.

While golf season for most Americans is just underway, the Bucks County Community College men's golf team has been playing since March. Earlier this month, the team secured a bid to the 2019 NJCAA Division II Men's National Golf Championship after winning their regional golf championship at Cumberland Country Club in Maryland with a combined team score of 320.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to particularly recognize golfer Chris Benvenuto and Coach Scott Bradshaw for their work in guiding this team to such success. We wish them and all Bucks County golfers all the best of luck as they move on to compete in Indiana and beyond. Our entire Bucks County community is incredibly proud of each and every one of these team members and Bucks County Community College.

Teacher Appreciation Week

Mr. Speaker, this week is Teacher Appreciation Week, and I rise to recognize an outstanding school faculty member from Bucks County, Pennsylvania.

Jeff Klein, a guidance counselor at Tamanend Middle School in Warrington, was recently named the winner of the Unsung Heroes Award, sponsored by the Pennsylvania State Education Association and the Council for the Advancement of Public Schools. In addition to his work counseling students, Jeff serves as a coach and works to give students additional learning opportunities both inside and outside of the traditional classroom.

With this prestigious honor comes a $2,000 grant, which Jeff says will be put toward the painting of a mural in the Tamanend gym that honors the basketball tournament he conducts to fundraise for the Kelly Anne Dolan Memorial Fund, a nonprofit organization in Montgomery County that assists families raising children with disabilities.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to honor Jeff, and I thank him for his service to our community.

I would also like to thank the Kelly Anne Dolan Memorial Fund, PSEA, and Tamanend Middle School and their principal, Dr. Brian Caughie, for all they do to educate our youth and to serve all those in need in our community.

Teacher Appreciation Week

Mr. Speaker, this week is Teacher Appreciation Week, and I rise today to recognize a dedicated educator from Bucks County, Pennsylvania.

Andrea Mangold, a teacher at the Holland Elementary School, was recently named an Outstanding Earth Science Teacher for the State of Pennsylvania by the National Association of Geoscience Teachers. These awards are given to educators who contribute greatly to students' interest in earth science at the precollege level. In June, Andrea will be recognized by her peers at the National Association of Geoscience Teachers' Eastern Section Meeting.

Mr. Speaker, I am grateful for Andrea's work and appreciate her dedication for instilling a passion for science and learning in our community's youth.

I would also like to recognize Holland Elementary School Principal Joe MacClay and the National Association of Geoscience Teachers for all they do to educate and inspire our next generation of leaders.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize two outstanding citizens from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who are making our community extremely proud.

Jacqueline and Victoria Schneider, twin sisters from Holland, Pennsylvania, will be graduating from Neumann University in Delaware County this weekend.

Throughout their time in college, Jacqueline and Victoria have been defined by their drive, their dedication, and their work ethic. Both women are standout students and athletes, competing on the Neumann Knights softball team.

Notably, Jacqueline and Victoria are dual valedictorians for the Neumann University class of 2019. This is the first time in the 54-year history of the school that two students will be receiving the valedictorian medal, and both will have the opportunity to address their peers at graduation.

I congratulate Jacqueline, who is pursuing a career in law enforcement, and Victoria, who is pursuing a career in education, on this outstanding achievement.

I would also like to recognize their parents, Gerry and Karen Schneider, for raising such amazing children and future leaders of our community.

Recognizing Educator Josh Isaacsohn

Mr. Speaker, this week is Teacher Appreciation

Week, and I rise to recognize an educator in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who is teaching his students the value of good citizenship.

Josh Isaacsohn, a fifth grade teacher at the Gayman Elementary School in Doylestown, was recently recognized by the Central Bucks school board for his work in the classroom.

For the past 3 years, during each month of the school year, Josh has sent notes and drawings from his students to parents of members of our military who, in turn, would add them to care packages.

Mr. Speaker, the men and women in our military deserve our full support and gratitude, and I thank Josh for teaching our community's kids about respecting and honoring our true American heroes.

I would also like to thank Dr. John Kopicki, superintendent of the Central Bucks School District, and Glenn Schloeffel, president of the Bucks County school board, for all of their work as well. We thank them for their leadership in our community.

Recognizing Artists of Yardley

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a nonprofit organization in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, that was recently named Pennsbury School District's 2018-2019 Nonprofit Partner of the Year.

Artists of Yardley, founded in 2004, is an organization dedicated to enhancing creativity in our community through immersion in the arts.

Located at the Janney House on Patterson Farm in Yardley, Artists of Yardley boasts over 250 members and offers classes, workshops, and summer camps for young people in Bucks County. These opportunities, taught by professional art instructors, seek to amplify the artistic talents and education of our community's youth.

Notably, for the past 3 years, Artists of Yardley has organized an art competition for Pennsbury School District students at its headquarters.

Mr. Speaker, I applaud Artists of Yardley for all of its amazing work with our community and for inspiring Bucks County students to pursue their dreams.

I would also like to particularly thank Artists of Yardley's president, Alison Smith, and vice president, Jim Bongartz, for all of their work and service to our community.

Madam Speaker, for nearly two decades, the U.S. Department of State's Benjamin A. Gilman International Student Program has afforded qualified American students the ability to study abroad. To date, over 28,000 outstanding Americans representing 1,300 colleges and universities have studied in over 150 countries as part of this program. Students selected represent diverse backgrounds and engage in a unique educational experience that gives them skills related to national security and economic competitiveness.

I rise today to recognize the prestigious accomplishment of my constituent, Taylor Boyer of Doylestown, who received a Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship to study abroad in Belize during the 2017-2018 academic year while a student at Delaware Valley University.

On behalf of all residents of the First Congressional District, I congratulate Taylor on this outstanding achievement.

Mr. Speaker, as we approach Teacher Appreciation Week, I would like to recognize an extraordinary educator in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who is making a difference in the lives of our community's young people.

George Daka, a U.S. history teacher at Bensalem High School, was recently selected as an honoree for the 13th annual Teacher as Hero Awards. Later this month, George will receive his award at the National Liberty Museum in Philadelphia alongside 11 other outstanding educators from Pennsylvania and Delaware.

George sees his job as more than just teaching his students about history, and he seeks to inspire them about our Nation's rich traditions. We applaud George on this well-deserved award, and we wish him and his family all the best.

We would also like to thank Kathryn Hinshaw, an English teacher at Bensalem High School, for nominating George for this well-deserved honor.

Celebrating the 100th Birthday of Marjorie Burtis

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th birthday of a Bucks County resident who is sharing her talent and creativity with others.

Last month, Langhorne resident Marjorie Burtis celebrated her incredible milestone with more than 100 family members and friends.

This was no ordinary birthday celebration, however. It also served as the unveiling of Marjorie's new art exhibit at the Bucks County Visitor Center.

Despite her many life experiences, Marjorie discovered her passion for watercolor painting merely 12 years ago after taking an art class. Since that

time, she has sharpened her skills, with one fine arts professional saying Marjorie paints ``as a realist.''

Mr. Speaker, we wish Marjorie a very happy belated 100th birthday, and we congratulate her on her exhibit.

We thank Marjorie and her family for all that they do in our community.

Recognizing the Bensalem High School Jazz Band

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a talented group of young musicians from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who were recently honored for their performances.

Last month, the Bensalem High School Jazz Band traveled to perform in the Cavalcade of Bands Jazz Championships. Bensalem High School Jazz Band, well-known for their outstanding performances, was the only band given the superior rating at the event and was also named grand champion.

This is the third time that Bensalem High School Jazz Band has been named grand champion over the past 11 years, a testament to the band's skills, dedication, and work ethic.

Critical to the success of these young people is the director of the Bensalem High School Jazz Band, Michael Zimmerman. We extend our gratitude to him for working with our community's youth and students to sharpen their musical abilities, and we congratulate all performers in the Bensalem High School Jazz Band for their earned distinctions.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a veterinary clinic and dedicated doctor in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, both doing their part to protect the health of service dogs in our community.

Service dogs greatly assist members of our community in innumerable ways, providing companionship, helping individuals with special needs, and serving as therapy dogs.

Recognizing their importance, Dr. Martha Low of the Center for Animal Referral and Emergency Services, also known as CARES, is offering free eye exams to service dogs. These critical exams protect the eyesight of these animals and allow them to work in nursing homes, schools, and other facilities where their services are needed.

I extend my sincerest appreciation to CARES and to Dr. Low. Organized by the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists, Dr. Low is one of over 300 doctors who perform this work throughout the United States. We are so grateful for all their work and their service to our community.

Recognizing the Dominic Liples Scholarship Fund

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an extraordinary family and community from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, that is working to make our community a better place.

Earlier this month, Ciarlo Liples threw out the first pitch at the baseball game between Central Bucks West and Pennridge high schools. Ciarlo is the brother of Dominic Liples, an 8-year-old boy who tragically succumbed to brain cancer in 2016.

Ciarlo and his family have since developed a close bond with the CB West team and our entire community. The Liples family has turned their tragedy and grief into strength.

Working with this team, the family helped establish the Dominic Liples Scholarship Fund to award the senior baseball player who represents Dominic's positive attitude and ability.

I applaud the Central Bucks High School West team. We wish them all continued success this season.

I would also like to extend all our gratitude to the Liples family and give Ciarlo and his parents, Ken and Kira, our heartfelt thanks on behalf of everybody in our community.

Recognizing Bowen's Barber Shop

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a small business in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, for helping kids in our community.

Bowen's Barber Shop in Newtown recently teamed up with the Bucks County Intermediate Unit to give five young men with special needs haircuts for their prom. In addition to their haircuts, these students got the ability to interact and independently communicate with their barber, giving them real-world experience and confidence.

Bowen's has been a longstanding, respected business in Newtown, and I appreciate their contributions to our community.

I thank the owner of Bowen's, Tracey Bowen, for her generosity.

I would also like to extend my gratitude to Merri Kurman and the Bucks County Intermediate Unit transition program for their work in empowering individuals with special needs.

Our community thanks each and every one of these individuals and organizations.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Council Rock High School South Symphony Orchestra. Beginning April 10, 2019, the Council Rock High School South Symphony Orchestra will be traveling throughout Spain for a nine-day tour.

Notably, the symphony orchestra will perform in three public concerts: at the Teatro Auditorio Riberas del Guadaira in Seville, the Auditorio Manuel de Falla in Granada, and the Plaza Ayuntamiento in Toledo.

These performances not only give these young students the opportunity to perform in historic venues, but allow them to immerse themselves in Spanish music, culture, and history.

I would like to applaud Mr. Christopher Simon, the Orchestra Director at Council Rock High School South, for his visionary leadership. I wish him and all the talented musicians under his direction an eye-opening and rewarding trip.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize an outstanding citizen from Bucks County, Pennsylvania, who was recently honored with the 38th Annual Bucks County Women's History Month Award.

Jane Grim, a resident of East Rockhill Township, has distinguished herself as a leader in our community. She was originally nominated for this distinction by the League of Women Voters of Bucks County, an organization she joined in 1970 to promote civic awareness and good citizenship.

Jane's record of service is truly impressive. She has the unique distinction of being named the first female trustee of Grand View Hospital, has served as a member and chair of the Pennridge Youth Aid Panel, and has worked as a docent at the James A. Michener Art Museum.

I cannot think of a worthier choice for the Bucks County Women's History Month Award than Jane Grim. I wish Jane and her family all of the best, and congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition.

Madam Chair, I rise today in strong support of legislation introduced by myself and Representative Karen Bass to reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act.

VAWA programs have provided educational tools and helped survivors and their families get the resources they need to protect themselves and to begin the healing process. This should not be a partisan issue.

I would like to thank Congresswoman Bass for her leadership. She is a valued partner in this fight, and I am grateful that we can make this bill bipartisan.

Across our country, Madam Chair, millions of women and children have been saved by the programs funded through VAWA. Shelters, counseling, training, and law enforcement are all key parts of a national strategy to end domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking.

In the district I represent, in Bucks and Montgomery Counties, in Pennsylvania, and in all of our districts, VAWA programs are saving lives.

A Woman's Place in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, relies on VAWA funding to save lives. Unlike some larger women's organizations, their emergency housing only has room for seven families. Nonetheless, their shelter saved 150 women and children who were in imminent danger, often fleeing for their lives.

Another Bucks County organization, Network of Victim Assistance, or NOVA, has helped more than 3,600 victims of sexual assault, human trafficking, stalking, and other serious crimes. NOVA's work to expand prevention programs, which is essential to preventing violence, is supported by VAWA.

This bill also includes my Combat Online Predators Act, which will increase penalties for cyberstalking against children. My constituent, Madison Zezzo, was cyberstalked by a then 51-year-old predator, who was only sentenced to probation and counseling. Three years later, he made contact with Madison again and created a web of social media accounts to cyberstalk her. He was later sentenced to between 18 months and 7 years in prison.

From domestic violence and sexual assault to cyberstalking, we must do more to prevent violence and, when it does happen, to support victims and bring perpetrators to justice.

Madam Chair, the Violence Against Women Act will help us do all these things. I urge my colleagues, both Democrat and Republican alike, to support this legislation, which will save lives in all of our communities.