Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to H.R. 3684.

Our country's infrastructure is crumbling. Prices are surging everywhere. Yet before us is an infrastructure plan that fails to address America's needs, and, in fact, will make our lives even more expensive. This bill neglects to fix the bureaucracy that makes the United States one of the most difficult places in the world to build infrastructure.

The bill diminishes American energy prosperity and grows our dependence on the Chinese Communist Party's slave labor. The bill makes goods and services more expensive by overregulating American workers and American businesses.

To put it simply, this bill makes it more expensive to be an American.

We need truly bipartisan legislation to address the American infrastructure crisis. We should focus on traditional infrastructure by investing in roads and bridges and dams, as well as modern infrastructure of broadband internet. We should strengthen American supply chains so that the American infrastructure boom is fueled by American materials, American workers, and American businesses.

Mr. Speaker, these are the steps we must take to build a stronger America. I and all of us will never stop fighting for this vision of American greatness.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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