Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, after almost 12 years in Congress, today is my last day. It has been an honor to serve with you all from both parties. I love this institution as it still exemplifies what is best about our government. We are the people's House. While I am proud that we put people before politics, there is much more to do. I am leaving to continue that work and hope to have a greater impact on our country.

I believe the current focus on extremism demands us to heed the words Abraham Lincoln uttered years ago as we face a similar threat to our existence today--a house divided cannot stand. But I add--a house united will not fail. It is time for petty political posturing to end. Leadership must emerge and in God I trust. His divine protection will extend again if only we acknowledge and accept His love and the divine spark that exists in each of us as citizens of our great Nation.

I thank my family, who without their love and support I am nothing. I also thank the people who have worked for us and helped so many. I am grateful.

My most profound appreciation is for the people of western New York. Thank you for giving a country lawyer, the youngest of 12, raised by a single mother, whose father passed away when I was just 2 years old, the honor of representing you at the highest level. Only in America can such a dream come true.

I humbly bid farewell and submit my resignation as a Member of the House. I wish you all Godspeed.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor Gordon C. Baxter, a World War II Veteran and Career Fireman of Geneva, New York. Gordon passed away on March 17, 2022, at the age of 95, and it is only fitting that today we remember him for his enduring dedication to his country and community.

Gordon was a lifelong resident of Geneva, New York. He graduated from Geneva High School in 1944 and joined the Army on May 1, 1944. In August of 1945, Gordon was assigned to the Philippine Islands and returned to the United States in January of 1946. Gordon was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, Asiatic Pacific Theater Ribbon, and World War II Victory Ribbon in recognition of his service to our country. He was Honorably Discharged in May of 1946 and went on to study at the Rochester Institute of Technology for two years.

Gordon's commitment to the community was an inspiration. He worked for the City of Geneva as a Career Fireman from which he retired after 25 years of dedicated service. Gordon was a proud member of the Hydrant Hose Company Number 1, where he held several offices over his tenure. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 396 and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Above all, Gordon was a family man. I have always been inspired by the hard work and kindness of the Baxter family and I appreciate Gordon's service to our country and to our community. He will always be remembered, as his legacy will live on forever through his family and friends.

Given the above, I ask that this legislative body pause in its deliberations and join me to honor Gordon C. Baxter for his lifelong commitment to service.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize Arden Johnson who has retired as Ellery Town Supervisor after serving fifty years.

Town Supervisor Johnson, who recently celebrated his ninetieth birthday, is believed to be the oldest and longest tenured Supervisor in the State of New York. His passion for service and zest for the community has truly benefitted the region, impacting thousands of lives throughout his long career in public service.

In 1948, before graduating from high school, Arden began the Young Republican Club in the Town of Portland. He graduated from Brocton Central School in 1949 and was committed to spending his life helping others. Shortly after graduating, he served as Brocton's Fire Chief from 1955 through 1957 and was later elected to the Brocton Village Board, where he served from 1957 through 1960.

In 1964, Arden moved to the Town of Ellery and it did not take long for him to get involved. From Little League and Babe Ruth baseball to youth recreation programs, Arden was always active in the community. He also helped found the midget football program in Ellery which remains very popular to this day.

In 1972, Arden was elected Ellery Town Supervisor and fifty years later, in 2022, we celebrate his retirement. Over his fifty years in office, Arden made significant contributions to the community and was a strong leader. In addition to his time as Supervisor, Arden served on the County Legislature from 1980 to 1983. His most beloved contribution to the town was the Ellery Town Park. Boasting twenty acres of land, the park includes nearly a mile-long walking trail, tennis, baseball and soccer fields, pavilions, a playground and more. Also, home to a Veteran's Memorial, dedicated on May 30, 2005, the Ellery Town Park is appreciated by the greater community and all who visit.

Supervisor Arden Johnson worked tirelessly for his constituents. He is a proud family man, friend, mentor, and more. His leadership and service to our community has touched the lives of many and will be cherished for generations to come.

Given the above, I ask that this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations and join me in recognizing Ellery Town Supervisor, Arden Johnson, on his longstanding service and wish him the best in his retirement. Congratulations on this tremendous milestone, and I thank him for his lifelong commitment to our community.

Madam Speaker, on Tuesday, March 15, 2022, I was unable to vote on Roll Call vote No. 72: Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 5001, to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to continue to implement endangered fish recovery programs for the Upper Colorado and San Juan River Basins, and for the other purposes. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yes.''

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize Curtis W. Crandall, Chairman, on his retirement from the Allegany County Legislature.

Chairman Crandall was appointed to the Legislature on March 13, 2000 to replace Alton Sylor. His service continued for nearly twenty-two years, sixteen of which were as Chairman. He was Majority Leader for one year, in 2005, before obtaining the Chairmanship. In his years of dedication to Allegany County, Chairman Crandall was a member of every committee, acting in various leadership roles including Chair of the Special Budget Committee in 2016 and 2017.

Chairman Crandall has been active on Advisory Boards throughout his tenure as well. Over the years, he served on the Citizens Advisory Council to the Office for the Aging from February 2003 to January 2006, Public Safety Building Planning Committee from January to December 2005, Court Facilities Financial Impact Ad Hoc Committee from November through December 2008, Comprehensive Plan Implementation Group from October 2008 through December 2009, and continues longstanding terms of service on the Broadband Task Force, Crossroads Development Advisory Committee, and Radio Communications Task Force. Additionally, Chairman Crandall has been the ex-officio member of the Southern Tier West Regional Planning & Economic Development Board since January of 2006.

Chairman Crandall worked tirelessly for his constituents, and we are thankful for his efforts in reducing the county property tax rate for many consecutive years. Chairman Crandall's commitment to his community goes above and beyond as shown through his volunteer work with the Lions Club, Boy Scouts of America, and Farm Bureau, just to name a few.

As a successful entrepreneur and businessman of over forty years, a loyal member of the Legislature, faithful volunteer and a loving husband, father and grandfather, we applaud his valued leadership and dedicated service as he moves forward in the next chapter of his life.

Given the above, I ask that this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations and join me in recognizing Allegany County Legislative Chairman, Curtis W. Crandall, on his longstanding service and retirement. Congratulations on this tremendous milestone.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor Charlotte Winkky in celebration of her eightieth birthday.

Charlotte, daughter of Max and Gertrud Sommerfeld, was born on October 24, 1941 in Hamburg, Germany and came to the United States with her parents in 1949 as a ``displaced person''. Charlotte's father was a Holocaust survivor, and the family was given the opportunity to start a new life in America. Charlotte and her family arrived in Boston, Massachusetts in August of 1949 and then relocated to Newburgh, New York.

Charlotte graduated from Newburg Free Academy and received a Bachelor of Science Degree from New York State College at Cortland where she met her husband, Bill Winkky. Charlotte went on to earn her Master of Science Degree from Elmira College and thereafter, in 1960, Charlotte became a proud Naturalized Citizen.

On June 23, 1963, Charlotte and Bill were married in New Windsor, New York and have spent fifty-eight joyful years together. Bill and Charlotte have a son and daughter who have gifted them with six wonderful grandchildren.

Charlotte taught school for thirty-two years in Horseheads, New York and is active in numerous organizations including as a charter and sustaining member of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. She was a Chemung County Election Inspector for fourteen years and volunteers for the Cancer Society and local nature center. She is also a member of B'nai B'rith International and League of Women Voters.

In her eighty years of life, Charlotte has been a teacher, a friend, a volunteer, a loving and dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother who is deserving of recognition.

It has been my utmost pleasure to personally know Charlotte for decades and to see her dedication to her community, but even more importantly, the love and dedication she has for her family and friends.

Given the above, I ask that this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations and join me to honor Charlotte Winkky on her eightieth birthday.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize the sixtieth anniversary of Johnson Estate Winery in Westfield, New York and congratulate the Johnson family for reaching this tremendous milestone.

Three generations of Johnsons have farmed what is now Johnson Estate Winery. After immigrating to Canada and attending Cornell University, Frederick Johnson purchased a circa-1822 home and farm along the banks of Freelings Creek in Westfield, New York. He planted various fruits like apples, peaches, and concord vineyards, and named the farm Sunnyslope Fruit Farm. He worked as an entomologist with the Department of Agriculture in Washington, D.C. and North East, Pennsylvania, met his wife, and raised his family.

His son Frederick Spencer Johnson grew up on the farm, served in World War II as a naval aviator, graduated from Cornell, and raised his family overseas while working for Nelson Rockefeller's various agricultural endeavors. He returned to the farm in 1960, after his father died, and removed the aging fruit orchards before being the first Western New York Farmer to plant French hybrid grapes. His favorite hybrid, Chancellor, is in the winery's famous Founder's Red. In 1961, he opened the Johnson Estate Winery.

Frederick Spencer's children inherited the farm in 1998 and grew the winery with new vineyards, construction of a finished goods warehouse, and the introduction of new wines like fruit, sparkling, and ice wines. In 2010, Frederick Johnson, Jr. became the owner of the farm and winery with his wife, Jennifer. They renovated the century-old tasting room in 2011 and still live in the two-hundred-year-old farmhouse. This year, they opened an outdoor wine and food pairing location, Flight, as a nod to Fred Sr.'s service as a naval aviator and the love of aviation he shared with his son, Fred Jr. Guests enjoy sights and smells of harvest while savoring delicious wine and locally-sourced fruits, curated cheeses, and charcuterie boards.

Given the above, I ask that this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations and join me to recognize the sixtieth anniversary of Johnson Estate Winery in Westfield, New York. Congratulations on this tremendous milestone.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize the fiftieth anniversary of Shults Auto Group in Jamestown, New York, and congratulate the Shults Family for reaching this milestone.

Shults Auto Group is the largest auto group in the Southern Tier. They have six dealerships carrying twelve different makes of vehicles and three pre-owned resale centers. The dealerships are located in Jamestown, Lakewood, Olean, and Dunkirk, New York and in Warren, Pennsylvania and they employ over three hundred people.

Shults Auto Group has an extensive history in the City of Jamestown. In 1970, Edmond R. Shults and Donald A. Gage bought controlling interest in, what was, Berglund Chevrolet. In 1971, Mr. Shults purchased Mr. Gage's interest and the dealership became Ed Shults Chevrolet, Inc. In 1981, brothers Edmond R. Shults, Jr. and Tim M. Shults purchased Ed Shults Chevrolet, Inc., and Shults Auto Group has continued to grow.

Community is extremely important to the Shults Family and Shults Auto Group employees. They have taken a vested interest in community events, infrastructure, and volunteerism. Shults Auto Group's philanthropic interests include youth sports, education, the National Comedy Center, Northwest Arena, and more. They believe in giving back to support their community.

The customer experience is also very important, and the center of their mission, at Shults Auto Group. Millions of dollars have been invested using local contractors and supplies over the years to enhance facilities, grow the company. and give their customers the greatest experience.

Given the above, I ask that this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations and join me to recognize the fiftieth anniversary of Shults Auto Group in Jamestown, New York. Congratulations on this tremendous milestone.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize the service of P. Earle Gleason as an honored Vietnam Veteran, Yates County Veterans' Service Agency Director, and Chairman of the 23rd Congressional District's Academy Selection Committee.

P. Earle Gleason served his nation upon being drafted into the United States Anny in January 1968. A distinguished Vietnam War combat veteran, who served with the America Division, Mr. Gleason was awarded the Combat Infantryman's Badge; the Bronze Star; and the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant in September 1969 after a tour in Vietnam.

As a lifelong resident of Yates County, Earle Gleason has dedicated a lifetime of commitment and service to his country and to his community, particularly in service to local veterans. His efforts benefiting veterans began with his career with the Yates County Veterans' Service Agency as Service Officer in July 1994. He later became Director of the Agency in September of 1994 and retired in December 2014 with twenty years of service.

For more than two decades as Director, Earle was respected as a tireless advocate for his county's more than two thousand veterans. He was also recognized by the community at large through his dedication to community service within the Johnson Costello American Legion Post 355, and as a Milo Town Councilman for twenty-four years. He is currently serving as a Yates County Legislator.

While Earle gives so much of himself in many areas of our community, we also greatly appreciate his efforts as part of our Academy Selection Committee. He has recently resigned from this work, but we would like to thank him for his time and dedication to the committee, especially in his role as Chairman.

Given the above, I ask that this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations and join me in recognizing the efforts and service of P. Earle Gleason, Vietnam Veteran, Yates County Veterans' Service Agency Director, and devoted Chairman of the 23rd Congressional District's Academy Selection Committee.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize the bicentennial of the Town of Clymer and congratulate the town for reaching this milestone.

The Town of Clymer is a tight-knit, well-established community nestled in Chautauqua County with a rich and vibrant history. Clymer was formed from the mother town of Chautauqua and was organized on February 9, 1821. The town also has deeper roots, as far back as the founding fathers of our Nation. The town's name shows the patriotic spirit of the early settlers as it bears the name of one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, George Clymer.

During the time when it was founded, the town consisted of twelve families. The community has grown since then, but the small-town charm has not faded. Farming and agriculture remain a staple industry, including dairy farming and poultry farming. Neckers Company General Store has been located in the main intersection in town since 1910 as a fourth-generation family-owned business.

The people of Clymer have continued the legacy of community, kindness and togetherness that have bound the town together now for two-hundred years. We applaud their efforts toward cultivating, celebrating, and continuing their traditions of small-town living in such a prolific way.

Given the above, I ask that this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations and join me to recognize the bicentennial of the Town of Clymer and congratulate the town for reaching this milestone.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize the one hundredth anniversary of the Chautauqua Blind Association, now known as CBA Vision Rehabilitation Services.

CBA Vision Rehabilitation Services was established in 1921 as the Southwestern Tier Association for the Blind, Inc. In 1983, the organization became known as the Chautauqua Blind Association. In 2013, the organization became CBA Vision Rehabilitation Services to better explain their programming and offerings

to the community. While their name has changed over the years, the organization's impact has never been more important to Chautauqua County.

CBA Vision Rehabilitation Services provides a variety of vital services to the community, including vision screenings for children, vision rehabilitation services, and orientation and mobility services. The organization also engages in advocacy and education services to spread awareness. These services are all built around CBA Vision Rehabilitation Services' mission--``To enable visually impaired people to be active members of their community, and to provide education and services to prevent vision loss.''

Without these services, many residents in Chautauqua County would greatly feel the impact. We appreciate the hard work and dedication the staff at CBA Vision Rehabilitation Services put into their work each day and are proud to join in the celebration of this wonderful milestone.

Given the above, I ask that this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations and join me in recognizing the one hundredth anniversary of the Chautauqua Blind Association, now known as CBA Vision Rehabilitation Services.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor Detective David Mitchell, a Jamestown Police Department detective who was gravely injured in the line of duty on September 15, 1999, while serving the public and their safety. David should be celebrated and honored for his bravery and sacrifice.

Detective David Mitchell was shot on the evening of September 15, 1999 while meeting up with a drug informant. Since that time, David has recovered from his near-fatal injury, beating all odds, but still contends with hearing and memory loss. His injury could have proven fatal, but he pulled through and continues to be an active member of society.

David served the city not only as a detective, but also as an undercover narcotics officer, showing great dedication and courage. His service to Jamestown and the community is priceless, and it has been recognized by the residents, the police department, and others, including his current employer, Rand Machine, over the years. His service should not be forgotten, and we are honored to be able to recognize him in this way for his bravery and perseverance.

David's service to Jamestown and the surrounding communities during a time of great

need is something that should be revered and remembered. We cannot forget the great personal risk and dedication he showed during his service. Today, we stand and honor his service and sacrifice. Today, we recognize David for his courage, resolve and bravery, and I thank him for all that he has done.

Given the above, I ask that this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations and join me to honor Detective David Mitchell, former member of the Jamestown Police Department and community hero.

Mr. Speaker, I truly thank my colleague for organizing this Special Order this evening for our friend Paul Mitchell.

Mr. Speaker, I come here this evening with no prepared remarks other than to make some comments, as shared by my colleagues about this great man.

Paul Mitchell is truly a friend. Paul Mitchell is someone I have gotten to know over the years here in Congress, and watched him develop in his own right. I watched him become a very serious and astute legislator. I watched him join the Problem Solvers Caucus that we started, and many of the colleagues have talked about the Problem Solvers Caucus.

Paul came to us from leadership, and in that process he did some things, because that is a very special club, and we have some very special rules and commitments to each other. In order to fulfill those commitments and those terms of honor in serving in that caucus with our colleagues, he demonstrated publicly, privately, and to our fellow members of the Problem Solvers Caucus what it means to be an honorable Member of Congress.

Mr. Speaker, I will tell you, for that, I was forever grateful to have been in a position to encourage Paul to join the Problem Solvers Caucus. And he, in particular, one day exhibited that very limited leadership quality that is so lacking here in the United States House of Representatives today, in my opinion. He showed true courage, true statesmanship, true leadership.

I just have to tell you, Paul, as we got the news about your diagnosis--and I am speaking to you directly here from the floor, Paul--we all immediately came to your side. We all, immediately in our thoughts, in our prayers, in our bond of friendship, stood with you and your family. And we are standing with you and your family as you go through this next chapter of your life, and please know that you are not alone.

To you and to your family, as a Member of this body, as a member of the Problem Solvers Caucus, as a member serving your country, as a great citizen, we all stand with you and your family as you go through this ordeal that you face.

That being said, I join with my colleagues in saying, We know Paul Mitchell. We know your heart, Paul. We know your tenacity and your perseverance. And we know you are going to get through this, and you are going to get through this in a way only Paul Mitchell can get through it.

So as we come here today to give some fine words on behalf of you, Paul, and on behalf of your family, know we are also sending more than words. We are sending our shoulders to cry upon; our shoulders to lean upon; and, as you have exhibited over the years, even a shoulder to laugh upon during this difficult time.

And it is those lessons of life that you taught me, serving with you here in the House, that you cannot take life too seriously; that life is too short.

That is why, as my colleagues noted, Paul retired to be with his young family and his other children, to make sure that he kept his priorities straight.

And you did, Paul. You put your family, you put your health, and you put your future first in regards to the time of your life to make that decision to retire from this body.

So I am just humbled to be here with my colleagues. I truly thank my colleagues on the Democratic side and on the Republican side for coming here tonight to honor one of our best from the U.S. House of Representatives, Paul, and that is you. And for that, we will be forever grateful to be able to call you a friend; a colleague; and, in the end, a survivor.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to recognize the fiftieth anniversary of the Beef 'N' Barrel Restaurant in Olean, New York, and congratulate the owners, Jim, Mike, and PJ McAfee for reaching this milestone.

The Beef 'N' Barrel is a family-owned beef and steakhouse restaurant located at 146 North Union Street in the Olean area that has been celebrated for years. During our visits to this establishment, we have been impressed by the ownership and staff, as well as the quality of service and products they provide. For fifty years, the restaurant has kept its doors open and satisfied customers, whether they were area visitors or life-long residents.

The restaurant opened in May of 1965 under the ownership of Neil and Denis Goodemote but was later sold to Jim McAfee in 1971. The restaurant has expanded over the years, from seating for fifty patrons to room for over three hundred in its current location.

The McAfee family has operated the Beef 'N' Barrel with hard work, dedication, and great effort over the years. We congratulate them on their extraordinary efforts to keep this restaurant growing and thriving, providing a delicious meal to all who visit. Whether it be a daily special, item from the beef bar, burger or other specialty, the quality of food and service received is outstanding.

Given the above, I ask that this Legislative Body join me to recognize the fiftieth anniversary of the Beef 'N' Barrel Restaurant in Olean, New York, and congratulate the owners, Jim, Mike, and PJ McAfee for reaching this milestone.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the 225th anniversary of the Steuben County Sheriffs Office, and the legacy of the office's public service and dedication to public safety.

The Steuben County Sheriffs Office was constitutionally established in 1796, with William Dunn being sworn in as Sheriff on March 31, 1796. From 1796 until 1873, the Steuben County Sheriffs Office was the only law enforcement agency serving the county. The longest serving Sheriff was Jack Lisi, who served from 1970 to 1987.

Sheriff James Allard is the current sheriff of the county and is the fifty-ninth Sheriff to serve in office. James has a strong commitment to serving his community and became Undersheriff of the county in 2013. He was elected as Sheriff in 2016.

We are honored to be able to recognize the Steuben County Sheriffs Office in this way. The Steuben County Sheriffs Office has provided service and safety to the communities it served for hundreds of years and should be honored for that service. We cannot forget the great personal risk and dedication each Sheriff showed during their service. Today, we stand and honor those efforts before the eyes of America.

Given the above, I ask that this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations and join me to honor the 225th anniversary of the Steuben County Sheriff's Office, and the legacy of the office's public service and dedication to public safety.