Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 128.

Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to honor the life and legacy of the late Jack Edward Erickson, a beloved leader of our Newtown, Pennsylvania, community, and someone whose absence will be deeply felt.

For 96 extraordinary years, Jack Erickson lived a life of purpose and principle, defined by devotion to his family, service to country, and a deep commitment to his community.

A veteran of the United States Army, nationally recognized photographer, successful businessman, and a champion golfer, Jack excelled in literally every single role because he gave each one of them his full heart and his full measure of devotion, but it is how he gave back that truly defined Jack.

He dedicated decades of his life to his local Rotary club in Bucks County, proudly serving twice as president. He led the Pennsbury Scholarship Foundation with purpose and spent 31 years on the Upper Makefield HARB Board, helping shape and preserve our community's rich history.

Mr. Speaker, Jack had a way of lifting others up just by being himself. Whether supporting our students, mentoring our young leaders, or simply showing up for his friends and neighbors, he led with quiet strength and genuine care.

Mr. Speaker, we extend our deepest condolences to his children, his grandchildren, his great-grandchildren, and his loving partner, Mary Ann, and all who loved him.

Jack was a constant, someone who made our community stronger just by being a part of it. His legacy will live on in the lives he touched and the example he set.

Mr. Speaker, may his memory be a blessing and may he rest in peace.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the courageous divers and first responders of the District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department, whose swift and selfless actions in the aftermath of the devastating collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and a United States Army Blackhawk Helicopter over the Potomac River showed heroism in the face of tragedy.

When the unthinkable happened on that cold January evening, it was the brave men and women of D.C. Fire and EMS who rushed to the scene. Without regard for their own safety, these highly trained professionals entered dangerous, frigid conditions, diving into the depths of the Potomac to conduct a search and rescue, and bring comfort to the families and civilians anxiously watching and waiting onshore.

In the face of disaster, the efforts of the D.C. Fire and EMS divers were nothing short of heroic. Their steadfast presence and commitment to vigorously search amidst the confusion and chaos was a source of strength to a city, region, and Nation in mourning.

The divers of D.C. Fire and EMS showed us the very best of public service. Their leadership, courage, and compassion make us proud. They upheld their duty with unwavering courage and commitment.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that this body join me in extending our deepest gratitude to these first responders. Let the record show our respect, our appreciation, and our enduring thanks to the divers of D.C. Fire and EMS. May their service continue to be an example for future generations of public servants to follow.

Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor to rise today to recognize and honor the distinguished service of two exceptional units of the United States Air Force--the 6990th & 6908th Security Squadrons and the contributions of the Vietnamese linguists (affectionately known as DOGGERS). These squadrons exemplified the very best of American dedication, vigilance, and sacrifice.

The 6990th Security Squadron, stationed at Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan, played a critical role in safeguarding our national security. Activated in the 1960s, this unit specialized in signals intelligence, electronic surveillance, and cryptologic operations. During the Vietnam War and throughout the Cold War, the airmen of the 6990th monitored enemy communications, gathered vital intelligence, and supported combat operations with unwavering commitment. Their contributions were instrumental in ensuring the security of American forces and our allies across the Pacific.

Similarly, the 6908th Security Squadron, based at Nakhon Phanom Royal Thai Air Force Base in Thailand, carried out equally vital missions. This squadron operated under the United States Air Force Security Service. Its primary focus was communications interception, security, and support for operations critical to our nation's strategic interests in Asia. The men and women of the 6908th displayed exceptional skill and professionalism in an era when information dominance was key to preserving peace and deterring aggression.

Mr. Speaker, the work of these squadrons was often carried out in secrecy, without public recognition or fanfare. Yet their efforts were fundamental to the defense of the United States and the free world. Today, we pay tribute to their service and reaffirm our gratitude for their enduring legacy. May their example of quiet professionalism and steadfast duty continue to inspire future generations of Americans.

Today, I would like to recognize all the members of the USAF Doggers that served in the Vietnam War.

Richard Bini, Gregory Bonnell, Dean Brown, Jerry Clausen, Melvin Cole, Lowell Cook, Robert DeMay, Edward DeMayo, David Domyancic, Gary Fellenz, Michael Freeman.

Mark Graham, Dennis Gurtner, Tim Hamm, William Healy, Jim Hebert, John Hill, Benjamin Johnson, Perry Keeton, Marvin Marker, Paul McNulty, Lawrence Miller.

Larry Mills, Roger Morimoto, Carl Muellner, Robert Neiles, Buddy Newell, John Nicolai, Joseph Nolan, Ty Peters, Sandy Potter, Edgar Royce, Randolph Seitter.

William Sheldrake, John Slyman, Dennis Smith, Dale Sprosty, Casey Teliczan, Mark Thompson, Joe Turney, Joel Ware, Rick White, Michael Wright.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a remarkable leader, dedicated family man, and proud son of Bucks County--Mr. Michael J. Mabin, Jr., President and CEO of PennFab, Inc., headquartered in Morrisville and Martelli Companies, headquartered in Ivyland.

Mike Mabin is more than a successful businessman--he is a builder of community, a job

creator, and a champion for working families in Pennsylvania's First Congressional District. Through his leadership, generosity, and vision, Mike has helped shape not only the economic fabric of our region, but its moral character as well.

Mike was born on February 24, 1975, in Bucks County. He grew up in Levittown before moving to the Holland neighborhood and later settling with his wife Kristie (nee Kash) and their children--Michael, Ashlynne, and Jamison--in Ivyland, Pennsylvania.

Born and raised in Bucks County, Mike Mabin, Jr.'s story is one of homegrown leadership, generational grit, and a deep-rooted commitment to community. He got his start on the shop floor of his family's fabrication business, PennFab, where he worked side-by-side with his father and gained not just a trade, but a calling. From the very beginning, Mike understood that real leadership isn't about titles-- it's about responsibility: to your people, to your hometown, and to the future.

When Mike assumed leadership of PennFab following his father's passing in 2018, he did far more than carry on a legacy--he redefined it. With bold vision and relentless determination, he transformed a respected local operation into a nationally recognized infrastructure partner. He expanded operations, acquired PennFab's sister company, Martelli Companies LLC, and positioned both businesses as critical players in some of the Nation's most vital sectors while keeping their roots firmly planted in Bucks County.

But the measure of Mike's success isn't just found in the scale of the business--it's in the strength of the community he's built around it. He has created hundreds of family-sustaining jobs right here at home. He's mentored young tradespeople, empowered second-chance workers, and in doing so, restored something too many communities have lost: the dignity of work, and the hope that comes with it.

At a time when much of our Nation's industrial foundation has eroded, Mike made a different choice--he reinvested. He proved that American manufacturing can still thrive, that ``Made in Bucks County'' still matters, and that a business rooted in values can lift entire neighborhoods.

Mike's commitment to the community doesn't stop at the manufacturing doors. Whether it's stepping up in times of need, supporting local nonprofits, or quietly funding initiatives that benefit area youth, families and veterans, Mike has always led by example--without seeking credit, and always putting others first.

Mr. Speaker, the story of Mike Mabin, Jr. is the story of Bucks County Leader at his best--rooted in family, built by hard work, and driven by a relentless belief in the power of community. We thank him for the lives he's uplifted, the jobs he's created, and the example he continues to set for what local leadership should look like.

He hasn't just carried forward a legacy--he's forged one of his own.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of a remarkable constituent from my district, Judith Ann Algeo, J.D., M.A., who passed away on January 1, 2025. Judith was not only a distinguished professional but also a civil servant, trailblazer and beloved member of our community who lived a life full of compassion, service, and helping those in need.

Born April 19, 1953, to Rita and Hugh Algeo, Judith attended Good Shepherd Parish School and West Catholic High School for Girls. She went on to earn her B.A. in Criminal Justice and Sociology, as well as her M.A. in Pastoral Ministry from La Salle College (now University). She worked at Bell Telephone to pay for her schooling, which is a true testament to her determination and work ethic she had starting from a young age. Judith later earned her J.D. from Temple University Beasley School of Law.

Throughout her lifetime, Judith worked across a wide range of careers. She began her professional journey as a childcare worker, which introduced her to the challenges faced by vulnerable families. This sparked a lifelong interest in advocacy which led her to then work as a child and family therapist, massage therapist and a public official before finding

her true calling as a family law litigator. While these roles may seem like large leaps, they all share one core theme--Judith's deep commitment to serving others. Each Career reflected her passion for advocacy, care and justice for those in need.

As a Family Law Litigator, Judith frequently took on Pro Bono cases. To Judith, they were not just a case but instead someone who could continue to come back to ask for help or to share their life stories. She advocated for women who were in protection from abuse and worked many judicial bypass cases. Judith served on the board of the National Network of Runaway & Homeless Youth Services and chaired the Interagency Youth Coalition of Bucks County, She was a founding member of Bucks County AIDS Network and a board member of Legal Aid of Southeastern PA. She spent time serving the Bucks County Bar Association as President and as a chair for many of the committees. She even contributed to the startup of the Bucks County Bar Foundation. She also led the parent lawyers' group which ran out of the Juvenile Dependency Court. Through this group she served hundreds of children as a guardian ad litem to offer support for those who could not advocate for themselves.

In addition to her professional work, Judith was also a pioneer in our community. She became one of the first two female volunteer firefighters in Warwick Township. This showcases her steadfast dedication to service and her unwavering courage. Additionally, Judith spent five years as a Public Official acting on the Zoning Hearing Board. In 1999 she was elected to the Board of Supervisors of Warwick Township and in 2004 she served as its chairperson for over 20 years. She also served as a Board Member at Hatboro Federal Savings.

Having had a life full of achievements, it is no surprise that Judith had received a number of recognitions throughout her career. She was chosen as the Pennsylvania Bar Association Pro Bono Service Award winner twice and was honored with the Arthur B. Walsh Jr. Award for Pro Bono Services.

Despite her busy schedule, Judith always made time for her family. She cherished the moments she spent with her husband Frank, daughter Shannon and her three grandchildren. Even on the busiest days, she always cooked breakfast for Shannon and her friends every day before school. She was an avid reader and a talented at word games such as scrabble and crossword puzzles. She enjoyed playing volleyball and climbing mountains.

Although our community mourns Judith's passing, we celebrate the legacy of service and dedication that she forged in her life. She will be greatly missed by us all.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the lives of Christopher Cramp and his beloved sons, David and Thomas, of Bristol Borough, Bucks County, Pennsylvania, a father and two sons bound by an unshakable love, and now mourned in the wake of an unfathomable tragedy.

Mr. Speaker, Chris Cramp was a man who chose compassion not as an occasional act but as a daily calling. Across every corner of our community, he was known not only for what he did but for how he did it.

With an unwavering commitment to lifting up those most in need, he was, in every sense of the word, a guardian of the vulnerable. To the homeless, to those struggling with mental health challenges, Chris was a lifeline. He met people in their lowest moments and helped them chart a path back to hope and dignity.

Even in his final moments as Thomas struggled, Chris and his son, David, did what they have always done: They responded with love.

In their courageous attempt to save him, they gave their own lives, a sacrifice that speaks to the very core of who they are as human beings.

Mr. Speaker, the magnitude of this loss has reverberated throughout Bristol Borough and our entire Bucks County community and far beyond. May we remember Chris for how he lived with open hands, an open heart, and a tireless devotion to the forgotten and to the unseen.

Today, Mr. Speaker, let us lift up the Cramp family in our prayers and let us commit to carrying forward Chris' legacy: to serve with compassion, to love without condition, and to never turn away from those who need us most.

Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted NO on Roll Call No. 87.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of an extraordinary constituent and community member, Krista Wynne Moore, of Oaks, Pennsylvania, who passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025, at the age of 48. Krista was a woman whose warmth, leadership, and unwavering compassion profoundly impacted all who knew her, and her legacy will continue to inspire our community for years to come.

Krista's academic and professional journey was marked by dedication and excellence. She graduated with honors from Temple University and was selected for the prestigious Johnson & Johnson Financial Leadership Development Program. Her commitment to helping colleagues reach their fullest potential earned her the respect and admiration of her peers, and many of these professional relationships evolved into lifelong friendships that will endure in her memory.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Krista was known for her kindness, generosity, and deep love for all living creatures. She was an avid animal lover, and her compassion extended far beyond her own pets. Krista carried an emergency kit in her car, always prepared to offer care to any animal in need. Her deep empathy for animals was matched only by her unwavering dedication to helping others. Krista's compassion reflected her core values: to always act with care and humanity, to always lift others up.

In her personal life, Krista was a loving and assertive individual whose vibrant spirit and infectious laughter brought joy to every room she entered. Whether through her mentorship or her personal relationships, Krista taught all those around her how to live with purpose, to approach challenges with resilience and compassion, and to uplift others in the process. She was a dedicated wife, daughter, sister, stepmother, and friend, and her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.

As we reflect on Krista's life, we recognize the profound impact she had on her community. From her work with colleagues to her commitment to helping animals and the countless friendships she fostered, Krista's influence will continue to resonate. Her leadership, compassion, and generosity have left an indelible mark, and it is a legacy we will carry forward with pride.

Krista's life was a testament to what it means to live with purpose, passion, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of others. Her spirit of kindness and leadership will live on through the many lives she touched, and today, we honor her memory and celebrate the remarkable legacy she leaves behind.

May we all strive to embody the same compassion and commitment to lifting others up that Krista demonstrated throughout her life. She will be dearly missed.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary woman, a true pillar of our community, whose life has been defined by service, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to others--Diane Reitz.

Even as she wages a courageous battle against stage IV pancreatic cancer, Diane continues to give of herself--to her family, her neighbors, her country, and, above all, to the veterans of Bucks County and Southeast Pennsylvania. She is not simply enduring--she is inspiring.

Diane was born in Philadelphia but found her true home in Levittown, where she has lived for 64 years on the very same street--Rocky Pool Lane. It was there that she grew up, raised a family, and built a life of meaning and service. She graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School and went on to become a registered nurse, earning degrees from Philadelphia University and Gwynedd Mercy University. But while her education equipped her with knowledge, it was her heart that made her a healer.

For 56 years, Diane has been the devoted wife of Ronald ``Ron'' Reitz, an Army veteran and longtime barber. Together, they raised two children, Cheryl and Joan, who, in turn, blessed them with five grandchildren: Emma, Anne, Raegan, Kassidy, and Quinn. But Diane's sense of duty has never stopped at her own front door.

Service is not just something Diane does--it is the essence of who she is. A pillar of our community, she has led Girl Scout troops, inspired others as a Zumba instructor, and spearheaded efforts that have uplifted countless lives. She raised over $50,000 for the American Heart Association's ``Go Red for Women'' campaign, ensuring critical support for those in need. She has honored our nation's heroes by organizing reunions for the 75th Ranger Regiment and playing a key role in the 50th Anniversary commemoration of the end of the Vietnam war, ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten.

But Diane's impact is more than the sum of her efforts--it is felt in the lives she touches. She offers belonging to the overlooked, purpose to the uncertain, and hope to those in need. She steps forward when others step back, embodying the very spirit of service and reminding us all what it truly means to give of oneself.

Yet, it is her work with our veterans that stands as the most profound expression of her dedication. Recognizing the crisis of veteran suicide, Diane took action. She joined forces with Vietnam war hero Captain David A. Christian to establish Victor Six Health and Fitness, an innovative program designed to combat the mental and emotional struggles afflicting so many of our returning servicemembers.

Drawing upon groundbreaking research from institutions such as Johns Hopkins, the Cleveland Clinic, and Mount Sinai Hospital, Diane developed a 12-week program focused on the critical link between physical fitness and cognitive health. The impact has been extraordinary: veterans struggling with Post-Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI) have not only regained their strength but have rebuilt their lives--finding employment, reconnecting with their families, and reclaiming their sense of purpose. And perhaps most notably, since its inception, not a single veteran who has completed the Victor Six program has taken their own life. Veterans travel hours each way to participate in Diane's program, not simply because of the results, but because they know that behind it stands a woman who believes in them, fights for them, and refuses to give up on them.

Her work has been recognized with commendations from the United States Army and the United States Marine Corps, but her greatest honor is reflected in the lives she has transformed. I have seen firsthand the strength and camaraderie her program fosters--veterans standing shoulder to shoulder, forging a path forward with renewed hope and dignity.

Mr. Speaker, Diane Reitz embodies the highest ideals of duty, honor, and country. Her story is a powerful reminder that one person, armed with conviction and compassion, can change the world.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Doug Turner, a remarkable constituent from our Bucks County community and this week's Hometown Hero.

At 87 years old, Doug Turner has spent his life in service--to his country as a United States Army Veteran, to our land as a 30-year United States Forest Service worker, and to our community as an artist, storyteller, and neighbor. Along with his late wife Susan--who served as Newtown Borough Council President--Doug dedicated himself to the town they called home, whether teaching students at Goodnoe Elementary about the importance of trees or helping organize Newtown's annual Arbor Day celebration

In 2022, when Doug lost Susan, he found a way to keep their shared spirit of giving alive--by bringing people together. He started hosting an annual winter party, a simple gathering meant to combat the isolation of winter and rekindle the warmth of true neighborly connection. No guest list, no expectations. Just an open door and one request: ``Bring only a smile.''

This year, however, something remarkable happened. A simple act--an old-fashioned, handwritten, hand-delivered invitation--did not just bring together a neighborhood; it brought together the world. Doug's invitation scribbled on a paper snowflake with his signature humor, ``From 4 p.m. to whenever the cops come,'' captured hearts from Alaska to Australia. Inspired by Doug, people everywhere started throwing their own neighborhood parties, making a conscious effort to reach out to those around them. What Doug started in his corner of Newtown rippled throughout the world, proving that one person can ignite a movement of kindness--one, in this case, that went viral.

So today, we celebrate Doug--not for a viral party, but for showing us that in a world often divided, there is still more that unites us than separates us. For reminding us that we are not just individuals living side by side but neighbors--meant to share in life's joys, lift each other in hardship, and find strength in one another.

I thank Doug for showing us that community is built through kindness, strengthened by connection, and made whole when we come together.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor a dedicated constituent Mr. Joseph Bongarzone, a distinguished Letter Carrier with the United States Postal Service, retiring after a 37-year career dedicated to serving the community of Hatboro, Pennsylvania.

Joseph embarked on his journey with the United States Postal Service on February 14, 1987, beginning as a clerk in Southampton, Pennsylvania. After nearly a year of service in that role, he transitioned to the Hatboro facility, where he would remain for the rest of his career, steadfastly delivering mail and upholding the principles of dedication, diligence, and service.

Coming from a family with a deep-rooted tradition in the Postal Service, Joseph was honored to follow in the footsteps of his father, Joseph, and his two brothers, Paul and Jeff. His career was defined by an unwavering commitment to his duties, demonstrating an exemplary work ethic that inspired colleagues and endeared him to the residents he served. Regardless of inclement weather or personal hardship, Joseph's dedication never faltered--his presence was a certainty, ensuring that his community received their mail with the efficiency and reliability that only a true public servant could provide.

In recognition of his outstanding service and commitment to safety, Joseph was honored with the prestigious Million Mile Award from the United States Postal Service--a testament to his exceptional record of accident-free performance and dedication to excellence. This honor is reserved for those who have exemplified the highest standards of professionalism and care in their service.

As Joseph officially retired on February 28, 2025, we take this moment to extend our deepest gratitude for his decades of dedication and service to the people of Hatboro. His legacy stands as a shining example of what it means to be a committed public servant, and his contributions to the United States Postal Service will not be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the remarkable career of Joseph Bongarzone and wishing him a fulfilling and well-deserved retirement. May his legacy of integrity, commitment, and service continue to inspire future generations of postal workers.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary constituent from my district, Elizabeth Kennerley. As a rare disease patient, advocate, and unwavering supporter of inclusive healthcare, Liz has devoted her life to making a meaningful impact on her community and those affected by rare diseases. She continues to inspire those around her, with her astounding selflessness and resilience.

Liz's journey is one that few can imagine. As someone who lives with the burden of a rare disease, Liz has not only used her personal journey to advocate for others but has also dedicated herself to advocating on Capitol Hill for those living with rare diseases. She is also a dedicated member of the Rare Disease Diversity Coalition (RDDC), where she works to ensure that the needs of rare disease patients are heard. Liz's work with the RDDC has been instrumental in promoting inclusivity in healthcare policy.

The RDDC proudly awarded Liz this year's RISE Award, as she consistently embodies the very essence of what RISE stands for Resilience, Inspiration, Strength, and Empowerment.

As Liz would say, ``being a patient with a rare disease is the hardest job in the world,'' a sentiment that highlights the incredible challenges and resilience required to live with a rare disease. Through her unwavering dedication, Liz ensures that the voices of rare disease patients are heard. We thank her for her dedicated service to our community.

Madam Speaker, I thank the chairman, my friend from Wisconsin, Representative Steil, for yielding.

To my friend and colleague from Pennsylvania (Ms. Houlahan), this is really the product of her hard work. I was proud to partner with her and accept an invitation. If Benjamin Franklin were here today, he would give Representative Houlahan a big hug of gratitude for finally recognizing him.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in resolute support of H.R. 250, the Benjamin Franklin statue placement act. Alongside my friend and colleague from Pennsylvania, Congresswoman Houlahan, I am proud to advance this effort to enshrine one of America's most extraordinary minds and consequential patriots in the heart of our Nation's Capitol.

Madam Speaker, few figures in our history so fully embody the spirit of American ingenuity, perseverance, and democratic virtue as Benjamin Franklin. He was a statesman whose diplomacy secured our independence, a philosopher whose wisdom guided our early Republic, and an inventor whose genius advanced mankind.

More than a son of Pennsylvania, Benjamin Franklin was and remains a towering architect of the American experiment, a testament to what is possible when vision and virtue work in concert with one another.

As we approach the 250th anniversary of our great Nation, it is both fitting and necessary that Benjamin Franklin take his rightful place amongst the great figures enshrined in this amazing

place. To commemorate this milestone without visibly honoring one of its chief architects would be to overlook the very ideals that built our great Republic.

Benjamin Franklin lived his life with a deliberate sense of purpose, beginning each day by asking: What good shall I do on this day? And ending every evening in reflection: What good have I done today?

Madam Speaker, that is not just a measure of a life well lived. It is the measure of leadership, of duty, and of a nation that strives always to be better than it was the day before. Let us take up that challenge not merely in words but in action.

Let us ensure that Benjamin Franklin's presence in these Halls serves as a constant reminder that our charge is not to serve ourselves, but to serve a greater good.

At the close of each day, may we too be able to answer that question with certainty, having served with purpose, led with integrity, and upheld the ideals that Franklin and our Founders entrusted to us.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an exceptional constituent from my district, Mr. Sandy Oppenheimer. As a United States Navy World War II Veteran, a newspaper editor, a volunteer, and a marathon runner, Sandy has found ways to serve his country and his community. He continues to inspire all generations.

Eighty-two years ago, Sandy served bravely aboard the heavy cruiser USS Salt Lake City (CA-25) during some of the most famous battles in history like the Doolittle Raid, Battle of the Coral Seas, and the Battle of Midway. He was there when the flag was raised at Iwo Jima. Today, he is one of only three remaining survivors of one of the Navy's most storied ships.

Sandy was born September 1, 1925, in New York City. This year (2025), he will turn 100.

His father was a World War I Veteran, who died when Sandy was just 11, and left four young boys--at the height of the Depression--alone with their young mother. She went to work, and the older boys watched the younger boys. All four boys went on to serve in our Armed Forces, in the Navy, the Army, the Air Force, and the Marines.

After WWII, Sandy attended New York University on the G.I. Bill, graduated with a degree in accounting, but went into journalism. He began a long career in journalism as the United Press International bureau chief in Guam. After a few more stops, he moved with his wife Mary and two young children, in 1954, to Levittown, and spent more than 50 years with the Bucks County Courier Times. He served as its editor for many of those years, writing the reader-favorite front page column, ``Good Evening'', which he signed with only his initials.

Sandy still remembers the day President Kennedy was assassinated, and sending people to find and stop the trucks that were just heading out with that day's edition, and pulling his team together to put out a new edition with the terrible news.

He also feels great pride when contacted by best-selling authors like Erik Larson, and Hall of Fame reporter Claire Smith, thanking him for giving them their first job.

He was an active volunteer and board member in many community organizations. Sandy was one of the earliest presidents of the Bucks County Free Library, and helped start it on its path to what it is today.

Sandy and Mary, who passed away five years ago, were charter members of the Bucks County Road Runners, and ran marathons throughout the country. Recently, Sandy was honored as the first recipient of the Newtown Library Company's Honorary Runner award at their annual 5K. He was surrounded by members of the news media who remembered working for him and members of the running community, happy to see him again.

Sandy still reads three newspapers every day from cover to cover. He appreciates the work of reporters getting a good story out to the readers and knows the importance of informing the community of the important issues we face every day.

We thank him for his service to our country and our community.