Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the graduates from the Bucks County Opportunity Council's Economic Self-Sufficiency Program.

Since 1997, this program has helped families in our community build brighter, more stable futures through education and a path to lasting economic independence.

Today, Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize this year's graduates: Thais Defalco, Haussine Guengous, Kelsi Klinger, Amanda Leary, Haleigh Olie-Muller, Tanya Quiles, Allina Ramirez, Jacklynn Ramsey, Ashley Reukauf, and Katlynn Whiteley.

Mr. Speaker, as Bucks County's leading antipoverty organization, the BCOC has worked tirelessly to reduce poverty and to help our neighbors achieve true self-sufficiency.

I thank the BCOC team for changing lives for the better and for strengthening our community. I congratulate the graduates. We celebrate all that you have achieved and all the many great things to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 100th birthday of Charles Jack Podhaizer, a remarkable constituent. Charlie was born on March 23, 1926, and has lived a life marked by service, family, and generosity.

Charlie spent the early years of his life growing up in the Lower East Side of Manhattan as the youngest of 5 children. He spent his early years experiencing the melting pot of cultures from the immigrants arriving through Ellis Island and helped contribute to his family's wellbeing by selling items on the street whilst still finding time to enjoy basketball with his friends.

When the time came, Charlie answered our Nation's call and served valiantly in the Second World War. He was a member of D Company, 232 Infantry Regiment of the 42nd Infantry ``Rainbow'' Division and fought during the Battle of the Bulge in the Ardennes Forest. When he returned home, he married his high school sweetheart, Florence Weiss. Together, they moved to Sheepshead Bay in Brooklyn and had three children--Gary, Steven, and Todd. Florence unfortunately passed away in 1963, and in 1965, he was remarried to Betty Sheridan who expanded his family with two daughters--Raelyne and Sharon.

In 1965, Charlie and his family became a part of our Bucks County community when they settled down in Yardley, Pennsylvania after years of Charlie commuting from Brooklyn to Eastern Pennsylvania each day for work. It was in Bucks County where Charlie started the Big C, a thriving department store in the Fairless Hills Shopping Center. Shortly thereafter, Charlie was able to expand his operations to two stores across the river in Trenton and Camden, New Jersey.

With his business success, Charlie was able to become very active with local charities as well as his local police department, making sure to help provide for those less fortunate than him and support the community. Charlie is honored to have been named Bucks County Man of the Year among other honors and accolades received for his commitment to the community.

It was later in his career when Charlie decided to step away from the Big C and start auctioneering, which allowed him to fully dedicate himself to this passion and connect with people at the various auctions he attended. He also started a wholesale business, where he traveled the United States to visit his customers. For every connection he made and place he visited, he was always noted for his integrity, passion, caring, honesty, and humor.

As he reaches the age of 100 years old, Charlie is blessed to have 10 grandchildren--Jamie, Adam, David, Derek, and Falynn along with their spouses--as well as 9 great grandchildren--Sofie, Zoe, Kira, Jack, Cameron, Ellie, Brenna, Olivia, and Drew. Following the passing of his wife Betty, he found love once more in his life with Irene Hastings. He has cherished every moment spent with her and the rest of his family since he retired at the age of 75.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my esteemed colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in extending our heartfelt congratulations, sincere well-wishes, and God's blessings to Charles Jack Podhaizer on the celebration of his 100th birthday.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an exceptional individual from my district, Officer Michael Marks of the Middletown Township Police Department. I proudly commend him on his well-earned retirement, following 3 decades of committed service to the people of Bucks County.

Officer Marks' exemplary career began in January of 1996, joining the Middletown Township Police Department after graduating from the Philadelphia Police Academy. He was primarily assigned to the Patrol Division, where he built a reputation as a hardworking, dependable, and highly respected officer.

Officer Marks also served the department and his fellow officers in several other important roles. He helped to mentor and serve as an example for the next generation of Middletown Township police officers as a Field Training Officer. He selflessly stepped up when he was needed, serving as the officer in charge when a sergeant was unavailable, letting his sound decision making and professionalism shine. Additionally, he served as a UAS operator, firearms instructor, and a K-9 handler to police dogs Usher and Bach.

Notably, Officer Marks received numerous commendations recognizing his stellar police work, thorough investigations, professionalism and commitment to his profession. He also made a number of notable arrests that were recognized throughout his time with the department. Beyond his assignments and accomplishments, Officer Marks is known throughout the department as a mentor, leader, and trusted colleague. He was always willing to take younger officers under his wing to ensure not only that they were doing a good job, but that they had someone to turn to for invaluable guidance and support. He offered them a voice of reason, his knowledge, and his approachability so that they could be the best officers they could.

Outside of the department, Officer Marks is a well-respected member of the Middletown community, having raised his family there. After a long and honorable career in law enforcement, Officer Marks looks forward to a well-deserved retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Officer Michael Marks on his retirement and thank him for over 30 years of distinguished service to the citizens of Bucks County. His leadership and dedication will leave a lasting mark on the community he so faithfully served.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of Levittown's own Gerard ``Jerry'' Galloway of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, my hometown. He passed away at the age of 75 after a courageous and hard-fought battle with cancer.

Born in Philadelphia as the first of 10 children, Jerry's deep Catholic faith instilled by his parents, Jim and Jane, guided him throughout his life of service to his family, his community, and to his country.

Drafted into the United States Army in 1968, Jerry served our Nation with quiet strength before earning a bachelor's degree and two master's degrees in education and psychology later in life.

He devoted his career to serving individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities, working with students who were too often labeled as difficult or unreachable. He showed every child the attention and love that only he could give.

A lifelong member of Queen of the Universe parish, my home parish in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Jerry brought Holy Communion and companionship to those who were unable to attend Mass. He and his family are the heart and soul behind the annual Bucks County St. Patrick's Day Parade. He will be remembered not only for his faith and service but for his ``king of cool'' spirit that made everyone he met feel known and feel loved.

We extend our deepest sympathies to his beloved wife, Edna; his daughters, Meaghann, Bridget, and Maria; his grandchildren; and to all who knew and loved him.

Jerry Galloway's legacy of faith, family, and service will forever be remembered with pride by the Galloway family and the entire Bucks County family. He will be dearly missed, and we love him.

Celebrating 100th Birthday of Mae Krier

Mr. Speaker, this week we celebrate the 100th birthday of my friend, the indomitable Mae Krier of Levittown, Pennsylvania, one of our Nation's original Rosie the Riveters.

As a young woman in World War II, Mae went on to work for the home front, helping build the aircraft that formed the backbone of America's airpower.

For decades since she has been a tireless advocate to ensure that millions of Rosies receive the recognition they have long deserved. They riveted, welded, and labored in our factories, in our shipyards, in our farms, in our schools, and in our hospitals.

Mr. Speaker, I was honored to lead the Rosie the Riveter Congressional Gold Medal Act and to present Mae Krier with that gold medal, the very first one, the highest civilian honor from Congress, on the shores of Normandy during the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion in tribute to all the women whose hands and hearts helped win this war.

Mae is the embodiment of a trailblazer. Her contributions during the war and her tireless advocacy for women's empowerment and equality have laid the foundation for the America we cherish today and for the next generation of young women.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in wishing Rosie the Riveter Mae Krier a very happy 100th birthday and in honoring all the Rosies whose courage and patriotism changed America forever.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleagues, Representatives Lee and Nadler, for bringing this very important piece of legislation to the floor today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support, as a cosponsor, of the Holocaust Expropriated Art Recovery Act, the HEAR Act.

Mr. Speaker, during the Holocaust, the Nazi regime and its collaborators systematically looted hundreds of thousands of works of art and cultural treasures from Jewish families across Europe. These were not simply valuable objects. They were pieces of family history, family identity, and family heritage.

For decades, many survivors and their heirs have fought simply for the chance to have their claims heard in court. The original HEAR Act, passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in this Chamber in 2016, tried to ensure that these claims would be decided only on their merits, rather than being dismissed because of technical objections, such as the passage of time.

Mr. Speaker, however, the courts did not follow Congress' intent on many issues, and new legal barriers have emerged that threaten to close or have closed the courthouse doors once again.

This legislation expressly reverses the ability of defendants to use non-merit-based offenses, such as the Supreme Court's decision in Germany v. Phillipp, which held that Germany's expropriation of German Jews' property in the Holocaust was simply a ``domestic taking'' and not a violation of international law under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act.

If not corrected by Congress, that decision would prevent Holocaust survivors and their heirs from recovering most of the art held by foreign governments and their museums. It would excuse the historical and moral culpability of Nazi Germany and its allies and collaborators for perpetrating the Holocaust. An affirmative vote today closes that huge loophole.

Mr. Speaker, time is not on our side. Roughly 30,000 Holocaust survivors remain alive today in the United States of America, many now in their nineties, some of whom live in my district. They deserve to see in their lifetimes--and the world needs to hear--that in these times of rising anti-Semitism, Congress wishes to right these historical wrongs.

Mr. Speaker, this bill does not guarantee outcomes. It simply ensures that claims are heard fairly and decided on their merits. Passing this legislation reaffirms our Nation's commitment to justice, historical truth, and the memory of those who suffered one of history's darkest crimes.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support the HEAR Act.

Mr. Speaker. I rise today to celebrate an extraordinary milestone in the life of a remarkable constituent from my district. Mrs. Georgene Marie Tilli Moran, who has recently turned 100 years old.

Born on March 6, 1926 in Paterson, New Jersey, Georgene spent her early years exploring nature while living on Garrett Mountain. She attended Clifton High School where she met the love of her life, Jack Moran, whom she married and spent nearly 64 joyful years prior to his passing in 2012. After graduating, she spent her early career at Schering-Plough before dedicating her time to raising her two children, Barbara and Betty. Ever the caretaker, Georgene also spent her later years taking care of her mother, Marie Tilli, who lived to 103 years old.

Georgene loved her time as a homemaker while also pursuing her passions of cooking and gardening. She was a true matriarch for her family, always making sure they were welcomed home with a warm meal and an inviting home. Additionally, Georgene spent a lot of her free time volunteering, making sure to give back to the communities that her family chose to call home. Her volunteer efforts include working with the Catholic Church, children's schools, at the local libraries and hospitals, as well as the Red Cross.

An avid reader since childhood, Georgene cultivated a true passion for history during her moves to Chester Springs, Williamsburg, Virginia, and in our community of Bucks County where she has resided for the past 13 years. Her time in these crucial locations to our Nation's early history helped to form a true love for our country, which she and her husband Jack spent much of their downtime traveling together. She and Jack also shared a love of golf, traveling often for Jack's work in marshaling PGA events and his participation in golf tournaments.

Now, in her 100th year of life, Georgene remains an incredible source of energy and love, enjoying her time with her two children and two grandchildren--Dennis and Kasey. Following her move to Bucks County, she has continued to pursue her hobbies of reading, enjoying history and novels, as well as attending family celebrations.

As we celebrate Georgene's 100th birthday, we honor her enduring dedication to our community as a caretaker, steward, mother and a woman of enduring faith and joy.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate an extraordinary constituent from my district, Mr. David J. ``Dave'' Schrenk, who has recently turned 90 years old. Born on May 14, 1935, Dave has spent the last 9 decades of his life exemplifying philanthropy, selflessness, and the value of hard work.

Born in Philadelphia and raised by his single mother, Dave knew early on that he had a passion for working with his hands, leading him to attend and ultimately graduate from the Williamson College of the Trades in 1954. He then began his career as a Union Bricklayer for the John B. Kelly Brickwork Company, where he helped to build the foundations of our community at the height of its post-war growth. After receiving his journeymen's card, he traveled north to find work and continue refining his skillset.

By 1959, Dave's entrepreneurial spirit and passion for homebuilding brought him back to our district where he started his own masonry business, David J. Schrenk Masonry Co. He eventually evolved this business into D.J.S. Custom Home Builders & Landscapers, which he based in Bucks County to specialize in single-family homes and land development. His conviction in his business' success was so strong, in fact, that he sold his own home shortly after moving into it to finance his first sample home.

Dave accredits much of his business' success to the reinvestment of funds back into his company, his passion for the trade, and unwavering support of our community. Over the years, he has given back tenfold in several different ways, including serving as a member of the Upper Makefield Business Association, the Newtown Businessmen's Association, the

Home Builders Association of Bucks and Montgomery Counties, and the Associated Builders and Contractors. He is a strong believer in community involvement and over the years has contributed to a variety of charities in Bucks County, concentrating on those that help young people including the Special Olympics, Pennington School, and the Little League Baseball organizations in the area.

Furthermore, Dave has given arguably the most back to the place he attributes his success to: Williamson College of the Trades. Following in the footsteps of his alma mater's founder, Isaiah V. Williamson, he has made several contributions to the school including the establishment of an award in honor of his brother Clarence ``Mickey'' Schrenk, sponsoring the John J. Sabia Memorial Award, and providing the funding for both a loop road that circles the campus aptly named ``Schrenk's Way'' and the renovation of the school's chapel, named the Clara Schrenk Memorial Chapel in honor of his mother.

Now, in his 90th year of life, Dave considers his greatest accomplishment to be the raising of his five daughters--Debbie, Donna, Darlene, Dawn, and Dana--and the values of hard work that he instilled in them. Following his retirement in 1998, he has spent his days taking care of his homes in Bucks County and the Poconos, fishing, working on his model train layout, and getting together with his Williamson classmates.

As we celebrate Dave's 90th birthday, we honor his enduring dedication to Bucks County as a builder, philanthropist, father and a man of enduring integrity and spirit.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary constituent from my district, Mrs. Sally Walters. Born on January 30, 1926, Sally exemplifies a century of steadfast dedication to family, education, and the spirit of wonder. Her 100 years of life stand as a powerful testament to a life lived to its fullest.

Growing up on Long Island at the height of the Great Depression, Sally was fortunate enough to grow up as the daughter of a produce peddler, who taught her the values of clean eating. Sally was ever the diligent student, making the ARISTA List before she graduated from Port Richmond High School in Staten Island, helping to foster her lifelong love of education and learning.

Sally enjoyed the best the New York Metropolitan area had to offer, frequenting Manhattan to see the likes of Frank Sinatra perform at the beginning of his rise to fame in addition to attending USO dances during the Second World War to entertain our troops. It was during the war where she met her first husband, Ed, riding bumper cars while he was stationed with the United States Army Air Force nearby. They were married in 1946 and moved to Philadelphia shortly thereafter.

As a young woman in post-war America, Sally joined the workforce as an executive secretary to the research chemists at Rohm Haas. She balanced her burgeoning professional career with the responsibilities of motherhood, raising 3 children in Bensalem and eventually joining the Bensalem School District as a secretary. It was during this time that her husband Ed unfortunately passed away.

Sally eventually found love again, marrying Bill, a veteran of the Marine Corps who helped reinvigorate her sense of wonder and adventure from her childhood. Together, Sally and Bill traveled across our beautiful country and beyond, exploring the landscape and cultures around the globe. Sally and Bill retired to Hendersonville, North Carolina until his passing, after which she moved to Bristol, Pennsylvania to be closer to her children.

Now, as she approaches age 100, Sally remains an extraordinary force, actively involved with her group of friends at the Bensalem Senior Center. She now spends her days enjoying games and the company of her 3 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren while maintaining a strict schedule of daily exercises, prayers and chores.

As we celebrate Sally's 100th birthday, we honor her enduring dedication to Bucks County as an educator, traveler, loving mother, and an inspiring woman of remarkable strength and character.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Elizabeth Schanne, a remarkable constituent who is celebrating her 100th birthday. Elizabeth was born on January 13, 1926, in the Germantown section of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Cecilian Academy, beginning a life marked by faith, service, and creativity.

Elizabeth was introduced to her husband of 65 years, Lt. Francis A. Schanne, by her best friend Mary Moriaty. They were married on November 10, 1944, during World War II, and moved to Fallbrook, California, where Francis served in the United States Navy. During this time, Elizabeth assisted the Navy Purser, ensuring servicemen received their pay. She later worked as a ballroom dancing instructor at the Arthur Murray Dance Studio in Boston while Frank completed his engineering degree at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

The couple returned to the Philadelphia area, where Frank worked for DeLaval in Trenton, and they raised five children. In the 1950s, Elizabeth earned the title of Miss Artisan of Ocean City, New Jersey. The family later settled in Newtown, Pennsylvania, where Elizabeth and Frank became active members of Saint Andrew Catholic Church. Elizabeth shared her artistic talents through sewing, needlepoint, knitting, oil painting, and by teaching ballroom dancing to local youth at the George School.

Elizabeth also served the community through her involvement in the Saint Andrew Church Centennial celebration, the Newtown Bicentennial celebration, and the efforts that helped bring Saint Mary's Hospital into existence. She is also well known throughout Bucks County for her distinguished career as a Realtor, beginning in 1962, serving generations of families for more than five decades before retiring at age 75 to care for her husband.

Never one to slow down, Elizabeth took up step dancing at age 75 and performed in local shows and parades, including the Philadelphia St. Patrick's Day Parade. Today, she continues to serve others at the Holland Senior Living Community by praying with fellow residents. Elizabeth is the proud mother of five, grandmother of twelve, great- grandmother of eighteen, and great-great-grandmother of two.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my esteemed colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in extending our heartfelt congratulations, sincere well-wishes, and God's blessings to Elizabeth Schanne on the celebration of her 100th birthday.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding constituent of my district, Larry Keller. Larry has faithfully served the residents of New Hope Borough, Pennsylvania, including as Mayor of New Hope, during his many years of dedication to public service.

Mayor Keller has long been a committed civic leader in New Hope, a historic river town known for its vibrant small businesses, tourism, and strong sense of community. Throughout his time in public service, Mayor Keller has worked diligently to preserve the character of the borough while supporting responsible growth, public safety, and economic vitality.

As Mayor, Larry Keller placed a strong emphasis on collaboration between borough council, local businesses, residents, and public safety officials. His leadership reflected a practical, community-first approach, focused on maintaining New Hope's unique identity while addressing the everyday needs of its residents and visitors alike.

Under his leadership, New Hope continued to strengthen its position as one of Bucks County's most recognizable destinations, balancing tourism with quality of life for those who call the borough home. Mayor Keller's service exemplified integrity, approachability, and a deep respect for local government's role in serving the public.

After years of dedicated service, Mayor Keller leaves a lasting impact on the borough and the people he served. His commitment to community engagement and civic responsibility stands as an example of how local leadership plays a vital role in strengthening our Commonwealth.

I wish to congratulate Larry Keller on his service to the citizens of New Hope Borough and thank him for his dedication to public service and to the community he proudly represented.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of Matthew ``Matt'' Wallace Haines, a man whose journey through this world was defined not by ease, but by extraordinary service, resilience, and a deep devotion to others.

Born Michael Stephan LaVallee on May 13, 1971, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, Matt passed away on December 19, 2025, at the age of 54. His early life was marked by challenges that demanded uncommon strength and perseverance. Rather than allowing those hardships to define him, Matt transformed them into a source of empathy, grit, and compassion. These are qualities that he carried with him to shape the man he became, the way he lived, the way he served, and the lives he touched.

Matt was a proud United States Marine and a volunteer firefighter for more than 20 years, serving with distinction as a Captain with the Tullytown Fire Company, Station 33. The residents of Tullytown knew that when the sirens sounded, someone who genuinely cared was on the way. In dangerous situations which others would run from, Matt would courageously and instinctively run towards the emergency to aid and assistance. Service was not something Matt took lightly nor was it just a word to him. It was the heartbeat of who he was. His leadership, courage, and quiet dependability set a standard for what it truly means to live a life of civic duty.

Above all, Matt Haines was a family man. He leaves behind those who loved him, including his wife, Alyssa Renee (Grayson) Haines; his sons, Casey Ryan Haines and Jonathan Tomczyk; his daughter, Audrey Lightner, and her wife, Corine Lightner; his grandchildren, Alysia Dennis, Ayden Lightner, and Evan McFarland; his beloved mother and father, Jane LaVallee and Glen Papin, and his younger brothers, Stacey Schinold and Shelby Schinold. He is also remembered fondly by the many friends who became family over the course of his life.

Mr. Haines was also deeply loved by Alyssa's family, whom he embraced as his own. He is remembered by Christine (Albertuzzi) Grayson, whom he often said was the first true mother he had ever known; Lon Grayson, whom he proudly called ``Dad''; his wife, Judy (Sindelar) Grayson; Jared Grayson; Melody Salvero Grayson; and his nieces, Chelsea and Taylor Grayson.

Mr. Speaker, we also pause with solemn reverence to remember that Matt was preceded in death by his beloved son, Matthew Tyler Haines. This heartbreaking loss forever shaped his life, yet even in grief he chose love, carrying his son's memory in every step he took.

Matt Haines will be remembered as someone who lived boldly and authentically. His friends and family will remember him as the ``watch this'' kind of guy. Matt was someone who made people laugh, pushed limits, and brought energy and humor into every room he entered. His larger-than-life personality, fearless spirit, and sharp sense of humor left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Matthew Wallace Haines. He was a United States Marine, a Fire Captain with Tullytown Fire Company Station 33, a husband, a father, a grandfather, a son, a brother, and a friend. We recognize a life that burned brightly in service, in love, and in courage. May his legacy endure, and may he now rest in eternal peace.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend a constituent from the 1st District of Pennsylvania, Mr. Justin Ritorto, for his selfless actions and willingness to assist during a residential fire in Penndel Borough.

In the early morning hours of December 11, 2025, a dwelling fire placed residents of a Penndel Borough home in immediate danger. Amid this unfolding emergency, Mr. Ritorto stepped forward to assist Officer Sean Peck of the Penndel Borough Police Department as urgent efforts were made to alert occupants and facilitate their safe evacuation.

At moments of crisis, the actions of individuals can make a profound difference. Mr. Ritorto's readiness to help, his calm presence, and his concern for the safety of others contributed meaningfully to the successful response that morning. His actions reflect the values of compassion, civic responsibility, and community-mindedness that strengthen public safety and bring neighbors together in times of need.

While much attention is rightly given to the bravery of first responders, it is equally important to acknowledge those private citizens who choose to act in support of others without expectation of recognition or reward. Mr. Ritorto's conduct serves as a reminder that heroism is often found in ordinary individuals who rise to extraordinary circumstances.

Mr. Speaker, acts such as these embody the spirit of service and solidarity that define strong communities. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Justin Ritorto for his actions.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend Officer Sean Peck of the Penndel Borough Police Department for his extraordinary bravery, selfless service, and unwavering dedication to the safety of his community.

Officer Peck has served as a law enforcement officer for six years, including the past two and a half years with the Penndel Borough Police Department. Prior to joining Penndel Borough, he honorably served for three years with the Philadelphia Police Department. In addition to his distinguished law enforcement career, Officer Peck is a combat

veteran who proudly served our Nation as a member of the elite United States Army 75th Ranger Regiment, exemplifying a lifelong commitment to service and sacrifice.

At approximately 4:40 a.m. on December 11, 2025, while working an overnight shift, Officer Peck observed an active dwelling fire at a residence on West Woodland Avenue, directly across from the Penndel Borough Police Department. Recognizing the immediate and grave danger to the residents inside, Officer Peck did not hesitate to act. He immediately ran toward the burning home and began alerting the sleeping family.

Despite intense fire conditions and heavy smoke, Officer Peck courageously took decisive action to evacuate those trapped inside. Through his swift and fearless response, three children and five adults were able to escape safely before firefighters arrived. A teenager who lived in the home later stated that the loud banging on the door is what startled her awake, and that she heard Officer Peck shouting, ``Fire,'' alerting the family to the danger.

Penndel Borough Police Chief Sean Perry has rightly commended Officer Peck for his quick, selfless response, stating that if Officer Peck had not noticed the fire when he did, the home likely would have become fully engulfed, and there was a strong chance that no one would have made it out safely. Chief Perry emphasized that Officer Peck's immediate actions were instrumental in preventing a tragic loss of life.

Officer Peck, in turn, emphasized that the rescue was a collaborative effort involving fellow officers, the volunteer fire company, and emergency responders, He noted that while he would act the same for anyone, the fact that the residents were a family he knew made the rescue especially meaningful.

Officer Peck has also shared that his desire to serve began at a very young age, inspired by the first responders of September 11, 2001. That inspiration led him to join the military directly out of high school and continues to guide his service today. He has humbly stated that if he can be even a small fraction as good as those he served alongside in the military and his current police officers, he would consider that a success.

Chief Perry has also extended heartfelt sympathy to the residents affected by this fire. While all occupants were safely evacuated, the Penndel Borough Police Department recognizes the profound hardship and emotional toll associated with the loss of one's home. In coordination with fire services and emergency management partners, the department remains committed to supporting the displaced family during this difficult time.

Mr. Speaker, Officer Sean Peck's actions reflect the very best of public service. His courage under extreme conditions, his humility, and his lifelong dedication to helping others serve as an inspiration to his fellow officers and to all whom he serves. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Officer Sean Peck.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart, yet deep gratitude, to honor the life and legacy of Harvey Francis Cochran, a remarkable husband, father, grandfather, and friend, whose presence brought joy, laughter, and meaning to so many. Harvey passed away peacefully on Monday, December 22, 2025, at his home in Warrington, surrounded by the family he so deeply loved.

Born in 1950 to the late Harvey W. Cochran and Frances Cochran (Vogt), Harvey was raised in Croydon, Pennsylvania, where the roots of his character, hard work, kindness, and a deep appreciation for community were firmly planted. From a young age, Harvey possessed a gift that would remain with him throughout his life: music. He learned to play the piano at just five years old, and what began as a childhood talent grew into a lifelong passion. Harvey shared that gift generously, teaching others and bringing music into countless homes and hearts. Whether playing, listening, or dancing, music was a constant source of joy and connection for him.

Harvey had an extraordinary ability to make people feel at ease. His quick wit, warm smile, and unmistakable laugh could light up a room and lift spirits without effort. He cherished time spent with family and friends, creating memories rooted in humor, conversation, and genuine love.

A man of great dedication, Harvey worked as a welder for nearly 50 years, providing for his family through decades of honest, skilled labor. His work ethic was unwavering, and he took pride in a job well done. That same care and patience extended into his personal life, particularly in his love of gardening. His Levittown home was surrounded by vibrant flowers and thriving vegetables, a reflection of the time, effort, and pride he invested in everything he touched.

Harvey was also a devoted Philadelphia sports fan, especially when it came to the Eagles, faithfully watching Sunday games and sharing in the highs and lows with those around him. Yet his love of sports went far beyond fandom. He valued mentorship and teamwork and gave his time generously as a coach. Known affectionately as ``Coach Harv,'' he left a lasting impact on countless young people, offering guidance, encouragement, and a steady presence on and off the field.

Above all, Harvey's greatest joy was his family. He shared 54 loving years of marriage with his devoted wife, Ann Marie Cochran (McCaughey). Together, they built a life rooted in love, resilience, and unwavering support. He was a proud and loving father to Kevin Cochran and his wife Kirsten, Michelle Cunningham and her husband Jeff, and Brad Cochran and his wife Christine, and a deeply devoted grandfather to Jack, Molly, Jeffrey, Kaitlyn, Amanda, Cole, and Cali, each of whom brought him immense pride and happiness.

Harvey is also survived by his brother, Michael Cochran and his wife Maryanne, and was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Daniel Cochran, whom he carried in his heart always.

Harvey Francis Cochran's legacy is one of love, laughter, service, and generosity. His life reminds us that true impact is measured not only by years lived, but by lives touched. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered, and forever cherished by those who knew him. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Cochran family and all who mourn his passing, and I honor a life so beautifully lived.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend Mr. Paul Calderaio for his extraordinary dedication to public service and his lasting contributions to Buckingham Township in Bucks County, Pennsylvania.

Paul's commitment to service began early in his life while living in Florida. That dedication only deepened after he and his family made Buckingham Township their home. For more than three decades, Paul Calderaio has exemplified the very best of local civic leadership, devoting his time, energy, and experience to strengthening his community.

A resident of Buckingham Township since 1955, Paul and his wife have raised their four children in Bucks County, firmly rooting their family in the community he has worked so diligently to serve. His public service to the Township spans nearly 25 years, first as Township Auditor and later as a Township supervisor, roles in which he demonstrated integrity, responsibility, and a steadfast commitment to transparency and good governance.

Throughout his tenure, Paul was a strong advocate for open space preservation and played a key role in campaigning for a Township bond dedicated to protecting land for future generations. His leadership helped ensure that Buckingham Township balanced growth with preservation, safeguarding its rural character and quality of life.

The results of his dedication are clear and admirable. Under the leadership of officials like Paul Calderaio, Buckingham Township has been ranked the safest township in Pennsylvania for its size, maintains some of the lowest township tax rates in Bucks County, and has achieved an exceptional AAA bond rating. This is an honor shared by only seven townships in the entire Commonwealth. Additionally, more than 6,500 acres of open space has been preserved, and the Township is consistently recognized as one of the best places to live in Pennsylvania,

Mr. Speaker, these accomplishments do not happen by chance. They are the product of years of thoughtful leadership, careful use of public resources, and an unwavering commitment to the people of Buckingham Township. Paul's legacy is one of service, accountability, and community pride.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Mr. Paul Calderaio for his many years of service and to thank him for the positive and lasting impact he has had on Buckingham Township, Bucks County, and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.