Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with deep admiration and appreciation to recognize a truly outstanding individual from my district--Volunteer Firefighter Mr. Larry Newman from Bucks County, Pennsylvania.

This year, Mr. Larry Newman is celebrating 40 remarkable years of continuous service with the Yardley-Makefield Fire Company.

Larry's story began long before he ever put on the uniform. As a young child, he would visit the firehouse with his grandfather, who himself was a proud volunteer firefighter. Those early memories and experiences sparked a love for firefighting that never seemed to fade.

After graduating from St. John's University in Queens, New York, in 1969 with a degree in Business and Marketing, he pursued a successful 30-year career in men's fashion. Yet, the call to serve his community never left him. In 1975, he answered that call by joining the Floral Park Fire Department as a volunteer firefighter, which would only be the start of his overall 50-year journey in fire service.

In 1986, after relocating to Yardley, Pennsylvania, Larry joined the Yardley-Makefield Fire Company, where he has served ever since.

Throughout his 40 years with the Yardley-Makefield Fire Company, he has stepped into a variety of roles--most significantly his 29 years serving as President of the Fire Company. His leadership has helped shape the growth of the department to ensure it remains prepared and stays connected to the community it serves.

Larry's impact goes beyond his leadership roles. He has written many successful grants that have helped the Fire Company purchase equipment, such as a High Water Rescue Truck, which has allowed the department to be able to respond more effectively.

He has been frequently honored as a Top Responder, answering more than 400 fire calls in a single year, a testament to his strong dedication. Whether responding to emergencies or representing the Fire Company at schools during Fire Prevention Week and at community events, you will often find Larry behind the wheel of a firetruck, always ready to serve.

Larry Newman's life is a powerful example of what it means to live with purpose. His record of duty, sacrifice, and selflessness embodies the very best of the American Spirit.

On behalf of a grateful community, I offer our deepest appreciation to Larry Newman for his 40 years of extraordinary service. May his legacy of leadership, heart, and heroism continue to inspire future generations of firefighters and public servants for years to come.

I congratulate Larry. We salute him.

Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to pay tribute to Mrs. Lillian Benjamin Boysen, affectionately known to all as Lily Belle or just ``Lil''. Born on October 16, 1944, in Windber, Pennsylvania, Lil was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and overall, a friend. With profound sadness, we honor Lil following her passing on August 12, 2025. Lil 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.

Lil was a patriot whose love for her community and her country guided everything she did. After high school, she moved to Washington, D.C., where she worked as a secretary for the Judge Advocate General. However, her greatest calling was at home, where she and her beloved husband, Rob, and four children, built a family that grew to include ten grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Lil was a passionate public servant and devoted herself to service, becoming a true pillar of faith and civic life in Lower Bucks County. At Trevose United Methodist Church, she helped guide the congregation as a member of the Board of Directors. Supporting the programs for families and youth, mentoring younger members, and giving countless hours to strengthen the church community until its closing in 2011.

Beyond the church, she played a vital role in organizing civic efforts across our community, bringing neighbors together, encouraging participation, and engaging people in the issues that shaped their families and their future. She gave her time freely to charitable causes, offered guidance and encouragement to those in need, and worked to create spaces where community voices were heard and respected.

The lesson of Lil's life is that service is not an obligation, it is a way of living. She lived

her faith not only in words but in action; through her generosity of spirit, her gift of time, and her devotion to others. She believed in unity--bringing people together, strengthening families, and building community. Her patriotism was steady and genuine, rooted in love of neighbors and love of country. Lil showed us that a meaningful life is not measured by titles or recognition, but by the compassion we show, the people we help, and the community we leave stronger and more united than we found it.

It is through the work of people like Lil that our communities thrive, and our Nation grows stronger. Her service, given without expectation of recognition, stood as a testament to the belief that one individual's dedication can positively ripple through the lives of many, sparking change, fostering resilience, and inspiring hope. We remember Lil not just for her remarkable deeds but for who she is--a true hero in every sense of the word.

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

Mr. Speaker, as we say farewell to Lillian Benamin Boysen, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and deeply loved. Her spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her, and her contributions to the world will be long remembered. As a woman who served her community and loved her family, it is with deep respect that I honor her memory today. I send my heartfelt condolences to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the National Society Daughters of American Revolution (NSDAR), Towamencin Chapter, which is an organization in my district. The NSDAR was founded in 1890 to promote Historic Preservation, Education, and Patriotism across the United States. Members seek to honor their heritage as daughters of Patriots who supported the Revolutionary War while making a difference in their communities.

The Towamencin Chapter, NSDAR has collaborated with the William G. Pomeroy Foundation in their initiative to celebrate the semiquincentennial of our Nation in 2026. This program offers grants to commemorate historical points of interest significant to the Revolutionary War period. The Towamencin Chapter, NSDAR, along with the assistance of the Hatfield Historical Society and Museum, were grateful that one of the historical sites chosen belonged to Lieutenant Colonel (Lt. Col.) Jacob Reed, a Patriot from Hatfield, Pennsylvania.

Lt. Col. Jacob Reed was born on July 6, 1730, in Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania. He died on November 2, 1820, in New Britain Township, Pennsylvania. He married Magdalena Leidy and had 9 children together. Jacob Reed came from a very patriotic family with his father paying the Supply Tax in 1781 in Hatfield Township and all his brothers and brothers-in-law participating in the Revolutionary War. Two of his sons also fought in the Revolutionary War.

Lt. Col. Jacob Reed resided in Hatfield from 1770 to 1793, having secured a 215-acre land warrant from the sons of William Penn. His original log home, built in the 18th century, still stands today as part of the current farmhouse on the property.

A respected farmer, church elder, and public servant, Jacob Reed's legacy is deeply embedded in the fabric of Hatfield's history. During the Revolutionary War, he served as Lieutenant Colonel of the 1st Battalion, Philadelphia County Militia, making him the highest-ranking military officer from Hatfield at the time. He played critical roles in the Battles of Germantown and Brandywine, and was later elected Major of the 5th Battalion, Pennsylvania Troops, continuing his service until the war's end.

His unwavering faith in the American cause had brought attacks on Reed's life and home. Yet, Jacob Reed never swayed. Reed's intimate knowledge of the region's terrain and demographics proved to secure him as an invaluable asset to General George Washington.

Additionally, the Forst family who are members of our district, were instrumental in saving this property from development. Bill Forst bought the property and then used his own funds and time to restore the property to what it is today. The property has now passed to his daughters, Wendy Forst Ferrell and Fay Forst Younger, who allowed the Towamencin Chapter, NSDAR to install the marker on their property as well as hold a dedication ceremony recognizing the contributions of Lt. Col. Jacob Reed and his willingness to fight for his beliefs.

Through these acts of endless patriotism and dedication, the Forst family, Daughters of the Revolution, Towamencin Chapter, William G. Pomeroy Foundation, and the Hatfield Historical Society demonstrated their unwavering commitment to serving the Pennsylvania's 1st Congressional District community.

Mr. Chair, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. Chair, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding constituent from my district, Mrs. Susan Harkins. It is my distinct honor to celebrate her remarkable 45 years of service with the Lower Bucks County Chamber of Commerce.

Since joining the Chamber in 1980, Susan has been instrumental in supporting business and leadership development in Lower Bucks County. She began her career in the Chamber's front office, supporting groups such as the Golf and Transportation committees and the Miss Bucks County Scholarship Pageant. Over the years, Susan has made contributions as the Outlook publication coordinator, bookkeeper, and Assistant to the President--bringing unwavering dedication and professionalism to each role.

Today, Susan serves as the Chamber's Professional Development Specialist, where she works toward the growth and success of Lower Bucks professionals. Her work with the Leadership Bucks County program, now in its 29th year, has shaped and inspired future generations of community leaders. Through outreach events like The Keynote Morning Meeting, Business Card Exchange, and Young Professionals Summits, Susan has created career development and community building opportunities.

Susan's impact reaches far beyond her formal responsibilities Her tireless work ethic, meticulous attention to detail, and steadfast support for others have made her a cherished mentor and friend. She has played a vital role in fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members, especially in her contributions to the Chamber's 60th Anniversary Celebration.

Outside of the Chamber, Susan is an Assistant Treasurer of the A. Marlyn Moyer, Jr. Scholarship Foundation, which provides scholarships to high school seniors for their first year in postsecondary education. She also serves as the Secretary for the Bucks County Technical High School Foundation for Education Excellence, supporting both students and staff alike.

For 45 years, Susan Harkins has been a fervent supporter of Lower Bucks businesses--providing education, creating networking opportunities, and championing advocacy on areas impacting business. It is a privilege to celebrate someone who brings enthusiasm, good humor, endless support, and hard work to everything she does. We celebrate Susan on this incredible milestone and thank her for 45 years of remarkable commitment to our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Helen Birkhead, a remarkable constituent from my district. It is my honor to celebrate her on her 100th birthday--a day marking a hundred years of love, laughter, and commitment to her family, friends, and community.

Born on August 30, 1925, in Trenton, New Jersey, Helen has experienced a century full of changes and milestones. Her life story stands not only as a testament to longevity, but also to unwavering character. Throughout her ten decades of life, Helen has remained deeply committed to her faith and her family, living each day with purpose, grace, and quiet strength.

Helen graduated from Trenton High School, in Trenton, New Jersey. Later, she made her home and spent much of her life in Ewing, New Jersey after marrying her husband, Ken Birkhead. Ken was a United States Navy veteran who went on to serve as an Ewing Township Police Officer and work in construction. As a devoted homemaker, Helen created a warm and loving home where she and Ken raised their two children, Kathy and Kenny. Helen's endless love and support filled her household with everlasting joy.

Beyond her dedication to her family, Helen remained steadfast in her commitment to her faith. Helen is a devout Catholic and was a member of the Incarnation Catholic Church in Ewing, New Jersey. Her Catholic faith has served as a guiding light in her life--shaping her values and offering strength and clarity through life's many trials and triumphs.

Today, Helen enjoys her daily walks and gathering flowers from the community gardens to create beautiful floral arrangements for her suite. A woman of few words, Helen loves sipping a good, hot cup of tea while reminiscing on her past. Helen's ideal way to spend her birthday exemplifies her ability to find joy in life's simplest blessings-- attending a quiet luncheon savoring her favorite treat: ice cream.

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

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an incredible individual from my district. Brian Kern of Bucks County, Pennsylvania has served the Neshaminy School District for the past 32 years. On July 1, Principal Kern retired from his career in public education, closing a chapter marked by educational leadership, unwavering support for students, and dedicated service to his community.

In August 1993, Principal Kern began his career in education as a Music Teacher at Maple Point Middle School. Six years later, he rose to the challenge of administrative leadership, serving as Assistant Principal at Neshaminy High School and later at Neshaminy Middle School. In 2004, he became Principal of Oliver Heckman Elementary School, a role he held for 11 years. In 2015, he took on the position of Principal at Pearl S. Buck Elementary School--which recently transitioned to Core Creek Elementary School--where he has served for the past decade.

Principal Kern's service extends well beyond his three decades of educational leadership within the Neshaminy community. From 2011 to 2013, he served as President of Friends of Steinert Jazz, a group dedicated to supporting the Steinert High School Jazz Band Program. In this role, he helped organize events and fundraisers for these students. Between 2014 and 2017, he volunteered with the music program at Princeton High School. Additionally, for the past decade, he has volunteered as a docent for Cranbury Historic Home Tours. Throughout his entire professional journey, Principal Kern has seamlessly combined his passion for music, arts, and culture with his work in educational administration.

Beyond his professional achievements, Principal Kern is a devoted husband and father. His wife, Diane, is a full-time realtor, and the couple celebrated their 35th anniversary in July before traveling to Europe together this fall. Together, they have raised two sons and a daughter, all of whom have excelled in their respective fields: nursing, aerospace engineering, and special education.

Principal Brian Kern is truly a remarkable figure in our district. We commend him on his retirement after 32 years of dedicated service to public education in Neshaminy. He soon will be working at Darianna Bridal and Tuxedo in Warrington as manager of the tuxedo department, focusing on business development and community connections. Congratulations again to Principal Kern.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize an exceptional individual from my district, Lieutenant William Moffett of the Buckingham Township Police Department. Today, I proudly commend him on his well-earned retirement, following decades of committed service to the people of Bucks County.

Lieutenant Moffett's distinguished career in public service began in 1981, when he served as an EMT with the Bucks County Rescue Squad and Bensalem Rescue Squad. Two years later, he joined the Bucks County Department of Communications as a Police, Fire, and EMS dispatcher, demonstrating his deep commitment to public safety.

In 1987, Lieutenant Moffett transitioned to a career in law enforcement as a Deputy Sheriff with the Bucks County's Sheriff's Department. Then, in 1990, he joined the Buckingham Township Police Department, where he would serve for the next 35 years.

He began his service as an Officer and quickly distinguished himself through exceptional dedication and leadership. Throughout his tenure, he earned multiple promotions, rising through the ranks of Officer, Corporal, Sergeant, and ultimately Lieutenant. In each role, Lieutenant Moffett brought integrity and professionalism.

Notably, Lieutenant Moffett played a major role in implementing a new record management system, obtaining body-worn and in-car dash cameras, and acquiring taser devices for the department. His efforts helped to modernize the force and enhance public safety.

Beyond these contributions, he has shared his vast experiences and leadership abilities with generations of the department's officers. Above all, Lieutenant Moffett's pride in serving the residents of Bucks County was always evident--so much so that this legacy continues, with all three of his sons now serving as police officers in communities across the county.

After a long and honorable career in law enforcement, Lieutenant Moffett looks forward to a well-deserved retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Lieutenant William Moffett on his retirement and thank him for 44 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, it is with a heavy heart and solemn remembrance that I rise today to pay tribute to a passionate community educator, devoted public servant, and deeply committed family man--Mr. Stephen Wallin.

With sorrow, we honor Stephen following his passing on June 14, 2025.

Stephen was born on January 8, 1953, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to his loving parents Alexander Wallin and Dorothy Juraky Wallin. He was a lifelong resident of Upper Southampton Township and a proud graduate of William Tennent High School. He furthered his education at Cambridge International University, earning a Bachelor of Science with distinction in Education Administration.

As the President and CEO of the Bucks County School of Beauty Culture in Feasterville, Pennsylvania, Stephen provided elite beauty education to his community for nearly five decades. By preparing students for careers as hairdressers, estheticians, nail technicians, and electrologists, he championed a holistic approach to beauty culture-- one that emphasized its artistic and scientific qualities. Under his leadership, the school recruited high-quality faculty who, in turn, produced high-achieving graduates.

Beyond his role as an educator, Stephen dedicated himself to public service through a variety of political and civic roles. In Upper Southampton Township, he contributed as an Auditor, a member of the Municipal Authority, and a member of the Board of Supervisors. His commitment extended further, with roles on the Pennsylvania State Cosmetology Board, the Board of the Pennsylvania Private School Administrators, the Upper Southampton Republican Club, and as President of the Lower Bucks County Chamber of Commerce. In each of these positions, Stephen exemplified a deep and unwavering commitment to his community--always striving to support the people around him.

Above all, Stephen was a devoted family man. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Gayle R. Kennedy Wallin; his son, Scott Wallin; his daughter and son-in-law, Melissa and Matthew Neamand; and his son and daughter-in-law, Ryan and Megan Wallin. He was also a beloved brother, grandfather, and uncle.

Stephen found joy in various endeavors--especially fishing and sharing his knowledge of firearms at the gun range. These were not just hobbies, but opportunities for connection and teaching.

Mr. Stephen Wallin was a remarkable member of my district, and it is with deep respect that I honor his memory today. I send my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a remarkable individual from my district, Mr Frank C. Parker, IV. For nearly three decades, Mr. Parker has nurtured and inspired the musical abilities of students in the Quakertown Community School District.

Mr. Parker attended Moravian College, where he earned a bachelor's degree in musical performance and studied wind conducting, choral conducting, and saxophone under renowned academics and musicians. During his time there, he co-founded both the Moravian College Jazz Quartet and the Moravian College Dixieland Band. His exceptional talent earned him the lead alto saxophone positions with the Moravian College and Muhlenberg College Big Bands, and he also served as Principal Alto Saxophone for the Moravian College Wind Ensemble.

His pursuit of excellence in music continued through his master's education at Wilkes University and additional graduate coursework at Villanova University, University of Miami, University of Arts, and West Chester University.

Mr. Parker dedicated 27 years to sharing his musical expertise and passion with QCSD students. From 1998 to 2004, he directed the award- winning Milford Middle School band, even earning them a performance at the 2003 Pennsylvania Music Educators Association. During his six-year tenure, the Milford Jazz Band received nothing less than a superior rating at 26 consecutive jazz festivals--an extraordinary feat.

For the past 21 years, Mr. Parker has served as the Director of Bands at Quakertown High School, where he led the Symphonic Band, Wind Symphony, Jazz Ensemble, and numerous other small ensembles. Under his direction, these ensembles were invited to perform at the PMEA Conference, the NAfME National Conference, and the NAfME Eastern Division Conference an impressive fourteen times.

Additionally, Mr. Parker directed Quakertown High School's award- winning marching band, which has won both national and state-level competitions under his leadership.

At this year's PMEA Conference, Mr. Parker was honored as the Phi Beta Mu Outstanding PA Bandmaster. Over the years, many of his students have been selected to participate in PMEA district, region, and state band festivals.

Outside of his work at QCSD, Mr. Parker has taught saxophone lessons for the past 38 years. He is an active clinician, adjudicator, and guest conductor, having led bands across Pennsylvania and Vermont. He is a dedicated member of PMEA, NAfME, QCEA, PSEA, NEA, and Phi Beta Mu.

As a performer, Mr. Parker has experience as a saxophonist with wind bands, big bands, and variety bands in the Lehigh Valley and Philadelphia areas, and has performed internationally in Great Britain and the British Virgin islands.

In retirement, Mr. Parker looks forward to guest conducting, running clinics and teaching lessons online, as well as continuing to play his saxophone. He is the proud father of one daughter.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Parker for his 27 years of service to the Quakertown community, and I am honored to congratulate him on his well- deserved retirement. His efforts have made an everlasting impact on generations of students, enriching their lives through music education and inspiring a deep appreciation for the arts.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an incredible parish from my district--Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (BVM) Parish in Feasterville, Pennsylvania. This year, Assumption BVM celebrates its 75th Anniversary, an exceptional milestone that reflects decades of spiritual dedication and charitable impact. It is my honor to commend the parish on this remarkable achievement.

Since its founding on November 3, 1950, Assumption BVM has dedicated themselves to ministry and outreach. By offering a welcoming place for worship to the residents of Feasterville, Langhorne, Oakford, and Trevose, the parish has been a steadfast presence in Bucks County for three-quarters of a century.

Celebrating 75 years as a parish also means celebrating 75 years as their self-titled Family of Faith. Through grounding their lives in love and faith, Assumption BVM has become a source of strength, spiritual growth, and support for countless individuals.

Assumption BVM works alongside the Society of St. Vincent de Paul to assist people who struggle to afford basic necessities. To help ease these burdens, Assumption BVM collects grocery store gift cards and other monetary donations for those in need.

Their outreach also includes the Caring for Friends program, which provides home-cooked meals to individuals facing food insecurity. Additional efforts include a community meal program with Advocates for Homeless and Those in Need, and the Change for Life Baby Bottle Project, which supports families in crisis. And yet, these examples capture only a fraction of Assumption BVM's deep commitment to serving those in need.

The parish's Knights of Columbus chapter provides even more opportunities for parishioners to engage in charitable outreach, sponsoring events such as spring pancake breakfasts and baseball outings that bring people together in fellowship and service.

It is my honor to celebrate 75 years of faith, generosity, and service at Assumption BVM. Bucks County is a stronger, more compassionate place because of the enduring presence of this extraordinary parish. I am proud to celebrate Assumption BVM on this remarkable milestone.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding member of our community, Executive Director of the Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations Jeffrey B. Caballero, MPH, who has received the Hepatitis B Foundation's 2025 Community Leadership Award.

Prior to becoming Executive Director of the Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations, Jeffrey began his journey at the University of California, San Diego where he studied biochemistry and cell biology. After graduating UC San Diego in 1988, he continued his studies at the University of California, Los Angeles--School of Public Health where he received his Master of Public Health degree. He also attended UCLA Anderson School of Management's Health Care Executive Program.

Since 1993, Jeffrey and his colleagues at the Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations have dedicated their time and energy to promoting advocacy, collaboration, and leadership that improves the health status and access of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. Jeffrey's oversight of the overall strategic direction and execution of the Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations' mission seeks to bring about a world in which all the communities AAPCHO serves have equitable access to affordable, high quality, and culturally and linguistically proficient health care. To date, the Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations comprises 34 community health organizations serving over 750,000 patients nationwide.

Additionally, Jeffrey acts as the founding co-chair of Hep B United, a national coalition to unify and enhance local coalitions and community health centers dedicated to eliminating Hepatitis B virus infections and its complications. Hep B United was founded in 2013 as a partnership between the Hepatitis B Foundation and AAPCHO and has done incredible work in elevating Hepatitis B as a national priority. His lifetime commitment to eliminating health disparities related to Hepatitis B as well as liver cancer and his broader efforts to improving the lives of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have been recognized by the Hepatitis B Foundation through his receiving the 2025 Community Leadership Award.

I wish to congratulate Jeffrey on his almost four decades of service to Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders and on his well-deserved recognition from the Hepatitis B Foundation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the valuable contributions of Americans for Native Americans (ANA), a dedicated organization primarily supported by benefactors from Central Bucks County, which lies within my district in Pennsylvania.

ANA is dedicated to improving the lives of Native Americans in the Hopi, Navajo, and Zuni Nations in the American Southwest. By providing essential goods and services, ANA addresses critical community needs while serving as a foundation for greater self-reliance and long-term empowerment.

Connie and Bill Eastburn founded this organization by recognizing pressing needs in these Native American communities--warmth, structure, and shelter. When they learned that 17 Navajo men had tragically passed away due to inadequate shelter, Connie and Bill jumped into action. Now, partnered with numerous organizations, they have been committed to helping and improving the lives of Native Americans in the American Southwest.

One facet of ANA's outreach efforts includes programs focused on supporting the wellbeing and education of Native American children. The largest program, Food for Kids, provides schoolchildren with much- needed meals. With the help of ANA's generous donors, the program's funding skyrocketed from $10,000 in 2004 to $178,400 in 2024-2025. Other programs include Clothing for Kids, Eyeglass Program, and the Family and Child Education Program--all of which support and empower these children and their families.

In addition, ANA supports the education of University of New Mexico- Gallup nursing students. By providing scholarships and financial aid to aspiring Native American nurses since 2006, ANA has sponsored 349 Associate Degrees in Nursing through its Advanced Degree Scholarships-- totaling $318,278 of educational aid. By investing in the next generation of healthcare professionals, ANA helps establish pathways toward self-reliance, economic opportunity, and improved health services within these Native American communities.

Furthermore, ANA pilots a program providing free veterinary care for Native Americans and their animals on Navajo and Zuni reservations. In partnership with various Zuni organizations, ANA began construction of a fully self-sustainable veterinary clinic--a vital step toward achieving their goal of equipping these communities with the resources needed for self-sufficiency.

Americans for Native Americans continues to leave an indelible mark on the Hopi, Navajo, and Zuni Nations in the American Southwest. I rise to recognize the incredible accomplishments of this esteemed organization and I commemorate their efforts and dedication. Through the endless passion and dedication of Central Bucks County residents, this organization demonstrates their unwavering commitment to serving these communities.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary constituent from my district, Mrs. Mary Jane Courtright. Born on August 7, 1925, Jane exemplifies a century of steadfast dedication to education, family, and community service. Her 100 years of life stand as a powerful testament to a life lived in service to others.

Jane's commitment to education was evident early on. She graduated first in her class from Camden Catholic High School and was awarded a full scholarship to Georgian Court College. There, she earned a bachelor of science in chemistry in 1946 while also serving as senior class vice president, in addition to participating in a plethora of other clubs and student activities. She went on to earn two master's degrees, one in science education and another in chemistry.

For over 25 years, Jane taught chemistry at Council Rock High School. As the only female educator in the school's science department at the start of her career, she pioneered the implementation of the AP chemistry program--a program that continues to flourish today.

In 1950, Jane married Joseph Albert Courtright and supported his service in the U.S. Navy, living in Philadelphia, Pearl Harbor, and Port Hueneme before settling in Warminster, Pennsylvania. After her husband's passing in 1958 while in the service of his country, Jane raised their five children with unwavering devotion and grace. Her strength and love built a family that now spans seven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

Beyond her roles as an educator and a mother, Jane served as the President of the Federated Women's Club of Warminster. Notably, she spearheaded a community initiative to create a lending library. By placing collection cartons in local grocery stores for donated books, Jane amassed an extensive collection of literature. Jane's initiative eventually grew into the Warminster Township Free Library, which today boasts over 100,000 volumes of literary works. Jane served as both president and treasurer of the Founding Library Board of Directors, volunteering for 54 years.

Jane actively practiced her faith as a parishioner and volunteer at Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church in Warminster. In her service to the parish, Jane saw a need and organized Nativity's program to provide religious instruction for public school students. She served as principal of the new CCD program for several years and continued as a volunteer instructor for many more.

Now, as she approaches age 100, Jane remains an extraordinary force-- focusing on her personal fitness with her trainer Sabrina Willard, who helped in her recovery from cancer and with whom she has now worked for the past 24 years.

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

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the extraordinary legacy of Dr. Baruch Samuel Blumberg and commemorate 100 years of his enduring impact on scientific advancement and human welfare.

Dr. Blumberg was born on July 28, 1925. In a fitting tribute to his trailblazing discoveries, the world observes World Hepatitis Day on this date each year. In 1967, Dr. Blumberg and his colleagues discovered the Hepatitis B virus and developed the first blood test to detect it. Two years after his discovery, he helped develop the first Hepatitis B vaccine--widely regarded as the world's first ``anti-cancer vaccine.'' This seminal contribution had a global impact, reducing Hepatitis B infection rates in Chinese children from 15 percent to 1 percent within a decade. Much of this research was conducted at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

In 1976, Dr. Blumberg was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology, alongside Dr. Daniel Carleton Gajdusek, in recognition of these groundbreaking discoveries.

His contributions to Hepatitis B research extended far beyond his initial breakthroughs. He continued his advocacy and research efforts through helping to establish the Hepatitis B Foundation and the Institute for Hepatitis and Virus Research--later renamed the Baruch S. Blumberg Institute after his passing in 2011. At their Doylestown, Pennsylvania campus, he actively worked with scientists and the public health team. He also served on the Foundation's Scientific and Medical Advisory Board and as its Distinguished Scholar for nearly two decades.

Beyond his pioneering contributions to Hepatitis B research, Dr. Blumberg's career was marked by other accomplishments across science, academia, and public service. After high school, he served as a U.S. Navy deck officer during World War II. He later earned his M.D. from Columbia University and a D.Phil. in Biochemistry from Balliol College, Oxford.

Beginning in 1977, Dr. Blumberg was a professor of medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and was the first American to serve a Master of Balliol College from 1989 to 1994. From 1999 to 2002, he directed the NASA Astrobiology Institute, and in 2001, he was named to the Library of Congress Scholars Council. In 2005, he became President of the American Philosophical Society, continuing his lifelong commitment to scholarship.

Dr. Blumberg's character was just as remarkable as his professional accomplishments. He was a proud Jewish American born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. He credited the teachings of the Talmud with shaping his mental discipline and societal contributions. His friends and colleagues described him as ``endlessly curious, deeply compassionate and profoundly impactful.'' It was said that during nature walks, he could speak with near encyclopedic knowledge about the plants and animals he encountered. He had a true zest for life and learning, as well as a deep commitment to teaching.

Today, on what would have been his 100th birthday, it is my distinct honor to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Baruch S. Blumberg. His unparalleled work continues to save millions of lives, and his example continues to inspire generations of scientists around the world.