Lori Trahan

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 15th Anniversary of Ivy Child International, a Massachusetts-based nonprofit organization devoted to promoting wellness, mindfulness, and culturally-sensitive education to children and communities. Ivy Child International has a mission to cultivate resilience and leadership through mindfulness, with a priority towards children who have the fewest resources. Their values of implementing evidence-based research, developing deep-rooted relationships, and authentic commitment to their community partners are to be admired. In the last fifteen years, Ivy Child International has developed over three hundred fifty programs, serving nearly four hundred thousand program participants.

At the heart of Ivy Child International's work is the belief that every child deserves the opportunity and support to thrive. Its programs

provide children with practical tools to manage stress, strengthen emotional well-being, and develop the confidence and resilience needed to succeed. Just as importantly, Ivy Child recognizes that effective programs must reflect the cultures, languages, and experiences of the communities they serve. By bringing together educators, families, and community partners, Ivy Child has helped create supportive environments where young people can learn, grow, and reach their full potential.

Children are the future of our communities; through their many programs and partnerships, Ivy Child has demonstrated how empowering youths can positively impact families and entire communities. They have received recognition from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health as an ``Essential Agent of Change'' and have received various honors and accolades across the Commonwealth, including being recognized as a top Mindful Nonprofit. They employ a wide range of talent to promote a multilingual and multicultural education for our children--preparing them for a world that is increasingly connected. I am grateful for the work they do and look forward to their continued growth and contributions within our communities.

Mr. Speaker, I was not able to be present for votes on July 20, 2026. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 251, H.R. 8823, and YEA on Roll Call No. 250, H.R. 4541.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life and legacy of Roger P. Frechette, Sr., a decorated boxer, veteran, entrepreneur, mentor, and community leader whose dedication to the City of Lowell has left a lasting impact across generations.

Roger was born on October 4, 1941, in Lowell, Massachusetts, the second oldest of seven children born to Jean-Paul ``The Blond Tiger'' Frechette and Rita Fournier Frechette. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in athletics and community service, Roger learned early the values of discipline, perseverance, and giving back. His father, Jean- Paul, was one of Lowell's most beloved sports figures, a New England Featherweight Champion, founder of the Greater Lowell Softball League, President of the Passe Temps Club, and a tireless advocate for youth athletics. In recognition of his contributions to the community, a bridge in Lowell was dedicated in his honor and proudly bears the Tiger Frechette name today. Inspired by his father's example, Roger embarked on a path that would mirror that same commitment to excellence and service.

Roger began boxing at an early age and built an accomplished sixteen- year career in the sport. His achievements included winning the Silver Mittens Championship in 1955, the Golden Gloves Novice Championship in 1958, the Greater Lowell Open Championship in 1959, and the New England AAU Championship in 1961. He represented New England in national AAU competition, competed as a professional boxer, and earned distinction as the Fort Dix U.S. Army Boxing Champion in the 118-pound division while serving his country. Roger also proudly served in the Massachusetts National Guard. His dedication to boxing and his contributions to the sport were recognized in 2007 when he was inducted into the New England Boxing Hall of Fame.

While Roger achieved success in the ring, his greatest contributions may have come through his commitment to mentoring young people. Believing that boxing could provide structure, confidence, and opportunity, he founded the West End Boxing Gym and worked closely with the Lowell Boys Club to guide and inspire countless young athletes. Through his mentorship, Roger taught lessons that extended far beyond sports, instilling discipline, respect, perseverance, and self- confidence in generations of Lowell youth. For many, he served not only as a coach but as a role model and trusted mentor whose guidance helped shape their futures.

Roger's business acumen was equally impressive. He owned and operated the Moosehead Cafe, founded Beverly Roofing and several successful roofing businesses, and invested in residential and commercial properties throughout Lowell. Through these ventures, he contributed to the economic vitality of the city while creating jobs and opportunities for others.

Following in his father's footsteps, Roger also devoted himself to civic leadership. From 1960 through 1964, he served as President of the Passe Temps Club, becoming the youngest president in the organization's history. Throughout his life, he remained an active and respected figure in the community, using his influence to support local organizations, youth programs, and neighborhood initiatives. His leadership reflected a deep belief that strong communities are built through service, hard work, and a willingness to invest in others.

Roger's greatest pride is his family. He shared a lifelong bond with his wife, Sandra Graham Frechette, and together they raised four sons: Roger, Jr., Ronnie, Robert, and

Randy. Following the tragic loss of their son Robert in 1968, Roger and Sandra persevered through hardship and spent nearly three decades together. Today, their legacy continues through their children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all those inspired by their example. Roger currently resides in Winter Park, Florida, where he is cared for by his son Ronnie and daughter-in-law Stephanie, though he has never lost his deep connection to Lowell, the city he proudly calls home and where his family's legacy was built.

Roger's legacy extends far beyond his accomplishments as an athlete, businessman, or community leader. He is remembered for his generosity, his unwavering support of young people, his pride in the City of Lowell, and his commitment to helping others succeed. Through every stage of his life, he embodied the values of determination, humility, and service, leaving an enduring impact on the countless individuals whose lives he touched.

Most importantly, Mr. Speaker, Roger is known for his deep love of family and friends, the kindness he shows to those around him, and his extraordinary leadership, mentorship, and commitment to community service. His contributions to athletics, business, and the people of Lowell have strengthened the fabric of the city and created a legacy that will endure for generations, one defined by service, generosity, and impact. His legacy is truly unforgettable and everlasting.