Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I thank Chairman Smith for his leadership and bringing this bill forward. I thank Dr. Murphy for his leadership along with our subcommittee chairman, Adrian Smith, as well.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the Haiti Economic Lift Program Extension Act.

In my Hudson Valley district just north of New York City, we have a vibrant Haitian community. It is actually one of the largest Haitian diaspora communities in the country, and it has been an honor representing these great people and working with them over these many years.

One of the things that they have taught me is that the American people and the people of Haiti are interconnected. We have such historic ties that go beyond the current political crisis, so it is imperative that we step up and help uplift Haiti out of the present circumstances.

Since their President was assassinated just a few years ago, the Haitian people have endured hardship. They have endured political unrest, and they have endured gangs engaging in kidnapping. The Haitian people need hope, and they need support from the American people.

The HOPE/HELP preferential trade program helps do just that. It lowers costs for Haitian businesses to export goods to the U.S., bolstering both economic development and stability for critical Haitian industries. It helps move the country forward in a moment when they need it most.

Forty percent of the Haitian population lives in the United States of America. Our ties are longstanding, and it is in our interests to have stability in a critical part of our hemisphere. As we see this administration prioritize our hemisphere and focus on the challenges throughout, in Venezuela, in Cuba, and in Colombia, it is imperative to have a strong partnership with Haiti.

This legislation comes at a critical moment. I was proud to cosponsor this, and I was proud to support Dr. Murphy and Chairman Smith's efforts to get this across the finish line in a bipartisan way.

I thank my colleagues across the aisle, folks like Greg Meeks, our ranking member on the Foreign Affairs Committee, who has worked on numerous issues pertaining to Haiti with me on that committee, and we will continue to do so because it is imperative that we have a vibrant partner in the Caribbean.

Madam Speaker, I encourage all of my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the incredible career of Jim Monaghan, a dedicated public servant who has spent a lifetime serving the people of Stony Point.

Jim's public service began with a 29-year career in the New York City Police Department, where he rose to the rank of lieutenant. From January 2016 through this past December, he served as the town supervisor of Stony Point, focusing on affordability for families and seniors and ensuring public safety. Before becoming town supervisor, Jim served for 2 years on the town board.

A lifelong Rockland County resident, Jim and his wife, Jackie, have lived in Stony Point for 30 years with their two children and now their grandchildren. Community and family remain central to his life. Jim and his wife are active parishioners at Immaculate Conception Church and have volunteered in community sports programs and nonprofits throughout the county.

As Jim retires after a long career serving the people of Stony Point, Rockland County, and New York, I am proud to recognize my good friend, Jim Monaghan, for his many contributions to our community. May this next chapter for him be just as fulfilling as the last.

Honoring Anthony Adamo

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Anthony Adamo, southern region president of the Civil Service Employees Association who passed away this week at the age of 46.

Born in Flushing, Queens, Anthony graduated from New Paltz High School and began his career at SUNY New Paltz in 1999. Not long after, he stepped up as a union activist in CSEA's SUNY New Paltz Local working as a shop steward and grievance representative, driven by his belief in standing up for the working people.

In 2009, Anthony was elected as the local president, a position he held for 10 years, during which he also served as the chair of the union's statewide political action committee.

In 2019, he became southern region president and was reelected by his peers again in 2024. Additionally, Anthony served as an AFSCME delegate and vice president of the New York State AFL-CIO.

Anthony embodied the very spirit of union leadership: passionate, hardworking, and unwavering in his commitment to others. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the workers he proudly fought for. He was a great friend, an honest broker, and a true New Yorker. I will miss my friend dearly, and may he be at peace.

Honoring John ``Spo'' Esposito

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of John ``Spo'' Esposito, a remarkable young man from my district. John passed away peacefully on December 28 at just 25 years old.

John grew up in Somers, New York, where he graduated from Somers High School in 2018. A proud student-athlete, he was a member of the 2016 New York State Championship varsity football team, as well as the track and basketball teams, forming lifelong friendships.

John went on to attend Manhattanville University earning his business degree in 2023. He pursued his entrepreneurial spirit by working at B&E Sports Collectibles and starting his own business, Eye On The Ball Sports Collectibles, alongside his brother Joey, combining his love of sports with his ambition and his family.

Beyond his accomplishments, John was defined by his heart. An avid Yankees fan, he remained deeply connected to his community as a member of the New York Bombers, a blind beep baseball team, and showed us all what it means to persevere with humor, courage, and grace.

My deepest condolences go out to John's parents, Joe and Patti; his brothers, Joey and Michael; and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

May God bless his memory.

Honoring Layla Elizabeth So

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Layla Elizabeth So, a remarkable young lady from Pearl River, New York, whose kindness and creativity touched everyone who knew her. Layla passed away on August 7, 2024, after a heroic 2-year battle with cancer.

Layla grew up in Pearl River, New York. She attended Lincoln Avenue Elementary, Pearl River Middle School, and was a rising sophomore at Pearl River High School where she earned High Honor Roll.

Layla excelled on the varsity bowling team, earning the most improved player award. She also participated in the marine science club, enjoyed baking, and volunteered at Pearl River Library.

One of Layla's proudest accomplishments was being a founding member of Eagle Scout Troop 97G in New City. Her Eagle Project, completed posthumously by Troop 97, transformed 10 55-gallon steel drums into decorative trash cans for the town of Orangetown and earned her the title of Eagle Scout after her final board of review in which she also became a Life Scout.

Layla's legacy reminds us that life isn't always numbered in years but in the impact we leave behind. Though her time with us and in our community was far too short, Layla's ambition and kindness will endure. May her memory always be a blessing.

Honoring Pieter Grosbeck

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of an extraordinary Orangeburg resident, Pieter Grosbeck, who passed away at the beginning of December due to a 9/11-related illness.

A proud Eagle Scout, a graduate of Tappan Zee High School and of Rockland Community College, Pieter dedicated his life to serving others. After working as a technician for ITT in Antarctica, Pieter began his career in public safety with the NYPD in 1984, serving as a patrolman in the 44th Precinct in the South Bronx.

In 1990, Pieter continued his career by joining the FDNY where he was later assigned to Engine Company 3 in Chelsea and later transferred to Battalion 7, serving with distinction until his retirement in 2018.

Pieter devoted 45 years of volunteer service to the Blauvelt Volunteer Fire Company, serving as president, chief on three occasions, and an active board member, being awarded life membership in 2019.

He was a loving husband to his wife, Lisa, for 32 years; a devoted friend; and a man who consistently put others before himself. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, his fellow firefighters, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

May his memory be a blessing.

Mr. Speaker, after the 43-day Democratic-led shutdown, I agreed to sit down with my Democratic and Republican colleagues to negotiate in good faith to extend the ACA enhanced premium tax credit with reforms.

We negotiated a 2-year extension with income limits, with insurance reforms, and with the elimination of zero-premium plans. Unfortunately, we could not get that bill to the floor for a vote, so I and three of my other Republican colleagues felt that we had no choice but to sign the discharge for this 3-year clean extension.

I am voting in favor of this discharge and this legislation to send it to the Senate so that the Senate will have the opportunity to put forth a reform package that can pass Congress and become law.

The fact is that health insurance premiums have risen 96 percent since ObamaCare took effect in 2010, with insurance companies' profits increasing by 2,000 percent.

Mr. Speaker, insurance companies' profits have increased by 2,000 percent.

Republicans and Democrats can agree that our system is broken, and we need to fix it. We need to work in a bipartisan way.

To me, this is two-pronged: deal with the immediacy of the enhanced premium tax credit, and deal with the larger healthcare reform issues that have to take effect. Enough of the blame game on both sides. Let's focus on actually delivering affordable healthcare for Americans.

Mr. Speaker, for 43 days, the Democrats shut down the government, and they said it was over the issue of the ACA premium tax credits.

I went and confronted Leader Jeffries, and I asked him to sign on to a 1-year extension. He refused.

When the government finally opened, I and a number of my Republican and Democratic colleagues sat down in good faith to negotiate an extension of the ACA premium tax credits with reforms because we recognized that this system, as designed, is not working, that ObamaCare is not actually reducing healthcare costs in America.

In fact, since it took effect, healthcare premiums have risen by 96 percent, but we understood that to allow the premium tax credits to expire would hurt the American people. We sat down and negotiated, and we came up with several plans and compromises along the way to ensure not only that there was an extension but that we did eliminate fraud, that we did hold the insurance companies accountable, and that we did actually start to reduce costs.

We have put those bills forward on the floor in two separate discharge petitions. Eleven Republicans have signed on to those discharge petitions.

Now, why is that necessary? Because House Republican leadership will not allow a vote. It is idiotic and shameful. We have been forced to sign on to two discharge petitions, and yet my Democratic colleagues will not join us but for those that were at the negotiation table.

The Democratic leader will not release his Members to sign those two discharge petitions. Why? Because he doesn't actually want to solve the problem. He wants the issue. He wants the issue, which is precisely why Senator Schumer put a 3-year clean extension on the Senate floor that was doomed to fail, because it doesn't have bipartisan compromise.

This place is disgraceful. Everybody wants the upper hand. Everybody wants the political advantage. They don't actually want to do the damn work.

This problem could be solved today if everybody who says they care about extending this signs the discharge. It could be solved today. We could say to leadership on both sides: ``A pox on both your houses.'' Both of you are failing this country. Both of you are failing this institution. Move the bill forward.

The challenge I have for every one of my colleagues is to put the party crap aside and sign the damn discharge today. If you want this vote to move, if you want to extend these subsidies, if you want to make sure that the American people's healthcare premiums don't skyrocket, then go sign the discharge now.

We all understand one thing. You need 218 here and you need 60 in the Senate. We saw the 3-year extension, with no reforms, fail last week. To just say that we are going to hold out and wait to see if four Republicans sign the 3-year extension, that you know is destined to fail in the Senate, is a failure of leadership and responsibility.

Leader Jeffries, come down to this floor, sign the discharge, and show real leadership because, sadly, my conference has failed to do that.

All of us, as Representatives of our own districts and our own constituents, have a responsibility to stand up. That is why I met with my Democratic colleagues as soon as the government was reopened to negotiate in good faith. It is why people like Brian Fitzpatrick and Jen Kiggans and David Valadao have been leading on this issue with folks like Jared Golden and Josh Gottheimer and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and Tom Suozzi, because we understand this needs to get done.

There is failure of Members on both sides of the aisle who know it needs to get done, but they just want the issue or they don't want to do it because they hate ObamaCare. We know ObamaCare failed. We know it is not actually reducing costs, but you can't fix it with nothing. Do your job and sign the discharge.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 2550, Protect America's Workforce Act.

Earlier this year, an executive order changed the collective bargaining status of tens of thousands of Federal workers. These are career public servants, many of them veterans, who show up every single day to serve our country. Every American deserves a voice in the workplace, and that includes the people who keep our government running and open.

Ensuring collective bargaining rights strengthens our Federal workforce and helps deliver more effective, accountable service to the American people. We must ensure that collective bargaining agreements already in place remain, as well as ensuring that good government goes hand in hand with that.

Mr. Speaker, I was proud to join colleagues across the aisle as being the 218th signature to advance this bill forward.

I thank Congressmen Fitzpatrick and Golden for leading this effort, as well as my fellow Congressmen here, Mr. Bresnahan, as well as Congressman LaLota, for their leadership on this front.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of legislation honoring a man whose life was defined by service, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to his community.

Sheriff Adrian ``Butch'' Anderson dedicated more than five decades to public safety and public service in Dutchess County, New York.

Sheriff Anderson's law enforcement career began in 1970, when he was appointed a deputy sheriff in the Dutchess County Sheriff's Office. He served in the uniform patrol division and was promoted to detective in 1974.

In 1983, he was elected mayor of the village of Pawling and served for 8 years.

Sheriff Anderson was elected Dutchess County Sheriff in 1999 and served with honor until his untimely passing on September 29, 2021, during his sixth term.

He also served as a member of the Dutchess County GOP Executive Committee, took on pivotal roles in New York State Sheriffs' Association, and chaired President Trump's New York campaign in 2016.

Butch's commitment extended beyond law enforcement. He was actively involved with community organizations, including the Make-a-Wish Foundation of Hudson Valley, and the McElroy Children's Cancer Foundation.

Sheriff Anderson lived a life marked by courage, integrity, and a genuine concern for the people he served. He believed in leading from the front, treating others with respect, and showing up for his community every single day.

A close friend of longtime Pawling resident James Earl Jones, Sheriff Anderson's voice was a mixture of Darth Vader and John Wayne. He had a distinctive voice and presence, and he was a humble and gentle man.

It is, therefore, my honor to announce this legislation designating the United States Postal Service facility located at 298 Route 292 in Holmes, New York, as the Sheriff Adrian ``Butch'' Anderson Post Office Building. This legislation serves as a lasting tribute to a man whose service profoundly shaped Dutchess County for more than five decades.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend, Sheriff Anderson, for his service, his sacrifice, and his unwavering commitment to Dutchess County. His legacy will endure for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of legislation honoring a man whose service and leadership left a lasting mark on Rockland County and the town of Haverstraw.

Paul Piperato dedicated more than three decades of his life to public service, including 15 years as Rockland County clerk, where his vision and commitment transformed county government for the better.

Paul was revered and respected across party lines. As a Rockland County clerk, he revolutionized the office, making it more accessible and efficient for the community that he so dearly loved.

Paul's work extended beyond his official duties, touching lives through his involvement with numerous civic organizations, including: Jawonio, People to People, and The ARC Rockland Foundation.

During his tenure, he modernized county services by developing a cutting-edge computer imaging system, launching a 24-7 online records portal, and introducing e-filing and e-recording services that improved efficiency and accessibility for residents. His work ensured that government functioned not just effectively but responsively, meeting people where they are.

Paul created the highly successful veteran discount program, Return the FAVOR, demonstrating his deep commitment to those who served our Nation. His dedication to attending naturalization ceremonies for new citizens reflected his profound love for our community and country, bringing joy to those he welcomed as his fellow Americans.

His legacy as a public servant made him a pillar of Haverstraw in Rockland County and continues to benefit residents every single day through the programs and systems that he put in place.

It is, therefore, my honor to help introduce this legislation to rename the United States Postal Service facility located at 86 Main Street in Haverstraw, New York, as the Paul Piperato Post Office Building. This designation is a meaningful appreciation for his hard work, his leadership, and his lifelong commitment to serving others.

By renaming this post office, we ensure that future generations will know the name of Paul Piperato, not only as a county clerk but as a visionary public servant who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those who he served.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Rafael Bueno, a devoted public servant and pillar of the village of Haverstraw.

Rafael dedicated more than 20 years to the community he loved. First elected in 2003, he made history as the first Dominican councilman in Haverstraw. He quickly became a steady and trusted voice on the village board, helping guide decisions on infrastructure, public safety, and community services with a real understanding of what local families needed.

Rafael's connection to Haverstraw started long before he entered public service. A barber by trade, he was someone generations of residents knew, respected, and relied on. His leadership extended to the fire department, as well, where he served as fire commissioner and strengthened emergency response and protection efforts. A proud Rockland Community College graduate, Rafael never stopped giving back to the place he called home.

Those who knew him speak of his humility, his constant presence, and his willingness to help anyone who needed it.

Mr. Speaker, may his memory be a blessing for his family, his friends, and the Haverstraw community he so loved.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Juan Fernandez, a decorated marine, retired NYPD detective, and 9/11 first responder who passed away after a courageous battle with 9/11-induced pancreatic cancer.

As a marine, he proudly served our Nation with honor and discipline. Following his military service, Juan continued his commitment to protecting his community by serving as a detective in the New York Police Department where he was known for his courage and professionalism.

On September 11, 2001, Juan was among the many brave first responders who answered the call in one of our Nation's darkest hours. His courage and selflessness during and after that tragic day exemplified true strength and the resilience of the American spirit.

Juan's passing is a tremendous loss to his family, his friends, and those who served alongside him.

My thoughts are with his wife, Lily, and his daughters, Sydney, Samantha, and Jessica, during this difficult time. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him and to our country.

Honoring the Life of Francis ``Frank'' Duffy

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Francis ``Frank'' Duffy, a devoted husband, father, and pillar of his community, who passed away on November 4 at the age of 102.

Frank was a decorated World War II veteran, earning both the Silver Star and the Purple Heart for his valor while serving on Iwo Jima. He concluded his military career at the rank of corporal.

Upon returning home from war, Frank embarked on a career with the United States Postal Service, retiring in 1978 as a foreman for transportation.

Frank was an active member of Pearl River VFW Post 7370, John H. Secor American Legion Post, Ancient Order of Hibernians, Irish Cultural Center, and St. Margaret's Church, and he was a past member of the Knights of Columbus.

A proud father of 5, loving grandfather of 10, and great-grandfather of 11, Frank exemplified the values of steadfast wisdom and enriched the lives of all he touched within the Pearl River community and beyond.

Mr. Speaker, may God bless the memory of Frank Duffy.

Honoring Justice John Sweeny, Jr.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of the Honorable John Sweeny, Jr., a true steward of justice, integrity, and service in Putnam County and across New York State.

Justice Sweeny dedicated his life to the law and to the people it serves. From his early days as administrative assistant district attorney in Putnam County to his distinguished tenure on the New York State Supreme Court and Appellate Division, First Department, where he made history as the highest ranking judge ever to hail from Putnam County, John embodied fairness, humility, and an unwavering commitment to justice.

John was a man of quiet grace and deep intellect, a mentor to many, and a true gentleman in every sense of the word.

Beyond the courtroom, he gave selflessly to his community, from supporting veterans and first responders to volunteering at local fairs and serving with the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick.

On a personal level, he was extremely gracious and supportive of me, and I will never forget it.

Mr. Speaker, to his beloved wife, Alana, his children, and all who knew and loved him, our community shares in your loss and celebrates a life so well lived.

Honoring Vincent Altieri

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Vincent Altieri, a dedicated community leader and longtime public servant.

Before joining Rockland County, Vince worked with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, advocating for environmental policy. He also served as a judge in the village of Spring Valley, where he will be remembered for his fairness, integrity, and respect for the rule of law.

Vince went on to dedicate more than 18 years of service to Rockland County, serving in the county executive's office as the intergovernmental relations director and later going on to serve as the executive director of the Rockland County Drainage Agency, showcasing his true commitment to improving the lives of his communities.

Vince's passing is a tremendous loss to Rockland County, and my thoughts are with his family and friends. His integrity, leadership, and passion for public service will be deeply missed.

Honoring Donna Breen Clarke

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Donna Breen Clarke, who passed away peacefully on October 25, surrounded by her beloved family.

A proud graduate of Marymount Academy and Marymount College in Tarrytown, New York, Donna dedicated her life to the education and enrichment of the young minds of our community.

Donna started her career at Marymount International School in Surrey, England, before returning home to teach first graders in Mount Kisco following her marriage to her beloved husband, Joseph Clarke, in the summer of 1962.

Donna went on to serve as a preschool teacher and then director of the Nauraushaun Cooperative Nursery School in Pearl River, where she educated thousands of students, including me. Whether through educating the next generation or through her active involvement in St. Aedan's Church, Donna was deeply committed to her community.

A proud mother of three and loving grandmother of seven, Donna lived a life defined by compassion.

Mr. Speaker, may God bless the memory of Donna Breen Clarke and her husband, Joe, and may God continue to comfort her family.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Sidney Davidoff, a towering figure in New York's political life and a true son of the great city of New York, who passed away Sunday at the age of 86.

Born in Brooklyn, Sid served 7 years as administrative assistant to Mayor John Lindsay. He went on to become one of New York's most respected government affairs attorneys.

As founder of Davidoff Hutcher & Citron, he built a firm whose 50 years of work stands as part of his extraordinary legacy. A frequent lecturer at Yale and NYU and board member on countless city initiatives, Sid earned the distinction few can claim: He was respected on both sides of the aisle.

Beyond the title, Sid Davidoff was a true New Yorker: brilliant, tough, generous, and kind. He worked right up to the end, always thinking about what more he could do for the city and State he loved.

Today, we mourn his loss and celebrate his life. I extend my deepest condolences to his wife, Linda; his family; and to all who knew and loved him, especially his colleagues at Davidoff Hutcher & Citron.

Celebrating Retirement of George Gaine

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the outstanding career of George Gaine, a dedicated educator, mentor, and longtime boys' basketball coach at Tappan Zee High School in Orangeburg, who recently announced his retirement after an extraordinary 22 years of leading the Dutchmen.

During his tenure, Coach Gaine built one of the most respected basketball programs in the region, guiding his teams to an impressive 301-47 record, four section I titles, two Rockland County championships, and the 2023 New York State Class A crown. His leadership, discipline, and passion for the game inspired not only his players but the entire Tappan Zee community.

In addition to his success as a coach, Coach Gaine served as a physical education teacher at Tappan Zee, shaping generations of students with his commitment to excellence, integrity, and personal growth.

May we commend Coach Gaine for his years of service, mentorship, and dedication to young people. May his next chapter be as fulfilling as the impact he left on his players, his school, and his community.

Celebrating Retirement of Tim Idoni

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Tim Idoni of New Rochelle on his retirement after more than 40 years of extraordinary public service to Westchester County.

Tim's career has been defined by a deep commitment to his community.

As mayor of New Rochelle, he led the city in revitalization projects, creating thousands of jobs and breathing new life into the downtown.

Over the last two decades as Westchester County clerk, Tim modernized the office in ways that have saved taxpayers millions of dollars, made local government more efficient, and improved services for countless families.

Beyond titles and offices, Tim has been a tireless advocate for affordable housing, open space, and community organizations throughout Westchester. His service leaves a lasting mark not just on New Rochelle but on all of Westchester County.

I thank Tim for his decades of dedication and his commitment to public service. He was a great colleague in government, and I congratulate him on his retirement. I wish him and his family continued health and happiness in the years ahead.

Honoring Life of Terry Martin Hekker

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Terry Martin Hekker, who passed away in her home on October 20, just weeks before her 93rd birthday.

A Brooklyn native, Terry grew up with the lively spirit of two large Irish families. Her father's work brought the family to the Bear Mountain Inn, where Terry's earliest encounters included visiting athletes and politicians, like Jackie Robinson.

A graduate of Pratt Institute, Terry married and eventually settled in Nyack, New York, where she raised five children. Terry authored two best-selling novels, which brought her national recognition and led her to a long career in local politics.

Terry served on various boards, including the Nyack Chamber of Commerce and as village trustee, before making history as the first female mayor of the village of Nyack, one of her proudest achievements being advocating for the creation of the Nyack Community Center.

May God bless the memory of Terry Hekker and continue to comfort her family and friends during this time of loss. Our community will miss her.

Honoring Life of John Farley

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize John Farley of Pearl River, who passed away this summer at the age of 84.

John grew up in Rockland County. He served our Nation proudly in the United States Navy and built a career as a member of Steamfitters Local 638 in New York City. To those who knew him best, he was simply ``Pop.''

John had a quick wit, a love of sports, and a gift for coaching. More than that, he had a way of seeing the best in people and encouraging them to see it in themselves. That is the mark he left on his family, his friends, and his community.

John's legacy lives on in his children and grandchildren and in the many lives he touched in Pearl River and beyond. May his memory be a blessing, and may we honor him by carrying forward the kindness and generosity he showed every day.

Mr. Speaker, the reason we know this is a Democratic shutdown is because of how angry they are that we are about to reopen the government, period. That is all you need to know.

Jerry Nadler said the shutdown is really ``an extremist policy designed to appeal to an extremist base and hold the whole country hostage.''

That is exactly what the Democrats have done over the last 43 days. They have held the American people hostage, trying to extract insane things, like free healthcare for illegal immigrants.

If they were serious about tackling the healthcare affordability crisis in this country, then they would address the fundamental problem with ObamaCare. Since ObamaCare took effect, healthcare premiums have risen by 96 percent and on the open market by 114 percent.

When I asked Leader Jeffries to sign on to the 1-year extension of the premium tax credit, he refused. He stuttered. He stammered. He couldn't answer a single question because this shutdown was never about healthcare. It was always about appeasing a far-left radical base.

Chuck Schumer said: Every day gets better for us.

Katherine Clark said: Of course, people will suffer. We want to use this as leverage.

It is an embarrassment to this country. You should all be ashamed of yourselves for inflicting this pain on the American people, taking away food stamps from 42 million Americans, defunding WIC, and not paying our troops, our Federal employees, and our air traffic controllers. It is a disgrace, and you should all hang your heads in shame.

Vote ``yes'' to pass the bill and reopen the government.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Kenneth John Bermudez, Jr., of North Rockland, who passed away earlier this year at just 15 years old from hypoplastic coronary artery disease.

As known to those who knew him best, Kenny J. was an extraordinary young man. At Fieldstone Secondary School, he was an honor roll and principal's list student. He was also a devoted member of the Haverstraw Fire Department, proudly serving as a junior firefighter.

For someone so young, Kenny's commitment to community and service spoke volumes about his character.

Kenny's family and friends remember the joy he carried with him, the bond he shared with his mother and brothers, and the light of his faith that touched everyone around him.

This week, the community will dedicate a memorial bench at Fieldstone to honor his memory, ensuring that generations of North Rockland students will know the story of a classmate who lived with such heart and purpose.

On behalf of New York's 17th District, I extend my deepest condolences to the Bermudez family. Kenny's spirit, service, and example will live on in North Rockland.

Honoring the Life and Legacy of Larry Brissing

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Larry Brissing, a lifelong North Rockland resident who passed away on September 13 surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Tomkins Cove in 1949, Larry spent his early days helping at Snuffy's Restaurant, the family business, before going on to build one of his own. After years as a heavy equipment operator, he founded L.R.B. Excavating and later served the people of Stony Point with distinction as superintendent of highways for 19 years.

Larry's commitment was recognized when the town named the street leading to its highway department in his honor.

Beyond his work, Larry was deeply devoted to his faith, his community, and, above all, his family. A devoted husband to his late wife, Ewa, a proud father of four, and a loving grandfather of seven, Larry lived a life defined by service, kindness, and love.

May his memory be a blessing and his legacy continue to inspire North Rockland for generations to come.

Honoring the Life and Legacy of Joanne M. Rosamond

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Joanne M. Rosamond, of Bedford Hills, who passed away on September 6.

For over 50 years, Joanne dedicated herself to her family, her community, and the people of Westchester County. She served as confidential secretary to the town supervisor of North Castle and gave countless hours of her time to civic, political, and charitable organizations.

Whether as chairwoman of the women's advisory committee to the Westchester County Board of Legislators, president of the Bedford Hills Women's Club for 14 years, or as a leader in the Westchester County Federation of Women's Clubs, Joanne was a tireless advocate for others.

Joanne's work earned her recognition from the Westchester County legislature and the New York State Senate and Assembly, but her true legacy is the love she gave her family: her husband, George; their children, George Jr. and Dori; and her grandchildren, Eliza, Daniel, Zuzanna, Scarlet, and Phonze.

Joanne's life of service and devotion will not be forgotten.

I will miss you, my friend.

Welcoming His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I of

Constantinople

Mr. Speaker, I rise to welcome to the United States His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople, the spiritual leader of more than 300 million Orthodox Christians worldwide, including my wife, and the head of the second largest Christian church in the world.

He comes to our country at a historic moment, having been awarded the distinguished Templeton Prize, joining

the ranks of past recipients such as Mother Teresa, the Dalai Lama, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

For decades, Patriarch Bartholomew has been a bridge builder between faiths and a global voice for environmental stewardship and human dignity. His visit is a moment of pride for Greek Orthodox Christians across America, including many of my constituents in New York's 17th District.

On behalf of this Congress, I extend a warm welcome and safe return home to His All-Holiness and offer gratitude for his life of service and his witness to faith, peace, and reconciliation.

Recognizing Firefighter Kenny Beck

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize firefighter Kenny Beck, who has retired after 25 years of dedicated service to the Lake Mohegan Fire District.

Kenny spent his entire career on shift three, beginning at headquarters and later serving at Station 2 in Jefferson Valley.

Over those years, he became known not just for his reliability on calls, but for the way he has mentored other firefighters, passing along lessons that will outlast his time in uniform.

Kenny was there for his community in its most difficult moments, including his service during the attacks of September 11. His commitment to helping others continues beyond the firehouse through his work with the My Brother Vinny organization, supporting veterans and families in need.

Kenny's retirement marks the end of a remarkable career that will leave an impact on the fire service for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the lives of two remarkable constituents from Pearl River, May and Bob Kreider, who passed away this summer just weeks apart after 67 years of marriage.

May Kreider, a proud Bronx native and first-generation Irish American, built a career as a nurse and educator, earning her master's degree from Columbia University. She gave her life to caring for others, whether at Columbia Presbyterian, in hospice, or through her leadership with the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians in Pearl River where she was blessed to be named the grand marshal of the Rockland County St. Patrick's Day Parade in 2010.

Bob Kreider proudly served our Nation in the Navy during the Korean war and later as a highly decorated detective sergeant with the NYPD. His life was defined by service, faith, and devotion to his family and protecting his community.

Together, Bob and May raised five children and built not just a family but a home rooted in love, faith, and service. Their legacy lives on in Pearl River, in the children and their eight grandchildren that they cherished, and in the countless lives they touched with their kindness.

May God bless the memory of Bob and May Kreider, and may He continue to comfort their family and friends during this time of loss.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Wesley LePatner, a remarkable New Yorker who was senselessly murdered in late July. Her passing is a tremendous loss to all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Wesley was a remarkable leader, an accomplished executive who oversaw Blackstone's real estate investment fund, a devoted wife and mother, and a true force for good in our community.

Through her work with the UJA-Federation of New York and her tireless volunteerism, she poured her energy and wisdom into strengthening the Jewish community, supporting Israel, and mentoring those who followed in her footsteps.

Her life was defined by service, compassion, and conviction. She gave generously of herself, balancing a demanding career with the steadfast devotion to her family. In every space she entered, she lifted others up.

Today, we grieve with her husband, Evan; their children, Emerson and Jonathan; her parents; and all who loved her, including her colleagues at Blackstone.

May Wesley's memory always be a blessing, and may her example continue to inspire us to lead with purpose, generosity, and love.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Desmond ``Desi'' Patrick Flaherty of Stony Point who passed away last week at the age of 86.

Born in the Bronx, Desi dedicated his life to service, spending 20 years with the NYPD's 44th Precinct, where he helped found the 44 Forever Club. He spent more than 50 years driving a schoolbus with Haverstraw Transit, safely carrying generations of children to school.

He coached Stony Point Little League for 25 years. He was an active member of the Rockland County Shields, the North Rockland Social Club, and his parish, St. Gregory Barbarigo.

Above all, Desi was a family man. He leaves behind his wife, Eleanor, with whom he shared 63 years. He also leaves behind 4 children, 10 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren.

He was a proud North Rocklander whose legacy will live on in his family and in all the lives he touched. May Desi's memory always be a blessing to his family and to the North Rockland community.