Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Michael Glavey, who tragically passed away on May 16, 2026, at the age of 55. September 16 would have been Mike's 56th birthday.

Mike was born and raised in south Buffalo by Kathy and the late Jack Glavey and grew up alongside his twin sister, Maureen, and their siblings, Karen, Kathleen, and John. Their childhood was filled with endless days playing outside with friends, family, camping trips, and plenty of shenanigans.

Mike's early years instilled in him the values that he carried forward throughout his life: a deep appreciation for friendship, family, and hard work. Much of what Mike learned came from watching his father, Jack, working as his apprentice and seeing firsthand the pride that comes from a job well done.

The boy who built forts and rebuilt bikes on Britt Avenue grew up to be an expert craftsman who made carpentry his career, joining the Carpenters Union Local 276. For more than 25 years, Mike served as the carpenter foreman at the University at Buffalo, where he oversaw construction sites big and small, taking enormous pride in his work. Like any good carpenter, Mike lived by the creed: Measure twice, cut once.

Mike ran point on just about every construction project in the Glavey family. His legacy lives on in the spaces he built for those he loved, leaving his mark in a very literal manner.

He helped turn every vision his sisters, Karen, Kathleen, and Maureen, had into brick-and-mortar home-improvement projects. He argued with his brother, John, on how to properly hang drywall as they worked long hours together turning an old grocery store into a neighborhood restaurant. Most importantly, he was his mother's first phone call when something around his childhood home needed his trusted expertise.

Wherever and whenever someone needed him, Mike was there. That same instinct to show up for others shaped the family he built with his wife Jennifer. They married in 1998 and together raised their children, Mikey and Allie. Mikey and Allie were his pride and joy.

Mikey was his sidekick. Mike took him everywhere. He taught him, guided him, and found tremendous joy in every adventure they shared in Jack Glavey's classic blue convertible.

Mike adored Allie. He was immensely proud of her accomplishments as a young architect, her world travels, and her willingness to take on new challenges. Mike was her biggest supporter and relished their debates over architecture versus carpentry.

He was also the loving uncle to several nieces and nephews, each of whom will forever remember the infectious laugh and warm embrace of their beloved Uncle Mike.

Mike Glavey embodied the very best of who we aspire to be. He was a man of character, a dependable friend, and an extraordinarily devoted father.

To Mikey, Allie, Jennifer, Kathy, and the entire Glavey family, our community and our Nation mourn with you. May Michael Glavey rest in peace.

Celebrating 25th Anniversary of Western New York Area Labor Federation

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Western New York Area Labor Federation.

For 25 years, the WNYALF has fought to ensure working people in our community have a strong voice to secure higher wages, safer workplaces, better benefits, and greater economic stability for themselves and their families.

The Buffalo-Niagara region was built by labor unions. They built our factories, our roads, our schools, our neighborhoods, and the communities that we call home.

I want to recognize my dear friend, the president of the WNYALF, Denise Abbott, and the countless union members, organizers, stewards, and leaders who have carried this movement forward. Under Denise's leadership, the WNYALF continues the essential work of bringing fairness and dignity to the workplace and putting more money into the pockets of working families.

The future of western New York will be built by working people, and we will always fight to ensure that organized labor is the defining force in building that future.

I congratulate the Western New York Area Labor Federation on one- quarter century of solidarity, service, and strength. Here is to the next 25 years and many, many more to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Michael Glavey, who tragically passed away on May 16, 2026, at the age of 55. September 16 would have been Mike's 56th birthday.

Mike was born and raised in south Buffalo by Kathy and the late Jack Glavey and grew up alongside his twin sister, Maureen, and their siblings, Karen, Kathleen, and John. Their childhood was filled with endless days playing outside with friends, family, camping trips, and plenty of shenanigans.

Mike's early years instilled in him the values that he carried forward throughout his life: a deep appreciation for friendship, family, and hard work. Much of what Mike learned came from watching his father, Jack, working as his apprentice and seeing firsthand the pride that comes from a job well done.

The boy who built forts and rebuilt bikes on Britt Avenue grew up to be an expert craftsman who made carpentry his career, joining the Carpenters Union Local 276. For more than 25 years, Mike served as the carpenter foreman at the University at Buffalo, where he oversaw construction sites big and small, taking enormous pride in his work. Like any good carpenter, Mike lived by the creed: Measure twice, cut once.

Mike ran point on just about every construction project in the Glavey family. His legacy lives on in the spaces he built for those he loved, leaving his mark in a very literal manner.

He helped turn every vision his sisters, Karen, Kathleen, and Maureen, had into brick-and-mortar home-improvement projects. He argued with his brother, John, on how to properly hang drywall as they worked long hours together turning an old grocery store into a neighborhood restaurant. Most importantly, he was his mother's first phone call when something around his childhood home needed his trusted expertise.

Wherever and whenever someone needed him, Mike was there. That same instinct to show up for others shaped the family he built with his wife Jennifer. They married in 1998 and together raised their children, Mikey and Allie. Mikey and Allie were his pride and joy.

Mikey was his sidekick. Mike took him everywhere. He taught him, guided him, and found tremendous joy in every adventure they shared in Jack Glavey's classic blue convertible.

Mike adored Allie. He was immensely proud of her accomplishments as a young architect, her world travels, and her willingness to take on new challenges. Mike was her biggest supporter and relished their debates over architecture versus carpentry.

He was also the loving uncle to several nieces and nephews, each of whom will forever remember the infectious laugh and warm embrace of their beloved Uncle Mike.

Mike Glavey embodied the very best of who we aspire to be. He was a man of character, a dependable friend, and an extraordinarily devoted father.

To Mikey, Allie, Jennifer, Kathy, and the entire Glavey family, our community and our Nation mourn with you. May Michael Glavey rest in peace.

Celebrating 25th Anniversary of Western New York Area Labor Federation

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Western New York Area Labor Federation.

For 25 years, the WNYALF has fought to ensure working people in our community have a strong voice to secure higher wages, safer workplaces, better benefits, and greater economic stability for themselves and their families.

The Buffalo-Niagara region was built by labor unions. They built our factories, our roads, our schools, our neighborhoods, and the communities that we call home.

I want to recognize my dear friend, the president of the WNYALF, Denise Abbott, and the countless union members, organizers, stewards, and leaders who have carried this movement forward. Under Denise's leadership, the WNYALF continues the essential work of bringing fairness and dignity to the workplace and putting more money into the pockets of working families.

The future of western New York will be built by working people, and we will always fight to ensure that organized labor is the defining force in building that future.

I congratulate the Western New York Area Labor Federation on one- quarter century of solidarity, service, and strength. Here is to the next 25 years and many, many more to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to condemn President Trump's illogical trade war with Canada and juvenile executive order to rename Lake Ontario.

Since the White House can't figure out how to lower costs for American families or reach a trade deal with our closest ally, it is resorting to meaningless distractions, like renaming a Great Lake.

While my Democratic colleagues and I have introduced legislation to stop this nonsense, we are focused on the issues that actually matter: ending the affordability crisis fueled by Trump's erratic tariffs and reckless policies and stopping the most corrupt administration in American history.

Whether it is his endless war in Iran, gutting healthcare and nutritional assistance for millions of Americans, or a trade war with Canada, each manufactured crisis created by Trump shows just how self- interested, incompetent, and careless he truly is.

From communities like mine across the northern border, where ties to our Canadian neighbors run deep, through the interior and every other part of our great country, people simply cannot afford the increased costs of goods because of these tariffs.

In western New York, family members cross the border to visit one another, and businesses rely on efficient cross-border commerce. Our restaurants, hotels, shops, and attractions depend on Canadian visitors. This relationship grows jobs and strengthens our economy.

Right now, Canadians are making a decision not to visit or do business with our country, creating economic instability at a time when Americans are already stretched too thin.

People can't afford to put food on the table because grocery costs are too high. They are having trouble paying their utility bills to keep the lights on. The cost of gas is skyrocketing, and healthcare costs are through the roof.

At the same time, people are worried whether or not they are going to have a job in the morning.

Trump's continued chaos is making it harder for families to plan, businesses to invest, workers to save, and communities to grow. Americans are bearing the consequences of this economic ambush as Trump's failed policies make life more expensive and less secure for working families across our Nation.

These tariffs are nothing more than a Trump tax, and American families are paying the price everywhere. Instead of creating jobs, growing wages, and giving working people a fair shot, this administration has pursued policies that make it harder for our families to get ahead. Americans deserve better than a President who embarrasses us on the world stage and the Republicans in Congress who rubberstamp his inflationary policies.

When voters put Democrats back into the majority this November, we will overturn these failed GOP policies, lower costs, end corruption, and restore the promise of the American Dream.

Mr. Speaker, in the meantime, let's stop Trump's tax, end these tariffs, and make life more affordable for the American people.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and Congresswoman Norma Torres for convening today's critically important Special Order hour.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember those whose lives have been cut short at the hands of Trump's out-of-control Department of Homeland Security and to demand accountability for the families who have been left shattered.

In January of this year, the killing of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti by DHS personnel forever changed how Americans view this department.

A month later, the DHS culture of cruelty rocked our community in Buffalo, New York, the City of Good Neighbors. Nurul Amin Shah Alam was a 56-year-old Rohingya refugee who came to our country legally after fleeing persecution and violence, seeking safety for himself and his family. He was nearly blind and spoke very little English. He couldn't read, write, or navigate on his own.

On February 19, DHS personnel abandoned him, alone, miles from his home outside of a closed coffee shop in the cold, dead of winter. Neither his family nor his attorney were notified of his release. There was no coordinated hand off and no plan to protect a vulnerable man. Five days later, he was found dead. His death was ruled a homicide.

Mr. Shah Alam should be alive today, which is why I introduced the DHS Release Transparency Act to prevent tragedies like this. No family should ever have to wonder if their loved one is safe after being released from government custody.

DHS was created in the aftermath of 9/11 for one fundamental purpose: to keep the American people safe. Under President Trump, DHS has become synonymous with fear, deadly force, cruelty, and utter disregard for human decency.

Our government has a moral obligation to protect human rights, to live up to our unique role as a beacon of democracy. The Constitution does not permit government officials to act with impunity, to use violence without accountability, or to treat human life as disposable. Trump has turned government into a weapon, incited violence in our communities, and made fear and dehumanization the defining features of his immigration policy. When those in power normalize brutality, they denigrate the sacrifices that have been made for our freedom. When they abuse people in their custody, they shatter the bonds of the social contract that ties us together. When they refuse to answer for the harm they cause, they erode the core promise at the heart of the American experiment, that every person is entitled to dignity, due process, and equal justice under the law.

Under Democratic leadership, this body will hold DHS accountable and uphold the oath that we all take to the Nation and to the Constitution.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the Buffalo Choral Arts Society, which is proudly celebrating its sixtieth anniversary. Founded in 1965 by Buffalo native, Mr. Robert F. Schulz, the society has spent six decades enriching the cultural life of the community through outstanding choral performances, artistic excellence, and a deep commitment to the power of music.

For six decades, the Buffalo Choral Arts Society has demonstrated unwavering dedication to its students, the arts, and the Western New York community, highlighting the talents of one hundred and thirty vocal performers throughout the region by offering a diverse mixture of classical masterworks, contemporary compositions, and popular choral selections. Through its commitment to artistic excellence, music education, and community engagement, the society has inspired audiences and fostered a lasting appreciation for the choral arts across generations.

Through consistent instruction, performances, and mentorship, the society has supported generations of artists in developing discipline, confidence, and creative expression. Over the course of its distinguished sixty-year history, the Buffalo Choral Arts Society has benefited from the leadership and vision of four dedicated conductors: Mr. Robert F. Schulz, Mr. John Ricca, Ms. Marcia A. Giambrone, and currently, Mr. David Curtis. Each conductor has played an important role in shaping the organization's growth, musical excellence, and enduring legacy within the Western New York community.

Today, we honor 60 years of commitment to the arts and look ahead to the many years of entertainment still to come. The Buffalo ChoraI Arts Society's work has touched countless lives. The organization's commitment to excellence in vocal arts has not only elevated voices within our community but has created meaningful opportunities for students to grow both on and off the stage.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the South Buffalo Dance Academy, which is proudly celebrating its golden anniversary in its fiftieth year. Founded in 1976 by Mrs. Eleanor Donovan Gilson with just one small dance studio and a handful of students, Mrs. Gilson offered a welcoming space for community members of all ages to discover a passion for movement, find their own beat, and express themselves.

For half a century, South Buffalo Dance Academy has demonstrated unwavering dedication to its students, the arts, and the Western New York community, highlighting the talents of performers throughout the region by offering a mixture of modern and contemporary dance training. Thousands of students have come through its doors, each contributing to the vibrant legacy of the academy. Many alumni have gone on to successful careers as professional dancers and choreographers and often return to the studio to visit and teach. South Buffalo Dance Academy has also earned numerous awards at competitions locally and nationally, recognizing the talent, technical ability, flexibility, and creativity showcased in its routines.

Through consistent instruction, performances, and mentorship, the academy has supported generations of young artists in developing discipline, confidence, and creative expression, while offering a welcoming space for community members of all ages to discover a passion for movement, find their own beat, and express themselves in a true ``home away from home.''

Today, we honor 50 years of commitment to the arts and look ahead to the many years of entertainment still to come. The South Buffalo Dance Academy's work has touched countless lives. Their commitment to excellence in dance has not only elevated the arts within our community but has created meaningful opportunities for students to grow both on and off the stage.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Seneca Nation of Indians as they commemorate the signing of the 1842 Buffalo Creek Treaty. Signed in a partnership agreement between the United States and the Seneca Nation of Indians, the Buffalo Creek Treaty ensured that the culture and heritage of the Seneca Nation remain on their rightful land in the Allegany and Cattaraugus Reservations.

Signed nearly 184 years ago in Western New York, the 1842 Buffalo Creek Treaty restored the Seneca Nation's possession of Cattaraugus and Allegany territories and reaffirmed the nation's right to self-govern and protect their land. Through unwavering unity and leadership, Seneca Nation leaders worked to ensure that the Indigenous population of Western New York was not displaced and that their culture and tradition survived and preserved. This treaty marked a defining moment in the preservation of Seneca sovereignty and identity. The dedication of the Seneca people to their heritage, community, and future ensures the well-being, prosperity, and sovereignty of future generations.

Today, as we commemorate 184 years since the signing of the Buffalo Creek Treaty, we look toward the future with hope and acknowledge the struggles and sacrifices of the past. The 1842 Buffalo Creek Treaty remains a lasting symbol of sovereignty, resilience, and cultural respect. As the Seneca people continue to strengthen their communities and protect their heritage, we recognize their enduring legacy of perseverance and leadership and celebrate their many contributions to Western New York and the United States.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the late Principal Mrs. Nan M. Wood, a woman whose influence can be seen and felt throughout our community by students, colleagues, and community members.

Throughout her life, she inspired others with her strength, compassion, and love of education, and cherished every moment shared with her family and students. Her greatest joy was her role as a devoted wife to her husband, the late Mr. John David Wood. Together, the loving couple were proud parents to Reverend J. Darryl Wood, Lauren Ducceschi, the late Dennis Wood, Minister Linda Parker, and the late Laina Kennedy. She later was blessed to become a grandmother, nurturing her grandchildren with the same kindness and care she gave to everyone in her life.

Mrs. Wood was born on August 26, 1929, in Buffalo, New York, to Mr. Belton McCarley and Mrs. Mabel McCarley. She was raised with the strong support of her family from the very beginning, helping to shape her into a natural leader in all aspects of her life. She excelled academically, attending Buffalo Public Schools from kindergarten through twelfth grade, and going on to earn her Bachelor's in Elementary Education from SUNY Buffalo State. Following her graduation, Mrs. Wood began a nearly three-decade career in education, teaching elementary students throughout Buffalo Public Schools before transitioning to the role of Assistant Principal at Fillmore Middle School, and later to Principal at Buffalo Public Community School No. 53 in 1972.

Community School No. 53 was the first Buffalo Public School to be under the leadership

of an African American woman. Principal Wood began a transformative period of leadership focused on academic excellence, student enrichment, cultural exposure, and community engagement. Throughout the following two decades, she expanded educational opportunities by creating student travel, cultural and academic experiences across the United States, Canada, and Europe, while also advocating for additional school and community resources. Her commitment to students and families led to the establishment of community-serving programs and facilities, including a Home Economics Laboratory. By 1987, under her visionary leadership, enrollment at Community School No. 53 had grown to approximately twelve hundred students, making it the largest elementary school in the City of Buffalo at that time.

Over the years, Principal Wood received numerous awards and accolades in recognition of her outstanding service and commitment to education, including the P.U.S.H. for Excellence Award, the Black Educators Association Educator of the Year Award, the RIT Distinguished Teacher Recognition Program Award, and the United Voices of St. John Distinguished Service Award. In addition to her educational honors, Principal Wood and her daughter, Lauren, were the first mother-daughter pair to serve as principals in Buffalo Public School history. Although Principal Wood retired from Buffalo Public Schools in 1987, she continued to carry forward her love of education, establishing the Belton and Mabel McCarley College Scholarship Program to support and encourage students across the community.

Principal Wood was a faithful member of St. John Baptist Church, contributing her time and talents by serving as the Sunday School teacher, and narrating the United Voices of St. John's Sunday night musicals and community concerts. In her time of leisure, Principal Wood found joy in life's simple pleasures--traveling across the globe, reading to her grandchildren, and cooking for her loved ones.

Mr. Speaker, Principal Nan M. Wood lived a life of devotion to her family, community, students, and faith. Her unwavering commitment to those she loved and her compassion towards others had a profound impact on all who knew her. Principal Wood was a woman who believed in the importance of equitable education, family, and faith above all else and worked tirelessly to support those around her. Her kindness, loyalty, and warmth will forever be remembered. Let us continue to honor her legacy by carrying forward the values she lived by: faith, education, and above all, love.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of ``Mother'' Bessie

Quinnie, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend whose love, compassion, and devotion to her family and community inspired all who knew her.

Mother Quinnie was born on November 25, 1930, in Linden, Alabama to the late Lemus Mitchell and Estelle Richardson Mitchell. Mother Quinnie cherished every moment with her family--a life filled with love and compassion until her passing. Her greatest joy was spent as a devoted wife for more than half a century to the late Mr. Peter Quinnie and mother to Jerry, Charles, Kenneth, Michael, the late Manning, the late Albert, the late Melvin, the late Anna Ruth Hugley, and the late Marion Haynie. She was later blessed to have twenty-four beloved grandchildren, nurturing them with the same kindness and care she gave to everyone in her life.

Mother Quinnie was raised with the strong support of her family from the very beginning, helping to shape her into a natural leader in all aspects of her life. She had a deep love and compassion for others, which she expressed through her role as a devoted community member. She previously served as an employee of the Sisters of Charity Hospital, working in the housekeeping department. She was later promoted to the emergency room sterilization department, where she remained until her retirement in 1994. In addition to her professional accomplishments, she was a talented homemaker, providing constant care, guidance, and support to her family while nurturing a warm and loving home.

Mother Quinnie was a faithful follower of Christ, serving as a member of Jerusalem Baptist Church. She later became a member of Thankful Missionary Baptist Church, where she continued to serve the Lord faithfully as a devoted and loving church mother, inspiring all who knew her through her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith.

Mother Bessie Quinnie lived a life of devotion to her faith, family, and community. Her unwavering commitment to those she loved and her compassion towards others had a profound impact on all who knew her. Mother Quinnie was a woman who believed in the importance of family above all else and worked tirelessly to support those around her. Her kindness, loyalty, and warmth will forever be remembered. Let us honor her legacy by living as she did, with devotion to family, faith, and above all, love.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Neighborhood Health Center, one of many that has sought to bring primary care health services to the communities of Western New York. The Health Resources and Services Administration ranks Neighborhood Health Center as the top health center for quality in Western New York, and the opening of the newest location in Buffalo marks a tremendous step in access to high quality and equitable healthcare.

With roots in the Civil Rights Movement, the Nation's first Neighborhood Health Center opened to address the critical need for affordable primary care in underserved communities. Welcoming all Western New Yorkers since 1987, Neighborhood Health Center now serves as the region's leading primary care provider to more than thirty thousand patients. Neighborhood Health Center serves as not just a healthcare provider. It offers youth and senior citizen programming, education, crime victim assistance, daycare, and much more.

Neighborhood Health Centers across Western New York find themselves at the front line of community enrichment, providing services that contribute to mental health, family planning, and individual safety. This new site will create employment for the community as well as be another symbol of our strive to ensure a stable and supportive system in Western New York, with all being welcome at all Neighborhood locations. Even those who are uninsured or underinsured.

Mr. Speaker, let us celebrate the contributions that Neighborhood Health Center has made and their unwavering dedication to service that they have demonstrated to patients across Western New York. Although our work is never ending, please join me in thanking all those who have contributed to Neighborhood Health Center as they continue to provide exceptional care and contribute to our region.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the remarkable leadership and service of Pastor Keith Mobley as we honor his 12th Pastoral Anniversary at Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Lackawanna, New York. Pastor Mobley's influence extends far beyond the walls of the church, making a lasting impact on the lives of those in need.

More than two decades ago, Pastor Mobley earned his master's degree in Christian Studies from the Bible Centre College of Rochester, New York and received his license to preach. Soon after, he served under the spiritual leadership of Pastor Dion J. Watkins and became ordained at Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church. For nearly ten years, Pastor Mobley proudly served as the Sunday School Teacher and Assistant Pastor before he was spiritually guided to the role of Lead Pastor in 2014, serving as the eighth pastor in the 80-year history of Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church.

Pastor Mobley is supported by his beloved wife, First Lady Elizabeth Mobley. Together, they have formed a family centered in faith as they raise their four blessed children: Tyson, Talia, Tevin, and Troy. Their marriage exemplifies the strength found in a family that prays and worships together. Pastor Mobley remains committed to serving both his family and his community with love, devotion, and unwavering trust in the Lord.

Pastor Mobley has made a priority of reaching out to his community, serving as a mentor and advocate for youth, adults, and community leaders through his role as President of the Baptist Minister's Conference of Buffalo and Vicinity. Congregants and community members have gathered throughout the month of May to recognize Pastor Mobley's pastoral anniversary and his steadfast commitment to Christian leadership.

Today, as we celebrate twelve years of Pastor Mobley's unwavering dedication, let us recognize the countless lives he has touched and the profound impact he has made at Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church and beyond. I congratulate Pastor Mobley on this significant milestone. His service is a blessing, and we look forward to many more years of his inspired leadership.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Western New York Dermatology as they celebrate the arrival of advanced patient friendly technology for the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancer.

More than 9,500 Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer every day, and more than three million new cases are recorded annually across the globe. With skin cancer rising faster than any other cancer, skin protection from UV exposure is more important than ever. Under the leadership of Dr. Michael Nazareth, the practice treats its patients from chronic conditions including eczema and psoriasis to advanced skin cancer detection and cosmetic procedures.

Today, we celebrate the continued success and technological advancements of Western New York Dermatology, as well as its steadfast commitment to empowering patients throughout the region. As the need for high-quality healthcare services continues to grow, Western New York Dermatology remains at the forefront of patient-centered care, continually evolving to meet the needs of all communities.

I congratulate Western New York Dermatology on its ongoing dedication to providing exceptional care and enhancing the health and well-being of community members across Western New York.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Asian American Heritage Festival. This cultural event is dedicated and celebrated in honor of the cultural traditions and contributions of Asian Americans throughout the United States. For half a decade, the Asian American Heritage Festival has been committed to enriching the cultural fabric of the Western New York, fostering deeper appreciation for the traditions, struggles, and contributions that continue to shape Asian American communities today.

The Asian American Heritage Festival is a dynamic hub for community engagement and cross-cultural connection. Through shared experiences, storytelling, and cultural expression, the festival strengthens understanding and unity among diverse communities. It stands as a vital bridge to connect culture, diversity, and unity through exciting performances, delicious food, and shared experiences among people of all backgrounds.

Beyond the exciting attractions that the Asian American Heritage Festival offers, there is also a strong emphasis on community and education. Stories of resilience and cultural history, passed down through generations, are shared with all who attend.

As we celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Asian American Heritage Festival, let us recognize the essential role that the festival plays-- not just as an event, but as a beacon of cultural exchange, generational growth, and community spirit. Please join me in celebrating and honoring the achievements of the Asian American Heritage Festival as it remains an enduring source of pride and connection for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, on the 82nd anniversary of D- Day, I rise to recognize Private First Class John C. Tiranno who received the Legion of Honour Medal from the French Republic for his part in the liberation of France from Nazi occupation during World War II. Private First Class John Tiranno and many others put their lives on the line, demonstrating unwavering commitment to the Allied Forces during World War II and contributing to a pivotal victory for the Allied

Forces in one of the most important battles in American history.

The Invasion of Normandy, also known as D-Day and Operation Overlord, began on June 6, 1944. The operation included a 1,200-plane airborne assault with over 5,000 vessels and 160,000 troops. By the end of August 1944, there were over two million Allied soldiers stationed and fighting in Normandy. Operation Overlord began an Allied campaign that culminated in the liberation of German-occupied Western Europe.

Born on July 14, 1925, in Buffalo, New York, Mr. Tiranno enlisted in the United States Army, serving as a Combat Infantryman from October 27, 1943, until May 11, 1945. Mr. Tiranno specialized as a Light Mortar Crewman and was part of the 330th Infantry of the 83rd Division in Normandy. On June 12, 1944, Mr. Tiranno's unit arrived on Omaha Beach after being called in to provide relief and backup to their comrades in arms.

After being honorably discharged, Mr. Tiranno returned home on May 11th, 1945, and on the second anniversary of D-Day, he married the love of his life of nearly eight decades, the late Mrs. Lee Tiranno. Together they had a son, Samuel, and were later blessed with grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Mr. Tiranno's service was marked by extraordinary dedication and sacrifice to this country, having received a Bronze Star Medal, a Purple Heart, a Good Conduct Medal, a European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, a World War II Victory Medal, a Combat Infantryman 1st Award, and an Honorable Service Lapel Button for his service, and the Legion of Honor Medal from the French Republic.

The National Order of the Legion of Honour is the highest decoration bestowed by France and is awarded only to those who have demonstrated ``outstanding merit.'' American veterans who risked their lives while fighting on French territory during World War II qualify to receive this distinction as Knights of the Legion of Honour, presented under the authority of the Consulate General of France in New York, Cedrik Fouriscot. It serves as a tribute to their courage in battle, their sacrifice, and the enduring legacy of those who were wounded or lost their lives in service.

It is an honor to recognize Private First Class John C. Tiranno on the Anniversary of D-Day. The people of the United States and France will never forget what John C. Tiranno, and many other brave soldiers, have done during World War II to defend our freedom and democracy.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of an extraordinary leader, educator, and public servant whose vision has transformed the University at Buffalo and our entire community.

After 15 years as president of UB, Dr. Satish Tripathi is concluding a remarkable chapter of service defined by innovation, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to academic excellence.

During his tenure, the University at Buffalo has reached new heights. Enrollment has grown to nearly 30,000 students. Flourishing scientific research has positioned UB among the Nation's premier public research institutions, and UB has strengthened its role as an engine of economic opportunity, helping to launch and nurture hundreds of local startup companies.

UB is attracting world-class faculty and empowering the next generation of innovators, scientists, engineers, and healthcare professionals.

Under Dr. Tripathi's leadership, the medical school found a new home on the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, strengthening the connection between higher education, healthcare, and the revitalization of our great city.

UB has become a cornerstone of New York's Empire AI initiative, ensuring that western New York sits at the forefront of AI innovation.

Yet, Mr. Speaker, if you ask Dr. Tripathi about these extraordinary accomplishments, he is quick to credit the students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners who have helped make them possible.

That humility has long been one of his defining qualities. His leadership has never been about personal recognition. It has always been about building an institution that empowers others to succeed.

He will continue serving UB as a researcher and educator, focused on advancing the ethical development of artificial intelligence and mentoring the next generation of scholars. The University at Buffalo, western New York, and our Nation are stronger because of Dr. Tripathi's leadership. His legacy will be measured in the lives he has changed and the brighter future he has helped create with generations of students.

On behalf of a grateful community, State, and Nation, I thank Dr. Satish Tripathi for his extraordinary service, congratulate him on an exceptional presidency, and wish him continued success as he begins this next chapter.

Godspeed to Dr. Tripathi.

celebrating 50th anniversary of the belle center.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a remarkable milestone for western New York: The 50th anniversary of The Belle Center in Buffalo, New York.

For one-half of a century, The Belle Center has been a place where every child has been welcomed, every family is valued, and every family is given the opportunity to thrive.

Under the exceptional leadership of Executive Director Lucy Candelario and her dedicated team, The Belle Center has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of Buffalo's west side. Through early childhood education, after-school programing, workforce development, and services for families and seniors, The Belle Center has remained steadfast in its mission to meet Buffalonians where they are and provide the support they need to build brighter futures.

As our neighborhoods have grown more diverse and new challenges have emerged, the center has answered the call by expanding educational opportunities, welcoming new Americans through English language learning, supporting working families, and celebrating the rich cultures that make our community stronger.

As we celebrate this golden anniversary, we also celebrate the countless staff members, volunteers, and community partners whose dedication has transformed lives and strengthened the City of Good Neighbors.

Today, I join western New York in congratulating The Belle Center on 50 extraordinary years of service. May it continue to uplift our neighbors, strengthen our community, and carry forward Father Belle's enduring legacy of compassion and service for generations to come.

I congratulate The Belle Center.