Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Mr. Basil Piazza, a dedicated public servant and long-time resident of Williamsville, New York whose tireless contributions to his community and his country have left a long lasting impact. Mr. Piazza's legacy spans decades of leadership, service, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of the Village of Williamsville.

A native of North Buffalo, Mr. Piazza graduated from Canisius University in 1965 with a degree in English. After relocating in 1968 to the Village of Williamsville with his family, he began a successful teaching career for 36 years throughout Western New York. His commitment to education and mentorship, even while serving in local government, speaks to his selflessness and passion for helping others succeed.

Mr. Piazza has dedicated nearly three decades of public service to the Village of Williamsville, including the roles of Village Trustee, Deputy Mayor, and Mayor. His leadership has shaped the growth and development of Williamsville, as he worked tirelessly to improve his community. His dedication to enhancing the quality of life for residents, fostering community engagement, and promoting the arts and culture within the village has left an inedible mark on the area.

Mr. Piazza's legacy extends beyond his years of service as a public servant and educator. He has made profound contributions to the United States by serving in the Army Reserve for 26 years while remaining devoted to his family as a husband and father--later becoming a loving grandparent, and great-grandparent. His legacy stands as a foundation for the community values he worked to uphold throughout his life.

Mr. Speaker, today we recognize Mr. Basil Piazza for his steadfast commitment to public service and his outstanding contributions to the Village of Williamsville. His dedication continues to inspire all who had the privilege of working with him, and his legacy is certain to live on for generations.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the 101st birthday of an extraordinary woman, Mrs. Geneva Givens--a remarkable milestone in a life defined by faith, family, and resilience.

Mrs. Givens was born on March 2, 1924, in Caruthersville, Missouri, during the presidency of Calvin Coolidge and in the same year as President Jimmy Carter. Over more than a century of life, she has lived through some of the most defining moments in our nation's history-- including the Great Depression, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Gulf War.

In March of 1939, she married Robert Givens, and together they raised five children: Mary Ann Cramer, Louise Givens, Charles Givens, Tony Givens, and Jessie Givens. Her family has grown to include 7 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren, and 10 great-great- grandchildren--each a living testament to her enduring love and legacy. In 1951, she made Buffalo, New York her home and began building a life rooted in faith and service.

Mrs. Givens became an active member of Calvary Baptist Church, where she served faithfully on the Number 1 Usher Board. Later, she joined Elim Christian Fellowship and was consecrated as a church mother under the leadership of Rev. Dr. T. Anthony Bronner--a role she embraced with grace and wisdom.

Throughout her career, Mrs. Givens served her community with care and diligence. She worked at the Fisher Price Toy Company, Child and Family Services, and ultimately the Department of Veterans Affairs, where she retired from Building Management in 1994. Her contributions helped shape the lives of countless individuals and families.

A woman of deep faith and vibrant spirit, Mrs. Givens finds joy in simple pleasures--walking during the warmer seasons, listening to gospel music, reading her Bible, watching television, and cooking for her loved ones. Her signature dishes--sweet potato pie, biscuits from scratch, and fried chicken--continue to bring joy to all who gather at her table. Even at 101 years old, her heart remains full of dreams: she plans to travel to Las Vegas to visit her sister and attend a New York Knicks game to cheer on her favorite players, Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart.

Mr. Speaker, today we honor and thank Mrs. Geneva Givens for being a truly remarkable woman--an embodiment of strength, grace, and unwavering love. Her life continues to inspire all who know her, and her legacy is a profound blessing to her family, her community, and generations to come. We celebrate Mrs. Geneva Givens on her 101st birthday and honor a life that continues to be richly and faithfully lived.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Darrell Rowser, a man whose strength, dedication, and unwavering love for his family left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Mr. Rowser's commitment to his work, faith, and most importantly, his family, defined the essence of his character.

Born on September 14, 1958, in Buffalo, New York, to his late father Bertin Rowser, and his mother, Marlene Rowser, Mr. Rowser was the third of five children. He received his formal education through the Buffalo Public School system and graduated from Kensington High School in 1976. He then went on to receive his Associate's Degree at Medaille College.

Mr. Rowser was a dedicated athlete, excelling in basketball, track, and Taekwondo. He won All-High championships in the 400-meter and 800- meter races at Kensington High School and later continued playing basketball, winning championships with the North Buffalo Community Center league. After 30 years of training, he earned a Black Belt 2nd Dan in Taekwondo. Mr. Rowser also had a love for music, playing bass guitar with his brothers in a band, and filling his home with his favorite songs.

After college, Mr. Rowser began his career at General Motors for 10 years, later working at Ford Motor Company Stamping Plant where he retired in 2024 after 33 years. While at Ford, Mr. Rowser rose to the role of Team Leader, earning him a Six Sigma Lean Belt certification which represented his commitment to knowledge, efficiency, and excellence. Mr. Rowser was known to be fair but firm at work, and with his recognizable voice that commanded attention, he was greatly respected by his team.

What truly defined Mr. Rowser was his deep love for his family. His greatest joy was spending time with his wife Jacqueline and their children Brandon and Brianna. Mr. and Mrs. Rowser shared a 37-year marriage built on love, faith, and cherished memories. He is survived by his wife and children, his mother Marlene Rowser, mother-in-law Violet Lewis, brother-in-law Darryl Prude, and many other loving family members and friends.

Mr. Darrell Rowser lived a life devoted to his family, his work, and his faith. His unwavering love for his family and his commitment to those around him left a lasting impact on all who knew him. Mr. Rowser believed deeply in the importance of family, and he worked tirelessly to create a life full of love, faith, and cherished moments. His strength, kindness, and dedication will always be remembered, and his legacy will continue to inspire all those whose lives he touched.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Scleroderma Awareness Month, an important commemoration dedicated to increasing public understanding and awareness of Scleroderma, a chronic autoimmune disease that impacts approximately 300,000 individuals across the United States. Scleroderma, meaning ``hard skin,'' is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by the abnormal growth of connective tissue, leading to skin thickening and potential involvement of internal organs, which can result in serious complications.

Each June, we unite with the brave patients, families, and devoted healthcare professionals who work tirelessly to advocate for research, treatment, and support for those affected by scleroderma. This month not only serves as a time of recognition but also as a call to action to advance our commitment to finding a cure for this debilitating disease.

Organizations such as the Scleroderma Foundation, the Scleroderma Research Foundation, and the Scleroderma Family Registry and DNA Repository lead the way in research and patient advocacy, providing hope and meaningful support to those impacted. Through public awareness campaigns, educational programs, and patient-focused initiatives, these organizations are making great progress in increasing awareness and advancing scientific breakthroughs.

Despite these efforts, there is still much work to be done. Many patients experience delayed diagnoses due to a lack of awareness and limited understanding of this complex disease. Enhancing diagnostic tools, boosting research funding, and expanding access to care are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Today, I stand to amplify the voices of scleroderma patients and their families. We must continue to support efforts that promote research, education, and compassionate care for those impacted by this disease. it is my hope that through our collective efforts, we can bring much-needed awareness and resources to the fight against scleroderma, ultimately improving the lives of those affected and bringing us closer to a cure.

I rise today to celebrate the 92nd birthday of a remarkable individual, Russell J. Salvatore, a beloved member of our community and Army veteran

whose impact has touched countless lives through his generosity, leadership, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Mr. Salvatore is the proud owner of the renowned Russell's Steaks, Chops, & More, as well as Salvatore's Grand Hotel in Williamsville, New York. He is widely respected not only for his success in the restaurant and hospitality industries but also for his immense philanthropy. Over the years, Mr. Salvatore has donated millions to various worthy causes, making him a leading philanthropist in the Western New York region.

Mr. Salvatore's career in the restaurant industry began at a young age, working alongside his father, Joseph. After nearly four decades in the business, he took his passion to new heights by opening Russell's Steaks, Chops, & More at the age of 75, proving that his dedication to the industry remains as strong as ever.

Throughout his career, Mr. Salvatore has made significant investments within Western New York, including funding transportation vans for veterans, contributing to the rebuilding of a Boys and Girls Club after a devastating fire, supporting Shea's Performing Arts Center, and assisting with the construction of the Niagara University Russell J. Salvatore Student Commons. His impact is also felt at the Miracle League of Grand Island's special needs baseball diamond, and he has supported countless educational and healthcare organizations across the region.

In addition to his remarkable contributions, Mr. Salvatore's commitment to giving back has been further recognized through numerous accolades, including being named Humanitarian of the Year in 2018. His foundation continues to support organizations like ECMC, Kaleida Health, Oishei Children's Hospital, Catholic Health, and other organizations throughout Western New York.

Mr. Speaker, Russell J. Salvatore's legacy is one of profound generosity and civic responsibility. He is an integral part of our ``City of Good Neighbors'' and has enriched the Western New York community through years of hard work and selflessness. On this special occasion of his 92nd birthday, please join me in wishing Russell J. Salvatore the happiest of birthdays, with many more to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor a foundational institution in Western New York's spiritual and civil life, the Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church of Buffalo, NY and its dedicated pastor, Reverend Paul J. Thomas.

Founded in 1831, Bethel AME Church stands as the oldest African- American congregation in Western New York. For nearly two centuries, Bethel has been a cornerstone of strength, faith, and leadership in Buffalo, nurturing generations, advancing social justice, and offering an unwavering commitment to the community it serves. It is a place where history and hope walk hand in hand, where the spirit of unity and progress has never wavered.

Under the leadership of Reverend Paul J, Thomas, Bethel AME continues to thrive. Reverend Thomas brings a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and a vision to his ministry. A graduate of Lincoln University of Pennsylvania and Turner Theological Seminary, he combines his training with a heart for education and outreach, holding a master's degree in Special Education as well. His leadership has deepened the church's mission, strengthened its outreach, and reaffirmed its role as a spiritual and cultural anchor in Buffalo.

As we welcome visitors from across New York State and the greater First Episcopal District, including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, New England, and Bermuda, to the 29th Session of the Western New York Conference, hosted by Bethel AME, we are reminded of the power of faith to bring people together and to move communities forward.

Reverend Thomas and the entire Bethel AME family represent the very best of the City of Good Neighbors. Their work uplifts lives, unites neighborhoods, and strengthens the bonds that hold our community together.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate Dr. Candace Johnson, President and CEO of Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, for being recognized by the Boy Scouts of America with their prestigious Distinguished Citizen Award. This recognition is a reflection of her exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to the values of citizenship, community service, and integrity--values that are central to the Boy Scouts of America and that Dr. Johnson embodies every day

As the leader of Roswell Park, Dr. Johnson has dedicated her career to advancing cancer care, promoting research, and improving the lives of countless individuals. Under her leadership, Roswell Park has become a world-renowned institution, offering state-of-the-art cancer treatment and conducting groundbreaking research that continues to transform the landscape of cancer care. Her ability to lead with compassion, vision, and determination has inspired a culture of excellence within her organization, one that values both scientific progress and the human dignity of every patient.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Johnson has been an advocate for the Western New York community, fostering partnerships and working tirelessly to improve healthcare access and equity. She exemplifies the Scouting values by being a leader who not only makes a profound impact in her field but also empowers those around her to serve others and contribute to the common good. Through her work, Dr. Johnson has shown that true leadership means uplifting others, creating opportunities for positive change, and making a lasting difference in the lives of those in need.

Mr. Speaker, Dr. Candace Johnson's recognition as the Boy Scouts of America's Distinguished Citizen is a well-deserved tribute to her outstanding contributions to both the Western New York community and the world. Her leadership continues to inspire us all to live by the values of citizenship, community service, and integrity, and to make a meaningful impact wherever we can. Her example serves as a beacon of what it means to be a distinguished citizen and a leader who embodies the very best of what we can achieve for the greater good and we are all the better for it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate an extraordinary young leader from Western New York--Miss Destini Houston. At just 16 years old, Miss Houston is showing us all that leadership, kindness, and advocacy can go hand in hand.

Miss Houston was recently crowned Miss Western New York's Teen, a title she has embraced not for the spotlight but to shine a light on causes close to her heart. She is now receiving national recognition for her inspiring efforts, and she will be honored as New York's recipient of the Kindest Kid in America award.

To celebrate her achievement, the award organization has created a children's book inspired by Miss Houston's journey. She will read it to students throughout Western New York in hopes of inspiring a new generation to lead with compassion and purpose. Miss Houston has said, ``Being kind isn't just about being nice to people--it's about taking action to help others.'' She lives by those words. From volunteering and mentoring to working with the Buffalo Urban League to organize an informational event for prospective foster and adoptive families, she is a true changemaker in her community.

In addition to her advocacy, Miss Houston is also a competitive dancer training in multiple styles and performing at high-level competitions. Her dedication to dance has helped build the discipline and confidence that now serve her well as she prepares to compete in the Miss New York pageant.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in celebrating Destini Houston--not only as Miss Western New York's Teen or the Kindest Kid in America but as a role model, a community leader, and a beacon of hope for the future. Her impact reaches far beyond titles and trophies. Miss Houston reminds us all that even the smallest acts of kindness can lead to something truly extraordinary. Destini's leadership has left an indelible mark on our city, and we are all the better for it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate Danielle Roberts, a cause-driven leader whose unwavering passion and commitment to community have made a profound impact throughout Western New York.

In her role as Vice President of Community Impact, Ms. Roberts oversees YMCA Buffalo Niagara's association-wide fundraising and outreach initiatives and leads major community programs, including the iconic YMCA Turkey Trot--the oldest consecutively run footrace in the world. She also played a key leadership role in the YMCA's Capital Campaign to construct a new 65,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility that will expand access to health and wellness resources for everyone in Western New York to enjoy.

A staunch advocate for equity, Ms. Roberts has worked to close racial disparities in swim instruction and water safety, particularly among African-American teens, who face significantly higher risks of drowning due to a lack of access. Under her guidance, the William-Emslie YMCA and its partners are building pathways for competitive swimming and promoting safety education in historically underserved communities.

Beyond her YMCA work, Ms. Roberts serves as a national trainer for YUSA, specializing in diversity and cultural lens training. Her extensive background includes experience in banking, treasury management, education, public speaking, grant writing, and the performing arts. She is also the Executive Director of Entertaining Angels Productions, a faith-based arts organization, and a classically trained dancer. Earlier in her career, she proudly performed as a professional NFL cheerleader with the Buffalo Bills as a Buffalo Jill.

Mr. Speaker, Danielle Robert's extraordinary service and leadership to the people of Western New York continues to inspire us all to live by the values of citizenship, community service, and integrity, and to make a meaningful impact wherever we can. Her example serves as a beacon of what it means to be a good neighbor in the ``City of Good Neighbors'' and a leader who embodies the very best of what we can achieve for the greater good, and we are all the better for it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the remarkable contributions of Asia Food Market, a cornerstone of the Western New York community and one of the largest retailers of Asian products in our region. With a diverse selection of over ten thousand goods sourced from across Asia--including Thailand, the Philippines, India, China, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and many more--Asia Food Market brings the flavors, traditions, and richness of Asian cultures right to the heart of the Buffalo Niagara Region.

Their mission goes far beyond providing authentic food. Asia Food Market is committed to enriching the cultural fabric of our community, fostering understanding, appreciation, and shared experiences among people of all backgrounds. It stands as a vital bridge between cultures, offering not only culinary delights but also an open invitation to explore and celebrate Asia's vibrant heritage.

With the exciting opening of the Asia Center Mall, the organization is poised to take that mission even further. This new space combines retail, dining, entertainment, and cultural programming, creating a dynamic hub for community engagement and cross-cultural connection. The Asia Center Mall represents a bold vision: one where multiculturalism is not only celebrated but woven into the daily life and economic vitality of our region.

Mr. Speaker, as we acknowledge this milestone, let us recognize the essential role that Asia Food Market plays--not just as a business, but as a beacon of cultural exchange, economic growth, and community spirit. Please join me in applauding the achievements and continued success of both Asia Food Market and the Asia Center Mall, as they remain an enduring source of pride and connection for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a true American hero, World War II veteran Edgar Carl Wilke, as he celebrates his 100th birthday. A native Buffalonian and longtime resident of West Seneca, New York, Mr. Wilke served our Nation with courage and distinction during World War II.

Enlisting from his hometown, he joined the 24th Infantry Division of the 24th Regiment, achieving the rank of Private First Class. During his service in the Pacific theater, Mr. Wilke displayed extraordinary bravery, earning the Bronze Star Medal for his heroic actions.

While fighting in the Philippines, he was gravely wounded by an enemy grenade so severely that those awarding him the Purple Heart believed he would not survive. After enduring months in the hospital, he returned home where Mr. Wilke built a life of love and dedication alongside his beloved wife, Joan, until her passing in 2014.

Through it all, Mr. Wilke has remained a man of deep faith, trusting in God and embracing the simple joys of life.

In addition to the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, Mr. Wilke has been honored with numerous commendations, including the American Campaign Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with two bronze service stars, the World War II Victory Medal, the Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Marksman Badge with Rifle Bar.

As Mr. Wilke celebrates this incredible milestone surrounded by five generations of family, we are reminded that the freedoms we cherish were secured by the courage and sacrifice of patriots like him.

His life is a testament to resilience, service, and an unwavering love for the country and community he calls home.

Western New York and the United States of America are better because of him, and it is an honor to celebrate his incredible story.

On behalf of the people of western New York and a grateful nation, we wish Mr. Wilke a very happy 100th birthday and many more years to come. I thank Mr. Wilke for his service, and may his century of life continue to be an inspiration to us all.

Congratulating the University at Buffalo Women's Basketball Team

Mr. Speaker, today I have the distinct honor of congratulating the University at Buffalo women's basketball team on their incredible victory in the women's NIT championship this past weekend.

On April 5, before a packed and energized Alumni Arena, the UB Bulls women's basketball team triumphed over Troy 88-84 accomplishing something few teams get to do: end their season with a championship win.

This moment marked the deepest postseason run in the history of UB basketball, men's or women's. However, this is more than just a win; this is a legacy in the making.

UB guard Lani Cornfield, a proud member of the Seneca Nation Indians and alum of Lake Shore High School, said it best: This just put Buffalo back on the map.

I extend a heartfelt congratulations to each of the players on this remarkable team:

Mallory Daly, Noelani Cornfield, Sitota Gines, Kirsten Lewis- Williams, Paula Lopez, Makenna Shaffer, Ariana Seawell, Caylen Spano, Terah Harness, Jordyn Beaty, and Chellia Watson.

I also recognize the coaching staff that has helped shape this program into a powerhouse and who continue the proud tradition of UB women's basketball: Head Coach Becky Burke, Associate Head Coach Jacey Brooks, Assistant Coach James Ewing, Assistant Coach Erin Sinnott, Director of Basketball Operations Allese Williams, and Vice President and Director of Athletics Mark Alnutt.

As UB guard Chellia Watson, who scored 23 points in the final game, put it: The key to victory was defense and grit, just not giving up, and showing we have got all the fight in the world.

Now, that is the Buffalo way.

This team's journey reminds us all what is possible when talent, opportunity, and unwavering determination come together. These young women are not just champions; they are role models inspiring the next generation of female athletes and showing young people in our community what can be achieved through dedication, resilience, and teamwork.

On behalf of western New York and our great Nation, I offer our heartfelt congratulations. We are proud, we are inspired, and we can't wait to see this incredible team in action next year defending their title.

Go Bulls.

Mr. Speaker, first of all, I recognize Representative Ramirez for her leadership on this important issue.

I rise today not just as a Member of Congress, but as a healthcare practitioner. Like so many of my fellow healthcare workers, I became an occupational therapist to help people. Before entering public office, I spent over a decade working with seniors and children to help them achieve independent, full lives.

Last week, the Trump administration made it harder for our healthcare providers to deliver the services that Americans rely on by terminating 10,000 hardworking members of the Department of Health and Human Services workforce. Under this administration, a total of 20,000 HHS employees have been illegally fired, putting Americans at risk every day.

These cuts do nothing for the people in western New York or anywhere else across the country. They are a means of giving tax cuts to the ultrarich and powerful, those who never have to worry about access to reliable healthcare.

These cuts are more than numbers on a balance sheet. These are lives that hang in the balance. For western New York, this will make it harder for Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center or the University of Buffalo to advance their lifesaving work.

These cuts mean delayed treatments, denied cures, stolen hopes from patients battling cancer, Parkinson's, ALS, Alzheimer's, and so many other devastating diseases. I felt the pain and hope of patients, grandparents, mothers, fathers, and children who are counting on the next clinical breakthrough to survive. These cuts say to them: Your health doesn't matter. Your life doesn't matter.

President Trump, unelected billionaire Elon Musk, and Secretary Robert Kennedy are more concerned with cutting services and pushing an antiscience agenda than they are with supporting and improving our healthcare system. By walking away from practitioners and patients, the Trump administration is abdicating its duty to our most vulnerable and signaling to the world that the United States is no longer the global leader in scientific research.

As someone who spent years treating patients, I know that abandoning our scientists, our research institutions, our doctors and nurses, and, worst of all, our patients puts our entire community and country at risk.

Mr. Speaker, I urge this body, Democrats and Republicans, to stand up for our healthcare heroes, invest in breakthroughs that millions of lives are depending on, and restore the funding and workforce our Nation's healthcare system depends upon.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the remarkable leadership and service of Pastor Kenneth Simmons as we honor his 12th Pastoral Anniversary at Cold Spring Bible Chapel. Pastor Simmons' influence extends far beyond the walls of the church, making a lasting impact on the lives of those in need. Along with First Lady Jamelle Simmons, Pastor Simmons has touched the hearts of countless individuals throughout our community. His work has inspired many to pursue positive change, creating a ripple effect of compassion and support that continues to shape the future of Western New York.

For over two decades, Pastor Simmons has dedicated his life to mentoring youth, aiding returning citizens in their re-entry to society, and supporting local organizations. He has worked tirelessly with little league sports organizations, block clubs, and street outreach programs, bringing hope and opportunity to countless families. One of his most notable contributions has been his work with the Youth Detention Center, where his efforts have transformed the facility, earning recognition from the State Office of Child and Family Services for turning it into a model for the entire state.

Pastor Simmons has also made it a priority to reach out to the less fortunate in our community, providing critical support for those who need it most. For over a decade, he and his congregation have blessed thousands of youth with school supplies and book bags, ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed in their education. His dedication to helping the youth in our community, especially in the 14208 area and along Jefferson Avenue, has changed lives and inspired many to follow in his footsteps.

It is an honor to recognize Pastor Kenneth Simmons for his unwavering commitment to serving our community and exemplifying the power of faith, service, and love. Pastor Simmons' work continues to uplift those around him, and I am proud to stand with him in celebrating this incredible milestone. I thank him for all that he has done, and may God continue to bless him and his ministry.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Phi Omega Chapter in Buffalo, which is proudly hosting the District Conference for the Second District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., in Western New York. Founded in 1911 at Howard University, Omega Psi Phi is a national, not-for-profit civic fraternal organization dedicated to serving communities both locally and globally. With over 700 chapters across the United States and internationally, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. works together to create a lasting impact on society.

The Second District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. proudly includes 2,700 members across 84 chapters, with 62 graduate chapters and 22 undergraduate chapters. Over 3,000 attendees are expected at the conference, including state and local dignitaries, community leaders, families, friends, and the general public. This gathering provides a valuable opportunity to strengthen connections and further the mission of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.--dedicated to promoting brotherhood, scholarship, and service, while enhancing the mental, social, spiritual, and physical well-being of its members and the communities they serve.

Since its establishment in 1947, the Second District has worked tirelessly to fulfill the mission of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., further enriching the communities it serves. Over the past seven years, the district has awarded scholarships to more than 700 students, totaling over $1 million annually. Additionally, the District continues to implement impactful programs such as mentoring and tutoring, fatherhood initiatives, Stop the Violence campaigns, and Habitat for Humanity. These programs play a vital role in uplifting and supporting our community, creating lasting, positive change in the lives of countless individuals.

The Second District is also dedicated to health initiatives, partnering with organizations such as St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities. Through health symposiums, blood drives, and wellness events, they work to improve the well-being of underserved communities, embodying the true spirit of Omega Psi Phi through these impactful contributions.

Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize the members of the Phi Omega Chapter and the Second District of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. for their outstanding commitment to service, education, and community enrichment. Their work has touched countless lives, and we are all the better for it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Darrell Rowser, a man whose strength, dedication, and unwavering love for his family left a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Mr. Rowser's commitment to his work, faith, and most importantly, his family, defined the essence of his character.

Born on September 14, 1958, in Buffalo, New York, to his late father Bertin Rowser, and his mother, Marlene Rowser, Mr. Rowser was the third of five children. He received his formal education through the Buffalo Public School system and graduated from Kensington High School in 1976. He then went on to receive his Associate's Degree at Medaille College.

Mr. Rowser was a dedicated athlete, excelling in basketball, track, and Taekwondo. He won All-High championships in the 400-meter and 800- meter races at Kensington High School and later continued playing basketball, winning championships with the North Buffalo Community Center league. After 30 years of training, he earned a Black Belt 2nd Dan in Taekwondo. Mr. Rowser also had a love for music, playing bass guitar with his brothers in a band, and filling his home with his favorite songs.

After college, Mr. Rowser began his career at General Motors for 10 years, later working at Ford Motor Company Stamping Plant where he retired in 2024 after 33 years. While at Ford, Mr. Rowser rose to the role of Team Leader, earning him a Six Sigma Lean Belt certification which represented his commitment to knowledge, efficiency, and excellence. Mr. Rowser was known to be fair but firm at work, and with his recognizable voice that commanded attention, he was greatly respected by his team.

What truly defined Mr. Rowser was his deep love for his family. His greatest joy was spending time with his wife Jacqueline and their children Brandon and Brianna. Mr. and Mrs. Rowser shared a 37-year marriage built on love, faith, and cherished memories. He is survived by his wife and children, his mother Marlene Rowser, mother-in-law Violet Lewis, brother-in-law Darryl Prude, and many other loving family members and friends.

Mr. Darrell Rowser lived a life devoted to his family, his work, and his faith. His unwavering

love for his family and his commitment to those around him left a lasting impact on all who knew him. Mr. Rowser believed deeply in the importance of family, and he worked tirelessly to create a life full of love, faith, and cherished moments. His strength, kindness, and dedication will always be remembered, and his legacy will continue to inspire all those whose lives he touched.