Floor Statements

I thank Representative Walkinshaw for yielding me time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my bill, H.R. 3106, the Weatherizing Infrastructure in the North and Terrorism Emergency Readiness Act, also known as the WINTER Act.

As a nation, we must be prepared to prevent and respond to terrorist threats in every circumstance, including during the harshest winter weather. That is why I introduced the WINTER Act, to strengthen our Homeland Security posture during extreme cold weather conditions and ensure that the Department of Homeland Security is prepared to respond.

My hometown of Buffalo, New York, is no stranger to cold weather events. In December of 2022, Winter Storm Elliott hit western New York with historic force. During the Christmas holiday, this powerful storm brought dangerous blizzard conditions, including 60-mile-per-hour winds, dangerous levels of lake-effect snowfall, and life-threatening subfreezing temperatures. Thousands lost power, phone lines went dark, and roads became impassable, bringing emergency operations and critical infrastructure in the city of Buffalo to a screeching halt.

This catastrophic storm claimed 47 precious lives in our community. Families endured unimaginable hardship and heartbreak, and local governments have spent years responding to the disaster to help neighborhoods recover.

Now, imagine the devastation if, amid a major winter storm of this caliber, our Nation was forced to respond to a terrorist attack. Severe winter conditions often strain emergency response capabilities, disrupt communications, and damage critical infrastructure, making an already dangerous situation even more dire.

These challenges are precisely why terrorists may view extreme weather as an opportunity to exploit vulnerabilities and magnify the impact of an attack.

My legislation directs the Department of Homeland Security to conduct a terrorist preparedness exercise focused on the effects of an attack on critical infrastructure during an extreme cold weather event.

It also requires DHS report to Congress on successes and potential pitfalls of the preparedness analysis, ensuring that we understand where existing security gaps remain.

The insights and expertise gained from this exercise will strengthen coordination among emergency managers, State officials, and community partners, helping to better anticipate and mitigate the consequences of such an attack.

By identifying security gaps before a disaster strikes, we can enhance our resilience and be better prepared to withstand and respond to increasingly sophisticated acts of terrorism.

We cannot control when the next severe winter storm will strike, and we cannot predict when terrorists will look to exploit our vulnerabilities. But we can ensure that our Homeland Security enterprise is prepared for both. That is exactly what this legislation will help us do.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the chairman of the committee, Representative Garbarino, for his support. I especially thank Representative and Ranking Member Bennie Thompson for his partnership on this bill. I urge all of my colleagues to support this vital legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and congratulate the Bennett-Wells American Legion Post 1780's 80th Anniversary. This historic milestone is a testament to the enduring strength, spirit, and service of African American Veterans throughout our nation.

Founded on June 2, 1946, in honor of Private James Bennett and Lieutenant Johnson C. Wells, the first two African American soldiers from Buffalo, New York, whose lives were lost in the line of duty during WWII. The Post was organized to meet the needs of African American Veterans throughout Western New York who didn't have a place to gather.

Over the decades, the Bennett-Wells American Legion Post 1780 has served as more than a veterans organization--it has been a cornerstone of fellowship, advocacy, and community service for generations of veterans and their families. The Post has remained committed to honoring the sacrifices of African American servicemen and women, while creating opportunities for mentorship, civic engagement, and support throughout the Western New York community.

Through its programs and community outreach, the Bennett-Wells American Legion Post 1780 has continued to provide critical support services such as veteran assistance, youth mentorship initiatives, and remembrance ceremonies honoring fallen service members. Community members throughout Western New York cherish the Bennett-Wells American Legion Post 1780's resilience and unwavering dedication to preserving local history, and ensuring that the contributions of African American veterans are recognized and passed down to future generations. The Post's continuous drive to support both the African American community and the wider Western New York community has allowed the organization to strengthen ties while upholding its founding mission of honoring service and sacrifice.

Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate the Bennett-Wells American Legion Post 1780's 80th anniversary, may we all take pride in its history, leadership, and service, and may we look forward with hope to all that it will continue to be. On behalf of a grateful community, we thank the Bennett-Wells American Legion Post 1780 for its leadership, inclusivity, and example. Its extraordinary contribution to Buffalo's rich tapestry of cultures has served as a beacon of light and we are all better because of it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate Citi Global Community Day, an annual event held throughout the globe, where Citi workers and volunteers come together to support and give back to the neighborhoods and communities where they live and work.

For more than two centuries, Citi has shown up for those in need. Citi colleagues, alumni,

partners, clients, family and friends dedicate their time and skills through hundreds of events year-round, and also come together globally for the annual Global Community Day campaign. Through their collective efforts, they help address critical community needs, support local organizations, and drive meaningful change across the globe.

Structured to address specific community needs including literacy, housing, environmental protection, nutrition, and health care, Citi Global Community Day has provided quality volunteer opportunities that empower participants to make a meaningful and lasting impact in communities around the world. Over the last two decades, more than a million volunteers have come together to contribute their time and skills, supporting communities around the world through hands-on service and meaningful engagement.

This year, the Citi Buffalo team will have four hundred volunteers packing 50,000 meals for Western New York families in collaboration with U.S. Hunger to be distributed to community partners, including the Buffalo City Mission and FeedMore Western New York. This critical effort will help address food insecurity by providing essential meals to families and community members in need across the region.

Today, we thank the volunteers and colleagues of Citi as they celebrate Citi Global Community Day. The organization's unwavering commitment to supporting and empowering neighborhoods and communities across the globe. Citi Global Community Day continually adapts to meet the needs of our community and future generations by inspiring their limitless potential, and I join all Western New Yorkers in thanking all who are participating.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of the late Mr. Robert Hunter, a man whose influence can be seen and felt throughout our community by students, colleagues, and community members throughout Western New York.

Mr. Hunter was born on October 15, 1967, in Buffalo, New York, to Mr. Nolford Hunter and Mrs. Rosa Lee Hunter. Throughout his life, Robert inspired others with his strength, compassion, love of education, and faith in the Lord. He cherished every moment shared with his family and students. He was raised with the strong support of his family from the very beginning, helping to shape him into a natural leader in all aspects of his life. Mr. Hunter excelled academically, attending Buffalo Public Schools from kindergarten through twelfth grade, and later furthering his education by graduating from SUNY Erie Community College, completing course work in its Early Childhood Center. His work in the center sparked his passion for youth education, and he continued his studies by earning his Bachelor's Degree from SUNY Buffalo State, and earning his Master's Degree in Education from Medaille University.

Following his graduation, Mr. Hunter began a career in education that lasted more than two decades, teaching elementary students throughout Western New York before transitioning to the Buffalo Public School System in 2006. During his tenure, Mr. Hunter served at Grabiarz Campus School Community No. 79, Community School No. 53, and International School No. 45, where he taught general studies and guided students and families through their academic and personal development. He was known best for his patience, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to his students, making a lasting impact on countless young lives.

Outside of his professional career, Mr. Hunter remained deeply committed to his students and community. He was a member of the Prince Hall Masons Elijah Abram No. 418, where he served as both treasurer and recording secretary. He also participated in the Dads Anointed Delivering Sons (D.A.D.S.) Program, coached the NYCYO Orioles Baseball team, and served as a Union Delegate for BufFalo Public Schools through the Buffalo Teachers Federation.

His greatest joy was his marriage of more than three decades to his wife, Dawn Cherelle (Hubbard) Hunter, the loving couple shared the blessing of two children, Taylor (Lee) Hunter and Miles Hunter. He was a faithful member of New A.M.E. Zion Church, where he served in multiple leadership roles, including Preacher's Steward, Usher, Trustee, and Director of Men of Zion, reflecting his deep commitment to faith and service.

Mr. Robert Hunter lived a life of devotion to his family, students, community, and faith. His unwavering commitment to those he loved and his compassion towards others made a profound impact on all who knew him. Mr. Hunter was a man who believed in the importance of education, family, and faith above all else and worked tirelessly to support those around him. His kindness, loyalty, and warmth will forever be remembered. Let us continue to honor his legacy by carrying forward the values he lived by: faith, education, and above all, love.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of the late Mr. Nathaniel Fountain, Sr., a man whose influence can be seen and felt throughout our Western New York community and beyond.

Mr. Fountain, Sr. was born on September 6, 1940, in Gosport, Alabama to Mr. Robert Fountain and Ms. Lucy Thomas. Throughout his life, Nathaniel Fountain, Sr. inspired others with his strength, integrity, and compassion. His greatest joy was his role as a devoted husband to his wife, Mrs. Gwendolyn Fountain and father to Mr. Darold Fountain, Nathaniel Fountain Jr., Yolanda Turner, Quinisha Carter, Comanisha Slade, and ``bonus son'' Alphonse Patton. He was later blessed to have numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, nurturing them with the same kindness and care he gave to everyone in his life.

Mr. Fountain, Sr. was raised with the strong support of his family from the very beginning, helping to shape him into a natural leader in all aspects of his life. He excelled academically, and upon completion of high school, he later enlisted in the United States Army. His service was marked by extraordinary dedication, and he was honorably discharged after completing his commitment to the United States. The discipline, leadership, and resilience he developed during his time in the military would go on to shape his professional approach and contribute significantly to his careers later in life. He had a deep love and compassion for others, which he expressed through his role as a devoted community member, and owner of Phoenix Windows, and Northland Hardware.

Mr. Nathaniel Fountain, Sr. lived a life of devotion to his family and community. His unwavering commitment to those he loved and his compassion towards others made a profound impact on all who knew him. Mr. Fountain, Sr. was a man who believed in the importance of family, and community above all else and worked tirelessly to support those around him. His kindness, loyalty, and warmth will forever be remembered. Let us continue to honor his legacy by carrying forward the values he lived by: family, respect, and above all, love.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 25th anniversary of Carmina Wood Design. For the past quarter century, Carmina Wood Design has transformed the landscape of Western New York with remarkable projects that have enhanced our communities.

With a talented team of 40 associates across two offices, the firm has consistently delivered solutions for businesses throughout the region, helping to spur community development and growth. Guided by the principle that no two projects are alike, the firm tailors its approach to meet the unique needs and goals of every client.

Since its founding, Carmina Wood Design has transformed the landscape of Western New York with remarkable projects that have enhanced our communities. From the historic Hotel Lafayette to the redesigned Buffalo City Mission, and 43 North, Carmina Wood Design has continually set the standard for community development. Its developments have created thousands of jobs and revitalized neighborhoods, ensuring that both businesses and communities thrive.

Carmina Wood Design has grown into one of the most successful and trusted architecture firms in our region, building a legacy of innovative design and transformative projects that enhance commercial and residential properties across Western New York while enriching the communities they serve.

I congratulate Steve Carmina, Christopher Wood, and the entire Carmina Wood Design team on this extraordinary 25 year journey. Their unwavering commitment to excellence and community enhancement has made a lasting impact on Western New York.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate the 90th birthday of Mr. Huey Scarver, Sr., a shining example of resilience, grace, and unwavering dedication to his family, his profession, and the community he has long called home. Born on June 27, 1936, in Atlanta, Georgia, Mr. Scarver was raised with strong leadership and focus, traits that shaped the man he is today. He moved to Buffalo as a young man in May 1966, attending E.R. Carter Elementary School and Booker T. Washington High School, and later studying at and graduating from Buffalo State University. He was raised to have strong faith and love for the Lord, which has helped him during his time as a deacon at various churches in the Buffalo area.

Mr. Scarver, Sr. has had many accomplishments throughout his lifetime. Beyond being a devoted husband to his wife, Mrs. Diane Scarver, for the last 47 years, he is the proud father of six children Dinesha Scarver, De'Mar Scarver, Huey Banks, Huey Seamen Jr., Natasha Floyd, and Guzzardi Scarver. His biggest professional accomplishment was when he joined the local IBEW 41, the local electrical workers union in Buffalo, where he worked as an electrician for 30 years. Before joining the union, he worked for Bethlehem Steel for a decade before making his transition into electrical work. When he is not working or with his family, Mr. Scarver, Sr. enjoys fishing, bowling, traveling, and spending time with his many grandchildren and great- grandchildren.

It is an honor to celebrate Mr. Huey Scarver, Sr., a man who dedicated his life to serving the Lord and his family. He is a man of many talents whose influence will precede him. His deep faith led him to become a member of Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, Zion Missionary Baptist Church, and more recently, a member of Friendship Baptist Church. On this milestone birthday, we celebrate the extraordinary life, continuing legacy, and profound impact Mr. Scarver, Sr. has made on his loved ones and the community he has served.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate Ms. Dottie Gallagher and her remarkable career of service to the Buffalo-Niagara region as she retires from the Buffalo Niagara Partnership (BNP) after thirteen years of dedicated leadership.

The BNP is Western New York's regional chamber of commerce and local economic development organization. Today, the organization bids farewell to its CEO of 13 years, Ms. Dottie Gallagher. Under Ms. Gallagher's leadership, the BNP successfully advanced its core mission: empowering, connecting, and mobilizing companies and their employees throughout Western New York. Throughout her career, Ms. Gallagher has advocated for companies and organizations across Western New York, earning her a reputation for thoughtful leadership, innovative problem- solving, and dedicated client service.

Ms. Gallagher was instrumental in creating a low-interest loan fund to help developers grow downtown Buffalo's residential-anchored projects. She also played a key role in securing federal funding to create an upstate tech hub, as well as state and federal dollars to expand the sport fishing industry around Olcott Bay in Northern Niagara County.

For decades, the BNP's focus on local employers and strategic partners has driven investment, economic growth, and job creation. Today, the organization represents businesses that employ more than a quarter of a million individuals across Western New York.

Ms. Gallagher's leadership and dedication have deeply shaped the success of the BNP and the wider region, standing as a testament to her unwavering civic commitment. Her remarkable tenure has set an exceptionally high bar, ensuring there is a shining role model at the top as the organization moves forward. Beyond the professional sphere, Dottie's proudest legacy includes her role as a mother to her children, Paige and Willem Cohen.

Today, as Dottie retires after decades of dedicated service, we celebrate not only her professional milestones but also her leadership, her commitment to her family, and her tireless work to better our community. Please join me in congratulating Dottie Gallagher on a remarkable career, and wishing her well as she enters this rewarding new chapter of her life.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate the life of Mr. Cecilio ``Chilo'' Diaz, Sr., a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend whose love, compassion, and devotion to his family and community inspired all who knew him.

Mr. Diaz, Sr. was born on September 22, 1923 in Yabucoa, Puerto Rico, to Mr. Anicasio Diaz and Mrs. Maria Candelaria Diaz. Mr. Diaz, Sr. cherished every moment spent with his family--a life filled with love and compassion until his passing, His greatest joy was his role as a devoted husband to Petronila ``Loly'' Diaz, and father to Cecilio, Jr., Francisco, Teresita, Crucita, Jose Antonio, Mary Anne, David, Elizabeth, and Richard. He was later blessed with grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nurturing them with the same love and kindness he gave to everyone in his life.

As a proud native of Puerto Rico, Mr. Diaz, Sr. was raised with the strong support of his family, helping to shape him into a natural leader in all aspects of life. For more than three decades, he worked as a Boiler Operator at Bethlehem Steel, where he was known for his strong work ethic, dedication, and unwavering commitment to his craft. He took great pride in his work and earned the respect of his colleagues throughout his long career.

Outside of his professional career, Mr. Diaz, Sr. remained deeply committed to his faith and family. He was a faithful member of St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Lackawanna, New York, serving as a minister and preaching the gospel to incarcerated individuals. One of the most treasured memories for those who knew him was his love for fishing, gardening, and playing dominos. Whether casting a line on a quiet morning, tending to his garden with care, or gathering with family and friends for a spirited game of dominoes, he found joy in life's simple pleasures and created lasting memories with those around him.

Mr. Cecilio ``Chilo'' Diaz, Sr. lived a life of devotion to his family, faith, and community. His unwavering commitment to those he loved and his compassion towards others made a profound impact on all who knew him. Mr. Cecilio ``Chilo'' Diaz, Sr. was a man who believed in the importance of faith and family above all else and worked tirelessly to support those around him. His kindness, loyalty, and warmth will forever be remembered. Let us honor his legacy by carrying forward the values he lived by: family, faith, and above all, love.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and celebrate Navy Radioman 3rd Class, George Klein, a distinguished World War II veteran and Western New York native born on April 11, 1926. He answered the call to serve during World War II, enlisting in the United States Navy in 1944 and displaying extraordinary bravery and dedication throughout his service. It is with great pride that we acknowledge this remarkable occasion today and reflect on the legacy of his contributions to both our Nation and our community.

While in the Pacific Theater, Radioman 3rd Class Klein honorably served our Nation, supporting his fellow servicemembers in the liberation of the Philippines and carrying out General MacArthur's vow that he would return. At a time when freedom was under attack across the globe by the forces of fascism and tyranny, it was brave Americans like Radioman 3rd Class Klein who defended our values, our way of life, and the lives of our allies across the globe.

Radioman 3rd Class Klein's journey began in Batavia, New York, where he attended Robert Morris School for elementary school and later graduated from Neumann High School. In 1946, Radioman 3rd Class Klein married his beloved wife of more than eight decades, Corrine (Owens) Klein, and their partnership was the foundation of his life. The loving couple are parents to Gregory, Geoffrey, Richard, and Robert. They were later blessed with six grandchildren, Rebecca, Matthew, Jason, Jena, Jason, and Marina, and seven great-grandchildren, Carter, Cameron, Brayden, Hannah, Bodhi, Ryan and the late Kayla, further enriching his life and legacy.

He has remained deeply connected to his family and fellow veterans. Later in his life, Radioman 3rd Class Klein answered the call to serve once again, this time through his faith, becoming a Deacon in 1992 after completing his studies at the East Aurora Seminary. Guided by a lifelong commitment to service, compassion, and community, he dedicated himself to supporting others, offering spiritual guidance, and strengthening the bonds that unite families, neighbors, and veterans alike. His unwavering devotion to both country and community reflects a life marked by honor, sacrifice, and service.

In recognition of his exemplary service, Radioman 3rd Class Klein received several prestigious honors. Among the medals he has earned are the American Campaign Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, Honorable Discharge Button, and the Liberation Medal from the Philippines. These medals speak to his unwavering dedication and heroism during his service, and they are a fitting tribute to the sacrifices he made for our country.

It is an honor to recognize Radioman 3rd Class George Klein's unwavering devotion and exceptional service to both his country and his community. His lifelong dedication has set a remarkable standard for all of us, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations. The people of the United States will never forget what George Klein, and his fellow soldiers, achieved during World War II to defend our freedom and democracy.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the remarkable leadership and service of Pastor Kenneth Simmons as we honor his 13th 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 with a heavy heart to honor the life of a remarkable young western New Yorker and St. Joe's student, Dominic P. Strangio of Niagara Falls, whose courageous battle with cancer came to an end on April 22, 2026, at just 16 years old.

Dominic was a beloved son to Frank and Sara, a devoted big brother to Sofia and Frankie, and a treasured grandson, cousin, teammate, classmate, and friend. Though his time on this Earth was far too short, the impact he made on those around him will endure for generations.

Dominic was a proud Marauder, attending St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute. As someone who walked those halls myself, I know firsthand the values St. Joe's seeks to instill: faith, brotherhood, compassion, and service to others.

Dominic embodied those values in every sense. The entire St. Joe's community mourns this immeasurable loss alongside the Strangio family, united in both grief and gratitude for having known such an extraordinary young man.

On the baseball field, Dominic was someone his teammates could depend on. Off the field, he loved hanging out with his cherished friends, going on fishing trips with his papa, and spending Sunday afternoons at his nonna's kitchen table. He found joy in the simple gifts of life and treasured every moment spent with his brother and sister.

It was not only how Dominic lived his life before his diagnosis that inspired so many. It was how he faced adversity. Throughout his illness, Dominic demonstrated courage and grace far beyond his years. Guided by his faith, he remained selfless, optimistic, and resilient. He never complained. He continued to think of others even as he confronted challenges that few adults could ever imagine.

Dominic's strength became a source of inspiration to his family, friends, classmates, and our entire community.

Mr. Speaker, while Dominic's years were few, his example was immense. May we all carry forward his kindness, faith, resilience, and love for his family.

To Dominic's parents, Frank and Sara; his brother, Frankie; his sister, Sofia; and all who mourn this tremendous loss, our Nation and our community mourn with you.

St. John Baptist de La Salle, pray for us. Live, Jesus, in our hearts forever.

May Dominic Strangio rest in peace.

Celebrating 100th Anniversary of The Buffalo Criterion

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a remarkable milestone in the history of western New York: the 100th anniversary of The Buffalo Criterion.

Founded by Frank Merriweather, Sr., and his wife, Carmelita, The Criterion is the oldest Black-owned newspaper in western New York and the oldest Black-owned business in Erie County.

For over a century, four generations of the Merriweather family have carried forward a simple but powerful mission: to tell the stories that too often go untold and to ensure that Buffalo's Black community has a voice that is heard loud and clear.

Frank Merriweather, Sr., a graduate of the Tuskegee Institute, who studied under Booker T. Washington and George Washington Carver, understood that journalism would be a force for justice, opportunity, and change. That vision has endured for 100 years and counting.

From the extraordinary leadership of Frank Merriweather, Jr., to Evelyn Patterson Merriweather, Frank Merriweather III, Dr. Eva Doyle, and countless dedicated journalists, photographers, and community leaders, The Criterion has chronicled the triumphs, struggles, and aspirations of generations of western New Yorkers.

When our community faced tragedy following the racist terrorist attack at Tops on Jefferson on May 14, 2022, The Buffalo Criterion helped to tell Buffalo's story to the Nation and the global community.

In a moment of profound grief, it became a source of truth, moral clarity, strength, and healing. That is what The Criterion does. It leads.

For 100 years, The Criterion has spoken truth to power, preserved history, amplified local voices, and strengthened our community.

Today, we honor its extraordinary legacy and congratulate everyone who has played a role and helped to make The Buffalo Criterion an enduring institution in Buffalo and throughout western New York.

I congratulate them on a century of work, and here is to many, many more years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I was absent from the floor and missed roll call vote number 227. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 227 on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 2478.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life and legacy of Mother Christine Ashley Davis, affectionately known as Granny, who passed away on April 18, 2026, at the age of 99.

Born in Macon, Georgia, on September 4, 1926, to Adrian Ashley and Mamie Holliman, she built a life centered around compassion and service.

She brought those values to Buffalo in 1945, becoming a deeply respected leader in our community. Singing every Sunday in the choir at Calvary Baptist, dedicating herself to the missionary board at White Rock Baptist, and later becoming a beloved spiritual mother to multiple fellowships, she served God not only in word but in action.

Christine mentored generations of believers and brought that same devotion to her professional life, working for decades as a senior receptionist at several community centers across the region and also spending time with the Erie County Board of Elections.

Beyond her contributions to our great region, her greatest joy was her family. She and her late husband, Willie A. Davis, Sr., raised 12 wonderful children, laying the foundation for a remarkable family legacy that grew to include 38 grandchildren, 78 great-grandchildren, 12 great-great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-great-grandchildren.

Her family and friends will forever remember her radiant smile and the genuineness of her spirit. She was a woman who loved to dance and spend time with her friends, particularly playing cards with her loved ones, a pastime she enjoyed while wearing a backward baseball cap.

Mother Christine Ashley Davis showed us all how to live with immense kindness and respect for others.

On behalf of a grateful community and nation, I ask my colleagues to join me in offering sincere condolences to her family as they reflect and celebrate on her extraordinary life.

May Granny, Mother Christine Ashley Davis, rest in peace.

Congratulating Dr. Willie Underwood III

Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dr. Willie Underwood III of Buffalo, New York, who was sworn in to serve as the 181st president of the American Medical Association on June 9, 2026.

A respected urological surgeon, public health expert, and advocate for equitable care, Dr. Underwood has spent over two decades serving patients in Buffalo and is the second urologist and third Black physician to serve as AMA president.

Dr. Underwood is a graduate of Morehouse College and earned his master's degrees from the State University of New York Upstate Medical University, and the University of Michigan School of Public Health.

Dr. Underwood completed medical training in general and urological surgery at The University of Connecticut Health Center and was one of the first five urologists to be admitted into the prestigious Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Clinical Scholars Program.

During his inaugural address as AMA president, Dr. Underwood reminded us that advocating for patients also means advocating for the physicians who care for them, ensuring they have the support, resources, and environment needed to meet the growing demands of this moment.

Dr. Underwood's leadership comes at a critical moment, as doctors and patients alike face rising costs, workforce shortages, and shrinking Federal support.

With Dr. Underwood at the helm, the AMA is in strong, steady hands, and I know that together we can build a healthcare system that works for both patients and providers.

Western New York is proud to call Dr. Willie Underwood III one of our own, and we are excited for the rest of the country to share in the benefits of his work.

On behalf of a grateful nation and community, I congratulate my good friend Dr. Willie Underwood.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Buffalo Juneteenth Festival, one of the great cultural traditions in western New York and one of the largest Juneteenth celebrations in the United States of America.

Since 1976, countless participants have marched in Buffalo to celebrate the day in American history when word finally reached Galveston, Texas, in 1865 that President Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation more than 2 years prior.

For those who were forced to wait, every day carried a profound human cost, but alongside injustice, Juneteenth is a story of what formerly enslaved men and women built with their freedom. Despite extraordinary obstacles and oppression, these Americans fought to claim their place in our democracy. In the process, they expanded the promise of America itself.

Generations of Black Americans confronted and overcame barriers that were designed to exclude them, including Jim Crow's literacy tests, poll taxes, and racial violence, refusing to surrender the belief that America could become more faithful to its founding ideals.

The struggle for Black America did not end in 1865 with the passage of the 13th Amendment, 14th Amendment, and 15th Amendment; with the civil rights movement; or with the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. It continues right now, as we bear witness to the concerted, intentional campaign to take our Nation backward.

The dismantling of the Voting Rights Act is allowing States across the South to enact racist gerrymanders and dilute Black political power.

Moments like these remind us of the significance of Juneteenth and that our democracy is not self-sustaining. It requires constant vigilance.

That is why Buffalo's Juneteenth Festival is so important. For 50 years, this gathering has continued the unfinished work of building a more just and inclusive nation.

I extend my deepest gratitude to President Carrone Evon Crump, the

festival committee, the volunteers, and the community leaders, whose dedication has sustained this extraordinary Buffalo institution for 50 years.

As we commemorate this golden anniversary, may we all remember Juneteenth's call to protect freedom.

celebrating 20th anniversary of westminster economic development

initiative

Mr. Speaker, in recognition of Immigrant Heritage Month, I rise today to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Westminster Economic Development Initiative, better known across Buffalo and western New York as WEDI.

For two decades, this extraordinary organization has been a driving force for opportunity and empowerment in the City of Good Neighbors. Through its work in education and economic development, WEDI has helped thousands of western New Yorkers of all ZIP Codes, backgrounds, and languages build stronger futures.

From literacy programs that prepare young people for success in school to small business initiatives, like the West Side Bazaar, that provide entrepreneurs with mentorship and access to capital, WEDI opens doors and expands opportunities across our community.

What makes WEDI so special is that it recognizes the talent and potential already present in our communities and provides people with the tools they need to thrive.

In neighborhoods too often overlooked, WEDI has created pathways to economic mobility, empowered working families, and helped build a more inclusive and equitable Buffalo.

Today, we celebrate 20 years of impact, leadership, and service. I thank everyone at WEDI for their unwavering commitment to western New York and for helping to ensure that the American Dream remains within reach for every member of our community.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate WEDI on this anniversary. Onward to even more.