Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today because Donald Trump and congressional Republicans are, once again, waging war on our healthcare system.

Their big, ugly bill restricts access to Federal student loans for advanced degrees, including in high-demand healthcare sectors like nursing, physical and occupational therapy, social work, and so many more.

When I went to school to become an occupational therapist, I had to take out loans. I remember filling out those forms, hoping that I would have enough to cover tuition, books, and other expenses. The weight of those payments followed me for years.

I took on that debt because I wanted to build a better future for my family and because I wanted to help people as a healthcare practitioner.

This administration wants to force aspiring healthcare professionals to mortgage their futures before they treat their first patient. Worse, this move will deter them from answering their calling, taking an ax to the very system that trains them.

Due to the Republican healthcare crisis, our hospitals are understaffed, clinics are closing, and rural communities are being left behind. Our nurses are burning out. Therapists are stretched thin, and practitioners are retiring faster than we can replace them. Every healthcare system in America is screaming code blue, warning us that the future of our workforce is flatlining before our very eyes.

This means fewer nurses at the bedside, fewer therapists helping patients recover, fewer specialists serving rural communities, and fewer mental health providers at a time when this Nation is desperate for them. It means Americans are waiting longer for care as hospitals operate with skeleton staffing.

It means communities are growing sicker all because this Congress, under Republican control, decided that access to advanced healthcare education is a privilege for the few rather than a pathway to service for all. This is a callous assault on the very people who hold this Nation together: every prospective student who dreams of helping people in healthcare.

This misguided policy, which caps graduate student loan borrowing for certain advanced health degrees, means that these students will be permitted to borrow only half as much in Federal loans compared to their counterparts.

Not only will healthcare professionals be impacted but teachers, architects, accountants, engineers, and many other professionals who will lose the ability to finance their education through reliable, flexible Federal loans, pushing them instead into the arms of predatory private lenders and adding to the mountain of debt that our students already endure.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that we need to fill nearly 200,000 nursing positions every year through 2033 just to keep pace. The United States also needs tens of thousands of new mental health professionals and rehabilitation providers annually. Cutting off our healthcare system's talent pipeline also is not just cruel, but it is shortsighted and will drive up the cost of healthcare. It is reckless, and it further strains a healthcare system already in crisis.

Gutting the healthcare workforce will shrink the care economy, and it will stifle job growth at a time when families are desperate for getting control of their lives and ensuring that they can afford their daily cost of living.

Under this thoughtless Republican rule, if you want to save lives, prepare to drown in debt. If you want to do a job that this Nation needs, prepare to pay a steep price for it. If you want to look after the sick, don't expect your government to look after you.

In the richest country in the world, Trump and congressional Republicans are saddling an already overburdened healthcare workforce with an even more unimaginable financial burden, but the American people know better. They remember the nurse who sat with their parents in hospice, the physical therapist who got them back on their feet, and the social worker who helped their family get the support that they needed.

They know that healthcare workers aren't to be taken for granted or pushed aside, and they know that Donald Trump and congressional Republicans have failed them once again.

As the only occupational therapist in Congress, I will not sit idly by while Trump and congressional Republicans sabotage the very workforce that keeps this Nation alive. House Democrats will continue to fight like hell to protect every student, every patient, and every community that Washington Republicans are abandoning.

Mr. Speaker, to God be all the glory. I rise today with a profoundly heavy heart to honor the life of Reverend Dr. T. Anthony Bronner, known to Buffalo's faith community as Bishop Bronner, who tragically passed away on Sunday, November 16.

Western New York, our State, and our Nation have lost a spiritual giant with Bishop Bronner's passing.

Personally, I have lost a dear friend, supporter, and mentor. He was a shepherd of souls and a North Star for our community, a man whose faith was matched by his integrity and whose integrity was matched by his love for all of God's children.

Bishop Bronner built a congregation deeply rooted in faith, compassion, and the unwavering belief that every single person is worthy of dignity, hope, and redemption.

When he founded Elim Christian Fellowship in 1999, Bishop Bronner did not just establish a house of worship. He created a place of refuge, a place of renewal, and a place for those searching for a spiritual home.

From the very first service at the old Buffalo Christian Center, where more than 700 community members stepped forward to join a vision rooted in Christ, Bishop Bronner understood that God was doing extraordinary work in western New York. He poured every ounce of himself into being a faithful servant to God.

Under Bishop Bronner's leadership, Elim's congregation grew each year, spreading the Gospel across our community. He oversaw the construction of new worship centers and affordable housing across our region and helped thousands of souls find Christ, purpose, and community.

He embodied fidelity to justice and walked the path of righteousness with conviction. Every morning, long before most were awake, Bishop Bronner led the Regional Morning Prayer Movement, a tradition that began decades ago and never stopped.

Through blizzards, a pandemic, and times of both tragedy and triumph, Bishop Bronner prayed. He prayed for Buffalo, for our Nation, for our leaders, and for our most vulnerable, whether they were in the pews or miles away. He prayed for people he knew and people he would never meet. He prayed because he knew that God hears us. He prayed because he knew that prayer works, and his prayers and faith through action changed our community forever.

Bishop Bronner embodied service and selflessness. He showed up for his family, his congregation, and our community with humble strength and ceaseless joy. He challenged all of us to be better, to lead with compassion, to stand firm in our values, and to root our service in moral clarity and love.

Bishop Bronner's passing leaves a tremendous void, but his legacy will serve as a foundation for our future, a foundation built on faith and community that will continue to uplift Buffalo and beyond for generations.

As we mourn Bishop Bronner's passing, we reaffirm our need to live by his example. In moments like this, we are reminded of the comfort and strength found in the words he often turned to in Psalm 23: ``The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.''

Bishop Bronner lived these words every day, leading our community toward righteousness with courage, humility, and unwavering faith. Surely, he will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

To his beloved wife, Lady Linda King-Bronner; their daughters, Jordan and Nia Bronner and Tami Brown; their granddaughter, Taylor Lucas; his loving parents, Reverend Sylvia and Charles B. Walker, Sr.; and his siblings,

Dale Walker, Charles B. Walker, Jr., and Chanda Jones, our Nation mourns with you.

May Bishop Bronner's work live on in each of us.

On behalf of a grateful community and nation, may Dr. T. Anthony Bronner rest in eternal peace.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of my dear friend, Jack Fecio, who passed away on November 2 at the age of 79.

He was a man whose faith, generosity, and deep love for our community and his Irish heritage left an indelible mark on Buffalo and beyond.

Jack was more than a friend. He was family to so many of us in Buffalo's Irish community. He embodied the best of what it means to be Irish, not just in ancestry but in spirit. He was warm, humble, and fiercely devoted to our community. Jack carried himself with the quiet strength and wry humor that is as much a part of Ireland's heart as its green hills and rocky coasts.

Buffalo's Irish community has always been built on the simple but powerful values of faith, family, and service. No one lived those values more fully than Jack. Whether he was greeting friends at the Buffalo Irish Center or lending a hand to those in need, Jack showed up with open arms and a full heart.

For decades, Jack dedicated himself to the Irish Center in the heart of south Buffalo. He believed deeply in the center's importance to the Irish and Irish Americans who call western New York home. He knew that our heritage is something we share and something that binds generations together in our community. Through his leadership, that spirit of togetherness grew stronger year after year.

Jack and his beloved wife, Maureen, extended that generosity far beyond Buffalo. As codirectors of the Belfast Summer Relief Program for over two decades, they opened their hearts and their home to children from the north of Ireland. Through their work, they welcomed over 1,800 kids to our community in western New York, giving them a chance to experience peace, friendship, and hope at a time marked by terrible conflict.

Jack and Maureen helped bridge divides with love and hospitality. That is who they were. That is what their faith taught them.

Jack's love for his family was deep and unwavering. His cherished children, John and Jennifer, and his precious granddaughters, Madeline and Maeve, should know that their father and grandfather's legacy lives on in them and the countless lives he impacted across the globe.

I thank his wife, Maureen, for so graciously sharing Jack's light with all of us.

Jack Fecio's life was one filled with service to others, including one of his greatest joys: serving as a volunteer firefighter. Countless Buffalonians, Irish Americans, and Irish citizens are better off today for having known Jack.

Today, we honor Jack for the heritage he preserved, the families he embraced, and the bridges he built. I ask my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Jack Fecio and in holding the Fecio family in our prayers and in our hearts as they grieve a man who gave so much to us all. May we all strive to carry forward his generosity, his humility, and his unwavering commitment to others.

``May his soul be at the right hand of God''; ``Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.''

On behalf of a grateful community and nation, may Jack Fecio rest in peace.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with both gratitude and a heavy heart to honor the extraordinary life of a dear friend, a devoted public servant, and a guardian of our community, former Buffalo Police Commissioner Rocco J. Diina, who passed away on October 5 at the age of 75.

Commissioner Diina was a pillar of western New York, a man whose leadership, character, and compassion shaped our great city. His legacy is etched in the lives he protected, the hope he restored, the community he made safer each and every day, and the family and friends that he loved.

Rocco grew up on Tacoma Avenue in north Buffalo, the middle of three brothers, in a proud, hardworking family rooted in faith, service, and devotion to community. Those values guided his life and charted the course of his calling.

At just 18 years old, he walked through the doors of the Buffalo Police Department as a cadet. He wasn't drawn to the badge for prestige or distinction. He answered the call out of duty, earning a reputation for trust and honesty.

After two decades in uniform and a distinguished career of serving and protecting the great City of Good Neighbors, Rocco retired, though anyone who knew him knew he would not stay away for long.

In 1994, his lifelong friend, Mayor Anthony Masiello, called him back to serve, this time as deputy police commissioner.

Mr. Speaker, 4 years later, he became the city of Buffalo's police commissioner. In that role, Commissioner Diina didn't just lead the department; he transformed it. He brought innovation and modernization to the department and streamlined precinct operations. He opened doors once closed, appointing the city's first African-American woman to serve as deputy commissioner, an act of leadership that strengthened both the department and our city.

Among his proudest achievements was reopening the Buffalo Police Athletic League, a program built on the belief that trust is forged not through authority but through relationships.

Through sports, mentorship, and guidance, PAL created a bridge between law enforcement and young people who were yearning for opportunity and connection. Today, it serves more than 20,000 children each year, a living testament to the enduring impact of Rocco's vision.

For Commissioner Diina, public safety was about restoring hope, investing in youth, and strengthening the bond between community and those sworn to serve it.

Beyond every title and every professional achievement stood the role he cherished most: that of husband, father, and grandfather. He met the love of his life, Anna Marie, at a hot dog stand at Crystal Beach, and the rest was history.

For more than 50 years, they built a family grounded in love, laughter, and loyalty. Together, they raised two exceptional children, Rebecca and Rocco Jr., and delighted in the joy of five grandchildren, the light of their lives and the pride of their hearts.

Rocco was a steadfast leader who was tough when duty demanded it and compassionate when humanity required it. Even after stepping out of public office, his mission never changed. Rocco founded RJD Security, growing it from a small startup into one of western New York's most trusted security firms. In doing so, he continued to do what had always driven him: protecting people, supporting local businesses, and safeguarding the places that make community possible.

We honor Commissioner Rocco Diina for the department he strengthened, the neighborhoods and the city that he made safer, and for reminding us what true leadership looks like: service before self, strength without ego, and kindness without hesitation.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring his remarkable life. We offer our deepest condolences to the Diina family, who shared him so generously with all of us.

May we strive to emulate his leadership with integrity, his service with humility, and his love and unwavering devotion to our community.

On behalf of the grateful city of Buffalo, the western New York community, and the Nation, may Commissioner Rocco J. Diina rest in peace.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of S. 2392, the Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2025.

Last Tuesday, we marked Veterans Day. Like many of our colleagues, I joined the western New York community to honor those who selflessly served our country and their family members who have carried the weight of that service with unwavering strength. I was reminded of their commitment to this country and how the liberties we enjoy today were paid for in duty, courage, sacrifice, and blood.

Yet, honoring their service demands more than just a simple thank- you. It requires us to live up to our moral obligation to support their health, homes, education, families, and futures.

These principles continue to guide me as a member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs because our veterans deserve only the best for their service. It pains me to hear stories of veterans who have to choose between having a roof over their head and putting food on the table because of the affordability crisis in this country.

The reason that is happening is clear. Current veterans' benefits are not keeping pace with the increased cost of living. That should cause alarm to every single Member of this body.

The benefits our veterans received after they served our country are not gifts or handouts. They are part of a sacred obligation to ensure that those who have defended our freedoms can live with dignity, security, and opportunity.

When veterans struggle to meet their basic needs, it is not just a personal burden. It is a national moral failure.

Ensuring that benefits keep up with the cost of living isn't just the right thing to do. It is the smart thing to do economically.

It promotes stability, reduces uncertainty, and allows veterans to remain active, contributing members of the community they helped to protect.

That is exactly why we need the Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act. It will immediately make critical changes to veterans' benefits just in time for the holidays.

By adjusting the rate of these benefits to keep pace with inflation and align with annual increases from the Social Security Administration, our veterans will not have to choose between medication, housing, groceries, or utility bills.

Honoring and supporting our veterans should never be a partisan issue. It is a matter of national character. It makes good on the promise made to our military heroes when they answer the call to duty.

I will proudly be voting to support this legislation, and I urge all of my colleagues to do the same.

Let us honor veterans not only with ceremonies and speeches but with policies that uphold their well-being year-round.

Mr. Speaker, as the Representative of western New York, where so many people in my community, like others across the country, are already struggling to afford healthcare, I urge my colleagues to reject this disgraceful bill.

As an occupational therapist, I know exactly who these cuts will hurt. I have heard from so many who are desperate for a lifeline, like Iris, a mom in Buffalo, who is worried about how she will keep her kids' healthcare insurance; or Andy, a nursing home resident in Tonawanda, who relies on Medicaid to get the services he needs; or the kids at Bornhava, a special needs school where I provided therapy, who depend on early intervention services.

Donald Trump and congressional Republicans began their assault on the people of our country in the big, ugly bill.

This bill further devastates healthcare and leaves millions of Americans to pray they don't get sick. Shame on anyone who goes along with it. This country deserves better.

I will be voting ``no,'' and I urge all my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Dr. Wilma J. Hughey, a woman whose spiritual influence can be seen throughout Western New York through children of all ages and parishioners beyond the walls of church on Sunday.

Dr. Hughey studied at Elmira College, obtaining her bachelor's and master's degrees in Education. She later obtained a second master's degree in Educational Leadership from SUNY Cortland, as well as earning her Ph.D in Biblical Studies from Newburgh Theological Seminary. Dr. Hughey has been selected as Supervisor of Women for the New York Western Second Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction of the Church in God in Christ, Administrative Facilitator for Licensing and Credentials for the International Department of Women, and appointed as the First Assistant General Supervisor by Presiding Bishop John Drew Sheard.

For nearly three decades, Dr. Hughey served as Principal, completing her distinguished tenure in education and administration. While working with educators and families to ensure students' success, Dr. Hughey held numerous positions in New York State and positions on numerous community boards and committees, providing leadership and guidance, and fostering connections between community members and city officials.

In partnership for more than half a century, Dr. Hughey, alongside her husband, the late Mr. Leo Hughey, faithfully shared her ministry. Bound by love and strengthened by prayer, they organized and established Faith Temple Community Church of God in Christ in Elmira, New York. Dr. and Mr. Hughey's unwavering commitment to ``build and expand the Lord's kingdom'' is centered on promoting social, cultural, and educational programming for community members throughout Upstate New York.

Today, as we recognize the incredible service of Dr. Wilma J. Hughey, let us not only acknowledge her dedicated career as an educational leader and her steadfast commitment to children in need, but also her dedication to ministry at Faith Temple Community Church of God in Christ, providing a safe space for all to be heard. Dr. Hughey's service is a blessing, and we look forward to many more years of her inspired leadership.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Buffalo, New York Chapter of The Links, Inc., which is proudly celebrating its seventy-fifth anniversary. Established in 1945 by Ms. Margaret Rossell Hawkins and Ms. Sarah Strickland Scott, The Links, Inc. is a national, not-for-profit civic sorority organization dedicated to serving communities both locally and globally. With nearly 300 chapters across the United States and internationally, The Links, Inc. proudly includes 17,000 members who continuously work together to create a lasting impact on our society.

Organized in Buffalo, New York, on May 26, 1950, as the fourteenth chapter of The Links, Inc., the Buffalo Chapter members have been dedicated to improving the community throughout Western New York. For seven and a half decades, Buffalo Chapter members have focused their support on addressing the critical needs of underserved communities and serving a pivotal role in the fight for racial and social justice.

As they celebrate their seventy-fifth anniversary, providing a valuable opportunity to strengthen connections and further their mission--``Built on Purpose, Bonded by Friendship, Driven by Service''--they honor the legacies of those who came before them, cultivate long-lasting friendships, and inspire future generations to lead with unwavering dedication to their community.

Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize the members of the Buffalo, New York Chapter of The Links, Inc. for their outstanding commitment to friendship, service, legacy, and community enrichment. Their work has touched countless lives, and we are all the better for it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the 90th Anniversary of the Colored Musicians Club, a historic beacon of light and entertainment in Buffalo, New York. As we honor this momentous occasion, may we reflect on the club's incredible history, its unwavering commitment to spreading African-American musical culture, and the transformative impact it has had on the lives of countless individuals throughout Western New York and across the globe.

Chartered on May 14, 1935, the Colored Musicians Club incorporated space for musicians to practice, rehearse and perform. The club, separate from their union, Local 533, gave members the opportunity to have a place to call their own in Buffalo, New York. Nearly six and half decades later, the Colored Musicians Club was designated a preservation site, and today, remains as the only operating African- American musicians club within the United States.

As the organization celebrates its ninetieth anniversary, providing a valuable opportunity to strengthen connections and further their mission ``to stimulate its members to greater musical expression; to encourage and develop a fuller appreciation of music on the part of its members and the public; and generally to unite its members in the bonds of friendship, good fellowship and mutual understanding,'' they honor the legacies of members who came before them, cultivate long-lasting friendships, and inspire future generations of musicians to play and lead with unwavering dedication to their craft; ensuring that the spirit of music lives on through every note they play.

Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate ninety years of African-American musical culture, let us honor the countless musicians and guests who have been touched by the musical selections of those who performed. Congratulations to the Colored Musicians Club on this significant milestone. Their unwavering dedication to community members and visitors throughout Western New York will be seen, felt, and heard for generations to come, and we are all the better for it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mr. Timothy Kennedy and Mrs. Ellen Kennedy, a couple whose influence can be seen and heard throughout Western New York by audience members of Buffalo Opera Unlimited.

Mr. Kennedy studied Voice at the Academy of Music, and later, in furtherance of his education, obtained a Master's Degree in Music and Theater from SUNY Buffalo. Mr. Kennedy's career has been a testament to his love of music, teaching students at each education level the art of music. Mr. Kennedy has also acted and served in the role of theater director at the African American Cultural Center, leading local church and community choirs. Mr. Kennedy is the Founder and Artistic Director of the Buffalo Unlimited Opera, conducting a majority of productions for nearly four decades.

Mrs. Kennedy studied at SUNY Buffalo, obtaining a Master's Degree in Social Work, furthering her interest in child welfare advocacy and public policy. Mrs. Kennedy has served in the role of Associate Professor of Social Work and as chair of SUNY Buffalo State's Social Work Department. She co-founded Citizen Action of Western New York and has been a longtime member of the Coalition of Economic Justice. For nearly four decades, Mrs. Kennedy has acted as the Treasurer and Board Member of Buffalo Opera Unlimited.

Today, as we recognize the incredible service of Mr. Timothy Kennedy and Mrs. Ellen Kennedy, let us not only acknowledge their dedicated career as educational leaders and their steadfast commitment to the performance arts, but also their service to the Buffalo Opera Unlimited, providing a safe space for all to be seen and heard. Mr. and Mrs. Kennedy's leadership is a masterclass in passion and artistry, and their service will be seen, felt, and heard for generations to come. We are all the better for it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize His All- Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, who is serving as the two hundred and seventieth Archbishop of Constantinople, New Roman and Ecumenical Patriarch, and to welcome him to our Nation's Capital of Washington, D.C. His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew's life is a testament to his unwavering commitment as a public servant and spiritual leader of more than three hundred million Orthodox Christians throughout the globe.

Born Demetrios Archontonis on February 29, 1940, on the Island of Imvros (Gokceada, Turkey) to Christios and Meropi Archontonis, from an early age, His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has viewed the protection and preservation of the environment as a deeply spiritual responsibility. In 1961, following his studies at Imvros and Constantinople, he enrolled at the renowned Theological School of Halki. He was ordained to the Holy Diaconate on August 13, 1961, and given the name Bartholomew at the Metropolitan Cathedral of Imvros by his Elder, the then-Metropolitan of Imvros and Tenedos.

On October 19, 1969, His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew was ordained to the Holy Priesthood, and later elected Ecumenical Patriarch in 1972 as its director. On Christmas Day, 1973, His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew was consecrated as bishop and remained as head of the Personal Patriarchal Office until his enthronement as the Metropolitan of Chalcedon on January 14, 1990, and later unanimously elected as Archbishop of Constantinople, New Rome on October 2, 1991.

For more than three decades, His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew has traveled throughout the world, addressing global audiences and fostering spiritual connections. His leadership and theological background provide him with a unique perspective and inspire the values of unity, inclusivity, and mutual respect.

Mr. Speaker, His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew's spiritual leadership is a testament to his dedication to faith and public service, which has touched countless lives and made a profound impact throughout the globe. His work continues to inspire us all to embrace our shared heritage, stand up for the causes that matter, and celebrate the power of spiritual connection. His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew's commitment to fostering stronger global connections reminds us of the importance of service, community, and the bonds that unite us across borders, and we are all better for it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the 2025 World Canals Conference, being held in Buffalo, New York, where the opening of the Erie Canal changed the world. This is an event where experts and enthusiasts from all over the globe share innovative practices related to economic and community development, waterway management, tourism, and historic preservation along inland waterways.

For decades, the World Canals Conference has brought together the brightest minds working on inland waterways to share ideas and inspiration for the future of their field of work. Established in 1990, the World Canals Conference plays an important role in highlighting how canals and inland waterways contribute to cultural and historical preservation, and environmental revitalization.

Hosted this year in the City of Buffalo, this unique conference will see community members and visitors gather at the Erie Canal, the first all-water link between the Atlantic Ocean and the upper Great Lakes. The Erie Canal serves as a testament to the vision of the Empire State and those who imagined a narrow ribbon of waterway, carved through nearly four hundred miles of forests and wetlands that transformed our state and nation, carrying food and materials from the heart of North America to the global market.

This week, we celebrate the World Canals Conference and its steadfast commitment to commerce and water management across the globe. May this week continue to inspire future generations to uphold historical preservation and remind us to work together for a stronger, more connected world.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and celebrate Nativity Miguel School, a school dedicated to providing quality education to students throughout Western New York. The school fosters academic and personal growth within a supportive community where students are empowered to reach their full potential.

Established more than two decades ago, Nativity Miguel School was grounded in the values and educational principles of Father James F. Joyce. Father Joyce was sent to Buffalo, New York, to conduct a study of the educational needs and challenges of students in underserved communities. To address the problems, Father Joyce proposed the ``Nativity Model,'' a proven method that has been successfully implemented in other Catholic schools throughout the state.

Drawing from its four pillars of courage, compassion, community, and contemplation, Nativity Miguel School walks arm-in-arm with its students and families throughout their educational journey, long after they have graduated. The school's delivery of unique and effective education, including dedicated teachers, personal and peer mentoring, and a strong emphasis on learning, creates an environment where every student can thrive.

Today, as we commemorate the ribbon-cutting ceremony of Nativity Miguel School's newest location, let us celebrate the growth of a mission rooted in hope, opportunity, and transformative education for every student who walks through these doors. Each graduating class builds on this legacy, carrying forward the values, education, and sense of purpose that Nativity Miguel School instills, and Western New York is all the better for it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 90th birthday of Mrs. Lessie Sylveen Poindexter Crosby, a beacon of light in the City of Buffalo. Mrs. Poindexter Crosby's life story is a beautiful tapestry woven with love and resilience.

Born September 7, 1935, in Buffalo, New York, to Issac Costello and Fannie Sue Poindexter Johnson. Mrs. Poindexter Crosby was raised to inspire everyone she met with her selflessness and compassion. Over the years, she has witnessed many changes in her life and community, yet her love for those around her has remained a constant source of strength. Mrs. Poindexter Crosby has consistently demonstrated Christian principles as a community member and spiritual leader in the Women's Ministry at First Shiloh Baptist Church.

Mrs. Poindexter Crosby's most rewarding roles have been those of a dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. In 1953, Mrs. Poindexter Crosby married the late Mr. Excel Crosby. Their loving union blessed them with four community-minded children--Julie, Gary, Bridgett, and Lisa. Together, they built a home filled with love, respect, and responsibility.

Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Mrs. Poindexter Crosby, a woman of poise and resilience, whose influence extends beyond her beloved family and community. On this milestone birthday, we celebrate her extraordinary life, her enduring legacy, and the profound impact she has made on all who know her.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to join the people of Ukraine and Ukrainian communities around the world in celebrating Ukrainian Independence Day, observed annually on August 24th. It acknowledges a day of triumph and persistence through the courage and unity of the Ukrainian people.

On August 24, 1991, members of the Ukrainian Parliament replaced the red and blue flag of the Ukrainian Soviet Republic with the current blue and yellow Ukrainian flag following a failed coup in the Soviet Union. In response, pro-democracy leaders chose to push for Ukraine's Independence despite the risks--truly living up to their historic motto ``Come what may.''

Ukrainian Independence Day is celebrated with a national address and flag-raising ceremony in Kyiv by the President of Ukraine, followed by military parades, cultural performances, and patriotic songs. The blue and yellow Ukrainian flag is proudly displayed across the country and in Ukrainian communities around the world. It is a day of national pride and reflection, where citizens honor the struggles of their ancestors, celebrate their sovereignty, and express solidarity with Ukrainians everywhere.

As we celebrate Ukrainian Independence Day, let us acknowledge and celebrate the sacrifices made by the countless brave souls and citizens who fought for a future of liberty and independence. Let us also take this moment to recognize the vibrant Ukrainian-American community throughout our country. Their cultural contributions enrich our nation, and we are all the better for it.