William R. Keating

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Marcelina ``Marci'' Pina-Christian and her years of service to New Bedford community.

After earning a degree in business administration from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Marci first began her career in Rhode Island as an insurance adjuster before returning to New Bedford, where she discovered an appreciation for community engagement at the YWCA. For many years, Marci went on to excel in the private sector, becoming the first woman of color to lead the customer service department at Main Street Textiles. She later followed her passion for education, teaching English at Keith Middle School for five years.

In 2007, Marci joined the City of New Bedford's Department of Community Services as a human services coordinator, later rising to the role of program director. For nearly two decades, Marci led initiatives advancing human rights, health awareness, education, neighborhood engagement, cultural programming, and community outreach. She played a pivotal role in transforming the city's Human Relations Commission into the Human Rights Commission, establishing Human Rights Day, implementing New Bedford's official Juneteenth commemoration, and was a driving force behind the city's annual Martin Luther King Jr., Day program.

As a certified mediator, Marci led the Face to Face Mediation Program, offering free services to court litigants and community members. She also used these skills to moderate community meetings and public forums, helping residents find common ground and move difficult conversations forward. As host of ``Neighborhood Update,'' New Bedford's longest-running local cable program. Marci uplifted community voices and connected residents with local services and reliable information, which proved especially helpful during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The impact of Marci's leadership can be felt throughout the Commonwealth. She previously served on Attorney General Maura Healey's Advisory Council on Race and Equity and currently serves on Governor Healey's Advisory

Council on Black Empowerment. In honor of her late husband, musician and educator Armsted Christian, Marci established a committee that raised $50,000 to create the Armsted Christian Endowed Scholarship at Berklee College of Music, which has awarded six scholarships to date.

Marci believes that the greatest measure of leadership is not the positions held or the programs created, but rather one's ability to prepare others to carry the work forward. After 19 years of service, Marci retired from the New Bedford Department of Community Services earlier this summer, leaving a legacy defined by her commitment to strengthening civic institutions, connecting neighbors to vital resources, and mentoring and inspiring the next generation to lead.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to honor Marci Pina-Christian, and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing her enduring service and the opportunities she has created for the people of New Bedford and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Ostomy Awareness Day.

An ostomy can be a challenging and deeply personal journey, but for many, it is also a life-saving and life-restoring procedure. Whether facing colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, traumatic injuries, or other serious health challenges, ostomy surgery offers a path forward, restoring hope and enabling people to return to their families, workplaces, and communities.

In Massachusetts, approximately 17,500 people have an ostomy. They are our neighbors, friends, family members, coworkers, veterans, students, caregivers, and community leaders. Their journeys reflect remarkable strength and resilience, overcoming adversity and significant medical challenges to lead full and meaningful lives.

Too often, people living with an ostomy face stigma, misunderstanding, and unnecessary barriers. Ostomy Awareness Day provides an important opportunity to educate the public, dispel misconceptions, remind us that an ostomy does not define a person or diminish their quality of life, and recognize the families, caregivers, clinicians, certified ostomy nurse specialists, and other health care professionals who provide essential care and support. Their compassion and expertise are pivotal in helping people adjust to life after surgery and thrive.

This year, Ostomy Awareness Day will be observed on October 3, 2026. We celebrate the resilience of the ostomy community and honor the dedicated professionals and medical advancements that make these lifesaving surgeries possible. Most importantly, we recognize that an ostomy is not the end of a person's story; it can mark the beginning of a healthier and more hopeful chapter. This year's theme, ``One Community--Stronger Together,'' reminds us that no one should have to navigate life with an ostomy alone. Awareness, education, peer support, and access to quality care are essential to ensure that every person with an ostomy can live with confidence and dignity.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to honor the ostomy community, and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing October 3, 2026, as Ostomy Awareness Day.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Marjorie P. McGraw as she celebrates her 95th birthday.

Born on September 7, 1931, Marjorie has devoted her life to philanthropy, compassion, and community service. Alongside her late husband, John McGraw, Marjorie has demonstrated extraordinary generosity and civic leadership through the Elizabeth B. McGraw Foundation, supporting organizations that strengthen the health, welfare, and future of the Cape Cod community

Marjorie first met John, the love of her life, in 1951. They married in December later that year in Jacksonville, Florida. Together, they raised their six children, John, Lee, Mark. Scott, Lynne, and Brian in New Jersey, while also spending significant time in Osterville, Massachusetts; Gulf Stream, Florida; and New York City. As avid antique collectors, Marjorie and John welcomed many tours of their Osterville home over the years.

Through her ongoing philanthropy, Marjorie has served as a transformational benefactor to the Boys and Girls Club of Cape Cod, helping to provide safe spaces, mentorship, and educational opportunities for generations of young people. Her extraordinary support for Cape Cod Healthcare has improved access to quality care and the well-being of countless community members across the region. As an animal activist, Marjorie has rescued and raised many Bichons Frise, and with her daughter Lynne, their volunteer work and enduring commitment to the MSPCA Cape Cod reflect a deep passion for animal welfare.

On September 7, 2026, Marjorie will celebrate her 95th birthday surrounded by family and loved ones. Through her compassion, generosity, and unwavering commitment to helping others, Marjorie has established a legacy of kindness and service that will enhance the lives of families throughout the Cape Cod community for many years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to honor Marjorie McGraw, and I ask that my colleagues join me in celebrating this momentous occasion and wishing Marjorie many more years of health and happiness.