What George Latimer said, and what was done

“Mr. Speaker, today I want to salute the 50th anniversary celebration of an institution in my home community of Rye, Kelly's Sea Level. A big shindig is planned for the month of August, a little later on, at this iconic restaurant and bar that has welcomed locals and visitors since 1976.”

“Mr. Speaker, I want to salute the tremendous community contribution of The Hudson Independent, an online publication that chronicles the lives and stories of people, organizations, governments, schools, businesses, and the like, in the municipalities that border the Hudson River in Westchester County in New York: Ardsley, Dobbs Ferry, Irvington, Hastings-on-Hudson, Tarrytown, and Sleepy Hollow.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today more than 5 months since the American people were forced into a war of choice in Iran. As the President's negotiations fail, Americans are still bearing the expense every day.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today as President Trump lays the groundwork for a namesake arch right here in the heart of our Nation's Capital. Despite the arch's violation of a height restriction for D.C. buildings, a panel consisting of the President's allies is likely to permit the plans.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Disability Pride Month. In July of 1990, Congress passed the Americans With Disability Act, also known as the ADA. The passage of this landmark legislation was seen as an international victory for many Americans with disabilities and inspired similar legislation in 181 countries worldwide.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to salute the leaders and the members of the Mount Vernon, New York, branch of the NAACP as they plan their annual Community Heroes Award Luncheon this coming Saturday at the Macedonia Community Center.”

“Mr. Speaker, many of my colleagues have spoken about the affordability crisis, forcing families to figure out how to make ends meet, but let's make something clear: The affordability crisis isn't just a political buzzword like the President claims.”

“Mr. Speaker, as I have recognized the excellent staff members who were working with me in this term, may I also recognize and thank the young people, college students, and recent college graduates who have labored in the inglorious role of intern doing day-to-day grunt work necessary but often boring.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Latavia Sturdivant, a disability advocate, Yonkers resident, New York City Schools educator, author, Lehman College professor, and now Ms. Wheelchair America 2026.”

“Mr. Speaker, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy established July 15 as Statehood Day for Ukraine, but we spend another year on this day wondering when the Ukrainian people will be able to celebrate without threats from Russia.”

“Mr. Speaker, in New York and across the country, we are in an affordable housing crisis. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, a household in the New York City region making the median income would need to spend 65 percent of their income to afford the average home.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize New York Blood Center and all community blood centers across the United States that ensure a stable blood supply for patients in our hospitals.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call attention to the youth mental health crisis. Organizations like the Andrus institution in my district are doing meaningful work to address the challenges that our youth face today.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call attention to the sweeping proposed rule from the Office of Management and Budget that would fundamentally overhaul how Federal agencies award and administer grant funds.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today 1 week after the Supreme Court decision to end temporary protected status for immigrants from Haiti and Syria. When the TPS program was created in 1990 by Congress, its purpose was to ensure an immediate solution for immigrants fleeing emergent crises, whether that may be ongoing armed conflict, environmental disaster, or other extraordinary conditions.”

“Mr. Speaker, when we talk about the American Dream, most imagine settling down with a good-paying job and a constant roof over their head. Sadly, that goal continues to grow out of reach for many with rising inflation and the lack of affordable housing.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today as students around the country celebrate well-earned graduations from high school and college and prepare to enter the workforce. I remember when I graduated from Fordham University, a long time ago, you almost were guaranteed a job--the jobs were plentiful--that would allow you to make ends meet.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today, 4 years after the overturning of Roe v. Wade, to bring to light the devastating impact that the Supreme Court's Dobbs decision has had on our country.”

“Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to celebrate the Cupcake Cutie Boutique, a Mount Vernon establishment built on family, faith, and Black excellence. The founders are a mother-daughter duo who opened their small business over 10 years ago.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Alzheimer's Awareness Month to call my colleagues to action in confronting this devastating disease. I have met with representatives from the Alzheimer's Association to discuss their legislative priorities and how advocates can draw attention to this disease.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate and celebrate with the New York Knicks on their historic NBA finals win. After 53 years of hoping each season would be the one, the Knicks are officially the 2025-2026 NBA champions.”

“Madam Speaker, UFOs; the Gulf of America; water pressure in your shower; shrimp farms; pardoning insurrectionist rioters and providing a way for them to be paid for their behavior; the blue water color of the reflecting pool on The Mall; and building an MMA stadium on the lawn of the White House and a big, beautiful ballroom, too, that America doesn't need--these aren't topics of bizarre nightmares.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the men and women who lead the essential grassroots organizations of Co-op City in the Bronx, the many building association presidents who are elected by and represent the many shareholders in each of the 35 buildings that comprise the complex, which is the largest housing cooperative in the United States.”

“Mr. Speaker, our home area lost an impressive woman last month, Ruth Hinerfeld of Mamaroneck, at age 95. Ruth, a Massachusetts native, made her life and legacy in Westchester with her husband, Norman.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the outstanding programs provided by the village of Irvington that benefit the senior citizens of that community. Under the able leadership of senior coordinator Joan Armstrong, in the senior center on Bridge Street, the Irvington seniors serve hundreds of seniors annually with a daily nutrition program at lunchtime weekdays each week, and activities and programs to engage seniors of all ages.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mason Lee, a young violinist from Tarrytown, New York, who was recently selected for one of Carnegie Hall's national youth ensembles.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kosovo Liberation Day. On this day 27 years ago, the Military Technical Agreement was signed and mandated the Yugoslavian and Serbian forces to retreat from Kosovo.”

“Mr. Speaker, let me recognize the exceptional contributions of Bishop Wilbert Preston to the Fairview, Greenburgh, and White Plains communities. The bishop will be leaving his post as the spiritual leader for Christ Temple Church in Fairview later this year.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize PTSD Awareness Month. Post-traumatic stress disorder can affect anyone, and due to its invisibility, often resulting in getting overlooked, it isn't always properly treated.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the exceptional energy and effort of the Edgemont Community Council, an organization of over 225 families in the Edgemont section of the town of Greenburgh.”

“Mr. Speaker, 58 years ago this night, in Los Angeles, California, a violent murder occurred. That night, in the Ambassador Hotel, a major candidate for President, Robert F.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Pride Month. As a supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community and a member of the Congressional Equality Caucus, I rise to honor the achievements in the fight for equality but also refocus on the work that lies ahead.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to condemn the intentional dismantling of affordable healthcare in our country. Following the big, ugly bill last July, which failed to extend the premium tax credits critical to lowering the cost of healthcare for working families, Affordable Care Act enrollment for 2026 has fallen to about 23 million people, a decline of just over 1 million people.”

“Madam Speaker, if you watch the news regularly, you probably have witnessed an increasing number of attacks on places of worship. In the past year, members of the Temple Israel Synagogue in Detroit; Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis; Beth Israel Congregation in Jackson, Mississippi; the Islamic Center of San Diego; and many others have had their greatest fear come true--an attack on their institution due to their religious affiliation.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Dylan Valle, a proud and devoted member of the SEIU Local 32BJ and a true public servant in our community.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to a dedicated, longtime Mamaroneck resident, Joseph Germano, who passed away in May, just a few weeks before his 101st birthday.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today during National Immigration Heritage Month to recognize the contributions of immigrants to our Westchester and Bronx communities and to recognize their positive impact on the entire country.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address an issue that is hitting families in every corner of our country--the unyielding rise of inflation. This month, the Consumer Price Index climbed to 3.8 percent, and that number isn't just a statistic.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute the men of The American Legion Post 128 in Rye, New York, for their patriotism and their true sense of civic duty.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life and accomplishments of my predecessor, Congressman Eliot Engel, who passed away on April 10, with particular focus on his representation of the Bronx and Westchester, and his leadership on the House Foreign Affairs Committee.”

“Madam Speaker, let me celebrate young Stella Apicella, a sixth grader at Blind Brook Middle School in Rye Brook, as she prepares to become a bat mitzvah on May 30.”

“Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Kennedy for his compassion and his humanity. This tragedy occurred in Buffalo, and it was a racist crime against Black people in Buffalo.”

“Mr. Speaker, let me recognize the outstanding work of the Rye Senior Advocacy Committee, a group appointed by the mayor of Rye, consisting of committed volunteers working to advocate for the needs of seniors in the community and bringing together business, nonprofit, and government resources in common causes.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the exceptional life and times of Burton ``Burt'' Corwin, a longtime resident of Larchmont who passed away peacefully at the New York State Veterans Home at Montrose on April 29 at the age of 83.”

“Mr. Speaker, not quite 2 months ago, March 21 to be specific, I filled the tank of our family car at the local gas station three blocks from my home.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an organization in my district that is turning asphalt into opportunity. Sustainable Westchester, a pioneering regional nonprofit serving the Hudson Valley, has launched a bold new initiative called Black Gold.”

“Mr. Speaker, veterans give so much to our country, and it is up to us to take care of them when they become civilians. That means quality, easy-to-access care at VA hospitals and outpatient facilities and benefits for a disability diagnosis, purchasing a home, or learning skills to rejoin the workforce.”

“Mr. Speaker, permit me to recognize the powerful presence of Generations Church located in downtown New Rochelle and in Mount Vernon, as well, which has fostered a dynamic and vibrant Christian community of worship, prayer, faith, and service led by the excellent Bishop Ray Mott, lead pastor.”

“Mr. Speaker, last week Americans and Armenians came together to remember Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day. We must continue to honor the more than 1.5 million Armenian lives that were senselessly taken and recommit ourselves to remembering the Armenian genocide as a historical truth with clarity and moral responsibility.”

“Mr. Speaker, let me recognize the outstanding work of the White Plains/Greenburgh branch of the NAACP, led by the energetic Janice Griffith, and powered by women and men in these two communities who have stood up for diversity, equity, and inclusion at a time when these policies are under assault and elimination by this Federal administration.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share the work being done by Premiere Athletes and the WE Love Sports Foundation led New Rochelle native, Lawrence Posey. Lawrence is a former athlete and passionate community leader who understands the impact when you gather communities around the love of sports.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call attention to the workforce cuts taking place at FEMA. We all remember the images from Hurricane Sandy--Coney Island torn apart in our backyard in the New York area, families climbing onto rooftops to escape rising floodwaters.”

“Mr. Speaker, as I have recognized the excellent staff members who are working with me in this, my freshman term, may I also recognize and thank the young people, college students and recent college grads, who have labored in the inglorious role of intern doing day-to-day grunt work necessary but often boring.”

“Mr. Speaker, we have spent 1\1/2\ years watching this majority implement Project 2025. I think it is time for us to discuss Project 2027, the things that this House can and should do under new leadership.”

“Mr. Speaker, permit me to jump forward and to provide unsolicited advice to a person I do not know. On January 22, 2027, that will be the third day of the Presidency of the 48th President of the United States.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my outrage over the conditions that are in place at the growing number of immigrant detention centers established by ICE and the Trump administration nationwide.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Purchase College of the State University of New York system, also known as SUNY Purchase. Purchase College is a top 10 public college nationally recognized for its arts programs and its rigorous programs in the liberal arts and sciences.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about the urgent need to address the worsening air pollution problem in this country and in my home area of New York.”

“Mr. Speaker, since getting into office, Donald Trump and Pete Hegseth have actively tried to undermine the brave women who answer the call to service and joined the United States military.”

“Madam Speaker, let me recognize the outstanding work of the Co-op City branch of the NAACP for its many contributions to the life of African Americans in their area.”

“Madam Speaker, I rise to salute the outstanding work of the Senior Citizen Council of Tuckahoe and Bronxville and the services that they provide to address the issues of isolation and loneliness to seniors in both villages.”

“Madam Speaker, every freshman member comes into this institution with much to learn, and it is impossible to do that and function every day to represent the people of your district without the help of a committed, talented staff.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and congratulate the outstanding artistic talent of Deborah Loeb Bohren, a resident of Greenburgh, who has established her artistic vision through the photographer's lens.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute the community presence of Greater Centennial A.M.E. Zion Church, a beacon of faith and service in the city of Mount Vernon, New York.”

“Mr. Speaker, permit me to extend happy birthday wishes on April 4 to Pelham Mayor Chance Mullen, who is showing talent and leadership in the public sector, as well as in the private nonprofit world.”

“Mr. Speaker, last Wednesday, March 18, was a day for democracy in New York State. Voters in many of our villages went to the polls to elect leaders to serve their home communities, running the village governments that provide basic services in their area: police, fire, sanitation, recreation, snow removal, land use authority, and the like.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Young Israel of Scarsdale, the dynamic, modern orthodox synagogue that draws congregants from New Rochelle and Scarsdale, reflecting an active community of faith and service.”

“The leader and the CEO of the Y is Jennifer Ryan Safsel, a dynamic, energetic professional with years of nonprofit management. She is ably assisted by a capable team, Lisa Teddone, Dawn Carter, Dafne Ginn, Jace Young, Tanisha Miller, and so many others, along with the president of the board, Raymond T.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the exemplary work of The Rye Record, the local newspaper that covers the comings and goings of the Rye community since 1988.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to salute the outstanding presence in the city of Mount Vernon of Macedonia Baptist Church. Founded 113 years ago, Macedonia has been a bedrock of faith and community service in the African-American community on the south side of Mount Vernon, where I grew up.”

“Mr. Speaker, along the Hudson River in Westchester County, there is a place to go on a Saturday morning where you can find farm-fresh produce and goods from the Hudson Valley, the Hastings Farmers' Market.”

“Mr. Speaker, I would like to salute the leadership and the membership of the Knights of Columbus Father John M. Grady Council 503 located in Port Chester, New York, for their service to the community.”

“Mr. Speaker, let me salute the excellent online news outlet, MyHometownBronxville, which has provided a bedrock of local news and information about the comings and goings of the village of Bronxville since 2007.”

“Mr. Speaker, let me recognize the talented medical research efforts ongoing to combat the scourge of cerebral palsy, an abnormal development or damage to parts of the brain during pregnancy or early in a baby's life, that controls movement, balance, and posture and has a devastating effect throughout that person's life.”

“Mr. Speaker, I extend happy birthday wishes this week to Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson as she celebrates another year of service to her Bronx neighbors and friends.”

“Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Bruce Frankel, a longtime youth baseball coach and active member of his community in Larchmont, as he celebrates his 73rd birthday this month.”

“Mr. Speaker, the guarantee of free and fair elections is the very bedrock of our democracy. However, from the moment this term began, he has made every effort to subvert the electoral process for political gain.”

“Mr. Speaker, for nearly two decades, Westchester's own Richard ``Dick'' Ottinger walked in these Halls as a Congressman and served in this Chamber, representing his neighbors with insight and energy.”

“Madam Speaker, I rise to salute the outstanding work of the Greenburgh Nature Center, its professional staff, and its volunteer leadership for providing an environmental oasis for all to enjoy in the middle of a bustling suburb.”

“Madam Speaker, the month of March, with St. Patrick's Day to be celebrated on March 17, is a time to honor those of us of Irish-American heritage. Across the Nation, much less in Westchester and in the Bronx, there will be parades and festive dinners to salute the Irish experience and accomplishments here in America.”

“Madam Speaker, I rise to salute the newly installed archbishop for the Archdiocese of New York, His Excellency, the Most Reverend Ronald Hicks. Archbishop Hicks has assumed the spiritual leadership of the 2.8 million-member Catholic community that includes Westchester and the Bronx, succeeding the much-loved Timothy Cardinal Dolan, who served for 16 years.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the outstanding work of the men and women who lead the Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce. Every month, they hold a Zoom meeting for all of their members and provide the latest information of value to the businessowners and retailers who provide goods and services to the people of Mount Vernon.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute the magnificent jewel located in the heart of the village of Mamaroneck, the Emelin Theatre. The Emelin is a nonprofit organization that brings world-class performing arts to all of Westchester, as well as nearby Connecticut.”

“Mr. Speaker, in this Chamber, we speak of this American experiment in democracy that is 250 years in the making under principles forged in our Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the laws of the judicial rulings that have followed.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate a dynamic couple, Barry and Barbara Reiter, as they plan to celebrate their 70th birthdays together later this month. Barry and I were in Mount Vernon High School together all those years ago.”

“Mr. Speaker, February is Black History Month, when we take special note of the historic achievements of African Americans who have helped shape today's America. Black history is American history and for decades has been ignored by racism.”

“Mr. Speaker, I recognize the community service provided by the men and women of the Yonkers-East Yonkers Rotary Club. Every day, they live out their voluntary efforts of the Rotary Four-Plus-One Test, ensuring truth, fairness, good will, benefit, and fun in their activities under the banner of service above self.”

“Mr. Speaker, I am honored to salute the outstanding work of The Woman's Club of Larchmont, Inc., for their fine contributions to the Larchmont community. Celebrating their 100th year last year, they have embarked on their second 100 years with programs to promote education, literature, the arts, to provide philanthropic financial support to nonprofits and charities, and engender a healthy public dialogue on local critical issues.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a milestone in the life of Derrick Thompson, city council president of the city of Mount Vernon on his 50th birthday celebrated this week.”

“Mr. Speaker, the city of White Plains, Westchester County's seat of government, is a dynamic city of over 60,000 people, with major corporations headquartered there, such as Heineken USA, Atlas Air, and Danone North America; a shopping mecca with major regional businesses; as well as small businesses and large national stores such as Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale's, and Nordstrom's.”

“Mr. Speaker, I want to salute and recognize Ms. Tajian Nelson, who is Westchester's first African-American female commissioner of the County Board of Elections as she celebrate her 50th birthday this week.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano as he continues into the 15th year of his leadership as chief executive of Westchester's largest city and the third largest city in the State of New York, Yonkers.”

“Mr. Speaker, every day I hear from small business owners about the challenges of operating in this economy. In the past year, small businesses have faced unrelenting attacks from this administration on everything from tariffs to immigration enforcement.”

“Mr. Speaker, in the ever-changing landscape of community media, I am pleased to salute the 17th anniversary of the launch of Scarsdale10583, the online source for local news and information in the village of Scarsdale and in the neighborhoods of Hartsdale and Edgemont in the town of Greenburgh.”

“Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize the outstanding programs provided by the village of Dobbs Ferry that benefit the senior citizens of that community. Under the able leadership of Abby Connett, in a new center designed for their use, Dobbs Ferry Seniors serves hundreds of seniors annually with a daily nutrition program at lunchtime 5 days a week and activities and programs to engage seniors of all ages.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding work of the residents of the Bronx who labor tirelessly on behalf of their neighborhood, active in Bronx Community Board 10.”

“Mr. Speaker, during the government shutdown last fall, OMB Director Russell Vought announced that the Trump administration would be pausing billions of dollars in funding for the Hudson River Gateway Tunnel project.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great concern about the current state of service in the Social Security Administration. Last year, the so-called department of governmental elimination, DOGE, diminished the agency's workforce, forcing thousands of employees to quit or be fired.”

“Mr. Speaker, I want to go on record standing beside my colleague, Congressman Pat Ryan, opposing plans by ICE to establish a facility in New York's Hudson Valley in the town of Chester, Orange County.”

“Kristi Noem constantly proclaim: to root out the most dangerous thugs and criminals. In fact, ICE is targeting the least violent people in the greatest numbers, who pose minimal pushback, with the real mission to scare all immigrants, legal or otherwise.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the civic commitment of an organization of active and concerned citizens in Scarsdale who labor to involve everyday residents in the important issues of the day, the Scarsdale Forum.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to condemn the Trump administration's recent attack on childcare and family assistance. This administration has decided to freeze funding for three critical programs in New York and four other Democratic States.”

“Mr. Speaker, I address this Chamber today as a longtime member of Rotary International. Rotary's top priority is eradication of the deadly disease, polio. Its members have invested billions of dollars and countless volunteer hours in polio vaccination campaigns in countries around the world.”

“Founded in Chicago in 1905 with the motto of Service Above Self, Rotary International is the headquarters organization for a vast number of Rotary Clubs. It is one of the largest nonreligious and nonpolitical civil society membership organizations.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and salute the exceptional life of M. Christina Selin, known as Chris to all of her friends, a resident of New Rochelle, and a tremendous community leader.”

“Mr. Speaker, there is a dynamic energy going on in my Westchester backyard in the world of scouting in the village of Port Chester. It deserves our attention and appreciation.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the 20th anniversary of MyRye.com under the editorship of Jay Sears, for its service as an online chronicler of the life and the times of the Rye community.”

“Mr. Speaker, permit me a shout-out to the many volunteer environmental activists in the village of Ardsley who work tirelessly to advance good environmental policy. Two groups meet monthly to plan and implement efforts to make Ardsley greener and cleaner in air, water, and land resources: The Ardsley Green Task Force and the Ardsley Pollinator Pathway Committee.”

“Board 12 and the Wakefield Taxpayers Alliance. The legacy of Dr. King is carried down to this day by Toba and all those who gather this weekend who, in the words of Dr.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to condemn Secretary Kennedy's recent assault on children's health. Last week, against universally recommended guidelines, the Department of Health and Human Services slashed the childhood immunization schedule from 17 vaccines to 11.”

“Mr. Speaker, in the Holy Bible's Book of Exodus, a book which is sacred to both Christians and Jews, it is written that Almighty God hands down, through Moses, Ten Commandments that represent the bedrock of ethical behavior and rules that govern human conduct.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in memory of the exceptional life of John Cunningham, a resident of Rye for nearly 60 years, who passed away last week at the age of 93.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute the charitable work and the great generosity of those in the Pelham community that are the leaders and volunteers for The Danny Fund.”

“The spirit that saved Danny was channeled into a nonprofit organization that raises funds for many other such children who face similar issues today. On this day, The Danny Fund kids come from all walks of life as young as day-old infants who are diagnosed with severe conditions that require assistance, as did Danny all those years ago.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize National Blood Donor Month, which takes place each January, and to thank our fellow Americans who voluntarily donate blood. As a proud blood donor myself, I commend the New York Blood Center and all the community blood centers across the United States that provide a lifeline to people and patients in our hospitals.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to salute the work of those who are leaders and members of the Port Chester Historical Society. Their volunteer efforts have kept alive the memories and stories of the years past that represent the foundation of the village of Port Chester today.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today because this week I am proud to introduce new legislation to protect drivers from dangerous electric vehicle battery fires with my colleague Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and salute the dynamic faith community of Bethesda Baptist Church in New Rochelle as they welcome their new pastor, Reverend Horace Sanders, Jr., and his wife, Lady Katrina Sanders, to the pulpit.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Archbishop C. Nathan Edwers, spiritual leader and senior pastor at Friendship Worship Center in Mount Vernon as he celebrates his 65th birthday this month.”

“Mr. Speaker, in a world where local newspapers and radio stations are disappearing, it is valuable to recognize and salute those organizations that are continuing to provide information about our local communities' life and times.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the insurrection that took place here in this Capitol Building, in this very room, at this very podium, on January 6, 2021.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to hold Republican leadership accountable for their unwillingness to extend the ACA Enhanced Premium Tax Credits. I am a proud cosponsor of the Healthcare Affordability Act and Protecting Healthcare and Lowering Costs Act.”

“Madam Speaker, any day now, the Supreme Court will issue a ruling on whether the President can impose tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act. President Trump's tariff policies have hurt America's small businesses, who often cannot absorb the cost of higher duties.”

“Madam Speaker, I rise today to bring attention to the Trump administration's decision to eliminate Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth from its list of free entrance days for our national parks.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute to a remarkable man, a pillar of the community, and a devoted family man. Richard Joseph Barber, Jr., Esq., affectionately known as Dick, passed away on December 11.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to remember the life and times of Karen V. Hill, who passed away in November. Her accomplishments and achievements in her 72 years cannot be properly summarized in a minute or two.”

“Mr. Speaker, in the season where Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus, African Americans celebrate Kwanzaa, our Hispanic friends await the Three Kings Day celebration, our friends in the Jewish community commemorate Hanukkah and the historic celebration of light, the oil that lasted for eight nights, providing the menorah with light and warmth and survival.”

“Mr. Speaker, the Jewish Business Network, JBM, will be recognizing a group of outstanding business leaders at their breakfast in Tarrytown tomorrow, Tuesday, December 16. The individuals saluted have made a positive impact on the business community in the region of Westchester County and surrounding counties.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Lois Washington as she celebrates her 100th birthday. It is my pleasure to join her family and friends in honoring the remarkable life she has led.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today because the Trump administration's Environmental Protection Agency is quietly denying us protection from forever chemicals. While Secretary Kennedy claims he will make America healthy again, the EPA announced it would overturn historical reporting requirements on toxic substances known as PFAS.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring attention to Secretary Kennedy and the Trump administration's most recent attack on our children's health. On Friday, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, the panel of anti-vaxxers that Secretary Kennedy put in charge, upended over three decades of precedent on hepatitis B vaccine recommendations for babies.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to discuss my new bill to tackle the issue of bridge strikes. Throughout the country, highways and local roads with low-clearance bridges are vulnerable to strikes by large trucks.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the public service contributions of Jill Axelrod, who has completed two terms and 8 years as the Town of Rye's councilwoman. A resident of Rye Brook with her husband Brett and two daughters, she is a lawyer by profession and has been a member of the executive team of the Westchester County Board of Legislators.”

“Mr. Speaker, I salute the honorees recognized at the recent Awards Gala of the Exchange Club of Yonkers. These individuals have given exemplary service to the people of Yonkers as recognized by one of the most outstanding organizations in the city: Dr.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the charitable work in Yonkers during this holiday season of Operation Santa Claus, raising money to support organizations that work directly with individuals, especially children with developmental disabilities.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring attention to the anti-education agenda of the Trump administration. The Department of Education's RISE Committee is offering a proposal to downgrade the professional status of various careers that they think, after many years, don't deserve academic stature and access to vital funding.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize two members of the Westchester County Board of Legislators who will each leave office at month's ends, as they have completed 12 years in their positions and have reached their term limit.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the public service and accomplishments of Omayra Andino, who this week completed two terms, or and 4 years, as mayor of the village of Tuckahoe, with prior service on the village board as trustee.”

“Act of 1938. In it, section 14(c) permitted people with disabilities to be paid less than Federal minimum wage with little hope of advancement. Today, those employed under 14(c) waivers make an average of $3.50 per hour.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to salute the Rye High School Garnets football team as they head to Syracuse to compete in the New York State Athletic Championship for Class A under the JMA Wireless Dome, previously the Carrier Dome.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Maureen Ann FitzSimons, born and raised in Larchmont, who passed away the day before Thanksgiving. Maureen, a bright and engaging young woman, leaves behind her mother, two brothers, and adoring nieces and nephews after a 15-year battle with cancer that began at age 30.”

“Mr. Speaker, in today's edition of Politico, there is a story about Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman setting up systems on the border between Nassau County and neighboring New York City, ostensibly to protect Nassau residents from the criminal element coming from their city neighbors.”

“Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize an important faith institution in the city of White Plains celebrating its 90th year of worship and service: Calvary Baptist Church. The leadership and congregants have been a bedrock for worship and values since its founding in the 1930s.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my disappointment. Last night, the House voted to task the oil and gas industry to report on the state of fossil fuel refining in the United States.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to bring attention to the Trump administration's plan to raise healthcare prices for seniors. That is right. You did not mishear me. The Trump administration announced that they will be raising Medicare part B premiums, and deductibles will surge around 10 percent in 2026, almost double the increase from 2025.”

“Mr. Speaker, I recognize the achievements of Reverend William E. Norman, Sr., celebrating his 30th year of pastoral service to the congregants of SolidRock Christian Center of Yonkers, New York.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute the life of Mayo Peter Bartlett, who passed away in September at the age of 86. Mr. Bartlett was born in 1939 in Rye, attended North Carolina Central University, graduated with a degree in accounting, and membership during college of the Alpha Kappa Chapter of the Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity.”

“Mr. Speaker, Mr. Bartlett has left us for his eternal reward, but he has left behind a legacy of love, faith, and warmth to the people of his community.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight to bring attention to the Senate's despicable decision last week to sneak in a self-serving provision into the bill that was used to reopen the government.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to acknowledge the celebration of the Reverend Troy DeCohen, senior pastor of the Mount Vernon Heights Congregational Church, in this year completing his 25th year of pastoral leadership.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great concern over recent changes to the Department of Housing and Urban Development's Continuum of Care Program. This program is one of the largest sources of resources, including 900 units of housing in my district, that is involved with funding to combat homelessness, especially for seniors, domestic violence victims, and people with disabilities.”

“Mr. Speaker, today I rise to salute the work of Barry Hoffman, founder and artistic director of the Symphony of Westchester, which began in 1984. Barry has blended together 50 outstanding music professionals to perform classical music works for adoring audiences.”

“American Organizations (CIAO) in 2005. He had a great devotion to St. Joseph and, carrying on a family tradition, celebrated every St. Joseph's Day by erecting an elaborate altar ordained with candles, flowers and blessed bread to share with guests.”

“Mr. Speaker, I quote: ``Political satire is one of the oldest and most important forms of free speech. It challenges those in power while using humor to draw more people into the discussion.”

“Mr. Speaker, the 16th District of New York is lucky to have an Education First facility located in Tarrytown. During the August work period, I had the opportunity to tour their international language campus and speak with young people from over 60 countries who are in Tarrytown to learn English.”

“Mr. Speaker, today, we celebrate the 238th birthday of the U.S. Constitution, and we reflect on the document that enshrines the freedoms that we hold dear. At the heart of those freedoms is the First Amendment, the right to free speech.”

“Mr. Speaker, the Federal Reserve Board meets this week to consider easing interest rates, a move that the President has been urging for months. Inflation remains stubborn. Consumer prices rose by 2.9 percent in August compared to last year.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the life and times of Millie Ortiz Sheehan. Today, we are naming a street after her in the town of Greenburgh where she did so much to help her community and her people.”

“Mr. Speaker, every now and then, there are people born who personify the essence of love in action. On November 2, 1946, Lynne Louise Trotter, later Lynne Louise Trotter Wagstaff, was born in Harlem, New York.”

“Lynne's love for her family was her foundation, and she poured into her family, always being a reliable supporter. Even when a relative might have felt that life's challenges left them fighting alone, she was always there.”

“Mr. Speaker, as a ========================= END NOTE ========================= parent and a grandparent and as a former county executive who led the COVID response in one of the first epicenters of that outbreak, I am concerned by recent developments at the CDC and the future of public health.Decades of sound science and public health progress are being cast aside in favor of conspiracy theories and pseudoscience.”

“Mr. Speaker, today, I recognize Lauren Cullinan and Peyton Savarese, 11th graders at The Ursuline School in New Rochelle, who for 15 years have been friends and collaborated on multiple school projects together, including A Bear and a Book.”

“Mr. Speaker, I have some comments that were drafted before today's events. Last month, in Minnesota, a gunman opened fire on Catholic schoolchildren praying. Again, thoughts and prayers are offered, but what do we say and what do we do when the victims were already praying?”

“Madam Speaker, death comes for all of us at a time and a place unknown. It may come quietly, after a long illness, or swiftly and violently without warning.”

“Mr. Speaker, today, a CBS News poll came out. It showed 65 percent of Americans think that the President's policies are making us pay more for goods, such as groceries.”

“Mr. Speaker, 20 years ago Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans. The images of families stranded, neighborhoods submerged, and a city brought to its knees are seared into our national memory.”

“Mr. Speaker, I am a proud son of Mount Vernon, New York. I was born there. I went to school there, and it shaped the person who I am today.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute the life and achievements of Lola Daniels Hunter, who served our community as president of the White Plains Greenburgh Branch of the NAACP, as a board member of the Greenburgh Police and Advisory Committee, and as a leader of the North Elmsford Civic Associations.”

“Mr. Speaker, President Trump has called on several Republican Governors to redistrict congressional districts no matter what the cost to fairness, voter inclusion, or proper geographic representation. If his big, beautiful, ugly bill and its related policies were so popular, then he wouldn't need to do this.”

“Mr. Speaker, the news is louder than a toddler with a kazoo at a Metallic concert. While the headlines scream, the internet screams even louder with a monologue known as meanwhile.”

“Madam Speaker, the harrowing videos and stories out of Texas earlier this month are another reminder of how unpredictable and dangerous weather has become. Climate change is fueling more frequent and extreme weather events, and the Federal Government has a duty to be ready to respond quickly.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Luna Higbie, the daughter of my friend, Brian, back in Westchester County, New York. Luna is a delightful 6-year-old girl, but she has already endured bullying simply for looking different.”

“Mr. Speaker, today President Trump announced that the U.S. will provide NATO allies with weapons to send to Ukraine. Finally. This is welcome news, but it comes 6 months late.”

“Mr. Speaker, we often speak about how Congress can help small businesses grow, but the true hard work is being done on Main Streets across this Nation. In the Sound Shore region of Westchester, businessowners are advancing their own businesses and finding time to lead local Chambers of Commerce, implementing programs and events that promote their business districts.”

“Mr. Speaker, the vibrant African-American community in the Bronx and Westchester County have had a tireless advocate on their side for decades, the NAACP, fighting for reform and social progress, the rights of residents who want a fair shot in life and a better today and tomorrow for their children.”

“Mr. Speaker, 3 years ago this week, the Supreme Court stripped from millions of women the right to make their own healthcare decisions. Since overturning Roe v. Wade, women across this country have struggled, suffered, and even died.”

“Mr. Speaker, Westchester County is fortunate to have an active citizens group, the League of Women Voters, who are committed volunteers that advance voter education, discussion of key local, State, and national issues, holding seminars and programs on timely topics, and moderating public candidate debates in a nonpartisan manner.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a group of Westchester residents who have taken on the role of civic involvement on issues of importance to the local, county, State, and Federal level.”

“Mr. Speaker, as prices rise and our economy stalls, this week, House Republicans are pushing a cruel and a senseless plan to cancel $9.8 billion in funding that Congress already passed into law.”

“Mr. Speaker, today, we mourn the passing of a legend in Westchester County, the Honorable Eddie Mae Barnes. She was a role model for women in our area, as one of the first African-American female leaders elected to public office.”

“Mr. Speaker, before I hopped on the Northeast Regional train to D.C. this morning, I joined Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins to bring attention to the Trump administration's proposed 25 percent cut in funding the Amtrak Northeast Corridor service.”

“Mr. Speaker, which Elon Musk should we believe? In February, he called the U.S. Agency of International Development, USAID, ``corrupt'', ``beyond repair,'' and ``a ball of worms'' that needs to be eliminated.”

“Mr. Speaker, my district has over 30,000 small businesses, from restaurants and small grocery stores in New Rochelle to construction companies in Yonkers. Every day, I hear from businessowners that they need certainty to run their businesses.”

“Mr. Speaker, the mistakes we are making in this Congress, bill after bill after bill, will damage this Nation's strength at a time when we need unity and strength more than ever before.”

“Mr. Speaker, on May 21, Sarah and Yaron were leaving an event at the Capital Jewish Museum. They worked at the Israeli Embassy and were planning their engagement, but their future together was cut short when a man yelling, ``Free Palestine,'' murdered them.”

“Mr. Speaker, during Small Business Week here in the House, it is timely that we speak about what we need to do to help American businesses increase their revenues, hire more workers, and grow profits that support our economy.”

“Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. McGarvey for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I recognize the colleagues who have joined me in leading this bill, Congressman Alford of Missouri, Congressman Mfume of Maryland, and Congresswoman Goodlander of New Hampshire.”

“Mr. Speaker, in just a few hours, the Rules Committee will be making the final touches to America's worst budget ever. They are doing it in the middle of the night to hide the fact that this bill will make Americans sicker and poorer.”

“Mr. Speaker, America's worst budget ever is what we are voting on this week. It is essentially a tax scam that will benefit the wealthiest of Americans. Mr.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the outstanding contributions made by At Home on the Sound to benefit senior citizen residents of Larchmont and Mamaroneck. Tonight, they are celebrating their 15th anniversary with their Crystal Celebration.”

“Larchmont, the Village of Mamaroneck, and the town of Mamaroneck, providing a complete menu of services and programs for those 60-plus years of age in our area. I congratulate them on 15 great years.”

“Mr. Speaker, President Trump fired the Librarian of Congress just 1 year shy of completing her 10-year term. He also fired the head of the U.S. Copyright Office, replacing them with his former lawyers and current DOJ appointees.”

“Mr. Speaker, I recently wrote a letter to Secretary Noem and Secretary Rubio, which I will share with my colleagues. ``I write today to express my grave concern over the administration's apparent misuse of obscure provisions in our Nation's immigration laws to deport or detain indefinitely individuals without due process.”

“Mr. Speaker, yesterday, the New York Post Editorial Board wrote about President Trump's plans to accept a free gift from Qatar of a $400 million Boeing 747-8 jet.”

“Madam Speaker, allow me to paint a picture of a country: threats to the media to control the flow of information to the citizenry; cutting funds to childhood education, higher education, and the arts to limit free and independent thought; telling families it is time to tighten their wallets for the greater good; a focus on investing in prisons; members of the judiciary jailed for following the law; military parades that celebrate the leader.”

“Mr. Speaker, today, I honor George Torres and Ursula Cruz-Greene from Bronx Community Board 12 which serves the north Bronx neighborhoods including Wakefield and Edenwald in the 16th Congressional District.”

“Mr. Speaker, I have been a Member of this body for just over 120 days. It was clear in November that the American people voted for their family economics.”

“Mr. Speaker, new Federal economic data came out yesterday, and it showed that in the last 3 months, the U.S. economy shrank by 0.3 percent. This is a sharp reversal from the 2.4 percent growth the economy experienced in the last quarter of 2024.”

“Mr. Speaker, 100 days: irresponsible tariff imposition, confusing businesses, and tanking the stock market; illegal seizure of citizens without judicial process; dramatic cuts to the delivery of Social Security benefits and veteran benefits; abandoning environmental protections for clean air and clean water; destabilizing families, hospitals, and nursing homes with pending Medicaid cuts; and siding with a ruthless aggressor, Russia, rather than the victim, Ukraine.”

“Mr. Speaker, I recently visited the Bronx VA Medical Center in the Bronx, New York. This center serves many in my district, and I am grateful for the quality care they provide and for the groundbreaking research happening at this facility.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Evelyn Paula Nelson Young, a respected and beloved member of the Mt. Vernon community who passed away at the age of 102 earlier this year.”

“Mr. Speaker, House Republicans just passed their budget plan, President Trump's big, beautiful bill, again. The first version didn't cut enough from critical programs like Medicaid and SNAP.”

“Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Morelle for yielding me the time. Mr. Speaker, the American people in my district and in my State have spoken clearly. This bill is voter suppression, pure and simple.”

“Mr. Speaker, Elon Musk said recently in a Joe Rogan podcast: ``The fundamental weakness of Western civilization is empathy.'' He further said that empathy has been ``weaponized.'' This is consistent with his statement that Social Security is a Ponzi scheme, not the program that has saved the lives and the livelihood of countless Americans.”

“Mr. Speaker, yesterday in Mount Vernon, New York, a packed congregation came together to honor the 50th pastoral anniversary for Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, the senior pastor of the largest African-American church in my home county, Grace Baptist Church.”

“Mr. Speaker, Elon Musk's so-called department of government elimination is closing the Social Security hearing office in White Plains in May, just like that. Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins offered the Federal Government county space that would be more cost-effective.”

“Mr. Speaker, at a time when food prices are rising and it is harder for families to make ends meet, we should not be cutting food assistance programs, but that is exactly what is happening.”

“Mr. Speaker, the House just voted to pass a radical, partisan government funding bill. I voted ``no'' because it lets Elon Musk decide how this money is going to be spent by Federal agencies.”

“Mr. Speaker, the Republicans are trumpeting the dawn of a golden age of economic growth. However, this week, The Wall Street Journal had an editorial, ``Trump's Tariffs Whack Trump Voters'' with a subhead of ``Whatever happened to GOP concern for the working class?'' The Wall Street Journal said: ``President Trump won the Presidency a second time by promising working-class voters he'd lift their real incomes.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of James Roger Rice, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, attorney, and a man of deep faith, who passed away on February 16, 2025.”

“Mr. Speaker, there were reports last night that the Social Security Administration may reduce their staff by more than 50 percent. This will affect whether seniors receive all the benefits that they are entitled to.”

“Mr. Speaker, America once liberated France from the Nazi regime, freed Kuwait from the grip of Saddam Hussein, and defended South Korea against North Korean aggression. However, this apparently is a new MAGA America, siding with the evil aggressor and blaming the victim.”

“Mr. Speaker, House Republicans just passed their budget plan. Like many House Democrats, I am clear-eyed about this plan and how it will affect families in Westchester and the Bronx.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of James Roger Rice, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, attorney, and man of deep faith, who went to be with the Lord on February 16, 2025.”

“Mr. Speaker, the new administration, as it indiscriminately cuts services, has announced that it will not keep the Social Security Administration's hearing office in White Plains, New York.”

“Mr. Speaker, I am a proud New Yorker, and today I speak as a proud American. An American tragedy has played out in California, and those who have lost their homes and their lives are first and foremost Americans.”

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Gus Williams, a basketball great and New York 16th Congressional District native from Mt. Vernon, New York. Gus was born October 10, 1953, in Mt.”