Brian Higgins

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Anthony Raffa, a resident of Chautauqua County for his quest to become the elected representative to the fourteenth legislative district in the Chautauqua County Legislature. Although Mr. Raffa was not able to realize his dream he has been able to make an impact on other's lives in a different way. The campaign trail is a difficult path to take. Any person with a dream may enter but only a few are able to reach the end. Mr. Raffa traveled that path with his head held high and a smile on his face the entire way. I have no doubt that his kind demeanor left a lasting impression on the voters of district 14. Mr. Raffa has tried his hand in county politics many times. That is a respectable trait to have. Determination to do good things for your county is one thing that Chautauqua County residents strive for. He was a long time legislator and a long time advocate for ``good government.'' Chautauqua County is blessed to have such strong candidates with a desire to make this county the wonderful place that we all know it can be. Mr. Raffa is one of those people and that is why, Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor him today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor David, a resident of Chautauqua County for his quest to become the elected representative to the sixteenth legislative district in the Chautauqua County Legislature. Although Mr. Thomas was not able to realize his dream, he has been able to make an impact on others' lives in a different way. The campaign trail is a difficult path to take. Any person with a dream may enter but only a few are able to reach the end. Mr. Thomas traveled that path with his head held high and a smile on his face the entire way. I have no doubt that his kind demeanor left a lasting impression on the voters of district 16. Chautauqua County is blessed to have such strong candidates with a desire to make this county the wonderful place that we all know it can be. Mr. Thomas is one of those people and that is why, Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor him today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of a great American--a Western New Yorker whose service to this Nation brings honor to his family and to his countrymen alike. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the memory of Frank Falkowski. Frank Falkowski was born on February 24, 1919 in Depew, New York. He was the eldest child in a family of 11 children. Forced to quit high school to help support his family when his father died unexpectedly, Frank entered the U.S. Army at the age of 22 on February 3, 1941. Stationed in Georgia, Los Angeles, Hawaii, the Philippines and New Guinea, Frank performed a number of important roles during his military service, including service as a Military Policeman and machine gunner. During his spare time in the Army, Frank played Basketball and Football on military teams, but, more importantly, he completed his GED studies. Frank served a total of 42 months overseas during World War II, and while stationed in the Philippines and the Pacific theater, he assisted with the evacuation of women and children to safe havens as the Japanese were advancing. After receiving a letter of appreciation and thanks for his efforts from the mayor of Luzon, Frank was discharged from the U.S. Army on June 22, 1945. After serving in the military, Frank met his wife, Marion. They were married in 1946 and raised 4 children, Marcia, Linda, Jerry and Janice. Frank worked as a welder for Contractor's Ornamental Steel and also worked part time as a security guard at the once famous Palace Theater in downtown Buffalo. After his retirement, Frank had the opportunity to enjoy his greatest pleasure--time with his friends, family and loved ones. Frank was an Army veteran of World War II. While much is not known about his military service, it is well known that his service on the field of battle was valiant indeed. As a result of his service, he earned the following awards: Bronze Star Medal; Good Conduct Medal; American Defense Service Medal; Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal; World War II Victory Medal; Combat Infantryman Badge First Award; Philippine Liberation Ribbon with 1 bronze service star, and Honorable Service Lapel Button WWII. Unfortunately, Frank never lived to actually receive these awards. His daughter, Linda Falkowski Stanek, contacted my congressional office some time ago to inquire as to the status of these awards, in that she, on her mother's behalf and with the assistance of her siblings, wished to create a legacy honoring her late father that could be passed down for generations to come. Through the hard work of the staff in our Buffalo District Office, and particularly the help of one of our Senior Field Representatives, William J. Greeley, we were able to verify Mr. Falkowski's entitlement to these awards and, on Thursday December 1, 2005, I had the supreme honor of presenting these medals, ribbons and other commendations to Mr. Falkowski's widow and members of his family. Mr. Speaker, while Frank Falkowski never received his due recognition during his life, I am honored to have been given the opportunity to help give him his deserved recognition today, albeit posthumously. Frank Falkowski was always proud to be an American and was proud of his service to his country, but according to his family, he never spoke much of his experiences in World War II, perhaps owing to the pain those memories brought forth. Frank Falkowski served this Nation proudly and honorably, and his life after the service, where he settled in Western New York, married, worked and raised a family, are a positive example to us all. Fifteen years ago, the Falkowski family prayed that Frank would rest in peace; today, we pray that he knows that his country has, at long last, paid him the full honor to which he so richly deserves.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor John Allan, whose service as a member of the Concord Town Board will come to an end on December 31, 2005. Councilman Allan is a man dedicated to effective public service for the residents of the Town of Concord. Few public officials love their hometown the way John Allan does, and his public acts have always had the intention of making life in the town of Concord better for those fortunate enough to live there. While John's most recent run for public office has proven unsuccessful, it is a virtual certainty that he will remain active in local civic affairs. That is a good thing, for the town of Concord is better for the active public service of individuals like John Allan. I want to thank you, Mr. Speaker, for offering me this opportunity to honor the public service of retiring Concord Councilman John Allan, and I hope that you will join me in offering to Mr. Allan the House's best wishes of good luck and Godspeed in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Richard Newton, a resident of Chautauqua County for his quest to become the elected representative to the first legislative district in the Chautauqua County Legislature. Although Mr. Newton was not able to realize his dream he has been able to make an impact on other's lives in a different way. The campaign trail is a difficult path to take. Any person with a dream may enter but only a few are able to reach the end. Mr. Newton traveled that path with his head held high and a smile on his face the entire way. I have no doubt that his kind demeanor left a lasting impression on the voters of district 1. Chautauqua County is blessed to have such strong candidates with a desire to make this county the wonderful place that we all know it can be. Mr. Newton is one of those people and that is why, Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor him today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor a man whose years of service, both as a councilman, and for the last 4 years as Supervisor of the town of Concord, have served his town admirably. Today, I want to honor retiring Concord Town Supervisor Mark Steffan. Mark Steffan is someone who loved his town with every fiber of his being. A successful businessman, Mark was elected to the Concord Town Board and his recent service as Supervisor has come at a time when more people in Erie County and western New York look to the town of Concord and its incorporated village of Springville as an outstanding place to live, work and raise a family. It is that way because of the dedicated service of public officials like Mark Steffan. Mark Steffan and his family are moving on with a planned move out of western New York. I want to take this opportunity, Mr. Speaker, to commend Mark Steffan for his service to the residents and the taxpayers of the Town of Concord, and remind him that local residents are better for the service he provided to town government.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, it is with a tremendous amount of sadness that I report to the House on the passing of a gentle woman whose strength of character served her community and the Democratic party in my hometown of South Buffalo, NY, with tremendous honor and distinction. More importantly, she was a woman of valor--a wife, mother, and grandmother of extraordinary stature, and someone who will be missed for generations to come. Born Patricia Ann Doyle, Pat Kane was, simply put, a legendary figure in Democratic politics for decades. Pat and her husband, Donald F. Kane--another legendary figure and mentor to many of my contemporaries--were part of a large extended family that, along with leaders like former county and State Chairman Joe Crangle and families like the Crottys, Dillons, Keanes, Mahoneys, Whalens and many others, ruled South Buffalo politics from the 1960's to well into the 1990's. Former House Speaker Thomas P. ``Tip'' O'Neill is often quoted as saying that ``politics ain't beanbag,'' and that statement goes double for the rough and tumble world of South Buffalo politics. Pat Kane was a strong leader, who was no shrinking violet; she was an integral player in many important races over the years, and her absence will be felt for many years to come. Through her gentle example and moral leadership, she made so many of us so much better than we otherwise would have been. She had the guts to say what was on her mind and the integrity to get away with it. On a more personal level, Pat Kane's graciousness and generosity extended beyond her family to a wide yet close circle of neighbors, classmates, friends and the friends of her six children, of which I was honored to be included. Having attended school with her son, Patrick Timothy, I will always hold the warmest of kind feelings and blessing of happy memories having been a guest in the Kane home many times. Once given, Pat Kane's hospitality and her genuine interest in you could never be forgotten. I am also proud to note that Pat Kane's eldest daughter, Bonnie Kane Lockwood, is a member of my district staff. Bonnie and I have worked together since my initial election to the Buffalo Common Council in 1987, and I am fortunate to have her working with me, because Bonnie possesses both the intellect and the political acumen one would expect from Don and Pat Kane's daughter, and my constituents and I are blessed to have her service on a daily basis. Pat Kane loved her family, loved her community, and loved the Democratic party, and her influence is seen in the many young women who have become active in local politics over the past several years. I am a better person for having known Pat Kane, and our community is better for her tireless service to it. Mr. Speaker, on Saturday, November 26, a cold and snowy morning in South Buffalo, Pat Kane left St. Teresa's Catholic Church on Seneca Street toward her final resting place. Before doing so, her daughter Bonnie delivered a stirring eulogy that was extraordinary in both its content and its delivery. With the House's consent, I want to close my remarks with Bonnie's words from the Mass of Christian Burial celebrating the life of Patricia Ann Kane. Eulogy of Patricia A. Doyle Kane (By Veronica Bonnie Kane Lockwood) On behalf of our Dad, Don Kane--and the entire Kane Klan--I want to thank Fr. Paul Seil for celebrating the new life of Patricia Ann Kane this morning and for being with us as that new life began. Our cousin, Fr. Paul has been with us so many times before--weddings, christenings--but his finest moment may have been in Room 8--ICD--8th Floor Mercy Hospital Monday, Nov. 21 at 3 p.m., when, surrounded by her loving family--Fr. Paul stepped to my Mother's side and helped her cross over and help us to accept the cross of missing her-- knowing she is with us always. We also know she is with God and--by now; my guess is God has received his first hand-delivered letter from Mrs. Kane. While I cannot imagine the exact contents of the letter--I am confident a couple of dollars were enclosed. Thank you to all the Clergy here who celebrate my Mother's life--my Mother was a part of your lives too. And, of course, we thank the Sisters of Mercy for being such an important part of my Mother's life--``Pat Kane lived Mercy, taught Mercy and was Mercy''--and we thank the St. Thomas Aquinas Rosary and Altar Society for providing the honor guard this morning. Thank you Fr. Mitka for welcoming her and all the Kane's back to St. Teresa's--St. Teresa's was My Dad's parish for more than 70 years--A Navaho boy--he bought a four-bedroom house all the way across the street on Pawnee Parkway before they were married--and St. Teresa's became Mom's parish too! As with so many things in our parent's lives and loves together--Mom made it her own-- she is rightly remembered for her leadership and involvement in so much of St. Teresa's history--Msgr. Toomey's Golden Jubilee, the first St. Teresa's Restoration campaign--with Fr. Berg--another success as we can see. Mom and Dad organized the hot dog concession for the Annual Comeback Run and I know people came back--for Mom's brownies--which she would offer with every hot dog sold! She was a lecturer for many years--so standing here--where she stood many times before--feels very right. Our family thanks all of you here today. We know you share our loss--one of my great friends said ``thanks for sharing your Mom with me.'' There was no choice--My Mother's life was and her legacy will be about sharing. Her devotion to countless classmates and neighbors, her friends and the friends of her children was imbedded into her very being--it was not what she did--it was who she was! She gave of herself--listening, organizing, collecting for a worthy cause, her talents--singing Danny Boy--always a favorite, fashion show commentating, the wearing of the hats, the baking of the brownies, the donating of the dollars--(in fact, we realize our true inheritance is all the good she did--because her money went to so many of you here today--a dollar here, five dollars there--that really adds up, you know). She gave her heart--when she had her heart attack in 1994-- her grandson, James--just a little guy then--said--Gram's heart hurts--because she loves too much--and now, all of our hearts hurt because we loved her so much. And we have to hurt--but we also must give thanks! If that fact escaped any of our attention--it was Thanksgiving Day when the Buffalo News printed her beautiful picture and life story. We give thanks for Patricia Doyle born almost 76 years ago to Mike and Gert Doyle of South Park Avenue. At 14, her world would be forever changed by the death of her father--she would have go to work at Cecil's dress shop every day after class at her beloved Mt. Mercy Academy to help make ends meet--and dreams of college and a teaching career were ended. Her life was not to be an easy one--but she made it easy for all of us. She was not a teacher by trade--but our greatest teacher by example--she became a legal secretary where many a Judge and co-worker told us--they worked for Mrs. Kane. She would always say the greatest gift you can give your child is to teach them empathy--understanding the feeling of others--and oh, how she understood. We give thanks for Patricia Doyle whose goodness and beauty caught the eye and heart of a young man named Donald F. Kane--56 years ago--husband and wife for 52 years--wonderful parents and best friends whose mutual respect for each other made them even more successful as individuals. We strive to be better husbands and wives, better parents and friends-- better at whatever we do in the workplace--because of their example. We give thanks for the best Mother and Mother-in-Law, making us each feel special as individuals but showing us nothing is more important than family. Mom to six, Mother-in- Law to five, Grandma Kano to 14, Sis to two brothers whom she loved so much, a Sister-in-Law who became a good friend and confidant, a Cousin who became an older sister, Aunt Pat to many and `Chubby Cheeks' to some. Our Mother always said, ``Make a Difference in this World.'' And we give thanks for the difference she made in all of our lives. We give thanks to a woman ahead of her time who was always a lady--a politically savvy partner with my Dad--a politically active person on her own--she knew who she was and what she stood for, stayed loyal when it would have been easier to bend, a truth teller--even when we on the receiving end did not always ask for it or want to hear it when it was given--She never had a driver's license--but how she drove us all to be better than we otherwise would have been--A special friend said--``she had the guts to say whatever was on her mind and the integrity to get away with it.'' We give thanks for her words--left to us to read, remember, treasure and share. Before there was E-Mail there was ``Mom- mail!'' Can you imagine the discipline (which I do not have) it took to put paper in the typewriter--with not an insert or delete button in sight--and type out her thoughts to you perfectly--perhaps include an article she clipped or currency for a special treat--what was better than knowing you got a letter from Mom, Grandma Kano, Aunt Pat or Mrs. Kane. Let me restate that--not all letters brought good news-- some brought ``constructive criticism,'' some brought fashion tips including Dr. Scholl's footpads for all of us before a family wedding. Words were my Mother's actions and her strength. Her own experiences were an endless well of hope and faith, a simple, powerful reminder that you were not alone! We give thanks for my Mother's love of holidays--and how she helped us get through our first Thanksgiving without her physically present--yet her presence filled the day. We were at my house--watching football, taking the kids to St. Tommy's gym, making fun of me being in the kitchen--and after dinner--Gramps called us together and--told the Grandkids how Grandma Kano talked about what she wanted to do for them for Christmas this year. And of course what she talked about doing--she did--and so-- Gramps called each of them by name and gave them an envelope from Grandma. Tears and thanks were followed by lots of stories and reading from a few of her letters--it is only right to leave you with the words of Patricia Kane--I will read the words but it is her voice I know that you will hear. ``Keep doing what you think is right and realize that not everyone will agree with you. Put a smile on your face--even in the darkest of days, you found Mom with a smile throughout her whole life. Smiles make everyone feel good--yourself and the one to whom the smile is given. God Bless You--keep your head high and your mind ever working and your spirit with God, He will help you every step of the way--I am proof positive of that statement--I love you today and always.'' Thank You Mom--We love you today and always!

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mark Sackett, a resident of Chautauqua County for his quest to become the elected representative to the fourth legislative district in the Chautauqua County Legislature. Although Mr. Sackett was not able to realize his dream he has been able to make an impact on other's lives in a different way. The campaign trail is a difficult path to take. Any person with a dream may enter but only a few are able to reach the end. Mr. Sackett traveled that path with his head held high and a smile on his face the entire way. I have no doubt that his kind demeanor left a lasting impression on the voters of district 4. Mr. Sackett is a former legislator where he served the people of district 4 for many years. Mark is also a very creative man who never stops thinking of ways to assist a friend. Many people of Sheridan, New York may remember the large gavel that he constructed. Chautauqua County is blessed to have such strong candidates with a desire to make this county the wonderful place that we all know it can be. Mr. Sackett is one of those people and that is why, Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor him today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, on Wednesday, November 30, I was invited to address a gathering of students and faculty at the Lake Shore Middle School, located in the town of Evans in the 27th Congressional District. In addition to having the honor of speaking to a group of very attentive and inquisitive middle school students, I was honored with a presentation of writings in a ``memory folder'' that I want to talk about here today. Students in the eighth grade government class of Mr. Keith Dash, a Lake Shore teacher--and former Buffalo State College graduate school classmate of mine--asked his students to write about freedom, and about what they think about when they think of freedom and life in America. A collection of these writings was bound and presented to me at this gathering, and I wanted to take this opportunity, Mr. Speaker, to enter these writings into the Congressional Record. The students contributing to this project are: Joshua Allen, Kelly Carlson, Cody Catalano, Katherine Dinkuhn, Rebecca Swatsworth, Kim Vona, Kalie Weinheimer, and Jessica Westley. I am honored to have received the writings that these students have labored on for so long, and am delighted to enter each student's contribution into the Record, as follows: The most important element in social studies is the U.S. government. I mean we have all these freedoms; write anything, say anything, do anything. We get a fair trial no mater what the odds are. I am trying to say there isn't any place in the world as good as the USA. In the world it is chaos. I mean wars, fights, and riots. I mean we basically are the translators of many languages like English. We are strong and I don't want it to crash.--Joshua Allen

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor a woman whose tireless service as Concord Town Justice has made her court the envy of town courts throughout Erie County. I want to honor the service of Judge Mary Hubert. A native of Buffalo, Judge Hubert has served on the bench as Town Justice in the Town of Concord for many years. She is well known throughout the legal community as a fair-minded and efficient judge. The Hubert family has served their adopted hometown very well. Judge Hubert's husband, Raymond, is a longtime member of the Concord Town Board, and their combined service has augured well for local residents; they are better for having had the privilege of Judge Hubert's service. As Judge Hubert now goes into retirement as an active judge, I want to thank you, Mr. Speaker, for allowing me an opportunity to honor her service to the residents of the town of Concord in this manner. My thanks go out to Judge Hubert for her fine service, and my best wishes go out to her, Ray and to their entire family for good luck and Godspeed in the months and years to come.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Richard Newton, a resident of Chautauqua County for his quest to become the elected representative to the first legislative district in the Chautauqua County Legislature. Although Mr. Newton was not able to realize his dream he has been able to make an impact on other's lives in a different way. The campaign trail is a difficult path to take. Any person with a dream may enter but only a few are able to reach the end. Mr. Newton traveled that path with his head held high and a smile on his face the entire way. I have no doubt that his kind demeanor left a lasting impression on the voters of district 1. Chautauqua County is blessed to have such strong candidates with a desire to make this county the wonderful place that we all know it can be. Mr. Newton is one of those people and that is why, Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor him today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Peter Guise, a resident of Chautauqua County for his quest to become the elected representative to the twelfth legislative district in the Chautauqua County Legislature. Although Mr. Guise was not able to realize his dream he has been able to make an impact on other's lives in a different way. The campaign trail is a difficult path to take. Any person with a dream may enter but only a few are able to reach the end. Mr. Guise traveled that path with his head held high and a smile on his face the entire way, I have no doubt that his kind demeanor left a lasting impression on the voters of district 12. Mr. Guise has tried his hand in county politics a couple of times. That is a respectable trait to have. Determination to do good things for your county is one thing that Chautauqua County residents strive for. Chautauqua County is blessed to have such strong candidates with a desire to make this county the wonderful place that we all know it can be. Mr. Guise is one of those people and that is why, Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor him today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor three dedicated public servants whose service to the town of Brant has been effective and honorable. I wish today to honor retiring Town Supervisor Samuel J. Chiavetta and retiring Council Members Eugene Czyz and Marting Rosiek. Although one of the smallest towns in Erie County and among the smallest in the 27th Congressional District, the town of Brant is in many ways a very natural bridge between the two counties that make up the 27th District--Erie County in the north and Chautauqua County in the south. Though a tiny rural farming community, the town of Brant is an important part of our region, and I am pleased to honor its retiring elected leaders today. Supervisor Chiavetta, Councilman Czyz and Councilman Rosiek served as a effective public officials during a time of change, both in Brant as well as throughout western New York. Their service was to the taxpayers who elected them to public office, and their dedication to their town and to their community is steadfast. I am honored to have been able to call them colleagues in government. Mr. Speaker, I again want to thank you for this opportunity to honor these three fine public servants, and I want to wish to them and to their many friends, family members and public supporters all the best of good luck and Godspeed in their future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor John Allan, whose service as a member of the Concord Town Board will come to an end on December 31, 2005. Councilman Allan is a man dedicated to effective public service for the resident of the town of Concord. Few public officials love their hometown the way John Allan does, and his public acts have always had the intention of making life in the town of Concord better for those fortunate enough to live there. While John's most recent run for public office has proven unsuccessful, it is a virtual certainty that he will remain active in local civic affairs. That is a good thing, for the town of Concord is better for the active public service of individuals like John Allan. I want to thank you, Mr. Speaker, for offering me this opportunity to honor the public service of retiring Concord Councilman John Allan, and I hope that you will join me in offering to Mr. Allan the House's best wishes of good luck and Godspeed in all of his future endeavors.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Nancy Petruccello, a resident of Chautauqua County, for her quest to become the elected representative to the 10th legislative district in the Chautauqua County Legislature. Although Ms. Petruccello was not able to realize her dream, she has been able to make an impact on others' lives in a different way. The campaign trail is a difficult path to take. Any person with a dream may enter but only a few are able to reach the end. Ms. Petruccello traveled that path with her head held high and a smile on her face the entire way. I have no doubt that her kind demeanor left a lasting impression on the voters of district 10. Nancy Petruccello has served as a voting machine custodian for many of the Jamestown voting machines. Even though she was running her own campaign this year, Nancy still found the time to serve as the custodian. Nancy Petruccello is an amazing woman who ran a tremendous campaign. Many do not realize this, but Ms. Petruccello ran her campaign while dealing with the trials of having a brain tumor. She clearly loves her county and wanted to do what is best for it at any cost. Chautauqua County is blessed to have such strong candidates with a desire to make this county the wonderful place that we all know it can be. Ms. Petruccelo is one of those people and that is why, Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor her today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor David Mitchell, a resident of Chautauqua County for his quest to become the elected representative to the eighth legislative district in Chautauqua County Legislature. Although Mr. Mitchell was not able to realize his dream he has been able to make an impact on other's lives in a different way. The campaign trail is a difficult path to take. Any person with a dream may enter but only a few are able to reach the end. Mr. Mitchell traveled that path with his head held high and a smile on his face the entire way. I have no doubt that his kind demeanor left a lasting impression on the voters of district 8. David Mitchell is a former Jamestown police officer that was wounded while on duty. Through his courage and determination to rise above his injuries David has made a tremendous recovery. It is inspiring to see a man with such conviction to better his community run for public office. Chautauqua County is blessed to have such strong candidates with a desire to make this county the wonderful place that we all know it can be. Mr. Mitchell is one of those people and that is why, Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor him today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Fred Yezzi, a resident of Chautauqua County for his quest to become the elected representative to the 11th legislative district in the Chautauqua County Legislature. Although Mr. Yezzi was not able to realize his dream, he has been able to make an impact on other's lives in a different way. The campaign trail is a difficult path to take. Any person with a dream may enter but only a few are able to reach the end. Mr. Yezzi traveled that path with his head held high and a smile on his face the entire way. I have no doubt that his kind demeanor left a lasting impression on the voters of district 11. Mr. Yezzi has tried his hand in county politics a couple of times. That is a respectable trait to have. Determination to do good things for your county is one thing that Chautauqua County residents strive for. Chautauqua County is blessed to have such strong candidates with a desire to make this county the wonderful place that we all know it can be. Mr. Yezzi is one of those people and that is why, Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor him today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Michael Eaker, a resident of Chautauqua County for his quest to become the elected representative to the seventh legislative district in the Chautauqua County legislature. Although Mr. Eaker was not able to realize his dream he has been able to make an impact on other's lives in a different way. The campaign trail is a difficult path to take. Any person with a dream may enter but only a few are able to reach the end. Mr. Eaker traveled that path with his head held high and a smile on his face the entire way. I have no doubt that his kind demeanor left a lasting impression on the voters of district 7. Chautauqua County is blessed to have such strong candidates with a desire to make this county the wonderful place that we all know it can be. Mr. Eaker is one of those people and that is why, Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor him today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mark Sackett, a resident of Chautauqua County for his quest to become the elected representative to the forth legislative district in the Chautauqua County Legislature. Although Mr. Sackett was not able to realize his dream he has been able to make an impact on other's lives in a different way. The campaign trail is a difficult path to take. Any person with a dream may enter but only a few are able to reach the end. Mr. Sackett traveled that path with his head held high and a smile on his face the entire way. I have no doubt that his kind demeanor left a lasting impression on the voters of district 4. Mr. Sackett is a former legislator where he served the people of district 4 for many years. Mark is also a very creative man who never stops thinking of ways to assist a friend. Many people of Sheridan, New York may remember the large gavel that he constructed. Chautauqua County is blessed to have such strong candidates with a desire to make this county the wonderful place that we all know it can be. Mr. Sackett is one of those people and that is why, Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor him today.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor retiring Lackawanna City Councilman Ricardo Estrada, who will on December 31, 2005, complete 8 years of service as a member of the Lackawanna City Council. Ricky Estrada is a leader of significance in the city of Lackawanna and in his beloved first ward that he has served so well. Consistently re-elected by his constituents, Ricky Estrada has been a strong voice for an economically challenged community, and it is his leadership that will allow for the resurgence of Lackawanna's first ward in the years to come. It would be hard for me, Mr. Speaker, to imagine a group of elected leaders who support our vision for the reform of the transportation infrastructure of Buffalo and Lackawanna's waterfront areas than the elected leaders of the city of Lackawanna. Leaders like Ricky Estrada have long recognized the need to offer greater public access to our region's waterfront, and his support and that of his colleagues has been outstanding and meaningful, and effective for the people he represents. While my friend Councilman Estrada will be succeeded on the Lackawanna City Council by an effective community leader, it is unquestioned that his retirement will be a loss for the city council in general and for the city as a whole. It is my fervent hope that Ricky Estrada will remain an active member of our community, so that we may continue to work together toward the betterment of our region. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for this opportunity to honor Councilman Estrada, and his faithful service to the residents and taxpayers of the city of Lackawanna.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my opposition to and concern about the devastating cuts to essential services passed in this House today as part of the budget reconciliation package. The cuts this body adopted today will have disastrous impacts on the western New York communities I represent. The unnecessary cuts to health, education and children's programs will be particularly hard felt in and among the working families of Erie and Chautauqua Counties. The ranks of the uninsured continue to swell in this country, and more and more Americans are concerned that someday they may find themselves without health insurance and unable to afford needed care. In fact, over 45 million Americans are currently without health insurance. Medicaid represents this government's promise to provide health care to Americans who can least afford it. Over 4 million New Yorkers are enrolled in this quite literally life-saving program, including 1.8 million children. I voted against the bill today because it will cut Medicaid spending by more than $11 billion. That's an $11 billion cut from caring for children suffering from leukemia, from pregnant mothers struggling to survive and from mentally disabled men and women trying to make a place for themselves in our communities; we should not make our budget cuts on their backs. Instead, we should be increasing health care access to more Americans, not fewer. If Medicaid is expanding, it's because fewer Americans can afford health insurance, let's not deny them the only access to care available to them. I am also concerned that this legislation cuts over $14 billion from successful Federal student loan programs--the largest cuts ever to student aid. This is the wrong cut at the wrong time, because college costs continue to skyrocket with no end in sight. In fact tuition at 4- year public colleges has increased 46 percent since 2001. Children from working families in Erie and Chautauqua Counties, and over 470,000 students across the State, depend on these loans to afford college and they depend on college as the key to economic opportunity. These cuts will needlessly deny that opportunity to young people in western New York who want to go to Medaille, Canisius, the University of Buffalo, my alma mater, Buffalo State, and others. The reconciliation package is also an abdication of our responsibility to children. The bill cuts child support enforcement by almost $5 billion, abandoning single parents and rolling back the progress our society has made in this field. Children are not responsible for divorce or for parents abandoning their families. Let's not turn back the clock and make them carry that responsibility. The bill cuts $577 million from foster care programs. And perhaps most troubling, it cuts $796 million from food stamps, which represent our promise that amid this country's great wealth, no American child, whether in the cold winters of Erie County or the sun baked mountains of Arizona, should starve. What is perhaps most objectionable about this process is the doubletalk used to sell these cuts. While we have been told that these spending cuts are necessary to reduce the deficit, they do nothing of the sort. Instead, the $50 billion in spending cuts are coupled with $106 billion in tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans. That means that all of these cuts, all of them, will be used to pay for irresponsible tax cuts that we can't afford and that do not put money back in the pockets of my hardworking constituents in Buffalo; not one dime will actually go to reduce the deficit. In fact, this reconciliation process will increase, not decrease, the deficit. I agree that it is well past time for Congress to put our fiscal house in order, but to call this package a deficit reduction measure at best makes no sense, and at worst is patently dishonest. We need to do better by the American people and I pledge to do better for the people of Western New York. Frankly, they do not deserve this bad budget. Mr. Speaker, I object to the cuts this House adopted today, and I object to the slight of hand used to sell them.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure and gratitude that I stand here today to recognize Ralph J. Galanti, Jr., Erie Community College Director of Athletics who is retiring after 36 years of service to ECC. Born and raised in the City of Lackawanna, over the last three and one-half decades Ralph ``Chico'' Galanti has completely transformed ECC's athletic program, putting ECC on the map in the college sports world. As coach of the ECC hockey team, Galanti led the team to appearances at eight NJCAA national championships, winning five regional titles. In his role as Athletic Director, Galanti was instrumental in brining football to ECC and had a hands on role in the development of ECC's Burt Flickinger Athletic Center, a facility awarded for its design, which not only serves the college but the entire community, hosting national athletic events. Galanti's ongoing efforts increased enrollment at the school where he pushed students to balance athletics and academics. For his accomplishments, Chico has been inducted into the Greater Buffalo Hall of Fame and the National Junior College Athletic Association Hockey Coaches Hall of Fame. The Ralph and Grace Galanti Memorial Scholarship fund honor's Ralph's parents, and continues his legacy of commitment, by assisting the student athletes in our community. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure I recognize Ralph Galanti, Jr., a man whose devotion to Erie Community College has shaped the lives of thousands of ECC students and left a positive mark on the entire Western New York community. On behalf of the residents of New York's 27th Congressional District I would like to wish Chico health and happiness in his retirement by using his signature farewell, ``be happy.''

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the public service of Erie County Legislator Jeanne Z. Chase, who has served the residents of the Erie County Legislature's 12th Legislative district, which currently includes the towns of Boston, Brant, Eden, Evans, Hamburg, and North Collins, since her initial appointment in 1997, and who will leave the Legislature at the conclusion of her current term at the end of this year. Jeanne Chase has been, above all else, someone dedicated to the sound and effective representation of her constituents, all of whom are also residents of the 27th Congressional district. It is her commitment to her constituents and to her community at large that has always impressed me about Jeanne Chase, and it is why I am delighted to honor her service to Erie County today. Jeanne Chase is a lifelong resident of the Town of Evans. A graduate of Immaculata Academy, and SUNY Fredonia, Jeanne worked in the private sector for many years before seeking appointment to the 12th district seat upon the resignation of then-Legislator Bert Villarini in 1997. Jeanne defeated a well-known and well-funded challenger in her first election in 1997 and won re-election to her seat in three succeeding elections. Jeanne Chase is a longtime member of the Legislature's Public Safety committee, and has always placed the safety of her constituents as a top priority. As Chair of the Legislature's Public Safety committee from 2002 to 2003, Erie County moved forward with the construction of the state-of-the-art Public Safety Campus, which, when completed, will become the communications center and focal point for all police, fire and emergency services in our region. A longtime supporter of crime victims' rights, Jeanne has supported initiatives that increase protection for crime victims throughout New York State, and worked to establish a Domestic Violence Satellite Office in the Southtowns. Jeanne has seen many public accomplishments but cites as her greatest accomplishments her family. Husband Rob and daughter Chelsea are proud of Jeanne's service to her constituents, and we are as well. Jeanne Chase has chosen not to leave public service. She is applying her experience in the field of real estate to her service as Town Assessor in the Town of Evans. I am proud and grateful, Mr. Speaker, to call to the House's attention the dedicated public service of Erie County Legislator Jeanne Chase, and I am certain that the whole House would join me in offering to Jeanne and to her entire family wishes of good luck and Godspeed in the months and years to come.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor a friend and fellow public official whose service has I been exemplary and whose commitment to the residents and taxpayers of the towns of West Seneca and Cheektowaga, and the residents of the county of Erie at large, has been commendable. Today, I wish to honor the service of retiring Erie County Legislator Timothy Wroblewski. Tim Wroblewski began his career as an elected official as a member of the West Seneca Town Board. During that service, Tim worked with local officials to make West Seneca's government among the most efficient and effective local governments in New York State--forging relationships across party lines and working cooperatively with civic, government and community leaders to make West Seneca government the envy of local governments statewide. With an open-seat election for the ninth legislative district seat available in 2004, Tim Wroblewski entered the race for the County Legislature and took office in January 2004. Since his election to the legislature, Tim served as a strong voice on behalf of Erie County's taxpayers. Tim's commitment to his constituency was admirable, and I have always valued his friendship, both on a personal as well as a professional level. The residents of the towns of West Seneca and South Cheektowaga are better for the service provided to them by Tim Wroblewski, and I want to thank you, Mr. Speaker, for this opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of a responsible and effective public official.

Mr. HIGGINS

Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the 4 years of elective service by retiring Erie County Legislator Elise M. Cusack. Legislator Cusack was elected in 2001, replacing a man who was then the Legislature's longest-serving member, William A. Pauly. Legislator Cusack's district includes the towns of Amherst and Tonawanda, but includes a small portion of the town of Cheektowaga, which is located within the 27th Congressional District. Elise Cusack has been an energetic representative of her constituents, maintaining a full service district office and garnering a reputation for effective constituent service. Although Legislator Cusack and I sit on different sides of the political aisle, I have always respected her intellect and her demonstrated commitment to her constituents. Beginning on January 1, 2006, Elise Cusack will be able to don her other governmental hat--that of a member of the Board of Trustees of the New York Power Authority--on a full time basis. As someone with a keen interest in the actions of that public authority, I look forward to many anticipated future opportunities to interact with Legislator Cusack in a professional capacity. In closing, I appreciate this opportunity, Mr. Speaker, to rise and honor the service of Legislator Elise Cusack and I want to offer to her, her husband and children my very best wishes of good luck and Godspeed in all of her future endeavors.