Michael Lawler

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, the reason we know this is a Democratic shutdown is because of how angry they are that we are about to reopen the government, period. That is all you need to know. Jerry Nadler said the shutdown is really ``an extremist policy designed to appeal to an extremist base and hold the whole country hostage.'' That is exactly what the Democrats have done over the last 43 days. They have held the American people hostage, trying to extract insane things, like free healthcare for illegal immigrants. If they were serious about tackling the healthcare affordability crisis in this country, then they would address the fundamental problem with ObamaCare. Since ObamaCare took effect, healthcare premiums have risen by 96 percent and on the open market by 114 percent. When I asked Leader Jeffries to sign on to the 1-year extension of the premium tax credit, he refused. He stuttered. He stammered. He couldn't answer a single question because this shutdown was never about healthcare. It was always about appeasing a far-left radical base. Chuck Schumer said: Every day gets better for us. Katherine Clark said: Of course, people will suffer. We want to use this as leverage. It is an embarrassment to this country. You should all be ashamed of yourselves for inflicting this pain on the American people, taking away food stamps from 42 million Americans, defunding WIC, and not paying our troops, our Federal employees, and our air traffic controllers. It is a disgrace, and you should all hang your heads in shame. Vote ``yes'' to pass the bill and reopen the government.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Kenneth John Bermudez, Jr., of North Rockland, who passed away earlier this year at just 15 years old from hypoplastic coronary artery disease. As known to those who knew him best, Kenny J. was an extraordinary young man. At Fieldstone Secondary School, he was an honor roll and principal's list student. He was also a devoted member of the Haverstraw Fire Department, proudly serving as a junior firefighter. For someone so young, Kenny's commitment to community and service spoke volumes about his character. Kenny's family and friends remember the joy he carried with him, the bond he shared with his mother and brothers, and the light of his faith that touched everyone around him. This week, the community will dedicate a memorial bench at Fieldstone to honor his memory, ensuring that generations of North Rockland students will know the story of a classmate who lived with such heart and purpose. On behalf of New York's 17th District, I extend my deepest condolences to the Bermudez family. Kenny's spirit, service, and example will live on in North Rockland. Honoring the Life and Legacy of Larry Brissing

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Larry Brissing, a lifelong North Rockland resident who passed away on September 13 surrounded by his loving family. Born in Tomkins Cove in 1949, Larry spent his early days helping at Snuffy's Restaurant, the family business, before going on to build one of his own. After years as a heavy equipment operator, he founded L.R.B. Excavating and later served the people of Stony Point with distinction as superintendent of highways for 19 years. Larry's commitment was recognized when the town named the street leading to its highway department in his honor. Beyond his work, Larry was deeply devoted to his faith, his community, and, above all, his family. A devoted husband to his late wife, Ewa, a proud father of four, and a loving grandfather of seven, Larry lived a life defined by service, kindness, and love. May his memory be a blessing and his legacy continue to inspire North Rockland for generations to come. Honoring the Life and Legacy of Joanne M. Rosamond

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Joanne M. Rosamond, of Bedford Hills, who passed away on September 6. For over 50 years, Joanne dedicated herself to her family, her community, and the people of Westchester County. She served as confidential secretary to the town supervisor of North Castle and gave countless hours of her time to civic, political, and charitable organizations. Whether as chairwoman of the women's advisory committee to the Westchester County Board of Legislators, president of the Bedford Hills Women's Club for 14 years, or as a leader in the Westchester County Federation of Women's Clubs, Joanne was a tireless advocate for others. Joanne's work earned her recognition from the Westchester County legislature and the New York State Senate and Assembly, but her true legacy is the love she gave her family: her husband, George; their children, George Jr. and Dori; and her grandchildren, Eliza, Daniel, Zuzanna, Scarlet, and Phonze. Joanne's life of service and devotion will not be forgotten. I will miss you, my friend. Welcoming His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to welcome to the United States His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople, the spiritual leader of more than 300 million Orthodox Christians worldwide, including my wife, and the head of the second largest Christian church in the world. He comes to our country at a historic moment, having been awarded the distinguished Templeton Prize, joining the ranks of past recipients such as Mother Teresa, the Dalai Lama, and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. For decades, Patriarch Bartholomew has been a bridge builder between faiths and a global voice for environmental stewardship and human dignity. His visit is a moment of pride for Greek Orthodox Christians across America, including many of my constituents in New York's 17th District. On behalf of this Congress, I extend a warm welcome and safe return home to His All-Holiness and offer gratitude for his life of service and his witness to faith, peace, and reconciliation. Recognizing Firefighter Kenny Beck

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize firefighter Kenny Beck, who has retired after 25 years of dedicated service to the Lake Mohegan Fire District. Kenny spent his entire career on shift three, beginning at headquarters and later serving at Station 2 in Jefferson Valley. Over those years, he became known not just for his reliability on calls, but for the way he has mentored other firefighters, passing along lessons that will outlast his time in uniform. Kenny was there for his community in its most difficult moments, including his service during the attacks of September 11. His commitment to helping others continues beyond the firehouse through his work with the My Brother Vinny organization, supporting veterans and families in need. Kenny's retirement marks the end of a remarkable career that will leave an impact on the fire service for years to come.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the lives of two remarkable constituents from Pearl River, May and Bob Kreider, who passed away this summer just weeks apart after 67 years of marriage. May Kreider, a proud Bronx native and first-generation Irish American, built a career as a nurse and educator, earning her master's degree from Columbia University. She gave her life to caring for others, whether at Columbia Presbyterian, in hospice, or through her leadership with the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians in Pearl River where she was blessed to be named the grand marshal of the Rockland County St. Patrick's Day Parade in 2010. Bob Kreider proudly served our Nation in the Navy during the Korean war and later as a highly decorated detective sergeant with the NYPD. His life was defined by service, faith, and devotion to his family and protecting his community. Together, Bob and May raised five children and built not just a family but a home rooted in love, faith, and service. Their legacy lives on in Pearl River, in the children and their eight grandchildren that they cherished, and in the countless lives they touched with their kindness. May God bless the memory of Bob and May Kreider, and may He continue to comfort their family and friends during this time of loss.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Wesley LePatner, a remarkable New Yorker who was senselessly murdered in late July. Her passing is a tremendous loss to all who had the privilege of knowing her. Wesley was a remarkable leader, an accomplished executive who oversaw Blackstone's real estate investment fund, a devoted wife and mother, and a true force for good in our community. Through her work with the UJA-Federation of New York and her tireless volunteerism, she poured her energy and wisdom into strengthening the Jewish community, supporting Israel, and mentoring those who followed in her footsteps. Her life was defined by service, compassion, and conviction. She gave generously of herself, balancing a demanding career with the steadfast devotion to her family. In every space she entered, she lifted others up. Today, we grieve with her husband, Evan; their children, Emerson and Jonathan; her parents; and all who loved her, including her colleagues at Blackstone. May Wesley's memory always be a blessing, and may her example continue to inspire us to lead with purpose, generosity, and love.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Desmond ``Desi'' Patrick Flaherty of Stony Point who passed away last week at the age of 86. Born in the Bronx, Desi dedicated his life to service, spending 20 years with the NYPD's 44th Precinct, where he helped found the 44 Forever Club. He spent more than 50 years driving a schoolbus with Haverstraw Transit, safely carrying generations of children to school. He coached Stony Point Little League for 25 years. He was an active member of the Rockland County Shields, the North Rockland Social Club, and his parish, St. Gregory Barbarigo. Above all, Desi was a family man. He leaves behind his wife, Eleanor, with whom he shared 63 years. He also leaves behind 4 children, 10 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren. He was a proud North Rocklander whose legacy will live on in his family and in all the lives he touched. May Desi's memory always be a blessing to his family and to the North Rockland community.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lance Corporal Ryan James Barnard, of Valley Cottage, New York, who died on July 2 while serving our country at Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii. Ryan was just 22 years old. He served in the United States Marine Corps with the 3rd Littoral Combat Team, Ares Company. He was living his dream, wearing the uniform with pride, and doing what he believed in. Ryan grew up in the Hudson Valley playing Little League baseball and hockey, skating for Nyack High School, the Palisades Predators, and the Army West Point Junior Black Knights. He was known for his quiet focus, toughness, and strong sense of duty. In the wake of Ryan's passing, his family and our community are working to establish a youth hockey grant in his name, carrying forward his spirit of discipline and teamwork for years to come. I am grateful for Ryan's service to the United States, and I extend my deepest condolences to the Barnard family. Honoring Michael Halpin

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Michael Halpin of Pearl River, New York, who passed away on July 9 at the age of 88. Born in Kilrush, County Clare, Ireland, Mike immigrated to New York in 1955 and proudly served in the United States Army, including a tour of duty in Korea. After his military service, he continued to serve as an NYPD officer in the 46th Precinct in the Bronx. Like me, Mike was a proud Irish American. The very definition of a pillar of the community, he served as president of the Rockland Irish- American Cultural Center and the Rockland GAA. He was a member of the AOH Division 3 and led the 2004 Rockland St. Patrick's Day parade as grand marshal. Mike was a devoted parishioner of St. Margaret's Church, a member of the Hudson Valley 10-13 Club, and, above all, a proud husband, father, and grandfather. Mike Halpin lived a life of dutiful purpose and leadership with a deep love for both his heritage and his community. He will be missed. Recognizing John ``Jackie'' Sullivan

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize John ``Jackie'' Sullivan, a Navy veteran, FDNY EMS deputy chief, and longtime volunteer firefighter in Spring Valley and Yorktown Heights. Jack gave his entire adult life to serving others. He spent 12 years as a Navy flight engineer, 31 years as a paramedic, rising to deputy chief, and more than three decades answering fire calls as a volunteer. On 9/11, he ran toward the towers. When they fell, he dove under a truck to survive and then stayed at Ground Zero for a year, helping recover the fallen with dignity and respect. That tells you everything you need to know about the kind of man he was. Jackie was also a union leader, a mentor to younger EMTs and firefighters, and a relentless storyteller, who never missed a chance to make someone laugh. He was the kind of guy you wanted by your side in a crisis and around the dinner table once the storm had passed. To his wife, Denise; his daughters, Katie and Maggie; and all who loved him, our hearts are with you. May his memory always be a blessing.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I am a proud cosponsor of the CLARITY Act and voted YEA when it was marked up in the House Financial Services Committee. I would have voted YEA on this bill, which will foster investment and job creation in the rapidly growing digital economy. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 199, passage of H.R. 3633.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of little Golda Eisenbach, who was tragically taken from the Monsey community in June. Golda was the beloved 4-year-old daughter of Spring Valley Trustee Yisroel Eisenbach, a dedicated public servant from a cherished Rockland County family. Golda's life was cut short in a tragic accident caused by a drunk driver, a painful reminder of how one reckless choice can shatter lives. What should have been a peaceful end to a day playing at the park with her family and friends ended in heartbreak. My thoughts and prayers are with the Eisenbach family as they continue to mourn their precious daughter's life. Golda brought so much light and love to her family. My prayers are also with the other victims of this senseless accident who are still recovering. May Golda's memory be a blessing, and may her loved ones find peace in the strength of the community surrounding them. Honoring the Life of Herman S. Geist

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of Herman S. Geist, a Westchester County legend and a true public servant. Herman was the first-ever chairman of the Westchester County Board of Legislators, and he helped build the foundation of local government in our region for years to come. A decorated World War II veteran, Herman came home and spent his life working to strengthen his community, from protecting our parks to supporting healthcare and preserving New York's history. Herman led with humility, integrity, and purpose, and Westchester is better because of him. I thank his family for sharing Herman with all of us. Herman's legacy lives on in the institutions he strengthened, the people he mentored, and the county that he helped shape. Honoring Patricia ``Patty'' Rathschmidt

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of an extraordinary Putnam County resident, Patricia ``Patty'' Rathschmidt, who passed away this week surrounded by the family she so deeply loved. A daughter of Yonkers, the proud child of an Irish immigrant mother and a decorated World War II veteran, Patty lived a life rooted in service. As a nurse, as a mother of 8, and as a grandmother of 12, Patty poured her heart into caring for others. Perhaps her most lasting impact began in 2007 when her son Luke was deployed with the 82nd Airborne. Patty and her husband, Jim, founded United for the Troops, a nonprofit that has sent over 30,000 care packages to our men and women in uniform. Each one is a symbol of love, gratitude, and the warmth of home and is sealed with a kiss. Patty's strength, compassion, and selfless spirit inspired all who knew her. I considered her a friend and will miss her dedication and commitment to our community. May her memory always be a blessing, and may she find peace with her son Luke in Heaven. Honoring Ron Tocci

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a true Hudson Valley hero, Ron Tocci, for his lifelong service to our veterans, our State, and our Nation. A proud son of New Rochelle and a U.S. Army paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne, Ron Tocci brought the same grit and commitment to public service that he brought to the battlefield. For 20 years, he served in the New York State Assembly, including over a decade as chair of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, where he authored more than 200 bills. Ron secured funding for State veterans' nursing homes, fought for those battling addiction, and never stopped working to uphold the dignity of our flag and those who defend it. Ron was then commissioner of veterans affairs for the State of New York, and for 11 years, he served as director of the Westchester County Veterans Service Agency, where he fought to combat veteran homelessness and provide our veterans with the services and dignity that they deserve. On behalf of a grateful community, I thank Ron for his decades of selfless leadership and for reminding all of us what it means to put service above self. Ron has been a tremendous friend, supporter, and colleague, and I look forward to what the future holds for him.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of FDNY Captain Frederick Simms, Jr., a proud son of Rockland County, a devoted husband, and a true public servant. Born in Nyack, raised in Tappan, and a graduate of Tappan Zee High School, Freddie dedicated his life to serving others. He spent 22 years with the FDNY, rising through the ranks from Ladder 58 in the Bronx to lieutenant in Harlem and ultimately returning as captain of 58 Truck. Freddie also served for over 27 years with the Tappan Volunteer Fire Department, including time as chief, and helped train the next generation of firefighters as a New York State fire instructor and Rockland County deputy fire coordinator. Freddie passed away at 49 after a long battle with 9/11-related cancer. He will be remembered for his leadership, heart, and willingness to always put others first. My thoughts are with his wife, Jill; his family; his brothers and sisters in the fire service; and his parents. May his legacy of service live on. Honoring Mount Kisco

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor the 150th anniversary of the village of Mount Kisco, an extraordinary community in New York's Hudson Valley with a proud past and a bright future. From its roots as Lenape homeland to its days as a colonial settlement and a bustling railroad hub, Mount Kisco's story is one of resilience, reinvention, and unity. Officially incorporated in 1875 and later establishing itself as one of New York's few towns and villages, Mount Kisco has long been a beacon of community spirit and progress. This sesquicentennial is a moment to celebrate the people who have shaped Mount Kisco across generations, our farmers, families, businessowners, and public servants alike. Happy 150th, Mount Kisco, and here is to the next 150 years. Honoring Denis Troy

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor my good friend and longtime Orangetown leader, Denis Troy. A proud Bronx native, Denis built his life in Pearl River alongside his wife, Bea, raising a wonderful family and giving back every step of the way. Whether it was his long tenure on the town board, his work in the Rockland County legislature, or his service with organizations like Camp Venture, the Hibernians, CYO basketball, and Pearl River Little League, Denis always puts his community first. As I said when we celebrated his retirement from the Orangetown board, his accomplishments are too many to list, but his impact is undeniable. Denis has always put our community first and stood up for our families. He has never shied away from a fight and always does right by the town. I am proud to call him a friend, and I thank Denis for his many contributions to the town of Orangetown. Recognizing Sheriff Kevin McConville

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sheriff Kevin McConville, a lifelong resident of Putnam County and a true public servant. For over 30 years, Kevin served with distinction in the MTA Police Department, rising from patrol to become the department's first internal appointee as chief. He led with vision, creating a counterterrorism task force in the aftermath of 9/11, partnering with the FBI, and launching a 50-member canine unit to protect our transit system. Kevin was on the ground on 9/11, helping coordinate the MTA's response and later guiding long-term security efforts during critical moments in our history. A Marist graduate, Kevin has mentored others in criminal justice. Above all, he is a devoted husband to his wife, Janice, and a father, grandfather, and respected community leader. Recently, Kevin announced he would not run for reelection as sheriff. On behalf of New York's 17th District and the residents of Putnam County, I thank Sheriff McConville for a lifetime of service and leadership. Most importantly, I thank my friend, a good man. I love you, bud. Honoring Roberta Doremus

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Roberta Doremus of Rockland County, who passed away on June 5. Roberta was the definition of service. For over six decades, she dedicated herself to the volunteer fire service, serving 65 years with the Tallman Ladies Auxiliary, 59 years with the Rockland County Volunteer Firefighters' Association, and over 25 years as a leader with the Association of Fire Districts of Rockland County. Roberta was a charter member and treasurer of the Rockland County Volunteer Fire Services Museum, tireless advocate for our first responders, and beloved friend to so many. Professionally, Roberta worked for 40 years at Orange and Rockland Utilities, earning the prestigious Edison Living Our Values award. Above all, she was a devoted mother, grandmother, and sister. Her impact on our community is immeasurable, and her loss is deeply felt. May her memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved her, especially all those serving in our fire departments across Rockland County.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chair Wagner for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my bill, H.R. 3352, the HALOS Act, a bill I reintroduced this Congress with my colleague, Congressman Josh Gottheimer of New Jersey. America's small businesses have faced a tough road, weathering the impacts of COVID, high inflation, and burdensome regulations that have made it harder to grow and compete. Yet, they continue to serve as the backbone of our economy, driving innovation, creating jobs, and keeping the American Dream alive. According to the Small Business Administration, firms with fewer than 500 employees account for 43.5 percent of our Nation's GDP. Since 2019, they have been responsible for over 70 percent of net new job creation. Just last year, we saw more than 430,000 new business applications each month, a 50 percent increase compared to 2019. That kind of momentum deserves our full support. We should be doing everything we can to encourage investment, foster innovation, and make it easier, not harder, for entrepreneurs to succeed. That is why I introduced the Helping Angels Lead Our Startups Act, otherwise known as the HALOS Act. This bipartisan bill, which I am proud to lead alongside Josh Gottheimer, is a straightforward way to give early-stage startups more opportunities to connect with potential investors. The HALOS Act clarifies the definition of ``general solicitation'' and allows startups to participate in demo day events without fear of running afoul of outdated securities regulations. It also defines what it means to be an angel investor, helping entrepreneurs know who they can engage with as they work to get their ideas off the ground. These changes are not about deregulation for its own sake. They are about opening doors. They make it easier for new businesses to get the early capital they need to hire, grow, and contribute to a dynamic, competitive economy, and we know that this model works. Angel investors helped launch companies like Amazon, Google, Facebook, Costco, and Starbucks, names we all recognize today that started as small ideas in need of capital and support. By reducing legal uncertainty, especially around demo day events, we are also giving more room for underrepresented entrepreneurs and overlooked communities to pitch their ideas and access funding. It is a chance to level the playing field and help more people take part in building America's next generation of businesses. I am proud that during the committee process, we were able to make thoughtful revisions to address concerns raised by the ranking member. I thank Chairman Hill for advancing this bill, as well as my colleague, the chairwoman of the Subcommittee on Capital Markets, and Congressman Gottheimer for his partnership. The HALOS Act builds on the bipartisan success of the JOBS Act and is a commonsense step forward to modernize our rules and strengthen our economy. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the bill.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a good man and an exceptional leader in my district, David Kirschtel, the chief executive officer of JCC Rockland. Marking 25 years in June of this year, David has poured his heart into building the JCC into what it is today: a thriving center for fitness, early childhood education, summer camps, and cultural life. The JCC has served not just the Jewish community, but the broader Rockland community, as well. David's legacy goes beyond just the JCC. He was a driving force behind the global effort to honor the Munich 11, Israeli athletes murdered at the 1972 Olympics. Thanks to his work and the work of many others, the world finally paused to remember these victims with a moment of silence at the Tokyo Games in 2021. In addition, he has been a leading voice in the effort to combat anti-Semitism, especially after the terrorist attack on October 7, 2023. I am proud to call him a constituent and even prouder to call him a friend. I thank David for setting an example that reminds all of us what it means to lead with heart, purpose, and persistence. Honoring Bob Stagg on His Retirement

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the retirement of my pastor and dear friend, Father Bob Stagg of the Church of the Presentation in Upper Saddle River, New Jersey. Father Bob has been a guiding presence in my life and the lives of countless parishioners. Whether through his unwavering support for bringing folks of all walks of life into the fold, his thoughtful homilies, or the warmth of his many parish gatherings, Father Bob has led with heart, humor, and humility. He is the kind of priest who is not afraid to speak plainly, laugh loudly over a beer, or show up when it matters most. Through it all, he has reminded me that living the Gospel truth means meeting people where they are, with compassion first. Mr. Speaker, it has been 50 years since his ordination, and we thank Father Bob for his decades of faithful service. I thank him for the profound impact he has had on my faith and my family. He will be missed at Sunday mass, but his presence will be felt in the community he helped to build. Remembering William Vincent Motto