Timothy M. Kennedy

VA Police Recruitment and Retention Act of 2026

in committee

To designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 1200 William Street, Room 200, in Buffalo, New York, as the "William J. Donovan Post Office Building".

in committee

VA Funding and Workforce Protection Act

in committee

“Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Councilmember Jacqualine Berger, a woman whose influence can be seen and felt throughout the Western New York community by colleagues and community members of Amherst, New York. In 1978, Councilmember Berger earned her bachelor's degree from Lesley University, followed by a master's degree from Tulane University in 1983. For more than two decades, she has dedicated her career to education, guiding and mentoring students at every level and helping them build bright, successful futures. Councilmember Berger is a lifelong public servant and champion for her community. She has led at both the local and national levels through her work with the New York State United Teachers and the American Federation of Teachers. A dedicated advocate for individuals with special needs, she also runs a local Challenger Baseball program that empowers children and adults with disabilities to play and thrive. In 2017, she was elected to the Amherst Town Board and has dutifully served for nearly a decade. During her tenure, Councilmember Berger was appointed Deputy Supervisor, playing a vital role in the town's operations and acting as a liaison between the Town and Amherst residents. As we acknowledge the incredible service of Councilmember Jacqualine Berger, let us recognize her dedicated career as a public servant and her service to the Town of Amherst, providing a safe space for all to be seen and heard. Councilmember Berger's leadership is a masterclass, and her service will be seen, felt, and heard for generations to come, and we are all the better for it. ____________________”

2025-12-03 · Government Reform

“Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 125th anniversary of the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 17. For over a century, these skilled workers have ensured the safe and efficient operation of the machinery that powers our region's progress. Their expertise keeps Western New York's vital projects running-- projects that our communities rely on every single day. As the very embodiment of American blue-collar grit and skill, Local 17 represents the best of who we are. With over two thousand members, Local 17 continues to strengthen our workforce through apprenticeship programs, training programs, and a focus on continuous education. The renaissance of Western New York wouldn't be possible without Local 17's hard work. Local 17 is led by President Josh Williams and Business Manager William Fekete. The union also operates a training school located in Lake View, New York, under the direction of Vice President James Smolinski, Jr., helping to educate the next generation of operating engineers in the safe usage of their equipment and allowing members to hone their skills. Mr. Speaker, as we mark the 125th anniversary of the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 17, we celebrate its lasting impact on Western New York. Local 17 exemplifies the best of organized labor and demonstrates that when we invest in our workers, we invest in the success of our entire region. ____________________”

2025-12-03 · Labor

“Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the remarkable leadership and service of Pastor Craig Pridgen as we honor his 15th Pastoral Anniversary at True Bethel Baptist Church. Pastor Pridgen's influence extends far beyond the walls of the church, making a lasting impact on the lives of those in need. As a proud Western New York native, Pastor Pridgen was raised with the strong support of his family from the very beginning, helping to shape him into a natural leader in all aspects of his life. He excelled academically, graduating from the Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts before earning his Associate's degree in Business Administration from Medaille University; and later furthering his education, obtaining his Bachelor's degree in Leadership Studies from Regent University. More than two decades ago with a unanimous decision amongst his peers, Pastor Pridgen was granted his license to preach. In 2010, Pastor Pridgen was chosen to be the spiritual leader of True Bethel Baptist Church's Niagara Falls, New York congregation, guided by the teachings and carrying the voice and [[Page E1141]] vision of his father, Pastor Darius Pridgen. As a licensed and ordained minister of the Gospel, Pastor Pridgen embodies the belief that we are all called to be servants of the Lord. His passion for service resonates throughout the Western New York, and his leadership inspires parishioners and visitors of True Bethel Baptist Church to grow in faith and unity. Pastor Pridgen is supported by his beloved wife, the Honorable Judge JaHarr Pridgen. Together, they have formed a family grounded in faith with the addition of their two blessed children: Jordin and Journey. Their marriage exemplifies the strength found in a family that prays and worships together. Pastor Pridgen has made a priority of reaching out to his community, serving as a mentor and advocate for youth, adults, and our most vulnerable community members through his role as a Senior Community Advisor and Chaplain at Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center. As we celebrate a decade and a half of Pastor Pridgen's unwavering dedication, let us recognize the countless lives he has touched and the profound impact he has made at True Bethel Baptist Church and beyond. I congratulate Pastor Pridgen on this significant milestone. His service is a blessing, and we look forward to many more years of his inspired leadership. ____________________”

2025-12-03 · Government Reform