[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 95 (Wednesday, June 4, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H2429]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING DAVID KIRSCHTEL

  (Mr. Lawler of New York was recognized to address the House for 5 
minutes.)
  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

  Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of William 
Vincent Motto, a lifelong resident of Nyack, New York, who passed away 
on May 8, 2025, at the age of 87.
  Bill spent more than 41 years with Orange and Rockland Utilities as a 
line foreman and gave nearly 70 years of dedicated volunteer service to 
the Orangetown Fire Company No. 1. He served as captain, as a longtime 
commissioner for the Nyack Fire Department, and as a driver, always 
stepping up for his neighbors and his community.
  He was also a devoted family man. Bill and his wife, Beverly, were 
married for nearly 65 years, raising three daughters and building a 
life grounded in love, faith, and hard work. Whether it was 
woodworking, fishing, or taking his annual trip to South Bend to cheer 
on Notre Dame, Bill lived a full and meaningful life.
  His commitment to service, his love of family, and his deep roots in 
Rockland County are what made him such a respected figure.
  I extend my condolences to Beverly, their children and grandchildren, 
and all who knew and loved him.
  May he rest in peace.


                   In Memory of Frank ``Butch'' Hagen

  Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Frank 
``Butch'' Hagen, a proud veteran, a devoted public servant, and a 
beloved resident of Rockland County.
  Born in the Bronx in 1950, Frank spent his life in service to others, 
first in the National Guard and the Army, and later as a village 
trustee and deputy mayor in Suffern. He was a steady presence in local 
organizations like The American Legion and the Lions Club, always 
showing up and always giving back.
  More than anything, Frank was a family man. He raised four boys with 
heart, humor, and grit. His sons remember him not just for his 
selflessness but for the joy he brought to life.
  For instance, he led a sled ride down a snowy road in an old plastic 
boat because if it was fun, it was an option, and Frank made it happen.
  He kept the peace. He led with love, and he never backed down from a 
challenge. His life was full, and his legacy will live on through his 
children, his grandchildren, and all who were lucky enough to know him.
  I was proud to call him a friend, and his memory will always be a 
blessing to the Suffern community.


                Paying Tribute to Officer Joseph Gravino

  Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a remarkable 
man from my district, Officer Joseph Gravino of Orangeburg, New York, 
who passed away suddenly on May 23 at just 37 years old.
  Joe served the NYPD with distinction for 12 years, most recently as 
part of the Strategic Response Group. He faced every challenge with 
calm resolve, earning the trust of his colleagues and the gratitude of 
the city he served. He protected New Yorkers with honor, courage, and a 
deep sense of duty.
  Yet, Joe's greatest role was at home as a husband to his beloved 
wife, Katie; and as a devoted father to their three children, Anthony, 
Juliana, and little Dominic.
  Whether coaching a Little League game, showing up for a dance 
recital, or simply spending time together, Joe gave his heart fully to 
his family. Being described by those who knew him well, Joe Gravino was 
simply full of love.
  Today, the people of Rockland County and the city of New York mourn 
his loss. May his memory be a source of strength to his family and 
community in the coming months and years.

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