[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 82 (Thursday, May 14, 2026)]
[House]
[Pages H3460-H3461]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     PAYING TRIBUTE TO BRETT KELLY

  (Mr. Lawler of New York was recognized to address the House for 5 
minutes.)
  Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Brett Kelly, 
owner of La Terrazza restaurant in New City, New York, who passed away 
peacefully at the age of 58 following a stroke.
  A New Jersey native, Brett grew up in South Hackensack and earned a 
degree from William Paterson University in 1989. From a young age, he 
dreamed of owning a restaurant where people from all walks of life 
could gather and enjoy authentic Italian cuisine.
  Through his strong work ethic, Brett built a career in the 
hospitality industry. In 1995, his dream became a reality when he 
became the proud owner of La Terrazza. There, he created not just a 
business but a place where people felt at home, and he often referred 
to his staff as his second family, a testament to the bonds he built 
throughout his life.
  Brett will be remembered for his generosity, kindness, and remarkable 
ability to make everyone feel at home with his warmth and humor.
  Mr. Speaker, I extend my deepest condolences to his wife, Lisa; his 
daughter, Savannah; and all who had the privilege of knowing him. May 
his memory be a blessing.


                honoring the life of john ``jack'' coyle

  Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of John 
``Jack'' Coyle, a devoted public servant and pillar of the New City 
community.
  Born in Nyack, New York, Jack lived a life defined by service, 
commitment, and quiet leadership. After graduating from Nyack High 
School and Southern Methodist University, he proudly answered the call 
to serve his country in the United States Army, reflecting his lifelong 
dedication to protecting others.
  Jack's commitment to public service continued throughout his time at 
the New City Fire Department, where he served as a volunteer for a 
remarkable 70 years, making him the oldest living member at the time of 
his passing.
  Beyond his service, Jack built an impressive career in the insurance 
and real estate industry, building Coyle & Coyle, Inc., in his 
hometown, while remaining active in community committees and being an 
active member of St. John's Episcopal Church in New City.
  Mr. Speaker, Jack was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and 
friend to all who knew him. I extend my deepest condolences to his 
family and loved ones. May his memory be a blessing.


                         honoring thelma barlow

  Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Thelma 
Barlow, a pillar of the Somers community serving as a school crossing 
guard for the Somers Central School District for nearly 40 years.
  A lifelong resident of Shenorock, New York, Thelma served as the 
commissioner of the Boy Scouts of America and was a longtime member of 
the church of the Good Shepherd in Granite Springs, where she also 
served on the Altar Guild.

                              {time}  1030

  Thelma was an active member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Somers 
Fire Department and a member of the Yorktown Grange. Her love of 
photography and her commitment to her community were always remembered 
by everyone who knew her. Last year, in recognition of her service, a 
pedestrian crossing near Route 202, where she

[[Page H3461]]

would safely usher children to school, was named in her honor.
  Thelma was a remarkable inspiration to her community, and I extend my 
heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones.


                       Recognizing Robert Gebbia

  Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Robert Gebbia from 
Cross River on his retirement after nearly 30 years of distinguished 
leadership and service to suicide prevention.
  Bob has led the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, building 
it into the Nation's leading new suicide prevention organization. Under 
his leadership, AFSP expanded to more than 70 chapters nationwide and 
grew its annual revenue from roughly $1 million to more than $50 
million, supporting critical work in research, education, advocacy, and 
community programs, launching annual Out of the Darkness Walks in 
cities nationwide, connecting millions of Americans affected by suicide 
to community, and raising awareness.
  He has served as a founding member of the National Council for 
Suicide Prevention and on the executive committee of the National 
Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention, helping elevate mental health 
as a national priority.
  Bob leaves behind a legacy marked by meaningful impact, compassion, 
and a steadfast dedication to the nonprofit sector.
  As he enters retirement, I am grateful for his leadership and wish 
him nothing but the very best in the years to come.

                          ____________________