RECOGNIZING EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE OF CARDINAL TIMOTHY DOLAN

On 2026-02-04, Representative Michael Lawler (R-NY-17) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE OF CARDINAL TIMOTHY DOLAN" in the House. The speech addressed the environment.

RECOGNIZING EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE OF CARDINAL TIMOTHY DOLAN

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 25 (Wednesday, February 4, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 25 (Wednesday, February 4, 2026)] [House] [Page H1982] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING EXTRAORDINARY SERVICE OF CARDINAL TIMOTHY DOLAN (Mr. Lawler of New York was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary service and well-earned retirement of Cardinal Timothy Michael Dolan, whose leadership has profoundly shaped the Catholic faith in New York and across our Nation. Since becoming archbishop of New York in 2009, Cardinal Dolan has been a steadfast advocate for religious freedom, Catholic education, and the dignity of every person. He has led with conviction, compassion, and humor, reminding us that faith must also always be lived out through service. Under his leadership, the Archdiocese of New York was strengthened in meaningful ways, including the reopening of dozens of Catholic schools, ensuring that families across our State continue to have access to education rooted in faith, values, and community. Beyond New York, Cardinal Dolan has become a respected national voice for the church, guiding conversations with clarity, humor, and grace, and bringing people together in moments of challenge and celebration alike. I am honored to call Cardinal Dolan a friend. While he will be deeply missed as the leader of the Archdiocese of New York, I wish him the very best in his retirement and have no doubt that his voice and his witness will continue to inspire for years to come. {time} 1030 Honoring Life of Alfred ``Al'' Magnatta Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Alfred ``Al'' Magnatta, who passed away just a week before what would have been his 101st birthday. At a young age, Al answered the call to serve his country during World War II, enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. Serving as a B-17 aerial gunner with the Eighth Air Force was an experience that forever shaped his life. After returning home to New York, Al continued to serve his community by joining the Congers Fire Department, eventually serving as their fire chief, becoming the oldest fire chief in the department's history and its longest serving member. Al continued to serve his community by providing leadership at the county level, helping guide emergency response efforts, mentoring future firefighters, and shaping fire service standards. Throughout his decades of service, he responded to countless emergencies and earned the respect of all who served alongside him. Al represented the very best of our community, and I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace. Commending Chief Daniel Hyman Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary act of courage and public service by Ramapo Town Police Chief Daniel ``Dan'' Hyman, whose quick actions saved the life of a fellow neighbor. While off duty, Chief Hyman noticed smoke coming from a home. After seeing a resident attempt to escape the fire, he immediately sprang into action. Without hesitation, he secured a ladder, climbed to the window the resident was attempting to escape from, and calmly coached the individual to safety. His quick thinking, bravery, and selfless action helped save a life from what would have been a tragedy. Chief Hyman joined the Ramapo Police Department in 1989 and has served his community with integrity, valor, and professionalism for more than three decades. His actions represent the very best of public service and our community. I commend Chief Hyman for leading by example and for reminding us what true heroism looks like in our communities. Recognizing Robi Schlaff Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary career of Robi Schlaff, a devoted public servant who has spent her career protecting women, children, and families across Westchester County. Since 2013, Robi has served as director of the Westchester County Office for Women, overseeing critical programs that support victims of domestic and family violence. She also serves as executive director of the Westchester County Family Justice Center, where she helped build a coordinated, victim-centered model that has become a statewide example. Earlier in her career, Robi practiced family law, representing children and survivors of domestic violence and served as a mediator in family court. She has been instrumental in developing initiatives such as the Domestic Violence High-Risk Team and the Pace Women's Justice Center, earning national recognition, including the End Violence Against Women International Game-Changer award. In addition, she worked alongside Pete Grannis in the New York State Assembly and the Department of Environmental Protection. As Robi retires from her role, I am proud to recognize her unwavering commitment to protecting our communities. Having worked with her in County Executive Astorino's administration, I am deeply grateful for her public service and her friendship. I wish her all the best in her well-earned retirement. ____________________