Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-08-20

CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SOUTH BUFFALO DANCE ACADEMY

Context

On 2026-08-20, Representative Timothy M. Kennedy (D-NY-26) delivered a floor speech titled "CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SOUTH BUFFALO DANCE ACADEMY" in the House.

Full Text

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 134 (Thursday, August 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 134 (Thursday, August 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E794] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SOUTH BUFFALO DANCE ACADEMY ______ HON. TIMOTHY M. KENNEDY of new york in the house of representatives Thursday, August 20, 2026 Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the South Buffalo Dance Academy, which is proudly celebrating its golden anniversary in its fiftieth year. Founded in 1976 by Mrs. Eleanor Donovan Gilson with just one small dance studio and a handful of students, Mrs. Gilson offered a welcoming space for community members of all ages to discover a passion for movement, find their own beat, and express themselves. For half a century, South Buffalo Dance Academy has demonstrated unwavering dedication to its students, the arts, and the Western New York community, highlighting the talents of performers throughout the region by offering a mixture of modern and contemporary dance training. Thousands of students have come through its doors, each contributing to the vibrant legacy of the academy. Many alumni have gone on to successful careers as professional dancers and choreographers and often return to the studio to visit and teach. South Buffalo Dance Academy has also earned numerous awards at competitions locally and nationally, recognizing the talent, technical ability, flexibility, and creativity showcased in its routines. Through consistent instruction, performances, and mentorship, the academy has supported generations of young artists in developing discipline, confidence, and creative expression, while offering a welcoming space for community members of all ages to discover a passion for movement, find their own beat, and express themselves in a true ``home away from home.'' Today, we honor 50 years of commitment to the arts and look ahead to the many years of entertainment still to come. The South Buffalo Dance Academy's work has touched countless lives. Their commitment to excellence in dance has not only elevated the arts within our community but has created meaningful opportunities for students to grow both on and off the stage. ____________________

View original source →

CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SOUTH BUFFALO DANCE ACADEMY Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 134 (Thursday, August 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 134 (Thursday, August 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E794] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SOUTH BUFFALO DANCE ACADEMY ______ HON. TIMOTHY M. KENNEDY of new york in the house of representatives Thursday, August 20, 2026 Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the South Buffalo Dance Academy, which is proudly celebrating its golden anniversary in its fiftieth year. Founded in 1976 by Mrs. Eleanor Donovan Gilson with just one small dance studio and a handful of students, Mrs. Gilson offered a welcoming space for community members of all ages to discover a passion for movement, find their own beat, and express themselves. For half a century, South Buffalo Dance Academy has demonstrated unwavering dedication to its students, the arts, and the Western New York community, highlighting the talents of performers throughout the region by offering a mixture of modern and contemporary dance training. Thousands of students have come through its doors, each contributing to the vibrant legacy of the academy. Many alumni have gone on to successful careers as professional dancers and choreographers and often return to the studio to visit and teach. South Buffalo Dance Academy has also earned numerous awards at competitions locally and nationally, recognizing the talent, technical ability, flexibility, and creativity showcased in its routines. Through consistent instruction, performances, and mentorship, the academy has supported generations of young artists in developing discipline, confidence, and creative expression, while offering a welcoming space for community members of all ages to discover a passion for movement, find their own beat, and express themselves in a true ``home away from home.'' Today, we honor 50 years of commitment to the arts and look ahead to the many years of entertainment still to come. The South Buffalo Dance Academy's work has touched countless lives. Their commitment to excellence in dance has not only elevated the arts within our community but has created meaningful opportunities for students to grow both on and off the stage. ____________________