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HONORING KEVIN G. BANES

Speaker
K000402
Subject
K000402
Source
Congressional Record · original
Chamber
house
Published
Wednesday, March 5, 2025

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Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 42 (Wednesday, March 5, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 42 (Wednesday, March 5, 2025)] [House] [Pages H980-H981] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING KEVIN G. BANES (Mr. Kennedy of New York was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of my friend, Kevin G. Banes, a man whose kindness, passion, and unwavering dedication to others made this world a better place. A cherished member of communities in both Buffalo and Albany, Kevin's journey began in South Buffalo, a tight-knit neighborhood where he would learn the value of hard work and the importance of giving back to h…

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Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 42 (Wednesday, March 5, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 42 (Wednesday, March 5, 2025)] [House] [Pages H980-H981] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING KEVIN G. BANES (Mr. Kennedy of New York was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of my friend, Kevin G. Banes, a man whose kindness, passion, and unwavering dedication to others made this world a better place. A cherished member of communities in both Buffalo and Albany, Kevin's journey began in South Buffalo, a tight-knit neighborhood where he would learn the value of hard work and the importance of giving back to his community. Kevin would go on to attend Bishop Timon-St. Jude High School, where he built friendships that lasted a lifetime. He later earned his B.A. in communications from the University at Buffalo and a master's in public relations from the University at Albany. Kevin had a unique ability to make everyone feel valued. Whether family, friends, colleagues, or strangers, he greeted each person with kindness, respect, and a genuine heart. His presence had a way of bringing people together, forging bonds that transcended time and circumstance. Kevin didn't just build relationships. He built bridges. He connected with people, not just on a personal level but in a way that inspired action and change. He wasn't content in simply understanding the struggles of others. He made them his own, fighting tirelessly on their behalf at the State capitol. Kevin was a steadfast champion for those who needed a voice. He knew that real advocacy wasn't just about policy, but it was about people and about making sure that every individual, no matter their circumstances, had the support and opportunity that they deserved. Kevin's legacy is one of action, impact, and an unwavering belief in the power of community. His advocacy wasn't simply his job, but it was his calling. Kevin poured his heart into the causes closest to him, championing the Special Olympics, Wildwood Programs, and Deaf Adult Services, not just with words but with relentless effort, strategic thinking, and an unshakable determination to deliver results. He knew how to navigate the complexities of government, how to bring people together, and how to turn passion into progress. Kevin's work was never about personal recognition, but it was always about lifting others up. The impact he made will continue to be felt in the countless lives he touched, the coalitions he built, and the relationships he nurtured with such dedication and compassion. His work set a standard for what advocacy looks like, one rooted in empathy, persistence, and commitment to making the world a better, fairer place for everyone. Kevin is survived by his mother, Kathleen Banes; brother Jeffrey and [[Page H981]] his wife, Leeann Banes; brother Matthew and his wife, Jessie English; and his niece, Leah Banes. They would be the first to tell my colleagues that his laughter was contagious, his compassion boundless, and that those fortunate enough to know him were better off for it. We honor Kevin's legacy today knowing that his spirit will live on in the lives he touched and the causes that he fought for. May Kevin Banes rest in peace. Honoring Edward ``Macho'' Colon Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Edward ``Macho'' Colon, a beloved coach, mentor, and community leader. For more than 28 years, Coach Macho dedicated himself to the Westside Little League Football and Cheer, shaping the lives of countless youth athletes. Even in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, he refused to let obstacles stand in the way of opportunity, growing the program from one team to five and adding three cheerleading squads. However, his impact went beyond the field. He wasn't just a coach. He was a role model, a guiding force, and a source of strength for so many in our community. Beyond sports, Macho was a proud local businessowner. His restaurant, Sandwich'on By Macho, wasn't just a place to grab a meal. It was an extension of his lifetime commitment to giving back, spreading joy, and bringing people together. Macho is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Catherine Rivera; his children, Monica Roman, Elliott Roman, Kayla Colon, and Rhace Colon; and his 10 cherished grandchildren. Macho's unwavering dedication to lifting up young Buffalonians is a legacy that will live on for generations. He made our community stronger, and Buffalo is a better place because of him. May Edward ``Macho'' Colon rest in peace. ____________________

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