HONORING JONATHAN DANDES

HONORING JONATHAN DANDES

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 57 (Thursday, March 26, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 57 (Thursday, March 26, 2026)] [House] [Page H2716] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] {time} 1030 HONORING JONATHAN DANDES (Mr. Kennedy of New York was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. KENNEDY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my good friend and a friend to many, Jonathan Dandes, who tragically passed away on February 22, 2026, at the age of 72. Born and raised in Queens, New York, he chose to put down his roots in the City of Good Neighbors, helping to cultivate Buffalo's identity and catalyze its resurgence for over four decades. He was a champion for our city and provided our community with a steady, trusted presence in numerous corners of civic life. In the world of local sports and entertainment, Jon was an institution. He was instrumental in the development of Sahlen Field, helping to bring professional baseball into the heart of downtown Buffalo, ensuring that generations of families could come together and create lasting memories. As president of Rich Baseball Operations he elevated the fan experience, strengthening community ties and made baseball in Buffalo a point of pride. He chaired and supported organizations that continued to define the Buffalo Niagara region, including Shea's Performing Arts Center, the Buffalo Niagara Partnership, Visit Buffalo Niagara, and the Erie County Medical Center, among many, many more. At the University at Buffalo, Jon served as the longest tenured member of the UB Council, being appointed by four of New York's Governors, first in 1994, and most recently, to his fifth term, dedicating decades to strengthening higher education and expanding opportunity for future generations. He was a proud alumnus, a trusted adviser, and a relentless advocate for UB's mission to serve as a driver of innovation and public good. In each role, he brought not only sharp insight and strategic vision but a genuine love for his community and its people. Just as importantly, Jon believed in uplifting others. He mentored countless young professionals, guiding them, encouraging them, and helping them discover their own paths to leadership. Jon was also keenly aware that a strong community is built through compassion. His work with organizations like the National Kidney Foundation, Upstate New York Transplant Services, and Erie County Jewish Family Services reflected a deep commitment to caring for others, especially those in need. Through it all, he remained grounded in what mattered most: his family. He was a devoted husband to his late wife, Marcy; the proud father of Leo and Arin; and a beloved grandfather to Luca and Leif. Jon's legacy lives on in the community he helped build, the lives he touched, and the spirit of service he embodied. When western New Yorkers spend an afternoon with their family rooting on the Bisons, that is Jon Dandes' legacy in action. When their loved ones receive lifesaving care at ECMC, we can thank Jon Dandes for his tireless work to strengthen our region's only Level I trauma hospital. And when the next generation of UB grads decides to stay in Buffalo and call western New York home, that, too, is a testament to Jon's unwavering vision and leadership for our region. Western New York is a better place to live, work, and raise a family because Jon Dandes decided to call it home. Today, we honor not just what he accomplished but who he was: a leader, a mentor, a neighbor, and a friend. May we carry forward his example, his signature generosity, energy, and unwavering belief in the community he cherished. On behalf of a grateful city, State, and Nation, may Jonathan A. Dandes' memory be a blessing to all who knew him. ____________________