Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, today I am pleased to recognize this year's

Catherine McAuley Distinguished Alumnae Honoree at Mount Mercy Academy, Meghan Crotty Quinn. For over a century, Mount Mercy Academy has been a beacon of light and an indispensable institution within our community. With a unique focus on academic excellence, women's leadership, and a commitment to building a just society, it is only proper to commend the alumni who have contributed to this much-deserved reputation.

A proud South Buffalo resident, Meghan and her husband Kevin Quinn are the proud parents of Kiera (Mount Mercy Academy, Class of 2027), son Rory and daughter Colleen. Meghan is the daughter of Anita Durkin Crotty (Mount Mercy Academy Class of 1963) and Patrick Crotty. Meghan is a business and community leader. She graduated from John Carroll University in 2007 and earned the title of Certified Public Accountant shortly thereafter. Meghan's rise in the banking industry has been rapid; after a stint with M&T Bank, she now serves as a Senior Vice President in the Commercial Banking division at HSBC Bank. She has twice been recognized by her peers as a top 100 performer in United States commercial banking and is a recipient of the Irish Echo's 40 Under 40 Award in 2021. Meanwhile, her professional success has been coupled with a steadfast commitment of paying it forward. Meghan is the Treasurer of South Buffalo Roots, a rising community organization responsible for organizing the very successful South Buffalo Porchfest, Music in the Park series and South Buffalo Irish Festival. This dedicated group of volunteers in turn supports an array of neighborhood organizations using a creative model of giving back to other charitable organizations including, the South Buffalo Community Table, Buffalo Irish Center, Buffalo Refuse, local sports and school organizations, 11-Day Powerplay, Kids Escaping Drugs, and Feed the Front Line. Citizens like Meghan--those who are consumed with doing right by their neighbors are what makes Buffalo so special. Her commitment to professional excellence and bettering the Western New York community make for an incredible endorsement of Mount Mercy Academy and its principles.

The award recipients and honorees tonight for Mount Mercy Academy's 22nd Annual Dinner have exceeded the already rigorous standard for the members within this community. Mount Mercy's values and commitment to service are steeped in decades of tradition, and Meghan Crotty Quinn continues to live these values in her career and relationships.

Mr. Speaker, today I am pleased to recognize this year's Mercy Devotion Honoree at Mount Mercy Academy, Tina Scarpello Webster. For over a century, Mount Mercy Academy has been a beacon of light and an indispensable institution within our community. With a unique focus on academic excellence, women's leadership, and a commitment to building a just society, it is only proper to commend the alumni who have contributed to this much-deserved reputation.

As a staff member at Mount Mercy, Tina has been afforded the rare opportunity to make a tangible impact on the hearts and minds of countless students. Upon graduating from Erie Community College, Tina's brief time working in North Carolina made her recognize her passion and love of our community in Buffalo. Upon her return, Tina eventually found her way to working at the school that she, and her sisters Cheryl ('82) and Joelle ('84), love so dearly: Mount Mercy Academy. She assumed the roles of Recruitment Manager, Director of Admissions and Communications, newsletter creator, class moderator, club facilitator, and social media coordinator, among a myriad of roles. Tina has been the cheerleading coach for even longer, this skill has shaped her work on behalf of her alma mater. There is no shortage of ways that Tina has bettered the Mount Mercy community, and she shares this enthusiasm in Buffalo, as well. She has volunteered with the South Buffalo Football Association for twenty-five years, assisted in the creation of the Brian Bauer Memorial Golf Tournament, and coaches Buffalo Envy, another local cheerleading team. Tina has been an inspiring mentor to young women in Western New York, and her hard work at Mount Mercy makes her an excellent role model.

The award recipients and honorees tonight for Mount Mercy Academy's 22nd Annual Dinner have exceeded the already rigorous standard for the members within this community. Mount Mercy's values and commitment to service are steeped in decades of tradition, and Tina Scarpello Webster continues to live these values in her career and relationships.

Mr. Speaker, today I am pleased to recognize this year's Sister Sally Walz Memorial Award at Mount Mercy Academy, Patricia Keane Marren. For over a century, Mount Mercy Academy has been a beacon of light and an indispensable institution within our community. With a unique focus on academic excellence, women's leadership, and a commitment to building a just society, it is only proper to commend the alumni who have contributed to this much-deserved reputation.

The recipient of this award requires ``an expansive heart,'' and Pattie Keane certainly fits the bill. She began her career as a programmer at Marine Midland Bank (now HSBC Bank), and after attaining a master's degree in business administration, became Vice President at HSBC in 1997. Pattie worked for over two decades and led several company-wide initiatives and philanthropic efforts. As community leader and avid volunteer, she consistently puts the needs of others before her own. She assisted in fundraising events and organizational activities of O'Sullivan School of Irish Dance, Cazenovia Hockey Association, Canisius High School, and naturally, at Mount Mercy Academy. There she served as Treasurer and Board Member of the Alumnae Association, co-chair (with her husband, Dan) of the McAuley Gala, and an active member of the Board of Trustees. And even in the, face of considerable medical challenges, Pattie continues to find new ways to advocate for others. In fact, as a patient at Roswell Park Cancer Institute, she was responsible for improvements to safety practices for patients and visitors with disabilities. Pattie has always embodied selflessness and compassion, and it has been to the benefit of all those who know her.

The award recipients and honorees tonight for Mount Mercy Academy's 22nd Annual Dinner have exceeded the already rigorous standard for the members within this community. Mount Mercy's values and commitment to service are steeped in decades of tradition, and Patricia Keane Marren has always embodied these values in her career, relationships, and most importantly, with her husband, Dan, and children Katherine ('11) and Thomas.

Mr. Speaker, today I am pleased to recognize this year's Athletic Excellence Honoree at Mount Mercy Academy, Jessica Turner. For over a century, Mount Mercy Academy has been a beacon of light and an indispensable institution within our community. With a unique focus on academic excellence, women's leadership, and a commitment to building a just society, it is only proper to commend the alumni who have contributed to this much-deserved reputation.

As a leader on and off the court, Jessica has been exemplary in her commitment to service. While playing Division I basketball at Niagara University, she served as Vice President of the Student Athletic Advisory Committee and was selected as an Arthur Ashe, Jr. Sports Scholar. The skills Jessica gained as a student-athlete were directly transferable to her role in the business world. She has consistently advanced as an employee at New Era Cap Company and was a critical force in the creation of New Era's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council (DEI). Jessica was the first person to hold the title of Director of DEI. Outside of work, she spends her time as a mentor with the Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholars and volunteers with the Festival of Trees, FeedMore WNY, the Special Olympics, Willie Hutch Jones Education and Sports programs, and the Juvenile Arthritis Foundation. Jessica's love of basketball was formed by her father, and it has shaped the person that is deserving of this award. Though athletics can be seen as an all-encompassing time commitment, Jessica has used her passion of sports as fuel to better the lives of others.

The award recipients and honorees tonight for Mount Mercy Academy's 22nd Annual Dinner have exceeded the already rigorous standard for the members within this community. Mount Mercy's values and commitment to service are steeped in decades of tradition, and Jessica Turner continues to live these values in her career, relationships, and most importantly, as a mother to Maya and Kellan.

Mr. Speaker, today I am pleased to recognize this year's Spirit of Mercy Honoree at Mount Mercy Academy, Marjorie ``Marge'' Stanton Ryan. For over a century, Mount Mercy Academy has been a beacon of light and an indispensable institution within our community. With a unique focus on academic excellence, women's leadership, and a commitment to building a just society, it is only proper to commend all of those who have contributed to this much- deserved reputation.

Marge Ryan is one of South Buffalo's most dedicated activists, and her passion for bettering this neighborhood is nothing short of commendable. After graduating from South Park High School in 1959, Marge worked as a stenographer with RJ Walsh/Equitable Insurance before marrying Tom Ryan in 1959 and raising six children. Marge took on an active role in the parents' guilds at Mount Mercy Academy and Bishop Timon-St. Jude High School while her children were in school. Marge was a founding member of South Buffalo Alive, a nonprofit organization that dedicates its time and energy to improving the quality of life in South Buffalo and beautifying the neighborhood. She has worked with the Olmsted Conservancy Board and has a long history of working with elected leaders in the community to get things done including, the Mayors in the City of Buffalo, Buffalo City Council Members, the Parks Department, and the Department of Public Works, as well as working closely with county, state and federal representatives on important projects in our community. Marge is consistent and attentive, and you can tell almost immediately which gardens Marge makes her own by their beauty, simplicity, and by the way they are kept--tidy. Marge still actively helps to maintain: Mount Mercy Academy, Trocaire College, the Firemen's Memorial, Morgan/Heacock Park, the traffic circle gardens on McKinley Parkway, and the brick paths in Cazenovia Park and pocket park gardens around Abbott and South Park. Of course, her passion of gardening has been a constant through all her years, and it has led to the beautification of countless areas and parks in South Buffalo. Her friendship with Sister Marie Bernard was the foundation of her involvement and gardening at the Mt. Mercy Convent and Trocaire College. As a friend of Marge, I can say with confidence that our community is a better, more attractive place to live because of her unrelenting efforts.

The award recipients and honorees tonight for Mount Mercy Academy's 22nd Annual Dinner have exceeded the already rigorous standard for the members within this community. Mount Mercy's values and commitment to service are steeped in decades of tradition, and Marjorie Stanton Ryan continues to live these values in all she does. Marge shares this legacy with her husband, Tom, as well as her children, Mary Lynn ('79), Karen ('80), Maggie ('83), Kevin, David, Tom, Jr., and their grandchildren.

Mr. Speaker, today I am pleased to recognize this year's Catherine McAuley Distinguished Alumnae Honoree at Mount Mercy Academy, Meghan Crotty Quinn. For over a century, Mount Mercy Academy has been a beacon of light and an indispensable institution within our community. With a unique focus on academic excellence, women's leadership, and a commitment to building a just society, it is only proper to commend the alumni who have contributed to this much- deserved reputation.

A proud South Buffalo resident, Meghan and her husband Kevin Quinn are the proud parents of Kiera (Mount Mercy Academy, Class of 2027), son Rory and daughter Colleen. Meghan is the daughter of Anita Durkin Crotty (Mount Mercy Academy Class of 1963) and Patrick Crotty. Meghan is a business and community leader. She graduated from John Carroll University in 2007 and earned the title of Certified Public Accountant shortly thereafter. Meghan's rise in the banking industry has been rapid; after a stint with M&T Bank, she now serves as a Senior Vice President in the Commercial Banking division at HSBC Bank. She has twice been recognized by her peers as a top 100 performer in United States commercial banking and is a recipient of the Irish Echo's 40 Under 40 Award in 2021. Meanwhile, her professional success has been coupled with a steadfast commitment of paying it forward. Meghan is the Treasurer of South Buffalo Roots, a rising community organization responsible for organizing the very successful South Buffalo Porchfest, Music in the Park series and South Buffalo Irish Festival. This dedicated group of volunteers in turn supports an array of neighborhood organizations using a creative model of giving back to other charitable organizations including, the South Buffalo Community Table, Buffalo Irish Center, Buffalo Refuse, local sports and school organizations, 11-Day Powerplay, Kids Escaping Drugs, and Feed the Front Line. Citizens like Meghan--those who are consumed with doing right by their neighbors--are what makes Buffalo so special. Her commitment to professional excellence and bettering the Western New York community make for an incredible endorsement of Mount Mercy Academy and its principles.

The award recipients and honorees tonight for Mount Mercy Academy's 22nd Annual Dinner have exceeded the already rigorous standard for the members within this community. Mount Mercy's values and commitment to service are steeped in decades of tradition, and Meghan Crotty Quinn continues to live these values in her career and relationships.

Mr. Speaker, today I am honored to recognize the life of Camille Brandon, a dedicated public servant and advocate for causes about which she cared deeply. Those of us who are fortunate enough to have worked with her will recall the kindness, the decency and the warmth that she brought to all of her governmental, political and civic efforts.

Camille was the Deputy Erie County Clerk under elected clerks of both major parties, was a trusted advisor in the administration of

Erie County Executive Dennis Gorski and held important positions at the Buffalo City Court. She was the Vice President of the Pulaski Association, chaired the Youth Services and Citizens Police Advisory Boards in the Town of Cheektowaga, and sat on the board of the YWCA Institute for Public Leadership Planning. She was an American Heart Association board member and had been Grand Marshall of Buffalo's Pulaski Day Parade.

Active in politics, she was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in 1992, 1996, and 2012. She generously lent her time, her expertise, and her friendly and positive attitude to political efforts.

We join our friend, Camille's dedicated husband, Bob Brandon, in mourning this tremendous loss. All of us who knew and worked with Camille will remember her with deep gratitude and affection. If more people in the realms of politics, government and civic affairs shared Camille's deep commitment to kindness, decency and mutual understanding, our nation would be far better off. May she continue to be an example to all of us.

Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, today I am honored to recognize the life of a quintessential West Side of Buffalo resident, Robert Lipp. Often referred to as ``The Mayor of Fifteenth Street,'' Robert left an indelible mark on a community that will be mourning his loss for a long time to come.

Born in 1965, Robert graduated from Maryvale High School in Cheektowaga, and Bryant & Stratton College in Buffalo, where he obtained a degree in Electronic Technology. A longtime employee with the New York State Thruway Authority, an on-the-job accident meant that Robert entered retirement earlier than he had planned. Instead of approaching this situation with negativity, Robert began to dive into some of his passions. As a man that understood the value of community and neighborhoods, he would plant flowers each year for Buffalo's annual Garden Walk. Robert did not simply hope that someone would take steps to beautify the West Side of Buffalo; he did it. Whether it result from confrontation of absentee landlords or fixing the electrical issues of his neighbors, there was no limit to the level of love that Robert displayed for the City of Buffalo.

Of course, Robert enjoyed many other activities, as well. He loved to camp, go to concerts and weddings, and (in typical Buffalo fashion) watch his beloved Bills and Sabres. He spent time with his many dogs, sought to make each year's Garden Walk better than the last, and served as a dedicated member of the Democratic Committee.

Survived by his husband, Bobby Graber, and countless loving family members, Robert's sudden passing will undoubtedly be difficult to endure. Nevertheless, to all of those who knew and loved Robert, his legacy will remain. Robert served as a model citizen in so many ways, and our community will forever be a better place because of him.

Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, today I am honored to recognize the Better Business Bureau of Upstate New York as they celebrate a century of dedicated service to our community. Headquartered in Amherst, NY, this organization, and their staff have undoubtedly had a lasting impact on countless constituents in Western New York.

Founded in 1923, the reach and growth of this chapter of the Better Business Bureau is nothing short of impressive. The eighth largest Better Business Bureau, it serves 6 million people across 48 counties in New York State. Due to their unwavering enthusiasm, BBB of Upstate New York closes 15,000 complaints annually while posting over 10,000 reviews. Throughout their long history, millions of service-oriented tasks have been completed in the name of consumer education and standards enforcement. Their mission is simple: provide consumers with resources to not only avoid dishonest business practices but offer remedies for those who have been wronged. Very importantly, all levels of government rely on BBB of Upstate New York to front-end this education of consumers. Federal, state, and local law enforcement have also been able to begin investigations (and ultimately prosecutions) of bad faith actors in our local marketplace. That type of responsibility is only given because the Better Business Bureau of Upstate New York has proven to be an honest broker for consumers.

Trust is at the very core of business, and it is only due to organizations like the Better Business Bureau of Upstate New York that consumers can approach matters with confidence. I applaud their century of work to better our community, and I wish them continued expansion and prosperity in aiding the men and women of our community.

Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, today I am honored to recognize six businesses, organizations, and individuals that have been instrumental to the growth of Amherst, NY. As the pillar of the business community in Western New York's most populous suburb, the Amherst Chamber of Commerce has the responsibility of identifying many of our community leaders. At this ``Excellence Event,'' there is no shortage of men and women who have put the interests of their neighbors ahead of their own.

This year's winner of the Stewardship Award is Goodwill of Western New York. Their mission of caring for others is not only commendable but has a tangible impact on countless individuals within our community. Goodwill's programs give those seeking employment a chance to showcase their skills and ambition in a productive environment. They take pride in helping to lift those from unemployment or underemployment while collecting millions of pounds in local donations. Annually, Goodwill of Western New York supports well over 1,000 individuals in their pursuit of workforce development programs. It is my hope that Goodwill can continue to expand their services and build on the success that earned them this year's Stewardship Award.

After more than six decades of serving Western New York families and businesses, Lawley Insurance is awarded this year's Family-Owned Business Award. A third-generation family business, Lawley has become a premiere agency in the eyes of the community they serve. Since the beginning, their leadership team placed an emphasis on ethics and maintaining the strength of the Western New York region. With offices across New York, Connecticut. and New Jersey, the current stewards of Lawley Insurance have never lost sight of their home in Buffalo. With great pride in this local group, I wish Lawley Insurance a bright future in our region.

Spectrum Reach, the advertising arm of Charter Communications, will receive this year's Chairman's Award. Just this year, Charter has mentored over 700 multicultural businesses.

This program, ``Pay It Forward,'' is an effort to give businesses free advertising, creative services, and educational resources. In a fast-paced world so focused on the bottom line, it is reassuring to know that local partners at a company as large as Charter have a focus on bettering our community.

Fittingly, Amherst Chamber of Commerce is bestowing Buffalo AKO Art Museum with the Commitment to Excellence Award. After nearly four years of construction, AKG has transformed their campus to become a nationwide leader in art and culture. This $230 million project was over a decade in the making and will undoubtedly be the hub to both local pride and outside tourism. As a longtime fixture in our community, it is nothing short of proper that we recognize the Buffalo AKG for their commitment to providing a welcoming atmosphere to feature world-class exhibitions while serving as a hub for creative and educational programs. Their new campus is nothing short of excellent and their recognition at this event is well-earned.

This year's Woman of Distinction Award is given to Jody Briandi, the President and Managing Partner of Hurwitz Fine P.C. A woman of numerous awards and recognitions, Jody has experience in state. federal, and appellate courts across New York State. Her sterling reputation as a professional litigator is matched by her willingness to improve her community and assist others. She has invested her time and attention to helping women realize their full leadership potential and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Jody is a success in all her endeavors and a model citizen in our community.

Lastly, Gilbane Building Company is spearheading the project to build the new Buffalo Bills stadium and being recognized as the Business of the Year. A 1.35 million square foot structure, this task is no small feat, but will prove to be the home to our fans and community. Thousands of workers and hours of labor will be dedicated to this state-of-the-art facility under the leadership of Gilbane. Notably, 40 percent of contracts for this project have been awarded to minority, women, or service-disabled veteran-owned companies. Gilbane is placing an emphasis on relationships with local businesses and residents to ensure that this project will benefit our local economy.

Congratulations to the 2023 Amherst Chamber of Commerce honorees; Goodwill of Western New York, Lawley Insurance, Spectrum Reach, Buffalo AKG Museum, Jody Briandi, and Gilbane Building Company. I would like to thank each person, group, and company that continues to contribute to the growth and prosperity of Western New York.

Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize John Gojmerac, an American World War II war hero, who will be receiving the highest French military honor, the National Order of the Legion of Honor, for his service in liberating France during World War

Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, today I am honored to recognize an organization with a noble cause, Compeer International. For numerous years, Compeer has helped individuals who suffer from mental health problems by utilizing the power of friendship and small group mentoring services.

On this World Mental Health Day, Compeer International is marking their fifth decade of service to their community. Founded in Rochester, NY as a means to treat formerly institutionalized patients, Compeer has grown to be a multinational organization, offering services in Canada, the U.K., and Australia. Upon receiving the Presidential Recognition Award in 1982, they have never looked back; Compeer's ongoing mission to expand their services has proven incredibly successful.

After tireless efforts from countless advocates across our country, mental health issues are finally getting the attention they deserve. Mental health and substance abuse challenges impact thousands of Western New York families. It is imperative that our community leaders understand their respective roles in addressing these concerns and ensuring that proper resources are readily available. Adults and children, alike, suffer from a wide variety of mental health challenges, and it is through groups like Compeer that individuals can find the appropriate assistance. All ages are encouraged to take advantage of one-to-one programs, and their fifty-year history is a testament to the dedication of their leadership, staff, and volunteers. The events that our community has endured in recent years underscore the need to prioritize mental healthcare in Western New York. It can be confidently stated that Compeer's comprehensive programs are working to find solutions by creating a support system for our neighbors in need. It is my sincere honor to recognize Compeer's everimportant work over the last fifty years and express my gratitude for all of their future efforts as we continue to battle mental health challenges.

Mr. Speaker Pro Tempore, I rise today to recognize Tiffany Lynn Caver-Pugh, a loving mother and grandmother who passed away in her horne on August 25, 2023. Tiffany was a character of devotion to kindness and spirituality.

Born in Buffalo on March 11, 1978. Tiffany called herself a Buffalo native. As the youngest of four siblings. Tiffany's firm belief in doing what was right was exemplified in frequent spirited debates with her siblings. Her devotion to the Church placed morals at the forefront of her person. Baptized at a young age at the first Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, Tiffany, along with her mother and siblings, later became founding members of Free Spirit Missionary Baptist Church under Reverend Boyd and Careathers. An active member of the Free Spirit Missionary Baptist Church until her passing, Tiffany exemplified a lifelong commitment to church service.

Tiffany, through her determined and wise personality, held herself and others to high moral standards. As her favorite saying was ``What would Jesus do'', she found herself working for Aspire of Western New York and People Incorporated, two non-profit organizations dedicated to helping those with developmental disabilities lead lives integrated in the general community. Tiffany joined Aspire in 2006 during a time of expansion, with the organization seeking to represent her own life's goals: to care for those who need it. As a Buffalo native, she cared for her community through her work in the social work field. She passed shortly after her advance to management in 2021.

Tiffany is survived by a large family. including her new granddaughter whom she affectionately called ``P,'' ``CinnaBun,'' and ``Honey Bun.'' I invite all present to join me in recognizing Tiffany, who was devoted as ever to family, morality, and care until the end.

Mr. Speaker, today I am honored to recognize Rebecca Murphy, a dependable and intrepid leader in academia, the public sector, and the private sector. She has devoted her career to ensuring that all government and non-government leaders are educated on the consequences of international political affairs and risk.

After earning her bachelor's and master's degrees at the University of Toronto, she would later earn her Ph.D. in International Relations from Columbia University. Through work with the Government of Canada, her former role of Vice President of Global Security at JPMorgan Chase, and her former role as a lecturer at Columbia University, Rebecca is rightfully regarded as one of the world's brightest geopolitical analysts and has been an incredible asset to every organization for which she has worked. Currently, Rebecca serves as the Senior Vice President, Geopolitical Risk and Analysis at Fiserv, and is an Adjunct Professor in the Elliott School of International Affairs at George Washington University. These roles offer her the opportunity to be an advisor to business leaders and students, alike, on the ramifications of geopolitical and socioeconomic developments. Her leadership in research and sensibility to the importance of international policy make Rebecca's counsel highly coveted. In an ever-shifting

global landscape, Rebecca brings a heightened level of professionalism and acumen to all her efforts.

Just recently, Rebecca became a citizen of the United States. She can now call America her home, and surely, our Nation will be more prosperous because of it. People like Rebecca--those who are devoted to hard work and strive for expertise in their field--continue to make the future of the United States uniquely promising. It is my sincere privilege to congratulate Rebecca Murphy on this recent achievement, among the myriad of successes that she has enjoyed in her career and wish her well in her future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, today I am honored to recognize a philanthropic leader and revered member of the Buffalo community, Robert ``Bob'' Sienkiewicz. A proud graduate of University at Buffalo's political science program. Bob is not originally from the area, but he has called Buffalo his home ever since his college years.

Bob has a passion for ensuring the beauty of our community by fighting to maintain the original design of its neighborhoods. As houses and buildings throughout the City of Buffalo began to deteriorate in the 1980s, he became Executive Director at the Broadway- Fillmore Neighborhood Housing Service. Indeed, his commute to the office on Fillmore Avenue was nearly non-existent--he lived just a few houses down the street. Bob's success with NHS is clear; they keep asking him back in new capacities to share his wisdom and experience. He continued as President and is now back on the board. In 1994, his work with NHS led to a position as the Director of Housing for the Mayor of Buffalo's task force. Bob has also worked as a legislative assistant for the Buffalo City Council, worked for the New York State Department of Health, and sits on the boards of the Polish Community Center, the Broadway Market, the Plewacki Post, and the Nature Sanctuary Society of WNY. He recently donated 50 acres to the Nature Sanctuary Society, only further cementing his legacy within our community.

Every part of the City of Buffalo and its growth has been influenced by Bob, and all its citizens owe him an incredible debt of gratitude. Our neighborhoods remain prosperous and rooted in history due to his lifetime of efforts. As a political volunteer and friend of many, Bob's face is one of the most recognized in Western New York. Though his presence on various boards and organizations is irreplaceable, as a nature-lover, everyone hopes that he will take more time to enjoy the very nature that gives him so much joy. On behalf of a grateful community, it is my honor to recognize Robert Sienkiewicz as his friends and family reflect on his incredible career of public service.