Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, today I am honored to recognize the current treasurer of Amherst Democratic Committee and long-time political volunteer, Adrienne Kotler. From a very young age, Adrienne has been actively involved in the electoral process, and she has continued this commitment through all her life in numerous cities across the country.

In 1970, Adrienne joined Arthur Goldberg's campaign for Governor of New York before quickly joining the New York Democratic Assembly Campaign Committee. While working for the DACC, she enjoyed success as the Democratic Party took back control of the New York State Assembly. It was there that her work began for Majority Leader Al Blumenthal until his retirement in 1976, to be followed by work for the Speaker of the Assembly and the Committee on Reapportionment. When Adrienne wanted to get a B.S. in Accounting, she moved to attend Arizona State University in Tempe, AZ. In Arizona, she was hired to be the Staff Accountant to Bruce Babbitt's presidential bid. This allowed Adrienne to travel the early primary states of Iowa and New Hampshire.

After the presidential campaign, Adrienne moved onto work in the private sector. She worked for both Citibank on their audit staff in Arizona and Florida. In the last move of her career, Adrienne became a Compliance Officer at Citibank here in Buffalo, NY. She retired in 2000, met then-Amherst Democratic Committee Chairman Dennis Ward, and began volunteering for the Committee. As I thank her for all the sacrifices she has made for the Committee and her community, I am pleased to recognize Adrienne Kotler for all of her hard work and dedication to Western New York and Democratic ideals.

Mr. Speaker, today I am honored to recognize one of our community's great activists, Patricia LaVell, as she is honored at the Amherst Democratic Committee's member recognition dinner. A former Buffalo public school teacher, Pat's passion for the Democratic Party led to better candidates and governance for thousands of her neighbors.

Since 2000, Pat has been a quintessential piece to the Amherst Democratic Committee's operation. She served as secretary to then- Chairman Dennis Ward and has run the Committee's fundraisers and dinners at Classic V Banquet hall. Pat understood that her opinion and voice carried weight, so was elated to learn of her appointment to the Nominating Committee that interviews candidates running for local office. With so many crucial decisions coming from Town of Amherst officials in the last 2 decades, it is undeniable that Pat's influence over candidates has led to more prosperous results for the citizens of Amherst. She

also volunteered for morning lawn sign efforts at fire stations, churches, and lawns on each Election Day. Even to this day, those passing Pat's front lawn are made aware of all the candidates that she believes are best for the community.

Every community has its well-known leaders but has even more leaders that rarely make headlines. Patricia LaVell is the epitome of quiet leadership--the type of person that works tirelessly behind the scenes to put the community ahead of their own interests. It is my honor to recognize her, and I know that everyone wishes her the best in her future endeavors with the Committee.

Mr. Speaker, today I am honored to recognize a stalwart figure in the Buffalo community, Carl Thomas. After roughly 4 decades of leading by example at Roswell Park Cancer Institute and Kevin's Guest House, it is only proper to acknowledge and give gratitude for a lifelong dedication to those in need of help.

A graduate of Lafayette High School, he has always put the needs of his hometown neighbors ahead of his own. At the very beginning of his professional career, Carl recognized an unfortunate and common challenge for so many cancer patients--having a stable place to stay during treatment. As a volunteer at Kevin's Guest House, a local hospitality guest house, he undoubtedly recognized that a community effort can make the bleak reality of cancer a little easier on a patient and their loved ones. Of course, Carl was familiar with cancer treatment and hospital care due to his father's employment at Roswell. As he began his own career at Roswell Park (later earning the role of Chief of Public Safety). Carl devoted his time and energy toward the needs and safety of the entire Roswell campus. He

saw these 2 institutions, Kevin's Guest House and Roswell Park, as inherently intertwined and was one of the earliest to recognize Roswell Park's leading role in the fight against cancer. Carl's passion for Roswell's success earned him the position as Chief Organizational and Community Liaison. In essence, he has worked as an ambassador for Roswell with community organizations, government officials, churches, and block clubs in Western New York.

As an African American executive, Carl Thomas has often cited his responsibility to lead a new generation of achievers. Those who know Carl understand retirement will not result in the end of his mentorship; as a resident of the University District, he has already expressed an interest in maintaining his position as a role model within the community. Nonetheless, retirement will allow Carl some much-deserved time with his wife of over 4 decades. Betty, along with their children, Mario, Samantha, and Phylicia. Buffalonians and Roswell Park patients, alike, owe Carl an incredible debt of gratitude, and it is my pleasure to recognize his career as a capable worker and generous man.

Mr. Speaker, on September 12, 2023, I was unable to be present for the recorded suspension votes on Roll Call No. 383, 384, and 385. Had I been present, I would have voted: Yes on Roll Call No. 383, H.R. 3152, Fight CRIME Act, as amended; Yes on Roll Call No. 384, H.R. 589, MAHSA Act; and Yes on Roll Call No. 385, H. Res. 492, Condemning the Government of Iran's state-sponsored persecution of the Baha'i minority its continued violatio of the International Covenants on Human Rights.

On September 14, 2023, my vote was recorded as YES on Roll Call No. 391 for H.R. 1435, the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act. I intended to vote No.

Mr. Speaker, today I am honored to recognize the first woman elected Town Supervisor and Town Clerk of Amherst, Susan Grelick. She embodies the very best of our community, and has shaped Amherst, NY into one of the best rated and safest places to live in the entire country.

A graduate of Union College, Susan would later earn her MBA, JD, and master's degrees in Information Science and American Economic History. She utilized her extensive education to the town's benefit--always in search of ways to improve its financial stand, promote local businesses, and preserve neighborhoods and green space. Indeed, during her 9 years as Supervisor, Amherst had the highest bond rating of any municipality in Western New York. Susan also initiated the Town's first Vision Summits, a tool she used to develop a comprehensive plan for her future agenda. Once her time had finished as a town official, Susan became the legislative director and counsel to New York Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins. This is in addition to involvement in countless local organizations, including as a Trustee Emeritus of the Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village, as a Board member of the Amherst Youth Foundation, and as Vice President of the Chautauqua Institution Women's Club Board of Directors. She previously worked as President of the Amherst Youth Foundation, President of the Buffalo Amherst Business and Professional Women's Association, and sat on the Board of Directors for YMCA of Greater Buffalo, the UB Alumni Association, and the Erie County Industrial Development Agency. Her commitment to public service goes beyond the listed organizations. She is unquestionably sincere in her desire to help others, and she has gone above and beyond to deliver for her neighbors and community.

Many groups have recognized Susan over the years, so it is only fitting that the Amherst Democratic Committee recognizes her efforts over the last 25 years as a member. Susan Grelick has been a steadfast friend to so many in the Western New York area, and all its citizens (particularly those in Amherst), owe her a debt of gratitude. She has been an asset to the growth of our region, and I am thrilled that she is being honored for her inspiring achievements. I wish her the best in all her future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, today I am honored to recognize the longtime treasurer of the Amherst Democratic Committee. Ronald Gilson. A resident of Amherst since 1962. Ron has been an indispensable member oft he Committee since 1994.

He jumped in head-first, ensuring that technical operations like utilities. internal telephone banks, and essential supplies were always cared for at headquarters. His willingness to volunteer in this capacity was also incredibly valuable to Chairman Jeremy Zellner when the Erie County Democratic Committee moves its headquarters to Larkinville. Ron was there to ensure a seamless transition with the proper technology setup. Naturally, he also became familiar with the Committee's practice of posting signs, gathering signatures, and distributing campaign literature. Just 5 years into his involvement with ADC, the Amherst Democratic Chairman approached Ron to become a temporary treasurer. Temporary, of course, is not an accurate description of Ron's time as treasurer--as he just handed the reins over after 22 years.

Ron also volunteers his time at the Buffalo and Eric County Naval Park as a docent and technical advisor. He volunteers his knowledge and time to countless citizens and visitors, alike, so they can appreciate the fearless bravery of our veterans and the richness of our local history. On the tours that he provides, Ron has the ability to capture the imagination of young Americans, so they understand the sacrifices that were made to ensure our collective freedom. The staff at the Naval Park is undoubtedly grateful for his continued dedication to their endeavors.

Lastly, I would be remiss not to mention Ron's consistent involvement at the Niagara Frontier Radio Reading Service for the blind with his wife, Corine. Throughout the week, this organization reads newspapers, magazines, and books for the visually impaired. Ron's involvement with Niagara Frontier Radio Service, Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, and the Amherst Democratic Committee prove him to be a worthy candidate of recognition. I am excited to honor Ron for his selfless efforts that have such a tangible impact on our community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of nearly 150,000 United Auto Workers, including 3,000 members in western New York at the Ford Stamping Plant and General Motors plants in Tonawanda and Lockport.

Autoworkers have historically weathered the storm to support the automotive industry, through the Great Recession and economic hardship. Now, during a time when companies are experiencing record profits, the people delivering the goods deserve a contract that recognizes the critical role they play in that success.

UAW members will be an important part of the next generation of manufacturing, making electric vehicles more accessible and readily available.

As the September 14 deadline approaches, negotiators must come to the table with a contract that includes competitive wages and rewards quality work.

I ask my colleagues to join me in solidarity with the UAW as they negotiate a secure future for the workers driving success in the automotive industry today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lieutenant General Matthew G. Glavy, who serves his country with the pride and honor befitting the highest ranks of the United States Marine Corps.

Born in 1963 at Mercy Hospital in Buffalo, New York, Lieutenant General Matthew Glavy grew up with his 3 siblings under the name ``Jerry.'' Calling Western New York home, Lieutenant General Glavy finds comfort in Buffalo style wings, the Buffalo Bills, and the cold winter climate of Western New York. As a child, Lieutenant General Matthew Glavy was an avid sports fan, having played youth league football in his childhood, later lettering in cross country and track in high school before graduating in 1981.

Lieutenant General Glavy exemplifies every aspect of courage, determination, and service denominated in the timeless motto of the Marine Corps, ``Semper Fi.'' having served in all 3 designations: the operating forces, the supporting establishment, and in the headquarters. As a member of the operating forces and supporting establishment, Lieutenant General Glavy served ``at the heart of the Marine Corps'' in various assignments, including as an aircraft maintenance officer, weapons and tactics officer and embark officer, and current operations officer, eventually climbing the ranks to commanding general and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Cyberspace Command and Space Command. General Glavy also supported his troops, his country, and his family, in the USMC Headquarters, where he served, among many impressive assignments, as platoon commander, White House liaison officer, and presidential command pilot. Lieutenant General Glavy currently serves as the Deputy Commandant for Information and 2nd Commander of the Marine Corps Forces Strategic Command. Lieutenant General Glavy will be returning to the Buffalo area as the keynote speaker at the reunion of the 3rd Battalion, 26th Marines.

Today, I'm asking all present to join me in honoring Lieutenant General Matthew G. Glavy for his lengthy service and dedication to our great Nation.

Mr. Speaker, today I am honored to recognize Legislator Mark Grozio and his remarkable career in public service. As a lifelong resident, graduate of LaSalle High School, and graduate of Niagara County Community College, Mark has always been equipped with a deep-seated familiarity and knowledge of his community.

His career as a county legislator was preceded by over 3 decades as a wireman and IBEW member. He graduated from apprenticeship school, and naturally, his predilection for leadership roles made him a good fit for serving as assistant business manager for over 10 years at IBEW Local 237. Mark served on the contract negotiation committee, executive board, and labor management committee. Needless to say, Legislator Grozio has long understood the value of labor unions and apprenticeship training. This experience served him well in the legislature while dealing with issues of economic development, infrastructure, and facilities. Through the years, Mark sought additional ways to enhance his community. He served on the Niagara Falls planning board, the Niagara Falls electrical board, and volunteers for the festival of lights and Veterans Memorial at Hyde Park in Niagara Falls. He has worked with United Way, coached Little League baseball, and assisted with several ice hockey organizations. Every hour that Mark devotes to one of these causes shows his true character--one that is service- oriented and generous.

Some of the hallmarks of a great career in public service are competence and a keen awareness of the issues facing your constituency. Legislator Mark Grozio exemplified these 2 characteristics for 10 years in the county legislature, and all the residents of Niagara County owe him a debt of gratitude. After countless hearings, meetings, and events, it is time that we wish Mark a very happy retirement. He will surely enjoy more time with his wife of 40 years, Lynda, and his entire family. In the meantime, his community will continue to reap the benefits of his career of hard work.

Mr. Speaker, today I am honored to recognize the late Randy Coates, Sr. and his accomplishments as a public servant. A graduate of East High School in the early 1970s, he enjoyed tremendous success with the football and track & field teams. Upon graduation, Randy joined the United States Army in 1975 and was stationed at Fort Huachuca, Arizona.

Randy discovered his passion for coaching basketball upon returning to Buffalo. He started coaching in the Randy Smith Summer Basketball League, coaching a team in both the men's and women's divisions. He took pride in his teams, and strived to not only teach basketball, but life lessons, as well. He left youth basketball to become the head women's basketball coach at Daemen College, and later an assistant coach at Hilbert College.

After a successful college coaching career, Randy focused back on developing and mentoring children in the community. In 1990, Randy began his career at the Boys & Girls Clubs Bailey-Doat. At the Boys & Girls Club, Randy formed great relationships with local youth and created a basketball team that won several Randy Smith Summer Basketball League Championships. Following years of success, Mr. Coates went to work at the Masten Boys and Girls Club, where he would eventually become director. There, Randy continued to coach basketball, but also introduced both in house football leagues and video games, which he would often bring from home for the children to play.

Randy encouraged these young men and women to achieve and sustain success. He would often note that the work they put into their craft is what they are going to get out of it. On this, the official Randy Coates Sr. Day in the City of Buffalo, I am delighted to honor his memory. His legacy is celebrated by his wife, Ronnell, his children, grandchildren, and countless grateful community members who have been inspired by Randy's unwavering dedication to the betterment of Buffalo.

Mr. Speaker, today I am honored to recognize the impact of Calvary Baptist Church of Buffalo. Calvary Baptist will celebrate its 85th anniversary on September 15, 2023, which will mark several decades of critical service to our community and its residents.

Calvary began on Clinton Street with Rev. Polite in 1938, and through the years, has become a staple of the Western New York region. This church is compassionate and dedicated to the mission of helping others, and they do this through local and global leadership that focuses on fostering strong intergenerational disciples. The efforts in Christian education have made significant impacts on the lives of many, and the nurturing of all followers (of every generation) is a testament to the love and unity within this church family. Every day, our community ought to recognize and appreciate the leadership and members of Calvary for their selfless work and devotion. Their contributions to the betterment of our community have not gone unnoticed, and their impact extends far beyond the walls of the congregation.

Reverend Corey Bernard Gibson of Buffalo, New York, was named as the seventh and current pastor of the Calvary Baptist Church. Pastor Gibson has continued to carry out community service, catering to both spiritual and social needs. This includes the continuation of the Community Outreach Day and the establishment of a scholarship for the local community high school, along with various other events throughout the year that focus on benefiting the children of Buffalo. It is critically important to recognize such efforts, and I ask that you join me in thanking the leaders and membership of Calvary Baptist, alike, for their successful endeavors over the last 85 years.

Mr. Speaker, today I am honored to pay tribute to a pillar of my community and a cultural visionary, Sibu Nair. Sibu's unwavering dedication to preserving the rich cultural heritage of India has had a profound impact on countless Indian American and Asian American members of Western New York.

Since 2010, Sibu has been actively involved in various capacities within the Indian American community, committing himself to cultural understanding and unity between Western New Yorkers. As the former president of the India Association of Buffalo, he played a pivotal role in securing the first cricket ground in Eric County for the community. His ambitious leadership was also evident in the successful execution of the ``Festival of India,'' or ``India Mela.'' This grand event is attended by thousands of people, including prominent elected officials and delegates from the Indian Consulate, a monumental accomplishment for Buffalo.

As the Vice President of the Hindu Cultural Society of Western New York in 2018, Sibu continued to promote the importance of heritage and tradition to future generations. He recognizes that our children are the torchbearers of our own cultural legacy--a legacy that must be carried on at all costs. This sentiment continues to guide Sibu now as the founder and current Executive Director of the Council of Heritage and Arts of India, an organization dedicated to the preservation and celebration of India's rich culture. His current role as Deputy Director for Asian American Affairs for New York State has further proven his selfless dedication to public service. Of course, that is in addition to his deep involvement in various public committees and boards across Erie County.

Sibu's reputation is formidable; Buffalonians know him as a respected and honorable advocate for the Indian American community. It is with great admiration that I commend him for his relentless efforts to preserve cultural heritage and promote cultural harmony. His contributions have enriched the lives of Western New Yorkers and have left an indelible mark on the community he serves.

Mr. Speaker, today I am honored to recognize 1001 East Delavan Avenue, which can now mark its 100th year of operation as a manufacturing plant in the city of Buffalo. For 100 years this site has been at the forefront of American manufacturing and a homebase to the hardworking people of Western New York. Viridi has remade this location to meet the needs of today and tomorrow, providing job opportunities that recruit from surrounding neighborhoods through its partnership with GreenForce, and positioning Buffalo to be a global leader in clean energy manufacturing.

The plant began operation on August 13, 1923, as General Motors utilized the factory to assemble Chevrolet vehicles. At the beginning of its existence, Buffalo was the 11th largest city in the United States with a population of over 500,000 residents. Of course, Buffalo's economic standing was due to its immense manufacturing prowess, to which 1001 East Delavan was a steady contributor.

In 1994, American Axel purchased the plant from GM and continued manufacturing auto parts until its abrupt closing in 2007. Today, the former General Motors plant is occupied by Ontario Specialty Contracting, Viridi, and several community organizations, which has injected new life into the 42-acre property. As 1001 East Delavan's newest tenant, they are the catalyst that is responsible for bringing life back into the Eastside property. Viridi focuses on designing and building battery systems that are meant to redefine energy storage and power the transition to renewable energy.

Viridi is not only committed to revitalizing the site, but also hiring people from the surrounding community. They have teamed up with GreenForce Training, which handles recruitment, training, support, and retention efforts for entry level jobs. Viridi currently possesses a workforce of over 150 employees and is projected to increase staff levels to approximately 500 employees. Seventy-eight percent of Viridi and sixty-six percent of GreenForce applicants for production positions are located within the 4 zip codes that surround the plant. Thus, not only has 1001 East Delavan been a successful operation, but they are also once again delivering quality jobs for our community. Today, I ask that you join me in celebrating the centennial anniversary of 1001 East Delavan Avenue and Viridi's continued commitment to the city of Buffalo. We look forward to seeing this be a place of growth and opportunity for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Elaine Newberg, who will celebrate her 100th birthday on August 24.

Born in 1923, she grew up in Philadelphia and attended the University of Pennsylvania.

A gifted pianist, Elaine once performed with the Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra. She went on to become a music teacher, producing a number of popular musicals worthy of the best theaters.

Passionate about helping students find their way, Elaine became a guidance counselor, serving as president of both the Long Island and New York State School Counselor Association.

Elaine and her husband, Marvin, a World War II veteran, raised two children, Richard and Shanti. Richard is an Emmy-winning journalist in Buffalo and Shanti is a social worker.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Elaine Newberg's dedicated life of service, passion, and creativity as we wish her a very happy 100th birthday.

Mr. Speaker, today we take a moment to recognize 100 years of the Amherst Police Department's steadfast commitment to community service and public safety. As Chief Scott Chamberlain notes, their success is a consequence of their commitment to go above and beyond for the residents of Amherst, New York.

In 1819, the first supervisor in the Town of Amherst, Timothy Hopkins, was elected to office. Following his election, he would appoint two constables tasked with patrolling the present boundaries of Amherst. By 1924, The Town of Amherst Police and the Village of Williamsville Police merged, and as the years continued, the number of officers grew. Today, the Amherst Police Department currently consists of 169 sworn officers and 54 civilian employees.

By virtue of effective and dedicated law enforcement officials, Amherst developed a reputation as one of the safest communities in the United States. This police department's stature has undoubtedly been a result of its partnerships with school officials, neighborhood organizations, and the residents that it serves. Their objective is to provide safety and be a positive resource to the 129,000 residents of Amherst. It remains vital to the public interest that our police work tirelessly to keep our streets and neighborhoods safe, and I know the success seen with the Amherst Police Department is owed to its collaborative

and inclusive process with countless members of our own community. As the Amherst Police Department keeps an eye to the future, its residents can look back at the last 100 years of selfless service as a testament to the devoted men and women who serve their neighbors every day.