[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 34 (Wednesday, February 28, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E421]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING THE LIFE AND POLITICAL CAREER OF BOB HOWARD

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BRIAN HIGGINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 28, 2007

  Mr. HIGGINS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the political 
career of one of Western New York's most colorful and most effective 
political leaders--Robert ``Bob'' Howard, of the town of Orchard Park.
  Bob Howard is a dear friend of many years standing--so many years, in 
fact, that Bob's political influence with me and my family stretches 
back over many years. Bob Howard was a trusted campaign advisor to my 
father in his campaigns for the Buffalo Common Council's South District 
seat in the 1960s and 1970s. Bob later provided tremendous assistance 
in my own campaigns for that same councilmanic seat in the 1980s and 
1990s.
  Bob was probably most helpful to me during a very difficult race I 
had in 1998--my initial run for the New York State Legislature. Bob was 
tremendously committed to my success, practically leading me from one 
end of the district to the other, and his advice and counsel throughout 
the campaign was invaluable.
  Bob has many political successes to his credit, but I suspect that 
the campaign that he was most proud of was the successful campaign 
waged by Toni Cudney for Supervisor of the town of Orchard Park. 
Orchard Park, long dominated by Republicans, was treated to Toni's 
effective and dedicated stewardship for eight years as Supervisor, and 
her campaigns were assisted greatly by Bob's tireless efforts.
  Older in age and slower of step now, Bob Howard will be feted by 
family and close friends on Sunday, March 4 at the home of Toni and Jim 
Cudney, where a celebration of Bob's political career will take place. 
It is altogether fitting and proper that his work be honored in such a 
way, as Bob's efforts made government work better for local taxpayers, 
homeowners and businesses. Bob's sole purpose in his political life was 
to produce a better, stronger and more vibrant community, and all local 
residents owe him a tremendous debt of gratitude for the tireless 
dedication he demonstrated over the years. I thank you, Madam Speaker, 
for allowing me the opportunity to speak today to extol the virtues of 
Western New York's own Bob Howard, and to honor his many contributions 
to our local community.

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