[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 85 (Tuesday, June 14, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1085]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING MR. GEORGE MARTIN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. BRIAN HIGGINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 14, 2011

  Mr. HIGGINS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 90th 
birthday of a proud son of the city of Buffalo and an ardent believer 
in the Jesuit educational tradition--George Martin.
  When I think of George Martin, I think of a man of deep faith, 
commitment to public service, and a man who most of all places 
tremendous value in quality education. George Martin is one of the 
proudest Buffalonians I have ever had the pleasure to know. His 
commitment to education is so vast, so complete, that these words 
hardly live up to the record he has compiled.
  A proud alumnus of St. Joseph's Collegiate Institute, George's 
service to that institution is unparalleled. A longtime board chair, 
George was designated an Affiliate Christian Brother due to his 
faithful service to St. Joe's and to the wider LaSallian community.
  George has demonstrated as deep a commitment to Canisius College, 
where he is accurately regarded as a living legend. George was the very 
first lay Executive Vice President of Canisius College, where he blazed 
a trail and set an example for literally thousands of impressionable 
students. Today, a dormitory and an academic award are named in his 
honor, and an endowed scholarship fund exists in his name, 
demonstrating all the more the deep and abiding commitment George has 
to the college itself and to education in general.
  George has a great history in public service as well. A veteran of 
the Sedita administration in Buffalo City Government, George was also a 
friend and confidant to Governor Hugh Carey. George also served with 
honor and distinction for many years in leadership of the New York 
State Council of Parks, where he worked tirelessly to maintain the New 
York State Park system's preeminent position as among the very best 
state systems in the nation.
  Hailing from the proud neighborhoods of South Buffalo, George served 
his country with honor and bravery in World War II, and is patriarch to 
many nieces and nephews--many themselves alumni of Canisius. Our 
community is fortunate that this proud family shared their uncle with 
us, to dedicate so very much to the growth and success of these 
important Jesuit institutions.
  In closing, Mr. Speaker, I ask that you join with me and with the 
membership of the House to honor the dedicated service of Buffalo's 
George Martin, and to wish good health and Godspeed to him upon the 
occasion of his 90th birthday.

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