[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 20 (Monday, February 6, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E143]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING PHILLIP ``RUSS'' RIZZO ON THE OCCASION OF HIS RETIREMENT

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                           HON. BRIAN HIGGINS

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, February 6, 2017

  Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the 
career and public service of Phillip ``Russ'' Rizzo, as he concludes 
his service on the Common Council of the city of North Tonawanda, New 
York.
   A lifelong city resident and U.S. Army Veteran, prior to entering 
public service, Russ was the owner of Rizzo and Ricotta Office 
Products. While operating his business, Russ began his public service 
on the city's Zoning Board of Appeals, serving from 1994 to 1996. Russ 
joined the Common Council in 2000, working to alleviate flooding 
problems in the 1st Ward, and later spearheading efforts to revitalize 
the NT waterfront, culminating in the opening of a restaurant at 
Gratwick Riverside Park. In addition to his focus on neighborhoods and 
the waterfront, Russ put a great deal of time and energy into 
rejuvenating the city's downtown business district.
   From 2010 through 2012, Russ served as a member of the Niagara 
County Legislature. Later in 2012, Russ returned to the Common Council 
where he continued to serve constituents, personally addressing their 
issues and making sure no calls went unanswered.
   In his retirement, Russ and his wife Mary look forward to spending 
more time with their family. They are parents to four children, 
grandparents to seven and are blessed with one great-grandchild.
   In 2012, I was given the honor of having the opportunity to 
represent North Tonawanda. Few public officials welcomed me with a 
greater degree of warmth than did Russ Rizzo. Russ is a true gentleman 
who only had the very best interests of his hometown at heart. His 
constituents were well-served by him, and I am honored both by his 
collegiality as well as his friendship.
   Mr. Speaker, thank you for allowing me a few moments to honor Russ 
and recognize all that he has done for the City of North Tonawanda. I 
know that you join me and all of our colleagues in wishing Russ, Mary 
and their entire family the very best of good health and happiness in 
the months and years to come.

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