Governor

What is the Governor up to?

In the last several months I have been traveling up and down state like a yoyo. That's a good thing.

I have enjoyed these travels very much. I have been to a pancake breakfast in Buffalo and back to Queens, visited many clubs, listening to their ideas and some new projects. But, most of all they brought new members.

I had several Governor's Visits which were fun and educational. I had the honor to attend the Tulip Festival in Niagara Frontier South Division. It was a great weekend, with a club that gave their time to make it a success. Even the Key Club was on its toes working a concession stand. Also, I had the honor to attend the parade and the pageant. The whole weekend was a complete success.

This weekend I also attended the South Hampton Special Olympics; Suffolk East played a part in the Olympics. I was in awe to see so many volunteers and competitors with disabilities young and old. It brought tears to my eyes how excited they were when I presented them with Gold, Silver and Bronze medals. It was a sight to see. There had to be at least 1,000 participants. I had a great time to be with the division and the competitors.

From South Hampton I attended Bethpage Street Fair. It was just picture perfect day to be with the Kiwanis Family. Bethpage did a great job putting this fair together. Every member put endless hours to make the fair a success. There were food, clothing, jewelry and other vendors all over the street plus entertainment. The members did a great job.

I will be on the run again all week visiting Merrick, Staten island Autism Prom, and many other events.

I'm making every effort to visit the disaster in Penn Yan. If I have time I will be returning home.

On May 21 the Governor and First lady had the honor to attend a Special Needs Prom (Autistic) in Staten Island.

The event was sponsored by the North Central Staten Island Club. This was the first time I have ever witness this kind of event.

It was beyond amazing. The ages were 18-21 years old, each one were dressed in tuxedo and gowns. They all looked they were walking the red carpet at the Oscars.

The club members did it all, from renting a super stretch limo for pictures, professional photographer, DJ, photo booth, and buffet.

Even had media coverage from ABC. I walked into the ballroom with Cookie and saw young adults who have Autism laughing, dancing and having the time of their lives.

The tears just started to roll from my eyes. It touched my heart to see this kind of event, sponsored by a group of fine men. Whatever the cost meant nothing. As long that these young adults had the best time of their life. This is another reason why we need to continue to grow. If there was no Kiwanis, there we be no Prom for these kids.

The North Central Staten Island Club deserves recognition for an outstanding event.

Column Posted on Web Site May 19, 2014