Sen. Griffo presents New York State Senate Commendation Awards

NEW HARTFORD – State Sen. Joseph Griffo, R-I-C-Rome, today presented New York State Commendation Awards to several community members during a ceremony at the Oneida-Herkimer-Madison BOCES in New Hartford.

The award is one way the Senate recognizes exceptional people who have made a lasting contribution to their community. 

Those honored included:

· Utica Councilman Bill Philips

· Former Oneida County Legislator Les Porter

· John Wade, owner of Delmonico’s Italian Steakhouse

· Rufus J. “Nini” Ventura, owner of Ventura’s Restaurant

· The Rev. Paul Drobin, former pastor of Holy Trinity Church and Transfiguration Church in Rome and St. John the Evangelist in New Hartford

· The Rev. Philip Hearn of St. Mary’s St. Peter’s Church in Rome

· Sonia Martinez of the Mohawk Valley Latino Association

· Frank Tomaino, historian and Observer-Dispatch contributor

· Former Utica Fire Chief Russell Brooks

· Pat Costello, former president of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 

· Pastor Michael Servello Sr., founder of Redeemer Church and the Compassion Coalition

· Shirley Waters of the Rome Sentinel

“All of the individuals honored today are leaders in the community who enrich the social, health and educational well-being of their fellow citizens,” Sen. Griffo said. “They demonstrate leadership by working on neighborhood causes, mentoring and teaching others, volunteering or simply serving as a role model. Their efforts and dedication improve the quality of life in every aspect of their communities.”

Awardees received a personalized plaque and commendation coin as part of the ceremony.

The Senator previously honored businessman and philanthropist F. Eugene Romano with a commendation.