New York J 1278: Commemorating the St. George Greek Orthodox Church and their Parish Council upon the occasion of celebrating its 47th Annual St. George Greek Festival in the City of Schenectady

Bill Text

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J01278 Summary:

BILL NOJ01278 

&nbsp

SAME ASNo Same As

&nbsp

SPONSORHARCKHAM

&nbsp

COSPNSR

&nbsp

MLTSPNSR

&nbsp

&nbsp

Go to top J01278 Actions:

BILL NOJ01278 

&nbsp

09/26/2025REFERRED TO FINANCE

01/13/2026REPORTED TO CALENDAR FOR CONSIDERATION

01/13/2026ADOPTED

Go to topJ01278 Committee&nbspVotes:

Go to topJ01278 Floor&nbspVotes:

There are no Assembly votes for this bill in this legislative session.

Go to topJ01278 Text:

Senate Resolution No. 1278

BY: Senator HARCKHAM

 MOURNING the death of Kent J. Patterson, railroad
 professional, dedicated public transportation
 advocate, and distinguished member of his community

 WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavor
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and across
the state; and

 WHEREAS, With profound sorrow and deep regret, this Legislative Body
records the passing of Kent J. Patterson, of Dobbs Ferry, New York, who
died on August 8, 2025, at the age of 70, surrounded by his beloved
partner Shelley, his brother Michael, and his mother Barbara; and

 WHEREAS, Kent J. Patterson devoted his life to the advancement of
passenger rail service and railroad history, both as a committed
professional and an impassioned advocate; and

 WHEREAS, After graduating from Dobbs Ferry High School in 1973, Kent
J. Patterson immediately began working for the railroad, embarking on a
distinguished 37-year career with Penn Central, Conrail, Amtrak, and
Metro-North Railroad; he worked in various critical roles, including
that of signal tower operator, and developed a vast knowledge of rail
operations, always striving to improve the systems he served; and

 WHEREAS, Kent J. Patterson's love of trains began in childhood,
inspired by trips with his grandfather on the elevated subway lines and
watching trains on the New York Central's Putnam Division; his passion
remained undimmed throughout his life, finding expression in both his
professional work and his prolific involvement with rail history and
advocacy; and

 WHEREAS, As a longtime and active member of the Empire State
Passenger Association (ESPA) and the Rail Passengers Association (RPA),
Kent J. Patterson served with distinction as a member of the ESPA Board
of Directors and as a RPA Council Representative, where he was
instrumental in organizing meetings with New York's congressional staff
for annual "Day on the Hill" events in Washington, D.C.; and

 WHEREAS, Kent J. Patterson was widely respected by his colleagues
for his unwavering dedication, deep knowledge of rail operations, and
consistently positive outlook; and

 WHEREAS, He was also a contributor to railroad history, recently
authoring a reflective piece titled "DV Tower" for the Penn Central
Post, the publication of the Penn Central Railroad Historical Society,
in which he recounted memories from his time working on the railroad and
his early experiences that sparked a lifelong fascination with passenger
trains; and

 WHEREAS, Furthermore, he was held in high esteem not only for his
knowledge and professional contributions, but also for his kindness,

enthusiasm, and enduring commitment to the cause of better rail service
for all New Yorkers and Americans; and

 WHEREAS, Kent J. Patterson leaves behind a legacy of service,
passion, and friendship, and will be deeply missed by his loved ones,
colleagues, and all who had the privilege to work with him or benefit
from his efforts; now, therefore, be it

 RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the death of Kent J. Patterson, recognizing his significant
contributions to the rail industry and passenger advocacy in New York
State and beyond; and be it further

 RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Kent J. Patterson.

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