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COLUMN:
President’s Perspective – Celebrating Jim Walsh
Greater Syracuse Chamber of Commerce | Fri, October 31st, 2008

Frequently the results of leadership, vision and dedication take time to fully appreciate and be recognized.  No doubt that is true of our retiring Congressman Jim Walsh. We can compile the long list of his contributions to our community and the nation, easily identifying the immediate results and plans, but only in the duration of time will we recognize and appreciate the full measure of his efforts. 

Congressman Walsh is a lover of outdoors and nature and has worked with the leaders of the Onondaga Nation for years.  I would suggest that he has been guided by the Native American belief that all generations are connected and that our decisions, especially those about the environment, need to be made mindful of the results for the next seven generations.  Jim’s vision of a revived Onondaga Lake certainly fits with the very core of this ethos. 

Jim Walsh’s respectful, congenial and calm demeanor helped earn him first a seat, then important subcommittee and committee assignments on the powerful House Appropriations Committee, even serving as one of the “Cardinals” for several years.  He reached positions on thorny issues in the context of what was best for his constituents, best for the country and, on some very controversial issues, Jim Walsh did what he thought was right, taking personal responsibility for these votes.  With heartfelt attention to the needs of his district, he championed and piloted policies and support for priority projects that would make a real difference for children, families, business, the environment and the future of Central New York.  At many times, he took on the role of “New York state’s congressman,” advocating and taking leadership for key state-wide initiatives, working with the governors who held office during his tenure in the House.

How can the business community mark and recognize the scope and breadth of Jim Walsh’s achievements?  There will be some opportunities at various retirement events.  While we at the Chamber intend to name the Innovation Portal of The Tech Garden in his name, there is much that we all can do beginning January 3, 2009.  Jim Walsh has laid important foundations and created opportunities for literally everyone in this community to continue his legacy.  We have an obligation to complete what has begun and that will be a tall order.

Jim Walsh sees the glass half full, sees the opportunity, sees what could be, how it can be better.  He genuinely loves this community and has always been deeply committed to making positive change.  We must carry on from here, complete the projects, grow the jobs, rehabilitate the neighborhoods, protect the waterways, care for the veterans and continue to build upon the strong foundation he has built.

For the Chamber, we will expand the scope of activity for The Tech Garden and our technology economy; we will continue our endeavors with the colleges and universities in our area; match up business opportunities with our Department of Defense showcase; promulgate more sporting and recreational activity on Onondaga Lake; grow our green technology sector and enhance our expertise and reputation; help to remake our downtown and the Near West Side into a new green community; and work with our community partners to develop, retain and attract the talent we need to drive economic growth. 

Central New York, Syracuse, and the nation are different and changed for the better today and for tomorrows to come because of Congressman Jim Walsh’s patient, practical, foresighted leadership.  His ability to work with many sectors of the 25th District, both political parties, the House of Representatives and Senate, the White House and other nations, have built a legacy that is so worthy of kudos, gratitude, celebration and profound congratulations.  We anticipate that Jim Walsh will be active and involved in some exciting endeavors starting in the New Year.  Our very best wishes to you Jim, and thank you. 




Main offices:
5910 Firestone Drive Syracuse, New York 13206
Phone, Fax and Email:
(315) 434-1988 (315) 434-8883 jmartell@cnylink.com