The Assembly adjourns its session this afternoon in memory of Percy Sutton, a former member of this House and most notably, a political and business leader whose courage and charisma have left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of elected officials and civil rights champions across our nation and here in this Chamber.

I had great admiration for the man and an enduring respect for him as a leader. I did not know him as a member of this House, but as the Borough President of Manhattan.

Read his life story, and you cannot help but be inspired by the man and his legacy. Percy Sutton was the embodiment of the American Dream.

To me, he was the quintessential New Yorker and I am proud that he will forever be associated with the great American leaders who have served here in the New York State Assembly.