Good morning.

Governor Cuomo. Lieutenant Governor Duffy. Senator DeFrancisco. Members of the Legislature. Maria Bartiromo. Leaders of our Regional Economic Development Councils.

On behalf of the New York State Assembly, a body that has promoted and supported university/industry partnerships and regional economic development for two decades, I thank each and every one of you, the members of our regional councils, for your generous contribution of time and expertise and I commend you for your dedication to bolstering economic growth and job creation in your respective communities.

This is how intelligent, 21st Century economic development should be accomplished:

Regional strategies tailored to maximize each region's resources and competitive advantages with decision making in the hands of local leaders who most clearly see what each region needs to spur economic growth.

All New Yorkers will benefit from your participation in this program. For this, we thank you.

And if I may, let me assure you that we will continue to work in partnership with the Governor and with our colleagues in the Senate to improve the climate for business in our great state and to ensure that we have the most innovative and productive workforce in America.

In closing, I commend Governor Cuomo for establishing this innovative, competitive funding program and especially for his visionary work in the area of economic development.

And I salute Lieutenant Governor Bob Duffy for his tireless leadership in working with every regional council, attending every meeting, and reviewing every project. Exceptional work, Bob.

Council members, congratulations on completing this year's competition.

Best of luck this morning and best wishes for a bright and joyous holiday season, and a happy new year.