First lady visits Amherst, supports Reynolds
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

First lady Laura Bush smiles in appreciation after being introduced Oct. 4 at a campaign fund-raising event for Rep. Thomas Reynolds R-Amherst). The event was held at the Buffalo Niagara Marriott. Photo by David F. Sherman

First lady Laura Bush was in town last week to give Rep. Thomas M. Reynolds, R-Amherst, some high-powered help in his bid for re-election.

Reynolds hosted Mrs. Bush at an Oct. 4 luncheon that raised $250,000 - money that Reynolds said will allow him to finish his campaign.

This was Mrs. Bush's first visit to Amherst, where her agenda included speaking at the luncheon held at the Buffalo Niagara Marriott.

She commented on Reynolds' successes in Washington, D.C., where he serves as deputy majority whip and chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee.

"But Tom is best known for his devotion to representing the people of New York," she said. "And in Washington, he's distinguished himself as a powerful advocate of the 26th district."

Mrs. Bush spoke about supporting Reynolds' fourth congressional race because of accomplishments he has made since taking office in 1999.

The Williamsville East Vocal Jazz Ensemble performs Oct. 4 prior to the introduction of first lady Laura Bush at the Buffalo Niagara Marriott. The luncheon was a fund-raiser for Rep. Thomas M. Reynolds (R-Amherst) who is seeking reelection on Nov. 7. Photo by David F. Sherman

"During his eight years in the House, Congressman Reynolds has brought almost half a billion dollars in federal funding to the 26th district," she said, adding that he has advanced health care in the region by securing federal investments for several programs.

Life has changed since Reynolds was first elected to Congress, and Mrs. Bush said he has supported U.S. troops and the efforts to end terrorism and rebuild the Gulf Coast.

"To accomplish them, we must have serious national conversations, conducted with civility and respect. And Tom Reynolds is a thoughtful and positive part of that dialogue," she said. "This is just one reason why Congressman Reynolds is a wonderful leader for New York. When you look through his distinguished record of public service, you'll find many more."

In addition to voicing her support for Reynolds, Mrs. Bush spoke of her involvement in Reach Out and Read, a program that works with pediatricians to educate parents about the importance of reading with their children.

Through a network of more than 44,000 doctors, nurses and other health care professionals, Reach Out and Read delivers literacy advice and about 4 million books to more than 2.5 million needy children every year.

"Congressman Reynolds has helped secure $10.2 million in federal funding for Reach Out and Read. Thank you, Tom, for this very important work. I appreciate it very much," she said.

In closing, Mrs. Bush made her final push for Reynolds.

"I urge you to redouble your efforts between now and November to make sure Tom Reynolds is re-elected to the United States Congress," she said.

Mrs. Bush was joined by Gov. George E. Pataki, who said that having known Reynolds for many years, he knows that the congressman is a quality leader.

"He has fought for the people of Western New York," Pataki said. "There is no better person in public service than Tom Reynolds."

Mrs. Bush is believed to be the only First Lady to visit Amherst while her husband was still in the White House.

The wife of the late President Grover Cleveland, then Mrs. Frances Preston Jr. of Princeton, N.J., came to Amherst on Sept. 28, 1931 to attend the funeral of

her aunt, Mrs. Helen H. Cadman, mother of John W. Cadman of Williamsville.

According to The Amherst Bee, she was the first member of a presidential family to visit the town.