The County is Losing a Good Man - July 15, 2009
Howard Dolgon - President & CEO
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
The County is losing a good man. A real good one.
I've known Ed Kochian for 16 years. Many times we've banged heads, many other times we've high-fived each other at Crunch games. We've had our share of agreements, disagreements, shouting matches and laughs.
During this time, I got to know Ed Kochian as a devoted public servant, father, grandfather and, proudly, a friend. I got to know him as a man who didn't say one thing to you in person then change course when the television cameras got rolling, or if his opinions weren't popular with narrow-minded colleagues. He was always a man of his word. He talked the talk and walked the walk.
For a guy who always did his best work behind the scenes, he was always quickly on the scene - - and up front and visible - - when we needed him. Several years ago our hockey club was in the midst of difficult lease negotiations with our arena. Quite frankly, no progress was being made and neither party was willing to give an inch. In fact, we had reached the point where all conversation had ended.
I asked, rather implored Kochian to get involved. He did, and within days - - and to the chagrin of some - - we were able to reach an agreement.
The Ed Kochian I've come to know could care less about your party affiliation. Unlike many local politicians he never stood on his soapbox and pined for his 10 seconds of on-air fame. He didn't care if his decision was popular, only that it was fair. If he felt it was good for the citizens of the County, that it would make Syracuse a better place, then he was all for it.
Some 16 years ago Ed Kochian helped champion professional hockey's return to town. Without him it never would have happened. Trust me on that.
I'm certain that Kochian would be embarrassed if he knew I was writing this. He'd ask me to stop, deflect the credit I am deservedly giving him to others, saying that it was just part of his job.
The County is losing a good man. No, they are losing a great man. A guy who gets it.
He will be missed. And he will be leaving some very big shoes to fill.
He may be leaving government, but he won't be leaving Crunch hockey. He'll be easy to find in section 6, Row A, right on the rail. Hootin' and hollering with his friends, kids and grandkids, rooting for his favorite team.
A team that would not be here without him.