Honor Blondine Harvin’s Legacy

Senate Resolution No. 299 BY: Senator KENNEDY MOURNING the death of Blondine Harvin, renowned restaurateur, selfless humanitarian and devoted member of her community WHEREAS, Within every community of the State of New York there are certain individuals who, by virtue of their commitment and dedication, command the respect and admiration of their community for their exemplary contributions and service on behalf of others; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to mourn publicly those distinguished citizens who demonstrated great courage and diligence in providing for the care and welfare of the citizens of their communities and this great Empire State; and WHEREAS, With feelings of deepest regret, this Legislative Body records the passing of Blondine Harvin, who died on Wednesday, January

16, 2019, at the age of 80; and WHEREAS, Blondine Harvin was born to the late Rochester and Sarah (Anthony) Davis on August 9, 1938, in Buffalo, New York; after graduating from Fosdick-Masten Park High School, she worked as a secretary in the Jefferson Avenue offices of A&P; and WHEREAS, Eventually, Blondine Harvin decided to take a chance and purchased Gigi's restaurant on the same street; later, she relocated the business to 257 East Ferry Street, and renovated it in 2008; and WHEREAS, Gigi's quickly became known as the place to enjoy authentic soul food; everyone from the homeless to the famous enjoyed her delicious home-cooked meals such as macaroni and cheese, sweet potato pie, smothered pork chops and peach cobbler; and WHEREAS, A faithful congregant of True Bethel Baptist Church, Blondine Harvin's door was always open to those who were in desperate need of a hot meal, and she treated each and every one of her customers with kindness and respect; she was also very good to her employees; during tough times, she made sure each and every one of them was paid before she collected her check; and WHEREAS, After a fire destroyed Gigi's in November of 2015, it was selected to occupy 3,900 square feet in the Northland Workforce Training Center; unfortunately, Blondine Harvin passed away before she would see her beloved restaurant reopen; and WHEREAS, Blondine Harvin truly led by example, and in doing so, has left a lasting impact on the City of Buffalo, the county of Erie, and New York State as a whole; and WHEREAS, Predeceased by her parents; three sisters, Doris, Maxine and Marilyn; and one brother, John, Blondine Harvin is survived by her two sons, Darryl and Alfonzo; one brother, Rochester, Jr.; and four grandchildren, as well as several cousins, nieces and nephews, who will long cherish her memory; and WHEREAS, A woman of great compassion and determination, Blondine Harvin's legacy extends far beyond her accomplishments as a successful proprietor; her sincere concern for others; her integrity, unconditional friendship and selfless motivation to give of herself, will long stand as a beacon for those who would aspire to service in their community; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to mourn the death of Blondine Harvin, renowned restaurateur, selfless humanitarian and devoted member of her community, recognizing the significance of her exemplary record of her service to the residents of Buffalo; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of Blondine Harvin.