Senate Resolution No. 2365 BY: Senator GRIFFO HONORING Thomas Coyne upon the occasion of announcing his last Utica Comets hockey game on April 21, 2024 WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to acknowledge outstanding sports announcers who distinguish themselves through their exceptional performance, attaining unprecedented success and the highest level of personal achievement; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Thomas Coyne upon the occasion of announcing his last Utica Comets hockey game on Sunday, April 21, 2024, during the Comet's last game of the 2023-24 season at the Adirondack Bank Center at the Utica Memorial Auditorium in Utica, New York; and WHEREAS, Currently serving as the News Director for Nexstar Broadcasting Group, Inc., Thomas Coyne was the PA announcer for the Utica Comets for every game since the team's inception in 2013; and WHEREAS, Since 1987, Thomas Coyne has announced for almost 800 games; the first professional hockey game he announced was an AHL pre-season game at the New Hartford Recreation Center between the Utica Devils and the Rochester Americans; and WHEREAS, Devoted to helping fans enjoy the game of hockey, Thomas Coyne has done three NHL exhibition games, including the Hockeytown game at the legendary Clinton Arena in 2018, two AHL All Star Games, and three Calder Cup Finals games; and WHEREAS, Recently announcing one of the biggest sports events in the city of Utica's history, Thomas Coyne announced the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) Women's World Championship that took place from April 3 to 14, 2024; and WHEREAS, In his capacity as the PA announcer for the Utica Comets, Thomas Coyne served with loyalty, honor, and distinction; and WHEREAS, During his tenure with the Utica Comets, Thomas Coyne earned the admiration, esteem and affection of his colleagues; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Thomas Coyne upon the occasion of announcing his last Utica Comets hockey game on April 21, 2024; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Thomas Coyne.