Syracuse NY -- Senator John A. DeFrancisco (R-I-C-WF, Syracuse), Executive Director of CNYRTA Frank Kobliski, Teacher Marnie Coggins, and members of her 4th grade class at Van Duyn Elementary School have unveiled legislation (S6879) and a special initiative to honor civil rights activist Rosa Parks. Rosa Parks Day is February 4, 2008.

“Rosa Parks was a remarkable woman who had a tremendous impact on history and today these students at Van Duyn Elementary School are doing their part to change history as well,” said Senator DeFrancisco. “As a result of the letters these fourth grade students sent to me, I have introduced legislation that would permit and encourage bus companies in New York State to leave one seat empty, on all buses, on Rosa Parks Day in honor of Rosa Parks and her contributions to the civil rights movement.

I applaud the efforts of these students and I thank Frank Kobliski and the Central New York Regional Transportation Authority for partnering with us in this historical initiative.”

On Monday, February 4, 2008, Frank Kobliski, Executive Director of CNYRTA has agreed to dedicate one seat on each of CNYRTA’s buses in honor of Rosa Parks. CNYRTA will be placing a placard on all buses to mark Rosa Parks Day.

"CNYRTA is proud to partner with Senator DeFrancisco in recognizing this important occasion," said Frank Kobliski. "Rosa Parks was a model of courage and leadership, and CNYRTA hopes our leadership position in dedicating a seat in her honor will provide a learning opportunity within our community," Kobliski added.

“Rosa Parks is considered to be the mother of the civil rights movement and is very deserving of this honor,” continued Marnie Coggins. “Her courage inspired many to stand up for freedom. Thanks to students at Van Duyn Elementary School, Senator John A. DeFrancisco and Frank Kobliski, Executive Director of CNYRTA, her courageous act will never be forgotten.”

Rosa Parks is remembered for the brave stand she took on December 1,1955 when she refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Alabama bus in protest of racial segregation. Her act of courage started the Montgomery Bus Boycott which was one of the largest movements in the fight against racial segregation.