In Memory of Two Special Women
It seems that we are losing so many people from our community. Many have made transition during the past few years. Two women who I would like to pay tribute to are Stephanie Barber-Geter and Mary S. Davis. Both of these women have left a legacy of work and outstanding dedication to our community in many ways.
Stephanie Barber-Geter worked for many community organizations and was well-known for her work with the Hamlin Park Taxpayers Community Association. Mary S. Davis was a legend in radio and television as a Talk Host specializing in politics. This Columnist honored both women with the Roses for Outstanding Women’s Award for their outstanding work and leadership in making their voices heard on many issues that impacted our community. Stephanie Geter received this award in 2015 and Mary Davis received the award in 2011.
As I look back over my life, one of the things I am glad that I did was to honor women in our community with this award. The Roses Award was given to women who excelled in a variety of community organizations. Each woman received a red rose and certificates from local and state leaders.
Stephanie Barber- Geter was a community activist who worked in local government. She served on the Board of Directors for FeedMore and the Triad Association. She was President of the Hamlin Park Taxpayers and Community Association. She also was the chair of the Restore Our Community Coalition where she worked with federal and state leaders to secure funding to re-imagine the Kensington Expressway and reconnect the Humboldt Parkway Community. She was a leader, a champion, and true fighter. She was powerful, passionate and was seriously concerned about her community. Her legacy will live on and inspire the next generation of leaders. When she transitioned, state and local leaders expressed their condolences.
Mary S. Davis made history by becoming the first African American woman Radio Talk show host on WUFO many years ago. She went on to other radio stations inviting guests to discuss a variety of topics. She was honored by WBEN affiliates at Shea’s Theater years ago. I went to the award program and Mary was excited to be one of the honorees recognized for her work. When I ran for Lt. Governor of New York State, Mary invited me to be a guest on her television program to discuss my campaign and the Freedom Party. Mary always invited a wide variety of guests to discuss what was going on in politics in Western New York and beyond. She was not afraid to ask the tough questions. However, she made you feel comfortable in answering the questions. I never will forget my first time on her show many years ago. I was invited with a number of local leaders discussing the state of education in Westen New York. Mary Davis was a role model for me and inspired me to create my own radio and television programs.
Both Stephanie Barber-Geter and Mary S. Davis will always be remembered for their tireless work. This article is my tribute to both of them for their inspiration and leadership. The front of the Roses for Outstanding Women’s Award booklet included the following statement: “Roses have a special place in our lives. The Red Rose stands out from all of the others. All of the women honored with the Roses for Outstanding Women’s Award are like these special flowers. They stand out in our community and touch so many lives in many ways.”
It was an honor to have known both of these powerful women. May they Rest in Peace among the Angels in Heaven.