Schumer, Collins no-shows for CRFS announcement

Shutdown talks keep them in Washington, D.C.

ALBION – A big announcement about jobs usually draws a crowd of politicians.

Two members of Congress were expected for the news conference today about Claims Recovery Financial Services adding 150 workers in Albion, while the company moved to the former JPMorgan Chase site.

Sen. Charles Schumer’s staff on Friday sent a notice to the media that the senator would be in Albion today at 1 p.m. But this morning, with the threat of a federal government shutdown, the senator’s staff apologized in another e-mail, saying the senator would have to stay in D.C.

Rep. Chris Collins, R-Clarence, also was expected, but he, too, stayed in D.C.

President Obama urged Congress to act before a midnight deadline to avoid the first government shutdown in nearly two decades.

Although they didn’t make the Albion news conference, Schumer and Collins were both quoted in a press release about the company’s expansion.

“This effort has been months in the making and the results speak for themselves: jobs, jobs, jobs,” Schumer said. “Fifty-five former Chase workers are putting their skills to work for CRFS and there are even more jobs to come. Thanks to Jodi Gaines and her commitment to the local workforce, CRFS will expand in New York State. The future is bright for CRFS and Orleans County.”

Collins is quoted with the following statement: “The relocation and expansion of Claims Recovery Financial Services, LLC, is a solid shot in the arm for the economy of Albion and all of Orleans County. Now, the largest private employer in Orleans County is putting more people to work and giving life to the former JPMorgan Chase complex. Jodi Gaines has built a thriving national business and regional employer. I applaud her vision and look forward to continuing to work with her for the betterment of this community.”