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Message from Andolina and Parete

Officers Parete and Andolina

Two Buffalo Police Officers, injured in a shooting one year ago, want to thank Western New York for all of the unbelievable support they've received over the last year. The two, Carl E. Andolina and Patricia A. Parete, were both shot on December 5th, 2006, as they responded to a call of a fight at downtown minimart.

In a statement, Andolina said: "Now that things have settled down somewhat, I can finally take the time to express my gratitude to the local businesses, sports community and people of Buffalo. Without your help and tireless efforts, your contributions, your sacrifices of time, love and prayers, we would never have been able to accomplish all that we have on behalf of my partner Patty Parete. Because of your extraordinary generosity, we were able to raise over a half million dollars to assist Patty's recovery efforts. I may never have the opportunity to personally thank each and everyone and although words cannot begin to express my overwhelming appreciation, I have to try. In these course of events, I have been called a hero. But I believe the real heroes are you. On behalf of Patty Parete and myself, I want to thank you for all you've done and reinforcing my pride in Buffalo's reputation as the City of Good Neighbors."

The 42 year old Andolina, who was shot numerous times that evening, has been off duty ever since the incident. He met with Commissioner H. McCarthy Gipson earlier this week and all is set for Andolina to return to the force in early January.

Parete was shot twice that night and recently returned to Western New York after spending nine months in a New Jersey rehabilitation center. Parete continues to recover from those injuries and she wants to thank everyone for their support, love and prayers. She also wants to wish everyone a happy holiday season.

The suspect, 19 year old Varner Harris Jr., was recently sentenced to 30 years to life in jail for the shooting.