Honor Autism Fundraiser Efforts

Senate Resolution No. 1161 BY: Senator KAMINSKY COMMENDING John Rigazio for his extraordinary efforts to support and raise funds for autism awareness and research on June 10, 2016 WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and pay tribute to those young people within the great Empire State who devote their energy, resources and thoughtful care to improving the quality of life in their communities; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commend John Rigazio for his extraordinary efforts to support and raise funds for autism awareness and research; and WHEREAS, John Rigazio, who is a Senior at South Side High School in Rockville Centre, participated in Bike to the Beach on Friday, June 10,

501(c)3 non-profit organization that is an extension of the Autism Speaks community which coordinates cycling events across the country to raise awareness and support for Autism in America; and WHEREAS, As part of Team Talisen of Talisen Construction Corporation, John Rigazio helped raise $40,000, some of which went to Autism Speaks, an organization dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the lifespan, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families through advocacy and support; increasing understanding and acceptance of autism spectrum disorder; and advancing research into causes and better interventions for autism spectrum disorder and related conditions; and WHEREAS, During the spring of 2016, John Rigazio began building his stamina as a member of his high school track team; three months prior to the event, he diligently trained every weekend, slowly increasing his distance until he routinely biked 65 miles each session; and WHEREAS, John Rigazio is preparing to do the Bike to the Beach again on June 9, 2017, with a goal of building a team of 50 riders and raising $50,000 dollars for autism awareness; and WHEREAS, Through his hard work and monumental achievement, John Rigazio has inspired and brought pride to his school and community; with his sense of civic duty and his commitment to others, John Rigazio represents the best development of the potential which is inherent in our most precious resource, our youth; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commend John Rigazio for his extraordinary efforts to support and raise funds for autism awareness and research, and to wish this exceptional young man continued success throughout his school years and beyond; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to John Rigazio.