Honor Richard Jerome's Farming Award

Senate Resolution No. 1242 BY: Senator HELMING HONORING Richard Jerome upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the Rodney Lightfoote Agricultural Viability and Innovation Award WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that the continuing welfare of the citizens of the State of New York is greatly enriched and reliably served by the purposeful endeavors of individuals who are committed to the preservation of our agriculture industry and the enhancement of the appreciation of the distinctive features of our surroundings; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Richard Jerome upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the Rodney Lightfoote Agricultural Viability and Innovation Award by the Cornell Cooperative Extension, Ontario County Farm Bureau and Ontario County Agricultural Enhancement Board, to be recognized at its Agriculture Appreciation Celebration on Friday, March 24, 2017, at Club

86, Geneva, New York; and WHEREAS, The agricultural industry is part of the foundation upon which our distinct American heritage is built; New York State and the entire United States are dependent on our agricultural industry for a variety of food products; and WHEREAS, Richard Jerome, affectionately known as Rich, graduated from Cornell University where he was an integral part of the ROTC Program; and WHEREAS, After valiantly serving his country as a member of the United States Army, Rich Jerome returned home to his family farm in Naples, New York; and WHEREAS, Founded in 1817, Rich Jerome is the 7th generation to run his family's farm; under his able leadership, the farm has expanded its U-pick operation to include grapes, raspberries, peas and pumpkins; and WHEREAS, In addition, Rich Jerome provides a portion of his grapes for wine, and to the local pie makers in Naples; and WHEREAS, With a steadfast and unwavering commitment to his community, Rich Jerome has served as a Board member of the Cornell Cooperative Extension, Chairman of the NYFB Grape Advisory Committee, Director of NYFB District III, and Board member and President of the Ontario County Farm Bureau; and WHEREAS, Rich Jerome has also been a member of the Ontario County Ag Enhancement Board, Naples Planning Board, and Naples School Board; and WHEREAS, With him throughout have been his wife, Mary, and their three children, as well as six grandchildren, all of whom feel privileged to be a part of his life and rejoice in his achievements; and WHEREAS, It is incumbent upon all citizens to recognize and applaud the efforts of individuals such as Rich Jerome who work tirelessly on behalf of protecting and promoting our natural surroundings for the benefit of present and future generations of New Yorkers; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Richard Jerome upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the Rodney Lightfoote Agricultural Viability and Innovation Award; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Richard Jerome.