Honor Ira Cohen's Legacy

Senate Resolution No. 2141 BY: Senator BONACIC HONORING Ira Cohen posthumously upon the occasion of his induction into the Monticello High School Hall of Distinction Class of 2016 WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to take note of and publicly acknowledge individuals who have distinguished themselves through their exemplary careers, accomplishments, and purposeful lives of service to their community; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Ira Cohen posthumously upon the occasion of his induction into the Monticello High School Hall of Distinction Class of 2016; this momentous occasion was celebrated on Friday, November 4, 2016, at the Arnold Packer Hughs Auditorium in Monticello High School; and WHEREAS, From a dozen years with the Sullivan County Attorney's Office, to his longtime legal representation, to his role as County Treasurer, Ira Cohen was undoubtedly a familiar face to countless Monticello residents; and WHEREAS, A 1962 graduate of Monticello High School, Ira Cohen excelled academically and was a member of the debate club, baseball and basketball teams; he went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University of Buffalo, and a Juris Doctor degree from Albany Law School in 1969; and WHEREAS, Renowned for his work as Sullivan County Treasurer, Ira Cohen was the proud recipient of the Treasurer of the Year Award; he was instrumental in increasing the county's bond rating, as well as in negotiating deals with American Indian nations seeking to open casinos in Sullivan; and WHEREAS, As a public servant, Ira Cohen was often called upon for advice and guidance; he was also a member of the New York State and Sullivan County Bar Associations, the New York State County Attorney's Society, and the County Treasurers and Finance Officers Association; and WHEREAS, Throughout the entire period of his community service, a period of constructive involvement, Ira Cohen stood constant in dignity, good grace and humor; and WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an individual for the benefit of others which Ira Cohen displayed throughout his life; and WHEREAS, It has always been the objective of this Legislative Body to honor and support those individuals who have displayed their commitment to the betterment of their communities, and it is the intent of this Legislative Body to inscribe upon its records, this tribute to Ira Cohen, that future generations may know and appreciate his admirable character, his many benevolent deeds, and the respect and esteem in which he is held by those who knew him; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Ira Cohen posthumously upon the occasion of his induction into the Monticello High School Hall of Distinction Class of 2016; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of Ira Cohen.