Honor Roger Markovics Award

Senate Resolution No. 2716 BY: Senator BRESLIN HONORING Roger Markovics upon the occasion of being named a Man of Valor by the Frank Chapman Memorial Institute, Inc. on June 17, 2017 WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and honor those distinguished citizens who would devote their life's work and purpose to community service, contributing to the welfare of the citizens of their communities and this great Empire State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Roger Markovics upon the occasion of being named a Man of Valor by the Frank Chapman Memorial Institute, Inc., to be recognized at its 9th Annual Men of Valor Celebration on Saturday, June 17, 2017, at the Ramada Plaza Hotel, Albany, New York; and WHEREAS, Roger Markovics is being honored with this auspicious award in recognition of his trailblazing efforts to make a difference within the local community; and WHEREAS, Roger Markovics earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Siena College in 1967, during which time he tirelessly volunteered in numerous organizations throughout the South End and Arbor Hill; and WHEREAS, Upon the completion of his studies, Roger Markovics became a VISTA Volunteer in Tennessee and South Dakota, before receiving his Master of Social Work degree from the University of Michigan in 1970; and WHEREAS, Roger Markovics and Maria Mazzolini were united in marriage in 1970; the couple moved to Albany, New York, to begin their work as community organizers at Providence House, during which time the United Tenants of Albany was established; and WHEREAS, With a steadfast and unwavering commitment to his community, Roger Markovics worked tirelessly with the United Tenants of Albany and was instrumental in the creation of the Albany Area Housing Opportunities (1983), Community Loan Fund of the Capital Region (1985), Albany Community Land Trust (1987), and the Affordable Housing Partnership (1990); and WHEREAS, Through the years, Roger Markovics served his beloved community with honor and distinction; he retired in 2016, but remains an advocate for permanent affordable housing; and WHEREAS, With him throughout have been his wife, Maria, and their two sons, Matthew and Peter, as well as two grandchildren, all of whom feel privileged to be a part of his life and rejoice in his achievements; and WHEREAS, Throughout the entire period of his community service, a period of constructive involvement, Roger Markovics has stood constant in dignity, good grace and humor; 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 Roger Markovics, 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 his peers; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Roger Markovics upon the occasion of being named a Man of Valor by the Frank Chapman Memorial Institute, Inc. on June 17, 2017; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Roger Markovics.