Honor Aviation Museum Anniversary

29, 2017 WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that the quality of life of the citizens of the State of New York is greatly enriched by its exceptional cultural, educational and recreational institutions; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 90th Anniversary of the Schenectady Airdrome/Airport to be feted at a Celebration on Saturday, July 29, 2017, at the ESAM in Glenville, New York; and WHEREAS, In addition, this auspicious event will commemorate the significance of Charles Lindbergh's accomplishment; and WHEREAS, In 1927, famous aviator, Charles Lindbergh transfixed the world when he flew solo from New York to Paris; following his epic flight, "Lucky Lindy" toured airports across America, including the Schenectady County Airport where he helped celebrate its grand opening; and WHEREAS, Prior to the opening of the ESAM, the area acted as a manufacturing site during the 1930s, quickly becoming a military training base during World War II; with the establishment of the General Electric Flight Test Facility and the Malta Rocket Test Station toward the end of the war, the site became known as "The Little Peenemunde of the U.S." due to its aircraft research and development; and WHEREAS, Established in 1984, the ESAM is a non-profit corporation chartered by the New York State Department of Education; and WHEREAS, For over three decades, ESAM has strived to interpret aviation, particularly that related to New York State, with exhibits and programs which educate, entertain and excite the public; and WHEREAS, The Museum occupies nine buildings and 27 acres of land on the western perimeter of the Airport; ESAM has a collection of over 21 aircraft including a F-14A Tomcat, A-6E Intruder, A-4 Skyhawk II, and F-4D Phantom; and WHEREAS, The ESAM does not only deliver rich history through their artifacts, documents, and aircrafts, but an experience which stimulates interest in aviation technology to guests and residents of the community; it also offers a career perspective for students through its enlightening educational tours; and WHEREAS, The expert staff of the ESAM, are and always have been characterized by an impressive commitment, an unbridled enthusiasm, and an uncompromising standard of excellence, and accordingly merit the commendation of this Legislative Body; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commend the Empire State Aerosciences Museum upon the occasion of celebrating 90 years of History and Innovation; Schenectady County Airport on July 29, 2017; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the Empire State Aerosciences Museum.