Honor Brian Rourke Award

Senate Resolution No. 3856 BY: Senator BONACIC HONORING Brian Rourke upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the 2017 Distinguished Achievement Award by the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and commend the leaders of commerce and industry whose accomplishments contribute to the economic health and prosperity of the communities of the State of New York, and whose purposeful endeavors as involved members of the community serve to enhance the quality of life therein; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern and fully in accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Brian Rourke upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the

2017 Distinguished Achievement Award by the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce; this auspicious occasion was celebrated at its 26th Annual Pride Awards Gala on November 16, 2017, at The Eagle's Nest in Bloomingburg, New York; and WHEREAS, The Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to bringing together the business and professional interests of Sullivan County, helping them to accomplish collectively what none could do individually; the organization is focused on the growth and retention of its member businesses, serving as a point of contact and center of information, facilitation and exchange; and WHEREAS, Each year, the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce recognizes certain individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the local economy, to the goals of the Chamber, and to the quality of life in Sullivan County; and WHEREAS, A respected town judge for 16 years, Brian Rourke has not only helped solve disputes within the community, but has gotten to know the people of Liberty and the problems they have faced; in addition to his work with the Law Offices of Brian P. Rourke, he has created and invested in six local businesses; and WHEREAS, With a steadfast commitment to rehabilitating blighted neighborhoods and vacant buildings within the community, Brian Rourke invested in the Super Clean Laundromat, turning it into a safe and thriving business easily accessible to village residents; and WHEREAS, Brian Rourke also launched the Downtown Barn in 2014, which has since grown to become a popular live music venue; and WHEREAS, A devoted member of his community, Brian Rourke currently serves as a board member of Callicoon Cooperative Insurance and the Sullivan County Visitor's Association; he is a former Youth Group Director, Church Trustee and Sunday school instructor, little league baseball coach, Director of Liberty Kiwanis and a board member for the former Community Development Corp (CDC); and WHEREAS, Furthermore, Brian Rourke served as board director for Begin Again Transitional Services for veterans, where he was instrumental in opening Sullivan County's first veteran's home; and WHEREAS, Throughout the entire period of his community service, a period of constructive involvement, Brian Rourke has 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 this remarkable man has displayed throughout his life; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those who enhance the well-being and vitality of their community and have shown a long and sustained commitment to excellence certainly have earned the recognition and applause of all the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Brian Rourke upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the 2017 Distinguished Achievement Award by the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Brian Rourke.