Honor Cronins for Humanitarian Work

11, 2018 WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize that the quality and character of life in the communities across New York State are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those organizations and individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare of the community and its citizenry; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor John L. Cronin and Mark X. Cronin upon the occasion of their designation as recipients of the Monsignor Thomas G. Hagerty Humanitarian Award by HeartShare Human Services of New York to be celebrated at its Spring Gala on Wednesday, April 11, 2018, at the New York Marriott Marquis in New York City; and WHEREAS, The Monsignor Thomas G. Hagerty Humanitarian Award is presented to a person or persons with a proven track record of philanthropy and who have demonstrated concern for at-risk populations, particularly those with intellectual/developmental disabilities and/or children and youth; John L. Cronin and Mark X. Cronin are truly deserving of this prestigious award; and WHEREAS, Since 1914, HeartShare Human Services of New York has strived to improve the lives of people in need of special services and support; this vital non-profit organization helps individuals develop to their fullest potential and lead meaningful and enriched lives in the community; and WHEREAS, Mark X. Cronin, and his son, John Lee Cronin, who has Down Syndrome, founded John's Crazy Socks to make people smile and spread happiness, as well as empower people and demonstrate the possibilities each of us possesses; the venture was inspired by John's love for crazy socks; and WHEREAS, John L. Cronin and Mark X. Cronin graciously donate five percent of their earnings to the Special Olympics which have played a vital role in John's development; they continue to expand their charitable partners by offering and creating socks with specific awareness themes; and WHEREAS, Mark X. Cronin holds the title of President of Paumonok Innovations Inc. which develops online information sites and niche stores; dedicated to his Huntington, New York, community, he has served as a coach, volunteer and advocate for many years; for his steadfast and unremitting commitment, he was named the Man of the Year by the Times of Huntington; and WHEREAS, John L. Cronin attended Huntington High School where he participated in life skills classes, fashion and photography classes, and sang in the school chorus; he also went to Wilson Tech where he studied office skills and retailing, and was recognized as its Outstanding Student of the Year; and WHEREAS, John L. Cronin worked in the kitchen of Camp Alvernia, and for several years, he has served as the mail clerk for the Schlitt Law Firm; and WHEREAS, Since a young age, John L. Cronin has participated in Special Olympics; he has competed in various events including snowshoeing, basketball, track, soccer, floor hockey, and bowling, winning numerous medals and invitations to the New York State Games; in March of 2017, he was named an alternate to the United States National Snowshoe Team for the Special Olympics World Games; 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 John L. Cronin and Mark X. Cronin upon the occasion of their designation as recipients of the Monsignor Thomas G. Hagerty Humanitarian Award by HeartShare Human Services of New York; and be it further RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to John L. Cronin and Mark X. Cronin.