Honor Ride for the Red

Senate Resolution No. 5316 BY: Senator O'MARA COMMEMORATING the 10th Anniversary of the Finger Lakes Chapter of the American Red Cross Red motorcycle ride, and paying tribute to its organizers Paul Simonson and Tom Doud 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 their employees and volunteers, that are devoted to the welfare of the community and its citizenry; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the Finger Lakes Chapter of the American Red Cross Ride for the Red motorcycle ride, and to pay tribute to its organizers, Paul Simonson and Tom Doud; and WHEREAS, Since its inception, the American Red Cross has strived to provide compassionate care to those in need; its network of generous donors, volunteers and employees share a mission of preventing and relieving suffering, here at home and around the world, through five key service areas: disaster relief, supporting America's military families, lifesaving blood, health and safety services, and international services; and WHEREAS, The 10th Annual Ride for the Red motorcycle run will be held on Saturday, September 1, 2018, in honor of local veterans and Gold Star families from all wars; in addition, the ride raises funds for the American Red Cross' Finger Lakes Chapter's local services, including the Services to the Armed Forces program; and WHEREAS, Ride for the Red will leave the American Legion in Big Flats, New York, and will be led by New York State motorcycle Troopers through the beautiful Finger Lakes Region; and WHEREAS, This popular event is organized and supported by Paul Simonson and Assistant Director Tom Doud of the Arkport/Corning Harley Owners Group (HOG) chapter; and WHEREAS, For more than a decade, Paul Simonson and Tom Doud have donated their time and energy as volunteers of the American Red Cross' Service to the Armed Forces (SAF); as vital members of its Advisory Committee, Paul and Tom have been instrumental in raising significant funds for the Finger Lakes Chapter and both the Central and Western New York Region; these remarkable men have also assisted at many events to help our nation's veteran, active military and their families; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when individuals and organizations of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our attention, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the Finger Lakes Chapter of the American Red Cross Red motorcycle ride, and to pay tribute to its organizers Paul Simonson and Tom Doud; and be it further RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Paul Simonson, Tom Doud, and the American Red Cross Finger Lakes Chapter.