Honor Older New Yorkers Day

May 9, 2017, as Older New Yorkers Day in the State of New York WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to commend the older New Yorkers of this Empire State who, as they reach the fullness of years, continue to be active and vital participants in the life of their community; and WHEREAS, Older New Yorkers bring their special wisdom, experience and enthusiasm to countless endeavors, helping to shape and strengthen the character of our communities and the quality of our lives; and WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 9, 2017, as Older New Yorkers Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of May being declared as National Older Americans Month; and WHEREAS, The more than three million residents of New York State 60 years of age and older bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the increasingly active roles they play in today's society; their past contributions and future participation are a vital part of, and valuable asset to, the fabric of community life and activity; and WHEREAS, These older New Yorkers have contributed to the State by building and helping preserve the customs, traditions and ideals of the many ethnic groups that make up the mosaic of New York State; and WHEREAS, The wisdom and experience of older New Yorkers constantly enrich the lives of the young people of our State through a strong tradition of volunteerism; and WHEREAS, Since 1962, the month of May has been declared, by Presidential Proclamation, Older Americans Month in order for communities around the nation to set time aside to celebrate and reflect on the unique role older Americans play in the fabric of our society; and WHEREAS, The legislative and executive branches of New York State government have as a primary goal the improvement of the quality of life of older New Yorkers and the assurance of their continued dignity; and WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to recognize and celebrate the legacy of New York's older New Yorkers who have experienced tumultuous changes in the 20th Century, including the dawn of the nuclear age, the rise of the computer, and the proliferation of the automobile, television, technology and so many other innovations of the American spirit, and who now represent a vast and willing source of knowledge available to our great State of New York; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 9, 2017, as Older New Yorkers Day in the State of New York; and be it further RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause further to urge the residents of this great Empire State to honor all of our older New Yorkers who are the cornerstone of the strength of our Nation and to whom a debt of gratitude is owed; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York.