Declare Long Island Sound Day

May 24, 2019, as Long Island Sound Day in the State of New York WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize official days that are set aside to increase public awareness of, and appreciation for, the natural resources of this great Empire State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 24, 2019, as Long Island Sound Day in the State of New York; and WHEREAS, The Long Island Sound, which stretches from New York City to southern Westchester County, Connecticut, and the northern shores of Long Island, is a place where saltwater from the Atlantic Ocean mixes with water from in-land rivers; and WHEREAS, Commercial and recreational activities in the Long Island Sound generate billions of dollars in the economy every year; 500,000 boats are registered in the area of the Long Island Sound, and nearly

120 species of finfish, as well as several shark species; and WHEREAS, Several bird species can be found including the American Oystercatchers, Piping Plovers, Saltmarsh Sparrows, Roseate Terns, Snowy Egrets, and Ospreys; and WHEREAS, Furthermore, both river otters and humpback whales, who had not been seen in more than a century, can once again be found in the Long Island Sound due to the incredible efforts that have been made to rehabilitate the area; and WHEREAS, The Long Island Sound is a destination appreciated by both residents and visitors who seek the natural, scenic, and recreational qualities of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 24, 2019, as Long Island Sound Day in the State of New York; 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.