Honor Drew P. Cottam

Senate Resolution No. 953 BY: Senator BIAGGI MOURNING the untimely death of Drew P. Cottam, avid skateboarder, BMX bicyclist, beloved son, grandson and brother WHEREAS, It is with feelings of deepest regret that this Legislative Body records the passing of Drew P. Cottam, an extraordinary young man of indomitable faith and dedication whose short, yet purposeful life will long serve as a standard to which others might aspire; and WHEREAS, A young man of boundless energy, Drew P. Cottam of City Island, Bronx, New York, died on Sunday, September 30, 2018, at the young age of 18; and WHEREAS, Drew Preston Cottam was born to Gary and Vicki Cottam in

2000; he and his two brothers were raised in the City Island neighborhood of Bronx, New York, where they loved to spend time together perfecting their skills on their skateboards and BMX bicycles; and WHEREAS, A local legend and a hero to all, Drew P. Cottam could often be found grinding the ledges behind PS 175, the railing of the post office or the white curb in front of Carmen's gas station; his cell phone was full of videos he made of himself doing all sorts of tricks on the streets and in parks around the area; and WHEREAS, Drew P. Cottam's love for extreme sports truly helped him to become a better person; the rapidly growing sport helped him build determination, physical strength and self-control; and WHEREAS, The action sports community thrives on the progression of the younger generations, beginners can always benefit from the advice and "tech tips" of those who have been involved in the sport for a longer time frame; despite not having any nearby access to proper facilities, Drew P. Cottam introduced and taught many young people the sports of skateboarding and BMX, giving them the tools to create their own destiny; and WHEREAS, Throughout his magnanimous life, Drew P. Cottam made many strong contributions to his community, serving as a role model for his peers; with his commitment to others, he truly represented the best development of the potential which is inherent in our most precious resource, our youth; and WHEREAS, Drew P. Cottam is survived by his loving parents, Gary and Vicki; two devoted brothers, Blake and Austin; his treasured grandmother, Benita; and his special friend, his second mother, Patti Jawski; along with numerous friends and fellow extreme sports enthusiasts who will long cherish his memory; and WHEREAS, Drew P. Cottam, a young man of incredible spirit and enthusiasm, brought enduring honor to his family through his many achievements; his shining light and strength will forever serve as a beacon of love and hope for all who were privileged to have known and loved such an amazing and dynamic young man; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to mourn the untimely death of Drew P. Cottam, avid skateboarder, BMX bicyclist, beloved son, grandson and brother; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of Drew P. Cottam.