LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Michael Lanza upon the occasion of his
designation for special recognition by GRACE on April 24, 2009

WHEREAS, It is the sense 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 individ-
uals who would devote themselves 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 honor
Michael Lanza upon the occasion of his designation for special recogni-
tion by GRACE at its annual Gala to be held on Friday, April 24, 2009,
at The Excelsior Grand, Staten Island, New York; and
WHEREAS, A man of singular distinction, Michael Lanza has continually
demonstrated extreme competence, extraordinary intelligence and diligent
leadership in his unwavering service to his community and GRACE and
consequently has been designated for special commendation; and
WHEREAS, A graduate of St. John Villa Academy and Monsignor Farrell
High School, Michael Lanza earned a Bachelor's degree in Business
Management from St. John's University; he also graduated from American
Academy of McCalister Institute of Funeral Service and is a licensed
funeral director in both New Jersey and New York State; and
WHEREAS, In the early 1990s, Michael Lanza joined his father in the
operation and management of Colonial Funeral Home, becoming the fourth
generation to enter the family business; and
WHEREAS, Despite his busy professional life, Michael Lanza has been
actively involved for many years with GRACE, an organization dedicated
to serving children and families impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder;
an exemplary leader, he has proudly served as a board member of the
Grace Foundation for the past six years and is currently the chair of
the fundraising committee as well as the newly elected Vice Chairman of
the Board; and
WHEREAS, In addition, Michael Lanza is actively involved with numerous
community organizations such as the Scleroderma Society, Alzheimer's
Foundation, Meals on Wheels, Project Hospitality, Eden II and Staten
Island Little League; he also serves on Community Board II and is a long
time supporter of the NYPD, FDNY and many veterans groups; and
WHEREAS, With him throughout have been his wife, Joie, and their two
children, Michael and Anthony, all of whom feel privileged to be a part
of his life and rejoice in his achievements; and
WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an individ-
ual for the benefit of others which Michael Lanza has displayed through-
out his life; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when individ-
uals of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our atten-
tion, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citizens of
the great State of New York; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Michael Lanza upon the occasion of his designation for special
recognition by GRACE; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Michael Lanza.