LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commending Grace Stamera upon the occasion of her
designation as the MERRICK LIFE 2009 Mother of the Year

WHEREAS, Individuals who devote their lives to raising their families to
enable them to build lives of dignity and self-worth are deserving of
the highest praise and recognition; and
WHEREAS, Grace Stamera has given not only of her time and energies but
also of her love, competence, intelligence and leadership and conse-
quently has been designated for special honor by MERRICK LIFE, which
serves Merrick, New York, and its surrounding communities; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commend Grace Stam-
era upon the occasion of her designation as the MERRICK LIFE 2009 Mother
of the Year; and
WHEREAS, Grace Stamera is the proud mother of Lenny, 20, Kristina, 18,
Charlie, 11, and Gabriella, 10, all of whom are loving and caring indi-
viduals serving as a testament to their mother; and
WHEREAS, Nominated by her son, Charlie, Grace Stamera has dedicated
her life to raising her family; however, for over the past year she she
has served as her children's beacon as they cope with the loss of their
father and her husband, Charlie, who passed away suddenly only 19 months
ago; and
WHEREAS, The Stamera family's life has been a roller coaster of sorts
since the tragedy, but Grace Stamera, in true mom-fashion, has done her
best to maintain stability for her children; and
WHEREAS, While juggling the responsibilities of motherhood, Grace
Stamera works as a teacher's aide for a BOCES program with develop-
mentally disabled students who have behavioral problems; much of her
work is supporting these kids and making sure they learn life skills;
she also works a second job as a waitress on the weekends when she can;
and
WHEREAS, Extremely affectionate and loving, Grace Stamera is undoubt-
edly proud of all her children, serving as their biggest supporter and
number one fan; and
WHEREAS, A woman of singular distinction, Grace Stamera takes pride in
her family and they, in turn, respect the value of motherhood; and
WHEREAS, Grace Stamera represents a model of professional, community
and family life worthy of emulation; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Grace Stamera upon the occasion of her designation as the
MERRICK LIFE 2009 Mother of the Year; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Grace Stamera.