LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION congratulating Philomena R. LaPolla upon the
occasion of celebrating her 106th Birthday

WHEREAS, Senior citizens 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, Philomena R. LaPolla was born on September 16, 1903, in
Newport, Rhode Island; she lived there with her parents, five brothers,
and two sisters until she married Florian LaPolla in 1923; the couple
then moved to Brooklyn, where they raised three wonderful daughters; and
WHEREAS, This exceptional centenarian, with her zest for life, has
inspired and enhanced the lives of her family and friends; and
WHEREAS, Widowed in 1957, today Philomena R. LaPolla is the loving
grandmother of 13 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, and four great-
great-grandchildren; and
WHEREAS, This distinguished woman has experienced the incredible joys
and sorrows characteristic of and reserved for those with the stamina
and courage to savor a full life; and
WHEREAS, She has enriched the lives of those around her through her
joyous and sincere love for others and through the quiescent charm and
wisdom which comes only from a fullness of years; and
WHEREAS, Philomena R. LaPolla enjoys playing Scrabble and Bingo,
socializing at the local senior center, watching the New York Yankees,
and making handmade items for both her family and different charities
throughout her community such as area nursing homes; and
WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to publicly recog-
nize those who have reached such a remarkable age and who have witnessed
and celebrated the innovations, cultural developments and awesome
achievements of this country during the last century, while themselves
contributing to the growth and excellence of this great Empire State;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate Philomena R. LaPolla upon the occasion of celebrating her
106th Birthday; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Philomena R. LaPolla, 35 Surrey Lane, Massapequa Park, New
York 11762.