LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Joe Baker upon the occasion of being
named the 2009 Person of the Year by the MERRICK HERALD

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 organiza-
tions and individuals 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 Joe
Baker upon the occasion of being named the 2009 Person of the Year by
the MERRICK HERALD; and
WHEREAS, As president of the South Merrick Community Civic Associ-
ation, Joe Baker has gone out of his way to make Merrick a safer, happi-
er and more beautiful place to live; for his many achievements, the
MERRICK HERALD is proud to name him its 2009 Person of the Year; and
WHEREAS, A former owner of Bagel Express, Joe Baker was a court offi-
cer in Hempstead for much of his professional life; when he retired, he
dedicated himself to the community by organizing the civic association;
and
WHEREAS, A true community leader, Joe Baker has presided over the
South Merrick Community Civic Association since its inception in 2006;
during the past year, the group has made strides toward its goal of
improving the health and welfare of the community, including starting a
Neighborhood Watch program, revitalizing Julian Lane Park and unifying
the community on a number of residential issues; and
WHEREAS, Joe Baker has been called upon to contribute his time and
talents to countless civic and charitable endeavors and has always given
of himself unstintingly; and
WHEREAS, Throughout the entire period of his community service, a
period of constructive involvement, Joe Baker has stood constant in
dignity, good grace and humor; and
WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an individ-
ual for the benefit of others which Joe Baker has displayed throughout
his life; and
WHEREAS, With Joe Baker throughout have been his wife, Charise, and
their children Amy and Christopher, all of whom feel privileged to be a
part of his life and rejoice in his achievements; 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 Joe Baker upon the occasion of being named the 2009 Person of the
Year by the MERRICK HERALD; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Joe Baker.