LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Joseph R. Sugar posthumously upon the
occasion of his designation as the 2009 Music Educator of Note by the
Long Island Music Hall of Fame

WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body to commend those
illustrious mentors who distinguished themselves in their profession
through both their talent and instruction, inspiring their students to
achieve musical excellence; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Joseph R. Sugar posthumously upon the occasion of his designation as the
2009 Music Educator of Note by the Long Island Music Hall of Fame; and
WHEREAS, This most prestigious award was founded in 2007, and is
presented to a Long Island music educator who demonstrates an excep-
tional and long-term commitment to music education; and
WHEREAS, A legendary educator, Professor Sugar is known to virtually
every music teacher in New York State; his 56-year career as a music
teacher has spanned all levels of teaching, from elementary school
through the university level; and
WHEREAS, Professor Sugar served as President of the Nassau Music
Educators Association (NMEA), the New York State School Music Associ-
ation (NYSSMA), the Music Educators National Conference Eastern Division
(MENC) and the New York State Council of Music Teacher Education
Program; and
WHEREAS, Additionally, Professor Sugar was an honorary lifetime member
of the Suffolk County Music Educators Association (SCMEA) and recently
concluded a long term appointment as NYSSMA Government Relations Coali-
tion Chairperson, where he was a driving force in promoting advocacy for
music education in schools; and
WHEREAS, Admired greatly by music educators and students, Professor
Sugar possessed many gifts including a contagious enthusiasm, unwavering
pride in his students and the ability to instill in children and others
an appreciation of and a wonder at the beauty our world has to offer;
and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those who
enhanced the quality of life in their community and displayed a long and
sustained commitment to the maintenance of high standards in their
profession, certainly have earned the recognition and applause of all
the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Joseph R. Sugar posthumously upon the occasion of his designation
as the 2009 Music Educator of Note by the Long Island Music Hall of
Fame; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Clara Sugar.