LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Thomas O'Connor upon the occasion of his
designation as the 2008 Person of the Year by the BELLMORE HERALD

WHEREAS, It is incumbent upon the people of the State of New York to
recognize and acknowledge those within our midst who have made signif-
icant contributions to the quality of life therein; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Thomas O'Connor upon the occasion of his designation as the 2008 Person
of the Year by the BELLMORE HERALD; and
WHEREAS, A retired New York City Fire Lieutenant, Thomas O'Connor
founded the Katrina Kids Christmas Program, an annual mission of mercy
for children of the Gulf Coast who are still affected by Hurricane
Katrina, which devastated the region in 2005; and
WHEREAS, After the storm struck the Gulf, Thomas O'Connor organized a
hurricane relief operation, arranging for a group of fellow retired and
active firefighters from Bellmore, Merrick and surrounding communities
to bring truckloads of provisions to southern Mississippi from October
through November of that year; affected by the tragedy and having
compassion for the young, Thomas O'Connor was prompted to return with
toys during that Christmas season, and this has become an annual event
ever since; and
WHEREAS, In acknowledging the 4th Annual Katrina Kids Christmas
Program, thousands of Gulf Coast children received a special delivery
this past Christmas; dozens of New York City firemen dropped off boxes
of toys at the Bayou La Batre Community Center, and it was the Bayou's
first year participating in the program; and
WHEREAS, A true asset to society, Thomas O'Connor has demonstrated
ceaseless devotion in order to promote this special cause; his
compassion, service and ongoing commitment have brought Christmas joy to
the youngest victims stricken by the natural disaster; the BELLMORE
HERALD is proud to name Thomas O'Connor the 2008 Person of the Year;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Thomas O'Connor upon the occasion of his designation as the 2008
Person of the Year by the BELLMORE HERALD; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Thomas O'Connor, 208 Herkimer Street, North Bellmore, New
York 11710.