LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commending The Steve Harvey Foundation upon the
occasion of hosting its Gala on Monday, May 3, 2010

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 commend
The Steve Harvey Foundation upon the occasion of hosting its Gala on
Monday, May 3, 2010, to be held at Cipriani Wall Street, New York City;
and
WHEREAS, This star studded gala will honor several prominent figures,
including: Geoffrey Canada, President and CEO of the Harlem Children's
Zone; Pamela El, Vice President of Marketing at State Farm; and actor
and director Denzel Washington; in addition, the event will be hosted by
"Good Morning America's" Robin Roberts along with Steve Harvey; and
WHEREAS, Steve Harvey is an American actor, comedian, entertainer, and
radio personality; he is best known as the star of the WB sitcom, The
Steve Harvey Show, and currently hosts "The Steve Harvey Morning Show",
a nationally syndicated radio program; and
WHEREAS, The distinguished honorees are being acknowledged for their
commitment to educating children and their passionate advocacy for
change in communities; as a world-renowned actor, screenwriter, director
and film producer, Denzel Washington is the longtime spokesperson for
the Boys & Girls Club of America, and also published a bestseller called
A HAND TO GUIDE ME, which featured actors, politicians, athletes and
other public figures recalling their childhood mentors; and
WHEREAS, Geoffrey Canada is President and CEO of the Harlem Children's
Zone, which offers a network of programs to thousands of children and
families in Central Harlem; Pamela El, Marketing Vice President, has
consistently been in the forefront to ensure that State Farm continues
to find ways to improve the quality of life not just of their customers,
but of the entire community by bringing together various programs,
including The 50 Million Pound Challenge, and The Steve Harvey Mentoring
Weekend for Young Men; and
WHEREAS, For many years, Denzel Washington, Geoffrey Canada and Pamela
El have been shining examples of leadership not only inspiring everyone,
but also changing the lives of future generations; and
WHEREAS, Proceeds from the gala will specifically support The Steve
Harvey Mentoring Weekend for Young Men; Steve Harvey created this
program to break the misguided traits of manhood and to begin to create
a generation of men who will one day become responsible husbands,
fathers, and positive leaders of the community; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those who
enhance the well-being and vitality of their community and have shown a
long and sustained commitment to excellence certainly have earned our
recognition and applause; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend The Steve Harvey Foundation upon the occasion of hosting its
Gala; and be it further
RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Steve Harvey Foundation and to the aforementioned hono-
rees.