LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commending Wilbur Higgins upon the occasion of
his designation for special recognition by the Downing Park Planning
Committee on July 17, 2010

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, From time to time this Legislative Body takes note of certain
extraordinary individuals it wishes to recognize for their valued
contributions to the success and progress of society and publicly
acknowledge their endeavors which have enhanced the basic humanity among
us all; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commend
Wilbur Higgins upon the occasion of his designation for special recogni-
tion by the Downing Park Planning Committee at its annual dinner to be
held at the Downing Park Visitor's Center on Saturday, July 17, 2010;
and
WHEREAS, Wilbur Higgins dedicated 36 years to the City of Newburgh
Parks and Recreation Department; his first job was at Downing Park wash-
ing pots in the Greenhouse; he went on to oversee much of the develop-
ment of Delano-Hitch Park while serving as Director of Recreation for
the City; and
WHEREAS, Throughout his esteemed career, Wilbur Higgins served the
Recreation Department in numerous other capacities such as the Senior
Recreation Leader and the Youth Bureau Director before accepting the
position of Recreation Director; and
WHEREAS, A City of Newburgh native, Wilbur Higgins especially enjoyed
working with the youth of his City, serving as a mentor to countless
children and touching the lives of many; he knows first hand the value
of providing programs for kids, and believes that youth programs provide
an opportunity to teach children responsibility; and
WHEREAS, In his capacity as Recreation Director, Wilbur Higgins start-
ed the Delano-Hitch Restoration Fund; due to Wilbur's exemplary leader-
ship skills, successful fundraising and numerous volunteers it was
possible to restore the stadium, replace the Quonset huts with cinder-
block buildings and upgrade the basketball courts at Delano-Hitch Park;
and
WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body that those who
enhance the quality of life in their community and have shown 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
commend longtime City of Newburgh employee Wilbur Higgins upon the occa-
sion of his designation for special recognition by the Downing Park
Planning Committee on July 17, 2010; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Wilbur Higgins.