LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 125th Anniversary of the Exempt
Firemen's Association, Inc. of Poughkeepsie, New York, June 4, 2011

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 that are devoted 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 commem-
orate the 125th Anniversary of the Exempt Firemen's Association, Inc. of
Poughkeepsie, New York; this auspicious occasion will be celebrated at
the Association's Gala Black and White Dinner-Dance, to be held at its
Headquarters at 200 Mansion Street in Poughkeepsie, New York, on Satur-
day, June 4, 2011; and
WHEREAS, The firefighters of New York State are renowned throughout
the Nation; their reputation is synonymous with excellence in the ardu-
ous field of fire protection and prevention; and
WHEREAS, Since the early days of "teapot steamers," the volunteer
firefighter has been the cornerstone of our great Nation's efforts to
spare us from the ravages of fire; and
WHEREAS, A private membership since 1886, and a pillar of the communi-
ty, the Exempt Firemen's Association was organized on November 10, 1886,
with forty members and Oliver H. Booth serving as first president; and
WHEREAS, The objects of the charter members of the Exempt Firemen's
Association were to encourage and renew the social intercourse that
exists in Volunteer Fire Departments, to provide suitable headquarters
for the enjoyment of its members, to aid those members who are in
distress, and to have careful supervision over widows and orphans; and
WHEREAS, To be eligible for membership in the Exempt Firemen's Associ-
ation, one must have served at least five years as an active member in
the Volunteer Fire Department; the membership has fluctuated over the
years, with the membership at about 600 members in 1930, 250 members in
1960, and over 2,000 members in early 2007; and
WHEREAS, Currently, under the skilled leadership of President Chris
Petsas, past President of the Roosevelt Fire Department, the Exempt
Firemen's Association represents over 2,200 dues paying members; it is
stronger than ever, with a greater and more diverse membership base and
with myriad activities offered for its members; and
WHEREAS, Volunteer firefighters and fire departments not only provide
the critical service of fire protection but also engage in other activ-
ities of great benefit and importance to the communities they serve; and
WHEREAS, This auspicious occasion presents a unique opportunity for
this Legislative Body to recognize and pay tribute to the Exempt Fire-
men's Association, Inc. of Poughkeepsie, New York; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when an organ-
ization of such noble aims and accomplishments is brought to our atten-
tion, it should be recognized and applauded by all the citizens of this
great Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 125th Anniversary of the Exempt Firemen's Association,
Inc. of Poughkeepsie, New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the Exempt Firemen's Association, Inc., 200 Mansion Street,
Poughkeepsie, New York 12601.