LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Lester Guynup, IV upon the occasion of
his designation as recipient of the Self-Advocacy Award from the Capital
District Center for Independence on June 16, 2011

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and pay
just tribute to those citizens who embody the true American spirit,
demonstrating personal courage and determination; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Lester Guynup, IV upon the occasion of receiving the Self-Advocacy Award
from the Capital District Center for Independence at its 14th Annual
Celebration of Independence Awards Luncheon on June 16, 2011, at the
Albany Marriott in Colonie, New York; and
WHEREAS, Lester Guynup was homeless before he came to the Capital
District Center for Independence, for assistance, bearing no ID, Social
Security Card, or birth certificate; he also had no way to cash his
Social Security checks; and
WHEREAS, Through Lester Guynup's hard work and dedication to improve
his life, he has taken many steps toward building a new life for
himself; he took responsibility of his own life and remarkably turned it
all around; and
WHEREAS, Now Lester Guynup has his own apartment, a personal assist-
ant, his identification documents in order, and can cash his own checks;
he has advocated for himself to receive a power wheelchair so he no
longer has to rely on forearm crutches; Lester is a true self-advocate;
and
WHEREAS, Lester Guynup is a role model for many who face similar
obstacles which he has faced and overcome; holding steadfast to his
dream of independence, he accomplished his goals and made his dream a
reality; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Lester Guynup, IV upon the occasion of his designation as recipi-
ent of the Self-Advocacy Award from the Capital District Center for
Independence on June 16, 2011; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Lester Guynup, IV.