LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace upon the
occasion of celebrating their 10th Anniversary

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 honor
Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace upon the occasion of celebrating their
10th Anniversary; and
WHEREAS, Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace (BNP) is a local anti-war group
founded in January 2003 to discuss/protest the war in Iraq; and
WHEREAS, One of BNP's first events was a candlelight vigil in which
more than 350 people walked from the Four Corners past Bethlehem Town
Hall and back again; and
WHEREAS, BNP has continued to hold a similar event each Monday since
its founding, and has held approximately 500 vigils calling for an end
to war throughout the world; and
WHEREAS, Having branched into other issues such as immigrants' rights,
minorities' rights, and pro-environment causes, BNP's mission is to be a
voice for peace and justice in the capital region; and
WHEREAS, Today, BNP has grown to more than 700 members; the group now
focuses on educating the community about current affairs by holding
forums, vigils, and small discussion groups; and
WHEREAS, Members of BNP participate in demonstrations and hand out
printed information to residents; they hold monthly forums at the Beth-
lehem Public Library where they have shown films and brought in guest
speakers; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when organiza-
tions of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our atten-
tion, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citizens of
this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace upon the occasion of celebrating
their 10th Anniversary; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Bethlehem Neighbors for Peace.