LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to
proclaim January 9, 2015, as Theatre Arts Day of Celebration in the
State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to call attention to
individuals and organizations that devote their time and energies to the
cultural enrichment of the Empire State; and
WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to commemorate
those events of historical significance which add strength, vigor and
inspiration to the cultural diversity and quality of life in the commu-
nities of the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concerns, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, it is the sense of the Legislative Body to memori-
alize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim January 9, 2015, as Theatre
Arts Day of Celebration in the State of New York in conjunction with the
New York State Theatre Education Association's 2015 Student Conference
to be held January 9-11, 2015, at the Villa Roma Resort in Callicoon,
New York; and
WHEREAS, This valuable conference creates an opportunity for high
school students from all over New York State to come together for a full
weekend of learning and peer interaction; and
WHEREAS, Moreover, the high school students attend workshops given by
colleges, universities, and other theatre professionals, as well as
networking with one another and experiencing a variety of performances
throughout the conference; and
WHEREAS, A strong, statewide organization of theatre educators, The
New York State Theatre Association's mission is to advocate for
Drama/Theater in New York State, and promote and support theatre educa-
tion in grades K-12 for the betterment of youth and theatre itself; and
WHEREAS, The New York State Theatre Association believes theatre is an
essential component of a pre-K-12 education for all students; today,
studying theatre in schools develops abilities needed for the 21st
century including critical thinking, problem solving skills, applica-
tions of technology, social responsibility, and creativity; and
WHEREAS, In addition to the Annual Student Conference, the New York
State Theatre Association provides resources to educators teaching thea-
tre in the classroom, directing school drama and musical presentations;
the association also hosts a conference for educators every fall; and
WHEREAS, It is most fitting that we take time to celebrate the arts of
our Nation, to honor our artists, and to express our appreciation to
everyone who patronizes the arts; and as we celebrate the arts, we cele-
brate and give thanks to our American freedom, the only atmosphere in
which artists can truly create and in which art is truly the expression
of the soul; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim January 9, 2015, as
Theatre Arts Day of Celebration in the State of New York; and be it
further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor, State of New York.