Senate Resolution No. 1242

BY: Senator HELMING

HONORING Richard Jerome upon the occasion of his
designation as recipient of the Rodney Lightfoote
Agricultural Viability and Innovation Award

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that the
continuing welfare of the citizens of the State of New York is greatly
enriched and reliably served by the purposeful endeavors of individuals
who are committed to the preservation of our agriculture industry and
the enhancement of the appreciation of the distinctive features of our
surroundings; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Richard Jerome upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the
Rodney Lightfoote Agricultural Viability and Innovation Award by the
Cornell Cooperative Extension, Ontario County Farm Bureau and Ontario
County Agricultural Enhancement Board, to be recognized at its
Agriculture Appreciation Celebration on Friday, March 24, 2017, at Club
86, Geneva, New York; and

WHEREAS, The agricultural industry is part of the foundation upon
which our distinct American heritage is built; New York State and the
entire United States are dependent on our agricultural industry for a
variety of food products; and

WHEREAS, Richard Jerome, affectionately known as Rich, graduated
from Cornell University where he was an integral part of the ROTC
Program; and

WHEREAS, After valiantly serving his country as a member of the
United States Army, Rich Jerome returned home to his family farm in
Naples, New York; and

WHEREAS, Founded in 1817, Rich Jerome is the 7th generation to run
his family's farm; under his able leadership, the farm has expanded its
U-pick operation to include grapes, raspberries, peas and pumpkins; and

WHEREAS, In addition, Rich Jerome provides a portion of his grapes
for wine, and to the local pie makers in Naples; and

WHEREAS, With a steadfast and unwavering commitment to his
community, Rich Jerome has served as a Board member of the Cornell
Cooperative Extension, Chairman of the NYFB Grape Advisory Committee,
Director of NYFB District III, and Board member and President of the
Ontario County Farm Bureau; and

WHEREAS, Rich Jerome has also been a member of the Ontario County Ag
Enhancement Board, Naples Planning Board, and Naples School Board; and

WHEREAS, With him throughout have been his wife, Mary, and their
three children, as well as six grandchildren, all of whom feel
privileged to be a part of his life and rejoice in his achievements; and

WHEREAS, It is incumbent upon all citizens to recognize and applaud
the efforts of individuals such as Rich Jerome who work tirelessly on
behalf of protecting and promoting our natural surroundings for the
benefit of present and future generations of New Yorkers; now,
therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Richard Jerome upon the occasion of his designation as recipient
of the Rodney Lightfoote Agricultural Viability and Innovation Award;
and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Richard Jerome.