Senate Resolution No. 685

BY: Senator ANTONACCI

COMMEMORATING the 40th Anniversary of Riley's in
Syracuse, New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize
illustrious culinary establishments which have positively impacted and
substantially contributed to the vitality of their communities; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 40th Anniversary of Riley's in Syracuse, New York; and

WHEREAS, Riley's, a longtime neighborhood bar and restaurant, opened
its door for the first time under the able leadership of Terry Riley on
March 15, 1979, after he purchased the tavern at 312 Park Street from
members of the Schenkenberger family; and

WHEREAS, Terry Riley, who grew up in Eastwood, New York, and holds a
degree in education, is the 15th owner of this renowned establishment,
which records indicate, has operated as a tavern since 1898; and

WHEREAS, Over the past 40 years, little has changed at Riley's,
including its decor of tin ceilings, vintage fixtures and dark woodwork;
and

WHEREAS, Well acquainted with the history of this location, Terry
Riley keeps a sign in the bar which lists the proprietors who came
before him; he also displays photos and other memorabilia from the
130-year history of 312 Park Street on its walls; and

WHEREAS, Open six days a week, Riley's dining menu is seasonal,
changes daily and features both tavern favorites and specialty entrees;
one of its signature elements is the menu, beautifully handwritten by
Bob Baker, who served as the greeter and front-of-the-house manager
until the 1990s; and

WHEREAS, The remarkable success of Riley's is due in large part to
Owner, Terry Riley; Head Chef, Colin Dunford; Pastry Chef, Brian Connor;
Dining Room Manager, Val Brefka; Back-of-the-House Manager, Alan "Ace"
Chouinard; and its dedicated staff, whose warmth and hospitality are
easily recognized by their loyal patrons; this dynamic team is
well-versed in customer service and truly makes everyone who walks
through their door feel like family; and

WHEREAS, For four decades, Riley's has stood as a beloved
establishment which has provided a friendly, open environment for
patrons to collectively gather and share their thoughts, ideas and life
experiences; and

WHEREAS, It is with great pleasure that this Legislative Body
acknowledges this exceptional business and its contributions to the
local and State economies, fully confident that it will continue to
enjoy the sparkling successes it has experienced thus far; now,
therefore, be it


RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 40th Anniversary of Riley's in Syracuse, New York; and
be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Terry Riley, Owner, Riley's, Syracuse, New York.