Senate Resolution No. 953

BY: Senator BIAGGI

MOURNING the untimely death of Drew P. Cottam,
avid skateboarder, BMX bicyclist, beloved son,
grandson and brother

WHEREAS, It is with feelings of deepest regret that this Legislative
Body records the passing of Drew P. Cottam, an extraordinary young man
of indomitable faith and dedication whose short, yet purposeful life
will long serve as a standard to which others might aspire; and

WHEREAS, A young man of boundless energy, Drew P. Cottam of City
Island, Bronx, New York, died on Sunday, September 30, 2018, at the
young age of 18; and

WHEREAS, Drew Preston Cottam was born to Gary and Vicki Cottam in
2000; he and his two brothers were raised in the City Island
neighborhood of Bronx, New York, where they loved to spend time together
perfecting their skills on their skateboards and BMX bicycles; and

WHEREAS, A local legend and a hero to all, Drew P. Cottam could
often be found grinding the ledges behind PS 175, the railing of the
post office or the white curb in front of Carmen's gas station; his cell
phone was full of videos he made of himself doing all sorts of tricks on
the streets and in parks around the area; and

WHEREAS, Drew P. Cottam's love for extreme sports truly helped him
to become a better person; the rapidly growing sport helped him build
determination, physical strength and self-control; and

WHEREAS, The action sports community thrives on the progression of
the younger generations, beginners can always benefit from the advice
and "tech tips" of those who have been involved in the sport for a
longer time frame; despite not having any nearby access to proper
facilities, Drew P. Cottam introduced and taught many young people the
sports of skateboarding and BMX, giving them the tools to create their
own destiny; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his magnanimous life, Drew P. Cottam made many
strong contributions to his community, serving as a role model for his
peers; with his commitment to others, he truly represented the best
development of the potential which is inherent in our most precious
resource, our youth; and

WHEREAS, Drew P. Cottam is survived by his loving parents, Gary and
Vicki; two devoted brothers, Blake and Austin; his treasured
grandmother, Benita; and his special friend, his second mother, Patti
Jawski; along with numerous friends and fellow extreme sports
enthusiasts who will long cherish his memory; and

WHEREAS, Drew P. Cottam, a young man of incredible spirit and
enthusiasm, brought enduring honor to his family through his many
achievements; his shining light and strength will forever serve as a
beacon of love and hope for all who were privileged to have known and
loved such an amazing and dynamic young man; now, therefore, be it


RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
mourn the untimely death of Drew P. Cottam, avid skateboarder, BMX
bicyclist, beloved son, grandson and brother; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the family of Drew P. Cottam.