Assembly Resolution No. 189

BY: M. of A. Morinello

HONORING Robert Burns upon the occasion of his
designation as recipient of the 2019 Business Person
of the Year Award by the Niagara USA Chamber

WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body to recognize
the achievements of those individuals and businesses which substantially
contribute to the economic vitality of their communities and the entire
Empire State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Robert Burns upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the
Business Person of the Year Award by the Niagara USA Chamber to be
celebrated at its 2019 Awards Ceremony at the Seneca Niagara Resort &
Casino, Niagara Falls, New York, on Friday, March 15, 2019; and

WHEREAS, The Niagara USA Chamber is proud to celebrate business
excellence in the Niagara Region; and

WHEREAS, In 1997, Robert Burns retired from local industry,
including four years as a union president, and also running a used car
business for over 14 years; and

WHEREAS, While shopping in Canada, he and his wife observed a busy
coffee house in operation; Robert was inspired and saw a great
opportunity; subsequently, in December of 2000, he was accepted into the
company as a new franchisee for the Niagara Falls Tim Hortons locations;
and

WHEREAS, Tim Hortons is the perfect place to go for great-tasting,
freshly brewed coffee, made with 100% Arabica beans, sourced from the
world's most renowned growing regions; and

WHEREAS, Tim Hortons also offers specialty beverages including
lattes, cappuccinos, espresso, iced and frozen coffee, hot chocolate and
tea, and delicious baked goods, including donuts, cookies, muffins, or
Timbits, the coffee houses signature bite sized donut holes; and

WHEREAS, Today, Robert Burns has seven locations and will be opening
two more stores by the end of 2019; his son, Jason Burns, works
alongside him with district manager Rich Sabin and a wonderful office
staff; and

WHEREAS, Robert Burns employs over 270 local team members; he is
truly connected to his community and was even instrumental in keeping
the Niagara Falls Memorial Day parade going when it was in jeopardy of
ending; and

WHEREAS, With his proven business leadership abilities and his
evident dedication to his community, Robert Burns, a trustworthy
professional, is the quintessential selection for the prestigious
Business Person of the Year Award; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when
individuals of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our
attention, 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 Robert Burns upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of
the Business Person of the Year Award by the Niagara USA Chamber; and be
it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Robert Burns.