Assembly Resolution No. 479

BY: M. of A. Ra

COMMENDING Ricky Byrd upon the occasion of being
selected as an honoree for this year's Italian
American Day on June 3, 2019

WHEREAS, From time to time this Legislative Body takes note of
certain extraordinary individuals it wishes to recognize for their
valued contributions to the success and progress of society and publicly
acknowledge their endeavors which have enhanced the basic humanity among
us all; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend Ricky Byrd upon the occasion of being selected as an honoree for
this year's Italian American Day to be celebrated on Monday, June 3,
2019; and

WHEREAS, Ricky Byrd is a part of rock 'n roll royalty; he is a
well-recognized musician who was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of
Fame as the lead guitarist and former original member of Joan Jett and
The Blackhearts; since that time, he has also recorded or toured with
Roger Daltrey, Ian Hunter, Southside Johnny and many other talented
musicians; and

WHEREAS, Most recently, Ricky Byrd has been combining his love for
music with his passion and mission to change the stigma surrounding drug
and alcohol use; he hopes to break down the barriers and spread the
message of hope, education, awareness and addiction resources to his
audiences; and

WHEREAS, A man living in long term recovery, Ricky Byrd uses the
healing powers of music to motivate those early in recovery or still
struggling, along with their family members; whether it is through his
various speaking appearances, concert events, music outreach sessions,
small recovery music groups, or prevention programs, he is dedicated to
inspiring change; and

WHEREAS, As a songwriter, who now often focuses on recovery lyrics,
Ricky Byrd strives to make people laugh, cry and think; he has played
his songs in the most intimate of rooms as well as to hundreds of
thousands all over the world; and

WHEREAS, Ricky Byrd truly believes music therapy and the open
discussion which follows can lead broken souls to find a little bit of
happiness and encouragement to move forward; his latest CD, Clean
Getaway, offers messages of hope and inspiration for those seeking
sobriety; and

WHEREAS, For his steadfast and unremitting commitment to helping
those struggling with addictions, Ricky Byrd was the recipient of the
2017 Drug Free Heroes Award by Foundation For a Drug free World; 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
commend Ricky Byrd upon the occasion of being selected as an honoree for
this year's Italian American Day on June 3, 2019; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Ricky Byrd.