Senate Resolution No. 1038

BY: Senator MYRIE

COMMEMORATING the 56th Anniversary of the world
famous African Record Center

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
pay just tribute to the cultural heritage of the ethnic groups and their
respected organizations which comprise and contribute to the richness
and diversity of the community of the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 56th Anniversary of the world famous African Record
Center; and

WHEREAS, From humble beginnings in 1969, the world famous African
Record Center, also known as the ARC Distributor, has served as a mecca
of African culture and music in Brooklyn, New York for the last 56
years; and

WHEREAS, Owned and operated by brothers Roger Francis and Rudy
Francis, the world famous African Record Center specializes in Afrobeat,
Zouk, and Calypso records; in addition to music, they sell Caribbean
crafts, including handwoven baskets and sculptures, masks, and
instruments; and

WHEREAS, Truly making a noble effort to preserve African culture,
the world famous African Record Center since its opening has
distributed, promoted, and introduced African music to its community;
their first efforts were to introduce African music into the United
States because before that time nothing existed; and

WHEREAS, With their first store based in Harlem, Manhattan, the
world famous African Record Center's crowning achievement is that they
are able to bring African nationals together from all over the
continent, whether they are dignitaries from the United Nations or
African students, to meet in New York City; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those
organizations which unselfishly devote their energy, talent and
thoughtful care on behalf of improving the quality and dignity of life
in the community, are worthy and due full praise and recognition for
their noble and dedicated efforts; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 56th Anniversary of the world famous African Record
Center; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the African Record Center Ltd.