Senate Resolution No. 1348

BY: Senator GRIFFO

CONGRATULATING Thomas Goodelle of New Hartford,
New York, upon the occasion of capturing the 2023
Elks National Hoop Shoot Championship

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body takes pleasure in honoring talented
young athletes who distinguish themselves and their community through
outstanding athletic performance; and

WHEREAS, Athletic competition enhances the moral and physical
development of the young people of this State, preparing them for the
future by instilling in them the value of teamwork, encouraging a
standard of healthy living, imparting a desire for success and
developing a sense of fair play and competition; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to congratulate
Thomas Goodelle of New Hartford, New York, upon the occasion of
capturing the 2023 Elks National Hoop Shoot Championship; and

WHEREAS, The Elks National Free Throw Contest, the Elks Hoop Shoot,
is the largest and most visible of the many youth activities sponsored
by Elks lodges throughout the country; it is active in all 50 states and
the District of Columbia, and is open to boys and girls between the ages
of eight and 13; and

WHEREAS, Thomas Goodelle successfully scored 25 out of 25 shots to
capture first place in the 12-13-year-old age division at the Elks Hoop
Shoot National Finals in Chicago, Illinois; and

WHEREAS, In addition to this monumental feat, Thomas Goodelle was
the recipient of the Getty Powell Award for the best free throw shooter
of the day; and

WHEREAS, Representing the Utica Elks Lodge, Thomas Goodelle advanced
through the local, district, state and region five rounds to reach the
national finals; and

WHEREAS, In recognition of his outstanding achievement, this
esteemed young athlete's name will be inscribed on a plaque at the
Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts;
and

WHEREAS, Excellence and success in competitive sports can be
achieved only through strenuous practice; Thomas Goodelle's dedication
is a year-round, everyday commitment; he is highly focused and has
developed a matchless work ethic; and

WHEREAS, Thomas Goodelle's exemplary performance in the Elks Hoop
Shoot program is reflective of his dedication, determination and
personal commitment; his achievement stands as a hallmark of what is
best in the families, schools and communities across New York State;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate Thomas Goodelle of New Hartford, New York, upon the
occasion of capturing the 2023 Elks National Hoop Shoot Championship,
and to wish him continued success throughout his school years and
beyond; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Thomas Goodelle.