Senate Resolution No. 1495

BY: Senator GRIFFO

COMMEMORATING the 75th Anniversary of Clinton
Arena

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that the quality
of life of the citizens of the State of New York is greatly enriched by
the availability of exceptional recreational facilities; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 75th Anniversary of Clinton Arena, to be celebrated
throughout its 2023 to 2024 season; and

WHEREAS, Built in 1948 to 1949, Clinton Arena, also known as Edward
W. Stanley Recreation Center, is a community staple that has provided a
space for sports and gatherings for the last 75 years; and

WHEREAS, The indoor Arena has undergone several renovations in its
duration and has even burned down; after the unfortunate destruction,
Clinton Arena was rebuilt in 1954; and

WHEREAS, Listed on the National Register of Historic Places on
February 17, 2010, this resilient Arena has hosted a myriad of teams and
clubs for practice and competition alike; and

WHEREAS, From 1954 to 1973, Clinton Arena hosted the Eastern Hockey
League's Clinton Comets and is prominently known as an ice hockey rink;
today, the Arena is home to the Clinton High School boys varsity hockey
team, Clinton Figure Skating Club, and the Clinton Youth Hockey
Organization; and

WHEREAS, With the capacity to seat 2,000 people and 300 standing,
Clinton Arena has hosted high profile events such as an NHL pre-season
game between the Buffalo Sabres and the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2018,
the filming of a portion of the movie Slap Shot, and in 2006 the first
annual "Hockey town" event between Hamilton and Utica College; and

WHEREAS, On April 14, 2018, the Clinton Arena won the Kraft
Hockeyville U.S. Grand Prize and was granted with generous rink
upgrades; the Arena continues to undergo improvements and renovations
with support from State and local organizations; and

WHEREAS, Throughout the seasons, Clinton Arena is a destination much
appreciated by the residents of Clinton, New York and visitors who seek
the historical, cultural, and recreational resources of the area; it is
a source of pride and community heritage; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 75th Anniversary of Clinton Arena; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Clinton Arena.