Senate Resolution No. 2329

BY: Senator OBERACKER

HONORING Maurice Gerry upon the occasion of his
designation as a 2024 Wall of Fame member by the
Liberty Central School District

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor those distinguished citizens who would devote their life's work
and purpose to community service, contributing to the welfare of the
citizens of their communities and this great 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
Maurice Gerry upon the occasion of his designation as a 2024 Wall of
Fame member by the Liberty Central School District; and

WHEREAS, The Wall of Fame was established in 2011 by the Board of
Education to honor extraordinary alumni; nominees are judged on
exceptional accomplishments and significant contributions within their
career, community, or personal life; and

WHEREAS, A member of the Class of 1949 of Liberty Central School,
Maurice Gerry has strong roots in the community; he recently paid homage
to his first teacher, Mrs. Manion, by dedicating a plaque to be
displayed on the schoolhouse wall once restored; and

WHEREAS, After high school, Maurice Gerry enlisted in the United
States Navy and later resettled in San Francisco, working with
influential figures such as Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey
Milk; and

WHEREAS, Actively involved in Diane Feinstein's mayoral campaign,
Maurice Gerry 's efforts to raise awareness about the AIDS epidemic
earned him the honor of representing Alaska in a Washington, D.C.,
parade for the cause; and

WHEREAS, Returning to Liberty, New York, Maurice Gerry immersed
himself in local politics, the arts and preservation; the visionary
behind the Ms. Sullivan County Beauty Pageant, he championed diversity
and inclusion, ensuring financial barriers did not hinder participation;
and

WHEREAS, Serving as town councilman for two decades, Maurice Gerry
was affectionately known as the "Tree Hugger," and dedicated himself to
maintaining Liberty's beauty and integrity; and

WHEREAS, At the age of 91, Maurice Gerry assumed the role of interim
councilman, a testament to his enduring commitment; he actively supports
humanitarian efforts locally and internationally, holding seats at 0 & M
Museum, Liberty Arts Museum, Time and Again Museum, and the Shandelee
Music Festival; and

WHERAS, At 93, Maurice Gerry remains an inspiration, weaving the
threads of community, history, and compassion together; 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 Maurice Gerry upon the occasion of his designation as a 2024 Wall
of Fame member by the Liberty Central School District; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Maurice Gerry.