Senate Resolution No. 2161

BY: Senator MARTINS

HONORING Damon Gersh upon the occasion of his
designation for special recognition by Residents
Forward on June 4, 2026

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend individuals whose professional accomplishments, civic
leadership, and cultural contributions have profoundly enriched the
quality of life in their communities; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Damon Gersh upon the occasion of his designation for special recognition
by Residents Forward to be celebrated at its Annual Gala on Thursday,
June 4, 2026, at The Manhasset Bay Yacht Club; and

WHEREAS, Damon Gersh is an entrepreneur and community leader whose
enduring commitment to civic engagement and the arts has significantly
strengthened the cultural fabric and community spirit of Port
Washington, New York; and

WHEREAS, After leading a highly successful disaster restoration
business for more than three decades, Damon Gersh has devoted his time,
energy, and talents to initiatives that foster meaningful community
connections and promote creative expression throughout Port Washington;
and

WHEREAS, Damon Gersh is the co-founder, past chairman, and active
supporter of HEARTS PW (Helping Enrich the Arts of Port Washington), a
grassroots nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the arts in
Port Washington's public schools and broader community; and

WHEREAS, Through his leadership with HEARTS PW, Damon Gersh helped
establish and champion the annual PortFest Music, Arts and Community
Festival, a signature community event which has brought together
residents of all ages in celebration of local artists, musicians, and
performers; and

WHEREAS, A lifelong musician, Damon Gersh is also the lead singer
and guitarist of the local band Rock Steady, which for more than 20
years has brought joy, energy, and community connection through
performances at local venues and events; and

WHEREAS, Damon Gersh and his family, through the Gersh Family
Foundation, are proud supporters as Partners in Performing Arts at
Landmark on Main Street and its Jeanne Rimsky Theater, a vital cultural
hub dedicated to artistic performance and community engagement; and

WHEREAS, In collaboration with Residents Forward, Damon Gersh and
the Gersh Family Foundation have supported numerous public art
initiatives, including mural projects and the Art Walk event,
transforming shared public spaces into vibrant showcases of creativity
and inspiration; and

WHEREAS, Damon Gersh has further contributed to the enhancement of
community life by helping bring interactive musical installations to
Blumenthal Park, creating welcoming spaces that encourage participation,
creativity, and intergenerational connection; and

WHEREAS, Through his visionary leadership, artistic passion,
philanthropic generosity, and steadfast volunteerism, Damon Gersh
continues to strengthen the cultural vitality and enduring sense of
community which define and enrich Port Washington; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Damon Gersh upon the occasion of his designation for special
recognition by Residents Forward on June 4, 2026, and to extend to him
its highest commendation and sincere gratitude for his many
contributions to the community; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Damon Gersh.