Senate Resolution No. 2332

BY: Senator GRIFFO

COMMEMORATING the 65th Annual Floyd Field Days

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is proud to commemorate the 65th
Annual Floyd Field Days, a longstanding community tradition and vital
fundraiser for the Floyd Volunteer Fire Department, to be celebrated in
the Town of Floyd, Oneida County, New York; and

WHEREAS, Citizens throughout New York State are inspired by and
indebted to the courageous volunteer firefighters who selflessly
dedicate their time and talents to protecting their neighbors,
safeguarding property, and responding to emergencies whenever duty
calls; and

WHEREAS, The Floyd Volunteer Fire Department was first convened in
1961 following the establishment of an organizing committee in July of
1960, and has faithfully served the residents of the Town of Floyd and
surrounding communities for more than six decades; and

WHEREAS, The department's Ladies' Auxiliary was formed in November
of 1961, reflecting the deep community support and volunteer spirit that
have been hallmarks of the organization since its earliest days; and

WHEREAS, Melvin Herrman served as the department's first Fire Chief,
helping to establish a tradition of leadership and service that
continues to guide the organization today; and

WHEREAS, By 1962, the Floyd Volunteer Fire Department had grown to
include approximately 100 charter members, and today, it continues its
mission with approximately 40 dedicated volunteers who respond to fires,
medical emergencies, and a wide range of service calls throughout the
community; and

WHEREAS, The original Floyd Fire Department building was constructed
by volunteers in 1960, and initially housed a single fire truck; through
the years, the facility has been expanded and improved to meet the
growing needs of the community, including a major expansion in 1968 to
accommodate additional apparatus and equipment; and

WHEREAS, The Floyd Volunteer Fire Department has long served as a
center of community life, hosting fundraisers, dinners, weddings, and
countless gatherings that bring residents together while supporting the
department's mission; and

WHEREAS, What began with two rented tents serving food and
refreshments has evolved into the construction of permanent pole barns
in 1972, facilities that continue to serve the event to this day; and

WHEREAS, The Floyd Field Days have become one of the largest and
most successful community celebrations in the region, raising critical
funds to support the operations of the Floyd Volunteer Fire Department
while providing generations of families with an opportunity to gather in
fellowship and celebration; and

WHEREAS, The spirit of volunteerism and community pride embodied by
the Field Days was perhaps best illustrated in 1977, when department
members ceremonially burned the mortgage for their firehouse after
successfully paying off the building's $35,000 debt; and

WHEREAS, The annual celebration continues to feature many beloved
traditions, including the community parade and fireworks display,
bringing together residents and visitors in recognition of the
department's service and sacrifice; and

WHEREAS, The Floyd Field Days stand as a testament to the enduring
strength of volunteerism, civic engagement, and neighbor helping
neighbor, values which have defined the Town of Floyd for generations;
and

WHEREAS, It is fitting and proper that this Legislative Body
recognize the dedicated firefighters, auxiliary members, volunteers, and
community supporters whose efforts have sustained this treasured
tradition for 65 years; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
proudly commemorate the 65th Annual Floyd Field Days and recognize the
many contributions of the Floyd Volunteer Fire Department to the Town of
Floyd and the surrounding region; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Floyd Volunteer Fire Department.