Assembly Resolution No. 651

BY: M. of A. Woerner

COMMEMORATING the 50th Anniversary of Mary Ann
Fortune's Dance Studio of Mechanicville, New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
pay tribute to those institutions and individuals who have enriched the
lives of our citizens through dedication to the education, cultural
development, and personal growth of our youth; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to commemorate the
50th Anniversary of Mary Ann Fortune's Dance Studio, a cornerstone of
the Mechanicville community since its founding in 1974; and

WHEREAS, In September 2024, Mary Ann Fortune's Dance Studio will
mark 50 years of continuous operation, having provided generations of
dancers with a place to explore their passion, refine their technique,
and forge lifelong friendships; and

WHEREAS, Founded by Mary Ann Fortune at the age of 17 in the
basement of her parents' home, the studio began with just 25 students
and has grown into a thriving institution located at 226 South Central
Avenue in Mechanicville, New York; and

WHEREAS, With a foundation in tap and ballet instruction from the
esteemed Conway Sisters Dance Studio, Mary Ann Fortune began her
teaching journey while continuing to develop her own skills-an endeavor
supported unwaveringly by her parents and brother; and

WHEREAS, Mary Ann Fortune demonstrated exceptional entrepreneurial
spirit, moving from her family basement to a commercial space owned by
her father and eventually, in 1982, to her current location, which was
further expanded in 2000 to accommodate growing demand; and

WHEREAS, Dedicated to professional growth, Mary Ann Fortune has
participated in national conventions, tap festivals, and training
sessions through the Dance Educators of America, where she maintains
active membership; and

WHEREAS, Since 1975, the studio has hosted annual end-of-season
recitals in June, celebrating the talent and progress of students across
age groups and skill levels, including both recreational and competitive
dancers; and

WHEREAS, Under Mary Ann Fortune's guidance, the studio began
participating in competitive dance in the 1980s, starting with the
Saratoga County Fair and advancing to statewide competitions at the New
York State Fair in Syracuse and regional events in cities like New York
and Boston; and

WHEREAS, The studio has evolved to incorporate diverse dance genres
such as ballet, lyrical, jazz, contemporary, and hip-hop, reflecting
changing times and student interests, all while preserving the strong
pedagogical foundation established in its early years; and

WHEREAS, Recital weekend features a cross-genre production dance
involving all competitive dancers, showcasing the studio's unity and
artistic breadth, and proceeds from these recitals are generously
donated to charitable organizations including The Bernard & Millie Duker
Children's Hospital at Albany Medical Center, St. Jude Children's
Research Hospital, Saratoga Hospital, and Ronald McDonald House
Charities; and

WHEREAS, Mary Ann Fortune's motivation stems from her students-their
joy, growth, confidence, and commitment inspire her to continue teaching
with passion, empathy, and excellence; and

WHEREAS, The enduring success of Mary Ann Fortune's Dance Studio is
a testament to Mary Ann's vision, the support of her family, the
dedication of past and present instructors, and the unwavering support
of the community; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Mary Ann Fortune's Dance Studio of
Mechanicville, New York, and to honor the extraordinary legacy of its
founder, Mary Ann Fortune; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Mary Ann Fortune.