2009-J2086
LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION paying grateful tribute to the life and accom-
plishments of Elias Karmon, a true Bronx icon, humanitarian and philan-
thropist
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavor
served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great
State of New York; and
WHEREAS, Elias Karmon, known to many as "Mr. Bronx" for his faithful
allegiance to the borough, died on Tuesday, October 21, 2008, at the age
of 98; and
WHEREAS, Project Club Clemente, Inc. 3000 Hits will recognize and
commend this exceptional man posthumously at a Dinner Dance on Wednes-
day, May 20, 2009, at Maestro's, Bronx, New York; and
WHEREAS, A businessman, civic leader, civil rights activist and
philanthropist, Elias Karmon was one of the Bronx's biggest advocates
through both its darkest days as well as its renaissance; and
WHEREAS, A Bronx original, Elias Karmon distinguished himself in his
profession and by his sincere dedication and substantial contribution to
the welfare of his community; and
WHEREAS, For 40 years, he was the proprietor of Hollywood Clothes
located at Prospect Avenue and 163rd Street; and
WHEREAS, After that, he began buying buildings and getting involved in
vital civic causes such as the Bronx Chamber of Commerce, where he
served as its president for four consecutive terms; and
WHEREAS, After the Chamber of Commerce grew dormant, Elias Karmon was
instrumental in its resurrection in 2002, helping it to grow to its
present membership of approximately 800 businesses and organizations;
and
WHEREAS, Known for practicing random acts of kindness, Elias Karmon
persevered to make dreams become a reality for the benefit of the citi-
zens of his beloved borough; he will be deeply missed and truly merits
the grateful tribute of this Legislative Body; and
WHEREAS, Predeceased by his devoted wife, Sylvia, Elias Karmon is
survived by his loving daughter, Sharon Landsberg; and
WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit, imbued with a sense of
compassion, and comforted by a loving family, Elias Karmon leaves behind
a legacy which will long endure the passage of time and will remain as a
comforting memory to all he served and befriended; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations in a
moment of silent tribute to Elias Karmon, whose unselfish concern for
the welfare of others enhanced the lives of those so fortunate to have
called him family and friend, and to express its deepest condolences to
his family; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the family of Elias Karmon.