LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 75th Anniversary of WKIP in
Dutchess County on June 5, 2015

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that the quality and
character of life in this great Empire State is indelibly enriched by
the faithful and untiring efforts of those individuals who have helped
shape the history of broadcasting in their area; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commem-
orate the 75th Anniversary of WKIP in Dutchess County to be celebrated
with a live broadcast on Friday, June 5, 2015, at the FDR National
Historic Site, Hyde Park, New York; and
WHEREAS, On June 6, 1940, WKIP became the first radio station
originally licensed in Dutchess County; for years, it was the only radio
station East of the Hudson River between New York City and Albany; and
WHEREAS, In its early years, WKIP forged a special relationship with
former President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who lived in Hyde Park, New
York; just two months after the station began its operations, he broad-
cast a radio dedication address, and during the summer months, WKIP
linked up with the Summer White House to transmit the President's "Fire-
side Chats"; and
WHEREAS, Throughout its history, WKIP has focused on the local commu-
nity, broadcasting a full schedule of news, information, and public
service programming; and
WHEREAS, Today, WKIP continues that tradition, airing "Hudson Valley
Focus Live With Tom Sipos" every weekday morning, featuring a daily
stream of political, elected and business guests, and representatives
from social service, community action, charitable, health, and educa-
tional organizations; and
WHEREAS, In addition, WKIP values the interactive nature of the
program, allowing residents and community members to call in to voice
their opinions on a wide-range of topics; and
WHEREAS, In the words of former President Franklin D. Roosevelt, "I'd
like to think of this station as a cultural adjunct to the community it
serves on both sides of the River ... A vehicle on which the emphasis
can be placed on the things that count the most; things that count the
most in elevating and ennobling the common life."; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body would like to extend its highest
commendation to WKIP in recognition of its history of achievement, inno-
vation and service to its community and the State of New York, contin-
uously striving to meet the needs of its listeners through entertainment
and enlightenment; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 75th Anniversary of WKIP in Dutchess County on June 5,
2015; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to WKIP.