LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Michael Chelus upon the occasion of his
designation as recipient of the Neil Sherwood Civility Award by the
Defense Trial Lawyers Association of Western New York

WHEREAS, A great community is only as great as those persons who provide
exemplary service, whether through participation in voluntary programs,
through unique personal achievement in their profession or other endeav-
ors, or simply through a lifetime of good citizenship; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Michael Chelus upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the
Neil Sherwood Civility Award by the Defense Trial Lawyers Association of
Western New York celebrated at its Annual Dinner on Wednesday, December
2, 2015; and
WHEREAS, This auspicious award, given in honor of the late attorney
Neil Sherwood, is bestowed upon Michael Chelus for his civility and
dedication to the practice of law, and for his commitment to serving as
counsel to both the Orchard Park and Colden Fire Districts; and
WHEREAS, Admitted to the New York State Bar in 1968, Michael Chelus
began serving as counsel for the Orchard Park Fire District in 1971, and
then the Colden Fire District in 2003; and
WHEREAS, From 1968-1971, Michael Chelus proudly served his country as
a member of the JAG Corps in the United States Army, serving in the
Republic of Vietnam; and
WHEREAS, A former Senior Partner at Chelus, Herdzik, Speyer & Monte,
longtime trial attorney, Michael Chelus devoted his practice to defend-
ing personal injury litigation; and
WHEREAS, In addition to practicing law, Michael is a member of count-
less professional associations, including the American Bar Association,
the New York Bar Association, the American Arbitration Association, the
American Board of Trial Advocates, the Defense Trial Lawyers Association
of Western New York, the American Legion, as well as the Cheektowaga
Chamber of Commerce; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those who
enhance the quality of life in their community and have shown a long and
sustained commitment to the maintenance of high standards in their
profession, certainly have earned the recognition and applause of all
the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Michael Chelus upon the occasion of his designation as recipient
of the Neil Sherwood Civility Award by the Defense Trial Lawyers Associ-
ation of Western New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Michael Chelus.