Senate Resolution No. 3397

BY: Senator BONACIC

HONORING Frank Simpson upon the occasion of his
designation as recipient of the first annual Malcolm
Booth Medal by the Neversink Valley Museum of
History and Innovation on December 2, 2017

WHEREAS, It is incumbent upon the people of the State of New York to
recognize and acknowledge those within our midst who made significant
contributions to the quality of life therein; and

WHEREAS, From time to time this Legislative Body takes note of
certain extraordinary individuals it wishes to recognize for their
valued contributions to the success and progress of society and publicly
acknowledge their endeavors which have enhanced the basic humanity among
us all; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Frank Simpson upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the
first annual Malcolm Booth Medal by the Neversink Valley Museum of
History and Innovation celebrated at its Founders Dinner Event on
Saturday, December 2, 2017, at The Lynx at River Bend Gold Course in
Port Jervis, New York; and

WHEREAS, This auspicious award was created in memory of Malcolm
Booth, who diligently worked to bring recognition to the D&H Canal in
Cuddebackville, New York; due to his steadfast efforts, the Canal was
listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the D&H Canal
Park was established; and

WHEREAS, Frank Simpson is receiving this inaugural award for his
vision and dedication in preserving and documenting the canal era in the
Town of Deerpark, New York; working with the local Grange, he helped
form the Neversink Valley Area Museum in 1967; and

WHEREAS, A native of Cuddebackville, Frank Simpson was a bright
young man who grew up to be a well-respected veterinarian in his
community; a lover of not only animals, but also history, he has always
imagined a "poor man's Williamsburg" in his hometown; this special place
would provide a glimpse into the life of working people during the 19th
Century and the early 20th Century, and provide an economic stimulus for
the area; and

WHEREAS, The Neversink Valley Area Museum focuses on The Delaware
and Hudson Canal and its effect on the commerce and technologies of the
area and the transformation of society from an agrarian to an industrial
one; and

WHEREAS, Through Frank Simpson's vision, the Neversink Valley Area
Museum has continued to preserve and document the history of the peoples
and industry of the D&H Canal, Neversink River Valley, Shawangunk
Valleys of New York's Catskill region and to interpret that history as
it relates to the world at large; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those who
enhance the well-being and vitality of their community and have shown a
long and sustained commitment to excellence 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 Frank Simpson upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of
the first annual Malcolm Booth Medal by the Neversink Valley Museum of
History and Innovation; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Frank Simpson.