Senate Resolution No. 3856

BY: Senator BONACIC

HONORING Brian Rourke upon the occasion of his
designation as recipient of the 2017 Distinguished
Achievement Award by the Sullivan County Chamber of
Commerce

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend the leaders of commerce and industry whose accomplishments
contribute to the economic health and prosperity of the communities of
the State of New York, and whose purposeful endeavors as involved
members of the community serve to enhance the quality of life therein;
and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern and fully in accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Brian Rourke upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the
2017 Distinguished Achievement Award by the Sullivan County Chamber of
Commerce; this auspicious occasion was celebrated at its 26th Annual
Pride Awards Gala on November 16, 2017, at The Eagle's Nest in
Bloomingburg, New York; and

WHEREAS, The Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to
bringing together the business and professional interests of Sullivan
County, helping them to accomplish collectively what none could do
individually; the organization is focused on the growth and retention of
its member businesses, serving as a point of contact and center of
information, facilitation and exchange; and

WHEREAS, Each year, the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce
recognizes certain individuals who have made outstanding contributions
to the local economy, to the goals of the Chamber, and to the quality of
life in Sullivan County; and

WHEREAS, A respected town judge for 16 years, Brian Rourke has not
only helped solve disputes within the community, but has gotten to know
the people of Liberty and the problems they have faced; in addition to
his work with the Law Offices of Brian P. Rourke, he has created and
invested in six local businesses; and

WHEREAS, With a steadfast commitment to rehabilitating blighted
neighborhoods and vacant buildings within the community, Brian Rourke
invested in the Super Clean Laundromat, turning it into a safe and
thriving business easily accessible to village residents; and

WHEREAS, Brian Rourke also launched the Downtown Barn in 2014, which
has since grown to become a popular live music venue; and

WHEREAS, A devoted member of his community, Brian Rourke currently
serves as a board member of Callicoon Cooperative Insurance and the
Sullivan County Visitor's Association; he is a former Youth Group
Director, Church Trustee and Sunday school instructor, little league
baseball coach, Director of Liberty Kiwanis and a board member for the
former Community Development Corp (CDC); and

WHEREAS, Furthermore, Brian Rourke served as board director for
Begin Again Transitional Services for veterans, where he was
instrumental in opening Sullivan County's first veteran's home; and

WHEREAS, Throughout the entire period of his community service, a
period of constructive involvement, Brian Rourke has stood constant in
dignity, good grace and humor; and

WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an
individual for the benefit of others which this remarkable man has
displayed throughout his life; 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 Brian Rourke upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of
the 2017 Distinguished Achievement Award by the Sullivan County Chamber
of Commerce; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Brian Rourke.