Senate Resolution No. 3952

BY: Senator GOLDEN

COMMENDING Martin J. Cottingham upon the occasion
of his designation as Grand Marshal of the 2018 Bay
Ridge St. Patrick's Day Parade

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
individuals of true purpose and worthy accomplishment who work
diligently to preserve and celebrate their rich cultural heritage; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend Martin J. Cottingham upon the occasion of his designation as
Grand Marshal of the 2018 Bay Ridge St. Patrick's Day Parade; and

WHEREAS, In acknowledgment of this most prestigious appointment,
Martin J. Cottingham will have the honor of leading the 25th Annual Bay
Ridge St. Patrick's Day Parade down 3rd Avenue in Brooklyn, New York, on
Sunday March 25, 2018; and

WHEREAS, The Bay Ridge St. Patrick's Day Parade is meant to
recognize and celebrate Irish culture, heritage and pride, for those who
have emigrated here from the Emerald Isle, the Irish-American community,
as well as those who are Irish in spirit; and

WHEREAS, Martin J. Cottingham earned his Bachelor of Science degree
in organizational management from St. Joseph's College; he furthered his
education by obtaining both his Master of Science in real estate
development and a certificate in construction management from New York
University; and

WHEREAS, For over 23 years, Martin Cottlngham has worked in the real
estate industry; today, he serves as Principal specializing in
transaction management in Avison Young's New York office; in this
capacity, he has lead the real estate team on several major initiatives
such as the relocation of the National Basketball Players Association,
the creation of a 5,000+ seat amphitheater in Western Coney Island, and
the reduction of portfolio operating costs for Winthrop University
Hospital; and

WHEREAS, When he is not working, Martin Cottingham graciously
donates his time and energy to supporting his community, especially his
Irish brothers and sisters; currently, he holds the title of President
of the Irish American Building Society, and is a vital member of the
Knights of Saint Patrick, Brooklyn Irish American St. Patrick's Day
Committee, and Futures in Education Board; and

WHEREAS, Through his steadfast efforts, Martin Cottingham has raised
funds for various children's educational programs, and served as
President of both the Emerald Society and Cathedral Club of Brooklyn;
since 2007, he has held the title of Chairman of the Great Irish Fair;
and

WHEREAS, Martin J. Cottingham's family ancestry leads straight back
to Ireland; his paternal grandparents, John Cottingham hailing from
Clifden, Galway, and Nora Cottingham from Swinford, Mayo; and

WHEREAS, With him throughout have been his wife, Kathleen, and their
two children, Brendan and Genevieve, all of whom have shown him love and
support and rejoice in his many achievements; and

WHEREAS, A St. Patrick's Day Parade reflects and records the ongoing
history of the United States and Ireland, and provides an opportunity
for people of all generations to assemble in ethnic pride and pageantry;
and

WHEREAS, A fitting choice for Grand Marshal for the Bay Ridge St.
Patrick's Day Parade, Martin J. Cottingham embodies the spirit and the
cherished ideals and values of Irish-Americans of this great State and
Nation; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when
individuals of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our
attention, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citizens
of the great State of New York; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Martin J. Cottingham upon the occasion of his designation as
Grand Marshal of the 2018 Bay Ridge St. Patrick's Day Parade; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Martin J. Cottingham.