Senate Resolution No. 421

BY: Senator SEWARD

COMMENDING Ellard L. Sovocool upon the occasion of
his retirement as Groton town councilman after 46
years of distinguished public service on December
31, 2016

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body seeks to acknowledge those
individuals whose professional lives and civic endeavors serve to
enhance the stature of the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize that
the quality and character of life in communities across New York State
are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those
individuals who are devoted to the welfare of their community and its
citizenry; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commend Ellard L. Sovocool upon the occasion of his retirement as Groton
town councilman after 46 years of distinguished public service; and

WHEREAS, This auspicious milestone will be celebrated at a reception
held in his honor on Saturday, February 11, 2017, at Stonehedges Golf
Course, in Groton, New York; and

WHEREAS, In 1955, Ellard L. Sovocool enlisted in the armed services
and proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army; in
1958, Private First Class Sovocool was selected to participate in the
interment ceremonies for the Unknown Soldiers of World War II and Korea
at the Arlington National Cemetery; and

WHEREAS, After his discharge, Ellard L. Sovocool returned to his
hometown, where he married and raised his family; he worked at Smith
Corona for many years and enjoyed playing baseball for the Peter and
Sons Ford Team; and

WHEREAS, Ellard L. Sovocool began his service with the Town of
Groton on January 1, 1971; he officially retired from this position on
December 31, 2016; and

WHEREAS, This remarkable public servant holds the New York State
record for being the longest continuously serving town councilman in the
state; throughout his tenure, he never lost an election or had a break
in service; and

WHEREAS, A man of true integrity, Ellard L. Sovocool leads by
example; he has served the Town of Groton with distinction, enthusiasm,
dedication and honor, and has overseen countless initiatives that have
made his community a better and stronger place to live; and

WHEREAS, For the past 46 years, Ellard L. Sovocool rendered
faithful, conscientious and valuable service to the Town of Groton
earning the admiration, esteem and affection of his colleagues; and

WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the occurrence of such a compassionate
blending of strength, leadership, intellect, and commitment as that
demonstrated by Ellard L. Sovocool over a lifetime of sacrifice and
dedication to others; 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
commend Ellard L. Sovocool upon the occasion of his retirement as Groton
town councilman after 46 years of distinguished public service, and to
wish him continued success in all of his future endeavors; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Ellard L. Sovocool.