Senate Resolution No. 974

BY: Senator BRESLIN

HONORING Richard Sweeney upon the occasion of his
designation as recipient of the 2017 Student
Leadership Award by The Capital Zone chapter of the
New York State Alliance for Health, Physical
Education, Recreation and Dance (NYS AHPERD)

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to honor the young
adults of today and leaders of tomorrow whose character and achievements
best exemplify the ideals and values cherished by this great State and
Nation; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Richard Sweeney upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the
2017 Student Leadership Award by The Capital Zone chapter of the New
York State Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance
(NYS AHPERD) on Sunday, February 12, 2017; and

WHEREAS, The auspicious Student Leadership Award is given to one
young man and woman from each district's current year's graduating class
who meets the criteria for achievement in high level of physical
performance, scholastic achievement, exceptional leadership qualities or
outstanding service to the school or community; and

WHEREAS, A student at Bethlehem High School, Richard Sweeney is the
co-President of The Stock Market Club and a member of the BCHS Wind
Ensemble, Symphony Orchestra, Pep Band, Jazz Band and the Marching Band
where he plays the tuba; and

WHEREAS, Richard Sweeney has been swimming competitively since the
second grade with the Delmar Dolfins; currently, he is the co-Captain of
the Bethlehem swim team; as a junior, he competed in New York State
competitions as a member of the 200 medley relay team; and

WHEREAS, With a strong commitment to his community, Richard Sweeney
has volunteered as a math tutor at his school, as a counselor with
Christian Camps of America and an instructor with STRIDE Sailing
Adaptive Sports; he is also a member of the Bethlehem Town Youth Court
and the Bethlehem Lutheran Church Youth Group; and

WHEREAS, In addition to the Student Leadership Award, Richard
Sweeney has received the Gold Medal in the AASTP National Spanish Exam
Level 4, the Harvard Book Award, the Spirit of the Eagle Award for
Varsity Swimming and is a National Merit Scholar Semifinalist; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his high school career, Richard Sweeney has
displayed exceptional academic achievement, a strong sense of community
responsibility, and a commitment to excellence which is unparalleled;
and

WHEREAS, Richard Sweeney, in achieving this academic honor, may take
just pride in the inspiration and contribution to the spirit of

excellence he brings to his family, friends, community and school; now,
therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Richard Sweeney upon the occasion of his designation as recipient
of the 2017 Student Leadership Award by The Capital Zone chapter of the
New York State Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and
Dance (NYS AHPERD), and to extend best wishes for a future of purposeful
success and well-being; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Richard Sweeney.