Assembly Resolution No. 1082

BY: M. of A. Oaks

MEMORIALIZING Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim
May 1-7, 2018, as Elks National Youth Week in the
State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
pay tribute to fraternal organizations of high purpose and worthy
accomplishment whose endeavors have faithfully served the welfare of the
citizens of the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 1-7, 2018, as Elks
National Youth Week in the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, The Elk organization was founded in New York City on
February 16, 1868, under the name "Jolly Corks" by 15 actors,
entertainers, and others associated with the theater; in ensuing years,
membership expanded to other professions; and

WHEREAS, Its mission is to inculcate the principles of Charity,
Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to recognize a belief in God; to
promote the welfare and enhance the happiness of its Members; to quicken
the spirit of American patriotism; to cultivate good fellowship; to
perpetuate itself as a fraternal organization, and to provide for its
government, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United
States of America will serve the people and communities through
benevolent programs, demonstrating that Elks Care and Elks Share; and

WHEREAS, In 1904, the Elks made a commitment to "lay a solid
foundation for the future; building the moral and physical character of
American boys and girls, the leaders of tomorrow"; and

WHEREAS, Since then, the Elks have done much to fulfill that
self-charged responsibility-and not for fanfare or publicity, but simply
because they know it is the right thing to do; in fact, of everything
the Elks do, perhaps nothing is more important than their work with the
country's young people; and

WHEREAS, Like no other fraternal organization, the Benevolent and
Protective Order of Elks celebrates the accomplishments of the country's
youth; and

WHEREAS, The efforts of the Elks on behalf of the young, through
youth organization and scholarships, and by sponsoring athletic and
artistic endeavors, summer camps, and drug awareness programs, sew the
seeds of accomplishment and commitment that benefit the whole nation;
and

WHEREAS, This work and the generosity of the Elks help today's young
people become tomorrow's scientists, industrialists, academic, artists,
athletes, and much more; and

WHEREAS, The first week in May each year, the Order hold its Elks
National Youth Week, recognizing young people for their involvement with
achievements in the community; and

WHEREAS, Traditionally, the Elks present awards and plaques to
outstanding youngsters during the week, in addition to hosting teams,
similar to those that are held all year, that provide young people with
even greater changes to play an active role in their communities; and

WHEREAS, By their sponsorship of youth fairs, career nights, student
government days, athletic and educational programs, clubs, and more, the
Elks truly make a difference in the lives of many young people; and

WHEREAS, It is this caring commitment that makes the Benevolent and
Protective Order of Elks the fraternal organization most actively
engaged in promoting strong and healthy futures for young people; and

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

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim May 1-7, 2018, as Elks
National Youth Week in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of
New York.