Senate Resolution No. 1249

BY: Senator GRIFFO

CONGRATULATING Sarkis Balukjian upon the occasion
of celebrating his 100th Birthday

WHEREAS, Senior citizens bring a wealth of experience and knowledge
to the increasingly active roles they play in today's society; their
past contributions and future participation are a vital part of, and
valuable asset to, the fabric of community life and activity; and

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to commemorate
and recognize certain milestones celebrated by citizens of this great
Empire State; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to congratulate
Sarkis Balukjian upon the occasion of his 100th Birthday to be
celebrated at a party with family and friends at Morley's restaurant in
Massena, New York; and

WHEREAS, Sarkis Balukjian was born on June 28, 1921, to Karaken and
Serpouhi Balukjian in Massena where he attended local schools; after
graduating, he earned his degree from Clarkson University in Potsdam,
New York; and

WHEREAS, Sarkis Balukjian proudly served his country as a member of
the Army Corps of Engineers during World War II in the European and
Pacific Theaters; on September 12, 1948, he married his late wife of 70
years, Alice, in Lyon, France, and together, they settled in Massena
where he operated the American Dry Cleaners for over 40 years; and

WHEREAS, Dedicated to his community, Sarkis Balukjian was a member
of the Armenian Community Center, St. John's Episcopal Church, the
Masons, and the Resource Center for Independent Living; he and his wife
also enjoyed spending time with their beloved family, square dancing and
traveling, both domestically and internationally; and

WHEREAS, With him throughout have been his four children, Sona
(Ray), Gregory, Lillian (Jeffrey) and David; two grandchildren, Brian
(Regina) and Sarah (Christopher); and four great-grandchildren,
Cassandra, William, Katherine and Isabelle, all of whom feel privileged
to be a part of his life and rejoice in his achievements; and

WHEREAS, Sarkis Balukjian, with his zest for life, has inspired and
enhanced the lives of his family and friends; and

WHEREAS, This exceptional centenarian has experienced the incredible
joys and sorrows characteristic of and reserved for those with the
stamina and courage to savor a full life; and

WHEREAS, Sarkis Balukjian has enriched the lives of those around him
through his joyous and sincere love for others and through the quiescent
charm and wisdom which comes only from a fullness of years; and

WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to publicly
recognize those who have reached such a remarkable age and who have

witnessed and celebrated the innovations, cultural developments and
awesome achievements of this country during the last century, while
themselves contributing to the growth and excellence of this great
Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate Sarkis Balukjian upon the occasion of celebrating his 100th
Birthday; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Sarkis Balukjian.