Senate Resolution No. 2050

BY: Senator GRIFFO

HONORING Willard Mathers upon the occasion of his
induction into the Rome Arts Hall of Fame on May 5,
2024

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to honor and pay
tribute to those individuals whose commitment to promoting the richness
and diversity of the performing, visual, and literary arts, has
contributed to the strength, vitality, and cultural enrichment of their
communities and the great 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 honor
Willard Mathers upon the occasion of his induction into the Rome Arts
Hall of Fame on Sunday, May 5, 2024, at the Capitol Theatre in Rome, New
York; and

WHEREAS, Established in 2005, The Rome Arts Hall of Fame aligns with
their mission to honor individuals who have a strong connection to the
Rome community and a significant involvement in the performing, visual,
or literary arts; the 17th group to be inducted, the Class of 2024 will
be celebrated by the Capitol Arts Complex with a schedule of induction
activities; and

WHEREAS, Willard Mathers is fondly remembered by many Rome students
who studied under his direction as orchestra director at Strough Junior
High School and Rome Free Academy in the mid 1960's; he also led string
groups at Utica Free Academy and Cazenovia; following his work in Rome,
he played with the Syracuse Symphony; and

WHEREAS, Individuals devoted to improving the quality of life for
others, enabling them to build lives of dignity and self-worth are
deserving of the highest praise and recognition; Willard Mathers is one
such individual; and

WHEREAS, The arts are the building blocks of civilization, are
central to human expression, enlighten us, and inspire the imagination;
educational institutions, individuals, and organizations which further
such worthy purposes richly merit the recognition and appreciation of
this Legislative Body and the people of the State of New York; now,
therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Willard Mathers upon the occasion of his induction into the Rome
Arts Hall of Fame on May 5, 2024; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Willard Mathers.