Senate Resolution No. 2364

BY: Senator GRIFFO

COMMEMORATING the 10th Anniversary of the Daniel
Barden Mudfest in Deansboro, New York, on May 4,
2024

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize
organizations of noble aims and accomplishments for their charitable
endeavors which serve New York communities at large; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the Daniel Barden Mudfest at MKJ
Farm in Deansboro, New York, on May 4, 2024; and

WHEREAS, The Daniel Barden Mudfest is a mud run obstacle course that
honors the memory of Daniel Barden who died tragically in the 2012 Sandy
Hook Elementary School shooting in Newtown, Connecticut; and

WHEREAS, A niece of one of the Mudfest organizers was a student
inside the Sandy Hook Elementary school at the time of the tragedy,
where she lost her dear friend, Daniel Barden; this much-anticipated
community event and fundraiser serves to preserve the fun-loving, kind,
and gentle character Daniel Barden is known to have always exhibited
throughout his life; and

WHEREAS, The 10th annual event will feature brand new obstacles in
addition to returning favorites; each obstacle is uniquely designed and
hand-built by the Mudfest masterminds to challenge runners in ways they
never imagined, invoking senses of competitive spirit through bouts of
physical endurance; and

WHEREAS, Spectators of the Mudfest events can expect to marvel at
the Highland Games, an exhilarating exhibition of strength featuring
thrilling events such as the Caber Toss, Stone Put, and more;
additionally, the Farmers Carry is a cherished event in which everyone
can participate; and

WHEREAS, An opportunity to raise funds for organizations such as the
Sandy Hook Promise and local nonprofits, the Mudfest has brought in an
astounding $440,000 and counting over its years; and

WHEREAS, This commendable organization is an asset to the State of
New York, honoring victims of gun violence with diligence and grace
while providing opportunities for the community to grow and thrive
together for a greater good; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the Daniel Barden Mudfest in
Deansboro, New York, on May 4, 2024; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the organizers of the Daniel Barden Mudfest.