Senate Resolution No. 520

BY: Senator PARKER

HONORING Troy "TJ" Jackson Sonesta upon the
occasion of his designation for special recognition
by Abu Bekr Temple No. 91, Oasis of Brooklyn, Desert
of New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that
the quality and character of life in the communities across New York
State are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those
organizations and individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare
of the community and its citizenry; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Troy "TJ" Jackson Sonesta upon the occasion of his designation for
special recognition by Abu Bekr Temple No. 91, Oasis of Brooklyn, Desert
of New York, at its Annual Potentates Ball, March 31-April 2, 2023, at
Sonesta White Plains Downtown, White Plains, New York; and

WHEREAS, A lifelong resident of Staten Island, New York, Troy
Jackson Sonesta was born on June 19, 1966, and graduated from Susan E.
Wagner High School in 1984; he went on to work as an Assistant to the
Communications Director at the Charter Revision Commission from 1987 to
1990; and

WHEREAS, Troy Jackson Sonesta began his illustrious 33-year career
with Richmond University Medical Center as a certified New York State
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) in 1990, and one year later, became
an EMT Certified Lab Instructor (CLI), teaching First Aid and CPR; and

WHEREAS, Furthermore, from 2007 to 2010, he worked as the Director
of Operations at Essex Valley EMS out of East Orange Hospital, covering
the cities of East Orange and Orange, New Jersey; and

WHEREAS, In 2003, Troy Jackson Sonesta graduated from John Jay
College of Criminal Justice with a Bachelor of Science degree in
Criminal Justice and a minor in Security Management; and

WHEREAS, With a steadfast and unwavering commitment to his
community, Troy Jackson Sonesta became a Master Mason in 2005 with
Silver Lake Lodge No. 59 of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge
for the State of New York; he served as its Worshipful Master from 2015
to 2016, and became District Deputy Grand Master of the 2nd District,
covering 3 lodges in Brooklyn and Staten Island, in 2017; he became a
Grand Trustee for the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge for the
State of New York in 2022; and

WHEREAS, A Noble in Abu Bekr Temple No. 91 since October of 2016,
Troy Jackson Sonesta currently serves as its 72nd Illustrious Potentate,
the esteemed position he has held since his election in December of
2022; and

WHEREAS, Troy Jackson Sonesta has also served as a semi-professional
football coach with the New York Predators for 15 years, and most

recently, as the defensive and special teams' coach for the New Jersey
Unit; in addition, he referees local youth football games ranging from
Pre-K to high school level; and

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

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Troy "TJ" Jackson Sonesta upon the occasion of his designation for
special recognition by Abu Bekr Temple No. 91, Oasis of Brooklyn, Desert
of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Troy "TJ" Jackson Sonesta.