LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 40th Anniversary of Earl W.
Brydges Artpark, located in Historic Lewiston, New York

WHEREAS, The arts, in whatever form depicted, are central to human
expression; they are truly a universal language and their contribution
to the development of friendship and understanding among all peoples
cannot be underestimated; and
WHEREAS, The history, the heritage, and the lives of the people of all
countries and all cultures are portrayed in their music and dance; the
art and act of sharing them enriches us altogether; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commem-
orate the 40th Anniversary of Earl W. Brydges Artpark, to be celebrated
Thursday, July 25, 2012; and
WHEREAS, Artpark is situated on 150 scenic acres overlooking the
Niagara River Gorge and presents a summer-long schedule of theater,
visual and performing arts programming, outdoor concerts, family activ-
ities and special events; and
WHEREAS, A National Historic Landmark site since 1998, Artpark is
located on picturesque land, rich in both Native American history, and
pioneer and early American history; approximately 12,000 years ago the
majestic Niagara Falls began to work its way upriver from this site to
its current location; and
WHEREAS, In July of 1974, Artpark's Mainstage Theater opened on land
that was once the Lower Landing of the nine mile Niagara Portage; and
WHEREAS, Offering visitors an inspiring blend of nature and art, the
mission of Artpark is to provide art education and programming, nurture
and develop the talents of visual and performing artists, provide volun-
teer experiences in the arts, and present high quality theatre
production and concert events that offer entertainment, as well as
cultural enrichment; and
WHEREAS, Each summer, Artpark presents an exciting variety of Broadway
Musicals, special events, and headliner concerts in the 2,400 seat Main-
stage Theater and adjacent lawn; the outdoor amphitheater hosts
festivals including the popular "Tuesday in the Park" summer concert
series, Free Family Saturdays, unique camps for children, and free art
activities for thousands of families each summer; and
WHEREAS, In its 11 year existence, Artpark's award-winning "Tuesday in
the Park" concert series has surpassed all other Western New York region
programs, summer events, festivals or music series, in the quality of
performances and the annual growth in attendance; and
WHEREAS, Artpark has received numerous awards and accolades, some of
which include Best Outdoor Music Venue, Best Music Series, Best Public
Party Venue, Most Exciting Concert Series in Western New York, and Best
Outdoor Concert Event; and
WHEREAS, In addition, Artpark received a Trailblazer Award in 2009
from The Arts Council of Buffalo & Erie County, in recognition of excel-
lence, innovation, and achievements in the Western New York Arts and
Cultural Community, in addition to demonstrating leadership and progres-
sive thinking that has resulted in substantial organizational improve-
ment; and
WHEREAS, Furthermore, a two-time winner of the Niagara River Region
Chamber of Commerce Chairman's Award, Artpark received the 2008 Communi-
ty Advocate of the Year Award by the Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce,
and the 2012 Amherst Chamber of Commerce Sponsor Award for outstanding
service to the Western New York region; and

WHEREAS, Artpark President, George Osborne, was named one of Business
First's Most Influential People in 2012, and Business First's Power 200
Most Influential People in 2013; and
WHEREAS, Artistic and cultural activities help people to lift their
minds away from their daily routines and live a fuller life through
their appreciation of creativity; and the creative energy of the arts
can translate into increased employment opportunities and the stimu-
lation of community and regional businesses and economic activity; and
WHEREAS, A true asset to society, Earl W. Brydges Artpark's distin-
guished record merits the recognition and respectful tribute of this
Legislative Body; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 40th Anniversary of Earl W. Brydges Artpark; and be it
further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to George Osborne, President of Earl W. Brydges Artpark.