LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Lawrence Henry Cooke posthumously upon
the occasion of his induction into the Monticello Central School
District's Inaugural Hall of Distinction on November 3, 2013

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to acknowledge
outstanding individuals whose professional lives, personal endeavors and
community service were an example and inspiration to their colleagues,
friends, and family; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Lawrence Henry Cooke posthumously upon the occasion of his induction
into the Monticello Central School District's Inaugural Hall of
Distinction celebrated at a ceremony held in the school's Arnold Packer
Hughes Auditorium on Sunday, November 3, 2013; and
WHEREAS, The Hall of Distinction was established in 2012 by the Board
of Education to honor graduates or attendees, or former teachers or
staff members who have made a lasting and outstanding contribution to
society upon graduating or leaving the Monticello Central School
District; and
WHEREAS, Lawrence Henry Cooke was a graduate of Monticello High
School, Class of 1931; and
WHEREAS, Former Chief Judge of the New York State Court of Appeals,
Judge Lawrence Cooke was instrumental in bringing about swift reforms
such as uniform work hours and vacation, extended civil arbitration and
uniform rules for all trial courts; and
WHEREAS, Working his way up the ladder of the court system, Judge
Lawrence Cooke began as a private practice lawyer, was elected a Justice
of the Supreme Court in the Third Judicial District, was appointed an
Associate Justice of the Appellate Division and was eventually appointed
Chief Judge in January of 1979; and
WHEREAS, In his position, Judge Lawrence Cooke served with the highest
accolades until his retirement in 1984; in 1997, the Sullivan County
Court House was named in his honor; and
WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an individ-
ual for the benefit of others which Lawrence Henry Cooke displayed
throughout his life; and
WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body that those who
enhance the well-being and vitality of their community and have shown a
long and sustained commitment to excellence certainly have earned the
recognition and applause of all the citizens of this great Empire State;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Lawrence Henry Cooke posthumously upon the occasion of his
induction into the Monticello Central School District's Inaugural Hall
of Distinction; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the family of Lawrence Henry Cooke.