LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring G. Stephen Christopher upon the occasion
of his designation as recipient of the Beacon Leadership Award by the
Independent Living Center of the Hudson Valley

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 organiza-
tions and individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare of the
community and its citizenry; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor G. Stephen
Christopher upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the
Beacon Leadership Award by the Independent Living Center of the Hudson
Valley; this auspicious occasion will be celebrated at the Center's 20th
Annual Dessert Spectacular on Tuesday, May 13, 2014, at the Franklin
Plaza Ballroom in Troy, New York; and
WHEREAS, The Independent Living Center of the Hudson Valley is a non-
profit organization dedicated to helping people with disabilities lead
happy and fulfilling lives; rooted in a philosophy of self-determina-
tion, the Center offers many services including advocacy, peer coun-
seling, and facilitates access to housing and employment opportunities;
and
WHEREAS, The Beacon Leadership Award is granted annually to those few
individuals and businesses which have demonstrated their commitment to
the rights of persons with disabilities; honorees have each in their own
way helped make the community a more welcoming place for people with
disabilities; and
WHEREAS, G. Stephen "Chico" Christopher first arrived in Troy, New
York, in 1966 as a student at the RPI School of Architecture; he quickly
became involved in off-campus life, participating in the work-study Troy
Architectural Program (TAP), a not-for-profit community design center;
and
WHEREAS, After spending two years in the Peace Corps in Iran, follow-
ing graduation, G. Stephen Christopher reunited with TAP where he
continues to work towards the betterment of his community; and
WHEREAS, Dedicated to helping those with disabilities, this esteemed
architect planned the renovations of the Independent Living Center of
the Hudson Valley's building, including the new elevator, and reno-
vations to the third floor; and
WHEREAS, Going beyond the traditional role of an architect, G. Stephen
Christopher negotiated with contractors, and was on site regularly to
address problems; he was also a vital force in ensuring contractors kept
to established timeframes and minimized cost overruns; and
WHEREAS, Throughout the entire period of his community service, a
period of constructive involvement, G. Stephen Christopher has been an
enduring voice in the community for equal rights for people with disa-
bilities; and
WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an individ-
ual for the benefit of others which this remarkable man has displayed
throughout his life; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor G. Stephen Christopher upon the occasion of his designation as
recipient of the Beacon Leadership Award by the Independent Living
Center of the Hudson Valley; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to G. Stephen Christopher.