LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Father Gordon Polenz upon the occasion
of his designation as recipient of the Citizen of the Years Award by the
Sidney Chamber of Commerce

WHEREAS, It is incumbent upon the people of the State of New York to
recognize and acknowledge those within our midst who have made signif-
icant contributions to the quality of life therein; and
WHEREAS, From time to time this Legislative Body takes note of certain
extraordinary individuals it wishes to recognize for their valued
contributions to the success and progress of society and publicly
acknowledge their endeavors which have enhanced the basic humanity among
us all; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Father Gordon
Polenz upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the Citizen
of the Years Award by the Sidney Chamber of Commerce, to be celebrated
at its annual dinner meeting on Friday, June 5, 2015, at the Sidney Elks
Lodge; and
WHEREAS, This esteemed man has been called upon to contribute his time
and talents to countless civic and charitable endeavors and has always
given of himself unstintingly; and
WHEREAS, Father Gordon Polenz has been a treasured member of the
Sidney community for more than 25 years as pastor of Sacred Heart
Church; he was instrumental in the building of its new Parish Center,
established not only to serve Sacred Heart Parish, but the community-at-
large, with many organizations and groups hosting events at the center
throughout the year; and
WHEREAS, An active Rotarian for over two decades, Father Gordon Polenz
has worked for many years with the Rotary Youth Exchange program and is
a Paul Harris Fellow; he is a member of the Tri-Town Ministerium, Char-
ter Executive for Scout Pack 88 and Troop 88, as well as a member of the
Knights of Columbus; and
WHEREAS, Father Gordon Polenz has tirelessly supported countless
organizations and community events; he has served as treasurer for Oper-
ation Merry Christmas for more than 20 years, and has been an active
participant of the annual CROP walk which aids the local food bank; and
WHEREAS, In addition, Father Gordon Polenz' Valentine Dinner Dance
celebrated its 20th year, and his Harvest Festival, established nearly
30 years ago, has grown into a much anticipated community event which
draws many people into Sidney; and
WHEREAS, Throughout the entire period of his community service, a
period of constructive involvement, Father Gordon Polenz has stood
constant in dignity, good grace and humor; and
WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an individ-
ual for the benefit of others which Father Gordon Polenz has displayed
throughout his life; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when individ-
uals of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our atten-
tion, 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 Father Gordon Polenz upon the occasion of his designation as
recipient of the Citizen of the Years Award by the Sidney Chamber of
Commerce; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Father Gordon Polenz.