LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commending Jerry Cook upon the occasion of his
induction into the NASCAR Hall of Fame on January 22, 2016

WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to
outstanding race car drivers, who distinguished themselves through their
exceptional performance, attaining unprecedented success and the highest
level of personal achievement; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and fully in accord with its long-
standing traditions, it is the intent of this Legislative Body to
commend Jerry Cook upon the occasion of his induction into the NASCAR
Hall of Fame on January 22, 2016; and
WHEREAS, Legendary Rome, New York, NASCAR modified championship race
car driver Jerry Cook was born on June 20, 1943, in Lockport, New York;
he began racing at the young age of 13; and
WHEREAS, Jerry Cook, a six-time champion who for many years battled
fellow Rome driver Richie Evans for top honors on NASCAR's modified
series, is part of the newest group of five named as inductees for the
Hall; and
WHEREAS, In 1969, Jerry Cook won the Track Championship at the Utica-
Rome Speedway; throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he dominated the modified
racing series, winning four straight championships from 1974-1977; and
WHEREAS, Jerry Cook won more than 300 races over his career, and in
1998, was named one of NASCAR's 50 Greatest Drivers; and
WHEREAS, After retiring from racing in 1982, Jerry Cook remained
involved with the sport, helping shape the series which is known today,
as the Whelen Modified Tour; in this capacity, he served as the Series
Director when it began in 1985; today, he remains a vital force within
NASCAR, acting as a Competition Administrator; and
WHEREAS, Jerry Cook has been inducted into several racing hall of
fames including the National Motorsports Hall of Fame in 1989, the New
York State Car Association Hall of Fame in 1993, and the International
Motorsports Hall of Fame in 2009, as well as the Rome Sports Hall of
Fame; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to honor Jerry Cook
for his extraordinary athletic accomplishments which are a tribute to
his skill, dedication and commitment; his character and achievements
stand as a sterling example and inspiration to all who would aspire to
success; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commend Jerry Cook upon the occasion of his induction into the NASCAR
Hall of Fame on January 22, 2016; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Jerry Cook.