LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION celebrating the many contributions and legacies
of Dominican-Americans, in conjunction with the observance of Dominican
Heritage Month, and paying tribute to Pedro Martinez

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body, in keeping with its
time-honored traditions, to recognize and pay tribute to those who
foster ethnic pride and enhance the profile of cultural diversity which
strengthens the fabric of the communities of New York State; and
WHEREAS, The citizens of this great Empire State are proud to cele-
brate the contributions of Dominican-Americans to New York State's
unique heritage; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to celebrate
the many contributions and legacies of Dominican-Americans, in conjunc-
tion with the observance of Dominican Heritage Month, and to pay tribute
to Pedro Martinez; and
WHEREAS, In February 2015, Dominican communities across the State of
New York will join in celebrating Dominican Heritage Month by recogniz-
ing the many contributions and legacies which are attributed to these
fine Dominican-Americans; and
WHEREAS, The following dates and events are of great significance and
serve as a distinct reminder of the rich heritage celebrated in Domini-
can communities: Monday, January 26, 2015, marks the 202nd Anniversary
of the birth of patriarch Juan Pablo Duarte; and Friday, February 27,
2015, is the 171st Anniversary of the independence of the Dominican
Republic; and
WHEREAS, It is duly fitting that all New Yorkers join in these impor-
tant celebrations of one of our State's most vibrant communities; this
much anticipated observance and its accompanying activities will foster
greater appreciation for Dominican culture and serve to promote the
spirit of cooperation that is characteristic of all citizens of New York
State; and
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
pay tribute to those esteemed individuals who distinguish themselves
through exceptional performance, outstanding achievement, and peerless
commitment to excellence; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to congratulate Pedro
Martinez upon the occasion of his election to the National Baseball Hall
of Fame in Cooperstown, New York, on January 6, 2015; he will be offi-
cially inducted on Sunday, July 26, 2015; and
WHEREAS, Pedro Jaime Martinez was born in Manoguayabo, Dominican
Republic, in 1971, the fifth of six siblings living in a palm wood house
with a tin roof; as a child, he learned the game of baseball using
broomsticks and tree branches for bats; and
WHEREAS, Despite his humble circumstances and diminutive frame, Pedro
Martinez's superlative work ethic and transcendent talent caught the eye
of traveling professional scouts and subsequently, in 1988, he was
signed by the Los Angeles Dodgers; and
WHEREAS, Pedro Martinez is recognized for being one of the most domi-
nant pitchers of his era; and
WHEREAS, During a spectacular 18 season career, Pedro Martinez won 219
games, three Cy Young Awards and struck out 3,154 batters; he led the
league in ERA five times and in strikeouts three times; furthermore, his
winning percentage is sixth highest of all-time and first for pitchers
after 1950; and

WHEREAS, In the year 2000, when there were more runs scored than in
any other season in baseball history, Pedro Martinez managed an astound-
ing 1.74 ERA; and
WHEREAS, Known for his sparkling intellect, unique wit, and engaging
personality, Pedro Martinez's career has brought pride, pleasure and joy
to countless millions; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is proud to honor Pedro Martinez for
his extraordinary athletic accomplishments which are a tribute to his
skill, dedication and commitment; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
celebrate the many contributions and legacies of Dominican-Americans, in
conjunction with the observance of Dominican Heritage Month, and to pay
tribute to Pedro Martinez; and be it further
RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Ambassador Anibal de Castro; Consul General Maximo Corsino of
the Dominican Republic in New York; and Pedro Martinez.