Senate Resolution No. 4465

BY: Senator BRESLIN

HONORING Melissa Steen upon the occasion of her
designation as recipient of the Business Person of
the Year Award by the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce
on April 26, 2018

WHEREAS, It is the custom 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
individuals who would devote themselves to the welfare of the community
and its citizenry; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Melissa
Steen upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the Business
Person of the Year Award by the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce to be
celebrated at its Annual Awards Dinner on Thursday, April 26, 2018, at
Normanside Country Club in Delmar, New York; and

WHEREAS, Established in 1957, the Bethlehem Chamber of Commerce
works on a local and regional level to advance economic development and
foster a positive business environment; it offers resources for
residents, businesses, recreation and relocation in Bethlehem, New York,
and the surrounding region; and

WHEREAS, A woman of singular distinction, Melissa Steen has
continually demonstrated extreme competence, extraordinary intelligence
and diligent leadership in her unwavering service to her community and
profession and consequently has been selected for this most prestigious
honor; and

WHEREAS, Melissa Steen is the owner of I Love Books on Delaware
Avenue in Delmar, New York; through her book store, she has generously
supported numerous worthy organizations including Bethlehem Tomboys
Girls Softball, Marillac Family Shelter, Unity House and the Ronald
McDonald House; and

WHEREAS, Melissa Steen also enjoys assisting the Girl Scouts earn
their Bronze Awards and gives them space outside her store to sell their
famous cookies; and

WHEREAS, This remarkable woman graciously promotes non-profit
organizations, community groups, and other small local businesses;
provides students with books for author visits; and organizes in-store
raffles for various animal shelters and adoption groups; and

WHEREAS, Throughout the entire period of her community service, a
period of constructive involvement, Melissa Steen has stood constant in
dignity, good grace and humor; and

WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an
individual for the benefit of others which Melissa Steen has displayed
throughout her life; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense 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 Melissa Steen upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of
the Business Person of the Year Award by the Bethlehem Chamber of
Commerce; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Melissa Steen.