Senate Resolution No. 5316

BY: Senator O'MARA

COMMEMORATING the 10th Anniversary of the Finger
Lakes Chapter of the American Red Cross Red
motorcycle ride, and paying tribute to its
organizers Paul Simonson and Tom Doud

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
organizations, and their employees and volunteers, that are devoted to
the welfare of the community and its citizenry; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the Finger Lakes Chapter of the
American Red Cross Ride for the Red motorcycle ride, and to pay tribute
to its organizers, Paul Simonson and Tom Doud; and

WHEREAS, Since its inception, the American Red Cross has strived to
provide compassionate care to those in need; its network of generous
donors, volunteers and employees share a mission of preventing and
relieving suffering, here at home and around the world, through five key
service areas: disaster relief, supporting America's military families,
lifesaving blood, health and safety services, and international
services; and

WHEREAS, The 10th Annual Ride for the Red motorcycle run will be
held on Saturday, September 1, 2018, in honor of local veterans and Gold
Star families from all wars; in addition, the ride raises funds for the
American Red Cross' Finger Lakes Chapter's local services, including the
Services to the Armed Forces program; and

WHEREAS, Ride for the Red will leave the American Legion in Big
Flats, New York, and will be led by New York State motorcycle Troopers
through the beautiful Finger Lakes Region; and

WHEREAS, This popular event is organized and supported by Paul
Simonson and Assistant Director Tom Doud of the Arkport/Corning Harley
Owners Group (HOG) chapter; and

WHEREAS, For more than a decade, Paul Simonson and Tom Doud have
donated their time and energy as volunteers of the American Red Cross'
Service to the Armed Forces (SAF); as vital members of its Advisory
Committee, Paul and Tom have been instrumental in raising significant
funds for the Finger Lakes Chapter and both the Central and Western New
York Region; these remarkable men have also assisted at many events to
help our nation's veteran, active military and their families; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when
individuals and organizations of such noble aims and accomplishments are
brought to our attention, 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
commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the Finger Lakes Chapter of the
American Red Cross Red motorcycle ride, and to pay tribute to its
organizers Paul Simonson and Tom Doud; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Paul Simonson, Tom Doud, and the American Red Cross
Finger Lakes Chapter.