Senate Resolution No. 2571 BY: Senator COMRIE HONORING Ian Staley upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the Chairman Award by the Alpha Phi Alpha Senior Citizens Center on February 8, 2020 WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those who enhance the quality of life in their community and have shown a long and sustained commitment to the maintenance of high standards in their profession, certainly have earned the recognition and applause of all the citizens of this great Empire State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Ian Staley upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the Chairman Award by the Alpha Phi Alpha Senior Citizens Center to be celebrated at its 10th Anniversary Valentine's Day Gala on Saturday, February 8, 2020, at Antun's, Queens Village, New York; and WHEREAS, Established in 1975, the Alpha Phi Alpha Senior Citizens Center provides a multi-purpose facility and services for seniors in the local community that will enhance their quality of life through its nutrition, education and health programs; and WHEREAS, Ian Staley is a renowned Culinary Development Specialist who has worked in the greater New York area for more than 20 years; and WHEREAS, Born and raised in St. Albans, Queens, Ian Staley graduated from Andrew Jackson High School in Cambria Heights, before attending Atlanta Area Tech College in Atlanta, Georgia; and WHEREAS, Ian Staley learned how to cook while proudly serving his country as a member of the United States Navy in 1997; since that time, it has truly become his life's passion; and WHEREAS, After holding various culinary and restaurant management positions in several fine dining establishments, Ian Staley felt a greater sense of purpose in working for organizations which promote a more conscious and balanced dietary program; he has worked with several impactful programs, including Head Start, The Economic Opportunity Commission of Nassau County and Atria Senior Living Group; and WHEREAS, In 2018, Ian Staley became the Head Chef at Alpha Phi Alpha Senior Citizens Center, where he is truly dedicated to providing a healthy eating environment for its seniors, teaching them how important good nutritional habits are for their lives; and WHEREAS, Furthermore, he strives to bring creativity to the meals he provides for their enjoyment, producing a menu with ingredients that are wholesome, nourishing and delicious; and WHEREAS, A true asset to his community, Ian Staley works tirelessly to promote the great things available to the senior residents of Cambria Heights, St. Albans, Hollis and Jamaica; and WHEREAS, With him throughout have been his four loving sons, all of whom feel privileged to be a part of his life and rejoice in his many achievements; and WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an individual for the benefit of others which Ian Staley has displayed throughout his life; and WHEREAS, It has always been the objective of this Legislative Body to honor and support those individuals who have displayed their commitment to the betterment of their communities, and it is the intent of this Legislative Body to inscribe upon its records, this tribute to Ian Staley, that future generations may know and appreciate his admirable character, his many benevolent deeds, and the respect and esteem in which he is held by his peers; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Ian Staley upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the Chairman Award by the Alpha Phi Alpha Senior Citizens Center; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Ian Staley.