Senate Resolution No. 788 BY: Senator OBERACKER HONORING Dave Burrell upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the Chenango County Distinguished Citizen's Award on May 11, 2023 WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and commend those distinguished citizens who would devote their life's work and purpose to community service, contributing to the welfare of the citizens of their communities and 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 Dave Burrell upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the Chenango County Distinguished Citizen's Award, to be celebrated on Thursday, May 11, 2023, at Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich, New York; and WHEREAS, Dave Burrell has been the Owner/President of Burrell's Excavating, Inc. since purchasing the business from his father, Douglas Burrell, in 1984; this extraordinary man's commitment to family, work and community was handed down by his father who served as a full-time firefighter in the City of Norwich, and owning and operating two businesses; and WHEREAS, When Dave Burrell purchased the business nearly four decades ago, he made the decision to concentrate on excavating; today, along with his son, Matthew, Burrell's Excavating, Inc., employs more than 40 people with continued growth each year; and WHEREAS, A dedicated businessman, Dave Burrell's first love is for his family; he and his beloved wife, Kim, were united in marriage in 1977, and together they raised their two wonderful children, Matthew and Courtney, in Norwich, New York; and WHEREAS, Dave Burrell is steadfastly committed to Kim, to Matt and his wife Alicia and their three children, Alivia, Gavin and Kate, and to Courtney and her children, Cameron and Vivian, while honoring the memory of their grandson David who passed away at 14 months old; and WHEREAS, Furthermore, he considers his employees family and attributes his success to the people he employs and does not take his success for granted; and WHEREAS, As a Norwich native, Dave Burrell gives tirelessly of his time and energies to the local community; he proudly supported Norwich Youth Sports, including Little League, when his children were young, and continues the tradition with his grandchildren as a supporter of the YMCA Camp Thompson, sponsoring the Gus Macker 3-on-3 Tournament and the YMCA Turkey Trot; and WHEREAS, Additionally, Dave Burrell supports the annual Toys for Tots program and Hospice Plant Sale, helping in whatever way is needed; he was also instrumental in bringing Santa's Hut back to downtown Norwich for families to enjoy each holiday season; and WHEREAS, Under his able leadership, Burrell's Excavating was recognized in 2008 as Small Business of the Year by Commerce Chenango; Dave was subsequently awarded the Commitment to Community Award in 2011 by Commerce Chenango in recognition of his generosity, leadership, loyalty and determination; and WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an individual for the benefit of others which Dave Burrell 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 Dave Burrell, 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 Dave Burrell upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the Chenango County Distinguished Citizen's Award, and to wish him continued success in all his future endeavors; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Dave Burrell.