Senate Resolution No. 560 BY: Senator GRIFFO HONORING the Willowvale Fire Company, Inc., upon the occasion of its 75th Anniversary and long, distinguished history of service to the community WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and commend fire departments of the State of New York that have exhibited a long and sustained commitment to excellence in fire protection and emergency services, significantly contributing to the safety and well-being of their communities; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and fully in accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor the Willowvale Fire Company, Inc., upon the occasion of its distinguished history of service, recognizing its commitment to protecting life and property in the Town of New Hartford and beyond; and WHEREAS, The Willowvale Fire Company traces its origins back to 1950 when residents of the Willowvale Bleachery and surrounding areas voted to form a fire protection district and enter into a contract for fire services; through their determination and community spirit, members of the Company successfully raised funds for a new fire truck and laid the foundation for what would become a vital public safety institution; and WHEREAS, Over the past seven decades, the Willowvale Fire Company has grown from its humble beginnings into a well-equipped, highly trained fire and emergency response organization, adapting to the evolving needs of its community and continuously improving its services; and WHEREAS, The Company has played a pivotal role in numerous significant moments in the history of the Sauquoit Valley, including its 1953 construction of a four-bay firehouse on Oneida Street, the establishment of Station No. 2 in Washington Mills in 1970, and the 2005 construction of a modern $1.5 million fire station, ensuring its continued ability to provide effective and timely emergency response; and WHEREAS, The members of the Willowvale Fire Company have consistently demonstrated selfless dedication, not only in firefighting and rescue operations but also in community outreach, youth programs, and local training initiatives; from responding to devastating barn fires and tragic incidents to pioneering local fire training programs and mutual aid agreements, the Company has remained steadfast in its mission to protect and serve; and WHEREAS, The Company has also shown a commitment to honoring its legacy and leadership, recognizing individuals, such as Chief James L. Harrigan (1957-1974), Chief William J. Hughes (1981-2012), and Chief Wayne R. Smoulcey (2018-2019), whose unwavering service and leadership shaped the Company into the esteemed institution it is today; and WHEREAS, Throughout its history, the Willowvale Fire Company has not only responded to fires but has also taken an active role in disaster response, rescue operations, and community safety education, ensuring that residents of Chadwicks, Washington Mills, and surrounding areas remain safe and prepared in times of emergency; and WHEREAS, The strength and success of the Willowvale Fire Company is built upon the dedication of its volunteer firefighters, past and present, who have demonstrated bravery, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to duty in the face of adversity; and WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize the achievements of organizations that uphold the highest standards of public service and self-sacrifice, ensuring the continued safety and prosperity of their communities; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor the Willowvale Fire Company, Inc., for its 75th Anniversary and historic and distinguished service, commemorating its achievements, dedication, and the vital role it plays in the Town of New Hartford and Oneida County; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the Willowvale Fire Company, Inc.