Senate Resolution No. 1416 BY: Senator GAUGHRAN CONGRATULATING Angel Athenas upon the occasion of winning four Gold Medals in powerlifting at the 2019 Special Olympic World Games on March 17, 2019 WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and pay just tribute to those citizens who embody the true American spirit, demonstrating personal courage and conviction in pursuit of athletic achievement; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to congratulate Angel Athenas upon the occasion of winning four Gold Medals in powerlifting at the 2019 Special Olympic World Games on Sunday, March 17, 2019, in Abu Dhabi; and WHEREAS, Angel Athenas, is a record breaking, four-time gold medal winning, 2019 World Games Special Olympian; and WHEREAS, A resident of Huntington, New York, Angel Athenas captured the gold medal in deadlift, squat, bench press and overall weight lifting; her largest lift was a deadlift of 292 pounds; and WHEREAS, Prior to her feats overseas, Angel Athenas won four gold medals in powerlifting at the 2018 United States Special Olympics in Seattle, Washington; in addition, she broke the women's deadlifting record at the 2018 New York Special Olympics in Albany, New York; and WHEREAS, The athletic talent displayed by Angel Athenas is due in great part to the efforts of her Coach and Residential Director John Ponce, a skilled and inspirational tutor, respected for his ability to develop potential into excellence; and WHEREAS, Born on November 7, 1984, Angel Athenas is the daughter of Geri Athenas and Bob Bennett; she currently lives in a FREE residence and participates in the organization's day services program in Old Bethpage; and WHEREAS, A true asset to her community, Angel Athenas volunteers at Saddle Rock Ranch, a local church, and an assisted living home on Long Island; and WHEREAS, Through sports, Angel Athenas developed the talent and confidence to become a champion on the world stage; and WHEREAS, Overcoming much adversity, Angel Athenas' positive attitude and tireless dedication has inspired countless others to reach their highest potential; and WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and applaud the achievements of its citizens who would elect to challenge life with an uncommon spirit and determination, demonstrating by example and purposeful action that commitment to personal goals is the wellspring of self-fulfillment and triumph; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to congratulate Angel Athenas upon the occasion of winning four Gold Medals in powerlifting at the 2019 Special Olympic World Games on March 17, 2019; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Angel Athenas.