J 963: Commemorating the 10th Anniversary of the New York Cider Association

 Senate Resolution No. 963 BY: Senator MAY COMMEMORATING the 10th Anniversary of the New York Cider Association WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize the achievements of those individuals and businesses that contribute substantially to the economic vitality of their communities, thereby enhancing the economic well-being of the entire Empire State; 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 New York Cider Association to be celebrated at the Senate's Annual Hard Cider Tasting Event in the Well of the Legislative Office Building in Albany, New York, on Monday, May 19, 2025; and WHEREAS, In 2015, the New York Cider Association was founded by pioneering New York cidermakers, with support from the Glenwood Center for Regional Food and Farming, to foster community and act as the collective voice and organizing body for apple growers and cidermakers throughout New York State; the Association develops the market for New York cider made from apples which are grown in this great Empire State; and WHEREAS, The New York Cider Association's mission is to grow and promote the New York cider industry which is accomplished through education, research, and market development; the Association supports the production of world-class cider made with New York apples; and WHEREAS, New York State's hard cider industry is a significant economic force; it has a total economic impact of over $1.7 billion annually for New York agriculture and the agritourism industry in the State; and WHEREAS, The New York hard cider industry has a significant impact on the State's economy, generating nearly $300 million in wages and supporting over 3,000 good-paying jobs; the number of cideries has grown dramatically in recent years with over 125 licensed producers across the State; and WHEREAS, New York is the second largest apple-growing state in the country and grows more apple varieties than any other state; New York cider producers are known for their diverse and creative approaches to cider making, creating and producing a wide array of delicious ciders, ranging from dry to sweet; and WHEREAS, The members of the New York Cider Association are characterized by an impressive commitment, unbridled enthusiasm, and excellence in their craft, all of which helped in the enactment of legislation in 2024, allowing direct-to-consumer intrastate shipment of their exceptional product (Chapter 226, Laws of 2024); and WHEREAS, It is with immense pride that the hard-working and dedicated members of the New York Cider Association celebrate this milestone 10th Anniversary and anticipate continued success as the industry expands its reach to all corners of the State and country; and WHEREAS, It is with great pleasure that this Legislative Body acknowledges this impressive industry and its Association, their contributions to the local and State economies, and their vibrant role in improving the quality of life in New York State, fully confident that both the industry and its Association will continue to enjoy outstanding success; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the New York Cider Association; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the New York Cider Association.