STATE OF NEW YORK 
EXECUTIVE CHAMBER 
Proclamation

Whereas, annually, New Yorkers face the threat to their personal safety and property during the hurricane/coastal storm season, which runs from June 1st through November 30th in this State, and the increased possibility of damage and destruction caused by accompanying high winds, strong ocean storm surges, torrential rains and subsequent flooding; and

Whereas, while the threat is more pronounced in coastal areas of the greater New York City metropolitan region, history from past events such as Tropical Storms Agnes (1972) and Floyd (1999) reminds us that no region of the Empire State is safe from these weather phenomena; and

Whereas, the chief responsibility of government is to protect the citizens, communities and economic vitality of our State and Nation – and individuals must share a burden of that responsibility – therefore, it is imperative that citizens take the time now to be prepared before storm warnings are posted by reviewing their emergency plans at home and at work to ensure their safety and that of their loved ones; and

Whereas, New York State has achieved a high level of preparedness through years of planning, practice and cooperation among State, County and Local government agencies and, working in conjunction with the National Weather Service, the private sector, and municipal volunteer organizations, these agencies have greatly increased their responsiveness and heightened overall public awareness of the need for individuals and families – as well as entire communities – to have a comprehensive emergency plan in place; and

Whereas, it is vital that we continue to deliver the message of preparedness into the home, office and business of each and every citizen of the Empire State, and I urge State and Local agencies to continue their vital mission to warn New Yorkers and provide necessary guidance and information about threats posed by coastal storms and hurricanes, and commend them for their vigilant efforts to protect our citizens and communities by taking steps that ensure for the highest levels of preparation;

Now, Therefore, I, David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim May 25-31, 2008 as HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS WEEK in the Empire State.

G i v e n under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State at the Capitol in the City of Albany this sixth day of May in the year two thousand eight.