2025-1942025-194
Resolution Acknowledging The Celebration Of Diwali In The Town of Wappinger
At a Regular Meeting of the Town Board of the Town of Wappinger, Dutchess County, New York, held
at Town Hall, 20 Middlebush Road, Wappingers Falls,
New York, on October 27, 2025.
The meeting was called to order by Joseph D.
Cavaccini, Town Supervisor, and upon roll being called,
the following was recorded:
✓ Vote Record - Resolution RES -2025-194
Yes/Aye No/Nay Abstain Absent
Q Adopted
❑ Adopted as Amended
Joseph D. Cavaccini
Voter Q ❑ ❑ ❑
❑ Defeated
William H. Beale
Seconder Q ❑ ❑ ❑
❑ Tabled
Angela Bettina
Voter Q ❑ ❑ ❑
❑ Withdrawn
Christopher Phillips
Voter Q ❑ ❑ ❑
Al Casella
Mover Q ❑ ❑ ❑
The following Resolution was introduced by Casella and seconded by Councilman Beale.
WHEREAS, the Town of Wappinger is proud to be home to one of the most diverse and vibrant populations in
Dutchess County, including the largest Indian -American community in the County; and
WHEREAS, the Hindu Samaj Temple, located within the Town of Wappinger, serves as a cornerstone of spiritual,
cultural, and community life for residents of Indian heritage and for all who visit to celebrate and learn about the
rich traditions of Hinduism and Indian culture; and
WHEREAS, Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important and widely celebrated
festivals in India and across the world, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge
over ignorance; and
WHEREAS, Diwali brings families and neighbors together in celebration, reflection, and gratitude, promoting
universal values of peace, compassion, and renewal that transcend cultural and religious boundaries; and
WHEREAS, the Town Board of the Town of Wappinger wishes to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of
our Indian -American residents who continue to enrich our community through their cultural heritage, civic
engagement, and professional achievements;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Town Board of the Town of Wappinger hereby recognizes and
celebrates Diwali and extends its warmest wishes to all residents observing the Festival of Lights; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town of Wappinger honors the Hindu Samaj Temple and the broader Indian -
American community for their lasting contributions to the cultural fabric, economic vitality, and community spirit
of ourTown; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town of Wappinger encourages all residents to join in learning about and
celebrating Diwali as a time of joy, light, and togetherness.
The foregoing was put to a vote which resulted as follows:
RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Al Casella, Councilman
SECONDER: William H. Beale, Councilman
AYES: Cavaccini, Beale, Bettina, Phillips, Casella
Dated: Wappingers Falls, New York
10/27/2025
The Resolution is hereby duly declared Adopted.