Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay (R,C,I,Ref-Pulaski) today presented a proclamation to the Bridge House Brats, a youth service group in the Village of Phoenix, in honor of the group’s 25 years of service. Since 1995, and under the leadership of the group’s founder, Cathy Lee, the Bridge House Brats have worked to improve the Village of Phoenix for residents and tourists alike. From serving food from local restaurants to boaters, to maintaining parks and gardens along State Street, the group prides itself on making State Street by Lock 1 on the Oswego Canal a destination for visitors and residents.

Leader Barclay commended the group and its leadership and the incredible service they have provided to the community over the past 25 years.

“Thank you to everyone here today for your dedication to Phoenix. Your group has managed to make Lock 1 in Phoenix a tourist destination and it is no wonder why. Your hospitality and service are second to none and to see our youth taking such pride in community and leadership roles at an early age can only lead to good—for the individuals involved and the community as a whole,” said Leader Barclay. “I applaud you here today and applaud those who have volunteered in the past with the Bridge House Brats. Obviously, you’ve built a legacy of service under Cathy Lee’s capable leadership.”

The Bridge House Brats were named “Canal Ambassadors” because of their involvement with waterfront improvement projects in the village of Phoenix. In 2011, the group was named official tourism ambassadors by the Oswego County Tourism Advisory Council.

Bridge House Brats Coordinator and Founder Cathy Lee says the group’s mission guides the group in their service endeavors.

“The group’s whole mission is to be a hospitality service to tourists and local people in order to increase business for local restaurants and stores. Through this, the kids learn the concepts of service, cooperation and community building. The kids also help with the Bridge House Museum and provide tours to teach visitors about our rich heritage. It’s a really special group and I’ve been honored to work with so many dedicated youth throughout the years,” said Lee.