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A CEREMONIAL RESOLUTION
20-152
IN THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
December 17, 2013
To recognize the entrepreneurial contributions and advocacy work of Behrouz T. “Rocky” Rakani rendered to the Mt. Pleasant community in the District of Columbia, and to declare October 27, 2013, as “Behrouz T. “Rocky” Rakani Day” in the District of Columbia.
WHEREAS, affectionately referred to as “Rocky” by residents and customers, Mr. Rakani was born in Tehran, Iran;
WHEREAS, following years of formal training, Mr. Rakani later went on to achieve the coveted title of champion Olympic Style wrestler;
WHEREAS, as a member of the Iranian Special Forces, Mr. Rakani was selected to serve at the Iranian Embassy in 1971 as head of security;
WHEREAS, following a change of career, Mr. Rakani decided to relocate and rebuild in the United States of America;
WHEREAS, in 1985, Argyle Convenient Store officially opened in the Mt. Pleasant community in Ward 1;
WHEREAS, the store immediately became a popular and well-respected location where neighbors enjoyed great conversations, children strengthened their math skills by calculating the total cost of their purchase, and generations of local patrons established long-term connections with the Rakani family;
WHEREAS, with an extended work schedule, Mr. Rakani remained a consistent and dedicated supporter of the Mt. Pleasant Business Association;
WHEREAS, Mr. Rakani continuously made uninterrupted monetary contributions to support Bancroft and Sacred Heart Schools;
WHEREAS, in addition, Mr. Rakani personally provided certificates of credit to students that successfully achieved honor roll, and this program that he initiated positively reinforced academic achievement and great behavior;
WHEREAS, Mr. Rakani also would allow youth to shop in his store at no cost;
WHEREAS, Mr. Rakani’s primary goal was to transform his establishment into an encouraging and positive place for local youth, and many return to express their appreciation for his insight and guidance; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Rakani is continuously supported by his wife, 3 daughters, 2 son-in laws, 6 grandchildren and one great grandchild.
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this
resolution may be cited as the "Behrouz T. “Rocky” Rakani Recognition Resolution of 2013".
Sec. 2. The Council of the District of Columbia recognizes and honors Behrouz T. (“Rocky”) Rakani for his contributions and invaluable service to the District of Columbia, and hereby declares October 27, 2013, as “Behrouz T. “Rocky” Rakani Day” in the District of Columbia.
Sec. 3. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon the first date of publication in the District of Columbia Register.
