LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Bernice V. Jones upon the occasion of
her retirement after 45 years of distinguished service to the New York
State Department of Labor

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body seeks to acknowledge those individuals
whose professional lives and civic endeavors serve to enhance the stat-
ure of the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, For the past 45 years, Bernice Jones rendered faithful,
conscientious and valuable service to the New York State Department of
Labor; and
WHEREAS, Throughout her career, Bernice Jones has served with loyalty,
honor and distinction; and
WHEREAS, In her official acts, Bernice Jones was governed by a keen
sense of duty and always showed a unique sensitivity to people in need;
and
WHEREAS, A graduate of New York University, Bernice V. Jones began her
career with the New York State Department of Labor as a clerical aide on
December 12, 1963; over the years she advanced through the Civil Service
grade system, first being promoted in 1969 to become a Community Worker
for the Youth Opportunity Center where she actively recruited local
youth for entry level employment; and
WHEREAS, In the early 1990s, Bernice Jones was struck with a life-
threatening illness, yet her strong will and perseverance overcame all
of the obstacles; it is this level of energy that has made her a leader
among her professional colleagues and a key working partner with senior
management of the Department of Labor; and
WHEREAS, A 1997 recipient of the Military Order of the Purple Heart
Award For Dedication, Bernice Jones has had a strong desire to support
her co-workers throughout her career; she was elected Third Vice-Presi-
dent of the Local 350 (CSEA), Assistant Council Leader in Division 245
(PEF), and subsequently, Council Leader, a post which she has held since
1988; and is also Chaplain of the New York Club; she is the widow of the
late Paul A. Jones, a mother of five, a grandmother of four, and a
great-grandmother of one; and
WHEREAS, During her tenure with the New York State Department of
Labor, Bernice Jones earned the admiration, esteem and affection of her
colleagues; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Bernice V. Jones upon the occasion of her retirement after 45
years of distinguished service; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Bernice V. Jones.