Assembly Resolution No. 1164

BY: M. of A. Buttenschon

CONGRATULATING John Clifford upon the occasion of
his retirement after 34 years of distinguished
service to the Rome Daily Sentinel

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
honor those distinguished individuals who have rendered faithful,
conscientious, and valuable service to their communities and to the
State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
congratulate John Clifford upon the occasion of his retirement after 34
years of dedicated service as a photographer for the Rome Daily
Sentinel; and

WHEREAS, John Clifford has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to
excellence in journalism through his exceptional skill, keen eye, and
steadfast dedication to capturing the people, events, and spirit of
Central New York; and

WHEREAS, John Clifford was hired by the Rome Daily Sentinel on
November 23, 1992, bringing with him a developing talent and passion for
news photography that would flourish over more than three decades of
service; and

WHEREAS, Born on October 17, 1962, in Ilion, New York, John Clifford
spent his early years in Frankfort before moving to LeRoy; it was at the
age of 13 that he first learned the craft of black-and-white photography
from his father, laying the foundation for a lifelong vocation; and

WHEREAS, He further cultivated his artistic and technical abilities
through the influence of his parents, his studies at Genesee Community
College, and his academic achievements at Bowling Green State
University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication
in 1986; and

WHEREAS, John Clifford began his professional career in 1989 at the
Suburban News in Spencerport, where he honed his skills in news
photography and developed the versatility that would define his career;
and

WHEREAS, Over the course of his tenure at the Rome Daily Sentinel,
John Clifford has covered an extraordinary breadth of subject matter,
from breaking news events such as fires, accidents, and major incidents,
to community happenings including political events, agricultural fairs,
festivals, and presidential visits; and

WHEREAS, John Clifford's portfolio also includes extensive sports
coverage, capturing moments in football, hockey, baseball, soccer, and
numerous regional events, as well as compelling feature photography that
documents the everyday lives of residents throughout Central New York;
and

WHEREAS, In addition to his work in journalism, John Clifford has
pursued a deep interest in nature photography, particularly focusing on
the wildlife of the Mohawk Valley, including eagles and migratory birds;
his work has been featured in photo shows, and he has shared his
knowledge as a guest speaker; and

WHEREAS, A passionate supporter of local motorsports, John Clifford
has also become a familiar presence at regional speedways, documenting
the excitement of racing and contributing a motorsports column during
the racing season; and

WHEREAS, In recognition of his artistic contributions and impact on
the community, John Clifford was inducted into the Rome Arts Hall of
Fame, a testament to his enduring influence and excellence in the field
of photography; and

WHEREAS, Throughout his distinguished career, John Clifford has
exemplified professionalism, creativity, and integrity, leaving an
indelible mark on the Rome Daily Sentinel and the community it serves;
and

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to acknowledge
the significant milestones in the lives of citizens who have contributed
so meaningfully to the welfare of their communities; now, therefore, be
it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the retirement of John Clifford, thanking him for his 34
years of outstanding service to the Rome Daily Sentinel and extending to
him its deepest appreciation and best wishes for a fulfilling and
rewarding retirement; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to John Clifford.