LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Matthew Jones upon the occasion of his
designation as recipient of the Youth Advocate of the Year Award for
Reality Check of the Central Region

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to act, in accord with
its long-standing traditions, to honor the youth of today, and leaders
of tomorrow, whose character and achievements best exemplify the ideals
and values cherished by this great State and Nation; and
WHEREAS, Matthew Jones has given not only of his time and energies but
also of his competence, intelligence and leadership and consequently has
been designated for special recognition; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Matthew Jones
upon the occasion of his designation as recipient of the Youth Advocate
of the Year Award for Reality Check of the Central Region on Wednesday,
February 12, 2014, in Albany, New York; and
WHEREAS, Matthew Jones is a high school student in the Auburn School
District; his interests include music, drama club, foreign languages,
and making a positive impact on people's lives; he recently joined the
volunteer fire department and plans to attend pharmacy school in the
future; and
WHEREAS, Matthew Jones was instrumental in educating the Cayuga County
Legislature about the negative impact of retail tobacco marketing on the
youth of our great State of New York; and
WHEREAS, Through his efforts, the Cayuga County Legislature has
enacted a new law restricting the distance from schools in which tobacco
products can be sold; and
WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an individ-
ual for the benefit of others which Matthew Jones has displayed through
his tireless advocacy; and
WHEREAS, With him throughout has been his mother, Maria Jones, who has
provided loving and inspirational guidance and feels privileged to
rejoice in his being honored; and
WHEREAS, Poised eagerly with enthusiasm and determined purpose, this
young man now stands honorably, with just pride in his achievement and
in eager anticipation of future challenges; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body would like to wish Matthew Jones
continued success throughout his school years and beyond; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when individ-
uals of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our atten-
tion, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citizens of
this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Matthew Jones on the occasion of his designation as recipient of
the Youth Advocate of the Year Award for Reality Check of the Central
Region; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Matthew Jones.