LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring Sophie Blackall upon the occasion of her
designation as recipient of the Caldecott Medal

WHEREAS, From time to time this Legislative Body takes note of certain
extraordinary individuals it wishes to recognize for their valued
contributions to the success and progress of society and publicly
acknowledge their endeavors which have enhanced the basic humanity among
us all; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern and fully in accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Sophie Blackall upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the
Caldecott Medal; and
WHEREAS, The prestigious Caldecott Medal was named in tribute of
19th-century English illustrator Randolph Caldecott; each year, the
Association for Library Service to Children, a division of the American
Library Association, recognizes the artist of the most renowned American
picture book for children; and
WHEREAS, Talented Illustrator and resident of Park Slope, Brooklyn,
Sophie Blackall won this auspicious award for FINDING WINNIE: THE TRUE
STORY OF THE WORLD'S MOST FAMOUS BEAR; and
WHEREAS, This charming and beautifully illustrated book was written by
Lindsay Mattick and published by Little, Brown and Company, a division
of Hachette Book Group, Inc.; and
WHEREAS, FINDING WINNIE: THE TRUE STORY OF THE WORLD'S MOST FAMOUS
BEAR is a delightful account of the bond and love shared between a
soldier and the real bear who inspired Winnie-the-Pooh, the beloved
character created by A. A. Milne; and
WHEREAS, Sophie Blackall exquisitely interprets this layered family
story through her distinctive Chinese ink and watercolor art, capturing
intimate and historical details perfect for a child's eye; and
WHEREAS, The mother of two wonderful children, Sophie Blackall has
illustrated over 30 children's books out of a studio in Gowanus, New
York, which she shares with four other children's book makers; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that those who
enhance the quality of life in their community and have shown a long and
sustained commitment to the maintenance of high standards in their
profession, certainly have earned the recognition and applause of all
the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Sophie Blackall upon the occasion of her designation as recipient
of the Caldecott Medal; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Sophie Blackall.