Assembly Resolution No. 1162

BY: M. of A. Brindisi

HONORING Florence Wood upon the occasion of her
designation as recipient of the 2018 Older American
Award by Oneida County on May 22, 2018

WHEREAS, Senior citizens bring a wealth of experience and knowledge
to the increasingly active roles they play in today's society; their
past contributions and future participation are a vital part of, and
valuable asset to, the fabric of community life and activity; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to commend the
senior citizens of the Empire State who, as they reach the fullness of
years, continue to be active and vital participants in the life of their
community; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Florence Wood upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of the
2018 Older American Award by Oneida County, to be celebrated on Tuesday,
May 22, 2018; and

WHEREAS, A woman of singular distinction, Florence Wood has
continually demonstrated extreme competence, extraordinary intelligence
and diligent leadership in her unwavering service to her community and,
consequently, has been selected for this most prestigious honor; and

WHEREAS, Born in New York City in 1935, Florence Wood holds a
Bachelor of Science degree and Master of Science Certificate of Advanced
Study in Administration from SUNY Cortland; and

WHEREAS, With her throughout have been her husband, Richard, and
their daughter, both of whom have shown her love and support and rejoice
in her many achievements; and

WHEREAS, In 1962, Florence Wood began her illustrious career in
education as an elementary school teacher in Whitesboro, New York, where
she served for 23 years; she went on to teach gifted students for 10
years; and

WHEREAS, Upon retiring, Florence Wood began assisting other teachers
with their retirement issues and advocating for the rights of all
retirees; she currently serves on several committees for the New York
State Teachers' Retirement System; and

WHEREAS, Furthermore, she is a member of the American Association of
University Women, as well as a 40-year member of the New York Chapter
Honorary International Educators Society where she served as President
from 2000 to 2002; and

WHEREAS, Having walked on all seven continents, Florence Wood has
served as a volunteer tutor with the Literacy Volunteers of America for
12 years; she teaches Citizenship and has helped 38 adults and two
children become United States citizens; and

WHEREAS, With a steadfast and unwavering commitment to her
community, Florence Wood was recognized in 2017 as the Unsung Heroine of
the Year by the local chapter of the New York State Women, Inc.; and

WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the impressive dedication shown by an
individual for the benefit of others which Florence Wood has displayed
throughout her life; and

WHEREAS, Florence Wood has enriched the lives of her family, friends
and colleagues through her love and respect for others, and through the
wisdom which comes from many years of living life to the fullest; now,
therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Florence Wood upon the occasion of her designation as recipient of
the 2018 Older American Award by Oneida County on May 22, 2018; and be
it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Florence Wood.