Senate Resolution No. 1901 BY: Senator GRIFFO CONGRATULATING Helen White upon the occasion of celebrating her 100th Birthday 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 custom of this Legislative Body to commemorate and recognize certain milestones celebrated by citizens of this great Empire State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to congratulate Helen White upon the occasion of her 100th Birthday, which was celebrated with family and friends at a party in her honor on Saturday, February 17, 2024; and WHEREAS, Helen White was born to John and Hazel Shippers on February 15, 1924, and graduated from Lyons Falls School; and WHEREAS, In 1941, Helen and Joseph White were united in marriage and lived in Port Leyden before moving to Boonville, New York, where Helen continues to reside today; the couple had five children: Sonja, Bill, Judy, Joey and Jeff, who passed away in 2003, as well as several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren; and WHEREAS, Joseph, who retired from Georgia Pacific Paper Company in Lyons Falls in 1983, passed away in 2011 at the age of 90; her only sibling, Bill Shippers, a World War II veteran, passed away in 2012; and WHEREAS, Today, Helen White is in good health and is most thankful for her family; she has a strong faith in God and enjoys watching Hallmark movies; and WHEREAS, Helen White, with her zest for life, has inspired and enhanced the lives of her family and friends; and WHEREAS, This exceptional centenarian has experienced the incredible joys and sorrows characteristic of and reserved for those with the stamina and courage to savor a full life; and WHEREAS, Helen White has enriched the lives of those around her through her joyous and sincere love for others and through the profound charm and wisdom which comes only from a fullness of years; and WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to publicly recognize those who have reached such a remarkable age and who have witnessed and celebrated the innovations, cultural developments, and awesome achievements of this country during the last century, while themselves contributing to the growth and excellence of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to congratulate Helen White upon the occasion of celebrating her 100th Birthday; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Helen White.