Press Release

   Comment of Nadine C. Johnson, President, Metropolitan Black Bar Association on Governor Spitzer's Appointment of Justice Theodore Jones to the NYS Court of Appeals

"We are ecstatic about Governor Spitzer's choice of Justice Theodore Jones
for the NYS Court of Appeals. All of the candidates were very well qualified
as rated by the Joint Minority Bar Screening Committee. It was a tough
decision.

Justice Jones is a great judge with an exemplary reputation and will bring
to NY State's high court a keen understanding and knowledge of the legal
issues the Court is likely to be faced with in the near future. He is known
for excellent judicial temperament, a high sense of integrity,
intellect and judicial independence, respect for the laws with fair and
accurate application of the law.

Justice Jones follows in the footsteps of two venerable giants, Hon.
Albert Rosenblatt and Hon. George Bundy Smith, both of whom recently retired
from the Court of Appeals.

I am pleased that Governor Spitzer chose to bring back a necessary balance
to the high court that evidences service and justice for all New Yorkers - A
choice that helps to restore public confidence in the judiciary.

The tone was set "day one" when Governor Spitzer spoke about creating "one
New York" - "with unity between Upstate and Downstate, Democrats and
Republicans" I attended the festivities in Albany for the swearing in of
Governor Spitzer and Lt. Governor Paterson - diversity reigned throughout
the day capping off with a great concert that included Ben Vereen, Willie
Colon, Natalie Merchant and James Taylor who sang "feels like a reawakening
to me".

Here, because of the decision maker the appointment process worked out. In
other cases, as shown by the former Governor, the appointment
process is very discretionary, politicized and unbalanced. The former
Governor's record on appointing minorities to the court was appalling. I
have no doubt that Governor Spitzer understands the dynamics of of the
population of our State and will continue to make choices that reflect our
glowing, vibrant diversity.

There is a need for more diversity at all levels of the judiciary in New
York State and we hope that the tone that Governor Spitzer set by this
appointment is followed throughout his administration and by those who
follow in his footsteps.

The choice of Justice Theodore Jones on the eve of the celebration of Martin
Luther King Day is a fitting tribute as he is greatly respected and beloved
by the legal community in NYS.

On another note, the Metropolitan Black Bar Association has been planning
for some time to celebrate Judge Jones appointment last Spring as
Administrative Judge, Supreme Court, Civil Division, in Kings County, Now we
have even more reason to celebrate. The celebration, a program and reception for Justice Jones will take place on Monday, January 29 in Kings County".