| AST NOVEMBER SCENIC HUDSON BOARD MEMBERS, STAFF AND SUPPORTERS MARKED OUR 40TH ANNIVERSARY BY RETURNING TO OUR BIRTHPLACE, THE HISTORIC OCTAGON HOUSE IN IRVINGTON, WESTCHESTER COUNTY, FOR A CELEBRATORY LUNCHEON. TO LEARN HOW OTHERS VIEW THIS MILESTONE, WRITER JOHN F. HALENAR SPOKE WITH PEOPLE WELL POSITIONED TO ASSESS OUR PERFORMANCE. HIS REPORT: |
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| by JOHN F. HALENAR |
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Gov. Pataki Cites Expertise
Scenic Hudson has partnered with Gov. George E. Pataki, the Hudson River Valley Greenway and many state agencies on numerous preservation and smart-growth initiatives. "No other organization has done more to protect the landscapes and environment up and down the Hudson Valley than Scenic Hudson," said Gov. Pataki. "Its staff of experts knows how to work with New York State, local government, business and communities to create smart economic growth that enhances rather than diminishes our river, valley and quality of life." He added, "As New York State continues to invest in the future of the Hudson River and its shoreline communities, we will continue looking to Scenic Hudson as an important partner."
Meryl Streep Recognizes a Winning Performance
Scenic Hudson's collaborative effort comprises activists, environmentalists and concerned citizens from all walks of life. For example, award-winning actress and activist Meryl Streep remarked, "Scenic Hudson has a 40-year track record of getting the job done. The proposed St. Lawrence Cement plant is a huge threat, so I'm thankful that Scenic Hudson is stepping forward with extraordinary expertise and leadership. With support from citizens, they will win this fight and remain a powerhouse in shaping a bright future for our region." |
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Laurance Rockefeller: High Regard for Results
Likewise, Laurance S. Rockefeller said, "As a lifelong resident of the valley and a long-time supporter of Scenic Hudson, I have a very high regard for its record of taking on the most critical issues of the valley and getting results. Scenic Hudson is forward-looking and passionate about protecting the rich beauty and history that makes the Hudson River Valley sacred, and we are grateful for its work."
ABC Newsman Likes the Brains and Heart
Paul Dolan, executive director of ABC News International and an 18-year veteran of the battle to save Sterling Forest, summed up the feeling of many of those interviewed: "Scenic Hudson has come a long way since Storm King. Today, it is taking on more complex issues and providing the sense of connectedness we need, tying together the history, heritage, the landscapes, the river, and the
people. It's actually more a culture than an organization; a truly fascinating mix of people."
Mr. Dolan, who along with his wife JoAnn was the recipient of Scenic Hudson's Great Steward of the Hudson Valley Award in 1997, said, "Scenic Hudson knows when to build partnerships and to work with governments and businesses. But it also knows when to stand firm and fight. There is a very delicate balance, and not too many organizations are able to do it." |
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Poughkeepsie Mayor: Urban Revitalization Key
In her first year leading Scenic Hudson's host city, Poughkeepsie Mayor Nancy Cozean said, "First, I'd like to congratulate Scenic Hudson for the many contributions it has made to the Hudson Valley. I'm thrilled that Poughkeepsie is the home base for the organization." Ms. Cozean, a businesswoman and educator, said she learned a lot from Scenic Hudson icon Franny Reese. "I see her as the model I'll use for dealing with issues" such as achieving a marriage of preservation and progress, she said.
"It is important to maintain the valley's rural flavor," the mayor noted. "We welcome the people who are moving here from the cramped and crowded cities, but we have to be careful our communities don't become what these people are trying to escape. Scenic Hudson does a great job of helping river cities to work together and to thrive by striking a balance between open space and business and education." Continued... |
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