[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 22 (Thursday, February 26, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E254]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  RECOGNIZING PUTNAM COUNTY, NEW YORK

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. SUE W. KELLY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 26, 2004

  Mrs. KELLY. Mr. Speaker, as the Member of Congress who represents all 
of Putnam County, NY, I rise today to recognize Putnam County leaders, 
groups, and residents for their remarkable achievement in being 
recognized nationwide as one of eight Preserve America communities.
  The new Preserve America initiative was developed in cooperation with 
the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, as well as the U.S. 
Departments of Interior and Commerce. Putnam County recently received a 
Preserve America Award at a White House ceremony hosted by First Lady 
Laura Bush.
  Located along the Hudson River, many of Putnam County's towns and 
villages were instrumental to trade and commerce throughout our 
nation's history. Putnam County has further demonstrated its ability to 
make history by becoming one of the first communities in our country to 
apply for and receive this special designation as a Preserve America 
Community. Putnam County's proactive spirit has been duly rewarded with 
this prestigious recognition.
  County government has partnered with local municipalities, historic 
societies, and non-profit organizations to develop initiatives and 
plans to protect historic property for economic development and 
community revitalization. These efforts have helped Putnam County 
emerge as a national leader in the preservation of cultural and natural 
heritage.
  I rise to commend Putnam County legislator Vincent Tamagna's 
dedicated efforts in spearheading the county's application efforts. I 
also rise to thank the Hudson River Valley Institute for its active 
support of Putnam County. Also deserving recognition and 
congratulations are Putnam County Executive Robert Bondi; the Putnam 
County legislature; Putnam County Historical Society; Putnam County 
Tourist Promotion Agency; Foundry School Museum; and the county's 
Historic Advisory Preservation Commission and its Office of the County 
Historian and County Archives.
  Mr. Speaker, I am extremely proud and honored to represent the people 
of Putnam County. They deserve this special designation for their 
steadfast commitment to preserving a uniquely historic past while 
planning for a bright and promising future.

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