Environment DEC
From the February 2008 issue
Leadership Team Announced for Quadricentennial Commission
DEC Commissioner Pete Grannis recently announced the selection of Tara Sullivan as Executive Director of the Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial Commission. Sullivan brings a strong background in event organizing, community and government relations, and public policy to this position. She most recently served as Governor Spitzer's regional representative in the Hudson Valley. Her office will be located at DEC's headquarters in Albany, but she will spend much of her time on the road orchestrating quadricentennial programs, projects and events throughout the Hudson River Valley. Sullivan will be joined by Robert Bullock, long-time president of the NYS Archives Partnership Trust, in the role of director. His focus will be on marketing initiatives, as well coordinating local efforts in the Champlain region.
Sullivan will coordinate DEC's efforts as well as those of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Empire State Development Corporation, quadricentennial commission and the governor's office, and working with New York City on its participation in the celebration.
Activities will include tours of a replica of Henry Hudson's ship, the Half Moon
Commenting on the importance of next year's celebration, Commissioner Grannis said, "This year is our last opportunity to prepare for the celebration of two of the most important milestones in New York State's history. This is an extraordinary opportunity to launch a powerful initiative that will celebrate the Hudson and Champlain valleys and New York State's historical, cultural and environmental achievements of the past four centuries. More importantly, the 400th provides an extraordinary opportunity for us to lay the foundation for the century ahead, paving the way to a sustainable future that showcases New York's leadership in addressing climate change, environmental protection and land preservation."
Celebrating the Past, Anticipating the Future
Projects and programs undertaken in the two valleys and New York City to observe the quadricentennial will enhance and expand the DEC's efforts in climate change, land preservation, water quality, shoreline protection, smart-growth, and sustainability. Recent examples include the Hudson River Estuary grants announced as quadricentennial grants before the holidays and the mini-grant applications (200 grants of $1,000 each) just announced for schools, municipalities and grassroots organizations to assist in locally planned projects and celebrations.
Related Links:
Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial Commission (leaving DEC's website)
