Joe Crowley: “I am proud to support the Hudson-Fulton- Champlain 400th Commemoration Commission Act, and I thank my colleague Maurice…”

“I am proud to support the Hudson-Fulton- Champlain 400th Commemoration Commission Act, and I thank my colleague Maurice Hinchey for his leadership on this issue. I am pleased that the bill under consideration today will establish a Commission charged with planning, developing and executing programs and activities appropriate to commemorate the voyages of three explorers. From these early explorations and 'The Legend of Sleepy Hollow' to today's waterfront development projects, the Hudson River has enriched life in New York for centuries. Safeguarding the rich historical legacy of these natural resources is a commitment we must all make, and we have an obligation to educate the public on the three explorers and their voyages. As the co-founder of the Hudson River Caucus, I have worked to help realize the full educational, environmental, and economic potential of the Hudson River and its waterfront. The event that will take place in 2009, commemorating the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson's voyage, the 200th anniversary of the voyage of Robert Fulton, and the 400th anniversary of the voyage of Samuel de Champlain, will help to achieve these goals. This legislation will celebrate and cherish these significant explorers and voyages, and help ensure historic preservation and increase public awareness for generations to come. I am happy to support this legislation, and I urge my colleagues to support it.”