Chairman Ward D. Todd presided over a very solemn legislative session last evening in remembrance of the tragic events of September 11^th, 2001. The "Pledge of Allegiance" was led by the V.F.W. Post 1386 Honor Guard. A invocation was given by Reverend Charles Stickley of the Hurley Reformed Church. Paul Scatenato and the Kingston High School Choir sang "America the Beautiful" to conclude a very touching memorization to all those who perished on September 11^th, 2001.

At the September 12^th session of the Ulster County Legislature, the legislature unanimously passed a resolution directing the county attorney to withdraw the notice of appeal seeking to appeal the decision/order of the Honorable Vincent G. Bradley, J.S.C., on the reapportionment/redistricting plan for the Ulster County Legislature. The Republican Legislature based their decision on the need for further bipartisan communication with the constituents of Ulster County. The Ulster County leadership will continue to take all the necessary steps in revising a new plan that will be in the best interest of all the citizens of Ulster County.

The legislature unanimously approved to authorize Legislature Chairman Ward D. Todd to enter into an agreement with the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets for the Agricultural and Farmland Protection implementation of grants for the purpose of purchasing development rights and conservation easements. Ulster County has received three grants totaling over $2.6 million in state funding to date. These funds have the potential to preserve over 1,400 acres.

Chairman Ward D. Todd called upon Legislator Alice Tipp, Chairman of the Community Services Committee to present to Kathy Puglisi, Director of Ulster County Office for the Aging, a National Association of Counties Awards for 911 Senior Safety Program. The Ulster County Office for the Aging is accepting cell phones for the seniors to be able to call 911 in an emergency.

Chairman Ward D. Todd called upon Legislator Linda Bertone, Deputy Chairman of the Mental Health Services Committee, to present to Marshall Beckman, Director of Ulster County Mental Health Department, a National Association of Counties Awards for Families Together, Forensic Mental Health Service and Mental Health Department Managed Care Office Programs.

Chairman Ward D. Todd called upon District 7 Legislators, Majority Leader Richard Gerentine, Daniel Alfonso, Charles Busick, Frank Felicello, Barbara Santoro and Fawn Tantillo to present to Briannna Giacoia, a Pride of Ulster County Award in recognition of having been elected the 2002-2003 National Vice-President of Individual Programs of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America. This program is offered to all middle schools in the county.