Farewell to Maurice Hinchey

Democratic Party chairman Mike Harkavy recalled that Hinchey had opposed the war in Iraq near the war’s beginning, when it was widely supported. “He never went with the tide; he always spoke from principle.” Hinchey’s courage earned him a lot of friends, Harkavy said, but it also earned him some enemies.

Saugerties Supervisor Kelly Myers said the occasion was a wonderful day. At a recent Town Board meeting, Myers said that while she and Hinchey were members of opposing political parties, the people of Saugerties should appreciate the many projects that would not have been possible without his help.

Fred Costello presented a plaque containing a proclamation on behalf of the Town Board. “We’re going to miss his service, but we want to thank him for it today,” he said. The proclamation praises the congressman for such legislation as the Hudson River Valley Greenway, the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area as well as recognition of the significance of the Hudson Valley in the nation’s development. It also acknowledges the help the area has received through federal grants Hinchey secured over the years. The proclamation specifically recognizes Hinchey’s efforts in preventing the siting of a megadump on Winston Farm.

“Be it resolved that the village and town, with appreciation and pride, proclaim July 29, 2012 as Maurice Hinchey Day and we join with our village residents and businesses in celebrating our native son,” the proclamation concludes.

Costello also read a letter from Gov. Andrew Cuomo addressed to Congressman Hinchey. The letter recognizes his “long history of exemplary service to the local community. For nearly four decades your tireless advocacy and commitment have made you a tremendous resource to your constituents throughout the Hudson Valley and beyond.”

Ulster County Legislators Dean Fabiano, Robert Aiello and Mary Wawro, whose districts include Saugerties, presented Hinchey with the Ulster County Pride award.

Fabiano, a Republican, acknowledged that over the years, “I have probably disagreed with him (Hinchey) more than I have agreed with him, but there’s one thing I can say, being raised in the town of Saugerties myself, I was always, always extremely proud that I could say that our United States congressman was from the town of Saugerties. I still feel that way today, and that’s why I’m here to join in this wonderful celebration.”

Son of a contrarian

The congressman was awakened to politics at a young age. “My father was a union worker at the cement plant,” he said, drawing applause and cheers. His father was told that he should register Republican, said Hinchey, as did most people in the area. “But my father, as he was a strong-willed Irishman, was a Democrat and registered as one.”

Hinchey reviewed some of the projects “we accomplished together.” Among them were the restoration of the Saugerties lighthouse, the Esopus Bend Nature Preserve, and Kings Highway water and sewer. “That’s just a few; there were a lot more,” he said. Later, Hinchey said that “none of this would have been possible if it hadn’t been for all of you,” citing the advice given, the letters sent, the discussions and the votes.

“You have all given me a chance to experience the most amazing roller coaster ride, one that has lasted 38 years. I would do it all over again if I could, but I guess it is time for me to come home and start the next exciting chapter of my life,” Hinchey said. And, he added, while he doesn’t know what it will be, “it’s going to be something interesting, and it’s going to be effective.” He said he has had several proposals, and he is looking for something that will help the community and keep him closer to home.