Senator Bill Larkin (R-C, Cornwall-on-Hudson) today honored Barbara Bedell of Walker Valley, NY at a special ceremony in the state capital as the New York State Senate’s 2007 "Woman of Distinction."
Ms. Bedell was honored for her outstanding work as a journalist and her incredible community service to the people of the Hudson Valley.
The "Women of Distinction" program was created as part of the Senate's celebration of Women's History Month. It honors exceptional achievement, personal excellence and outstanding, courageous, and heroic actions on the part of individual women from across the state. Each honoree's photograph and biography has become part of a special exhibit proclaiming the unique contributions of exemplary women in New York.
"There are remarkable women in our midst whose lives, work, or special accomplishments contribute to making our communities better, our families stronger, our world more enriched, and serve as outstanding examples to others," said Senator Larkin. "The Senate's 'Women of Distinction' program provides a great opportunity to honor these women for their achievements and to thank them for the special pride they bring to our communities."
Barbara Bedell has spent a lifetime contributing her time, talent, and energy to the people of the Hudson Valley. A tireless volunteer, she has served as president or chairwoman of more than 20 organizations before she began writing the daily community news column at the Times Herald Record newspaper in New Windsor, NY. For almost 34 years, Barbara’s reputation as an outstanding journalist in the Hudson Valley is a direct reflection of her dedication to the real-life stories of everyday people and a testimony to her commitment and faith in the human spirit.
Her many accolades include being named the Sons of the American Revolution's Woman of the Year; Citizen of the Year by the India Association of the Catskill Region; and the Elks Club Mother of the Year. Barbara has the special distinction of being listed in Who's Who in America. She has also been given an Honorary Doctorate from Mount Saint Mary College. In addition to these impressive achievements, Barbara is the recipient of the DeWitt Clinton Masonic Award; a member of the Harness RacingHall of Fame; and the Junior League of Orange County. Barbara has been a strong and active advocate of the Orange County Veterans Coalition and other area veterans groups. In addition to receiving many other awards for her work with veterans, she was recently made an honorary Marine.
A natural leader, Barbara Bedell is an exceptional woman whose life is a testimony to her devotion to others. She is truly an inspiration to the people and families she touches and the community in which she lives.
Also Joining Barbara and Senator Larkin were Orange County Veterans Bob Clark, Roberto Delgado, Conrad Flickenschild, Bill Palmer and Ken Zip who made the trip to Albany to help honor Barbara.
