In Memory of Gale McGovern - October 21, 1938 - December 27, 2011
 Photo of Gale McGovern |
Olivebridge, NY - Our friend, Gale McGovern, died suddenly Tuesday, December 27, 2011. The appellation she most valued was "Activist", which she most assuredly was. But "activist" alone doesn't do justice to all that Gale was...rather, she was a champion of human dignity. Her causes were many but shared one focus: peace and justice for all. She was arrested for drawing in chalk on the sidewalk in front of the Kingston Courthouse, the exact dimensions of a prison cell, to illustrate the discomfort of incarceration, and was arrested in Washington D.C., in front of the Department of Justice, demonstrating for the release of Leonard Peltier, Native American political prisoner. She was instrumental in shaping the Kingston hospital merger, and gave just as much of herself to making sure the Rosendale Theatre stayed in the hands of the community. Gale championed the rights of the disabled to access all aspects of life that others had. She valued meetings run with decisions made by consensus so all would be heard. For those who knew her she was a really important person...one who helped anyone who needed her, and could make a difference in many areas large and small. She always responded to another's need even when it was difficult for her. She tackled big broad political, social and environmental issues - also helped her neighbors get to the store to shop for groceries. Gale is the most important person many of us have ever known personally. She leaves behind an enormous cadre of friends, supporters and people who loved her and hope to carry on her work. A memorial to celebrate her life will be held at a date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to carry on her work may be sent to the "Gale McGovern Memorial Fund" at the Ulster County Savings Bank, 226 Main Street, New Paltz, NY 12561. Arrangements were entrusted to Simpson-Gaus Funeral Home, Kingston, NY. Comments may be logged onto the website of www.SimpsonGaus.com. |
Center News and Views
Board Candidates Selected
The candidate selection committee has proposed a slate of five candidates for next month's board of directors elections. The slate includes: Lyn Deshields, JoAnne Myers, Jan Whitman, and Robert Witkowski. Read their bios. Elections will be held at the Center at 2:00 PM on Sunday, January 29. If you cannot attend the meeting, you can submit an online ballot no later than January 28, 2012.
Three New Groups to Meet at Center
We are beginning a new year by expanding the number of community group meetings at the Center. New to the Center's schedule are a workshop series on nutritious cooking by Cornell Cooperative Extension, and regular meetings of groups composed of men who identify as Bears and their admirers, and of people who share a love of fiber crafts. More... |
Online Wedding Album
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If you and your partner decide to get married, we want to celebrate with you by announcing your wedding in our online wedding album. |
If you are not currently members of the Center, we'll still list your wedding information. Please consider starting (or renewing) a family membership to celebrate your new status. | |
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Whether you are looking for a place to bank or a place to dine, check out the Center's Business Directory first.
We have business supporters in over twenty categories from Arts and Antiques to Wine and Spirits. Please patronize businesses that support the Center.
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Find out if you're eligible for many New York State health and human services programs. Click the link above. Center staff members are available to answer questions and help with the application process.
Special Events
Calling All Bears
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Ulster Bear, a Hudson Valley social network that welcomes all men who identify as Bears or Bear Admirers, will be meeting first and third Saturdays from 4-7 p.m. at Apuzzo Hall. There will be a kickoff pizza party from 6-9 p.m. on January 21; the group will meet from 4-7 p.m. thereafter. Contact UlsterBearGroup@yahoo.com for information.
Annual Gala to Honor Dr. Ted Hayes
As Founding Member of the Center, Dr. Hayes (pictured here on the left) |
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played a crucial role in its creation, believing in the dream and backing that belief with energy, time and resources. His continued, deep commitment to the Center has been demonstrated by steadfast dedication and support.
We hope you can join us at the Grandview in Poughkeepsie at 6 PM on Saturday March 10 to honor Ted and spend an evening in a celebration that includes cocktails, dining, dancing and auctions. The Gala is our one major fundraiser each year, and the evening is well worth the $125 donation. Tickets are now available for the 5th annual Gala fundraiser.
If you are a business owner, or just want to help congratulate the Center on it success over the years, consider taking out an ad in the Gala Journal?
Win Dinner for Two and Tickets to See The Book of Mormon
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The Center is excited to offer 30 chances to win dinner for two and tickets to see The Book of Mormon on Broadway. |
The first 30 Center Angels to donate $200 will be entered into a drawing to win this great evening out. Your donation will support our youth programs, our advocacy for older adults, and the entire Hudson Valley community. We’ll proudly acknowledge your gift in the list of Center Angels in our March 2012 Gala Journal. Donate now for your chance to win. More...
This Week at the Center
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Fiber Fanatics The Grandparent Connection Rainbow Promise PFLAG Men's Group Discussion Sexual Compulsives Anonymous Caregivers Support Group Women's Group AA Serenity at the Center AA Vision for You at the Center Annual Meeting And Board of Director Elections |
Center Info
Not yet a Member? What are you waiting for? Need to Renew your Membership? You can join or renew online, or download a membership form here!
Center Hours: The Center is currently under construction, so we are not open for drop ins. The Center is staffed most weekdays from 10 AM - 5 PM. If you need to talk with a staff member, ring the bell and someone will let you in. You can also call us at 331-5300 to speak to a staff member.
Links
"Ask The Expert" The SAGE on-line question and answer forum.
Capital District Gay & Lesbian Community Council, Inc.
Gay and Lesbian Educational Network (GLSEN) Hudson Valley
Housing & Mortgages for Gay & Lesbian Couples
