News from Preservation League of New York State

For more information contact: Colleen Ryan, 518-462-5658 ext. 17

Preservation League Names "Seven To Save"

Releases List of Most Endangered Sites in NYS

ALBANY, NY (04/25/2008; 1022)(readMedia)-- The Preservation League of New York State has released the non-profit group’s annual list of the Empire State’s most threatened historic resources, Seven to Save.

The 2008 Seven to Save Endangered Properties list draws attention to the plight of New York’s industrial heritage, the lack of master preservation planning documents, and the need to consider historic preservation in the face of development pressure. These seven valued historic resources are in danger of disappearing because of insufficient funding and financial incentives, insensitive public policies, general neglect, disinvestment, and in some cases, demolition.

“The Preservation League often acts as a mobilizing force, encouraging community leaders and decision-makers to take action when historic resources are threatened,” said Jay DiLorenzo, President of the Preservation League. “Since 1999, the League has highlighted significant threats through our Seven to Save list, which gives endangered properties increased visibility and triggers enhanced technical, legal, grant and media services from the League.”

The 2008 Seven to Save designees are:

• The Near Westside Historic District in Elmira, Chemung County;
• Columbus Park-Prospect Hill neighborhood in Buffalo, Erie County;
• Holy Trinity Monastery in Herkimer County;
• Jones Beach State Park in Nassau County;
• Farley Post Office in Manhattan, New York County
• Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga County; and
• the former Glenwood Power Plant in Yonkers, Westchester County.

Since 1999, publicity surrounding the Seven to Save designation has led to the stabilization of St. Joseph’s Church in Albany, the rehabilitation of the Oswego City Public Library, and prevented the demolition of the Conger Goodyear House on Long Island, along with successes at several other locations.

On Tuesday, May 20, the Preservation League will Celebrate Seven to Save with a cocktail reception from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the museum at the magnificently restored Eldridge Street Synagogue in Manhattan. Tickets for the event start at $100, and the RSVP deadline is May 9. For more information or to receive an invitation, call 518-462-5658 x11.

The Preservation League of New York State, founded in 1974, is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the protection of New York’s diverse and rich heritage of historic buildings, districts and landscapes. From its headquarters in Albany, it provides the unified voice for historic preservation. By leading a statewide movement and sharing information and expertise, the Preservation League of New York State promotes historic preservation as a tool to revitalize the Empire State’s neighborhoods and communities.

For more information and photographs of Seven to Save, visit www.preservenys.org.

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