KATONAH, N.Y. - Lasdon Public Gardens & Veterans Memorial has been recognized for a recent exhibit that explored groundbreaking innovations in warfare, medicine, weaponry and transportation that emerged during the Civil War.
Titled The American Civil War: A War of Firsts, it ran from last May through December at the Veterans Museum in the county park off Route 35.
The Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation (PRC) received the Matt Dolan Innovative Program and Award Grant from the Westchester Recreation and Parks Society (WRAPS).
WRAPS also presented PRC Acting Commissioner Peter Tartaglia with the Joseph E. Curtis Achievement Award, the county announced on Wednesday, June 24.
The honor is presented to a WRAPS member who has demonstrated outstanding achievement in recreation, parks or conservation administration, program supervision, leadership or facility development.
“During more than four decades with PRC, Tartaglia has consistently exceeded expectations and made lasting contributions to the department and the communities it serves,” the county said.
Also receiving accolades were former PRC Commissioner Kathleen O’Connor and the PRC’s director of recreation, Kevin Cook.
The National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials (NACPRO) presented O’Connor with its Outstanding Public Official Award, which recognizes nominated, elected or appointed officials who are strong advocates for parks and recreation and whose efforts benefit NACPRO member agencies nationwide.
“With nearly five decades of continuous service to Westchester County, O’Connor has demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic vision and an unwavering commitment to building a sustainable, inclusive and nationally recognized parks system,” it said.
Cook received NACPRO’s Professional Fellow Award, which recognizes exemplary professionals currently employed in parks and recreation.
“Since joining PRC in 2006, Cook has played a vital role in developing and overseeing a comprehensive countywide recreation program that serves more than one million residents of all ages and abilities,” it said.
SOURCE OF PRIDE
“These achievement awards once again demonstrate why Westchester County is such a great place to live and work. They reflect the extraordinary dedication, professionalism and innovation that define our Parks Department,” said County Executive Ken Jenkins. “Their efforts ensure that our parks remain a source of pride, beauty and community for residents throughout the County. Congratulations to all whose hard work earned this well-deserved recognition.”
Tartaglia noted that everyone at the PRC is “committed to providing the highest level of service to our residents and visitors.”
“We remain dedicated to innovation, equity and excellence as we continue to enhance county facilities, programs and services. These awards are a testament to the talented team members who work every day to serve the public with passion, professionalism and integrity,” he added.
NEW EXHIBIT
The Westchester County Veterans Museum’s current exhibit is titled Evolution: 250 Years of Military Gear. Through authentic artifacts and immersive displays, visitors can explore how military equipment evolved alongside the changing needs of soldiers as well as some not-so-perfect creations.
From boots, uniforms, camouflage, and firearms to dog tags, haversacks, medical equipment, communications technology, and field rations, the exhibit offers “a fascinating educational journey through the everyday realities of military service across generations,” the county said.
For more information, visit www.lasdonpublicgardens.org.
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