BEACON, NY– Peter Gross, Executive Director of the Beacon non-profit organization, Hudson River Sloop Clearwater has announced his resignation. Gross, who served as Executive Director since May of 2014 has stepped down citing, “significant differences between his and the organization’s vision to the path to building a stronger future for Clearwater and dealing with the organization’s long-standing financial and structural challenges.” Gross continued, “I wish Clearwater every success in coming together as a strong, diverse community and fulfilling its goals of environmental activism and
education.” In making the announcement, Board president Anne Osborn said, “We are grateful to Peter for his nonprofitand business experience and the dedication he brought to Clearwater at a very difficult time for the organization. We wish him success and fair winds.”
In light of the recent announcement to cancel this year’s Great Hudson River Revival to focus on the restoration of the iconic sloop Clearwater, the search for a new Executive Director will be postponed. Since announcing the focused efforts to restore the sloop, Clearwater has received a surge of support and contributions from members, volunteers and donors. “Clearwater is grateful for the outpouring of generous donations that have come in. We still have a long way to go, but we know that together we will see Clearwater sail again in the spring.” says Ann Mellor, manager of membership. She also reminds donors not to forget about employer matching contributions, which can double or triple
donations. Donations can be made through the website www.clearwater.org. In lieu of this year’s festival Clearwater will be hosting fundraising concerts and events throughout the year. Event details will also be available through the website.
During the sailing season Clearwater serves the Hudson River with unique education programs where the focus is experiential. Students come aboard and learn about Hudson River ecology, history and navigation.
