New Director at the Antique and Classic Boat Society in Toronto

FRITZ HAGER NAMED TO ACBS TORONTO CHAPTER BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CLAYTON, New York (April 29, 2013) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, New York, announced today that Executive Director Fritz Hager has been named as a Director at Large with the Antique and Classic Boat Society (ACBS) Toronto Chapter.

"We are delighted to have Fritz Hager join the board of ACBS Toronto as a Director at Large. Fritz, as the Executive Director of the ABM, brings a wealth of experience in the Antique and Classic boating community," said John Kutcy, President ACBS Toronto Chapter.

  

Gary Getson, ACBS Director Museum Relations shared, "The ACBS Toronto five-year strategic plan has an objective to enhance partnerships with related organizations whose interest involve antique and classic boating.  We are pleased to be partnering with the ABM, and the Muskoka Steamships and Historical Society to enhance the events, fellowship and enjoyment for our community.”

Hager was named Executive Director of the ABM on May 25, 2012. His time with the Museum dates back more than 20 years while serving in various capacities within the ABM Board of Directors and playing a key role on numerous ABM committees.

Located on the St. Lawrence River in the 1000 Islands, the Antique Boat Museum features a collection of over 300 antique and classic boats among thousands of recreational boating artifacts. Beginning May 10, the campus comes alive with speedboat rides, boat shows, and educational programs for all ages, special events and more. For more information please visit the Museum’s website at ABM.org.

ANITQUE BOAT MUSEUM TO PARTICIPATE IN BLUE STAR MUSEUMS

Fritz Hager, ABM Executive Director

Antique Boat Museum is one of more than 1,800 museums across America to offer complimentary admission to military personnel and their families

in collaboration with the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and the Department of Defense

CLAYTON, New York (May 21, 2013) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, New York, announced today that it has again joined forces with the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and the Department of Defense in an effort to provide active military personnel and their families with complimentary museum admission through the Blue Star Museums initiative in 2013.

The Blue Star Museums initiative provides active United States military personnel and up to five (5) additional guests with complimentary admission to the ABM.  The ABM will also provide free admission in 2013 to retired United States military personnel and a discounted rate to any spouse visiting with them. In addition, any active Canadian military personnel will receive one (1) free admission in 2013.

Proper military identification is required. Offer is not valid for the 2013 Antique Boat Show & Auction or ticketed events during non-museum hours. However, this offer is valid for the 3^rd annual Concours d’Elegance Classic Car Show on July 13.

“We are pleased to join such an extensive list of institutions across the country and show our thanks to the men and women who serve us,” explained Fritz Hager, ABM Executive Director. “In addition to the outstanding Blue Star Museums program, the ABM is pleased to extend our offer to retired United States military personnel and active Canadian military personnel. Plus, our offer will exceed the national program by being in place through the conclusion of our operating calendar this coming December 20.”

“Blue Star Museums is a collaboration between the arts and military communities," said NEA Acting Chairman Joan Shigekawa. “Our work with Blue Star Families and with more than 1,800 museums ensures that we can reach out to military families and thank them for their service and sacrifice.”

“Blue Star Museums is something that service members and their families look forward to every year and we are thrilled with the continued growth of the program,” said Blue Star Families CEO Kathy Roth-Douquet. “Through this distinctive collaboration between Blue Star Families, the National Endowment for the Arts and more than 1,800 museums across the United States, service members and their families can connect with our national treasures with this unparalleled opportunity to visit some of the country’s finest museums for free.”

This year, ABM joins more than 1,800 (and counting) museums in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and American Samoa which will take part in the initiative, including more than 450 new museums.

About Blue Star Museums

BlueStar Museums is a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and more than 1,800 museums across America. The program runs from Memorial Day, May 27, 2013 through Labor Day, September 2, 2013.

The free admission program is available to any bearer of a Geneva Convention common access card (CAC), a DD Form 1173 ID card, or a DD Form 1173-1 ID card, which includes active duty U.S. military - Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, as well as members of the National Guard and Reserve, U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, NOAA Commissioned Corps - and up to five family members. Some special or limited-time museum exhibits may not be included in this free admission program. For questions on particular exhibits or museums, please contact the museum directly. To find out which museums are participating, visit www.arts.gov/bluestarmuseums. The site includes a list of participating museums and a map to help with visit planning.

This is the latest NEA program to bring quality arts programs to the military, veterans, and their families. Other NEA programs for the military have included the NEA/Walter Reed Healing Arts Partnership; Great American Voices Military Base Tour; and Shakespeare in American Communities Military Base Tour. 4

About Antique Boat Museum

Located on the St. Lawrence River in the 1000 Islands region of upstate New York, the Antique Boat Museum features a collection of over 300 antique and classic boats among thousands of recreational boating artifacts. The Museum will host its 49^th annual Antique Boat Show & Auction, the longest running antique boat show in North America, on August 2-4, 2013. For more information please visit the Museum’s website at ABM.org.

About Blue Star Families

BlueStar Families is a national, nonprofit network of military families from all ranks and services, including guard and reserve, dedicated to supporting, connecting and empowering military families. With our partners, Blue Star Families hosts a robust array of morale and empowerment programs, including Books on Bases, Blue Star Museums, Operation Honor Corp, Blue Star Careers and Operation Appreciation. Blue Star Families also works directly with the Department of Defense and senior members of local, State and Federal government to bring the most important military family issues to light. Working in concert with fellow nonprofits, community advocates, and public officials, Blue Star Families raises awareness of the challenges and strengths of military family life and works to make military life more sustainable. Our worldwide membership includes military spouses, children, parents, and friends, as well as service members, veterans and civilians. To learn more about Blue Star Families, visit http://www.bluestarfam.org.

About the National Endowment for the Arts

TheNational Endowment for the Arts was established by Congress in 1965 as an independent agency of the federal government. To date, the NEA has awarded more than $4 billion to support artistic excellence, creativity, and innovation for the benefit of individuals and communities. The NEA extends its work through partnerships with state arts agencies, local leaders, other federal agencies, and the philanthropic sector. To join the discussion on how art works, visit the NEA at arts.gov.

ANTIQUE BOAT MUSEUM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR RESIGNS

CLAYTON, New York (September 18, 2015) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM) announced today that Frederick “Fritz” H. Hager, the Museum’s Executive Director since January 2012, has resigned his position effective immediately.

Hager will remain with the museum in a consulting role through the end of the year.

Rick W. Tague, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, said “Fritz and the Board have thoughtful, professional difference of opinions regarding the operational priorities and strategic direction of the ABM. As a result, the Board made the decision to seek new leadership and Fritz agreed to step aside as executive director.”

John C. MacLean, the ABM’s Executive Director from 2002 through 2010, will serve as interim executive director while the ABM conducts a search for a permanent successor.

Michael Folsom appointed to NY State Tourism Industry Assoc. Board of Directors

Michael J. Folsom

CLAYTON, New York (December 5, 2014) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, New York, announced today that Michael J. Folsom has been appointed to the New York State Tourism Industry Association’s (NYSTIA) Board of Directors, representing the ABM and New York’s Thousand Islands region.

Folsom joined the ABM in March 2013 as Director of Marketing & Communications and oversees all marketing and communication functions, as well as overseeing the museum store and special events, including the annual Antique Boat Show & Auction. In addition, he works closely with the ABM’s more than 150 volunteers.

Frederick H. Hager, the ABM’s Executive Director, commented: “We are extremely proud to have Mike on the Board of this top-level, State-wide tourism organization.  This is a wonderful opportunity for Mike professionally and for the ABM as an institution.”

Prior to joining the Museum, Folsom was best known throughout the Thousand Islands region for operating the website, The Ship Watcher (www.theshipwatcher.com), which is considered a news source for St. Lawrence Seaway shipping information. He also founded the heavily attended Sailing Seaway Clayton festival at Frink Park in downtown Clayton in 2011. During the first four years of the festival, he helped to lure more than 28,000 people to the 1000 Islands region by bringing historic tall ships, live music, DockDogs competitions and more to the riverside park.

Folsom currently serves as a Board member for the Clayton Chamber of Commerce and Greater Watertown North Country Chamber of Commerce. In addition, he serves on the steering committee of the international tourism organization, 1000 Islands RiverQuest. He is a recent past Board member of the Lynx Educational Foundation, operators of the tall ship Lynx.

His term on the NYSTIA Board will begin in 2015 and expire in December 2017.

About NYSTIA

NYSTIA is a 501c6, New York State not‐for‐profit corporation with more than 150 members which was created for the purpose of bringing together New York State tourism industry interests to: advocate government policies and programs which will strengthen the industry; to raise the level of professionalism within the industry; to encourage the development of cooperative relationships and partnerships among its members; and to raise consumer awareness and appreciation of travel and vacation opportunities in New York State. For more information, visit nystia.org.

About ABM

Located on the St. Lawrence River, along the Canadian border of upstate New York, the ABM features a collection of over 300 antique and classic boats, among thousands of recreational boating artifacts. The Museum is home to the world’s largest runabout of its kind and a 111 year old gilded-age two-story houseboat. In 2015, the ABM will host the 51^st annual Antique Boat Show and Auction, the longest running such show in North America. For more information, please visit the Museum’s website at abm.org.

RIVER HOSPITAL & ANTIQUE BOAT MUSEUM Launch River Community Wellness Program Partnership

ABM continues to be one of more than 2,000 museums across America to offer free admission to military personnel and their families this summer.

CLAYTON, New York (May 20, 2014) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, NY, along with River Hospital of Alexandria Bay, NY, have joined together to form a partnership that will span the 2014 summer calendar and be done in support of our armed forces.

Beginning May 20, the Antique Boat Museum will feature a new exhibition located in the Haxall Building, which will run through the early fall, relating to the River Community Wellness Program (RCWP) based at River Hospital.

The River Community Wellness Program (RCWP) at River Hospital provides intensive outpatient behavioral health services for active duty military personnel stationed at Fort Drum. RCWP provides continuity of care for soldiers transitioning from an inpatient stay. It also serves as an intensive intervention option for mental health services locally to reduce potential admissions of service members to an inpatient level of care, focusing instead on building coping skills and supports in the community. It is the only program of its kind in the United States. The program keeps military members close to home while they are healing and learning to cope, using multiple forms of therapies such as Cognitive Processing Therapy, Group and Individual Therapy, Movement Therapy, Peer to Peer Therapy, Imaginal and In Vivo Exposure Therapy, as well as Psychiatry and Medication Management.

Through this new partnership, the artwork and creative writing that has been done in recent years as part of Creative Arts Therapy will go on display to the public at the ABM.

“Having the ability to extend our assets to River Hospital will allow for more people to be touched, taught, and further understand the hardships that our military personnel go through to defend our freedom. It is truly an honor that the Museum will house the work of our soldiers and provide a new avenue for the general public to get a better understanding of the effects our soldiers endure,” Frederick H. Hager, Executive Director. “We look forward to working closely with Ben Moore and his staff throughout the summer and into the future in an effort to bring awareness to this essential program.”

In addition to the exhibition, participants in the RCWP will also be given the opportunity to explore the region’s beauty by climbing aboard one of the Museum’s in-water fleet boats to cruise the islands for relaxation and meditation time, as required by the program.

“We are very pleased to partner with the Antique Boat Museum to promote awareness of the vital PTSD treatment program at River Hospital for the active duty service members of our community,” stated Ben Moore III, River Hospital CEO. “More importantly, this partnership will also significantly expand the opportunities for the soldiers in our program to experience the beauty and serenity of the North Country through the activities that the Antique Boat Museum will be providing as part of their experience with us.”

“We are most appreciative for the generosity and support of the Antique Boat Museum Board of Directors, contributors, management and staff that has made this opportunity a reality for those who have served us so well.”

Along with the RCWP partnership, the ABM announced today that it will again serve as one of more than 2,000 Blue Star Museums across the country, providing complimentary admission to active military and their immediate families.

Also, River Hospital will now serve as the Official Sponsor of the Armed Forces at the Museum throughout the 2014 season, underwriting those admission fees, as well as the admission fees of all active and retired military members during the upcoming 50^th annual Antique Boat Show to be held August 1-3.

About Antique Boat Museum

The ABM, now open daily 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., is home to North America’s largest antique boat collection with more than 300 boats and over 1,000 boating artifacts. In addition, the Museum is also host of the longest running antique boat show, which will celebrate its 50^th year this August 1-3, and is known as the birthplace of the antique raceboat regatta, which will run August 8-10. For more information, please visit the Museum’s website at abm.org.

About River Hospital

River Hospital was designated as a Critical Access Hospital in 2003. Holding 15 acute care and 9 swing beds, River Hospital also operates an active Emergency Room. Primary Medical Care, Behavioral Health, Laboratory, Physical Therapy, Respiratory Therapy, Ambulatory Surgery and Radiology services are available.  For additional information, visit our website at www.riverhospital.org or call 315-482-2511.

About Blue Star Museums

BlueStar Museums is a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and more than 2,000 museums across America to offer free admission to the nation’s active duty military personnel including National Guard and Reserve and their families. The program will run at the ABM throughout the entire 2014 season. Nationally, the program is run Memorial Day through Labor Day.

The free admission program is available to any bearer of a Geneva Convention common access card (CAC), a DD Form 1173 ID card (dependent ID), or a DD Form 1173‐1 ID card, which includes active duty U.S. military ‐ Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, as well as members of the National Guard and Reserve, U.S. Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, NOAA Commissioned Corps ‐ and up to five family members.

Some special or limited‐time museum exhibits or events may not be included in this free admission program. For questions on particular exhibits or museums, please contact the museum directly. To find participating museums and plan your trip, visit http://arts.gov/national/blue-star-museums .

ANTIQUE BOAT MUSEUM LAUNCHES PILOT EPISODE OF “OLD BOAT STORIES”

Photo: Allan Newell

CLAYTON, New York (May 8, 2013) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, New York, released today a pilot episode of what the Museum hopes to one day turn into a mini-series.

“Old Boat Stories: Episode One” [as seen below] has been launched via the Museum’s YouTube channel (youtube.com/antiqueboatmuseumny), with the intent of perhaps becoming a wooden boating mini-series.

Set in the heart of the 1000 Islands region of upstate New York, the pilot episode focuses on the restoration and history of Splinter, a 28-foot long-decked launch built by Morristown Boat and Engine Company. Splinter, originally built in 1912, has the ability to cruise throughout the region now some 100 years later thanks to the dedication and hard work put forth by wooden boat enthusiasts such as Allan Newell and Everett Smith, former curator of the ABM. Newell, who is a long-standing contributor to the ABM and has served for several years on the Museum’s Board of Trustees, is the owner of the boat and he shares with viewers the boat’s history and revitalization in this episode.

Included in the episode is Emmett Smith, son of Everett, and current curator of the ABM.

“Devotion toward wooden boats goes unheralded and the production of this pilot episode allows us to share with the world the uniqueness and character that wooden boats, as well as their owners, collectors and craftsmen possess,” explained Fritz Hager, Executive Director.

“Episode Two” is currently being drawn up to document the restoration of the world’s largest runabout, Pardon Me, which departed the ABM in 2012 for Brooklin, ME to undergo extensive work.

Filmed in 2012 and produced by Le JIT Productions of Brooklyn, NY, the concept of “Old Boat Stories” was developed in conjunction with former ABM Director John MacLean in an effort to highlight antique and classic boating and ensure longevity in the hobby, as well as stay true to the ABM’s mission of celebrating boats to advance public understanding of the cultural history.

Located on the St. Lawrence River in the 1000 Islands, the Antique Boat Museum features a collection of over 300 antique and classic boats among thousands of recreational boating artifacts. Beginning May 10, the campus comes alive with speedboat rides, boat shows, and educational programs for all ages, special events and more. For more information please visit the Museum’s website at ABM.org.

Antique Boat Museum: Statement Regarding Death of Museum Founder

Robert O. Cox, source: Antique Boat Museum

STATEMENT REGARDING DEATH OF FOUNDER ROBERT O. COX

CLAYTON, New York (June 24, 2013) – Frederick H. Hager, Executive Director of the Antique Boat Museum (ABM), released the following statement regarding the death of Museum founder Robert (Bob) O. Cox.

“We are saddened to share the news of the death of Bob Cox, a tireless leader, visionary, and true inspiration. As a founding member of the Antique Boat Auxiliary of the Thousand Islands Museum in 1967, Bob would help to capture the history of boating throughout the region by actively seeking ways for preservation. He played a key role as the Auxiliary transitioned into the Thousand Islands Shipyard Museum, and then in 1990 when it was renamed the Antique Boat Museum.

Bob served as a Board member for 30 years until 1999, when he was named Trustee Emeritus. In addition, he was the longest serving docent at the ABM, leading tours up until 2011 at the age of 93.

The ABM has lost a true mentor, benefactor, and an influential friend of the Museum and the Thousand Islands.”

In addition to assisting with the foundation of the Museum, Bob helped to organize the first boat show in 1964. The show will joyfully celebrate its 50^th anniversary in 2014.

His memories of boating on the river in the 1920s and 30s were foundational to the mission of the Museum, and remained an important part of his contributions. He was a student of local boating history, and many important boats in the Museum’s collection were found, purchased, and donated by Bob, including the local raceboats Suwanee and George Boldt’s former number boat.

The knowledge Bob shared with the ABM extends far beyond the Thousand Islands.

While still in college at CalTech, Bob designed the docks for the World’s Fair in New York City in 1938. Ten years later, on a sailing trip, he purchased a former Navy pier in South Florida and founded the Fort Lauderdale Marina, one of the largest marinas in the world. This put him at the forefront of America’s growing fascination with boating in the 20th century. In the 1960s and 70s, he was a championship racer of offshore powerboats alongside the likes of Don Aronow, Dick Bertram, and Jim Wynn.

Bob, a lifelong summer resident of Grindstone Island, was always a vigorous presence, active and engaged, full of energy and ideas. From boating on the River in the 1920s, to racing powerboats in the 60s, to designing new luxury powerboats in the early 2000s, few people have had a life so connected with boating.

Slack Chemical to Underwrite Boat Rides for Soldiers - Antique Boat Museum, Clayton NY

CLAYTON, New York (June 5, 2015) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, NY announced today a new initiative aimed at saluting our military members.

Throughout the 2015 season, the ABM and Carthage, NY based Slack Chemical Company will partner in an initiative geared toward making a soldier’s visit to the ABM more enjoyable and the full experience. Salute-A-Soldier presented by Slack Chemical will match visitor contributions of $10 to provide free rides aboard the ABM’s Miss 1000 Islands II, a replica 1930s speedboat that provides a daily schedule of 45-minute trips through the 1000 Islands from the ABM’s docks.

Miss 1000 Islands II

”We are extremely pleased to have Slack Chemical join us in this new program,” said Frederick H. Hager, the ABM’s Executive Director.  “Salute-A-Soldier will ensure that soldiers get out on the St. Lawrence River and fully-experience the beauty of the region, as well as the mystical joys of a wooden boat,” he added.

Throughout the summer, Slack Chemical will help to underwrite speedboat rides for our active military members, while museum visitors will be asked at Museum Admissions if they too wish to make a contribution to allow for a soldier to have the opportunity to experience the St. Lawrence River.

The Salute-A-Solider program will serve as an additional perk for active soldiers visiting the ABM. In May, the ABM announced that it will again serve as one of more than 2,000 Blue Star Museums across the country providing complimentary admission to active military and their immediate families. In addition, the ABM and River Hospital currently serve as partners to ensure that soldiers specifically in the River Community Wellness Program for PTSD patients get out on the water during required relaxation sessions.

About ABM

The ABM, now open daily 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., is home to North America’s largest antique boat collection with more than 300 boats and over 1,000 boating artifacts. In addition, the Museum is also host of the longest running antique boat show, which will celebrate its 51^st year this July 31 – August 2. For more information, please visit the Museum’s website at abm.org.

About Slack Chemical

Slack Chemical has been in operation since 1944 serving as a chemical warehousing, repackaging and distribution company, while specializing in swift, reliable delivery of the highest quality products. Slack Chemical has more than 500 commodity items worth well over $7 million stored at their facilities in Carthage, Castorland, and Saratoga Springs, NY, which include three rail sidings; 650,000 gallons of liquid storage, and 385,000 square footage of packaging, warehousing and office space. For more information on Slack Chemical, please visit www.slackchem.com. 

DANIELLE M. WILLS APPOINTED TO NORTH COUNTRY ARTS COUNCIL BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Danielle M. Wills

CLAYTON, New York (March 13, 2015) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, New York, announced today that Danielle M. Wills has been appointed to the North Country Arts Council’s (NCAC) Board of Directors.

Wills joined the ABM in June 2014 as Membership & Finance Assistant, a role in which she is heavily involved in both the membership and finance departments, focusing on member and donor relations, as well as general office management.

Frederick H. Hager, the ABM’s Executive Director, commented: “We are extremely proud to have Danielle on the Board of this important regional organization. This is a wonderful opportunity for her personally and professionally, and for the ABM as an institution.”

"Danielle's degree in Art History, her track record as a team player, and her obvious love of the arts, makes her a perfect choice to join the NCAC board," explained Kris Marsala, NCAC Board President. "Danielle understands that it's not just the quality of the art work in your gallery or arts center that can help you succeed. Financial responsibility, creative marketing, and building positive relationships in your community are also important components of success in the art world."

Wills is a 2003 graduate of Alexandria Central Schools and a 2012 graduate of SUNY College at Buffalo where she received a B.A. in Art History. Prior to joining the ABM she was Executive Assistant at Martin House, the Frank Lloyd Wright historic landmark in downtown Buffalo. Wills currently resides in Alexandria Bay.

About NCAC

The North Country Arts Council (NCAC) began as the North Country Artists' Guild in 1948. It served the area by providing opportunities to fine artists. In 2009, the mission was expanded to promote growth in and through all creative art forms including, but not limited to, music, theater, dance, literature, and visual arts. A non-profit, 501(c)3 organization, the NCAC is a tool for developing and celebrating cultural opportunities in the community, making it a better place to live.

About ABM

Located on the St. Lawrence River in upstate New York, the ABM features a collection of over 300 antique and classic boats, among thousands of recreational boating artifacts. The Museum is home to the world’s largest runabout of its kind and a 111 year old gilded-age two-story houseboat. In 2015, the ABM will host the 51st annual Antique Boat Show and Auction, the longest running such show in North America. For more information, please visit the Museum’s website at abm.org.

ABM & NORTH COUNTRY PUBLIC RADIO TO HOST NPR CEO

Gary Knell, NPR President and CEO

CLAYTON, New York (July 23, 2013) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, New York, announced today that the Museum, along with North Country Public Radio, will host NPR CEO Gary Knell on Thursday, July 25 for an invitation-only luncheon and meet-and-greet session. [See subsequent update 7/25/13 below.]

Knell will be visiting as a guest of North Country Public Radio, giving residents of the region – in the Adirondacks, St. Lawrence County and the Thousand Islands, an opportunity to meet and talk with one of public media’s top leaders.

Under Knell's leadership, NPR has thrived in a rapidly changing media environment due to his ability to leverage the organization's extensive network of Member Stations, which includes North Country Public Radio, drive cross-platform journalism and cultural programming, grow philanthropic and corporate underwriting support, and draw new audiences to NPR's distinct offerings. A strong advocate of innovation, he is making possible the exploration of new technologies that advance NPR's core mission and grow audience for all of public media.

The ABM and North Country Public Radio will host Knell on Thursday, July 25 at Noon for a luncheon with Museum Board members, as well as a number of listeners from North Country Public Radio who have won the opportunity to attend.

With a career in public media spanning nearly three decades, Knell served as CEO of Sesame Workshop for 12 years before joining NPR in 2011.

He is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and serves on the boards of the National Geographic Education Foundation and the Jacob Burns Film Center. He is also a board member of Common Sense Media and an advisor to the Annenberg School of Communications at USC and the Military Child Education Coalition.

Knell received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from UCLA, and he received a JD from Loyola University School of Law in Los Angeles.

Members of the media wishing to attend this event should contact Michael Folsom at 315-686-4104 x250 or by email at michaelfolsom@abm.org.

------------7/25/03 UPDATE------------

NPR CEO Gary Knell speaking at the Antique Boat Museum today 
(32 second sample video clip):

ABM photo: NPR CEO Gary Knell (left) conversing with 

Antique Boat Museum Executive Director Fritz Hager

7/25/13 on the boat Zipper.

Great news! Michael Folsom Joins Antique Boat Museum Staff.

MICHAEL FOLSOM JOINS ANTIQUE BOAT MUSEUM STAFF

CLAYTON, New York (March 20, 2013) – The Antique Boat Museum, North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, New York, announced today the addition of Michael J. Folsom as Director of Marketing and Communications.

Folsom most recently served as Senior Director of Promotional Development for the Syracuse Crunch Hockey Club in the American Hockey League. His career with the Crunch spanned across 15 seasons in which he held various roles in areas such as merchandising, game operations, sponsorship and ticket sales, and marketing. He also played a key role in the American Hockey League’s first-ever Outdoor Classic held on February 20, 2010 at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse which broke an AHL attendance record (21,508).

Frederick H. Hager, Executive Director, said: “We’re excited to have Mike’s skills, experience and energy guiding our marketing efforts.  He’s a long-time River lover, a selfless promoter of the Clayton community and a proven marketer.  We are pleased to have him as a member of the ABM team.”

Folsom will be responsible for overseeing all marketing and communication aspects of the Museum, as well as overseeing the museum store and special events, including the annual Antique Boat Show & Auction and new Museum events to be announced at a later date.

Best known throughout the Thousand Islands region for operating the website, The Ship Watcher (www.theshipwatcher.com), which is considered a news source for St. Lawrence Seaway shipping information, Folsom also founded the heavily attended Sailing Seaway Clayton festival at Frink Park in downtown Clayton back in 2011. During the first two years of the festival, he helped to lure more than 16,000 people to the Clayton community by bringing historic tall ships, live music, DockDogs competitions and more to the riverside park.

“I am ecstatic to join such an outstanding organization with a deep, rich history,” Folsom said. “My passion for the region, and boating in general, makes this a perfect fit for me. I look forward to helping lead the efforts of the ABM’s growth and ensure much continued success.”

Folsom currently serves as a Board member for the Lynx Educational Foundation, operators of the tall ship Lynx, as well as a committee member for the Thousand Islands Regional Dock. He was also recently named to the Clayton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

He and his wife, Christie, reside in Cicero, New York with their daughter Lucy.

Located on the St. Lawrence River in the 1000 Islands, the Antique Boat Museum features a collection of over 300 antique and classic boats among thousands of recreational boating artifacts. Beginning May 10, the campus comes alive with speedboat rides, boat shows, and educational programs for all ages, special events and more. For more information please visit the Museum’s website at ABM.org.

----------

The above news release was received directly from the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, NY.

It is interesting that the museum carries several artifacts from the Frederick G. Bourne era (from what is now known as Singer Castle on Dark Island). Artifacts include boat racing trophies from the family and Marjorie Bourne's boat called the Moike.



ANTIQUE BOAT MUSEUM ATTENDANCE CRUISING IN POSITIVE DIRECTION

CLAYTON, New York (September 3, 2013) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, New York, proudly announced today that it has shown continued growth in attendance throughout the 2013 summer season.

In August, the ABM witnessed a 24% increase at the gate compared to 2012 totals.

In addition, through August 31, ABM attendance has grown by 10% overall, since the Museum opened for the season in May.

The annual Antique Boat Show and Auction also saw a spike in attendance in 2013 as 6,335 visitors (+14%) passed through the gates August 2-4.

The ABM will conclude its summer season on Columbus Day weekend and then begin its fall/winter season through December 20. A complete fall/winter schedule will be announced in the coming weeks.

Located on the St. Lawrence River in the 1000 Islands, the Antique Boat Museum features a collection of over 300 antique and classic boats, among thousands of recreational boating artifacts. In 2014, the Museum will host the 50^th annual Antique Boat Show and Auction, the longest running show in North America, on August 1-3, as well as the Raceboat Regatta on August 8-10. For more information please visit the Museum’s website at ABM.org.

[End, ABM News Release]

Congratulations Mike Folsom (Director of Marketing and Communications) and Fritz Hager (Executive Director) of the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, NY. What a tremendous season you and everyone else at the ABM have made! What a testimony to your amazing talents. Speaking of "cruising in a positive direction", the skills you brought to the ABM remind me of the Tom Cruise "with me, without me" scene in the following short movie clip from Knight and Day (although I know you very humbly would not make the comparison yourself).

Frederic Remington Art Museum and the Antique Boat Museum Team Up

CLAYTON, New York (April 11, 2014) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, NY, along with the Frederic Remington Art  Museum in Ogdensburg, NY, announced today a partnership for the 2014 tourist season.

The ABM and Frederic Remington Art Museum have entered into a partnership that will provide North Country visitors with the opportunity to experience two of the region’s cultural assets at a discounted rate beginning in early-May and running through September 15.

“A partnership such as this allows for our organizations to extend the potential reach of new visitors, while further exposing our collections,” explained Frederick Hager, ABM Executive Director. “In addition, the 47-mile stretch between the two museums provides sight seekers with the ability to ride along the river’s edge and ingest the beauty of the Thousand Islands.”

Laura Foster, Fredric Remington Museum Director/Curator, commented “It is likely that visitors to either of our museums would greatly enjoy a visit to the other, yet visitor itineraries might put one of the museums off an obvious route.  Many of our visitors are passing through town from the Adirondack region into Canada at the Ogdensburg-Prescott Bridge, and ABM visitors are already at their 1000 Islands destination when they visit the Antique Boat Museum. We hope the 1000 Islands visitors will find unexpected delight in Remington’s river paintings.”

Visitors will have the option of purchasing a “combo pass,” which includes an adult admission to both museums for a discounted rate of only $16. This offer provides a $6 savings.

The ABM, located at 750 Mary Street, Clayton, will open for the 2014 season on May 2, while the FredericRemington Art Museum, located at 303 Washington Street, Ogdensburg, is open year-round.

What do Singer Castle, the Antique Boat Museum, RiverQuest and the Brockville Aquatarium have in common?

Producers and Boat Captains discussing the plan on Dark Island.

Antique Boat Museum Executive Director Fritz Hager 

fishing in wooden boat at Singer Castle, Dark Island.

The Antique Boat Museum joined with RiverQuest at Dark Island's Singer Castle to produce a video of antique boats on the St. Lawrence River for an exhibit at the new Brockville Aquatarium. 

Museum Parade Float to Carry Special Guests: Local Military Family & TV Personalities

Photo: Gadfly, antique boat.

LOCAL MILITARY FAMILY & TELEVISION PERSONALITIES TO SERVE AS GUESTS OF HONOR ABOARD MUSEUM PARADE ‘FLOAT’

CLAYTON, New York (December 2, 2014) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, New York, announced today that a local military family and two of the North Country’s well-known television personalities will ride aboard the Museum’s parade ‘float’ during this Saturday’s [12/6/14] annual Clayton Christmas Parade.

The family of 3rd Brigade Combat Team Executive Officer, Major Sean Morrow, will ride aboard the Museum’s 33-foot sedan commuter, Gadfly, serving as special guests of the Museum. Sean, and his wife Meghan, will be joined by their three children. Sean currently serves our country with the 10th Mountain Division based at Fort Drum.

In addition, local television personalities Anne Richter and Brian Ashley of WWNY-TV (7News - Watertown) will join the Morrows. Anne and Brian have served as longtime North Country household names while spending the past 30 years in front of the camera. The wife/husband news team has engraved their ties to the community through various contributions to organizations which they devote their time and efforts toward. Both also share a strong passion for the water and spend an ample amount of time sailing on Lake Ontario.

“We are honored to have the Morrow family, along with Anne and Brian, join us for this festive holiday tradition in Clayton,” Executive Director Frederick Hager shared. “This is our small way of recognizing them for all that they do.”

Gadfly, built in 1931 by Hutchinson Boat Works of Alexandria Bay, will serve as the Museum’s parade float. Donated to the Museum by Margaret H. Wallace in 1994, the boat recently underwent restoration work and returned to service this past August.  Serving as part of the Museum’s in-water fleet and a flagship vessel of the ABM, Gadfly has provided hundreds of Museum patrons with the opportunity to enjoy traveling on the River. The boat recently represented the ABM at the Antique and Classic Boat Society’s International Boat Show in Skaneateles this fall.

This will be Gadfly’s first appearance in the Clayton Christmas Parade.

Located on the St. Lawrence River in the 1000 Islands, the Antique Boat Museum features a collection of over 300 antique and classic boats, among thousands of recreational boating artifacts. In 2015, the ABM will host the 51^st annual Antique Boat Show and Auction, the longest running such show in North America. For more information, please visit the Museum’s website at ABM.org.

New on ABM team: Christopher T. Lytle as Senior Advancement Officer & Rebecca L. Hopfinger as Director of Advancement.

CLAYTON, New York (September 12, 2013) – The Antique Boat Museum (ABM), North America’s premier freshwater nautical museum based in Clayton, New York, announced today the addition of Christopher T. Lytle as Senior Advancement Officer and Rebecca L. Hopfinger as Director of Advancement.

Lytle brings more than 35 years of experience as a senior staff member or consultant to premier not-for-profit organizations, including Rotary International and the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. His expertise in campaign planning and design, program management, major gifts, institutional grants, as well as sponsorship and cause marketing, will be instrumental to the Museum. In addition to leading overall fundraising efforts, Lytle will focus on developing key partnerships and relationships with philanthropists, foundations, and corporations that support the ABM’s growth strategies.

A graduate of Mercyhurst College, with post-graduation certifications from Adelphia University and New York University, Lytle resides with his wife, Laurie, in Seneca Falls, NY, where he serves as a Board member of the Finger Lakes Boating Museum.

Hopfinger was recently asked to return to the Museum following a five-year hiatus during which she was Executive Director of the Thousand Islands Arts Center (TIAC), also based in Clayton. Her professional career began with the ABM as curator in 1996, following graduation from Syracuse University with a Master’s in Museum Studies. In 2004, she was promoted to Director of Development & Curator of Special Exhibits before departing in 2008 to later join TIAC.

In her new role at the ABM, Hopfinger will oversee the Museum’s successful Friends of the Museum program, its general membership, and further fundraising activities.

Hopfinger, who is currently pursuing a certificate in fundraising management from the Indiana University/Purdue University Institute for Fundraising, resides in Clayton and serves as a Board member of the Clayton Local Development Corporation and the Clayton Chamber of Commerce.

“We are extremely pleased to welcome Rebecca back to the ABM and to have Chris join our organization. As our new advancement and fundraising team, they will lead our efforts to build awareness and support for the ABM as we develop new audiences and markets,” said Frederick H. “Fritz” Hager, Executive Director.

Lytle and Hopfinger join Christine S. Brown, Advancement Associate, to form the ABM’s new Office of Advancement.

Located on the St. Lawrence River in the 1000 Islands, the Antique Boat Museum features a collection of over 300 antique and classic boats, among thousands of recreational boating artifacts. In August 2014, the Museum will host the 50^th annual Antique Boat Show and Auction, the longest running show in North America. For more information please visit the Museum’s website at ABM.org.