Senator Leibell Names Putnam County Legislator Mary Ellen Odell As A State Senate "Woman of Distinction"

Senator Vincent L. Leibell announced today that Putnam County Legislator Mary Ellen Odell was honored as a 2008 New York State Senate Woman of Distinction. This annual event honors women throughout the state for their accomplishments in their communities. Many of the awardees are leaders in either business, academic or civic life, and have greatly distinguished themselves through their excellence and selfless giving.

Mary Ellen Odell has an impressive past serving her community in many different capacities. In 2006, Mrs. Odell was overwhelmingly elected as a member of the Putnam County Legislature. She has not hesitated to take on challenging positions and has served as a leader on numerous committees. Most notably she was elected Deputy Chair of that body in 2008. During last year’s budget process, Mrs. Odell authored and now chairs the Commission for Fiscal Vision and Accountability which is charged with investigating and determining more efficient ways of providing governmental operations.

Mrs. Odell has long been an advocate for the Veterans in Putnam County and has been honored to work with them throughout the years. She played a vital role as the Secretary to the Gold Star Mother’s Monument Committee that successfully erected a monument to honor surviving Mothers of lost members of the Armed Services. In 2007, she was chosen by the Putnam County Joint Veterans Council to receive their "Honorary Veteran Award" and was unanimously appointed to serve as the liaison to the Putnam County’s Veterans’ community.

Mrs. Odell has considerable experience working with various groups in Putnam County to improve the economic development of the area. She has served as a member of the Town of Carmel Industrial Development Agency and the Putnam Economic Development Council. Not only working in her official capacity as a legislator, but also volunteering much of her personal time, Mrs. Odell is the co-founder and past-President of the Carmel Sports Association and a member of the Hamlet of Carmel Civic Association. She also serves on the HCCA Holiday on the Lake Christmas Tree Committee

Mrs. Odell and her husband David are the proud parents of Hope and David L. Odell, Jr.

Senator Leibell stated, "I am so pleased to honor Mary Ellen for all she has done for the community of Putnam County. She works tirelessly to represent her constituents and looks out for their needs. Mary Ellen Odell has been well-known throughout Putnam County for many years and has devoted much of her time and energy to improving the lives of others," Senator Leibell continued.

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