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Governor David A. Paterson today applauded a successful 2009 U.S. Open and re-extended his invitation to the United States Golf Association (USGA) to return to Bethpage State Park for future championships.

“It is my pleasure to celebrate a successful second U.S. Open at Bethpage State Park. Bethpage is a world-class course with a tremendous staff,” said Governor Paterson. “To the USGA, and the world of golf, I want to say: let’s keep a good thing going. Come back soon to this spectacular public golf course.”

USGA President Jim Vernon said: “The United States Golf Association thanks Governor Paterson for his partnership in bringing the U.S. Open to this incomparable public golf course. Golf fans can always count on the remarkable Bethpage Black to provide a dramatic stage for an exciting championship. This weekend’s experience will certainly make us look at Bethpage for future championships.”

Hosting the championship has been a tremendous economic boost to Long Island and the State of New York. The 2009 Open will have an economic impact of tens of millions of dollars on the region, on top of a guaranteed $6 million rental fee from the USGA.

Commissioner of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Carol Ash said: “Governor Paterson led a coordinated effort in hosting the U.S. Open in New York, allowing us to showcase our wonderful New York State Parks. We also owe a great debt of gratitude to the many people working behind the scenes – and around the clock – to make the event a success. Bethpage State Park Director Dave Catalano and Course Superintendent Craig Currier and their team are true champions for getting this course ready and keeping it playable despite historic amounts of rainfall.”