By Matt Youngfrau
BLOOMINGBURG — November 5, 2002 – “We are proud of our native son.”
That feeling, expressed by New York State Assemblyman Jake Gunther, was shared by nearly 300 people at the Eagle’s Nest in Bloomingburg on Thursday, October 24. The event, put on by the Sullivan County Bar Association, was a reception to honor Justice Anthony T. Kane upon his appointment to the Appellate Division, Third Department.
“We are here to honor Justice Kane on his appointment to the Appellate Division,” commented Retired Supreme Court Justice Robert Williams. “Sullivan County should be proud Judge Kane ascended to the Appellate Division. He has impressed every member of the Sullivan County Bar. He has been a fair, impartial, and compassionate justice. We are proud and glad that you have gone to the Appellate Division.”
The majority of the crowd consisted of attorneys, judges, and those working in the court system. The rest of the crowd included family, friends, public officials, and well wishers. While all were there to honor Kane, at times, it became a roast.
“They offered the job to [Sullivan County District Attorney Stephen] Lungen, but he did not want to take a cut in pay,” joked Sullivan County Clerk George Cooke, who then turned serious. “[Judge Kane] has earned the respect of his friends and neighbors. He got to where he is not by smoke and mirrors but by hard work and integrity. The Appellate Court is enhanced by Judge Kane.”
Later in the evening, Kane responded to Cooke.
“George did a fine turn by speaking for me tonight,” Kane remarked with a grin. “Usually, he charges $50 for a speech like that. Because he is such a good friend, he only charged me $20.”
With that, Kane walked over and handed Cooke $20. After the laughter died down, Kane explained that the two had breakfast a few days prior, and Kane forgot his wallet. The $20 was simply his way to pay Cooke back.
Also on hand was Presiding Justice for the Appellate Division, Third Department, Anthony Cardona. Before speaking about Kane, Cardona stated he had something “important” to do first. With that, he left the podium, bent down on one knee before Williams, and kissed his ring.
After that, he turned his thoughts to Kane.
“He has made many contributions to the court system,” Cardona stated. “He has served with distinction. He approaches the law with great energy and enthusiasm. I am happy to have him in our court.”
Before Kane got up to speak, the Bar Association presented him with a gift – a clock, or as Association President Steve Vegliante said, a “small token of our esteem.”
“I am overwhelmed,” Kane said. “I am glad you are all here to help celebrate my appointment. I am truly blessed. Everyone here is responsible for my success. I will continue to approach my job with energy and high values.”