Saving Newburgh

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Saving Newburgh is an independent documentary made in 2004 about the mayoral race in Newburgh, NY, and small city about 60 miles outside of New York City. Characteristic of many local governments, the city of Newburgh was plagued by corruption and mis-management. Once named the "Best All American City" in 1950, the city slid to "NY State's Most Violent City" over 50 years later.

Newburgh, NY currently has the largest declared historic discrict in the United States, and is home to an unbelievable array of historic homes and significant landmarks. It was once home to George Washington during the Revolutionary War, and to Andrew Jackson Downing (architect and co-designer for Central Park in NYC, the grounds in the White House, and the Smithsonian Institute in Washington DC, among others). But despite it's historical significance, ideal location on the Hudson River, and proximity to NYC, they city still battles significant infighting and bungled politics. A sum of $180k was mysteriously wire-transferred by the mayor to his friends. Bumper sticker campaigns and underground websites declaring war on the current leadership sprung up, lead by a headstrong group of residents determined to make a change.

The film takes place during the 2004 election, and follows the four candidates running for mayor and a group of residents determined to make a change in Newburgh. In the end, it seemed as if those involved were more engaged in "fighting", rather than "fighting for change".

The film was produced and directed by Merle Becker.