Speakers: Lewis Polishook, Jamie Cotel
 Cemeteries and gravestones are an important resource for genealogical research. Lewis A. Polishook, Director of the New York State Division of Cemeteries, and Jamie Cotel, Executive Director of the Community Alliance for Jewish-Affiliated Cemeteries (CAJAC), our speakers, will discuss the sometimes complicated issues surrounding cemetery regulation, oversight and maintenance, from both a governmental and community perspective. Mr. Polishook’s Division is part of the NYS Department of State in the executive branch. CAJAC represents the organized Jewish community’s efforts to preserve and rehabilitate at-risk cemeteries. They will also answer our questions regarding the preservation and management of gravestones and burial society plots. Lewis A. Polishook has been Director of the New York State Division of Cemeteries since November, 2013, previously serving in the Office of the Attorney General of the State of New York, in various capacities. He also was in private practice for several years, and has a J.D. from Harvard Law School. The Division works with cemetery officials on a wide range of issues including the sale of lots, service fees, and the acquisition of lands. There are some 1,800 cemeteries and crematories under its jurisdiction. Jamie Cotel is the Executive Director of the Community Alliance for Jewish-Affiliated Cemeteries (CAJAC) in New York, NY and White Plains, New York. CAJAC strives to create permanent solutions for ensuring cemeteries’ long-term sustainability, through a collaboration of volunteers, community leaders and local agencies. Previously, she has served on the boards of the American Jewish Committee, Congregation Sons of Israel in Westchester County and Green Chimneys Children’s Services. She holds a Juris Doctorate Degree, with a concentration in international law and business. Jamie is a graduate of the Institute for Jewish Executive Leadership at Columbia University, an extensive executive management program for non-profit CEOs.