Last Saturday I had the pleasure of experiencing Dickens on the Delaware in Callicoon. There was so much going on that it was impossible to see it all! What a testament to the many, many people who worked to make this magical day happen. From the wagon rides to the wonderful River Rep performance of “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus” at the partially restored Depot, to the fabulous Makers Market at the Youth Center. This was a huge event. Caroling, alpacas, warming fires, hot cider, photos with Santa—what didn’t they have?

That’s the beauty of our small town. Somebody (or somebodies) has/have a vision, and everyone pitches in to make it a reality. Callicoon has always had that sense of community, and I give you the Delaware Youth Center as Exhibit A.

The Youth Center was built in 1947 when Dr. George Mills, Dr. Rumble and other community leaders decided that the children of Callicoon needed a swimming pool. There were several reasons for this.  There had been several tragic drownings in the Delaware River and furthermore, back then the river was not as pristine as it might be.  I can remember the junkyard that once lined the road down past the present-day Youth Center. Thankfully, this was all cleared out, and the Youth Center provided a wonderful place for me, my siblings, cousins, and all our friends to learn to swim and go to day camp in the mornings. Our afternoons were spent with friends swimming, sunbathing, and hanging out. In addition, the Youth Center doubled as a roller rink for us. Our parents took turns handing out the skates and supervising the controlled mayhem.  On many Saturday nights, the Youth Center hosted a dance. We danced while Billy and the Heartbeats (our house band) would play Mustang Sally and Devil with the Blue Dress. Gosh, we had it made.

And families through the years have obviously taken wonderful care of the Youth Center. It looks better than ever, and Hermann Hall has been completely remodeled (no more skates!). What a testament to the power of community and a fitting legacy to the work begun nearly 80 years ago by Dr. Mills, Dr. Rumble, and the other town fathers and mothers who raised the funds and put in the time, energy, and work to make the Youth Center a reality.

In a time when it is so needed, Callicoon still radiates that sense of community. How wonderful to see so many folks working together to create a magical winter festival in my little hometown.  It warms the heart.

Happy Holidays, dear readers. May your days be filled with fellowship and good cheer.