The weather has certainly turned much colder very fast; it was 2 at my house Tuesday!  If you are aware of anyone that may need some help to keep warm, the 2025-2026 Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) season started December 1. Their Office in Sullivan County is open to answer your questions and help to complete applications at 845-807-0142 or heap@sullivanny.gov. If you received an early outreach letter you will automatically receive your HEAP benefit. If you still need to apply, do so at www.mybenefits.ny.gov or at the Department of Social Services; call ahead to confirm. This year HEAP will provide a one-time benefit of between $400 and $996 for a delivery of home heating fuel, dependent on the type of system used at the residence. 

Ski season is here and the Villa Roma Resort has been busy getting ready for you! I saw them making snow yesterday and it was beautiful, bringing back good memories. Come out and see the amazing hill Craig and the boys made for you! Sullivan West families mark your calendars, Friday night skiing begins December 26, weather permitting.

Christmas is closing in on everyone very fast. Santa Claus is coming to the Youngsville Firehouse Saturday, December 13 (tomorrow) at 6 p.m. for an evening of arts and crafts, and yummy refreshments. Santa will arrive at 7 p.m. sharp! Bring the children out to enjoy a fun time at Christmas time. 

Cuppie Cake Desserts continues to offer a gift-wrapping fundraiser with donations to support the SW Varsity Cheer Program on Sunday, December 14 and 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Swing by for a sweet treat, relax & visit with friends, run errands, or go shopping locally and let them take care of the wrapping. No appointment is necessary, walk-ins are welcome. Bring your gifts, give a donation, and leave with perfectly wrapped presents, ready to give. Your donation will be used to support our hardworking athletes, making their season a success. Thank you for your support and for spreading holiday cheer.

Finally, my birds have returned, even a pair of cardinals! Many of us had remarked that we have been missing the wild birds for a while. Now the feeders need to be filled often; they must be getting ready for crappy weather. We remember to feed the birds, and sometimes the large gray squirrel that attacks my feeder, but we forget they also need water. Personally, I never put water out, not aware that they will die of thirst (dehydration kills in 3 days) before they die of hunger (starvation takes 2 weeks). Put out a shallow dish (1-2” deep), fill it with warm water in the morning (after the freezing night) and the evening (before the nighttime freeze). If you add a tennis ball to the water dish it will move around with a breeze, keeping the ice off longer. A good friend of mine also suggested adding a little salt. I am going to find a dish ASAP!

Stay warm, drive carefully, and let me know if you have any news to share!