Potential snow in the forecast this week brings about a true change in season as Thanksgiving rounds the corner, fully driving us on toward the holiday season.

And first, to note around that are the needs in our community. As a child growing up in Sullivan County, I learned at a very young age that no matter our differences, we took care of each other in times of need. As an adult, the same holds true. Here are a few ways you can make a difference:

The Monticello Rotary Club in conjunction with the Interact Clubs from Monticello and Fallsburg High Schools will be holding its Annual Food Drive on Saturday, November 23, 2024, from 9am - 1pm at the Ted Stroebele Recreation Center on Jefferson Street in Monticello. 

Non-perishable food items such as canned vegetables, canned fruit, canned fish, cereals, pasta, gravy, sauces, boxed milks, and other shelf sustainable items are requested. Microwaveable food items are also needed. Frozen turkeys and ham will also be accepted. 

Foods collected will be distributed through the United Way of Sullivan County and the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless. Early drop-off locations are Kristt/Kelly Office Supplies on East Broadway in Monticello, Monticello High School Interact Club, as well as the Landfield Avenue Synagogue, especially collecting kosher food items. In addition, pet foods will also be accepted and distributed through Pet’s Alive.

Please consider purchasing a little extra in your shopping trip this week to help a family in need and contribute to this effort.

Also, toys, toys, toys...oh, and by the way, clothes. Yes, one of the most requested items by the children is clothing. The Boy’s and Girl’s Club is holding its Annual Giving Tree Program, where you can help by being assigned a child and given their holiday request for purchasing. Also, Hope Alive and Murph’s Toy Drives are underway throughout Sullivan County. 

Consider dropping off an unwrapped gift in one of the donation boxes throughout our community. Monticello Rotary has a box. If you would like to drop off a toy, you can do so at Albella Restaurant on Jefferson Street in Monticello. Be a Secret Santa or Chanukah Harry to put a smile on a youngster’s face and reach out to these agencies to help today.

Shopping locally is a way to support our local economy. Don’t miss the Sullivan Catskills Visitors Association annual Holiday Market at the Liberty Mall, on Saturday, December 7, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. You can find wonderful gifts and even shop for someone in need at the same time.

Don’t forget the Kauneonga Lake Farm & Makers Thanksgiving Market taking place at the Duggan School in White Lake from 10am - 3pm on Saturday, November 23, 2024. Fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan crafts and artwork by local artists like Hassina Brody will be available for purchase. If you have never seen Hassina’s work and are looking for a unique one of a kind gift, be sure to visit her booth at this event.

Congratulations and Good Luck to all the High School musicians from our Sullivan County Schools who will be attending and participating in this year’s New York State School Music Association Zone 9 Area-All State Concerts this weekend at Suffern High School in Suffern, New York.  Liberty’s own Tim Hamblin serves as the Zone 9 Rep for NYSSMA and is excited to witness and hear the great music these young musicians will be creating under the batons of their prestigious guest conductors.

Happy Birthday to Chuck Vassallo (11/20), Jody Tedaldi, Ann Marie Foss, and Alan Devlin (11/21), Carola McNutt, Chris Reina (11/22), Kathy Kreiter, Gary Lasher (11/23), Bernice Zierler, Allison Kurthy (11/24), Terry Grafmuller, Debra Fuch Nadeau, Meghan Stalter, Dana Stone (11/25).

Condolences to Town of Highland Supervisor John Pizzolato on the loss of his mother, Barbara; Jack Costello on the loss of his lovely wife Doris Costello. Also, to Lynn McDonald and Joseph McDonald on the loss of their beloved husband and father, Barry, who taught so many in his career as an English Teacher at Monticello High School, including teaching this author. May their memories be a blessing to their family, friends, and all who knew them.

Happenings abound, and tons of ways are available to reach out and help others. So, let the snow fly and remember that each snowflake is another drop of kindness in our ability to help others. And, just in case I really don’t “Know It All,” please keep me in the know by emailing me at LoriJames.SCDemocrat@gmail.com