Hello, it's Fran. I'm happy to hear that a Liberty column in the Democrat is a plus. I'm enjoying taking time to accent the positives of my home town where I grew up. To make the best of time, take a drive in the beautiful countryside, enjoy mountain scenes and peaceful roads. As long as I've lived in Sullivan County, I'm still awed by the incredible views. Our son, here from Colorado, agrees. Rocky Mountains do not compare.

White Sulphur Springs: On Monday we took a drive and stopped at the new Dollar General. Apparently they are trying to get some activity going, so the prices were greatly marked down on the incredible inventory. It is a beautiful store. We wish them the best. We had planned on having lunch at the White Sulphur Inn that we like, not realizing they are closed on Monday.

New Liberty Restaurant: Across from Days Inn at what was Mr. G's, is now Casi's. We saw the story in the Democrat, so went there for dinner. The hot, roast beef sandwich was delicious. It was bigger than he needed, but I helped him after I had my Greek salad which was covered in feta cheese. Yum. The young man waiter was very attentive and even gave us a Senior discount. My former co-realtor, Pam Henning does a great job with placemat advertising. As we waited to be served, under my plate I saw an ad by Thalman's Service Center for a car inspection which I needed. So the next day I saw Dan Thalman to take care of that. I told him how I was thankful to have seen his ad at Casi's. He said he had not yet eaten there, but would be going there that night since I raved about it. It's another nice Liberty place to eat.

Lapolt Park: I chatted with Vicki LaPolt who was absolutely thrilled with the new sign in the Park. Her daughter posted pictures on Facebook with special thanks to all, and tears and love remembering her Dad, John LaPolt. Vicky always remembers John's friends who worked with him when creating the park. One name I recall is Ed Townsend.

Etta Barbanti: Etta, our long-time Main Street realtor, is busy, as usual, working on the Village appearance. She helped the Garden Club plant and maintain the beautiful flower and vegetable garden on South Main Street. Wherever Etta sees some sidewalk clean up needed, she takes care of it. She told me of a special helper by the name of Dominick. We thank you, Dominick for all your hard work.

Liberty Fitness Center: Who has been in business on Main Street longer than Cindy Fracasse? Recently the Governor gave the word that gyms could be opened, so Jason Dole interviewed Cindy on WJFF. With her usual enthusiasm she said, “We are ready, and our customer family is eager to get back.” The Health Department regulations are being followed and she said the square footage on two levels is huge so the separation guidelines are not a problem. For nineteen years of fitness business, plus a great sense of Village involvement, Cindy has been there with her table of free drinks and cookies during the year and especially at Halloween and again at Christmas time welcoming Santa Express as it comes to town from Eldred, thanks to Santa's great sponsor, Lou Monteleone. A new addition is a 70 inch TV screen for those who can't come in, to stream from home. Welcome back Cindy. Best of luck. I will get in touch with your great neighbors: Charlie's, Liberty Press and Floyd and BoBo's...who are keeping things going in these tough times...

Liberty Library: Our devoted librarian, Marjorie Linko, must be so thankful to be back at 189 North Main Street newly remodeled and expanded library. You will soon be able to make an appointment to use computers or browse... (845) 292-6070. I can't wait to visit.

New Laundromat: 5 Star Laundromat is now operating on North Main. It certainly is a beautiful new building, up across from the newly refurbished Library. It looks like great positives are moving along North Main.

Village Elections: The date of village elections is September 15 from noon to 9 p.m. at Village Hall. Trustees will serve for four years instead of two. Current trustees are Joan Stoddard and Vicky Ferguson. Robert Mir is Deputy Mayor and running with Daniel Wright for Trustee positions which pay $4,000 a year plus a medical plan.

Village Buildings: I assume the virus is hindering progress. Passing by the old Killian Transfer Building that was sold, it all looks quiet. Also, I read that New Hope had bought what was once Catskill Shopper. I didn't notice any activity?

Making Friends: I had a lovely thank-you note from Steve and Susan Gottlieb, owners of Trading Post, for my mantra, “What would we do without Trading Post and the employees that are so helpful”. Great business.

Arrowhead Ranch: I had a thank-you also from Jonathan Goldberg. I will check further with him for up-dates on progress.

Old Friends: Of course I mean, friends from the past (not old). One was Patty Bennett Marshalek who I went to high school with. Thanks for your note Patty. So good to hear from you.

Also a little “hello” to Mary Wagner, a former co-worker.

I hope everyone is enjoying the last of Summer. I am one who enjoys cool breezes. Very soon that big maple tree on Derrick Kelly's property across from us on California Ave. will be brilliant red. So beautiful.

Till next time, stay safe. Keep the mask on. It saves on make-up. Too bad for Revlon.

God Bless America.