I am amazed as I scroll social media, by the plethora of Borscht Belt/Catskill memories, photos, and reach-outs to reconnect are popping up. So many remember fondly the past with many celebrating our community’s future. And looking around, all are visiting our area, or still remain in our area to enjoy the beauty of what our Sullivan County community offers.

The Monticello High School Class of 1975 celebrates its 50-year reunion on Friday, September 6 at The Double Top Bar and Grill at Resorts World Catskills starting at 6pm. Over 60 classmates have already RSVP’d for this unforgettable weekend of laughter, reflection, and celebration ready to reconnect with old friends, share stories, and make new memories. Cost is $70 per person and includes dinner buffet, DJ entertainment, and program. Financial assistance is available as the committee wants everyone to feel welcome. Discounted hotel rates are available at The Alder and Resorts World Catskills as well. To reserve your ticket for the Reunion, or for further information, email montihigh1975@gmail.com

This is a must event and although not actually in Sullivan County, the history of our county comes alive in a celebration of comedy, culture and food in the Catskills at the Borscht Belt Fest in Ellenville, New York on Saturday, July 26 & Sunday July 27.

From sharp stand-up to unexpected stories, Borscht Belt Fest brings together an all-star lineup including acclaimed author Gary Shteyngart, writers from SNL and The Tonight Show, and New Yorker cartoonists Asher Perlman, Dave Ostow, Liana Finck, and Avi Steinberg, for a weekend packed with big laughs and thought-provoking conversations. The streets of Ellenville will come alive with Jewish food vendors, klezmer music, comedy shows, engaging panels, and more. Celebrate the legacy of Catskills comedy, discover the region’s rich cultural history, and hear from the voices shaping its future, one punchline, or panel, at a time. Whether you’re here for the shtick or the substance, there’s plenty to explore.

And what could be better than to mark your calendars for The Bagel Festival in Monticello on Sunday, August 10. The day is filled with music, food, vendors, and fun celebrating the home of the Bagel Capital of the World. Sponsored by the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce, this is now a 13-year annual tradition showcasing so much of what is great about Sullivan County.

The Landfield Avenue Synagogue will have its famous Bagel Dog booth set up at the end of Landfield Avenue during the Bagel Festival. This year Sullivan County resident Camille O’Brien will be at the booth at noon to share her experience as part of the National July 4th Hot Dog Eating Contest. She is saving room for the delicious Kosher Bagel Dogs at the booth, and she may even demonstrate her technique for her success while there. Don’t miss it!

The Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce announces a large-scale Joint Chamber Mixer in partnership with the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce, the Greater NYC Chamber, and the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce. This event will take place at The Kartrite on July 30 from 5pm – 7pm, and will feature an AI & Technology Business Panel, ensuring local and regional businesses remain on the cutting edge. The evening will offer valuable networking opportunities and will include Kosher catering to ensure inclusivity for a diverse audience.

Applications for the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Leadership Sullivan Class are available now. Learn about Sullivan County while building leadership skills and networking with a focus on how to make Sullivan County the best it can be. Deadline for submission is August 15th.

To find out more information on these events, contact the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce directly at 845-791-4200.

Miranda Behan is running for reelection as Town of Fallsburg Councilperson and there will be a fundraiser in support of her on Wednesday, July 23 at Casa Mia in Hurleyville starting at 6pm. Join in supporting trusted leadership, community values, and a vision for the future.

The Monticello Elks #1544 will hold its Annual 200 Club on Saturday, July 26 from 2pm -7pm at the Lodge Pavillion, 46 North Street, Monticello. Games of Chance, 50/50, Corn Hole, Darts, Music and of course fantastic food including steak, steamers, sides and soda, beer and wine make this a great event. For tickets or for more information, call 845-707-1650.

Hurleyville Performing Arts Centre continues its wonderful “kids’ series” with the Kids Craft Hour: Nature Walk and Collage on Wednesday, July 23 at 11am. Join in for a fun and creative Kids Craft Hour where you’ll take a walk along the Rail Trail to collect natural treasures like leaves, sticks, and rocks that catch your eye. Then you’ll head back to HPAC to turn your findings into a beautiful, collaborative nature collage. A hands-on way to explore, create, and connect with the outdoors. Space is limited – reserve your spot today by contacting HPAC at 845-985-4722.

Hector’s Inn is proud to host its 11th annual car show on Saturday, July 26 at noon. This event features no car judging and no entry fees, simply cars and enthusiasts sharing a common passion. Enjoy music provided by Keith Newman from 1 pm to 5 pm, along with food cooked by Grizzly & Mo, and a great atmosphere. What more could one ask for, except perhaps plenty of sunshine?

Join the Roscoe-Rockland Fire Department for their Second Annual Car Show at the Roscoe Firemen’s Field on Sunday July 27. Car registrations begin at 9 am and end at 12 pm. Trophy presentation will be at 3 pm. Food, vendors, lots of vehicles to see, music, kids’ activities, and more. For more information call 607-290-4048 or email rrfdauxiliary29@yahoo.com.

Don’t miss the Delaware Valley Arts Alliance 35th annual Riverfest coming to Main Street in Narrowsburg on Sunday, July 27. Live music, the Makers Market, food trucks, the dog parade, kids’ activities, poster auction and so much more.

Condolences to the Kerber family and the Rock Hill Fire Department on the loss of family patriarch, and fellow firefighter Carl Kerber. Condolences to Skalski family and former Monticello Middle School colleagues on the loss of family matriarch, and friend Joan Skalski.  May their memory be for a blessing.

Happy Birthday to Monticello Bagel Festival Founder Jeff Siegel (7/22), Sheila Lashinsky (7/23), Brian Gen, Irina Barbanel, Haley Rieber, Crystal Gray, Kay Bogden (7/24), Dan Spagnoli, Gary Tugender (7/25), Edna Tursi, Leah Exner, (7/27), Maria Ingrassia, Suzie Gold, Jacquie Leventoff (7/28).

So much to do – so get out there and do it! 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.