Election Day is finally here. Make sure you get out and vote. Remember that our vote is the most important thing we are granted as citizens of the United States. We may not like the positions of those who win, but it is this process that makes us a democracy. Also, thank you to all who placed their name on the ballot. There is no loser as you stepped up, spent personal monies, took time from your family, and put yourself out there in a political climate that is not easy. Thank you to all the candidates for their willingness to run and be part of this great experiment we call the United States of America. 

And, you may think things might slow down in the county, but that is the furthest thing from the truth. 

The Ethelbert B. Crawford Public Library is proud to present the next installment of its Community Art Exhibit series: “Short Stories: Every Picture Tells a Story” on November 6, 2025 at 6 PM in the Robert D. Norris Community Room. Breaking Barriers and Understanding Disability by Lee Brian Karasik - musician, photographer, EMT, disability advocate, and proud Sullivan County native, will share his inspiring life while educating all. Born with a mild form of Cerebral Palsy (CP), Lee shares his unique perspective on living with a disability, challenging common misconceptions and encouraging open, honest dialogue. Through personal stories and powerful insights, Lee’s mission is to promote understanding, inclusion, and respect for people of all abilities. The event will include an engaging presentation followed by an open Q&A session. All ages and abilities are welcome. For more information call (845) 794-4660 ext. 9. 

The Hurleyville Performing Arts Centre will hold its Annual Fundraising Mixer on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 5:30 PM. Enjoy a lively cocktail hour, delicious dinner, live music, dancing, and a silent auction all in support of HPAC’s mission to foster creativity, inclusion, and cultural vitality right here in the Catskills. Tickets are priced at $35 a person which directly supports local arts programming, education initiatives, and community events that make Hurleyville and HPAC thrive. For more information, call HPAC at 845-985-4722.

The Sullivan Central Rotary Club will hold its Charter Presentation and Installation Ceremony on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 5:30 PM at The Eldred Preserve in Eldred. The newest Rotary Club in Sullivan County is sponsored by the Monticello Rotary Club and is proud to be part of the legacy of the great work done by the Sullivan County Rotary family. All are invited to join as Rotary District 7210 Governor Beau Loendorf presents the official Rotary Charter granted by Rotary International on July 27, 2025 as well as install the club’s Charter Members and Officers. Tickets are $30 per person includes a lite fare and cash bar. For more information email sullivancentralrotaryclub@gmail.com or call 845-798-1770.

Don’t miss the Rock Hill Volunteer Ambulance Corps Annual Drive Thru Chili Dinner on Saturday, November 8, 2025 (snow date – 11/9) from 4pm – 7pm for a delicious comfort food meal of Chili Bowl, crackers and a bottle of water. Tickets are priced at $8 each. For more information call 845 313-8663. 

The Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce holds its 2025 Business Excellence Awards and Annual Meeting on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at 5:30 PM at the Hurleyville Performing Arts Centre, 219 Main Street, Hurleyville. Honoring Businessperson of the Year, Steven Schwartz – Owner of Steve’s Music Center, Distinguished Achievement Award – New Hope Community, Distinguished Service Award – Lynn Morales, Engagement Support Specialist – Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson, Emerging Leader Award – Jesse Robinson – Founder & CEO JR Capital Solutions, DEI Workplace Excellence Award – Kathy Krieter – Program Administrator Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless, and Resorts World Gives Award – Catskill Animal Rescue (CARE).

And don’t miss the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce First Friday Networking Breakfast at the Liberty Diner on Friday, November 7, 2025 at 7:30 AM.

For more information on both events, contact the Chamber at 845-791-4200. 

The Sullivan County Veteran’s Agency will hold a County Wide Veteran’s Day Service at the Government Center on November 11, 2025 at 10:30 AM. All are welcome. 

The Landfield Avenue Synagogue will once again honor Veterans at its Annual Veterans Shabbat on Saturday morning, November 8, 2025 at 9am followed by a delicious meat kiddush (meal) to celebrate those who serve and have served. All are welcome. There is no charge for this event.

The Peter H. Cahalan Scholarship Meatloaf Dinner will be held at Monticello Elks Lodge #1544 on Friday, November 7, 2025. The proceeds from this scholarship dinner fund a scholarship open to all Sullivan County High School graduates. 

Happy Birthday to Highland Supervisor John Pizzolato (11/4), Ralph Chaney, Jill Haber Cawley (11/5), Paula Victor Griffen, Alissa Greenberg, Rebecca Bass, (11/6), Bralyn Matican, Christopher Cellini (11/7), Naomi Weise (11/8), Anthony Marmo, Melissa Wright, Trina Davis-Fanning, Lorine Van Put-Buchholz (11/9), Michael Lanuti (11/10). 

Don’t forget to get out and vote today if you haven’t done so already. Remember to enjoy all the Sullivan County has to offer. And, as always, just in case I really don’t “Know It All,” please keep me in the know by emailing me at LoriJames.SCDemocrat@gmail.com .