As fall continues onward, many are preparing for the upcoming holidays. And, this week brings a holiday so important to us all. On the eleventh month, on the eleventh day, on the eleventh hour, since WWI we stop to recognize our Veterans - those still with us and many still serving. Multiple Veteran events took place this past weekend and are throughout Sullivan County on November 11.

We are the land of the free because of the brave. Take a moment on Veterans Day - say thank you to those who served so we can celebrate freedom. Please check with your local townships or the Sullivan County Veterans for events and times.

With Thanksgiving around the corner – you can help those in need. How about helping to distribute food? On Saturday, November 21, the Hudson Regional Food Bank will hold two distribution events. Sullivan Central Rotary Club is assisting securing volunteers for Monticello and Liberty locations. See a waitlist notification - sign up and join. Some volunteers may be unable to fulfill their commitment. Contact SCRC - SullivanCentralRotaryClub@gmail.com for further information. Stay tuned - I will continue to share how you can help.

The Sullivan County Historical Society is presenting two historical programs by society member Leslie Loeffel. The first, From Steeple to Stones: Tales of the Church and Cemetery at Kenoza Lake Methodist Church on Sunday, November 15, 2026 at 10:30am. From circuit-riding preachers to Civil War soldiers to "Grandma Deighton," learn about memorable local characters and the role of the church that anchored their community.

Then on Wednesday, November 18, at 3pm at the Jeffersonville Branch Western Sullivan Public Library, Loeffel will present "Kenoza Lake: A Social History." Discover what it was like to live in a wilderness, work in a tannery, and spend the summer in a boarding house. Step back in time and experience life in Kenoza Lake through the 19th century and into the 20th.

Live Music Returns to the Sullivan County Museum, Main Street, Hurleyville with Jaketown Road and Little Sparrow on Sunday, November 15, 2026 from 2 PM – 4 PM for an afternoon of great music, good company, and a celebration of the sounds that keep the spirit of Woodstock and classic rock alive.

Little Sparrow will host the afternoon and kick things off with an opening set. And in keeping with a favorite tradition, both bands will come together at the end of the show for a special, Grand Ole Opry-style musical finale! Since last April, Sullivan County's fastest-rising band, Jaketown Road, has played more than 40 gigs. Known for their high-spirited performances and passion for classic rock, this talented group is quickly making a name for itself across the region. Refreshments will be served, and visitors will also have an opportunity to explore the Museum. This free community performance is sponsored by the Frederick Cook Society. For more information, call 845-434-8044 or visit www.facebook.com/littlesparrowny/.

The Woodbourne Fire Department will hold its Holiday Craft Fair and Yard Sale at the Firehouse from 10 AM – 4 PM on Saturday, November 14, 2026. For more information – 845 798-8648.

Who doesn’t like a great Designer Bag Bingo? Then don’t miss the Catskill Animal Rescue event on Saturday, November 14, 2026 at the Liberty Elks Lodge #1545, 21 John Street, Liberty. Ten Games (4 cards per game), Doors open at 3 PM with calling beginning at 4 PM. Tricky Tray and 50/50. Entry is $45 in advance - $50 at the door. Food and drinks available. No outside food permitted. For more info, call 914 443-4333.

The Fifth Annual Chili Dinner at the Rock Hill Volunteer Ambulance Corps is on tap for Saturday, November 14, 2026 from 4 PM – 7 PM. Tickets are $8 with all proceeds to help fund training, education and life-saving equipment.

And, warm your belly with delicious homemade pancakes at the All You Can Eat Pancake Breakfast at the Claryville Fire Department on Sunday, November 15, 2026 from 8 AM – Noon. Enjoy Pancakes, French Toast, eggs any style, Hash Brown, Sausage, Man-n-Moon, Spud-eggo, OJ, Coffee/Tea. Tickets are $13 for Adults, $11 Sr. Citizens (65+), $5 Children Ages 5-11, Free under 5. Take out $13 each. Cash and checks only. For more information, 845 985-7270.

Happy Birthday to Michael Lanuti (11/10), Jane Sorensen (11/11), Bille Waterton, Ari Mir-Pontier (11/12), Jack Etter (11/13), Keith Edwards, Faith Abbott-Bowden (11/14), Mekayla Rayne, Chris Reina, Susie Parks Landis (11/15), Amelia Gleyzer (11/16).

To our Veterans – Thank you for your service! Enjoy your special day. To all – stay warm with the chill and possible snow. Yes – snow! 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.