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The Liberty Rotary Club has heard the cries of the Ukrainian people and are responding. We have already authorized donations to the Rotary Foundation, Federation of Jewish Communities in Ukraine, UNICEF, Ukrainian Congress Committee of America, LIberty Central School Class of 2026 Ukraine Relief Supply Fund and Ukraine Volunteering and Defense Center - Aid Convoy for Ukraine.
This is a crisis of epic proportions that many of us have not seen in our lifetimes. At this time, more than 3 million Ukrainians have fled their country.
We are asking you to join us in helping our brothers and sisters in Ukraine by donating to our Disaster Relief Fund.
Thank you to Cris Spinner for performing her "Concert for Peace and Healing". The music was beautifully performed and the audience found it very moving. The event was well attended and the day yielded over $3,000 in funds to provide humanitarian aid to those impacted by the war. All proceeds benefitted those affected by the crisis in Ukraine, via the Liberty NY Rotary Club's Disaster Preparedness and Relief Fund at the The Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan. Our fundraising efforts continue, as those impacted are dealing with oppressive hardships and medical issues. Please consider supporting the Liberty Rotary Club Disaster Relief Fund to help us "Stand With Ukraine".
CLICK HERE to donate
The Liberty NY Rotary Club held their seventh annual Hummingbird Award and Paul Harris Fellow Recognition Lunch last Sunday at the Arc Greater Hudson Valley Multi-Purpose Room in Monticello. All proceeds benefit the club's Haiti Clean Water Program.
The Hummingbird Award originated from a story club members heard on a trip to Haiti, and is given to individuals and organizations who are doing their part and the best they can to make their communities a better place.
This year's Hummingbird Award recipients were Garnet Health Medical Center - Catskills, Bill Bassett, Julian Dawson, Jannetta MacArthur, Marty Colavito, Gerald Skoda and Dan Hart.
The Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.
Rotary established the recognition in 1957 to encourage and show appreciation for substantial contributions to what was then the Foundation's only program, Rotary Foundation Fellowships for Advanced Study, the precursor to Ambassadorial Scholarships. Since it was founded more than 100 years ago, the Foundation has spent more than $4 billion on life-changing, sustainable projects.
Paul Harris Fellows recognized at Sunday's event were Joseph Abraham, Joanna Gass, Macklin Eugene, Danny Thalmann, Irving Kaplan, Les Kristt, Dan Parkhurst, Judy Siegel, Gary Silverman, Anthony Sinacore, Jack Strassman and Gary Siegel.
The non-profit, A Single Bite, provided the food for the event.
"We are grateful for the Arc of the Greater Hudson Valley for allowing us to use their wonderful space for our event," said Liberty Rotarian and Hummingbird Committee Chair Joseph Abraham. "We're also thankful for A Single Bite for catering a delicious meal. Our committee would also like to recognize the generosity of attendees and event sponsors for helping us raise crucial funds to help our friends in Haiti."
Over $3,500 was raised to support the Liberty NY Rotary Club's efforts in Haiti. Liberty Rotarians Gary Silver and Gary Siegel co-chair the Haiti Clean Water Program Committee.
"We are so grateful for the support that we have received at our Hummingbird & Paul Harris Fellow Recognition Lunches benefiting the Haiti Clean Water Program Sustainability Fund over the years and this year is no exception. All funds raised at the event will help to sustain our program beyond the term of the global grant so that the 1,000 families that have participated in the program in Cap Haitien will continue to benefit from having clean potable water well into the future, allowing them to lead healthier and more productive lives,” said Siegel.
The month of February of 2022 has featured some impressive speakers. Each of them is doing their part to improve lives and promote well being. Click the "Read More" button below to find out about our four outstanding presenters.
It has always been a priority of our club, and Rotary District 7210, to which we are a part of, to fight food insecurity in our communities.
Some of our club’s efforts, currently and/or in the past, include:
• Working with and supporting local partners that are feeding our neighbors. This has been achieved through over $2,000 in monetary donations, as well as volunteer efforts. An example of the latter is that our club recently agreed to take on a food delivery route for “A Single Bite” on Thursdays.
• Speaking of ‘A Single Bite,’ the non-profit partnered with us on this past November’s Dave Thomson Spirit, Beer and Wine Tasting Fundraiser, which in addition to benefiting our scholarship fund, raised substantial funds for them as well.
• Through Operation Feed 2.0, our club helped feed healthy meals to over 125 food insecure families in five communities during the pandemic. This effort has been sustained by ‘A Single Bite.’
• We’ve also hosted community dinners (the most recent of which took place last week on 2/16), and held coin drops and food drives benefitting local food pantries.
Our dear friend and fellow Rotarian, Theresa Panny, passed away unexpectedly on December 29, 2021. She joined the Liberty Rotary Club in February, 2016. Since her induction, Theresa has held the office of Sergeant of Arms and was currently a Director of the board.
In the 5 years of Theresa's membership, she was co-chair of the RYLA committee and a member of the Global Grant, Scholarship, Spaghetti Dinner, Spirit, Beer, and Wine, Food Drives, Polio, Youth Exchange, and Open World Committees. She also participated in Heartathon and St. Jude's fundraisers. Theresa often staffed registration tables selling admission, raffle, and 50/50 tickets.
Professionally, Theresa was a Special Education teacher at Sullivan County BOCES and President of the Sullivan County BOCES Teacher's Association.
Theresa's energy, humor, and passion for helping will be greatly missed. Her passing has left a void in our Liberty Rotary family.
Judy Siegel represented Liberty Rotary Club in accepting a $1,500.00 donation from New Hope Community. The money is to be used for local programs and needs. New Hope appreciates how much Liberty Rotary Club gives back to the community and determined we should be one of the groups they wished to support.
In a Facebook post from the organization, they stated "One of our pillars at #NewHopeCommunity is to be deeply involved in our community. We make it our mission year round to have a presence and support our neighbors."
From our club's perspective, this has certainly been the case. We thank New Hope Community for their generosity and the incredible contribution they make to our region and those they serve.
Real time disaster response...
When the help is most needed!
We have responded to a number of disasters in the past (Hurricane Harvey, Florence & Maria in Texas, North Carolina & Puerto Rico, respectively flash flooding in Tennessee, earthquakes in Haiti & Puerto Rico and more recently the hurricanes in Belize). We continue to monitor any new disasters that strike domestically and internationally such as the tornadoes in the midwest.
A team of Rotarians recently completed a mission to Belize as part of the ongoing Liberty NY Rotary Club (LNYRC) Disaster Preparedness and Relief efforts. According to Liberty Rotarian and head of Mission Control Operations, Charles Lee Miller, the goal of the 5-day mission was “to deepen our operational knowledge and partnerships in the Belize River Valley in order to inform and advance ongoing efforts to improve survivability and quality of life in the face of future disaster.”
Liberty Rotary donates to A Single Bite
LIBERTY – The Liberty NY Rotary Club (LRC) recently made a $7,050 donation to A Single Bite, from funds raised during their Dave Thomson Spirit, Beer and Wine Tasting fundraiser.
The event, held last month at Piccolo Paese, benefitted the non-profit, as well as the LRC’s scholarship fund, which last year alone, distributed over $6,000 to students continuing their academic careers at the collegiate level.
“Rotary can only accomplish its goals by establishing strong relationships with community partners,” said LRC President Gary Silverman. “There are few groups doing more in our area to assist those dealing with food insecurity than A Single Bite. The combination of Liberty Rotary Club members working with representatives from A Single Bite made for a great team. We are delighted the event turned out to be so successful. The efforts and contributions of so many, enabled us to fortify the Liberty Rotary Club Scholarship fund to promote education in our local schools. Additionally, we raised a substantial amount of money for A Single Bite, which continues to bring essential food to our neighbors.”
The Liberty Rotary Club held its annual blood drive on Saturday, December 11th. Numerous Rotary Club members and people from the community came to give a gift that really matters this holiday season. Thank you to all that donated. Blood supplies are very low, so if you were unable to make it to our blood drive and are able to do so, please plan to donate blood soon.
The Liberty Rotary Club held a dollar and coin drop to benefit St. Peter's Food Pantry in Liberty on November 20th. Thanks to the incredible generosity of a multitude of vehicles that passed our volunteers, we were able to collect over $1,250.00 to help feed those in need. Special thanks to all the volunteers that came out to collect funds on that chilly morning and to those that gave so many dollars and coins.
The Ninth Annual Dave Thomson Spirit, Beer and Wine Tasting to benefit scholarships and "A Single Bite" was a great time for great causes. The evening's atmosphere was joyous and the company superb. The food and drink was of the finest quality. Even more important, was that this event raised much needed funds to provide educational opportunities for students and provide meals for the food insecure. Thank you so very much to all the sponsors that supported this event. Special thanks to Foster Supply Hospitality for letting us use their beautiful venue, Piccolo Paese, and providing staffing and food for the event. Additional special thanks to Claudia Hoyser and her band, who shared their incredible talents to help us reach our goals.
If you would like to view some photos of the event, please do so at https://youtu.be/XjfnA-M0byE
To view the stream of the event, use the following link: https://www.twitch.tv/LibertyNYRotary
Some Liberty Rotary Club members were at the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce Pride Awards the evening of November 11th. We congratulate all of the award recipients, and are especially proud of two who are Liberty Rotarians, Matt Sush - "Young Emerging Leader Award" and Marie Smith - "Distinguished Service Award".
Barbi Neumann-Marty and Joe Abraham stopped by Liberty High School to hang out with fellow Liberty Rotarian and LHS Business Teacher Dan Hart and the Interact Club. Together, they sorted through donated plastic that will soon be turned into park benches.
We're very proud of the Liberty Interact Club. From this project to the Comfort Closet they established last year, these young folks are truly people of action!
Congratulations to Liberty Rotarian Irving Kaplan and Bart Rasnick who were recognized for their 50 years of service with the Fallsburg Fire Department on Sunday night. Fallsburg FD is celebrating their 100th anniversary.
We're proud of Irving for his dedication to the fire service and his commitment to keeping his community safe. Irving truly lives our motto of "Service Above Self"! Thank you Irving!
On Saturday, October 9, our club gave away approximately 525 coats (in adult and kid sizes) and winter accessories to local families in need. The majority of the coats, which were distributed at the Liberty Senior Center, were donated by the community, with each Jeff Bank location, Garnet Health Medical Center - Catskills, Achieve Rehab and Nursing Facility, St. Peter’s Church in Liberty, and the Liberty Interact Club (at Liberty HS) serving as drop locations.
Our club also used some of its own funds to clean coats, as well as purchase additional coats where there was a need (i.e. children’s sizes). Leftover coats were donated to the Liberty United Methodist Church, which will be holding their own drive in the near future.
Thanks to everyone who donated coats and winter accessories, our drop-off location partners, and the Town of Liberty Parks and Rec department for allowing us to use the space. You helped to make this year’s coat drive a smashing success!
Liberty Rotary Club raised nearly $2,500 in support of this year's Walk Against Alzheimer's. The bulk of our contributions were raised at a coin drop dedicated to this worthy cause. Although only a small number of members attended the walk, a great many Liberty Rotarians assisted in the raising of funds. The hope is that one day Alzheimer's will be no longer be so impactful on the lives of our population. Of the top ten fundraisers for the Orange and Sullivan annual walk, three of the groups were Rotary Clubs, which included Liberty, Walkill East(Top Fundraiser) and Monticello Rotary.
The Liberty Rotary Club was honored to be the recipient of the Sullivan County Partnership for Economic Development - Walter A. Rhulen Award. We had the pleasure of attending their annual meeting and dinner where the award was presented to us by Sims Foster. We are exceptionally appreciative for this grand recognition of the work we do. We'd also like to congratulate Delaware Engineering DPC's John Brust, who was the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award. Thank you to everyone who made this monumental recognition possible.
At 8:30am (GMT-4) on August 14th, a strong, shallow earthquake rocked southwestern Haiti. The 7.2 magnitude quake, which was 10km deep, toppled buildings and homes and damaged infrastructure and roads, cutting off access to some roads in the southwest such as National Road 7 (RN#7) connecting Les Cayes and Jeremie, and forcing many to flee their homes in fear that they may collapse. There have been many casualties and deaths reported in the areas in the southwest parts of Haiti. The Liberty Rotary Club Disaster Relief Committee has been in contact with many of our friends in Haiti who are providing intel and information about the immediate needs. District 7020 Past District Governor Robert Leger and member of the Rotary Club des Cayes will be helping us coordinate our relief efforts. Gustav Clivens who lives in Ile A Vache, an island 9 miles south
of Les Cayes that our mission teams have visited is currently in Les Cayes and providing intel and information for us to assess. In addition we have contacted Gift of Water as well as our friends in the Rotary Club des Cap Haitien to assist us in our relief efforts. On behalf of our fellow Rotarians and friends in Haiti, our Liberty NY Rotary Club Disaster Relief Committee is asking everyone to consider making a donation to support our relief efforts there. Our goal is to raise at least $10,000. Receiving the donations quickly will provide help to our friends in Haiti in real time.
All proceeds raised will go to the Liberty NY Rotary Club Disaster Relief Fund and will be used to provide relief as determined by our assessments of the situation on the ground in Haiti.
CLICK HERE to donate online with credit/debit card
DONATE ON VENMO – search @libertynyrotary and type “Disaster Relief” in the “What’s It For” section.
To donate by check or money order make payable to:
CFOS Liberty, New York, Rotary Club Foundation Fund
CFOS Liberty, New York, Rotary Club Foundation Fund
Send checks to:
CFOS Liberty, New York, Rotary Club Foundation Fund
Please write “Disaster Relief” in the memo
30 Scotts Corners Drive, Suite 203
Montgomery, NY 12549
CFOS Liberty, New York, Rotary Club Foundation Fund
Please write “Disaster Relief” in the memo
30 Scotts Corners Drive, Suite 203
Montgomery, NY 12549
Please contact Gary Siegel if you have questions or need more information.
Gary Siegel - Immediate Past President (LibertyNYRotaryClub@gmail.com)
"Service Above Self"
845 798-2188 (m)
845 295-9500 (w)
845 292-2552 (h)
Thanks to the efforts of many Rotarians and the generosity of those passing by, the "Coin and Dollar Drive" held on August 14th yielded one thousand six hundred and ninety dollars and 21 cents($1690.21). This event was dedicated to supporting Team Liberty Rotary in their efforts to fundraise for The Walk to End Alzheimer's. Thank you to all who gave their time to make this fundraising effort so successful. Special thanks to all the motorists who donated their coins and dollars to aid the fight against Alzheimer's.
Liberty Rotary Club will be participating in 3 upcoming events in support of very worthy causes.
Please plan to join Team Liberty or make a contribution to benefit the organizations we are assisting.
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Walk Against Alzheimer's |
Liberty Rotary Club is holding its annual cash prize raffle. However, you can't win that $500 first prize, $250 second prize or your choice of a magnificent hand painted hummingbird window third price if you don't purchase a ticket. Tickets are $5 each or 3 for $10. Contact any Liberty Rotarian or catch us when members will be selling tickets outside the Liberty Diner or Liberty Trading Post to make your donation to support Liberty Rotary Club's great work and get your chance to win.
Act soon, because the drawing will be held on September 22nd, 2021!
Liberty Rotary Club was pleased to be present at the Monticello Bagel Festival and RadioBold Music Festival on 8/8/21. While there, we had the opportunity to inform attendees about the important work we do and sell tickets to our raffle, which supports future projects and causes.
Great job by the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce and Bold Gold Media Group. We had a great time taking part in the day's festivities and interacting with members of our community.
Liberty Rotary Club participated in the Monticello Rotary / Resorts World Catskills 5K and 10K Monster Run and Walk on August 1st. The Liberty Club was proud to be a $500 sponsor of the event. Additionally, through the collective efforts of members and friends of our club, $935.00 was raised to support the Sullivan County Veteran's Coalition. Thank you to our host, Monticello Rotary Club, and to all those that contributed to our fundraising efforts. Shown below are some Liberty Rotary members that were able to be there on race day.
On Wednesday, July 14th, the Liberty NY Rotary Club hosted Katherine Meighan, Zulema Medina and Carla Musa from Belize. All of these three amazing women provided those in attendance with an introduction and the club was briefed on the progress of our disaster relief efforts in Belize. It was pointed out that after both Hurricane Eta and Iota struck Belize that the Belize Disaster Relief Team googled "disaster relief" and one of the first organizations that appeared in the search was Operation Endeavor where a number of our Rotarians including Charles Lee Miller, Shannon Barry, Gary Silver, Susan Kraycer and Gary Siegel are all on the Operation Endeavor Board of Directors. It was only natural that the Liberty Rotary Club would get involved. Katherine Meighan, who is a member of the Rotary Club of Belize, has been instrumental in helping to coordinate the disaster relief efforts in Belize and in her brief report she thanked our club along with all the other clubs, organizations and individuals who donated toward the program. A number of survival kits and much needed supplies such as dry bags, flashlights, etc have been provided to families affected by the hurricane. Katherine stated that they are very interested in Disaster Preparedness Training and being proactive so that they are more prepared for the next disaster. Aquaboxes have been received and are safely stored so that they can be distributed as needed if and when the next disaster strikes. In addition over 100 pairs of shoes, donated by local not for profit Sole Purpose, have been distributed to families affected by the storms. The Liberty Rotary Club in partnership with Operation Endeavor are hoping to schedule future missions to Belize to help with preparedness and to continue to strengthen our relationship with our friends in Belize.
Our club held its first hybrid meeting on July 7th at Hanofee Park. It was the first meeting with an in-person component that we’ve held since the start of the pandemic! Thanks to the collaborative efforts of many, we shared some food and laughs as well as getting to hear from this year's RYLA participants.
At our June 23 meeting, Liberty Rotary Club was please to induct two new members to our club. Special thanks to Jack Strassman and Judy Siegel for performing the induction ceremony and leading our Membership Committee.
Welcome Nicoletta LaMarca Sacco(Sponsored by Joseph Abraham) and Steve Fetner(Sponsored by Judy Siegel).
Congratulations to this year's Hummingbird Award Recipients
The Liberty High School Interact Club’s Comfort Closet, which will provide new personal hygiene items free of cost to district students who need it, will soon open its doors.
Items available include shampoo, conditioner, shaving cream, socks, mouthwash, toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, deodorant, hair gel, bar soap, feminine pads, hairbrushes, hair ties, lotion, tampons, body wash, face wash, Q-Tips, face masks, combs, flushable wipes, sanitizer, small-XXXL underwear, laundromat vouchers, laundry soap and dryer sheets.
Student in need of supplies will be able to fill out a request form.
Comfort Closet items were purchased from monies the club collected through donations, grants and fundraisers.
Club members, with the help of Liberty High School Business Teacher and Interact Club Advisor Dan Hart, has fully stocked the Comfort Closet, but could use help replenishing it. Donations of the aforementioned items would be greatly appreciated.
While managing the closet, the Liberty HS Interact Club is also embarking on another project. They are collecting recyclable plastic which they will send to the TREX, a company that creates eco-friendly outdoor products made from recycled plastic products. TREX will then turn that plastic into a bench which will be placed on school grounds.
So if you have recyclable plastic available contact the club.
For more information on the club’s Comfort Closet and recycling project, contact Dan Hart at dhart@libertyk12.org.
CLICK HERE for Entry Form
The Liberty Rotary Club is proud to present the “Hummingbirds Walk For Clean Water”. This event will raise funds for the Haiti Clean Water Program Sustainability Fund which will allow us to continue to provide water filtration systems and supplies that provide clean, potable water to 1,000 families in Haiti that would otherwise do without.
As part of the second round of the Rotary District 7210 Million Mask Challenge, our club, along with the Livingston Manor Rotary Club and the Rotary Club of Monticello, NY distributed over 3,100 masks to Sullivan County BOCES and local school districts.
Geneva May, a Community Health Worker Supervisor with the Maternal Infant Services Network was a guest speaker at our 4/14/21 meeting. She explained the function and importance of the Maternal Infant Community Health Collaborative(MICHC) which is a federally funded grant that funds health workers that helps women overcome negative health outcomes and disparities through collaborative care referrals in partnership with other area agencies.
The work of this organization is especially important because the following statistics were found for 2019-2020.
-About 24% of client births were low birth weight
-About 47% of client births were labeled pre-term
-Increased needs for immigration services
-Strong need for access to food, goods and transportation
-Anticipation of a high demand for housing in the near future.
Should you or someone you know be in need of maternal infant services, you can reach Ms. May at gmay@misn-ny.org or call 845-637-4424
We thank Ms. May for the important work she and her organization is doing to assure that mothers and babies have access to care and services in our county.
Operation Feed 3.0 came to a close on Thursday, 4/8/21 with a grand finale BBQ at 
Medical Center - Catskills. Thank you to all those working and volunteering at the local vaccination clinics. Also, thank you to everyone who donated and made this initiative possible!
Liberty Rotary Club was proud to present two awards at its 4/7/21 meeting.
A Paul Harris Fellow Plus 1 was presented to club member Anthony Sinacore. Anthony has been a vital member of our club and our community and we are delighted that he has supported the Rotary Foundation and so many of Rotary's projects. He is truly a man who serves his club and its goals. Congratulations Tony!
A Paul Harris Fellow was presented to local business owner Steven Gottlieb. Steve has been a tremendous asset to our community and a strong supporter of Liberty Rotary Club initiatives. His donation of time, sponsorship and allowing us to hold events in front of his Liberty Trading Post has been invaluable. Thank you Steve for your incredible assistance.
Anthony Sinacore-Paul Harris Plus 1 Steven Gottlieb-Paul Harris Fellow
Susan and Steven Anthony Sinacore President Siegel presents pin
Gottlieb
Operation Feed 3.0 has now raised over $6,750, which has facilitated serving the heath workers and volunteers at 35 Covid-19 Vaccine Clinics nearly 700 meals. We thank everyone working to assure our county can provide this essential health service to prevent the spread of Coronavirus. We additionally thank all our generous donors and Liberty Rotarian Bill Silver, who coordinated this effort. If you would like to donate to this community effort please Click Here.
Bill Culter, Recycling Coordinator for Sullivan County spoke at our 3/24/21 meeting. When it comes to the inside scoop on how our solid waste is handled and recycled, no one knows the system better than Bill. He began by letting our membership know all of the facilities available in our county that handle the mountain of disposed materials generated by our community. He then gave us a detailed explanation of how the recycling program in Sullivan County operates, including some helpful advice about the objects that can be recycled and those that are better thrown away.(Check out the Recycling Brochure for more details: https://cdn.filestackcontent.com/zSfOpw90RcWBdaKiCmc4) Our county has a extensive program for recycling of materials of many kinds. If you are not sure what to do with some discarded item, check with the transfer station or Bill to find out the proper action to take.One program that the county is working on is a system to compost our organic materials to generate quality soils. The area generates about 80,000 tons of waste each year for disposal. It is estimated that about 30% of that may be organically based and suitable for composting. Cutler tells us that by diverting and reclaiming just 4,000 tons (5%) of our organic waste will save $320,000 per year in disposal tip fees!
We thank Bill for his interesting and helpful presentation. To find out more about Sullivan County's solid waste management system, use the links and information in the rest of this article.
At the March 17th Liberty Rotary Club meeting, we were fortunate to have a number of guest speakers linked to the international projects to which our organization has given assistance.
Our first speaker was Katherine Meighan from the Rotary Club of Belize who spoke about the work in her area after the devastating impact of Hurricanes Eta and Iota and the incredible good the contributions raised by Liberty Rotary Club was doing in the region. Ms. Meighan told about the widespread impact the hurricanes had on Honduras, Guatamala and Belize. She stated that without the support of the Liberty Rotary Club, her club would not have been able to accomplish all it had. These accomplishments included determining what immediate relief was needed and the creation of 120 survival kits to aid those in desperate need of essential supplies.(The following photos are from Ms. Meighan's Presentation)
As the local residents struggled with water that had not yet receded, they distributed clothing to those that had lost their worldly belongings. They also distributed 144 AquaBoxes to assure that families would have safe and clean drinking water. The value of these boxes was approximately $9,000. 
They also were able to obtain shoes from an organization know as "Sole Purpose". The synergy of all the organizations that helped with Belize's recovery brought great relief to an area that was so extensively altered by the natural disasters. Ms. Meighan said the the assistance from Liberty Rotary Club and its connections for aid brought great surprise and elation! To donate to the Belize Disaster Relief Campaign go to: https://cfosny.org/our-funds/project-funds/liberty-new-york-rotary-club-foundation-fund/
Our next speakers were Roz Adamson from AquaBox and a member of the Rotary Club of Twickenham and Roger Cassidy a member of the Rotary Club of Haselmere . Roz explained how the AquaBox systems work and the great impact they were having around the world. Each filter box can be distributed to a community or family and will last indefinitely. Some of the units have now been in use for 6-7 years and still provide clean, potable water. They identified that the only part of the system that sometimes fails are some O-rings, so extras are now included to assure their units keep serving those in need. As long as the systems are back-flushed daily, their simple design keeps performing.
Natural disasters, such as earthquakes, flooding, drought, typhoons or hurricanes happen all too often. They can occur in any location in the world, causing widespread disruption, loss of life, food and water shortages. Similarly, man-made conflicts result not only in severe damage to infrastructure but also in large numbers of people being displaced from their homes with very limited access to shelter and essential living items. Aquabox responds by sending its AquaFilters and humanitarian aid, working closely with selected aid agencies and distribution partners who ensure that the aid reaches those most in need. (Photos from Roz Abramson's Presentation)
To donate to Aquabox go to https://www.aquabox.org/donate-online.html
We thank our guest speakers so very much for sharing the amazing work they are doing to aid those struggling with incredibly difficult situations. Liberty Rotary Club is proud to do its part to support these efforts.
Liberty Rotary Club was very pleased to receive a $1,000 prize from Jeff Bank as a result of our efforts at this year's Garnet Health WSUL Heart-A-Thon. For each $500 our club raised, we earned a chance at winning this prize. Thanks to the impressive fundraising efforts of so many and the generosity of our members and community, we had many chances.
LRC helped to raise $16,193 in pledges and $8,497 in hearts for a total of $24,790. If you add the $4,585 from the Monticello & LM Rotary Clubs, the Grand Total raised with the help of the local rotary clubs in 2021 was $29,375. This year’s Heart-A-Thon raised just over $95,000.
Our club has been a proud of supporter of the Heart-A-Thon for many years, and we thank Bold Gold Media and the Heart-A-Thon Committee for their dedication to the event, which raises thousands of dollars annually for Garnet Health Medical Center- Catskills.
We were delighted to have Michael Herriman update our club on the status of The Haiti Water Program, that is providing devices to create clean, potable water for thousands of Haitians. Herriman reports that the project, which distributed 1,000 water filtration systems to families in Cap Hatien, Haiti is going well and that there is a consistent supply of filter parts and purification tablets. They look forward to a training session for the technicians that work with the filter system recipients and assure they are being used properly and consistently. Herriman believes that these training sessions keep the technicians motivated, focused and well educated, so that the program is sustained. Mr. Herriman stated that it's "all good news" and that Liberty Rotary Club's efforts in the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere are doing a great deal of good.
A full pallet of 144 Aquabox's Filter Family Units are being shipped to the Rotary Club of Belize for their Disaster Relief Team to distribute to families in the neighboring villages that have been affected by Hurricanes Eta & Iota to provide them with clean potable water.
The three ladies in the photo are part of the Aquabox volunteer Workforce in the UK where the shipment is allocated on a groupage service sailing from London Gateway UK to Belize. The filtration systems are being funded by the donations made to the Liberty NY Rotary Club's Belize Disaster Relief Campaign.
It's only fitting that March is Water and Sanitation Month as declared by Rotary international. The shipment is due to arrive in Belize on or about March 9. Stay tuned for more updates.
To donate to the Belize Disaster Relief Campaign go to: https://libertynyrotary.org/Stories/liberty-rotary-seeking-help-for-hurricane-eta-iota-victims?fbclid=IwAR139sVGWHFn0djAoUAhOcO1oRqC3Dhlw8SjApJfbDHPJNMSM1nPMW9i038
Numerous Liberty Rotarians spent part of their day on February, 27th collecting donations for "A Single Bite". Thanks to the tremendous generosity of our community, we were able to collect nearly $1,000 in just 5 hours. This will equate to providing a substantial number of meals to those dealing with food insecurity at this difficult time. Thank you to all our donors and volunteers.
HURRICANE RELIEF IN CENTRAL AMERICACLICK HERE TO DONATE NOW!
CLICK HERE for Belize Basics and FAQ's
CLICK HERE for Central America Region Disaster Relief Video
CLICK HERE for Belize Basics and FAQ's
CLICK HERE for Central America Region Disaster Relief Video
There is an immediate need for supplies to get to families affected by Hurricanes Eta and Iota in Belize, Guatemala and Honduras. Representatives from the Liberty NY Rotary Club, Operation Endeavor, the Belize Sunrise Rotary Club and The Belize Rotary Club met on zoom recently as a result of being contacted by the Executive Director of the Belize Emergency Response Team requesting disaster relief assistance. We have been able to identify needs as described by those with boots 
on the ground in Belize. Those needs include DONATIONS to purchase food, hygiene and domestic supplies for hurricane-stricken families as wells as to provide disaster preparedness and basic first aid training necessary to educate stakeholders and build resilience for future disasters.
on the ground in Belize. Those needs include DONATIONS to purchase food, hygiene and domestic supplies for hurricane-stricken families as wells as to provide disaster preparedness and basic first aid training necessary to educate stakeholders and build resilience for future disasters.CLICK HERE for Video showing Belize Rotarians delivering food and supply packages to families affected by floods caused by Hurricane Eta and Iota in Central Belize.
Liberty Rotary Club has always been a strong supporter of the WSUL Heart-a-thon to benefit the Garnet Health Sullivan County Cardiac Wing. Thanks to a multifaceted fundraising effort, the Rotary Clubs of Sullivan County played a big role in helping this year's event raise $93,446. Thanks to all the organizations and businesses in our wonderful community that showed that "The Beat Goes On" when it comes to assuring quality cardiac care in our region.
Our energetic and creative club member Joanna Gass came up with a great way to raise funds for this worthy cause and let our members have a little fun. Check out the Liberty Rotary Club Virtual "Parade of Hearts".
CLICK ON THE ROTARY HEART TO MAKE A DONATION
If you missed the show:
"FROM THE HEART"
CLICK HERE for the to watch. Start at 47:10 to skip the lead-ins.
featuring Joanna Gass and Friends!-
CLICK HERE to Donate!
CLICK HERE for the to watch. Start at 47:10 to skip the lead-ins.
featuring Joanna Gass and Friends!-
CLICK HERE to Donate!
Thank you Joanna and guests for sharing your amazing talents and supporting this worthy cause!
We wish to thank Piccolo Paese for their incredible generosity and support of "From the Heart" virtual dinner theater and The WSUL Heart-A-Thon, both of which benefit cardiac care at Garnet Sullivan County. For those who missed out on the delectable offerings, it was your loss, as the food was superb . Foster Supply Hospitality is donating every dollar they raised from their "Hearty Meal" promotions to the Heart-A-Thon. They truly exemplify "Service Above Self"!
OPERATION FEED 3.0 is an initiative of the Liberty NY Rotary Club, to provide meals to Garnet Health Regional Hospital – Catskills (GHMC-Catskills) and Sullivan County Public Health Staffs working extra shifts to staff Covid-19 immunization clinics, and renew our support for our local restaurants in this endlessly difficult time for them.
Donations are needed to Fund Opeartion Feed 3.0. Because our volunteers donate all of their time and efforts, one hundred percent of all contributions support the purchase of meals for the essential workers at the Covid-19 Vaccination Clinics.
To Order A Shirt Click On The T-Shirt Image Above
The guest speaker at our January 20, 2021 meeting was Melinda Wegener, who has been working with her husband Gary to combat the Covid-19 pandemic by sewing masks. Their efforts have been targeted towards serving the underserved areas of our country, particularly the homeless, migrant workers and Native Americans.
Through their joint efforts, they have produced over 8,000 masks since they began. That amounts to about 700 yards of fabric and miles of thread. In an effort to keep costs down and keep up their production rates, they located wholesale distributors and raised money through fundraising. Additional funds have been raised with the assistance of Morgan Outdoors, which is selling some of the masks to support the initiative.
This past summer they joined forces with a group called Auntie Sewing Squad which provides them with the connections to reach those that need the masks and assists in shipping costs. (Auntiesewingsquad.com)
Liberty Rotary Club thanks Melinda for her inspiring presentation and their Herculean efforts to reduce the spread of this pandemic. As Melinda stated, “Their health is our health. We’re never going to get through this pandemic if we don’t take care of everyone”.
Liberty NY Rotary Club President Gary Siegel traveled to Dutchess Stadium in Wappingers Falls for the Million Mask Challenge Tour Pickup. A total of 175,000 masks were delivered for the clubs in Rotary District 7210, 12,000 of which will be distributed in Sullivan County by the Liberty, Livingston Manor and Monticello clubs. They also picked up 1,500 youth masks plus 420 KN95’s.
Rotary Club of Monticello, NY’s Jacob Lerner, one of coordinators of the project for the district, was also present to assist and pick up masks. Siegel delivered Livingston Manor's portion of the masks to President Diane Babich. Masks will be distributed to a number of Sullivan County businesses and organizations designated by the Rotary Club of Monticello NY and Liberty NY Rotary Club.
This includes not-for-profit organizations who are providing meals to food insecure families, small businesses, fire, EMS and police departments, schools, youth programs, and more.
Dr. Robert Dufour - Supt. of Sullivan County B.O.C.E.S gave our club an update on a number issues associated with Sullivan County schools.
Dufour noted that many schools in the area have deemed it necessary to close one or more buildings, for varying lengths of time, due to staff members or students testing positive for Covid-19. He explained that teachers are presenting "creative and engaging lessons" via remote teaching tools or through a hybrid of in-person and virtual instruction. Despite every school's best effort to keep moving our students forward, there is concern that these methods may not be working well enough, and that pupils may be falling behind.
Dufour also discussed the effort to provide Covid-19 vaccinations to the educational staff of our county. Although local supply of the vaccine is currently unavailable, much effort has been put forth to collect data to evaluate how many doses will be needed, and how to schedule the more than 2,400 education workers that are eligible to receive those shots. This should allow for greater efficiency when further vaccine supplies arrive. Approximately 25% of those that qualify have currently not shown interest in getting the vaccine, and there are efforts being made to determine why that number is so high and also to educate those qualified to receive the injections.
On the B.O.C.E.S campus, educational and vocational programs are progressing, but with less hands-on and laboratory time than prior to the pandemic. Much time has been invested to provide focus, not just on student academics, but also to social-emotional wellness.
Dr. Dufour thanked the Liberty Rotary Club for all that we do to assist the youth and families of our county. As he stated: "Somewhere out there, is a child smiling because of something Liberty Rotary Club did."
We thank Dr. Dufour for his time and valuable insight, as well as all he does for the children of our county.
2020 - Making Lemonade Out Of Lemons! The Liberty NY Rotary Club raised over $118,000 for important local, regional and international causes most of which was done during the Covid-19 Pandemic. Thanks to all who have supported these initiatives Here's to a happy, healthy and productive 2021.
CLICK HERE to download the 2020 Year In Review and Toasts to 2021!
CLICK HERE to download the 2020 Year In Review and Toasts to 2021!
Tickets are on sale from any Liberty Rotary Club Member or reserve your ticket by emailing libertynyrotaryclub@gmail.com with the number of tickets you would like.
Donation of $50/ticket can be paid through VENMO. Search @libertynyrotary & write “Winter Raffle” in "what's it for" box
or send your donation of $50/ticket to:
Liberty NY Rotary Club Winter Raffle
PO Box 493
Liberty, NY 12754
Please include return address.
We will send your raffle ticket stub(s) when donation is received
THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!
Liberty NY Rotary Club members participated in the Sullivan 180 "Walkthrough Wednesday 500 Challenge" at Bethel Woods’ "Peace, Love & Lights" benefiting the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless. The challenge was, if 500 walkers participated in the mile long walk through the impressive lighting displays, then a donation of $500 would be given to the Federation. The 500th walker participated just before we arrived, meaning that the goal had been attained. At a previous board meeting, Liberty Rotary Club had set aside matching funds of an additional $500 for when Sullivan 180 reached its goal.
When we arrived, we were greeted by Sullivan 180 representatives including Amanda Galigher Langseder, Linday Wheat and others. It was a calm and warm evening(by late December standards) to stroll through the impressive display of lights and get in some extra steps toward good health. During these unique times, it was wonderful to experience the glow of the season with fellow Rotarians while the well dispersed crowd of multiple generations enjoyed the spirit of the holidays.
Click the "Read More" button to see photos taken by Gary Siegel of some of the unique presentations in light. However, to really appreciate the experience, it should be seen up close and in full motion.
The spirit of giving was strong at the December 19th Liberty Rotary Club Food Drive that benefited the Liberty Interfaith Food Pantry. Through the combined efforts of numerous Rotarians and an exceptional number of generous community members, the food drive yielded so much food that 4 vehicles were used to transport it to the food pantry. Even more impressive, was the fact that patrons of the Liberty Market and Liberty Trading Post, as well as some early donors, dropped over $1,400 in cash and coin into our collection buckets. To that total, Steve Gottlieb and The Liberty Trading Post contributed $300 to the cause. That led to a total of $1,767 collected from this one-day event! Additionally, the Liberty Rotary Club issued a check for $500 to support The Interfaith Food Pantry, bringing the total contribution to $2,267 to allow the pantry to sustain our neighbors that struggle with food insecurity at these difficult times. All that food and money will do a lot of good.
Special thanks to Randy Resnick and Liberty Market for gathering food leading up to this event and allowing us to collect groceries and money at their store. Additional special thanks to Steve Gottlieb and The Liberty Trading Post for their contribution and allowing us to collect in front of their store. Also, thank you to those that worked in rather chilly conditions throughout the day to make this event happen. A day which started with a temperature of 4 degrees and never rose above freezing did not stop the following from doing good for our community: Dan Berkowicz, Paul Ciliberto, Pat Fetner, Steve Fetner, Mr. Terry Grafmuller, Mrs. Terry Grafmuller, Irving Kaplan, Sue Kraycer, Jannetta MacArthur, Barbi Neumann Marty, Laura Sandoval, Jaime Schmeiser, Gary Siegel, Bill Silver, Gary Silverman and Tony Sinacore. This event once again proves how generous our community can be and the incredible concern we show to those that live in our area.
The Liberty NY Rotary Club was honored to be presented with the New York State Senate 2020 Empire State Award for outstanding community service by Senator Jen Metzger. The award was presented to the club in recognition of outstanding contributions and dedication to the growth, prosperity and betterment of our community. Senator Metzger pointed out the outstanding word that the club has done in the community including the contributions to the 98.3 WSUL Heartathon, support of the local Boys and Girls Club, and initiating and coordinating Operation Feed supporting our essential workers, local restaurants and food insecure families. The award was accepted by Past President Bill Silver and President CD with support from fellow rotarians Joanna Gass, Sue Kraycer, Barbi Neumann Marty and Fay Cerullo. 
Brand new stuffed animals everywhere... especially for families in Liberty, NY.Thank you Michael Luongo - Liberty High School Class of 1994 - for your generous donation of 100’s of stuffed animals from Athletes Unite Us.
Liberty NY Rotary Club member and Program Director, you are a great connector. Rotarian, LHS Business Teacher and Interact Advisor, 
Dan Hart, it was fun spending the day picking up and delivering the stuffed animals. These goodies will put smiles on many faces when distributed for the holidays at the LHS Comfort Closet, The B&G Club Giving Tree distribution, Garnet Health and other community organizations.
Thank You to All Our Blood Donors!
Liberty Rotary Club, with support from the Monticello & Livingston Manor Rotary Clubs, held a successful blood drive on December 12, 2020. The drive yielded the following results:
Whole Blood: 29 donations
Double Red: 12 donations from 6 donors
Total Collections: 41 donations
Every donation has the potential to help up to 3 patients, therefore our drive has the potential to save up to 123 local area patients!
Our most sincere thanks goes out to the Liberty Elks Lodge #1545 for providing their facility for this important life-saving event. We truly could not have held this event without you. Also, great thanks to the professionals at The New York Blood Center for creating such a smoothly executed event, and for treating our donors with such professionalism and kindness. Extraordinary thanks to all the donors that gave of themselves(literally) to help restock New York's exceptionally low blood supply.
The Liberty NY Rotary Club is conducting an exciting fundraiser supporting the "END POLIO NOW" Polio Plus Program. Let's all pitch in to eradicate Polio worldwide. Purchase your TAKE OUT POLIO "I Saved 200" or "I Saved 600" Polio Plus Pins TODAY!
Liberty Rotary Club’s own Jaime Schmeiser was one of the women selected to be featured in this year’s Sullivan County Democrat publication “Honoring Professional Women and Women in Business” for her work as President of the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce.
As Jaime states in the Democrat’s article, she is “humbled and honored to have the opportunity to advance the mission of the Chamber and assist, support, promote and advocate on behalf of Sullivan County’s business community.” She further explains “I love making a difference in my community and working for a Chamber of Commerce gives me the ability to assist so many different organizations and businesses.”
In addition to her duties as President of the Sullivan County Chamber, Jaime works extensively to support and promote the efforts of the Liberty Rotary Club. Her dedication to our club’s mission and its efforts locally and globally has been exceptional. Jaime has proven to be a great Rotarian. Beyond her work directly connected to Rotary, Jaime has played an active role in Habitat for Humanity, Main Street USA, Economic Partnership, Head Start and Suicide Prevention. She has also served on county committees for Workforce Development, Physical Accessibility, the census and Sneak Peek Sullivan.
We are pleased and proud to call Jaime a member of our club and appreciative of all the good work she does through the chamber and our Rotary club.
Since 1986 the SYDA Foundation has sponsored this annual award to recognize and honor local citizens for outstanding community service. The selection committee, comprised of past award recipients and local civic leaders, chose Silver to receive this year’s award in recognition of his many years of service to the community of Sullivan County. Gary's’s primary service focus is leading projects to support the basic requirements of those in need, including addressing food insecurity; participating on humanitarian missions to provide clean-water filtration systems; and supporting organizations that coordinate and deliver emergency local and global disaster relief.
We had the pleasure of hearing from the engaging and well spoken Officers of the Liberty High School Interact Club at our weekly meeting. Even in these difficult times of Covid-19, their club continues to make a positive impact and are getting projects done. Their report included updates on the High School Comfort Closet, The Thanksgiving Food Drive Coin Drop to provide food for the needy, and an effort to provide Chromebook and Ipod Insurance for local students that can not afford to do so on their own. The group, advised by Dan Hart, exemplifies how even as teens, huge positive impact can be brought to a community through "service above self". Thank you Liberty High School Interact Club!
On November 12, 2020, Operation Feed was presented the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce's 2020 Distinguished Service Pride Award. Operation Feed was an initiative that was unprecedented with a number of civic organizations, restaurants, healthcare providers, restaurants, not for profits, elected officials and community residents all partnering to work toward the common goal of supporting those effected by the Covid 19- pandemic. The 8th Annual Dave Thomson Spirit, Beer and Wine Tasting
Thank you to all our sponsors, performers and helpers that helped to make this event possible.
If you missed the original stream, you can still watch it at
Click on this picture to access the video. You will need to start at about 45 minutes to bypass the lead ins.
Coats, Coats Everywhere and especially at The Downtown Barn in Liberty where on Saturday, October 17th, over 500 new and gently used donated coats were collected and given away free to over 150 happy community friends and neighbors. The Coat Drive was an initiative of the District 7210 Community Service Committee of which Liberty Rotary's own Judy Siegel is the District Chairperson. A number of the 55 clubs in the District held similar events making an impact on all of the communities in the district and showing the positive presence of rotary districtwide. 
Saturday, November 7, 2020
6:00 PM
Join us on Saturday, November 7th at 6 PM for the 8th Annual Dave Thomson Spirit, Beer and Wine Tasting Virtual Fundraiser. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the concern for everyone’s safety, this year’s event will be a streamed virtual event.
Liberty Rotary Club participated in this year's Walk to End Alzheimer's. Due to Covid, there was no single collaborative walk for the county, but a number of team members gathered to walk on the Hurleyville Rail Trail on October 11th. to walk for this cause. Our Team raised over $600 thus far to assist in providing support and care for the individuals and families struggling with Alzheimer's.
The Liberty Rotary Club welcomes our newest member, Paul Ciliberto as we inducted him at our meeting on 9/23. District Governor Tony Marmo was our guest speaker and did the honor of inducting Paul as well as delivering an inspirational talk about "Growing Rotary" as part of his official visit to the club. Paul is a Senior Advisor at Bold Gold Media Group, hosting the Ciliberto & Friends morning show. 
THEY WERE IN IT TO WIN IT!!!!!
Annual Liberty Rotary Club Summer Raffle Winners
1ST PRIZE - Doug Seibert - $500.00
2ND PRIZE - Jean Olesen - $250.00
3RD PRIZE - Jen Shampine -$100.00
2ND PRIZE - Jean Olesen - $250.00
3RD PRIZE - Jen Shampine -$100.00
Thanks to all who participated as all proceeds will benefit Liberty Rotary Club's local, regional and international programs.
We are "People of Action"!
The guest sp
eaker at our September 16th meeting was Kellyann Kostyal-Lerner, who is the Executive Director of Hudson Valley “Fearless!”(Formerly SafeHomes). Their organization is dedicated to assisting the survivors and victims of domestic abuse and partner violence. They also are combating teen dating violence and human trafficking in our area.
eaker at our September 16th meeting was Kellyann Kostyal-Lerner, who is the Executive Director of Hudson Valley “Fearless!”(Formerly SafeHomes). Their organization is dedicated to assisting the survivors and victims of domestic abuse and partner violence. They also are combating teen dating violence and human trafficking in our area.Kiwanis International teams up with Kiwanis Vision Partner Landscape Structures to give one Kiwanis club $25,000 of playground equipment. The Legacy of Play Contest celebrates the belief that investing in communities through legacy signature projects is important to the success of a Kiwanis club. With its emphasis on inclusive play, Landscape Structures helps Kiwanis achieve our goal of bringing play to all children.
Kiwanis of Woodridge, NY Foundation, Inc. has submitted an entry hoping to win the money to include handicap accessible playground equipment at Morningside Park. It is our goal to allow children of all abilities to play and interact together while having fun.
We need your help! Votes will determine a winner. If you would like to help us achieve our goal, and to vote on our submission, please go to the following link:
https://play.kiwanis.org/contestants/kiwanis-of-woodridge-ny/
The Voting period is: September 14 through September 27, 2020. The Winner will be announced: October 7, 2020. The Kiwanis of Woodridge appreciates, and thanks you for, your vote!
Kiwanis of Woodridge, NY Foundation, Inc. has submitted an entry hoping to win the money to include handicap accessible playground equipment at Morningside Park. It is our goal to allow children of all abilities to play and interact together while having fun.
We need your help! Votes will determine a winner. If you would like to help us achieve our goal, and to vote on our submission, please go to the following link:
https://play.kiwanis.org/contestants/kiwanis-of-woodridge-ny/
The Voting period is: September 14 through September 27, 2020. The Winner will be announced: October 7, 2020. The Kiwanis of Woodridge appreciates, and thanks you for, your vote!
Dawn Ryder-President of the Board of Directors of Literacy Volunteers of Sullivan County shared an update of how Covid-19 has impacted their program and the efforts they are making to assure their mission continues through these challenging times.
When the pandemic began, all classes went virtual and the book store had to be closed. Only recently has in person education resumed. In spite of all the challenges, 4 of their students recently became United States citizens and 2 have completed their high school education and received diplomas. The bookstore reopened in June, and although sales are bit slower than usual, it continues to serve our community.
Due to a substantial loss of funding from the state and county, the organization is facing a potential fifty thousand dollar shortfall this year. As such, we encourage everyone to take advantage of their bookstore, so that Literacy Volunteers can earn much needed funds.
Liberty Rotary Club made a $500 donation to Literacy Volunteers. We encourage everyone to like their page on Facebook and to please shop at the bookstore in Monticello.
https://www.literacysullivan.org/
Liberty Rotary Club was proud to recognize three advanced "Paul Harris Fellows" at our meeting on September 2nd, 2020. Past District Governor Cindie Kish attended the virtual ceremony and spoke about the Rotary Foundation and Paul Harris Fellow recognition. Those who were advanced to the next level of Paul Harris Fellow were Dr. William Silver(Paul Harris Fellow +1), Gary Silver(Paul Harris Fellow +1) and Susan Kraycer(Paul Harris Fellow +3). We are so pleased and fortunate to have these three outstanding members as part of our club, and so greatly appreciate their tireless and continued efforts to make our world a better place. Thank you for continuing to place "Service Above Self"!
(Click the "Read More" button to find out about our newly advanced "Paul Harris Fellows" and their accomplishments.)
Kim Simons and Tracy Quisenberry of "Icing Smiles" were our guest speakers at the August 26th meeting. This organization is dedicated to creating amazing thematic cakes for children suffering from severe or terminal illnesses. The group started in 2010 and has now grown to 12,000 volunteers who have created over 21,000 cakes. Their estimate is that the group now creates about 3,000 cakes a year. They spoke at our meeting to potentially allow Liberty Rotary Club bring the program to our community. The video link below gives insight into the incredible impact their efforts are making. We thank Kim and Tracy for sharing their story with us and giving us the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of children that need a source of joy.
On October 18, 2020 our community will make efforts to raise funds to fight against a crippling and prevalent disease through the annual "Walk to End Alzheimer's". Kellee Thelman attended last night's 8/12 meeting to offer the Liberty Rotary Club insight into the extensive impact Alzheimer's has on our elderly population and to encourage us to start a team to participate in the Sullivan County Alzheimer's Walk. The Sullivan 180 committee seemed to think that this event was a natural fit for our group, which would combine a healthy and engaging activity with our efforts to assist those in need.
The Alzheimer's Association Hudson Valley Chapter serves seven counties in New York, including Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester. They have four offices in Poughkeepsie, Purchase, New City and Middletown. Their organization provides information and support for self care, those afflicted with the disease and the caregivers of the many area seniors struggling with Alzheimers.
We thank Kellee for her time and bringing our attention to this terrible affliction. Liberty Rotary Club will be assembling a team and raising funds to help the fight against Alzheimers. If you would like to be part of the team or make a contribution, please contact members Barbara Blakey, Saraid Gonzalez or Gary Silverman.
Click the "Read More" button for United States statistics about Alzheimers
Liberty Rotary Club was proud to recognize three new "Paul Harris Fellows" at our meeting on August 5th, 2020. District Governor Tony Marmo attended the virtual ceremony and spoke about the Rotary Foundation and Paul Harris Fellow recognition. The three new "Fellows" are Barbara Carr, Charlie Mangini and Anthony Sinacore. We wish sincere congratulations to these worthy recipients, and thank them for their contributions to Rotary and their community.
(Click the "Read More" button to find out about our newest "Paul Harris Fellows" and their accomplishments.)
Jerry and Rosemary from Skoda Farms have joined forces with Operation Feed Phase 2 with the initiative of providing bushels of fresh locally grown vegetables to introduce and educate families about the health and nutrition benefits of eating locally grown produce. The Skoda’s have a desire to provide their healthy veggies to the children in their community, especially the ones that need it the most. Many of the families who will benefit from the harvest at Skoda Farms typically pass the produce section of the supermarket, as fresh produce costs more than those in cans.
Pictures below show a visit of Operation Feed representatives to the farm and some of the beautiful produce donated by the Skodas.
Saraid Gonzalez Saraid Gonzalez is a lifelong resident of Liberty, New York, with deep roots in the community. She is married and has three children and a grandson. Saraid graduated from Liberty High School in 1987. She received an AS in Legal Secretarial Science from SCCC. She will be completing her BS in Business Administration in the Fall of 2020 and will continue her education to receive a Masters in Public Administration from SUNY Empire State College. Saraid has over 20 years of experience in event planning and hospitality. She currently serves as the Program Director at Sullivan 180 where she manages special projects, programs and initiatives and assists in planning, implementing and evaluating a range of health initiatives influencing multicultural communities. Saraid is bilingual and fluent in Spanish. She was recently appointed as the County’s Census Coordinator where she coordinates the outreach and marketing campaign for the 2020 Census. Saraid serves on numerous boards and committees which include: SC Federation for the Homeless, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Sullivan County, SALT (Sullivan Allies Leading Together), SC Women of Color Health Coalition, to name a few. She is a Leadership Sullivan Alumni of 2015. Saraid’s hobbies are closet organizing and interior design. Saraid joined the Liberty Rotary Club to render service to those in need. Saraid said, “Rotary inspires me to contribute to good humanitarian causes. The Liberty Rotary Club is a great platform for service and fellowship”..
Terrence (Mr. Terry) Grafmuller: Born and raised in Livingston Manor(2 houses up street from Gary Siegel) and had 2 brothers. He graduated HS in 1972 and joined the Air Force in January 1973. Terry is a Vietnam Era veteran. He married in 1974, which gave him his son David in 1979. After the military, he worked at IBM in Poughkeepsie in management and Industrial Engineering positions. IBM downsized in 1993, so after a wonderful 15 year career, he moved back to Sullivan County and met "the real love of my life", and married Terry Hamilton in 1996. He started working at SullivanArc in 1996 managing the sheltered work shop. He then received his AAS in business administration late in life from SCCC. He and his wife quickly became involved in local charities and the arts. Terry graduated Leadership Sullivan in 2010 and has been the Board secretary ever since. Terry and I have jumped through a hole in the ice every February for the past 5 years to raise Funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s. His son and daughter-in-law are both PT’s for school systems in Dutchess and Putnam Counties and have given them two wonderful grand children. Luke is 11 and Mia is 10. Terry’s mother. Be a. is 90 years old and still lives in the house in which he grew up in in Livingston Manor.
Theresa (Mrs. Terry) Grafmuller: I was born in Rockland County with my two brothers and two sisters. While still in elementary school we moved to Sullivan county where I attended Fallsburg School graduating in 1982. After high school and some college I took a position at SullivanArc as administrative assistant to the clinic Director. After a few years moved to Norwich where my daughter Kristina was born in 1990. Upon moving back to Sullivan County I took a job with the Irwin Siegel Agency. Attended Orange County Community College & received my New York State Brokers license. I have been with ISA heading on 30 years. In 1994 I met the love of my life, Terry Grafmuller, and in 1996 became Mrs Terry Grafmuller. I was very lucky to become Mom to a son as well who has given us an amazing daughter in law, Sandi, and two beautiful grandchildren. While working for a non-profit & writing insurance for social & human service agencies I became enlightened to the struggles they face & importance of fundraising. Due to personal experience with dreaded Alzheimer’s disease my husband & I have been SubZero Hero’s jumping through a hole in the ice for Alzheimer’s for the past 5 years. While listening to Thunder Country & their promotions of the many wonderful organizations in our community & my husbands involvement in Leadership Sullivan we have enjoyed becoming more involved in our community by supporting the Heart a thon, St Judes, B&G Club, FB Playhouse and in doing so getting to know Rotary & it’s involvement as well.
Our daughter Kristina is a graduate of SUNY New Paltz with a teaching degree and has also obtained her MBA in Business & Accounting. She currently works at Schmidt’s Wholesale and is a member of this years Leadership Sullivan class.
Jamie Schmeiser: I am Jaime Schmeiser, the CEO/President of the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. I’m incredibly humbled and honored to have the opportunity to advance the mission of the Chamber to assist, support, promote and advocate on behalf of Sullivan County’s business community. I have been in this position since October 1, 2018. I came home to New York, a county and a community that I love after garnering 24 years of administration, leadership and rural community economic development in Wyoming. Prior to coming home, I was the Executive Director for Mountain Spirit Habitat for Humanity, and before that the President and CEO of the Powell Valley Chamber of Commerce and Powell Main Street. I have worn many hats from CEO to Board Member in a rural chamber of commerce, economic development partnership, main street organization and non- profits concerned with affordable housing issues and poverty alleviation. I also have played an active role in community partnership development, grant writing and volunteer management with such organizations as Habitat for Humanity, Main Street USA, Powell Economic Partnership, Rotary International, Head Start and Suicide Prevention. These many roles allowed me to create successful programs, to assist in the development and expansion of business-client relationships, building and strengthening coalitions, and, working with community stake holders.
I am currently serving on several county committees in relation to my work at the Chamber which include Physical Accessibility Subcommittee, Complete Count 2020 Census Committee, Economic Development Committee and Sneak Peek Sullivan. I also serve on U.S. Congressman’s Antonio Delgado’s Small Business Advocacy Committee.
I love to volunteer and serve others. The Liberty Chapter of Rotary International was a perfect fit for me because they do just that, both in our local community and communities in Puerto Rico and Haiti. The Liberty Rotary Club makes it easy. Each person in the club is supportive and deeply passionate about their work – “we get stuff done.”
I have a bachelor’s degree in social science from the University of Wyoming, an associate’s degree from Northwest College in History and several vocational school certificates in grant writing, residential mortgage lending, banking, bookkeeping, notary public, and real estate sales. I am a recent graduate of the Hudson Valley Patterns for Progress Fellows Program and will soon be a graduate of the Leadership Sullivan Program.
I am a single mom of four beautiful children (not all who live with me) and live in Liberty, NY.
Health and Wellness of our members and community is very important. Here are some excellent opportunities for our membership and friends to participate in. All three events are important causes that have depended upon these annual races to provide essential funds. Contact Barbara Blakey, Gary Lee or Saraid Gonzalez for information about the Liberty Rotary Club 180 Team and events.
Sullivan 180's Coach to 5K,
August 30-September 5, 2020 - Sullivan 180's Coach to 5K is a virtual training program open to all Sullivan County residents. Sullivan 180's Coach to 5K program provides all participants with their very own coach and an 8-week 5K training plan for both runners and walkers. All are welcome to participate, whether you are a beginner, veteran runner or a family that would like to walk their first 5K together - this event is for you. This is a great time to get Sullivan County moving again! After the training period ends, you will have a full week (August 30 through September 5) to complete your 5K and share your achievements on social media. One hundred percent of the funds raised, both registration fees and additional donations, will go to *Sullivan Allies Leading Together (SALT) to feed Sullivan County families in need. Every $6 raised funds the purchase of a meal for a Sullivan County resident in need, so please consider making an additional donation, if you can.
Sullivan 180's Coach to 5K,
August 30-September 5, 2020 - Sullivan 180's Coach to 5K is a virtual training program open to all Sullivan County residents. Sullivan 180's Coach to 5K program provides all participants with their very own coach and an 8-week 5K training plan for both runners and walkers. All are welcome to participate, whether you are a beginner, veteran runner or a family that would like to walk their first 5K together - this event is for you. This is a great time to get Sullivan County moving again! After the training period ends, you will have a full week (August 30 through September 5) to complete your 5K and share your achievements on social media. One hundred percent of the funds raised, both registration fees and additional donations, will go to *Sullivan Allies Leading Together (SALT) to feed Sullivan County families in need. Every $6 raised funds the purchase of a meal for a Sullivan County resident in need, so please consider making an additional donation, if you can.
It is recommended that you register for the free race and then join Team “Liberty Rotary Club”. After doing so, choose the “Donate Now” button and make whatever donation you choose to Team “Liberty Rotary Club” You can donate it in the name of a specific team member or to the team in general to help support SALT. If you would like this virtual event to become more of a real-time event, we suggest doing your 5k on the O & W Rail Trail starting in Hurleyville, heading toward Liberty for 1.55 miles and then return to the parking lot. It is a flat and beautiful walk with few people. Make sure you have your mask with you for safety when encountering other people enjoying the trail.
CLICK HERE for more information and to register.
CLICK HERE for more information and to register.
Allyson Whitney Virtual 5K 2020
Saturday, August 8 – August 29, 2020 - This RUN/Walk for LOVE 5k is for all affected by cancer. Let your love shine for yourself or a loved one! The Allyson Whitney Foundation primarily provides young adult cancer patients with ‘Life Interrupted Grants™' to ease their financial burden. they can concentrate their energy on healing.
Saturday, August 8 – August 29, 2020 - This RUN/Walk for LOVE 5k is for all affected by cancer. Let your love shine for yourself or a loved one! The Allyson Whitney Foundation primarily provides young adult cancer patients with ‘Life Interrupted Grants™' to ease their financial burden. they can concentrate their energy on healing.
CLICK HERE for more information and to register.
There are many fitness trackers out there. Two phone apps that you might want to try to track your distance and progress are "Runkeeper" and "Mapmyrun"
Congratulations to Jonathan Charles Fox who became a Paul Harris Fellow on July 8th, 2020 at a special on-line ceremony in his honor.
Below is a brief bio about Jonathan. His contribution to our region is truly admirable and he is so deserving of this honor.
Jonathan Charles Fox lives in Sullivan County, where he spends his time snapping photographs and writing about the world of Arts & Leisure for the award-winning River Reporter newspaper. His weekly column- “In My Humble Opinion” is a favorite for readers online and in print and his followers also tune in weekly to hear about his adventures with his trusty companion, Dharma the Wonder Dog, on Thunder 102 radio.
For many years, Jonathan worked as a professional actor on stage and screen and his storied career eventually led him to the Catskills, which he now calls home. Fox’s work has appeared in Green Door Magazine, Our Country Home, The Jewish Journal, Music Row Magazine, The Milford Journal and Upper Delaware Magazine, to name just a few. When he is not writing about and photographing stars like Tony Bennett, James Taylor, Brad Paisley or Lady Gaga, Jonathan can be seen following his bliss and taking photographs of the flora and fauna that make up the beautiful landscapes of the Upper Delaware River region.
Jonathan has a strong commitment to his community and Sullivan County and is always willing to assure that local events get the recognition they deserve. He gives of his time and talent to bring focus to all that is great about our area. Jonathan exemplifies the Rotary motto of "Service Above Self".
OPERATION FEED PHASE 2 is a partnership of the Liberty NY Rotary Club, Rotary Club of Monticello NY, Town of Fallsburg Lions Club, Tri-Valley Lions Club, Livingston Manor Rotary Club, Boys and Girls Club of Sullivan County, Liberty, Monticello, Fallsburg, Livingston Manor & Tri-Valley School Districts, The Community Foundation of Orange & Sullivan and non-profit A Single Bite.
A Single Bite and Foster Supply Hospitality are supporting hungry families in every school district in Sullivan County, New York. A Single Bite collaborates with school administrators, community leaders, and dedicated volunteers to reach deep into Sullivan County to help those experiencing severe hardship. Healthy, prepared meals are delivered to every school district to low-income families, those adversely affected by the pandemic and still more who do not have the means to reliably access healthy food.
Twice a week with Operation Feed Phase 2 volunteers are delivering food to 660 people including more than 390 children who are experiencing food insecurity or at serious risk for real hunger. Qualified personnel from each school district and staff from the Boys and Girls Club identify families in need of assistance. At a cost of $5 per meal, we are committed to continuing to feed our neighbors at least through the summer of 2020.
Since mid-May, Operation Feed has distributed over 9000 meals to 127 families. “Existing poverty and hunger has only been intensified by this unprecedented Covid-19 Pandemic and we are proud to participate with so many great local organizations to help provide the families in need with nutritious meals twice a week,” says Phase 2 coordinator Gary Silver. “A Single Bite produces the healthy meals and our organizations and volunteers distribute them.”
More donations are needed to continue this effort. Because Foster Supply Hospitality contributes all associated labor and overhead costs, and Operation Feed volunteers donate all of their time and efforts, one hundred percent of all contributions support the purchase of food and packaging for family meals.
To donate by credit or debit card, Click on the DONATE NOW button above.
To donate by check or money order make payable to:
CFOS Liberty, New York, Rotary Club Foundation Fund
CFOS Liberty, New York, Rotary Club Foundation Fund
Send checks to:
CFOS Liberty, New York, Rotary Club Foundation Fund
Please write “OPERATION FEED” in the memo
30 Scotts Corners Drive, Suite 203
Montgomery, NY 12549
Please write “OPERATION FEED” in the memo
30 Scotts Corners Drive, Suite 203
Montgomery, NY 12549
For more information contact:
Gary Silver – Operation Feed - Coordinator
Email: gsilver@blslaw.net
Email: gsilver@blslaw.net
The Liberty, New York, Rotary Club Foundation Fund is dedicated to providing assistance to those areas effected by catastrophic natural disasters. Often times partnering with other civil service organizations, the members of this Rotary Club put service above self and lend a helping hand to those in need.
OPERATION FEED PHASE II is a joint effort by the Liberty NY Rotary Club, Rotary Club of Monticello NY, Fallsburg NY Lions Club and A Single Bite to provide dinners to up to 90 families with children in the Liberty, Monticello and Fallsburg areas who cannot provide for themselves. Many of these families were already food insecure, and the COVID 19 pandemic and its devastating effect on society and our economy have magnified these problems. The first delivery of food is scheduled for Friday, May 22, 2020 and, thereafter, we intend to deliver meals 2-3 times per week. Each delivery will provide enough food for 2 days, with the Friday delivery providing enough food to last a family for the weekend.
Phase I of Operation Feed provided meals to hundreds of healthcare and other essential workers at various institutions and businesses throughout Sullivan County, to say “thank you” for their heroic service to all of us. And while doing this, we purchased meals from 28 local restaurants, thereby supporting our local economy. It was enormously successful because of the incredible generosity and support from the public. Phase II of Operation Feed – feeding families in need in conjunction with A Single Bite (which purchases its food in Sullivan County) – is the next logical step. We ask for your support in feeding our friends and neighbors who cannot feed themselves.
To donate by credit or debit card, Click on the Operation Feed graphic below.
To donate by check or money order make payable to:
CFOS Liberty, New York, Rotary Club Foundation Fund
CFOS Liberty, New York, Rotary Club Foundation Fund
Send checks to:
CFOS Liberty, New York, Rotary Club Foundation Fund
Please write “OPERATION FEED” in the memo
30 Scotts Corners Drive, Suite 203
Montgomery, NY 12549
Please write “OPERATION FEED” in the memo
30 Scotts Corners Drive, Suite 203
Montgomery, NY 12549
For more information contact:
The Liberty, New York, Rotary Club Foundation Fund is dedicated to providing assistance to those areas affected by catastrophic natural disasters. Often times partnering with other civil service organizations, the members of this Rotary Club put service above self and lend a helping hand to those in need.
If you would like to make a donation to help support this effort, please do so at the link below:
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Service Above Self/WGSD!
Liberty, NY 12754
United States of America