Please Paws for a Cause
Liberty Rotary is proud to present the 3rd Annual St. Pawtrick's Day
A four-legged fiesta to benefit Catskill Animal Rescue (CARe)
Please consider becoming a sponsor of this event!
For more information email: LibertyNYRotary12754@gmail.com
We wish everyone out there a happy and healthy New Year!
2025 was a great success for Liberty Rotary Club. We made a tremendous number of donations supporting scholarships, fighting food insecurity, assisting in disaster relief, promoting youth programs, assisting funding educational programs, advancing better health and so much more.
We thank everyone that helped us in doing all that we do to make the world a better place. Without the support of our community, other Rotary clubs and Rotary International, we could not exist.
If you would like to see some photos of our club events, please enjoy our video slideshow of the 2025 Liberty Rotary Club Year in Review. It doesn't show all we do, but it does show off some of the thousands of photos we have to help us remember an incredibly productive year. So, if you have 11.5 minutes to spare, we recommend a warming beverage and taking a look at our members and friends enjoying camaraderie and service this past year.
To view the video please use this link: Liberty Rotary Club - 2025 Year in Review
It’s a busy time of year, and sometimes seniors may feel forgotten or left out. Fortunately, thanks to many kind and generous people, Liberty Rotary Club was able to help fund and assist in a program that ensures our elderly community members are remembered. These photos show the delivery of gifts to individuals served by the Office for the Aging and Achieve Senior Home. Thank you to everyone who helped with the funding, purchasing, packing, and distribution of these gifts. We hope they helped brighten the lives of the recipients this holiday season.
On December 13, the Liberty Rotary Club held our annual Winter Coin Drop. Although temperatures were a bit chilly, spirits were bright at this successful fundraiser. Our community is always so warm and generous. The support of everyone who stopped to drop dollars and coins into our buckets truly adds up and helps our club support many great programs and initiatives in our area and around the world. Thank you to all the members who came out to work the event, and to everyone who was so kind and supportive throughout the day.
Liberty Rotary Club had a wonderful time celebrating together at Star Bar during our annual holiday party. The atmosphere was festive, the company was great, and there was no shortage of laughter and good cheer throughout the evening. Thank you to everyone who attended and participated in making the event such a success. A special thank-you goes to the incredible staff at Star Bar for their warm hospitality and excellent service. Best of all, all profits from the event will go toward supporting Polio Plus / End Polio Now, a major project of Rotary International, helping us move closer to a world free of polio.
Each year, the Liberty Rotary Club hosts impactful events and supports a wide range of programs and charities. This important work is only possible because of the generosity of our community.
On this Giving Tuesday, we invite you to help us continue making a difference. Please consider a donation to the Liberty Rotary Local Needs Fund. Every contribution, large or small, directly supports numerous worthy causes in our area.
To make a donation, visit 𝐂𝐅𝐎𝐒𝐍𝐘.𝐨𝐫𝐠 and select the 𝐋𝐢𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐭𝐲𝐑𝐨𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐍𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐝. (Click here to donate.)
Thank you for helping us help others.
When the idea of acquiring a Book Vending Machine was first introduced to the Liberty Rotary Club, it was quickly recognized as a valuable investment. However, obtaining such a device would require thoughtful fundraising. A District 7210 Grant was written and approved, covering about one-third of the cost. To secure the remaining funds, a pancake breakfast fundraiser was planned.
On November 16th, the breakfast was held. It proved to be a tremendous success. For four hours, pancakes, eggs, sausage patties, and breakfast burritos were served at the Liberty Fire Department to a steady and enthusiastic crowd. The food was prepared and served by an impressive team of Liberty Middle School students, Liberty Interact members, staff from Liberty Schools, and Liberty Rotarians.
Guests enjoyed delicious food, exceptional service, and the chance to participate in a vibrant community event. Entertainment was provided by Liberty School musicians, whose performances added a wonderful ambiance to the morning.
We extend our extensive gratitude to everyone who made this event possible: the planners and cooks, our generous event sponsors, the Liberty Fire Department, and all who attended. We are delighted to share that the fundraiser generated enough money to cover the remaining cost of the Book Vending Machine, as well as reading materials to keep it well stocked.
Overall, it was an extraordinary event that brought the school and community together to create new opportunities for students to read. This was a true win for all involved.
The Rise and Shine Pancake Breakfast Committee would like to extend our most sincere appreciation to all of our generous sponsors for making this special event possible. Your support and contributions have not only helped bring our community together for a morning of fun, food, and fellowship, but they have also made a lasting impact on our students. Thanks to your generosity, Liberty Central Schools will be able to purchase a “book vending machine,” an exciting new addition designed to inspire and reward a lifelong love of reading among our students. Your commitment to education and community enrichment truly helps empower the next generation of readers and learners, and for that, we are deeply grateful.
More than 8,000 people in Orange and Sullivan Counties are currently living with dementia. In recognition of the profound impact this disease has on individuals, families, and communities, the Liberty Rotary Club was proud to support this year’s Orange and Sullivan Walk to End Alzheimer’s.
The walk is dedicated not only to those afflicted with this devastating illness, but also to everyone whose lives have been touched by it, an illness that steals not only health and relationships, but precious memories.
Held on October 25th, the event was a moving tribute featuring speakers who have been personally affected by Alzheimer’s, as well as advocates leading the fight for a cure.
As has become a powerful tradition, participants carried pinwheel flowers, each color representing a different connection to the cause:
- Blue Flower – I have Alzheimer’s
- Purple Flower – I have lost someone to Alzheimer’s
- Yellow Flower – I am supporting or caring for someone with Alzheimer’s
- Orange Flower – I support the cause and vision of a world without Alzheimer’s
- White Flower – Symbolizing the day when a cure is found
These flowers were proudly raised during the walk and then planted together in a Garden of Hope, serving as a poignant reminder of the collective determination to end this disease.
The Liberty Rotary Club is honored to stand with all those affected and remains committed to supporting the quest for a future free from Alzheimer’s and dementia. This year’s event raised over $161,000 thus far, a new record. Funds are used for education, assisting families and research that we hope will lead to the day when this walk is no longer needed.
Rotarians Celebrate at the 2025 Boys and Girls Club “Grown Here” Dinner
A large number of Rotarians were in attendance at the 2025 Boys and Girls Club Grown Here Dinner on October 15th. This wonderful fundraiser provided a special opportunity to celebrate all the amazing work the Boys and Girls Club does to support our youth.
Congratulations to Ellen Quimby and our own Gary and Judy Siegel on being inducted into the Maureen & Steve Plain Hall of Fame. Their dedication to our young people is truly inspiring. Through CD Trips and The STEAM Fund, Gary and Judy Siegel have created countless opportunities for local students to explore, learn, and grow beyond the classroom. Their innovative programs have taken children on educational adventures that combine fun with learning, whether it’s an expansion of their culinary horizons, attending cultural performances, or visiting major events, their thoughtful planning opens doors for our youth to experiences that they will never forget. We are so very proud of Judy and Gary for all the good they bring to this world.
The Liberty Rotary Club is proud to support the Town of Wallkill Boys and Girls Club and wishes them many more years of exceptional service to the youth of Orange and Sullivan Counties.
73 Years of Service Above Self!
Seventy-three years ago today, the Liberty Rotary Club was officially chartered. Since that day, countless Rotarians have dedicated their time, talents, and hearts to making our community, our nation, and our world a better place.
Whether working here at home or lending a helping hand to communities in need around the globe, our members have remained steadfast in living by the Rotary Four-Way Test:
Is it the truth?
Is it fair to all concerned?
Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
These guiding principles continue to serve as our compass, ensuring that everything we do reflects our motto of “Service Above Self.”
We extend our deepest gratitude to every Rotarian who has contributed to our mission and to all the friends and supporters who have made this incredible journey possible. Here’s to 73 years of service, with many more to come!
As autumn rolls in, members of the Liberty Rotary Club and Sullivan Central Rotary Club enjoyed a beautiful day participating in SALT’s (Sullivan Allies Leading Together) Unity Day. The event featured live music, local health organizations, and an amazing variety of food and games.
It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with neighbors, celebrate community spirit, and strengthen the bonds that make Sullivan County such a great place to live.
A big thank you to SALT for organizing a fantastic day of fellowship, fun, and unity!
Congratulations to all who helped host and execute this year’s Dylan Dainack 5K Walk and Run in downtown Liberty! Not only did the event raise important funds for Hope Not Handcuffs, it also fostered a strong sense of community spirit around an important cause..
The event continues to shine a light on the pain of drug addiction, while working to break the stigma surrounding it. Even better, the weather was perfect for both the competitive runners and those who joined in the walk for the cause or promoting better health.
The Liberty Rotary Club was proud to provide post-race snacks, and staff the mid-event water station. We extend our sincere appreciation to the organizers for their hard work, and we thank them for their ongoing commitment to honoring the memory of Dylan Dainack while promoting compassion and support for those struggling with addiction.
On Wednesday, 9/10/25, our club was honored to welcome District 7210 leaders, Beau O'Loendorf, District Governor, and Carrie Hernandez, District Governor-Elect.
Beau shared an inspiring analogy, comparing Rotary Clubs to rock bands. “When we all play together, we make harmony,” he said. He went on to explain that, like a band, we do our best work when we feel included, inspired, and part of something bigger, with the community as our audience. His words deeply resonated with our members and reminded us of the power of unity and purpose in service.
Carrie spoke with enthusiasm about membership, emphasizing the importance of helping every new Rotarian feel like part of the team. She also highlighted the many opportunities and incentives for clubs to grow, create new extensions of Rotary, and invite others to join our mission of improving the world. Additionally, she noted that our district’s strong Rotary Foundation giving has generated $40,000 in district grants, funding projects that are making a real difference across our region.
We extend our appreciation to both Beau and Carrie for visiting us and delivering such motivating and poignant messages. Their encouragement will surely inspire us to build on our good work and continue serving our community with renewed energy and harmony.
One of the guiding principles of Rotary’s “Four Way Test” asks: Will it be beneficial to all concerned? Inspired by that ideal, the Liberty Rotary Club - Sullivan 180 Committee has been actively organizing wellness events to support the health of Liberty Rotarians and their loved ones.
This past Sunday, several Rotarians laced up their sneakers for a walk along the scenic Parksville O & W Rail Trail, embracing fitness while enjoying each other’s company. Then, on September 2nd, another group gathered for the first of five yoga sessions, made possible through a generous grant from Sullivan 180.
We extend our thanks to Sullivan 180 and yoga instructor Justine Sutherland for empowering us and our community to move, breathe, and obtain better health together.
Three times each year, the Liberty Rotary Club takes to the road with our Dollar and Coin Drops. These are simple fundraisers that make a big difference. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, yesterday’s collection totaled over $1,000 in just four hours.
Every bill, every coin, every handful of change adds up, and together, it fuels the initiatives and charities we support.
Thanks to the many Liberty Rotarians that came out to extend our buckets to our generous community members. Further thank you to everyone who stopped by and contributed. Your small acts of kindness create a huge impact on our region and beyond.
If you want to have a truly great party, just invite the amazing neighbors you’ll meet here in Sullivan County! That’s exactly what the Liberty Rotary Club did at this year’s Dance to Benefit Special Olympics.
Residents from The Arc of Sullivan County and New Hope joined Liberty Rotarians to dance the night away to fantastic tunes provided by M & M Productions - featuring D.J. Mazz. The atmosphere was jubilant as young and old alike reveled in this wonderful community celebration.
Guests enjoyed burgers and hot dogs served up by a smiling staff, while a portion of the event’s proceeds will go toward supporting the Special Olympics.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the Loch Sheldrake Fire Department for the use of their pavilion, which kept spirits high despite the weather. Additional thanks to the incredible staff members at The Arc and New Hope for their ongoing dedication and care for our neighbors.
The Liberty Rotary Club was delighted to host this uplifting event and looks forward to many more joyful gatherings in the future.
It’s always inspiring to connect with fellow Rotary Clubs and hear about the incredible work they are doing. On August 13, 2025, we had the pleasure of doing just that at the Liberty Rotary hosted Region 5 meeting.
Representatives from Liberty, Livingston Manor, Middletown, Minisink Valley, Monticello, Port Jervis, Wallkill East, and Sullivan Central Rotary Clubs joined us for an evening filled with food, great friends, and true Rotary camaraderie. Event better, the weather was ideal and we held the event at our beautiful lakeside meeting place at Hanofee Park.
A tremendous thank-you to everyone who worked so hard to organize the event, prepare the meal, and serve our guests. Being a Rotarian gives us the opportunity to Unite for Good, creating positive change in our communities and around the world.
On August 5th, the Liberty Police Department partnered with local organizations to participate in National Night Out 2025, a block party celebrating community spirit. The evening featured games, vendors, music, food, raffles, and a tremendous sense of local pride. Residents of all ages came out to enjoy a perfect Liberty/Catskill summer night.
The Liberty Rotary Club was proud to contribute to the festivities by hosting some of the games and serving freshly popped popcorn to complement the free movie shown later in the evening. A tremendous thank-you goes out to all the Rotarians who volunteered, as well as to the many community partners who helped make this special night possible for our neighbors.
Congratulations to the Monticello Rotary Club on another fantastic year of the Monster Classic 5K and 10K Walk/Run! This year’s event featured perfect weather for tackling the challenging terrain of this outstanding race.
Team Liberty Rotary Club was delighted to participate in this amazing community event supporting both the Monticello Rotary Club and the Sullivan County Veteran’s Coalition. Several of our team members brought home awards in their individual categories, and together we raised over $2,000 in donations while also proudly serving as a $500 event sponsor.
Overall, it was an outstanding day to celebrate community spirit and support the vital work of the Monticello Rotary Club and our veterans.
On Saturday, July 26th, members of the Liberty Rotary Club volunteered at The Federation for the Homeless to help organize their second floor and remove items that were no longer useful. By bringing in shelving and storage containers and rearranging existing boxes, we were able to sort through a large number of items and create a more accessible organizational system.
We were fortunate to be joined by young volunteers from Camp Iroquois Springs, whose energy and teamwork were a big help. By the end of the day, we had cleared out outdated materials and technology, freeing up valuable space and making it easier for the Federation to access the items they need to serve the community.
We are hopeful that these efforts will help the Federation continue their vital work supporting individuals and families in need. Thanks so much for all that came out to assist in this worthwhile endeavor!
Graduation season brings a sense of excitement and new beginnings. The Liberty Rotary Club is proud to award over $11,000 in scholarships and honorariums to a remarkable group of graduating students. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all recipients and wish them continued success as they embark on their next chapter.
Thank you to our scholarship committee for their judicious decision making. A special thank you to our generous sponsors. Your support makes these opportunities possible.
2024-2025 | 2025-2026 | |
President | Bill Silver | Alyssa Thalmann |
President | Gary Silverman | - |
Executive Secretary | Gary Siegel | Gary Siegel |
Treasurer | Matthew Sush | TBD |
Secretary | Bethany Foxworth | Bethany Foxworth |
Seargent at Arms | Barbi Neumann-Marty | Barbi Neumann-Marty |
Director | Gary Silver | Elsie Kopcha |
Director | Rebecca Skoda | Megan Gavin |
Director | Jack Strassman | Rebecca Skoda |
Director | Megan Gavin | - |
President Elect | Alyssa Thalmann | Mr. Terry Grafmuller |
Immediate Past President | - | Bill Silver |
Immediate Past President | - | Gary Silverman |
- Mr. Terry Grafmuller
- Mrs. Terry Grafmuller
- Joanna Gass
- Jaime Schmeiser
- Jannetta MacArthur
- Jorge Delgado
- Fay Cerullo
- Gary Lee Silverman
- Sue Kraycer Draudt
- Jack Strassman
- Irving Kaplan
- Gary Siegel
Please join us and/or consider making a donation to the Michael J. Fox Foundation’s Parkinson’s Unity Walk - Team Liberty Rotary Club.
With delicious food from A Single Bite and refreshing drinks crafted by Bridge and Tunnel Brewery, the afternoon was made even more memorable.
All proceeds from the event went to benefit two incredible causes: the 98.3 WSUL Heart-A-Thon and Thunder 102’s Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon. The performance was presented in honor of Arthur Gass Jr., who was taken from this world far too soon.
A tremendous thank you to everyone who attended, donated, and supported the event—and an especially big thanks to the performers, who generously shared their amazing talents to support these meaningful causes.
The Liberty Rotary Club hosted a heartwarming and festive St. Pawtrick's Day Party to benefit Catskill Animal Rescue(CARe), drawing an enthusiastic crowd of animal lovers and supporters. The event was extremely well attended, with guests embracing the lively atmosphere filled with camaraderie, good cheer, and a shared passion for helping animals in need. The true stars of the day were our four-legged guests, who charmed attendees with their adorable and endearing qualities.
This year’s event proved to be an overwhelming success, raising significantly more funds than the previous year to support CARe’s mission. Our generous sponsors and attendees gave from the heart and we sincerely thank you all. The Liberty Rotary Club is proud to have sponsored this event to support CARe, as they continue to provide a clean, safe and healthy atmosphere for pets looking for their forever homes.
Thank you to all the volunteers who made this event possible and to Bridge and Tunnel Brewery for providing the venue for such an important event.
The Liberty NY Rotary Club has launched a fundraising campaign to support victims of the devastating wildfires currently ravaging Los Angeles, California. In collaboration with local Rotary Clubs in the affected areas, our Club is working to assess the urgent needs of those impacted by this disaster and provide immediate relief.
Disaster relief has been a cornerstone of the Liberty NY Rotary Club's mission for many years. From New York to Texas, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, Belize, and Haiti, our Club has mobilized resources, partnered with other Rotary Clubs, and worked alongside community organizations, businesses, and individuals to support those in crisis. Through these efforts, we have built a strong network of response teams with organizations such as VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters), FEMA, Operation Endeavor, and the PC-12 Tango Whiskey Squadron.
From January 26th to February 1st, 2025, the Liberty NY Rotary Club (LNYRC) Disaster Preparedness and Relief Team made a significant impact on disaster readiness in Puerto Rico, a region that has historically faced devastating hurricanes and earthquakes. The team, consisting of Irving Kaplan, Dan Parkhurst, Gary Siegel, and Gary Silver, traveled to the island with the mission to enhance resilience and preparedness in the face of future natural disasters.
The team’s efforts included participation in the three-day Puerto Rico VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) Conference, where they connected with key organizations such as FEMA and VOAD. These vital meetings focused on fostering collaboration, cooperation, coordination, and communication, which are essential for improving disaster preparedness across Puerto Rico.
“Puerto Rico's challenges are immense, particularly with a fragile power grid that often leaves communities vulnerable during and after disasters. Our team is committed to making sure the island’s Rotary clubs and communities are better equipped to respond and recover when the next disaster strikes,” said Irving Kaplan, Member of the LNYRC Disaster Preparedness Team.
In collaboration with Rotary District 7000 leadership, the Liberty Rotary team developed a comprehensive Disaster Preparedness Plan, which lays the groundwork for strengthening local disaster response efforts. The team identified and met with six pilot Rotary clubs across Puerto Rico, located in San Juan, Mayagüez, Yauco, Manatí, Guayama, and Quebradillas. These clubs were selected as the first to implement disaster preparedness strategies, with a goal to spark broader engagement from their members and local stakeholders.
“The response from the pilot clubs was incredibly positive. Some clubs were already in the process of forming their disaster preparedness committees, while others have made tremendous strides by reaching out to community stakeholders to establish priorities and goals for the next six months,” said Dan Parkhurst, a member of the team. “Our goal is to ensure that Rotary clubs across the island are ready—not if, but when—disaster strikes.”
The Liberty NY Rotary team’s visit was met with overwhelming gratitude, and the work of the team was formally recognized. During their trip, each of the LNYRC team members were presented with a Certificate of Appreciation by Rotary District 7000 Governor, Marco Bilen-Thillet, in acknowledgment of their invaluable service and collaboration with local Rotary clubs in Puerto Rico.
“The efforts of the Liberty Rotary team have not only helped prepare Puerto Rico for future challenges but also provided a spark of hope and urgency for ongoing community involvement in disaster preparedness,” said D7000 Governor Belen-Thillet. “This partnership will go a long way in ensuring the island's resilience for years to come.”
As the Liberty NY Rotary Club Disaster Preparedness and Relief Team continues to work alongside Puerto Rico’s Rotary District 7000, the lasting impact of their mission will strengthen the island’s ability to survive, recover, and rebuild after disasters.
Thanks to all who donated for a chance to win!
Liberty Rotary Club Scholarship Fund
Thanks for your continued support of our
Local, Regional, National and International
Rotary Programs!
The Liberty Rotary Club held our 55th Annual Spaghetti Supper on October 29th at the Liberty High School Cafeteria. Our team worked seamlessly to ensure our many guests enjoyed a delicious meal in a warm and welcoming setting.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us to share a meal and support this cherished tradition. Particular appreciation goes to the food services staff at Liberty High School who prepared a delicious meal and allowed us to assist in serving our guests. A special thank you to the Liberty High School Interact Club for their invaluable assistance during the event, and to the cast of this year’s musical, Cinderella, who brought a delightful touch of royalty and fun to the evening.
Proceeds from the supper will be evenly shared between Liberty High School Interact and Liberty Rotary Club, helping to fund a variety of programs and initiatives that serve our community.
The Thalmann family hosted a fantastic event on Sunday, 10/14, with "Stepping Easy with Ellen," a lively line dancing party benefiting The Daniel Thalmann Scholarship Fund. It was a joyful day filled with fun for everyone who attended this event held at Bridge and Tunnel Brewery. The food was plentiful and delicious, the craft beers were a hit, and the atmosphere was full of celebration. It was heartwarming to see so many gather in honor of Danny Thalmann’s legacy of service. His daughters, family, and friends did an outstanding job organizing the experience dedicated to ensuring educational opportunities for young people.
The Liberty Rotary Club was honored to be one of the sponsors of the event and contribute some of the food. Many of our members attended to show their support for this meaningful cause.
Liberty Rotary Club gave from the heart and partnered with other Sullivan County Rotary Clubs to gather pints for our August 3rd blood drive. A special promotion gave a certificate to all donors for a free pint of beer at Resorts World Catskills. Saving lives and free beer, it doesn't get much better than that. Thanks to everyone that came out to donate. Special thanks to Resorts World Catskills for allowing us to hold the event on their property and for sponsoring the "Pint for a Pint" promotion.
Jack has dedicated his life to “service above self”. His long list of contributions to serving our club and district include: Liberty Rotary Club President four times, Liberty Rotary Club Treasurer one time, Sargent at Arms two times and a plethora of committee chairmanships and memberships. At the District level, Jack has been an Assistant Governor for Region 5 for the past 4 years and serves on the Membership Committee and Innovative Clubs subcommittee.
What is most impressive about Jack is that he does an astounding amount of work, while removing ego from the equation. He is a wonderful man doing incredible work and seeks nothing in return, but the satisfaction of a job well done and the goal of improving lives. Through his actions, Rotary is able to make the world a better place.
We are fortunate to have men like Jack Strassman in this world!
Liberty Rotary Club is delighted to be one of the race sponsors.
Dylan was a beloved community member and a Fallsburg police officer. The event is being held in memory of Dylan, and to help end the stigma of drug addiction. Proceeds from the event will benefit "Hope Not Handcuffs", a program designed to help those experiencing problems with addiction to get the help they need.
Liberty and Monticello Rotary Clubs enjoyed a fabulous night out at the Forestburgh Playhouse Tavern, featuring the incomparable talents of Somerville! The food was excellent, the company outstanding and the music was sizzling hot. Thanks to the generosity of Forestburgh Playhouse, a portion of the proceeds was shared with each of the two participating clubs. As a result, not only did we have a fantastic evening, but each club took home a check for $500. Thank you to our hosts The Forestburgh Playhouse and the band Somerville for giving us such a memorable evening.
Service Above Self/WGSD!
Liberty, NY 12754
United States of America