On Wednesday, October 14th , the Liberty Rotary Club held a special longevity celebration honoring Rotarians who have reached significant membership milestones, including several members whose years of service exemplify Rotary’s enduring commitment to helping others.
Recognized for their years of service were Larry Edwards and Shannon Barry, each celebrating five years as Rotarians; Gary Silver and Barbi Neumann, each marking 15 years; Irving Kaplan, who has served Rotary for an impressive 34 years; and Gary Siegel, who has an amazing 46 years of Rotary service. Beyond our membership, we also honored Monticello Rotarian Les Kristt and his business Kristt Company for his enduring commitment to doing good in our community.
The club also took time to recognize and thank last year’s Liberty Rotary Board for its leadership, dedication, and service to the club and the community. Those recognized included Alyssa Thalmann, last year’s club president; Terry Grafmuller, current president; Dr. Bill Silver and Gary Silverman, immediate past co-presidents; Gary Siegel, executive secretary; Barbi Neumann, sergeant-at-arms; Sharon D’Orazio, secretary; Elsie Kopcha, treasurer; and directors Meg Gavin, Gary Silver, and Rebecca Skoda. Their commitment and hard work help keep the club’s mission of service moving forward.
The evening also celebrated the recipients of funds raised through the club’s Taste of Sullivan event, which supports organizations working to combat food insecurity throughout Sullivan County. Beneficiaries included A Single Bite, the Liberty Schools SnackPack Program, and the Sullivan Fresh Community Cupboard, along with several food pantries and community initiatives dedicated to feeding those in need. These included the Interfaith Food Pantry in Liberty, St. Peter’s Food Pantry in Liberty, and Calliope on Main Food Pantry in Livingston Manor.
In addition to recognizing these outstanding individuals and organizations, the evening provided a wonderful opportunity for fellowship and connection among club members. That spirit of friendship, service, and community is at the heart of what makes the Liberty Rotary Club so successful.
A special thank-you goes to the Liberty Rotary Membership Committee for planning and organizing such a meaningful and enjoyable evening.
If you have a passion for helping others and making a difference in your community, consider becoming a Rotarian! We invite you to visit the Liberty Rotary Club and learn more about how you can get involved.
To arrange a visit, please contact LibertyNYRotary12754@gmail.com.
Gary Siegel - The Ceremony Host
Past President Alyssa Thalmann and Current President Terry Grafmuller
Monticello Rotarian Les Kristt and Liberty President Terry Grafmuller
