Tribute to Red, White and Blue 2020 by Sullivan County Democrat/Catskill-Delaware Publications

Tribute to

RED WHITE & BLUE A publication of the Sullivan County Democrat • September 18, 2020 • Section R

PRICELESS

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

% '# ' % + ' ' %' %' ' # # )% + ' # , '' #% ' # % ' + ,"

!,# ' (- #' # " # '% # % #* "

% # %' # '# # + , #' # "

1 . / #3!1 !1 . / .8 ! ;#3. 31# #1 8 ! / / ! ²¦Üsz £ n£ÝÓ Z ÏA nÓ Z 2 Ïn I : nn 0nÏó [nÓ Z 2-!0 Z " ÝÏ¨ n£ õ n I 9 ¨ £Ý /n·A Ï Z 0ÝnnÏ £ I 0æÓ·n£Ó ¨£ Z 9n [ n £Ó·n[Ý ¨£ ϮϬϭϴ

ZĞĂĚĞƌƐ͛

ŚŽŝĐĞ

ϭƐƚ W>

7t M^ :^Wy ^ y t ^ Ļ Ȕȝ ^My^W û ȽƩŇ ɋǇǇ û y û ǇȔȝ t^ û ǇȔȝ y t^ û Ȕȝt^ ^My^W ȽƩŇ y t^ ɋǇǇ y û T^W : MM^û W T: M ^ Wû W T: M ^ Wû T: M ^ Wû W T^W : MM^û W W T: M ^ Wû W ǙĤŒŇǟȽŒɋŴɋ̓Ƚȝ ȔƩŒŴŒŒŇŇ ǙĤŒŇǟ ǙĤŒŇǟ ǙĤŒŇǟ ȽŒȽŴȽȽɋĤ ȽŒɋŴɋ̓Ƚȝ ǙĤŒŇǟ ȔƩŒŴŒŒŇŇ ȽŒȽŴȽȽɋĤ Tƶƣİ/ȂźĤĤ T TİİȝȝoT oT Tƶƣİ/Ȃź Tƶƣİ/Ȃź Tƶƣİ/Ȃź ĤĤ T T İİ ȝȝ oT oT Tƶƣİ/Ȃź Ĥ T İ ȝ oT

8 × á ì× ª¥ ¥n @á üüüÁ1 Ón ×[ªì¥á n¥ánÓÁ[ª z

85453

1 /, ĄÛ²ÜĄÛ Ą ²

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

The Sullivan County Volunteer Firefighters Association

Proudly Congratulates

Chief Tim Fink

Reverend Donald Beck

White Sulphur Springs Fire Dept.

Pastor of SCVFA and Narrowsburg Fire Dept.

2019 Firefighter of the Year

SCVFA Lifetime Achievement Award

Is There a Fire in You? Feed the fire in YOU! The Sullivan County Volunteer Firefighters Association Contact us at info@sullivannyfirefighters.org for more info.

86033

INVITES YOU TO BECOME PART OF OUR HISTORY, TRADITION AND FAMILY

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

EDITORIAL

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

THANK YOU!

ometimes when writing we seek inspirational quotes from prominent individuals, who at various points in history could illustrate and put into words better than we can what we wanted to say. But there is no quote that we can find to thank our firefighters, law enforcement personnel, front-line health care workers and the countless essential workers enough. While many of these individuals were already selflessly on the front lines prepandemic, what we considered the front line changed drastically with the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The front line was no longer just at the scene of an accident, or a DUI checkpoint, it became our grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants, banks – – the virus was everywhere. And for our

firefighters, law enforcement, health care workers and first responders, you continued to be there for us at our worst moments with limited PPE to protect yourselves as we faced a nationwide shortage. For each person who continued to go to work and serve the public during this pandemic … THANK YOU. You sacrificed your well-being and put your family at risk to help others, and for that we cannot say enough. Given your selfless acts of kindness and devotion during this unforgettable time in our country’s history, we thought it fitting to give you tribute for a job well done! In this edition you will find stories about local firefighters who have served for decades, learn about local sheriffs, police chiefs and the State Police Troop

F captain, as well as get just a small snapshot of some of the individuals who worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic to serve Sullivan County residents and newcomers who moved here, finding their safe haven. So many of our essential personnel deserve our praise and recognition. As we looked around the county we found so many deserving stories to tell and we will continue to tell them in the months to come. We’d like to thank each person, group and/or organization that took the time to produce content, be interviewed and provide the advertising support necessary to make this tribute possible. And finally, one last time, we say to each person on the front lines, ‘YOU ARE THE BEST,’ and we are lucky to have you in our community.

EQUIPM MENT RENTTALS A • LAWN & GARDEN SALES, SERVICEE & PA ARTS

(8845) 794-RENT

70029

146 Jefferson Street • Monticello, Monticello NY 12701 127701 • Monday-Friday Monday Friday 8am-5pm 8am 5pm • Saturday 8am8am-112pm 2pm

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

and

Keep Smiling

It's been a long seven months since the COVID-19 Pandemic started in full force on the shores of our country. There has been a dramatic loss of life as well as great stress put on our many essential workers, business community and residents at large. We need to keep working toward our ultimate goal, which is containing this deadly virus and getting our communities back to normal. To all those who joined the fight – either by volunteering, going to work or doing your part to keep our county healthy – thank you. This too shall pass and Sullivan County will come back stronger than every before. May God Bless all those who kept us going.

150 JEFFERSON STREET, MONTICELLO, NY 12701 18 INDUSTRIAL DRIVE, FLORIDA, NY 10921

POINT. CLICK. . P I H S E W

From all your friends at the…

"Your Hometown Newspaper Since 1891" With Offices in Callicoon and Monticello www.scdemocratonline.com Call 845-887-5200 to advertise or subscribe today

PLUM MBING · HEATING · ELECTRICAL HV VAC · WA VA WATER WORKS · PUMPS DISTRIBUTOR

.COM E L A S OLE

H IDTSW M H C /7 @ S 60-4455 4 2 S R 6 ORDE 800) ( E C A PL

70028

Keep Strong, Stay Healthy

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

Capt. Zaba brings multi-faceted experience to SP Liberty STORY AND PHOTO BY MATT SHORTALL

or a lot of people a job is just a source of income, but if we’re lucky enough our career is a calling. Thinking back, New York State Police (NYSP) Captain Chris Zaba said he always wanted to be either a police officer or an attorney. Both careers offered the opportunity to help others. “I think I made the right choice by becoming a police officer,” Zaba said. “I love what I do.” Zaba has been with the state police for 19 years, serving as Troop F zone commander at SP Liberty for just over two years now. NYSP Captain Chris Zaba has served as Troop F Zone Commander of SP Liberty for the past two years.

KETCHAM

FENCING INC. Thank You To

Complete Installation By Trained Technicians RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL

rgency e m E r u All O l! Personne

COMPLETE LINE OF QUALITY FENCE • All Types of Maintenance Free Vinyl Fence • Chain Link - Galvanized or Vinyl Covered • Decorative Aluminum Fences • Wrought Iron Fences & Gates

• Custom Wood • Paddock Fencing • Dog Kennels • Tennis Court Enclosures • Swimming Pool Enclosures • Electric Gate Openers

386-1161 or 791-4311 www.ketchamfence.com

10702

19 Borden St. • Otisville, NY 10963

Before joining the state police, he worked as an Environmental Conservation Officer stationed in New York City. He also served five years at the Village of Cobleskill Police Department. During his career with the NYSP, Zaba has been a defensive tactics instructor, a firearms instructor, member of the Special Operations Response Team (SORT), member of the state police sniper unit and a platoon sergeant for the Troop G mobile response unit (disorder/riot control unit). “I’ve had a full career doing everything and more than I could imagine,” he said gratefully. Despite the good fortune he’s had, Zaba also recalled some of the difficult times over the last 19 years. It was right around the time of the September 11 terror-

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

ist attacks when he joined the state police. “It systematically changed everything in the country and how we do everything, including intelligence-led policing, networking and counter terrorism,” he said. September 3 also marked the 14th anniversary of the death of New York State Trooper Joseph Longobardo, a former colleague of Zaba’s, who lost his life in the line of duty in 2006 while searching for escaped convict Ralph Phillips. While the COVID-19 pandemic has affected many aspects of routine daily life, Zaba said the state police have remained focused on their job. “We put fail safes in place, our troopers are wearing masks when they deal with members of the public, we use hand sanitizer

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

Zaba recalled some of the difficult times over the past 19 years. It was right after the September 11 terrorist attacks when he joined the state police. in each car and make sure they’re cleaned regularly. It’s a little more labor intensive but we’re safe.” Despite new problems brought on by COVID, Zaba said the state police continue to address the familiar but dangerous challenges, such as the opioid epidemic. “There was an increase in overdoses shortly after March and it’s still on the rise,” Zaba said.

He explained how, according to the OD Mapping system, there are still high concentrations of overdoses here in Sullivan County. “We worked with the Monticello Police Department throughout the summer to help combat that and reduce the amount of crime in the village. But it’s really education that’s going to help decrease the number of overdoses and getting the word out there through social programs and schools.” At the end of the day, some of the most effective police work comes down to community relations. “Every day is a different day. Treat people how you would want to be treated. It makes you feel good at the end of the day when someone’s so appreciative of what we do,” Zaba said.

84674

SEPTEMBER, 2020

85548

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

Beck, Fink earn highest firefighter honors BY JOSEPH ABRAHAM

85525

he Sullivan County Volunteer Firefighters Association (SCVFA) recently announced Reverend Donald Beck and Timothy Fink as the respective recipients of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement and Firefighter of the Year Awards. Each year, local fire departments and companies send nominations to the SCVFA where a committee acts upon the nominations. “These are two separate awards given by the Sullivan

County Volunteer Firefighters Association through a special committee I am the chairman of, that investigates and selects from the nominations,” said Bill Lothrop, who is a two-time Past President of the SCVFA and presently a serving Trustee. Lothrop is also a three-time Past Chief of the Wurtsboro Fire Department, Present Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners, as well as a past recipient of both awards. He’s been serving in the Volunteer Fire Service in Sullivan County since 1968. Lothrop continued, “It’s not

every year that these awards are given, but when awarded, they are the highest honors a firefighter in Sullivan County can receive.”

REVEREND BECK Firefighting was nothing new in the Beck household. “My father was a firefighter and I just took off in his footsteps and one thing led to another, said Rev. Donald P. Beck. A native of Rockville Center, NY, Beck, 80, moved to Sullivan CONTINUED ON PAGE 11R

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Reverend Donald Beck at a recent ceremony at the Narrowsburg Department where he received his SCVFA Lifetime Achievement Award plaque.

10R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

KEEP IT LOCAL! •

• •

Keeping Jobs and Money in Sullivan County Residential Program... Roll-Offs... Commercial... Special Clean-Ups

76427

• •

Sullivan County’s #1 Garbage & Recycle for Over 30 Years, Same Owner/Operator Competitive Pricing & Superior Service Servicing Local Communities throughout ALL of Sullivan County

Don’t Get Left On the Curb! Call Thompson Sanitation TODAY!

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9R

County in 1964 after being ordained as a Lutheran minister and assigned to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Narrowsburg, NY. At the time of his arrival, he was already an emergency services volunteer (which he began doing in college), having been a member of the Emergency Response Team at the Willow Grove (Pa.) Naval Air Station. Pastor Beck joined the Narrowsburg Fire Department as an active member on August 11, 1964. From that point on, he served two terms as Assistant Chief (1966-1968, 1977-1979) and three terms as Fire Chief (19681970, 1973-1975 and 1980-1981). Shortly after joining Narrowsburg, he was appointed as one of the first Sullivan County Fire Coordinators until the county was divided into four districts. In March 1966, he was then appointed Deputy Coordinator

of District 1 and put in charge of fire training for the county and served in that capacity for several years. During this time, Pastor Beck also assisted in the formation of the Sullivan County Dive Unit which was initially based at Nar-

‘My father was a firefighter and I just took off in his footsteps and one thing led to another.’ Reverend Donald Beck Firefighter | rowsburg and then moved to White Lake, NY. Under his leadership, the Narrowsburg Fire Department formed and outfitted a very active team of SCUBA divers with a response truck that

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

served as part of the Sullivan County team from 1966 to 1986. Using his experience in emergency medical services, he was instrumental in the 1969 formation of the Tusten Volunteer Ambulance Service and served as an active member for many years. He also taught the (then) 90 hour EMT Course at Sullivan County Community College for several years. Pastor Beck has also been an active member of the Sullivan County Firemen’s Association and the Sullivan County Fire Police Association and still serves as the Sullivan County Fire Chaplain which involves monthly meetings around the county and performing services of worship and memorial celebrations. In addition to these emergency service activities, he volunteered as a Town of Tusten Constable for 10 years in the 1960s to 1970s and helped to promote gun safety, teaching Hunter Safety courses

11R

in New York and Pennsylvania for over 25 years. Pastor Beck served St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Narrowsburg, for 22 years before relocating to Babylon, NY to pastor Cross of Christ Lutheran Church where he also served as Chaplain to the Babylon (volunteer) Fire Department. He then moved to Reading, Pa. and pastored at several churches in that area before relocating to Honesdale, PA. He recently retired as pastor of St. Luke Lutheran Church in Greeley, PA, Pike County while maintaining his active (Fire Police) membership in Narrowsburg and as Chaplain for the SCVFA and Fire Police Association. On being selected as the SCVFA Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Beck said, “I think it’s wonderful. I didn’t expect it, but it covers 57 years of ministry and public service.” CONTINUED ON PAGE 13R

VanInwegen l Kenny, Inc. Funeral Home Traditional Services • Burial/Cremation Services • Pre-Arrangement Counseling Serving Families In Sullivan County For Over A Century Joseph W. Kenny - Licensed Funeral Director

401 Broadway, Monticello

111 Sullivan Street, Wurtsboro

(845) 888-2731

43374

(845) 794-4141

www.kennyfuneralhome.com

12R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

DEMOCRAT FILE PHOTO

Although it could not be held this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Annual Sullivan County Volunteer Firefighters Assn. Parade allows the community the opportunity to say “thank you” to all the volunteer Emergency Responders for the service they provide to our hamlets, villages and county. During the 2018 parade in Roscoe, former Roscoe-Rockland Fire Dept. Chief George Kinne Sr., standing, was the grand marshal.

70764

Thank you to our First Responders for their dedication & service to our communities!

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

TIMOTHY FINK In 1990, Timothy Fink joined the White Sulphur Springs Fire Department. Like Reverend Beck, he also followed in his father’s footsteps. Fink also was eager to be apart of the department because many of his friends joined at the same time. He’s currently the department’s chief –– the third time he’s served in the role (2006-08, 2014-16 and 1720) –– and is a past assistant chief and past president of the department. Fink is also a nationally certified fire investigator and has brought that skillset to the Sullivan County Bureau of Fire for the past 11 years. Fink has worked for what is now Spectrum for 24 years and is currently a construction coordinator with the company. If you can’t find Fink at his own firehouse, you might find him at another, as he is always assisting other departments with their events. “I just enjoy being around the fire department,” he said. Looking back at the decision he made almost three decades ago, Fink knows it was a good one. “I think it has made me a better person through tragedy and through triumph,” he said. “It prepared me for life and taking on all the challenges it throws at you.” Fink also credits his time in the fire department for teaching him how to be a good father and friend. It has also been a brotherhood filled with many memories camping and playing softball with his department. Fink considers the value of a volunteer firefighter to be so high that you can’t put a dollar amount on it. A lot is required of volunteer firefighters, including several classes to be taken, but it’s all in an effort to keep everyone safe. Fink noted that as fire chief he has tried to follow in the footsteps of his past chiefs who helped make him who he is today. He is well-respected by his peers, which is evident by both his nomina-

tion and selection as the SCVFA Firefighter of the Year. “I’m still in awe over it,” Fink said, “and that my peers think of me that much.” There aren’t as many young people getting involved with their local fire departments than in the past, but just like they are so valuable to the community, there is also so many benefits for those who join. “I think the most important reason to become a firefighter today is to help the community,” Fink said. “There’s also personal satisfaction with every class you take and certification you earn. It builds your resume, as well as respect and character. And there’s no greater feeling than saving someone else’s life.”than saving someone else’s life.”

85895

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

13R

JOSEPH ABRAHAM | DEMOCRAT

White Sulphur Springs Fire Department Chief Timothy Fink was recently selected as the SCVFA Firefighter of the Year.

14R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

Meet two of your local police chiefs

ROBERT MIR

Jurisdiction: Village of Monticello Years on the Job: 31 years How did you first get into law enforcement? I took the NYPD civil service test soon after graduating high school. I was appointed to the NYC Housing Police Academy, but didn’t attend it. In 1986, I relocated to Sullivan County and accepted an offer of employment with Fallsburg Police in 1989. Most memorable moment on the job: There have been too

many to pick one, but one of the most rewarding was helping deliver a baby. Favorite quote or words that you live by: I’m not very spiritual, but I try to live by the golden rule. Favorite part of the job: When a person/victim recognizes that we’re there to help them. Most difficult part of the job: As an administrator, you have to make difficult decisions that don’t always sit right with everyone affected. In your opinion, what is currently the biggest challenge to public safety in your jurisdiction?

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

Robert Mir

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16R

PresTige tOwing

Joseph N. Garlick Funeral Home

24 Hour Services Heavy & Light Towing • Accident Recovery Flat Bed & Low Boy • Tires

(845) 794-7474 388 Broadway, Monticello

56978

(845) 647-7747 186 Canal St., Ellenville

Car & Truck Rentals Indoor & Outdoor Secured Storage Service & Repairs Dock, Wrap & Forklift • Excavator, Dump & Loader Tractor Service & Heavy Fleet • Heavy & Light Auto Body Flat, Box & Cooler Trailer

Now with 4 Locations

OLD STATE RTE 17 OFF RT. 17 EXIT 102 MONTICELLO, N.Y. 12701

www.josephngarlickfuneralhome.com 73288

845-794-8522

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

E R A W A L E D L L I K CATS

r e t n i W FMaAllG A Z I N E

PAGE SIZE

RA ATE T

DISCOUNT RA ATTE *

Back Page/ Inside Covers

$732

$ $556

Full

$703

$ $534

1/2

$397

$ $326

1/4

$236

$ $205

Catskill-De elaware is published three t times a yea arr... .

$ $128

FEBRUA AR RY, MA AY AND OC CTOBER.

1/8 Priceless A Speciall Sectio on of the Sullivan n C ountty D emocratt

CA ATSK KIILLD ELAWA A AWARE FallW inter 2019

$138

* Sign Up Fo or All 3 Issues and SA AVE BIG!

Deadline - Octoberr Public cation - Octoberr

SIGN UP U AND SA VE BIG! By using th he promotional w not only rates, you will save valuable advertising dollars, butt we will not bill you until yo our ad appears.

REACH

30,000 READ ERS!

•Enjoy a great fall hike in Parksville! •Bear stories you’ll have to read •A tribute to the beloved Richie Post

Hunting • Real Estate • Calendar • Shopping

Keeping Keepi ing Sullivan County y Connected for 13 130 0Y Years! ears ears! e

Contact Yo our Account Executive Today At

845-887-5200 8 45-887-5200

All of our special publications available online at https://issuu.com/scdemocrat

15R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14R

In my opinion, the biggest challenge is the cost of maintaining public services. Local municipalities are threatened by loss of revenue and the increased costs of supplies and unfunded mandates. It affects our staffing, response time and our ability to engage in community policing. With all of the social unrest happening on the national stage, what can community law enforcement officials do to maintain/improve their relationship with the people they serve? Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always had an open door policy. Now, more than ever, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to maintain lines of communication and establish a rapport with concerned citizens. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve met many people who have formed an opinion based upon social mediaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perception of law enforcement. Often, a candid conversation can help change things. At the end of the day weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a small department policing a small village. We know most of the people we deal with and they know us. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never had the big city problems and by continuing to be courteous and professional, hopefully, we never will.

SIMMIE WILLIAMS

Ă?Ă&#x152;Ă&#x201C; "Â¨Ă? 2Â¨Â¨ AĂ?n 2Â¨ -Â&#x2DC;AÂŁ "Â¨Ă´ Â¨Ă? <Â¨ĂŚĂ? AÂ&#x2DC;Â&#x2DC; ÂŁe :Â?ÂŁĂ?nĂ? 0Ă?Â¨Ă?AÂ&#x192;n "nneĂ&#x201C; 2Â¨eAĂśz

ĂŚĂ&#x201C;Ă?Â¨Â&#x17E; AĂ?AÂ&#x192;nĂ&#x201C; AÂŁe 0Ă?Â¨Ă?AÂ&#x192;n 0Â&#x152;neĂ&#x201C; Â?ÂŁ A Ă´Â?en ĂłAĂ?Â?nĂ?Ăś Â¨| Ă&#x201C;Â?ĂşnĂ&#x201C; AÂŁe Ă&#x201C;Ă?ĂśÂ&#x2DC;nĂ&#x201C;Â˝ Ăś ĎŽĎŹĎĎľ

ZÄ&#x17E;Ä&#x201A;Ä&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ć?Í&#x203A;

Ĺ&#x161;Ĺ˝Ĺ?Ä?Ä&#x17E;

ĎĆ?Ć&#x161; W>

ĹŚÄ&#x152;Ä&#x2013;ĂĄÄ&#x152;ÄŁĂż Ĺ´Ä&#x152;Ĺ?Ä&#x2C6; ÂŹÄ¨ĹŚ Ä&#x152;ÄŁ ]Ä&#x152;ÄŁĂĄ Ĺ&#x201C;Ä&#x152;ÄŁĂ&#x2014;ĂŞ ÄŻÄ¤Ĺ&#x2014;Ä¤ / 9 /< $" / 0b 0 0 " ? $0z $Ă?AÂŁÂ&#x192;nb $Ă?AÂŁÂ&#x192;n 0ĂŚÂ&#x2DC;Â&#x2DC;Â?ĂłAÂŁ I 4Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x201C;Ă?nĂ? Â¨ĂŚÂŁĂ?Â?nĂ&#x201C;

Â¨ĂŚÂŁĂ?Â?nĂ&#x201C;Â˝

Simmie Williams

Most memorable moment on the job: Becoming Chief of Police. Favorite quote or words that you live by: I refuse to let you belittle my soul by making me hate you. Favorite part of the job: Telling my young officers my war stories. Most difficult part of the job: Nothing! I promised myself when this job becomes difficult, I would retire. In your opinion, what is currently the biggest challenge to public safety in your jurisdiction? The biggest challenge is to get out and meet and get to know the ever changing population. With all of the social unrest happening on the national stage, what can community law enforcement officials do to maintain/improve their relationship with the people they serve? Communication, communication, communication, communication, communication, communication. Communication, communication.

Ă&#x2014;sĂ&#x2DC;Ă¤ /Â¨ĂŚĂ?n ~~ S -Â˝$Â˝ Â¨Ăľ Â Ă¤Ăź Ă?AÂ&#x152;AÂ&#x17E;Ă&#x201C;ĂłÂ?Â&#x2DC;Â&#x2DC;nb "nĂ´<Â¨Ă?Â&#x2014; ÂŻĂ¤Ă&#x2014;Â Ăź

~Â¤Â¤ /Â¨ĂŚĂ?n Ă¤Â¤Â¤ Â?Â&#x192;Â&#x152;Â&#x2DC;AÂŁeb "nĂ´<Â¨Ă?Â&#x2014; ÂŻĂ¤~Ă¤s

ÂŻ !AĂ?Ă?Â&#x152;nĂ´Ă&#x201C; 0Ă?b Â¨Ă&#x201C;Â&#x152;nÂŁ "nĂ´<Â¨Ă?Â&#x2014; ÂŻĂźÂ¤Ă¤Â

sÂ ~Â˝Â¤s~Â˝Ă&#x2014;ĂźĂźĂ&#x2DC;

sÂ ~Â˝ssĂ&#x;Â˝Ă&#x;Ă¤Ă¤Ă¤

sÂ ~Â˝Â¤s~Â˝Ă&#x;ĂźsÂ

BcÄ&#x2022;ÇŞÇŞÇŞÇŞÄžĆźĂ˝Ć&#x;Ă?ĂłÄ&#x2022;ÇŞĹ&#x2DC;

)Z t\pEE pEZ9\Ĺ&#x192; E?

Proud Supporters Of O

N SULLIVAN COUNTY FIREFIGHTERS

51638

Jurisdiction: Town of Fallsburg Police Department Years on the Job: 29 How did you first get into law enforcement: A Police Officer from the Village of Monticello came to a group of men while we were playing basketball at the Evergreen Housing Authority. He told us that the civil service exam for Police Officer was coming up and encouraged us to take it.

Ä˘Ä&#x2122;Ĺ&#x2022;ĹŽ ĂŠĂ&#x192;ĹŽ Ĺ&#x17E;ĹŽĹžÂ¤Ä&#x2C6; Ä˘ĹžĹŽ ĂşÄ&#x2122; ĹŽĂľĂ&#x192; Â¤Ä˘Ä&#x160;ÂľĂ&#x2014;Ă&#x2014;

Thank You For Your Service!

www.newhopecommun nity.org

84405

16R

SEPTEMBER, 2020

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

17R

SCD WakeUp_HouseAd_2020

THIS WAKES YOU UP.

THIS OPENS YOUR EYES.

Check us out online at scdemocratonline.com or call 887-5200 to Advertise or Subscribe Today!

18R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

Epidemiology Team works hard and plans for the future BY SAMANTHA MONTAGNA

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Pictured from left, Christina Haff, BSN, RN, CHN, MPH; Vanessa Lescano, RN, CHN; Wendy Salonich, PHS Program Coordinator; Michelle France, Senior Account Clerk/Database; Karen Holden, BSN, RN, LNC, Director of Patient Services; Amanda Wolfe, RN, CHN; Christine Panos, MPH, Community Health Coordinator; Jill Hubert-Simon, MS, Public Health Educator; Haley Lankau Motolo, MS, Epidemiologist. Not pictured: Jenna Knox, BSN, RN, Public Health Nurse.

CALLICOON SUPPLY

Justus Asthalter

Maple Syrup, Inc.

865 Aden Rd Parksville, NY 12768

Authorized Dealers for

Fully Stocked Glass & Plastic Inventory

Serving NY, PA and NJ for 4 Generations

online@callicoonsupply.com Rte 17B • Callicoon, NY • 845-887-4804

Thank You to All the Volunteers!

J.B. MAK Building Harman Stoves Authorized Dealer Installation Services Cleaning Premium Hardwood PHllets

Lopi, Avalon & FPX Gas & Wood Stoves / Fireplaces Louisiana-Pitt Boss Pellet Grills Holland Gas Grills Ph: 845-292-6338 Fax: 845-292-6352 4 BON JOVI LANE LIBERTY, NY 12754 www.jbmakrental.com

Open 7 Days a Week M-F 7-4:30 Sat 7-12 Sun 8-12 83357

(845) 292-8569

family@justusmaple.com www.justusmaplecom

It’s Your Home... Have It Done Right

845-292-2686

537 1

29137

The& Boyes Family Sean Dawn Boyes

For all your Hardware and Building Supplies . . .

INC.

Residential & Commercial Serving Sullivan County for over 30 years!

New Homes • Log Homes Total Renovations Additions Custom Kitchens Baths • Decks • Windows Doors • Siding Structural Repairs Garages • Drywall Metal Studs Acoustical Ceilings Jacking / Leveling

NOW HIRING FULL-TIME

85264

ne county department that’s been among the busiest since the global COVID-19 pandemic started is Sullivan County’s Epidemiology team led by Karen Holden, RN, BSN, Director of Patient Services. Nancy McGraw, MSW, MBA, MPH, the Public Health Director, in an interview with the Democrat, praised her staff and recognized the many hours of labor and hard work her team has had to put in to contain the spread of not just COVID-19, but other health issues plaguing Sullivan County as well. The staff is normally made up of four full-time nurses and two support staff, but this year an epidemiologist, a community health coordinator, a public health educator, and six per diem nurses were added to the team to keep up with number of cases that hit Sullivan County since March. The team is back down to normal staffing, but the county was hit with over 1,500 positive cases. The number of cases, according to McGraw, was “incredibly high for a county our

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

State Sanitary codes. size.” The number of active cases Many members of steadily declined from June to July and The team doesn’t just the staff work crosshas remained very low to around ten handle COVID-19; it, in departmentally. “Any cases or fewer in August as the result of “aggressive case investigation and con- addition to monitoring and further cuts could erode our ability to tact tracing efforts.” respond to an emerMcGraw stated that her team is work- educating about diseases, gency,” McGraw ing very hard in their contact tracing provides preventive said. efforts when a positive case appears. The Epidemiology The team ensures that those who have treatment for many more team doesn’t just been exposed are monitoring themdangerous contagious handle COVID-19; it, selves for symptoms and making sure in addition to monithey are quarantined. illnesses. toring and educating Currently, the team is working very closely with school districts to “ensure a smooth people about diseases, “provides preventive transition and rapid response plan as schools treatment for many of the more dangerous contransition to reopening this Fall.” The schools all tagious illnesses such as rabies, tuberculosis, have a point person to contact in the depart- measles, and meningitis.” There was an outment, according to McGraw, because the key is break of the Measles last year when 19 cases “collaboration” and quick action to containing were recorded and hundreds of individuals were given MMR vaccinations to protect residents. the virus. In addition, the team holds immunization Looking to the future, the Epidemiology team will be as important as ever to continue fighting clinics for children’s commonly required vacciCOVID-19 as well as providing other important nations, the flu, rabies treatment, rabies vaccine health services. There are worries about “the clinics, holds sexually transmitted disease counfinancial impact on all county related services,” seling, testing, and treatment, and conducts McGraw stated. Communicable Disease Narcan training to help combat the Opioid criControl and Health Education Services are sis. The department also participates in lead required by Public Health Law and New York poisoning prevention and case management,

Investment Advisors Creating and Preserving Wealth Philip Coombe III, CFP® Catherine M. Coombe, CFP® Lynn McDonald

Private Rehab Suites • Excellent Quality Care

548 Broadway Monticello, NY 12701 Call for appointment

Lake Street, NY •• Facebook: 845-292-4200 170 Lake170Street, Liberty, NY •Liberty, 845-292-4200 Achieve Rehab 57604

Phone (845) 647-4800 • (800) 4 COOMBE www.coombebender.com Email: pcoombe@coombefinancial.com

tuberculosis control, and health emergency planning exercises. McGraw stated that in addition to budget cuts, the upcoming flu season presents a challenge if it coincides with a second wave of COVID-19 since the symptoms overlap each other. The team will be holding flu vaccination clinics and will be educating people on how to stay healthy this season especially those who are elderly, overweight, have hypertension, diabetes, or have other health problems. McGraw recommends everyone get the flu vaccine to diminish the chances of getting the flu or the “bad double whammy” of the flu and COVID-19. McGraw also warned that now is not the time to become “complacent” because of the low numbers of positive cases. Sullivan County is a “mobile society” with people traveling in and out of the county from all over the country and overseas, and according to McGraw, “until the U.S. can be declared out of the woods,” people should remain vigilant. “There is always something looming on the horizon that we need to prepare for,” McGraw stated, adding that Sullivan County is in good hands with her “strong team” who are “incredible” and work great together to help the people get through this health crisis and any others that may appear on the horizon.

SHORT-TERM REHAB. LONG-TERM CARE.

Office locations: Main Office: P.O. Box 333 / 6872 Route 209 Wawarsing, NY 12489

19R

www.AchieveRehabNY.com

84409 29498

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

20R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

Claryville Fire Department celebrates 65 years BY CAROL MONTANA

t all started back in May 1955 with a meeting to form a fire department. The 18 attendees chose the name Claryville Volunteer Fire Department; officers were elected, and a committee was formed to set up boundaries for the unformed fire district. The area served would include the Town of Denning and portions of the Town of Neversink. By July, company meetings were being held in a local garage, and the treasury had $60. By November, meetings had moved to the Denning Town Hall, but lack of heat in the building forced the meetings back to the garage. Membership swelled to 38 in January of ‘56 and two months later a petition for incorporation was drawn up; a public hearing was held at the Ladelton Schoolhouse. Membership in the Firemen’s Association of the State

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

The Claryville Volunteer Fire Department’s fleet of trucks. Their storied history started back in May of 1955.

Thank you

CLIFF GORDON ATTORNEY AT LAW

for not giving up. 54083

You have gone home alone in tears but just remember you saved lives, you comforted the sick, you’ve done your duty and you’ve done it well.

(845) 794-4043 FAX (845) 794-7229 544 Broadway, P.O. Box 803 Monticello, NY 12701

86041

75230

And for that we thank you. JUDGE FRANK LaBUDA RET. AND FAMILY

“Thank You”

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

The Claryville Volunteer Fire Department quick attack truck is always ready for action.

of New York followed in May; incorporation was approved, and an ambulance was donated by the Q&N Rod and Gun Club. Later that year, a barn was rented to house equipment, and the company purchased their first fire truck for $200. The property where the current firehouse sits was donated by Herbert George in 1957, and a fire district was approved in 1958. The year 1960 saw the formation of the Ladies Auxiliary, which, four years later, had 68 members. Firehouse and equipment additions followed; fundraisers were held including

clam bakes and dances, and in 1969 a yearly scholarship was started. The year 1976 and 1977 were sad years in Claryville with the destruction by fire of the Blue Hill Lodge and a plane crash on Van Wyck Mountain that resulted in six fatalities. Equipment replacement, a new truck house and additional line officer positions filled up some of the years during the ‘80s, and moving ahead, 1996 saw a major renovation to the firehall, which reopened in 1999 with a pancake breakfast. The same year saw the dissolution of the Ladies

Auxiliary, and those ladies became associate members of the department. Work was started on

obtaining 501(c)3 status. In 2003 the company purchased its first “jaws of life,” and received a FEMA grant to buy a fire truck. The following year, the first woman was elected to an officer position. The year 2005 saw the Claryville Fire Department turning 50, and the company co-sponsored the 77th Annual Volunteer Firefighters Parade which was hosted by Grahamsville. The ensuing 15 years has seen the purchase and exchange of additional equipment, lots of fundraising activities and great camaraderie at the monthly breakfasts. In addition to the breakfasts, the company sponsors a spaghetti and meatball dinner during hunting season, and corned beef and cabbage in March. In Claryville, the members own all the buildings and properties and the truck house is leased to the fire district. The money earned from breakfasts and the annual fund drive pays for fire equipment, upkeep and insurance.

Raimondo’s RISTORANTE & PIZZERIA

Thank you to all the Sullivan County Fire Departments, Law Enforcement Agencies, Ambulance Corps and Essential Workers for your continued courage and dedication

Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther 84374

18 Anawana Lake Rd, Monticello, NY 12701 845-794-5807 gunthera@nyassembly.gov Paid for by Committee to Elect Aileen Gunther

21R

64506

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

22R

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

Lt. John Watson bids farewell to Sheriff ’s Office STORY AND PHOTO BY ISABEL BRAVERMAN

or Lieutenant John Watson, taking care of the average person is all part of the job. After 31 years of service Watson is retiring from the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office. The Liberty resident is looking forward to spending some time at the beach at his new home in Virginia Beach, VA. He began his career in the Military Police Corps in the

United States Army. After, he returned to his hometown and joined the Liberty Police Department. Soon after that he joined the Sheriff’s Office as a deputy and rose through the ranks to Corporal, Sergeant and now Lieutenant. As Lieutenant he supervises nearly 50 members of the Patrol Division as well as assists sergeants, helps with administrative duties and acts as the middleman between the Sheriff and the

You’re going to like what you see! Hometown optometrist and friendly staff providing professional and personalized experience Advanced ocular technology for optimal vision and eye health Comprehensive Eye Examinations • Diabetic Eye Exams Testing for Glaucoma, Cataracts and Macular Degeneration Eye Emergencies • Foreign Body Removal Dry Eye Treatment

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS Dr. Maegan Sauer-Erlwein, OD

(845) 482-2425

Come as a patient and leave as a friend 4895 St. Rt. 52, Jeffersonville, NY 12748 • www.EyesOnMainSt.com Tues. - Fri. 9 am - 5 pm • Sat. 9 am - 1 pm • Sun. & Mon. Closed

deputies. Given the current times of tension in police relations, Watson hopes to see unity brought about. “America works best when we are all Americans,” he said. “The answer is being together.”

As he reflects on his time at the Sheriff’s Office he says he wouldn’t change a thing. “Through good times and bad, I’ll always have fond memories of the people I worked with and the public I served,” he said.

Mowers And More, Inc.

Candy Cone

CUB CADET • EXMARK • ECHO • SHINDAIWA • INGERSOLL

• Soft Ice Cream • Hot & Cold Sandwiches • Ice Cream Birthday Cakes Made on Premises • Burgers, Fries and More! • Daily Lunch Specials

Sales & Service of

50517

3960 Route 52 Youngsville, NY 12791

Fax & Phone: (845) 482-5800 mowersandmore@hvc.rr.com

Rt. 17B Junction 55, White Lake, NY Kevin Rhyne

845-583-6232

85456

82624

Latest in fashion eye wear • Contact Lenses

Lieutenant John Watson is retiring from the Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office after 31 years of service.

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

23R

Jason Maciejewski

“For All Your Landscaping Needs”

SPECIALIZING IN NEW HOME ood FirewSale! For

cultured stone • lawn installation • tree planting drainage, retaining walls • patios and walkways INSURED - FREE ESTIMATES 366 Swago Rd., Damascus, PA • 1-570-224-6405

76262

Allison-Devore General Contractors Inc. Residential and Commercial Construction

www.allisondevore.com

Carl Allison Scott Allison 64670

120 Muthig Rd, Hurleyville, NY 12747 sallison@allisondevore.com 845-701-2645 Cell • 845-292-5143 Fax

84751

845-292-7620 Ofﬁce

A Family-Owned and Managed Transportation Company

845-292-4485 85455

85394 54837

Rolling V Bus Salutes those who train tirelessly, answer the call, rush toward danger, save life and property, give comfort and lead the way!

24R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

25R

A look at some of our region’s essential workers

hen faced with a global pandemic, our local essential workers didn’t hestitate to answer the call. They were there when we needed them the most. While we couldn’t possibly highlight all of

the countless essential workers in our region, from the bottom of our hearts, we say thank you! Here are just a few of these dedicated men and women.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

NURSES Many nurses were on the front lines throughout this pandemic, doing a number of important tasks. Whatever was needed to help those in need, they did it! An extremely important component to stopping the spread of COVID-19 were the local testing sites. Pictured is Middletown Medical’s Kayla Brinkerhoff who worked at their drive- thru COVID testing site in Ferndale this summer.

“THE SINGING MAILMAN” Postal employees have also been working straight through the pandemic. Pictured is Liberty City Carrier Herb Foertsch. He is a Woodridge resident who has worked with the U.S. Postal Service for about 30 years. What started as a summer job in Westchester turned into a career. Eventually after moving to Sullivan County and commuting back and forth to Westchester for 14 years, Foertsch first transferred to Middletown, then Monticello and finally Liberty, where he was hired by Gene DiCarlo. “I love everything about the job,” said Foertsch who enjoys working outside and socializing with the people. He’s had many nicknames over the years from ponytail, legs (he often wears shorts) and the singing mailman. Once the pandemic hit, Foertsch kept up with his daily routine, but made the necessary adjustments by wearing a mask and socializing with the people he serves from a distance.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

PHOTO BY JOSEPH ABRAHAM

JEFF BANK Our local banks also remained open and made necessary adjustments to keep us safe as we continued about our business and completed transactions. Pictured are employees of Jeff Bank’s Anawana Lake Road branch in Monticello. From left, Lale Perez, Jenna Yearwood, Thomas O’Connor, Meg Blaut, Matt Sush, McKenzie Townsend, and Amanda Aguila.

PHOTO BY JOSEPH ABRAHAM

DARLENE CONKLIN Well-deserved praise has been given to hospital employees across the country. During these challenging times it truly takes a village. Environmental Service Aides like Darlene Conklin (pictured) of Garnet Health Medical Center - Catskills, who has been with the hospital for three years, plays an extremely vital role. Her daily duties include disinfecting the OR, the recovery room and ambulatory surgery area. Things became a lot different during the pandemic as areas of the hospital were transformed into COVID and ventilator units. Therefore there were enhanced disinfection measures and more decontamination protocols in place as Garnet Health Medical Center - Catskills leveled up to meet and exceed the enhanced CDC guidelines. When asked her motivation for coming to work during the COVID crisis, Conklin didn’t hesitate to say, “People needed help and needed us. If we aren’t here who is going to take care of them?”

SONAL TRIVEDI

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

FIRST RESPONDERS Being a first responder is no easy task. They are simply there for us at the worst moments of our lives. These life savers are true heroes. While they faced challenges before the pandemic, when a new invisible enemy, COVID-19, showed up, they once again didn’t hestitate to help others. Pictured are members of Neversink EMS. From left, Captain Ann Bivins, Coby Denman and Jamie Evans. They are hosting their annual Sullivan Lifelines EMS Education Day on Saturday, October 17 at the Neversink Fire Department from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

PHOTO BY JOSEPH ABRAHAM

During the pandemic, when we needed them the most, our local pharmacies and their employees remained open. Pictured is Sonal Trivedi, owner and chief pharmacist at Sullivan Pharmacy, which is located at 267 North Main Street in the Village of Liberty. Trivedi and her team have served local residents since opening in 2004. For most of the pandemic, the main door was closed in protection of the Sullivan Pharmacy employees, and they were operating by drive-thru and curbside pickup. Sullivan Pharmacy did 80-90 percent of their business by delivery during the pandemic’s peak months of March, April and May. Deliveries are free throughout Sullivan County. Things are slowly getting back to normal and they are back open for walk-ins. Masks are required. For more info about them, visit https://www.sullivanrx.com/.

24R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

25R

A look at some of our region’s essential workers

hen faced with a global pandemic, our local essential workers didn’t hestitate to answer the call. They were there when we needed them the most. While we couldn’t possibly highlight all of

the countless essential workers in our region, from the bottom of our hearts, we say thank you! Here are just a few of these dedicated men and women.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

PHOTO BY JOSEPH ABRAHAM

SONAL TRIVEDI

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

PHOTO BY JOSEPH ABRAHAM

26R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

Salute to our long-time firefighters

oyalty, brotherhood, trust, grit, courage and a fierce determination to keep person and property safe. These are the hallmarks of a first-class firefighter. The Sullivan County Democrat conducted a search for firefighters in the area with over 50 years of service. Here are their stories:

George Dexheimer Age: 91 Fire Company: Neversink & Liberty Initial reason for joining: My father was a member of J.C. Young Co. He was also the keeper of the horn in Liberty, and he maintained the call boxes. So, I

COMPILED BY CAROL MONTANA

Neversink and Liberty. Most powerful memory: We had some pretty good fires up in Parksville years ago and the J.C. Young company was part of that area. My father-in-law took the ambulance and we took a man from Bradley to the VA in Albany. The ambulance had a dual exhaust and had a brand-new system. I had a patient in the back, and my father was there, before we got to Albany, I had two patients, and I was feeling pretty sick as well. It was quite an experience. Gary Tavormina Age: 85 Fire Company: Woodbourne Initial reason for joining: Community service. When I came up from the city, the family participated in the community

George Dexheimer

was brought up fire-wise. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: I have a combined 72 years of dual membership with

Gary Tavormina

and became a part of it. My grandfather, my father, my son, my daughter is a present member and grandson is a present member. Family legacy. Five gen-

YOUNGSVILLE GARAGE, INC.

Discover why over 17 million homeowners trust State Farm m®.

COMPLETE AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE

• 24-hour Local and Long Distance Wheel Lift and Flatbed Towing • A/C & Transmission Service • Foreign & Domestic • Computerized Diagnostics • Computerized Wheel Alignments

(845) 482-5151

25285

With your new home comes new responsibilities – like protectinng your new investment with the right amount of homeowners insurrance. That’s where I can help. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® CALL ME TODAY.

0907507.1

State Farm Fire and Casualty Company, State Farm General Insurance Company, Blooming ton, IL

37697

20744

Robert Wells, Agent 18 Thompson Square Monticello, NY 12701 Bus: 845-794-7000 robert.wells.k2on@statefarm.com

Scott Gaebel Route 52, Youngsville, NY

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

erations. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 67 Most powerful memory: In February of 1964, a fire leveled half of Woodbourne’s stores. (Editor’s note: Damage was onequarter of a million dollars in 1964 prices, which would be over two million today.) The whole side of Woodbourne was gone. It started either at Smiley’s Bar or Leved’s Drug Store. It was in the winter, and I was a member of the first aid squad.

were fighting a fire at his parents’ mobile home, he threw his sister out the bathroom window to save her, but he didn’t make it. Donald Keeler Age: 85 Fire Company: Youngsville Initial reason for joining: Because all my friends were joining. Current position: Life member PLEASE SEE PAGE 28R

Herman “Sonny” Bose Jr.

Herman “Sonny” Bose Jr. Age: 87 Fire Company: Youngsville Initial reason for joining: A few of my friends were members. When I joined we had one fire truck - a 1933 Sanford and I said I’d like to drive it in the next county fire parade. A couple of years later they bought a 1958 International fire truck. Current position: Life member and I go to the meetings, breakfasts and dinners.

27R

How many years with the fire company: 67 Most powerful memory: There was a dude ranch and it caught on fire and the owner pulled the hose out of my hands, he didn’t want us to put it out. We put it out, but it was too far gone. Fred Turner Age: 89 Fire Company: Hurleyville Initial reason for joining: To

Fred Turner

help put out fires. There was a barn fire back on the Hurleyville swamp, there was no road, so you had to go through the swamp or along the railroad tracks. I joined right after that, it was right after I got out of the army in 1953. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 66 Most powerful memory: It was when David Murray died. We

Donald Keeler

THANK YOU

Russell Reeves

Sullivan County Clerk

Tribute to Red, White & Blue ‘Thanking all those who work so hard every day!’ Published by

Catskill-Delaware Publications, Inc. Publishers of the

(845) 887-5200 Callicoon, NY 12723 September 18, 2020 • Vol. CXXX, No. 29

Publisher: Co- Editors: Editorial Assistants: Production Manager: Design: Advertising Director: Assistant Advertising Director: Special Sections Coordinator: Advertising Coordinator: Business Manager: Assistant Business Manager: Telemarketing Coordinator: Monticello Office Manager: Classified Manager: Production Associates: Circulation & Distribution:

85891

to all of the essential workers, emergency service providers and medical professionals for your dedication and commitment to the safety, health and well-being of our community.

Fred W. Stabbert III Joseph Abraham and Matt Shortall Isabel Braverman, Margaret Bruetsch, Kathy Daley, Patricio Robayo, Richard Ross, Jeanne Sager, Ed Townsend Petra Duffy Rosalie Mycka Liz Tucker Barbara Matos Susan Panella Lillian Ferber Susan Owens Patricia Biedinger Michelle Reynolds Margaret Bruetsch Janet Will Elizabeth Finnegan, Nyssa Calkin, Katey Dnistrian, Jessica Roda Anthony Bertholf, John Fischer, Phil Grisafe

28R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27R

How many years with the fire company: 65 Most powerful memory: Loved to get on the top of the roof when I was fighting fires. Larry Schmitz Age: 85 Fire Company: Woodbourne

Larry Schmitz

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

Initial reason for joining: I just thought it was good to help the community; everybody wants to work together to keep the town safe. Current position: Life member and firefighter How many years with the fire company: 64 Most powerful memory: The worst was a fire when Woodbourne burned down in 1964 - half the town burnt down. There was a lot of cooperation with Loch Sheldrake and Neversink. It was like a four, fiveday fire to clean up what was burnt. No casualties. And then I had a friend who got caught under some electric wires. He was driving and a tree fell in front of his car. He had walked up the street and tripped over a wire and was electrocuted. I was the first one on the scene. Nelson Durland Age: 81 Fire Company: Hurleyville

SEPTEMBER, 2020

company: 64 Most powerful memory: I was fire chief for three years, past president of SCVFA, past president of Hudson Valley VFA. And in 2018 I was the Legislature Citizen of the Year for S.C. Fire Service.

Nelson Durland

Initial reason for joining: Probably to keep up the tradition, my grandfather was a past chief, my father was president and commissioner, my uncle was also a commissioner. Current position: Life member and firefighter How many years with the fire

Stanley Fichtner Age: 78 Fire Company: Claryville Initial reason for joining: They were just getting organized when I moved over there. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 64 Most powerful memory: A loss of life in Claryville was the reason the whole thing got started, and there was another loss later on, a young girl in a bad fire. Hanging with the guys every Monday night, something to look forward to. We always look forward to the county parade. And we work well with both Grahamsville and Neversink. PLEASE SEE PAGE 30R

JUSTUS TIRE & ALIGNMENT

GEORGE BURKLE, INC.

Official N.Y.S. Inspection Station

General Insurance

Phone (845) 482-4815 P.O. Box 294 • 4926 Route 52, Jeffersonville, NY 12748

Proudly family-owned and operated

19404

Umbrella • Business Coverage Auto Insurance • Homeowners Insurance 85689

PO Box 218 • 32 Lower Main St., Callicoon, NY 845-887-4060 • gbi@hvcbiz.rr.com

Mufflers • Brakes • Shocks

Thank you for all you’ve done and continue to do!

The Mentnech Family

SUNRISE MOBILE PARK LLC 845-798-0365 141 Fairweather Rd., Swan Lake, NY 12783 americansportsmanfirearmsllc@gmail.com

Hunting & Fishing Licenses

85739

Patrick Rotondo Sole Member 85919

845-434-7568

SEPTEMBER, 2020

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

29R

EVERY FRIDAY IS BLACK FRIDAY! Check Out Our Money Saving Coupons and Great Advertisements

SCD EveryFriday_HouseAd_2020

EVERY FRIDAY!

Check us out online at scdemocratonline.com or call 887-5200 to Advertise or Subscribe Today!

30R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

Robert Slater Age: 83 Fire Company: Woodridge Initial reason for joining: Little boys like to ride fire trucks and put out fires. I was a truck operator / engineer for a good 50-55 years. I’m half a block from the fire house, so I was able to get there before the siren stopped

Robert Slater

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

blowing. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 63 Most powerful memory: I was helping for three or four years before I was allowed to join – you had to be 21. I think one of the things that really sticks out in my mind - I was very active. I don’t know how long it is, approximately 10 to 12, but no more than 15 years ago, we became a fire department not controlled by the village board. We became our own entity; we have our own commissioners. We became our own fire district. That’s important, it had to go to the voters, the residents of the village. I like to think that was one of our major accomplishments. We had four Slater brothers in the department: Gary, Glen, Robert and James. Raymond G. Benson Age: 80 Fire Company: Rock Hill

never forget the bad accidents. I still see the ones that happened many years ago. For some reason they stay in your mind. Jim Magie Age: 78 Fire Company: Loch Sheldrake Initial reason for joining: To be part of the community, with

Raymond Benson

Initial reason for joining: To serve the community; my family, my father, my whole family are some of the originators of the department. Current position: Life member and truck driver How many years with the fire company: 62 Most powerful memory: You

The important services you provide make all our lives better. Thank you, Jim & Barbara Kayton

86025

Don’t forg et to vote!

86058

845-657-7283 345 Upper Samsonville Rd., Olivebridge, NY 12461

85896

All of our gratitude to the essential and emergency service providers for your dedication to keeping us safe, healthy and cared for.

MOLD REMEDIATION • WATER DAMAGE RESTORATION DEEP STEAM CLEANING & SANITIZATION

SEPTEMBER, 2020

Jim Magie

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

friends. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 62 Most powerful memory: The camaraderie of being with the community and all my friends.

Roy â&#x20AC;&#x153;Porkyâ&#x20AC;? Worden Age: 79 Fire Company: White Sulphur Springs & Hurleyville Initial reason for joining: It was a family deal; my father and my brother were both members. My father was the last living charter member of White Sulphur Springs. Current position: Life member of WSS; life member and active as an exterior fireman with Hurleyville How many years with the fire company: 61 (combined) Most powerful memory: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to say, there are so many good things and others that were tragic. My most fun activity is riding that little red car in the parades.

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

Bensinger. I got out the army in 1957. After a few years, they wanted me to become an officer in 1960, and they couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find my application, so in 1960 I made the application. In order to be an officer, you had to be in there for two years. Current position: Life member, fireman. I was a commissioner for 30 years and then I retired

Roy â&#x20AC;&#x153;Porkyâ&#x20AC;? Worden

Harold Hoyt Age: 81 Fire Company: Rock Hill Initial reason for joining: The fire department was just starting when I joined. I was one of the people going around the community in order to start the RHVFC. My father-in-law was one of the founders â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Bill

Harold Hoyt

31R

and after I retired, I went to Florida for four months out of the year. So, I resigned as commissioner. How many years with the fire company: 60 Most powerful memory: It was all good. I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t specifically say this or that was the best or worst. We had good times and bad times, and everybody worked together. Tom Hasbrouck Age: 79 Fire Company: Liberty Initial reason for joining: I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been in my family for years - my grandfather and my father - itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a tradition. I had two uncles in the fire company also. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 60 Most powerful memory: I think the bad fires where we had a lot of deaths: Hankins House, the Prospect Hotel in Parksville fire, CONTINUED ON PAGE 32R

BGHT NEWS http://bght.blogspot.com

Be sure of your target and beyond!

Empire Insurance Services LLC

Rodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Taxidermy

With over 23 years experience

Owner Tamara DePaolo along with Agent/Broker Regina Burrous

Specializing in All Phases of Taxidermy Accepting VISA, MasterCard & PayPal

Liberty location, 1980 State Route 52, Liberty, NY 12754 (next to Yiasou Cafe) Open Monday to Friday 9 to 5 and offering weeknight and weekend appointments Please call us at 845-747-9444 or email tamara@myinsurance.agency to start saving money.

4491 Rt. 17B, Suite 1, Callicoon, NY

845-887-4615

www.rodstaxidermy.org

85262

85351

Visit Us At: www.klingerpowersports.com

invite you to call or stop by for a complete insurance review at their

Mon. - Fri. 9 - 4:30 Sat. 9 - noon Sundays by Appointment

85675 ATVs, Mule UVs, Teryx, Dirt Bikes, Motorcycles, Can Am Spyders/Rykers, Snowmobiles & Trailers

ED TOWNSEND

Offering you Personal & Business Insurance with experience and the personal service you deserve.

Louis Milucky, Taxidermist MASKS REQUIRED TO ENTER THE STORE

News-Photos Coverage of Professional Golf & Bowling Double A Binghamton Rumble Ponies Triple A Scranton Railriders LPGA & PGA Golf FEATURE STORIES

Auto-Home-Rentals-Boats-Jetskis-RV-Motorcycle Contractors-Business-CGL-WC-DBL And coming soon Life Insurance

STAFF WRITER-COLUMNIST SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT PO BOX 116 LIVINGSTON MANOR, NY 12758

845-439-8177 845-866-0333 Fax No. 845-205-4474 edwardctownsend@hotmail.com

32R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

Pre-School Day Care â&#x20AC;˘ Developmental Evaluations Special Need Services Nancy McDonald, M.S. in Ed. CCC, Director 504 South Woods Drive Monticello, New York

(845) 794-6037 BFSI-110467

20749

Tom Hasbrouck

Thank you for your service!

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31R

hardware store. Kenneth Walter Age: 79 Fire Company: Loch Sheldrake Initial reason for joining: To be part of something for the community. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a third-generation fire company member. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 60 Most powerful memory: I was bingo chairman for the fire company for many years. I was the caller, too. And it was fun working with everybody. We raised a lot of money and used it to buy the present Firemenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

57389

85686

the Vogel store with apartments upstairs fire on Main Street in Liberty. They all had multiple deaths. James Slater Age: 79 Fire Company: Woodridge Initial reason for joining: They ran out of firemen, and we used to help. We joined because of community spirit and if thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a fire in your neighborhood, you want to help take care of it. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 60 Most powerful memory: The Kentucky Club was the biggest fire; it involved a lot of guys and companies. It was a three-story building with a bar and grill, butcher shop, propane and

ReevesExc avati

on @ yah

oo.

co m

James Slater

Kenneth Walter

Park. Eleanor Ahrens Age: 86 Fire Company: Claryville Initial reason for joining: Well it was all new, and my husband happened to be the chief, and I figured Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to be part of it as well. Current position: Life member, and I take part in the breakfasts and annual dinner. I was the first secretary of the auxiliary. How many years with the fire company: 60 Most powerful memory: There was a parade in Middletown and one of our members had broken a limb, he was in a wheelchair, and this little guy was pushing the wheelchair and it got away from him, it all turned out well, but it was so

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

funny. Lynn Morgans Age: 79 Fire Company: Liberty Initial reason for joining: To help the community Current position: Warden of the board that governs the fire department How many years with the fire company: 58 Most powerful memory: I am a Past Chief. I was on the rescue and recovery squad of the fire department. The most memorable events were saving people from car accidents, the extrication, the diving, etc.

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

33R

Current position: I go to every call. And I’m a truck driver and pump operator and support person and life member. And I mow the lawn, too. How many years with the fire company: 58 Most powerful memory: It was when the Narrowsburg feed mill burned down. That was September 1983. I was the fire chief at the time. It burned for months! Started way up at the top of the building, which was old and made of wood inside and metal outside. We pumped water for days. George Schluer

George Schluer Age: 74 Fire Company: Lava Initial reason for joining: My dad made me start working the fire department fundraisers – I was hardly tall enough to reach the tables. I couldn’t even see over the pass through from the kitchen. As a young kid it always looked exciting, and everybody

wants to be a firefighter. There was a brush fire when I was 15 and somehow I got to go to it. Back in those years we had a lot of droughts, and the fire got away and set the barn and the woods on fire. Later that same day, we got called to go to a Lake Huntington brush fire.

Franklin Hahn Age: 75 Fire Company: Callicoon Initial reason for joining: It was a community service thing. The fire department was the center of the community and my dad was a firefighter. I joined mainly to give some help to people who needed it. Current position: Life member and engineer

Franklin Hahn

How many years with the fire company: 57 Most powerful memory: The thing that sticks out the most, is that’s a lot of years helping people, some things turned out good and some bad.

R E N I D E O C RO S

Welcome to the

Henderson-Biedekapp FUNERAL CHAPEL

Jade M. Parise, Owner/Director 37524

Hancock, N.Y.

85003

607-637-2581 WWW.HBFUNERALCHAPEL.COM 1908 Old Route 17, Roscoe, NY 12776 (607) 498-4405 www.theroscoediner.com

Edythe Raiten CSW-R Psychotherapy

10137

61343

Individual Therapy Marital Counseling Custody Visitation

Relationships Play Therapy Family Therapy Mediation

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

John Bullock Age: 76 Fire Company: Loch Sheldrake Initial reason for joining: My father was the Fire Chief; my brother was a member and we blew the siren from my house. We had a switch. It was a family thing.

John Bullock

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 57 Most powerful memory: I think it was the fellowship, the camaraderie, working together for the community. Lee Ellmauer Sr. Age: 80 Fire Company: Youngsville Initial reason for joining: I had a cousin that told me, “Join the fire company. We need young guys.” Current position: Life member and first responder, I’m two minutes away from the fire house. How many years with the fire company: 57 Most powerful memory: We built the firehouse that we’re in right now. It was a chicken coop at one time, I shoveled the manure out so we could make it a firehouse. When I was the Chief, I started a program with five or six 16-year-old boys. We’d never had boys that young in Sullivan County fire depart-

Jo oe Yeakley e Fire Chief Linndale Fire Deptt, TX VFFIS client sincee 1999

Hear Joe’s full stor y.

SEPTEMBER, 2020

and engineer How many years with the fire company: 57 Most powerful memory: The good times at the county parades. Just being with the fellas. It’s like a brotherhood.

Lee Ellmauer Sr.

ments. One was my son and it’s worked out great for us. Sherwood “Woody” McGibbon Age: 77 Fire Company: Youngsville Initial reason for joining: They needed personnel. Current position: Life member

Sherwood “Woody” McGibbon

TTHE RO OOF COLLLAPS SED ON ME. E Peter e Feid

VFIS Sales Executive - Eastern NY 800 233.195 800.2 57 extt 7928

86153

34R

SEPTEMBER, 2020

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

35R

36R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

Steve Dainack Age: 74 Fire Company: Hurleyville Initial reason for joining: I actually got in the fire company two months before I was 18. Lee Turner was captain, and he was trying to recruit young members to march in the parade. My father

Steve Dainack

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

was on the board of fire commissioners. There were three or four of us who joined at the same time. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 57 Most powerful memory: Hurleyville Fire Company was everything to me, the camaraderie, the public service. We had a major power outage sometime in the late ‘70s, early ‘80s – an early spring snowstorm that wiped out power everywhere. We were running around with generators from house to house, so the waterpipes wouldn’t freeze. We also lost one of our firefighters in a house fire - David Murray. It was his father’s mobile home. If I’m not mistaken, he died trying to get his sister out. E.J. Lund Age: 82 Fire Company: Woodbourne Initial reason for joining: I just happened to be a joiner. I’m a past master of the Masonic

SEPTEMBER, 2020

Most powerful memory: I think one of the hardest fires was the Kentucky Club – a bar in Woodridge that burned down. We were called up for aid, it was winter, it was a terrible day. Dead of winter. John Bowers Age: 85 Fire Company: Loch Sheldrake Initial reason for joining: I

E.J. Lund

Lodge, president of Little League, Commissioner for 20 years, Secretary for 20, Treasurer in first aid for a number of years. I’ve been Treasurer of S.C. Fire Police for over 30 years. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 56

John Bowers

Thank You! Klein & Sons Excavation

85540

Youngsville, NY (845) 482-3869

86072

From

GLENN L. SMITH, P.E. CONSULTING ENGINEER, P.C. for your dedication to our communities.

Ph: (845) 796-2216 Fax: (845) 796-2716 Email: gsmith.pepc@verizon.net

5803 Rt. 42, Fallsburg, NY 12733 (845) 434-3370

79586

Glenn Smith President

We Thank You 16137

P.O. Box 156 533 Broadway Monticello, NY 12701

Dynamite Youth Center Foundation, Inc.

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

wanted to be part of the community. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 56 Most powerful memory: I guess one of the big things was building the new firehouse. That, and one of the firemen, Red Yaple, had a fire in his house and he perished in the fire

in Youngsville when I was President. The same year that I joined, we bought the chicken coop and shoveled chicken manure out of it to build the firehouse. We built the whole thing, 20-30 people, every weekend for about two years, and the ladies in the auxiliary would cook us dinner, so it was real community people.

Jerry Davitt Age: 84 Fire Company: Youngsville Initial reason for joining: My neighbors were all in it, so when I moved over here from Jeff, they got me involved. Current position: Life member and Fire Policeman. How many years with the fire company: 56 Most powerful memory: I was Chief, then I was President, and I’ve been a Commissioner since 1972. We had the county parade

DRIVE-THRU

and I work at the fundraisers. How many years with the fire company: 56 (combined) Most powerful memory: Working at the dinners. I get to see people and socialize as well as helping the company. George Price PLEASE SEE PAGE 38R

Paul Hubert

Jerry Davitt

Paul Hubert Age: 79 Fire Company: Youngsville & Hankins Initial reason for joining: I wanted to be a volunteer and help the community. Current position: Life member Paul Hubert

In appreciation to all the essential workers and healthcare, & emergency service providers for your dedication throughout this time.

EARL KINNEY

Youngsville Veterinary Clinic

EXCAVATING & TRUCKING

(845) 887-5540

Drainage Ponds Land Clearing Roads Septic Systems Grading Foundations Driveways Red Shale Top Soil Stone Gravel SNOW REMOVAL IN THE CALLICOON AREA

Dr. Joseph & Kerry Jo Nebzydoski & Family

~ Small & Large Animals ~ Rt. 52 • Youngsville, NY

FREE Prescription Delivery

CHICKEN LADIES AUXILIARY

86180

BBQ

RAIN OR SHINE

61 Glen Wild Rd • Rock Hill, NY

See any member for Tickets or call for info or tickets 845-798-6923

86029

$14.00 Per Person

October 3rd, 2020 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM

845-482-3330

www.youngsville.myvetonline.com Email: dr_nebzydoski@yahoo.com

ROCK HILL FIRE DEPT.

Includes 1/2 Chicken Baked Potato • Bread • Cole Slaw Bottled Water • Dessert

George Price

Hrs: Mon-Fri 8:30-6; Sat 9-3 Colonial Square Plaza 1987 State Rte 52, Liberty, NY 12754 (845) 292-8200

We specialize in “Medication Packaging” and offer a Medication & Therapy Management program. Schedule your one-on-one appointment with a pharmacist today!

Hrs: Mon-Fri 9-6; Sat 9-3 47 Stewart Ave, Roscoe, NY 12776 roscoemedicineshoppe@gmail.com (607) 498-4111

YVET-117090

39908

37R

85630

Free Estimates 43 Years Experience

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 37

Age: 74 Fire Company: Hurleyville Initial reason for joining: When you got out of high school, that’s what you did. When you turned 18, you joined the fire department. Current position: Life member and engineer How many years with the fire company: 56 Most powerful memory: We hosted the county parade a couple of times in Hurleyville. It was great to see all the people coming into town. Edward Brown Age: 73 Fire Company: Woodbourne Initial reason for joining: Most of the people who reached 18 years of age did that. It was the biggest social entity in town along with the church. It was what you did. As soon as you turned 18, you started giving back to the community.

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

It’s a small town. We had to do something for the social aspect. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 55 Most powerful memory: The people I met and the people I worked with taught me just about everything I knew about firefighting. You took a 12-week

Edward Brown

Hank Samyn Jr.

Several new jewelry lines... Fair Trade jewelry & bags. Fun & different kitchen items • Soy candles

NEW Bath & Body lines - ‘Inis’ spray mist made in Ireland! Expanded Melissa & Doug area PLUS children’s books & Home décor!

4917 State Route 52 in Jeffersonville! (In the same building as the Post Office).

Sue Bodenstein Proprietor

845-482-2283 We accept all major credit cards

84591

FREE GIFT WRAPPING

Open Tues. - Sat. 10-5 Closed Sundays & Mondays

Locally Owned & Operated

Foreign & Domestic AUTO REPAIR & SERVICE and Complete COLLISION REPAIR & BODY PAINTING G

Brakes • Shocks • Tires Exhaust • AC Services Computer Diagnostics Alignments • Transmissions Regular Maintenance Certified NYS Inspection Station 188 Lake Street • Liberty, NY 12754

CALL US TODAY! 845-292-4808

63892

SERVICE CENTER

course and didn’t have any hands-on experience till you went to your first fire. I was Chief in ’78 and ’79. We had heavy equipment compared to now. Basically, the whole experience. It was a lot of work, but I enjoyed it. You met people and you enjoyed working with them. Hank Samyn Jr.

Thank you for your commitment & dedication to the community.

THALMANN’S

SEPTEMBER, 2020

BUY SELL TRADE

Age: 77 Fire Company: Neversink Initial reason for joining: I came out of the service, and I lived here all my life, and all my neighbors are firemen. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 55 Most powerful memory: I was Chief for four years, and Commissioner for five. Bill Niemann Age: 77 Fire Company: Youngsville Initial reason for joining: I joined in 1964 to be part of the local activities and the fire department was a big part of the community. I always was and am proud to be member of such an active department and so happy with the growth in the department and its membership. So many of our friends and neighbors are also members, and I have wonderful memories of parades, dinners, breakfasts and get togethers.

Over 100 Vehicles In Stock!! Sullivan County’s biggest little dealership with the lowest miles in the mountains!

53777

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

CALL 845-583-5110 OR JUST STOP BY!!!!!!!

954 State Route 17B, Mongaup Valley, NY 12762 • www.sevenxmotorsinc.com

Fully Insured

(845) 295-5462

BOYES & TORRENS CONSTRUCTION HOME IMPROVEMENT

Vinyl Siding • Seamless Gutters Replacement Windows Roofing • Decks • Kitchen & Baths Garages/Additions • New Homes 844 Aden Rd., Parksville, NY 12768

44772 53709

38R

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

fire. This was at 4:30 a.m. and shook the nearby buildings, destroying the structure and damaging the adjourning building owned by Bruce Berberich. I lived right across the street and to this day, I can still see the flames and destruction to my wife's uncle and aunt's place of business and their home.

Bill Niemann

Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 55 Most powerful memory: The fire at Danzer's garage in September 1970 when a truck from Fall's Poultry laden with crates, lost its brakes, crossed Route 52, crashing into the garage causing an explosion and

Joseph Nosek Age: 82 Fire Company: Youngsville Initial reason for joining: I’m very community minded, and I’ve always been very active in the community with the fire department and the church, and the Renaissance committee. I watered the street flowers for about five years. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 54 Most powerful memory: When I was the President of Sullivan County Volunteer Firefighters Association in 1978 or 1979, they

39R

Initial reason for joining: Carl Denman had already joined, so he asked me if I wanted to join, and I said I’d love to. Current position: Life member, and I work at the events. How many years with the fire company: 54 Most powerful memory: It was up at Frost Valley in Claryville years ago in January, the kitchen caught fire, and I still remember

Joseph Nosek

had the parade here in Youngsville, and all the departments pitched in. Throughout the years I was there when they had fundraisers, or any time they needed me. Anthony Fairbairn Age: 81 Fire Company: Neversink

Anthony Fairbairn

81106

The Long Eddy Hose Company would like to applaud and honor the dedicated and selfless men and women who stood on the front lines during the pandemic. We can’t thank you enough for your courageous acts and bravery.

86205

40R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

Do you feel like you live in a storage unit instead of a home? All you need is a little space for your stuff!!! Store your things before Winter comes.

ing at North Bran d n a L ch The

NORT

North Branch Self Storage

H BRANCH, NY

60 County Road 122, Suite 1, North Branch, NY 12766 | 845-482-2450

Or visit our web page www.northbranchselfstorage.com And check out our specials Rent a 5 x 5 unit for $45 per month for up to 1 year (reg. $60)

OR (Specials expire December 31, 2020)

Rent a 5 x 10 unit for $75 per month for up to 1 year (reg. $85)

**Call us to see how you can get one month FREE**

86156

SEPTEMBER, 2020

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

trying to stay on my feet because of the ice on the road. Tom Matthews Age: 73 Fire Company: Claryville Initial reason for joining: Well I lived here in the area and I knew that volunteerism is very important, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been here ever since. Current position: Life Member, Captain of Fire Police, How many years with the fire company: 54 Most powerful memory: Actually thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two: there was a fire on Cummings Road on the top of Whyman Hill, and a young girl perished in the upstairs bedroom from smoke inhalation and extreme heat. And one of the firefighters handed her over to me to put her in the ambulance, but she was gone already. Also, we had a plane crash on top of the mountain here in Claryville, and there were six people who all perished. It was nasty weather

41R

Initial reason for joining: I got out of the military and I had two veterans grab me, and they dragged me to the fire company, the ambulance squad and the American Legion. And I loved every minute of it. Current position: Life member, Fire police and Trustee for the protection district, Past Chief PLEASE SEE PAGE 42R

Tom Matthews

and we called off the search around 4 a.m., and at first light we went back, but they were all gone. Bob Blais Age: 72 Fire Company: Kauneonga Lake Initial reason for joining: Just wanted to help out the community.

Bob Blais

Current position: Engineer How many years with the fire company: 54 Most powerful memory: I was Chief a few times. My son joined when he came of age and heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been Chief, too. Bill Hofaker Age: 73 Fire Company: Yulan

Bill Hofaker

4.667"; 5.125"; 1; -; Red, Whiteâ&#x20AC;˘ Bryan and &Blue; BarbaraBlack; are readyServer and waiting for We are open for business you at the-;front counter by the phone or Files:Pre 1 Display PDFs:84937.pdf; No; No;and No; <no inforand helping everyone computer to take your orders. mation>

get back to normal!

CRVI thanks our dedicated Direct Support Professionals for all they do every day for the people we support.

Of course, we are taking all of the appropriate current safety precautions, and we ask that all customers wear a mask and to stay 6 feet apart. We are ready to supply you with all your office, home office and computer needs.

â&#x20AC;˘ Our copy shop is open again and Jessica has all of your art supplies and framing in the Art Shoppe. â&#x20AC;˘ If you need a copier or computer or even a commercial vacuum, Gene and Ryan are anxious to speak with you. We service every item that we sell and we never charge for delivery.

85426

369 Broadway, Monticello, NY 12701 845-794-6639

420 Schutt Road Extension | Middletown, NY 10940 | 845.692.4444 | crvi.org

84937

We also honor the tireless HIIRUWV RI RXU Ă&#x20AC;UVW UHVSRQGHUV essential workers and law enforcement.

Your office items buying habits are really NOT back to normal until you contact us at Kristt Company on Broadway in Monticello.

We very much look forward to seeing you soon.

42R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

raderie with the other guys, helping other people. Current position: Life member How many years with the company: 52 Most powerful memory: When I was in charge of fire prevention and teaching kids to get down when there is a fire because the smoke rises and there’d be an opening with fresh air, there was a fire on School Street. A couple of the kids came out, and they recognized me from school and said, ‘Mr. Edwards we did what you told us to do.’ They got themselves and their parents out safely.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 41R

How many years with the fire company: 53 Most powerful memory: Having a building partially collapse while watching my two sons. One went into the heart of the fire and he had the new equipment, which saved his life, and he climbed out of the house. And

James Hartman

Bruce Van Vleet

my second son I caught him by the air pack as he was falling in. Bruce Van Vleet Age: 75 Fire Company: Woodbourne Initial reason for joining: I grew up in Woodbourne, after high school when I was in college, I think I signed on. I wanted to be involved with the community. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 53 Most powerful memory: Probably a couple of big fires. When Woodbourne burned down - I wasn’t a member at that time. We were called out to one of big hotels – that was a lot of hours, but we had a lot of mutual aid. James Hartman Age: 70 Fire Company: Woodbourne Initial reason for joining: It was camaraderie. Everybody knew each other. It was a group of families. I felt like it was my civic duty. My brothers were mem-

bers, and I felt it was an obligation. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 53 Most powerful memory: Back in those days, the fire companies used to have a Firemen’s Field Day, and I was very involved in that. Even though there was a lot of competition, it brought all the other companies together because everyone knew each other. Everyone had lived here most of their lives. Harry Edwards Age: 70 Fire Company: Liberty Initial reason for joining: It's a family thing. My father was a member, my brother became a member. His stories of the cama-

Irvin Newmark Age: 76 Fire Company: Woodridge Initial reason for joining: I worked for the Village of Woodridge for 30 years in public works, and even then there was a shortage of firefighters during the day. I worked for Frank Smith and he said that if there’s a fire the village will let you go. They had a public safety policy. Current position: Life member, I go to meetings. I was the Secretary for many years until about one year ago. How many years with the fire company: 51 Most powerful memory: Well I can remember the Kentucky Club fire, ice all over the street in the middle of January. The building is still there, it got rebuilt and is now a Jewish grocery store.

SEPTEMBER, 2020

Bruce Sabinsky

That was a fixture of the village for many years. Bruce Sabinsky Age: 70 Fire Company: Loch Sheldrake Initial reason for joining: To be a part of the community and provide a service for the community. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 51 Most powerful memory: The Grandview Palace fire. I was really impressed with the turnout, and I was helping support the firefighters.

George Haas

Harry Edwards

Irvin Newmark

George Haas Age: 70 Fire Company: Yulan Initial reason for joining:

Volunteering, it was the thing to do. Current position: Photographer, I was the Treasurer How many years with the fire company: 51 Most powerful memory: I was taking photos and the Hofakers were on the roof when the rafters gave way. Half of Eldred burnt down in 1975, and then in 1989, another corner of the town burned down. Jack Halchak Age: 69 Fire Company: Hurleyville Initial reason for joining: My dad was a fireman, and in the class of ’69 there were six of us that joined at the same time. Most of our fathers were firefighters. It was the thing to do. People cared about where they lived. Current position: Deputy Fire Coordinator for S.C. Bureau of Fire How many years with the fire company: 51 Most powerful memory: I think one of the biggest fires was when the Columbia Hotel burned down. One of my proud accomplishments – I served on many different organizations. I was a member and Past President of the S.C. Fire Chiefs Association, and we started the central answering point, which is basically 911 now. I served on the S.C. Fire Advisory Board, and I was chair for nine years. Through that committee, we were able to get

Jack Halchak

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

911. The committee consisted of all the emergency services. When I joined, my son joined, so I marched in the County parade

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

43R

POLITICAL ADVERTSIEMENT

John O’Neil

with my father and my son. John O’Neil Age: 69 Fire Company: Hurleyville Initial reason for joining: My grandfather was Past Chief, and my father was a member also. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 51 Most powerful memory: I like helping people out, and the fire company was a good way of doing it. We had a good bunch of people there. Doug Depuy Age: 76 Fire Company: Woodbourne Initial reason for joining: I had gotten out of the service and my wife is from Woodbourne, and I knew I was going to build a house there, so that’s the reason I joined. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 50 Most powerful memory: Back when I first joined, we had a lot of hotels, and we had lots of hotel fires. There was one called Hotel First. We were on that one for a couple of days. Back then, they made everything out of wood, and put stucco on top, and the PLEASE SEE PAGE 44R

86220

SEPTEMBER, 2020

44R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

were two huge fires, the Armstrong House – where the post office is now, and then we had Adam Mady’s garage, which burned down on Main Street. We didn’t know if we were going to lose that block, there was a print shop right next to it – like three feet away. We were able to contain everything to the one building. After that I had the honor of being the first and only Blue Ribbon Chief so far when we won the blue ribbon trophy for overall appearance at the county parade in Swan Lake. I’m pretty sure that was in 1981. Doug Depuy

SEPTEMBER, 2020

in the Town of Bethel, and I’d learn something besides. Current position: Fire police and truck engineer How many years with the fire company: 50 Most powerful memory: What I enjoyed the most was when we built our new firehouse in 1992, and we came up with bingo, we were able to pay off the mortgage of $225,000 in seven years because of bingo. And then to treat ourselves, we went on a cruise to Bermuda.

Bill O’Neill

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 43R

stucco held the flames inside, and it just kept burning. No matter how much water we put on it, it would just come right back. It was actually in Fallsburg, but there was a lot of mutual aid. Bill O’Neill Age: 73

Fire Company: Woodbourne Initial reason for joining: I came home from the Air Force and the local guys all got a hold of me and talked me into joining to help the local community. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 50 Most powerful memory: There

Richard Martinkovic

Raymond “Radar Ray” Neuenhoff

85566

Thank you to our Essential and Emergency Service Providers!

Fuel Oil • Kerosene • Driveways Built • Oil & Chip Septic Systems • Drainage Roads Built • Driveway Plowing & Sanding PO Box 255, Claryville, NY 12725 (845) 985-2231 Fax (845) 985-0186 suesheeley@gmail.com

Raymond “Radar Ray” Neuenhoff Age: 81 Fire Company: White Lake Initial reason for joining: I would say I moved up here around 1968 from NYC, and I figured if I joined the fire company, I’d meet more people who lived

Richard Martinkovic Age: 73 Fire Company: Liberty Initial reason for joining: I wanted to do community service in Liberty and when I finished college I came back to Liberty. I was approached by several fire department members, and they all wanted me to join their com-

JEFFERSONVILLE ANIMAL HOSPITAL

Dr. Moria L. Norris Dr. Luann Steele Dr. Allen Wachter Dr. Richard L. Schwalb

We thank everyone here at the Jeffersonville Animal Hospital for all of their hard work and dedication during these tough times. We are a group of dedicated professionals who strive to provide our patients with the most up-to-date medical, diagnostic, and surgical procedures in the most state-of-the-art veterinary hospital in our area. Our goal is to provide this care compassionately in a friendly and personal setting.

89 Schoolhouse Road Jeffersonville, NY 12748 845-482-5500

85523

Ammo

85589

Office Hours by Appointment Mon-Fri 8:30-5pm Sat 9am-12pm

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

pany. There are three companies in Liberty, and I wound up joining company # 2. During the years Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been Secretary / Treasurer, President, State Fire Instructor for 14 years; then I became Deputy Fire Coordinator, then Fire Coordinator, then I was appointed in 2005 to be Commissioner of Public Safety. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 50 Most powerful memory: I think that one of the prides and joy I had was to become the Fire Coordinator and work with all the companies in the county. At the Grandview Palace fire, there were over 306 resident guests in the buildings during the fire, and close to 36 fire companies, and thank God, there was no loss of life and no major injuries. Michael Speer Age: 66 Fire Company: White Sulphur Springs Initial reason for joining: Originally I joined the Monticello

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

45R

Most powerful memory: I went up through the ranks, Lieutenant, Captain, car 1, 2, 3, and Chief for two years, and then Commissioner for about 10 years. And fire district Treasurer. The memory that sticks with me was in Monticello on Hamilton Avenue, an apartment house that was opposite the old Hamilton Avenue Hospital. It was a horrible scene and I believe we lost five people, there were numerous deaths.

Michael Speer

Fire Department. I was there as a firefighter and Treasurer for several years. Then I left for Virginia and two years later came back in 1990 and bought a house in WSS. I always had an interest. Dad was a long-time member of Monticello. And my brother was a firefighter. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire company: 50

Tom Totten Age: 68 Fire Company: White Sulphur Springs Initial reason for joining: My father was a firefighter in WSS, I liked the fire trucks running by. At 10 and 12 years old you kind of want to drive those. Current position: Life member, Commissioner and Director, and Deputy Fire Coordinator for the county. How many years with the fire company: 50 Most powerful memory: Just

Tom Totten

my enthusiasm for helping people. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had a couple of rough moments throughout the years, and that never deterred me from doing anything that was needed, training or otherwise. Rusty Brown Age: 77 Fire Company: Woodridge PLEASE SEE PAGE 46R

4.667"; 5.125"; 1; -; Red, White and Blue; Black; Server Files:Pre 1 Display PDFs:86013.pdf; -; No; No; No; <no information>

THANK YOU

to our Roscoe-Rockland Red, White and Blue Heroes! **** Roscoe-Rockland Fire Department Roscoe-Rockland Volunteer Ambulance Corps New York State Police, Troop F, Roscoe Roscoe Nursing & Rehabilitation Center UHS Primary Care, Roscoe Office The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy, Roscoe Local food pantries & community volunteers **** 48957 31868

We sincerely appreciate your dedication and expertise in keeping the residents of the Roscoe-Rockland area safe and healthy.

www.yellowcabmonticello.com

86013

the From

46R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

SEPTEMBER, 2020

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 45R

Initial reason for joining: I worked with a guy who was a member and he hounded and hounded me, and then one day I needed the fire department and saw how important it was. Current position: Life member How many years with the fire

company: 50 Most powerful memory: I guess it would the Lake House fire. It still is the name of a hotel. There was a very large fire and the main building burned to the ground. There were around 11 fire companies on site. I served as every-

thing from Lieutenant to Chief. It’s a brotherhood. There are so many nice people in the community, county, and state and it’s astounding how much they do for each other. And once you’re in the brotherhood, you never want to leave.

Additional firefighters with 50 or more years with their company Ed Orlowsky – Hurleyville – 72 Mendy Greenspan – Hurleyville – 67 Ralph Liff –– White Lake –– 66 George Kinch – Monticello – 65 Richard Kurthy – Monticello – 65 Donald Paulus – Yulan – 65 Thomas Kurthy – Monticello – 63 Doug Fraser – Monticello – 61 Isaac Kantrowitz – Woodridge – 60+ Tom Edwards – White Sulphur Springs – 60

George Dewitt – White Sulphur Springs – 60 William Heins Jr. – Monticello – 58 William Rosenberg – Monticello – 58 George Gregory – Monticello – 57 Andrew Fero – Monticello – 57 Robert Somers – Monticello – 57 Robert Yakin – Monticello – 56 Donald Beck –– Narrowsburg –– 56 Allan Schachnovsky – Monticello – 55 Edward Cooke – Monticello – 54 Philip Speer – Monticello – 54

Dennis Wood – Monticello – 53 Rick Wood – Monticello – 53 Douglas Immoor – Youngsville – 53 Charles Kaese – Yulan – 52 Michael Bastone – Monticello – 51 Fred Robinson – Monticello – 51 Michael Bernstein – Monticello – 51 Ira “Moose” Liff –– White Lake –– 51 Douglass Cauthers – Woodridge – 50+ Wayne Pirnos – Woodridge – 50+ Stu Novick - Woodridge – 50+

Dennis Denenberg – Woodridge – 50+ Charles “Chick” Allan – Fallsburg – 50+ Harold Gold – Fallsburg – 50+ Harry Barrett – Loch Sheldrake – 50+ Ron Geiger – Loch Sheldrake – 50+ Richard McClernon – Monticello – 50 Charles Morman – Monticello – 50 George Kelley – Monticello – 50 Ed Kraack – Lake Huntington – 50 Earl Kinney –– Hortonville –– 50

MATT SHORTALL | DEMOCRAT

The White Lake Fire Company's Ralph Liff rides shotgun in last year's Sullivan County Volunteer Firefighters Association Firefighter's Parade as his son Ira "Moose" Liff drives. Both men have over 50 years with the White Lake Fire Company, who were

supposed to host the 2020 parade that was recently canceled due to the ongoing pandemic. White Lake will now host it in 2022 parade. The 2021 parade will take place in Grahamsville and it will be an anniversary year for their department.

SEPTEMBER, 2020

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

47R

Rock Hill Volunteer Fire Department

SALUTES OUR ACTIVE 50 YEAR + MEMBERS

Harold Hoyt Joined 1960 - 60 Years

Raymond Benson Joined 1958 - 62 Years

Thank You for Your Service

IS THERE A FIRE IN YOU? JOIN US! For info Contact info@rockhillfiredept.com

86034

- AND Thanks to All Sullivan County 50 Year + Members

48R

TRIBUTE TO RED, WHITE & BLUE

SULLIVAN COUNTY DEMOCRAT

CULLIGAN WATERCO

SEPTEMBER, 2020

UV System Rental Specials! Regularly $29.95/month

Now, get three months for the price of one. Installation, Regularly $299.00, now only $49.95 If you decide to purchase within the first 90 days, all monies spent will be applied toward the purchase price. *Offer good for a limited time. Dealer participation may vary. Please mention this email when calling in for this special. Not valid with any other offers. Does not include additional repairs, parts or applicable taxes.

Take Back Your Tap Benefits of UV disinfection • Uses no chemicals • Maintenance & service included

85504

Call Now! Culligan WaterCo 845-561-3728

• Economical and Green • USEPA recognized as a means of disinfection *Some protozoa like Cryptosporidium and Giardia are resistant to chlorination.