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Fallsburg - Kathryn Grodin, Fallsburg High School Interact Advisor presents a check to Monticello Rotary President-Elect and 98.3 WSUL Heart-a-thon longest volunteer, Lori Orestano-James in the amount of $726.  The Interact Club raised this money as part of their community service efforts through "selling" Hearts and collecting donations.  The Fallsburg Interact Club is sponsored by the Monticello Rotary Club.  The students did an outstanding job raising over $200 more than last years total.  Congratulations on a job well done and truly holding true to Service Above Self!
Monticello Rotary was in the house with fellow Rotarians President-Elect Lori Orestano-James,  Hudson Cooper and Elsie Kopcha helping to raise money for the 46th Annual 98.3 WSUL Heart-A-Thon at Resorts World Catskills on February 16, 2024.
 
The Monticello Rotary Club sold $334 worth of Hearts from 6pm - 8pm. That's A LOT of hearts!!! To make a donation, please click here:
Friend and fellow Monti Corporate Member Sara Kozachuk  and her hubby even stopped by to say hello. The Town of Wallkill Boys & Girls Club are doing a great job selling hearts at her school! Prevention, Education, and Treatment is the goal of the Heart-a-thon. What better place than the schools to make this happen?
 
Even friend Ryan Schock stopped by to donate and say hi! (We were busy and missed getting a photo with him!)
 
And, don't forget the Rotary Clubs of Sullivan County Give From The Heart Blood Drive Each pint donated saves 3 lives. Make a difference in someone's life. Sign up today.
When we do good and others thank us, what is not realized is how much we get back from them in the return of #ServiceAboveSelf! Peter from Achieve Rehab and Nursing Facility was so grateful to receive the lap throws, slipper socks, large print books, handmade hats, scarves, and shawls, and so much more collected and delivered during the Bag-of-Joy Holiday Comfort Closet Collection organized by the Rotary Club of Monticello, NY in collaboration with  the 3rd Judicial Court Employees by Rotary President-Elect Lori James ( Lori Orestano-James ) and Rotary Vice President Peter Chester. What an awesome feeling!

Wishing all a wonderful, safe, and healthy Holiday Season. Remember to take a moment to #Serve. It is the best of all holiday gifts to give to yourself.
 
Monticello - The Rotary Club of Monticello, NY held it's Bag-of-Joy Senior Holiday Comfort Closet Drive in collaboration with the 3rd Judicial Court Employees resulting in "cup runneth over" donations which will be distributed to patients at Achieve Rehab and Nursing Facility in Liberty, New York.
Monticello Rotary Club President-Elect and Co-chair of this event Lori James ( Lori Orestano-James)  said, "The Holiday Season is difficult for so many, especially those who are away from their family and loved ones. We hope that by providing a little Holiday Spirit for those who are our most vulnerable, will allow them to know we care about them and are thinking about them."
"Rotary's motto is Service Above Self, and what an inspirational way for our Club to give back to our community," said Club President Bill Tochterman.
Cris Cirillo Spinner, Event Co-chair shared, "It is wonderful how the folks in our community come together to make sure others are cared for. This season alone, Rotary Club of Monticello, NY has run this amazing event, its annual Food Drive, and done a distribution of Care Teddy Bears and Santa visit Garnet Health - Catskills, and a Holiday Blood Drive. I am proud to be such a great organization that continually helps others!"
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Rotary Clubs of Sullivan County Join Together for The Wellness Experience
 
The Monticello, Liberty, and Livingston Manor Rotary Clubs have joined together with Community Partners to present The Wellness Experience: Connecting Mind, Body, and Spirit on Saturday, May 20, 2023 as part of the Rotary District 7210 Day of Service to be held at Resorts World – Catskill Meeting Rooms at 888 Resorts World Drive in Monticello, New York.
 
The day consists of multiple opportunities for all in the community.
 
1. Blood Drive from 10am until 4pm conducted by the New York Blood Center. We are in critical need of blood donors to save lives and you can help. You can register for the Blood Drive at https://donate.nybc.org/.../schedules/drive_schedule/311203
 
2. Wellness Seminars and Classes from 9am – 3pm. There will be a Expert Panel Discussion (9:30am) lead by our very own Assemblyperson Aileen Gunther, Chair for the Assembly Committee on Mental Health, Chair - Subcommittee on Women’s Health, and Committee Member on Health. Joining in on the panel are Melissa Stickle, Sullivan County Director of Community Services at the Sullivan County Department of Community Services Mental Health Clinic, Michele McCoy – Director of Pupil Personnel Services for the Monticello Central School District, and Kayla Margarum, BSN, RN Clinical Director Behavioral Health Unit from Garnett. In addition, we will have a Yogo for Health Workshop by LeeAnne Maniace of The Yoga Space at HPAC in Hurleyville, New York, The Benefits of Hypnotherapy for PTSD by Licensed Hypnotherapist Albee Bockman, Tai Chi for Overall Wellness by Pedro Tweed, The Benefits of Arts Therapy for Adolescents by Lori Orestano-James – Nesin Cultural Arts, Forget the Stigma – How Can We Help – Marty Colavito and Tom Bosket of SALT (Sullivan Allies Leading Together.)
 
3. Vendors/Agencies/Organization will be available from 10am -2pm to share information, speak to attendees, and provide information. Those who will have tables include, but is not limited to: SALT, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Action Toward Independence, Hope Not Handcuffs, Catholic Charities, MVP, Fidelis Care, RSS (Rehabilitation Support Services), Sullivan 180, NAMI Sullivan County, Vet 2 Vets, Wounded Warrior Program, Sullivan County Public Health, Evergreen Meadow Academy, Ulster County Community Action, Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce, and many others. Special Children/Adolescent Activities will be available in the Action Toward Independence Room.
 
All events and activities are open to the public and free of charge. Walk-in are Welcome. Attendees will receive a Goodies Collection Bag and chances to win door prizes.
For more information, please email rotarymonti@gmail.com or call 845 798-1770.
 
The Livingston Manor Rotary Club was host to the Rotary Region 5 Meeting on May, 9, 2023.  Clubs from Rockland County up to Sullivan County joined together to celebrate successes of the Rotary year and to share in current club happenings.  The Guest Speakers for the meeting were Kara Passante, Carolyn Bivens, and Glorianne Ellison from Sullivan County Ride 2 Survive.  Ride to Survive provides much needed funds to assist in the transportation to and from to life saving medical appointments and treatments for cancer patients.  No cancer patient is turned away.  They made clear that no cancer patient should ever have to choose between being able to get to a treatment or food on the table or rent. The Rotary members were touched by the work done by this amazing organization and many Rotarians present donated personally to the cause. 
 
Food, fellowship, and friendship enhances the Rotary motto of Service Above Self.  That was certainly evident at this meeting!  Thank you to the Livingston Manor Club for hosting this wonderful evening. 
(Photos from October 2022 Monticello Rotary Blood Drive)
 
Blood donations are needed now more than ever.  The Rotary Clubs of Monticello, Liberty, and Livingston Manor will be holding a Blood Drive in conjunction with NYBC (New York Blood Center) as part of the 45th Annual WSUL Heart-a-thon on Friday, February 17, 2023 from Noon until 6pm at the Epicenter at Resorts World in Monticello who has graciously sponsored this event. According to Monticello Rotary VP and Blood Drive Chair, "Donating blood is so simple to do and all it costs you is about 25 minutes of your time from paperwork at check-in to snacks post donation.  Where inflation has brought costs up across our country, this is the one cost that has not increased.  The cost to save a life is still the same.  If everyone who can give was to give, the shortage of blood would disappear."  To schedule a time, please register by clicking on this link:  https://www.givegabhttps://www.givegab.com/p2p/45th-annual-98-3-wsul-heart-a-thon/lori-orestano-james. Additional information links are below. 
 
Please help us to help others and sign up today! All COVID protocols will be in place. 
 
 
 
Monticello Rotary is showing heart in participating in The 45th Annual 98.3 WSUL Heart-a-thon to be held on Friday, February 17, 2023 from 6am - 5pm at the Epicenter at Resorts World Catskills in Monticello.  Heart Disease is the number once cause of death in the United States.  Sullivan County is ranked 61 out of 62 in NYS for poor health with Heart Disease following the national trend.  This year's Heart-a-thon has shifted forcus to ensure those concerns are being addressed for our community.  This year, the Heart-a-thon will be expanding the beneficiaries to focus on: Prevention, Education, and Treatment of Heart Disease in Sullivan County.  This year proceeds will benefit a Treadmill for the Cardiac Rehab and some portable Cardiac Monitors, both for the Garnet Medical Center Catskills Campus; The Warrior Teens Program and an Outdoor Fitness Pad in Monticello with Sullivan 180, A Singe Bite’s Real Food School Education Program, and Building Sullivan’s Healthcare Workforce Scholarships with Suny Sullivan.
 
To help us, help others, please consider donating today.  Donations can be made online at: https://www.givegab.com/p2p/45th-annual-98-3-wsul-heart-a-thon/lori-orestano-james or you can pledge by calling 845 798-1770.  
 
The Rotary Clubs of Sullivan County (Monticello, Liberty, and Livingston Manor) will be holding a Blood Drive during this event during the hours of Noon - 6pm.  Please use the following link to sign register and set an appointment time.  https://donate.nybc.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/303543 Any questions, call 845 798-1770
Monticello Rotary along with the 3rd Judicial District in Sullivan County of the NYS Court System collected and distributed Bag-of-Joy items to the Achieve Nursing and Rehab Facility in Liberty, New York.  Rotary Drive Chairperson and Rotary Club Vice President, Lori Orestano-James said the Director of Program Services was humbled to recieve the donation stating that the clients at the facility will be able to use all of the items individually and in their theraputic needs.  "Being away from loved ones during the Holiday Season is very difficult.  Many of our Senior Citizens have no family locally and the Holiday's can bring on sadness and depression.  Thank you to all who helped us make a difference," said Orestano-James. Special thanks to Wendy Weiner-Galligan who led the charge in the Courts.  Rotary Bag-of-Joy Committee Members Peter Chester and Lynka Rivera assisted with collection and distribution.  Monticello Rotary President Brad Rutledge said, "This was a beautiful partnership that will continue to flourish and grow in years to come as we provide support in our community."  
 
 
Members of the Fallsburg High School Interact and Leo Club joined forces to bake holiday cookies for those who serve others in our community.  They baked 12 cookie trays of goodness afterschool with the help of Advisors Shari Mednick and Kathryn Grodin, with assistance from Monticello Rotary Interact Liaisons Lynka Rivera and Lori Orestano-James.  Trays were then delivered by "Elves" Lynka Rivera and Lori Orestano-James to members of the Fallsburg Police Department, Fallsburg Fire Department, and Jodi Goodman from Garnett Catskill for distribution to the hospital staff.  The students had a great time and were excited to eat the calorie free broken cookies.  Teaching our youth Service Above Self is a priority of Rotary.  These students certainly showed how grateful they are to others who help them.  Happy Holidays to All!
Monticello Rotary along with the 3rd Judicial District in Sullivan County of the NYS Court System are collecting holiday goodies for those in Nursing Homes throughout our county.  Being away from loved ones during the Holiday Season is very difficult.  Many of our Senior Citizens have no family locally and the Holiday's can bring on sadness and depression.  You can help us make a difference.  Please donate items such as lap throws, shawls, gripper socks, large print puzzle books, finerless gloves, hairbrush/comb sets, and other items you think your grandparents might like.  We will be collecting items through December 20th.  Items may be dropped off as indicated in the flyer. Also, items may be dropped off at Kristt Company in Monticello or Albella Restaurant (just let them know it is for Monticello Rotary). You may also contact Lori Orestano-James to arrange a drop off of items by emailing lorijames.rotary@gmail.com 
Albee Bockman, Founder and President of Mobilemedic was our guest speaker.
 
Albee represents the story of “local boy gives back to his community;” as he proceeded to describe his own experiences as a resident of Hurleyville, growing up in an apartment above his family’s business, Bockman Pharmacy; as a veteran of the United States Air Force and how, at the age of 40, he was inspired to change careers, this inspiration coming as a result of watching the TV program, “Emergency.”
 
Enrolling in the Nyack School of Paramedicine, Albee became a NYS certified paramedic.  He recognized the critical need for paramedical services in Sullivan County and proceeded to set up Mobilemedic in November, 1993.
 
With one ambulance to start, Mobilemedic soon grew into what it is today, some 74 employees, 14 ambulances (which were described as “mobile emergency rooms”) servicing all of Sullivan County with “highly trained and qualified paramedical care.”  Albee explained the difference between “Basic EMT” and “paramedicine” emphasizing the essential importance of having both levels of service and exactly how paramedicine has evolved into an important profession.
 
Mobilemedic transports patients to medical facilities out of Sullivan County this in light of new changes that include the relinquishing of certain critical care services by Garnet Catskills in Harris to other facilities most notable Garnet Middletown. 
 
The strain to keep up with the need for critical care paramedical services in Sullivan County was part of the decision considered when Albee made the decision to join with Empress, a major medical transport services corporation; a merger that has just been finalized the day of the Monticello Rotary Club Meeting.  This important merger will expand the services that Mobilemedic provides (Albee made it crystal clear that the first priority is to provide these services to Sullivan County; this as a condition of the merger going forward).
 
The relationships that Mobilemedic has established with Hatzalah and the volunteer ambulance corps that provide essential services to many municipalities will be significantly strengthened as a result of the merger.
 
Albee indicated that EMS is NOT considered an essential service by New York State (eliciting a chorus of gasps); he further stated that the services that Mobilemedic provides are of zero cost to taxpayers.”
 
As the specifics of the merger are publicized, the expanded services and more rapid response times will be shared.
 
An outstanding presentation providing critical information to all in the audience.
 
 
Formal Induction of our newest Rotarian, Brad Matican (henceforth referred to as “Young Brad”) was followed by the introduction of Shayna Benskie who is one meeting away to be eligible to join our chapter. Local artist Josh Deitchman whose latest mural adorns the side of the Miss Monticello Diner, was introduced to our members
WOW!!!! Thank you once again to the generosity of our entire community for making this our BIGGEST FOOD DRIVE EVER!!!
With your assistance, the Monticello Rotary Club collected a total of 89 cases of non-perishable food items, 76 Turkeys, and 4 Hams. The estimated cost of all items collected amounts to well over $10,945. Food insecurity is a major concern in our community, country, and world. Our collective efforts today will ensure, that anyone in need in our community has access to food.
According to Food Drive Co-Chair Lori Orestano-James, "We are overwhelmed by the outpouring of generosity and support of this year's Food Drive. Anyone in need should contact United Way of Sullivan County or Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless directly."
Monticello Rotary President, Brad Rutledge would like to extend a special shoutout to Lori Orestano-James, Janet Kaplan, and Peter Chester for Co-Chairing this event. Also instrumental in the succes of this event were members of the Fallsburg Central School District Interact Club and Advisor, Kathryn Grodin, as well as members of the Monticello Central School District Interact Club and Rotary Interact Liaison @Lynka Rivera who worked along side the Rotarians providing additional manpower (and womanpower) in today's efforts.
Thank you to Mayor George Nikolados , Village of Monticello , the Monticello Police Department, and the entire staff and crew from the Village of Monticello, New York for the use of the Ted Strobele Recreation Center. Also, thank you to Shoprite, Monticello N.Y. for informing folks of our efforts and encouraging them to participate. #ServiceAboveSelf Rotary International Rotary District 7210 Region 5 Rotary District 7210
Current Monticello Rotary Club President Brad Rutledge looks over the donations made during the 2021 Monticello Rotary Food Drive.  This year's Monticello Rotary Food Drive will be held on Saturday, November 19, 2022 at the Ted Strobel Recreation Building (Neighborhood Facility) on Jefferson Street, Monticello, New York from 9am - 1pm.  
 
The response for the Annual Monticello Rotary Club Food Drive has been extremely positive.  As a result, additional pre-event drop off locations have been added to assist those wishing to donate in advance.  
 
All Drop Off Locations are listed below.  All Pre-Event Drop-Off's must be completed by Friday, November 18, 2022
 
Kristt Company, Broadway, Monticello, New York Monday - Friday, 9am - 4pm
 
Middletown Medical, Thompson Square Mall, Rt 42, Monticello, New York  
 
Catskill Veterinary Services 230 Rock Hill Drive, Rock Hill, New York 12775
 
The Monticello Rotary Annual Food Drive will take place on Saturday, November 19, 2022 at the Ted Strobel Recreation Building (Neighborhood Facilty), Jefferson Street, Monticello from 9am until 1pm.  All items collected will be distributed to United Way of Sullivan County and the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless. 
 
Items most needed:
Canned veggies, canned fruit, cereal, pasta, gravy, sauces, canned meats, canned pasta, jam, jelly, peanut butter, rice.  (Any items non-perishable).
 
The Rotary motto of “Service Above Self” has never been more important in helping our community.  Please bring your non-perishable food donation items and help us to help others. 
 
 
 
 
 
Monticello Rotarians, Monticello HS Interact, & Fallsburg HS Interact Members organize the over 85 cases of food items donated by the community during the 2021 Monticello Rotary Annual Food Drive.
 
Monticello Rotary will continue the annual tradition of holding its Thanksgiving Food Drive on Saturday, November 19, 2022 from 9am – 1pm at the Ted Strobel (Neighborhood Facility) Building, Jefferson Street, Monticello, New York with pre-collection drop off locations available from Friday, November 9, 2022 until Friday, November 18, 2022 as noted below.
 
“Now, more than ever, our fellow neighbors are in need of food not only for Thanksgiving but to place food on their tables daily,” said Brad Rutledge, Monticello Rotary President.
 
According to Past Monticello Rotary President and Food Drive Co-Chairperson Lori Orestano-James, “We know how our community has always come through in the past to help us provide non-perishable food items to stock the United Way of Sullivan County Food Pantry and the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless Food Pantry during the winter months.  We are counting on your generosity once again to help feed those in need.”
 
Non-perishable food items may be purchased and dropped off the week of November , 2022 until November 18, 2022 at a local drop off spot.  “We are grateful to Kristt Company, Broadway, Monticello, for serving as an early drop off location starting on November 9, 2022 where you may drop off item(s) Monday thru Friday, 9am – 4pm until November 18, 2022.  All items pre-collected will be added to the items collected on November 19, 2022 at the Ted Strobel (Neighborhood Facility) in Monticello from 9am – 1pm, stated Peter Chester, event co-chair. “Julian Dawson, Executive Director of Sullivan County United Way and Kathy Kreiter, Executive Director for the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless will be on hand to pick up the donated items for distribution by the respective agencies”, according to Co-Chair Janet Kaplan.
 
Items most needed:
Canned veggies, canned fruit, cereal, pasta, gravy, sauces, canned meats, canned pasta, jam, jelly, peanut butter, rice.  (Any items non-perishable).
 
The Rotary motto of “Service Above Self” has never been more important in helping our community.  Please bring your non-perishable food donation items and help us to help others. 
What a perfect morning as Monticello Rotary laced up their sneakers and moved their feet to Walk to End Alzheimer’s. The Club members, along with members of the community and the Rotary Club of Livingston Manor walked in honor of Olga Orestano and Ed Walsh, and in memory of Eleanor D'Argenio - they and their families are the #brave #warriors of this debilitating and horrible disease. Event Chair Barbara Carr did a great job in organizing the TEAM She states, "A big thank you to all who contributed helping the Monti Rotarians not only meet their goal of $2500, but, to exceed it, raising a total of $2744.15."
 
   
On October 1, 2022, the Monticello Rotary Club held a “Comfort Closet Collection Drive” at the Thompson Square Mall.  With the generosity of the community, the Monticello Rotary Club collected over $4000 in personal hygiene products which were delivered to the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless for distribution.
According to the Comfort Closet Collection Drive Chairperson and Past President of Monticello Rotary, Lori Orestano-James, “When we put out a Call to Action such as this, our community always stands up to the challenge.  Many of our club members were moved by the amount of people who while dropping off products such as deodorant, shampoo, feminine hygiene products, toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, incontinence products, and so many other items, commented to us – thanking us – for holding this event.  With hard economic times, Monticello Rotary felt the need to conduct this Drive to ensure families in need had these items, especially knowing that these items are not covered through other agency programs.”
A special thank you to Monticello ShopRite and The Town of Thompson who helped in the ability for the Monticello Rotary Clubs success with some COVID protocols still in place.  Their assistance with drop off location space and announcements for the Drive allowed for this overwhelming success.
Monticello Rotary will be holding it Annual Food Drive on November 19, 2022 from 9am – 1pm at the Ted Stroebele Recreation Center, Jefferson Street, Monticello, New York.  Non-perishable food items will be collected at that time to benefit Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless and United Way of Sullivan County.   
A special presentation was made by Monticello Rotary Monster Run Co-Chairs and Past Presidents Les Kristt and Orshii Boldiis who spoke of the success of the Monster Run They presented Sullivan County Veteran's Coalition Director Howard Goldsmith with a check for $8277 to benefit all Sullivan County Veterans.
 
Special thanks were given to Jeff Bank ($750); Sullivan County ($750) and a personal donation by Bob DiSalvio of Resorts World for $5000 making this event another success this year. 
 
Monti Rotary realized a net of $6500 in addition to the total funds given to the Sullivan Veteran's.  This will enable the Monticello Rotary to continue to provide financial support for a wide variety of local agencies and organizations.
What an amazing community turn out for the Monticello Rotary Childhood Cancer Blood Drive held at Resorts World Catskills on Monday, September 19, 2022.  The event was a huge success with 34 units of blood ultimately collected by the New York Blood Center.  Mary Kendell served as Honorary Chair and the Blood Drive was held in honor of Madelyn Bolduc, as brave little 3 year old girl in our community who, with along with her parents, Caitlyn and Christopher Bolduc are fighting hard to cure her leukemia.  According to Monticello Rotary Club Past President and Blood Drive Chairperson Lori Orestano-James, "With the help of our entire community, the Monticello Rotary Club was able to help collect enough blood through donors during this blood drive to help save the lives of 102 people."  Our next Blood Drive will be held in February.  Please remember to give the gift of life...DONATE BLOOD! 
 
 
2021 Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's - Advanced Memory  Research Institute of New Jersey
On October 22, 2022 at 10am Members of the Monticello Rotary Club and all other's who wish to sign up for the TEAM will participate in the "Walk to End Alzheimer's." Monti Rotary Chairperson for this event, Barbara Carr notes,  "Sadly, there isn't a single person who is not effected or knows someone who is effected by this horrible and debilitating disease." Won't you join us and/or make a donation to help us in the fight to end Alzheimer's Disease.  The link to donate or sign up is https://act.alz.org/site/TR?fr_id=15753&pg=team&team_id=735213 
 
The Monticello Rotary COAT DRIVE was a huge success. Coats of many sizes were collected at Jeff Bank on Route 42 in Monticello, Kristt Company, The Ethelbert B. Crawford Library, and Albella Restaurant, Jefferson Street, Monticello. Coats were donated to the United Way of Sullivan County. Thank you to all who contributed in helping to keep our neighbors warm!
Monticello Rotarian Shannon Cilento is raising money for the Allyson Whitney Foundation as she runs in the TCS NYS Marathon in November.  At our meeting on September 13th. Melissa DiCostanzo, an RN who volunteers for AWF and was a personal friend of Allyson's, shared the great work that is being done to provide support for cancer patients.  Financial support to cover costs of treatment and social/emotional support through the AWF "Care" packages which provides comfort needs for patients, the AWF is a worthy cause.  Monticello Rotary is proud of Shannon and supported her in her efforts to reach her goal of $2800.  Please consider donating today using this link:  haku.ly/abbc490d1f  
 
 
 
Monticello Rotary had the unique opportunity to have a visit from Rotary District 7210 Governor Larry Palant.  The Governor shared with the club happenings from throughout the district regarding grant opportunities, the upcoming District Meeting and Projects, membership ideas and club project ideas, and other information concerning club and member opportunties.  Alway a pleasure to have Larry at our meeting.  Always great to hear his jokes, too. 
Congratulations to Monticello Rotary Past President Robert Ernst for earning his Paul Harris Plus 2 honors. President Brad Rutledge assists Rotary District 7210 Governor Larry Palant with the presentation and pinning of this honor.   

The Paul Harris Fellow recognition acknowledges individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to The Rotary Foundation.

Rotary established the recognition in 1957 to encourage and show appreciation for substantial contributions to what was then the Foundation’s only program, Rotary Foundation Fellowships for Advanced Study, the precursor to Ambassadorial Scholarships. Many other notable figures have been named Paul Harris Fellows, including U.S. President Jimmy Carter, Former Russian President Boris Yeltsin, U.S. astronaut James Lovell, UN Secretary-General Javier Perez de Cuellar, and polio vaccine developer Jonas Salk.

Plus 2 mean that Bob Ernst has met this accomplishment twice.  He continue to give in his own name and in the name of his wife Eileen who is also a Paul Harris Fellow. 

Congratulations Bob and thank you for all you do on behalf of Rotary.  

In recognition of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, the Monticello Rotary Club is holding a Blood Drive at Resorts World Catskills in Monticello.  We are proud to have Mary Kendell as our Honorary Chairperson.  Mary knows the importance of giving blood as she was a recipient as a child to deal with her illness.  Mary is humbled to serve in this role.  In addition, our club is making a challenge to all groups and organizations in our community to help us reach our goal.  We are holding this Blood Drive in honor of Madelyn Bolduc, the 3 year old daughter of Caitlin and Christopher Bolduc.  Madelyn is undergoing treatment for leukemia.  Leukemia is a blood cancer which hinders the body's ability to fight infection.  No person, let alone a child 3 years of age, should ever have to go through such a horrible disease.  But, Madelyn and her parents are braving this storm.  YOU CAN HELP! Giving blood is quick and simple. If you have questions or concerns regarding the process, please feel free to call 845 798-1770 and we will assist you.  Please sign up using the link below or scanning the QR Code on the flyer to schedule your appointment to donate blood giving Madelyn, and so many others, the true gift of life. Make a real difference and sign up today! 
 
Winter cold is just around the corner, and so many in our community are in need of a warm winter coat.  Please consider donating a new or gently used coat for the Monticello Rotary Annual Coat Drive.  Keep others warm by warming your heart by participating in this years event. 
 
 
     
 
  
A beautiful day on the golf course provided the ideal backdrop for the Monticello Rotary Club Scholarship Committee to ensure success during its Annual Monticello Rotary Memorial Scholarship Golf Tournament. Friendship and fun was the theme of the day.  A great day was had by all.  Thank you to all those who supported the event.  A special thank you to Co-Chairs, Bob Ernst and Randy Katz as well as their committee and all those who volunteered their efforts that day to help.  Find out how well we did by attending our meeting on September 13th. 
 
 
 
 
44th Monti Rotary “Monster Run Classic” Benefits Veterans on SC Patriots Day
 
 
The Monticello Rotary Club 44th Annual Monster Run Classic will be held on Sunday, August 7, 2022 starting at 8:30am at Resorts World-Catskills in Monticello, New York .  The proceeds from the 2022 Monster Classic race will benefit the Sullivan County Veterans Coalition and is an event run by Monticello Rotary as part of Sullivan County Patriots Day. 
 
Each year this community event draws hundreds of walkers, runners and spectators from all over New York State. This race is expected to draw another very large turnout for this year’s event.
 
The race consists of 5K and 10K running and 5K walk events for the whole family. This course proves to be challenging and is considered by many one of the best run/walk courses in the area. In addition, health, wellness and running related businesses will have information and free screenings on site during the event. Raffles, door prizes and an auction round out this family fun filled event. 
 
The major goal of Rotary is to serve the community.  The proceeds for this year’s race will help local veterans to meet needs of everyday living. According to Monticello Rotary Club President-Elect  Brad Rutledge, “Too many of our veterans need assistance with heating, food, transportation for medical serves, rent and mortgage assistance just to name a few.  They have given to us all through their service to our country.  Monticello Rotary is glad to sponsor this race to raise awareness and funds as a way of giving back to those who served and are currently serving.”   
 
Many veterans sign up to participate.  Their motto is, “Our Colors: Red, White & Blue Never Run……Except for the Monti Rotary Monster Run!”  They look forward to running/walking with those they served to protect.
 
Special thanks to Resorts World Casino for serving as a title sponsor and enabling Monticello Rotary to return the race to its Monster Classic home.  Meghan Taylor, VP Government Affairs and Public Relations Resorts World Catskills & Resorts World New York City states, “We are grateful for this terrific opportunity to raise awareness and funds for local veterans and the difficult challenges they face.”
 
So, whether you choose to run or walk any of the races, cheer on and be a supportive spectator, come out to show your patriotic support for the veterans, volunteer for the race needs, win some wonderful prizes or you are just attending to enjoy a beautiful Sunday morning in the Catskills, you will be sure to have a great time while supporting a great cause!
 
Registrations can be completed online prior to the event at https://raceroster.com/events/2022/61437/the-44th-annual-monster-classic-5k-and-10k-road-races   For further information about the race, please contact Orshii Boldiis via email at oboldiis@hotmail.com or call (845) 239-2107.
 
Blood donations are needed now more than ever.  Monticello Rotary will be holding a Blood Drive in conjunction with NYBC (New York Blood Center) as part of the 44th Annual WSUL Heart-a-thon on Friday, February 11, 2022 from noon until 6pm at Resorts World in Monticello who has graciously sponsored this event.  To schedule a time, please register by clicking on this link:  https://donate.nybc.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/300440 Additional information links are below. 
 
Please help us to help others and sign up today! All COVID protocol including wearing masks and social distancing will be enforced for the safety of everyone. 
 
 
 
 
43rd heartathon (2).jpg
 
 
Monticello Rotary is pleased to Support the 43rd Annual 98.3 WSUL Heart-A-Thon! We ask that you help us to help others by making your pledge today. All funds raised go directly to help Garnett Medical Center in Harris NY to purchase much needed heart saving equipment for its Cardiopulmonary Department. Donations of all sizes are appreciated as a lot of littles add up to a lot of lots! Thanks for helping us live the Rotary motto of Service Above Self! 
41 st Monti Rotary “Monster Run Classic” Benefits Veterans on SC Patriots Day
 
 
 
The Monticello Rotary Club 41st Annual Monster Run Classic will be held on Sunday, August 4, 2019.  The proceeds from the 2019 Monster Classic race will benefit the Sullivan County Veterans Coalition and is an event run by Monticello Rotary as part of Sullivan County Patriots Day. 
 
Each year this community event draws hundreds of walkers, runners and spectators from all over New York State. This race is expected to draw another very large turnout for this year’s event.
 
The race consists of 5K and 10K running and 5K walk events for the whole family. This course proves to be challenging and is considered by many one of the best run/walk courses in the area. In addition, health, wellness and running related businesses will have information and free screenings on site during the event. Raffles, door prizes and an auction round out this family fun filled event. 
 
The major goal of Rotary is to serve the community.  The proceeds for this year’s race will help local veterans to meet needs of everyday living. According to Monticello Rotary Club President Lori Orestano-James, “Too many of our veterans need assistance with heating, food, transportation for medical serves, rent and mortgage assistance just to name a few.  They have given to our country through their service to our country.  Monticello Rotary is glad to sponsor this race to raise awareness and funds as a way of giving back to those who served and are currently serving.”   
 
Many veterans’ including numerous Wounded Warriors, have signed up to participate.  Their motto is, “Our Colors: Red, White & Blue Never Run……Except for the Monti Rotary Monster Run!”  They look forward to running/walking with those they served to protect.
 
So whether you choose run or walk any of the races, cheer on and be a supportive spectator, come out to show your patriotic support for the veterans, volunteer for the race needs, win some wonderful prizes or you are just attending to enjoy a beautiful Sunday morning in the Catskills, you will be sure to have a great time while supporting a great cause!
 
Registrations can be completed online prior to the event at https://raceroster.com/events/2019/23309/the-2019-monster-classic-5k-10k-road-races In addition, registration will be held at the Monster Race sight (East Broadway off of Richardson Avenue) on Saturday, August 3, 2019 from 10am-2pm as well as the morning of the race.  The awesome course may be viewed at https://youtu.be/lpL2UqFHvzM .  For further information about the race, please contact Orshii Boldiis via email at oboldiis@hotmail.com or call (845) 239-2107.
Monticello Rotary Club members joined with members of the Monticello Kiwanis Club in our "Night Out" series on July 17, 2018 for the opening night of "Annie" at the Forestburgh Playhouse.  All we can say is, "WOW!"  The performances of the Pre-show Cabaret and the Main Stage shows were simply AMAZING!  We had a terrific night of fellowship and fun!  The cast, crew and staff were absolutely top notch!  Thank you to our host, Franklin Trapp for a great evening of entertainment, food and friendship!  We enjoy our "Night Out" with you each year and this year was no exception!
 
A fabulous Cabaret Dinner/Pre-show by this year's Resident Company filled with memorable tunes of the '70's and spectacular talent!  We were all humming along but most of all Doug Muller!  He knew every song and remembered all the lyrics! 
 
 Getting ready for show time!  
 
Excited to see the show!
 
Franklin's Famous Curtain Speech!  Wish we could have gotten a better picture but this was the best we had and wanted to make sure to include our fellow Rotarian in the photos!
 
Back stage post show Rotary President Lori James congratulates one of her favorite "Orphans" Julia Hawthorne! 
 
President Lori James congratulates "Annie" herself, Alicia Scali!  Lori performed with Alicia and Julia in "Music Man" at Forestburgh Playhouse "
a few years ago!  "I am so proud of their growth and performances," said James!  "They are both beautiful young ladies!"
 
Annie with Sandy! 
Photo credit - Jonathan Charles Fox courtesy of Forestburgh Playhouse
 
"I Don't Need Anything But You!"  
Photo credit - Jonathan Charles Fox courtesy of Forestburgh Playhouse
 
"It's a Hard Knock Life!"
Photo credit - Jonathan Charles Fox courtesy of Forestburgh Playhouse
 
"Maybe"
Photo credit - Jonathan Charles Fox courtesy of Forestburgh Playhouse
 
 
"You're Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile" 
Photo credit - Jonathan Charles Fox courtesy of Forestburgh Playhouse
Learning Lots - Guest Speaker's Corner
 
We were so pleased to have Catskill Regional Medical Center CEO Jonathan Schiller speak to the Monticello Rotary Club at our meeting last week.  He shared with those present that CRMC takes a strong stance on the concept that "Wellness Starts At Home."  To that end, there are many positive happenings occurring at our community hospital.  
 
Mr. Schiller shared the work that the hospital is doing with Catholic Charities to help stop the opioid epidemic happening in our community.  He stressed that it has to be more than just Narcan training telling the club of the need for communicating with our children and parents.  We must develop the appropriate dialoge to ensure that our kids stay safe and have an understanding of the destruction of this horrible condition.  
 
In addition, Mr. Schiller spoke about the philanthropy within CRMC including The Annual Heat-a-thon, Golf Outing and RISE Walk a Mile event.  We heard about the new CT Imagining machine which will allow state of the art medical testing in our own back yard. The hospital was just awarded the American Heart Association Stroke Gold Plus Award for its service/response to stroke patients and the new Urgent Care just treated its 10,000 patient in the first year it has been open, 
 
We have so much to be grateful for in our community and CRMC is one such "jem" in our community.  Thanks for all of the information and keep up the great work! 
 
CRMC CEO Jonathon Schiller shares the good happenings at the hospital with Monticello Rotary Club
 
  
Monticello Rotary President Lori Orestano-James introduces the CEO of CRMC Jonathan Schiller.
 
Monticello Rotary Members listen closely to Catskill Regional Medical Center CEO Jonathan Schiller about the great things happening at our hospital. 
 
Monticello Rotary President Lori Orestano-James with CRMC CEO Jonathan Schiller.  
An evening of celebration was enjoyed by all at this year's Monticello Rotary Installation & Awards Dinner.  All agreed that the food by Mr. Willy's was fabulous; music by Spencer Daniel Agency was wonderful; Desserts and Cake by DeFillipis was delectable; company was spectacular; heat was TOO much but it didn't matter!  Congratulations to all of those honored for their Service Above Self.  Distinguished Service Awards were presented to Dr. Randy Katz, Lori Orestano-James and Helen Diehl by outgoing President Barbara Carr.  In addition, Orshii Boldiis was honored with the Four Way Test Award for his outstanding service and dedication to the principles of Rotary.  Past District Governor Nick Constantino was on hand to assist in the ceremonies and current Assistant District Governor Susan Kraycer did the honors of installing Lori Orestano-James, President; Jacob Lerner, President Elect; Barbara Carr, Treasurer; and Orshii Boldiis, Secretary.   
 
 
 
More Celebrations & Honors from the past few weeks - Boy....we've been busy!
Our club is joining forces with the Liberty Rotary Club to aid victims of Hurricane Harvey.
 
Local groups are headed to Texas to assist the regions affected by Hurricane Harvey, according to a press release from the Liberty Rotary Club and Monticello-based nonprofit Operation Endeavor.

The groups are working with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to plan a response for areas that aren’t receiving as much assistance as the urban areas. Aid efforts are also being coordinated through Rotary Clubs in the Houston area, the release said.

The five-member team includes Stuart Hirsch, director of operations for St. Mary’s Hospital Emergency Services in Connecticut. The other members on the team are Naval Corpsman Lawrence Smira and paramedical and rescue professional Charles Atwell, Charles Lee Miller and Thomas Andryshak.   Hirsch, a Liberty Rotarian, is also the president of Operation Endeavor. Gary Silver, Susan Kraycer and Gary Siegel are other Liberty Rotarians on Operation Endeavor’s board of directors.

The Liberty Rotary Club has contacted thousands of Rotarians in the New York region to donate to the effort. 

Monticello Rotary is proud to join the effort!  We're asking members and friends to contribute to Operation Endeavor by making a donation online via this link:

https://www.youcaring.com/hurricanevictimsoftexasusa-914276

OR you can make a check payable to Monticello Rotary Club with "Operation Endeavor" noted in the memo space and bring it to a meeting.

THANK YOU for your support!

 

Operation Endeavor is a nonprofit that provides rescue, emergency medicine and trauma training and supports disaster preparedness in developing regions of the world.

2017 - 2017 Officers Installed!

On June 27th, the Installation of Officers ceremony took place at Ciao Bella's Restaurant!   The ceremony was performed by Past District Governor, Nick Constantino.  Incoming District Governor, Jim Damiani was present, as well as Asst. District Governor Amador Laput!   Barbara Carr was installed as the 2017 President, along with First Vice President, Lori Orestano-James; Second Vice President, Jacob Lerner; Treasurer, Fouad Kerendian; and Secretary, Orshii Boldiis.
 
   
 
     
 
     
 

Monticello Hosts Region 5 Meeting!

Monticello Rotary Club hosted a Region 5 Meeting at Albella's Restaurant on June 20th!
 
Clubs from the Region shared success stories and ideas for the upcoming year.  
 
 

Scholarships Awarded to High School Seniors

We are very pleased to announced that $8,000 in scholarships have been awarded to
six students from the Monticello and Fallsburg school districts!
 
Scholarship Committee Chair Marty Miller awarded the scholarships at the Annual
Scholarship Dinner on June 13th at Albella's Restaurant.
 
                   
 
Thank you Erik Rhulen for sharing your view of the Sullivan County Real Estate Market with our members at Tuesday night's meeting! 
Oh what a night!!   On Thursday, May 25th, the annual Polio Plus Dinner was held at the Eagle's Nest in Bloomingburg.  What a great joint effort by the Monticello, Liberty and Livingston Manor Clubs.   Kudos to Helen Diehl, chair o the event!    Mike McGovern, Chairman of the National Polio Plus Committee, was the keynote speaker and he delivered a powerful and moving message to the group.   And Les Kristt did an outstanding job as Emcee for the evening!
 
George Phillips from Reclaim New York presented to our May 23rd meeting.  Relcaim New York is a non-partisan, non-profit  organization that empowers New Yorkers through education and civic engagement to reclaim ownership of their government.  Receive updates and news from Reclaim New York at ReclaimNewYork.org/SignUp.
           
 
We were very happy to see Leo and her host "Mom" at the meeting!  
 
Rick Stein shared Rotary flags and magazines from his Rotary Club Visits in Japan!
At the "Night Out" held at the Ethelbert B Crawford Library, a donation of $750 was made to the Sullivan County Veteran's Coalition in the name of Jeff Bank.   This donation was part of a donation to the Rotary Club from Jeff Bank for their sponsorship  of our Annual Monster Race.   Jeff Bank employees will participate in the race, either walking or running, as part of Jeff Bank's Healthy Work Environment initiative.   

After the presentation, we were entertained by Dylan Foley, Irish Champion Fiddler.  
Mary Paige Lang-Clouse, Director of the Ethelbert B. Crawford Library was the guest speaker at our March 7th meeting.  She brought us up to date on the newest programs available at the library and she also spoke about the upcoming project to make the library a major meeting place for the community by providing a landscaped park in the area adjacent to the library building.  Mary Paige showed artist renderings and a short computer video of what the area will ultimately look like.  You can keep up to date with email notifications from the library by signing up on the website at http://www.ebcrawfordlibrary.org/
Rotarian Randy Katz was the guest speaker at our February 28th meeting.  He gave an amazing presentation with lots of interesting details and stunning photos of his recent trip to South Africa, that included a safari.  
 
Kathy Kreiter from the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless was the guest speaker at our February 11th meeting.  She has been a guest speaker at our club in the past and as usual she gave us an update on what's been happening at the Federation. The Federation for the Homeless has the largest food pantry and provides the largest number of meals in Sullivan County.  Kathy said that she has obtained more funding by actively seeking out and applying for new grants.  This has made it a little easier to run the organization.  They were even able to put a new roof on the building.  She said that in 2011 the Federation for the Homeless lost a major funding grant and almost had to close.  It was saved by Assemblywoman Gunther and others.  Today the Federation is thriving and growing with new programs and services, one of which benefits the youth in the community and will eventually provide a new revenue stream for the Federation.  Kathy answered additional questions and was well received by our members.
Rotarians Doug Muller and Joe D'Abbraccio made a $500 donation to the Federation.  Kathy was speechless.

The following discussion reviews the recent presentation of China City by Ms. Sherry Li. As part of the review, I have included some cursory research that I conducted, which may be helpful in providing you with some historical background as to how China City has evolved over the years.

On January 10, 2017, Sherry Li, the CEO of China City (also known as the Thompson Education Center), made an oral and slide presentation before the Monticello Rotary Club1. The proposed 575-acre development, called China City2, is on a parcel of land that is off Route 17, Exit 112, which borders Wild Turnpike in the Town of Thompson and extends to the town of Mamakating. China City will be an educational institution that offers college level courses to students primarily from China. It is expected that the student body will also include Americans, as well as non-Chinese foreign students.

China City will offer four majors: business; movie, media and arts; culinary; and nursing. Depending upon their majors and career goals, some students will matriculate for four years at the college, while other students will be at China City for only one year, while spending the other three years in China where they will graduate. Ms. Li indicated that China City has executed several letters of understanding. One is with Catskill Regional Hospital, regarding the nursing program; and another is with Phoenix, a Chinese media company that is educating 80,000 students. The college will grow in stages, and at its final phase will have a 2,500-student body.

 

The guest speaker at our December 6th meeting was Cindy Menges from Delaware River Solar, a new community solar energy company. Ms. Menges said that she's trying to spread the word about what her company does. She gave a slide presentation about the various types of renewable energy, why renewable energy is needed, and how Delaware River Solar fits into that picture in New York State.

The United States depends heavily on Coal, oil, and natural gas...”, said Cindy, “These are finite resources”. Ms Menges stress that we need to develop other sources of renewable energy and solar is one of them. Governor Cuomo's Energy Initiative seeks to have 50% of the energy generated by New York State come from renewable sources by 2030. New York State is also providing incentives to businesses and homeowners who switch to renewable energy sources. It is also hoped that the shift to renewable energy will spur economic development.

Ms. Menges concluded her presentation by talking about solar energy options that are available to businesses and residences in Sullivan County through her company.

The guest speaker at our Nov. 29th meeting was Tony Poli from the Sullivan County ATV Association, a non-profit organization that holds ATV (4-Wheeler) trail run fundraising events twice a year throughout the woods of Sullivan County. The proceeds from their events benefit families with children with special needs.

Mr. Poli gave a very interesting account of how the Sullivan County ATV Association and its fundraising events started in 1999 at Mr. Willys restaurant with about 90 participants. It was so successful that people asked if it could be held again on an annual basis. The ATV trail Poker Run event has remained very popular over the years and is now held twice a year. Although the attendance at the events has dropped recently from its peak of over 700, the ATV trail events still draws 300 – 400 people. The Sullivan County ATV Association has given out over $240,000 to children with disabilities since it started.

Mr. Poli tried to explain how difficult it is to hold the ATV trail run events. “It’s a lot of hard work”, he said. New York State does not provide any places to use ATVs, so private owners are asked for the use of their properties. Tony is involved with contacting property owners for permission to go through their land, setting up contracts where necessary, clearing and cleaning the trails, as well as putting up and removing the signage along the trails for the events. He said that they’ve gotten pretty good at running the things, but most of all, he loves being out in the woods of Sullivan County. People come from all over the United States to participate in the ATV trail events.

Mr. Poli said that he wished more people in Sullivan County would realize what a wonderful and beautiful place they live in.

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Club Information
Welcome to our Club!

Service Above Self

We meet In Person
Tuesdays at 6:30 PM
Albella's Restaurant
50 Jefferson Street
Monticello, NY 12701
United States of America