MONTICELLO — In 1924, Port Jervis Rotarians sponsored a new chapter in Monticello. One hundred years later, its ten-decade long dedication to service above self was recognized by Rotarians of Port Jervis and Liberty, as well as stamped with a resolution marking the historic date presented in the New York State House of Representatives.

To celebrate the momentous anniversary, Rotarians gathered at Abella’s Restaurant in Monticello Saturday for dinner and camaraderie.

Prior to the presentation of the State legislation by Rotary President-Elect Lori Orestano-James representing Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther, Camille O’Brien from Senator Peter Oberacker’s office and Centennial Celebration Committee Chair Bill Tochterman, a detailed history of the chapter’s storied past was shared, beginning in the turn of the 20th century to its present days. 

The summation of the chapter’s most recent contributions to the village and its people included organizing food drives, blood drives, assistance for the Covid Task Force, walks to end Alzheimer’s, the Taste of Sullivan event, Ride 2 Survive, and much more.

Sometimes behind the scenes, sometimes taking center stage, the Monticello Rotary has shepherd community interests for the past 100 years, and according to Rotary President-Elect Orestano-James, the legacy of the chapter is that of bringing people into the ways of charitable works – with community support being “the power of Rotary.”

That power has been exemplified by the chapter’s ability to raise over $2.5 million throughout its lifespan, supporting organizations such as the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless, United Way of Sullivan County, Sullivan County Veterans Coalition, Harnett Catskills, DARE and two Interact Clubs in both Monticello and Fallsburg high schools.

It was a full show of thanks across chapter lines with the exchanging of chapter banners, the retelling of personal stories of a profound gratitude and respect for the chapter’s history and the honoring of a number of Paul Harris fellowship award winners. 

“How awe-inspiring,” said Port Jervis Rotary President, Howard Kuperman, who said that over the past 100 years, “[the chapter has done] a quality of life super-job for the people of Monticello.”