The days may be getting shorter as we start to wind down into the end of summer, but there is still plenty of beautiful Sullivan County days ahead filled with plenty to keep us all informed, busy and engaged.

There were some amazing shoutouts from this past week and I would be remiss if I didn’t start off with our very own New York State Assemblywoman Paula Kay who worked hard to bring home to Sullivan County $1 million to support the Sullivan County Federation for the Homeless capital project goals to improve their ability to provide food and shelter for Sullivan County families. These funds were secured in addition to a $100,000 grant from Assemblymember Kay, which allowed the federation to invest in new furnaces, handicap access and refurbishing the main entrance. Thanks for representing and delivering on our behalf, Assemblywoman!

Another great shoutout to the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce for bringing together the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce, Greater NY Chamber of Commerce, Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, and the Pakistani Chamber of Commerce for a collaborative Mixer on Artificial Intelligence. Working together with all in our community is vital for strong economic development and the SC Chamber hit it out of the ballpark in making it happen.

And, last but not least, a shoutout to the Monticello Rotary Club on its successful 47th Annual Monster Run to benefit the Sullivan County Veterans Coalition. Money raised will go to help those who have served our country. Thank you to all the volunteers and participants for all you do to make our community better.

National Night Out will take place at Krieger Park in Woodridge from 5:30pm – 8pm on Tuesday, August 5th. A great time family event filled with music, crafts, give-a-ways, games, face painting, basketball tournament, free eats (kosher foods available) and more.

The Monticello Elks Lodge #1544 and the Monticello Fire Department are co-sponsoring a takeout roast beef dinner to benefit Carly Speer who is being treated for cancer. The dinner is at the firehouse on Friday, August 15th from 4:30pm - 7 pm with tickets priced at $20. Donations are also being accepted.

The Sullivan County Dramatic Workshop isn’t just a theatre, it’s a twisted, talented, totally terrific family of creative weirdos (meant in the best way possible). And guess what? The Youth Theatre is back to bring you a delightfully devious production of Beetlejuice Jr. This musical mischief is co-directed by Dawn Perneszi and first time Director Grace Summa. Over several months of rehearsals, games, and ghostly good fun, these young performers have learned the magic of storytelling, teamwork, the ins and outs of theatre, on and off the stage, and most importantly, confidence, and maybe how to raise the dead (just kidding... probably). Performances are at the Rivoli Theatre, South Fallsburg, on Fridays and Saturdays, August 8, 9, 15 & 16 at 7pm and Sundays, August 10 & 17 at 2pm. For tickets: www.scdw.net or the box office.

The Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce presents an in-depth Notary Exam Prep session led by expert Alfred Piombino. This course is perfect for anyone preparing to take the New York State Notary Public Exam and is sponsored by Jeff Bank. Train takes place in the same space you’ll take the test - choose August 6 or 13 at Elks Lodge, Monticello. Then register to take the test on August 20th. For more information, contact the SC Chamber at (845) 791- 4200.

The Hurleyville Performing Arts Centre presents an introduction to Herbal Remedies Workshop with Adrieene Hloderwski on Wednesday, August 6th at 6pm. Discussion includes herbal basics, explore locally sourced products, and creating your own remedies - including personalized herbal salves and infused oils. The session is 2 hours and space is limited. Please note any specific allergies at time of registration. Event is for Ages 12+. Please contact HPAC at (845) 985-4722 for more information.

Applications for the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Leadership Sullivan Class are available now. Learn about Sullivan County while building leadership skills and networking with a focus on how to make Sullivan County the best it can be. Deadline for submission is August 15th. To find out more information on these events, contact the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce directly at 845-791-4200.

Condolences to the Poley family on the passing of Jackie who passed away at too young of an age. Jackie was a kind, spirited, and caring wife, mother, sister, daughter, and friend. She will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know her. Condolences also to the Newburg family on the loss of family patriarch Marvin. He was a gentle and kind man of valor who took pride in his family, friends, and community. May their memories be a blessing for all who hold them close in their heart.

Happy Birthday to Tammi Chaboty, Mary Greynolds, Donna Nestler (8/5), Joan Langham, Marie Schall, Alexis Rouis (8/6), Summer Benjamin (8/7), Nathan Steingart, Ron Sherman, Lois Heller, Rachel Scali, Barbara Pinto (8/8), David Kaplan, Jessica Lopez-Barkl, Jen Franklin (8/9), Coley Saige, Belle Zhou, Phil Kaplan (8/10), Michael Gold (8/11).

And last but not least, a very Happy Anniversary to my dear friends and Sullivan County Democrat’s very own Crystal Tweed and her legendary hubby Pedro Tweed (8/9).

So many things happening and to know about. And, just in case I really don’t “Know It All,” please keep me in the know by emailing me at LoriJames.SCDemocrat@gmail.com.