The crisp Fall air and the changing of the leaves continue to let us know of the four seasons of beauty that is most spectacular in Sullivan County. And this upcoming week also reminds us of how precious our democracy is and those who sacrifice time and family dedicated to those principles. We remember all those whose lives were lost on September 11, 2001. We honor those who served in the aftermath, and we recognize the strength of love and kindness of those who band together to aid and assist.

The Monticello Fire Department will hold its Annual Patriot’s Day Remembrance at the Fire House on Richardson Avenue, Monticello on Thursday, September 11 at 7 p.m. with Guest Speaker Sullivan County Clerk Russel Reeves.

In addition, the Smallwood-Mongaup Valley Fire Department will hold its 9/11 Memorial Service on September 11 at the Fire House, 181 Ballard Road, Mongaup Valley at 8:15 a.m. Refreshments will be served following the services.

After more than four decades as one of Sullivan County’s most trusted and recognizable voices, Mike Sakell has announced his retirement from Bold Gold Media and his role as Catskills News Director.

Wishing Mike, the well-earned rest and joys of retirement!

The Sullivan County Historical Society announces the unveiling of the newest historical marker on the grounds of the museum on Main Street, Hurleyville. The building served as a school until 1967 then it lay dormant until the county took over the building. In 1971 it became a museum and the home of the Sullivan County Historical Society and the Frederick A. Cook Society. The unveiling will occur on Sunday, September 14 at 2 p.m. Call the museum at 845-434-8044 or email at scecil@scnyhistory.org for further information.

The 5th Annual Christopher Pekny Motor Show is September 13 at 635 Old Rt. 17, Livingston Manor. The show line up will begin at 10 a.m. and will go until 5 p.m. (trophies awarded at 3 p.m.). Great food, vendors, music, 50/50 raffles... and of course cars, trucks, and tractors! Proceeds from the show will support the CTE Scholarships at Sullivan BOCES, Liberty CSD, and the new Rockland CSD.

Join the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce for its First Friday Networking Breakfast on Friday September 12 at the Villa Roma Resort, in Callicoon from 7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Start your morning with a delicious breakfast and the chance to connect with fellow professionals from across the community. For more information, call 845 791-4200.

Looking for something specifically for the kids? How about the Kids Craft Hour: Tissue Paper Wreaths at the Hurleyville Performing Arts Centre on Saturday, September 20 at 12 noon. 

Create a colorful fall wreath using soft tissue paper! Kids will twist and fluff warm autumn colors like orange, red, yellow, and brown onto a simple wreath form to make a fun, festive decoration perfect for the season. Cost is $5.

And just before – for the Adults - join HPAC for a cozy Sip & Craft session where you’ll create your own beautiful fall wreath on Wednesday, September 17 at 6 p.m. Enjoy your favorite drink as you design a festive wreath full of autumn leaves, warm colors, and seasonal charm, perfect for welcoming the season at your door. No experience needed, just come ready to relax, sip, and get crafty. Cost is $30. For more information or to register for the HPAC events, call 845-985- 4722.

Reminders: The Loch Sheldrake Fire Department Second Annual BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich Dinner, September 13, 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. or until sold out. Tickets available at the door.

The Annual Jeff Jamboree, September 13 with a delicious Pancake Breakfast served at the Jeffersonville First Presbyterian Church from 7:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. For more information call 845-796-6966.

Deacons Friendship Baptist Church Dinner Sale, September 13, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. at 11 Ferndale Road, Ferndale. Contact 845-747-4016 for more information or to reserve your meals.

Happy Birthday to Camille O’Brien, Jay Quaintance (9/9), Mike Houman, Theresa Owens, Marta Mangual, Nick Piperato, Stacey Wizwer (9/10), Melinda Gwiozdowski, Jay Sherb (9/11), Barry Plaxen (9/12), Stewart Kaufman, Elisabeth Bringle, Ally Smith (9/13), Bernie Cohen, Dan Gersten, Doug Tunno (9/14), Julie Kaufman (9/15).

So, bring on the Fall – still lots of happenings! Go, support them and see the beauty that is Sullivan County. 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.