MAMAKATING – It was an afternoon of elation for the family of Anna “Grannie Annie” Benson (Rivas) as Town of Mamakating Supervisor Peter Goodman took the time to recognize and honor the lifelong resident and retired nurse who will celebrated her centenary on January 30^th, 2026 and has dedicated decades of service to the community.

Taking a moment during the usual Work Session, Goodman presented the proclamation and highlighted Benson-Rivas’ longstanding ties to the town and her long career of caring for Sullivan County residents.

Known affectionally as “Grannie Annie”, Benson Rivas was born on January 30^th of 1926 at the Monticello Hospital and grew up locally, graduating from Monticello High School in 1943 and went on to earn her registered nursing degree from Brooklyn Hospital School of Nursing in 1946. She later came back to her Sullivan County roots and settled in Wurtsboro in 1948 alongside her husband Ralph Benson where they raised three children.

According to the proclamation, Benson Rivas spent a little over four decades (41 years) working as a nurse in Sullivan County, before hanging up the gloves and scrubs in 1988 when she retired. Her nursing wasn’t limited to just the hospital environment as she lent her caring hand to the 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair where local medical staff were called in to respond to the massive influx of attendees.

Goodman also highlighted her many years of volunteer work, such as years of fundraising for the American Heart Association and cancer-related causes, as well as her consistent involvement with the Community Church of Wurtsboro in which she provided assistance to community events and charitable efforts.

He spoke of Benson Rivas’ reputation as a dedicated caregiver and familiar face in the community whose dedication to her work touched generations of families throughout the area. The proclamation that attendees could read describes her as someone not just known for her professional service, but also for her commitment to neighbors, faith, and family.

Outside of her community outreach with nursing and volunteer work, the proclamation highlights her personal interests, such as gardening, country music, and spending time with her family.

Through declaring “Grannie Annie Day,” the Town of Mamakating formally acknowledged both the milestone birthday, as well as the lasting impact Benson Rivas has had on the town and surrounding communities through decades of public service. Fittingly, Goodman offered Benson Rivas an opportunity to lend her help to the public once again as she led the Pledge of Allegiance for the night.