This was a great day for our community. We were able to honor Sandi Walter and her fight against cancer. The teams and communities come together each year to help us raise money, awareness, and provide some hope and support to those impacted by cancer. I have told Sandi and Kyle that I am glad that we are able to share her story and support her, but I wish that we didn’t have to. Cancer is a disease that does not discriminate, and each case comes with its own unique challenges and story. I hope that this day is able to provide a small distraction from those challenges; it is also a testament to the generosity of our community. 

 The classic has raised over $70,000 in the last 16 years. Since 2011, we have kept all the funds local - supporting the Oncology Unit at our hospital, Ride2Survive Sullivan County, and individuals/families in our community. I am happy to say that with one game left on the schedule, we have already raised over $6000. This will be our most successful classic in terms of funds raised and marks the third time we have reached the $6k mark.

There are so many people who have made the day possible and need to be thanked. Starting with the Basketball Coaches Association of NY for providing us this platform to raise funds and awareness. The participating schools - the players, coaches, athletic directors, and fans. I need to thank our volunteers; we had several Monticello HS students providing service at the admission table, concession stand, selling cards/ribbons, and collecting donations. Three of my sons (Joseph, Anthony, and Vincent) volunteered at the scorers’ table, managing the clock/scoreboard, and even some announcement duties. The officials - many of whom made considerable donations to the cause.  Our event sponsors - The Coach Fred Ahart Foundation, Black Bear Fuel Oil, Monticello Teachers’ Association, Combined Energy Services, The GOAT Basketball, Family Foot Care of Monticello, The Kartrite Resort & Water Park, The Eldred Preserve, Dutch’s Tavern and Grill, and Monticello Athletics. I would like to thank Monticello Central School District and our Athletic Director, Ryan Jasper. Their support of this event and our basketball program is truly commendable. Mr. Jasper was there all day providing all kinds of “behind the scenes” help to keep the event running smoothly. Last but not least, I would like to thank Sandi Walter. Her courage and message are inspiring. She continues to compete against cancer each day, as well as support so many others who are battling this disease.”