November 2 – And, just like that, Election Day is upon us. For some, it will be an outcome expected. For others, disappointment. First, thank you to all who placed their names on the ballot. Issues were shared and addressed. Some campaigns became negative in nature. But, candidates (and their families) placed their names on the ballot in the name of democracy, and it is now our responsibility as citizens to educate ourselves and choose. Secondly, no matter the outcome, we must join together in the work in making our communities the best they can be. Elections should not divide us; rather give us the chance to hear all voices and come together as one. Make sure you get out today and vote!

Join in celebrating the retirement of Joan Booth at the Ethelbert B. Crawford Public Library on Thursday, November 5 from 10:45 a.m. to noon. After over 50 years of dedicated service, Joan has made a lasting impact on the library and our community. Stop by to share your well wishes, celebrate her many contributions, and help send Joan off as she begins this exciting new chapter. Let's make this a special celebration filled with warm memories, gratitude, and best wishes for her journey ahead!

In a personal note—when I was a Girl Scout, Joan taught me and many of my friends how to make a campfire coffee can stew! We love you Joan and wish you all the best.

The Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce Networking Breakfast is Friday, November 6 at SUNY Sullivan in Loch Sheldrake. Come to network and learn more about Sullivan County. For more information or to reserve your seat call 845-791-4200.

The Landfield Avenue Synagogue will hold its annual Veterans Shabbat to honor all our veterans. You need not be Jewish to attend. Services start at 9 a.m. with a delicious kiddish luncheon to follow. Please join in for this special service to honor those who serve. For more information, call 845-794-8470.

The Cooke School annual Lantern Walk will be held on Thursday, November 5 at 5:30 p.m. This is a magical community event. Make a lantern for the event at home or make a quick and easy one at the event. We walk the nature path by lantern and solar lights singing special songs. At the end of the walk there will be cider and donuts. In addition, there will be a socks and glove collection for winter recess.

Don't miss the annual Pete Cahalan Memorial Scholarship Meatloaf Dinner at the Elks Lodge #1544 on North Street, Monticello on Friday, November 6 from 5-7 p.m. Eat in /Take out Pete's favorite meal of Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, veggies, and dessert. $20 per meal. The scholarship is given out annually to any eligible high school student in Sullivan County. For more information call the Lodge at 845-794-1544.

The Mamakating Environmental Education Center will hold its Fall Festival Saturday, November 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 762 South Road, Wurtsboro. Admission is $5 for the largest event of the fall season. With multiple vendors, a pumpkin carving demonstration, crafts, educational events, a bake sale, campfire, and more, this is a family fun event not to miss.

You have Cancer! Three of the scariest words to hear. But one group of folks who get it and work hard to let those warriors know they are not alone is Ride 2 Survive - Sullivan County. This organization raises funds to relieve the burden of cancer patients and their families in what seems a small gesture, but lifts away that which only cancer patients can understand. The funds raised by this completely volunteer organization, go to provide gas cards for the transportation needed of cancer patients to get to their life saving treatments and appointments.

I am blessed not to have needed these funds but was clearly told that these amazing volunteers wanted to make sure I wasn't worried with all the extra hidden expenses of being a cancer patient. So, now I pay it forward.

This year’s Annual Gala is sold out, but you can still help. Now entered into my tenth year of survivorship, my Birthday Fundraiser is coming to an end. If you are able to help the cause, would you please consider making a donation. Every little bit helps to fill a gas tank of someone who has enough else to worry about. Please send a check to Sullivan County Ride 2 Survive, PO Box 282, Youngsville, New York 12791. Note “Lori’s Birthday” in the memo. You can also go to the website at ride2survivesullivancounty.org to make an online donation and mark “Lori’s Birthday” in the notes.

Congratulations to the Sullivan County Democrat's very own Sports Editor Crystal Tweed on graduation as Valedictorian from Full Sail University with a Bachelor in Arts in Sports Broadcasting!

Condolences to the Rosenberg Family on the loss of beloved sister, aunt, mother, and friend Edie Epstein. Known for having a heart of gold, Edie cared for all around her. Sending thoughts and love to Hildy Rosenberg, Laurie Bonkalski, Elena Milano, Erica Calliea, and the entire family as they mourn their loss. May her memory be for a blessing to all who knew and loved her.

Happy Birthday to Courtney Bonfante, Cara Rieber, Kathie Mabewew (11/3), Highland Supervisor John Pizzolato (11/4), Ralph Chaeney, Jillian Cawley (11/5), Paula Victor Griffin, Allisa Greenberg, Rebecca Bass (11/6), Bradlyn Brooks, Chris Cellini (11/7), Naomi Owens, Melissa Wright, Trina Davis-Fanning (11/9).

Remember the Holiday Ten as you snack on those leftover Halloween Candy Treats. Get out and vote! Turn Back your clocks - And, as always, just in case I really don’t “Know It All,” please keep me in the know by emailing me at LoriJames.SCDemocrat@gmail.com.