To the editor:

Until about five years ago, I was the Mill Rift representative on the Upper Delaware Citizens Advisory Council. That gave me the opportunity to know John Hutzky as a very professional federal official.

Other than hearing that he had retired, I lost track of him after I moved to Florida. Then a friend recycled a River Reporter to me, and I discovered that he had reinvented himself as-of all things columnist.

And a very good one, at that. I'm glad for John personally, because having a column is one of the most fulfilling roles in journalism, my own field. But even if I hadn't known him or his background, I would have been no less impressed with his candor and clarity (I'm thinking here of the South Carolina flag column) as well as his warmth and charm (the canine column springs to mind).

While news of New York towns is seldom relevant to me anymore (and my recycling bin won't hold any more newspapers), "From Afar" at least will keep me coming back to your web site. Just thought you'd like to know.

Sincerely,

Richard F. Janssen

Nokomis, FL

To the editor:

Nobody Said Welcome

If the goal of the Narrowsburg government and planners is to boost the town's cultural potential and to offer the traveler a scenic and artistic visit, why not take a minute to welcome the new vendors who make the day interesting here?

At my new Yard Sale Store, the word "welcome" was overlooked. Instead, I was mandated to remove the brand new picnic tables from my lawn and take the wood carvings off my front porch before sundown.

What a shame that a new investor should receive rougher treatment that the eager tourist in search of the River Road.

Jane Sloyer

Narrowsburg

To the editor:

As a dealer member of Wayne, Pike, Sullivan Antique Dealers Association (WPSADA). I would like to thank The River Reporter for their generous donation of complimentary copies of their August 3rd issue. The newspapers were distributed to the many visitors attending WPSADA's 31st Annual Antique Show & Sale held this past weekend in Hawley, Pennsylvania.

Linda Slocum

Linda Slocum Antiques

To the editor:

I recognize The River Reporter from listening to WJFF but did not know you published a literary annual until a friend came across it in a Rockland Co. library, of all places. Would it be possible to obtain a sample issue, perhaps of a previous year? I'd also like to know your submission guidelines and what you may be looking for. Do any public libraries in this area carry your publication?

Mary Sive

Margaretville

[The Literary Gazette was distributed through the 50 libraries that make up the Ramapo-Catskill Library System. We thank the library system for its support and distribution of this product which showcases the work of local writers.]

To the editor:

On July 4 a benefit celebration was held for Grover Hermann Hospital at the lakeside home of Jocelyn and Richard Castellano. It was one of several great benefits co-hosted by Jocelyn and Sharlene Kall and the Grover Hermann Hospital Auxiliary this past year.

There was a lot of good food and music and even sports as people kayaked or canoed around the very private and pristine lake. The afternoon ended with a fun raffle and a crackling fire by the shore-giving an added spark to the occasion. But most memorable was the atmosphere of caring and support, which brought people together on one of the busiest holiday weekends of the summer.

We would just like to express our gratitude to Jocelyn and Sharlene for their tremendous effort and commitment and to Richard, too, for his hospitality and support.

It is through efforts such as theirs and the many other supportive members of the community that the hospital in Callicoon can remain open and able to serve the medical needs of our diverse community and western Sullivan County.

Dr. Paul and Greta Salzberg

Callicoon

To the editor:

On July 22, 1779, 47 militiamen died at Minisink Ford fighting the Native Americans who tried to keep us out but we kept on coming and we took over the territory on which they had freely roamed for thousands of years. There were similar battles all over this newly discovered land in the years to follow. Eventually our forefathers brought their advancing society into the New World.

In the 1930's when the electric company wanted to bring in power many folks put up a fuss to stop them; they just did not want "those poles" all over the countryside. Look at the results of electricity. We can't function without it now. Complains abound when there is a power outage! Somehow those poles aren't such an eyesore anymore but a part of Americana serving an essential function.

Then in the 80's and 90's some folks wanted to start businesses in the Damascus area; some were stopped. Without mentioning names, some of those rejected business plans could have been a boom to the local economy. Now a cell tower company wants to put up a tower so our area can have access to some new and wonderful technology in the way of wireless services. Being an area with a lot of dead spots is bad for fire trucks, ambulance corps, police radios and other 911 emergency services. There are many of us who would like the convenience of having a working cell phone in this area. The pros outweigh the cons to the prospect of a tower for this part of the Delaware valley. I think the residents of Damascus Township should support the effort, not fight it. Let us be a part of a growing, technologically advancing society on the brink of another whole new world.

Leonard E. Rolston

Milanville

To the editor:

As a member of the Sullivan County chapter of the American Red Cross in Greater New York board of directors, I was happy to participate in the recent Jeffersonville Parade and Jamboree. As the Red Cross' large red and white emergency relief vehicle-which volunteers call the ERV-drove through town, I was especially pleased to see many people standing along side the parade route wave with shouts of "thank you Red Cross."

The people of Sullivan County have always shown the Red Cross great support. The parade reminded me that not only is the Red Cross here for people in need, but people are also here for the Red Cross.

Sincerely,

C. William Kaplan

White Lake