Narrowsburg News

JANE LUCHSINGER
Posted 5/24/17

It doesn’t matter if you have lived in Narrowsburg for only one year or 40 years; most of us can say we know of Elaine Giguere and of the Delaware Valley Arts Alliance (DVAA). One resident …

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Narrowsburg News

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It doesn’t matter if you have lived in Narrowsburg for only one year or 40 years; most of us can say we know of Elaine Giguere and of the Delaware Valley Arts Alliance (DVAA). One resident remembers Elaine and her husband Tom DeGaetani coming to Narrowsburg and getting involved in the community almost immediately. Who were these “artsy” people? What would they do in Narrowsburg? It didn’t take long to find out, and after winning the hearts of many due to their dedication to working with community members, bringig theatrical performances to town and encouraging the best in local talent, it became clear that art was here to stay.

The DVAA was once housed in a small storefront on Main Street, not the current location of the former Arlington Hotel, and it was in this small space that The River Reporter was first published—you guessed it, by Tom and Elaine.

Over 40 years later, the Delaware Valley Arts Alliance continues to be a leader of the arts in our community and Sullivan County. Although Tom passed away early in the DVAA developmental process, Elaine has remained to make a notable organization of DVAA, becoming the Sullivan County representative of the New York State Council of the Arts, refurbishing and developing the Tusten Theater, bringing us our annual street fair, Riverfest, the Big Eddy Film Festival, over 12 gallery shows per year, numerous live performances, and the list goes on and on.

When thinking of Elaine, I’ll bet no one expected her to really retire. She has been an anchor in the community, but it is true, the time has come. In a month’s time Elaine will be retired. This column, limited in space, can’t cover all that Elaine and the DVAA has accomplished over the years. Why not come to her retirement party on Saturday, June 17 and honor her achievements and send her on her way? No, she is not leaving Narrowsburg, but it is time to let her know how much we appreciate all that she has done to make our community what it is today. Tickets cost $50 and can be reserved at DVAA or calling 845/252-7576.

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