I write this week’s column with a heavy heart; one of Cochecton’s residents, John Rizzotti, passed away on November 15 at the age of 75. John passed away at home with his partner Bill of many years by his side and his sister Angela Beatley. I met John and Bill many years ago when I worked in Pete’s Pub. They ran a little antique shop called Carmichael’s in the pub. My favorite time with John and Bill had to be tax season. No matter how sick John was or Bill, they would come and pay their taxes in person. Last year John said it was the first time he was out in a while, and he looked forward to paying his taxes because he was getting out of the house. When I hugged John goodbye last year, I said to myself, “I hope I see him again next year.” To Bill and Angie, you and your families are in my thoughts and prayers. John will be missed.

The Cochecton Youth Group’s Christmas party will be on Saturday, December 6 at 10 a.m. at the new town hall. Sign-up will be at the monthly meeting on December 2 between 6 and 7 p.m. also in the new town hall. Your child has to be signed up so Santa knows how many presents to bring. The Cochecton Youth group is planning its 2015 calendar. If you have any suggestions, bring them to the sign-up. If you have any questions, you can give me a call.

The Lake Huntington Red Hatters’ Christmas party will be hosted by Angelina’s on the Hill on Saturday, December 13 at 4 p.m. Remember to let Queen Mom know if you will be attending. Call 845/932-5077. The cost of $20 covers everything. Please being a grab bag gift worth $5.

I just got off the phone from a very nice, long phone call with Fr. Bill. He is doing much better and is up walking and doing his therapy. He is hoping to be back after Thanksgiving. Fr. Bill just gave me the OK to have the Christmas toy drive, “Open Your Heart to Local Children” sponsored by St. Francis Xavier Church and the food pantry. Stop by the Christmas tree in the Peck’s Market in Narrowsburg to drop off toys for local children. I am taking this toy drive over from the Tusten Ambulance Auxiliary. If you want to make a monetary donation, make a check out to Eileen Hennessy, 295 Mohn Rd., Narrowsburg, NY 12764. Also a reminder that in all five Pecks’ locations there is a food drive going on for all the local food pantries.

I did find out that the Santa Express will be in Narrowsburg on December 6. More information to follow. The Santa Express has its own Facebook page.

Have a great week and e-mail leeniebeans@citlink.net, or call 845/252-3568 if you have any news.