Just spent a nice Memorial Day weekend away camping in Andover, NJ, with my goddaughter and her family. When I left on Monday, I found out Ringwood, NJ was only 45 minutes away. You got it—I went and spent a few hours with Fr. Bill. I got there just as lunch was being served. They were eating a nice barbeque. Father loved the ribs. There was one priest who was asking, “If I am born in 1927, how old am I?” He asked a few different people, and everyone answered 89. I was thinking to myself, “Oh, this poor guy is so confused.” Let me tell you, when he took out a harmonica and started playing, he blew you away. He was playing old tunes, and then he did a few for Memorial Day, “God Bless America,” “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee,” and the national anthem. The whole room was singing. It was heart warming. Fr. Bill sends his love. He is doing well, holding his own and enjoys the letters, cards and visits. Father told me that some of the priests never get a visit. That is just so sad. I guess I will just have to visit them all when I go.

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church is having its annual Strawberry Festival on Sunday, June 19 at 7 p.m. They will be having strawberry ice cream, strawberry shortcake and beverages. All they ask for is a free-will donation. It usually ends around 8 p.m., so stop by and get some yummy for the tummy.

The Catskill Detachment Marine Corps League is selling Rifle Raffle tickets for a Henry Lever Action .44 Mag. If you would like to get a ticket, call Bob DeMan at 845/252-7208 or John Cirelli at 845/252-3235.

The Women’s Community Club of Cochecton will host a trip to Mohegan Sun Casino on June 16. Call Judy at 845/932-8210 for details.

I may be a few days late, but it is never too late to thank all who served this country to keep us safe and free.

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