Sometimes we become so focused on one thing we forget to put things into perspective. The Narrowsburg Beautification Group (NBG) was focused on once again winning a big prize from Sullivan Renaissance. The NBG won, although a small prize—$1,000. So let’s put things into perspective.

Sullivan Renaissance began its “beatification and community development program” 16 years ago, and the NBG has participated every year since the beginning. As a result, with Sullivan Renaissance funding, the NBG has provided us with some long-lasting improvements to our town, i.e. stacked-stone planters found at the southern entranceway at Bridge Street and Route 97 and in front of the library and the welcome sign as you come over the bridge from PA. The NBG has planted trees that will last for years. In fact one of the first projects was to plant the beautiful spring-flowering pear trees along Bridge Street. Have you noticed the blooms on the hydrangea trees on Kirk Road by Pete’s? They were part of last year’s project. This year several more trees were planted.

It’s a fact that just since 2010 the NBG has won $58,000 in prizes, and that doesn’t include grant awards. Since 2010 we have won a prize every year without exception. We have won the top prizes on several occasions and smaller prizes at other times. Add the grant funding awarded to our projects every year, and the NBG has won close to $100,000 over the years. Now that’s some perspective. So, as we go forward, we are all winners sharing the sights in front of the post office, up and down Main Street, in front of the Upper Delaware Council—and the list goes on and on.

By the way, the $1,000 prize was for a Judges Choice award for the “Best Showing of Flowers with Community Involvement.” That means everyone’s efforts have not gone un-noticed. Thank you all for working so hard to maintain the beauty of our community.

Reminder: The Lava Fire Department will have a pancake breakfast on Saturday, August 21. They are known for their all-inclusive BIG breakfast. Come support our local fire fighters.