The New York State Constitutional Convention was the topic of discussion presented by the League of Women Voters at The Union on Sunday. To cast our ballots intelligently, we need to stay informed. If you need more information about this important issue, visit the League of Women Voters website, LWVNYS.org, and learn the facts.  This event also provided local candidates an opportunity to speak for support for their election. 

There are a couple of Halloween events this week. It will be celebrated by the Tusten Youth Commission (TYC) with its second annual Halloween Bash on Saturday, October 28. Costumed children start the party with a parade down Main Street. Line-up is at 3:30 p.m. at the feed mill. Children will march to the town hall, where dancing and karaoke begin with music by DJ Steve. Admission costs $10 per adult (children are free) and includes dinner of either chili or hot dogs. 

Halloween celebrations continue as the TYC sponsors a Trunk or Treat event on Halloween, October 31 at 6 p.m. at the playground on the flats. It’s not all about just candy. Pizza and juice will be available for children at no charge. 

These children’s events are fun, but are you aware some children get involved with drug addiction at very early ages, i.e. under 12 years old? Simple measures like taking back unused prescription drugs help to reduce the risk of child use of drugs. Saturday, October 28 is Prescription Take-Back Day. You can bring unwanted drugs to the Monticello Police Dept, 2 Pleasant St. at any time. We all need to take measures to halt the drug epidemic plaguing our country and yes, our town as well.

Last topic: Election Day. It’s not too late to pick up an absentee ballot if you are not available to vote on November 7. Call the Sullivan County Board of Elections at 845/807-0400 or visit it at the Government Center, 100 North St. in Monticello. The office hours have been extended during this election season. Most importantly, Vote November 7.