CALLICOON, NY — The nasty rain and blustery, leaf-swept wind storm that Sullivan County experienced on Wednesday, October 16, did not deter the Sullivan County Republican party faithful. Around 150 people braved the unpleasant weather and attended the annual cocktail reception at the Villa Roma resort to honor Dan Briggs, who is retiring this year as the Sullivan County Clerk.

Numerous Sullivan County Republican candidates for the upcoming November 5 election were in attendance, as well as Linda Blom Johnson, candidate for the NYS Supreme Court 3rd Judicial District. Sullivan Country Republican Party Chairman Richard Coombe was the master of ceremonies and started the evening by acknowledging veterans. Charlie Breiner led the Pledge of Allegiance with help from Steve Lungen, retired district attorney.

Coroner Albee Bockman led everyone with a stirring rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner followed by Pastor William Chellis offering the invocation.
Sullivan County Republican Party Vice Chairman Gary Maas introduced the Republican Party-endorsed candidates including James Farrell, current district attorney and court judge candidate; Russell Reeves, current deputy county clerk who’s running for county clerk, and Alan Kesten, county coroner running for reelection. Linda Blom Johnson, Supreme Court Judge and the eight Republican candidates for Legislature were also introduced.

Farrell, Blom Johnson and Reeves spoke briefly about their candidacies.

After enjoying the buffet meal, the attendees turned their attention to the man of the evening, county clerk retiree Briggs. Several family members and friends took the podium, and honored Briggs for his dedication and service to Sullivan County.

The evening concluded with a presentation of a large bouquet of fall flowers to Sullivan County Republican Party Secretary Lori Benjamin.