“Sometimes our light goes out but is blown into flame
By another human being. Each of us owes deepest
Thanks to those who have rekindled this light.”
Albert Schweitzer

The Piper Family from Meadow Hill are grateful to the CEO of Cornerstone Family Healthcare, Dave Jolly, all of the Cornerstone doctors and staff, and garden architect, Joe Hughes, for the vision of the Memorial Garden that came to fruition at the dedication ceremony on September 9, honoring Cornerstone employees who have passed away and their families. They are also grateful for the blessing upon the garden by Father Greg Fluet.

The family is humbled that their son, Shawn, will be remembered in such a heartfelt way. A personalized memorial stone was placed in the garden in remembrance of each employee that has recently passed away. Shawn loved being a part of the Cornerstone Family and it brings comfort and peace knowing the memorial can be visited at any time. The Cornerstone mission is one of compassion and care for the community and this garden reflects that mission.”

“The Cornerstone Family Healthcare Memorial Garden is a place of remembrance and gratitude for those who dedicated their lives to serving others and making a difference in our community,” said Dave Jolly, CEO of Cornerstone. “Each person we honor here was part of something larger than themselves—they showed up each day with a commitment to caring for others and improving the lives of the people around them. We hope this beautiful space provides comfort to their families and loved ones, while reminding our entire community of the lasting impact of a life devoted to service. Their memory, their compassion, and their commitment to others will continue to live on in the people and communities they touched.”

The Newburgh Area Retired Teachers’ Association, NARTA, held its annual Kickoff Breakfast meeting, September 10, at Temple Hill Tavern in New Windsor. President Laura Fraher called the meeting to order and after the Pledge of Allegiance, a moment of silence was observed for NARTA members who passed away this past year and for those that lost their lives in the 9/11 tragedies of 2001, as we commemorate the 25th year since 9/11.

President Fraher discussed the upcoming NARTA Fall season events: Fall Luncheon, October 15, honoring members who are 85 years and older, and the Holiday Luncheon December 3. NARTA will continue with their community service projects of collecting new socks for distribution to shelters and homeless Veterans’ groups, as well as collecting toys for the Marines Toys for Tots program in December.

Scholarship Chair Debra Mahusky reported on our scholarship recipients for 2026. They were Matthew Bogacyzk from Marlboro High School and Bianca Martelli from Cornwall High School. Debra thanked members for their generous donations to our scholarship program.

Membership Chair Raymond Leduc reported that NARTA welcomed two new members, Frances Carton and Gabrielle Fay from the Newburgh Enlarged City School District.

After enjoying a delicious brunch buffet, NARTA members listened to presentations from two speakers. Member Jack Caldwell, is a retired teacher from the Newburgh Enlarged City School District. “He spoke on his involvement with the Quassaick Creek Watershed Alliance. He informed the group of their projects for

Crystal Lake and the Quassaick Creek Greenway, and of the need for retired teachers’ involvement in these projects, as the Alliance involves students from the Newburgh school district.”

The second speaker was Representative Chris Eachus, a NARTA member and NY State Assemblyman. “He spoke to NARTA members about initiatives and legislation that he and the state legislature have undertaken for teachers, both in-service and retired, and students in our local school districts. He encouraged members to reach out to him and their own area representatives with their concerns for the legislature to consider that will help school districts and their staff.”

Cronomer Valley Fire Dept. Ladies Auxiliary, 296 N. Plank Road, Newburgh, invites you to join them, October, 3, at 1 p.m., for a fun afternoon of Tricky Tray. Calling begins at 3 p.m.

Admission $5 per person/child includes, 1 sheet of tickets. One ticket level for all baskets, Each admission ticket is eligible for door prizes. Cost $20 for 5 sheets of tickets, $5 additional single sheet. All new items in baskets. Food and drinks will be available to purchase. Prizes make great Christmas gifts. Must be present to win.


May you always have an angel at your side.