Barry Benepe who has given so much to the community, including helping to start the Saugerties Farmer’s Market. More importantly, he taught us all the value of acknowledging, preserving and embracing the history of the community as well as recognizing the value of the farming community in the area.
Mark Braunstein, founder and Chairman of the Board of Markertek, passed away last year but has left behind a legacy of giving and kindness. He was a generous supporter of local charities and events, especially the Boys and Girls Club. As Bob Siracusano mentioned in his tribute, he was a good friend to many and always was ready to help with a donation to a worthy cause but wanted to stay in the background.
Dr. Neal Smoller who went above and beyond in trying to get everyone in the area their first, second or booster COVID-19 shots. It was not unusual to see Dr. Neal and his army of volunteers visit or call stores, restaurants, senior centers, schools or other locations to see if anyone still needed a shot. In a time when we needed a hero, we got one.