To the Editor: 
Community is defined by several characteristics; a group of people, a certain locality, and the sentiment of neighborliness. One recent article describes the sentiment of community as having a “strong sense of awe feeling among the members or a feeling of belonging together.”

On May 20, at the first Altamont Free Library Gala in over three years, that feeling of belonging together was evident throughout the evening. The beautiful, historic Fine Arts and Flower Building at the Altamont fairgrounds was filled with community members; young and old, friends reconnecting, new friendships beginning.

The theme of this year’s gala was Our Community in Bloom. We celebrated individuals who give of their time to plant, nurture, and beautify our village through their love of gardening: Keith Lee, Al and Ronnie D’Alauro, and John Sands. Our Village Department of Public Works staff — Jeffry Moller, Larry Adams, Anthony Diana, Lucas Oliver, and Nicholas Sala — were also feted for their hard work maintaining our village and roads throughout all the seasons despite the weather.

We wish to express our deep gratitude to the community for the fantastic turnout, as well as the following groups and individuals who helped make the gala a truly wonderful event: The 2023 Gala Honorary Committee; the Altamont Free Library Board of Trustees; the village of Altamont mayor, trustees, and staff; Amy Anderson and the Altamont Fair Board.

Also Diana Greene and Bella Fleur & Remedies; Elegant Touch Catering; Empire Wine & Spirits; Altamont Country Values; Mike Seinberg; The Albany Art Room; Melissa Mansfield; Russ Pokorny and Traditional Strings; Meadowdale Winery; Clover Pond Winery; our Guilderland High School volunteers; our silent auction donors; and all of our dessert bakers and donors.

Finally, we must thank the hardworking members of the Gala Committee: Megan Connolly, Raelee Grimm, Leanne Royer, Amanda Stygar, Michelle Stevens, and Yvette Terplak.

This magical evening would not have been possible without the creativity, the volunteer energy, the vision, the hard work, and the donations of so many who share their love for Altamont Free Library and our Altamont community. Thank you all! 

Joe Burke

Director

Altamont Free Library

Deborah Marion-Katz

President

Board of Trustees