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"Between The River and The Rails"
Dear Editor:
Last Friday, Philipstown witnessed another classic demonstration of close community - another ballot cast for the innate goodness of human beings.
The joyful enthusiasm and infectious generosity of Mary Ellen Yannitelli and her friends, who put on a dinner and silent auction and musical tribute to the Guinan family of Garrison's Landing, led an entire community to turn out en masse - proceeds go toward the mounting medical expenses of John Guinan's struggles with brain cancer.
Not a parking place was left at the Chalet Restaurant of InnCredible Caterers, whose generosity in providing their excellent facility and wonderful service was just the beginning of many superb contributions of food, talent, raffle items, and love.
The event was sold out days before it took place. Many wished they could have come and sent donations anyway (more are welcome - made payable to John Guinan, 7 Pulaski Lane, Fishkill, NY 12524 or given at the store) (contributions that directly benefit an individual are NOT tax deductible). We gathered to support one of our own - a family that has always included us in theirs.
Highlights of the evening were Andy Revkin's touching and soaring song written for the occasion, "Between the River and the Rails;" John Guinan's moving speech of thanks to his wife and to all of us; his dad, the legendary Jimmy Guinan, singing "Danny Boy" in his mesmerizing Irish tenor, barely quavering despite his eighty years; and a telling moment toward the end of the auction where admission to world-famous Martha Stewart television show couldn't attract an opening bid of $40, yet a facial and massage from Depot neighbor Georgia Christy sold for over $400. That may say a lot about the values of this community and the respect and affection its members hold for one another (late bids for Martha may still be placed).
The Guinan family reminds us of what is healthy, what is beautiful, what is kind, and what it means to be a neighbor. The whole hamlet of Garrison WAS the Guinan family that night - generations of us continue to benefit from their wise and peaceful presence "between the river and the rails."
As John Guinan himself said that evening, "who would have thought that selling a few cups of coffee and some newspapers could come to this?"
Bravo to the Guinans, to Mary Ellen for spearheading the evening; to the Delis and Café Maya for great snacks; to MotherLode Trio, Uncle Wade, the Bag Pipers, and the Irish Night musicians who donated their time and their skills; to the donors of the auction items; to Wendy Bounds for her glorious hymn to our town, "Little Chapel on the River," and to all the neighbors and friends who filled the hall with good cheer and generous hearts. Its inspiring to see that good people don't take good things for granted.
People shine when they are given the opportunity to contribute to the common good - Friday's event was confirmation of the basic goodness of people.
Fred Osborn III
Garrison
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