To the editor:

As we start this holiday season, I’d like to give thanks to my fellow board members of Homeward Bound Adirondacks (HBA).

These tireless volunteers work to serve our veterans in need, many suffering from PTSD. We have board members from across the North Country, but also from Staten Island and Oahu. Locally, I’d like to thank treasurer David Aldrich, secretary Steve Erman, marketing chair Amy Tuthill, veteran volunteers Bob Brown and Rob Marone and our “North Star,” executive director Valerie Ainsworth. I’m proud to work this these folks. Valerie will soon begin administering the VA’s SSG Fox Suicide Prevention Grant.

I’d also like to recognize and thank Robert Ross, CEO of St. Joseph’s Addiction Treatment and Recovery Center, who is retiring from our board after 15 years of service.

Bob served as board member, vice president and president of our organization. We appreciated his professionalism and insight, which was always delivered in a collegial manner. We will also miss his perspective on the best methods to serve our veterans in need. Bob led us in refining our mission and moved us forward to the success and promise that we have achieved and continue to seek.

In announcing his departure, Bob said: “There are many wonderful non-profit organizations in the North Country providing needed services for individuals, families, and communities, but I believe what is so special about HBA is the intimacy of the board, staff, and volunteers who work with veterans and veterans’ families on a one-on-one basis and bring help and hope to them in a very personal way.” Thank you, Bob.

Sincerely,

Mark Moeller

Chair, HBA Board of Directors

Tupper Lake