September 2024
Anna Louise Bates, Church Historian
This is clearly an election year. As we navigate the bombardment of aggressive campaigns for the upcoming presidential election in November, we should acknowledge members of our community who worked hard every year to make sure we had free and fair elections.
Long-time parishioner Carol Roper was such a worker. Carol moved to New Paltz with her husband, Don, in 1964. She taught English at Dutchess County Community College and was always active in her community. She served a term as New Paltz Town Supervisor (2000-2001), was a member of the Town Board and many other civic organizations. But of all her activities, members of the New Paltz United Methodist Church remember her as a dedicated volunteer in all elections. She was also instrumental in efforts to make sure SUNY New Paltz students registered to vote. Carol was as dedicated to her church as to her larger community. Her involvement with the New Paltz congregation included service as trustee, as Sunday school superintendent and teacher, as member of the Administrative Council and the Staff Parish Relations Committee, as vice president of United Methodist Women, as an organizer of the Friday Soup and Salad ministry and as a substitute pianist at services.
As we ponder our nation’s future and what choices we will make in November, let us remember Carol, the tireless community worker who encouraged everyone, regardless of their party leaning, to get out and vote.
