Telethon raises $11,000 for Winslow center

WARWICK - On Sunday, Dec. 2, Warwick businessman Leo Kaytes, president of the Winslow Therapeutic Center Board of Directors, was joined by Assemblywoman Annie Rabbitt, Warwick Town Supervisor Michael Sweeten and Warwick Mayor Michael Newhard to conduct a five-hour telethon in the studios of Warwick Valley High School for the benefit of Winslow. Devoted to the special needs population of Orange and surrounding counties, Winslow, now located on 100 acres of scenic land just off Route 17A in Warwick, has been offering unique and often life-changing horseback riding experiences to children and adults in this community since 1974. Local TV/radio personality Dick Wells, recovering at home from his recent heart surgery, also was on hand via telephone. Inclement weather including falling snow and icy roads precluded his original intention to travel to the studio to emcee the telethon as he had often done in the past. Among the other guests who appeared on the telethon were Warwick businesswoman Mechele Casciotta, Board member Stratus Colman and his wife, Kristen; Winslow Treasurer Roger Gibboni, former Executive Director Virginia Mazza; and John Sanford representing WVT Communications. Broadcast live by both Cablevision and Warwick Valley Communications, the successful event raised more than $11,000 in pledges. Although it’s not something they normally do, Sweeton and Kaytes agreed to pose on horseback in exchange for a $500 pledge. The challenge was accepted in both cases. Anyone wishing to donate may mail a tax-deductible donation to Winslow Therapeutic Center, 328 Rt. 17A, Warwick NY 10990 or call 986-6686.