30th Annual Ulster Deanery Respect Life Dinner

Ulster Deanery Respect Life Dinner

Come join us for the 30th Annual Ulster Deanery Respect Life Dinner, a special event dedicated to celebrating and promoting the value of life. This in-person gathering will be held at St. Mary’s/St. Andrews Parish Center, 139 S. Main St. (behind the church), Ellenville, NY 12428

During this event, we will come together to discuss important topics surrounding respect for life, share inspiring stories, hear from a renound speaker and enjoy a delicious dinner. It's a wonderful opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about upholding the dignity of every human being, from the womb to the tomb.

Join us for an evening of fellowship, meaningful conversations, and a chance to make a difference. Don't miss out on this incredible event!

Keynote Speaker, Robert D. Smith Jr., Deputy Moderator, Ulster Deanery Respect Life Committe

Bob was born at the U.S. Navy Hospital in Norfolk VA in 1961. He has resided in the Town of Plattekill, in an area known as “Dawesville”, since his father completed his military service in 1962. His family began their “family farm” nearly 150 years ago there, where his great-grandparents, grandparents, Father, Aunts, Uncles and cousins were raised and he still lives today.

Diagnosed with Quadriplegic Spastic Cerebral Palsy at 18 months, Bob overcame a prognosis of full dependence through numerous pioneering surgeries and physical therapy several times a week, gaining functional mobility.

Bob is currently retired from a career in Civil Service, where he spent over 20 years as a Building Inspector/Code Enforcement Official in three municipalities, and as Technical Advisor to the New York State, Department of State, Division of Code Enforcement and Administration, Hudson Valley Regional Board of Review as well as the Code Compliance Specialist for the Regional Services Division, serving northern Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess, Orange, Ulster and Sullivan Counties. He currently is a part time independent consultant in business for himself, reviewing plans for Code Compliance and serving as a technical advisor to Architects and Code Officials.

Bob was the first baptism at his family’s home Parish of Our Lady of Fatima Church in Plattekill after it was dedicated as a Parish in the Archdiocese of New York in 1961. Since childhood he has served in the Parish, first as an Altar Boy, a member of the Choir and a Lector. Post college graduation, he has served in numerous leadership roles including music ministry, youth programs, retreats and liturgical coordination. He was the Charter Grand Knight of the Fr. Michael Pascual, C.R. Council #9165 of the Knights of Columbus Council in his Parish, and has served several terms, helping them to earn the Star Council Award numerous times.

Buffet includes:

Mixed Green Salad, Chicken Marsala, White Fish in a Butter/Cream Sauce, Pasta Primavera in a Red Sauce, Roasted Potatoes and Herbs, Seasonal Mixed Vegetable Medley, Dinner Rolls with Butter, Fresh brewed Coffee, Decaf & Tea, Iced Sweet and Unsweetened Tea