CATSKILL — The first annual David Gori Scholarship Bowling Tournament took place
at the Catskill Hoe Bowl on November 22.
David Gori, a graduate of Saugerties Central School, was a dedicated educator at the Cairo- Durham School District for 24 years. Dave taught special education in Cairo and was an incredible advocate for his students. David’s passion for education and mentoring was unmatched.
He inspired countless students with his dedication, empathy, and humor. Beyond his classroom, David served as a tennis coach, leading both boys’ and girls’ varsity teams to significant achievements, including a Section Two Class Championship in 2016. His excellence as a coach earned him the prestigious Patroon Conference Girls’ Tennis Coach of the Year title. Additionally, David contributed to his community as a county CPS worker, corporate trainer, and job coach, but his true calling was always teaching.
Many gathered on November 22nd to support this special event in honor of the beloved Gori. The bowling alley was filled with members of Dave’s family, friends from Saugerties, colleagues and friends from Cairo-Durham, Cairo-Durham students and alumni, and others. Everyone
had an amazing time. The event kicked off with a special presentation from former
Assemblyman Peter D. Lopez and his wife, Bridget, who worked with Dave at Cairo Durham. During this presentation, Dave’s wife, Virginia, was presented with an American Flag that was flown over the United States Capitol and a Congressional Record that was read aloud to the House of Representatives by Congresswoman Claudia Tenney on December 11, 2024.
This citation was written by Bridget López and prepared by the Congresswoman’s office. It highlighted Dave’s selfless efforts throughout his life, and his consistent dedication to his family and his students.
Following this thoughtful presentation, the teams participated in a bowling tournament. An amazing display of baskets and other prizes were on display for a raffle during the competition. Many of these baskets represented an activity that brought joy to Dave’s life. From Saratoga Racetrack, to pizza and the Raiders, Dave’s spirit was present throughout the entire event.
A very special thank you to Sue Boyle, Greg Hanley, and Tracy Cavanagh for volunteering so much time and attention to the tournament, and a sincere acknowledgement to all who so generously donated baskets for the raffle. The presentations were extraordinary and a unique way to celebrate so many things that defined who Dave was!
This event would not have been possible without the support of the Catskill Hoe Bowl and the other local businesses that supported the event. Thank you Main Street Cafe and Montano’s Shoes in Saugerties, Millrock in Windham, Yannis Too in Coeymans, Creekside and La Conco
D’Oro in Catskill, The Shamrock House in Durham, and Old Factory Brewery Company in Cairo.Your generosity is so appreciated!
A huge thank you to the coordinators of this event, Bridget Lopez, Matt Brooks, Robin Edwards and the entire Brooks family! You make an outstanding team.
In the end, Richie Crianza, a Cairo-Durham graduate, claimed victory in the tournament!. He was extremely happy to be there and proud of his accomplishment.
At the close of the fundraiser, over $4,400 dollars had been collected! These proceeds will benefit a graduate from both Cairo-Durham and Saugerties Central Schools.
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