Tim Hill still serves us well despite illness

by: Bill Liblick

When a person is threatened with a terminal illness there are tough decisions. Data recently released confirms a positive mind, attitude, and spirit can often go a long way in assisting in treatment.

It is not a secret that Sullivan County Democratic Chairman and Board of Elections Commissioner Timothy Hill has been diagnosed with cancer. Those who know Hill are astonished by his drive and determination. Instead of throwing in the towel, he is fighting the disease every which way.

Hill’s frame of mind is remarkable. Not only does he show up at the job everyday, his passion for being in the political hot seat has not diminished.

Known throughout Sullivan County for being a hand’s on political powerhouse, many during the past 35 years have been at odds with him, including myself. He once told me I was not a Democratic loyalist because I supported Republicans, and if I didn’t like what he had to say, “I should tell it to Jerry Springer,” referring to my talk show appearances.

Despite our falling-outs we have always respected one another and are friends. Hill told me he abides by the philosophy “You never close the door on people. You always keep the door open and hope alive, that during another day and time you will sit down to work out differences.”

He said he wanted to get the message out that although he is not as fast and loud as he was before; his commitment to Sullivan County and Democratic Party principals is still there.

Reflecting on his ailment, Hill emotionally said, “I keep going on. There will be tough times and hard times, and you must utilize all the resources and friends you have. Even though everyone’s illness is different, there must be a mindset that you keep fighting, and never give in to it.”

Hill tells me there has always been a certain “symbiotic” drive inside of him that has not weakened despite his ailment. His outlook reminds me of my close friend Tammi Chaboty’s mother Diane Hewitt who recently passed on. As the regional president of the CSEA, covering seven counties in the Hudson Valley, representing 42,000 members, it was her passion to represent the needs of her union members that kept her focused up until the very end, besides her loving family.

To Hill it is politics that keeps him motivated. He still attends practically every political function held in Sullivan County, and remains active in Federal, State, County, and Town and Village politics. “I look forward to events. I know there will be a time that I will not be able to attend functions, but I will deal with it when the time comes. Until that time, I will continue to be vocal and visible.”

As Democratic County Chairman, he takes pride in all of those he helped elect, “I am proud to say that our party holds a majority in the legislature, and the number of Democratic Town Supervisors, Councilmen and Village Mayors are at an all time high.” As more people move into our county, he envisions even further Democratic growth.

In order for Sullivan County to once again flourish Hill wants to see unity amongst our leaders. “We have been hit hard by the demise of the Borsch Belt, but our future can be bright if everyone works together.” He says he wants to take a leadership role towards that end.

Another objective of Hill’s is to computerize our voting machines before the mandated deadline.

My mother used the Yiddish word “Bashert” during trying times. It means that something is fated or predestined, and we must accept life’s misfortunes the best we can. That is what Tim Hill is doing.

Tim Hill is beyond a doubt one courageous person. His zest and zeal is a tribute and legacy for all Sullivan County. May he continue to fight his fight for what he believes in for a long time to come.

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