The best source for local news from Marbletown, Rochester & Rosendale
Published the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month | Vol. 28, Issue 11
Chicken of the woods mushroom lectures PAGE 21
June 2, 2023 | $1.00
Eight honored at Rondout Valley Central School District
Dry weather makes bird feeders more important
PAGE 8
PAGE 19
Delay for Accord Granary project inspires public conversation Cherries Frustration expressed by both sides
Ann Belmont BSP Reporter The Accord Granary building at the corner of Granit Road and Towpath Road has stood empty for decades. Accord LLC is the name of a group planning to restore and reuse the historic building as well as several others that occupy 2, 4 and 8 Towpath Road. Henry Rich, who owns Accord Market, is one partner, and Renn Hawkey is the other. They have applied for a zoning change enacted by the town in 2018 called Economic Enterprise Overlay [EEO]. Before opening the public hearing, town supervisor Mike Baden explained: “This is a two-step process. The first step is to petition the Town Board for a zoning [change] ... There is a second step … site plan approval by the Planning Board,” which requires a public hearing as well. An architect for the project, Scott Dutton, made a presentation. His Kingston firm has “completed a number of historic preservation projects.” He explained the proposal as currently visualized, using maps on easels. “We’re proposing to use the existing entrance at Granite Road and Towpath … the first structure we refer to as the Sears House. That is proposed to be four guestrooms, a hotel.” Another existing structure, the "Blue House," will be “a two-bed-
Amber Kelly BSP Reporter
The Granary as it stands. Photo by Ann Belmont
room apartment on the second floor to be used by the owner-developers,” with the downstairs as extra room. The "Yellow House" at 8 Towpath is proposed to be a bike shop. The parking lot will mostly be an already paved-over area. "We’ve wrapped the parking along the power-line edge of the property. The lines you see in brown are wood-chip paths. Those would connect the parking to the structures.
“The tall barn will have 11 guest rooms,” Dutton continued, "eight on the upper floors, three on the ground floor, with a small lounge. So that’s a total of 15 bedrooms for [the hotel] and two for staff.” A new 1,500-square-foot "wellness" building is planned over the footprint of an existing
See Granary, page 4
A walk to remember, Rosendale’s Memorial Day parade Grace Molenda BSP Reporter The Town of Rosendale’s Memorial Day parade fused traditional festivities with meaningful ceremonies to honor those who died in military service. The parade was organized by Rosendale/ Tillson American Legion Post 1219, with Commander John Creegan and other flag-bearing Legion members heading the lineup. On Monday morning, Commander Creegan led the parade from the Tillson Firehouse to Rosendale Cemetery where a moment of silence was followed by a ceremonial bugle call and rifle salute. The parade then continued toward St. Peter’s
Cemetery where Legion members performed a second, brief service in honor of the fallen resting there. Sounds of music and celebration returned as the parade approached Main Street. Spectators waiting for the procession at St. Peter’s Church were greeted by a seemingly endless stream of participants. American Legion Auxiliary members danced to music played by the Saints of Swing, and Legionnaires in a fleet of classic cars were followed by the Ancient Order of Hibernians Pipe and Drum Band. The Rosendale Improvement Association Brass Band performed also, setting the tempo for Ulster County Executive Jen
See Rosendale, page 3
Glenn Dehardt, Officer Caelin Fagerstrom, Lawrence Riedener, Commander John Creegan, Dan O’Sullivan and Jamie DePuy step off to start the parade. Photo by Grace Molenda
The Marbletown Planning Board meeting on May 22 began with chair Max Stratton and board members Dan Proctor, Dave Cobb, Harry Hansen and Brendan Masterson, secretary Shawn Marks, and town counsel Tracy Kellogg in attendance. Nadine Carney of Peak Engineering said that Ulster Savings Bank is still working on the lighting specs but septic design, landscaping, sustainability is all in for the new construction of an 8,600 square foot banking facility. Carney stated she hoped that enough information has been submitted to be able to move ahead with SEQRA. There will be a 20-foot vegetated swale to move storm water according to the B-1 district design guidelines. As for the request for a 10-foot fence by a neighbor, the swale is 4 feet higher than the parking lot, so the solid wood 6-foot fence should satisfy. The curbing had been approved already for a substantially higher volume plan, so it will be sufficient. “I don’t know if you want to wait a couple of days to see if I can get the photometrics from the architect. We are not opposed to holding off to submit it,” Carney said. “My question to Tracy is if we motion to circulate to Walden Engineering and they submit the photometric plan by Tuesday next week …?” Stratton said. The motion to refer passed. The High Meadow School special use permit is requesting a marginal increase on top of what is there. Stratton said, “My opinion is that it does not have a tremendous impact. We would like to see the location of HVAC.” Ganter said that the existing HVAC on the second floor will be sufficient. Stratton said, “I do not think this waiver is a big ask.” They will be raising the roof so that the office walls on the second floor will be increased from 4 feet to 8 feet. The design guidelines request a 5 feet on 12 feet roof pitch and this is 4 feet on 12 feet and will not even be visually detectable and would be only a small section of roof. The reason is so that 5-feet windows can be installed for egress in case of emergency. Stratton said that the fire chief has
See Cherries, page 15
Page 2, June July 1, 2,2022, 2023 BlueStone , BlueStonePress Press
Growing up in the Rondout and driving into life Tell us about your family. My parents have been married for almost 25 years. I am the oldest child in the family. My little sister is 15 and a freshman in high school. It’s been fun having her in the same building during my last year at Rondout. We have two dogs: Finnegan is a 10-year-old Airedale terrier, and Sadie, a 5-year-old Scottish terrier. My family spends tons time together Visit the folks of hiking, kayaking, next door camping and traveling. This summer we will take our family vacation in Boothbay Harbor in Maine. I am very fortunate to also have extended family nearby and am very close to my grandparents.
abilities in water and would know how to help in an emergency water-rescue situation. Rail trail biking is how I stumbled upon my Eagle Scout project idea. My love of biking inspired a bike repair station that I installed with the help of my troop, fundraising, and many hours of work. My project can be seen and used on the Cottekill Rail Trail.
Q&A
Tell us about your love of cars and what got you into it. I got into cars at a young age, thanks to my grandfather Balfour, PopPop. He had driven many classic cars in his lifetime and always would point out an antique – knowing the year, make, model and tire size of the car. Just riding in a car and seeing them on the road made me love them, especially when seeing a rare, out of the ordinary antique or foreign model. I am currently enrolled in Ulster BOCES in Port Ewen for automotive technology class. We learn about vehicle systems, and we work on personal and customer cars. My favorite part about that is that I get to work in a real-life environment and having the know-how to work on my own car. It's a great trade to get into, either for a career or just the basics to use in everyday issues such as flat tires, oil changes, et cetera. Earlier this year, I was accepted into an internship at Hurley Motorsports. I was fortunate enough to work on cars alongside a mentor and gain more knowledge in the automotive industry. I look forward to expanding my knowledge in college, but in diesel work. I know my PopPop would be very proud of the skills I have gained and my appreciation not only for cars, but for being able to fix things myself. One of my regrets is that he passed away before I could show him my first car, drive him around after earning my driver’s license, or showing him my love of vehicles. Music is a part of your life, what instrument do you play and kind of music do you like? I’m very fond of music. I'm always listening to something, either in between
Chase Kiszkiel Profession: Kitchen help at the High Falls Café, RVHS senior class of 2023 Age: 17 Town: Stone Ridge
classes or working in the yard at home. When it comes to listening to music, I generally listen to mostly hip-hop and country. It comes in waves and depends on the day and what I feel like listening to. I started on the alto saxophone in fourth grade and I’ve performed in the RV concert and jazz bands, since. I discovered the mellower tone of the tenor saxophone and auditioned for NYSSMA and All County numerous times through my RV music career. Playing an instrument is a good skill to have, as it helps you be less afraid of getting up in front of people. I have soloed many times during jazz band concerts and played for adjudicators all by myself. My sight reading skills have also grown, as my BOCES schedule didn’t allow me to make every single band rehearsal. Some days, I would jump into new music upon arriving back at Rondout just in time for the end of band. What other interests do you have? In my free time, away from school, I am involved in other activities. I started my journey in Scouting in second grade, in Cub Scouts. I progressed through the ranks of Boy Scouting and recently achieved the highest rank of Eagle Scout. I’ve learned many valuable skills and leadership ability in Scouting. I was in the Bike-It program and swim program through the YMCA and am very passionate about both sports. I enjoy recreational swimming in our pool and received the swim merit badge. I feel confident in my
Who are your inspirations? As I mentioned before, in my career in Scouting I received a lot of inspiration from my dad. He was my leader throughout Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. He has pushed me to be the best I can be and to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout in Scouting. He also has this rank, and I wanted to follow in his footsteps. He has taught me to lead the troop as an ASPL and SPL (assistant senior patrol leader and senior patrol leader). They take charge of weekly meetings, and it is required, for a rank, to be at least active in the troop as one of these positions. He has also taught me many skills and virtues that I hope to one day teach to future Scouts. What are you looking forward to in the future? Within the next month, I will be graduating Rondout Valley High School. My education will continue at SUNY Morrisville, where I will study to become a diesel technician. Looking past college with completion of my degree, I will hopefully be gainfully employed, as a diesel mechanic, working and inspecting large trucks and heavy equipment that operate on diesel fuel. This field of work has lots of career opportunities at this time, and again, I am hopeful to be located working near home. As time marches on, I’d like to be sharing a home with my family in a village community, attending church together regularly, and having kids in a good school system. Within that community, I would look for opportunities to volunteer and dedicate my time and efforts. Should free time allow, I’d enjoy working and maintaining our gardens and yard, swimming in our pool, biking on rail trails, walking our dogs, and playing my saxophone, as I do now. I would love to travel to Taiwan to visit my birth country, learn a new language, and possibly fly a plane. If the opportunities present themselves, I’ll always try my best to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake and morally straight. Again, I am hopeful life will gift me the time to continue enjoying these activities. -Compiled by Jeff Slater, BSP Reporter
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First Pride Parade blooms in Rosendale Madelyn Crews BSP Reporter Rosendale is celebrating this June with the town's first official Pride Parade. The event is scheduled for 2:30-3:30 p.m. Sunday, June 11, beginning and ending at Willow Kiln Park. The parade will lead into the matinee performance of the LGBTQ+ Short Play Festival, directed by Susan Einhorn, Guy Anthony and Sydnie Grosberg Ronga, and produced by Ann Citron. Performances will take place June 8-11 at the Rosendale Theatre. Poux Amy Poux is the captain steering this rainbow ship. Poux, Youth Ensemble Theater’s director/founder and the educational development and youth access adviser at Stockade Works, is a writer, director, editor, producer and educator. Poux is an active volunteer member of the Rosendale Democratic Committee. Poux cites Stephanie Ellis, another member of the Democratic Committee, with the serendipitous idea of coordinating the two events, the parade and the play festival. Poux credits Rosendale town clerk Mandy Donald as being instrumental in navigating the application process. Poux is a mother of two queer individuals. She says they’re her pride and joy as well as the source of her activism. While there’s an abundance of support for members of the queer community, Poux said that she feels that these are “scary times,” evidentiary from anecdotal accounts and current political climates. Poux says that putting together this parade is her “response to hateful, anti-LGBT legislation.” Poux encountered two prominent challenges while organizing and planning the Pride Parade: funding and lack of compiled information. Some of the Poux’s
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Willow Kiln Park where the parade will start and finish. Photo by Elizabeth Rigby
frustration stemmed from the fact that “there’s no ‘how-to’ book about doing a pride parade.” Poux gained support from the town for her completion of tasks at every stage of the process. All the money and manpower required to close roads are hard to attian for a first-time event. Throwing a party requires making the most of the budget, which is why this parade will take place on the sidewalk. If you’re interested in volunteering, you’re encouraged and appreciated. Positions of sidewalk safety monitors have yet to be filled. These individuals will be stationed at the front and back of the parade line to ensure that safety measures are upheld. If interested in volunteering contact Poux at amypoux@gmail.com. There’s also hope for the attendance of musicians, specifically those skilled with brass instruments – cymbals, trumpets, and saxophones. Those fluent in other marching musical instruments are also desired. Everyone is encouraged to bring signs, don brightly colored clothes, and accessorize with gaiety.
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Rosendale from page 1 Metzger as she marched with other County personnel. Representatives from the Rosendale Library marched, danced, and distributed lollipops. Participants were escorted by first responder vehicles from Rosendale, Bloomington and Cottekill as the parade moved up Main Street toward its final stop. Spectators gathered in Veterans Memorial Park for a ceremony following the parade. There, Metzger called on the crowd
to “remember the 1,333 Ulster County residents whose lives were cut short while serving in our country’s wars.” She said, “Let us also remember that our duty extends beyond this day of remembrance … Let us rally together as a community, upholding our sacred obligation to provide for the well-being of our veterans and their families, just as they have protected and served us.” Commander Creegan echoed Metzger’s message, hoping that the day’s celebrations would “deepen our reverence for our departed friends” and “renew our pledge of loyalty to our country.”
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Page 4, June 2, 2023 , BlueStone Press
Granary from page 1 foundation.“The granary structure itself has a restaurant on the ground floor, a small retail element … and on the second floor a flexible co-working space. All of the structures will be renovated to the standards of the Historic Preservation Office and the park service," requiring "exhaustive documentation and a very thorough review." Gravel roadways, a courtyard area and about 49 parking spots on site were also mentioned. There were so many people signed up for public comment that Baden made a point to remind everyone to “make your comments as brief as you can." The first commenter, Jay Martin, said, “I have several serious concerns about this project. I live at 18 Towpath Road. My property is immediately adjacent to” the project. He was concerned about what kind of septic system is planned. “My property has three wells on it, one of which is within 100 feet of that proposed septic system … I’m hoping that the Town Board, in its hopefully infinite wisdom, is giving serious consideration to the zoning laws,” which "should not be amended just so some group can garner a profit to the detriment of others. The drainage system there now overflows anytime there is a severe rain … it spills over onto Main Street and Towpath Road.” A paved parking lot “will not permit any kind of saturation into the soil ... Since our hamlet has no municipal water system, everybody either owns or shares a drilled well. Think about that, people, while you are giving consideration to this zoning.” Hudson Roditi, who also lives nearby, remarked, “I remember these buildings as a kid." When he looked at the requirements for an EEO on the town website, he found it hard to comprehend. “So questions remain open for me. And it’s making me nervous. [I would expect] as a co-owner of immediately adjacent property,” that there would be more detailed explanation, he said, “to make sure I fully understood what they were proposing, just so I wouldn’t be unnecessarily resistant to it.” He worried about possible event space. “I wouldn’t like coming home at the end of a difficult week and realizing that 100 revelers from some distant suburban area were coming to celebrate and we’re going to be up all night." However, "I just want to say that in many ways it sounds like a beautiful thing,” he added. “I hope that’s what it would be. But I don’t have answers to all my questions." Lindsay Arnold said, “I wanted to add my voice for a version of this that works for the community, because I think it is important for Accord to have more of an economic base for local people to work here and also to enjoy having another restaurant in the area. I see this as a positive. .. and I’d love to see this project move forward.” Max Grieshaber expressed a different view. "I am very involved in civil rights. Historic overlays [HO] used to have a provision that said you could not utilize HOs to discriminate against people … Towns could use overlays to discriminate against minorities, for example. They took that regulation out of historic overlays in just the last three years.” Rochester's EEO law doesn’t mention discrimination, “so right from the get-go, unless it includes protections for civil rights I wouldn’t even consider it.” Sheila Finan, who lives at 42 Granite Road, said, "There are considerable negative impacts to the proposal," listing increased traffic, noise, light pollution, She was also afraid that the project would give the owners outsize power in local affairs. “It would cause an LLC to be in control of the area instead of individuals. LLCs do not have the same kind of commitment to a community … the EEO would reduce the ability of the community to weigh in on what is being done.” The proposal for a hotel represented the loss of potential affordable housing, she said, and increase in property taxes. “It will pressure elderly people to move out of their homes. It would be a dramatic change, a much busier
landscape … leaving one group in control of most of the economic activity in the town … The wishes of residents who have made Accord their home should be taken into account.” Brinton Baker commented, “I’m excited about having these old buildings renovated, and at the same time I want to make sure that the local people are not impacted adversely. Change is hard for people. These things are happening all over the country every day.” Chase Brock, co-owner of the renovated Accord train station, spoke in favor. "I have a direct interest in this project … Since living here, we’ve always felt that Main Street needs culture and needs life. Part of what we do is bring artists to the community.” (Brock is a choreographer.) “People would spend time on Main Street instead of just passing through … so, we’re in support of the [zoning] change.” David Stoltz said, “I’ve lived at 31 Main St. for about 60 years now. Henry Rich is my neighbor on both sides, and he’s a scholar and a gentleman. A very good neighbor.” He expressed the hope that things will go smoothly for the project. Bob Anderberg, another longtime resident, said, "I think the applicants have presented a thoughtful and innovative project which would be a substantial asset to Accord ... the feed mill, the O&W railroad … this project honors and builds on [local] history.” He also sees a connection with the O&W Rail Trail extension planned “all the way to Port Jervis … I think the railbed, when rebuilt and renovated, will be a huge draw." However, in response to people's concerns, he said, “Once the EEO is adopted, I hope this project gets carefully examined.” Alix Umen, who co-owns the Starlite Motel on Route 209, commented, “When we first heard about this project we were definitely upset, because it brings direct competition to our business. But ... the thoughtfulness that everyone has put into this project … is incredible. We’re excited to have another restaurant to go to, to have another location to just hang out at. I feel like the circumstances of the neighbors can be addressed. Because I’m on the housing board, I’m definitely tuned in to workforce housing, and I hope that Henry and Renn really consider the opportunity they have to add more to the property.” Adriana Farmiga, Umen's business partner, said, “Depending on what side of the spectrum you come from, what angle of the community you represent, I think a lot of valid questions have been raised … one thing I think the project offers is local employment, which I think is important, also a community gathering space. I grew up in Kerhonkson, so I’m looking forward to seeing a revitalization.” Anthony Crook had a unique concern. “Overall, we’re inspired by it … we just have one issue. Our house was built on the train line … we look right out onto it … we’re raising a family.” He also reminds the board that in considering EEO status they have to decide whether “undesirable change” would be brought by it. “If anybody has any doubts about what a public thoroughfare would do to our home, they’re welcome any time to come and see it.” Bethany Ides said, “My real concern is maybe a lack of imagination [when it comes to] civic-mindedness. A lot of conversation has come up over the years as to what this project will involve." She thought that the project would include more small businesses, but the investors seem to have gone in another direction, “thinking of Accord as a place of comfort and vacation while other residents are struggling more and more … [I'd like to see] civic spaces where people from all different classes and backgrounds could meet. The jobs being offered by and large don’t strike me as really meaningful work. As hospitality became more and more of the plan, I’m seeing more and more high-turnover, high-stress, service-oriented types of jobs." Sally Roy said, “It’s not a faceless, nameless corporation that’s coming into this town. It’s a person who’s already made an invest-
The Granary as it stands. Photo by Ann Belmont
ment in our town ... he’s a good neighbor. I completely understand the concerns, but this is the first idea. Everybody’s going to take their concerns to the town board and the people involved and work something out… Things morph, things change as they develop. Historically, this IS a vacation town. There were bungalow colonies all over this town. Jack Schoonmaker [of Saunderskill Farms] talks about 400 people coming in on the train on Friday night.” Katie Naplatarski, who spoke via Zoom, lives at 46 Towpath Road. "In my opinion … no outdoor music or amplified sound should be allowed at any time … this includes a ban on concerts and any events which include music. There could be rare exceptions. I think sound disturbance really affects quality of life immensely. I would like to say too that this could be an awesome project [but] I don’t think we want to have a place that has a feeling of exclusivity." She suggested the project could include a small indoor performance venue, community events on the grounds, historical artifacts on the walls, land acknowledgement to the Lenape tribe, and "green infrastructure." Susan Bruck of 8 Main St., Accord, said, "I oppose the granary project as it stands for many reasons. What we need on Main Street are businesses that fit their footprint. This proposal does not …[It] would place unnecessary burdens on the town. What this community needs is more affordable housing long-term. This project includes
more exclusive housing short-term – absolutely something we do not need.” She cited traffic and parking issues. "What this town needs is inviting and inclusive businesses open and attainable to a variety of people. This proposal outlines a contrived environment for the financially select, leaving the rest of the public to deal with the negative effects of overflow into the town.” Guy Garcia said, “Frankly, when I go past these abandoned vintage buildings at night it scares the hell out of me of course there’s going to be a lot of different ideas as to what’s ideal … but I couldn’t be more grateful that we’re moving in this direction.” Henry Rich offered to stay late to answer questions, “trade contact information with neighbors I don’t know.” At the end, Baden spoke briefly, defining the EEO as a zoning overlay that covers the whole town. “The purpose is to take properties that are in derelict condition … and allow applicants to come up with a proposal for a specific property.” The Planning Board, not the Town Board, has oversight over all site plan details. "The EEO is flexible. This is multiple uses designed to fit into a concept … it’s an overall project – it’s not a bike shop, it’s not a hotel, it’s not a restaurant, it’s the combination of all those uses into one project. I’m going to recommend that we hold this public hearing open. Obviously there will be some discussion with the applicant as to some of the comments we’ve heard.”
BlueStone Press, June 2, 2023 , Page 5
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Memorial Day Parades around town
All three BSP towns had their Memorial Day parades and ceremonies on May 29. Above right photos in Rochester are by Manuela Mihailescu, and on bottom left, Tillson native Hal Sampson (right) is a World War II veteran who will celebrate his 101st birthday this year. He attended the parade with his partner, Chickie Sterritt (left). Photo by Grace Molenda The photos top left and of the children are courtesy of the Town of Marbletown.
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BlueStone Press, June 2, 2023 , Page 7
High Meadow eighth graders capstone projects and parade helps our community Jeff Slater BSP Reporter On Thursday, May 25, the eighth-grade students at High Meadow School in Stone Ridge had a chance to present what they have learned during the year through a research project and had a parade to celebrate their good work. “High Meadow has a tradition of eighth-graders doing end-of-the-year capstone projects, but this year I’ve expanded them into yearlong research papers and projects,” said eighth-grade teacher Clay Dinko. “Every student had to choose a research topic and write a proposal including research question and idea for a project that improves their community. They then researched their topics and created projects ranging from educational websites to videos to public works.” This year’s projects include: Exploring LGBTQIA+ youths’ mental health through the creation of virtual youth safe spaces. Looking how to improve literacy with a new book box in the community. Examining the benefits of composting and a plan to reinvigorate composting on campus. Researching the benefits of financial literacy with online educational videos. Exploring the impacts of food insecurities and construction of a mobile food pantry. Investigating service dogs’ guidelines and laws to educate the community. Researching best practices and benefits of early menstruation education to create an educational website and blog for young people. Analyzing what nudges
Projects included interactive elements. Here, students are playing a sorting game to explore which items belong in waste, recycling and compost streams. Photo by Margaux Sanchez
students toward generosity by holding multiple charity drives. Researching ways to reduce waste and starting a Trex recycling program on campus. Examining how much waste High Meadow creates, and then educating students how to recycle. Exploring the benefits of bouldering and planning and installing a bouldering wall on campus. “My inspiration for expanding the capstone project comes from my undergrad experience at the College of Wooster,” said Dinko. “Our senior year we did yearlong research projects called Independent Study that culminated in a publishable
thesis research paper and a celebratory capstone parade. That’s why on May 25, we had our first annual capstone parade and students turned in their research projects and then showed off their projects to the school and community with display boards in our preforming arts center,” Dinko said. Students and parents were very pleased with their work and the event. “Seeing the children follow their passions is exciting, and they had some truly creative projects. The project teaching children about menstrual periods was particularly well thought out,” said Melissa
Onstad, an eighth-grader’s parent. “The project was long and very meaningful. It teaches you how to do something big, beyond just another schools assignment. And it has potential to affect a lot of people. My project is about teaching kids financial literacy, and it is important because so many kids have the potential to be economically successful, they just don’t have the tools to do it,” said eighth grader Shep. “I think capstone is really important because I am able to bond with the Lower School grades, and I would normally not be able to. Plus, I was able to do good things for other kids when they grow up,” said Isaiah. “Talking about menstruation is important because it can give kids and teens knowledge and confidence in themselves,” said India, and Lila agreed. Dinko concluded, “One of my favorite parts of the capstone experience this year was seeing the eighth-graders go into other classrooms and teach and inspire younger students. Eighth-grader Isaiah. led two successful charity drives. He had kindergarten to fourth grade classes compete to see which could donate the most. Not only do the younger students high five and hug him when they see him now, but they helped bring more than 400 pounds of clothing and hundreds of dollars’ worth of necessities for local charities. The eighth grade class also volunteered at the People’s Place and the Marbletown Pantry as part of their capstone learning.”
Page 8, June 2, 2023 , BlueStone Press
Briefs High Falls Food Co-op Wellness Fair and Cook-out this month Come to the Wellness Fair, hosted in collaboration with the Holistic Health Community (holistichealthcommunity. org), 1-3 p.m. Sunday, June 4, in the parking lot of the High Falls Food Co-op, on the corner of Route 213 and Lucas Turnpike. Take this opportunity to meet the creators of some favorite wellness products, High Falls Hemp, Mycophilic and Catskill Fungi. Sample local products and Co-op kitchen treats. Work with practitioners from the Holistic Health Community offering complimentary Marma Therapy with Ami Layaprada Hirschstein, and Ayurvedic Wellness Consultations with Nandini Natasha Austin. Join the community in Co-op parking lot for the first summer cookout day of the season, noon-3 p.m. Saturday, June 10. Enjoy grilled delights for carnivores, vegetarians and vegans. Take out or sit at the tables and chairs under the tent. The store will be open for regular shopping during both June events, with a wide selection of freezing cold beverages and yummy homemade salads available for purchase, as always. High Falls Food Co-op is the one and only open-for-business food co-op in Ulster County. A member-owned grocery store, open to all shoppers while offering special benefits such as discounts and voting rights to customers who buy the annual membership. Food co-ops offer access to local, ethically and organically grown produce and other products that might not be available at regular grocery stores. Serving the public since 1976, the High Falls Food Co-op is one of the oldest food cooperatives in the country! For more information, visit highfallsfoodcoop.com or call 845-687-7262.
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Rondout Valley School District’s school board enthusiastically shows appreciation for each of the Thomas King Award nominees and retiring teachers on May 23 in the high school auditorium. Nominee Colleen McGarril is shown from behind, being hugged during the ceremony.
Thomas King Distinguished Service Awards Amber Kelly BSP Reporter On May 23 in the high school auditorium, Thomas King Distinguished Service Awards were given to eight individuals. Shown here is Colleen McGarril, being hugged enthusiastically with appreciation. Nominees include: Annmarie Huffman, Robin DePew, Darlene Whalen, Debra Barbiani, Jake Maloney, Colleen McGarril, George LeBlanc and Joseph Catalfomo. Praise for nominees included, “George LaBlanc makes it a safe space
Volunteers needed to join the TORECC on annual fishing for tires brigade No experience is necessary, and all ages are welcome on this excursion to help the Town of Rochester Environmental Conservation Commission get the tires out of Rondout Creek, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, June 17, at the Berme Road Rail Trail Entrance, 1801 Berme Road, Kerhonkson. Tools will be supplied. What is needed are boats to be shared or lent. Community members will be paired up with someone who has a boat. Come ready to get wet. Bring a kayak, canoe, boat, sunscreen and extra water.
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and allows us to speak freely,” said a student. “Debra Barbiani really makes people feel heard, lets people know that they are heard. She stands up for what’s right, she assists co-workers and carries an umbrella when the sun doesn’t shine. She makes sure that others feel recognized and makes the best moist cupcakes and brownies … has innate knowledge and always has a smile. She is a super secretary who makes the BOE meetings run smoothly. Because of her, RVSD is a better place.” Many of these staff and teachers are involved in after-school activities, clubs
and additional activities. Rondout is fortunate indeed to have such high caliber staff. Retiring teachers being appreciated include Darlene Whalen, Timothy Whalen, Lynn Wells, Debra Storrs, Katrina Ribino, Carol O’Connell, Colleen McGaril, Ronald Kubart, Joseph Catalfomo, Sharlene Nekos, Susan Gantz, Kristina Flick and Kathy Bradford. Together they total 330 years of teaching experience. Success stories were shared, sometimes generational, about how these teachers really went above and beyond to make a difference in their students’ lives.
Over 180 tires in a mostly wild section of Rondout Creek were counted. The water is mostly shallow, about 3 feet deep, allowing easy access to get the tires out. To RSVP and for more information, email ecc@townofrochester.ny.gov.
be donated toys and children's books for sale plus kids’ crafts, activities and games. Bring a picnic and blanket to enjoy the day and make friends. (No dogs, please.) Toy donations for the sale are still needed. Toys for all ages, games, puzzles and stuffed animals in excellent condition will be accepted; no clothes, please. Toys can be dropped off on the little porch by the back door of the library. Books, too! Children's books can be donated 10 a.m.noon Saturday, June 10. There is a two-box or -bag limit. For more information, visit stoneridgelibrary.org or call 845-687-7023.
Children’s Day at Stone Ridge Library Join the community, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, June 11, on the lawn at the Stone Ridge Library, 3700 Main St., Stone Ridge, for the Annual Children's Day. There will
BlueStone Press, June 2, 2023 , Page 9
Room for all: Borscht Belt festival and new museum coming soon During the heyday of the Borscht Belt, there were over 1,000 resorts and bungalow colonies Anne Pyburn Craig BSP Reporter Big doings are underway down in Ellenville, where a coalition that’s been striving for years to create a Borscht Belt museum that will celebrate the golden age of Catskills tourism has purchased the former National Bank at 90 Canal St. and is reshaping the space into a showcase for memorabilia and interactive exhibits. And on the last weekend of July, they’re serving up a heaping helping of Borscht Belt love and goodness for all to enjoy. A decade in the making, the Borscht Belt Museum will preserve and celebrate this important chapter in American history by showcasing artifacts, photographs and memorabilia from the Borscht Belt era through interactive exhibits and displays that capture the sights and sounds of the era. In addition, it will showcase the comedic incubator created on the stages of hotels and resorts that populated the region, providing an entertainment legacy that led to the careers of Billy Crystal, Jerry Seinfeld, Sarah Silverman, Jon Stewart and many more. The entire endeavor is as grassroots as it gets. Many of the artifacts were preserved by the goodness of Allen Frishman, a plumber and onetime Fallsburg building
Rendering of the Borscht Belt Museum being created in Ellenville
inspector who managed to rescue lots of cool memorabilia. Frishman’s own Borscht Belt memories extend to playing the hotels and bungalow colonies with his teenage band. The museum’s new home was once one of the only banks willing to lend to Jewish resort owners. In the early 20th century, many major resorts openly advertised that only white, Christian guests need apply. Turning evil into opportunity, Jewish, immigrant and Black entrepreneurs made a place for themselves in the gorgeous Catskills. During the heyday of the Borscht Belt, there were over 1,000 resorts and bungalow colonies welcoming guests and offering performers a pathway to the stars.
It was the place for Everyone Else, including Black vacationers at Peg Leg Bates, crossdressers frolicking at Casa Susanna, and Irish and Italian folks opening their own villas and inns. The bank is getting a new roof, and the museum’s official opening will happen in 2025. Meanwhile, though, organizers are throwing a major party July 28-29, when the streets of Ellenville will be filled with vendors and entertainment, and the stage at the Shadowland will host what may be the biggest comedy festival seen around these parts since Back In The Day. It seems as though just about everyone funny wants in on the act: the legendary Comedy Cellar Showcase, featuring
a variety of stellar NYC comic talents, a fun-filled homage to Catskills humor with the Borscht Belt Classic, a celebration of everything cross-cultural and deliciously different with Lucy Pohl’s Immigrant Jam, fresh and funny perspectives from New Faces in Standup, and a late-night performance called “Weeding Out The Stoned: The Game Show of Sobriety Tests.” The museum will be open as a pop-up entitled Vacationland!, offering festival goers a taste of what’s to come, curated and organized by a group from the Bard Graduate Center’s Museum Studies program with the help of a former curator from the International Center for Photography. The cuisine will include, but by no means be limited to, classic Jewish flavors and immigrant delicacies. Alongside the festivities and hilarity, there will be discussions of Borscht Belt history, illuminating the culture of this unique time and place. To see the full lineup, visit borschtbeltfest.org – there’s a link to the budding museum there, too. The Borscht Belt faded as air travel became affordable and excluding people from destinations fell out of fashion, but the legacy is still felt all over the Catskills – in bungalows and bakeries, in what is now the Hudson Valley Resort but was then the Granit Hotel. Beyond our neighborhood, the cultural impact can be felt in the blossoming of stand-up comedy and a long string of hit movies. As Gandhi put it, first they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, and then you win – and in this newborn museum and stellar festival, the little village of Ellenville will have a major win that’s been a long time coming.
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SAVE THE DATE! The RVGA’s Harvest Hoedown will return on Saturday, October 3, 2023 This time-honored event will offer: • The opportunity to meet your farmers • Locally-grown food • Live music and dancing • Harvest moon celebration • Halloween pumpkin fun
Visit www.RondoutValleyGrowers.org to learn about agriculture in the Rondout Valley To receive updates, join RVGA’s mailing list via our website.
Page 10, June 2, 2023 , BlueStone Press
Memoriam Matthew Liggan
KINGSTON—Matthew J. Liggan, a man of many names, Matt, Matty, Captain Cranky, was reunited with his wife, Mary Ann, on May 23, 2023, after a prolonged illness at his home in Kingston. He was the fourth child and first son of John J. Liggan and Adah Ewing Liggan, born April 28, 1948, in Brooklyn. He is survived by his son Brandon, at home, daughter Tricia Rice, his siblings – a congregation of sisters: JoAnna Ortolano, Lynchburg, Virginia, Judy Joyce (Bryan) Naples, Florida, Eileen Liggan, Naples, his favorite Liggan brother Billy Liggan (Linda), his most special sister-in-law, Rosendale, Mary (Jimmy) Liggan Nagaj, Naples, Elizabeth (Don) Pine, Fort Myers, Florida, and Wendy Liggan, Fort Myers. Also his lifelong best friend Charles Coogan (Marsha), Danvers, Massachusetts. He is also survived by a plethora of nieces, nephews, and super special grand niece and nephew who brightened his days. Matthew had a long and storied career in food service. Based upon the kitchen skills he learned at Williams Lake Hotel, adding formal education at SUNY Cobleskill, and then polished up during his stint with the U.S. Army Reserves, he went on to manage student dining halls at SUNY New Paltz, NY Douglas College at Rutgers, Vassar College and West Point Cadets Mess and Michie Stadium. He liked NASCAR and was an avid NY Yankees fan with a funnel of Yankee statistics he would share freely. After his first retirement, other occupations included the Four Seasons “Vending Machines” route driver, award winning Schwan’s Frozen Food route salesman, and after his second retirement, dish/pot washer and food prep and delivery for the Frozen Rainbow, and finally primary caregiver for his wife, MaryAnn, until her passing. He was predeceased by his loving wife, Mary Ann, his daughter Courtney, parentsin-law Will and Vern Guldy, brothers-in-law Kevin and Flower Guldy, nephew Bryce Burke, his best ”fur” friends Stanley and Damnit. Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice Hudson Valley, 374 Violet Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY 12601. The family wishes to thank the doctors and staff at Radiation Oncology and especially all of his care team from Hudson Valley Hospice, and his son Brandon for the above and beyond care for Matthew throughout his illness and in his final days. Per Matthew’s request, there will be no visiting hours, however there will be an interment celebration of his life later this summer. Get your stories ready and stay tuned for details. Comfort entrusted to George J. Moylan Funeral Home Inc., 2053 Route 32, Rosendale. (www.GJMoylanFuneralHome.com)
Lois I. Frazzetta
STONE RIDGE—Lois I. Frazzetta, 76, of Stone Ridge, died May 17, 2023, after a lengthy illness. She was born in the Bronx on Feb. 6, 1947, a daughter of the late Louis and Lillian Smith Katona. Lois was a pediatric nurse practitioner for 33 years for the Rondout Valley School District. She also was a board member for the Marbletown Rescue Squad. Lois was a very active person who loved the outdoors like walking, hiking, kayaking and more. She was a huge animal lover and had cats her whole life. She enjoyed lots of activities and did ballet dance Frazzetta in her adult life. Lois is survived by her children Deborah Lynn Frazzetta, son William P. Frazzetta, his wife Laura Colleen Frazzetta, their children Reghan Marie Frazzetta and William Joseph Frazzetta, son Edward Louis Frazzetta, his wife Alison Anne Frazzetta, their daughter Gwendolyn Adele Frazzetta and Miranda Eiben. She was a sister of Judith Zoe Kelly (the late Robert Kelly) and their daughter Margaret Ann Kelly and Joyce Audrey Migliore and husband Nicholas Migliore and their twin children Matthew Louis Migliore and Kristopher Nicholas Migliore, niece Mar-
garet Ann Kelly. Also survived by a sister-in-law Eloise Theresa Parkin, her husband Brian Allen Parkin, and their children Christina Sue Parkin and Brian Charles Parkin. A son, Michael Frazzetta, died Aug. 4, 1973. The family request memorial donations to Ulster County SPCA, 20 Wiedy Road, Kingston, NY 12401 or to the Marbletown First Aid Unit, P.O. Box 323, High Falls, NY 12440. (www. GJMoylanFuneralHome.com)
Shirley J. Lyons
KERHONKSON—Shirley J. (Avery) Lyons, age 80, passed away on May 20, 2023. She enjoyed traveling with her family, watching TV, playing bingo and going to church. She also enjoyed her life’s work as a bus attendant, deli clerk, and housekeeper. She belonged to the Accord Ladies Auxiliary, the Golden Seniors, and the Federated Church of Kerhonkson. In the last few years, Shirley has lived with Patrick and Sue in Western New York and spent time in Oklahoma with Laurie and her famiLyons ly. She became a member of St. Mark Lutheran Church in 2022. Shirley is survived by her children: Sue A. Clark, Patrick D. Lyons, Laurie L. Litzau (Russell); her grandchildren, Christopher M. Litzau (Sarah), Nichole S. Urban (Josh) and Autumn R. Lyons; and her great-grandchildren, Ethan M. Brueggmann and Ella A. Brueggmann. She is also survived by her sister, Rose Rider, and numerous nieces and nephews. Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Mitchell and Leona (Beesimer) Avery, and her brothers and sisters Florence Lennon, Myron Avery, Anne Salmi, Gilbert Avery, William Avery, James Avery, Robert Avery, Virginia Gray and Larry Avery. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the SPCA. (www.humistonfuneralhome.com)
Thomas W. Barringer
SAMSONVILLE—Thomas William Barringer, 68, passed away in his home in Samsonville on May 21, 2023, due to pulmonary fibrosis. He died in his sleep tended by loved ones. Born in Ellenville Hospital on Sept. 14, 1954, Tom was a master carpenter of renowned skill who considered carpentry his creative expression. He loved working with wood and said he would never put down his tools until he died. Tom and his decades-long business partner, Tommy Albano, lived up to their company name “Faith Builders” with their unsullied reputation for Barringer skill and honesty. Tom is survived by his brother Robert Barringer (Denise), nieces Whitney Santillo and Caitlin O’Brien (Tommy), five grandnieces and grandnephew, and many Barringer cousins who held him in high esteem. He is preceded in death by his parents, Catherine (née Feltman) and father Frank, and sister Jean. Tom’s longtime companion, Glenda Rose McGee, her son Dean, daughter-in-law Angela, and three grandchildren have cherished his steadfast devotion and will miss him deeply. (www.humistonfuneralhome.com)
Raymond Lawrence
KERHONKSON—It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Raymond Lawrence. Raymond, fondly known to his family and friends as Randy, was a lifelong resident of the area and had resided in Kerhonkson. He was born on Aug. 14, 1959, at the Veterans Hospital in Ellenville. For most of his career he worked at various local golf courses and was in charge of maintaining the grounds. Randy married Rose Marie (Miller) Lawrence on March 30, 1985. Sadly, Rose Marie passed away in Lawrence 2012. Randy is also predeceased by his mother, Vena Quick, and his sister Ida Coddington. Randy is survived by his daughter, Kimberly Miller; his son, Raymond C. Lawrence Jr. “Jake”; sisters Vera Lawrence and Stacia Lawrence; brothers Ed Law-
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rence and Max Pynacker; grandchildren Jackie and Josh, as well as several nieces and nephews. Personal condolences may be left for Randy’s family by visiting www. humistonfuneralhome.com.
Jeannine L. Riopelle
KERHONKSON—Jeannine L. Riopelle of Kerhonkson, 88, died on May 24, 2023, in Rhinebeck. Jeannine was born in Antwerp, Belgium, on Nov. 1, 1934, to Josephus and Antoinette (Detry) Interwoel. While in Belgium she lived through World War II, leaving her with incredible stories of survival and adaptation. She married the love of her life, Edwin R. Riopelle Jr., on June 20, 1959, in Dannemora and eventually settled in Kerhonkson to raise their family. Jeannine worked for many years in ElRiopelle lenville as a seamstress with Brodsky’s women’s clothing store, as well as for many community members. She was a member of the ladies’ sewing group at the Federated Church of Kerhonkson, the Rochester seniors' group and her "Pizza Girls" on Mondays. She loved her children and grandchildren and being a part of their lives, but it was her cat, Rusty, and especially her great-grandchildren that were everything to her. Jeannine was an amazing Mom, Grandma, Nana and Boma who gave tirelessly to make sure her family was always well fed and loved. She will be missed for not only her endless love but her amazing desserts, making sure you always had enough to eat, a hearty "Skal" with every beer, and always being up for a trip, even if it were just to the store. Jeannine was predeceased by her parents, the love of her life, Edwin, her chosen sisters Louisette and Rosette (Bunny). She is survived by her children, Diane Bracklow and husband Kurt of Kerhonkson, Benjamin Riopelle and wife Linda of Hyde Park, and Edwin Riopelle and wife Rosalind of Conway, South Carolina; her grandchildren, Christina (Ben), William (Suzanne), Stephanie (Christopher), Justin (Emily), Mitchell, Christopher and Kevin; her great-grandchildren, Jeannine, Benjamin and Sophie; and her chosen brothers, Robert and Julian, as well as many cousins both here and in Belgium. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Jeannine’s name to the Ulster County SPCA, 20 Wiedy Drive, Kingston, NY 12401 and/or to the Hudson Valley Hospice Foundation, 80 Washington St., Suite 204, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601. (www.humistonfuneralhome.com)
Harold (Casey) W. Tompkins
STONE RIDGE—Harold (Casey) W. Tompkins of Stone Ridge died May 30, 2023. He was born in Corbett on July 18, 1926, a son of the late William B. and Flora (Foote) Tompkins of Downsville. He married his wife, Betty Esper, on Jan. 24, 1970, at the St. Mary's Church in Downsville. He lived in Stone Ridge for the last 40 years and worked for Handleworks in Ellenville for 22 years, Pine Grove Ranch for 15 years in Kerhonkson, and Veritas Villa Inc. in Kerhonkson as a Tompkins head carpenter for four years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, carving wooden bears, building small miniature ox teams and stagecoaches. Casey is predeceased by his wife, Betty Tompkins; stepdaughter Valerie Esper; brothers Robert (Bob) Tompkins, Daniel Tompkins, William (Bunk) Tompkins, Martin (Pete) Tompkins, John Tompkins; and sisters Dorothy Tompkins, Jean Sprague and Betty Thompson. He is survived by his sister Marie Rose of Accord, and brother Gerald (Skip) Tompkins of Downsville. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews and cousins. Friends may call at the funeral home in Rosendale on Saturday, June 3, at 9:30 a.m. Funeral services to follow at 11 a.m. at the George J. Moylan Funeral Home , 2053 Route 32, Rosendale. The Rev. Caroline Berninger will officiate. Interment will follow in Fairview Cemetery in Stone Ridge. (www. GJMoylanFuneralHome.com)
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June 2, 2023
Local money, local ideas
Page 11
Inhale, exhale: Whole Sky Yoga studio finds its successor in Anne Girvin Chelsea Miller BSP Reporter Yoga is a seeker’s journey – but it is not a solo one. The word itself comes from the Sanskrit root “yuj” meaning to yoke or unite. It is a dance – both on and off the mat – between movement and mind, effort and surrender, and ultimately the individual self and universal consciousness that has to potential to create a deeply connected community that moves, discovers and grows together. Beloved Whole Sky Yoga in Stone Ridge welcomes a new owner, Anne “Annie” Girvin, who plans to continue the studio’s long-standing and fundamentally welcoming traditions while also expanding offerings and inviting more of the community in. Girvin was raised in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and it is in her hometown that her love for community and celebration first began. As a child she spent her time as a gymnast and as an active member of swimming and diving teams and was always up for participating in the sport of the season. After high school, Girvin headed to American University in Washington, D.C., where she joined the diving team, eventually earning the title of captain in her junior year, giving her the opportunity to hone her leadership skills and gain practice guiding others in their physical journeys. After graduating Girvin traveled around before settling in New York City where she worked in nonprofit development. Meanwhile, however, a secondary passion was growing. “With the city being so rich in food culture, among many other things, I developed a deep passion for all things food and wine,” explains Girvin. In 2011 she made the leap to one of the country’s food and wine meccas – Napa Valley – where she accepted a position in marketing at the Culinary Institute of America campus in St. Helena (the CIA’s flagship campus is in Hyde Park). It was during her time in Napa Valley that her appreciation for yoga deepened. “My sister, Kerry, introduced me to yoga back on the East Coast,” explains Girvin. “Because of my background as a gymnast and diver, she thought yoga would be a good fit for me. I will say, though, I hated my first yoga class. I had no clue what I was doing and I didn’t get it. But there was something interesting about it, and I kept taking classes, mostly at the local YMCA. When I moved to Napa Valley, I started taking classes with this woman Maria, who remains one of my best friends to this day. She was so kind and patient and could teach to a room of all very different levels of practitioners with grace and care. She and I, along with our friend Casey, started taking a lot of yoga classes together, and we bonded over the experience.” This early sense of belonging would prove an indicator of Girvin’s experience with yogic community over all. “Every yoga community I have encountered has been so tight-knit, supportive and gracious,” she says. “I fell in love with the practice and the people I encountered.” By 2019, Girvin was ready to make the jump. She quit her job with the CIA to focus on yoga and personal growth. “I started teaching a lot more, and I opened my own marketing firm, AKG Insights, which I still run. I work with mostly small businesses to develop strategic approaches for their businesses with a heavy focus on marketing strategy and tactical planning,” she says. When Girvin’s sister bought a house in Kerhonkson, fate struck again. Familiar with the area due to her work with the CIA, Girvin says, “My sister, who had been regularly visiting for more than 15 years, bought a house in Kerhonkson in the fall of 2020. When she told me about it,
New owner of Whole Sky Yoga Anne "Annie" Grivin (left) and founder Sara Trapani (right)
I congratulated her and swiftly asked to move in. I missed my family and had been thinking about moving back to the East Coast for years, so it felt like the perfect opportunity. The longer I live here, the more I feel connected to the area and community.” Shortly after moving to the area, she began taking classes at Whole Sky Yoga and within a few months began teaching at the studio. “I’m enjoy bringing yoga to all people who are interested,” says Girvin. “Many people don’t think they can ‘do yoga,’ but yoga is a practice – it’s a journey that is unique to each individual. It’s not about being able to touch your toes or stand on your head. It’s about self-discovery, inquiry and liberation from your ego. I am very passionate about making yoga accessible for people from all walks of life.” As Girvin’s practice deepened, so did her friendship with the founder of Whole Sky Yoga, Sara Trapani. Trapani received her certification in 2009 and says that early on she carried the inkling in her mind and heart that she would one day open a studio. Whole Sky was founded in 2014. “In August 2013, my husband and I welcomed our first child, and she was around 14 months old when I saw a little spot for rent in High Falls,” says Trapani. “I’d had my eye open for a while for a potential spot to open a yoga studio and it was the perfect place. With my husband’s blessing I quit my job and put all of my energy into creating Whole Sky Yoga.” The studio began with 16 classes, 15 of which were taught by Trapani, and by 2018, Whole Sky had officially outgrown its High Falls location and moved to the Marbletown Multi Arts (MaMA) building in Stone Ridge, offering over 30 classes with nearly 15 instructors. Over the years the studio has become so much more than just a place – it grew into a community, and Trapani says that it is thanks to the students that the studio survived the pandemic and they were able to climb back into normalcy. However, Trapani says that the impact of the pandemic on her mental health and spirit was severe. In 2022 she accepted the role of development director at the Ashokan Center, and she began to kick around the idea of selling the studio. One morning a few months ago, after Girvin finished teaching a class at the studio, she lingered to chat with Trapani. “She off-handedly mentioned the possibility of selling the studio and just teaching, but she said, ‘I don’t know who would be interested,’” says Girvin. “I responded, ‘I would be interested!’ and that’s where the conversation started. In the past, I had thought about owning my own studio, but it was never the right time. After many
conversations and heart-to-hearts with Sara, I started to realize that now was the right time and this was the right opportunity. Sara and I share a lot of the same ideas about business and yoga, so the process has felt natural and uniquely perfect. Sara has built an amazing business and community at Whole Sky, and I’m thrilled to step in to bring her baby into its next phase.” Trapani echoes the sentiment. “I knew almost immediately Annie was the perfect fit as a successor as she has the right skill set and a kind and patient personality,” she says. “She also graciously would like me to remain involved. It was important to me that if I were to find a buyer that they’d want me to continue teaching and being involved. It’s honestly such a win-win situation! It’s meaningful to me that this dream can continue and flourish in someone else’s care. Whole Sky Yoga has meant everything to me, and it is the manifestation of a very meaningful goal in my life. “I really put my heart and soul into creating Whole Sky, and am so glad I was able to make my dream come true to serve others and create a safe space for personal growth and healing,” says Trapani. “I loved the whole process and I still love our community and always will. I’m a mom of four and always viewed Whole Sky Yoga as my fifth child. Now that child is ready to graduate to a new chapter! I’m still going to be a part of Whole Sky and continue to teach my classes and support Annie in any way she needs. I cherish all the students and love teaching as much as ever.” The handoff is now official, and both women are excited for what comes next. Girvin says that she is dedicated to preserving the elements that make Whole Sky Yoga such a special place while also looking at expanding offerings and finding new ways to include community. “I envision building upon the solid foundation that Sara has already established at the studio,” says Girvin. “I’ve already added a few classes to the schedule, including some early morning – 7 a.m. – classes on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, as well as a Friday evening in-person only community class. I’m also in the process of adding workshops and events that feature our teachers and their talents, and I’ll be adding different types of classes beyond yoga, like barre and more Pilates. The community at Whole Sky is everything. Everyone is dedicated to their practice, and they bring such light and joy to the studio. I love meeting new people, learning from them, and providing the space for them to practice without judgment. And I can’t say enough about our teachers. Every teacher is an absolute delight to work with. They are amazingly talented and bring their own style of teaching and ways of connecting with students. At the end of the day it’s about connection – with yourself and others. “I’m hoping to continue to create opportunities for the local community to come together to connect with one another, meet new people, and find respite at the studio,” Girvin says. “Community is such a strong aspect of yoga – connection and unity. When we practice together, we create more opportunities to support each other to flourish and grow.” For more information about Whole Sky Yoga, including the schedule of classes, visit: https://wholeskyyoga.com/or stop in and play!
Athletics, recreation & fitness
Page 12
June 2, 2023
Rondout golf: Girls finish undefeated season as Alexandra Young goes to states Boys send three to sectionals as 7th-grader Hokai Liu finishes 11th and goes to states as alternate Jeff Slater BSP Reporter It’s been quite a year for Rondout Valley’s young duffers! The girls team just completed an undefeated season, going 11-0 in match play. All three golfers made the sectionals last weekend, with Alexandra Young placing fourth overall in the section and Maddison Paddock finishing 10th overall. Both girls earned their spots at the state Madison Paddock, Grace Coonrod and Alexandra Young tournament. The team is coached state tournament. Our closest match was putting. She has what it takes to compete by Lisa Schoonmaker, decided by seven strokes. We beat Onteora with the very best day in and day out. with assistant coach 144-151 at Wiltwyck. The other matches Maddison Paddock is a long hitter off the Michael Roach. There we won by 20 or 30 strokes,” said Roach. tees and has a smooth swing. Her smooth Liu are three girls on the Lisa Schoonmaker, varsity coach of the swing allows for great ball striking. team – Alexandra Young, team, said, “This team of girls has im“Going undefeated this year was Maddison Paddock and pressed me with their skills, of course, but something the girls wanted to accomplish, Grace Coonrod. more importantly they work together as a which they did. One of our biggest high“The team has improved a lot since team. They enjoy being together and genlights was the shot of the year. At Apple last year,” said Roach, “since all three girls uinely support and help each other every Greens golf course in Highland, on the returned to the team. They all improved day. It was a pleasure working with them.” third hole from 100 yards out, Alexandra their skills from previous years with the The team practices at Wiltwyck Golf Young hit a 9 iron right at the flagstick. goal of being undefeated. Our top golfer Club in Kingston and has their home It bounced once and spun right into the is Alexandra Young, and she is an overall hole for her first ever hole-in-one. Another matches there. great player. There are many great things “As a first-year golf coach I was spoiled. highlight was the girls making it to the about her game, from her swing to her
Modified Lacrosse Undefeated For the first time in school history the Rondout Valley boys modified lacrosse team finished their season on Tuesday against Saugerties with a 9-5
win, making the boys undefeated with a 10-0 record. There was nothing more exciting to see than these boys’ faces when the whistle was blown and their knowing this win made them undefeated for the season. The boys were escorted back home to Rondout in a convoy led by Accord Fire District (Pat Davis) and Stone Ridge Fire Company,
followed by very proud parents and family of these very excited boys, The team is coached by Dave Mahoskey, with assistant coach John Soi. The lacrosse players are Logan Burkins, Isaiah Mercado, Eric VanLeuven, Joseph Davies, Wyatt Ortner, Lucas Bowers, Connor Beechel, Antonino Faso, Matthew Cole, Ryan Clark, Charles Pull-
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This is a young talented team, and I am glad to be a part of it. I look forward to seeing the girls play at the state tournament and in the years to come,” said Roach. The state tournament will be held at the Edison Club in Rexford the first week in June, competing in a two-day event. The boys golf season is in the fall, but their sectional tournament was held recently. On May 23 Rondout had three golfers compete at the MHAL Boys Varsity Individual Championship Section Finals at the Powelton Country Club for the chance to earn one of 22 spots. Dominic Giamei, Hokai Liu and Hudson Paley all competed. Of the three, Hokai Liu, a seventh-grader, shot an 81 over 18 holes beating the cut line, which was 86, to be one of the 22 golfers to advance. Then on May 25, Liu scored an 87 over 18 holes at the McCann Golf Course in Poughkeepsie. Hokai had a combined score of 168, coming in 11th place and being named second alternate for the states competition. Liu has received numerous golf awards and won many local tournaments and was named Rondout’s Rookie of the Year. Jason Clinton, varsity coach, said, “Hokai is an incredibly skilled golfer and extremely focused on doing whatever it takes to improve his game. His mental game is far beyond his years. Hokai is a golfer who plays a smart round of golf, limiting his risks to score low.” Congratulation to Hokai and good luck to Alexandra Young at the states. Go, Ganders!
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Your letters, views & ideas
Page 14
Letters policy Please send letters to the editor to the BlueStone Press by email at bluestonepress845@gmail.com or submit at bluestonepress.net. Or send to P.O. Box 149, Stone Ridge, NY 12484. Include your name, hometown and daytime phone number. Letters should be fewer than 500 words and may be edited for clarity, brevity and taste. Letters won't appear in consecutive editions from the same author. The BSP hopes that, in the spirit of community dialogue, readers and writers in the letters section are respectful of a diversity of viewpoints. We desire considered opinions on issues of local interest. Call 687-4480 with questions.
June 2, 2023
Hello June ! ( ) Front door to summer
Afghan refugee families need our help To the Editor: Sixteen months ago a hardy group of local volunteers, mostly retirees but all filled with passion and energy to assist others, came together and formed the Afghan Circle of the Hudson Valley. We were able to directly assist two Afghan refugee families who were fleeing the Taliban, to welcome and resettle them here. With the amazing assistance of friends, neighbors and local non-profits and businesses, we were able to fund housing (not inexpensive), medical care, food, clothing, household furnishings and even purchase vehicles so they could get to appointments. We enrolled an Afghan child refugee in a local school and sent her to a YMCA camp last summer. We set up an account with United Way of Ulster County as our fiscal umbrella and a website, www. afghancirclehudsonvalley.org. Many challenges were overcome and many happy moments were celebrated by the families. But as they approach full integration here, and our mandate to care for them for is running out, these folks are faced with new challenges. Despite our best efforts, these families still find themselves in need of formal asylum from the beleaguered federal government. Without official asylum, steady work is difficult to find, so their money burdens are paramount. Medical bills, energy bills, etc., are piling up and cannot be fully addressed. Unless the community comes together again to assist. Many of you have enjoyed the monthly Afghan Dinners the ladies prepare. But it’s still not enough, at least until they are granted asylum, which could take many months. So, if you want to pitch in, please get in touch. Tash akur (thank you in Dari). Harv Hilowitz Stone Ridge
Love Our Community Center To the Editor: The Marbletown Community Center is well named. Geographically and emotionally at the heart of our community, the stately white-columned building
on Route 209 started its life as a 19th century country store, sometimes doubling as a post office and schoolroom. After several expansions, it was converted into a church, an American Legion post, and finally the multiuse gathering place it is today. Beloved as it is, the historic building needs major repairs to its roof, bathroom and basement; the hard-working furnace is on its last legs. Supervisor Rich Parete and the Town Board have considered such options as closing the building during the winter months, moving its many activities to the already-crowded Municipal Building on Lucas Avenue (the former Rosendale School), and possibly selling it. This last possibility galvanized many people who love the Community Center. We're launching a series of activities to raise awareness and help the Town of Marbletown pay for the needed repairs, with the goal of ensuring that the Community Center will stay in its historic home and continue to host public and private events for all generations. Its knotty pine walls have housed everything from children's art classes to Marbletown Seniors meetings, blood drives, free Holistic Health clinics, Stone Ridge Library lectures and Crazy Hat Bingo. My own history with the Community Center includes bringing my daughter to sign up for day camp, driving my nephew to African drumming, listening to high school bands, teaching teen playwriting workshops, taking
yoga classes, trying out Zumba, going to birthday and retirement parties, and most recently, hosting memorial services for both of my parents. I suspect most of my longtime neighbors have just as many memories centered in this special place, and it's my fervent hope that people who've moved here more recently will have the same chance. The Love Our Community Center kickoff event is a FUNraising party on Saturday, June 17, from 5-7 p.m. at the Marbletown Community Center (where else??) at 3654 Route 209, Stone Ridge. Join your neighbors for an evening of live entertainment, food and drink, auction bidding, community speakers and special guests. Admission is free, donations gratefully accepted. All money raised will go into an account specifically earmarked for repairs to the Marbletown Community Center, and donations are tax deductible. We're also planning an online auction through July, and a wine tasting at Stone Ridge Wines & Liquors on June 24. If you'd like to volunteer, or have something to donate for auction, contact Nancy Plumer at nplumer52@gmail.com. See you at the Community Center.
Nina Shengold Stone Ridge
WE MISSED YOU THIS ISSUE. Your letter to the editor is one of our readers’ favorite sections! Email: bluestonepress845@gmail.com Snailmail: BlueStone Press, PO Box 149, Stone Ridge
BlueStone Press, June 2, 2023 , Page 15
Backfire Dear Wally: I recently heard the expression “backfire” used in my kid’s conversation and it occurred to me that there is an entire generation that has no idea what a backfire is because cars just work much better now and they don’t actually backfire. Also, electric cars, which are gaining in popularity, just don’t have engines that do this. – Jack Dear Jack(fire): I was born in the candied Bitchin’ Cam-era of lead gas guzzling internal combustion muscle cars (and subsequent fuel shortages). And I grew up on a farm with tractors whose engines were poorly maintained (by me!). So I definitely know what a misfire Wally Nichols (aka “backfire”) is, and as a result, I give the phrase appropriate agency, context, weight, props and distance. But you are right – we are no longer living in those cacophonous times and in fact, we are careering toward the ubiquity of electric or at least hybrid/electric vehicles. These things are so quiet you are likely to get mowed down by them. Speaking of mowing down, we are also not living in the equine era of transportation. In those days, a backfire was, well, don’t make me say it! But, as usual, I’m making generational comprehension assumptions, and it’s worth an explanatory, mans-
Dear Wally
plainin’ moment. If you are under 25 (make that 45) and are wondering what the fuss is about, or haven’t bothered to ask Aunty Google about the etymology of the term, here’s a little primer for something that’s a bit north of “Little House on the Prairie” and a bit south of ChatGPT. Gas (you see those strange pumps next to the EV charging stations?) cars rely on very well-timed and controlled explosions in the cylinders to produce the power to turn a thingy that makes another thingy turn that then makes your car go forward to Starbucks. In ye olde days (pre-computers and fuel injection precision), we just sort of sucked flammable gas into the engine and hoped the spark plugs ignited the gas/air cocktail at just the right time. When that happened, the explosion produced power, and the noise went out the exhaust pipe to a muffler (to muffle the super loud sound and give thieves something to steal before catalytic converters came along). When combustion didn’t go right, the explosion happened outside of the cylinder’s fire chamber and came out as a massive, eardrum-rupturing automotive farty paroxysm that also sounded enough like the machine guns, bombs and howitzers used in war (before we had drones and biowarfare to do this killing) to make pedestrians dive off the sidewalks and into the hedges. So, that explosive sound, which happened sporadically when cars would pass in the ’60s, ’70s and ’80’s triggered a lot of PTSD. But backfiring as an expression became appropriated by culture to mean the unintended (and unwelcome) consequence of an otherwise positive ex-
Cherries from page 1 replied, expressing no concerns. The project seems to be a net-positive in all regards. It is improving the quality of environment for teachers but making no impact on parking or water or any of the typical concerns. The board opened the public hearing. Next up was Bill Eggers representing the Oakley Road minor subdivision, with Dave Cobb as the board point person. Cobb said, “This is a three-lot subdivision off of Oakley Road. We left off discussing lot #3, the thought process was that we would use the concept of average density to create that lot, because otherwise the lot is useless.” “We’ve got a wetland area and two little ponds on the property,” Eggers said. “We’ve got lot #1, which is pretty steep. The buildable area is about 1/2 to 6/10ths of an acre. You can’t add to it, there are existing lots on either side, and then you’ve got the road. You’ve got this ‘U’ shape, and have no access to the back end of it.” The engineers will take a look at what could be done, and if it is feasible, the request will be considered. “All right, that brings us to Cherries,” Stratton said. “To bring you up to speed, we had a Zoom call two weeks ago between Shawn, myself, Nadine from Peak Engineering, the applicants, and the applicants’ engineer and architect, and we discussed some of the differences that we have kind of come up with between what the board of health is looking at and what we have on our site plan. Have you gotten any direction out of all that?” Cherries owner Lawrence O’Toole said, “Yes, we’ve been talking with the Ulster County Department of Health and have had conversations with them after that conversation. We have a letter from them again reiterating some of the points we had talked about in the very beginning with all this, where we were defining Cherries, you know, what is the business of Cherries, and added a very specific limited use. “This was written by the Ulster County health manager,” O’Toole continued. “Seating becomes a septic issue when there is a table service provided at the facility. Outdoor seating without table service can be in many different forms – outdoor tables, picnic tables, in car, or taken elsewhere. None of these will impact the septic system since restrooms do not need to be provided. Cherries is using takeout disposable containers and silverware that do not require washing. If table service is instituted that would be different. Since this is limited use, the septic system as it is now will be able to service it. Also, during peak time, we plan to have porta-potties serviced by an outside company.” “That seems certainly like a step in the right direction,” Stratton said. “Did we get that?” “Yes, embarrassingly it was sent five minutes before 6,” O’Toole said. “It is definitely something we are going to want to review. Audibly that sounds like a step in the right direction. To have indoor seating for inclement months, and during peak months when you expect to have more volume, having additional means to service them and not putting that
Architect Diego Celaya, on left, with Cherries owner Lawrence O’Toole, getting another delay for their special use request to build a parking lot and an indoor pavilion at 4162-4166 Route 209. Photo by Amber Kelly
burden on the septic system sounds good to me. I do want to look at what the BOH looked at specifically. Did they look at the one we looked at?” “No, they looked at a new one,” O’Toole said. “I just wanted to know that the BOH got to see your site plan. Instead, we got this,” Stratton said. “The only real change here is showing the placement and numbering of the seats and location of porta-potties,” O’Toole said. Just to be the devil’s advocate, Stratton said, the placement of the potties is all the way to the back of the parking lot. Maybe people would choose the indoor bathroom because of location. “This is the plan that we have gotten approved by the board of health. Like with the parking, will people still park on the highway? I don’t have any control over that,” O’Toole said. “We can play devil’s advocate, just giving the numbers and checking the boxes. We have been extremely helpful over a long block of time. This is another solution that again we have gotten through the proper channels, and have gotten OKed on every single avenue.” “Sure, but let’s be clear. This is the first time we have had something from the BOH that says these numbers work,” Stratton said. “The only new things are the little red dots showing outdoor seating,” O’Toole said. “I appreciate the information on this, I do. It’s just adding a whole other layer to everything now, because it’s a new document. That is just the nature of it,” Stratton said. “But it doesn’t change anything in the plan. It just shows how this solution is adherent to the numbers that you’ve agreed to,” O’Toole said. “There is just the bureaucratic element of it, you know,” Stratton said. “I agree, and that is what I am trying to work through,” O’Toole said. “If we have the OK from the department of health who has seen this plan, has seen the site plans, has seen the map, has talked with our engineer … Everything they agree to, everything is in agreement, it also marries up with the numbers you discussed earlier, which you have in your possession. This is just having a showing how those numbers work.” “I understand, it is just that having a document provided
pectation. (For example: His 200 oleaginous love letters to her backfired and she took out a restraining order … or … the surprise birthday party backfired and the codger had a heart attack, which caused him to stumble through a plate glass storefront window and get run over by an electric Tesla that he couldn’t hear coming. You get the idea.) A lot of things (plans) still “backfire” but cars really don’t. We are definitely evolving past the efficacy and imagery of the internal combustion engine’s contribution to the term backfire. Soon, the gas engine will be bred out of civilization and we’ll be left with silent cars, hydrogen jet packs, and maglev trains that cannot explode because their spark plugs didn’t work properly or their ignition points gaps were set using a handy matchbook cover* versus a stainless steel feeler gauge machined to a thousandth of an inch. (*Yup, we used them.) Those days are gone. As are the days of riding “shotgun” on a mail wagon drawn by horse but people still call it. Just saying … At first sign of a zombie apocalypse riding shotgun will again be a thing, but a real, 12-gauge thing because that’s the only thing zombies take seriously … Before then, however, we’ll need to make up some expression that takes backfire’s place. What’s the sound of a lithium battery unintentionally exploding? Maybe that’s a good place to start …? – Wally Got a question for our advice columnist or want to go in on a lithium mine with him, email him at cwn4@aol.com. to us just minutes before the meeting complicates things just a little bit,” Stratton said. “It shouldn’t complicate things; it should clarify things,” O’Toole said. Kellogg said, “As a consultant, I’m not a member of the board. But what has been going on in all these meetings is there have been either miscommunications about what your expectation of the board is and then you have modified certain things, or your interpretation of certain languages of the zoning code may be different than what the board’s interpretation is. It’s a continual sort of …” “What I see is that I keep coming to the board, and I keep making adjustments to get to an agreeable point, and every time we get to an agreeable point it seems like it moves a little bit,” O’Toole said. Stratton, “Let me jump in here. Believe me, the frustration is not just on your side. Because what we are experiencing here in the office is that the numbers we got from the site plan and the numbers in the board of health’s last letter to us didn’t add up. That was the reason for that whole last meeting. You give us another piece of documentation here to consider … It does clarify, but by virtue of it being a new document we need to review it.” “That is disheartening to hear,” O’Toole said. “Every meeting we have been taking steps in the right direction.” Stratton said that the lot is complex and that he didn’t expect that making all the data line up would be so difficult. “The additional document is unnecessary as the project is just adding seating for inclement weather,” O’Toole said. “The outdoor seating is not part of the change.” “This [is] what we wanted to see, just give us time to review it,” Stratton said. “This is ancillary and in support of the written document that the limited use restaurant does not need to count the outdoor seating. The number 21 is supported by the septic system according to the board of health. This was just for discussion in the meeting. We were waiting for the signatures on the letter from the BOH, and this is when we got it.” “The written document from the BOH is what we need time to review. For the town’s peace of mind and because of the discrepancies we’ve had here,” Stratton said. “Now there are no discrepancies, the numbers that we have proposed fit within the septic,” O’Toole said. “I would like to confirm that,” Stratton said. “We can’t make any judgments on that right now. It is unfortunate. There is no intention from the board to put you through hoops, that is not our goal here. We want the community looked after, we want to respect the town law, and we don’t want to put neighbors or homeowners or business owners in a bad position as we mitigate the expansions of use. The more contentious parts of this application were worked through within the first three months. Now, because of the nature of the project, it has gotten a little dragged out. I understand you were held up by whomever you needed information from.” A board member said, “Before we close, I notice that the parking lot is empty and the road is filled with cars.” O’Toole said, “It is not a lot yet, it is not a legal parking lot. As soon as I can get started on these plans, which I submitted a
See Planning, page 23
Your friends and community
Page 16
June 2, 2023
‘Bicycle Dreams’: Golden’s epic journey “Bicycle Dreams” is an epic, well-told journey through In the late 1950s, Lomontville resident Bruce Golden an exotic yet familiar landscape: rural America before was a 12-year-old exploring the streets of Brooklyn on his cell phones and social media, a place where a New York Schwinn Corvette. The Dodgers had pulled up stakes and teacher on a bicycle was a seriously disarming novelty. headed for Los Angeles. On TV, two young men were ridPeople across western Pennsylvania and Missouri and ing Route 66 in their own Corvette – albeit a Chevy, not a Kansas welcome him into their lives and help Schwinn. A seed of wanderlust was planted that him out for the sheer fun of it, and he reflects would take nearly a quarter-century to sprout. their better natures back at them and often Many – too many – of us finds some way to be of use. write off the things we really, This isn’t Disney, though; there were really wanted to do when we moments of abject misery on the road, when were 12 as silly, and clearly not it took everything he had to keep going, and every tweenage ambition gets Golden doesn’t gloss over that. But most of realized. Bruce Golden moved the lows are about weather or riding condinorth and spent several years tions; the human encounters are fascinating, managing the in-school susoverwhelmingly positive, and rendered in pension program at Rondout deliciously quirky detail. Human beings of Valley High School as the ’70s Book cover all sorts, a truly random selection of them, became the ’80s, renaming it Anne take joy in sharing and in helping him pull the Problem Solving Center and feeling as though he was “filling up the Pyburn Craig it off, and Golden finds grace and understanding even for the rare ones who don’t. bathtub without the stopper,” when a bad case We meet Girl Scouts and stoic farmers and of flu reminded him that health, youth and life high-ranking Arizona law enforcement, contented souls itself aren’t eternal. With the enthusiastic aid of his wife, and people in crisis, all of them getting by as best they can Linda, Golden managed with considerable struggle to and the vast majority very happy to share a few hours with get the Rondout school board to give him a year’s unpaid a pleasant stranger living out his tween-age dream. leave. The book itself is another dream made real. “I started The result – a presentation called “The America Crosswriting this on a Remington typewriter, that’s how long ing” that he began honing even as he was heading west ago it was,” says Golden. “It all finally came together from small town to small town astride his 13-year-old during Covid. My daughter Haley, who’s an excellent Atala 10-speed, being welcomed into rural schools where editor, moved back here from San Francisco and held my they knew a true teacher when they saw one and gathfeet to the fire. And my neighbor and friend Bruce Sconzo ered the kids together to hear about determined effort (more disclosure: our BSP cartoonist) works for Hope and dreams – is undoubtedly one of Rondout Valley’s Farms Press in Kingston, and he did the design. It was world-class contributions on the educational stage. Golden came home with things to teach that no university very much a joint effort.” Golden is quick to share the credit for hanging onto his program could touch, and a vivid vocabulary of ideas that dream and finding the determination to make it real with undoubtedly, over the years, have helped more than one his impressive mom (to whom the book is dedicated), his person find their bathtub stopper. (He also, full disclowife, Linda, the ISS students at Rondout Valley Middle sure, wrote the Humanist column for the BlueStone Press School, and the people he met along the way, starting for a time.) with a group of GI bill college students in western PennNow, we can share in his adventures through “Bicycle sylvania. Dreams: NY to LA Beyond Route 66,” a two-wheel trav“Everything was going wrong that day,” he recalls. “My elogue based on his meticulous and lively journal of the body was hurting, my bicycle was disintegrating, I called trip. Through presentations at places like Frost Valley and Linda and she was having a miserable time. Then I got what was then the Ashokan Field Campus of SUNY New lost. My compass needle was pulled off course by my Paltz, he says, “I just got a feel for telling the story, and tools in my pack, and I went around in a circle and I just it was always very well received. And people would say, decided that was it, I was gonna quit, I just couldn't do it ‘You really need to write the book.’”
Book Review
BSP office welcomes Amy Scott and says goodbye to Martha Brittell The BlueStone Press is saying a sad goodbye to our office manager, whom we have been blessed to have with us for the past six years, Martha Brittell. Brittell has done an excellent job keeping us organized and helping get the paper out every first and third Friday. However, we are happy to introduce our new talented
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office manager Amy Scott, who has been training in the office for the past month. Scott shared, "I moved to the Hudson Valley area from NYC in 2021, after Scott Brittell working many years and many long hours in IT and financial regulatory consulting. I'm absolutely delighted to come on board BlueStone Press as Martha's
Author Bruce Golden with his trusty Atala 10-speed
anymore.” A young man came biking along and the two chatted and bonded, especially after they discovered they shared the same last name. Come get some food and sleep, said the young man, and see how it feels in the morning. The next morning, Golden still felt like giving up. But young Richard Golden – no biological relation – wasn’t having it. He gathered some of his Vietnam veteran brothers, and the group held an improvised ceremony of encouragement and presented him with an eagle feather as a talisman. “When I told them I was thinking of giving up, they weren’t happy,” Golden recalls. “They said, ‘You can’t quit. You’re not just riding for yourself, you’re riding for everyone who has a dream.’ So I just stuck the feather in my helmet and kept on riding.” The book, an absolutely compelling page turner for dreamers of all ages and descriptions, is currently available at Stone Ridge Hardware, Houst Hardware in Woodstock, and Kingston Cyclery, where Golden got outfitted for his long-ago trip. He’d be open to expanding into other locations, with the understanding that all proceeds benefit the Sandra Taub Golden Determination Award Fund, named for Golden’s mom and administered through the Rondout Valley Education Foundation for several years now. Get your hands on a copy – your dream will thank you for it.
relief. She's done an amazing job and has been a great mentor for the position. I've already met so many friendly people, and I look forward to becoming more familiar with this charming and vibrant community!" Brittell said of her time at BlueStone, “I shared my plan to leave with publisher Lori Childers last June, and that gave us time to execute a smooth transition. I am grateful to be leaving the work I loved in Amy's caring and capable hands. This weekend I will drive off to my family's Northern Michigan cottage for my first summer vacation since college. I'll be landing back in my Rondout Valley home before the autumn leaves turn.”
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Kudos
Faculty and student scholarship recipients at SUFA presentation
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Scholarships awarded by SUNY Ulster to six students SUNY Ulster Faculty Association awarded six students with the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Scholarship at a ceremony held last month. Scholarships were awarded to Penelope Rose for her poem “If I’m Not Human, What Am I?”; Roaa Aboueida, “Under This Roof in America,” poem; Tandy St.Hill, “D.I.E.,” poem; Ethan King, “My Name Is Ethan and I am Christian,” poem; Arianna Moore, “Transforming the Ancient Myth of Hades and Persephone,” painting; and Ivy Quintero, “Jamaica, Queens: A Cultural Diversity Love Letter,” poem. SUFA President Dr. Nichola Harris, SUFA Vice President Chris Seubert and Dr. Mkajuma Mbogho, professor of biology, were among some of the faculty who presented these awards. Kevin Stoner, vice president of academic affairs, gave congratulatory remarks and reflection. Candice Van Dyke, associate professor, and Roaa Aboueida,
chief diversity officer, closed out the third annual SUFA scholarship ceremony.
BlueStone Press, June 2, 2023, Page 17 2023 dean’s list at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. Dean's list eligibility is based on a minimum course load of 12 hours and a quality grade-point average of 3.5 with no grade below a C. Approximately 49% of Belmont's 6,552 undergraduate students were named to the list.
Accord National Guard soldier receives new rank, Help prevent the new responsibilities summer blood supply Maj. Gen. Ray Shields, adjutant general for the state of shortage, make a New York, announced the recent promotion of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of donation in Marbletown their capability for additional responsibility and leadership. John Mather from Accord, assigned to the Company D, 2nd Battalion, 108th Infantry Regiment, received a promotion on March 30 to the rank of sergeant. Army National Guard promotions are based on a soldier's overall performance, demonstrated leadership abilities, professionalism and future development potential. Army National Guard citizen soldiers who serve our state and nation are eligible for monthly pay, educational benefits (from the state and federal government), travel across the globe, technical and leadership training, health and dental insurance and contributions towards retirement programs similar to a 401(k). For more information about the New York Army National Guard, visit www.dmna.ny.gov or www.1800goguard.com.
Hospitals often see a drop in the blood supply due to summer celebrations. A blood donation is especially welcome now and can be a mood boost for both the donor and the patient. Community members have the opportunity to donate blood 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, June 10, at the Marbletown Community Center, 3564 Main St., Stone Ridge. Those who come out to give will receive a $10 e-gift card plus a chance to win a backyard theater package including a projector and screen, smokeless firepit and more. Visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1800-733-2767).
Scholar kudos Joseph Ciardi of Accord was one of 35 SUNY Oneonta students inducted into the Tau Sigma national honor society for the 2022-23 academic year on April 14. Tau Sigma is designed exclusively for transfer students. Ciardi is studying criminal justice at SUNY Oneonta. The mission of the organization is to recognize and promote the academic excellence and involvement of transfer students. The minimum academic average required for membership is either a 3.5 on a 4.0 scale (or the equivalent thereof) or an academic average that places the prospective candidate in the top 20 percent of all incoming transfer students during their incoming semester. Angelina Turner of Stone Ridge qualified for the spring
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Page 18
June 2, 2023
The next best thing “That’s what I like about bicycles,” said Uncle Bob. “They weren’t just a fad. They’ve been around for a while. And in all this time, they haven’t changed much.” He was right. The first recognizably-modern bikes turned up in the late 1800s. The materials have improved: steel has largely given way to aluminum, or for those who can afford it—carbon fiber. Braking systems have evolved, as have tires. But in form, bicycles are mostly the same as they’ve always been. If presented with a bike manufactured 100 years ago, any person today would know exactly what they were looking at. Until a few weeks ago, my own bicycle had also remained exactly the same. Gifted to me by Uncle Bob, I’ve had my 1995 steelframed GT Outpost mountain bike since I was twelve years old. I grew up in a time when freerange kids were still common. My mother didn’t set a neighborhood boundary line for me. She hadn’t needed to. I had no inspiration to ride farther than the 7-11, where I had unlimited access to Slurpees and candy. My needs were met.
Jodi LaMarco
Until it occurred to me that there might be an exciting world out there beyond the 7-11. Maybe there was a record store. Or shops selling more and different candy. Theoretically, I could ride as far as I could pedal. One day, I did. I cruised down the main drag until my surroundings became unfamiliar. How far could I go? I wondered. To New York City? To California? I only made it to the next town, but it was my first real taste of adventure. I kept on using my old GT. In college, I hauled it upstate so I could get from one summer job to another. In my early thirties, I resurrected it once again, switching out my beefy mountain bike tires with a smooth set meant for the roads. That’s a ridiculous thing to do, especially given the hilly terrain of our area. It was tough ride. My mountain bike is far heavier than even the most low-end aluminum road bike. And at nearly 30 years old, the poor thing complained like the elderly machine it was, creaking under my weight and shifting reluctantly on anything but a downhill. On a recent ride with friends, I had the chance to try out a new Trek bike. It was light. The shifting was smooth. I easily climbed hills I could barely summit on my GT. The feeling of freedom I remembered from childhood returned. I knew then that I was done suffering the hills of Olivebridge on my beast of a bicycle. I guiltily purchased a new Trek and retired my old friend to the basement. I’ve been travelling back and forth between the west
coast and the east coast for about six months. In the Hudson Valley, I’m at home. My house and car (and bicycle) are there. So are my friends. I know the plants. The mountains. The west coast, on the other hand, is still a stranger to me. It’s pretty. Flowers bloom year-round. I’m close to the ocean and to lovely, rolling mountains speckled with poppies. But nothing is familiar. I have no roots. No sense of place. And without a car it’s hard to explore my surroundings. So, I bought a bike. Again. Even an entry-level road model had been a stretch for my budget, so another new bike was out of the question. Instead, I found a respectable, road-ready, seventeen-year-old Trek that a bike mechanic was flipping on Craigslist. Most of his stock was slick and modern. The one I purchased was the only geezer among the herd, but it was lightweight aluminum and shifted like a dream. It was also the only one that was bubblegum pink. It was solid, but admittedly, the color wasn’t my first choice. It’s OK though. Pepto Pink might be out of fashion, but it’s clear that my bicycle was built to last. And when it dies, another will show up to take its place. That’s the beauty of bikes. As long as we still have a sense of adventure, we’ll keep riding them, and they’ll keep making them. Hopefully, in a nice jet black.
Junes past in the Rondout Valley 24 that the boats are allowed to run. It should be June 27, 1859 – Kingston Daily stopped; and we sincerely hope to soon hear of Chronicle reformation in this matter. Another Boy Drowned While Asleep. —An orphan boy, William Newton, aged June 7, 1867 – New Paltz Times 11 years, was drowned by falling into the Fire at Ellenville. canal at Alligerville, on Wednesday night —The establishment known as the Ellenville last. Commenting upon this incident, the Iron Works, Wm. H. Bloomer proprietor, was Ellenville Journal says: entirely consumed by fire on Saturday night last. We have been credibly informed that At about 11 o’clock flames were seen issuing from many of the little sufferers are obliged to rise the pattern shop, and so rapid was their speed at four in the morning and remain at work that before assistance could arrive, the whole until twelve o’clock at night, at which hour Linda structure, including the machine shops, foundry, the locks close. This is beyond toleration to Tantillo blacksmith shops and office, were enveloped. The even adults, for the period required to make building was used as a depository for patterns a trip on this canal, let alone growing youth, and its contents were saved. The fire is supposed who, at this age require more sleep. We to be the work of an incendiary, and a man named Peter honestly think that the Delaware & Hudson Canal affords York has been arrested on suspicion. Loss about $18,000. a wide field for the philanthropist, and he would gladly Insured for $1,500. hail the era of a change in these exactions, on the part of those so young, homeless and friendless. There are many June 23, 1870 – New Paltz Times having charge of boats on this canal, and employing boys The Wallkill Valley Railroad. as drivers, who do not scruple to scourge and abuse them as to force them to employment, for full 20 hours out of From Guilford to Rosendale.
From the archives
THE DEEP CUT at Rosendale is from 50 to 60 feet in depth, and a large portion of it is very hard rock cutting. The rock cut that is being worked at present has some 20 men at work, and they are throwing out the stone at a rapid rate. – Another gang is now engaged in taking out the sand-hill, but unless the proposed change in the route is made, an immense job of rock cutting is to be done there also. The cut at this point is about 56 feet, and a test pit having been dug, reveals the fact that at a depth of little more than 20 feet rock is struck, leaving 35 feet depth of rock cutting, and running in from the face 150 feet. As to the time of completion here, nothing definite can yet be stated, as the line may perhaps be changed, thereby avoiding this tremendous rock cut.
June 17, 1920 –The New Paltz Independent and Times Elting Harp is selling a considerable quantity of asparagus from his place on the Plains [Tillson; the area now known as Tillson Estates was a very large asparagus-growing area].
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BlueStone Press, June 2, 2023 , Page 19
It's hummingbird season Among the rituals of spring at my house is getting the hummingbird feeder out of its box, washing it thoroughly, filling it up with sugar water, and hanging it from a hook above our bay window. It's always a burst of pleasure the first time I hear a familiar buzzing sound and look up to see a tiny pair of whirring wings. It feels like I just got a present. Around the first of May the first male usually shows up, flashing his little red throat patch, coming ahead of the females to stake out his territory no doubt. Our only native species, the ruby-throat, mostly spends the winter way down in Central America or southern Mexico, an amazing journey for a creature that weighs a tenth of an ounce. One night around midnight in Ann Belmont early May, there was some kind of commotion going on outside the window. I switched on the outside light. A bear was looking back at me on the other side of the glass ... that was a little startling. Venturing outside in the morning, I found the feeder in the grass, somehow not broken, so I just waited a couple of days and put it back up, crossing my fingers it doesn’t get bothered again. Among the hummers' unique flight capabilities, besides hovering in place and changing direction on a dime, is flying backward. A couple of weeks ago I watched two males displaying all those skills, divebombing each other in front of the feeder, fighting each other to a standoff. For 15 or 20 minutes, neither one managed to take a single sip of sugar water. For the amount of energy they were putting out, was it worth it? Then suddenly the two birds were locked together on the floor of our back deck, spinning around in a circle, buzzing like a pair of giant hornets. Fearing for their lives,
Wild Things
Anna's hummingbird (Calypte anna)
I stamped my foot, which thankfully caused them to break apart and fly away. I wonder if they would have fought to the death? "They’re ferocious little critters,” remarks Mark DeDea, a local birder. His advice is to place a couple of feeders some distance apart, so one male can't patrol them both. Or several. Or better yet, grow a lot of their favorite blossoms, like bee balm, day lilies, cardinal flowers, trumpet honeysuckle and other tubular flowers, so they aren't competing for just one food source. (Which in my experience is not always easy, depending on how many flower-chomping deer visit your yard, not to mention your bulb-eating rodent population.) I have asked around, but found no one who has witnessed what I saw last summer. One afternoon I looked up to see a male bird hanging upside down from the feeder, its claws gripping a perch. Another male kept attacking it with its needle-sharp beak, but it didn't move. I rushed
taking on a rather large commitment for too small a price. Rethink the situation.
Horoscopes Again, there is only a minor shift in planetary positions. Pluto and Mars continue to form the bookends of the planetary picture. Pluto is the only planet that is retrograde now, but Saturn will turn later in the month. Uranus, a very slow-moving planet, remains in the sign of Taurus with Jupiter for the best part of the year, and Mercury is also positioned in the sign of Taurus for this next week. The result of this configuration suggests that finances will be of concern for at least another year or two.
Your Zodiac Joanne Ferdman
ARIES: 3/21 to 4/19: Mars, your ruling planet, is now positioned with Venus in your 5th solar house of creativity. This position bodes well for any creative venture or love affair. It signals positive results in business ventures now that Jupiter has entered your 2nd solar house of money. However, be sure you're the one
who takes control.
TAURUS: 4/20 to 5/20: Venus, your ruling planet, is positioned in the 4th solar house of home and family – and is conjunct Mars. This results in your actively working to provide for your family. With Jupiter also seeking expansion in your 1st house and the Sun in your 2nd house of money, you're sure to be receiving opportunities to have your choice of work.
LEO: 7/21 to 8/22: The Sun, your ruling planet, is positioned in your 11th solar house of money from career. The stellium in the sign of Taurus continues in the 10th house of career. This may easily result in working too hard for minimum pay. Yes, you will make an adjustment, but you will regret the time and energy expended. VIRGO: 8/23 to 9/22: Mercury, your ruling planet, is now positioned in your 9th solar house of education and information accompanied by both Jupiter and Uranus. With the Sun in your house of career, you may decide to take a course that will help you advance or gain recognition. LIBRA: 9/23 to 10/22: Venus, your ruling planet, is positioned in your 11th solar house of income from career. With the Sun in the 9th solar house of information and education, you've certainly boned up on studies about your work, as well as having added to your income. Hard work and a creative outlook have also made you more desirable to your employer. Make sure it is known!! SCORPIO: 10/23 to 11/22: Your two rulers: Mars and Pluto, continue to form the bookends of the planets as they appear in the sky, Mars has entered Leo and Pluto is in Aquarius. You remain interested in your work and still derive pleasure. However, the stellium in Taurus is in your 7th solar house and wants to make some monetary changes while it's possible. SAGITTARIUS: 11/23 to 12/21: Jupiter, your ruling planet, is positioned in your 6th solar house of daily work with two additional planets – Mercury and Uranus. This stellium of planets in the sign of Taurus calls for a preservation of capital based on your ability to work and support yourself and your family comfortably.
GEMINI: 5/21 to 6/20: Mercury, your ruling planet, is positioned behind the scenes in your 12th solar house with Jupiter and Uranus also working behind the scenes to have you well situated financially. The Sun is positioned in your 1st solar house allowing you to present yourself well to the public, and with Mars conjunct Venus in your 3rd house you're sure to be noticed. CANCER: 6/21 to 7/20: The Moon child deals with the full Moon in Sagittarius on the 4th. This translates to the Moon falling in your 6th solar house of daily work, as well as your health. With your Sun hidden behind the scenes in your 12th house, it's likely you're unaware that you're
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out to chase the attacker away, but though I tried pretty hard I couldn’t detach the hanging bird from the perch, it had that strong of a grip. I let it alone then and went about my business. Was it dead? Nope. When I glanced out a half hour later, it had vanished, leaving me mystified. Steve Chorvas, another local bird man, informs me, "When hummingbirds rest, they can enter a state of torpor where their body temperature drops significantly and their heart rate slows to conserve energy, especially during periods of colder air temperatures ... the bird hanging upside down from your feeder was very likely a resting hummingbird in a state of torpor." OK ... but a funny place to take a rest. Ruby-throats, like all hummingbirds, have to consume up to double their body weight in nectar and insects daily. In May the popular hummer favorites aren't in bloom yet, but there are tree flowers, flowering quince, and red columbine. They're not above stealing food, either. DeDea says that hummingbirds will take dead bugs out of spiderwebs. “I’ve actually seen them do it!” According to Chorvas, "Hummingbirds will follow yellow-bellied sapsuckers to find their sap wells (holes drilled by the sapsucker in live trees that attract insects that get caught in the sugary well of sap)." When it's really dry, the flowers don't have much nectar, so our feeders become especially important. I try to clean mine often, because the sun will make the sugar water turn bad; if mold and fungus grow in there, it could even kill the birds. If your feeder is in the hot sun all day then cleaning it every day might be called for. DeDea says ruby-throats depend heavily on the nectar of jewelweed in late August-September. Jewelweed is gone with first frost, and so are the hummers. By October the males are on their way south already. The females stick around a little longer. Official sources say the females raise the young alone. Maybe they like to relax by themselves without having to contend with all that macho energy for a little while. Just a guess.
CAPRICORN: 12/22 to 1/20: Saturn, your ruling planet, is in your 3rd solar house of education and communication and is positioned in the sign of Pisces. The stellium of planets in Taurus are placed in your 5th solar house of children and creativity. Your ability to work within a budget becomes exceedingly important as your children grow to adulthood. AQUARIUS: 1/21 to 2/19: Uranus, your ruling planet, remains positioned in your 4th solar house of home and family and includes the stellium in the sign of Taurus that cautions strongly about the relative safety of money, especially as it pertains to expenses of raising a family. There are many social pleasures that must be given up when troubles arrive. PISCES: 2/20 to 3/20: Neptune, your ruling planet, continues near the end of your 1st solar house of personality highlighting your very creative nature and talent. It's important you realize that it's time to begin a regular saving project to protect yourself from any temporary loss of income. Joanne can be reached at 561-744-9962. She is available for private telephone consultations if you want more information relating to your personal chart. Treat yourself – and you will learn what to expect from the current transits and receive an overview of long-term goals. Remember to read both your Sun sign and your Ascendant.
Page 20, June 2, 2023 , BlueStone Press Environmental Series, ‘Cougar recovery in the Northeast, bringing back the legend’ The search for the eastern cougar is one of the great riddles in North American natural history. Despite fielding hundreds of sightings over 25 years, the Cougar Rewilding Foundation has helped confirm just one photograph of a living, wild cougar on the East Coast north of Florida. This presentation, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 15 via Zoom, will cover cougar biology, behavior and their current range. Learn how restorations of this magnificent predator are imperative for the recovery of critically declining Eastern forests. Christopher Spatz, a former president of the Cougar Rewilding Foundation, has run remote wildlife camera surveys seeking cougars at Minnewaska State Park and the Mohonk Preserve. He will review the history and current status of cougars in the East and discuss the ecological imperatives for restoring them to the region. To Join Zoom Meeting, visit https://us06web.zoom. us/j/83538684901 or email thirdthursdayseries@gmail.com. Rosendale Theatre’s Music Fan Series celebrates LGBTQ+ Pride Month with ‘Wigstock’ Drag performances have been around since the beginning of theatre, most notably in the classic plays of William Shakespeare. But drag was never as fabulous as it was during the New York City extravaganza known as “Wigstock,” an annual day-long concert featuring music and wild theatrical performances. That famed and notorious showcase of talent was captured in the exhilarating documentary, ‘Wigstock.” Filmed during the 1993 Wigstock in Tompkins Square Park and the 1994 festival at the Christopher Street Pier, the movie includes interviews backstage with performers as they get dressed and made up. Entertainers Alexis Arquette and Jackie Beat serve as the tour guides for this mind-blowing experience. The film features performances by global sensations RuPaul, Deee-lite, Marc Almond, Lypsinka and Erasure, and acts by East Village legends Tabboo!, Mistress Formika, the Dueling Bankheads, Joey Arias and Wigstock co-creator and hostess Lady Bunny. “Wigstock” will screen one night only, 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 14, at the Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main St., Rosendale.. For this screening, the Music Fan Series committee has partnered with the Hudson Valley LGBTQ+ Community Center. The Center’s mission is to support the LGBTQ+ community by promoting well-being, advocating for equity and opportunity, and celebrating our diverse experiences. A Center staff member will introduce the film in celebration of LGBTQ Pride Month. After the screening, there will be a Q&A with performance artist David Ilku, one half of the Dueling Bankheads and a performer at numerous Wigstock shows, starting with the first one in the mid-1980s. Tickets are $10/$6 members. For more information, visit rosendaletheatre.org or call 845-658-8989. ‘A town shaped by water, a Bicentennial Exhibit, 200 Years of Olive History’During the Olive Free Library’s annual Library Fair, 11 a.m. Saturday, June 3, at the library, 4033 Route 28A West Shokan, a new exhibit, months in the making, “A town shaped by water, a Bicentennial Exhibit, 200 Years of Olive History” will open in a freshly painted Donald F. and Edna G. Bishop Museum Room and remain on view to the public during library hours. A large four-panel display will tell the town’s history in four parts, beginning with “A Town Is Born,” featuring pre-Town of Olive, pre-reservoir history, including the Indigenous people who lived there. Part Two, “The Reservoir Becomes a Reality,” and Part Three, “A Feat of Engineering Brilliance,” respectively, include photos of the reservoir’s construction. “Reimagined: A Community Moves Forward” is Part Four and will include information about the fire department, the Civilian Conservation Corps, Onteora, the first Olive Day in 1973 and the recent construction of the rail trail. The exhibit will also include a small screen installation of Margaret Cogswell’s artwork “Ashokan Fugues,” that features photographs of the reservoir and incorporates narratives from Catskill communities that lost their land by eminent domain to NYC for the building of the Ashokan Reservoir. For more information, call the Olive Free Library at 845-657-2482, or visit olivefreelibrary. org.
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Cast, writers, and directors of Love is Love, the LGBTQ+ plays Rosendale Theatre Arts director Ann Citron
Pride Month: Love Is Love, the LGBTQ+ plays The Rosendale Theatre's 2023 Short Play Festival features all original short plays that speak to different perspectives on LGBTQ+ issues and themes, personal, political and everything in between. The playwrights and titles of their plays include “Oppression and Pearls” by Jenny Lyn Bader,” Green with Enby” by Allison Fradkin, “a marriage is a story we tell and keep telling” by Danielle Frimer, “Pronouns” by Cathy Gigante-Brown, “First Date” by Matthew Heftler, “2 Boys on a Beach on a Hot Summer's Night” by James Edwin Parker, “Intimacy” by Brian Petti, “The Spirit Is Willing” by Nicole Quinn, and “Training Camp” by David Simpatico. The cast includes Stephany Hitchcock, Jessica Joy, Marianne Matthews, Zelda aka Judith Z. Miller, Ilona Molnar, Blake Pfeil, Bill Solley, Griffin Stenger, Aimee Trumbore, and Jeremiah Wenutu The festival is directed by Susan Einhorn (Artistic Director), Guy Anthony, and Sydnie Grosberg Ronga and is produced by Ann Citron. In addition to the short plays, this year's festival also features short films from Queer Youth Animated, an original series produced by The Future Perfect Project, and the HUDSY original, Andramada.
Ulster County Historical Society Vintage Baseball Game at Marbletown Town Park The Ulster County Historical Society will sponsor the second annual vintage baseball game, 2 p.m. Saturday, June 3 (rain date, June 4), at Tongore Park, also known as Marbletown Town Park, at 350 Tongore Road, Stone Ridge. Step back in time and see how
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“This is our 4th all original short play festival at the Rosendale Theatre,” said Live Theatre Director Ann Citron. “This year’s theme, Love is Love, the LGBTQ+ Plays, brought so many wonderful submissions. The subject speaks to the hearts and minds of our community and especially now, again, when we are experiencing increased violence and hatred towards our LGBTQ+ brothers and sisters. We are thrilled to bring these life affirming stories into the mainstream for our Live Theatre season.” The Rosendale Theatre's Short Play Festival is produced with the assistance of the Ulster County Cultural Services and Promotion Fund administered by Arts Mid-Hudson. Performance dates are 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, June 8-10 and 4 p.m. Sunday, June 11, at the Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main St., Rosendale where there is ample parking in the lot behind the theatre. Tickets, available in advance (recommended), are $20/$18 members. For more information and sponsorship opportunities, contact Ann Citron, Theatre Arts Director, at ann@ rosendaletheatre, visit rosendaletheatre.org or call 845-658-8989.
baseball was played 150 years ago in a game between the Kingston Guards and the Saugerties Vintage Base Ball Club. Proceeds from the event benefit UCHS, whose mission is to make local history come alive. This vintage baseball game features rules from the 1800s, as was a common occurrence for many years between teams from neighboring farm
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communities, villages and cities all over the United States. The uniforms and rules on June 3 will reflect the historical rules of the grand old game. Among the novel rules for fans to enjoy: Foul balls do not count as strikes; no gloves worn by fielders; if a pitch is too close to call, the umpire can rule “no call” and it’s a do-over; if a batter is hit by a pitch, it just counts as a ball and the at-bat continues; and fielders can catch a fly ball on one hop for an out (it’s tougher than it sounds). Last year’s vintage baseball game, also sponsored by UCHS, was a huge success and fun for the whole family. Admission is free! Refreshments and treats will be available. Enjoy a program sponsored by local merchants. Come one, come all for old-time family fun at the old ball game! For more information, visit ulstercountyhs.org or call 845-377-1040. Learn about the lichens of the Shawangunk Mountains at Minnewaska Join lichen photographer and Department of Environmental Conservation steward John Franklin, 10 a.m.-noon Sunday, June 4, for a walk and talk on lichens, those amazing little organisms that grow on trees and rocks throughout the Park Preserve. The group will walk up to 2 miles on carriage roads, stopping to discuss lichens along the way. This program is recommended for adults and children over the age of 12. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Bring binoculars, a hand loupe or a magnifying glass, if possible, to aid in close-up observations of the lichens. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center, 5281 Route 44/55, Kerhonkson. Preregistration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752. A conversation with D&H historian Bill Merchant Join historian Bill Merchant, 12:30-2 p.m. Sunday, June 4, aboard the Hudson River Maritime Museum’s solar powered boat “Solaris” for a discussion about the many industrial activities that were concentrated on the upper Rondout Creek in the 19th century, largely fostered by the D&H Canal. The hour-and-ahalf-long voyage goes from the Maritime Museum to the Eddyville Dam and back. Book the trip at https://www.hrmm.org/ history-tour.html. For more information, visit canalmuseum.org or call 845-687-2000. ‘Becoming Abstract,’ an exhibition by Nancy O’Hara at Lifebridge Sanctuary The Lifebridge Foundation celebrates the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals featuring local artist Nancy O’Hara’s exhibition, “Becoming Abstract,” with a focus on SDG#13, climate action. The exhibit will be on display through August with the meet-the-artist wine and cheese reception, 2-4 p.m. Sunday, June 4, at Lifebridge Sanctuary, 333 Mountain Road, Rosendale. O’Hara’s largest canvas and her finest artistic expression, her own life, continues to be a work in progress. Moving to the area from New York City in 2015 has added a new dimension to her artistic adventure, an opportunity, through the use of pencils, ink, pastels, crayons and paint on various surfaces, that cannot be expressed with words. Along with being an artist, she is a meditation teacher, a life-coach, and the author of six non-fiction books and two mystery novels. She took her first drawing class in 2016 at Columbia Greene Community College. In 2017 she began taking art classes at the Woodstock School of Art and was introduced to abstract art in August of that year. In 2020 she was awarded the Ruth Cabrera Art Award for her pastel painting “Falling Light” in the 34th Annual International Open Exhibition of the Pastel Society of the West Coast. In 2022 she had her first solo art exhibition at the Woodstock Artists Association & Museum in Woodstock. “The true nature of all art,” said O’Hara, “is beauty that is unrepeatable and unnamable.” GALS, Gallery at Lifebridge Sanctuary, features art exhibits that reflect the themes of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Lifebridge Foundation is an NGO associated with the Department of Global Communications of the United Nations. For more information, contact Lifebridge Foundation at 845-658-3439, visit lifebridge.org or nancyohara.com.
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BlueStone Press, June 2, 2023 , Page 21 Events continued from page 20 Celebrating Judith Enck and Beyond Plastics Join Mohonk Consultations, 4-7 p.m. Sunday, June 11, at the Mohonk Mountain House Pavilion, 1000 Mountain Rest Road, Marbletown, in celebrating the extraordinary Judith A. Enck, founder and president of Beyond Plastics and Mohonk Consultations Distinguished Achievement Award winner for her historic efforts to bring attention to the plastic pollution crisis. Each year, the Distinguished Achievement Award ceremony is held at Mohonk Mountain House to honor an exceptional member of the community committed to protecting our ecological and human environment and who has improved the quality of life for residents of the Hudson Valley. Enck founded Beyond Plastics in 2019 to end plastic pollution through education, advocacy and institutional change. Prior to that, she has held top influential positions in state and federal government, including as regional administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, deputy secretary for the environment in the New York Governor’s Office, and policy adviser to the New York State Attorney General. Guest speakers helping celebrate Enck’s important achievements will include Sierra Club president Ramon Cruz, Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger and Beyond Plastics policy director Megan Wolff. Attendees will enjoy a buffet dinner and entertainment by Betty and the Baby Boomers. Tickets are $50 for the general public, $35 for students, and must be purchased in advance. For more information and tickets, visit mohonk-consultation.org.
Rondout Valley United Methodist Church Car Show This event will be held 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, June 17, at Rondout Valley United Methodist Church, 25 Schoonmaker Lane, Stone Ridge. DJ Brian will be there. Breakfast and lunch will be served. There will be a 50/50 raffle and door prizes, All rides welcome. Trophies at will be presented at 2 p.m. Preregistration is $12, registration is $15 on the day of the show, with spectators free. Fun for everyone. For more information, call Tom at 845687-9061 or 845 532-7801.
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D&H Canal Museum & Mid-Hudson Visitor Center Open Everyday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
High Falls Flea Market at Grady Park Weekends, weather permitting 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
www.canalmuseum.org/events
1315 MAin Street, High Falls 845-687-2000
Guest educator program, explore the ecology of mushrooms with Rosendale’s Luke Sarrantonio This special program, 4-6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 15, is being led by Luke Sarrantonio, a native of Rosendale and a graduate of SUNY Environmental Science and Forestry. Sarrantonio spent much of his childhood exploring the local landscape at Minnewaska, where he developed a passion for the natural world. After graduating college in 2011, he was discouraged by the lack of learning resources around fungi and ecology and has been developing programming, mushroom farming, consulting, and making medicinal products ever since. Join Sarrantonio for a walk through
FOR THE FAMILY Ulster County Outdoor Youth Expo This annual fun-filled family event will be held 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, June 3, at Lippman Park, Route 209, Wawarsing. The day’s activities will feature fishing, birdhouse building, archery, fly tying, raffles, food, vendors and much more. Admission is free. Vendor space available for $10. For more information, contact Natalie at 845-594-4471. Little Ones Learning Center adds and expands programming A free early literacy program, Little Ones Learning Center, located at Rochester Reformed Church, 5142 Route 209, Accord, recently added a day to their program and rented a second room in the church. Their Story Times are currently 10 a.m.-noon Wednesdays (June 7, 14, 21 and 28) and Saturdays (June 3, 10, 17 and 24) and 3-5 p.m. Thursdays (June 8, 15, 22 and 29). The program, which includes stories, crafts, socialization and free time to explore the many early learning activities available, is geared toward children 0-6, but all are welcome. Parents/caregivers are required to stay with the children. For more information call 845-750-4112 or email LOLC12404@ gmail.com. Olive Free Library Fair The fair will be held 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, June 3, at
Regional mycologist Luke Sarrantonio stands near a large fruiting of chicken of the woods.
The Southern Bargain Queen, up from South Carolina, is visiting her nephew, Marbletown’s Bruce Littlefield, and throwing a garage sale to benefit the Rondout Valley Food Pantry.
the forest and learn about the interwoven lives of organisms that make up the diverse ecology of the region. “Everything is connected,” he said, “and in many cases this connection is facilitated by a group of organisms that are largely unseen.” Take a closer look at fungi, and all the organisms and interactions that form the intricate, beautiful ecosystems. Since foraging is not allowed on state park land, the group will be observing, identifying and documenting in the field. Meet at the Lower Parking Area. Preregistration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-255-0752
The 2nd Annual Rosendale Theatre Mushroom Festival The Rosendale Theatre will present its
annual Mushroom Festival from Aunt Jean’s Garage second 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, June 17, with films, food, mushroom ID sessions, expert Sale to benefit panel discussions, and an opportunity to with mycologists and mycophiles. Rondout Valley Food network The program will start at 10 a.m., at Willow Get to know some fabulous fungi at the Mushroom Festival in Rosendale. Kiln Park, with a curated mushroom walk Pantry The Southern Bargain Queen is up from South Carolina visiting her nephew, Marbletown’s Bruce Littlefield, and throwing a garage sale at his Edgewater Farm home. “It’s going to be a party, y’all,” she said. “I’m going to be giving bargains you can’t refuse on things you didn’t even know you need!” Asked for her best money-making tips when throwing a garage sale, her advice was, 1. Set a start time and stick to it. “Mine is 8 a.m. sharp!” 2. Use big signs and post about it in the local paper. “Why do you think I’m talking about it here in the BlueStone Press?” 3. Organize the sale like a store does with sections. “I’ve got a good eye and great stuff! Check out my tool shed!” 3. Have a dollar table. “You’re going to be throwing George Washington at me.” 4. Be nice and have fun. “If you’re a big spender, I might even give you a glass of my famous sweet tea.” 5. Mark things half off. “When I get whooped, I’m giving it away.” Aunt Jean’s Garage Sale is 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, June 10, at 2669 Hurley Mountain Road, Marbletown. “No early birds!” she affirmed, “Or, as I like to call them, vultures!” And buyers beware, the garage sale will be filmed. “My grandson is in film school and wants to make a movie about me! So, I’ll be wearing lipstick and pearls and making deals!” Proceeds from Aunt Jean’s Garage Sale will benefit the Rondout Valley Food Pantry. For more information, email edgewaterfarmny@gmail.com.
and ID session; the indoor festival begins at about noon and continues with a day of mushroom-related art and science, finishing with a screening of the documentary, “Know Your Mushrooms.” The day’s early mushroom walk will be led by local luminaries John Michelotti (Catskill Fungi), Gabriela D’Elia (Fundis.org), and Luke Sarrantonio (Mid-Hudson Mycological Association). The ID session will depend on the weather and the eagle eyes of those participating. Note that the outdoor mushroom foray is not available for day of registration, so preregister. The indoors part of the festival, at the Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main St., Rosendale, will include some short mushroom videos submitted by local artists, filmmakers, foragers and teachers, such as local herbalist and forager Dina Falconi, among others. “Having Your Way with Mushrooms in the Kitchen,” a cooking demo and tasting, will be hosted by Maria Reidelbach, former president of the New York Mycological Society, cookbook author and instructor for Cornell Cooperative Extension. Avery Stempel of Collar City Mushrooms and the New York Psilocybin Action Committee will moderate a panel discussion, “A Changing Climate: The Impact of Medicinal Psychedelic Research.” The panelists include Allison Hoots, an attorney specializing in psychedelic plant medicine, Dee Dee Goldpaugh, psychotherapist and educator, Bill Brennan, psychologist and clinical adviser, Aaron Genuth, founder of Darkhei Rephua, a Jewish entheogenic nonprofit, and Stephanie Van Hope, RN and nursing educator. More mushroom videos will play throughout the day. A poetry and music slam will precede the feature film
presentation of “Know Your Mushrooms.” The film features the iconic and luminary mycologist Gary Lincoff along with the inimitable Larry Evans as they adventure into the world of wild mushrooms and the deeper cultural experiences attached to them. Signups for the poetry slam will be open through Tuesday, June 13. A ticket to the festival will be necessary in order to participate. The festival is presented by Rosendale Theatre and with generous sponsorships from the following companies: MyForest Foods, a New York state company creating a fungal-based meat substitute. MyForest Foods will have samples and products to purchase at the festival; Collar City Mushrooms, farming and selling mushrooms in and from Troy; Catskill Fungi, based in the Woodstock/ Big Indian area, creating and selling mushroom tinctures and health-boosting solutions; Barner Books, a New Paltz used bookstore that sells many books and DVDs related to mushrooms and sells local authors’ works; Four Sigmatic, providing mushroom coffee in the Rosendale Theatre lobby during the mushroom festival, and Cornell Cooperative Extension, which is sponsoring the day’s cooking demonstration and tasting. Admission to the Festival is $30 for all indoor events; $40 for indoor and outdoor events. Tickets for the indoor events are also available on Saturday, June 17, at the theater box office starting at 11:30 a.m. Tickets at the door are $40. All tickets are for general seating. For tickets, more information, and the full schedule of events, visit rosendaletheatre. org or call 845-658-8989.
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Art & music in the woods with the Hudson River Playback Theatre and more at the Rail Trail Café
Events continued from page 29 the Olive Free Library, 4033 Route 28A, West Shokan, with a book and plant sale; kids crafts, balloon animals and face painting; live music with Bill Melvin at 11 a.m., Gilles Malkine at noon, and the Nuggs at 1 p.m.; plus food with Kevin Vines barbeque, ice cream and maple popcorn. For more information, visit olivefreelibrary.org or call 845-657-2482. Thursdays at Clove Valley Community Farm of High Falls Join community organizer Aileah Kvashay and friends, 4-7 p.m. each Thursday, through Nov. 2, with upcoming gatherings on June 8, 15, 22 and 29, at Clove Valley Community Farm (park to the left of the barn), at 81 Clove Valley Road, High Falls, for open-farm work party, food sharing and co-creative fun. Whether working the gardens, shopping at the farmstand, preparing for the farm-to-table dinner, or enjoying the beauty of nature, be a part of the magic. Arrive early and stay for the community dinner. Wrap-up at 9 p.m. Work-trade for farm fresh produce. Dogs must be on a leash for this event. For more information, visit clovevalleycommunityfarm.org. Junior Sportsmen’s Program takes aim at knowledge and safety for all with free classes Each Thursday at 6 p.m., May-October, with upcoming classes on June 7, 14, 21 and 28, students of all ages come out to the Marbletown Sportsmen’s Club Junior Sportsmen’s Program. The archery class, taught by Pete Sarr, chairperson of the program, is alternated every other Thursday with firearms, with both programs held at the Marbletown Sportsmen’s Club, 95-105 Scarawan Road, Stone Ridge. Students of every level, from first timers to seasoned hunters, from kids to mature adults, learn everything from the proper stance to how to hold the bow and gun, to the proper terminology on the range, and much more, all emphasizing proper safety. All necessary equipment is provided for the program at no cost. Call Sarr at 845-687-9305 or visit marbletownsportsmensclub.com. Yard Sale to benefit Childhood Cancer organization and Guiding Eyes for the Blind The Rondout Valley Lions Club will host a yard sale, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday and Saturday, June 9 and 10, at 2 Rock Hill Road, High Falls. Something for everyone! Proceeds from the sale will benefit Childhood Cancer organization and Guiding Eyes for the Blind. For more information, contact Sue Curcio, president, at otrlsc@gmail.com or Janet Sutter, treasurer, at janet.sutter@aol.com. Kripplebush-Lyonsville Fire Company Sub Nites Enjoy great sub sandwiches at the Kripplebush-Lyonsville Fire Company, at the intersection of County Route 2 at 519 Pine Bush Road in Stone Ridge, just 1 mile north of Route 209. Ham, turkey, roast beef or mixed meat, mixed veggie, chicken parm, meatball, tuna, and of course Philly cheese subs are made to order on a 12-inch roll with choice of toppings and served with a bag of chips and a drink. Sub Nites are held 4-7 p.m. (with call-ins at 3:30 p.m.) on the second Friday of each month, March-November (this month on June 9), for a suggested donation of $10. For more information or to place an order, call 845-687-9801. Second Sunday Supper The Rondout Valley United Methodist Church will host its Second Sunday Supper at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 11, at the church, 25 Schoonmaker Lane, off Route 209, Stone Ridge. All are invited to meet and greet other members of the community, dine together and enjoy one another’s company. Second Sunday Suppers are free and held on the second Sunday of every month (except July and August). Sunday worship at RVUMC is in person at 10 a.m. or online anytime at rvumc.org. For more information, call 845-687-9061. Need prayer? Call Pastor Caroline at 845-6879090. Eldercare coffee and information hour, a free event The Eldercare Program for the Town of Rochester will be hosting a free hour of coffee, tea and light refreshments, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Thursday, June 15, Elder Abuse Awareness Day, at the Harold Lipton Community Center, 15 Tobacco Road, Accord. Information on the Eldercare Program and other resources available to senior residents will be discussed and distributed to all in attendance. For more information, visit townofrochester.ny.gov.
Shelley’s original love of painting and printmaking has expanded over the years to include stoneware clay.
‘Paintings and Printmaking, the art of Lora Shelley,’ at Stone Ridge Library The Stone Ridge Library presents “Paintings and Printmaking, the art of Lora Shelley,” on exhibit through June 30, at the library, 3700 Main St., Stone Ridge. Shelley got her BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design. Her works delve into a rich dreamscape of an empath featuring figurative narratives with an emphasis on the human/animal connection. Her original love of painting and printmaking has expanded over the years to include stoneware clay, carrying over her unique style into 3-D works. As with her paintings and prints, they are all handbuilt and hand-painted. For more information, visit stoneridgelibrary.org and lorashelley.com.
There is a natural backdrop and canopy of trees, a small sound system, a few lights, and open ears and hearts at the Rail Trail Café, 310 River Road Extension, Rosendale. Upcoming performances and events include Gisela Stomeyer with friends, Poem Journeys, at 1 p.m. and tap dancing and vocals of Liana Gable, at 5 p.m. Saturday, June 3; Sonic Elixirs with Madeleine Grace, at 1 p.m. and Wild Swan Band with Celtic songs, jogs, reels and waltzes, at 4 p.m. Sunday, June 4; Climate roundtable discussion, 7 p.m. Friday, June 9; Singer-songwriter Steven Michael Pague, 5:30 p.m. Saturday, June 10; devotional music with the Spirit Brothers, Ev Mann, Steve Gorn, Joseph Jastrab and Ned Leavitt, at 12:30 p.m., and the improvisors of Hudson River Playback Theatre, at 2 p.m. Sunday June 11. Audience members are invited to share personal stories and see them enacted on the spot, along with improvisational music. Any story is welcome, inspired by nature, or memory, or a reflection. And on June 16, at 5:30 p.m. is Levanta with Ev Mann, Thomas Workman, Gabriel Dresdale and Timothy Hill. A basket is passed at all events, and $10 or pay-what-you-can is suggested. Visit railtrailcaferosendale.com or call 845-389-7714 for information.
There are always new pop-up vendors, educational displays and nonprofits visiting the Rosendale Farmers Market
Opening day for Rosendale Farmers Market is June 4 The Rosendale Farmers Market is held every Sunday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. June-October, in the Willow Kiln Park, right behind the Rosendale Theatre, at 408 Main St., Rosendale. Big Joe Fitz & the Lo-Fi's will be performing onstage 11 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be a lot of new vendors to add to the returning favorites. Colden Springs Farm will be there opening day and every other week thereafter selling chicken and pork; lots of fruit from Stone Ridge Orchard; Hole in the Wall Donuts' amazing doughnuts at the market every week; Red Dragon Apothecary will have a wide variety of handmade elixirs, salves, plants and other local, natural items available for sale; crystal jewelry from Mystic Star Healing; and Kila's Pottery, everyone's favorite potter, will be there on opening day and quite a few times during the season. Old favorites like Rob with his bread and cheese, Three Sisters Farm, Hudson Valley Heirloom and Fiddlehead Farm will also be in attendance. There will also be some pop-up vendors throughout the season – Momemade, Sky Stone Ceramics and others. Cerighino and Smith will be at the Market throughout the season, they just won't be there on opening day. Volunteers are also needed to help with the setting up and breaking down of the market. One could come one time, regularly, only in the mornings, stay for the whole market or whatever works for a schedule. There is no charge for admission and plenty of free parking. For info, email rfmnyteam@gmail.com or visit the Rosendale Farmers Market on Facebook.
Students enjoying the “Future Voices” art exhibition at SUNY Ulster
SUNY Ulster hosts annual ‘Future Voices’ art exhibit showcasing works of local high school students The artwork of Ulster County high school students will be on display in the exhibit “Future Voices 2023: High School Art from Ulster County,” on exhibit through June 23, with the opening reception 4-6 p.m. Friday, June 9, at the Muroff Kotler Visual Arts Gallery, SUNY Ulster, 491 Cottekill Road, Stone Ridge. This annual exhibition features the artwork of students from Ulster County high schools including Saugerties, Onteora, Rondout, Kingston, Ulster BOCES, New Paltz, Ellenville, Marlboro, Highland, Wallkill and Woodstock Day School. The show will include a wide variety of media including painting, drawing, photography,
ceramics, sculpture, digital media and more. The Ulster Community College Foundation Inc. is offering prizes to the artists with the three best pieces in the show. There will be one $100 best-in-show award and two honorable mentions, worth $50 each. The exhibition is being curated by Allison Constant, owner and founder of Art Bar in Kingston. Constant is a SUNY Ulster fine art program alumna. In addition to her work at Art Bar, she has curated exhibits for the Woodstock Artists Association and Museum and Woodstock Jewish Congregation. She has also exhibited her own work at the Farber Center in New York City, Samuel Dorsky Museum at SUNY New Paltz, and The Shirt Factory in Kingston, among others. The Muroff Kotler Visual Arts Gallery is open 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday and by appointment. It is closed on college holidays and weekends. The show and opening reception are free and open to the public. For more information please contact gallery@sunyulster.edu or call 845687-5113.
“Ability #2,” 30 x 24 inches, acrylic on canvas by Ted Dixon (detail)
Ted Dixon part of ‘Diametric Abstraction’ art exhibition with Susan Lisbin The opening reception for the exhibit “Diametric Abstraction” featuring abstract artists Ted Dixon, of Rosendale, and Susan Lisbin, on exhibit through July, will be, 5-7 p.m. Saturday, June 3, at Susan Eley Fine Art, 433 Warren St., Hudson. For more information, visit hereisted.com.
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RICE PLUMBING AND HEATING is looking to hire an experienced HVAC Plumbing technician. 3 to 5 years experience. Clean drivers license. Full time. Salary based on experience. Send resume to riceplumbingandheating @gmail.com SUMMER BABYSITTER 2 kids – 2 dogs 3 Days a week – 8:00 A.M. to 4:30 P.M. $15-$16 per hour Stone Ridge, NY Call or Text, 814-577-7848 “And the parking is a huge problem, it is not safe,” O’Toole said. “Anything that is safer is better for us and our customers, better for the neighborhood. The lighting can’t go in until the buildings are up and all that stuff adds up.” Marveling at the onion-like layers of complexity posed by this 60-year old business, Stratton said, “We’ve got to get it right,” “It sounds like you are not going to budge on this. It is personally devastating. It has become a huge issue. Is it really necessary to wait another month?”
THE ROOST IN STONE RIDGE is currently interviewing for f/t cooks and dishwashers at competitive wages. Please apply in person. at the restaurant 3542 Main St., Stone Ridge. VERONICA’S GARDEN in Stone Ridge is seeking an Experienced Landscaper Good salary, flexible hours Must have a license Call 845-687-9026 DIRECTOR OF CONSERVATION PROGRAMS: Senior level manager w/a minimum of 5 yrs. exp. in conservation/land protection to provide vision, leadership, and oversight for Mohonk Preserve’s conservation initiatives. Responsible for planning, managing, budgeting, and implementation of conservation programs. Strong supervisory and team management skills req. Master’s degree in natural sciences, natural resources, conservation, forestry, science-based land management, planning or related disciplines OR equivalent combination of education and experience. Excellent computer, communication & presentation skills. Salary range: $80-$84k/year based on exp., excellent benefits. Cover letter & resume by May 26, 2023 to esticker@mohonkpreserve.org EOE Details: www.mohonk preserve.org/who-we-are/jobsfellowships-and-internships/ “I don’t feel comfortable moving forward on this board of health document without being able to review it,” Stratton said. “I understand this is putting a burden on you, but there is nothing we can do, this is where we are at in the process.” “I understand but all these other agencies are telling us, what is the hold-up? All of this discussion around outdoor seating and counts is a moot point, none of this matters to the purpose of the business. It is all in service to the limited-service restaurant. This document is to quell any fears
Homes/Land for Sale
House for Sale 37 Tow Path Early 1900’s Craftsman style home Completed 2-year renovation located in historic district Accord Call 845-399-7402 for more information Yard Sales
THE YARD SALE of Summer! SAT JUN 3 9am- 4pm SUN JUN 4 9am-2pm Cty Rt 2/Kripplebush Rd (Follow signs 3.5 miles N of Rt 209) Antiques GARDEN Kitchen TOOLS Dishes ART Linens SPORTS Games FURNITURE Lighting BOOKS Glassware CHRISTMAS Electronics KIDS Clothing & MORE
News tip?
Contact the BSP bluestonepress.net on worst case scenarios, and shows the numbers to support that,” O’Toole said. Kellogg said that if the board accepts additional documentation once the public hearing is closed, they become open to litigation. Stratton said that the BOH letter should specifically mention that they saw the site plan and it needs to be submitted two weeks before the planning board meeting. Kellogg recommended for clarity’s sake that a written letter be sent from the town clerk specifying what exactly is still required.
Page 24, June 2, 2023 BlueStone Press
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