BlueStone Press

The best source for local news from Marbletown, Rochester & Rosendale

Published the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month | Vol. 27, Issue 10

May 20, 2022 | $1.00

Historic perspective informs Conflict meadow care and management over Ann Belmont BSP Reporter

On a recent windy, gray May morning, a dozen or so folks dressed for working outdoors gathered on a hilltop meadow at the Ashokan Center in Olive for an event called “Reclaiming Historic Meadow Boundaries."

Andrew Faust, noted permaculturist and director of the Center for Bioregional Living in Ellenville, was there to give a talk and to direct the volunteers, armed Faust with gloves and pruning shears, in pushing back an advancing line of tangled brush at the meadow's edge. He has been working at the Center to develop a broad site plan for its 385 acres, and reclaiming the meadow is a Phase One activity in his master plan.

A fire ring heaped with logs gave off a little heat as Faust talked about the natural history of this place. When deciding what’s the best way to manage a property, “it’s about interpreting the landscape,” he said.

“Why are certain species here? First you start with the geology...in permaculture, we say, let’s consider the overall layout of things before we start getting into the details.” After geologic history, “the next biggest pattern … is that 10,000 to 12,000 years ago there was still a glacier that had influence here.” Moving forward a few thousand years, “another pattern to understand is how indigenous Algonquin people managed the landscape with fire – absolutely the most powerful ancient land management tool. The people that were living here ... used intentional burns to create conditions that selected for blueberries and raspberries, butternut trees, American chestnut … we also know that fires mitigate blight significantly.”

“You want to understand landscape in

In front, Opal Merenda learns about meadow care. Photo by Ovi Horta

deep time and relatively recent time,” Faust went on. He used the metaphor of ripples in time spreading backward and forward from the present."We vastly underestimate the scale at which Algonquin peoples were shaping the landscape" for around 6,000 years. The corn, beans and squash they grew were species they imported from Central America. “It wasn’t like this was some wild, overgrown, crazy mare’s nest of whatever volunteered to grow.”

European settlers cut most of the forest down wherever they lived. Faust talked about the effect that “selective logging” has had over the last 300 years here, calling what remains “a paltry, mutant semblance of a healthy forest,” due to the selection of the biggest, straightest, healthiest trees for lumber, called ”high-grading". A hundred years ago, 80-90% of the local forest was gone, he said; the Ashokan area was mostly cow pasture.

Someone asked if there is an intrinsic value to “old growth.” Faust replied, "The benefit of old growth is its capacity to sequester carbon, prevent erosion, and to create habitat – it’s off the charts.”

Though the day's activity was the removal of what are commonly called invasive weeds, terms like “exotic invasives" are, he insisted, "unscientific, unsound and have no real meaning. In permaculture we like to call them ‘opportunistic, expansive, dispersive.’ We feel it’s a more botanical description of the plant’s gregarious growth habits ... We are bringing prejudices and preferences to the landscape ... an oak tree is more important than an autumn olive, [but] that’s my opinion – not a scientific truth.”

“With 300 years of clearcutting, we don’t have an intact ecosystem at this point. I don’t think it makes sense to run around with extensive forest volunteers trying to rip out barberry. If you want to build a hiking trail and there’s barberry in front of your trail, I would remove it for sure … but the cat’s out of the bag, and how much energy do you want to spend on it?

“There is a subculture within the permaculture movement that likes to poke holes in the whole invasive-species thing,” Faust continued. “When we decide we want to remove a given patch of plants, let’s have a reason for why we’re doing it.” Today's project, clearing the brush at this meadow's edge, had a clear purpose. “We want this part of our meadow to be something we can hang out in again. We’ve let these weedy, thorny, not too interesting plants occupy the space … It wasn’t mowed for a long time," and the brushy growth is the first stage in the process of reforestation. “ ‘Succession’ is the process by which these ecologies inevitably become forests," said Faust. "Some species tend to prolifer-

electric rates Marbletown votes to join lawsuit Brooke Stelzer BSP Reporter

The Marbletown Town Board passed Resolution 57 on May 17, which allows the town to be a party of litigation to Joule Community Power, the administrator of the Community Choice Aggregation program. Columbia Utilities, the CCA provider of renewable energy to the Hudson Valley, and alternative to Central Hudson Gas and Electric, filed an April 19 request with the state Public Service Commission to exit its contract, which doesn’t end until June 30, 2024.

In doing so, all 10 municipalities who are part of the CCA, including Marbletown, Beacon, Poughkeepsie, Clinton, New Paltz, Philipstown, Red Hook, Saugerties, New Paltz and Cold Spring, would be offloaded back to Central Hudson, and thus subject to volatile market energy rates.

The decision would impact nearly 25,000 residents and small businesses throughout the Hudson Valley. Town supervisor Rich Parete says Joule has asked every municipality in the CCA to join the potential litigation against Columbia. In an interview with BlueStone Press on May 19, Joule CEO Jessica Stomback said, “The

See Land, page 9

See Power, page 15

Land-use moratorium in Rochester?

The public weighs in Ann Belmont BSP Reporter Before opening a public hearing for the land-use moratorium proposed by the Town of Rochester Town Board, town supervisor Mike Baden outlined the specifics: Which types of land-use would

Grand opening of the new D&H Canal Museum PAGE 4

be affected by the moratorium and which would not. He also went over the reasons the board has decided to propose it.

Lasting 180 days from its beginning date, with two optional 90-day extensions, the moratorium would target “actions subject to building permits, site plans, special use permits," subdivision applications of three lots or greater, and buildings larger than 4,000 square feet. Baden added that

Rochester has, in the past 15 months, seen a record number of applications requiring planning board review, as well as an unprecedented 700-800 building permits issued by the code enforcement office.

There would be a number of exceptions to the moratorium, Baden added. Any application for a building permit that’s approved before the law takes effect will be allowed to proceed. Also, any applica-

Marbletown's Housing Committee presents first round of ideas PAGE 3

tion that has been on the agenda for the Planning Board will be allowed to continue; any application for a zoning change or for inclusion in the Economic Empowerment Overlay [a special zoning category]; any agricultural action covered under NY State's Ag & Mkts law; “single-family and

See Rochester, page 17

RV boys lacrosse on a winning run PAGE 10

Page 2, May April20, 15,2022, 2022,BlueStone BlueStonePress Press

Running around with Cyndy actually, that it is no longer easy!

When I joined the gym many years ago, I was taking a cardio-kick class that I loved. Unfortunately, the young instructor moved on to bigger and better things and I drew the short straw and had to take an online fitness instructor class for the class to continue. I have since earned my master’s degree in exercise science and developed Cyndy’s Boot Camp as a final project in one of my courses.

How long have you lived in the area and what bought you here?

I have lived in the area most of my life.

My parents moved to Stone Ridge when I was 6 years old. My father taught at Ulster County Community College and my mother served as deacon at Christ the King Church in Stone Ridge.

Tell us about your family and your home.

My husband, Bruce Cobb, is a fifth-grade teacher Visit the folks at Miller Middle next door School in Kingston. I am fortunate to live across the street from my in-laws, Perry and Natalie Cobb. My parents , Dr. Lawrence and Judith Borzumato, live in Red Hook. Both of my brothers live locally (Fred and Joe Borzumato) as well as my sisters-in-law Nancy Cobb and Rebeca Freyre. My sister (Laura Dowling) lives in Westchester but has been looking for a home in the area – fingers crossed! I have nieces and grandnieces that live nearby. We lost our sister Marybeth to leukemia in 1987 … jeez, feels like yesterday. I miss her every day. I feel blessed to live near my family and friends, and I consider Jodi Haynes an honorary Borzumato and forbid her to move. Honestly, all of Stone Ridge is my home.

Q&A

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Cyndy Borzumato Age: 53 Profession: Office manager, fitness Instructor Town: Stone Ridge

You’re an avid runner – tell us about that aspect of your life.

Distance running is meditative for me – so I guess it’s good that I am slow, plenty of time to meditate. I began running in my late 30s and I will be 54 years old when I run my 20th Marathon- New York City this fall with my friend Colleen Kortright. We are running to raise money for Red Door Community (formerly Gilda’s Club, named for Gilda Radner, aka Roseanna Roseannadanna, from “Saturday Night Live”). In fact, we will be hosting a Tacos and Trivia for a Cause at Lydia’s Café on July 9 to raise money. Email me for more information, ccobb@hvc.rrcom.

I must give a shout-out here to my running buddies – we call ourselves the BRC for Best Running Club! Truly, my life would not be the same without you, and you all know who you are.

Tell us about your career path and what you are currently doing.

I have two great jobs. I have worked for the past 15-plus years at Medenbach & Eggers, Civil Engineering and Land Surveying, and wow! Have we been busy since the pandemic! I can’t imagine there is anyone left in Brooklyn as they have all moved to Ulster County. I also work at RidgeWell Fitness teaching Cardio Kick and Cyndy’s Boot Camp classes. You can find the schedule on my website, www.cyndybootcamp.com. (Psst, all the people from Brooklyn … come check out RidgeWell Fitness on Main Street in Stone Ridge.)

Both jobs have really evolved for me. I originally took the job at M&E because I was looking for a local job that was easy (shh, don’t tell). However, Barry Medenbach and Bill Eggers are wonderful bosses, and I have learned so much – too much,

-Compiled by Jeff Slater, BSP Reporter

BSP Corrections In the story in the May 6 edition, “Panel on military women features two Accord neighbors,” Elaine Laflamme did not make the quotes attributed to her in the story.

They were paraphrased comments from segments of the presentation and should not have been printed as direct quotes in the story. BlueStone Press apologizes for the error.

In the calendar section of the May 6 BlueStone Press, the listing for Marbletown Seniors meetings and trips noted that “all meetings are held at, and trips leave from

the Marbletown Reformed Church.” Trips do leave from and return to the Marbletown Reformed Church, but all meetings are held at the Marbletown Community Center, 3564 Main St., Stone Ridge. Trips and meetings are at two different locations. BlueStone Press apologizes for the error and has corrected it in the calendar moving forward.

In the story “CSAs gain in popularity” on page 6 in the May 6 edition, the photo caption should have read, “Kathleen Ernsting is one of the farmers at Tributary Farm,” not at Transgenerational Farm.

BlueStone Press apologies for the error.

What other hobbies or interests do you have?

Hobbies … have you read the above?

Two jobs, run marathons and most of my family lives nearby … no time for anything else.

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BlueStone Press, May 20, 2022, Page 3

Tires, Tires, Tires.

Housing committee presents findings Affordable housing a major local problem Brooke Stelzer BSP Reporter The Marbletown Town Board meeting was held in person Tuesday, May 17, at the Rondout Municipal Center, 1925 Lucas Turnpike, Cottekill, and streamed on Facebook Live. Board members present in person included Rich Parete, chairman and town supervisor, along with Don LaFera, Tim Hunt, Daisy Foote and Ken Davenport.

Three members of the Marbletown Housing Committee presented its initial research and actionable road map to the Town Board. The Housing Committee was established in late 2021 to examine, research and present options and solutions to the affordable housing crisis in Marbletown. Vincent Martello, Marian Martinez and Bob Capelletti joined via Zoom for the presentation.

“The issue of affordable housing is a complex issue, it has a lot of components and moving parts. We’re framing it in a way that breaks it down into manageable components that we can wrap our minds around,” said Martello.

“Our goal is to make sure that we’re providing short- and long-term recommendations to address the complex needs.

The idea is that it will serve everyone in the town, for both rental and home ownership. We’re looking at the whole picture and what’s best for the community,” said Martinez.

Some of the plans may include zoning changes that allow for more variety and flexibility for housing, multiple funding options, hiring a planner to develop a zoning plan that also incorporates conservation, regulations for short-term rentals, and clear criteria for stand-alone building projects.

The committee is working to refine a website and will begin to engage the public in the coming months.

The committee outlined several needs that require attention in Marbletown. The first is general affordability of housing, with the goal that residents don’t spend more than 30% of their median income on housing. In Marbletown, there is also a need for senior housing. The homes in the area are also old – over 60% of homes in Ulster County were built before 1970. With most homes in need of maintenance and renovations every 25-50 years, residents on fixed incomes cannot afford to make

these upgrades. There is also not enough housing being built to meet demand, which includes both affordable and market-rate homes. And lastly, there is limited housing variety in the area, as most homes are single-family.

“There’s no one tool that is going to solve this problem – there are many tools that will need to be deployed – ranging from flexibility in housing types, incentives, zoning, funding mechanisms, tweaking our existing law with respect to affordability,” said Martello.

Currently, Marbletown law states that if 19 or more lots or units are built, at least 10% of the units have to be designated as affordable. “That means that if tomorrow morning a developer comes in and wants to do 18 units, none of them have to be affordable. That 10%, in my opinion, is unacceptably low, given the current housing crisis,” said Martello.

The current law uses a formula to calculate affordability. To be eligible to purchase or rent an affordable unit, the household’s aggregate annual income must be between 80% and 120% of the Ulster County median family income.

In 2019, the Ulster County median household income was $64,304, and the Marbletown median household income was $74,357. In 2021, the median rent for a two-bedroom home in Ulster County was $1,600. The median income required to afford median rent in 2021 was $64,000. In 2021, the median home purchase price in Ulster County was $349,900, while Marbletown’s was $460,000. The median income required to afford that median purchase price was $107,100 in Ulster County and $141,000 in Marbletown. “The takeaway is that puts homeownership completely out of reach for median income households, currently,” said Martinez.

The Marbletown Housing Committee is researching populations to hone in on who needs affordable housing the most, which includes seniors, students, single-income families and workforce.

They’re also researching how many units and percentage of growth the town can absorb. In Marbletown, residents aged 6584 are the fastest growing population. The challenges seniors face includes finding downsized options and facing higher taxes and maintenance costs on their properties, which fixed incomes don’t cover.

In 2021, Martello noted that there were zero available rental units on MLS in Marbletown.

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Page 4, May 20, 2022, BlueStone Press

Board of education vote results Amber Kelly BSP Reporter The Board of Education election on Tuesday May 17 had four seats up for election. Term of office is three years. The following board positions expire on June 30, 2022, and need to be filled: term of Elissa Jury, term of Christopher DePew, term of Dawn Van Kleeck, and the one-year term of Breanna Casey, who resigned, expiring June 30, 2023. Candidates for the Board

of Education must be at least 18 years old, literate, qualified voters in the Rondout Valley Central School District, and must have been residents of the District continuously for one year before the election.

Petitions nominating candidates for the office of member of the Board of Education of the Rondout Valley Central School District were available online at Rondout. k12.ny.us and at the District Office, Kyserike Road, Accord, beginning on Friday, March 18, 2022. Completed petitions, with the sig-

natures of 25 qualified District voters, had to be filed with the Clerk of the District no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, April 18, 2022.

The only name on the ballot was board president Dawn Van Kleeck. The three other positions to vote on were blank. Several local individuals scrambled to let contacts know about their interest in serving on the board. With all the write-in ballots, it took extra time to count all the votes. The results of the vote came in at about 8 p.m.: Dawn Van Kleeck received 611votes; Christine

Kelder, 199; Dr. Alan Roberts, 161, and Dean Rylewicz, 107.

On Wednesday May 18, RVSD announced a big thank you to the Rondout Valley community members who participated in the school budget vote and school board election, saying that the school budget passed with a vote of 681 to 279, and the proposition to establish a Capital Reserve passed with a vote of 657 to 295.

The 2022-2023 budget passed by voters is $71,481,896.

D&H Museum's grand opening is June 18 Emily Reina Dindial BSP Reporter The new D&H Canal Museum and Bienstock Family Mid-Hudson Visitor Center will officially open on June 18.

The museum is located in the historic stone house at 1315 Route 213 in High Falls.

The building, built in 1797, originally operated as an inn and tavern for people traveling and working on the Delaware and Hudson Canal. It was most recently operating as John Novi’s critically acclaimed DePuy Canal House Restaurant before being acquired by the D&H Canal Society in 2015.

The Canal Society received both public and private funding to help make the purchase and restoration of the building possible.

After several years of work, the renovations are expected to be near completion within the next few weeks.

The executive board has worked hard to acquire and display unique and educational pieces. About 80% of the exhibits will feature new content and collections not previously displayed in the old museum.

Exhibits have been updated to include video, audio and interactive components to facilitate active learning for all ages,

Allan Bowdery, William Merchant, Courtney Conte, Jack Braunlein, Brenda Hoff, Peter Bienstock and Kevin Zraly outside the museum. Photo by Emily Reina Dindial

such as a working lock model. Historian Bill Merchant has made a concerted effort to highlight the often overlooked roles of immigrants, women, children and people of color in the creation and functioning of the canal. The sculpture outside of the museum depicts a young girl walking with

a mule, created by Hudson Valley artist Annie O’Neill. Stories of marginalized workers are especially challenging to tell because they are less frequently recorded. Still, the D&H Canal Society has managed to capture some, including that of a Black captain and a female hoggee (mule driver).

Beyond the exhibits, the building itself is something to marvel at. The rooms include original woodwork and cabinetry. Even the paint colors have been thoughtfully selected to preserve the authenticity and historic integrity of the space. Each room spotlights a different characteristic of the original building.

In planning for the opening, the board is thinking about how to get people to keep coming back. The vision is to use the museum and visitor center as a community space for events and cultural programming. The visitor center will house a comprehensive digital concierge service with information about hundreds of local attractions categorized by location and activity type, complete with maps and QR codes. The concierge service is designed to benefit everyone from first-time visitors to seasoned residents. In addition, the indoor and outdoor space will be available to rent for private events. There will also be a gift shop with goods from local artists.

The museum will be open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free.

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Page 6, May 20, 2022, BlueStone Press

School district back in full swing with after-school clubs and performances Amber Kelly BSP Reporter The May 10 meeting of the Rondout Valley School District Board of Education began with appreciations. Superintendent Dr. Joseph Morgan said, “The first thing I’d like to do is recognize our school nurses for all the hard work they do every day and night, 24/7, 365 days a year. Thank you for all those text messages and phone calls and keeping me up to date.”

BOE president Dawn VanKleeck called up each nurse to thank them with a gift basket.

Next the Rondout Valley Education Foundation gave a PowerPoint presentation on its current efforts, which include giving 11 grants, with $13,600 in total value, this school year. At Kerhonkson Elementary School, for example, $425 was given for a project-based learning experience on animals in the third-grade classroom. In the past, teachers had to pay for all their own supplies, but the grant covered that expense. Also at Kerhonkson a $90 grant provided for nifty “alternative seating,” originally ordered to meet Covidbased space requirements for holding “circle time” on the rug. Funding for phonetic tools and trips to the Bronx zoo are other types of grants provided. The aim of RVEF

Housing from page 3 Martinez presented the lack of housing type options in Marbletown, such as duplexes, fourplexes, courtyard buildings, townhomes and larger multiplexes.

More housing options would come in at different price points, benefiting the larger population.

“Our zoning laws are the biggest hurdle to allowing different housing options,” said Parete. “The accessory dwelling law was a good first step, but we need to allow

is to fill in the gaps, but it needs need help to do it. Field trip funding is available if applied for in advance.

Funding for the RVEF comes from many sources, including community efforts, like the upcoming event at Arrowood Farms on May 26, where a portion of the proceeds go to the foundation. Last year, for another example, the High Falls Food Coop held a round-up fundraiser, where customers rounded up from their total purchase and donated the difference. The RVEF is hoping to do that again. Fundraising for the school concession stand continues, too, with $8,000 raised out of $20,000 total goal.

“Next up on the agenda is the agreement between Rondout Valley Federation of Teachers and School Related Professionals (RVF) and the Board of Education,” said Morgan. The contract was approved.

Board member Lucy VanSickle said, “I have a letter here from Daryl Schoonmaker, who is an instrumental music teacher, and he writes, ‘On Friday and Saturday, April 22 and 23, 41 students from Rondout Valley from the fifth- and sixth-grade band chose to attend the annual New York State Music Association solo ensemble festival at Kingston High School. This year more than half the students who attended this received the top rating. Even more impres-

sive, 13 of the 41 students who performed got a perfect score on their solo.’”

Student board member Emily Bordalone gave her report, saying, “Out of the high school, right now our Human Rights Club is getting ready for our annual fundraiser called ‘On the trail for social justice’ with the Environmental Club, and it is going to happen this Sunday, May 15, 1-4 p.m. at the Rail Trail Café, and the event is co-sponsored by Amnesty International in Hudson. Our high school Art Club is also working on projects for around the school just to liven up the building. Our World Languages Club is planning the rest of our meetings for the year tomorrow. Our school is currently running a supply drive through June 10 for free Ukraine with the Ukrainian American News Association for Hudson Valley, and the fliers and collection boxes can be found at the high school, and digitally. The school is having its annual plant sale for the last day on May 14.”

Andrew Davenport, principal of Marbletown Elementary, said, “Our third-grade drama did a poetry performance that was really kind of our first performance open to the public in a long, long time.

That was at the beginning of March. Also in March we had focus on mindfulness and self-control. We had kindergarten orientation, and the teachers did a great

job with that. We also did garden cleanup in April thanks to the parents in the PTA. Our gardens were very nice a few years ago, but between the pandemic and construction going on, that back area kind of turned into a jungle, and it is very much a garden now. Thanks to a grant written by local police officer, a wheelchair-accessible garden is being installed. David Levine will be working on modeling restorative practices, and the kids are having a lot of fun with that. We have our after-school story hour for incoming kindergarten students. We had teacher appreciation week last week, and our PTA did a wonderful job of supporting our teachers; they had breakfast, lunch, different things for them.

Our third graders from Kerhonkson and Marbletown will be going down to the intermediate school.

“We have concerts starting next week,” Davenport said. “Thursday is the firstgrade concert at Marbletown, and the following week, on Wednesday, May 25, is the second-grade concert at Marbletown. Our students are practicing for their Vanaver performance, May 23, in the auditorium of the high school. After-school programs we’ve got up and running … garden club, painting club, park and field hockey, so a lot going on.”

multi-family, duplex and triplexes. We need an affordable housing requirement for subdivisions. Other than our health, having a safe and affordable place to live is the most important thing in our lives. Affordable is a different number for everyone.

“Senator Hinchey understands the magnitude of the housing crisis. The state can help by allowing a transfer tax that allows municipalities to invest in sustainable housing,” said Parete.

The board and the committee agreed to start to build upon findings and continue to provide recommendations that can be implemented easily, allowing the board to

take incremental action.

“The work you’re doing for us, in really summarizing what we know already and what we need to know, is very helpful,” said councilman Hunt. “Maybe someone’s even going to have a development proposal that we aren’t anticipating, and we have to make decisions about that, and the more armed we are, the data you’re providing us, that will help us. The low-hanging fruit is certainly zoning, and we know we have a lot of revision to do to the zoning. Also, preservation is looking at it, and other planners are looking at our zoning. The other piece is, because you work with the county as well, the more

we’re aware of what’s going on for county planning and how we can tap into that, we should be ready for that as well.”

“I would start looking at these zoning changes and what we can start doing as a board right now,” said Foote.

“The way to get to affordable housing is incremental steps that allows more people to be involved. So if I’m a homeowner, I can build an ADU [accessory dwelling unit], or maybe I can subdivide my house into a duplex. It has to be a plan for everyone, so that is the goal,” said Martinez.

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Innovative market to open May 29 at Stone Ridge Orchard Anne Pyburn Craig BSP Reporter Coming to Rondout Valley this Memorial Day weekend – and every Sunday after that – is a brand new market that its founder hopes will become a weekly celebration of food and community. The Stone Ridge Farmers and Makers Market will showcase a variety of vendors and their unique selection of handcrafted and farm fresh products that highlight the very best of the Hudson Valley. Elizabeth Ryan of Ryan Hudson Valley Farmhouse Cider and Stone Ridge Orchard is hosting and organizing the market, taking place at Stone Ridge Orchard on Sundays rain or shine from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. through Dec. 18. Opening day will happen Sunday, May 29, and feature a ribbon-cutting by the Ulster County Chamber of Commerce. Ryan, an award-winning, lifelong farmer and cider master who now operates six farms, has been founding and selling at markets for decades and says that being on private property will provide crucial amenities and allow management and vendors more flexibility.

“Most markets, you get in the truck and drive for hours to sell for a few hours in a parking lot with no bathroom, water or electricity and no storage or infrastructure, no opportunity to cook or prepare anything on site,” she says. “And even under the current conditions, farmers markets are our modern day agora, the center of the community where you get to see neighbors and hear the latest. Doing this on my own farm allows us to expand the concept and offer the opportunity to other vendors to evolve farmers market 2.0 together. “ The on-site processing and demonstration kitchen will be run by chef Charles Cameron, a Catskills native who graduated the Culinary Institute in 1995 and spent a couple of decades cooking at Florida hotels and resorts. “I’ve always been interested in farm-to-table food,” Cameron says. “I grew up a little past Woodstock, going to farmers markets in little Catskills villages, and to be back around that energy is amazing.” Ryan and Cameron hope to begin offering farm breakfasts and farm-to-table pasta along with strawberry-rhubarb pies and “quiche from our very own eggs,” Ryan says.

Being located on private property also means the market will be able to welcome home gardeners as well as foragers and their findings “It’s the end of the season for ramps and fiddleheads, and we’ll have native watercress,” says Ryan. “There may or may not be mushrooms; mushrooms are unpredictable. And we have an absolutely terrific meat guy coming.”

Ryan’s also excited to be welcoming certified organic wares from Hepworth Farms in Marlboro. “Amy (Hepworth) and I were classmates at Cornell, and her family’s been in farming for 200 years; she grew up in this work. My own mother grew up on a farm in Iowa through the Depression; I spent summers there, and I saw the transition from a diversified family farm where they could make everything they needed to 6,000 acres of corn and wheat.”

Though her mother never romanticized the profession (“They had no water or electricity; it was a massive workload.

She used to say, ‘We made our own soap, and it wasn’t very nice,’” recalls Ryan), the whole experience fueled a passion for keeping farms alive. To that end, she says,

Ducks under an apple tree at Stone Ridge Orchard

she’s made “significant investments” – her newest purchase is Adair Vineyards in New Paltz.

“We have a 100-year plan and we’re committed to saving farms, keeping local agriculture vibrant, participatory, expan-

sive, delicious and sustainable, and embracing the entire food chain,” Ryan says.

“We also plan to expand our involvement with food pantries; we want to make sure surplus goes to people who need it.”

Plans for themed markets include a grain market, sheep and wool, permaculture and a June celebration of women in agriculture. Monthly events will highlight various foods, with special guest chefs taking to the prep kitchen to demonstrate delectable dishes. And Ryan is hoping that potential vendors will enjoy having storage and prep facilities on site – not to mention bathrooms, water, electricity and flexible management. “We hope to relieve some of the pressure that the typical farmers market puts on vendors,” she says. “We founded the first Hudson Valley market in Millbrook and got them started in several other towns; now it’s time to take the concept to the next level.”

The market is co-sponsored by the Hudson Valley Center for Food & Agriculture, a collective endeavor founded by Ryan that is “fiercely dedicated to saving farms, creating community, uplifting the hands that grow our food and preserving our planet and the astonishing ecosystem that supports us.”

“We kid around and say we want to save everything – even the humans,” says Ryan.

“We have a 100-year plan.”

Stop over on May 29 for a cup of great coffee and a slice of pie, and/or to enjoy the onsite cidery’s offerings and stock your larder for the week. For more information or to become a vendor, call 845-687-2587 or visit srfmm.com.

Memorial Day plans Marbletown parade route changed The Town of Marbletown Veterans Committee, the Stone Ridge Fire Company and the Town of Marbletown announce the 2022 Memorial Day Parade. This year’s parade route has been changed in the hopes that more residents have a place to watch the parade. The lineup will be at 9:30 a.m., at the Stone Ridge Town Centre, 3853 Main St., with the parade stepping off at 10 a.m. and ending at the Marbletown Community Center, 3564 Main St.,where the Memorial Service will be held immediately following the parade. Refreshments will be served.

Veterans, young and old, are always needed as members to help keep this tradition and others going strong. Contact the Veterans Committee at marbletown.net for information.

Rosendale The Town of Rosendale/Tillson American Legion Post 1219 will be hosting its annual Memorial Day parade and service to honor veterans on Monday, May 30.

Step-off will be at 10 a.m. at the Tillson Firehouse, 5 Tillson Road. The parade will continue through Rosendale and finish with a service at 11 a.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, at the intersection of Main Street and Route 32 in Rosendale. Grand marshal of the event is WWII veteran Hal Sampson, who will turn 100 on July 24. For info, contact John Nelson, First Vice Commander of American Legion Post 1219, at 845-3393087 or 914-388-4218.

Town of Rochester Participants of the parade will line up at 12:30 p.m., Memorial Day, Monday, May 30, on Route 209, just past Saunderskill, Accord. The parade route is from Rosencrans to the Accord Firehouse. The Town of Rochester will hold a ceremony commemorating those who have given their lives in service of their country, following the parade, at 2 p.m., at Veterans Park, 50 Scenic Road, Accord. All are invited to attend. Local clubs and organizations are welcome to join in the parade by contacting the Accord Fire District at 845-626-2231.

Page 8, May 20, 2022, BlueStone Press

Briefs Virtual Holistic Healthcare Week online Zoom video and telephone sessions Holistic Health Community of Stone Ridge will offer its Virtual Holistic Healthcare Week, Monday-Friday, May 23-27, via Zoom.

All sessions must be booked online.

Patients should make an appointment for one session only so the maximum number of people may benefit. To make an appointment, go to http://hhcny.simplybook.me. Once the appointment is made, all information will be sent to the practitioner, and then they will contact each patient. The Holistic Health Community Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit, charitable corporation. Visit their website to donate and for more information about the Holistic Health Community, its practitioners, and the modalities offered at holistichealthcommunity.org or call 845-867-7008.

Town announces special meeting of Vly-Atwwod Fire District The Town of Marbletown has issued a public notice that there will be a special meeting of the Vly-Atwood Fire District Board of Fire Commissioners at 3 p.m.

Sunday, May 22, at the Vly-Atwood Fire Station, 172 Vly-Atwood Road, Stone Ridge.

Spotted lanternfly free virtual webinar Join the community virtually 2-3 p.m., Tuesday, May 24, for a free invasive species webinar on spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula). This invasive plant hopper poses a serious threat to the region’s grape and fruit operations and hardwood tree species. A panel of regional experts will share the latest updates, how to help slow the spread and mitigate the risk to property.

Speakers include John Thompson, Catskill Regional Invasive Species Partnership (CRISP) director; Jim O’Connell, senior ag resource educator with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ulster County; Brian Eshenaur, senior Extension associate for Cornell University’s Integrated Pest Management Program; and Zach Waltz, director of operations for Waltz Vineyards Estate Winery in Manheim, Pennsylvania.

Register at https://reg.cce.cornell.edu/ Lanternfly2022_210.

Hotel proposal, Hasbrouck House application before planning board Amber Kelly BSP Reporter At the May 9 meeting of the Town of Marbletown Planning Board the first agenda item was a new application for a minor subdivision at 13-14 Waters Drive in Stone Ridge by Albert Waters and Clark Waters.

Agent Nick Brown said, “This is a property that has two separate living quarters, and it has been that way for years. The father is 94 and consolidating. Clark lives in New Mexico, and basically, they’ve decided to split the property right down the driveway, make it two separate properties that they could publicly sell.”

Board chairman Paris Perry said, “Classify as a type II SEQRA, check they have deed access and right of way 500 feet from the highway.”

The application was accepted and the public hearing set for June 13.

Next up was Hardenburgh Hills. “The public hearing is open, and Dan [Proctor] is the point person on that one,” Perry said.

Proctor said, “OK, there are only a few actions we have left to do. We’ve gone from 18 lots down to eight larger lots.

We got all the documents that we need to see … we have some concern with the proximity of primary septic to an adjacent lot 3, and our resolution of that was to shift primary and secondary. I think it’s been taken care of.”

Tracey Kellogg, town attorney, said, “Do you want to reclassify this as a lot line?”

Planning administrator Shawn Marks said, “This had been classified by our board as a subdivision, not a lot line adjustment.”

“A point of order for clarification,” said Marks. “Let’s call this ‘NevelHaus of Stone Ridge Major Subdivision’ as it is no longer connected.”

The motions passed, to both approve the resolution and close the public hearing.

Next on the agenda was the public hearing for 4321 Route 209 site plan application for hotel, assembly buildings, and infrastructure. Perry said, “First we are going to go through all the facts for a potential partial approval, if we want that and accept that, but it would still have to come back to the Planning Board for the final. What we heard last month was that it’s in the process of finalizing locations, and the housing. We can’t go to approval because the map might show something 110 feet from center line, but it might be 115. We want to make sure all the facts are there. We will start with part three with approval conditional. The public hearing will remain beyond this one.”

According to the new owners, DOT prefers the driveway where it is proposed because it sort of forms an intersection because it is directly across from Lydia’s entrance. Drivers can become conditioned to expect turns in either direction.

DOT was more concerned with the faster traffic coming from Accord, and the line of sight is long there, so the suggested oneway in and one-way out won’t be necessary. Responding to questions regarding the potential need for flaggers to help

traffic during big events, their experience has shown that flaggers are needed to help arrivals, but not after dark for departures.

Board member Sharon Klein asked about big, heavy trucks entering the site.

The owners said, “During construction, yes, but other than that, catering and deliveries tend to be from small box trucks.

Perry said, “The entrance is going to be at the top of the hill instead of the bottom. This is a B-2 district, guys. This is a high-end, low-impact venture. Most of the accidents on that road are people turning right onto County Route 2 without signals, and they get crushed.”

Shawn said, “That is a rough spot down in there. The tractor trailers tend to get wiped out – that was the gripe about this intersection.”

During public comment it was pointed out that on the application the buildings are listed as one hotel and one accessory, not three buildings. The hotel design is two buildings, which accomplishes the maximum possible square footage of 4,000. The only power the Planning Board has over this is in granting the waiver, which in this case would be for design of maximum size, which is inappropriate. A precedent was set in Casey versus Town of Arietta, where the plaintiff asserts that the lay applicants may not understand how to label their requests; zoning officers are not bound by the applicants’ characterizations and should broadly review applications.

This application does not cover two of the

proposed uses: special food services and drinking places.

Perry continued to the next item. “All right … Hasbrouck House,” he said. “We were going to close the public hearing last month, and then we had gotten ninthhour information. So, what I’d like to do is have a little board discussion. We have looked at it and reviewed what was presented to us. What was mentioned in the details of it was removal of 10% of forestry, reduced 5% pollinators with 4 acres of disturbance.”

Discussion went around about the pollinators, remembering how the board has requested that pollinator plants be included at Emmanuel’s, but realizing the board does not want to reopen the SEQRA, in addition and in effect go backward.

Kellogg explained that open space designation means the land is not developed, but left to nature. Each of the six land owners has a portion of acreage designated as open space. This increases the lot size but it is also deeded accessible by other lot owners. No homeowners association (HOA) is required, and it is possible that a trail could be installed if agreed upon.

They cannot clear the land because it is part of the conservation overlay.

The board voted to close the public hearing and approve the resolution.

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Land from page 1 ate really well in early succession [barberry, autumn olive, multiflora rose, etc., so-called invasive exotics]. From all the deforestation, we’ve set the stage for these weed species to be doing so well. These are light-loving species. When you get into deep, dark forests with natives being predominant, you won’t find them at all … The big composer of the orchestra on Planet Earth is light,” Faust said.

Many "invasives" have their uses. "Paper, medicine, and all kinds of things that right now we make from synthetics – a lot of that could actually come from these plants.

From a permaculture standpoint, it’s a missed opportunity. If we’re going to cut down all these plants maybe we could be doing something beneficial with them."

Japanese knotweed, for instance, may be a source of a potent medicine for Lyme disease. Though most landowners think of autumn olive as a weed, according to Faust it enhances the soil, produces edible berries, and provides habitat for songbirds.

Purple loosestrife, an oft-maligned import cleans up polluted water.

Weed species from all over the world are doing very well in these degraded landscapes. They are rebuilding soil and biomass and creating the foundation for the later-successional species to recover – as long as some intact vestiges remain and are protected.”

The trees that eventually take over, "later-successional" species, include “oak, beech, hickory, sugar maples, sycamores, hemlock … and an understory of stuff like the water beech, spicebush, wild shrubs (none of the introduced exotics).” If you have an oak tree in your yard that's being crowded by, say, barberry or grapevines, you can clear space around its trunk to give it an advantage. “We can accelerate succession by finding later-successional species that are trying to get a toehold.”

Back to the project at hand. The Ashokan Center, a nonprofit that hosts all kinds of gatherings, was once a dairy farm. "Here, we’re trying to reclaim a whole meadow-edge and take it back to the historic feature of the stone wall. Do we plant a tree, do we plant berries, create a yard? In permaculture we call it matching people’s goals with the ecological realities of the site." Faust is also a realist about getting the job done, and the necessity of using fossil-fuel-powered tools. Indicating the tangled wild hedgerow behind him, he asked, "Do I want to get a bunch of laborers to hack away at this, or am I just going to get an excavator?…I would love to see it all gone in one afternoon."

And after it's cleared, someone asked him, “What do you do with this area – do you rake it? Do you let the mugwort or whatever come back? Do you try to introduce something that is mowable?” Faust said, “You’d be surprised. You just clean it up enough to start brush-hogging it, to chop up those little stumps; then you come in later that season and mow it, and it’ll transition to grass. The only reason you end up with the mugwort [etc.] is if you don’t mow it.”

“So choose your battles wisely," Faust concluded. Don’t try to eradicate huge swaths of autumn olive, or your crew “will get burned out and demoralized.” Instead, decide where is it you really want them gone, “and where is it not in your way? We want to think about that before we exert a bunch of time and labor.”

"I think it’s important to recognize that people want to do something to make the world a better place,” Faust said, but you want to make it count. “Is it environmentally meaningful to be removing exotic invasives? In the modern age, it’s something for each of us to think about … where is our personal power to influence positive change?”

Rochester Planning Board makes progress on six applications Discussion of building moratorium and accessory apartments Ann Belmont BSP Reporter The Rochester Planning Board didn’t make any decisions on the six applications before it at the May 8 meeting, but each one made some progress toward approval in the months ahead.

Lucky Petroleum, the company applying to build a convenience store, a Dunkin’ Donuts and a gas station on Route 209 in Kerhonkson across from the Little League field, had its required SEQR (environmental impact) reading, the result being little to no new impacts. A public hearing was held, but there were no comments. The location had a working Chevron gas station until quite recently. Renovations to the existing 3.4-acre parcel include demolition of the existing convenience store building, construction of a new store, replacement of the old gas tanks with tanks the same size, and renovations to a two-family house. Architectural improvements to the building, pedestrian walkways, landscaping, lighting and all other details still need to be signed off on in final form by the board, probably in June. The public hearing is still open.

Gail and Andrew Kenneda, who are requesting a two-lot subdivision of their 14-acre parcel on Upper Whitfield Road into one 2-acre lot and a 12-acre lot, were told they need some clarifications on their survey map, but the board had no issues with the application and set it for a public hearing next month.

Turu Ilgen's application for a four-lot subdivision of 17.8 acres on Whitfield Road (into 6, 8, 2 and 2-acre lots) contains federally recognized wetlands and a stream. Board member Maren Lindstrom advised him to delineate all the water features, and also said, “That house in the middle of the field won’t be able to go there, it’ll have to be more toward the front.” She quoted from town zoning code: “Subdividers should avoid placing buildings in the middle of open fields," in favor of “compact clustered residential design."

Because of environmental concerns, Ilgen will need to put “at least $2,500” in escrow for the cost of a review by CPL, the town's engineering consultant.

Austin Sweeney had a proposal for

making 35 acres off Schroon Hill Road in Kerhonkson into four lots of 6.6, 15.8, 7.4, and 5.3 acres. The applicant's representative said the property is vacant, and mentioned that there are wetlands on it.

“We’re thinking of two shared driveways right now…to minimize clearcuts and disturbance," he said, but the board didn't think that was a good idea, and suggested a private road as a better option. Lindstrom said their shared driveway plan was“ a grading nightmare” because they are so steep. She also said. Lindstrom pushed for three houses instead of four and for all of them to be built closer to the road. Jones added 75% of the parcel is "core habitat", which the town would like to see preserved. Lindstrom suggested that they get a better site design, because the one they have doesn’t fit with Rochester's Comprehensive Plan. Board member Sam Zarofsky agreed, saying that they should come back with a couple more options.

Jones said, “As it is, I don’t think the board will approve this kind of disturbance of the land.” This application will also be referred to CPL and will need escrow.

“I’ll take all your comments into consideration, and I’ll be back,” said the applicant's representative.

Board member Marc Grasso recused himself from reviewing the next application, called Honeycomb Hills, because he is personally involved in the project: a four-lot subdivision of 24 acres at the end of Beehive Road, three 5-plus-acre lots and one of 7 acres. There was a lot of discussion about who should maintain a drainage swale that's planned – one of the owners of the lots, a couple of the owners, or the town. Grasso agreed to talk to the highway superintendent about that.

After application reviews, the board considered several requests for comment from the Town Board.

They voted to resubmit their letter of support for the proposed addendums to the town's Comprehensive Plan, including the Historic Resources Report, Open Space Inventory and Natural Heritage Plan.

On the land use moratorium being proposed by the Town Board, there were some questions about what to do with applications for site plan approval that come in before the moratorium takes effect. Town counsel Marylou Christiana advised that applications that have been on the agenda anytime in the last two years would be qualified for review during the moratorium.

Zarofsky said he didn’t like the idea of the moratorium. “The way this is writ-

ten is really confusing,” he said, and why an exemption for zoning redistricting applications? All the waivers and exemptions listed seemed very cumbersome, he said. Every waiver application would get a public hearing, with a 90-day turnaround, regardless of whether it had any merit. He said finally, "I support the zoning changes, but I oppose the moratorium as it’s written.”

No other board member opposed it, though Grasso remarked that "if the board had passed the zoning changes when they were recommended 16 months ago, it wouldn’t be necessary.” They agreed to send the town a letter of support but to include Zarofsky’s reservations.

On the proposed Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) law, there was a pretty wide range of opinion among the members.

Jones wanted the maximum size to be lower than proposed. Grasso was opposed to allowing any ADUs in a historic district or business district, opposed the law's requirement for a minimum size for them, but went further than Jones on maximum size, saying they should be “10% less than the smallest manufactured home you can buy” to avoid people just plunking a singlewide down and calling it an ADU. “That’s my opinion.” He was also vehemently opposed to renting them out, assuming that the purpose of the law is to accommodate family members.

Lindstrom complained that the current version of the law is unclear about a number of things, like what an ADU is defined as, how big as compared to the main dwelling. It has to be clearly smaller “or you’re defeating the purpose.” Also, what happens when property changes hands?

Finally, she believed that, over time, the cumulative effect of too many ADUs would overwhelm local resources. Jones worried that it would change the character of the community.

Mostly, the board members seemed to favor 35% of the square footage of the main house or 900 square feet, whichever is smaller, as a maximum size.

Only Zarofsky wanted a more expansive law. He would do away with owner occupancy requirements, the number of allowed units per property, and any cap on size, except that the ADU be smaller than the main house.

The board’s letter will be supportive, in general, of having an ADU law, but Jones will include a lot of the board's comments.

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Athletics, recreation & fitness

May 20, 2022

Rondout boys lacrosse team gets two big wins, gaining momentum heading into Sectionals Jeff Slater BSP Reporter “Our team doesn’t quit no matter what the situation, we have a lot of heart. We trust our coaches and each other. Like Coach Tocco says, ‘It takes skill and hard work,’” said Johnny Soi, team captain and leading goal scorer.

And this team has heart after two come-from-behind wins, one against John O’Neil High School, the other against Kingston. The Kingston game was the annual Danny Barnes game, named in memory of the son of former Rondout teacher Bob Barnes.

Coach Tony Tocco said, “This game is very emotional for me. Danny was a player for me when I was coaching at Kingston.

It draws big crowds and always is exciting.

We hadn’t won the game since 2015. The game had four lead changes. Going into the last 5 minutes, we were down by 3. We managed to tie the game with 30 seconds left. The game went into overtime, and it ended just 28 seconds into the overtime period with Johnny Soi knocking down a goalie outlet pass, finishing with the ball

Johnny Soi moments after scoring game-winning goal against Kingston. Photo by Teresa Carlucci

in the back of the net. This stands out as one of the top two in my 35-year coaching career.”

The team has a 8-6 win/loss record and begins the Section 9 playoffs on May 23, probably being a No. 2 seed.

Tocco continued, “I attribute the team’s success to our programs culture. We embrace the idea of developing strong character, that you are a human being longer than you are a lacrosse player. We

emphasize daily that you take care of the people around you first, not your own needs. Self-sacrifice, hard work and dedication carries the day.”

The team is led by Soi, Connor Slinsky and eighth-grader Jack Stewart. Defensive standouts are senior captain Josh Neuman, Trey Cimino, a senior, and Tyson Meade and Luke Ospina.

Tocco said, “ The team has jelled as a unit. We have a light bench of 30 players, all productive members of the team. We have two eighth graders and one freshman – Jack Stewart, Tristan Post and Andrew Dingman; all three play major rolls. Also … these guys do everything together and always have. Wing night is a weekly event.”

Connor Slinsky said, “We work together, play together and eat together. We do everything as a team, which makes this team so special.”

Josh Neuman echoed his sentiment.

“We strive to play to the best of our ability no matter what the obstacle. As a team we win and lose together,” he said.

“I am so impressed with their efforts, comradery and the support they give each other.” In terms of how far they can go. “With the no-quit attitude this team demonstrated last week? As far as they believe,” said Tocco.

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Page 12, May 20, 2022, BlueStone Press

Memoriam David L. Fletcher

HURLEY—David L. Fletcher, a former longtime resident, died April 25, 2022, at Golden Hill Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Kingston. He was 95. In 1922, nine months after Valentine's Day, David L. Fletcher, son of Victor and Kay Fletcher, was born. Five years later, his parents produced a playmate, Geoffrey Fletcher, now residing in Feura Bush. America won the war in spite of David's enlistment in the Army after graduating from Kingston High School. Then, having learned to spell Rensselaer Polytechnic Fletcher Institute, he received his baccalaurate degree from that temple of learning.

He shared his life with three remarkable women. Martha Stehli gave him a son, Eric Fletcher, who now resides in Oceanside, California. Janet Temple brought two sons, Barry Temple (of San Marcos, California) and Steven Temple (of Pepperell, Massachusetts) to his second marriage and worked with him in his photography studio where he made albums and portraits that grace many Hudson Valley homes. After 33 beautiful years, Janet died.

David then spent many years with his loving companion, Charlotte Harkness (died 2/24/2014), and continued to ski, play tennis and garden until the weeds defeated him. That's all, folks! As per David's wish there will be no funeral services. George J. Moylan Funeral Home Inc., Rosendale, assisted the family with cremation arrangements. (www.GJMoylanFuneralHome.com)

Diane Smith

TILLSON—Diane Smith, a lifelong resident of Tillson, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2022, in the arms of her beloved family. Diane was born on Dec. 6, 1950, to the late Henry and Doris Bagley in Kingston. Upon graduation from Kingston High School in 1968, she attended Ulster County Community College in Stone Ridge. After retiring from UCCC after 33 years in housekeeping, she just wanted to relax and enjoy the simple things in life. She cherished her family, and being together was her favorite Smith place to be. Pet sitting her grand dogs came in close second. Diane also enjoyed her back porch where lots of memories were made, many over margaritas, all while enjoying her wind chimes. She also loved watching the hummingbirds from her porch. In addition to her parents, Diane was predeceased by siblings Douglas, Roy and Carolyn Bagley. She is survived by her loving husband, Robert, daughter Danielle Aiken and son-in-law, Dwight of Henniker, New Hampshire. “Gigi” to grandchildren Dylan Aiken of Olive Branch, Mississippi, Lauren Aiken of College Station, Texas, and Rylyn Aiken of Henniker, New Hampshire; daughter Brooke Smith of Middletown, and son Ryan Smith of Tillson. She leaves behind her several fur grandbabies, whom she also adored. Also surviving are her dear cousins, nieces and nephews, and countless neighbors and friends. A Memorial of Life Service was held at George J. Moylan Funeral Home Inc., 2053 Route 32, Rosendale, on May 13. Pastor Richard Wright officiated the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Dyson Center for Cancer in Poughkeepsie (www.nuvancehealth.org/giving). The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Dr. Mazzeo, Dr. Yousef and Dr. Papadopoulos and their staff, who took such wonderful care of her over the past two years, and her Hospice Care Team. To leave a personal condolence for her family, please visit www.GJMoylanFuneralHome.com.

Anthony Barringer ‘Tony’

OLIVEBRIDGE—Anthony “Tony” Barringer passed away on May 11, 2022. He was 84. Tony was born on Dec.10, 1937, in Kingston; he was the son of the late Floyd and Lena (Constable) Barringer. Tony was a lifelong area resident. On July 12, 1958, he married the love of his life, Janet (Calhoun) Barringer, at the Samsonville United Methodist Church and together raised their family in Olivebridge. Sadly, Janet died in 2014 after 56 beautiful years. Tony had worked for IBM in Kingston for 30+ years. After his Barringer retirement he drove a school bus and really loved doing that for the kids. Tony fixed everything for everybody; when something wasn’t working you knew to “Just call Tony.” He enjoyed hunting and fishing, he was an incredibly talented craftsman, having created beautiful pieces for all his grandchildren in his

woodworking shop. He enjoyed traveling cross country and loved stopping at the beach. Many times it was just putting the kids in the car and driving the countryside.

And he couldn’t say enough about his favorite meal at Taco Bell. He will be deeply missed by his family and all who knew him. Tony is survived by his children, Connie Rogers (Dan) of Olivebridge, and John Barringer (Lisa) of Olivebridge; his grandchildren, Cheyenne Fletcher (Ron), Eli Guillon (Gwenn), Adam Guillon (Kelly), Alice Guillon (Jared), Tyler Barringer (Danielle), Danielle Xue (Tony) and Audrey Rogers; his great-grandchildren, Aria, Avari and Tenley; his siblings, Carol Jackson, Robert Barringer, Gertrude Kaiser and Joan Warnecke; and several nieces, nephews and extended family. Besides his parents and his wife, Janet, Tony was predeceased by his brothers, Lawrence and Vincent Barringer. Visitation was held at H.B. Humiston Funeral Home, Kerhonkson, on May 17.

Services were held at the funeral home on May 18. Burial followed at Palentown Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Tony’s name to the Ronald McDonald House Charities Inc., 26345 Network Place, Chicago, IL 60673-1263 and/or to the Olive First Aid Unit, P.O. Box 151, Shokan, NY 12481. To send a personal condolence to Tony’s family, please visit humistonfuneralhome.com.

Stewart C. Lee

SAWKILL—Stewart C. Lee passed away at home Monday May 16, 2022, after a long illness. He was 71. He was born in Kingston on Nov. 3, 1950, a son of the late Stewart O. Lee and Beulah Dymond Lee. He was a lifelong employee of Colony Liquor/ Empire Merchants North, and was also a member of the Marbletown Sportsman’s Club and an avid Yankee fan.

Stew was also a Harley-Davidson owner who toured the country on his bike collecting Harley T-shirts from the various dealers along the way. Stew is survived Lee by a daughter, Mara F. Lee, and a son, Eli O. Lee, both of Kingston; his sisters, Jean Decker (Peter) of Sawkill, Carol Dubois (Charles) of Rosendale, and Frances Montalbano (Joseph) of Stone Ridge, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He is also survived by lifelong friends, Edward Nekos, Robert (Benny) Bennett, Reidar Thompson, as well as many other dear friends. In addition to his parents he was predeceased by his sister, Sharon Bilyou, and her husband, James, and also by his brother, George Lee, and his wife, Laneeta. At Stew’s request there will be no services.

Memorial donations may be made to Hudson Valley Hospice, 400 Aaron Court, Kingston, NY 12401, who made it possible for him to spend his last months at home being cared for by his loving family. George J. Moylan Funeral Home, Rosendale, is assisting the family with cremation arrangements. (www.GJMoylanFuneralHome.com)

Elizabeth (Libby) Montagno

SHANDAKEN—Elizabeth (Libby) Montagno died unexpectedly on May 3, 2022, at Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla. She was 70. She was born Feb. 23, 1952, in Kingston to the late Kenneth C. Cole and Lois Coddington Cole. Libby grew up in Marbletown and attended Rondout Valley Central schools. In addition to her mother of Lake Katrine, she is survived by her husband, Randolph Montagno of Shandaken; her son, Scott Van Laer (wife Michale) of Ray Brook; and her brother, Kenneth Cole (wife Barbara) of Marbletown. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Phoebe and Clancy, both of Ray Brook, and several nephews, their children, and many cousins. Burial will be private in North Marbletown

Where will you Rest in Peace?

KRUMVILLE CEMETERY Beautiful, serene, country setting in Town of Olive

Cemetery at a later date. George J. Moylan Funeral Home of Rosendale is assisting the family with arrangements.

Jolan Vitek

COTTEKILL—Jolan Vitek, a longtime resident of Cottekill and Rosendale, passed peacefully surrounded by her loving son and husband of 64 years, Viktor Vitek Sr., at Westchester Medical Center on May 11, 2022. She was 81.

Born on Nov. 27, 1940, in Hungary, Jolan was one of seven children – five brothers and two sisters. At the age of 16, she started the moving process to get to the United States. After spending two years in Austria, she finally made it to the U.S. at the age of 18, where she spent time with her father, aunt and uncle. Shortly after arriving in New Jersey, she met her Vitek forever love, Viktor. Little did they know, not only would they be lifelong partners, they’d be great parents, the most loving and supportive grandparents, important influences on many, and most importantly, best friends who did everything together.

After marrying in 1958, they moved to Dover, N.J., to start a family. Having always been a woman of many talents and occupations, Jolan spent her time cooking delicious Hungarian meals, sewing outfits for her and her family, and occasionally impressing people with her dance moves at Hungarian picnics. Her family and culture have always been very important to her. You may know it now as the Rosendale Café, but once upon a time, in 1970, it was the Rosendale Liquor Store, owned, operated and lived in by the Vitek family for six years. Jolan worked at Deising’s Bakery and numerous department stores, where she strived to support her family. In 1976, Jolan and her family moved to their brand new home in Cottekill, where countless memories have been made since then. She has shared her love for cooking with her granddaughter, Lili, where she would teach her the art of Hungarian cuisine, and started a tradition of baking the most amazing homemade Thanksgiving apple pies. On the other hand, Lili shared her love for spontaneity with her grandma, where she let Lili color a strip of her hair bright red, which she later received many compliments on for being “the coolest grandma anyone had ever seen!” Jolan and her grandson, Odin, shared an immense love for animals and he would go over to their home daily to sit and play with Jolan and Viktor’s kittens. Jolan loved her family more than anything, and her grandchildren were her world, often offering them anything she could if it meant putting a smile on their faces. Not only did she love her family, but she loved her community as well, being recognized and loved by many when she and Viktor would go on drives. It doesn’t matter who you were, Jolan would find the good in you, and make friends with anyone she could.

She is survived by her husband, Viktor, her son, Laszlo, and his wife, Kerri, and her grandchildren, Lili and Odin, all residing in Cottekill. Jolan is predeceased by her son Viktor Vitek Jr. in 2015.

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May 6, 2022

Local money, local ideas

Page 13

A friend of the deli is a friend of mine American Beauty Deli and Market opens in High Falls Chelsea Miller BSP Reporter On April 1, the doors to American Beauty Deli and Market opened in the former High Falls Deli space in High Falls. Owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Paul and Laura Curran, the deli is serving up classics and as well as options for slightly more adventurous palates seven days from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. And for those in the know, they just might find tiny homages to the Grateful Dead all around them.

Paul Curran was raised in Wappingers Falls and found his way into the area as so many before him have – via the Gunks. He has been coming to the area to climb since 1976, and in 1989 he took a job as a park ranger.

He was stationed at Split Rock, a Mohonk Preserve spot renowned for rushing waters, stunning trails, and – if you find the right stretch of water – a hot spot for skinny dippers. After a few years on the job, Curran says, “I realized that rangers got paid in sunsets,” and so he became a climbing guide and started his own climbing school, which, he admits, “gets paid with a little better sunset.”

In 1997 a dance troupe from Argentina approached Curran and asked him if he could consider becoming a stagehand. “They realized it was easier to teach climbers to fly their aerial dancers than it was to train stagehands,” and Curran was up for the challenge. For the next 25 years Curran cultivated a career as an aerial flyer – i.e., the person who controls the ropes that make aerial dancers fly, and his resume includes the Broadway run of “Tarzan” as well as consulting with stadiums and arenas around the country, advising on what was possible for them to achieve on an aerial perspective and work out choreography to support whatever event they were hosting.

Concurrently, Curran continued to run his climbing school. In March of 2020, Curran was in San Diego when the pandemic changed the world. He was there working on a show called “FLY” with Jeffrey Seller (the producer of “Rent,” “Avenue Q” and “Hamilton,” to name just a few) when the world ground to a halt due to Covid-19.

Suddenly, the industry that had a large hand in sustaining Curran was indefinitely put on pause. It was during this pause that Curran and his wife began to think about new possibilities.

It just so happens that the Currans live a stone’s throw away from their new venture. As regulars of the High Falls Deli, Laura and Paul happened to have a casual conversation with Jim Petrozak (former proprietor of the High Falls Deli) and found out that he was looking to sell. This sparked an idea, and the couple began to imagine what they might do with the space. The Currans possess some serious culinary chops: Laura had successfully owned and run a restaurant at the Apple Greens Golf Course in Clintondale … and the idea of American Beauty Deli and Market began to take hold.

A deal was struck. Paul started making some calls – the first of which was to an old friend and CIA graduate who had worked in the catering division of Main Course

Husband-and-wife team Paul and Laura Curran on stage at a Dead & Company show in 2018 being spontaneously married by Michael Franti

named Robby Lawrence, who just happened to be looking for a new opportunity at a mom-and-pop venture. The Currans bought the old tables from the former Kitchenette and gave them a fresh coat of paint. Paul says, “We want the space to be a place where you want to hang out, to sit and eat.” They also began filling the space with memorabilia of their shared passion – the Grateful Dead.

Both Paul and Laura have been long time “Deadheads,” both individually and then as a couple for many years, so much so that vacations have historically been built around where the Grateful Dead happen to be touring.

When the couple married in 2018, they eloped to Mexico and, of course, attended a Grateful Dead concert that happened to have a guest star – Michael Franti.

“I was at the bar catching a round,” says Paul, “and I suddenly see my new wife on stage, and suddenly we were both on stage, and Michael Franti married us on stage.” And so, when it came time to rename the new venture, the couple looked to the Grateful Dead for inspi-

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American Beauty Deli and Market is located at 10 old Route 213 in High Falls and is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. The deli can be reached by phone at 845.687.6315 or facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ American-Beauty-Deli-103248595718076

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ration and came up with the name “American Beauty Deli and Grill.” The space is decorated with old concert ticket stubs and Grateful Dead memorabilia. Even the menu itself plays homage to the band. The menu, which spans breakfast and lunch, is what Paul describes as “classic deli,” studded with come more CIA-inspired adventurous options. Sandwiches include options such as the Row Jimmy (ham, salami, tomato, onion, provolone, oil/vinegar), Touch of Grace (Tavern ham, turkey, Swiss, lettuce, tomato, house-made pesto aioli), Scarlett Fire (roast beef, muenster cheese, roasted red peppers, house -made horseradish aioli), and Friend of Elias (hard salami, peperoni, Swiss, red onions, spicy mustard). There is daily/ weekly sandwich special, and Paul says that many of the items on the menu are house made, including soups, chicken and tuna salad, pesto and a variety of aioli).

When it came time to flesh out the market portion of the venture, the couple focused on local products such as cured meats, bacon, cheeses, maple syrup and honey that are all from within a 60-mile radius, give or take.

Since officially opening just couple weeks ago, the couple say the community response has been heartening.

Says Paul, “So far the response has been beyond positive.

We want people to be comfortable that anytime they come in they can get really good, fresh food and a place to enjoy it. So far we’re hearing that we’re meeting that goal.”

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Page 14

Letters policy Please send letters to the editor to the BlueStone Press by email at bluepress@aol. com 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 err on the side of freedom of speech in our letters, and we hope that vigorous dialogue is more likely to produce an informed public than censorship, however well meaning. Call 6874480 with questions.

Your letters, views & ideas

May 20, 2022

Tourist Season

College Connector Trail opens on Saturday To the Editor: This Saturday, May 21, at 1 p.m., the Town of Marbletown in partnership with SUNY Ulster will officially open the “College Connector Trail.” This shortcut from the new public parking area behind RidgeWell Fitness on Main Street, Stone Ridge, to the Kelder Building parking lot on campus, will afford safe, nonmotorized access to campus for visitors and students alike.

Long a dream of the Marbletown Trails Committee, this venture would not have been possible without the support of generous landowners Bill and Tildy Davenport and Michael and Monica Tumminia. Many thanks, too, to key players at town hall, youth and rec, and our intrepid and creative highway department. Also thanks to the folks at SUNY Ulster for assisting with signage design and maintenance.

This was truly a public/private initiative with a beautiful blend of volunteerism. We hope all will come to enjoy this bucolic, meandering “mini” trail that so many have poured their time and care into.

Carl Pezzino Chairman, Marbletown Trails Committee, Marbletown

What is the principal factor in hiring substitute teachers?

To the Editor: In perusing over the "Your letters, views & ideas" section of the April 1 and 15 issues of the BlueStone Press, I see I have opened a hornet's nest. Besides James Ayers' opinion as a former HS math teacher, who stated substitute teachers should be certified in the field they will be a substitute teacher for [in his April 1 letter, “Substitute teaching: What do I think?”], an uncerti-

Seniors Serving in Place a great option

fied substitute teacher, Philip Russek, commented further [in his April 15 letter, “Substitute teachers’ expertise underutilized”]. Russek opines; using "certified" teachers, or uncertified teachers for that matter, without regard to subject area knowledge or expertise is a formula for failure and brings into question the motive of those who make and/or apply the rules. What are administrators and board members most concerned about? Is it the learning of students, reducing the cost of substitutes, or simply putting a warm body in the front of the class and praying they make it through the day? Maybe somebody should ask the students; a questionnaire could be useful to see what substitutes students find to be most effective. Again, I ask the school board and administration, what is the most important factor in hiring a substitute: qualifications as a teacher, qualifications in a specific field of study, or saving money? Maybe somebody should prioritize these factors?

To the Editor: If you're inching toward senior-hood yet can still get around, you may want to think about helping other seniors stay in their homes. SSIP209 (Seniors Serving in Place) was formed in April 2011 in the BlueStone Press area. (Five other local branches came later.) We've helped each other in many ways: socializing, transporting, delivering meals, advising on finances and service providers, etc. Now that our founding members are more needy, we're scouting for some fresh faces and arms. Anyone interested in helping seniors stay in their own homes can call ViVi at 845-331-0155.

You will so enjoy this chance to know us, love us, and help us.

Bev Alfeld, MA, MFA Certified administrator and teacher , formerly of Accord

ViVi Hlavsa Lomontville

BlueStone Press, May 20, 2022, Page 15

Spring has sprung (and other prosaic pablum) Every spring, on the first sparklypony day that it is above 50 degrees, that is not snowing (their mutual exclusivity is no longer a given), and a day that exhibits even a wispy finger of verdancy, someone punctures my protective frost-hardened plexiglass forcefield of winter survival misanthropy with the pointy end of the hackneyed phrase: “spring has sprung.” It used to be mostly overused in my world by my ex-father-in-law, whom I adored, who was old enough to do whatever the eff he wanted, and who has no chance of reading this column (and hating on me as a result) because he’s long gone. Still, I drink from a firehouse this widely spewed expression Wally Nichols of every April since his death. Not to worry – plenty of others have filled the void.

To be sure, I am very happy that the warm, sunny weather arrives and shoves winter’s frigid paw off for a few quick blubber-liquifying months. But the spring -sprung saying sucks, and people who peddle it ought to pivot and direct their enthusiasm toward an ice cream cone or fistful of willing daffodils. And it makes me feel like a curmudgeon even mentioning it, but I think maybe people who intentionally shout “spring has sprung” from the rooftops and in public places think they are being really clever and that they have fashioned some groundbreaking word play or bon mot.

What do I care? I don’t know why it gets under my skin. It’s like the worst dad joke ever, that I’m forced to listen to again and again (and again some more) as I’m strapped to a chair made out of dads lashed together with white belts* and telling bad dad jokes. And I know how bad a bad dad joke can be because I purvey crappy dad jokes. * Don’t own one of these. Yet. What I’m suggesting for those who crouch all winter and pounce outward with the saying in that sprung spring is, maybe find a new audience? This harmless, sweet and optimistic saying that I have curdled for all with my grumpiness will land well with toddlers who have never heard it and who are otherwise busy pulling Grandpa’s finger. Ya know, read the room, even if the room can’t read …

So, are you working hard? Or hardly working? (Insert Buwahahahahaha/Hearty Guffaw).

This is a forehead smacking go-to for people who feast at the all-inclusive banquet of small talk. I wonder if bank tellers and post office desk clerks have a secret clicker under the counter (next to the police button) to keep track of the daily hits …. Working hard? Or…(hee hee) hardly working??? Get it?? Ahhhhahahahahahahahahahaha.

I have, in a previous column, teed up “It is what it is” as the lazy, discussion-terminating dismissal it is. It oozes hopeless resignation to a state of passive victimization, as if we are but pinballs bouncing haplessly against the force of the universe’s paddles and gravity, and as we roll to our sorry lots in the ‘Game Over’ area, we accept that we are out of quarters … “It is what it is” is also code for “I’m done with this conversation , and you need to wrap up your story because I have to go home and fold laundry …”

Oh, there is no box to think outside of. It dates back to the ’70s, and there was no box back then either keeping one from thinking creatively or from considering a different perspective. It’s just weird imagery and, as a metaphor, it’s confusing. The only real thinking outside the box is the four minutes a day we are not thinking about the Amazon box of crap we ordered at 2 a.m. If you think about it, it’s a no-brainer …

Sigh … We have to do better than the exhausted doormat that “no-brainer” is. I sort of don’t have the bandwidth to deal with “no-brainer” as a pejorative justification for whatever action or suggestion is being suggested. “Bandwidth” and lack thereof, harks back to a time when Gen X-ers had to mess with dial-up modems to download anything. Times were so technologically burdened that one might as well go away and come back a meal or two later to see what still remained. But that was then, and now bandwidth/data transmission speeds, or their limitations, have greatly devalued the currency of the expression. So it lands on a twisted ankle for anyone over 25, and doesn't land at all for those under 25 who grew up with high-speed internet at all times ...

Anyway, as long as we keep using language, there will be sayings, expressions and clichés that are overused. What are you gonna do? It is what it is.

So, for now we’re done discussing because I gotta do what I gotta do, ya know?

Power

Joule, was redacted. Columbia claimed the filing included trade secrets. Joule claimed the submission was an attempt to hide a breach of contract. In an April 26 filing with the PSC, Joule requested the unredacted submission under FOIL (the Freedom of Information Law). On May 16, a letter sent from the PSC to Joule’s attorney and Columbia found that the filing did not contain trade secrets or confidential information, and requested an unredacted version of the letter from Columbia, to be submitted to the PSC no later than May 25.

On May 17, New York state senators James Skoufis (D-39th District), Pete Harckham (D-40th District), Michelle Hinchey (D-46th District), Sue Serino (R-41st District), along with Assembly members Kevin Cahill (D-103rd District) and Jonathan Jacobson (D-104th District), sent a letter to Rory Christian, chairman and CEO of the PSC, asking for support in protecting nearly 25,000 customers participating in the CCA. The letter, in part, states: “We understand that Columbia Utilities has informed the Department of Public Service that it intends to transfer all the customers participating in the CCA program back to Central Hudson Gas and Electric Corporation. Such a decision would be detrimental, as customers could see their bills double overnight based on the current electricity market. In addition, it is possible that Columbia Utilities has either sold or intends to sell its electricity hedges at current market rate. If so, this action would result in an enormous windfall to Columbia (up to approximately $60 million, according to Joule), received at the expense of New York consumers. To avoid this result, we urge you to take immediate steps to protect New York consumers by conducting a prompt investigation, denying the request of Columbia to transfer customers to Central Hudson, and ordering any other relief you deem appropriate.”

Sen. Hinchey issued a separate statement to the BSP on May 18: “It is absolutely unacceptable for Columbia Utilities to promise fixed rates to CCA customers and then backtrack on that promise, which is why I've joined my legislative colleagues in calling on the Attorney General and the PSC to protect Hudson Valley customers and investigate Columbia Utilities so that this scenario does not result in dramatic bill increases.”

“To me, this is a Public Service Commission and an Attorney General problem,” said Parete. “There’s 25,000 to 30,000 meters and households and small businesses that are enrolled in this program. It is the Public Service Commission and Attorney General’s job is to protect consumers and protect people.”

Councilman Ken Davenport asked what residents are to do if Columbia backs out of the contract.

“Assuming that we can’t keep Columbia Utilities to the contract, we have two options,” said Konrad. “We can let people go back to Central Hudson, or we can work with Joule to put out a new RFP contract to someone else. The price would be higher, because prices have risen. Rich is right, Columbia wants to get out, because they could sell the power to someone else for

more.”

“The goal is to get an injunction to prevent them from moving customers back to Central Hudson while this plays out,” said Parete. “Columbia hasn’t sent a letter returning the customers back yet. It’s kind of like a chicken game right now; we are preparing and getting ready.

There is a letter that is prepared to go out to 25,000, 26,000 households from Joule explaining what is going on. There are a couple of town boards that say if this doesn’t work out, and the residents have to go back to Central Hudson, that they don’t think their town boards would support going back out again (for a new CCA).”

Parete continued, “If the Public Service Commission and the Attorney General don’t get involved, why do we want to put our residents at risk again, knowing that if things go bad, we’re stuck in it, but if things are good, businesses can get out of it?” The board agreed that, should the contract dissolve, CCA credibility is greatly diminished.

Konrad concluded, “I don’t want people to think we made a mistake by getting into this. It was definitely good.

Hopefully it will be as good as we hoped.”

Parete noted that passing the Resolution comes at no cost to the town, as Joule would fund the litigation should the case go to court.

At press time, BSP reached out to Columbia Utilities and Attorney General Letitia James’ office for statements and did not receive a response.

Dear Wally

from page 1 actions of Columbia Utilities is a breach of contract and it’s a breach that mainly harms the public and harms the public interest, and it removes an important protection against the ever-increasing costs of electricity. The aim of the (potential) litigation is to block Columbia Utilities’ transfer of residents. What we are trying to achieve is to protect residents.”

Marbletown entered into the CCA on July 31, 2021, on a three-year contract with Joule and Columbia, locking into fixed rates of 6.6 cents per kilowatt hour (pkh) for residential homes and 7.1 cents pKh for small businesses, protecting residents from swinging market rates. Customers were automatically enrolled unless they actively chose to receive electricity from Central Hudson. Central Hudson reports their electric supply rates have declined 55% since April, dropping from 13.6 cents pKh to 6.12 cents pKh, as of May 11. In February, rates topped 22 cents pKh. According to Joule, the CCA’s fixed rates have saved Hudson Valley residents $5.7 million in the first quarter of 2022.

In a Feb. 8 letter to Joule, Columbia alleged that technical issues with Central Hudson’s billing and enrollment were negatively impacting Columbia’s efforts to provide service. In the letter, Columbia sought to invoke a force majeure clause, alleging it had the right to temporarily suspend service. Joule and the town municipalities both rejected the force majeure classification. According to Joule, discussions with Central Hudson resolved billing challenges in early March. Town supervisor Parete and Tom Konrad, chairman of Marbletown’s Environmental Conservation Commission, say Columbia could be requesting an exit because it intends to sell units to another company at current, higher rates.

“There has never been a situation in New York state where this has happened,” said Stomback. “The regulation is not set up for this kind of thing. That doesn’t mean it will not get set up, and it doesn’t mean the PSC is without options, but it’s my understanding the PSC is looking at their options.” Stomback said Joule’s attorneys have been in touch with the Attorney General’s office, but have not received a response back. Stomback believes the PSC and the AG’s office would work in parallel paths on the issue if the AG became involved.

When BlueStone Press reached out to the Public Service Commission for comment, Public Information Officer James Denn issued the following statement on May 18: “The PSC is carefully examining Columbia Utilities’ request to discontinue service to customers and return the customers to a local utility to ensure that all of the rules and regulations regarding this proposal have been properly followed. The PSC’s ongoing examination will be detailed and thorough to appropriately protect consumers’ interests.”

The April 19 filing by Columbia to the PSC, received by

Got a question for our advice columnist or just remember a few ducks out of left field that he forgot to get in a row? Email him at cwn4@aol.com.

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Page 16

Your friends and community

May 20, 2022

Garden Tour: Rosendale library fundraiser Amber Kelly BSP Reporter Eileen Hall, president of Friends of the Rosendale Library, is excited to talk about the upcoming fundraiser for the library, Rosendale Garden Tour, being held 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, June 18. The tour starts at the Rosendale Library, 464 Main St., Rosendale, where participants sign in. There are eight locations for the self-guided tour, and garden lovers are given a map that reveals the locations, all but one within Rosendale (the exception is just over the border of Stone Ridge). Someone will be at each garden to answer questions.

The library garden tour is a hot topic within the Rosendale gardening community. Which gardens will be on the list? Usually it is all hush-hush, but this year we got a sneak peek with the release of this photo of the dragon waterfall in the gardens of Hella and Don Beale. The tour costs $25 for advance tickets, $30 on the day of the tour (children over age 2 pay half). For more info, go to http://friendsofrl. org/event/garden-tour-2022.

During the past two years, the library has undergone a long process of renovation. Despite the pandemic, the library staff worked. One major project was weeding out all the old books. New books had to be researched and purchased. The staff kept in touch with regular customers and operated an active curbside service.

FRL came together in 2006 to provide funding and support for things that are not in the library’s budget. They pay for wi-fi hot spots and passes to museums. FRL members send e-mail newsletters every month to 900 households,

Dragon fountain in Hella and Don Beale’s garden, a sneak peek at part of the June 18 Rosendale Library Garden Tour fundraiser.

and a quarterly written newsletter to every address in Rosendale.

Hall says members are enthusiastic and fun to work with.

Each member contributes what they can; some sell raffle tickets, some host events. Most are long-term Rosendale residents or second home owners. One big annual event is Frozendale at the Library, with activities and sales of hats, scarves, mittens and quilts made by a volunteer.

The library’s new dynamic director, Katie Scott-Childress, began near the end of 2019, and one of her first acts

was to bring in the American Library Association’s “Turning Outward” program developed by the Harwood Institute for Public Innovation. According to the ALA website, “Turning Outward entails taking steps to better understand communities; changing processes and thinking to make conversations more community-focused; being proactive to community issues; and putting community aspirations first.”

To gather input from the community, the library hosted a series of public meetings. Aspirations of the public organized into five themes; Zoom events, outdoor events, one-on-one assistance, outreach, and other settings. The library has responded. For example, the wi-fi signal is now boosted. The foundation for an outdoor gazebo has already been built, and the plan is for a screened-in area for events and public use.

In addition to wanting more Chrome books and hot spots to check out, people said they want to feel part of a community. The library can help with that and has dramatically increased the number of day programs, evening programs and youth programs. This month’s email from the library lists conversational French, book discussions, a Mi’kmaq local author event, jamming with strings, an Afro-Cuban Orisha dance, music in a cave, geology, foraging, bird stories, history, spring ephemerals, fungi, morning meditation, writing, Scrabble, crafting, chess, stories and more.

This garden tour is one way to support the library and all that it gives us, but direct donations are also accepted. The library represents many hands coming together to bring interesting and diverse opportunities to learn, have fun and meet your community.

Zaima’s exhibit ‘FEAR NOT’ opens at Merge Chelsea Miller BSP Reporter One of the Stone Ridge’s best kept secrets, Merge, is preparing for the opening of “FEAR NOT,” an exhibition of the work of Stephen Zaima's art, on May 27, along with a book launch and artist talk on May 28.

Co-founder of Merge, Reinhold Spiegler, first acquired the property in Stone Ridge in 2000. At a loss while searching for loft space in New York City, he turned upstate where he had vacationed with his family while growing up. The property intrigued him. It consisted of a cottage and two barns, and Spiegler was struck by the architecture of the barns in the pastoral setting. When Lisette Wong entered the scene, so was she. An architect by trade, she was equally taken with the barns, and the couple started contemplating what exactly to do with them. Says Reinhold, “We thought, what do we want to do with the space? Barns are really huge, and Lisette felt compelled to save them.”

This desire to save and preserve was, in part, fueled by Wong’s time in Europe, where she spent a decade and a half. Says Wong, “In Europe and there was so much support for historic and landmarked buildings. They are recognized as priceless and considered common heritage, not just what you owned, but part of the identity of a community. We really felt like we needed to save these barns. What building could be more iconic than a barn in this area?”

The couple began to research the barns, diving into books and anecdotal accounts, including those from a neighbor who was around when the barns were still being

Artist Stephen Zaima

used regularly. The more they learned, the more they were compelled to figure out just how to bring the barns back to life. “We felt that our small part would be to at least to save a few barn structures from disappearing, these invaluable iconic structures elemental to our agrarian heritage and history of Marbletown, give them a chance to be saved from the ravages of time and to be shared with present and future generations,” says Wong.

The process of creating and growing Merge has been very organic. Says Wong, “Each event has inspired us to fix up another little corner. We have this goal, an art opening or performance that we want to see happen, and we get to work – mainly Reinhold. It’s organic, slow and personal.” Reinhold says that the silver lining of the pandemic for Merge was that it allowed time and space to really focus on the barn, and friends had more free time to lend a hand.

Artwork by Stephen Zaima, who is opening “FEAR NOT” at Merge at 178 Schoonmaker Lane, Stone Ridge

Lisette Wong and Reinhold Spiegler, owners of Merge

“We are thankful to all the support of our friends and family, especially the skilled knowledge from our friends Chris Stachecki and Dorothy Pierson, a husband-wife design/ build/architecture team in saving the barns and who are based in Kingston,” says Reinhold.

The first official event at the barn was in 2012, Marina Satori (a college friend of Wong) had a concept she called Convergence that melded site-specific performance with visual arts, dance, film, poetry and food. The event served as a catalyst for the couple. Says Wong, “The event really underscored what we were increasingly beginning to feel – that these barns should be opened up and really brought back to life.” The concept for Merge, well, emerged. Says Spiegler, “Our vision for Merge is to support the arts and culture as well as our agrarian heritage by re-animating the barn as shelter for art and gathering spaces in our present times as ‘living heritage,’ giving them pertinence and function in our current times, and to support artists by allowing them to showcase their work, engage in dialogue, and enrich the community.”

Enter Stephen Zaima. Spiegler and Wong met Zaima pre-pandemic through the local artistic community. Zaima invited the couple over to his house for tea, and when they saw his work they got very excited to see it in the context of their barn.

Zaima was born and raised in California. He moved up to the area in 1994 to be closer to his position as a professor at Syracuse University.

See Artist, page 23

BlueStone Press, May 20, 2022, Page 17

Rondout Valley Honor Roll

Evalyse Bradley, Tristan Cantello, Kaden Dennin, Maven Flamhaft, Fionn Forsythe, Elizabeth Hanigan, Gabrielle Hart, Isaac Herman, Grace Kiszkiel, Jack Kotsides, Jacob Kraft, Harris Kyaw, Zi Qing Liu, Adreenah Mason, Camille McMillan, Brooke Mulkowsky, Hudson Paley, Lucas Pitre, Tristan Post, Hanna Rylewicz, Owin Simmons, Addisyn Spano‑Meyer and Beatrice Wilhelm. Grade TR‑9: Luke Tacti‑Rucki.

Junior High, marking period 3 Merit Roll Grade 7: Dakota Albert, Ethan Allen, Ava Barba‑Andujar, Connor Beechel, Autumn Blagbrough, Francesca Bueti, Carlos Camacho‑Johnson, James Casey, Amara Catizone, Frank Coddington IV, Chloe Cooke, Ansley DePiero, Shaun Dolan, Katrina Domitrovits, Alexis Dougherty, Aiden Freer, Alyviah Green, Jillian Gundberg, Jack Jacobson, Madysen Kiersted, Ryan Malarczyk, Eli Olen, Ava Quick, Jaden Rion, Maxwell Santiago, Emma Schwall, Adriana Slater, Brandon Startup and Layla Worden. Grade 8: Christopher Baumann, Hayden Bowman, Abigail Carlson, Ryan Clark, Chloe Coonrod, Benjamin Currier, Amanda DeWitt, Lacey Freer, Aryannah Giammichele, Haylee Henebery, Audrina Howard, Weronika Mieszczak, Anja Mongelluzzo, Robin Morici, Elizabeth Murphy, D'Marcus Norfleet, Arianna Novotny, Sophia Pagliaroni, Hunter Rion, Brooke Secore, Sienna Sergio, Mia Trumbore, Georgia Tuttle, Alyssa VanLeuven, Sean Williams and Isabella Ziba‑Perez. Grade TR‑9: Matthew Ehring.

Honor Roll Grade 7: Aiden Carroll, Tyler Harned, Ryan Helm, Kailee Hicks, Taiyo Kizawa, Joshua LaPierre, Juliana Lunstedt, Antonio Mason, Zachary Mickelson Jr., Lucas Millrood, Adrianna Moran, Addison O'Donnell, Syler Padusnak, Madison Pfaff, Andrew Quick, Oliver Roosa‑Dunphy, Colin Rowdycz, Noah Schrader, Jasmin Smith, Sean Startup, Laszlo Sterling, Jayden Streeter, Georgia Weinstein, Madeline Williams and Payton Worden. Grade 8: Michael Avello II, Laszlo Beke, Sedric Boughton, Julia Brown, Diego Castro Linares, Chloe Cutaia, Joshua Davis, Corwin DeRosa, Kyleigh Healy, John Hedley, Reagan Heil, Hailey Kellerhouse, Josephina Kozack, Carson Krom, Jocelyn Leahey, Brandon Mason Jr, Grace McArdle, Jasmine McNeil, Ruby Ortner, Graham Palmentiero, Borny Patwoary, Ruby Powell, Samantha Ritayik, Hudson Scott, Madison Shultis, Jack Stewart, Jeffrey Ulrich Jr. and Kayla Vedder.

High Honor Roll Grade 7: Hayden Bauer, Caydance Borruso, Bridget Boyd, Adda Lee Braselmann, Kylee Carlson, Hannah Chapin, Jessa Clark, Ruby Focarino, Kadi Holt, Lauren Ivan, Aubrey Jagodzinski, Brooke Martire, Helena Molitoris, Hannah Nawrocki, Ugo Nneji, Gage Nogue, Penelope Roosa‑Dunphy, Julian Santosky, Stephen Schwartz, Greta Sutherland‑Roth, John Sweeney and Karl VanValkenburgh. Grade 8: Brody Baker, John Basten, Fahad Bhuiyan,

High School, marking period 3 Merit Roll Grade 9: Candace Browne, Carlo Bueti, Kelly Casas, Ethan Dean, Ian Domitrovits, Devin Jimenez, Keara Johnson, Sophia Johnson, Hayden Lazzaro, Brooke Long, Anthony Parisio, Leonato Resti, Ava Seablom, Isabel Tordonato, Madelyn Tuscanes, Ava VanGorder, Alexeah Walsh and Chloe Warren. Grade 10: Michelle Avello, Aili Clark, Hannah Coddington, Grace Cutaia, Jessica Daddio, Aidan Davenport, Logan Davis, Hayden Denick‑Fingar, Joseph Deyo, Peter Dymitryszyn, Savannah Freer, Brayden Hanigan, Lydia Haynes, Leon Kellerhouse, Jacqueline Kennedy, Justin Nazario, Aniyah North, Gavin Prendergast, Gavin Rosa, Jared Secore and Nora Suszczynski. Grade 11: Austin Amato, Alex Deitsch, Aiden Demorest, Matthew Dymond, Riley Dymond, McKenna Feinberg, Adrian Gonzalez, Skylar Henebery, Taras Henza, Angelia Humphreys, Noah Johnson, Chase Kiszkiel, Amelia Lamkin, Alyssa Lopez, Micah Mahany, Madeleine Malak, Michael Markle, Hannah Read, Sarah Roosa, Collin Seablom, Jessica Sedlak, John Soi, Jacob Stange and Michael Vanorden. Grade 12: Anthony Alaimo, Olivia Bonelli, Aaron Brodhead, Matthew Campbell Jr., Marc Cathcart Jr., Adam Chase Jr., Rocco DeAveiro, Ethan Decker, Jonathan Deyo II, Ethan Graham, Jocelyn Gray, Hannah Hunt, Alexander Jente, Olivia Jeter, Azure Jones, Peter Knopf, Shea Malenski, Riley Novi, Oscar Resti, Aydin Robinson, Joleda Terwilliger, Timothy Traver, Ethan Tur, Colin VanWagenen, Destiny Walsh and Dalton Wells.

Honor Roll Grade 9: Ramona Andersen, Sophia Clark, Grace Coonrod, Grace Curran, Andrew Dingman, Danielle Driekonski, Violet Elder‑Rusciolelli, Ryan Gillis, Brian Henderson, Logan Keller, Joleigh Kozack, Tyler Mitchell, Nathan Nilsen, Aidan Nolan, Flora Parker‑Myers, Justin Paterno, Kenneth Schade , InJolina Secreto, Joseph Soi, Tate Suszczynski, Juliana Turner, Odin Vitek, Julissa Vizcaino and Anna Weber.

Grade 10: Django Accardi, Sydney Allen, Jakob Baron, Hunter Bober, Clifford Bush, Jonathan Chamberlain, Thomas Clark, Zola Coughlin‑Ebert, Jill Creegan, Adeline Delessio, Rosendo Fontanez, Jaiden Hasenflue, Caylee Illa, Sumner King‑Barra, Caleb Leahey, Erin Parete, Hunter Ridgely, Gabriel Schoonmaker, Harriett Seubert, Caleb Taszak and Nadja Welden. Grade 11: Nicole Appollonia, Desirae Baumann, Byron Bradley,

Jaiden Buffong, Makayla Chapman, Freyja Cross, Elise Dymond, Gabriella Ferri, Gina Garofolo‑Goodman, Connor Hamm, Ryan Hornbeck, Lexi McConnell, Landen Mesceda, Brady Morse, Miu Person, Makalah Quick, August Rubin, Liam Sell, Connor Slinsky, Dennis Terwilliger and Skyler Van Kleeck. Grade 12: Maranda Avello, Daniel Birch, Alex Bollin, Elizabeth Buley, Carter Cafiero, Randy Collins, Erin Culwell, Mia Day, Christian DeGrote, Nicole Ellsworth, Landen Frey, Michael Goodin, Brandon Harned, Tye Keil, Michael Lamaruggine, Morgan Lydon, Juele Martinez, John Mehalak IV, Clara Muck Dietrich, Heather Nazario, Joshua Neumann, Korey Roeber, Naturi Romero, Shafil Sabbir, Cameron Sands, Jasper Schwartz, Angelina Turner, Ava Wells and Jason Whittaker.

High Honor Roll Grade 9: Sophia Bollin, Rowan Boyd, Julia Deyo, Addyson Eck, Kendell Erlwein, Freja Ermer, Stori Gallicchio, Vivian Gonzales, Nash Kennedy, Joana Koehler, Samuel Lever, Abigail McGuinness, Halle Meoli, Miles Ouellette, Domenic Palazzolo, Clara Samko, Lauren Schoonmaker and Gwenyth Tuscanes. Grade 10: Merryn Arms, Shana Blandon, Christopher Cook, Victoria DeGraw, Amelia Dunphy, Trevor Gilliland, Chloe Goodin, Sadie Heagney, Sierra Hikade, Finnigan Kenney, Mica King, Luke Kotsides, Giada Labate, Siddhartha Lama, Nicholas Laskowski, Jackson Paley, Ellis Picuri, Maceo Pileggi, Mackenzie Snair, Sara Startup and Olivia Waruch. Grade 11: Menena Baron, Emily Bartolone, Brooke Bogart, Ryan Britt, Cadence Cardinale, Lucas Dee, Alexander Driekonski, Kyle Fallaha, Evan Fraser Jr., Mackenzie Heyl, Holly Hrabovsky, Mackenzie Hubbard, Christopher Jordan, Andrew Kassian, Christopher Kay, Nicholas Kay, Isabel Kinsella, Ella Kormondy, Veronica Kwiecinski, Jake Lawlor, Joseph Messina, Isaac Millrood, Audric Mondini, Abigail Naccarato, Kayla Oakes, Alexandra Olivieri, Riley Owens, Matthew Peck, Seneca Pharmer, Marley Pileggi, Asher Rosen, Jack Samko, Riley Schoonmaker, Aria Sickler Avery, Caitlyn Sindt, Alma Sutherland‑Roth, Abigail Tuttle, Reid Wogan and Nikolas Zocchi. Grade 12: Stephen Barnum, Skylar Barringer, Nickalos Campbell, Lindzy Carlson, Carmine Carlucci, Julia Caster, Laurel Cimino, Trey Cimino, Delaney Cole, Aaron Coston, Lauren Dunn, Magnolia Flamhaft, Stevie Gabler, Emma Gillis, Eleanor Gonzales, Ayden Gray, Daniel Harkin, Jaylen Hunt, Ethan King, Ethan Koch, Gianna Koch, Christina LaFiandra, Hunter Lapp, Ella Laskowski, Kya Lowery, Lucy Lugo, Emma Markle, Ella Meoli, Halyna Nalywayko, Braydon O'Connor, Eric Oakley, Colette Papin, Adrian Peck, Makayla Penny, Griffin Propeack, Stella Raponi, Katherine Reynolds, Sophia Schoonmaker, Silas Schwartz, Eliza Thurst, Lili Vitek, Katie Vizcaino, Kevin Walsh, Maximalian Welden, Alexis Williams, Dior Williams, Nicholas Winne and Edwin Yang.

Rochester

Securing the future of what our town has to offer should be this board’s priority. With the moratorium in place, I’m confident that will occur,” Grasso said.

The next speaker, Maren Lindstrom, Planning Board member, also supported the moratorium. "It’s time to do it," she said. "Think of this, everybody … Journalists write great stories because they’re focused and motivated by a deadline. Deadlines communicate the value of time … keep everything moving … provide a way to measure progress. Some of the public may not know: The Comp Plan is the guiding strategic plan of our town … a vision of the future that guides official decision-making … It’ll take a lot of analysis, a lot of work. A good comprehensive plan that has the zoning laws behind it, that’s kept up with changing times, is super-important.”

Addressing the board members, Lindstrom said, “You represent also the silent majority” who don’t come to public hearings. “I will bet you that the vast majority of us” support and want to “protect our agricultural lands, protect our open spaces, protect our groundwater and our waterways, the vital life of the hamlets, encourage economic development, preserve community character.”

She also urged “clarifying and simplifying the code.”

An unidentified commenter said, “I can’t believe I’m going to say this, but I support [the moratorium]. But you’re going to have your hands full. Be careful what you go with, how you handle things, because it’s all going to be used to mitigate things in the future. But keep going.

And hurry!”

A number of people called in or attended via Zoom.

Arnold Restivo: “I see the moratorium as another nail in the coffin for affordable housing in our community … it’s going to cause a hardship to those who are even considering doing any kinds of improvements to their property that are covered by this moratorium. And think about the timing. You have this inflation now, rising interest rates …

Albany just passed a predatory-lending bill affecting 43% of all [landlords] providing affordable housing." Restivo was also worried that "Albany is considering lifetime tenancy with a rent-control component." He pointed out that putting projects on hold was going to cost money for

tenants and property owners. “It’s just not right to keep making it harder and harder for people to own property in Rochester, and I’m militantly opposed to this moratorium.”

Another caller, Kristin Gardiner, called the moratorium a “prudent decision” to “put in place zoning laws that will preserve the natural beauty and the health and happiness of everyone that lives in the Town of Rochester … and I definitely like what was said about getting a town planner to help with these decisions.”

Another woman, not identified, commented, “I don’t think this moratorium is intended to hurt anyone, in fact quite the opposite. Affordable housing, finding ways for people to age in place, it’s always part of the agenda. I support this thoughtful move – and a difficult move – by the Town Board.”

Liza Jerno: “I’ve been in Kerhonkson since 2004. I’m in support of the moratorium and the town planner. I think it’s a really great idea to come together and decide what is safe for our water systems …”

A Mr. Pigazzi asked if the board was going to publish the provisions of the moratorium before it goes into effect.

Yes, said Baden. “The code is available at the bottom of the notice for this public hearing," that is, a series of numbers and letters (DOC041122), if you click on it, acts as a link to the moratorium as proposed. (As board member Erin Enouen suggested, you can just do an internet search for "Town of Rochester moratorium.")

There were also written comments addressed to the town clerk's office. These weren't read aloud; however, they are in the public record for anyone wanting to read them. The public hearing is still open while the board waits for comment from the Ulster County and Town of Rochester planning boards. Write-ins are welcomed, and another live session date is to be determined as of this writing.

Kudos

from page 1 two-family homes and accessory buildings that are to be constructed on existing lots; applications for accessory dwelling units; decks, roof repairs, small additions onto existing structures … I’m sure there are others I’m not thinking of … on a case-by-case basis, people can apply for a waiver from the moratorium based on their particular circumstances.”

Public comment led off with people who were physically in the room, beginning with Kathleen Smith. “I’ve lived here for 48 years … I would like the wonderfulness of this area to stay the way it is." She expressed concern about "all these projects, the size of them, the numbers of people, our roads, our water."

Bea Haugen-Depuy, former board member, commented, “This moratorium will allow the Town Board to look at suggested ideas [from zone review committee) and allow them to be processed … It’ll be a very tough process, giving the town board six months to make changes for the betterment of this community.” Last September, she told the public, the zoning review committee laid its findings before the board, but no action was taken at that time.

Marc Grasso, a member of the town Planning Board, said, “I want to thank the Town Board for the additional time you’ve put in to work on [the land use issue]. Clearly it’s a thankless job. Mr. Baden has said at the last few meetings that the town has received an unfathomable amount of applications at the code enforcement office as well as the zoning and planning boards. It’s time to take a step back, to act instead of reacting. A moratorium is the way to legally do this." The zoning review committee “requested the Town Board halt construction in tracts of land where the soil is prime … this pairs well with our Comprehensive Plan. The Town Board should workshop and modify this [presentation] during the six months …

In addition, at this time we should hire a town planner ... the time is now. I urge the town to adopt the moratorium.

Arts, culture & entertainment

Page 18

May 6, 2022

When the spam hits the fan I recently got a Facebook message from a cousin. “Look who died,” it said, with a crying emoji and a link that led to a YouTube page and a bunch of random videos. When I asked him what was going on, he said he hadn’t sent it.

His messaging app had been spoofed.

It’s always a shock but no longer a surprise when spoofers and spammers come knocking. They are a wrecking force to be reckoned with: relentless, organized, and unbelievably persistent. For example, the phone call I get every day at 5. It’s often from SPAM RISK, the town of Bedford NY, or its more glamorous cousin, NY NY. They don’t leave a message, but a chimney cleaning service that’s worried about my flue does.

And so do the Jehovah’s Witnesses, who offer bible verses for these trying times.

I’d find them a lot less trying if strangers would quit calling my phone. I never answer it because real people don’t call any more. Plus, my answering machine is delightfully capable of tricking an auto-dialer into thinking a human has picked up. “Hello? Hello?” I hear when I hit playback. Or, “Susan? Can you hear me? Susan? Susan?”

This small amusement doesn’t exactly offset the harassment. But the oopsed call I got last week nearly did. Armstrong E was ringing me, and when the machine picked up, it caught the sounds of someone in conversation with someone else. “So what are you gonna do?” E was saying.

“It’s worth the money you put up first, because you’re gonna get it all back. You get it all back!” And then came a click and a dial tone as E realized his other auto-dialer had started hunting a new potential sucker before he’d finalized his old one.

Susan Krawitz

Of course, email has been disastered by this too.

The wave of wealthy Nigerian Princes has crested and crashed. But the solicitors who’ve found me to be the last living relative of some millionaire are still writing. As are those seeking … other things. Like this one: Greetings to you dear friend. Meanwhile, I am Tina Rostiana from Bandung, Indonesia I seek for a long lasting friendship please write back to my email and why i want you to reply me is because i have a every important something i have to talk with you and i know you will like it so much okay so reply me.

I already know what the “important something” is: grammar and punctuation help. Sorry, Tina, I don’t work for free.

These kinds of messages are easy to ignore. But the bank account and Apple store warnings are not. I was duped once. There was a link and I clicked, because no, I had NOT made a $149 purchase at iTunes. My password was requested, but as I typed it, a huge swell of oh hell, no landed in my gut. And then I bolted from the fake site to the real one to re-set the password.

Unfortunately, you can be skeptical, wise and cautious, and still get scammed. A few years ago, I bought a laptop charger online. It worked fine. But six months later, I started getting junk mail addressed to the company I’d bought it from. I returned it to sender without thinking much of it. But then something that looked like tax info arrived from Amazon.com, followed by a letter from the state of California tax department. Whaaat? An online search on the company’s name turned up a warehouse in Queens and an Amazon seller’s page … that listed MY ADDRESS AS ITS OWN. Further searching uncovered additional addresses in Missouri, Florida and Sweden. And a 1987 notice of corporate dissolution for – wait for it – failure to pay taxes.

Direct confrontation was the best idea, but the last path

I wanted to take. If someone would steal a person’s address, what else were they capable of? And, uh, they knew exactly where I lived.

So I contacted the Better Business Bureau, who posted my complaint and left a warning message at the phone number the vendor listed. But the mail kept arriving. And the Amazon address didn’t change. It was time to bite the bullet.

“You’re using my address as your own and you need to stop right now,” I wrote on Amazon’s vendor messaging page.

The answer I got was a surprising and simple, “I’m sorry.”

But it unraveled my politeness. And restraint. “I get your mail, you know. Your tax forms. All I did was buy a charger from you. Why did you do this? Whyyyyyyyyy?”

“I’m sorry,” they said again. But my address vanished from the vendor page. And the mail quit coming. But they’re still out there, probably spoofing some other charger purchaser. Or a dozen.

So what’s the answer to all of this? Don’t have a phone.

Don’t read email. Don’t check the mailbox. And no social media either. Yeah, no. Our lives are dependent on all this stuff. And our friendships.

Today I got a Facebook friend request from someone I’ve already friended. The profile photo is his, but as anyone whose ever watched the TV show “Catfish” can tell you, it could have been copied from his page.

If I don’t accept his request, and it’s genuinely him, offense could be had. If I do, and it’s a spoofer then … what?

He’s got access to my private info? My friend list? Or just a moment of hahaha, sucka?

I’ll click confirm, but first, I’ll message him. Because, to paraphrase the old saying (and has it ever in human history been more appropriate?), keep trusting, but tie the heck out of that camel.

Why ask why?

1. Why is the weather so crazy around town? In the morning, I’m turning on the heat. In the afternoon, I’m turning on the air conditioner. In the evening, I’m so confused that I do not know what temperature I want. The same goes with dressing. Do I wear flip-flops? Do I wear boots? Do I make them rain boots? Spring definitely keeps us on our toes. Which brings me to my next question.

2. Why is spring the shortest season? Summer is fun and there’s ice cream. You’re swimming, barbequing, and wanting to die. Why? Mosquitos, ticks, ants … let’s just say all bugs, hot steering wheels, peeling your thighs off those plastic chairs, basically walking on the earth’s equator.

Autumn is lovely. The crisp air, boots and scarfs. Autumn is oddly refreshing, except you know what is coming … and wanting to die.

Winter lasts for an eternity and is a nightmare. For me, anyway. I know there are people who love the winter, but I am not one of those people. You’re freezing, shoveling and, again, wanting to die. Then, there’s spring. It’s beautiful. You no longer want to die because winter is over. EveryAround town thing is blooming and it’s simply glorious. You can go for a walk and not only see a kaleidoscope of reds, pinks, yellows, purples, greens and whites, but also you can smell the scent of heaven. Lilacs, jasmine, tulips, freshly cut grass – I am confident that this is what heaven is like. Oh … OK … I just remembered a couple of bad things about spring. Those pear trees that smell like … well … semen. Sorry, but they do. Don’t believe me?

Take a whiff of the one outside Dunkin’ Donuts in Stone Ridge. You’ll have to wait until next March or April when they bloom. Also, the poor souls who suffer from allergies.

Sorry about the snotty noses and itchy eyes. That cannot be fun. Well, OK, anyway, my heaven would be eternal spring and autumn.

3. Speaking of spring, why do lilacs appear and disappear so quickly? One would assume that when you’re creating the world, you would make sure that lilacs lasted

Kelly Wright

I lilac you a lot. Photo by Kelly Wright

a little while longer than Bradford pear trees. I have yet to meet anyone who does not love the scent, and yet, it’s such a quick joy. Dang. Whoever had that job dropped the ball. I have NO doubt the checklist looked something like this: Grass smells great when cut - CHECK. Blossoms grow in every color - CHECK. Pear tree scent fades fast CHECK! Lilac tree scent lasts months - uhh….no CHECK. There is no way Mother Nature messed that up. She couldn’t have. I think we need to find the person responsible and give them a different job. Like … poison ivy or mosquito duty.

4. Whatever happened to Mr. Rogers’ way of thinking?

You know, it’s a wonderful day in the neighborhood?

Friendly neighbors? Making the day a special day? Come on! I was outside, enjoying a beautiful spring day when my neighbor comes at me aggressively, cawing about winter and shoveling my sidewalk. Umm … OK … why?

Just why? It’s spring. You couldn’t express your snow concerns, you know, in the winter? When the shoveling that apparently sent you over the edge was actually happening? Or not happening, as it were. Now, I’m a nice person.

I truly am. I’m nice to everyone, but I’m also a person that matches energies. So, you need to decide how we’re going to act. If I’m not being nice, you need to ask yourself why.

Was Mr. Rogers wrong? Were the Doors right? I’m voting

for the Doors. Forget you, Fred. People are strange.

5. Wait a minute, could this be the reason why people have starting erecting fences? Because people are strange? Because neighbors can’t stay in their lane? I get it, fencer builders. I do. Make that fence high, just in case.

When I buy a house, I am surrounding myself with a fence and then planting every kind of colorful, sweet-smelling tree there is. Not only will this keep neighbors from creeping, it will be pretty and smell amazing. Rest easy, future neighbors, I will not be planting Bradford pear trees.

6. Why has it taken so long to get local tacos? I saw Upstate Taco is opening on 209 and I cannot wait! Finally, I don’t have to drive far to celebrate Taco Tuesdays! I hope they have margaritas. I’m ready to make Margarita Mondays a thing. Ooh, another question, what happened to cocktails to go? Remember that? Let’s bring that back because yay! Sometimes you want to have a drink and not sit at a bar or restaurant. Sometimes you just want to take your cocktail home, hide behind your fence, smell your pretty trees, and drink your drink. Jeez. Is that too much to ask? At least the pandemic was good for something.

7. My last question is why have I been working out for months and I’m still not ready for bikini season? I am sure a 53-year-old should not wear a bikini, but, if I wanted to, I want to be sure I don’t look like a busted can of biscuits.

Is this what getting old is like? Chubby, cranky, hot, cold, mad, and just want margaritas? Ugh.

BlueStone Press, May 20, 2022, Page 19

Southern and summery on Route 32 Darlings, at the site of the erstwhile Postage Inn in Tillson, is a Southern-styled, largely plant-based delight with a generous outdoor dining footprint perfectly set up for the imminent summer night dining season.

Inside there is a proper bar area and spacious dining room and well as a covered porch with plenty of privacy.

There is also a black-and-white checkerboard floor!

We went on just such a balmy pre-summer night and took over one of the many brightly colored picnic tables that speak to a playful yet super-seasoned vibe both the waitstaff and the overall aesthetic curate.

It made sense for our large, very hungry, pandemic-starved and enthusiastic cluster of Yankees to Wally Nichols just go at this curious Southern experience by group sharing. This way, we could all try a little bit (or more!) of every delicious offering.

Embarrassing as it is to be this age and not have a working definition of hush puppies (I was born in Connecticut, FFS), we Googled them right at the table (how rude!) and remembered them – beyond those comfortable shoes – as balls of deep-fried corn meal. They were Hoovered up by everyone because they were crispy, outstanding and served with the cheekily named “comeback sauce,” which as a widely popular dipping sauce has its origins in Jackson, Mississippi, and is a cross-eyed cousin of traditional remoulade. Obviously,

Put a fork in it

Horoscopes The planetary pictures continually change as they describe events here on planet Earth. Mercury, Venus, Mars and Jupiter are positioned in the sign of Aries. Neptune is also conjunct this group (stellium), but it is in the sign of Pisces. The Sun in Gemini is in good aspect to the stellium – resulting in clear communication between people – but everyone expresses their own viewpoint. Mercury continues retrograde through the end of the month – accidents and lost packages will continue to prevail. The new Moon falls in the sign of Gemini on May 30. Once again this is the sign of communication. In addition, Saturn (the teacher) turns retrograde June 4 – about the same time Mercury will turn direct.

ARIES: 3/21 to 4/19: Mars, your ruling planet, is positioned directly on your Ascendant, possibly pushing you to act emotionally rather than rationally – especially if business is involved. Your 1st solar house also includes the rest of the stellium – Mercury, Venus and Jupiter. Take great care at this time since much may depend upon your reaction.

TAURUS: 4/20 to 5/20: Venus, your ruling planet, is positioned with the stellium of five planets in your 12th solar house of things that are hidden from you.

You’re looking for new ideas to explore with a view to

Our Veterinarians:

Some of the immediately intriguing sides include the Garlic and Shallot Green Beans ($7, vegan and gluten-free), the Seasoned Fries (V, GF, $8), the Black-Eyed Pea Salad ($8) the Maple Roasted Cauliflower and the Corn Muffins ($8). None of these apps stood a chance against our unbridled and giddy selves.

Darlings Food & Drink Location: 838 Route 32, Tillson Contact: 845-658-2406 Hours: Open 4 p.m.-midnight Closed Monday Style: Southern

it’s called comeback sauce because you can’t NOT come back for more.

Darlings’ sauces and dressing options are all vegan. Besides the comeback sauce, they include barbecue, tartar, pimento aioli, lemon vinaigrette, tahini miso Caesar and vegan ranch.

Some big plates include the Chopped Salad ($17), built with arugula, seasonal veggies, feta, and dressed with a lemon vinaigrette, and the poblano Mac and Cheese, which is vegan and comes with a cornbread crumble.

The fried catfish sandwich (we are in the South after all, y’all … well, south of Kingston anyway) is served with a pickle, tartar sauce and fries.

There’s a Smash Burger ($18) that comes GF if you want.

The bucket of fried chicken or fried catfish are not to be missed. They come in small ($22) and large ($35) sizes and RING THE BELL. The vegan fried chicken ($17) is made of battered oyster mushrooms and sublimely approximates the Deep South chicken-eating, finger-licking experience.

These items from the ‘Fried Stuff’ menu come with two sides.

The beverage menu is extensive and includes draft beer and cider, teas, juices, peach lemonade (duh!) and an extensive cocktail menu.

Darlings was a gem to discover. Tasty, comfortable, fun.A classy and nuanced intersection of North and South and old and new. Grab your friends and family and head on over. It’s really nice to be out …

the cusp of your 6th solar house of daily work interesting and challenging work. The new Moon in Gemini will bring important inforand health. Pluto, your other ruler, is in trine mation that may help your situation. position to Mars – promising your work is going GEMINI: 5/21 to 6/20: Mercury, your in the right direction. Think in terms of the best ruling planet, is positioned in your 11th solar way to arrange change that will enable you to house of income from career. Three of the five achieve your goal. The new Moon is a good planets positioned in the stellium promise starting point. good news – both in terms of career and inSAGITTARIUS: 11/23 to 12/21: Jupiter, come. In addition, the Sun is shining in your your ruling planet, is positioned in your 5th so1st solar house together with the new Moon lar house of creativity and children. In addition, on the 30th. You should be hearing some news shortly. it is part of the five-planet stellium that includes Joanne CANCER: 6/21 to 7/20: The new Moon in Mercury retrograde – creating stumbling blocks Gemini falls in your 12th solar house of things Ferdman with plans for a future vacation. The new Moon that are hidden from you – which may relate will bring you in contact with friends and family to your current career status caused by the you haven’t seen recently. stellium of five planets in your 10th house of career. Ideas CAPRICORN: 12/22 to 1/20: Saturn, your ruling are percolating while you are enjoying increased sociabilplanet, remains positioned in your 2nd solar house of ity. money while Pluto remains on the cusp of the 2nd house.

LEO: 7/21 to 8/22: The Sun, your ruling planet, is poIn addition, the five-planet stellium that includes Mercury sitioned in your 11th solar house of income from career.

The need for additional income is important now and has retrograde is positioned in your 4th house of home and become the basis for your present search. The new Moon family – keeping you out of trouble and into a somewhat will help generate ideas to fulfill your needs with basic normal routine. concepts that will increase income.

AQUARIUS: 1/21 to 2/19: Uranus, your ruling planet, VIRGO: 8/23 to 9/22: Mercury, your ruling planet, is continues to be positioned in your 4th solar house of positioned on the cusp of your 9th solar house of commuhome and family. The concentrated stellium of five plannication. Mercury remains retrograde for this period, proets finds you focused on communication – whether in a viding extra time to consider alternatives to your present classroom or dealing with people or publishing. The new situation. Now is the time to institute some of your ideas Moon in the sign of Gemini adds extra interest to your that will provide the vision you seek.

LIBRA: 9/23 to 10/22: Venus, your ruling planet, is po- present inclination.

PISCES: 2/20 to 3/20: Neptune, your ruling planet, sitioned in your 7th solar house of partnership together with Mercury, Mars and Jupiter as well as Neptune. You continues to be positioned in your 1st solar house of may be looking for that special significant other, but personality. However, now that both Mars and Jupiter are now is the time to take a second look. You may have positioned in your 2nd house of money, you’re looking been the one to build the image you fell for. to turn your talent into earned income. It’s important to SCORPIO: 10/23 to 11/22: Mars is positioned on realistically appraise your ability and marketability.

Your Zodiac

Joanne is available for private/personized consultations at 561-744-9962. Treat yourself – learn what to expect from the current transits and receive an overview of your long-term goals.

Dr. Jennifer Cody Dr. Michael Halstead Dr. Jesse Page

A warm welcome to our new veterinarian Dr. Jesse Page!

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Page 20, May 20, 2022, BlueStone Press

FOR THE FAMILY Clove Valley Plant Sale The sale will be held 10-4 p.m. Saturdays, May 21 and 28; 4-7 p.m. Thursday, May 26; and all Memorial Day weekend, at Clove Valley Community Farm, 81 Clove Valley Road, High Falls. For preorders and more information, visit clovevalleycommunityfarm. com.

‘Let’s Talk Emu 101’ free Zoom workshop Tune into emu talk with this virtual workshop, held via Zoom, noon-1 p.m.

Thursday, May 26, and presented by Cornell Cooperative Extension Ulster County with Kymara Lonergan, founder of Thunderhorse Hollow Farm, Ulster Park, and Christopher Barth, founder of Warbirds Emu Farm, located in North Central Florida. Lonergan and Barth will discuss emu handling, care, housing, breeding, hatching and feeding. The workshop is free to attend. Register in advance at https:// cornell.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMrdeusrj4EtYGOkz3VHpm70RPLGOviAmBasic sewing workshop for ages 16+ in Stone Ridge The Career and Continuing Education department of SUNY Ulster is offering a basic sewing workshop, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, June 2-July 7, or Tuesday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. June 7-July 12, at SUNY Ulster, 491 Cottekill Road, Stone Ridge. For registration, cost, and questions, email Barbara Reer at reerb@ sunyulster.edu.

Beginner livestock virtual series Join the community for this virtual series for those new or interested in livestock production, noon to 1:30 p.m. every other Thursday through August, with Beginner Chickens on June 2; Introduction to Cattle, June 16; Introduction to Swine, June 30; Introduction to Sheep & Goats, July 7; Meat Science and Regulations, July 27; and Livestock Auctions, Aug. 4.

Register for one session and pay the $10 fee and attend any number of the other sessions for free. Look for the promo code in the confirmation email. Register for each session individually and enter the code to access the other sessions.

This event is hosted by the Regional Livestock Team of Cornell Cooperative Extension. Register at https://www. eventbrite.com/e/beginner-livestock-series-registration-305920184507 or contact Stephanie Herstritt, livestock & natural resources educator, at sh2234@ cornell.edu.

Stone Ridge Library Knitting Group The Stone Ridge Library Knitters meet 10 a.m.-noon Saturdays in the activity room, at Stone Ridge Library, 3700 Main St., Stone Ridge, with the next upcoming gatherings on May 21 and 28. All ages and experience levels can join, and dropin knitters are also welcome. Bring your own supplies, do as much as wanted, and ask for help or advice if needed. Donations of yarn to the library get made into items for sale at the Library Fair and during the winter holidays for the benefit of the library. Some group members also knit things for local hospitals or for U.S. troops. For more information, visit stoneridgelibrary.org or call 845-6877023.

Quilt group Zoom meetings At 10 a.m. on the third Saturday of each month, with the next meeting on May 21, the Wiltwyck Quilt Guild comes together to share their work, learn a new skill and meet new friends. The guild, which normally meets at Grace Church in Lake Katrine, is currently holding meetings via Zoom. Members are always wanted and welcomed to join the projects benefiting the community. For more information,

.

Marbletown Elementary School math teacher and musician Tim Whalen

RVEF Fundraiser at Arrowood Music by Goodie Bag with Tim Whalen and more Be a part of helping fund the education of students in the Rondout Valley School District by coming to the Rondout Valley Education Foundation’s upcoming fundraiser, 4 p.m. Thursday, May 26 (rain date June 2), at Arrowood Farms, 236 Lower Whitfield Road, Accord. A percentage of Arrowood proceeds for the day will be donated to the Foundation.

Schaeffer Bring family and friends for the afternoon of fun, which includes an auction and raffle prizes plus the musical entertainment of Goodie Bag, with Tim Whalen and friends, plus a guest vocal performance by RVHS Class of 2014’s Connor Schaeffer of Stone Ridge.

Join the fun and bid on a Mohonk Preserve membership, firewood or mulch from Standing Rock Farm of Stone Ridge, garden consultation with Victoria Gardens of Rosendale, along with many raffle items donated by the community including a Stone House Tavern of Accord gift certificate, two party baskets from Stone Ridge Wine & Spirits, Saunderskill Farms of Accord basket of treats, and other items from Mill & Main of Kerhonkson, Augustine Nursery of Kerhonkson and Drive-Thru Deli in Kerhonkson.

Goodie Bag, a brand-new musical project put together by Marbletown Elementary School math teacher Tim Whalen, will headline the music festivities. The group encompasses

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Whalen’s daughter Maggie (Rondout Class of 2010) singing lead vocals; Frank Doblekar, who taught at Rosendale Elementary, on saxophone; Jerry Mahoney, currently a kindergarten teaching assistant at Marbletown Elementary, on guitar and keys; Whalen's longtime friend, Vin Warner from Monroe, on upright bass, and Whalen himself on drums. Goodie Bag will be grooving on well-known jazz standards plus some original compositions.

Connor Schaeffer, who grew up in Stone Ridge and attended Marbletown Elementary, Rondout Valley Middle School and RVHS, studied vocal performance at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. Having lived and worked in Maine, Washington, D.C., Kentucky, and various places in between and since college, Schaeffer is excited to come back to his hometown to work for ErtelAlsop in Kingston, participate in musical activities locally, and be close to his family.

Founded in 2005, the Rondout Valley Education Foundation, a local nonprofit organization, has given thousands of dollars to educators in the RVSD area to enhance and promote scholastic opportunities for students, preschool-grade12. Grants are made not only to the public schools, but also to all educational institutions within the District supporting students, including summer camps, literary programs and private schools. For more information, visit rvefoundation.org.

contact Guild secretary Mary Tyler of Rosendale at marycodytyler@yahoo.com.

Marbletown Sportsmen’s Club Breakfast Buffet on Sunday Enjoy pancakes, sausage, bacon, biscuits and gravy, eggs, hash browns, grits, oatmeal, juices, coffee and tea at the breakfast buffet, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday, May 22, at Marbletown Sportsmen’s Club, 95-105 Scarawan Road, Stone Ridge. Admission is $10, $2 discount for veterans, and free for kids 10 and under. For more information, call 845-687-7202 or visit marbletownsportsmensclub.org.

Mindful Mondays with Aimee Trumbore Join the community at 2 p.m. Mondays, May 23 and 30, via Zoom or in person, at the Stone Ridge Library, 3700 Main St., Stone Ridge, to develop awareness, cultivate more presence, and strengthen the ability to bring mindfulness into day-to-day life. These weekly drop-in sessions will include a short talk on the topic of the week, guided meditation, and opportunity for discussion. All levels of practitioners are welcome, no previous experience required. Mindful Mondays are led by Aimee Trumbore, certified Mindfulness Meditation teacher.

For more information and registration, visit stoneridgelibrary.org or call 845687-7023.

Writers group with Cathy Arra Two separate writers groups meet 4:30-6:30 p.m. on alternate Mondays at the Stone Ridge Library in the activity room, 3700 Main St., Stone Ridge, with a maximum of 10 participants in each group. The program is designed for those who are actively writing and publishing work and who want to participate in a structured, critical feedback process. Cathy Arra, a poet, writer and former teacher of English and writing in the Rondout Valley School District, facilitates the groups. The next meeting for Group 2 is May 23. Email carra22@aol.com.

Mahjong, Tuesdays and Fridays at Stone Ridge Library The Stone Ridge Library hosts ongoing weekly mahjong at 10 a.m. Friday mornings (May 27 and June 3), plus a beginner’s group, 10 a.m.

Tuesdays (May 24 and 31), in the activity room of the library, 3700 Main St., Stone Ridge. New members are welcome. No registration required. Just walk in. For more information, call 845-687-7023 or visit stoneridgelibrary.org.

Basics for Beginners Yoga in Stone Ridge Whole Sky Yoga, at 3588 Main St., Stone Ridge, presents Basics for Beginners, an in-person yoga program, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesdays, May 24 and 31.

For more information, visit wholeskyyoga.com or call 845-706-3668.

In-person story times at Little Ones Learning Center in Accord Little Ones Learning Center, a free early-literacy program for ages 0-6, located in the Rochester Reformed Church, 5142 Route 209, Accord continues its in-person story times, 10 a.m.-noon each Wednesday and Saturday with upcoming story times on May 21, 25, 28, and June 1. Enjoy stories, crafts and lots of fun. For more information, call Little Ones Learning Center at 845-626-4112 or Mary Lee, LLC treasurer, at 845-626-7249.

Rosendale Seniors next meeting and upcoming trips The Town of Rosendale Seniors meetings are held at 1 p.m. every second (June 8) and fourth Wednesday (May 25) of the month at the Rosendale Recreation Center, 1055 Route 32,

See More events, page 21

BlueStone Press, May 20, 2022, Page 21

Huge indoor yard sale sponsored by the Little Ones Learning Center in Accord

Events continued from page 20 Rosendale. On July 19, the group will travel to River View Inn in Matamoras, Pennsylvania, for lunch and a show, “Jo Jo Russell, Man of a Thousand Laughs,” for $58 per person. Bus leaves from the Rec Center at 8:45 a.m. A visit to Myrtle Beach is also planned for Sept. 11-17. The cost is $739/person double occupancy. For more information, call Chickie at 845-658-2414 or Hal at 845-658-9020.

Poetry with Rosemary Dean Join the community via Zoom, 1:30-3 p.m. every other Thursday, with the next meeting on May 26. This program is presented by the Stone Ridge Library. Contact Rosemary Dean at rmdeen@gmail.com to join the group.

All-ages Chess Hour at the Rosendale Library Every Thursday, 4-5 p.m., May 26 and June 2, enjoy playing chess, all ages, all levels, at the Rosendale Library, 264 Main St., Rosendale. For more information, call 845-658-9013 or visit rosendalelibrary.org.

Junior Sportsmen’s Program takes aim at knowledge and safety for all Each Thursday at 6 p.m., May-October (next two on May 26 and June 2), 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.

NYBC blood drive at the Rosendale Community Center helps support Ukraine Donate blood at the mobile drive, 2:30-7 p.m. Friday, May 27, at the Rosendale Community Center, 1055 Route 32, Rosendale. The New York Blood Center will donate $1 to support Ukraine on behalf of every donor who donates platelets by May 31. For more information or to register, visit nybc.org or call 800-933-2566.

Drop-in Nature Zine Workshop at Minnewaska Join Diana Beckenhaupt and Natalie Schults, Student Conservation Association/AmeriCorps environmental educators, 1-3 p.m. Sunday, May 29, for a fun workshop to create personalized nature-themed zines. Zines are self-published magazines or booklets that can be easily photocopied to share with friends. Materials will be available, but feel free to bring favorite art supplies or collage materials such as old magazines, stickers, fabrics and paper. This program is recommended for adults and children over the age of 6. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. This program will be held at the Nature Center, located near the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center, at 5281 Route 44/55, Kerhonkson. No preregistration is required, but space and materials are limited, so arrive early if possible. For more information, call 845-253-3478 or contact diana.beckenhaupt@parks.ny.gov.

Marbletown Seniors meetings and trips The Seniors hold their meetings at the Marbletown Community Center, 3564 Main St., across from Key Bank in Stone Ridge, noon on the first Friday, June 3 (bring a dish to share or drop $3 in the basket on the food table), and 1 p.m. on the third Friday (June 17, bring a dessert to share or drop $2 in the basket on the dessert table), each month. The “Ride the Rails” four-day, three-night trip to West Virginia is Monday-Thursday, June 6-9, and includes Cass Scenic Railroad, Black Water Falls State Park with a spectacular waterfall, Seneca Caverns and more. Cost of $680 for a double room, or $879 for a single, includes three breakfasts, one lunch and three dinners.

The bus departs at 9 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 7, for the excursion to the Waterfront at Silver Birches, Pennsylvania, featuring “Voices of Legends” with Eric Kerns singing Elvis, Neil Diamond, Barry Manilow, Ray Charles and more. Cost of $50 trip includes family style menu of

See More events, page 22

Explore everything from toys and books to housewares and jewelry, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday and Saturday, May 27 and 28, at Little Ones Learning Center, inside the Rochester Reformed Church, at 5142 Route 209, Accord. LOLC is a free early literacy program for kids, ages 0-6.

For more information call 845-626-4112 or 845-626-7249.

American electric-acoustic composer, performer and storyteller Sxip Shirey and Soprano and bandurist Teryn Kuzma are among the many artists to perform at the May 30 fundraiser at Arrowood in Accord.

Humanitarian Aid Fundraiser for Ukraine in Accord with borscht, music, auction Join the community, noon-9 p.m. Monday, May 30, Memorial Day, at Arrowood Farms, 236 Lower Whitfield Road, Accord, for this special event with all proceeds going to the Ukrainian American Youth Association of the Hudson Valley toward Humanitarian Aid for Ukraine.

Composer, performer and producer Andy Teirstein explained how this fundraiser came to be. “It was at a dinner around Passover time … friends were gathered, discussing the war, in Russian and English. One was raised in Kyiv, another’s brother just got out of Kyiv with his family. Alla Pinsky, whose children were born in Kyiv, decided to create a fundraiser for Ukraine, and the brainstorm began.”

Teirstein emphasized, “Alla has been the stalwart leader of the event, along with her husband, Zorian, reaching out to Arrowood Farms, making things happen.

The discussion, and the resulting fundraiser, show how intertwined Russians and Ukrainians are.”

In addition to all the planning, the group of friends is also coming together in creating the fare. “Borscht! We’re making borscht, a delicious beetroot soup, cold and refreshing. Arrowood foods will also be available.”

Teirstein, part of the Vanaver Caravan band, also explained how musicians from a variety of genres have also generously volunteered to jump in to perform at the fundraiser, with the concerts running

2-7 p.m. “These are renowned artists, including Ukrainian singer Teryn Kuzma; bansuri virtuoso Steve Gorn; singer, rapper and activist Stephan Said; composer, circus-theater, experimentalist Sxip Shirey; world dance and music troupe Vanaver Caravan; jazz composer David Lopato with Rich Syracuse on bass and Harvey Sorgen on drums; fiddle and folk from Borscht Blues; and Balkan singers and musicians from Mac $ Cheeze Balkan PowerTrio and Bourbon and Breastmilk.”

Admission is free, and fundraising will happen through the auction.

Bidding for the silent auction is noon4:45 p.m. with winners announced at 5:15 p.m. Auction items from Kelder’s Farm, Tributary Farm, Hudson Valley Seed Company, Darn Good Honey and many other local farms; Mohonk Preserve membership; Wiltwyck Golf Club Tee-Time; Hasbrouck House; Starlite Motel; gift certificates from local eateries, theater tickets from BSO/Tanglewood, Shadowland, Shakespeare & Co., SummerFest at Bard; art pieces from Nancy Ostrovsky, Kaete Brittin Shaw, Robert Lehmann, Antonio Prohias; massage certificate and local body health products; and much more.

Can’t attend? Help the cause by donating to UAYA, P.O. Box 35, Napanoch, NY 12458 or via PayPal at https://bit.ly/ UAYA-HV.

Art & music in the woods, Mario Rincon & Andreas Arnold Musik at the Rail Trail Café 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 perforMusik mances include the Beltane Festival, 1-6 p.m., and musician Chris Stephens, playing classical traditions of China, India and the Middle East, 1-7 p.m., on Saturday, May 21; Datura Road Rincon with David Budd on drums and percussion; Raphael Garritano, guitar and mandolin; Bill Cochran, French horn; and Anna Womack, vocals,

1:30-3:30 p.m., and singer-songwriter Steven Michael Pague, 4:30-6:30 p.m., on Sunday, May 22; Levanta with Ev Mann, Thomas Workman, Gabriel Dresdale and Timothy Hill, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, May 27; Marji and Bruce with guitarist and vocalist Marji Zintz and vocalist Bruce Milner, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 28; Gisela Stromeyer, “Poem Journeys,” 1-3 p.m. and Mario Rincon, vocals and percussion, and Andreas Arnold Musik on guitar, with an evening of flamenco, guitar and song from southern Spain, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Sunday, May 29; and Celtic harp with Mike Neilson, 1-3 p.m.

Monday, May 30.

For more on these events and more, email Tara Johannesson at tgjohannessen@yahoo.com, visit railtrailcaferosendale.com or call 845-389-7714.

Hudson Crossing Band is Steve Nash, banjo and vocals; Steve Romario, mandolin and vocals; Mary DeBerry, bass and vocals; Terry Ghee, fiddle and vocals; and Dave Cobb, guitar and vocals.

Main Street Community Day in Stone Ridge, with music by Hudson Crossing Band Enjoy this community arts and crafts and yard sale, hosted by the Rondout Valley Business Association and the Town of Marbletown, with music by Hudson Crossing Band, great food with American cuisine by the Lekker food truck, and an explanation of how the solar array works, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, May 21, rain date May 28, at the new municipal parking lot behind RidgeWell Center, 3555 Main St., Stone Ridge.

Reserve a table for the yard sale for $15, with proceeds benefitting the Rondout Valley Business Association. Email Michael@ridgewellfitness.com for table reservations.

Come see the official unveiling of the College Connector Rail Trail, which connects Main Street to SUNY Ulster, the municipal parking lot, and the community solar array.

In addition to RVBA and the Town of Marbletown, additional sponsors include RidgeWell Fitness, PEAK Engineering, Key Bank, SUNY Ulster, and the Ellenville Regional Hospital.

For more information, email Michael Tumminia, president of RVBA, at michael@ridgewellfitness.com.

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Page 22, May 20, 2022, BlueStone Press

Live Birds of Prey with Annie Mardiney at Minnewaska Visitor Center

Events continued from page 21 roast pork loin, herb-crusted roast beef, dessert, coffee, tea or iced tea. All trips leave from, and return to, the Marbletown Reformed Church, 3750 Main St./ Route 209, Stone Ridge, across from the post office. For more information, call Sharon Letus, trip chairperson, at 845687-9162.

The Olive Free Library early-summer book fair This event will be held, rain or shine, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, June 4, at the Olive Free Library, with live music, food, kids’ activities, and a book and plant sale. Blue Smoke BBQ will provide food for the fair, including hamburgers and hot dogs, plus vegetarian options.

The library’s ukulele group, which meets at the library every Friday afternoon, will be on hand to serenade. Local singer-songwriter Bill Melvin will also play guitar, and harmonica. There will be a free face painter, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., large outdoor lawn games all day, and craft activities. All proceeds from the Book Fair will benefit the Olive Free Library.

For more information, call the Olive Free Library at 845-657-2482 or visit olivefreelibrary.org.

ARTS, MUSIC, BODY & MIND Stephen Zaima’s art monograph exhibition at Stone Gallery at Merge in Stone Ridge The opening reception of Stephen Zaima’s exhibition will be held 5-8 p.m. Friday, May 27, at Stone Gallery at Merge, 178 Schoonmaker Lane, Stone Ridge. The exhibit continues 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, May 28, with selected works from 1984-2021 of Zaima’s “Fear Not” exhibit at the gallery; at 4-5:30 p.m. enjoy Zaima’s book launch and artist’s talk. For info, visit mergesr.com.

A partner yoga experience in-person workshop hosted by Hannah Fox in Stone Ridge Bring a sweetie, friend or family member and celebrate spring with instructor Hannah Fox in this partner yoga workshop, 1-3 p.m. Saturday, May 21, at Whole Sky Yoga, 3588 Main St., Stone Ridge. Fox will lead students through a fun and trust-building partner yoga sequence that exhumes kindness, empathy and healthy connection. All levels welcome. Fox also teaches dance and theater. In all that she does, she cultivates a sense of compassion (ahimsa), inwardly and outwardly, as the main objective. Her classes focus on breath, alignment, and playfulness. Fox is a mom of a spirited 6-year-old boy who loves downward dog. She still practices on the same 20-year-old purple yoga mat. For more information, wholeskyyoga.com, hannahkfox.com or call the studio at 845-706-3668.

Stone Ridge’s Meg Beaudoin among 12 artists in ‘Women Who Woodfire Tour’ Distinguished guest potters, host potters and pottery appreciators will gather in person for the first annual Hudson Valley “Women Who Woodfire Tour,” 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, May 21 and May 22. There will be three hosts with three guests presenting at each stop for a total of 12 artists. The tour is centered around promoting and supporting the ceramic works of women, gender expansive, and queer wood-firers. The three area host pottery sites include the studios of Meg Beaudoin of 40 Gerwin Road, Stone Ridge; Joan Shulman of 24 Turner Road, West Shokan; and Meredith Kunhardt of 4095 Route 28a, West Shokan. Admission to all three self-guided “openhouse” studio tours is free and open to everyone. Complete information about each studio can be found at hudsonvallewomenwhowoodfire.com.

Clio’s Muse, a history reading club, ‘How to Hide an Empire’ by Daniel Immerwahr The club will discuss, “How to Hide an Empire” by Daniel Immerwahr, 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 21, via Zoom. To join the group, email sarah@stoneridgelibrary.org.

Saturday night music at Lydia’s Café Enjoy live music 7-10 p.m. Saturday nights at Lydia’s Café, 7 Old Route 209, Stone Ridge, with no cover; donations welcome, reservations recommended.

Upcoming performances include the Marc Black Trio on May 21 and the David Lopato Quintet, with Lopato, composer and keyboards; Ed Neumeister, trombone; Ratzo Harris, bass; and Harvey Sorgen, drums, May 28. For more information, call 845-687-6373 or visit lydias-cafe.com.

The museum will offer guided tours of the history of the Town of Wawarsing and the history of knife making and collecting.

Join Rosendale’s Annie Mardiney, wildlife rehabilitator from Wild Mountain Birds, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, May 22, for an up-close and personal look at some of the raptors common to the Shawangunk Ridge. Live education birds may include red-tailed hawk, broad-winged hawk, American kestrel, barred owl, screech owl and great horned owl. Stop by the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center, 5281 Route 44/55, Kerhonkson, to meet these amazing and beautiful animals in person. For more information, call 845-255-0752.

Wawarsing Historical Society and Knife Museum opens for the season The museum, in the old Napanoch schoolhouse at 3 Irish Cape Road, Napanoch, will open for the season on May 28, and continue 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays and noon-4 p.m. Sundays through Labor Day weekend, Sept. 4.

There will be guided tours of the history of the Town of Wawarsing and the history

of knife making and collecting. The knife store will be open, selling all types of cutlery. The museum will also be offering free knife sharpening on June 11, 25, 26, July 9, 23, 24, Aug. 13 and 27.

For more information, visit theknifemuseum.com or call 845-399-2388.

Stone Ridge gallerist Mark Gruber hosts first artists’ reception since pandemic “Alternate Visions,” with works by local artists Kevin Cook and James Cramer, will have an artists’ opening reception, 5-7 p.m. Saturday, May 21, at the Mark Gruber Gallery, 13 New Paltz Plaza. Refreshments will be served. This free event is open to the public. Masks are optional according to the latest CDC safety protocols. Gallery hours are 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday-Fri-

Bloom is a journey of rebirth, participants will emerge with new eyes to remember all are urgent healing medicine for the planet, and for each one’s blooming.

‘Bloom,’ a story of rebirth, at Stone Ridge Orchard “Drifting Past Shores of Gold,” oil by Kevin Cook

day, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays, and by appointment on Sundays and Mondays.

“Alternate Visions” will be on exhibit through July 9.

For information, contact Gruber at 845255-1241 or visit markgrubergallery.com.

The community is invited to be both witness and player in an enchanting outdoor performance celebrating new life through candlelit woods, 8-11 p.m.

Saturdays, May 28 (for adults), and June 4 (for families), at Stone Ridge Orchard, 3012 Route 213, Stone Ridge. “Bloom” is living theater wrapped in a dream. Tickets required. Visit in-circle.org and/or stoneridgeorchard.com.

Upcoming events at the Kiva in Stone Ridge with the Spirit Brothers

Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart star in “No Man’s Land.”

National Theatre Live presents ‘No Man’s Land’ at the Rosendale Theatre Directed by Sean Mathias, Ian McKellen and Patrick Stewart lead the cast in this revival of Harold Pinter’s comic classic “No Man’s Land,” to be shown at 2 p.m.

Sunday, May 22, at the Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main St., Rosendale.

One summer’s evening, two aging writers, Hirst and Spooner, meet in a Hampstead pub and continue their drinking into the night at Hirst’s stately house nearby. As the pair become increasingly

inebriated, and their stories increasingly unbelievable, the lively conversation soon turns into a revealing power game, further complicated by the return home of two sinister younger men. Following a hit run on Broadway, “No Man’s Land” was captured from a performance in the West End in London in 2016. Admission to the film is $15/$12 members.

For more information, visit rosendaletheatre.org or call 845-658-8989.

The Kiva, a performance space behind Marbletown Multi-Arts, at 3588 Main St., Stone Ridge, will present kirtan with the Spirit Brothers, 11:30 a.m., and Sounding Hudson Valley, hosted by Onome Om, 3-5 p.m., Sunday, May 22; and a Memorial Day concert and Community Circle and Cacao, 7:30-9 p.m. Monday, May 30.

Onome will guide participants through a journey of singing together to unlock creativity, heighten intuition, and delight the soul. Breathe, move and sing while exploring a variety of collective vocal practices, including the spontaneously composed choral form known as “circlesinging.”

Open to singers of all backgrounds and experience levels. Visit onome.org to register for Sounding.

Remember those who have passed by coming together to cherish those who are here, at the Memorial Day Concert & Community Circle + Cacao with Brian Festa: Handpan and special guests. Admission is $20. For more information, visit cometomama.org or call 845-853-5154.

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Art from page 16 “When I was living in New York and applying for teaching jobs I drew a radius around New York City of 250 miles … I thought that was reasonable,” says Zaima.

“Syracuse was just outside – 255 miles, and when I went up there I got off the plane for the interview in April and it was snowing, and I thought, ‘Why is it snowing?’ I’d find out that was common. In the beginning of the job I flew up from the city to Syracuse, however, that took the joy out of flying.” He and his partner set their sights on the Kingston area and landed in modernist home in Stone Ridge. “People would often say, ‘Oh, it’s so far to Syracuse!’ But it is a hundred miles shorter than it used to be, and it’s a pretty drive. You don’t have to go the same way every time, you can fool yourself, stay entertained.

Zaima earned his graduate degree in art from the University of California Davis in 1971. This time period would prove formative to his career as an artist. Explains Zaima, “When I was in graduate school at Davis, there were no ‘disciplines.’ No one thought about being a painter, or performance artist – you were just an art graduate

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and encouraged to think for yourself. I assumed that most schools were that way, but nothing could be further from the truth.

I was surrounded by diverse artists who had the freedom to explore different art forms and methods, and a stellar faculty.” Zaima was deeply influenced by an article by Joseph Kosuth called “Art After Philosophy,” which, in part, puts forward the idea that art begins where mere physicality ends. He was also inspired by the Arte Povera movement in Europe, which literally means “poor art.”

The movement used found or inexpensive materiel, tipping the idea of “value” of art on its head. His time spent in Italy left a deep impression on him, saturating him in the richness of Renaissance art.

At the start of his career, Zaima worked primarily in the loosely defined discipline of sculpture. Characteristic of Zaima’s work as a whole, however, his work is fluid and encompassing. In continuation of his days at UC Davis, Zaima’s work feels unbound by category and shakes off the notion of something having a beginning or an end.

Today, Zaima says that he primarily works in oil and draws from a wide variety of styles.

In his work he explores invented landscapes and draws on enigmatic images, symbols and shapes. Thematically, he finds himself returning to ideas surrounding detritus and dystopian imbroglio. At once abstract

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One of the central pieces of the “FEAR NOT” exhibition is a large-scale triptych entitled “Rabbit Hole” that Zaima created in the Time of Covid.

“During the pandemic,” says Zaima, “everyone had to decide what they were going to do once they realized what was going on.

At a certain point I gave myself a kick in the butt.”

Wong says that the show is very much in line with their hopes for Merge. “Art and culture are so important for community.

Bringing these barns fully to life and letting them be cathedrals for art while preserving our shared cultural heritage and gathering people to explore different ideas – that’s really, truly merging,” she says.

“FEAR NOT” runs May 28-June 5 at Merge, 178 Schoonmaker Lane, Stone Ridge. Free and open to the public. Proof of vaccination required. Opening reception will be 5-7 p.m. Friday, May 27. Book Release and Artist Talk: 4-5:30 p.m. Saturday, May 28. The monograph of Zaima’s work from 1984-2021, with an essay by Saul Ostrow, will be available for purchase.

For more information on Merge: www. mergesr.com

Page 23

Town of Marbletown Rondout Municipal Center 1925 Lucas Ave., Cottekill, NY marbletown.net 845-687-7500 Housing Committee May 24 @ 7:00pm Zoning Board of Appeals May 25 @ 6:00pm Town Board June 7 @ 6:00pm ECC and Climate Smart Communities Task Force June 8 @ 7:00pm to 9:00pm Historic Preservation Committee June 9 @ 6:00pm Planning Board June 13 @ 7:00pm

Town of Rosendale All meetings held at Rondout Municipal Center unless otherwise noted, 1915 Lucas Ave., Cottekill, NY townofrosendale.com 845-658-3159 Police Commission May 24 @ 3:30pm Assessment Grievance Day May 31 @ 5:00pm - 7:00pm Town Board Workshop June 1 @ 7:00pm Youth Commission June 6 @ 7:30pm Town Board June 8 @ 7:00pm Environmental Commission June 9 @ 6:30pm Planning Board June 9 @ 7:00pm

Town of Rochester All meetings held at Rochester Town Hall unless otherwise noted 50 Scenic Rd, Accord, NY Planning Board May 9 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm Historic Preservation Committee May 16 @ 2:00 – 5:00pm Recreation Commission May 18 @ 9:30 am – 11:00 am Zoning Board May 19 @ 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm Town Board Audit May 26 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm Town Board Workshop May 26 @ 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm Enviromental Conservation May 26 @ 6:00pm – 8:00pm Town Board Meeting June 2 @ 6:30pm – 9:00pm

Page 24, May 20, 2022 BlueStone Press

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