BlueStone Press

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

Published the 1st and 3rd Friday of each month | Vol. 27, Issue 21

Remembering best-selling author Julie Powell PAGE 10

November 4, 2022 | $1.00

Marbletown board looks at skating rink, discusses ethics law

Erik the Reptile Guy gets his own PBS show PAGE 16

PAGE 8

Role of conservation easements Parents' Part 3 in series: Farming the Valley

concern

Ann Belmont BSP Reporter Land in the Rondout Valley, as we all know, is valuable, and that creates a lot of financial pressure on local farmers. One way for them to ease that pressure is to do an agricultural conservation easement.

Under the terms of such an agreement the farmer sells his development rights, but retains ownership of the land and the right to farm it.

Chris Kelder, who owns 94-acre Kelder's Farm in Kerhonkson with his family, completed an easement deal over a year ago, he said. He gave a crisp explanation of how it works.

"For instance, a piece of property is worth x number of dollars for farming … but if you were to develop that land, put houses on it, it may actually have a value of [twice as much]. So what you’re doing is selling your future right [to develop] for the difference between the full value and the agricultural value … it’s as if you have a car, and you’re selling your trunk. You just have a car that has four seats now." The price is based on what the land is worth at the time of the sale. "It’s done by appraisal.

It’s an agreed-upon value. … I think it’s a good program. It’s voluntary, it saves a lot of farmland ... it’s a win-win.”

Does Kelder see any downsides? “Well, you are selling value," in effect betting that the future value of the development rights won’t grow faster than the money you earn from the sale and the investments you make. "There’s risks to anything. There’s

Parents express concern to BOE about progressive ideologies, discipline, busing and cafeteria food quality Amber Kelly BSP Reporter

Bruce Davenport walks his fields. Davenport Farms is under a conservation easement.

a risk between buying a tomato now and waiting till tomorrow – it might not be on the shelf. It’s like anything – you weigh the pluses and the minuses and people have to make the decision for themselves. But I think it’s a good tool to keep open space and keep farming active.”

Besides using their easement sale profits to buy another 70-acre farm, as the Kelders did, “there’s a lot of things you can do – you can invest in capital improvements to make your business more efficient, you can pay down debt, you can transfer to the next generation – there’s a lot of reasons to use the tool. Like anything

else, it’s not for everybody, and it’s not for every piece of land … it’s a personal decision.”

A couple of miles away on Route 209, at Saunderskill Farms in Accord, Dan Schoonmaker and his family have held off making that decision for now.

“Our goal with our land is to try to keep as much of it in agriculture as we possibly can," Schoonmaker said. But as far as doing an easement deal, "We’ve talked about it, thought about it, just didn’t feel it was

See Farm series, page 5

Funny smiles at St. Peter's 'trunk or treat'

10 trunks participated and over 125 people came through, decorated pumpkins, cookies and cupcakes, and won prizes. The weather was exceptional. Snacks were plentiful and there was even impromptu line dancing. 'Lots of work. Sooooo much fun!'

The Rondout Valley school board meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 25, took place in the district office. Board president Dawn Van Kleeck opened the meeting and announced public comment time. About a dozen members of the public were present at the meeting.

First up was a parent and member of the community who said, “I want the LGBTQ community to know I’m not here to wage war with your organization or membership,” but saying that he felt steamrolled by the gender ideology being integrated into the elementary schools. He said staff members are confusing children by asking “what pronoun they want to be called.” He wants transparency to occur between staff and administration and parents. He noted that parents receive a phone call if a child needs Tylenol, so why not for gender ideology? He said that education is to teach children the three R’s, not to indoctrinate with progressive policies, asking the schools to please give children a chance to grow up and understand the world first.

A mom who said she comes from a diverse family with a spouse who has been disabled for the past 25 years reported that her 10-year-old boy came home very upset. He said, “I don’t want to talk about it, and I feel so uncomfortable. A woman came into my class and used hate words.”

The parent went on to express the opinion that to say “drag queen,” “retard” and “gay” in a class just gives the children more hate words to use. She said that the family unit is where children are taught to be decent, empathetic human beings. Despite the current cultural sensitivity of the topic, she said, those words are highly inappropriate for 9- and 10-year-old children.

One parent said that children are not born racist, they are taught it, and that it is in the parents’ jurisdiction. If there is a problem, fine, it should be addressed, if not, leave it alone.

A parent of children in the district said

See Parents, page 5

Page 2, November July 1, 2022, 4, 2022 BlueStone , BlueStone Press Press

Life filled with creative collaborations How long have you lived in the area and what brought you here?

We've been in our house in Accord for 36 years, and before that in Rosendale for two. We came to this valley as New York refugees after getting our first dog. I'd walk her to the same dog run every day and soon realized that I didn’t know that certain trees flower in the spring before their leaves come in. I would walk around wondering, “Where is that pink tree I saw the other day?” My total lack of nature lore really bothered me. So did the impossible expense of living in New York City!

So we resolved to leave the city and try to set the dog free from her leash.

Tell us about your family.

Susan (Griss) and I have been Visit the folks together – very next door together, since we both worked mainly at home – since 1974. We have 35-year-old twins (Jonah and Zoé), graduates of Rondout High School, and a 5-year-old grandson who lives in South Carolina, so for five years we've been making that drive every other month. Our son recently returned to the neighborhood as a radio host and station manager at WRRV, a mainstay of his childhood, and we're really happy to have him close.

Our other family member is our 2-plusyear-old Newfie, Elsie, who is a very easygoing giant dog.

Q&A

Tell us about your writing work and what you do?

I had a novel published four decades ago and have another one forthcoming next spring, but in between I’ve mostly been an essayist and magazine editor, with a lot of focus on the Jewish community and American politics. Though I retired from editorial work four years ago, I'm still involved through a publication called ALTE: Getting Old Together (altegettingoldtogether.com), which I co-edit with some other retirees.

My creative work often combines words and images, and I've have had two books

Lawrence Bush Age: 70 Profession: Writer and artist Town: Accord

of that kind published in 2022: “American Torah Toons 2,” which is a collection of personal and political photocollages and stories that respond to the first five books of the Bible, and “MY STUFF,” which is a collaboration with Mikhail Horowitz and his late partner, Carol Zaloom – a kind of gallery-in-print of our favorite possessions and the stories attached to them.

I know you’re passionate about the Afghan Project. What is it and in what way do you participate in it?

The Afghan Circle of the Hudson Valley was organized by Harv Hillowitz back in January, and consists of about 20 volunteers who have been caring for two Afghan families who lost everything with the Taliban takeover. Our work has included finding and paying for housing and all furnishings for them; working with them on English-language skills; interfacing with immigration authorities, and recruiting legal expertise; locating medical care and dental care (there have been two surgeries and two dental emergencies!); registering them with all the right social service agencies; helping them with daily chores like shopping and all of their transportation

needs; acquiring three sturdy used cars and steering the families through learner’s permit and driving tests; and much, much more. All of this has been undertaken and fulfilled by local people who understand what the Statue of Liberty represents – and have been ready, when our government was too paralyzed to do its duty, to take over as best we can.

It’s the highest-functioning activist group I’ve ever joined, which is fortunate, because the work has really challenging and demanding on us all. We’ve raised about $80,000 from the community, and we've given hours and hours to the many tasks involved. As a result, the work has been very successful – our two families are well on their way to independence and integration.

I’ve been thinking lately how amazing it would be if groups like this formed to help local people who are struggling with poverty, especially families with kids ...

What are your other interests?

I've been guitarist since I was little and have really expanded my abilities by taking on jazz over the past decade, while Susan has become an electric bassist. We play together as a duo and with a pianist as a trio. I'm also a songwriter and spend time polishing my songs for performance and recording. And I spend a lot of time watching the trees and bringing Elsie places I can walk her off leash. (I’m a very lucky retiree.)

If you could visit any place you haven’t been to, where would it be and why?

I just wrote a song about this enormous tree on our property, with the lines: “I don't want to go across the sea, been there done that, I've reached the age, I'd rather be at home in the shade with my pussycat.”

With that said, I've never gone scuba diving or even snorkeling, so I'd like to have a dive or two before I'm too old. I like to do anything, in fact, that brings me face to face with the beauties and wonders that we're losing, tragically losing, on this planet. Still, it’s hard to leave the pull of home, wife, dog, art for any length of time.

--Compiled by Jeff Slater, BSP Reporter

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BlueStone Press, November 4, 2022 , Page 3

Teacher support personnel shortages affect schools Full-time teaching positions hold steady in Rondout schools in difficult labor market Jeff Slater BSP Reporter Do nationwide teacher shortages have any impact on staffing in the Rondout Valley School District?

According to the New York State Council of School Superintendents, while five years ago there were shortages of teachers on certain specialized areas like physics, now poor rural districts aren’t getting strong teacher candidates for any positions. There is also a lack of bilingual and special ed teachers and a statewide problem of finding enough bus drivers and substitute teachers.

The district had six retirements and five teacher resignations before the school year began. One of the resignations was in order for a teacher to accept an administrative position in the district.

The district hired nine teachers to begin the 2022/2023 school year. Lisa Pacht, assistant superintendent of schools and operations, said, “We are fortunate that teachers want to apply and work for

Julia Jeon, a new hire Kindergarten teacher at Marbletown Elementary School.

Rondout Valley Central School District, and we have been able to hire exceptional new teachers. We are faced with the challenge of keeping a strong pool of certified substitutes teachers, which has compelled us to increase our daily substitute rate. We have shifted to having teachers, staff and administrators cover classes to maintain continuity for our students’ education. We have a great faculty, staff and administrative team who work hard and are determined to ensure

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Page 4, November 4, 2022 , BlueStone Press

Election Day, what to expect at the polls Marbletown Real Estate Transfer Tax on the Ballot Editor's note: We are re-running this from our last edition for voter information.

Election Day is on Tuesday, Nov. 8.

Brooke Stelzer BSP Reporter Marbletown residents will have the opportunity to vote on the Real Estate Transfer Tax (RETT) on the Nov. 8 ballot. The tax is a one-time fee paid by the buyer of a house or property in Marbletown.

The tax is applicable to new property buyers only, meaning nearly all current town residents will not pay the proposed tax.

Rowan The RETT applies to home sales above the county’s median sale price, which is currently $320,000. Home sales below the median will not be taxed.

Buyers who purchase a home that is above the median, for example, at $400,000, would owe a 1% fee on the $80,000 difference, which is $800.

Funds raised from the proposed tax would be deposited into a newly created Community Preservation Fund, with oversight by an advisory board who are interested in community planning, farming and environmental protection. The fund would be managed by the town board.

Some projects the fund might cover include securing scenic land for parks and recreational areas, seeking right of ways for trail connectors, easements on local farms, protecting water sources, including the Rondout and Esopus creeks, and protection and preservation of wildlife habitats. The fund would also seek matching funds from conservation organizations, state-issued grants and independent

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Receive the “I voted” sticker pictured above created by Marbletown student Hudson Rowan (pictured on left) that received approximately 280,000 votes in the 2nd annual Ulster Votes, I Voted Sticker Contest. Rowan was presented with a Pride of Ulster County award by the Ulster County Legislators this month.

donors. Currently, the town does not have a source of revenue that would fund the protection of local resources and land.

Estimates gauge the fund could grow by $200,000 annually. Early voting on the law is Oct. 29 to Nov. 6. Voting day is Tuesday, Nov. 8.

What's on the general mid-term ballot on Election Day Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 8. There are a number of elections we will be voting on. Here are some of the races that will be decided on that day.

Rosendale Town Justice: Christopher Ragucci, Democrat, is running unopposed.

Ulster County Sheriff: Juan Figueroa, Democrat, is running unopposed.

Ulster County Executive: Jen Metzger, a Rosendale resident and a Democrat, is running against James E. Quiqley II, Republican.

New York State Assembly, District 103: Patrick Sheehan, Republican, runs against Sarahana Shrestha, Democrat.

D&H Canal Museum & Mid-Hudson Visitor Center

New York State Senate, District 41: Michelle Hinchey, Democrat, is running against Susan J. Serino, Republican.

State Supreme Court Justice 3rd District (Vote for 3): Heidi Thais Cochrane, Democrat, Sharon A. Graf, Democrat, Meagan K. Galligan, Democrat, Thomas J. Marcelle, Republican.

New York State Attorney General: Letitia James, Democrat, is running against Michael Henry, Republican.

New York State Comptroller: Thomas P. DiNapoli, Democrat, is running against Paul Rodriguez, Republican.

New York State Governor/ Lieutenant Governor: Kathy Hochul/Anthony Delga-

do, Democrats, are running against Lee Zeldin/Alison Esposito, Republicans.

Representative in Congress, New York State 18th District: Patrick Ryan (former Ulster County Executive), Democrat, runs against Colin J. Schmitt, Republican.

United States Senator: Charles E. Schumer, Democrat, is running against Joe Pinion, Republican.

A New York State Referendum: “To address and combat the impact of climate change and damage to the environment, the ‘Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond act of 2022’ authorizes the sale of bonds up to four billion two hundred million dollars to fund environmental protection, natural restoration, resiliency, and clean energy projects. Shall the Environmental Bond Act of 2022 be approved?” Vote Yes or No. To learn more about local elections visit https://elections.ulstercountyny.gov.

Other important information regarding the election is that on Oct. 24 absentee ballot requests for the general election are due. Early voting starts on Oct. 29 and goes on till Nov. 6.

Regarding early voting, any eligible registered voter will have the ability to vote early at any convenient Early Voting Center. You can go the website listed above to find the Early Voting Center nearest to you. Early voting is the same as voting on Election Day, but you can’t vote in both.

- Election information compiled by Jeff Slater, BSP Reporter

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BlueStone Press, November 4, 2022 , Page 5

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Farm series from page 1

the right thing to do at this point. We feel that we have enough time that we could do it at some point. ... I think [easements are] great, it’s nice that the farmland has remained active in agriculture and not industry. We just haven’t quite decided yet what we would like to do with our land.

We definitely want to see it preserved and remain in agriculture as long as it can … just not ready to take that step. There might be some other options in the future to keep it in agriculture without going that route. Who knows?”

Davenport Farms in Stone Ridge entered into a conservation easement deal "about 15 years ago," said Bruce Davenport, who owns the property with his older brother. "It enabled us to buy out our siblings without having to sell any land.

That’s what the majority of the money we got was used for." When asked if he knew of other local farmers who have followed suit, he answered, “A lot of people have done it ... I haven’t heard any complaints.

I think the value they give you is pretty good. They’re putting more restrictions on the land than they used to, but I don’t think they’re too onerous."

In Davenport's case, the land trust that administers the easement is Scenic Hudson. Burt Samuelson, Ulster County Planning Board senior planner, explained how agricultural easements are financed in this state (there are similar programs nationwide). “The state will have money through Farmland Implementation Protection grants. Typically there will be matching moneys … the partner will be a private land trust," such as Scenic Hudson or the Rondout-Esopus Land Trust.

Some land trusts have different requirements than others, Samuelson observed.

“Some want more open space, less farmland. Maybe the farmer wants to do more agriculture and less open space," and a compromise must be reached.

“An organization like Scenic Hudson can be extremely sophisticated. There’s

a lot of money behind them … They may say to the farmer, if you want more money then you have to use a color palette for your barn, which is kind of weird. It’s a give and take. I know Kelder’s Farm, it took a long time to seal the deal." The terms the Kelders negotiated "protect farm operations, so if the farmer wants to do something and they [the neighbors] try to get the town to shut it down, the farmer has recourse."

Samuelson had some cautionary words.

“The development rights have been extinguished … they may find it harder to sell the property. They may have money from putting their land under easement, but that money doesn’t necessarily last if it’s not managed well." Also, “you may end up not getting as much money as you could have.” Is any guidance available for farmers? “Cornell Cooperative Extension is the go-to that I know of” for a consultation… “to help the farmers negotiate a good deal.”

Cari Watkins-Bates, Scenic Hudson's director of land conservation, said that SH has worked on 12 farmland conservation projects in Ulster County totaling 1,300 acres. To pay the farmers for development rights, she said, "we bring together different funding sources." The towns of New Paltz and Gardiner, for example, have funds dedicated to conservation easements. Typically, the state program "can provide up to 75% of the cost of purchasing a farmland conservation easement."

However, said Watkins-Bates, it isn't easy to find enough money to meet the demand. "There is almost always more interest from landowners to do a conservation easement than there is funding available."

A lot of local farmland is in the flood plain. Aren't the farmers getting paid for the development rights on land that can't be developed anyway? "Farmlands in the flood plain, particularly in places like the Rondout Valley ... happen to be the most fertile and productive lands in all of the Hudson Valley," answered Watkins-Bates.

“Generally, yes, they’re harder to develop ... but from my perspective, the protection of our most important farmland soils ... is important to meet the demands not only of today's agriculture but the future as well."

Parents from page 1 that the school district was outsourcing food services since the kitchen upgrades at the RV Intermediate School. The question was, now that the cafeteria is open, why can’t we go back to locally sourced foods cooked in the kitchen? She said that in a community with so many farms, RVSD should work toward “healthier, less-processed and more varied food choices.”

The speaker’s children said that listings on the menu do not reflect what is actually served. Other parents said that happens in the high school, too. One day when the menu said waffles, the children were served peanut butter and jelly sandwiches on “inedible” buns, and still charged full price. Many children say that the food is not good.

One parent said that children ranging from 9 to 18 years old are riding the bus together. High school students bully younger ones, and the bus drivers do not stop it.

The bus service has been consistently late.

Inexperienced drivers have taken turns

so fast and make such sudden stops that children get injured. Drivers miss stops.

According to a parent at the meeting, one driver told the children that she hated the job and just doesn’t care.

Meg Braren, assistant superintendent of student support services, gave a presentation on the Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education plan being implemented.

She recommended that anyone with questions should go to the New York State Education Department (www.nysed.gov) website for answers. That site states, “The New York State Board of Regents directed the Office of K-12 Education and Higher Education to convene a panel of experts, engage with stakeholders, and develop from the ground up a framework for culturally responsive-sustaining education.

The four principles that organize the New York State Education Department’s CR-S Framework are inspired by the four high leverage strategies that emerged from Buffalo Public School’s work on Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Education.”

Braren said, “I think it is just important to remember that policy is very much a part of this, and so there is an expectation that this is all work that is expected of school districts.”

Page 6, November 4, 2022 , BlueStone Press

Rosendale businesses and patrons express gratitude for Rosendale Café Michelle McAuliffe Vitner BSP Reporter Oct. 1 saw the closing of a long-time beloved eatery, the Rosendale Café, having been in business for 29 years. They were located on Main St., Rosendale.

The Morgenstern family put out a statement saying, “The most important thing to us is to thank all of you wonderful people who made the cafe what it is. We are eternally grateful for your enthusiasm and friendship. There are so many good memories we can all take with us. Thank you all so much – Susan, Mark, Lily, and Amy.” The BlueStone Press talked to some of their neighbor's on Main Street about the Rosendale Café's legacy.

The family-owned business had served up an eclectic mix of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes, along with live music and original artwork on its walls.

Area businesses and patrons have also shared that, in addition to being a favorite food spot, the Morgenstern family created a charitable, open space that served as a centerpiece for the evolving community over many decades.

Annabelle Havrilla, now a server at nearby restaurant The Santa Fe Burger Bar, shared, “I remember going to the Rosendale Café as a child. It was a beautiful place that taught people how to eat healthy, delicious food. It was a staple of the community!”

Rosendale town historian and fellow Main Street business owner Bill Brooks (Bill Brook’s Barbershop and Emporium) said, “It’s sad to lose a business in town.

I’ve been here for 56 years, and when somebody retires or decides to move on, it’s sad because we have gone through a lot of ups and downs together. It was nice to have them and is a loss for the town.

Over the years, there were a couple of lulls on Main Street, but for the last 10 years it was different, it has been an upgrade – stores staying longer, bringing more people. We have a theater, it’s nice. It’s a pleasant time to be in Rosendale. The cafe had arts shows, music. I’m not a vegan but

Rosendale Cafe, Photo by Hannah Vitner

their food was good! You could eat well there.”

The menu featured dishes such as burritos, sandwiches, soups along with herbal teas, Kombucha, wines, beer and spirits. You could find interesting items such as ‘Fakin’ Bacon, Egg and Cheese’ on a bagel or a Brown Rice Burger Wrap, or perhaps a Sea Witch Salad bowl with seaweed and tofu.

Yuval Sterer, owner of The Big Cheese shared, “It was one of the first Rosendale businesses that really stood out; there was not much retail at that time as far as eateries. Great people, great establishment – we’re sorry to see them go. They have been an anchor in this community for so long.”

Owner Etsko of Soy restaurant said, “They were here for such a long time, it’s a shame to see that they had to close.

They were good neighbors and we had enjoyed eating in each other’s restaurants over the years.”

Amy Trompetter, owner of Redwing Blackbird Theatre said, “They are irreplaceable. Great food, music. They invited touring music groups that brought great music and culture from all over.

They were so connected to the community that their presence is larger than life.

Mark Morgenstern did a reading from his book there – he is a published writer of three books now. They supported

Change is in the air...

We are here to assist

local artists, and their walls were like a gallery, revolving different artists’ works.

There was an open mic was well. I remember when I moved into Rosendale in 1999 onto Main Street, I remember they had a musical art performance going on in the back of the building called “Trash Town.’

It was a project of local musician Wayne Montecalvo, also of the music group Fighting Mackenzies, who played then ... and they were the same band that played right before the closing recently.“ Barbara Piombino, an active member of the Rosendale community who works with area seniors, is a longtime friend of the Morgenstern family. “They built the community – they were the only vegetar-

ian restaurant at the time. So many of our family events and birthdays were held there. Susan and Mark are dear friends.

They have always taken care of the community, always were kind and compassionate. Many times, their wait staff would live with them, they would take them in.

They took care of everyone. They would think nothing of dropping food off if anyone needed it, if they were sick. They fed people who were unable to pay, helped homeless people. They would open their doors to anyone who had a cause – no charge to do fundraisers. The Real Project for Democracy would meet there. We had so many events there- a breakfast to honor Congressman Maurice Hinchey, when he was still alive.

“Mark is a writer and musician who paved the way for other musical artists.

Susan started the café and did everything; she had the vision. They had business partners at the beginning, but over time those partners moved.

“I feel It’s like it was our clubhouse – a community hub. For years, that’s all we had, but what a glorious place it was. It’s bittersweet. So glad the family has had the chance to move onto other adventures and welcome a new grandbaby soon with their daughter, Lily, who was so central to running the business too. However, it’s the end of an era. Things are different now, a new phase of life. Susan, Mark and their family have left an indelible mark on this town, and we will all be forever grateful.”

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BlueStone Press, November 4, 2022 , Page 7 paid advertisement

Stand Up for The Place Where We Live.

FIRST: Establish a Community Preservation Fund to protect natural, agricultural and

historic resources. Done! The Community Preservation Fund was created by the Town board in July of this year.

NEXT: Find a way to grow this fund. That’s where we can all do our part — a VOTE YES

for Local Law 6 is a vote to support the Community Preservation Fund, and will allow Marbletown to collect funds from the buyer of a home or property.

Local Law 6 won’t increase existing homeowners’ taxes, but it WILL create more places to enjoy healthy outdoor recreation, conserve farm fields that supply the freshest food, keep drinking water clean, and preserve natural and scenic landscapes so all future generations can benefit from them.

LEARN MORE: MarbletownCleanWater.com

Get the facts on Local Law 6 The Real Estate Transfer Tax is a smartly structured one-time fee paid by the buyer of a home or property. The first $320,000 of the cost of a property would be exempt from the tax, helping keep Marbletown affordable for many first-time homebuyers.

The tax is reasonably set at 1% on the amount above the exemption.

People who already live in Marbletown will not pay this tax — it applies primarily to newcomers, one time when they purchase a property. The proceeds would be used exclusively for conservation.

On November 8, flip your ballot over and VOTE YES for "Local Law 6: Water Quality, Working Farms, Wildlife Habitat and Natural Areas Preservation Fund" to protect clean water, local farms, rail trails, and natural resources in Marbletown.

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Page 8, November 4, 2022 , BlueStone Press

Town Board discusses ice skating, ethics and zoning law 'We are doing our best to make sure we are avoiding any conflicts of interest or appearance thereof,' said Hunt Thomas Childers BSP Reporter The Marbletown Town Board meeting was held on Tuesday, Oct. 18. All five board members were present including the town supervisor Rich Parete, along with Ken Davenport, Daisy Foote, Don LaFera and Tim Hunt.

As the meeting began, Scott Albright of The Last Bite in High Falls started with a public comment that was not on the meeting agenda. Albright said, “Toying with this idea for a while, a couple towns have been putting in ice skating rinks, and my brother lives in the town of Gardiner and [in] their town center they put in an ice skating rink … [the] last two years it has been super successful. I live right in town above The Last Bite cafe by the post office, and where they have the flea market could be perfect for an ice skating rink. I work in construction, I would be happy to man, like make it happen basically, the logistics and construction of it … It would bring some kind of life to High Falls in the winter time … I would like to spearhead it if the town is ever OK with it.”

Rich Parete said in response, “I’ve spoken about it, I think it's a great idea in the winter time, it’s a piece of property that is not generally used in the winter time …

I will speak to the board and speak to the insurance company and all that good stuff, and it’s definitely doable.”

Next the board held a public hearing for 74 Ridgely Drive to obtain a historic designation. Laura Shane Cunningham, who owns the property and is vice chair on the Marbletown Historic Preservation Commission, said, “Swami Vivekananda blessed my house, not the manor … blessed the two women there, and it gave, they say, a holy aura to the entire house. I don’t think I can top that and I feel blessed

living there.” Anthony DiGuiseppe, the former co-chair of the Historic Preservation Commission, said, “This will be the first designation that has to do with notable personage.” [Swami Vivekananda, 18631903, according to Wikipedia, “was an Indian Hindu monk, philosopher, author, religious teacher, and the chief disciple of the Indian mystic Ramakrishna.” The owners of Ridgely manor, Betty and Francis Leggett, were the swami’s longtime devotees and friends.]

Resolutions 100-109 all passed 5-0.

Resolution 100 was on the historic designation of 74 Ridgely Drive. Resolution 101 was on overriding the tax cap. There was no public comment during the hearing on overriding the tax cap.

Resolution 103 was on ethics law revisions. Shortly after the resolution was brought up, Parete said, “I am a little concerned that this leaves open the possibility of frivolous complaints against people.”

Tim Hunt responded by saying, “There was no avenue for the public to raise a concern and now, in the law, it is very clearly articulated how someone might raise an ethical concern.”

Hunt explained that to address the concern about frivolous complaints, a rigorous process exists in which one has to be notarized, as well as any complaint has to call out the specifics of the law that one is concerned about.

Hunt continued, “The main part of ethics is to make sure we are doing everything transparently, that people are disclosing when there may be some concern that they are recusing themselves when there is a conflict clearly. The key is that they get consultation whether the board, the town supervisor or even they [the board] may go to the board of ethics for a consultation. So there are different avenues just to make sure we – as town officers, commissioners and board members – that we are building trust in the public by saying this [is] transparent. We are doing our best to make sure we are avoiding any conflicts of interest or appearance thereof, and if there is some conflict we have a plan to mitigate it to deal with it. So there is a management plan if you will. So it’s about trust, and so we’re hoping the community sees that in this law.”

Resolution 104 was on a proposal

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to install a new heating system at the Rosendale Police Department at a split cost. Parete said, “We’ve been looking into getting heat into the Rosendale Police Department … the old heating system has not been working well.” Resolutions 105 was also on a split cost with Rosendale for a boiler and chassis based on an agreement with TBS (Technical Building Services).

Resolution 106 was on setting the public hearing for the final budget for the general budget and the highway budget for 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Nov. 1.

Resolution 107 was for setting a time for a public hearing on the High Falls water budget on the same day after the meeting on the general and highway budget. Resolution 108 was on Mohonk doing fireworks on New Year’s Eve. Resolution 109 was on the planning and zoning services proposal from Greenplan.

The proposal from Theodore Fink, president of Greenplan, states, “I will work with the Town Board and a Town-authorized committee to carry out the tasks needed to prepare a Community Preservation Plan, thereby meeting the State’s statutory requirement for establishing a Community Preservation Fund.”

Davenport said, “I do think that looking through Ted’s background … what I see, and what you and I discussed last night a little bit, was to detangle some of the unintentional oversteps and redundancies that we have in this town. It has taken what I consider to be preservation from being something that we all want to work towards into more of a weapon. This is something I’m really looking forward to, where we can have this good middle ground instead of it getting so far to where we can’t move the community forward and grow the community and everybody have a good say and control the overhead of living in the town … It’s not often you can get a win-win-win, and this is what will lead you towards it.”

Foote continued, “He already read our town plan and he said there are already a lot of things in our town plan to give us direction. He already found some things in the zoning law which I didn’t know that they existed or that there was a possibility of doing certain things. … I read his whole plan today and it is fabulous.”

Parete finished by saying, “Ted’s proposal is going to be $15,000-$21,000, it is a lot of code revisions and code work. I thought [it] would have been more than that …

Daisy, thank you. Daisy did really all the work on this, and we’re where we’re at today because of your hard work.”

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Briefs

Rondout Valley Intermediate School student takes a shot at archery with help from the Marbletown Sportsmen’s Club during the school’s Fall Fest.

Intermediate School had ‘the best day ever,’ at fall festival Students enjoyed a variety of fallthemed educational activities, learning stations, and team-building experiences, as Rondout Valley Intermediate School recently hosted its annual Fall Festival.

Students in both Rondout Valley Intermediate School and Junior High School participated in the Harvest Fest portion of the day, which included a variety of informational, career-oriented, and creative interactions with members of the Rondout Valley community. Highlights included learning archery with the Marbletown Sportsmen’s Club, interacting with birds under the guidance of Wild Mountain Birds, and meeting Moose the Therapy Dog. Students in grades 4-6 also partook in team-bonding activities thanks to the generosity of community members and representatives of local organizations who donated their time and expertise. Students enjoyed practicing yoga with Kyra Sahasrabudhe and Sarah Willis, learning karate techniques from New Paltz Karate, and grooving to the beat of a drum circle conducted by percussionist Joakim Lartey.

The day was a huge success thanks not only to the many volunteers and donors, but also to the leadership of Intermediate School counselor Debra Marinucci, who facilitated and planned the event. “Fall Festival is based on the idea that moving and creating with others can build empathy, attunement and connection on a neurobiological level,” she said. “It is a day for students, staff, and community members to interact and strengthen bonds with one another.

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Page 10, November 4, 2022, BlueStone April 15, 2022, BlueStone PressPress

Memoriam Mildred ‘Midge’ Burger-Yerry

STONE RIDGE—Mildred “Midge” Burger-Yerry, formerly of Atwood Road, passed on Oct. 24, 2022, in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

She was born Oct. 3, 1924, in Stone Ridge to the late Latus and Mary Van Etten Every. She was a graduate of Kingston High School, Class of 1942. Mildred was a working mother, working at Grand Union, Schneider’s Jewelers, and retiring from Waldbaum’s. She finally quit housekeeping in 2007 at the age of 83. Mildred was a bowler in leagues at Chalet in Rosendale.

She is survived by her four beloved daughters: Marie Andersen of High Falls, and Yerry Linda Cable (Charles), Donna Bridge (Allan) and Colleen Henning (Christopher), all of Port St. Lucie; five granddaughters, five great-grandsons, three great-granddaughters, and two great-great-grandsons; as well as many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her first husband, Donald E. Burger, and her second husband, Thomas E. Yerry; two brothers, Preston and Victor Every; and four sisters, Ida Elliott, Alice Halstead, Ina Ploss and Ann Mytis Quick. A memorial service will be held at a later date. She will be inurned at Palentown Cemetery in Olive Bridge.

Anna ‘Annie’ Maria Rine

NAPANOCH—Anna “Annie” Maria Rine passed away peacefully at home on Oct. 22, 2022, surrounded by her loved ones. Annie was born in Honesdale, Pennsylvania, on April 18, 1963, to the late William Jr. and Joan (Grunski) Rine. Annie was a resident with New Horizons at Mountain View House in Napanoch. She graduated from New Paltz High School in 1984. She worked at Pilot Industries ARC in Ellenville as a line worker and attended the New Horizons Day Hab in Napanoch. Annie will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by Nameline her brother, William Rine III, and his life partner, Vincent Ciccarelli of Mt. Plymouth, Florida; by her sister, Kimberly Rine, and her boyfriend, Douglas Kelsey, of Poughkeepsie; her nephew, Alexander Rine of Saugerties; her Aunt Marianne Pribula (James) of Clifford, Pennsylvania; uncles Marlin Rine (Diane) of Oneida, Earl Rine (Janice) of Honesdale, Howard Rine of Rome, and James Rine of Sherrill. She is also survived by several cousins, her friend and former brother-in-law Eric Ingraham, her dearest friend Terri Nightengale, as well as her dear friends at New Horizons.

In addition to her parents Anna was predeceased by her brother Brian in 2013, her maternal grandparents Alexander and Jennie (Debevec) Grunski, paternal grandparents William Sr. and Louise (Wertz) Rine. Also uncles Robert Rine, Larry Rine, & William Grunski and cousin Jeremy Pribula. “Banana,” as she was known by her family, was a genuine and loyal person with an unwavering love for anyone she met. She was also very funny, caring and strong willed. You couldn’t go anywhere without Annie knowing someone. Her love of horses spoke volumes. She enjoyed mealtime, and a beer from time to time.

Her favorite pastimes included swimming with her friend Terri, doing puzzles and coloring, spending time at her grandparents’ farm in Waymart, Pennsylvania, watching the Mets or Yankees (depended on her mood and who she loved that day), the Jets, WWE Wrestling, spending time outdoors, and her alltime favorite thing, MUSIC!! You would often find Annie in her younger years strumming her tennis-racket guitar, singing her favorite songs, or carrying her boombox. She had a passion for

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Author of ‘Julie & Julia’ lived in Olivebridge since 2018 Julie Powell, New York Times bestselling author of the memoirs “Julie & Julia” and “Cleaving,” died unexpectedly on Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2022, at her home in Olivebridge, where she lived since 2018 with her beloved husband of 24 years, her high school sweetheart, Eric Powell. She was 49 years old.

Julie, born Julia Ann Foster, grew up in Austin, Texas, and is survived by her husband, her parents, John and Kay Foster, brother Jordan Foster, sister-in-law Libby, nephew Rowan, niece Etta, mother-in-law Mary Jo Powell, brother-in-law Ethan Powell, nieces Caroline, Katherine and Julia, and nephew Jackson. She was a tremendous creative talent, and as expressed in her writing, a consummate gourmand with a passion for culinary challenges and extraordinary adventures. She had a deep love for animals and nature, and cared passionately about art, literature, politics and pop culture.

Her husband, family and beloved pets were central in her life.

Julie went to Austin High School in Austin, Texas, where her love of creative arts and theater blossomed.

She graduated from Amherst College in 1995 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in theater and fiction writing. In 2002, she started the groundbreaking blog “The Julie/ Julia Project” and launched a flourishing writing and speaking career.

Her literary work inspired the film “Julie & Julia,” directed by the late Nora Ephron, and helped spark a cultural revival of interest in Julia Child as a pioneer and historical figure of more than just epicurean import.

Judy Clain, editor in chief of Little, Brown and Company and Julie’s editor, says, “‘Julie & Julia’ became an instant her jewelry, and for her nails to be painted. Her family meant the world to her. She loved them as they did her, unconditionally. Memorial visitation will be held 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 10, with a celebration of Anna’s life immediately following, at Humiston Funeral Home, 30 42nd St., Kerhonkson.

Inurnment will follow at New Paltz Rural Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made in Anna’s name to the Alexander Rine Fund, c/o the Malden West-Camp Fire Co., P.O. Box 173, Malden, NY 12453 and/or to New Horizons Resources, 123 West Road, Pleasant Valley, NY 12569.

Michael J. Bazinet

KERHONKSON—Michael J. Bazinet passed away peacefully at home on Oct. 25, 2022, at the age of 77. Michael

was born on July 25, 1945, in Glens Falls to the late George and Mary (O’Connor) Bazinet. A lifelong resident of the area, Michael married the love of his life, Jeanette (Mesceda) Bazinet, on March 9, 1974, in Ellenville.

He had worked for the Department of Defense for most of his career and more recently, before his retirement, he was the government sales, quality manager with Methods Tooling in Saugerties. He enjoyed Bazinet woodworking, watching football, and most of all spending time with his family. There were many camping trips and vacations that inspired family traditions with the kids. He will be missed. Besides his wife, Jeanette, at home, Michael is survived by his sons, Michael S. Bazinet (Shannon McGrane) of Kerhonkson, Ryan Bazinet (Emily) of Kerhonkson, and Jason Bazinet (Keri) of Rowley, Massachusetts; his grandchildren, Eleanor, Archer, Reid, Owen and Morgan; his brother and sister-in-law Dave Bazinet (Yvonne); sister-in-law Jean Bazinet, brother-in-law Tom Kirkpatrick, and many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, Michael was predeceased by his brother George Bazinet and his sister Darlene Kirkpatrick. A celebration of life will be held 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, at Humiston Funeral Home, 30 42nd St, Kerhonkson. A memorial service will be celebrated at 3:30 p.m. that evening. Memorial contributions may be made in Michael’s name to the Alzheimer's Association, 6215 Sheri-

Catherine M Pero

Aug ust 25, 19 47 - Novem ber 16 , 2021 When I married you I was supposed to spend the rest of my life with you. Then I realized that you spent the rest of your life with me. I smile because I know you loved me and then you had to go away. I know you will always love me and then one day we will be together again. I love you my Cathy, my princess. Your loving husband always, Jack

Julie Powell, “Julie & Julia” and “Cleaving”

classic, and it is with gratitude for her unique voice that we will now remember Julie’s dazzling brilliance and originality. We mourn her loss with her husband Eric and her family.”

Julie was recognized with an honorary degree from Le Cordon Bleu, and her work received critical acclaim, including two James Beard Awards for magazine writing and a Quill Award for Debut Author of the Year. Julie was a gifted wordsmith with a razor sharp wit and a big, open heart. Her boldness and ability to uniquely and beautifully render words on the page are among the many things she will be remembered for. There will be private celebrations of her life in both Austin and New York, the two cities that were the backdrop of Julie’s life.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. dan Drive, Suite 100, Amherst, NY 14221 or www.alz.org.

Leonard A. Pumilia, ‘Lenny’

ACCORD—Leonard A. Pumilia, ‘Lenny’ passed away unexpectedly on Oct.23, 2022, at the age of 65. Lenny was born on Dec. 30, 1956, in Brooklyn, son of Anthony J. Pumilia and the late Anna (Giarratano) Pumilia. A lifelong resident of the area, Lenny moved with his family from Long Island to Kerhonkson in 1966. He served his country in the United Sates Army during the Vietnam era. He worked for many years doing plumbing and maintenance at various places. Some knew Lenny from Rondout Valley and also working at the Catskill Hotels in the 1960s and ’70s. He was one of the most talented people you’d ever meet! Fixed anything, self-taught on guitar and drums, would make you cry laughing doing impressions. Lenny graduated from Clown College in Venice, Florida, and worked with Barnum & Bailey Circuses as “Lenzo the Clown.” Besides his father, Tony, he is survived by his longtime companion, Cathy Metrick-Hart, and her daughters Catherine McKelvey and Linda Wells (Steve); grandchildren Jeffery McKelvey Jr., Catherine A. Buffone and Lyndsey Wells; and great-grandchild Riley. Also surviving are his brothers, Tony and wife Anne, Tom and wife Rory, and Michael and wife Margaret Pumilia. A memorial graveside service is scheduled for 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5, at the Pine Bush Cemetery, Kerhonkson. Arrangements are entrusted to Humiston Funeral Home.

Wanda Marie Winne

COTTEKILL—Wanda Marie Winne passed away on Oct. 23, 2022, at the age of 73. She was a loving mother, a true friend and a hard worker. She will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her. She was a kind, caring and giving person who always put the needs of her family and friends before her own. She was a strong woman who faced every challenge in her life with courage and dignity. Wanda was born April 18, 1949, in Kingston, where she stayed near her entire life. Wanda is predeceased by her parents, Althea and Kenneth, and her brothWinne ers Peter, Kenneth, John, Wayne and Wade (Manny). She leaves behind her sisters, Susan and Wendy; her brother Jake; her children, John and her daughter-in-law Cheryl, Althea, Thomas, Christi and Charles Jr.; and her grandchildren Jessica, Damion, Jewel, Thomas Jr., Robert, Logan, Tyler and Kayla. She loved working at Charles River Laboratories, which she did for 20 years and continued up until her final weeks. She made many treasured friendships there. No funeral service will be held, at Wanda’s request. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a local SPCA to honor her love of dogs. She will be interred at the Wiltwyck Cemetery in Kingston. “Mother, you will always be in our hearts and we will never forget you. We love you so much. Rest in peace.” George J. Moylan Funeral Home Inc., Rosendale, is assisting the family.

November 4, 2022

Local money, local ideas

Page 11

Welcome to the ‘slow flower movement’ Sustainable and organically grown flowers are at the heart of Sea Change Farm in Accord Chelsea Miller BSP Reporter Flower power is back. Local flower power, to be exact. At the helm of Sea Change Farm, proprietor Samantha Ritter is putting her background in computer programming and sculpture to good use, exploring regenerative farming techniques to contribute an ecologically sound – and beautiful – flower economy.

Ritter grew up in New Jersey, but she spent many weekends in the Catskills, where her grandparents had a ski house, which initially kindled her love for the area.

Ritter says that she was an artsy kid who was intensely academically focused. She attended Princeton, where she majored in computer science with a minor in sculpture. “I took a computer science class just to fill a requirement and I decided to major in it,” says Ritter.

“I love the problem solving in computer programming and found that this thinking is also very present in art.

I learning how things work – that’s really exciting to me,” she says. “My work was very site specific, installation work. I was making a lot of very abstract sculpture using scrap wood and panty hose, combining geometric shapes with an organic form. I created the sculptures in the spaces they would be exhibited in and focused on helping people see parts of a space or things about a space that you might ignore.”

After graduation in 2013, Ritter headed to New York City and started working as a computer programmer and software developer. At that time she toyed with going back to school to earn her MFA in art but ultimately knew she didn’t want to be in the art world. As the months and years ticked by Ritter found herself increasingly escaping the city for the refuge of the country.

“I was really missing trees and nature, and by the end of my six years in the city I was leaving every weekend to hike or be in nature in the Catskills and the lower Hudson Valley. It was gradual wearing down of the soul – working in the city and working at a desk.”

Fate struck in 2017 when Ritter met her now-husband, Brandon Knopp, while volunteering. “We were both there to clean up a hiking trail so we were in ridiculous hiking gear but we got to talk a lot that day,” says Ritter.

When he removed a tick from her face at lunch, she knew that he was a keeper. “We just really clicked, and he’s just the best,” she says.

In 2018, with ample encouragement from Knopp, Ritter quit her job in the city and signed up for a seven-month AmeriCorps program that built hiking trails.

Her assignment was in Sterling Forest State Park, in Orange County. After completing the program she moved in with Knopp, who was working with Wild Earth at the time, in Sullivan County, and she found that the AmeriCorps program had cemented for her that whatever her next career was, it was certain the majority of time was to be spent outdoors. Ritter began consuming books by the stack and says that when she stumbled on the book “Floret Farm’s Cut Flower Garden” by Erin Benzakein with Julie Chai she was immediately fascinated.

“I picked that book up and I instantly loved it,” she says.

“The way that she [Benzakein] approaches growing is really interesting to me because if she wants to learn more about it she is methodical about her process. If, say, she is interested in foxgloves she plants like 20 varieties with different variables like shading, etc., to figure out what works best. It clicked with my science brain and also with the creative part of my brain.” Over the next couple of years she began experimenting and growing some flowers at their home in Sullivan County. These first two years were critical. Ritter maintained a part-time software development job, which afforded her the space and freedom to make mistakes and learn the art and trade of growing sustainably.

“The first year that I grew I was like a kid in a candy shop,” Ritter says. “I planted to many varieties! I like to learn by experimenting and making mistakes. I just dove in.”

The couple had gotten to know the Rondout Valley during Knopp’s time with Wild Earth and, feeling the pull of community, they moved to the area in 2019. Initially, Ritter leased from a landowner in Stone Ridge to start the farm, and she began looking for land to purchase once her lease at the current field was due to end. At the end of 2021, she and Knopp purchased land of their very own in

Action shot at Sea Change Farm of proprietor Samantha Ritter making a floral installation

Accord. This year, 2022, was the first season on the farm, and Ritter says it was a mixture of planning for the future as well as trial and error. In contrast to their last field, the land at Sea Change Farm in Accord is surrounded by trees on all sides, giving a big variation of sunlight. While problem solving around the shade, Ritter has planted a plethora of perennials including 300 peony plants, hydrangeas, tulips, daffodils, heirloom chrysanthemums, dahlias and foxgloves. She also planted, to name a few, marigolds, zinnias, raculous, straw flowers, lisianthus and a whole host of beautiful culinary herbs and thornless blackberry to use as foliage.

Sea Change Farm gets its name (no, not from that Beck album, although Ritter appreciates Beck) from something someone once said to her when she was on the verge of leaving New York. “I was talking to a woman about changing careers, and she said, ‘Good luck on your sea change,’ and that really resonated with me.”

Four seasons in, Sea Change Farm now provides floral design for events, wholesale accounts for florists, and will be offering workshops in 2023. She is grateful to be in a place and time with supportive florists who understand the value of purchasing local, and she says that this commitment to the slow flower movement has added a sense of playfulness and joy to her floral design work, which, as would make sense, tends to be sculptural.

“Having clients who are committed to local flowers allows me some really wonderful flexibility as an artist,” says Ritter. “My floral design work ties into my work as a sculptor because doing flower arrangements for events is usually very site specific.” Recently, Sea Change provided flowers for a wedding at Hutton Brickyards, and Ritter says that she had a lot of fun using the architecture to inform the design (including vines and flowers climb-

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ing up walls and spilling over balconies). Her advice for those arranging flowers at home? “I really like when our floral work looks like it could have been growing in nature,” says Ritter. “One thing I think about a lot is imitating how they grew outside. In a hands-on application way, that can translate into grouping varieties together instead of polka-dotting the varieties around. Also letting flowers and foliage do what they want – if you have a crazy, curvy stem – let it curve! It will be gorgeous!”

The name Sea Change is also a nod to the kind of flower farmer that Ritter is dedicated to embodying. The farm is no-till, regenerative and committed to organic growing methods. “I’m interested in learning about how we can grow flowers in a way that is sustainable, in a way that is chemical-free for the environment and also builds the soil year after year,” says Ritter. “Most people don’t know that the soil has a lot of life in it. It has lots of structures in it created by bacteria and worms and virus – there’s a microbiome to the soil. When you till the soil, it can really destroy that structure of these organisms, and when you over-till it can really deplete the life of the soil and not give it the chance to recover. Worms are a good example (because you can see them)! Their poop contains a gluey structure that makes clumps in the soil, which allows the dirt to be more aggregated, contributing to the structure of the soil, which supports thriving plants. If you have worms in your garden it’s a good sign of a living and thriving soil.”

“Similar to the slow food movement, the slow flower movement contributes to people being conscious about the flowers they buy and where they come from. Flowers have a huge carbon footprint – the majority of the roses that a lot of florists get are coming all the way from places like Ecuador or Kenya,” Ritter says. She is quick to point out that she is just one flower farm in the area working toward this systemic shift, and that together the farms have created a supportive community rich with collaboration and mentorship, and together they are creating a new paradigm for what a local flower industry could look like. It also links back to her initial pull to be back in nature.

“Flowers are a beautiful way bring people into nature, and I like that flowers give that to people and give it to people who are not necessarily able to go on a hike. You are literally bringing nature indoors and kindling that connection in a beautiful way.”

For more information about Sea Change, visit: https:// seachange.farm.

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Page 12

Athletics, recreation & fitness

November 4, 2022

Field hockey team shooting for a return to the NY State Final Four after a great year Jeff Slater BSP Reporter After a highly successful season the Ganders field hockey team is preparing for its regional quarterfinal this Sunday, and if they win that game, they will go on to the state final next weekend in Centereach, Long Island.

“As a team we are preparing this week for the regional game. We are confident that we will play a great game and will work hard as a team to make it back to the States. We feel we have a good opportunity in this,” said Nanette Simione, varsity coach for the Rondout Valley team.

After posting a 15-2 record and winning the MHALs and the Section 9 finals, the team has good reason to feel confident.

Simione continued, “Winning the MHAL final versus Red Hook was a great experience. We won 5-0, and it helped us to prepare to play them in the sectional final the following week, which we won 3-0.”

Senior captain Mackenzie Heyl said, “I am so proud of this team because of our accomplishments already this season.

Going into the season we were greatly underestimated because of seniors we lost last year. Little did everyone know

Rondout Valley winning the MHAL field hockey championship

that we were just building on our progress from last season. Rondout field hockey is more than a team – we’re a family. We have the common goal of making it back to the States to finish unfinished business.

Each individual player has worked hard, and each and every person is so dedicated

to this team and our overall goal. I’m so proud of this very strong team we have built.”

The team had 12 returning players from last year.

“I think that helped us start from a much higher level than in previous years,”

Simione said. “We had an incredibly successful season last year, and the returnees brought experience into this year and the newcomers developed well with the experience we had coming back. The team learned to work together and put the team before their needs. They truly look out for each other on and off the field,” she said.

The team is led by midfielder Mackenzie Heyl and Riley Schoonmaker on defense, who both made the Section 9 All-Star team as well as the All-State team. Oliva Waruch made the first team (modified), and Mackenzie Hubbard received honorable mention. Captains are Desirae Baumann, Mackenzie Heyl, Mackenzie Hubbard and Riley Schoonmaker.

“I think we were underestimated as a team this season, and we have proven that we’re still a strong force and will continue to be one,” said Hubbard.

At 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 6, the Rondout field hockey team will play the winner of the Section 7 vs. Section 11 match-up at the RV field. Come on out and cheer for these young athletes.

Congratulations on a great season, and good luck this Sunday. Go, ganders!

After a birdie of a year, RV boys golf team looking ‘fore’ward to the future Jeff Slater BSP Reporter After a season with a win/loss record of 8-2 and a second-place finish at the Mid Hudson Athletic League championships, Rondout boys golf is looking good.

“Our top golfers scored lower than many of the past years. The team has dropped six strokes per golfer on average,” said coach Jason Clinton. “Additionally, we had a large recruitment this year and found lots of talented young athletes looking to become strong golfers. Our team has doubled in size over the last four years and we are up to 14 golfers.”

The team had a excellent record and they secured their division and went on to a second-place finish with a score of 166. Each of the teams that competed in the MHALs were division champs. In first place was New Paltz with a score of 154, and Rondout was in second with a score of 166, followed by Rhinebeck at 170 and Spackenkill at 195.

“It was a close match to take second place against Rhinebeck High School,” continued Clinton.

The scores that were counted (the four lowest scores account for the team score) were Ryan Sheremetta with a 41, Stevie Schwartz also with a score of 41, followed

by Erik Paddock with a 42 and Dominic Giamei with a 42.

The whole team! Back row: Coach Jason Clinton, Eric Paddock, Dominic Giamei, Matthew Kowalik, Luke Johnson, John Ryan Basten, Hudson Paley, Ryan Sheremetta, Andrew Dingman Front row from left to right: Jack Jacobsen, Stevie Schwartz, Hokai Liu, Domenic Palazolla, Connor Schwall, Joey Sweeney

Overall, the team was led by sophomore Dominic Giamei, with a +6 average (meaning 6 above par), and senior Erik Paddock, shooting a + 6.7 for the season.

Rookie of the Year sophomore Hokai Liu and another sophomore, Ryan Sheremetta, both scored a + 8 for the season. Stevie Schwartz, Hudson Paley and Matthew

Kowalik also contributed to some of the team’s wins.

“This group of golfers really bonded, and they work to help each other improve.

You can find guys at all levels of ability helping one another with technique, learning the rules of the game, and course management skills. They get along great

whether at practice or at competitions,” said Clinton.

Ryan Sheremetta said, “As a team everyone liked one another, we all got along.

The high schoolers had to set an example of how to act at the course and respect other teammates.”

“I think that we were successful because the guys who contributed to our wins came and practiced outside with the teamworking on their game. That helped us to be ready to compete each match time after time,” said Dominic Giamei.

Giamei, Paddock, Liu, Sheremetta, Schwartz, Paley and Kowalik all had averages that earned them a spot as one of the top 48 golfers in the MHAL, and they competed at the Individual Championship and the Section IX Qualifiers at the Apple Greens Golf Course in October. Giamei, Liu and Paley all scored in the top 20 for the MHALS and will advance to compete in the Section IX Individual Championship Match held in the spring.

“Twelve of the 14 golfers were from seventh through 10th grade. With such a young team, I expect to see some amazing golf in the future,” said Clinton.

“The golf team did great, and I hope will be better next year!” said Liu. It sure was a successful campaign for these golfers, and their future looks bright.

Go, Ganders.

BlueStone Press, November 4, 2022 , Page 13

Teachers from page 3 our students educational experience is a priority.”

The current rate for substitute teachers at Rondout is $125 per day for noncertified teachers and $150 per day for certified teachers. Starting pay for teachers in the RVSD is $57,000. The district still has three open teaching positions.

Nancy Auriemma, human resources administrator, said, “The three positions that haven’t been filled yet are being covered by a substitute teacher, a staff member and a BOCES staff member.”

In terms of why teachers resign their positions, Auriemma said, “With regard to resignations, sometimes we have teachers who relocate to another school district closer to their home community.”

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Lee Cutler, principal of RV Intermediate School, said, “We are not experiencing elementary teacher shortages as of yet. But at the high school level teachers are hard to find in specialty areas, especially in the sciences, and it’s impossible finding a foreign language teacher.”

Though the shortages are few, they have an effect on staff. Ron McDonough, RVF union president, said, “Teachers are losing their prep time because they have to cover classes.”

Another issue is the shortage of teaching assistants and one-on-one aides (paraprofessionals). According to Mary Anne Gates, para union rep for grades 1-6, “Each school has one or two para positions that need to be filled. Each school is interviewing for these unfilled positions.”

Cutler said, “School districts have limited funding, so it’s hard to attract paras due to those constraints.”

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According to Cyndi Murphy, union rep for paraprofessionals in grades 7-12, “The reason there is a shortage is because of the low starting salary, the pandemic and stressors. The impact it is having is felt by students every day. The teaching staff without support personnel turns into a vicious cycle, and as a result student needs aren’t being met.”

For example, in a special needs classroom, when teaching assistants are absent and there isn’t someone to cover (it is hard to find subs when the paras’ pay is so low), teachers say that it affects the class’s normal schedule. This is true especially when breaking into small groups for reading because the children are reading at so many different levels.

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Page 14

Your letters, views & ideas

Local Law No. 6

Free Garden Mulch

To the Editor: On the ballot is Local Law No. 6; this law promotes future land use planning and conservation in a manner that reflects the critical role of water resources, significant historic sites, scenic lands, and open space.

Past planning efforts all aimed to produce tools relevant to ensure balanced development, yet this may be the first significant concrete initiative that does so.

It is more than just another document embracing a vision, because it also ensures access to the funds needed to protect key lands. These funds come from a real estate transaction fee, which represents a one-time 1% property tax surcharge on new buyers, though there are exemptions up to $320,000. Once established, the town is eligible for matching funds from the state, further expanding access to local resources for conservation.

This is a real opportunity to balance growth and conservation in manner that protects the water resources in Marbletown.

Tracey Dewart Accord

November 4, 2022

Luck of the Irish To the Editor: This past Sunday afternoon [Oct. 16], I attended a concert at Christ the King Church with family and friends. I fully expected to enjoy the Irish music and to have a change-of-pace, relaxing night. Well, I was wrong. Instead, I had a fantastic experience I will long remember. Tommy Sands, a performer seeped in Irish music, politics, history and legend, soon had me feeling as if I were back in Ireland, enjoying an evening in a village music pub. I laughed a lot; I cried a bit. I left with new warmth in my heart.

This performance is only one of a music series organized by Christ the King. If you missed Tommy Sands, don’t allow yourself to miss any of the future performances. I see this music as excellent medicine for some of the woes we have endured for the past few years.

Masks required, windows open!

Tana Miller Cottekill

Terrific concert series at CTK To the Editor: Those who attended the world famous Tommy Sands Concert at the Church of Christ the King Episcopal Church in Stone Ridge on Sunday were given a gift. Produced by CTK parishioner, Robyn Boyd, the concert engaged those in attendance with harmony, laughter and fun. The audience found itself humming and singing choruses with Tommy as he played. There was much involvement and enjoyment. Tommy is one of Northern Ireland's most influential songwriters and singers who had been invited to sing at the Library of Congress and has been given an honorary doctorate from the University of Nevada for his “outstanding work as musician and ambassador for peace and understanding.” His song “There Were Roses” was influential in describing the effort to deal with the paramilitaries and problems in Northern Ireland prior to the peaceful ending of the British/Northern Ireland conflict.

Along with him was Lisa Gutkin, a Grammy Award-winning violinist, singer, actor and composer and music director in the two-time Tony Award-winning “Indecent.” Lisa was a wonderful lady who beautifully played a tenor guitar and violin. When they sang together I got chills from the harmony. She was as aware of those in the audience as was Mr. Sands Following the concert, a beautiful reception organized

by Pamela Hoveling in the Timmerman Hall at Christ the King found many folks enjoying wine and hors d'oeuvres into the evening.

All in all, a beautiful afternoon and evening.

Robyn Boyd has also arranged for more concerts in the next few Sundays at Christ the King. Anne Hills is scheduled to perform on Oct. 30, Joe Jencks on Nov. 13, and Zigue, followed by dinner, on Dec. 4. Tickets to these concerts may be purchased on the Christ the King Website: ctkstoneridge.org The Rondout Valley is blessed with the efforts of Robyn Boyd, Pam Hoveling, and those who attended the Tommy Sands concert. Please consider attending the upcoming concerts Andrew Lutz Stone Ridge

‘Vote Row A for a future worth living in’ To the Editor: Some politicians are pushing to lift the fracking ban in NYS; GOP candidate for NY governor, Lee Zeldin, is vocally in support of this if elected! James Quigley, running for Ulster county executive, also supports fracking in Ulster County. Their Democratic opponents, Kathy Hochul and Jen Metzger, have fought fiercely for cleaner, safer renewable energy. Jen co-sponsored the strongest climate protection in America (CLCPA) while in the NY State Senate.

I’ve been hearing a slogan recently: “energy warfare.” This is an attempt to sway sympathy for the fossil fuel industry so they can continue their record-breaking profits. The tradeoff is warming, increased droughts and floods, terrifying storms and the resulting destruction that costs America tens of billions in taxpayer dollars annually – and will eventually affect our water and food supplies. There is now a devastating famine in Africa due to climate change.

I’ve also seen “blame Biden” stickers at gas pumps.

Ridiculous! Democrats are not to blame. It was a Republican-controlled Congress that repealed a 40-year moratorium on exporting oil and gas in 2015, when prices were super low and supply/production in the U.S. was high.

That decreased domestic supply, and increased costs!

Now Saudi Arabia and Russia are cutting global supply, which will cause more price increases. Hopefully we’ll use less. Bad for the pocketbook, but good for the planet. High prices seem to be the push some need to actually make changes to conserve. Fossil fuel companies still reap huge profits and consumers pay more, but our earth pays the highest costs! Republican politicians support the fossil fuel industry in exchange for huge campaign contributions.

If we love our children, we must keep THEIR future front of mind. We must look beyond immediate convenience – People and planet before profit!! Vote Row A, for a future worth living in!

Also, please vote YES on Prop # 1!

Deb Weltsch Tillson

Library says, thanks so much!

To the Editor: In this season of giving thanks, the Stone Ridge Library Foundation wishes to acknowledge the local businesses and individuals who have donated items to our 2022 Online Auction, Mailbox Raffle and Hudson Valley Gives Giving Day Deals.

A big thanks going out to Advanced Dermatology; Amber Milanovich Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine; Augustine Nursery; Barbara Bash; Bjorn Qorn; Bluebird

Wine & Spirits; Butterfield; Catskill Art Supply; Catskill Native Nursery; Davenport Farms; Dawn's Dog Boarding, Daycare, Dog Walking & Pet Sitting; Diane Silverberg; Draw Botanical; the Egg’s Nest; Emmeline Hastings; Evry Mann; Green Cottage; Hasbrouck House; High Falls Cafe; Homegrown Flowers & Goods; Hortus Arboretum & Botanical Gardens; Journeywoman Astrology; Kaete Brittin Shaw; Kay Sutka; Kenco Outfitters; Kingston Ceramics Studio; Kyra Sahasrabudhe; Linda Still; Lora Shelley; Marbletown Hardware; Mary Crisp; Maxine's Catering & Bittersweet Bakers; Nancy Plumer; Ollie's Pizza; RidgeWell Fitness; Postmark Books; Rob Miraldi; the Rock Academy, Woodstock; the Roost; Samuel Claiborne Creative Healing; Saunderskill Farms; Silvia; Starlight Duo, Larry Bush & Susan Griss; Starlite Motel; Stone House Tavern; Stone Ridge Wine & Spirits; Tree Juice Maple Syrup; Upstate Taco; Victoria Gardens; the W&V Schulte Family; Wendy Hollender; Wesley’s Way Café (formerly Lydia’s Café); Westwind Orchard & Cidery; Whole Sky Yoga; Williams Lumber; and Woodstock Symphony Orchestra.

We appreciate your participation so much! Your support impacts our entire community today and for generations to come, sustaining and growing the Library as a center of connection and lifelong learning. We couldn’t do it without your help. Thank you!

Aimee Trumbore Coordinator Stone Ridge Library Foundation, Stone Ridge

A wonderful 100th anniversary To the Editor: On Sunday, Oct. 23, the Kerhonkson Synagogue celebrated its 100th anniversary with an open house that drew more than 120 people from the local community and beyond. It was a great afternoon, filled with good food, terrific music, and personal reminiscences shared by synagogue members and friends.

Thank you to all of those who attended, as well as to the many volunteers and speakers who made Sunday’s event such a success. Special thanks to The Big Cheese in Rosendale for the delicious catering and to our friends at MyTown Marketplace, Peters Market, Saunderskill Market, Shoprite, Stewart's Shops and Walmart, who supported us with generous donations of goods and services.

Thanks also to the fabulous musicians of “Chai on Music” by the Saints of Swing, who entertained the crowd with a spirited klezmer performance.

Kerhonkson Synagogue is proud to have been a continuously operating congregation and center of Jewish life in the area for 100 years, and we look forward to serving the community for 100 more!

Laura Goldstein President, Reb Sally Shore-Wittenberg, Spiritual Leader, Kerhonkson

BlueStone Press, November 4, 2022 , Page 15

‘Ghosts’ – the Ulster County sitcom Dear Wally, I have recently heard of a sitcom that has its setting based in Ulster County called “Ghosts.” The sitcom description is below. What do you think about this show's setting being based in Ulster County but actually filmed in LA and sound stages in Montreal?

What do you think of this sitcom's concept?

Samantha, a cheerful freelance journalist, and Jay, an upand-coming chef from the city, throw both caution and money to the wind when they decide to convert a huge run-down country estate they inherited into a bed and breakfast – only to find it's inhabited by the many spirits of deceased residents. The departed souls are a close-knit, eclectic group that Wally Nichols includes a saucy Prohibition-era lounge singer, a pompous 1700s Militiaman, a '60s hippie fond of hallucinogens, and an overly upbeat ’80s Scout troop leader. If the spirits were anxious about the commotion a renovation and B&B will create in their home, it's nothing compared to when they realize Samantha is

Dear Wally

Arts director Ann Citron talks with writer, performer Kathryn Grody Playwright and performer Kathryn Grody brings her newest play, “The Unexpected 3rd, a work in progress” to the Rosendale Theatre stage, 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 18; 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 19; and 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20, at 408 Main St., Rosendale.

Grody described “The Unexpected 3rd” as “a radical rumination on Grody the optimism of staying alive.” Deep into her third and final act of being a person, Grody investigates an eclectic, devastating and hilarious potpourri of shocking discoveries as she finds herself at 75 becoming ...

the first live person who can see and hear them.

Sincerely, A habitual reader of your column

Wally replies: Dear Habitual Reader (of hopefully more than just my column), First, thanks for reading my column(s) regularly. Even I don’t read my columns regularly! So, yay you.

That Ulster County has become a movie production location darling is not shocking. We got it all! Mountains, farms, rivers, wildlife, parks, old run-down gas stations. It’s movie production location eye candy.

That it is movie inspiration material and being recreated out of plywood, paint and ersatz trees thousands of miles away in a Hollywood beaker, by professional actors, is odd but also makes sense when considered through the lens of production cost efficiency and controlled environments. What are they gonna do with the cameras here when it snows 4 feet in three hours?

We should send an authenticity ambassador to Hollywood to make sure they capture all the county’s flavor, and that everyone on set speeds and tailgates. They need to know how to safely operate a pumpkin cannon around Halloween and drive behind tractors in the road that are hauling summer hay. For the real Ulster County experience, they need to make sure that the power goes out a lot

not quite old, but elder.

“Old starts at 95!” Grody declared. “I've just completed my late youth.” Another boomer who didn't think the aging process would apply to them, Grody enters elderhood with equal parts empowerment and utter devastation. Marching onward through crumbling democracy, a boiling planet, and an increasingly dead roster of friends and colleagues, she is buoyed by discovering parts of herself she didn’t know were in hiding. Perhaps these parts were waiting for this period to bloom. Mother, artist, wife, grandmother, friend and accidental influencer, Grody is astonished with her life and the stunning, hilarious, heartbreaking impermanence of it all.

“The Unexpected 3rd” is the third play in a trilogy that also includes “A Mom's Life” and “Falling Apart … Together.” All the plays in the trilogy, including “The Unexpected 3rd,” have been directed by Timothy Near, a multi-award-winning director for the stage. As the title says, it is about the next third part of life and the surprises these years reveal.

on set, and when it is on, it is super expensive. The roads need potholes, and there have to be a few ice storms.

The premise of the sitcom sounds cute. (Also interesting is that maybe this is the only sitcom plot line that hasn’t been done? Or maybe it has and I just don’t know about it because whoever was in charge of telling me has been … ghosting me? Didn’t really think there was anything left to make in the sitcom world …)

We get to see through ebullient Samantha’s eyes and ears, as she turns the property into an Airbnb (and, ahem, registers it with the Ulster County tax authority???!?!), what these apparitions are thinking and what they are thinking of us living folk. Eeeeek. There is probably some eye socket rolling.

If the producers can’t make it funny (sitcoms are usually vapid to my palette) they could pivot and make it a drama about city interlopers trying to turn their new/ old estate into a legit Airbnb in a town that doesn’t want it done, or with disapproving neighbors who report them.

However, not sure there is a big audience out there for even more of this type of friction.

Curious to see how Ulster County is replicated. And if the rest of the world sees the beauty and coolness of the area. I’ll watch it if you give me your Hulu password!

Got a question or TV subscription for our advice columnist? Email him at cwn4@aol.com.

Rosendale Theatre Arts director Ann Citron (who is producing the workshop of the play) caught up with Grody and asked her some questions about bringing “The Unexpected 3rd” to the Rosendale Theatre stage.

Can you tell us a little about yours and Timothy's process of workshopping a play?

The process of a workshop ... well, as you know, plays are not birthed on the page but in the process of hearing the words and seeing if what your intentions were sound the same out loud as you had intended on the paper ... We are on our 11th draft in one week, so in working together we’re discovering what is repeated, what are new themes, what little ticks we want to be just that.

What do you hope to discover?

In preparing the piece for performance in front of an audience, we discover what we started with, make strides, and continue as we perform in Rosendale. We see where we have come from and where we can still go! The great thing about a work-

shop is you keep learning ... I'm assuming that what people see on the 18th might be different from what someone else would see on the 19th, and on the 20th we might discover something totally new or go back and say oh dear, it worked better the way we had it initially!

What do you hope to get from the audience feedback after the performances?

In a new work like this, the audience response is so essential and interesting, to ask people what resonated for them and perhaps what they wished they saw or heard that was missing … you always find things that you were sure would work and don't, and then things that work so much better than you had expected!

Audiences are encouraged to stay after the performances for conversation with Grody and Near. Feedback is greatly appreciated as this is a work in progress.

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

11/10 Open Mic 7pm 11/12 Big Joe Fitz & The Lo-Fi’s 7:30pm

11/17 Kurt & Gary 7pm

11/18 & 19 The Bush Brothers Double Header 7:30pm

11/25 Blacklight Dance party w/Breakaway 7:30pm

11/26 Pancakes w/Santa

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Page 16

Your friends and community

November 4, 2022

Rosendale’s ‘Erik the Reptile Guy’ celebrates premiere of new show on PBS Chelsea Miller BSP Reporter For over two decades Erik Callender – aka Erik the Reptile Guy – has been delighting young audiences both in and out of school with his traveling “Reptile Edventures” show where audience members have the opportunity to strengthen their self-confidence, brainstorm ways to help protect our planet, and learn about (and meet) a colorful cast of snakes, lizards, tortoises, turtles and even a few cockroaches along the way. On Nov. 3, the magic that is Erik the Reptile Guy went national with the premiere of his new show “Menghayati” on PBS. Callender grew up in Queens, and his love of reptiles began before he had hit double digits. “It started when I was probably 6,” he recalls. “I went to Bear Mountain and some dude was fishing for tadpoles, and when I peeked into the bucket and saw the tadpoles I was fascinated.

I asked him if I could have some, and he said yes! We brought them to my daycare center in Queens and they joined the room along with the two doves, Dubois and Blanche. Even at a young age I kept gravitating to reptiles.”

The beginning of the school journey was a tumultuous one for Callender, who says he was often in trouble and was placed in a special education classroom. His time spent in the special education classroom had a long-term positive effect on Callender. “I had this teacher, and she never spoke to the negative,” says Callender. “She only used empowerment. Every single day we would chant, ‘I am somebody! I have a mind, I have a heart, with these two things I have a great start! I am somebody.’ She said it all the time and we repeated it all the time, and the more we all said it, the more empowered the whole class became. … Finally it was like a veil had been lifted, and I started excelling in my classes. You have to believe before anything is possible. It expanded my heart and my mind at once.”

When he was 10 years old, his mother gave him a long-coveted pet turtle, which was both his first real legal reptile pet and also his first lesson. The turtle died, which is why, in part, Callender underscores the importance of reading books about caring for specific pets before bringing them home.

After high school, Callender earned his associate degree as a veterinary technician and enrolled at SUNY Stony Brook at the age of 24 with an eye toward becoming a vet. His parents, while supportive of his path, were not so supportive of the host of snakes, lizards and creatures living under his bed and told him that, while they would always support him, the critters had to go. When Callender poured his heart out to his guidance counselor, they directed him to Dr. Patricia Wright – a professor at the Stony Brook who worked with lemurs in Madagascar. Not immediately seeing the connection but needing some place to start, Callender tentatively approached Dr. Wright.

“I was just starting at Stony Brook and I went to Dr. Pat’s office and I said, ‘I know I am new, but my parents just kicked my animals out and I need a new place for them.’

She let me keep my animals in her office for two years – 14 tarantulas, four snakes and six turtles, all in her little office. It was a big deal.” Their friendship grew, and Wright

Erik Callender on location in Madagascar while filming his new PBS show, “Menghayati”

suggested that Callender study abroad with her in Madagascar, but the timing and funds weren’t quite right – yet.

In 2005, just shy of graduating, Callender was fired from his job as a vet tech. He had become disillusioned with the industry, burned out, and heartbroken from caring for dying animals as opposed to interacting with healthy and happy animals.

“I didn’t know what I was going to do,” explains Callender. “I turned on the TV and ‘The Tyra Banks Show’ was on and the theme was ‘Follow Your Dreams.’ I knew I wanted to be a wildlife educator. I had been dabbling in wildlife education but only as a way to get me through vet school. Something about that show lit something in me, Tyra kicked it into gear. I literally ran out of my house with $200 in the bank, but I was so inspired and I had a paper allotment at the school. I used the entire allotment to make brochures and a flier, and I wrote a letter to all the teachers at school to let them know what I was doing.

That’s how it started.”

What grew was a thriving business – now over two decades long and thousands of live shows strong. Erik the Reptile Guy’s Edventure Show provides a funny, insightful and sometimes poignant opportunity for children to interact with reptiles, connect with nature and opens doors to big conversations, like believing in themselves and how to impact the planet we live on in a positive way.

The year 2011 was formative for Callender – he would finally get to take up Dr. Wright’s offer join her in in Madagascar. Upon landing on the African island in the Indian Ocean, Callender says he was faced with poverty like he had never seen before, and he learned that the majority of children weren’t in school past fifth grade, due in large part because the government only funded school up until that point.

“That first trip I decided I wanted to build a school,” says Callender. “I’d seen poverty in a lot of places but I hadn’t seen poverty like I saw it in Madagascar. I saw children fighting like animals over a scrap of chicken – it was terrible. Nobody should have to live like that, it didn’t make sense to me. I’ve been in help mode for seven years.” This desire to help is driven by agency – something that Callender touches on with children

in every single Edventure Show and now in his new PBS show. “I started focusing my energy on all the sustainable things I can do versus what I can’t do. You can’t always fix terrible things, but when you flip it around – whenever I flip it – and say, ‘Eric, don’t focus on the negative, be positive, even when you see something bad in front of you, it’s OK to cry and feel what you feel but … you can flip it around.’ I find that when I flip it there are always things I can do to help.”

Six years and multiple trips back to Madagascar later, Callender made good on his intention and built an environmental school with help from the Kamal Foundation.

It was also on this trip that Callender first remembers feeling uneasy about handling animals – that animals, in a perfect world, should be free. This nagging of his soul led him to pivot to remote distance learning and a seven-country tour where Callender Skyped in from remote locations like Costa Rica and the Philippines and had the duel benefit of educating kids about animals while exposing them to the wider world and introducing them to other cultures. In these Skype sessions, animals were only observed, never touched, and Callender said that what he found was that not only was it possible to engage children without disrupting the animals, but that by observing (with the help of zoom lenses) the animals in the wild as opposed to in a manufactured situation, it opened the door to learn more about the animals and their environment.

Everything is connected for Callender, who is deeply shaped by a sense of living with integrity, which has led him to living a zero-plastic lifestyle and veganism. “I used to talk about environmental things with the kids and say ‘Don’t use plastic’ and I’d get a knot in my stomach,” explains Callender. “I realized didn’t feel comfortable saying it because I wasn’t doing it! I had a car full of plastic bottles of water that I was drinking in between shows – so there was a spiritual contradiction.” Callender made the full leap to a no-plastic life in the early days of Covid-19.

“I was hungry for two weeks because all the things I was buying was wrapped in plastic!” he says.

See Reptile guy, page 23

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BlueStone Press, November 4, 2022 , Page 17

'How we live will one day be part of history' Accord’s Suzanne Hauspurg retires as director of Ulster County Historical Society Take us back to when it began. What brought you to the position and how long have you been with the organization?

I became a board member in 2005 when my mother, Eleanor Rosakranse, passed away. She had been a board member of UCHS since I was a young teen. The board invited me to fill her place and I agreed even though I had no idea what my job would be! I became board president after the first year, then administrator after four years. So that makes 17 years I was with the organization.

What did you love most about the job and what was the most challenging?

I loved getting involved and relearning our local history. I wasn’t very interested in history of the area as a child growing up here. I played with kids who had family ancestors dating back to the early settlers in this area.

My mom was an avid genealogist and she found that my father’s family, Rosakranse, was also one of the earliest settlers. That opened my eyes! The most challenging, but also most rewarding, was getting to know the local history community we have here and creating some very strong working ties with other local organizations.

What brought you to the decision of retirement?

I had accomplished all the goals I set for myself, and it was time to get someone who could take the organization to the next level.

What will you miss the most about the job?

Kudos

Thank you all for being supportive and encouraging throughout my tenure. I was rewarded by being able to do the work I cared deeply about.

What advice do you have for Pamela Herrick, who will be taking over your position, and what can you say about her to make the transition for the community much easier?

I don’t think Pamela needs any advice from me, as she has been in the business far longer than I have. I would say to the community that she has your best interests in mind, and you should expect the museum to get even better during her time.

Now, at 64, what does the next chapter for you entail?

Waiting to see where the wind blows me!

“Maggie and me, the day I picked her up from the SPCA.” – Suzanne Hauspurg

Spending time with our members and folks who are thirsty for history of our beautiful locale.

What would you like to say to the community that has loved you being the woman behind the history these past years?

Plans for the buses and the location of the charging stations are currently in the works. The school district will begin purchasing the equipment in early 2023.

For more information, call 845-687-2400, ext. 2401, or email dgottstine@rondout.k12.ny.us.

Gander musicians to represent the district at NYSSMA festivals

“The new buses will improve air quality in and around schools and communities, reduce greenhouse gas pollution, and better protect children’s health,” said Alyssa Hasbrouck, RVSD school business official. “We look forward to the positive impact these buses will have on the Rondout Valley community.”

EPA’s Clean School Bus Program awards Rondout Rondout Valley School District recently won an award through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Clean School Bus Program. The EPA program aims to transform school bus fleets across the country and make clean, zero-emissions school buses the American standard.

RVSD has been selected for a funding amount totaling $9,875,000 for use in this program to replace 25 buses.

These reserved funds include $9,375,000 for 25 new electric buses, and $500,000 for eligible charging infrastructure.

Rondout Valley will continue to work with a contracted bus service, currently First Student. The contracted bus service will use the buses on the District’s behalf and must ensure that for the first five years the buses will be used for Rondout Valley’s use only.

Rondout’s school business official Alyssa Hasbrouck applied for the grant through the EPA website, providing bus information based on First Student’s current fleet.

Rules applied included the requirement that the vehicles could not be manufactured before 2010, as the zero-emissions school buses will trade with current inventory. EPA prioritized high-needs school districts, including school districts with more than 20% of students in poverty, rural school districts, tribal school districts and districts in underserved and overburdened communities.

“The new buses will improve air quality in and around schools and communities, reduce greenhouse gas pollution, and better protect children’s health,” said Hasbrouck. “We look forward to the positive impact these buses will have on the Rondout Valley community.”

Nine Rondout Valley High School students have been selected to participate in Area All-State, the New York State School Music Association festival.

The talented students will represent the Rondout Valley School District in various bands, orchestras and choirs at the NYSSMA-sponsored performance, which will be held Friday and Saturday, Nov. 18 and 19, at Tri-Valley High School in Grahamsville. The RVHS student musician participants include Freja Ermer, grade 10, Symphonic Band; Vivian Gonzales, grade 10, Symphony Orchestra; Jackson Paley, grade 11, Symphonic Band, Samuel Lever, grade 10, Symphonic Band; Veronica Kwiecinski, grade 12, Mixed Choir; Maven Flamhaft, grade 9, Orchestra, Kenneth Schade, grade 10, Symphonic Orchestra; Ellis Picuri, grade 11, Symphony Orchestra; and Matthew Peck, grade 12, Symphony Orchestra.

In addition, Ellis, Veronica and Jackson have been selected to perform in the 2022 NYSSMA Conference All-State Music Festival. Clarinetists Jackson and Ellis will represent Rondout Valley in the Symphonic Band, and vocalist Veronica as an alternate in the Mixed Chorus. The students will showcase their achievements on Dec. 4 at the Eastman Theatre in Rochester.

What words of wisdom do you have on love, life, history, and not sweating the small stuff?

Love your life and you’ll never have a worry. As for history, how we live while we are on this earth will one day be part of history.

And finally, if the public would like to reach out to you to say thanks and good luck in the future, how can they contact you?

Email is nice, srhauspurg@gmail.com. ~ Compiled by Donna Cohn Viertel, calendar of events editor.

National scholarship program awards Gander senior Marley Pileggi Rondout Valley High School student Marley Pileggi was named a Commended Student in this year’s National Merit Scholarship Program for his strong academic promise, as demonstrated by his performance on the qualifying test used for program entry.

Pileggi was among the 34,000 being recognized for excellence in education. Commended Students placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the competition by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT).

Pileggi is the captain of the Gander varsity soccer team, participates in track and field, is president of the National Honor Society, a peer leader, a member of Rondout’s newspaper, science Olympiad team and math team. Pileggi is the captain of the Mock Trial team, where his impressive performance in last year’s trial resulted in an internship with a local Rondout Valley senior attorney. In college next Marley Pileggi with fall, Pileggi plans to follow Principal Jessica Torok a degree in law with a major in linguistics.

For more information, email dgottstine@rondout.k12.ny.us or call 845-687-2400, ext. 2401.

The RVHS student musician participants include (front row, from left) Freja Ermer, grade 10, clarinet, Symphonic Band; Vivian Gonzales, grade 10, French horn, Symphony Orchestra; Jackson Paley, grade 11, clarinet, Symphonic Band; Samuel Lever, grade 10, tuba, Symphonic Band; (back row, from left) Veronica Kwiecinski, grade 12, alto, Mixed Choir; Maven Flamhaft, grade 9, bassoon, Orchestra; Kenneth Schade, grade 10, bass clarinet, Symphonic Orchestra; Ellis Picuri, grade 11, oboe, Symphony Orchestra; and Matthew Peck, grade 12, percussion, Symphony Orchestra.

Page 18

Arts, culture & entertainment

November 4, 2022

Have you dug Wall Drug?

“I need a break,” I said as we neared the exit. It had only been 10 minutes, but I was pretty sure a panic attack was imminent. We stepped onto the awning-covered street, dodging slow-moving families, bikers, and elderly couples in oversized sun hats. It was the first day of a heat wave that would push the temperature above 100 degrees. Outdoor activities were impossible, and with few indoor options, Wall Drug of South Dakota seemed like the place to go. I took a few deep breaths, nodded to my companion, and ducked back through the door.

Wall Drug is what I would describe as Fear-And-Loathing adjacent. It is an over-the-top, uniquely American … shopping mall? Theme park? Tourist megalopolis? There’s an animatronic cowboy band accompanied by a moonshine-swigging skunk. A 10-foot-high fiberglass jackalope.

Glazed doughnuts the size of truck tires. It’s a wonderland of weird roadside Americana – the stuff road trips are made of. Whether that amounts to a fantasy or nightmarish fever dream depends on one’s taste. As for myself, it was enough to drive me out. And enough to lure me back in.

Upon reentry, we began in the main cafeteria – a 560seat behemoth and the mothership of lesser eateries within the complex. All serve the same 10 menu items, none of which are vegetables (unless you count coleslaw).

While standing in line, I watched a forlorn teenage employee dish out sloppy meatloaf and decided to go with a burger instead. I washed it down with a cup of tea, a slice of pie, and an aforementioned 3-ton doughnut. It was

Jodi LaMarco

Jackalope

gross. I loved it.

With stomachs full of carbohydrates and regret, we wandered in and out of a labyrinth of shops selling books, Native American art, gemstones, fossils, belt buckles, shot glasses, Christmas ornaments, sunglasses, T-shirts, and Western-themed cologne. “Why do I like this?” I thought.

“It’s awful and cheesy and overpriced. Why am I even here?” I eyed an absurd pair of embroidered cowboy

boots but settled on a modest leather bracelet instead.

It has become somewhat of a talisman, a reminder that somewhere in the middle of Nowhere, South Dakota, this hilarious, arguably pointless place exists.

Its Kardashian-ness – the fact that it is famous for being famous – is part of what I love about Wall Drug. It is there because it is there. Its owners, inspired by ceaseless I-90 traffic going to and from destinations like Badlands National Park, hatched a plan to cash in on the stream of motorists passing their town. At first, billboards along the highway, which now number in the hundreds, offered free ice water and 5-cent cups of coffee. The more people who came, the more money the owners made. And the more money the owners made, the more they were able to build and advertise.

Try our homemade pie! Come see the 80-foot dinosaur!

And they did come. Tourists fed the beast until its square footage bloated to 70,000 and then some.

I didn’t go for the coffee or the ice water. It was the Robotic Cowboy Orchestra that got me. More accurately, I was ensnared by the promise of irresistible kitsch. I’m a sucker for such places. If it sells Route 66 key chains or bear-shaped merchandise, I’m stopping the car.

And yes, I get it. They want my money. All of those silly, campy ploys for attention (the world’s largest ball of twine in Kansas, or New Jersey’s Lucy the Elephant). Excess is another tactic. Uncountable shelves of souvenirs. Plates of food too large for anyone to finish (and good lord, who would want to?).

But it’s not about why it’s there, it’s about what I get out of it. The unexpected thrill of discovering a massive jackalope in the South Dakota desert. The nudge to be all in on whatever I find between where I am and where I’m going.

The chance to delight in something excessive or ludicrous – and hopefully, both.

They can have my money.

Novembers past in the Rondout Valley November 27, 1863 – New Paltz Times - The oldest inhabitants everywhere are predicting a long and cold winter because the muskrats are double walling their holes.

- The Rondout Courier says that the Delaware & Hudson Canal Company intend to have one hundred new canal boats built the coming winter.

The Rondout Freeman says there was a canal boat in Rondout creek on Friday, on the feed box of which was the name “Pirate Queen.” Under the name were the modest mottoes, “Though poor we are happy, not proud but independent,” and as a graceful windup a little poetry to this effect was indulged in: “What is the world without its joys?

What are the girls without the boys?”

Truly the ways of the genus canaler are past finding out.

November 2, 1871 – New-Paltz Independent The Delaware & Hudson Canal Company had $30,000 worth of coal burnt up by the fire in Chicago.

Linda Among the subscriptions to the Tantillo Chicago Relief Fund taken in New York last week is one of $5,000 from the Delaware & Hudson Canal Company. [This refers to the Great Chicago Fire on Oct. 8, 1871.]

November 23, 1876 – New-Paltz Independent A High Falls Wager.

“Chip” Tammany and Luke Sheeley of High Falls made an agreement before the election, the fulfillment of which promises a good deal of fun to the High Falls people. The agreement was to the effect that if Tilden was elected President, Sheeley is to wheel Tammany from the Belmont House, High Falls, to Sammon’s hotel, Rosendale, a distance of about three miles, in a wheelbarrow. If Hayes was elected “Chip” was to wheel Luke over the same route. This agreement will certainly be fulfilled as soon as the decision on the Presidential question is made known.

Aaron Schoonmaker of the Belmont House was chosen referee, and will appoint the time for the carrying out of the contract, of which due notice will be given. A proces-

From the archives

November 2, 1871 – New Paltz Times Poetry on the Canal.

sion will be formed, with the High Falls Band to furnish the music, and an escort of cavalry will accompany the parties …

November 6, 1890 – The Kingston Weekly Freeman and Journal The Rev. John B. Church is preparing a history of the Rochester Reformed Church, which begins with the year 1701. The ministers from that time to 1732 were the Rev. Petrus Nas and others, when the Rev. George W. Mancius is supposed to have commenced his pastorate there. The church was incorporated November 7, 1788. This event should have been celebrated on the seventh of November 1888, but it was not …

November 27, 1919 – The New Paltz Independent and Times The will of the late Charles L. Freer, who was born in Kingston, the millionaire art collector, admitted in probate in Detroit, Mich., Friday leaves the major part of the Freer art collection to the Smithsonian at Washington and provides for a $1,250,000 building to house it.

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BlueStone Press, November 4, 2022 , Page 19

Lullaby of the leaves I'm old enough to remember the smell of piles of burning leaves up and down the streets of my childhood in Monticello, over in Sullivan County. Those were the innocent years before we were aware that the smoke gave off hydrocarbons and was generally unhealthy to breathe.

But what an intoxicating, seductive aroma! (It was also fun to ride our bikes behind the fog of insecticide given off by the DDT truck that drove slowly through town every summer. Did we really do that? Shudder!)

This year, most people I know agree, has been particularly brilliant; a dry summer with enough chilly fall nights tends to produce more intense colors. But while we are admiring the glorious colors, the trees are sealing themselves off from their leaves, which quickly Ann Belmont die, landing one by one on the ground to curl up and over time become part of the topsoil, unless of course they are removed by people with leaf blowers and piled into plastic bags. This I do not do; our lawn is mostly left unraked till spring.

Some leaves will take years to break down. Around our house are several quite tall oaks. From fredericknewspost. com I learned that “oaks, beech and chestnut leaves have higher tannin and lignin levels than most other species of tree, and these chemicals are preservatives slowing down the rate of decomposition.” So true! A blanket of oak leaves is a very effective mulch, I have found.

The process of the turning of the leaves never ceases

Wild Things

Horoscopes The personal planets – the Sun, Mercury and Venus – continue to work together in the sign of Scorpio, the sign that remains behind the scenes with a hidden agenda.

Mars, the planet of action, continues retrograde, also in the sign of Scorpio, leaving many chores and decisions incomplete or filed late. Jupiter, Uranus and Neptune are also retrograde, adding to the sluggish economy and the general feeling of “where are we going?” Both Saturn and Pluto are in direct motion, calling for action – with Mars retrograde – don’t laugh!! The full Moon on Nov. 8, also in Taurus with a total eclipse, and will conjunct Uranus. Is it possible we will experience another major event?

ARIES: 3/21 to 4/19: Mars, your ruling planet, continues in the 3rd solar house of Gemini focusing attention on education and information. However, your planet is retrograde, possibly forcing you to take a different approach to long-range goals. Circumstances are changing – the full Moon in Taurus calls for a busy season, which may work in an unusual way.

TAURUS: 4/20 to 5/20: Venus, your ruling planet, is positioned with the Sun and Mercury in your 7th solar house of partnerships. You may find a special relationship to cheer up your days – or enjoy more sociability.

Either way, you will find yourself working harder than usual to earn the extra money needed, especially with the full Moon in Taurus.

GEMINI: 5/21 to 6/20: Mercury, your ruling planet, is positioned in your 6th solar house of health and daily work. However, with Mars retrograde in your 1st solar house of personality it would be wise to take special care to protect your health. The full Moon in the sign of Taurus is a signal to check the status of your health.

Photo by Ann Belmont

to amaze and delight, not only the spectacular hues from pale gold to deep burgundy, but also the science behind them. It's natural to assume that green is the default color of tree leaves, excepting outliers like the ornamental Japanese maples, red even in summer due to a high amount of a chemical called anthocyanin in the leaves. Even they change color, turning an unbelievable Technicolor shade of red in October. But as far as our native oaks, maples, beeches and other deciduous plants are concerned, when they stop making chlorophyll due to the shorter fall days, their true nature is revealed.

“The lack of chlorophyll reveals yellow and orange pigments that were already in the leaves but masked during the warmer months. Darker red leaves are the result of a chemical change: Sugars that can get trapped in the leaves produce new pigments called anthocyanins."

(From the Smithsonian website, si.edu) Knowing these facts doesn’t diminish the wonders

VIRGO: 8/23 to 9/22: Mercury, your ruling planet, is positioned in your 3rd solar house of education and information. You may have decided to go back to school for another course to add to your marketability. It is hard to give up the sociability you’ve enjoyed, but it will pay off in added income. Mars retrograde may make it more difficult – but stay with it.

LIBRA: 9/23 to 10/22: Venus, your ruling planet, is positioned with Mercury and the Sun in your 2nd solar house of money. However, since Mars is retrograde this is not the best time to look for increased income from new employment. You may be better off staying where you are comfortable and try later when the market is more stable.

LEO: 7/21 to 8/22: The Sun, your ruling planet, is positioned with both Mercury and Venus in your 4th solar house of home and family. You may be heavily in discussion with family members about career. With Mars retrograde, this is not a good time to make a major move, especially when the family may disagree. The full Moon in Taurus (money) may make the extra money a bit more deceiving.

a creative direction.

Your Zodiac

CAPRICORN: 12/22 to 1/20: Saturn, your ruling planet, continues in your 2nd solar house of money while the personal planets are positioned in the 11th house of earned income. This seems like perfect timing except that Mars retrograde is in your 6th house of daily work. The full Moon in Taurus may help you recognize possibilities – not opportunities.

AQUARIUS: 1/21 to 2/19: Uranus, your ruler, continues in the sign of Taurus in the 4th solar house of home and family. It’s noteworthy that the full Moon on the 8th is also in Taurus and conjuncts your ruler. It’s not surprising when family members feel the effects of this configuration by looking to increase their income.

Joanne Ferdman

SCORPIO: 10/23 to 11/22: Mars and Pluto, your two ruling planets, continue in poor aspect to each other.

Mars is retrograde in your 8th solar house, where change may be taking place, and Pluto is in the 3rd house of communication. However, the full Moon in Taurus suggests that this may be the time for you to get out and socialize more often.

SAGITTARIUS: 11/23 to 12/21: Jupiter, your ruling planet, is positioned on the cusp of your 5th house of creativity and is conjunct Neptune. This is a great time to bring your creative nature to the fore. However, with your fiery energy it is hard to imagine. On the other hand, the full Moon in Taurus on the 8th may just turn your head in

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CANCER: 6/21 to 7/20: The full Moon in the sign of Taurus is positioned in your 11th house of earned income.

However, with Mars retrograde you’re unable to decide the next steps to take on your career path. Perhaps it’s time to think in terms of trying a more creative path to see how something new works out.

of the season. The long golden autumn afternoons, the soft fire of clouds at sunset still cast their magic spell. It doesn’t matter that I know them to be caused by the slanted rays of the sun, the tilt of the earth’s axis.

I stand in the yard listening hard; the leaves drift down almost soundlessly, with ultrasoft, almost subliminal rustles. A more prominent rustle alerts me to a grouse, hunting for bugs in the leaf litter by the old fence at the edge of the woods. I have never seen a grouse during 14 years of living here; why now, I wonder? A tiny toad pops out from under the dry leaves at my feet, just before I would have stepped on him. I wonder what he and his cousins will be doing for the winter and find the answer on naturemuseum.org.

“Toads will overwinter on land and bury themselves in mud or muck. Wood frogs will excavate a little hollow in the ground called a form and stay pretty close to the surface under leaf litter or just under the substrate.”

But some things just can't be explained by asking questions on Google. The fox who appeared suddenly one afternoon on top of the big rock … the barred owl that crossed the road like a giant shadow … where did they come from, where did they go? And what of coyotes; are any in the neighborhood? There’s been no sign of coyotes near my house, but my neighbor over on the next road says, Oh, yeah, I hear them every night. Strange.

Through the bare branches, what are called in real-estate ads “seasonal views” begin to appear. There’s a sense of mysteries revealed. Distant hills, invisible in summer, are clearly outlined. But some mysteries still remain and – I hope – always will.

PISCES: 2/20 to 3/20: Neptune, your ruling planet, is conjunct Jupiter in your 1st solar house of personality. Jupiter brings good news while Neptune shows your creative nature. This configuration is in a hard aspect to retrograde Mars – promising more information about your prospects. The full Moon in Taurus promises an increase in income.

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 longterm goals.

PAW Plans

~ Pet Annual Wellness ~ Want to help a local pet in need?

When you enroll in a PAW Plan, a donation is made to a local pet up for adoption.

Ask us for more details!

We See Cats, Dogs and Small Breed Practice Book online or with our APP!

Dog Boarding, Daycare, Walking & Pet Sitting

845-687-7800

Dawn Deevy • 845-706-8447 DaWnSDogBoarDing.com

3056 Route 213, Stone Ridge NY, 12484

Page 20, November 4, 2022 , BlueStone Press

FOR THE FAMILY RVUMC 9th Annual Sauerbraten Takeout Dinner on Saturday The Rondout Valley United Methodist Church 9th Annual Sauerbraten Dinner will be held 4:30-6:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5, by reservation and takeout at the church, 25 Schoonmaker Lane, Stone Ridge. The menu includes Sauerbraten (marinated beef), Kartoffelkoesse (potato dumplings), Rotkohl (red cabbage), Gurkensalat (cucumber salad), Apfelmus (apple sauce), and Sortlert Kuchen (assorted desserts). Dinners are $20, or $18 for seniors and kids under 12. For reservations and more information, call 845687-9140.

The Samsonville United Methodist Church Holiday Fair is back! All items at the Samsonville United Methodist Church Holiday Fair are handmade, as are the soups and baked goods that will be for sale, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, with lunch, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., at the church, 1982 Samsonville Road (County Route 3) in Olivebridge. For more information, call 845-657-6484 or visit Samsonville United Methodist Church on Facebook.

Rosendale Seniors meetings The Town of Rosendale Seniors meetings are held at 1 p.m. every second (Nov. 9) and fourth Wednesday of the month (excluding November and December), at the Rosendale Recreation Center, 1055 Route 32, Rosendale. For more info, call Chickie Steritt at 845-658-2414 or Hal Sampson at 845-658-9020.

Rondout Valley Lions Club New members, men and women of all ages, are wanted and encouraged to join the Rondout Valley Lions Club, serving the towns of Marbletown, Rochester and Rosendale since Oct. 18, 1950. During this time, they have helped those in need, whether it is for sight, hearing, medical emergencies or any worthwhile cause. “We serve” is their motto, and this is what they do.

The Lions meet 5 p.m. on the second Wednesday (Nov. 9) of every month at the Marbletown Inn, 2842 Route 209, Marbletown, and at noon on the fourth Thursday of every month (Nov. 24), at the Black Board Bistro Conference Room, 1915 Lucas Turnpike, Cottekill.

For more information on being included in the club’s next meeting, contact Sue Curcio, president, at otrlsc@gmail.com or Janet Sutter, treasurer, at janet.sutter@ aol.com.

Kripplebush-Lyonsville Fire Company final Sub Nite of the season Enjoy great sub sandwiches at the Kripplebush-Lyonsville Fire Company, at the intersection of County Route 2 at 519 Pine Bush Road in Stone Ridge, just 1 mile north of Route 209. Ham, turkey, roast beef, or mixed meat, mixed veggie, chicken parm, meatball, tuna, and of course Philly cheese subs are made to order on a 12-inch roll with choice of toppings and served with a bag of chips and a drink (assorted cans of soda, iced tea or bottled water). Take a sub home or eat one in the dining room at the firehouse. Sub Nites are held 4-7 p.m. (with call-ins at 3:30 p.m.) on the second Friday of each month, March-November (this month on Nov. 11), for a suggested donation of $10.

For more information and takeout orders, call 845-687-9801.

Bonnie Ronk-Schlosser Memorial Scholarship Fund Annual Craft Fair, Soup and Bake Sale Handmade crafts, direct sales vendors, homemade soup, baked goods, and much more will be featured at the Bonnie Ronk-Schlosser Memorial Scholarship Fund Annual Craft Fair, Soup and Bake Sale, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 12, at Rondout Municipal Center, 1921 Lucas Turnpike, Rosendale.

Entry fee is $1. For more information, call Patty at 845-702-9713.

The Olive Free Library community art swap This event will be held 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, to help divert used art materials from landfills while encouraging environmentally friendly artmaking. The library is seeking arts and crafts materials that are fit for reuse. Drop off at the library, 4033 Route 28A, West Shokan, through Thursday, Nov. 10, for the Nov. 12 sale. For more information, visit olivefreelibrary.org or call 845-657-2482.

Rochester Reformed Church Pulled Pork Dinner The pulled pork takeout dinner will be available for pickup, 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, at the Rochester Reformed Church, 5142 Route 209,

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The Grateful Dead Photo by Chris Stone via Wiki Commons

‘Grateful Dead Meet-up at the Movies’ in Rosendale As part of its Music Fan Series, the Rosendale Theatre will present “Grateful Dead Meet-up at the Movies,” 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5, at the theater, 408 Main St., Rosendale.

“Grateful Dead Meet-up at the Movies” captures the legendary band at its peak in a 50th anniversary screening of their iconic gig from the Tivoli Concert Hall in Copenhagen, Denmark, on Apr. 17, 1972. This ground-breaking concert broadcast event was the Dead's first major live concert broadcast anywhere. Now, fully restored

Accord. Tickets are $15 while they last.

Dinner includes slow-cooked pulled pork, roll, cole slaw, cheesy potatoes and dessert. Call Debbie at 845-443-1386.

Second Sunday Supper The Rondout Valley United Methodist Church will host its Second Sunday Supper at 5:30 p.m., Nov. 13, at the church, at 25 Schoonmaker Lane, off Route 209 in Stone Ridge.

All are invited to meet and greet other members of the community, dine together and enjoy one another’s company.

Second Sunday Suppers are free and held on the second Sunday of every month (except July and August). For more information, call 845-687-9061.

Sunday worship at RVUMC is in person at 10 a.m. or online anytime at rvumc. org. Need prayer? Call Pastor Caroline at 845-687-9090.

Marbletown Seniors meetings The Seniors hold their meetings at the Marbletown Community Center, 3564 Main St., across from Key Bank in Stone Ridge, at noon on the first Friday, Dec. 2 (bring a dish to share or drop $3 in the basket on the food table), and at 1 p.m. on the third Friday, Nov. 18 (bring a dessert to share or drop $2 in the basket on the dessert table), each month. All trips leave from, and return to, Marbletown Reformed Church, 3750 Main St./Route 209, Stone Ridge, across from the post office. Call Sharon Letus, trip chairperson, at 845687-9162 for info.

ARTS, MUSIC, BODY & MIND ‘Guiding the Currents,’ works of Marieken Cochius, opening reception tonight The Muroff-Kotler Visual Arts Gallery begins its fall season with an exhibition of the works of Marieken Cochius entitled, “Guiding the Currents,” running to Nov. 29, with a reception, 4-6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 4, at the gallery at SUNY Ulster, 491 Cottekill Road, Stone Ridge. Cochius, a Dutch-born artist, currently resides locally. Her works are described as meditative, intuitive and often explore growth forms, movement of light and wind, root systems and animal architecture. The exhibition, free and open to the public, will include sculpture,

and color-corrected in high definition with audio mixed from the 16-track analog master tapes, the Tivoli 4/17/72 concert features the Grateful Dead arguably at the peak of their performing career. The stellar lineup is Jerry Garcia, Donna Jean Godchaux, Keith Godchaux, Bill Kreutzmann, Phil Lesh, Ron "Pigpen" McKernan and Bob Weir. Tickets for the movie are $10, $6 for members.

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

drawings and paintings. The Muroff-Kotler Visual Arts Gallery is open 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. For special viewings and more information, call 845-687-5134 or contact Chris Seubert at seubertc@ sunyulster.edu.

Herbert Brenon's ‘Peter Pan’ (1924), a silent film with live accompaniment

by Marta Waterman Enjoy this classic silent film, 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 6, at the Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main St., Rosendale. “Peter Pan” is a 1924 American silent adventure film released by Paramount Pictures, the first film adaptation of the 1904 play by J.M. Barrie. It was directed by Herbert Brenon and starred Betty Bronson as Peter Pan, Ernest Torrence as Captain Hook, Mary Brian as Wendy, Virginia Browne Faire as Tinker Bell, Esther Ralson as Mrs. Darling, and Anna May Wong as the Native American princess Tiger Lily. The film was seen by Walt Disney and inspired him to create his company’s 1953 animated adaptation.

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

Pollinators and their native plants, a Zoom talk with native landscape designer Maya Goer Palenzuela Pollinators depend on native plants to support their entire life cycles, not just to collect pollen. Native landscape designer Maya Goer Palenzuela will discuss a wide range of native plants and how they interact with insects and pollinators in this online Zoom talk, 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 17, sponsored by the Third Thursday Series. To Join Zoom meeting, visit https://us06web.zoom. us/j/83538684901 or send an email to thirdthursdayseries@gmail.com.

For more information on NY Botanical Garden certified landscape designer Maya Goer Palenzuela, visit harmonyscape.design. Third Thursday Series is a program of free, online events, organized by members of the Gardiner, Marbletown, Rochester and Olive Environmental Conservation Commissions (ECCs). Each month, every third Thursday, the series presents a free, online program on an environmental topic of general interest

to residents of Ulster County. For more information, visit facebook.com/torecc.

‘Cooks and Books’ of Stone Ridge presents their favorite Thanksgiving side dishes Come in with a favorite Thanksgiving side dish, 12:15 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 18, in the activity room of the Stone Ridge Library, 3700 Main St., Stone Ridge for the “Cooks and Books” crew. Brussels sprouts, stuffing, cinnamon apples, sweet potatoes, green bean casserole or maybe some a secret family recipe. Traditional and tasty! If interested in joining the group, contact Sarah Robertson at programs@stoneridgelibrary.org.

‘In this together,’ new exhibition by Larry Chapman at Wired Gallery of High Falls Wired Gallery presents “In this together,” a new exhibit featuring a selection of landscapes by local photographer Larry Chapman, on exhibit through Sunday, Nov. 20, at the gallery, 11 Mohonk Road, High Falls. Visit the exhibit, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Ring the doorbell all other times, as gallerist Sevan Melikyan lives in the building. For more information, visit, thewiredgallery.com or call 682564-5613.

History lecture by Bill Merchant tonight, ‘The D&H Canal, 19th Century Engine of Prosperity’ Join the community for this local history lecture by Bill Merchant, “The D&H Canal, 19th Century Engine of Prosperity,” will be given at 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 4, at D&H Historical Society, 1315 Main St., High Falls. Admission is $5, free for members. For more information, visit canalmuseum.org/events.

A benefit concert for Clearwater This event, 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 6, at the Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main St., Rosendale, includes performances by Jaeger & Reid, Betty & the Baby Boomers, and Roger the Jester. Tickets are $25/$30 at the door. Visit rosendaletheatre.org, clearwater.org or call 856-658-8989.

Writers’ group with Cathy Arra Two separate writers’ groups meet 4-6:30 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 meetings for Group 1 are on Nov. 14, and 28, and for Group 2 on Nov. 7 and 21. Email carra22@aol.com to join a group.

The short and scenic route to Gertrude’s Nose at Minnewaska Join Laura Conner, environmental educator, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 8, for an adventurous, 6-mile hike to Gertrude’s Nose and back. This footpath, which traverses an escarpment edge, offers one of the most expansive views in Minnewaska.

The modestly challenging hike includes a steep rock scramble, a few hills, and some tricky footing. Participants must bring water, snacks and lunch and wear appropriate hiking shoes. Meet at the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center, 5281 Route 44/55, Kerhonkson. Preregistration is required by calling the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center at 845-2550752.

Teatime book group talks about, ‘House on Endless Waters’ by Emuna Elon “House on Endless Waters”

by Emuna Elon is the book that will be discussed, 11 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 9, in the activity room, of the Stone Ridge Library, 3700 Main St., Stone Ridge. In the book, at the behest of his agent, renowned author Yoel Blum reluctantly agrees to visit his birthplace of Amsterdam to meet with his Dutch publisher, despite promising his late mother that he would never return to that city. If interested in joining the group, contact Sarah Robertson at programs@stoneridgelibrary.org.

Nourishing the one who serves, helping others achieve greater inner peace Join veteran healer and inspirational teacher Shaki Durga for a time of nurturing, 6:30-9 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 9, at the Marbletown Community Center, 3564 Main St., Stone Ridge. Experience radical self-care, balance responsibilities with dharma and flow, enjoy sacred music and kirtan with Maitreya, Sada and

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BlueStone Press, November 4, 2022 , Page 21 Events continued from page 20 Carrie Grossman. There will be conversation, meditation, well-being practice, time for questions, and suggestions for continuing to lift and strengthen through turbulent times. There is a suggested donation of $20 at the door or pay it forward by giving service or an act of kindness to someone in need. For more information, call 845-867-7008 or visit holistichealthcommunity.org.

Rosendale author Mark Moganstern book reading and signing Join the community, 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 10, at the Rosendale Library, 264 Main St., Rosendale, for a reading and signing of the book “The House of Seven Heavens & other stories” by Mark Morganstern. For more information, visit rosendalelibrary. org or call 845-658-9013.

Lake Minnewaska Resort history walk at Minnewaska Join Nick Martin, park educator, noon-1:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 11, to look at historical artifacts and panels within the Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center and then go for a 2-mile walk around Lake Minnewaska, stopping at a few historically relevant spots. Participants are strongly encouraged to dress warmly in layers of winter clothing. This program will be canceled in the event of inclement weather. Meet at Lake Minnewaska Visitor Center, 5281 Route 44/55, Kerhonkson. Preregistration is required by calling 845-255-0752.

Marbletown Sportsmen's Club Annual Sight-in Day All are welcome to this free event, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, at the Marbletown Sportsmen’s Club range, at 105 Scarawan Road, Stone Ridge, to get ready for the upcoming hunting season. For information, contact Dave at 845-706-1875.

Conversational French with Claudine Brenner A native French speaker, born in Paris and raised in Europe, Claudine Brenner chose Stone Ridge as her place to retire following a 30-year government career abroad. Culture, medicine, travels and anything/everything culinary are favorite subjects that she would love to share and exchange with others, speaking in French. The program she is offering via Zoom is held 1-2 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month, with the next conversation hour on Tuesday, Nov. 15. Visit stoneridgelibrary.org or call 845-687-7023 to sign up.

Mystery Book Group talks about ‘The Bodies in the Library’ by Mary Wingate “The Bodies in the Library” by Marty Wingate will be discussed at 11 a.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 16, in the activity room of the Stone Ridge Library, 3700 Main St., Stone Ridge. In the book, Hayley Burke has landed her dream job; she is the new curator of Lady Georgiana Fowling’s First Edition library. If interested in joining the group, contact Sarah Robertson at programs@stoneridgelibrary.org.

Death Café group discussion via Zoom; free & open to all Circle of Friends for the Dying’s Death Café is a group-directed conversation with no agenda, objectives or themes. It is a discussion group rather than a grief support or counseling session; it is free and open to everyone.

Death Cafés are held on the 18th of each month, with the next discussion, 6-7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 18, via Zoom, discussing different types of losses, death, relationship, empty nest, environmental, retirement, job loss, move, illness, loss of function – any of these that can bring a sense of loss of identity. For more information and registration, visit cfdhv.org.

‘Haunted High Falls, Tales From the Canal’ Siren Theatre and the D&H Canal Historical Society invite the community to a spooky theatrical tour through time guided by a local spirit on a short walk through a series of connected scenes to unravel the mystery of the canal and learn the secret of those who worked and lived by it. Inspired by true tales of hauntings and horrors from High Falls and the surrounding towns, the walk is a true adventure. Parental discretion may be advised for younger kids, as the content contains some spooky elements and thematic references to death. The two-night event will be held 7-8 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 5 and 6, at D&H Canal Museum, 1315 Route 213, High Falls. General admission is $20. For more information, visit canalmuseum.org/ events or call 845-687-2000.

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Folk singer, songwriter Joe Jencks concert at Christ the King Episcopal Church Christ the King Episcopal Church will host this folk concert with award-winning songwriter and vocalist Joe Jencks, 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov 13, at the church, 3021 Route 213 East, Stone Ridge.

Merging conservatory training with his Irish roots and blending instrumentals with his songwriting, Jencks delivers with a lyric baritone voice. His most recent CD, “The Coming of the Years,” released this past August, is an album centered around songs Jencks wrote while on tour in Ireland over a 12-year period. This album emerges as a synergistic blend of Jencks' Irish and Celtic heritage. Tickets for his concert at the church are $20 in advance or $25 at the door.

For more information, visit ctkstoneridge.org/tickets or call 845-687-9414.

Joe Jencks is an international touring musician, award-winning songwriter and celebrated vocalist, known for his performances of musical beauty, social consciousness and spiritual exploration.

Tree portraits by Cottekill artist Kristin Flynn, an exhibition at the SR Library “Joy for me is being outside in the woods where trees are constant friends,” said Cottekill artist Kristin Flynn, whose tree portraits exhibition is on display at the Stone Ridge Library, 3700 Main St., Stone Ridge, Nov. 5-Dec. 31. “My tree portraits strive, respectfully, to document their beauty and honor their lives.”

Flynn holds a BFA in fashion design from Parsons School of Design, an A.A.S. in textiles from Rochester Institute of Technology, and she studied painting at Marylhurst University in Portland, Oregon.

Her work has been exhibited in numerous galleries locally and throughout the country. Currently she is an adjunct associate professor at SUNY Ulster in the fashion design program she created.

For more information, visit stoneridgelibrary.org or call 845-687-7023.

On right, Kristin Flynn is an adjunct associate professor at SUNY Ulster in the fashion design program she created.

Bevival.com presents the Celebrating Aging Series with showing of ‘Hello, My Name Is Doris’ This event, 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 13, at the Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main St., Rosendale, will feature the viewing of the film, “Hello, My Name Is Doris” plus a post-screening Q&A discussion on aging, loneliness and senior dating.

After a lifetime of being overlooked and ignored, an eccentric 60-something woman finds the courage to start anew. Having forfeited her own life to care for an ailing mother, she finds herself alone without purpose or direction. Having nothing to lose, Doris enrolls in a self-help seminar that leads to life-changing experiences and rewarding personal growth. For a society infatuated with youth and technology, this film portrays the complicated and messy realities of aging alone, romance and loneliness. Along with the many articles and books about life after 60, nothing compares to watching the great Sally Field tackle ageism in this dramatic comedy.

According to former surgeon general Vivek Murthy, America’s epidemic of loneliness is a public health crisis on the scale of the opioid epidemic and obesity.

Guests in the Q&A discussion on aging include Andrea Peyser, JD, licensed clinical social worker and therapist. Her practice focuses on aging, illness, depression and meaning making at end of life.

And Devorah Medwin, emotional fitness coach, couples counseling, ordained minister, death literacy educator, speaker,

Sally Field in “Hello, My Name Is Doris”

and content creator. Her practice incorporates intuitive healing, core strengthening, creative expression, ceremony, and ritual.

Now in its fifth season, the Celebrating Aging Series at the Rosendale Theatre explores various cultural narratives through the creative lens. Programs include conversations and experts from the arts, culture, sciences and academia. Caren Martineau, series producer and Rosendale Theatre BOD member, is also the founder of Bevival.com, a death literacy content platform.

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

Pipe organ recital led by organist and music director Russel Oliver at Marbletown Reformed Church The community is invited to attend a pipe organ recital, 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 6, at the Marbletown Reformed Church, 3750 Main St., Stone Ridge. The recital will be led by organist and music director Russel Oliver and will include organists Boyd Herforth, Ellen Proctor, Linda McCarthy and additional guests.

The instrument being played at the recital, a tracker (mechanical action) organ built in Springfield, Massachusetts, by the J.W. Steere & Son Company in 1896, was acquired recently from the now-closed First Congregational Church of South Egremont, Mass. It was reassembled in the church’s rear gallery and tuned by the firm of Czelusniak et Dugal Inc. (Northampton, Mass.) in 2021. The organ has two manuals, nine ranks of pipes, and mechanical action, with electric/pneumatic pedal unit action and extended rank there.

While it has accompanied worship services during the past year, this is the inaugural event for community members to appreciate its splendid sound and physical beauty. Along with light from the sanctuary's six stained-glass windows, its music inspires and refreshes one's spirit.

The church is accessible. Refreshments will follow the recital. There is no charge for admission; donations accepted. For more information, call the church at 845687-7701.

New York Times bestselling author Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah at SUNY Ulster As part of the Herbert H. & Sofia P. Reuner Library Writers Series, a discussion and interview with author Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah, moderated by Dr. Ivan Godfrey, associate professor in the Criminal Justice & Human Services Department, will be held 1:15 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 8, in the Quimby Theater, SUNY Ulster, 491 Adjei-Brenyah Cottekill Road, Stone Ridge. Adjei-Brenyah will read from some of his works and participate in a Q&A session and book signing with the audience. Books will be available for sale.

Adjei-Brenyah is the New York Times bestselling author of “Friday Black” (Mariner Books, 2018). His debut novel, “ChainGang All-Stars,” is forthcoming in 2023 with Penguin Random House.

The Writers Series is a special program sponsored by the Ulster Community College Foundation, begun in 1998, that brings renowned writers to campus every fall.

This event is free and open to the public.

Registration is required. Visit https://bit. ly3N3jlNM to register.

For more information, visit sunyulster. edu or call 845-687-5000.

Page 22, November 4, 2022 , BlueStone Press Events continued from page 21 Shop for art without leaving home – Fall for Art 26th Anniversary Celebration Twenty-six years ago, Judy Polinsky suggested that the Jewish Federation of Ulster County sponsor an art event for local artists to gather in one space to show and sell their artwork. Judy and Barbara Cohen asked celebrated artist Katharine McKenna if she thought this idea would work. “Absolutely!” she replied. And 26 years later, Fall for Art is now established as a premier art and community fundraising event. Fall for Art is a juried art show, sale and community fundraiser that brings local artists together in a single virtual space for several days to show and sell their artwork. The event continues this year as a virtual show, 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5 to 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 11. Art lovers will be able to “visit” 35 local artists spaces, representing a variety of two- and three-dimensional media. Fall for Art will support the Federation, local artists and local nonprofits including Circle of Friends for the Dying, Hudson Valley Food Bank, Jewish Family Services, Hudson Valley LGBTQ Center, Oncology Support Services and People’s Place. Proceeds from Fall for Art are allocated to the artists (70% of individual sales), Federation causes and local nonprofits. This popular community fundraiser is made possible thanks to the generous support of corporate and individual sponsors, patrons and contributors. Visit fallforart.org, call the Federation office at 845-338-8131, or email baccohen@gmail.com.

AcornFest at High Meadow School, a family celebration of the fall season This event, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 13, at High Meadow School, 3643 Main St., Stone Ridge, features crafts, games, prizes, live music, food and drink.

Face-painting, paper flowers, basketball, slime-making, cardboard forts, a photo booth, a lottery wheel, cornhole, a mud kitchen and other activity stations will be set up across the High Meadow School campus. The celebration and many activities are free. Some stations will require paid tickets. Chili, cornbread, hot drinks and other items will be available for purchase. Proceeds from AcornFest benefit the Campaign for High Meadow, an annual fundraising program that supports the school community. For more info, visit High Meadow School on Facebook or call 845-687-4855.

‘Deep Listening, the Story of Pauline Oliveros’ Join the community, 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 4, or 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 5, at the Rosendale Theatre, 408 Main St., Rosendale, for a viewing of local director Daniel Weintraub’s new feature-length film, “Deep Listening, the Story of Pauline Oliveros,” a documentary that traces the life and work of visionary composer, musician, teacher, technological innovator and humanitarian Pauline Oliveros (1932–2016).

“Deep listening is the foundation for a radically transformed social matrix in which compassion and love are the core motivating principles guiding creative decision making and our actions in the world,” said Oliveros.

In addition to being a local resident for over 30 years, she was one of the world’s original electronic musicians, the only female amongst notable post-war American composers, a master accordion player, a teacher and mentor to musicians, a gateway to music and sound for non-musicians, and a technical innovator who helped develop everything from tools that allow musicians to play together while in different countries, to software that enables those with severe disabilities to create beautiful music. On the vanguard of contemporary American music for six decades, her story illuminates the philoso-

Music with the Matt Finck Trio and more, at Lydia’s Café Enjoy live music 7-10 p.m. Saturday nights at Lydia’s Café, 7 Old Route 209, Stone Ridge. Upcoming performances include the Vinnie Martucci Trio featuring vocalist Laurel Massé; Martucci, keys; Rich Syracuse, bass, and Jeff Siegel, drums, Nov. 5; the Matt Finck Trio with Accord’s Matt On the vanguard of contemporary American music for six decades, Pauline Finck on guitar; Jay Oliveros’ story illuminates the philosophy Anderson, bass; and of sound, and the art of listening.

Tony Jefferson, drums, Nov. 12; Soul City, Nov. phy of sound, and the art of listening.

19; and Broken HeartProduced in collaboration with execustrings, Gypsy Jazz tive producer IONE, Oliveros’ partner in Fink Trio, Nov. 26. No cover, life and work, and the Ministry of Maåt donations welcomed.

Inc., the film combines rare archival For more information, call 845-687-6373 footage, live performances, and unreor visit lydias-cafe.com. leased music with appearances by Terry Riley, Anna Halprin, Ione, Linda Montano, Laurie Anderson, Thurston Moore, Alvin Lucier, Claire Chase, Miya Masaoka, Morton Subotnick, Tony Martin, Ramon Sender and many more ground- breaking artists.

A Q&A with Daniel Weintraub and IONE will follow both screenings. On Friday night there will be a special reception with lite bites and drinks. Admission is by donation.

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

Join the community for this garlic planting festival at Clove Valley Community Farm.

Clove Valley Community Farm 13th Annual Garlic Planting Celebration Soil to Soul, in collaboration with Aileah at Clove Valley Community Farm, 81 Clove Valley Road, High Falls, offers a day together on the land planting garlic and putting the garden beds to rest, 2-5 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 6, followed by a community circle, hardy soup and music-making around the fire.

For more information, visit clovevalleycommunityfarm.com or holistichealthcommunity.org.

ONGOING LISTINGS SahasraYoga in-person and Zoom classes with Kyra Sahasrabudhe at RidgeWell Fitness All levels and abilities are welcome to join these in-person hatha yoga classes taught by Kyra Sahasrabudhe (CYT) of Stone Ridge, 10-11:15 a.m. Mondays and 9-10:15 a.m.

Wednesdays, at RidgeWell Fitness, 3555 Main St., Stone Ridge; and in the virtual (Zoom) class 5-6:15 p.m. Tuesdays. Props and modifications are offered in class allowing students to make each pose/ asana their own. For cost and all info, email sahasrayoga21@gmail.com or call 845-750-7808.

Scrabble meet up every Tuesday at the Rosendale Library Join the community, 1 p.m. every Tuesday, at the Rosendale Library, 264 Main St., Rosendale. To register for the group, visit rosendalelibrary. org or call 845-658-9013 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. Enjoy stories, crafts and lots of fun. For more information, call Little Ones Learning Center at 845-6264112 or Mary Lee at 845-626-7249.

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. All ages and experience levels can join, and drop-in 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 845-687-7023.

Putting the gift baskets together for the Nov. 12 Community Church of High Falls Holiday Bazaar are Lee Potter Paashaus, Cindy Angyal and Julie Boice.

Community Church of High Falls Annual Holiday Bazaar Find great gifts for family and friends, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, at the Community Church of High Falls, on the corner of Mohonk and Firehouse Roads, High Falls, at their holiday bazaar. The event features candles, fudge, Christmas crafts,

baskets, mugs, baked goods and soup to go, plants, home goods, holiday treasures, cat and dog items and much more. Find gift baskets for Thanksgiving, Christmas and Hanukkah, and baby showers (because babies bless with their births any time of year!).

For more information, visit the Community Church of High Falls on Facebook, call 845-687-0910 or email info@communitychurchofhighfalls.com.

Marbletown’s Mira Fink watercolor and acrylic paintings solo show Come to the opening reception of Mira Fink’s exhibition of paintings, 4-6 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 6, upstairs at The Bakery, 13A North Front St., New Paltz. Visitors are asked to wear a mask, as the space is small. The show will run through Dec. 30.

The Bakery is open 8 a.m.-6 p.m. daily.

For information, visit mirafink.com.

"Minnewaska Fog," 16 x 20 inches watercolor by Mira Fink

Honoring ancestral food through fermentation, a workshop Sponsored by the Holistic Health Community of Stone Ridge in collaboration with the Morty and Gloria Wolosoff Foundation, this wild fermented Peréz-Reyes soda and vinegar workshop, 1-4 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 5, at Rosekill Art Farm, 155 Binnewater Road, Rosendale, will be led

by Darich Peréz-Reyes. As multi-sensory exploration of ways and rituals to connect with ancestors, the program teaches how to cultivate wild yeast from the surroundings to transform it into nourishment. This event is free of charge, though a request of sacred reciprocity, an offer of a donation or volunteering somewhere or giving a service to someone in need is suggested.

For more information, call 939-293-6964 and visit the events section of holistichealthcommunity.org.

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Reptile Guy from page 1 Two years later, Callender says that he happily is almost entirely plastic free.

“There’s a couple things I’m still working through,” he says. “For example, a lot of jars have that plastic wring around the lid.” The desire to live fully in line with both his animal rights and environmental ethics also led him to veganism. Callender says that he is in no way a perfect vegan and will occasionally eat a brownie made by a friend, but the through thread of is knowing where the food comes from, how it’s processed and the intention in which it was prepared. The thread running through both his professional and personal lives is that everything is connected, and through connection we might just be able to change the world.

And so, it should come as little surprise that the name of Callender’s new PBS show is “Menghayati,” a word that he first learned in Borneo in Southeast Asia and means, roughly, the act of connecting to all living things on a deep level. “It makes me think of ET,” says Callender. “When Elliot says about ET, ‘I don’t just think his thoughts, I feel his feeling.’” It’s Callender’s belief that if we can connect kids (and all people, really) to the feelings of animals we can begin to move the needle on a whole host of issues facing the world. “If we can understand the

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The show, which premiered Nov. 3 on PBS and runs for six consecutive Thursdays, takes viewers first to Madagascar (for the first three episodes) and then to the U.S. – Cape Cod, Florida and the Hudson Valley.

It begins, as all his shows do, with a reminder to kids to not only step outside but to follow their dreams, and that sets the tone.

The show centers around a secret animal, which kids are given hints about, leading up to the reveal. True to his sense of what’s right, Callender does not touch the animals but rather observes them in their natural habitat. The effect is the feeling that you are right there next to Callender, experiencing the wonder in real time. The show takes time to explore the local culture of the filming locations with local guides and includes a segment about the language. About half way in, Callender pauses for a moment.

“We do a word of encouragement – a 30-second encouragement treated like a mini-intermission that focuses on encouraging kids to follow their dreams, keep going, and be kind, and then we go back in on the adventure,” says Callender.

The show also touches on environmental issues. “There’s an environmental piece – that piece is a little sensitive. We talk about cyclone storms and different things that happen to people in parts of the world as a result of environmental issues.” The focus

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is characteristically on what can be done to help. “I’m not just giving terrible news,” explains Callender. I want to spend 10% of the time on the issue and 90% on what can we do, how we can make it better.”

Given the length of his career – which appears to be just the beginning – Callender has had the opportunity to see kids grow up and is continually touched that they not only remember him and the animals but also the feeling of encouragement they experienced during the show – whether in person or via Skype. Pressed as to why he does what he does, the answer comes quickly to Callender. “It’s really for the love of humanity. My own humanity because since I was a kid I loved it, and there’s no explanation why I love animals and plants, but I know I get happy when I’m in nature.

As a child I always wished for everyone to be happy and a friend to each other, and it’s clear to me that children need to connect to nature – it’s not optional. And when they do it, it changes their life and has the possibility of changing the world.”

“Menghayati” premiered on PBS on Nov. 3, 2022, and is running for the subsequent five Thursdays. To watch, visit: https://www. pbs.org/show/menghayati/ To learn more about Erik the Reptile Guy, visit: https://edventureshow.com

TOWN OF MARBLETOWN Rondout Municipal Center 1925 Lucas Avenue, Cottekill marbletown.net 845-687-7500 Planning Board November 7 @ 6:00pm MPIC November 8 @ 5:00pm Housing Committee November 8 @ 7:00pm Historic Preservation November 10 @ 6:00pm Town Board November 15 @ 6:00pm Zoning Board of Appeals November 16 @ 6:00pm

TOWN OF ROSENDALE All meetings held at Rondout Municipal Center unless otherwise noted, 1915 Lucas Avenue, Cottekill townofrosendale.com 845-658-3159 Youth Commission November 7 @ 7:00pm Town Board Meeting November 9 @ 6:00pm Environmental Commission November 10 @ 6:30pm Planning Board Meeting November 10 @ 7:00pm Zoning Board of Appeals November 15 @ 7:00pm Economic Development November 16 @ 5:30pm Recreation Commission November 16 @ 7:00pm

TOWN OF ROCHESTER All meetings held at Harold Lipton Community Center unless otherwise noted 15 Tobacco Road, Accord townofrochester.ny.gov 845-626-7384 Planning Board November 14 @ 7:00pm Recreation Commission November 16 @ 9:30am Zoning Board November 17 @ 7:00pm Historic Preservation November 21 @ 2:00pm Environmental Conservation November 29 @ 6:00pm

RONDOUT VALLEY CSD BOARD OF EDUCATION District Office, Kyserike Rd, Accord BOE MEETING November 15 @ 7-9pm BOE MEETING December 13 @ 7-9pm BOE MEETING January 10 @ 7-9pm Confirmation of meeting times through individual town offices is recommended.

Page 24, November 4, 2022 BlueStone Press

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